The Other General

Chapters

Scars of the Past
Drink to Forget to Remember
Premenission Mission
Gut Wrenching (Scootaloo's POV)
Shining Bright (Babs POV)
Two Too Many (Gilda's POV)
Reunited and Divided
The Apology
Kidnapped (Ryder's POV)
The Scared Filly's Scars (Babs POV)
Fluttering Feelings (Gilda's POV)
Thrown Back
Broken Heart, Broken Mind
Something Big (Babs' POV)

Scars of the Past

Author's Note

Reference to self harm here. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts please get help. There are numbers to call, text and what not... You're loved and if a sign from a stranger isnt what you needed I dont know what you do need.

Scars of the Past

I gotta say being General is.... kinda scary. Awesome as a title but scary nonetheless... After I drove back home with Applebloom and Diamond I dropped em off and met Scootaloo at Sugarcube Corner. She wanted to sit in her brothers car, give it a quick check to see if there was anything wrong and we shared a few cupcakes that Pinkie treated us to... Eyes didnt stay dry for long because she told me after Ryder became General he was drafted. Told me how she had to be dropped off with Celestia and how scared she was that he wouldnt come back.... I saw the end of that when he showed us the fuselage of the plane. You can bet I wanted to piss myself that night.... Lucky this was just before he died. I was older, old enough to ask him if we could do anything but with the relationship we had I didnt wanna ruin it. Make it creepy... Do I still feel creepy that I fucked an alternate time line version of him? Yeah... kinda... But at least he allowed it and could've asked it to stop at any time.... God now that I think about he could've been the one being a creep hiding that he wanted to fuck me.... No no NO! Bad Babs dont you fucking think that way! But.... As I was saying she started crying which Pinkie had to help remedy... Made us both her favorite smoothie. Blueberry and banana with a hint of strawberry. Nice and sweet and it made her a bit happier. I ended up having to drive her back home before going back to mine... Couldnt stay there because being alone felt weird. Sure I could turn on music, walk around naked and maybe piss on the floor if I wanted to but I'm not that much of a bitch to my cleaning crew. After that one night home I went to Twilight's castle.... Been there for maybe a week or so. Tonight I was just sitting in Princess Twilight's media room watching a movie. It was one of my favorites from when I was a kid. Action movie, explosions and just... gallons of blood. Merc died, hellbent on catching his killers and killing them as revenge. I was half way through the movie already and I was already three beers in.... I wasnt drunk but I was swimming a bit.... Kinda in the seat of my pants but I was padded.... Though I was just wearing that and a teeshirt... Why? Well... Last night I had a nightmare, thankfully didnt piss the bed but I didnt trust myself... nap earlier proved my distrust. Anyways I sighed as I knocked back the last of my beer and set the bottle back in the box. Grabbed another one and cracked it open. "....And another one for you Ry....." I said.

I just tasted it.... Bubbly whiskey... with a lighter taste and alcohol content. I only had one for myself... 'Ryder'.... drank the rest including this one. I was about half way through this beer before the light flipped on and my movie was just getting to the good part where the Dead Merc was gonna gut the guy from the inside out! Wait... oops... spoilers.... But I just huffed as I set my beer down only to look over at the door only to see Twilight coming in. She was wearing a royal looking sleeping gown, her mane still flowing as if it were Celestia's herself.... I still swear to this day you can see a sunset just ending in her mane.... She just looked to me and sighed. "You seem to be up late...." She said just looking me up and down.... I covered myself a bit blushing.... Even paused my movie. She looked at everything. "...Four beers down, two to go.... padded and soaked to the point of leaking.... Bloody action movie..." She sat down next to me and pounded the seat arm getting the magic cooler to pop up... She grabbed a bottle of water and handed it to me while she grabbed a bottle of soda for herself. "...I'd ask if you're alright but I've honestly seen this with him every now and then...." I sighed just looking at my half drank beer.

"....is... is it really that obvious....?" I looked to her. She nodded.

"Babs... He was my General for years.... I've seen him from start to finish.... The start from where he was recruited, scared half to death by a faked kidnapping, still wracked by grief about his parents murders and his own sisters safety and wellbeing... That grief was still there years upon years... and with all the other stresses it came to a head.... I havent spoken of this in years but..." She sipped her drink. "...Do you know about Poison Joke?" I shook my head. "...It's a blue flowering plant. Magical in nature. Beautiful to look at and everything.... Only issue is the plant likes to play jokes on those who get the pollen on them... My friends and I were affected by it when we were.... well... we didnt really know Zecora at the moment and we thought she was just some witch experimenting with Applebloom.... Nope.... Turns out Applebloom was interested and curious and actually made friends with her while everyone else was scared of her.... But Ryder.... He apparently got the worst joke I've seen played on anyone.... I still remember the day it happened...." She leaned back a bit. "....He was having a mental day.... Chose to walk out into Everfree to enjoy nature and perhaps help Zecora.... I had to be with AJ and Pinkie Pie to distract them... next thing you know I get a letter from Zecora telling us to come quick.... You dont know how fast we got into his car and went out there.... We were expecting him either grown out of his clothes, turned into an animal or even with some weird growths that might've exploded if not treated right away.... But no... What we got was a filly... Looked about Scootaloo's size at the time.... Had to dress him in clothes that I had to resize.... He went to see his mother with Dash, Fluttershy and Gilda.... I was in the dark about it. Didnt know what was going on until Dash called me crying... telling me that Ryder tried killing himself with everyone watching.... Fluttershy nearly got hurt distracting him while Soarin had to knock him out.... I didnt tell Luna this but I had to use magic to repress some of the memories.... After that I kept watch over him without him knowing.... made sure he was comfortable and everything...."

"....So you know the signs of just.... utter depression and the pain of just.... wanting to die...." I looked at my arm.... Some of my scars were still visible....

"Yeah... I do... I'm gonna be honest here.... You werent the only one who wanted to keep him here.... After I sent him back I just... I silently begged for him to return... But I had to do it.... If I didnt...? I'm pretty sure it would tear apart space and time as we know it if his movies are anything to think of...." She gave a sigh reaching over and resting her hand on my shoulder. "...Why dont you finish your beer and we put the rest in the fridge and maybe get you changed.... Maybe some water to counteract the hangover you might have tomorrow morning." I just gave a defeated sigh and nodded before chugging the rest of my beer. I set the bottle in the six pack and picked it up before just nearly stumbling over my own feet. She just gave a bit of a chuckle. "...Need some help?" I gave a nod setting my beer down and trying to keep myself upright.... I may or may not have been sitting here for a while... for more than one movie...And I may have skipped dinner. And Lunch.... I swear i ate breakfast though. She ended up taking my beer to the fridge for me while I sat there and drank some water making damn sure I didnt leak at all. Hard to do when you really lost count how much you pissed and how much this stuff holds... Though... I didnt leak thankfully. Twilight had to get a wheel chair for me and something to cover myself... And even a towel to put under me just in case. Didnt have my phone so I just had to keep my head down with every guard we passed. I just.... I honestly felt like they were just staring down into my soul just seeing through the blanket I had wrapped around me. We went to Twilight's room. She helped me out of the chair and kinda had me stay on the floor for a moment while she dug under her bed. "...How you holding up Babs? Everything alright?" I looked at my hands... my arms... I saw the cuts but I felt them pulsating like they were still fresh...."Babs talk to me!"

"...I... I'm scared Twilight...." She put a few things down on the bed. One looked to be a plastic sheet while the other was a blanket. Even pulled a pack of diapers out... these ones were.... Well... Not what I would choose on the first go around but.... They were pink.... She helped me up onto the bed and lied me back.

"...I know you are... I'm here to help you though... to stay strong... I may not be able to take away those scars but to ease the pain without having you having to find that pain relief at the bottom of a bottle of booze. If he were here- and I know you hate it when I say that- he would be keeping you from drinking yourself to the bottom. He's nearly done that before.... Nearly shot himself too...."

"...H-He did...?" She nodded as she started getting some wipes ready.

"It was after his parents were murdered... He was imprisoned for assaulting a guard who tried taking Scootaloo away... To this day I still felt bad about Scootaloo seeing her parents just.... the way they were...." She just started changing me. Wiping me down. "My brother saw things that would've been perfect for the guard... He talked with Celestia, asked for lenience and a chance to join rank. She accepted with leniency and met with him outside his cell.... Next thing you know Celestia's at my castle ready to leave and she wasnt happy... I asked my brother what happened and he was in tears almost.... Told me he was about to put the gun to his head.... He had to tackle him and knock the gun out of his hand just in case he had turned the gun on him or Celestia just in case... I had to comfort him and then that night he woke up, called Shining to pick him up and... he was back on his feet, back in his car and back in his sisters arms... I only found after he became General that Luna challenged him to this again after Scootaloo was nearly kidnapped after she had gotten back to school.... She gave him an unloaded gun, told him to do it but he proved the strength he had to keep going... all for his baby sister... He might not be here but just.... Maybe take that to heart... Find something to give you that strength... Family mostly.... Maybe something else that isnt gonna kill you faster."

"...I... I just.... I want to but... he was the only one to give me that strength..." Tears started filling my eyes.... clouding my vision almost. "...I just thought... with him.... I... I could be happy again...."

"But he wasnt our Ryder. I'm serious. If he had stayed here, I'm sure Applejack would've lost her daughter and this entire timeline could've been ripped apart. The fact that it hasnt... It.... It honestly makes me think.... Does it change things? Was he from this timeline or another? If he is from our timeline... did he even change his ways or not?"

"...I dont- I dont know... I just want him back!" I broke down crying here. She just grabbed a pillow and let me hug it and cry into. She padded me back up and raided her drawers for some pants for me to wear. She had to resize them but at least it was better than just being wheeled around with a blanket wrapped around me. She put me back in the chair with me just still bawling and wheeled me to the kitchen.

Honestly... I felt like shit already. Showed my shame to those who I now lead. When we got into the kitchen I kinda felt even worse because of... honestly the smell in there.... it even made Twilight hack a bit. There was someone in there cooking... it wasnt Spike. But it was a Griffon. Not Gallus. Why do I say this? Because he moved out a while ago. Got his own shit in town going and he's been doing well. Ryder supposedly saved him years ago but- Wait... What? Suicide? No. NO. Gallus never tried killing himself. Apparently Ryder was getting ready to go somewhere and Gallus apparently was up and arrested at an airport coming from Griffonstone. Apparently snuck on, wanted to go to the Crystal Empire but they landed in Equestria first for layover and when asked for a ticket he claimed he lost it, Ryder was there getting ready to go somewhere and he took the investigation into his own hands, missed his flight which he had to rebook after getting Gallus out of that airport when he said he snuck on to find somewhere else to go because he was being followed and Ryder basically brought him out here, gave him a meal, somewhere to sleep and a job to do. But as I said there was a Griffon cooking. She had a cut off gems tee (both at the sleeves and just below her breasts) and a pair of sweat pants.... Looking a bit thick at the hips. The feathers on her head tapered off to a nice purple. She looked back at us and sighed as Twilight used her magic neutralizing the smell almost making it seem like nothing was being cooked. "....I.... Thought you went to sleep Princess...." She said.

Twilight huffed. "...I was going to be until I found my new General drinking her sorrows away and pissing herself thinking about him." She said. "Just finish cooking that shit up and get it out of here. You know I cant stand seeing you eating meat!"

"I know but-"

"But nothing! Finish cooking it and go eat it elsewhere! Either that or wrap it up and put it in the fridge after you're done!" She sighed.

"Understood Princess..... This was for something else I'm making tomorrow anyways and i needed to precook it.... Also why the fuck is she even thinking about him?"

"GILDA!" Gilda. That's her name. She was Ryder's.... side piece. Like... If Applejack werent in the mood or if he was pissed off he'd take her somewhere, force her pants off and then rail her.... I saw it one day and.... may have found it hot. Hot enough to handle business right there.... in the open. Nobody saw, nobody knew. Not even him. Or her thankfully but... I see why she let him go at it... she's hornier than a unicorn on changeling pheromone.

I sighed a bit sniffling. "...P-Princess... its fine... just... just tell her...." I said. Twilight huffed and looked to me and then back to her.

"Alright.... You know the other day when you thought we all collectively lost our minds saying we saw Ryder?"

Gilda stirred the meat slab in the pan. "Yeah.... Fucking hell you lot were just missing him so much by whatever the fuck you just saw... Dash even called me Ryder when we were-" She said stopping herself to look at me. "....Uh.... You... you werent.... you werent joking about it were you....?" Twilight and I both shook our heads.

"Nope. She saw him too. Felt him and the EXACT way you'd wanna be felt by him if you saw him again. Hand in your pants, up your shirt, feeling you up and imitating the beast with two backs." I watched as Gilda cut the burner and set the pan aside.

"You're fucking me...."

"Not even the slightest but he was fucking her!"

I sniffled and looked to Twilight. "How do you....?" I asked.

"Applejack. She couldnt shut up about how much you wanted to do the dirty with him after I sent him back. She was.... well honestly a bit jealous." She looked back to Gilda. "You mind grabbing her a water from the fridge? Rather wouldnt have her in bed all day nursing a hang over.... rather would have that time cut down a bit."

Gilda huffed as she went and grabbed a thing of tupperware from the cabinet. "Got it. She's drunk." She said. "Wouldnt be the first time for me.... I...." She just stopped and just packaged her food before putting it in the fridge. She grabbed a few waters... Heard her move my beers and a few other things. She came over with a few waters and just sat down with us.... Had a few for me, one for herself. "....I'm.... not gonna lie here.... it isnt the first hangover I've had to help someone else with all because of him.... I've had to nurse one for myself after drowning myself with half a bottle of rum and then Fluttershy who apparently was just a few drinks in when she was comforting Dash.... Only woke up to her crying, puking and just in utter pain.... No doubt you might feel something but... just.... Rather would have you not screaming and making it worse." I opened the water and just nursed it.... She gave a sigh opening hers.

"Kid I know it hurts.... Trust me... I know pain....."

Twilight looked to me. "It's true.... She was one of the ones who saw Ryder nearly kill himself when he was stuck as a mare...." She said. Gilda drank her water and huffed sitting it down.

"....You dont know how hard I cried.... I didnt know what to do to talk him down... called me a whore, probably would've stabbed me if I got too close..... He was my savior but... what could I have done to save him from himself? Not much other than just be there for him every step of the way.... I'd rather let him rape me than his wife.... I can take a beating and with how my libido was.... god you'd be asking to just drain your balls into me more or less and he did just that whenever he had his bad days...."

I looked to Gilda. "...He... raped you?" I asked.

"Yeah but... it was something I let him do just to work out his rage.... Few scares here and there but other than that I let him do what he needed to.... There was a few times where I needed a pregnancy test just to be sure he didnt knock me up after going a few times in a row.... even with a washout..." Both Princess Twilight and I blushed hard looking at each other.... We... knew what that meant.... basically.... Um... Think of a water balloon.... yeah... That's all I'm saying. She huffed. "...Kid... Why dont you come sleep with me tonight? I can get a shower and you can be in my bed... as long as youre not pissing yourself without protection."

"...Well... that's... already done...." She smiled a bit... looked a bit... inviting.

"Good." She looked to Twilight. "Got a few to spare? I'm out and need to make a run tomorrow."

Twilight sighed. "Yeah. I got you there... Just... dont smother her, make her cry and if she does end up puking, dont make it worse to clean up." She said. "You got the bathroom across the hall from you dont you?" Gilda nodded.

"Yeah. If she needs it its right there... And if she starts having a nightmare.... I'd rather take a few hits and hold her until she calms down... Least I could do considering.... Well... You know...." Twilight gave a huff standing up.

"Alright.... You just get things clean in here and wheel her to your room... She's still a little sloshed and might need some help getting into bed."

"You got it. Night Princess." She gave a nod, stood up and teleported out leaving me and Gilda alone. I sipped my water more just as she finished hers and went to start cleaning.

"So... You're taking his place arent you?" I shrugged as she was scrubbing down the pan. "...Dont blame you.... Its some big shoes to fill... Tell you what I kept telling him.... I'm gonna be there to pick you up off the ground if you fall down.... I kept him alive as long as I did and dammit I'm gonna keep you alive as well...."

I sighed shuttering a bit.... Drank my water like I wasnt wanting myself to get a hangover. "....Why....? Why even say that?" I asked.

"....I see the scars kid... I've done my self harm years ago.... I'd tell you but.... it involves him.... Up to you if you wanna hear it or not..." I thought about it as she made sure there wasnt any residue on the pan after rinsing it. I drank more of my water.... almost wanted to cut out the middle man and pour it down my pants.... Honestly have done that before when I had a heat cycle that honestly just burned... Ice cold water, diaper and just.... Oh it was cold but it felt good.

"...I... I guess I could hear about him... You uh... gonna be strong enough to talk about him?"

"Yeah.... I might've had a personal relationship with him but... I... I guess I've come to peace with his passing... does it hurt? Yeah.... Will it never hurt? Only when I'm laying around the same depth as him...." She scrubbed at the pan and rinsed it again before putting it in a dish rack. She came back over, gave me the other water bottle to hold between my legs before starting to wheel me out of the kitchen. "...Years ago when he was still with the bitch he killed to save his wife-to-be he managed to get away from her for a bit to hang out with Dash at a mall I was bumming around... We grabbed a bite to eat since I was friends with Dash and... I honestly thought that was gonna be my last meal.... I had a hotel nearby.... Wanted to just... see for a reason to keep living.... Dash and I were friends yes but... things were rocky.... I didnt see that as a sign.... Though.... When I thought I was ready apparently someone called the guard... What was worse is that Dash and Ryder walked me back to that hotel... they were barely just leaving when the guard was pounding on my door.... I had the noose up I'd made out of a rope I found and had things blocking the door so they wouldnt bust in... even blocked the window with the bed.... They knew I wasnt gonna come out but when I heard Dash and Ryder outside that door yelling at me to get out there I thought about it... They were talking to me through the door for hours.... Each half hour or so I removed things when they said something I cared about... Dont remember if I put stuff back only to take it back out.... It was almost sundown before I was out of there.... I was sweaty, shaking... even crying and just vomiting.... Dash rode with me to the hospital while Ryder stayed with Dash's bike until someone who could drive Ryder's car back while he rode Dash's bike to the hospital.... He had to lie to that damn ex of his and slept in the hospital with Dash that night just to make sure I was alright.... I slept, not well but... as well as I could... next day I was released, they took me out for food, Dash offered me a place at hers but... I ended up going back to Griffonstone until I was kicked out basically and came back to live with Dash."

"....And... knowing they cared kept you going....?" She turned down a corridor in the hall.

"Yeah.... Even while I was away.... The strength I had, that call of the void you always get around sharp objects, high places, even when near some water.... It always nagged at me... but the voices of my friends were stronger...." She slowed down a bit and faced me toward a wall. She sat down in front of me.... I swear her tits would've spilled out if that shirt were any shorter. "....Those scars.... Something tells me they're linked to him.... Right?" I nodded sipping my water.... Almost empty. "...Here's what I want you to do... Judging by the look of your arms I dont see any fresh wounds.... Lets keep it that way.... But if you ever get that feeling to grab a knife or razor.... Just think of what your friends would say.... what your family would say..... Take those words they would say, try to make them louder against whatever is telling you to do that damage to yourself.... And... Might as well say this now... You ever need someone to talk to, someone to hold, a shoulder to cry on.... you just come find me.... Always here.... You have your phone?" I shook my head.

"...It's in my room...."

"Ah... We can get that tomorrow morning then. Now... I know I keep callin' ya 'kid'... I know your name but its been a bit... What's your name?"

"...B-Babs...." I replied... still kinda sniffly.

"....Babs... Yeah.... you were the kid he saved.... and from what Twilight said.... had a little time with him the other day?" I nodded. "....May I ask how he felt....? Its been so long I've forgotten... Kinda miss it.... being his rapable fucktoy.... He was the only one I let do that because I knew he wouldnt really do it.... But he was rough about things..." I leaned back a bit and finished my water.

"He... He was amazing... wonderful..... Big.... Kinky yeah...But we didnt get anywhere near what he did with you.... But if I could've I would've ridden him all night long and into the morning... If it were big enough his back seat would've been perfect.... Same with a dark spot in the park at night... but we settled for a sitting area outside my house...." She sighed.

"...Jealous here.... What I wouldnt have given to make that a threesome.... If I werent out of town I'd've been there, pissing my pants for him and I honestly wouldnt have cared if he got me pregnant.... Getting a bit horny just thinking about it...." She hummed looking to me. "....You wanna do something once we get into my room? Feel free to say no but I gotta do something..." I blushed a bit.

"...I... have a feeling.... Just thinking about him railing me is just.... doing something...." I sorta.... pushed the water bottle between my legs towards my crotch gently rubbing myself against the padding.... Juuuuuuust right.... She licked her lips a bit.... Does a beak even have lips? Nevermind.... Just... yeah.

"Wanna get off together or would you rather try getting off yourself? Good with either and I have enough toys for both of us..." At this point... I kinda needed something that wasnt my hand in my pants.

"Lets do it. Just... be gentle..." Gilda nodded and got up before getting behind me again.

"No worries about that. I'll get you purring like a kitten while I'm playing with your kitten.... Just... Give me a signal if you feel like that booze is coming back up... Trust me I've been there but I'd rather not have it all over me." I gave a nod as we turned away from her door just a few doors down from where we were. She opened her door and pulled me in. Her room was covered in posters, some of the Wonderbolts, others were metal bands, even of a few video games. TV was hung up on the wall, a few consoles and there was clothing everywhere.... Not to mentioned the room smelled a bit like stale piss. I watched as she got a box from her closet and set it down on her bed... it was half made. I could see some stains on there but some looked like food... or what I hoped was food. "Get yourself over here. You choose what toy to use." I kinda moved my toes a bit.... Tried lifting my leg but I still felt a bit weak to stand. I cleared my throat a bit.

"...Still cant walk here...." Yeah... This is actually something that I neglected to tell Celestia... and I guess Gilda for that matter. You know how people drink and just cant stand up straight when they walk? Me? I cant stand up when I drink... Maybe for a moment but I end up just collapsing like I'm made of lead. She huffed and came over.

"Right... Forgot... You're in a wheelchair and you've had a few too many...." She came over and just squatted down and hugged me. I grabbed onto her. "Alright... At least try here if you can.... On three.... One... Two... Three!" She lifted me and I tried using my legs so I didnt feel like a ragdoll that smelled like booze. She carefully lied me down on the bed and started taking my pants off. "Now... Could use the wand and just share it or we could use something I've been saving for Dash's birthday... Something still that helps us both feel it." I huffed taking my shirt off... Yeah no bra so my tits were just out there. She grinned.

"...Use that birthday thing... Just fuck me and make me cum!" I averted my gaze blushing a bit as she untabbed my padding. "...Just... Dont feel weird if I start-"

"No worries. As long as you let me do the same.... We'll cuddle after alright?"

"A-Alright... but... You didnt let me-"

"...I know... sorry but... if you wanna think of him I understand... I do the same." I hesitantly nodded just as she got me fully naked. Tossed the pants away and the diaper before just getting herself naked.... She might've been as old as Applejack but... I swear Gilda looked like she just doesnt age.... No flabby tits.... Nice ass and her muscles... bitch must work out every fucking day. Like... She had a six pack that was visible even though she eats... well... like a griffon... Compared to me she does take care of herself better. Not sure what she does when she's sad but... I'm not gonna lie after Ryder passed I ate nothing but hayburgers for a few weeks before Applejack made me work in the orchard and start eating healthier. The healthier eating went easy but the work... holy shit.... She added on section after section for a few days until I couldnt anymore. Went on for two weeks, collapsed a few times the first few days but other than that just.... Yeah.... Anywho she just came back over just stark naked herself kneeling at the edge of her bed between my legs. "...First... lets just make sure you're nice and ready...." She spread my legs and then her thumbs.... just... oh she spread me and just spelled the alphabet of a long dead language down there.... it felt so good! I couldnt help but just pinch my nipples.... just give em a good twist as she went deeper. She came back up and sighed once I felt like I was getting close. "Yep... You're ready...." I watched panting and just burning up as she reached into her box and pulled out a strange double sided dildo. It was half cock and half....Uh... Bendy end? I dont rightly know...... It was basically a strapless strapon. Anyhow she fiddled with it making sure it was positioned right before inserting half of it into her own sopping wet cunt and just giving a lustful moan as she did so before just teasing me with the other end. "...If it starts to hurt or something, tell me and I'll slow down or stop... I just need this...." She pushed it slowly in and when I felt it pop in I just shuttered... Giving a moan myself. She slowly started to thrust as she just propped herself up over me as if she were doing pushups. I just grabbed hold of her and just.... Squeezed her still soft and perky breasts... She gave a shuttering sigh. "...Y-Yeah... Just like that.... Squeeze em.... Squeeze em all you like Ryder.... They're all yours!" ...This was gonna be hard trying to feel like Ryder was fucking me if she was gonna say that sorta stuff.... I moaned a bit... Taking my hands back and wrapping them around her just holding her while I closed my eyes.

"...G-God Ryder.... Make me yours... Fuck me.... Fuck me until I just cant stop thinking about your cock...." She started thrusting faster... If it were any bigger I swear she'd be in me like those weird animated stuff I see online all the time... not like I'm uh... looking for that anyways... She grabbed onto my tits and squeezed em firmly.... "Make me cum... Give me all you got!" She started thrusting faster and faster....

"Dweeb.... Fuck... Inside... I want it inside!" She just kept thrusting and fucking me.... The feeling inside my cunt just burned me up... like I was going to catch fire.... Maybe not even a few thursts after we came together, her just.... squirting all over me while I just shook and quivered feeling my own cunt just.... Oohh yeah..... We both just moaned before she collapsed on me... And we both shared a kiss.... I swear I tasted myself and... I tasted very sweet? I... Dont know how to feel about that... She huffed as she stood up and pulled the toy out of us casting it aside onto a pile of clothes... She retrieved my diaper and put it back on before setting the box aside and climbing under the covers with me. "....Th-Thank you B-b-b... Thank you...." I shifted to my side and hugged her.

"...Thank YOU Gilda..... Wouldnt mind doing that again.... maybe with something.... better than just a plastic dick.... Maybe not with so much allusion to... him...." Gilda sighed as she started to spoon with me a bit... felt nice.

"...Yeah... agreed.... Hard to fuck when we're both calling each other by the same name..." I sighed.

"...Let's... just get some sleep...." She didnt even answer.... She was just out. I followed suit... Fatigue and alcohol just knocked me out.

As I slept I found myself back in the PJ's I was wearing. No diaper this time but I was just.... still feeling naked. Though I found myself at a bar. Not my dads like last time. This was.... More of a bar from a game. Like the booze on the shelves wasnt even real booze nor tangible bottles. Just.... I think what devs call it just a cardboard cut out in video games. The bar itself seemed run down but was... honestly something familiar. Like something out of Las Pegasus but.... Nothing i recognized? If that makes any sense? Not sure. There were slot machines, empty blackjack tables, stage for shows with.... just a paper looking curtain and the lights above were just lit but some seemed broken. I got up and started walking through a large door in the wall. Came into another area with roulette and poker tables and the cashiers office off to the left of me. At one of those tables was Ryder! Still dressed in his Celestian white camo outfit he loves from his game... You dont know how fast I ran up to him, tackled him out of that chair and hugged him. He just gave a sigh. "...Missed you too Babs...." He said. "Just came to check up on you here.... Everything alright?" I wanted to nod... I really did but... Knowing from what he said last time he's... Well... I'd say kind of a pervert but with how he treated Gilda and Applejack in the sack.... Pervert is an understatement. So... I'll just say he's been watching and closely. I shook my head. "...Still missing me?" I nodded. "...I know... I miss you too... same with Scoot, Applebloom... Applejack... hell... even Dash and Gilda... If I could ask the Goddess for at least an hour just to be with AJ and Gilda... That would probably lead me to get a full body cleanse in a magma bath..." I sighed.

"...So I've heard.... And I can see why you like Gilda so much.... She was... Thorough..." I blushed a bit as he sat us up. He chuckled a bit.

"Yeah she is.... Before I answer any questions you have... When you wake up I want you to tell Gilda next time she pisses the bed she's gotta soak it through just for me..."

"Uh... Why?" He stood up and helped me to my feet.

"She's gonna be embarrassed but she'll know what it means.... You might've had proof with the Princesses but here... she might be skeptical but.... She might just freak out bad enough she does piss the bed... If she does, dont laugh, dont be Dash and just.... Maybe tease her a little but she wont kill you unless you laugh." He helped me up onto a set and sat with me. "...So... Bet you really have a lot of questions... especially about what happened last time dont you?" I gave a nod. "Alright... Ask away...." I took a deep breath and sighed looking down at the table.... The red and black spots, the numbers.... Even a stack of chips that I just played with that read 'Golden Falls'... Hundred bit chips. I just grabbed one and started flipping it.

"...How did you get your tags around my neck...? You were buried with them... I saw them!" He huffed as he reached over and grabbed a deck of cards before just flicking a few out on the table.

"I cant really reveal much... But I thought you should have them to look to to give you strength.... give you hope.... Maybe give you a reason to keep going in case you get weak...." He sighed looking at the deck in his hands. He pulled them one by one. "...I remember when I first got them.... Celestia sent em in a special drop just for me... took a week to get it but I got it... When I got em I was out at war... my mind wasnt in a good place.... I took one look at it and just... I started to cry.... Not because I missed them... But because I was in pain... and if I let that pain overtake me then I'd be leaving the two ponies I loved the most alone without a husband... or a big brother... Sure I might not've been AJ's hubby at the time but... I had that idea in my head for a while... had it gnawing at my mind until I brought it to fruition.... Now with you? I want you to look at those... think of those who'll miss you if you keep that collection of scars growing..." He took my hand and just dragged a few fingers across my wrist, then my forearm... "...You've got scars from before and after me... You've been sexually assaulted... Nearly died a few times... Those are psychological scars... Those wont heal all the way... they'll be there...." He drew a line from my wrist and to my heart.... I wanted him to grab my breast and make me his.... Might still be a bit horny from fucking his fuck friend. "...The scar that misses me? That one reopened when I came in and just.... did that..."

"Yeah...He... I mean... you.... You saw how much you meant to me since you saved me from what happened in Manehattan..." I got up and just started walking out of the room. He followed. I went for the front door and walked out only to come out into my room.... The day my dad found out I was cutting myself...I stood there grasping my arm. Looking on at the statue of me and my dad, both in tears, me in my underwear with scars all over my arm as he dragged me out of bed... Some of those scars were still fresh... Made just before he caught me... Dad was about to go off on a business trip... and if he didnt know I was hurting myself like that.....? I'm not sure what I would've done... or what he would've come home to.... Ryder huffed as he took my hand.

"...Hurt that bad for the countless cuts all over the place?" I nodded. "...Babs I will tell you right now I'm keeping a lookout for you... This was a mistake your uncle made years ago just after Applebloom was born... he took his own life because your aunt died giving birth to her... if it werent for his regret, her pleading and the look on Applejack's face after seeing him dangling by his neck he never would've made it in to the better of the two afterlives. Not even Hellfire would've taken him... If you take your own life whether it be like drawing blood, hanging, throwing yourself off a cliff or just starving yourself.... you best know I'm gonna be right there along side the duo of judgement, arms crossed and probably tears in my eyes... Same with Applejack, Scootaloo and the rest..." He hugged me... Another warm hug... "...I'd rather not see anyone done in by their own hand... The stresses of life are hard yes... but the ones who love you give strength... and me? I love you as if you were my own flesh and blood... I treated you like you were really part of my family- not just Applejack's family- but my own like Scootaloo..." He nudged me off a bit and reached for his back like he was going to draw a greatsword. Even though no sheathe was there he took out a large sledgehammer... The handle was ivory while the head of it was a firey brimstone still smoldering a bit. "Here.... Take this and destroy this memory. Dont let it grab hold of you and force you down the dark path with no return!" I looked back to the still images of me and my father. We twisted, turned, shuttered and transformed in front of our very eyes... My father turned into some demon with... long talons ready to slash at me... the talons looked as if they were bent rusty razor blades... And me? I turned into some gluttonous demon who looked like it had blood... dripping from its mouth like some guy who just got into a bar fight because some guy was hitting on his marefriend and he told the guy to piss off but the guy didnt wanna back off... True story. I grabbed the hammer and just struggled with it... The head of it fell to the ground but I still gripped it tight.... I lifted the hammer a bit and swung but missed the razor demon in front of me. That demon just slashed at me but I ducked... it nearly took my head off. "C'mon Babs! Pick up that hammer and destroy your demons!" I struggled with the hammer trying to pick it up.

"No! I cant! I'm not strong enough!"

"You ARE! Fight against those thoughts! Weakness means death and you are NOT dying! Overpower those thoughts. Make it known you're not going to lay down and die!" The demons swiped at me again... I had to throw away the hammer to dodge out of the way... I had to hide behind Ryder. He huffed and just waved his hand and the demons turned back into me and my father... "...You're strong enough I know Babs..... You're just letting these thoughts cloud your mind... they're the voices that tell you 'you're not good enough' ... But i know you are... that brave filly inside you is wanting to come out and show the world what she's made of but those monsters are keeping her under lock and key...." He sighed. "...Perhaps this was a bit too harsh to throw you into this quickly... I mean... you were reminded of my passing... Sorry Babs...." He brought me in for a hug... all I could do was cry into his shoulder. He shushed me as we lowered to the ground.... just holding me as I cried. He just... shushed me... Held me close.... We sat there for what I felt like was an hour.... After that he sighed. "...Babs... I might need to get you to wake up soon...."

"NO! NO I DONT WANNA WAKE UP! I WANNA SLEEP FOREVER!" He quickly sat me up, pinned my arms at my side.... And with how angry he was? I.... I may have wet myself....

"BABS YOU NEED TO WAKE UP AND SO HELP ME I WILL DELIVER YOU TO TARTARUS MYSELF!" He yelled. "Now here's what I want you to do.... Contact Luna.... Get together with Scootaloo.... DO SOMETHING THAT ISNT WANTING TO FUCKING THROW YOURSELF OFF A GOD DAMN BUILDING OR CUT YOURSELF!" He picked me up, threw me over his shoulder- all before standing up mind you. But once he did stand up he threw me onto the bed and I swear it was an instant wake up.

I woke up, screamed and scared Gilda out of bed. I just looked around panting just as she scrambled back into bed just to hold me... we were both still naked mostly... Mostly meaning we were both padded and just SOAKED.... I think I even leaked a bit. She covered us both up with her covers just as I broke down crying into her. Not even a moment after Guards barged in with weapons drawn. "Woah woah guys calm down! She just-" Gilda tried saying I had a nightmare but those guards pried us apart and they pinned Gilda down while dragging me off the other side of the bed. "What the-?! LET ME GO YOU FUCKS I DIDNT DO ANYTHING!" I struggled a bit throwing the guard with me off only before vaulting the bed only to see the other Guard trying to cuff Gilda. I... Honestly dont know what went through me.... I didnt order them to stay off her.... I just grabbed the guard and... just... threw them at the other one knocking them both out the door.

I stomped over to the door and just glared at the two stunned guards.... "STAY OUT OF HERE!" I snapped. "ANYONE ELSE WHO FUCKING TRIES GETS FIRED!" I fucking slammed the door on them. I quickly ran back to Gilda and hugged her... She just.... hugged me back sighing.

"Thanks.... You okay? I havent had someone scream like that since......" She spaced out for a moment then shook her head before leading me back over to the bed. "....Here... Lets get you changed and-".... Can I say what poor timing I had? I started to gag a bit. She just looked to me eyes widening. She quickly ran to the door and opened it giving me a straight b-line to the bathroom which she followed closely.... Alcohol might taste alright going down but coming back up? You might as well give me castor oil... God my insides were burning.... Spewed up nothing but booze, small digested chunks of food I ate before my booze spree... and I think some stomach acid.... I'd say it tasted like ass but I'm sure ass tastes better than this. She just kept my mane out of the toilet and splash zone... "There we go... just get it all out.... You good Babs?" I spat and flushed.

"N-No.... I... I... i need help...." She sighed as I started puking some more.

"....Something tells me its not just some ginger ale and some saltines...." I.... Just spat and shook my head before going back in.... "...Shit... you're really fucked up...." I flushed again before looking to her.

"....I.... I just.... the memories... the pain... I.... I cant TAKE IT!" ....Guess what happened next? Yep. Back into the toilet. I was that panicked. She huffed as I just started coughing up nothing but mucus and bile.

"....I swear I should've woken you up when you started struggling.... Nightmare did that but... you just.... you seemed like you calmed down fast... guess something still scared the shit out of you.... Wanna tell me what happened....?" I stopped gagging for a moment... thinking of how mad Ryder was.... the demons that attacked me... my innermost demons.... the ones that he said plagued my mind keeping me from being happy....

"...Ryder... he... spoke with me again...."

"He did? What did he say?"

"....Well...first off... he said next time you wet your bed to soak it through..." She blushed hard having her eyes just.... widen and dip back into her head.

"...I... h-how.... WHAT?!" She grabbed onto me by my shoulders... swear her talons were going to dig in with how hard she was gripping me. "There is no fucking way you'd know to say that unless he told you and last i fucking checked Dash was busy as shit! There's no way unless he fucking told you! What else? What else did he say?" I swallowed....

"...He... told me to face my demons... fucking... wanted me to destroy these... things... just plaguing my mind... making my most hated memories the only things I think about.... the ones that... remind me... what I did... what reminded me why i did it.... I'm just... happy with him.... the only times I see him is if I'm asleep... but.... he told me if I... 'slept forever' .... he'd be there to make it known I'm not going anywhere...."

"....Whooooooooooooweee.... that's.... harsh... even for him... but he does have his reasons for that.... Definitely wants to see you surviving and filling his shoes....though with what he's done... its a bit intimidating.... If he could do it being thrown in as a recruit, you can definitely do it...." She huffed. "You done here? Need to get you changed and cleaned... Maybe some new clothes.... We need to get you out of the castle... maybe take you somewhere to have some fun.... And not the kind we had last night... Maybe get something to eat first to build up your strength but.... probably the best idea..." She stood up and helped me to my feet throwing my arm over her shoulder.

We walked out of the bathroom together only to see Princess Twilight standing against the wall still in her pajamas. She looked to us, blushed a bit but.... That look was just a questioning serious look. "Morning you two... Mind telling me why my guards tell me they were thrown out of the room during a crisis?" She asked. Gilda huffed.

"Your General here spoke with your previous one again. Told me something only he knew! He basically made her do something and just put the fear of the goddess into her! Scared the living hell out of me and I havent been scared like that since he fucking did that same thing. Screamed in my ear, woke me up out of a dead sleep... And I think you know what happened after that!" Twilight sighed.

"....Unfortunately... and I think I told Babs that last night before you took over.... I still remember the call you made with him crying in the background wanting out of Ponyville for his mothers arms... guess that didnt even stop the thoughts...." She got off the wall and stepped aside. "Gilda, you take her into your room and get dressed. I'll bring her some clothes and then we talk about where we go from here." Gilda nodded and hobbled into her room with me in tow. She changed me and covered me up until the Princess came back with my clothes. Grabbed me some jeans, some sneakers and a tank top.... Even some deodorant because I did not at all smell good... Still kinda reeked of alcohol. After that I was given a candy bar just to get something in my stomach. I guess while I was making sure I didnt stink and had my mane all straightened out Gilda convinced Twilight to get me out of the castle and somewhere to get my mind off things.

We ended up having to go to Sugarcube Corner in town. Mostly for breakfast to be honest. When we got there after taking transports it was only me, Twilight and Gilda. Gilda had a pack and she was wearing... well.... she was wearing one of Ryder's old service jackets... Specifically the one where he had to cut off the sleeve to save his own life. Dont know the full story but it was just as he was coming back from the war from what Scootaloo told me. Twilight was dressed in a royal gown. And speaking of Scootaloo... I saw her bike sitting right in the parking area all decked out in Wonderbolt colors as well as even a logo of the cloud and thunderbolt. She has her car yeah but she only takes her bike out when AJ has her car or if something was wrong. Twilight had to stay back at the truck for a moment while Gilda and I walked up to the door. Inside we saw Pinkie at the counter with Mrs. Cake. Mr. Cake is still alive but he ended up having to go to an assisted living home. Just...doesnt really feel right without him though. Wouldnt doubt the twins were either at school or in the back of the shop prepping dough and other stuff. Not gonna lie I foalsat for em for a week just to give myself something to do while dad was out of the house and the Cakes needed to focus on work. Scootaloo was sitting in a booth off to the side just swirling a bottle of juice with a fritter half eaten in front of her. As we entered the bell tolled alerting everyone inside. Scootaloo was wearing her mechanics jumpsuit with her bike helmet sitting idly by, visor up. Pinkie wore tight jeans ashirt that nearly looked like a bra on her with fruity designs all over it and Mrs Cake was wearing a dress with an apron all smudged with icing and such. Scootaloo smiled a bit as we came over to her table. "Hey Babs! Gilda! What're you two doing here?" She asked hopping up to give us hugs... I got my hug after Gilda and just...didnt let go....

Gilda huffed. "Well," she started. "Babs got a bit drunk last night, I got her into my bed.... safe to say she's gotten a bit on the.... unstable side and under Princess orders she's to get out of the castle for a bit, have a little fun." I just looked away as Scootaloo tried to meet my gaze.

"Babs...." She said in the most condescending tone that would've made the Princesses word look like a fucking private trying to order a fucking sergeant around. "Babs.... I want you to fucking be honest with me.... Otherwise i'm shoving my grease covered boot up your ass and keeping it there so I can keep an eye on you closely!" I just turned into Gilda hiding my face like she was going to just bitch slap me right fucking there. Goddess knows she would too...

"Scootaloo back off! She's hurting and she needs our help!"

"Help? Does she want us to fucking throw her out into the street or off a fucking CLIFF?!"

"NO NOT THAT KIND YOU STUCKUP BRAT!" ...They honestly would've escalated further but a magical concussive blast knocked those two apart... and me away from Gilda into another table.

I heard a huff as someone rushed to help me.... Twilight... it had to be Twilight. She grabbed hold of me and hugged me. "BOTH OF YOU KNOCK IT OFF!" She snapped sitting me in a chair. She looked to Gilda. "I know you want to help but do NOT go starting a fight over it." And then she looked to Scootaloo. "And you! I expect better from you! You know who else was going through dark thoughts.... Dont fuck up by making it worse!" She sighed as both Scootaloo and Gilda blushed falling silent. She looked to Pinkie and Mrs Cake who kinda looked a bit scared and worried. "Apologies you two. We've been having issues of... stress... with my new General here... Dozen donuts and some drinks for us please."

Pinkie gave a bit of a nervous smile. "Right away Twilight!" She said. "The usual for you and Gilda?"

"Yep. And... Maybe get a juice for Babs.... Maybe pull up a seat as well and give Mrs Cake a break... Kinda... need to involve you in on this.... If you're okay with that." Pinkie gave a bit of a nod and just started getting everything ready. Twilight looked to us. "Everyone good?" Scootaloo and Gilda nodded... I didnt answer. "Alright. Into the booth. Now." We all nodded and just followed orders almost like we were just falling in line as if we were all enlisted... I sat next to Gilda because... well not gonna lie Scootaloo scared me... And I honestly dont scare of ponies I know that easily but when my mind is like this? Yeah... best to just NOT. Twilight pulled up a chair since... well she couldnt exactly fit into the booths unless she sat sideways... alone in the seat. She huffed. "Alright... We need to be civil here...." She looked at Scootaloo again. "Scootaloo... Why are you here? Everything alright at home?"

Scootaloo sighed as she drank a bit of her drink. "...Kinda... Applejack's been a bit stressed and Applebloom's just been going crazy trying to figure out something for her anniversary rather than her job at the Orchard helping her sister out!" She said. "Lucky its an off day today and I'm on vacation from the garage so... Thought I might as well do something but what that something is I still dont know."

"Applejack stressing about things at the orchard or.....?"

"Yeah.... She's trying to get him off her mind and... not gonna lie I am too... When he told me only something he would know I just... I felt sorry knowing I could've killed him if he hadnt said something..."

"It's alright... There was a lot of distrust along the way.... You, AJ... His own daughter and even his friends.... Yet when he said things only he knew and with the way he looked.... It wasnt that far along with him in his timeline.... I still remember after we sent him back and we had that dinner out to celebrate Babs becoming my new General... Fluttershy and Pinkie came up to me and asked 'Twilight, was that really our friend? The one who we knew, loved and the one who protected us?' ...I questioned myself for a moment but after seeing the damage he caused.... No changeling could replicate his strength... Not without bulking up to those levels of strength... I mean... he ripped apart my safe room door just to contact me, letting me know he was actually there and it wasnt a changeling infiltration... and if he hadnt broken those cuffs? Oh you know I would've tested him a few times with lifting the transports or even pushing him off the top of the helipad only to see what he would say after that... Would've been some colorful words his daughter didnt need to hear but...." She sighed a long sigh looking out the window at the somewhat cloudy day.

I huffed... "...You know... I honestly wish I werent so greedy with him that night.... Wish I could've had AJ or Scoot stay over just to talk with him... cuddle... maybe just sit and watch a movie..." I said. "...But no... I had to just ask AJ to take him all for myself..."

Scoot set her empty bottle down... knocked it over. "I wanted to ask... But when AJ told me what you wanted... I thought it'd be awkward seeing Ryder in some... position i'd rather not see my own family in...." She said blushing.

Gilda gave a slight chuckle. "...Still remember the last time we-" She said only to be stopped by Scootaloo grunting a bit.

"Gilda... if you finish that sentence you're paying for a new jumpsuit for work...."

"Fine... It'll just be my own...."

Pinkie came over laying a box of donuts down on the table before pulling up a chair. "So... Do I need to pull out the big hugs for somepony here?" She asked. "Dont want any mopey party ponies."

Twilight sighed. "Nope... No we-" She stopped and the looked to her chubby pink friend. "Wait... Party ponies? You only call us that when there's a party going on..."

"Dont you remember Twi? It's Dash's birthday! She's coming to town later!"

"Oh SHIT. I FORGOT!" She got up from her chair and went for the door. "Pinkie, we need to take these donuts to go! I gotta start setting up! Babs, Gilda I'll send a transport for you I just need to get back to the castle and get it cleaned and see about last minute catering... So much to do!" We could only watch as Twilight rushed outside and hopped back in the transport only to have the sirens start up and having it drive off fast towards the castle. Pinkie huffed.

"Guess being a princess with a lot on her mind kinda gets in the way.... At least I have her cake ready." She said. She opened the box. "Here. Take a few you want and I'll get your drinks real quick!" We gave a nod and grabbed a few donuts. I grabbed a strawberry cream filled and a chocolate bar.... Love those.

Gilda huffed. "Cant lie.... Twilight isnt the only one who forgot...." She said grabbing a few glazed twists. "...I really need to hit up somewhere and get something for her." We looked to Scootaloo.

Scoot huffed a bit. "Dont be looking at me. I got my shit for her." She said.

"And something tells me its not gonna be good getting everyone together.... Or was this about what happened when we came in?" My cousin just slumped down in her seat. "Come on squirt.... Tell Auntie Gilda what's wrong."

"....No use in hiding it... You already know I'm still missing my brother and that AJ hasnt shut up about him but.... I just... I have my worries..." She looked out the window. "...Years ago after a dinner the Princesses gave Ryder after he returned from the war we got to eat with our parents... Was so good to eat with mom and dad again.... We had our parents... mine... and AJ, Big Mac and Applebloom had theirs and Granny Smith... After that night and they went back we were back at home but... AJ was acting weird.... We were out of the house but Ryder and Big Mac were visibly scared after we got back... I asked Ryder what happened and he told me straight up that Applejack was having dark thoughts..... Told me if I ever started having those kinds of thoughts to just.... go to him, Big Mac or someone who could help me rather than start hurting myself....." ...I felt my scars start pulsing..... I just grabbed onto Gilda. Gilda just grabbed a hold of me and just hugged me. "....I'd ask why but... I think I know...." Scootaloo scooted over a bit grabbing a free hand near my donuts. "...Babs... I apologize if I was rude when it was... well... revealed... but I just dont want to lose someone else.... From the shit I heard from my coworkers and from Ryder.... I just dont want to have to attend another funeral with someone I know laying in a casket... Pretty sure your brother and cousins dont want to see you end up in one either...."

I gave a sigh trying to hold back tears in my eyes. "....No... No they dont.... But... Can... can we call AJ....? Make sure she's gonna be okay? Either that or maybe see if we cant go there to ask?" Scootaloo nodded just as Pinkie came back with a few drinks. Soda for me, energy drink for Gilda and another juice for Scoot. I looked to Pinkie. "Pinkie, call Twilight, have her move the party to my place. As for Catering... Hopefully pizza on me's alright."

Pinkie nodded just as she hurried back to get her phone and while Scoot pulled hers out. She pulled up Applejack's contact info as I bit into my donuts... I swear that strawberry cream tasted amazing. Didnt take long for Applejack to answer. "Gosh darnit Scoot why you gotta be calling now? I just got Mash to school and I really dont want the guard catching me on my phone!" She snapped. Still in mommy mode censoring herself.

"...If the guard says anything I'll tell them to let it slide AJ... Consider this a bit of a welfare check."

"Babs? The hell are you doing with Scoots phone? Unless... Oh god is she okay?!"

Scootaloo sighed. "Fine AJ. Just... Kinda worried for you after what went on the other day..." She said. "I just remembered something that Ryder told me and just... I kinda started worrying after we sent him back...." Applejack sighed.... I heard the engine in the car die out for a moment.

"....I just... I'm hurting.... Trying to just keep myself on my feet for my little girls sake and my family... It's hard without him.... seeing him just made it a bit harder and me just letting Babs go with him like that...? I almost wanted to drop Mash at Fluttershy's for the night and come with y'all... Aint gonna lie I cried after you took him.... Felt bad that he just was seeing all this, scaring the hell outta him... even just wanting to shove my boot up his ass... Like hell I'd ever do that to him... But I hadnt heard him for so long... First I thought my mind was screwing with me... then instincts kicked in and lord if Scootaloo didnt stop me I dunno what i'd do to him..."

Gilda huffed. "AJ, Gilda.... If you dont mind... I'd kinda like to look around the house... make sure you're gonna be safe...." She said. "...Dweeb did it for me, I wanna do it for you..."

"...S-Sure... go ahead..." She replied holding back tears.... I could hear it. "...I... I really dont want to have a reenactment of when my daddy went with mama...."

I looked to Gilda... Just gripped her hand slightly more.... "...Can... Can you do it for me too Gilda...?" I asked. "...I dont trust myself... especially when I'm gonna be alone in that house of mine...." Gilda gave a nod. I just hugged her.

"...Aint sure if you wanted to come by but... I can pick yall up wherever you are... Just..."

Gilda sighed. "AJ, if you want me to drive I'll have Scoot give me a ride to where you are and I'll drive you home. Dont want you getting into an accident because tears are clouding up your vision." She said. She looked to me. "You wait here, tell your transport driver to take you to Sweet Apple Acres after they get here. I'll be back and if Scoot gets in trouble with me you got us right?"

I sighed. "As much as I can.... might forget a few bits to help pay off a ticket but I dont think the Princess would like it if I bailed you or Scoot out of jail without a say in it..." I said getting out of the booth. "You guys be safe and dont get caught!" Gilda nodded as she got out of the booth with Scootaloo in tow... But before they left? I got a little kiss on the cheek from Gilda that just made me blush a bit. I watched as they left before heading to the back just poking my head into the Cakes living area. Just saw Mrs. Cake sitting with her daughter Pumpkin. Pumpkin always had her curly orange mane in pigtails. She was wearing a long sleeve shirt and tight jeans. Looked like they were looking at homework.

Mrs. Cake looked up at me. "Oh Babs! Come on in! Everything alright?" She asked.

"Yeah... Scootaloo and Gilda had to go help Applejack and I'm just stuck here I guess...." I walked in more. "Pinkie upstairs?"

"Yes, she's preparing a bag and might be getting a list together of everything her friend would like. You're welcome to head on up. I might close up the shop for a bit for a bit until Pound comes home." I smiled and gave a nod before hurrying upstairs. She had the first room on the left. Went in and I swear it was almost like my room when I was younger. Toys everywhere, clothes on the floor and just... holy hell.... Yeah I'm basically saying she's still got the room of a kid despite being as old as she is. I saw her on the bed stuffing her bags full of clothes and with a little note pad set aside.

Pinkie just looked up and smiled as I entered being wary of what was below my feet. "Heeeeeey Babsy!" She said. "Excited for the party?"

I sighed. "Yeah... guess so... More or less worried about AJ...." I said. "She and I are still a bit broken up about Ryder... I know she's trying to stay strong with her daughter but... what do I have to keep me strong....?" She stopped packing and set her notebook on top before turning to me.

"We all miss him Babs.... That night after we sent Ryder back to be with his family Dash called me crying.... saying she was kinda scared both for her own safety and everyone elses...I stayed up for a while that night until someone came in and helped her because... I guess they had to use the toilet and heard her crying and talking.... She missed him so much after he passed... She had to be there for Scootaloo and Applejack for when they were both crying and Big Mac didnt wanna come out of his room for a week.... She was struggling to not crawl in bed with them and cry too but she's still strong.... She had Gilda to hang on to.... And Gilda has her own reasons to hang on...."

"Reasons..... for him right...?" She nodded.

"Yep. And if I remember right she always answered her phone for him.... Still remember one night he was up late before one of Scootaloo's birthdays and he just.... Wasnt feeling himself.... Even felt something was off. He managed to have Gilda talk with him until he passed out, found out he was just blowing something up that didnt need to be blown up and everything was fine. Maybe when Gilda gets back, ask for her number, see if she'll allow you to have that liberty of a late night phone call for the trouble you could be having. And dont forget Auntie Pinkie is always here for hugs!" She hugged me and it was like she had the strength of Applejack when she was holding my depressed ass down. But... it felt nice.... Warm....... Kinda felt like I was gonna be suffocated with her tits.... Wasnt complaining. Anyhow she released me and went back to what she was doing. Later that night I had to open my gates for vehicle after vehicle full of party guests. AJ and her friends, Princess Twilight included, Spike as well. Pinkie set up a few party canons, I fired up my karaoke machine and we may have drank... a lot.... Nobody drove home thankfully. Though everyone stayed at the house which I didnt mind.... May have shared a bed with Gilda after asking for her number and.... I can honestly think i've taken a liking to her.... and vice versa. So... I guess I have a marefriend now? But yeah... I think I have a little strength behind me at least....I think at least for the moment I'm stable.... For the moment. Not forever.... FAR from that.

Drink to Forget to Remember

Author's Note

Not gonna lie here I have NO clue about Yak dialogue or ANYTHING. I'm just kinda going off what I've kinda seen in like comics of fan art and such.

Drink to Forget to Remember

You ever have those dreams where you were apparently naked in front of strangers for what ever reason? That's pretty much been my entire night. No fucking joke. This honestly scared me a bit.... I dont know what happened.... One moment I'm with Scootaloo and Silver Spoon- Diamond Tiara's friend- at a bar in Ponyville and next thing I know I'm out in the middle of nowhere, my head pounding and I'm butt naked. I dont know where I am.... Just... In the middle of a field. No lights for a city or town for as far as I could see... Didnt help that it was a tad foggy..... I got up from the dirt patch I was in.... It was cold, I felt like shit... Hungry, thirsty and hung over.... Didnt know how long I was out.... I just got up slowly, coughing my brains out from the dust and how dry my throat was..... "Hello!" I called out. "ANYONE?" I heard nothing except the wind in my ears and rustling bushes around me. I looked around only seeing what I could in the moonlit terrain. No phone, no keys- thankfully because I dont trust myself when drunk... yeah I'm a guard and I should know better but I've done some stupid shit when drunk. No phone because I've sent nudes to someone who thankfully knew how to handle those situations and no keys because.... I'd rather not crash a car that more than myself hold close to our hearts. Nor do I want to be robbed like what happened here... and good fucking lord was I hoping I was just stripped down and dumped out here to die... Neither thought is comforting. I started walking... well... kinda hobbling and limping through the cold night air. "...Doooont panic Babs.... dooont panic.... You just gotta find a road or a-a town.... even an abandoned homestead maybe? Anything to get your ass home... And hopefully in tact...." I shivered feeling the cold air touch my streaking body.... didnt feel good on my crotch and my nipples? You could cut diamonds on these things.

I walked on feeling like at any point I was gonna find something or someone. Stepped on rocks, dirt, grass and even brushed up against a few sticks I couldnt see even with the moon light. I walked for what felt like forever but I really couldnt check what time it was. No phone and no watch... still had my earrings in that the Princess bought for me... surprised they didnt take those... I dont wear a watch but it would be good to have in case I dont have my phone. Even made sure I had my sights set on something in front of me so I wasnt just walking in circles. A certain constellation in the sky. Had to make sure it was in the right orientation the entire time. Something I learned way back when. Dad always told me if I ever got lost to find a landmark, follow it and find help. Told it to me after the Manehattan attacks and I was pissing myself scared every time I was up more than two stories in hotels. I walked for maybe... An hour or so until I saw a fire going in the distance. I jogged a bit but my body didnt like that... Just walked more actually starting to tear up. As I got closer I saw who was in the camp. Yaks. They were playing instruments around their fire... Saw... Two adults and a few younger ones. Nobody noticed me until I had felt some of the warmth from the fire... A mare saw me.... She was just a bit smaller than one of the adults but larger than... well me.... They were all dressed in some thick tribal looking clothing.... Thick but it didnt seem to matter to them. "Father! Quick! Visitors!" She said rushing over to me. "You hurt?" She asked.... clearly lacking in grammar but... still gotta respect them. I just... shrugged a bit. "What your name?"

"B-Babs.... Wh-what about you...?"

"Yona. Why you out here naked?"

"...I-I dont know.... I just woke up out here... and... naked..." A few of the adults moved around.... One ducked into a tent for a moment before coming out with a blanket. He came over and laid it over my shoulders. Heavy but bearable. Warm too.

The other pulled up a log that was off to the side. "Here. Sit. You want food?" He asked. His voice? About as deep as the crevice out in Griffonstone. If not deeper. Still lacking in grammar but these yaks are more brute than brains at times.... Piss one off and you might as well ask someone to drive a tank through your living room. They're that destructive when mad.... Seen the facts myself. I gave a slight nod. They had a little kettle on the side of the fire. Probably still keeping whatever was cooking in it warm. He took a wooden bowl from a tent and brought it over dunking it in before bringing it over to me. He handed it to me and it smelled so good.... Despite it being cabbage soup. "Here. Eat." I gave a nod and took the bowl. There was just cabbage, some other veggies all in a broth looking like it was tomato or something. I sipped it.... So warm and good.... Still feel like I needed a drink of something.

Yona sat down next to me on the log.... Kinda felt like I was just going to be launched off if one of the other yaks were to sit next to me. "Yona thinks you need help?" She asked. I nodded just... trying to enjoy the stew. "Babs needs help getting home?"

I swallowed a bit of the stew... So good. "Yeah... Just.... How long have you guys been out here?" I asked. "Also... Anything to drink? I feel like I've been licking a salt lick for a few days...." She nodded and looked to one of the other of her... Clan? I guess? Not a hundred percent on the yaks culture.... and I know Twilight would make me study if I even ASKED about yaks.... Anywho she looked to the other yak that was sitting in a tent just watching us....

"Uncle. Drink for friend please?" He nodded. Didnt say anything as he reached behind him and tossed something our way. Yona caught it and handed it to me. "Here. Pony sports drink. Drink slow?" I traded the bowl for the drink. Cracked it open and just... glorious tasting fruit punch. Not that cold but it tasted gooooood... I closed it after a few gulps and set it down before taking the bowl back. "So... You ask how long we here?" I nodded. "Camp here since... two nights ago? Feels like longer." I hacked a bit as I swallowed more of the stew.... Think I caught a hidden pepper.

"...Have any of you seen anything strange since you got here besides me just waltzing in here."

Yona hummed trying to think. Her father huffed. "Last moon, saw strange shadows in the dark, heard laughing and such." He said. "Yaks normally like loud. We here for peace and quiet. Quiet good but not when idiots loud when time for sleep. Nearly charged.... Yona stop me when she woke."

"Hear anything other than the laughing?" He shook his head. "Another question.... Anything you can spare for me to wear other than this blanket until I can get to a town or something? Kinda feeling weird walking around naked here...."

Yona gave a nod. "Yona can give clothes and share tent. Want Babs to be warm and comfy!" She replied. We sat there for a while and we just..... I honestly wanted a second helping of the stew. But with my stomach? Didnt wanna risk it. Yona ended up bringing me into her tent, set up the blanket I was wearing as a bedroll, even gave me a garb of hers that fit me like a dress. Even had to tie a shirt she apparently got when she got into Equestria... had to use it as underwear or at least the closest thing I could as underwear. Promised her a new one after we got my ass back to civilization.... But I couldnt sleep... Just sat up at the tent opening looking at the smoldering embers of the fire. Going through the events of what happened before I woke up but my mind was scrambled. I remember leaving the house in my car, left my keys and phone with Twilight at the castle.. same with the car and we took a guard transport- with permission from Twilight to use one as our personal limo for the night but... not much after that. What scared me even more was for the safety of who I was with... Scootaloo and Silver Spoon... Were they alright? Were they even touched? Were they in the same predicament I was or worse...? Scared the shit out of me honestly.... I didnt wanna get somewhere, end up finding out that they found one of them dead or something... I looked behind me as a lantern squeaked on illuminating the tent. Yona was just sitting up turning it on and looked at me. "Babs cant sleep?"

"Nope.... Cant... Just because I dont know what happened.... I dont even know if the friends I was with are okay...." Yona crawled over with the lantern and set it in front of us outside the tent.

"Yona think friends are alright. Maybe looking for you?"

"...Best case scenario... worst is they're in a shallow grave somewhere or in some pervs basement chained up... I know I skirted death and everything with that but... what was stopping them from just... violating me? I was out cold... I couldnt fight back... I couldnt have escaped." I just shuttered... Both from a cool breeze and my nerves. She brought the lamp back in and closed a flap, fastening it before setting the lamp against the wall of the tent.

"May Yona check you for a moment? Yona promise nothing weird. Yona can tell if someone has.... had uh...." She blushed a bit averting her gaze. I sighed and just started undoing the shirt covering me.

"...I suppose.... Just.... tell me what you're gonna look for before you check...."

"Yona check for injuries. Yona sometimes help with doctors to help with fixing Yak. Sometimes doctor not strong enough to set bone of yak who went on rampage. And.... Yona see lots of stuff when it comes to uh.... Unwanted sex.... Yona not get that thankfully but... Yona knows other yaks and some pony that had that happen to them.... Mostly had to be there for good feels and make sure doctor not do anything more." I gave a huff.... This was the best I was gonna get for a bit.... Definitely getting a quick check after I get back too just to be EXTRA sure..... I spread my legs and she brought the lantern where she could see me clearly. I saw her reach for my crotch and just.... spread me... I bit my tongue trying not to moan as she fiddled around with me. "...Hm... Yona no see any white.... no blood either.... Yona think Babs good...." She handed the shirt back to me and I folded around my ass again covering myself up. Wasnt the best underwear but it still made good for me feeling not so exposed. "Babs want to cuddle with Yona? Make Babs feel better?"

"Sure... Just.... If I start thrashing.... Dont worry... Just hold me tight until I calm down.... Okay?"

"Okay... Babs have bad dreams a lot?" She asked. I nodded as we went back over to our little comfy corner. "Bad dreams no good. Yona have some but very rare... usually when Yona feel sad." I huffed.

"Well... Lets not talk about anything that gets you sad.... just get some sleep...." Yona nodded and just started to cuddle up to me.... Made sure I felt safe and secure under her watch.... Kinda did considering I fell asleep right away.

As I slept I fell into a dreamscape. This one was.... Empty almost... almost being for a couch which I sat down on. I kinda waited and looked around. It was only a moment before hearing a relieved sigh behind me. I looked back and... Honestly with all the Ryder that I saw lately I was surprised actually to find Princess Luna with a little bit of a smile on her face as she approached. She was wearing a regal gown, stripes and stars even making up constellations in the night sky. "Good... You're alright... sleeping at that....." She said. "Where are you Babs? Are you alright?" She asked. I just vaulted the couch and hugged her.

"Y-Yes Ma'am... a little confused and scared but.... I'm alive... Found some yaks around where I woke up and they said they heard laughing last night... Other than that nothing really... The daughter of the yaks who own the encampment even kinda.... checked me out a bit making sure nothing nefarious went on... Thankfully I'm intact and not expecting...."

"Good.... I have to say Celestia and I had about a heart attack when Twilight called up telling me that your cousin-in-law and her friend didnt find you anywhere after your trip to the bar.... Tell me... Do you remember anything?"

"Other than going to the bar and waking up in a field in the dead of night? Not a fucking thing.... More or less was a date rape drug and I got fucking robbed of my clothes and my wallet.... Hopefully my two-step verification on purchases is still active.... Otherwise my dad is gonna be PISSED...." Yeah... Dad always has me have that on just in case my cards get cloned or some shit and then I gotta shut that down, get new cards... the whole fucking process.... Works on anything thirty bucks and up so small shit aint gonna kill me... even works for when I wanna pull actual money out but I almost never do that... Still gotta cancel them and get new ones....

"If you want I can dig through your mind, see what I can find.... Maybe something you heard while you were out....? If you dont want to accompany me while I do it you're welcome to a distraction... Maybe connect you with Scootaloo or something?"

"Please? I want to make sure she knows I'm alright!" Luna nodded and held me close to her draping me in her wings as she went and changed everything around us with her magic. When she uncovered us I found myself at the Rainbow Falls in Cloudsdale. They were always so beautiful... Sometimes I'd take a drive just by there when I'm bored.... Even went to a car meet there and showed off the car. Ryder always loved it when ponies commented on his car... Me especially.... It was then I kinda realized.... well... I was still kinda dressed in the dress Yona gave me to wear. Was better than nothing. She looked around and hummed.

"...Alright... Scootaloo should be around here somewhere...." She looked back at me. "You mind waiting here for a moment?"

"Go for it."

"Alright... Just.... Please try to stay out of the falls... Dash fell in to them during a dream once.... You remember what happens when you touch the falls dont you Babs?" Yeah... One good reason to wear diapers to bed... especially when I'm drunk or something.... Cant tell you how many times I got drunk at home alone and had to do my laundry with a hangover.... The bedding was the worst part because while I was trying to set it back up I ended up getting sick on it for a moment, had to finish up in the bathroom, take the covers off my bed again, carry them outside, hang em on the clothes line and hit em with the hose.... The sun that day was BRIGHT..... But yeah... Wasnt a fun day for me..... I just found a rock and sat down just kinda making sure it was A) Stable and B) not near any of the rainbow water. I just took in the view. Yet as I sat there I felt someone just kinda.... There... I looked around. Nobody that I saw. Even just kinda made sure I wasnt on anyone. I kinda just... wrote it off as a feeling from outside the dream.

A few moments later I see just a trail of thunderclouds just start from a cloud with Princess Luna flying just behind. Those thunderclouds came to the ground fast and out of them came Scootaloo in a Wonderbolts jumpsuit just running at me. I got up and just met her in the middle hugging her... She was crying. "...Babs.... Y-You're alright!" She said.

"Yeah... I'm alright... just scared and kind of in need of a shower... maybe a fucking hayburger but just.... Did you notice me acting weird when we last saw each other?"

"N-No.... Just.... one moment me and Silver are dancing with you at the table, next thing you know you're not even there.... Thought you went to the bathroom, outside, even back to the castle but NOTHING! Asked the Bartender if she saw anything, asked the bouncer and not even the guard who took us saw anything but put out an alert about you going missing! They pulled car after car over with checkpoints all over Ponyville and there was NOTHING!" I huffed.

"Fuckers must've went off road.... Far enough to go off road and get back to the main without drawing attention.... Fucking smugglers routes...." I looked to Luna. "When we're done here can you put out an alert to anywhere in Equestria to keep an eye out for me? I'm.... I feel like i'm somewhere in a desert... Just keep everyone on alert, patrols until I get somewhere..."

Luna sighed. "Will do General..." She said. She huffed. "...Just... still feels strange to say it than to hear it right Babs?" I nodded as my cousin cried on my shoulder still scared for my safety. "Well... I should have you two wake up now... As much as I hate to say it.... Scoot, do let your friend know you found her safe. Oh... And by the by... Both of you are cordially invited to Canterlot for a dinner, celebrating your status Babs. You may bring anyone within reason. Friends and family only with.... Some exceptions I suppose.... You understand dont you?" Both Scootaloo and I nodded into each others shoulders. She pried Scootaloo off me and just started using her magic making everything- even her and Scoot- fade away.

As I woke up I felt a bit warm... Opened my eyes and just saw Yona turned over away from me. I sat up and just kinda looked around. Lantern was out, tent flap still closed. I opened the flap and stepped out without waking Yona. Sure enough I looked out at the morning fog and what I could see were desert plants. Some cacti, mostly dead bushes and such... Mostly shit found in South western Equestria in fact..... I went back over to the log and just sat back. Waited for a while trying to keep an eye out for anything strange, maybe a chopper to flag down or maybe a break in the fog to see things clearly. Nope. Just cool and a tad muggy. I waited maybe ten minutes before one of the elder yaks woke up. He stretched as he sat next to the burned out fire. "Sleep well friend?" He asked.

I sighed. "...Yeah... Thank you for letting me stay at your camp...." I said grabbing a piece of bark off the log and drawing in the sand.

"Yak happy to help."

"Can I ask something?" The yak elder nodded. "Did you guys come from a town somewhere close by? I know your country is north a ways, even past the Crystal Empire..."

"Yaks take train. We ride long time, brought tents and such. We stop in Appleoosa and hike long way." I gave a smile.

"Had a feeling.... Would you be able to take me back that way? I have someone there that can help me."

"We eat then walk. No eat, no walk."

"Totally fine. Just.... Really.... Anything I can do to repay you for your help and hospitality just... Please let me know."

"Yak ask when time comes. For now you want to help cook?" I gave a nod and walked over to help. It was some more of the stew. Added some other things that wasnt cabbage. He just had me add everything to the pot while he went out to find logs and what not. The stew was good. We ate again, I helped pack everything up and we just went to walking after we made sure we had everything and.... If you think Ryder was strong? These yaks would've given him a run for his money. One of the yaks carried two tents, the other carried another tent while Yona carried the bed rolls and the cauldron. The fog kinda burned off as we ate. We walked for... honestly a few hours. They were nice enough to stop for me to rest so I wouldnt get left behind. One even offered to carry me but I was good. I honestly almost wish I had my phone. Some of the stuff we past was kinda cool to see. Few cacti patches, some old bones from a wolf (I recognize a dog skull when I see one) and the sun shining through a still foggy area.

Yona sighed as we walked along. "Babs doing alright?" She asked.

I huffed kinda wiping my brow because I felt like I was sweating. "I'm fine... Just... Happy to be getting back home...." I replied. "Do you guys have phones or do you yaks prefer to write letters?"

"Letters always good. Yona like to write." I smiled a bit kinda looking out to the landscape.

"Good... Just thinking maybe after we get to where I hope we're getting I'll give you my contact info, address what ever. I wanna keep in contact after this because of your hospitality. Maybe at one point come visit if the Princess sends me up to Yak country. Maybe meet me half way somewhere and go camping again." And with my own pants....

"Yona like that. Definitely want to keep new friend."

"...Good friends are always a good thing to keep around... Never know when you're gonna need one... Even never know when that friend might need a hand.... Pick you up when you're down and vise versa...." Yona looked to me.

"Babs sure she's okay?" I sighed.

"....Physically? Yeah... Mentally? Not really.... Had a friend who pulled me up from a dark place... Only thing is he... passed away recently and I've just been missing him lately..."

"Yona knows loss. Yona lost mother years ago. She only caretaker for long time. After that Yona live with village elder and Elder take good care of Yona. Even we do things like this. Yona know things like that hurt... even way after... But friend help a lot. Yona friends in village are nice, let me stay over sometimes, feed Yona when with them and Elder away."

"...Well its good to have them beside you.... give you somewhere to go if things dont go right and you need a shoulder...."

"Babs welcome to come stay with Yona if you need."

"Thanks... Same for you if you're ever down this way."

One of the elders stopped and pointed. "Apple trees ahead! We're close!" He said. I got excited because if I knew there were apple trees there's at least one part of the apple family nearby! The elder looked to me. "How far you need to go?" I looked to the Elder.

"Not much further! Family is nearby!" I kinda started rushing up a bit with the yaks following close by. We quickly came upon a fence that was honestly thankfully not finished because those Yaks were in a charging state almost. We ran for a few minutes before we came upon the house. We stopped and I just couldnt help but shout. "BRAEBURN! BIG MAAAAAAAAAAC!" I had to wait anxiously for a moment before I saw the front door to my brothers home swing open and out came both Big Mac and Braeburn running out both still in their pajamas.

I ran up and hugged my brother. He was wearing shorts and a tanktop that... honestly looked really tight on him... Would make it look like a skimpy bra on me to be honest. Big Mac was wearing a Gems tee that looked as old as his niece. Even was wearing sweat pants and some slippers. "Babs? The hell you doing here sis?" Braeburn asked.

Big Mac got between us and the Yaks. "And uh... These your friends here?" He asked.

I broke off of my brother and looked to him. "Braeburn do you have your phone on you? If not can you get it for me so I can make a few calls?" I asked. He nodded and rushed back inside. I looked to Big Mac and pulled him back. "Easy Mac. They helped me. But... While I make some calls with Braeburn can you go out and grab me some clothes from in town? Just need something to wear that's a bit more comfortable until I get back home. Borrow money from Brae if you need to! I'll explain later!"

"W-what? Why? What happened?"

"No time! Later! Got calls to make, you remember what size clothes I wear? Double X shirt, thirty eight waist, size 9 shoe, what ever works as long as those are the sizes you get!" Big Mac nodded and just hurried back in. Braeburn ran out a bit soon after and handed me a phone. I looked to Yona and the other yaks. "Give me five minutes and I'll give you my contact info." Yona gave a nod as I started a call to the local guard depot.

I'm gonna cut that short because it was a whole lot of heart wrenching boring and just.... yeah... Heart wrenching because Yona was a bit sad to see me go but she had my address for letters, my email (if she has access to a computer) and even my phone number if she wants to talk. I'll admit it was kinda hard for me to leave too but... we both knew what we had to do. And that call to the guard took a few minutes tops. Idiot who answered the phone didnt know the codes I gave him, had him pass it off to someone else who knew the codes, then send word through to guard depots in Canterlot and Ponyville, and make sure they tell at least two other depots. Even have them send me a transport in a few hours to get me back to Ponyville. In that time Big Mac got me my clothes while I showered up and spent a bit of time in my older brothers house- really nice since the remodel a few years ago. Added another floor and even converted one of his downstairs rooms into a pantry for food storage. And yes, Yona got her clothes back- even with Braeburn washing the shirt. But after all that and Big Mac came back with my clothes we were all just sitting at Braeburns dining table. Managed to cook me a hayburger and holy FUCK it was delicious. I was wearing just a plain tee, a pair of jeans and some boots that... Honestly? Really nice. Hiking boots. Anyways as I ate I was talking between bites. "Alright so... You were drinking with your friends.... and you just ended up waking up in the desert??" Brae asked. I swallowed the bite i had and chased it with a soda he gave me.

"Yeah. Didnt drink much for a hangover so... Thinking maybe I got date raped and I have NO fucking clue how it happened because I never left my drink for a second!"

Big Mac huffed. "Did you look away at all? Them fuckers are getting fast...." He replied.

"Nope. Didnt look away for a fuckin second! Scoot and Silver were dancing and next thing you know I'm just in the middle of nowhere and just fucking naked."

"And how the hell do you know you werent raped or something?! They coulda raped you and just left you out there to die and not have to deal with the consequences!"

"Yeah... They could've but they didnt. Just took my clothes and robbed me.... Now if I can get footage from the bar I was at- which really should already be in progress for investigation..... We should catch the fuckers who did it..." I bit into my burger again.

Braeburn gave a huff. "I swear dad will just fucking hit the roof when he hears about this...." He said.

Big Mac got up just as I sipped my drink. "Knowing Uncle Orange he probably already knows..." He said starting to pace. "If you were with Scootaloo, she told Applejack or didnt say shit and she freaked out which tipped AJ off to something that was wrong and just read her like a book.... Hopefully she aint freaking out either...."

"And if your sister knows what's good for her heart she really doesnt need to be freaking out a lot.... Poor girl is gonna give herself a heart attack one of these days from all the stress she's got going.... Single mother, losing her hubby and having to run that farm almost all by her lonesome...."

"I swear Brae dont make me end up having a heart attack about my sister...." I shoved the rest of the hayburger in my mouth and just downed the rest of my drink as they started to argue.

I just set the glass down and huffed. "Both of you are gonna give yourselves heart attacks!" I snapped. "Calm the fuck down, I'm fucking fine, pissed but still in one piece!" I looked to my brother. "If dad finds out, he'll act the way he always does trying to keep me here on the ground." I looked to Big Mac. "And if Applejack is freaking out she should be calm now because Scootaloo knows I'm alright and now the fucking guards all around Equestria know I'm back. And if those fuckers who drugged me and kidnapped me dont yet, they fucking will...."

"....I swear you're more and more like that boy every time I see you.... Almost expecting you to just get so pissed off when you find those assholes who done ya wrong and just go and drive your foot so far up their ass you basically split em down the middle when you pry it loose..... Shits like something he'd do..."

"Yeah well dont be surprised if one of these days I do end up splitting someone down the middle because they did me wrong...."

"I wont be surprised for that but what I will be surprised about is that you just getting yourself hurt like he did!" He walked around me as I grabbed my dishes and brought em over into the kitchen. "That boy was cocky, he got himself hurt all because he was thinking he was invincible. You? You aint invincible! None of us are! We might feel like we are but we aint!" I huffed just looking at him.

"I KNOW I'M NOT FUCKING IMMORTAL." I snapped. "I'm a guard yes, I have to do what I have to to keep ponies safe and yes I know what I'm getting in to! So why dont you shut the fuck up and sit the fuck down!" Both my brother and cousin looked at me kinda scared and worried. I just sighed and started for the door. "...Brae, I'm gonna lie down in your guest room for a bit... Too stressful right now...."

Brae got up as Big Mac wanted to come after me. But he stopped him. "Y-You do that sis! Just uh... Feel free to listen to some music or something if you wanna trying to calm down." I just waved and walked out and then upstairs. Just went into one of the rooms upstairs and just collapsed onto the bed. Loved the feeling.... The sheets, the softness under me that wasnt directly on top of a tent floor with the hard ground under it. Covers, mattress, box spring even a bed frame made this feel so comfortable. And with each room my brother had to add a radio in each room to act as an alarm clock for those who visit.... I turned it on, listened to static for a bit before fiddling with the dials before finding a clear radio station.

I laid back on the bed and just started listening. "Aye what's going on Equestria?" The DJ asked. Deep voiced zebra that used to play for one of the bands I grew up with but once they broke up he went on to share his love for music and song. "You're listening to the Burning Stone Rock station. What we got next up is a classic from the Tumbling Rocks... With a little twist from some online fool who TR says actually goes on to say it improved the song... Here we are with some Kindess for Tirek..." And right there.... The bongos with a techno beat.... Guitar almost being matched up with piano. But my head started to hurt REAL bad.... It hurt like I was hungover at first but it turned into a grenade just going off into my fucking head. I just grabbed a pillow and hugged it, covered my face with it and couldnt even help but fucking SCREAM. Like it hurt THAT bad. Just... Memories came flooding back... Hurt like HELL.... Didnt even take a minute or two for Big Mac and Braeburn to just bust in. Big Mac just started checking me while Braeburn just turned off the radio.

I just broke into tears with how bad I hurt... and what I remembered. "Babs? Babs what happened? What's wrong?!" Brae asked.

Big Mac took the pillow away and I just hugged him. "...Man I havent heard a shriek like that since....." He said only to stop and just think... I could tell who he was thinking about. "Shit...." He looked at me. "Something musta reared its ugly head for her to see.... or remember at least..." He pried me off and lied me down. "....Seriously is something out of a movie.... and you know me and my movies Brae.... Definitely got a case of shit coming back all at once... Cliche yeah but just.... Its gotta be what happened here."

I swallowed a lump in my throat.... Just grabbed the pillow again and curled up with it... "...I... I remember.... e-everything...." I mumbled through my tears.

"...Yep... Exactly what this is...." Mac looked to me. "You want me to get the guards over here for that fucking report?" I just gave a nod. "Alright... You just stay right there.... Just try to calm down...." Braeburn sat in bed with me while Big Mac walked out. I didnt wanna remember this... goddess help me with what would happen if I saw it on the video from the bar.... About a half hour later I was downstairs back at the table with guards. One had a recorder ready while the other one had a camera all set up.

I just had a blanket covering me and a cup of tea... Brae made it just to help calm me down... It was warm and sweet. "Alright..." One of the guards said. "...Slowly... What do you remember from the time you went out and the time you got here..."

I just swallowed.... Sipped my tea a bit more. "....I.... I left my house.... came to the Castle in Ponyville...." I said. "....Dropped my car off, my phone and went out with some friends.... I got to the bar... Only had a drink or two before I woke up in the desert.... I.... think the bartender may have drugged me that night... I didnt leave the table, didnt leave the drinks alone.... Just drank my drink... ended up passing out... I remembered the song that was playing.... Tumbling Rocks.... Remix.... I dont remember leaving the bar but... I remember waking up sometime before the desert.... I was in the back of a van.... Two stallions... one called me a slut, the other was going through my wallet....Didnt even have my badge on me.... Dont remember their faces.... Just... calling me a slut and thinking about where to dump me... Guess they were strong enough to carry me because they carried me through the desert dumping me far enough to get lost.... That's when I woke up, found a group of yaks who led me here...."

"Have you contacted your friends who were also at the bar? Were they alright?"

"As far as I know yeah they are.... Mostly just scared of me going missing...."

"Alright..." The guard at the table clicked the recorder next to him. "...We're going to add this to evidence of a possible kidnapping ring as well as robbery as well as some other possible charges. We'll radio the Ponyville UFG and get them to get the surveillance footage from the bar. And if possible question your friends." I sipped my tea and set the mug down just holding the blanket to my body.

"...The ones who were at the bar with me were a mare named Silver Spoon and then there's the... old generals sister... Scootaloo... She works a garage in town... Talk with them, find out anything they know.... And maybe comb over the desert looking for other possible victims that werent so lucky." The guards nodded and saluted as they grabbed their equipment.

"Understood General." I could only sit there for a while after they left. Drank my tea before it got cold but.... still didnt make me feel any better. I stayed with my brother and cousin who kinda made sure I was alright... Talked with them, Mac called Scootaloo just to make sure she knew guards would come to talk with her and even told her to tell her friend. A few hours later I had to leave.... It was good to see my family despite the consequences. Though I just had a slow ride back home to just think... what else could they have done? They could've raped me yeah but... maybe they just copped a feel... They could've killed me but didnt. Almost wondering if they thought I OD'd on whatever was in my drink. That was another possibility that could've happened. Bartender- who I'm DAMN sure spiked my drink with something- could've poisoned my drink, then could've killed me or something. But nope. I'm alive. Scarred again... but alive... That ride took a few hours. Had a few drinks from the cooler, had to stop off to piss a few times, even give the guys driving me a break for food if they needed it but they went right back to driving.

When we got home I was immediately taken into the castle. I had to be walked up by wheel chair because I started feeling dizzy. All the panic and worry made my legs just feel a bit numb... that and probably whatever was left over in my system reacting with the food I ate... Not sure how that shit works. Dont ask. But they wheeled me all the way to Princess Twilight's room where she was just pacing back and forth still in her pajamas. Guess once she heard her door open she just looked over and gasped seeing me before rushing over and just picking me up out of the chair hugging me. "You're okay!" She said. "Luna was telling the truth... I should've listened... My mind was just so panicked I thought it was just playing tricks on me..."

I sighed. "Stress induced psychosis. No need for that with you Princess..." I replied. "Is everything okay with you other than that?"

"A little panic induced nausea and just... memories... crawling back..." I hugged her again knowing what she meant. Guess after the war back when I was just a filly dealing with some fucked up kid who molested me while our fathers did business, Ryder's plane went down and he ended up going missing until he showed up to Canterlot with one wing and his team all beaten, battered and just looking glad to be in the warmth... At least that's what Celestia told me. Actually got to meet one of em during recruitment. I havent lived in Manehattan for years but I went back and rented out a hotel for a few days. Mare who went by Pepper. Or at least that's what Ryder called her when he knew her. She told me about her experience.... Both with the crash and the shit show that happened after with the Manehattan attack... Lord knows I know how that feels.... Told me she was holed up in the bathroom of where she lived during Manehattan attacks and while she was shitting herself in panic from her time during the war, I was bailing out the window with a hero who also pissed his pants just about as much as I did after....

"I... understand Princess.... I guess I know how he feels kinda with being out in the middle of nowhere being threatened by death...." I felt her shutter. "...It's okay Princess... I'm back... nothing is gonna keep me down...." She sniffled a bit before breaking down.... I just held her close. I brought her over to the bed and just lied down with her. She was scared. Scared for my safety.... even scared for herself.... I lied with her for a while until she fell asleep... Covered her up with a blanket before making my way back to the door. I sat back in the wheel chair and sighed.

The guard looked to me as he closed the door. "Orders ma'am?" They asked.

"Take me to Gilda's room if she's here... I.... I think she's got my stuff...."

"Right away." The guard saluted and started wheeling me down the hall. I'm honestly wondering if she was alright hearing I was kidnapped and left for dead... or if she even knew.... She knows i left my stuff there, she said she'd look after it. Maybe my phone was going off after I was taken and it kinda made her uneasy or maybe she knew.... Didnt know until we got to the door. Didnt even open the door before hearing music. Loud music. Drowning out something. "She's been in there blasting music for a while.... Lucky these doors are sound proofed up to a point.... You want me to go in and get her to come out?" I sighed getting out of the chair.

"No... I got it... Just uh.... leave the chair by the door.... Not sure how this is gonna go...." He nodded and I just looked at the door and took a deep breath before opening it and ducking in. The music was loud. The only thing giving light in the room was a speaker glowing red brightening and dimming depending on the beat and that thing was almost a perpetual glow. I saw Gilda just laying in the bed facing away from me. She was hugging a pillow and just staring at her phone. I made my way over and just sat down in the bed. She didnt budge. Then I just lied down next to her and hesitantly put an arm around her. She jumped and just turned over getting her phone ready before shining the light onto my face from her screen.... She still had him on her screen... At least.... an old one... He was dressed in a... partial suit.... even a showy uh... Underwear bottom? And he was just holding up a string on one side of it just giving the camera a seductive look. She sighed and flipped over hugging me and just planting a kiss on me. I could feel her fiddle with her phone over my shoulder before the music started turning down before it was barely heard. "...I'm here.... I'm okay...."

Gilda just sobbed on my shoulder lightly.... obviously trying to hold it back. "...Y-you fucking scared the shit out of me...." She said. "....I j-just... just.... I saw you off after you gave me your stuff.... but... only Scootaloo and that other mare came back.... Th-they were freaking out and just.... Twilight told me to go back to my room but... I just... I didnt wanna believe that you went missing..."

"...I know... I didnt know what to do.... didnt have my phone or my stuff.... Not even my clothes... I was just lucky to have found someone out there to help me...."

"....Th-the dweeb..... it was him all over again...." She just sobbed a bit more. "...I... I was out waiting in Cloudsdale for his plane.... Celestia and... Luna.... and Twilight spread word about his homecoming... I was the only one out there but I had to be rushed to a hospital.... saw... his plane... fall from the sky... just.... explode and just.... I pissed my pants and fainted.... Doctor said I passed out from stress and just..... I had to call Dash to come pick me up and have someone drive my bike back.... Didnt say anything to anyone, just told Dash I fainted because I hadnt eaten that morning.... She took it and just... an hour later she got a call from Twilight about Ryder and just.... oh god....." She broke down. "...D-Dont leave me... DONT YOU FUCKING DARE LEAVE ME!"

"...Promise I wont...." ...Honestly it broke my heart to see her cry. We both ended up falling asleep there... her from her crying and me just trying to console her.... At least I turned off the music.

After I passed out i started to dream. I was in the middle of a desert but.... It was snowing. I didnt feel cold. I was just dressed in what I was wearing when I passed out. I looked around but heard a huff. "....That day was making me freak the fuck out...." I heard someone say. I turned around and saw Ryder. He was wearing a winter jacket, jeans and boots. "....You were lucky to have found help... and that it wasnt much worse than being stripped naked and left to die...." He took my hand and we started walking through the snowy desert only to have it start going uphill and getting more craggy, losing its desert plants. "....I was trapped on a mountain.... Gilda told you already.... I know.... Just... it still sticks with me... even after all these years..... I was asleep when my plane started going down.... Engines gave out and two pilots gave their lives to save ours. I felt guilty knowing I survived.... that I couldnt save those two pilots from that crash.... Adding on to more of the bodies I hadnt been able to save... to the ones I almost lost... it stressed me out.... and when I saved you from your home that was bombed...? I swear I was jumping out of that plane again.... That plane crash sent a fireball of jet fuel up into the air where I was just in range of getting my chute burnt.... Once I ditched the chute I tried to fly but my wings were burning too.... I managed to slow myself down enough but... hit some branches and then flipped onto my back into the snow..... Wouldnt doubt there's a universe out there where that killed me instead of a bullet and my dumb antics.... But at least now you know you're not invincible like I thought I always was.... Hubris gets the best of you.... You get crazy with the power you have, the role you lead. Sometimes the shit you've been through and survived. Next time you might not be as lucky."

"....I wish I could bring your sister here to see you... She just... Last I told her that I talked with you like this she got jealous.... She wanted you to talk to her and just.... she misses you.... Only reason we went out drinking is because.... we kinda wanted to give a toast to you... to show we love you and that we miss you.... Hell... even had the bartender who drugged me pour a drink for you...." He smiled a bit.

"...Thank you Babs...." He averted his gaze a bit looking off to the darkened sky.... Could almost see the sun rising. Cept this was Manehattan facing and yes I could see a red glare off in the distance from a memorial tower put up years after the disaster. "...I'll admit I've wanted to talk to Scoot... tell her I love her... miss her... and to be strong for my wife and my baby girl.... but I've been afraid to be brought down with Heavens Light just to see my sister weeping because she took her own life... I dont want you or her trying to take your own lives because of me.... makes me feel like I've got more blood on my hands even though I wasnt holding the blade or pulling the trigger...." He looked back at me. "...But you've been strong... kept a level head through what you were going through.... kept your mind off trying to hurt yourself. You've gotten stronger since last time Babs... and... I'll admit throwing you into that wasnt the brightest idea I've had.... Though those thoughts are still there and they need to be overcome.... When you want to try again, look to those tags I gave you.... You still have them dont you?" I nodded.

"Yeah... I had to keep Applejack and Scootaloo from stealing them.... Give them something more to gawk at and cry over.... not see them and give them strength because they know you're with em..." We came upon a wall of rock.... Ice was almost making a waterfall frozen in time.

"...I'll let you in on a little secret.... Heaven's Light lets me at least channel some of Luna's powers on my own. I'm basically an alicorn without the horn and.... Well... You know... She knows I've been contacting you but... I wanna try getting Scootaloo or AJ in.... I wanna see them so badly...." He felt the wall. "...Been so long... I just... I wanna hug them again... let them know I love them so much." He looked to me and nudged me away. "...Babs... Stand back... I wanna try something but...Just.... Just know if you dont see me again.... Get Luna or Celestia to take you to me.... They'll know what to do... What I'm about to do could get me into a LOT of trouble...." I gave a nod before stepping away. He reached for his back and from out of nowhere pulled out the sledge hammer he gave to me when he went to go tell me to make it so my thoughts wouldnt hurt me. He held it with one arm like it was a five pound weight. He grabbed the other end and just took a deep breath before winding up and just driving it into the wall breaking chunks of ice off. He wound up again and just smashed at the wall again. This time chunks of rocks and they werent even pebble sized. They were about the size of a softball and a few melons. He took that hammer, wound up again and this time took a few steps back before following through. This time nothing but dust. He quickly sheathed the hammer and flapped his wings sending the dust away only to reveal a dark cave.

"...A cave?" I said approaching him again. He looked to me.... a pained look in his eyes.

"...A path to my sisters dreams... I tried not to do this.... I dont want to anger anyone but... it still hurts thinking about you guys.... My sweet baby sister... my beautiful wife... loving daughter and just...." I hugged him and shushed him.

"I'm sure if given a chance to explain... just... say something.... help always is needed no matter where you look... even if its from someone you dont really know all too well..." He sniffled.

"...Y-Yeah... You're right... Lets just.. .just get this over with..." I gave a nod and broke the hug taking his hand. I started walking into the cave and just watched as everything faded into darkness. I felt like I was gonna run right into something... almost like I was blindfolded. We soon came upon a house... nothing I recognized. Everything was burnt, there were pictures of Scootaloo, Ryder and two other ponies hanging on the wall damaged by the fire.... There were even bars over the windows as well. "...Oh my... Not this place...."

"You know this place?" I looked to him. He nodded.

"...This... this used to be our home.... Before we moved in with Applejack.... I just got home from the war, Celestia still had Scootaloo in her care to give me time to relax.... Splashed some water on my face, called up Gilda, asked for a bit of help getting to sleep.... Just.... Went and fell asleep on the couch, outlet sparked and next thing I know I'm bailing out the window in my pajamas and just.... yeah...." He looked around. "...Scootaloo cant ever forget this place... whatever happened here is what stuck in her mind... might even be her safe place as well....."

"...You wanna stay down here? Think she's upstairs." He nodded and released my hand just going to look at everything. I carefully made my way upstairs. I took a look into a room as I came to the top of the stairs. Think it was Ryder's the way it was decked out in band posters and a game console melted to shit... I walked a few doors down to another door cracked open and just listened. Sniffling and sobbing. I knocked a bit before opening the door. Just saw Scootaloo there on her bed.... Though she didnt look how I know her right now... she was how she looked when we were younger. She was in a dress that had flowers.... blue and white yet it looked singed by the fire. She looked to me just as I came in and sat down on her bed. She hugged me. "....You okay cuz?"

Scootaloo shook her head before she grew to her adult size. "....I... I'm just scared.... I thought I was alright knowing you were but.... It still scared me... made me remember the time where I was with Celestia... our house burned down and I was so scared for Ryder...." She said.

"...No need to worry about me... I'll be alright..." I broke the hug and stood up. "You wanna get yourself into something better than that dress? Looks... kinda small on you...." She blushed looking down at herself. Dress was very tight and short... could see her underwear.... She nodded and I went out of the room and leaned on the wall. She came out moments later in a wonderbolts jumpsuit with a name patch that read 'Pvt. Wheeler' on it. I looked to her. "...No... Do NOT tell me you're thinking of joining up...."

"I'm not! It... just.... Well... it was the only thing I kinda wanted to wear." She fixed her self a bit... adjusted the suit in places. "So uh... How are you in my dream...? Is Princess Luna here?"

"Weeelllll.... Not really... Just... I got someone here who really wanted to see you... Now what I want you to do is close your eyes and keep em shut." She looked to me confused. "Just do it..." She huffed and just shut her eyes. I grabbed her and turned her around and started walking her towards the stairs. Ryder made his way half way up. "Alright... stairs coming up.... just go slow... make sure you have your hand on the railing...."

"Okay... Just... .I swear if I wake up because I fell on my face I'm pushing you down the stairs next...." ....Yeah that was an idea. I just motioned him to get ready. He stepped up a few steps before I just faked losing my balance and just pushed Scootaloo into his arms. He quickly turned her around and I swear I saw the fire in her eyes. "YOU BITCH YOU DID THAT ON PURPOSE!" I sat down on the steps.

"So what? Got a better surprise holding you there!" She looked at me confused, then down at her waist seeing Ryder's arms wrapped around her. She took his hands off her and turned around and I swear she screamed so loud the glass holding the windows broke.

"RYDER! HOW?! WHY?!" She wanted to ask more but she broke down... HARD.... Same with Ryder.

"...See Scoot? Told ya I wasnt lying when I said that he was talking with me... We thought you might want a little time with your big brother...."

Scootaloo just kept sobbing even though she was trying to say something.... Couldnt make it out. Ryder sniffled a bit. "...I-It's okay sis.... Its me... it's your big brother... the same one who raised you when mom and dad couldnt.... the same one who had you adopted by his real mother.... the same one who even wet his pants during the school run...." Both Scootaloo and I had a little chuckle.... Got her to stop crying for a second.... Got my waterworks starting up too having a tear scroll down my cheek. "...Scoot... Just... just because I want you to know... I can only do this so often and so long.... I'll tell you the same thing I told Babs.... If you start missing me, go hug someone who cares about you.... Dont go hurting yourself, dont go trying to off yourself and just.... Promise me you'll not do anything stupid.... I dont wanna see my sister or anyone I love gone before their time.... Promise me.... please...."

Scootaloo sniffled a bit. "...I.... I cross my heart... hope to fly.... stick a cupcake in my... my..." She said starting to kinda sob again.

I sighed... "...Ryder... if you can do this without breaking this... Can you wake me up? I dont wanna ruin your guys time together...." I said getting up. "Also... if the goddess herself asks you what you did.... explain it to her... if possible see if Luna or Celestia can contact me so I can... if... if that's possible...." He just gave a nod as he tried consoling his sobbing sister... I could only watch as things faded away.

When I woke up I was still cuddling with Gilda who was just passed out.... I checked the time and it was just nearing three in the morning. I carefully got up... maybe copping a feel along the way before leaving the room, phone in hand. Went down to the kitchen and just grabbed stuff to make a few sandwiches and a soda. Just sat there and ate. Well... Only until my phone started ringing. I checked it and saw it was Scootaloo. I hit the button and just put it on speaker only to hear some sniffling. "...Babs.... Sorry if I woke you but... we... we need to talk..." She said.

"You're fine... I was up anyways... Happy you had some time with your brother?"

"Yes.... Thank you.... Just... I'm honestly just..."

"Breathe Scoot... take a step outside if you need to.... Dont wake AJ or your niece...."

"Alright just.... give me a sec...." I heard her open a window and then grab her phone again before a few flaps from her wings.... I swear when we were younger she could not fly worth of shit... like if she tried by jumping off the slide or the treehouse someone would need to go to her mother or Big Mac to either rush her to a hospital or help her clean off her skinned knees. There was one time she actually jumped because she thought she could really fly and ended up getting a concussion! The worst part was the guards were called to the hospital because her dad thought Applejack or Big Mac beat her or something because of the bruising. They swore up and down, left and right she was trying to fly which got her grounded for a while until they figured out why... never did but... she's flying now. Anyhow I heard crickets and the deep breath of my cousin.

"...Any time you're ready Scoot... Ears open...."

"....Sorry... its just... I... cant help but miss him.... Seeing him? I feel great... like.... it was when he came home after the war.... Sure he might've been battered and missing a wing but... it was good to see him.... We talked for a while... he managed to talk to me about his car, the shop... god I felt like a filly again trying to show him the drawings I always drew for him... Excited... just... wanting to let him know I care... still care.... even if he's not around anymore..."

"....Yeah... But you gotta remember... do NOT... I really wanna force this home... Do NOT! Absolutely under no fucking circumstances am I to see you cut up, strung up, malnourished or scarring your own family because you missed him that much.... I dont want you to go through the pain I did.... It hurt then, still hurts now... If you need an ear to bend or a place to stay the night to get away from the house for a bit my phone is always on, doors always open to you."

"...Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.... I'm not gonna do that.... I'm not putting Applejack through the stresses of losing someone else she loves.... and there is no way in hell I'm gonna make my niece have a mind like her mothers... all the death she's seen just.... I dont wanna put that little filly through that...."

"Good... we dont need her to go through that.... she doesnt really remember her father because he passed when she was still young.... we dont need her to know the feeling of losing someone... like that especially...." She sniffled a bit.

".... I hope one day the Princesses can help him see us all again.... a night for dinner, movie.... I'd even go as far as sacrificing my wings to see him again...."

"Dont say that Scoot.... You know he'd honestly hate it if you told him you lost your wings.... I mean.... He taught you to fly for fucks sake.... Last thing you wanna do is give those up...."

"I know its just... metaphorical... how bad I want him back...."

"Metaphorical or not... Do not think like that...."

"Sorry...." I huffed.

"Scoot... Go into AJ's room, climb in bed with her... I wanna see you here at the castle later.... You can bring AJ and your niece as well.... might see about going out to dinner.... And obviously somewhere that isnt even that bar. Got me?"

"...Yeah... Just.... After can we just go back to your place....? Mash doesnt have school for a week and... I think AJ needs a little bit of a break from work... give her old bones a rest."

"As I said... doors open to you any time. Same for AJ... and help me if Mash ever needs to be here alone with me.... For what ever reason.... But seriously... get some sleep, meet me at the castle and I'll take us out to dinner.... May have to borrow some until I get a new card from my bank but... still I wanna give you guys a break from cooking and from that house... I know AJ still sees that little shrine she's got of him.... Sits by it every morning and such.... I just wanna see if I cant put a smile on that mares face."

"...She'll appreciate it. Maybe see if we cant bring Big Mac and Braeburn down.... Just for a good family dinner."

"Yeah... I can see about having them come for a visit... Make it actually feel like a family dinner...." I sighed and got up with a piece of sandwich in my hand. "You just get on back to sleep... And remember, phones on, doors open, always available. No hurting yourself.... Now get to bed."

"Night... And Babs?"

"Yeah Scoot?"

"Thanks...."

"Any time cuz.... And see if you cant get Applebloom in on it. Dont care if she brings her marefriend. I just want her with you guys."

"Got it.... Night...." She hung up just letting me finish my food and drink my soda. Honestly slept a while but you know I'm gonna try to pull a twenty four hour just to get my ass back to sleep on a right schedule.... Did I feel uncomfortable about me being violated like that? Yeah. I did. Actually had to call Luna to distract myself, ask for a little help, distractions since TV definitely wasnt the thing to watch... especially this fucking early in the god damn morning. Luna said she'd help me with that stuff. Even give me an advanced on my check for tomorrow. Actually get cash rather than direct deposit. May have took a nap with Gilda.... and.... gave her a little tease while she slept.... Next morning Spike made breakfast, called my brother, invited him and Mac out here for dinner, went back home, grabbed a shower and changed clothes, even stopped the card from even trying to be used- despite being locked already. Like seriously after the fourth or fifth failed transaction my accounts get locked until something happens. Ordered a new card- should be here within a few days. That night we had dinner, AJ and I had a bit of a talk about what I told Scoot, even offered to come by and help with the harvest if needed so she doesnt hurt herself. Oh and when Big Mac showed up at the restaurant we were at AJ nearly lost her shit. Even had Braeburn and Applebloom with them. You could tell they were all happy seeing each other.... Even though Scoot was the outlier she's still an apple through and through. Well... Next time.... Later.

Premenission Mission

Nightmares suck... Nightmares about someone dead? Sucks even more.... Nightmares about something that happens later? Scary as hell. The nightmare I had? Ryder.... Just.... Getting cast out of the heavens for what he did for me and his sister... Though I couldnt tell if it was that or not.... it scared the EVERLOVING SHIT out of me. I woke up nearly stark fucking naked in my home and I'm lucky I live alone because I just SCREAMED. From that nightmare I just kicked out of my pants... and underwear somehow. I grabbed them and got up just making my way, tired, dazed and sweaty towards my bathroom where I just dropped my clothes on the floor.... Almost made it to the sink before I had to make a b-line for the can just to lose my dinner in it. Pop, a salad with spicy island dressing and some alcohol do NOT taste good coming back up. I was there for a good minute trying to make sure I wasnt gonna puke anymore.... Not to mention I wanted to make sure if I did heave again I wouldnt up and piss myself. I sat there for a bit trying to calm myself.... Had to grab a towel from a cabinet, wipe myself down to get the sweat off and even keep myself warm. Once I felt alright enough to get up I grabbed my pants and panties just throwing them over my arm before heading into my room. I didnt even bother putting my pants and underwear back on. Just dug under my bed for a pack of diapers and put one on.... Wasnt even half way through before I got a call. I sat up and grabbed my phone.... Was surprised to see Scootaloo's name on my screen. I answered it on speaker and I could hear crying. "Scootaloo? Scoot what are you doing up at this time? Did you uh... Have the same nightmare I did?" I asked.

My cousin sniffled a bit. "...W-Was it about Ryder....? Just.... Getting kicked out of heaven?" She asked.

"...Same one... Should.... Should we just.... Call Luna? Maybe take a trip to Canterlot? I can drive if you want...."

"...Let... Let me meet you at your place... we go from there...."

"Scootaloo, I'm not letting you drive if you're tired and crying. Give me a bit, I'll be there... Just need to get dressed. Pack a bag and be ready. I'll call when I'm coming up the road to the orchard."

"Alright but... hurry... I'm already trying not to wake Applejack or Mash..."

"I'll be as fast as I can... Up to you if you want to call Luna or if we just wanna drop in."

"Sh-She'll let us in if we drive right up to the gate in his car.... Just hurry... I... I still need to clean up..."

"Alright... I'll be there." I didnt give her a chance to answer. Just hung up and finished what I was in the middle in before hopping back up, grabbing pants, packing my backpack and even having a few spares. Grabbed wallet, keys, got dressed in something comfy and warm before heading out the door. Threw my bag in the back and just drove. Had to play some loud music to keep me awake as I drove. Took me a bit to get down to Sweet Apple Acres. Killed the music as I turned onto the dirt road leading up to the house.... I swear that day AJ called me and told me to come down here to see Ryder I just... I didnt know if she had finally lost her mind or if she was wanting to go out as a family or something but when I saw him walk out of that bathroom.... I swear my marehood just quivered more than anything and I just couldnt help but hug him... Anyhow I pulled off to the side and just stared at the dark house... Only one light on downstairs that I saw. I pulled my phone out and called Scoot. She didnt answer. Just came outside with a joggers suit on with a bag draped over her shoulder. Her mane was a mess as well. She turned off the light and closed the door making sure to lock it before hurrying over to the car. She hopped in throwing her stuff in the back. As she closed the door I caught the smell of talcum powder. I just sighed. "That bad huh....?" She blushed and nodded.

"....I.... It hasnt happened since I was a filly... I swear...." I sighed.

"Doesnt matter to me.... Lets just get going.... Want some music or something?"

"....Music is good... Just uh.... Something that isnt what he would listen to if possible...."

"Uh... Here let me just...." I dug into the glovebox for a moment and pulled out a little cable connecting one end to my phone and the other to the radio. I started driving before I handed my phone to Scootaloo. "Four, three, eight, seven, open the music app choose what you want. Fair warning, the radio is cranked up. Just wait until we hit the main road." She nodded and waited a few moments before we turned down the road. She found a set list that was some good Punk stuff. Punk covers of pop songs, rock songs, even some Punk mixed with techno sounds... Was... Weird. Worked though. We drove on for a while. I kept checking in on her, making sure she was still awake. By the time we got to Canterlot it was around three in the morning. The streets of Canterlot were lit and it was empty other than the occasional car driving through the streets. We pulled up to the gate to the castle. Still lit here and there with windows we could see. The guard just took one look at the car, called in through the radio and the gate opened up. I gave a bit of a wave before the gate opened up enough for me to drive the car on through. Pulled off to the side and parked it.

We just grabbed our things and headed on up the steps. Once inside we just.... Stood there. Looking at the foyer with steps leading upstairs. Guards patrolled not even noticing us. We just walked further in... Scootaloo just took my hand and gripped it tight. She told me once that her brother came home from the war, but she didnt know what was gonna happen. Or when. She told me the day he came home... The Princesses had to sit her down and try to muster up the courage to even spill the news of his death.... Surprise surprise that motherfucker came right through the very same doors we came through and just collapsed. She only realized what was happening when Celestia told her but that was only when Ryder wasnt around because he would've shut that down right away. We just stared at everything before hearing a gasp. "Babs? Scootaloo? What are you two doing here?" We heard a mare say. We turned to see Princess Luna coming from a side hall. Neither of us wasted time going to hug her. "...By the looks and smell of things I think its safe to say nightmares and you both need some time here.... Perhaps a relaxing spa day later... My treat." She took our hands and just started leading us upstairs as if we were just children. "You two want something to drink? Perhaps some tea to calm your nerves? You two still seem a bit frazzled by whatever happened...." She looked to me. "Tell me... What did you dream of?"

I hesitated a bit.... Just choked up seeing the scared look on his face before falling.... Scootaloo whimpered a bit. We both looked over to her. "We.... We both had the same one...." She said. "....Ryder.... He.... your mother she..." We stopped. Luna released me and just stared Scootaloo down.

"...Mother...? Why bring mother into this....?"

I huffed. "We saw her... She threw Ryder out...." I said. "We had the same dream... that's what we saw...." The Princess' confused face turned to uneasy shock...

"Same dream....? Same things happening but..." She looked to me. "Babs.... Are you able to recall your dream in full? Everyone who was there, events that happened and just.... Anything. Anything at all!" I thought back to my nightmare.

"...All I remember was.... Your mother with Ryder standing in front of her.... He had the most scared look on his face.... a look that I hadnt seen since Manehattan... I cant remember what was said.... but... What happened after? He just fell... He fell like an earth pony stepped on a cloud.... Just fell down straight through.... Didnt even scream at all....." She swallowed a bit. I swear all color faded from her face.... I just hugged her and she just started taking shuttery breaths. "Princess? Princess say something!" She wanted to talk but she choked on her words. "Alright... come on sit.... Lets sit down, breathe..... You okay to go over to the wall and sit down?" She gave a hesitant nod. She walked with me over to the wall and we slowly sat down. I looked to Scootaloo. "Go find a guard, get them over here... Have someone bring her a drink as well!" I looked to Luna. "Do you want us to get your sister up?" She gave it a little thought before giving a hesitant nod. I looked back to Scootaloo. "Have them wake Celestia as well. I'll deal with the consequences later!" She nodded just as I tended to the Princess. She threw her stuff down and just hurried down the hall. Didnt take long for a few guards to swarm our position, some with drinks, others ready with medical supplies even one with a towel which I took to wipe the sweat off her forehead. Took a bit longer before I see Celestia hurrying down the hall with a wheel chair ready. She was still in her nightgown and her mane was a bit messy but still flowing the way it did.

Celestia pulled the chair up and locked the wheels up before coming to her sisters side. She wasted no time picking her up and putting her in the chair. "Sister what happened?? I was asleep and then I have Scootaloo burst into my door crying and I have to come here to help you?"

Luna whimpered a bit. "Scootaloo.... and.... Babs.... They.... they had a premonition dream...." She said. "...It was about Ryder... and it involved Mother... I... I dont want to say more than that... I refuse to believe it...." Her sister huffed.

"I'm taking you to your room... You need rest...." She looked to me. "Get your things. Scootaloo's already in my bed so I'll take her stuff. You just stay with my sister.....At least until the morning meal if possible?"

I nodded grabbing my pack again. "Yes Ma'am!" I replied grabbing my things and then following her and her sister down the hall. "My apologies if we had to wake you up Princess."

"It's alright.... When it comes to my sisters safety I'm there for it no matter how late it is." She looked to me. "Seems you and Scootaloo are taking advantage of an open door policy.... We're glad you do use that to your advantage. Dont want anything happening...."

"I'm glad I have this opportunity Princess... With things that have gone on lately I'd rather take you up on your offer than be alone with my thoughts.... And with what we just had happen? I'd rather be tired and knowing someone can help rather than uh...." She sighed.

"You remind me so much of him.... The way he'd say the obvious thing but try to figure out something else to say but cant think of anything... and that was when he wasnt tired." She sighed.

"...He might've done some stupid shit but some of that stupid shit was the smartest thing to do.... Look at me for example.... Risked his ass- multiple times I might add- to save my ass from trouble.... Manehattan, The Castle..... Even my own thoughts before and after his return..."

"He's a hero to many.... I.... I still dont forgive myself for not trusting what my sister said about him.... The things he said.... I cant ever apologize to the Ryder that was here.... I accept that as punishment...."

"I'm sure he would forgive you Princess.... He's been dead for a while... It's understandable you didnt trust him even with that information he had gone and disclosed with Luna and myself.... Luna knew what he said.... And if I hadnt seen the damage he had caused first hand as well as wherever he got that hammer from.... I would've sworn it was a dream.... yet we're still here talking about it...."

"Speaking of him.... Its why you came isnt it? Scootaloo mentioned something about him but... I couldnt make anything out she said.... She was almost crying, she was nodding off....."

"...We had the same dream... Scootaloo and I.... I recounted what I could to Princess Luna here and.... well... here we are..."

"So.... You told my sister something about a dream you both had- the same dream mind you- and it caused her to have a panic attack.... May I ask what it was?" She glanced at me. I just looked at her wheelchair bound sister who was trying to calm herself.

"I.... I'd rather not have you like her Princess... Nor would I wanna panic her even more...." She sighed.

"That bad huh...? Well alright... I'll let you and Scootaloo get your rest but I do wanna be told later...." We soon stopped at Luna's bedroom door. She looked to her sister. "Are you alright enough to get inside and to your bed or do you want me to get next to your bed?"

Luna swallowed a bit. "Bathroom... Please...." She said. Celestia didnt have to tell me once to open her door up for her to wheel her sister in. Even had to open her bathroom door before going back into her room closing both doors for privacy. I just looked around at everything. Gaming posters, old game handhelds here and there, even a wall of figurines from games.... There was even one of Ryder as his character in the Alley Brawlers game. I still love that game but for reasons that arent Ryder related. She did have a terrarium with a few spiders in it but they died and Luna never got others. I dropped my stuff and climbed into Luna's bed and got all the way over to the wall before climbing under the covers.... I was so tired I fell asleep again. I didnt go into a deep sleep.... Just enough to keep my eyes closed while everything was going on. I heard Luna and Celestia come out of the bathroom after a while. "....Would mother do something like that sister?" Celestia huffed as she parked the wheelchair for her sister.

"I'm... Not sure on that sister...." She replied in a hushed voice. "...Perhaps later we could go and ask mother ourselves after the morning meal once those two are awake.... Its our only safe choice.... Now come on. Into bed with you. I'll send guards to wake you both for the morning meal."

"Uh... Once more for a bit of help sister? I... I dont trust myself even if I did use the toilet...."

"Of course. I still think he's made such an impression on both of us that he gets us wearing those either for relaxing or just in case...."

"Thank you sister... I think a nap and some food later will set me right but uh... Keep the chair in here for when I have to get up. Just in case?"

"Alright but I at least want to see about you using it for your walker instead of you sitting in it. Understood sister?"

"I will just...." She yawned. "...Please.... hurry..." I shifted a bit turning over. I could hear one of them shush the other. Couldnt tell which. I kept my eyes closed but the anxiety I felt just.... It just kept me lightly sleeping. I almost felt like I was going to cry at some point from how scared I was. The feeling faded when Princess Luna brought me into her bosom and cuddled with me. Even took a deep breath and uh.... wet myself..... Helped a bit. Never pissed myself on purpose unless I was drunk, know i couldnt make it to the toilet.... Okay maybe I have... even when thinking about him... Helping me change and- NO NOT THE TIME! Once I felt comfortable and uh.... wet.... I actually fell asleep. Didnt feel like I was asleep for that long.

Woke up only to a pounding on the door. "Princess! Morning meal time!" I heard Scootaloo call out. She sounded chipper like she was just racing around with Rainbow Dash and was happy to do so... Almost like she was a little filly again. Sometimes I wish I was as well... Not a care in the world, no job, nobody looks at me weird if I wet myself... He would still be here.... Playing video games, driving me in the car.... Watching me while dad wasnt there because he had business.... god someone fucking slap me. I stretched and looked to Luna who was still snoozing away.

I nudged her. "Princess... Time to get up...." I said yawning. I crawled to the end of the bed and hopped off. I stumbled a bit going for my stuff. Grabbed my bag and went into the bathroom to change real quick. Ditched my wet wear into a waiting trash can and changed into a fresh one... Even raided the Princesses cabinet for some powder because I chafe VERY EASILY! Especially after a day at the beach or in the pool.... God the rash I get is just ANNOYING. After I changed my clothes from the sweat suit I was wearing to some jeans and a Metallicolt tee. I set my bags down again after I went and just nudged Luna again who just snorted waking up. "Princess! Meal time come on lets go!"

Luna stretched as she sat up crinkling a bit. She rubbed her eyes. "...Morning General... Did you sleep well?" She asked. Still. Feels. WEIRD. I sighed.

"As well as I could for having my mind scare the shit out of me in the wee hours of the morning only to drive to get Scootaloo and then here...." I replied. "You alright? How are you feeling Princess?"

"I feel a bit better... Just.... I guess still a bit tired...."

"Feeling okay to walk?"

"Not sure yet just let me....." She carefully stepped onto the floor. I could see her legs wobbling a bit.

"Looking good so far. Need the bathroom or anything?" She stepped towards the wheel chair and grabbed on.

"No... I.... think? No accident yet but... uh... Here. Sit... My sister wants me to walk with this thing but she never said anything about you sitting there." I gave a smile.

"Alright but if you need to switch places on the way to the dining hall, let me know and we'll swap places and I can say you at least tried." I sat there and disengaged the brakes. She pushed me out and down the hall. I dont remember the last time I was in a wheel chair... Well... By myself. The last time I was in a wheel chair was after Manehattan... It was in his lap as I was recovering. Smoke inhalation isnt fun. Coughed my brains out for weeks after. I know one time he wanted to take me out on a bit of a walk, get some sun... I just sat in his lap, dressed in a gown, mask still on with the tank attached to the back... Wheeled me through the garden, the halls... Think the Garden was actually pretty beautiful at the time. Gardens making up each of the cutie marks of the Princesses. Twilight's, Celestia's, Luna's and even Cadence' despite being part of the Crystal Empire up north... Still want to visit up there sometime to take up Shining Armor's invitation. Luna did pretty well getting to the dining hall. Didnt have to switch places thankfully.

When we got there we saw Celestia and Scootaloo at the end of the table talking away. Both were still in pajamas. Celestia smiled as Luna wheeled me up. "There you two are!" She said. "Sleep okay?"

I shrugged as Luna sighed. "A nap is definitely what I needed sister... thank you." She replied. "Was Scootaloo alright?" Celestia sighed as Luna and I sat into some chairs just to her side.

"Yeah... Was very cuddly... reminded me of a time I watched over her...." Yeah... When Ryder went to war. Before Manehattan and while I was assaulted by that little creep that belonged to someone who my father was doing business with at the time. He denied any sale going on and refused to even sell him anything ever. And he made it known to the owners of the business the guy ran that he lets his son run amuck and harass everyone his father does business with. What makes this even better was that same kid actually got arrested a few years ago for multiple counts of rape, assault, even embezzlement from his fathers company. Father shut down the company, paid off his workers and disappeared off the face of the planet. And when I mean paid off I mean they got checks, some with 6 fucking digits on em! And that wasnt a bribe kind of thing. It was a sincere 'thank you for working for me for years' kind of thing. And that kid has been in and out of prison because of that shit.... Thinks just because his daddy has money means he can do anything and pay his way out of it. Heard rumors after his father passes he gets nothing from the will no matter what. Everything goes to charity. EVERYTHING. Even his shares.

"She always was a cuddler... doesnt matter on age though it seems." Luna looked to me. "I was telling our General here that it is wise to come out here and take our open door policy for her."

"Good. We'd rather help you with anything you have on your mind than not know before anything was too late... and knowing your bond with him it only seems fitting that we offer you the same things he got. A room here in Canterlot, an ear to bend if need be, Luna to tinker into your mind if need be. Anything you want to an extent.... Gifts are going to be rare. Those earrings you got after you first became General for one. Those were both a tad bit of apology and a gift congratulating you on your new title. It will take some getting used to yes but... It was the same for him. Recruit turned General all because of a fuck up... But you showed you earned that title by helping protect him in a time of need... Sure it was on my order that he be captured but if it werent for him getting word out to Twilight and showing the destruction he could do I'm sure he would've been dead...." Luna looked back at her sister.

"Celestia! Not the time for that. We know you have your regrets but now is not the time to voice them!" Celestia just opened her eyes wide as if she had just realized something and then shut them tight again shaking her head.

"...Uh... Sorry sorry.... I just.... Still Babs... I.... I just wish to tell you how important you are and what you deserve for everything you've done thus far... A bit more wordy than I would've liked but.... Still..."

I gave a bit of a pained smile having those thoughts implanted into my head. "Thank you Princess... I'll do my best to show my worth with this rank." I replied. "Now why dont we get something to eat? Food and some caffeine sounds alright right about now."

"Seems our minds think alike. Order what you want!" She clapped her hands a few times and a waiter appeared. We ordered, food was good, drinks were... Varying. I just got an energy drink from Luna's stash, Scoot got a soda and a hayburger... And fries.... Not just regular fries. GARLIC FRIES. And this was an equivalent to a McHoovians LARGE! I swear this filly.... She can eat how ever much she wants and NEVER gains weight! Like seriously. Compare her to me, she's a fucking TWIG! Anyways we split off from each other. Luna went with Celestia to make sure she was alright enough to get dressed for a day out. At least to distract us.... From what Celestia said.

Scootaloo brought me to Celestia's room. Huge room... Almost the size of my living room give or take. The bed in there was a good size as well. Its like my couch was just filled in from one end to another. I leaned against the wall as she started getting clothes from her bag. "Am I the only one who's still afraid of that nightmare...?" She asked. "We had the same one, freaked out Luna because of it and just.... Its just.... Why would we have that same nightmare?"

I gave a hefty sigh pacing a bit. "I dont know..." I replied. "I feel that as well... Its almost like they're writing it off for nothing.... Just a fluke... but with how Luna was its just getting me worried...."

"...Luna wouldnt just write it off... Did she say anything to you when you went to her room?" I had to think for a moment....

"...I remember something from when Celestia came to get Luna.... Said we had something called a premonition dream...." I took my phone out and hit the search bar. "....Let me just.... uh...." I searched it up... spelled it wrong because grammar and spelling was NOT my best subject in school. But my heart dropped about out of my ass when I saw the definition. I shuttered a bit. Just lowered myself to the ground and set my phone off to the side trying to breathe.

"Babs? Babs! Babs you good?" Scootaloo ran to my side in just her panties and her pajama top. I couldnt nod or shake my head. I just grabbed my phone and shoved it into her chest. She took it and looked at it only to see the definition I saw. "....To... Sense something bad about to happen before it happens???" I nodded. She looked to me and just gave me my phone. "Stay right here, breathe... I... I need to have a guard bring us Celestia right away!" I just sat back and just started breathing.... Feel like I spaced out. Scoot came back to my side and just sat with me until Celestia came.

When Celestia got into the room she just picked me up off the floor as if I were nothing. She sat me on her bed and knelt down. "General? Talk to me Babs. Breathe...." She looked to Scootaloo who hopped up on the bed next to me.... I swear compared to Celestia I felt like a filly again who just got into trouble and was getting put in time out. "Scootaloo? What happened?"

"She just had to look up what kind of dream we had and just.... Its scaring the shit out of us!"

"I understand you both had a dream that involved Ryder.... You're scared, I get it. But you have nothing to worry about.... Nothing will happen..."

"But how do we know that?? We had the SAME DREAM! And your mother? She can do things and I've seen it! That locket I was given? Seeing my mom and dad?! She could be planning on actually doing something with my brother and WE WOULDNT KNOW!" She started breathing heavily leaving me and Celestia in a bit of shock. She quickly broke down. "...I... I'm sorry... I.... I just dont want anything to happen to my big brother again... He died protecting us and... I...." She hugged herself. Celestia turned her attention away from me hugging Scootaloo.... Brought her into her arms like she were a little filly in her brothers...

"....Please dont cry Scootaloo.... I apologize... I.... I.... Just..." She huffed and grabbed me in her magic swapping me with Scootaloo letting her ride on her back before we all left out of her room. Neither Scootaloo or I said anything to the Princess as we rushed through the halls... It wasnt long before we stopped at Luna's door. She knocked holding me in one arm. "Sister. Sister I hope you're awake in there. We need to do something. NOW!" She didnt even wait for her sister to respond before barging in. Once inside Celestia set both Scootaloo and I down before going to her sister who was sitting up in bed scared. She was dressed in just a nightgown from what I saw.

Luna slowly shed the blankets and fixed her gown as she swung her legs from under them. "Sister? What is this about?" She asked.

"It's about mother.... She- she's going to do something with Ryder! She gave both Scootaloo and Babs visions forcing them both here.... Do you not see what's going on!?"

"Surely you've gone mad sister! Mother would've contacted us somehow..."

"She would and DID! She gave them visions, they turned to us for help... We can NOT let this go on any longer... We have to check! We have to at least do that! Do you not agree?"

Scootaloo sniffled pushing her way towards Luna. "Princess... Please.... Your mother... She's a powerful mare.... She... She can do things that I've seen and I'm not sure what she could do with my brother...." She said. "...Arent you worried what she could be doing with him....? Do you care about him as we do? I know you have to! He's done so much for you and you seem like you're just writing this off like NOTHING!" I swear Luna looked like she could've slapped Scootaloo... For a moment at least.That was before she got a guilty look like she had pissed the bed, hid it from mommydearest and she only found out after she went to school and had to sit her down with a diaper in hand and not even having to say it.... Okay... maybe that described a night in middle school when I went and saw a scary movie with Ryder and I wet the bed.... Nobody was home when I had to go to school and when I got home my mom just.... yeah.... Cant really do anything about that now herself but.... She literally padded me up as soon as I got home. Had to be that way through a nap, dinner and even to bed even though I hit the toilet before hand.... still ended up waking up wet.... Screaming.... That's what tipped them off about the scary movies.... But back to the story.

Luna gave a sigh before looking to Scootaloo. "...I.... This is my expertise and I'm just throwing it away like I did once with your brother..." She said. She looked to her sister. "Help me to my feet.... I need to open a door..." Celestia nodded and helped her sister out of the bed. She looked to me. "You and Scootaloo hop under the covers and shield your eyes! We'll say when its done!" I nodded and just climbed into Luna's bed with Scootaloo and we just hid under the covers like we were scared of the dark. I heard the magic flow from Luna... It lasted a bit before the Princess let out a bit of a scream before seeing a bit of light filter through the blankets before we heard heavy panting as if Luna was running a mile straight. Scootaloo and I looked to each other before climbing out from under the covers only to see Celestia looking a little dazed removing a pair of sunglasses having them disappear. Luna looked tired as she struggled to still stand on her own two feet.

I hopped out and helped Luna to her bed with Celestia. "You good Princess?" I asked. Luna struggled to climb into bed even with our help.

"...I... I think I may have wet myself.... Strained myself too much....."

Celestia sighed as she used her magic getting me and Scootaloo out of the way. "Possibly... But you should rest sister." She said. "I have this from here." Celestia looked to me as she covered Luna up and tucked her in. "The bathroom door should lead somewhere different. Have Scootaloo lead you through and find my mother. I'll join you after I'm done here." I gave a nod and just took Scootaloo's hand.

Scootaloo wasted no time in leading me through the door, not even hesitating. The bathroom door led somewhere that I definitely know I havent seen before. Clouds lining the floor and I was walking on em like I was a pegasus.... They were almost like I was walking on pillows but.... With not much give when pushing down on them. I couldnt help but look around at the endless view, clouds as far as the eye could see.... I didnt know whether or not I was excited or scared seeing all of this.... Maybe it was excite seeing all this but the fear was still there about Ryder... And as if we were being controlled we were stopped dead in our tracks. I looked to Scootaloo and just beyond her? I saw a large throne with a mare sitting in it. Larger than Celestia... by far. The large mare had a red mane and was wearing all white. There were golden inlays in designs that looked as if they moved and changed every second of every minute.... I had to be forced to my knees by Scootaloo getting me to bow in respect to her. The mare smiled. "This is certainly a surprise...." She said. "A filly all grown up and somepony new.... what brings you here?"

Scootaloo growled a bit. I wasted no time in covering her mouth and holding her back. "Uh... W-w-w-we're gonna wait for Celestia... Ma'am...." I said.

"Fair enough... We wait for my daughter. You may rise." I stood up with Scootaloo who smacked my hand away from her mouth. She looked at me with a look that told me she was pissed but wordlessly thanked me from keeping her from doing anything she'd regret... and she goes and does a lot of stuff when she's mad but keeps herself in check. Last time she flipped out at someone it was well deserved. Literally after we had Ryder for those few days before getting him back home, Scootaloo went and busted a guards balls LITERALLY for saying right to her face that he would've shot him point blank, no hesitation. Kicked him in the nuts TWICE, and even punching him in the face before running to Twilight... Think that was the first time I used my power as General to put him in his place.... I let him off with a warning because of that beating he got from Scootaloo. And that guard who held me at gunpoint? Dead. He handed in his armor, got taken in and within a week he was tried, sentenced to death by lethal injection... If it were up to me, I'd bring that Ryder back, tell him he could throw him from the top of the castle and see if he either dies by the sudden stop or a heart attack on the way down.... I swear I have his mentality sometimes.

As we waited and I had Scootaloo as calm as she could be without snapping at anyone. Took a bit for Celestia to come flying in and landing just between us and her mother. Even she bowed in respect to her mother briefly. "Hello mother..." She said a tad somberly. We watched as her mother stood from her throne and approached Celestia.

"Celestia! Its been some time since I had a visit from you and some guests. How are you?" Celestia sighed.

"I'm fine mother... But... I have my guests because... They're a bit... not... alright..." She gestured to us. "You remember Scootaloo? My previous General's little sister?"

"I do indeed.... She doesnt seem happy at the moment...."

"She isnt mother... As I can understand, she claims to have seen something that involved you and her brother.... Normally this is something that Luna would aid with but my new General, Babs Seed, has claimed to have had the same vision involving you and Ryder as well. Scootaloo is angered for obvious reasons... She's scared something is happening with her brother.... Same with Babs. They're both scared something is happening with him... Is there something happening with him mother?" I swear all emotion drained from her mothers face.... Made me worried... even more.... She sighed.

"...That stallion is a bold headed one.... Does things without hesitation and breaks rules I lay out for what he can and cant do..." She started pacing back and forth. "Ms. Seed... You remember after your encounter with him during a dream dont you? Meeting him in an old dwelling where he gifted you his personal tags bestowed upon him by my daughters... I looked past that... He told me he only touched your dreams because he wanted to give you strength.... When he visited a second time I took him aside and told him he shant be doing this that often.... And from what I saw he had pushed you to find that the strength you had wasnt there yet.... He admitted it was too far to do.... but that last time? When he visited you and his sister....? If I hadnt allowed him again to visit he wouldnt have tried my patience especially when it came to that unauthorized family time with his sister....."

"What about it mother? Why is that something to bring up? He should have a right to see his sister at least once!"

"He does... but that's not why I brought it up... It's because he told something to her that very well could alter the course of fate if acted upon.... I will not say what happens.... I will not say who it happens to.... Not even how.... Fate follows certain paths and if strayed upon too much... dire things follow not long after...."

We all turned our attention to Scootaloo. She grew nervous quickly. She looked to Celestia and backed away as she reached out. She backed into me and I just grabbed her and shoved her down. "What. Did you. DO?!" I asked.... Maybe a little enraged... a lot... enraged.

Celestia rushed to me and held me back... Like literally pulled me close and just held me, her fists against my chest. "General! ENOUGH!" She snapped. She looked to her mother while Scootaloo just curled up covering her head looking as if she was going to cry. Like someone just hit her in the face- which honestly I could've done but I held back because.... well.. she's family. Not by blood but with experience... and that special link to her brother and well... That he married into the family. "Mother. There has to be something to fix this. You can stop this cant you?"

Celestia's mother used her magic and stood Scootaloo up. "There is a way..." She said. "I might keep Scootaloo here for a while... Take the memory of what her brother told her.... Perhaps plant something else in its place... She'll be the same she always was. Might be a tad confused on why she was here but... I've got something...."

I swallowed. "How long will it take? I dont want to have to explain to her sister in law or her niece where she is!" I said.

"Should be until tonight. Have Celestia contact one of her friends and call her away for some time away from her work. If she asks where she is, tell her she's with you in Canterlot trying to take time away for a breather, perhaps even to have a spa day or whatever sounds like it would fit her."

"And you wont hurt her?"

"You have my word she wont be harmed. I'll send word through one of my daughters.... They'll know. As for you, go with Celestia, take your mind away from this situation and relax. Understand?" I swallowed again almost as if I was trying to keep myself from puking. I nodded as Celestia released me and just took my hand.

Celestia sighed. "....Please leave this filly the way she is..." She said. "If you change her what so ever I just.... I...."

"Celestia.... She'll be fine.... Go on now.... Look for my signal and tell your sister as well...Kay?" I looked to the Princess. She nodded and just started leading me away. I couldnt help but just look back at Scootaloo and Celestia's mother. I just saw Celestia's mother was knelt down in front of Scootaloo.... Almost looked like the mother of the kid I found lost in the mall.... Kid was crying, mother was trying to explain to them why they should stay close to her and comfort them at the same time.... Though that kid had a toy I bought em to make em a bit more calm. Even trust me to help him find his mother.

When we got back it was a long day.... Celestia took me to the mall, we looked at things and even tried- keyword tried- to set something up for me to head to see Shining Armor and Princess Cadence. But as of now they're busy... And I mean really busy.... They're supposedly holding meetings for countries leaders. For what Im not sure but hopefully all goes well. But we kept as distracted as we could be keeping our minds away from Scootaloo and Celestia's mother from doing stuff.... Oh and I guess her name is Heaven's Light? Only found that out AFTER.... and I mean way WAY after. Like.... in between lunch and dinner time. I honestly couldnt even stomach lunch all that much. Just got a small dish of salad... Not even any good dressing. Had to deal with bland salad. Barely... and I mean BARELY stayed down.... Maybe not even a half hour after I was done eating it tried getting its way out but I choked it down, had some water and dealt with it for a while and then Celestia told me. Why she didnt when I got there I'm not sure... Probably assumed we had already got acquainted. Dinner came around and I was sat at the table with Celestia. She turned our chairs to look out towards the mountains in the distance. I still remember the day of the crash. Watching TV with mom and dad, they pass the news and flip back with all you seeing is just truck after truck being loaded up with guards trapped on the mountain. Dad asked why they didnt have transports up there already and honestly? Good point there. They were all at Celestia's mountain retreat. Even remember the phone interview she had talking about the squad that rolled in to Canterlot with an emergency and was only alerted to what was going on up there when they got there because the plane took out power lines and nearly took out the radio tower there. I almost forgot about the issues we had with the sun just being set at the horizon. That was when we heard a sigh. We looked back and saw Princess Luna coming in wearing her deep blue and white Royal gown. "Evening all..." She said giving a stretch. "Everything sorted out with mother?"

Celestia sighed as she turned our chairs around with her magic. "I would hope so...." She said. "Come sister... Sit... Let us fill you in on what went on...." Luna nodded and took a seat just on the other side of her sister. She looked around and then to her sister.

"Is Scootaloo joining us? She must've fallen asleep after dealing with mother and her brother."

"She's going to be a bit late on that sister... This is something we wish to speak to you about..." She shifted in her seat. "We went in to get an answer but we left with more questions than answers.... You remember when Babs was here after she had gotten her new title that she had woken up with his tags?"

"Clearly... It just... it confused me for a time... Still does to this day."

"Well... Apparently according to Mother she allowed him to tap into your dreamwalking abilities... He used it to contact Babs and by extension Scootaloo..."

"Interesting... But what does this have to do with anything?"

"I'm getting to that.... Apparently while touching dreams and giving the gifts of long forgotten memories Ryder did something that might have gone as far as altering fate.... He let Scootaloo hear something not meant for her ears or anyone.... Scootaloo hasnt gone and released any information about that.... or... at least we hope she hasnt.... As of now Scootaloo is with mother having her memories altered to where she wont remember what happened with her encounter with Ryder...."

"What? How?"

"That's what we dont know. We dont know why mother allowed him to tap into her powers, not even sure what he told his sister or why. And how he can use it despite not being anywhere near our power of being alicorn? That's the biggest question of all."

I huffed. "And we're just waiting on when we can go get Scootaloo..." I said.

Luna got uneasy fast. "...How long has it been so far? How long did she say?" She asked.

"We dont know Princess... All we know is that your mother will give a sign to let us know she's ready to come back... For now? We wait... Lets eat something and I want you to eat as well sister. Babs nearly couldnt stomach her lunch because of her nerves and I dont want to wake in the middle of the night to know you collapsed!"

"I'll eat something but..."

"If I'm asleep by the time mothers word comes... You're going to have to do that. Stay with Babs until you get word." She nodded. Dinner was easier to be stomached. Hayburger, a little alcohol.... I swear. It was a cocktail. Two parts of two different alcohol and a bit of something else.... Cant remember the name of it. Not because it was alcohol but because Celestia suggested it. After that we went and watched another movie together and after that Celestia went to bed leaving me and Luna just to play some games together. We just messed around in a sandbox game that just made me laugh from the stupid shit we were doing. Like no joke. I grabbed a car, drove it and somehow managed to crash it so hard i ended up on top of a building, on my side and somehow still alive. That was before I jumped off and slammed down onto a waiting vehicle. Destroyed it. Yep.... Fell fast enough for it. But about... Two hours after we started playing I had the shit scared out of me. Blinding light, made me and Luna hit the floor expecting something to explode buuuuut.... Nothing happened. Just something hit the floor. We both got up and looked only to see a scroll on the ground looking as if it were made of gold.

I helped the Princess stand up a bit.... Strangely easy but it didnt really phase me because my heart was beating wondering what the fuck was going on. Luna looked to me as she picked up the scroll. "Something from your mother?" I asked.

Luna gave a huff brushing herself off. "Yes. She never can be subtle but subtlety would have you up all night." She said. She brought me over and unraveled it. She held it open and it just started writing letters and words. "My dearest Luna... If I'm right you should be awake.... Bring your General to collect her friend. Mother." ...That was all that was written. No joke.... Luna looked to me. "You up to come with me to get Scootaloo or do you wish to stay here?" I fought against the urge to stay... I really did.

"I... I'll go... I wanna make sure she's okay... Besides... She requested I be there... Would be rude not to... Should we go back to your room?" She nodded as she rolled the scroll up... The strange thing was that it just evaporated in her hands. She took my hand and we walked all the way back to her room. She took my hand not only to lead me but I guess she sensed how uneasy I was. There was time for me to say something, back out, go do something else... maybe walk outside in the garden, drop my pants and just take care of business not giving a fuck about anything other than some pics I have on my phone but no. I just kept walking with the Princess. When we got back to her room she used her magic on the bathroom door again... Luckily not putting herself out of commission again. Maybe into a weakened state but she powered through. This was the last chance I had to tell the Princess I wasnt going. But I didnt like a dumbass.

We entered, walked through the cloudy plains once more. When we got to the throne of Heaven's Light we saw her sitting there with Scootaloo passed out in her arms looking comfortable... She got up out of her throne and brought my friend to us.... She just handed her over to Luna who slowly aided her to the ground. "There... Safe and sound...." Heaven's Light said. "She got tired waiting for me to be done with what I was doing. She fell asleep and I could still safely perform the memory transplant.... She should now still remember a nightmare about her brother and coming here to see him but she cried and didnt want to leave for a while so you left her here to spend some time with the family...." I sighed.

"...Thank you Miss Light... I wish this all could've been avoided...." She sighed as well.

"I wish that as well... But now we have another issue... And I've given this much thought since you've come to me.... You've brought things to my attention and they have been fixed.... mostly.... There is still one problem to fix... and it has to do with the stallion who leaked the fate altering information...." My heart dropped as she turned back to her throne, walking to it in a huff. I fell to my knees as she sat down. She raised a hand and a pillar of clouds came up only to burst and in its place? Ryder. Cuffed. Head hung and filled with regret.

"RYDER!" I looked back at Luna who was as shocked as I was seeing Ryder there. "Princess! Do something! Please!"

Luna picked Scootaloo up... Still out of it surprisingly. "Mother! Cease this at once!" She snapped. "You've already fixed the problem! There is no need to do anymore! With him especially!"

Heaven's Light looked to her daughter. "He needs to be punished!" She snapped. "He has somehow gotten information forbidden to him and spread it amongst those who arent meant to know it! I shall not take any more of your lip daughter!" She looked back to Ryder. "You stand here today on a charge of subterfuge and threatening to change fate. What defense do you have?"

Ryder just looked to us and then to Heaven's Light. "....I do not Miss Light." He replied. "But I do have one request before my sentencing.... I think you know what I mean...."

"Be quick... Do not even attempt to run... Your punishment will be more severe if you even try...." He gave a nod and came over to me. Just gave me a look.... One I've seen when he knew he fucked up.

"Babs.... I....."

I hugged him and held him tight. "No... No this is another bad dream... I passed out and I just.... I have to be dreaming...." I said.

"...Not a dream this time Babs.... Now let go... I... I need to see Scootaloo before I go.... Tell her I love her...." I didnt even wanna let go.

"No... NO! I DONT WANT TO!" My eyes just started tearing up... Wasnt for long though... I just immediately broke down.

"Babs! Let me go NOW! You hold on to me any longer and you could be part of my punishment and I really dont think you'd last an hour where I know I'm going...."

I heard Princess Luna huff. "General. Let him go! That's an order!" She snapped. I swear... If being a guard didnt get me all indoctrinated with listening to those in charge I would've disobeyed... I would've gone down with him. I released him. He just looked me in the eye getting all teary himself.

"Babs.... I love you.... Just... When you go back..... Let AJ know I love her and give my baby girl a hug for me...." I nodded just before watching him go towards his sister. He just looked to Luna who could tell what he wanted. She pinched Scootaloo's arm making her jump.

Scootaloo rubbed her eyes waking up before just seeing Ryder. She froze as he knelt down. "...Ryder? Ryder what's going on?" She said hugging him scared.

"Scootaloo... Just keep calm sis..... Everything's gonna be alright..... You just... Just be strong.... Strong like our big brother... Okay....?" He sobbed a bit breaking his composure. "....Tell me Scoot... Tell me you'll be strong... Not just for yourself... but for Babs.... AJ.... My little bundle of joy..... everyone.... Just... Just be strong for everyone...."

"...I.... I'll be strong...." She replied.... I could tell she didnt know what was going on... She was scared, confused.... He turned his head as much as he could to kiss her cheek. He got up breaking her grip on her. He just looked to Luna.

"Princess.... It's been an honor working for you.... I.... I still hope you'll visit with me.... Or that he..... Lets you visit with me..... Let your sister know the same...." Luna didnt say anything. Just nodded with tears in her eyes. He walked back to where he stood and looked to Heaven's Light who just stared us down.... "Miss Light.... I... I'm ready..."

The large mare sighed. "I can admit... It's a crime to take someones loved one and banish them as such.... But the verdict still stands." She said standing. She looked to Ryder. "Ryder Wheeler. You are no longer welcome here.... You may no longer walk the plains of Elysium side by side with those you have lost before... you may no longer speak to...."

Things fell silent for me... I was panicking. I was crying. This was it. This was my nightmare. This is what made me nearly piss the bed.... more than likely piss myself and I wouldnt be surprised if I havent pissed myself already. I could feel- no- Hear my heart beating out of my chest. That's when I snapped. "NO! STOP THIS! ITS NOT HIS FAULT!" I screamed. Everyone looked at me, Heaven's Light stopping in her tracks. "It.... It's my fault..... He wouldnt have leaked whatever info he got if I didnt say anything about his sister.... But I shouldnt take all the blame!" Heaven's Light looked to me.

"And why not? Why shant you take the blame for what he has done? Who else besides you shares the blame?"

"YOU! YOU AND I SHARE THIS BLAME!"

Luna gasped. "Babs! Mother can not be accused like this!" She said. I looked to her, my sadness turned rage."

"BULLSHIT!" I exclaimed. "SHE WAS THE ONE WHO ALLOWED HIM TO TAP INTO HER POWER! SHE GAVE HIM THAT KNOWLEDGE IF NOT THAT BUT THE ACCESS TO SAID KNOWLEDGE!" I looked back at Heaven's Light rising to my feet. "She knowingly gave him that power. Yes he abused it. But its her fault that he came to me but its mine that he saw Scootaloo and released that information! I ask you this. Do you not see the flaws in your own actions? Do you not see the limits you could've put into place to prevent that from happening? And I do accept my part of the blame. Do you accept yours?"

Things fell silent for a time. How long that time was? I couldnt tell. I could see the look in the face of The Goddess looking for the answers everywhere.... Almost as if she was reading everything I said above. She sighed after maybe five minutes.... Hanging her head. "....I..... I do see the flaws of what I have done...." She said. "...I share if not take most of the blame.... If I hadnt given him the gift I trusted him with none of this would happen..." She looked to me. "General... I.... I apologize.... If you would be kind enough to come and release Ryder from his restraints...." I hesitated. "I promise. No trickery.... You have my word." I walked over to Ryder who just looked relieved... Almost thought he'd break out of his restraints by himself like I saw the other him do before. I looked to Heaven's Light resting a hand on his shoulder.

"The key if you will?" She chuckled a little.

"You've got the key already. Check your pockets!" I checked my pockets giving her a confused look. That turned to surprise when I pulled a key from my back pocket... The key was definitely otherworldly. Golden but old style with the part that goes in the lock looking as intricate as the keys we have now. I gave her a nod and went behind Ryder unlocking the restraints.... Again more intricate than what we have. It was holding his biceps and wrists. Once I got one side free he stretched his arm out before I released the other one. He stretched his other arm out before just hugging me. Miss Light took the restraints and key just as Scootaloo and Luna came running over hugging both of us, Scootaloo crying. Think Ryder broke down again too glad he wasnt going to be banished. "If you can get free Miss Seed... I do have something for you to show my sincerest apologies." I wiggled out of the group hug and made sure I still had my earrings. I went over to her and just couldnt help but hug her.... I felt sorry for yelling at her. She felt bad she was doing this to us as well considering she hugged me back. She picked me up and set me on her lap. "General Babs Seed... I do apologize... For the nightmare, the scare about your dear friend who saved you from certain death, the friend who saved your other friend from a life in an orphanage years ago... For this I'm going to do something.... Something I did for him and his sister long ago.... Any time you want or that my daughters wish, you can come and visit him.... And to give you a little extra.... I'm going to ask my daughters for a family dinner soon... I know not when but it will be done. I'll have my daughters invite everyone, hide it as a dinner invite to surprise them. Only you, Celestia, Luna and Ryder will know. For now.... Why dont you take something? Perhaps your own set of tags to go along with the set Ryder gave you?" She clapped her hands together, cupped them and just held them out in front of me. She took one hand away pinching her fingers together. What fell out of her hand but held up by a chain was my cutie mark on a metal tag, Ryder's on the other and then the info tag that had blood type, name and other stuff on it. She handed it off to me but I couldnt help but just grip it in my hand. "Indestructible in case anything happens to you or your home." ....Lucky the house is as safe as anything.... Celestia helped my dad hire contractors to build the house.

"Thank you Miss Light!" I said hugging her again. She giggled a little.

"You're quite welcome. Know I hold no hard feelings for making me see my errors... Now go return to my daughter and friend... I need to take Ryder soon to erase his mind of the incident.... I'm even going to alter his control on my power." I gave a nod and hopped off her lap before returning to the group hug.

Luna and Scootaloo backed off letting me hug Ryder again. "Babs you are an afterlife saver..... I could kiss you!" He said. Bad choice of words. I grabbed him by the shoulders, planted a deep kiss on him and just brought him down low like I was sucking the life out of him and he was just gonna fall asleep. I stood him back up after a moment finishing that kiss off giving a blushing grin as I backed up. He was blushing hard.... Possibly with something hard in his pants that... I'm not sure he'd be able to handle without angering the goddess... She shook his head with his eyes clenched shut before just looking to me. "Or uh... You could...." He looked to Luna. "Princess uh.... Could you.... Maybe convince your mother to let me visit your father and still return? If that's possible? I uh... I think I need to do something...."

Princess Luna gave a sigh. "Not sure what you're thinking but... Alright." She said. She looked to Scootaloo and I. "You two say your farewells and head out. Its late and you two need your sleep." We both nodded.... I couldnt help but realize how tired I actually was even with the adrenaline pumping through me still. Scootaloo and I hugged Ryder one last time... Maybe I copped a feel of what he had going on before leaving with Scootaloo in tow. I grabbed my bag and changed into pajamas again before taking my stuff with us to Celestia's room. We both used the bathroom there before hopping in bed with Celestia... She took notice of both of us but she was too tired to say anything... Just grabbed a hold of Scootaloo and passed out again. I snuggled up to her and just passed out myself. Next morning we ate breakfast together, had to contact Applejack to explain where we were because Celestia neglected to try contacting AJ letting her know we were up there but my cousin was calm, positive about everything just knowing Scootaloo was alright. When I brought Scoot back home that afternoon I spent some time at the house, playing with who I guess I can consider my niece since I'm just that close and she still refers to me as 'Auntie Babs'. But once nap time rolled around for the kid and Scootaloo considering she was REALLY tired still I stepped out with AJ and walked in the orchard for a bit.... I showed her the tags I got and told her he loved her and missed her very much. She just hugged me as if I were him. I just spent the rest of the time there.... Even took us out to dinner before crashing on the couch.... Great feeling there.

Gut Wrenching (Scootaloo's POV)

It's been a few days since Babs and I went to Canterlot.... I dont remember much but from what I could get it was due to a nightmare we both had about Ryder and I didnt get much sleep that night. I remember getting in bed with Celestia but I guess I spaced out or something..... Came back when I went to visit mom, dad and Ryder.... Cried I guess because I missed them so much and fell asleep..... Woke up to Ryder getting punished for something and Babs yelling about it....? From what Babs said Ryder did something and it was Heaven's Light's fault. Didnt really explain anything further than that. I do remember after that Babs took us to dinner, I had a drink or two that night and just had fun.... But today? I just... I was just down... I was at the garage doing some work today. I was dressed in my coveralls, had my cap on backwards keeping my mane out of my face. I was just making sure things were going alright, no other issues with cars we had previously fixed. I've gotten a few guys who came in with an issue, we fixed it but they were back later in the day or the next because they did something with the car, blamed us for it. Like no joke. Car was clean the day they brought it in to change the shocks on a truck, truck comes in the next day, covered in mud and dirt and the shocks were fucked. THESE WERENT EVEN SHOCKS THAT COULD TAKE MUDDING! Yet those were the ones the guy wanted. We told him we'd replace the ones for free, if he got the same ones or if he wanted to upgrade to the ones that would take this kind of abuse he'd have to pay the difference. He agreed to pay for better ones and we even gave the car a free wash after we were done. But as I was walking through the garage getting ready to take inventory of a few of the tool boxes against the wall i failed to see some gas canisters .... Tripped and I was just lucky they were empty. Didnt help that I was hurting myself all morning.... Closed the door on my hand leaving the house, my car door caught my tail, my wing cramped up after I got to work and I had to have someone stretch it out and massage my wing while I drank some water and just... Yeah it's not my day today. Here one of my workers helped me up and dusted me off. "You good boss?" He asked. This was actually a friend of mine. Rumble. Another Pegasus that I used to go to school with. He might've picked on me a bit but he was nice to me after Ryder passed... Spent time with me, even had his brother Thunderlane do something special for me and Mama Spitfire.... I took to calling her that as well I guess.

I huffed grabbing my pen and clipboard. "Yeah... Just... Tired I guess...." I said.

"Why dont you head back to your office, let me clean up here and I'll bring you something to drink alright?' I gave a nod and just fixed my cap before heading towards the steps going up to the office. Best thing here? I own this garage and Ryder used to work for this garage before mom and dad died. There were some ponies still working here from when he did when I took over. They saw the pic of him I have on my desk, some of them said something bad about him and I fired them on the spot. You do NOT talk shit about my brother, to my face or at all. One of them tried to sue me. Keyword tried. The Judge, being Silver Spoons dad threw out the case. Not just because I was friends with his daughter but because the firing was on grounds of previous offenses he's been tried for and that the firing was justified. Anyhow I sat in my office just trying to breathe. I stared at the picture I had of me and Ryder.... It was just after I started my first day of Middle School.... We went to dinner, hit the mall and got some pictures done.... We had the most bland background but it was all we needed. Didnt want anything fancy, didnt want anything flashy, and we both says HELL no to the costumes. Applebloom and Applejack got the costumes. AJ's got the pic up in her room. I sighed taking the picture in my hands.

"....I wish we could spend more time together like we used to big brother...." I said. "...Just you and I.... Maybe Dash.... just having all sorts of fun together.... We'd race around Cloudsdale when I was learning to fly, you'd clean me up after I ate shit landing from a fast flight.... Even take me out to get ice cream when I could go and beat the other kids in a race when Mama Spitfire would hold races for the kids of Cloudsdale. It was mostly for fun and I loved doing it.... I just want those days back....." I felt my eyes just fill with tears..... I held the picture close as if I were just hugging a stuffed wolf.... I still have one in my room watching over me while I sleep.... Fucking Ursa Minors... and Majors.... About a year or so after Ryder passed an Ursa Major attacked Ponyville.... Damn lucky Fluttershy gave it the stare and made it go back home.... Surprisingly all it took. But what woke it up was a loud concert at the edge of Everfree. That right there is the reason any and all concerts have to be well away from Everfree. Not only because of the Ursa's but because of all the other creatures in there. Rouse them enough and they attack. I jumped a bit getting nudged out of my own thoughts by Rumble. He sighed as he took the picture from me sitting it on my desk. Even grabbed the other chair in the room and brought it over for him to sit in.

"Something tells me you miss him.... Dont you?" He asked. I hesitantly nodded. "...Why dont you take the rest of the day off? Got two days off ahead of you... We can handle everything here. Just go somewhere, spend some time with someone and relax.... Maybe go see your cousin or something? She'd probably love to see you... Who knows? Maybe she's got some stuff on her mind as well." I sighed....

"...I.... I dont know...."

"C'mon Scoot. You work hard. You just pulled two sixteen hour days making up for the days you missed and you've been really distracted after lunch. You nearly miscalculated someones bill earlier, you were staring off into space on your quick breather outside and you tripped over gas cans and you're almost crying here! Just go get some rest. Take a few days to yourself. Come back monday morning. Okay?" I gave a nod.

"...O-Okay... I... I'm gonna call someone... see if I cant get them to come drive me somewhere.... C-Can you get me a drink from the station?" Rumble nodded.

"Your usual sports drink?" I gave a nod. He smiled before leaving the room, closing the office door.

I pulled my phone and just knew who to call. Gilda. She still misses my brother but she's strong like he was still with us. Since Dash moved out of Ponyville she's lived at the Castle which Twilight happily agrees to as long as she does the cloud clearing stuff like Dash did. I just hit call and put the phone on speaker. Within the first few rings I get an answer. "Scootaloo hey!" She said. "What's going on? You never call me!"

I sniffled a bit. "Gilda.... Can... Can you get down to the garage on Galar Drive?" I asked.

"...You good? You sound like you're crying....."

"....I... I am.... Can you come get me or not? I just need you to drive my car..... I cant drive while crying....." She huffed.

"Alright. I'll ask the Princess and see if she cant have a guard truck drop me off somewhere down there. Just be ready when I get there.... Alright?"

"Okay.... Text me when you're close okay?"

"Got it. See you in a bit but know I want you to tell me why the hell you're crying when I get there!" She didnt give me a chance to say anything before hanging up. I gave it a few minutes before meeting Rumble outside with my drink. Clocked out, took my coveralls half way off and tied it around my waist as I just sat near my car. Still cant forget the day I got this thing.... The motherfucker who murdered my brother.... He got off lucky with life in prison rather than the death sentence..... Because I would've been the one to pull the trigger point blank. Celestia and Luna would've let me do it... but they would've made it a remote system considering I dont trust myself with a gun since I was a filly... I injured Celestia and with how Ryder was after mom and dad died? They didnt want a repeat. But we got the guy for all he owned.... We let his exwife and kid keep the house. But we took his car, his business which I co-own without having to do a damn thing but its how this garage actually gets its parts. They pay for the parts, they get delivered here and we install them for the fee. Most of the time its just a tuneup, oil change and stuff like that. But this car used to belong to the guy who killed my brother. Celestia and Luna had to change it from red to the black sports car it is now.... Even got a new V6 Engine that just purrs like a lion getting its belly rubbed. It didnt make everything better. Luna and Celestia took care of all the expenses when it came to laying him to rest and keeping everyone in good spirits so we didnt do anything stupid.... Cant forget the day Uncle Orange dragged Babs to the orchard in her underwear with scars all over her arms.... Applejack, Big Mac, Applebloom and I had to nearly hold her down and force feed her. We were just glad we could give him a proper burial....

Anywho I sat there for a while sipping my drink. It was getting warm. Didnt care. It was sweet.... Mango. Definitely a favorite. But I just sat there.... Didnt wanna fly around, stretch my wings, didnt even wanna go and grab a snack... Still dont think I've eaten anything more than a bowl of cereal before I left the house today.... Food definitely needed. I just spaced out at my car before hearing a huff next to me. Looked over to see Applebloom. She was wearing a white tanktop and some jean shorts and her favorite sneakers. Red and white but they were dirty to hell because of the dirt at the orchard. "Hey there sis. You good?" She asked.

I sighed. "....No... No I'm not...." I replied just looking back at my car. "....Leaving work early to just go get my mind off him.... Gilda should be here any minute to drive my car... Might have her take me back to the castle.... Dont wanna go back with that little shrine AJ's got all set up so 'Mash can see her father...."

"Yeah... Babs told me to keep an eye on ya after you left for Canterlot the other day.... Told me Celestia couldnt help but mention him...." I rested my wing on my sister... Really do feel like I'm part of the family. They took me and Ryder in after our house burned down and when Ryder married AJ we were all there for each other.... Everything from having to deal with crops dying to Ryder, to the foal and just.... We've been through hell and back together.

"...Yeah... I just.... is it bad I miss the days I'd piss my pants and have him there to comfort me...?"

"....Nah... Wouldnt doubt he misses those days as well..." I looked back at her.

"Probably... But what are you doing down here? Diamond Tiara not on your arm today and you're a free filly once more?"

"Nah.... Trucks on the fritz again and Diamond's got a little cold. Told her I'd bring her some homemade soup later."

"I keep telling you that its the filter and the oil needing to be changed but you still think its the pistons misfiring! The pistons are supposed to move like that you know!"

"Ah shut up.... I know now... Just hope someone in there knows what the hell they're doin.... Feel like you would be the only one I trust in here...."

"If they fuck up, tell me who and they're gone." I saw a guard truck pull up from the street before parking. I huffed as Gilda stepped out. Still always wearing Ryder's service shirt.... at least one of em... I have another. Dont wanna wear it because its too big and I uh... I dont wanna ruin it. Not with oil from working on the cars at home, not from eating food and dripping shit onto it and wearing it to bed? ....I may or may not still piss the bed every so often... Especially when I drink Apple Juice. "...There's Gilda.... Why dont you clear out before she thinks you're the one making me cry....?" Applebloom gave a nod, gave me a hug and just quickly jogged over to the garage.

I stood up and she didnt even give me a chance to say anything before hugging me tight. Almost like I was Dash and we hadnt seen each other for years...I hesitantly hugged her back but I felt at home in her arms.... She grabbed my arms and just pushed me off studying them... She then looked to me. "Good... That's how I wanna see em...." She said. "Now... Why the FUCK did you call me crying? WHY were you crying?!" I huffed taking my arms back.

"...Because I cant drive home after I cry.... and the why? Why do you think?" I dug into my pockets while she was just looking at me confused. I tossed her my keys and huffed. "Just get in, drive me to the castle... I feel like I'm gonna break down again...." I opened the door to my car and sat inside shutting it behind me. The warmth of the car sucked... Like a fucking oven. Didnt care. Just watched as Gilda walked around to the drivers side and hopped in.

"Yeah... You're his sister alright.... He would've done the same thing.... But I'd make him sit passenger.... Still not gonna forget the day he took my bike and made me show up to your place after he got married... Didnt know how to ride a bike for his life and could've fucking died riding it!"

"....And yet he died protecting me and Applejack...." She turned my car on and instantly the AC kicked on... nice. Cool. Air conditioning. And INSTANTLY cold. Like you just opened up the fridge, had a fan kick on and hit you with the cold from inside there. "...You need to talk as well Gil?" She sighed backing out of the spot before throwing it in drive.

"....Babs didnt stop talking about him last night... She showed me some tags she got when she came back from Canterlot with you... Doesnt help that we've thought about him while we were uh...." She blushed... I did too.

"...Guess you miss him as much as I do..."

"...That dweeb of a brother you got was a stallion after my own heart.... He might've had a wife but he made me feel like a mare.... Made me feel like I was his mare.... Like I was loved..." She turned out of the lot and followed the guard truck out. "...Years ago he was with Dash... They were at the mall and found me.... I wasnt in a good spot.... I nearly hung myself.... He just sat at the door, talking me out.... for hours.... Took me to dinner, Dash didnt leave my side the whole night.... He gave my life meaning...."

"Well... Hope you're not gonna off yourself or arent thinking about it...."

"Off myself? Ruining all the work he did building my ass up to keep going no matter what? I know you'd rather not hear this but I'd rather get myself off thinking of what he used to do to me. The day I go and try to off myself again is the day I take a shit on his grave and that day will never come." I huffed just leaning back in my seat.

"I can see why my brother goes to you when he didnt wanna be with Applejack.... Not afraid to speak your mind to whoever is listening.... Tough but... You show you care...."

"Yep.... Figure after he passed I'd sit down with others, listen to their problems, and be that one they vent to no matter what.... They could be so close to death and nobody would know until its too late.... If someone hears their story, talks with them, makes them feel wanted they might not go through with it.... And your brother? He had a lot wrong with him... After he got his job as a guard and before he went to war.... During I had to keep everyone else happy the best I could while keeping my mind off him.... After he got back I didnt wanna try to let him go but... He needed time to relax even after your house burned down.... And leading up to when he married Applejack? He was a mess. Hell when I heard about the shootout he was in from Dash I nearly pissed myself.... Pretty sure she did that night having a nightmare about that and pissed the bed!" I gave a bit of a laugh.

"Yep... Ryder always told me she was a bed wetter... Aunt Misty told me she never grew out of it...." I sighed a bit. "....Are you at all wanting to maybe take a trip outside of Ponyville? Maybe give Dash a surprise?"

"That doesnt sound too bad... I was just gonna see about heading down to a bar later. Suppose I can just hit the liquor store for a case. You drink?"

"Last I did apparently Babs was dumped naked somewhere near Appleoosa. Only drinks I get are whatever Applejack lets me drink at the house... And even then I have to buy it and keep it out of reach of Mash so... Locked minifridge it is and its only rare that I open it..." And not only do I have to keep my alcohol away from her, AJ doesnt even allow her to have cider or milk.... Long and actually painful story... But long story short, lactose intolerance and any milk we get has to be something that isnt milk just so it doesnt upset her stomach. But just in case.... Diapers at the ready.

"What say we get up there, see if Speedy Mcgee wants to take a break to spend time with us and have a drink."

"Yeah... Hopefully Soarin is there.... He could provide a bit of distraction as well..."

"Maybe... Just right now, relax, breathe and enjoy the ride... Need food or anything?"

"...I could eat. You choose." That was probably the best thing I could say. She drove me to the nearest restaurant, bought me food, we ate, had a bit of a drink before driving me straight to the castle. Once at the castle I raided Dash's room for some clothes. Grabbed some pants, a tanktop and a sporty hooded short sleeved jacket. Even surprised she had sneakers that fit me still. Work boots are nice and comfy but I'd rather not look sporty but willing to step in to work at a construction site. I kept my cap on though. Didnt wanna brush my mane. Just uh... made sure I had my smokes from my pocket of my coveralls before I left and yes. I made sure I had my phone and wallet too. Applejack knows I smoke but prefers I keep it by the rode away from Mash, out of the cars and if I am smoking and things happen, I put the one I'm smoking out and then try to make myself smell not like stale smoke if possible. Hasnt happened yet but I'm ready for the most part with some body spray.... Most of the times...

I checked my phone as I made my way down the hall. Sent a text to Applejack telling her I'm not gonna be at the house for the rest of the day but might not be back until tomorrow afternoon. She asked where I was heading and I just told her Cloudsdale. She knows what I do there most times. Visit Dash, watch the falls like Ryder did and even hit the arcade. Apparently the company that makes the Alley Brawler games liked having my brother as a character so much he kinda stayed as a staple of the series... The game they have there has a special splash screen at the end of the tournament if you win as his character that showed him in an Alley Brawlers costume holding up a sledge hammer with one arm with the quote his character says to the boss in the final cutscene. 'The stronger you are, the weaker the things you fear become.' I even told Applejack to not say anything to Dash and let it be a surprise. On my way to find Gilda I ran into Spike... Like literally.... He was running through the halls, ran straight into me sending me to the floor and my phone sliding. He gasped as I started getting up. He went for my phone and handed it to me before helping me up. I checked my phone for damage and thankfully there was none... Surprisingly.... Same one I got from Celestia years ago after I got lost in the mall in Manehattan. "Sorry Scoot! I was just trying to come find you for the Princess!" He said dusting me off. I huffed looking to him. He was wearing jeans, running shoes and a white 'Nukes Galore' shirt. Brother is immortalized in that game as well. Devs gave him a terminal entry of the remnants of an old evil faction. Faction got destroyed, what was left tried making a better future for themselves and the wasteland and low and behold Ryder is in there....

"Next time have Twilight call me... She has my number. Same with Gilda if she doesnt..."

"Gilda is getting ready but Twilight wanted to speak with you personally and she's busy doing something in her library and doesnt have her phone."

"...And yours?"

"Bedroom on the charger... Fell asleep with it and it died so just waiting for a bit... Might get it to see the charge."

"You do that... Just get me to Twilight... Not in a good mood already and I dont need it worse... Sorry... Just... I'm in a mood..."

"Something tells me something hit close to home and you're wanting to get away from home?"

"....That obvious huh?" He gave a nod as he took my hand and started leading me along.

"Yeah... You arent usually this short with anyone... Not unless you're pissed off with something...."

"...Its because I cant get him off my mind... and I think you know who he is..." He just sighed and stayed silent... He doesnt like talking about Ryder... He's still hurting from his loss... Its been ten years since he died. The pain faded for the most part but until I nearly killed my brother after jumping on him from a tree. Only reason I was in a tree was because I heard him yell when he fell and I wanted to ambush him since he was chasing after Mash and she knows what to do if she sees someone in the orchard. Runs and tells mommy and mommy gets her rope before calling the guard. And that's if I dont get there first like I did with Ryder.

When we got to the library Twilight was just sat at a desk with a few books levitating around her. Spike just released my hand before going over and hugging her. She looked to him setting all the books down and hugging him as well. She sighed. "...You alright Spike? She didnt yell at you too much did she?" She asked. I huffed alerting her that I was there.

"No... I mentioned uh.... him..." She sighed glancing at me.

"And I assume that's why Gilda commandeered a transport to come get you?"

"...yes Ma'am..." I said. "Work let me go early because I started crying and.... You know what happens when I cry and try to operate a vehicle...."

"Yeah... you get distracted and you get hurt.... Dont want an accident on your bicycle to be one in a car..." Yeah... That's the reason I cant drive after crying. Maybe a week or two after Ryder died I had to go back to work to my first job. Didnt last long because the day I went back I spaced out and ended up crashing into a car. The car was at fault considering they were going the wrong way down the one way I was going but I got off lucky with a broken leg. I admitted I was distracted. At least they paid for a new bike because mine was fucked and that Celestia covered the medical bills. Celestia told me she'd help us with anything and everything. She still does but with the busted leg I told her I'd rather just sit at home rather than be healed immediately. The job I had wasnt anything much. Just a grocery store job and the manager was an ass. Fired me because I got into an accident which sent me to the hospital! That manager got fired a month later for firing someone who misplaced a piece of paper that had some information on it that still would've gotten her fired anyways. Bitch. Anywho Twilight just turned her attention back to Spike. "Why dont you go find a guard, take them to the entertainment room and play some games with em? Maybe watch a movie?" He gave a nod before breaking away. Before he even left I grabbed him and hugged him too... I always thought he was cute but Ryder and him being friends is a little awkward... didnt stop Sweetie Belle and Button. After I released him Twilight looked to me. "I hear you're planning on heading to see Dash. And all because the thought of your brother..."

"Yeah... I was getting distracted at work after Canterlot the other day and I worked my ass off trying to get the hours back by covering for someone for two days and i just... I'm tired, I got the shit scared out of me after I woke up from passing out visiting my brother and I just.... I havent wanted him back this bad in a long time...." She sighed.

"...You've obviously worked hard the last few days and deserve rest. And as for you missing him this much? I honestly blame myself for that... I sent him so far forward in time that he landed here and came to know he was dead.... And to send him back so soon? He wanted to go home.... I allowed him to go home... I'm not sure what would've happened if he had stayed a day longer... Both to himself and us.... Though if things stayed the same after being sent back...? What would happen to those he came into contact with? Those he had loved? I'd rather not risk anything.... And with the stuff I've heard about my friends and their families after losing someone? I dont want to have to get that load of family coming in only to tell me someone in my friend group passed due to their own faults... It still hurts I went and took the pill... They grow older while I'm staying the same age I was after taking the pill... I got an ear full from my brother and family already... They still love me though and I'm glad for that... They just ask I dont take any more of those pills...." I stepped forward hesitantly and hugged the Princess. She hugged me back. "Thank you... It's hard not to think about these things...."

"...I hope you're not thinking of doing anything bad..."

"...I wont... Just recent events really puts things into perspective...." She pried me off and took my hands. "I have a question to ask you... Can you bring Dash back here after you're done with what you're doing? Convince her.... do something to get her here... There's nothing going on with her except she needs a vacation... At least I hope thats the only reason and she didnt go and fucking hurt herself and not contacting anyone to visit her..."

"...She's done it before but that didnt stop anyone from telling them..." Yeah.... Maybe a couple years after my brother passed she was racing... Flying... Stupid bet between her and Gilda like usual. She agreed to the race from the helipad of the castle to the ground.... She was lucky she pulled up otherwise I'd be attending a third funeral for someone I loved. She pulled up but not enough to miss the road, some guy hit her barreling down the street and can I just way WHAT FUCKING TIMING? He hit her, knocked her out of the air and she ended up only getting a broken leg and a separated shoulder. Twilight didnt know about that, the guards that were up there let it go on and I didnt even know until I tried to visit her at the house. She nearly gave me a heart attack. You do NOT know how much I fucking yelled at her and made her promise she'd not do something that stupid again... And now she's racing and training the Wonderbolts.... Still got that nickname of 'Rainbow Crash' from when she was a filly.... Uncle Red told me that.

"If she has.... Dont lay into her too hard... Just get her ass into a wheel chair or a stretcher and get her here... I'll even give you access to the chopper to fly out there with Gilda so neither of you go and crash a car because you're both getting distracted thinking about Ryder..." I kinda stayed silent here.... She sighed. "Sorry... There's been a lot of emotion lately after what we experienced a few weeks ago with your brother... Apologies if I sounded rude.

"Apology accepted Princess... Maybe... Maybe one of these days we get everyone together and just make sure everyones doing alright after that...."

"Good idea... friends help when they're needed and mine have been there since I came to Ponyville... Maybe we have a movie night or something." She huffed. "You should go get a bag ready with some clothes and get out to the helipad with Gilda. I'll have them prepare for takeoff in ten." I gave a nod and gave her one more hug before hurrying off to get a bag packed... with more of Dash's stuff. Dash doesnt wear em anymore... Probably let alone fit em.... She's still a bit petite but when she eats... SHE EATS. Her metabolism just.... It works! SOMEHOW. HOW? I DONT FUCKING KNOW! But yeah... Grabbed a bag, packed it, made sure I had charging cables and what not before heading up to the helipad. I remember when I was a filly after Ryder dropped me with Celestia.... First time I got into a helicopter I freaked the fuck out.... Only reason I was afraid was because mom and dad took me up to some clouds and tried to teach me to fly but a gust of wind knocked me down and my wings werent strong enough to catch me. Dad had to catch me and they took me down and just kept me grounded.... Even after my fucking babysitter didnt watch me and then pulled some vital feathers I need to fly.... Ryder got into contact with her before he died and told her to go fuck herself and she hadnt been babysitting since then.

I put my bags into the chopper and then while I waited I started doing a few laps around the castle. On the third I landed seeing Gilda coming out with a bag for herself. Gilda huffed as I came in for a less than smooth landing. "Ready kid? Dash still has no clue we're coming and I'm thinking of taking her out for some dinner tonight."

I stretched a bit. "And I sure hope that you're gonna help me with something..." I said walking with her to the chopper. "Princess wants me to drag Dash back and she doesnt seem like she's asking...."

"Ah right... I've noticed Dash's been acting weird since your brother came around and when it came to everyone saying something about him? And the picture I got from Dash? I believe it. But... Its kinda worrying me that Dash is either overworking herself or she's missing your brother and just not saying anything...."

"Faster we get in that chopper, faster we can find out... I just hope its that she's overworking rather than thinking anything...." We both loaded into the chopper and this is something Ryder taught me after Manehattan... I... god.... I still cant forget the day even though I was out for most of it shitting myself...Applejack and I knew Ryder was alive, Big Mac thought both of us were going crazy but when Ryder walked... Or rather wheeled in... I'm sure he could've kicked Big Mac in the balls and told him off. Same with Uncle Orange... Still glad he made it out with Babs. But he taught me to go and use the dial to tune in to music. I didnt use the music this time... Just listened to the sounds of the chopper, talked with Gilda about work, see if she wouldnt mind learning a bit about the stuff I do. Even offered to do an off the books tuneup with some parts I buy on her car. She actually upgraded from an old beater to a sports car and when I mean sports I mean SPORTS. Like this thing can pull zero to sixty in five seconds. She's even got a racing livery on it and she drags it sometimes.... Like Dad used to do... Yep... I know of that.

Anyhow that ride took about forty five minutes to an hour. We got a good shot of the Rainbow Falls glistening in the sunlight. Snagged a few pics and sent it off to Applejack. She always likes seeing the falls.... and yeah... Mostly because of Ryder... He always would fly around with Mama Spitfire and I before he passed. Any time he was down here we'd give the spectators below a quick little race. Always a cool little tradition we'd do. As we flew towards the WBTF I started getting a little anxious. I was excited but at the same time I was scared... hurting... Gilda reached over and offered a hand which I gladly took. She held it until we landed. Once we did we had to unbuckle ourselves and hop out with our bags. The tarmac was just baron. The helicopter took off as we got a good ways away. We just looked at each other just wondering where we should go. I still took her hand as if I was taking Ryder's when we walked together... We went towards the Mess Hall. We stopped hearing some talking and yelling inside. The yelling was from Dash. I could tell. I just got close and listened. "DAMMIT YOU DONT KNOW THAT!" Dash yelled. "THAT COULD BE THE PRINCESS OUT THERE AND WE COULD BE STUFFING OUR FAT FUCKING FACES!"

I heard someone huff. "Dash uh.... Captain... Dash..." A stallion said. Soarin... And hasnt she gotten a fucking head on her for being addressed as such. "If it were the Princess we'd know about it! If anything its the guard practicing some flight drills and they just got a bit too close to us. They were probably hovering for a bit and whoever was doing the training was getting grilled for it. I can contact em later and tell them to really make sure they avoid our airspace if you'd like."

"Fucking.... CLOUDCHASER! GET OUT THERE AND GO FUCKING CHECK!" ...Yeah... She's definitely got a stick up her ass and I havent seen this for a while... Last time she yelled at everyone like this she was drunk and guess what had to happen? Cuffs, someone to knock her out and a diaper.... She really could've used a bed pad as well but nope. That didnt happen. But I was the one to put her to sleep. Ryder told me I did it like he had to Big Mac after Ryder came home before mom and dad.... Yeah... I huffed and backed up hearing something get slammed down. I looked to Gilda who just grabbed a hold of me.

Not soon after she did the door opened and out came Cloudchaser. Her mane was short. Used to be long and in a bit of a bun. Her sister ended up leaving the Wonderbolts because of something that ended up taking her wings. Not even a chance for prosthetics like Ryder did. She flies still and they take donations to help those afflicted with whatever her sister had.... More than likely Cancer... She was still wearing her jumpsuit though. Those havent changed all those years. She smiled before looking back in. "Captain! Soarin! We got visitors!" She said. She turned back to us. "C'mon in you two!" I smiled as Gilda let me go. I rushed on right by her and straight for Dash who just had the biggest and stupidest grin on her face like she wasnt yelling at them at all. Her mane was short and windswept and a bit thicker around the waist... She's still blaming that on baby fat despite not all being anywhere near having a foal or being close to being the age of a foal.... Wonder if she still wets the bed... Dash sighed as I hugged her and as Gilda came from behind and joined us.

"You two scared the HELL out of me! I thought Luna or Celestia or even Cadence was just gonna drop in for a surprise inspection or something!" She replied. I wiggled out and went straight for Soarin. Soarin's mane was a bit longer from when I was younger... He was a big help after Ryder passed... He visited just about every other day making sure we were alright.... Brought me and Applebloom some Wonderbolts stuff.... he even had to make sure I ate something every day by doing a video call or sitting with me. Even took us out to get some sun whether it was a train ride to Manehattan for the beach, a walk around the park in Ponyville or just a quick flight with me if nobody else was home for whatever reason.

Anyhow he sighed hugging me. "Good to see you too Scoot..." He said.

Gilda sighed as she let go of Dash. "Sorry for dropping in on you like this but I thought I'd accompany the kid making sure everything's alright here." She said. "Not to mention its been a bit since we hung out Dash... Starting to miss you being around."

Dash huffed as I broke away from Soarin. "You're getting soft Gil.... Dont matter to me though." She replied. "Good to see you both but I need to ask... THE HELL ARE YOU DOING HERE?! You could've at least called!"

I huffed getting in between Gilda and Dash. "Chill out you hothead!" I snapped. "We wanted this to be a surprise! Sorry if we intruded on lunch and scared you but you seem to have a stick up your ass anyways!"

"I do NOT!"

"From what I heard before we came in you definitely do! Why dont you finish your meal, meet me and Gilda by the office?" I grabbed my stuff and just went for the door. I heard someone following me out. Didnt check to see who it was but I just took off for the roof. I sat down on the roof and just hugged my legs near the edge.

The one who followed? Soarin. He flew up and sat on the edge next to me. "You good Scootaloo?" He asked. I shrugged just staying quiet. "....I'm gonna take that 'dont know' into just no.... Is everything alright at home?" I didnt answer.... Just looked out at the tarmac.... just imagined me and Ryder... flying about... him dressing a scrape I got during a rough landing, him and Babs having fun.... Even the birthday party him and Mama Spitfire threw for me.... Tears just started filling my eyes and I didnt even know until Soarin hugged me. I just hugged him back. "...You miss him dont you? Why else would you be here...?"

"...He... He just.... I want him back...."

"...I know you do...."

"....I feel like this is my mom and dad all over again.... They died, I cried my eyes out and just.... I wanted them back for so long.... and with Ryder...? The one who saved me from getting taken away... the one who cared for me.... gave me a home, came home when i thought he wouldnt and just....."

"I get it.... he's done so much for you.... and from what Dash told me you saw him again because of some sort of magic stuff Twilight did... Honestly wish I was there to see him but there's a part of me that's glad I didnt.... Not sure why but... I feel like as if it was best... Dash already promised she wouldnt say anything to your mother.... Speaking of which she's coming for a visit just to see how things are. Maybe you, Dash and Gilda can do something for her... The home she's in saying she's been real depressed lately and that's why she's coming here. Wouldnt doubt its because of him as well...." I sniffled.

"....M-Maybe... I just.... I just dont wanna break her heart over him more than what has been done already...." After Ryder died she just... She nearly lost it.... She had to be admitted to a hospital because she was crying so hard she was profusely puking and she wouldnt eat anything....Once stable enough to do anything Soarin and the team had to take turns checking on her until the funeral. After that she went on like normal until she had a stroke that just made her legs stop working. That was two years ago. She flies still but never does without a comfortable landing spot. Even then she doesnt want to fly around.... Reminds her too much of him. Or her time with him at least... She's lucky she can still talk and use her arms.

"She'll understand if you miss him..." He looked down over the edge and huffed turning his attention back to me. "...Great... Dash is coming.... Hopefully she doesnt yell too much..." I just held on to Soarin a bit closer hearing my cousins wings flap as she got closer.

I heard her fly around and land just nearby. "There you are!" She said. "The hell got into you? You havent been this much of a little bitch before!" Soarin looked to Dash.

"Captain I'm gonna have to ask you to stand down! Apologize to her! She's going through something!" I heard Dash give a huff.

"Alright... Sorry Scoot... What's going on?" He sighed just patting my back.

"Take a guess." ...For a moment as Dash was thinking I could swear I was holding him... That he was holding me... he being Ryder.... obviously...

"I.... I had no idea...." She replied realizing what was going on. After Ryder had to leave... the other Ryder... She stuck around for a day or two, made sure everyone who saw Ryder was alright and was going to be... Though it seemed like she put on the 'i'm so tough i wont cry' bullshit she always does... even when she gets hurt. She pried me away from Soarin and hugged me. "...Scoot I just...."

I sniffled breaking down more.... "...I... I want my big brother back...." I said before crying into her shoulder. She sighed.

"...I know you do... What I wouldnt give to have him back as well..." She looked to Soarin. "Help me get her down from here... Might need to get her into the private suite for a bit of a nap...." I didnt see what Soarin did... All I did was cry into my cousins shoulder. Took a few minutes but they both got me off the roof.... Had to carry me inbetween them while they held me up... I was a dead weight but they did it like it was nothing. When I got to the ground we were immediately greeted by Gilda.... she hugged me tight again and helped me into the barracks... We had a little corner room with a private bed... No window, some lights and even an alarm clock.... Though Dash had to pad me up with some that she uses sometimes I still did it... Gilda had to put one on to... Kinda for old times sake.... I still hate wearing em even to this day and I'd rather piss the bed rather than wear them alone.... Now even more so.... I fell asleep pretty fast.

Though as I slept I just... I started dreaming. I dreamt I was just outside on the cliffs edge looking over the Rainbow Falls. It was around sunset so you could see the sun peeking through the falls showing off the colors. I was even in a wonderbolts jumpsuit almost as if I was a filly again... Still cant forget the day Ryder and I came out here and he ended up panicking because I nearly fell off a cloud trying to fly with Soarin.... Didnt have any change of clothes but I got washed up and I had to go with someone to get a change of clothes from the mall while someone helped with Ryder. Dont remember much from that but I remember. I sat there just looking over everything clouds came in.... Started to rain as I sat there.... Yes I knew what touching water does in dreams but I didnt care.... Didnt move at all... Just watched the falls.... I was so spaced out at the falls I didnt even hear someone come from behind. Who was it? Didnt know until I felt them sit behind me and hug me.... Even bringing me into their lap. I looked back and saw my brother.... Just hugging me. I just cuddled up to him. "...Had a feeling I should've checked on you...." He said. "...Miss me so hard you're getting distracted.... I'm really glad you at least called someone to help you instead of doing it yourself.... Learned a lot since you were a filly...."

I sniffed. "...It wasnt right... The way that asshole took you from us...." I said. If you dont remember Ryder was murdered.... It was before my niece was born so he never really got to meet his daughter.... well... officially... We went out somewhere, some asshat had to say something and Ryder just stepped in and when his back was turned the jackass shot him.... Applejack, Applebloom, Big Mac and I had to run for cover because the asshole turned the gun to us... didnt shoot but he held Ryder there clutching to life.... he died trying to get away... The guy didnt let him and the guards couldnt save him...

"...I know... if I could go back and stop that from happening I would.... Pretty sure Babs would too.... But right now? Its too late for me.... I've followed my path.... I wanna at least help guide you in the right direction... Lift your spirits a little bit perhaps?"

"...How would you do that...? And why? Cant we just sit here...?" He huffed.

"We could just sit here yes but... I'd rather see my baby sister smile a bit...." I pushed him away and got out of his lap.

"...You know I hate it when you call me that.... I'm no baby!" He got up and took off in front of me... Saw him wearing his celestian costume variant from Nukes Galore.

"I know but.... to me you'll always be that baby sister that I saw when mom and dad brought you home... the same filly I saved, left with someone I trusted, came back to time and time again.... All because I loved seeing the smile on your face every time you saw me.... Seeing that smile just wiped from your face? It hurts you just as much as it does me... if not more." He looked to the sky. "Maybe to get that smile out lets just clear this storm up...." He didnt give me time to say anything before shooting up into the clouds punching a hole straight through letting in some sunshine. He disappeared for about a minute before a golden Sonic Rainboom blasted the clouds away, taking the rain with it. Ryder was shooting straight down for the falls before flying through the waterfalls and then back up to me. He stopped around the same spot he started from. He was a bit wet here and there from flying through the rain clouds.... To be expected with that. Seen Dash soaked one too many times from clearing a not empty cloud.... He huffed doing a quick spin in the air shaking the water off as best he could. "There. That's a bit better... But you know what we're missing here?" I stood up shaking the water off myself... Still felt a bit soggy in the britches....

"What are we missing? Spectators? Smoke trails? A pretty rainbow to fly around?" I asked smugly.

"Friends. That's what we're missing." He waved a hand down and then back up again. I jumped back as next to me I saw two pillars of cloud that quickly dispersed revealing Dash and Gilda both wearing Wonderbolts uniforms as well but Gilda's.... was a little tight and showy... They both looked around confused and then to each other.... I'm not gonna lie if Gilda and Babs werent a thing... or the fact she fucked my brother.... I'd want a little service from her the way she looks in the uniform... tits just.... Barely being held where they are, camel toe nearly being flossed and just.... ...Fuck it I'm asking Babs if I can borrow Gilda for a night or if she's up for a threesome and not have it be weird.

Both Dash and Gilda looked to me. "Scoot what gives? What are we doing here?" Dash asked.

I huffed giving a little grin. "Could ask what you're doing here considering you werent asleep when I passed out." I said crossing my arms. She huffed blushing a bit.

"Okay maybe I needed a nap because I was worrying about you after you were talking with Soarin on the roof.... Soarin talked me into it and I agreed because I couldnt sleep well last night...."

Ryder flew down carefully landing as not to alert either of them. Gilda huffed. "And you know why I'm asleep." She said. "Got all comfy next to you and passed out making sure you were comfortable. But really... How the fuck are we here?"

Ryder gave a huff making them both jump before turning around just surprised seeing him. "Wanna watch your mouth? There's a filly present!" He said. Oh I knew this was coming. She bolted for him, tackled him and just planted a big fucking kiss on him. I bet if Dash and I werent here she'd just disrobe him and go at it with him. Dash and I hurried over to help them both up and prying them away from each other long enough for Ryder to breathe. He sighed. "...Missed you too Gil...." He looked to Dash who hugged him tight. "Cant stop thinking of yourself as a wonderbolt can ya? Guess more of it now that you actually are one!"

I sighed actually giving a smile. "I feel like this was more to give yourself a bit of a smile rather than me." I said. He looked to me.

"But what makes you happier than seeing me happy? Time with me yeah but that's basically what this is."

"...Yeah true... But what I'd rather have is you ALIVE!" He sighed prying our cousin off of him and handing her over to Gilda who just hugged her.

"Yet I'm not... What I did was stupid. I was trying to protect you and the family and I did! Did I know that jackass had a gun? No!" He stepped closer. "Scootaloo listen to me.... We're not gonna know everything that's gonna happen... We dont know what someone is gonna do until they do it. If I knew that guy had a gun I would've been ready but I wasnt. And with how you're acting? I dont know what you're gonna do but I dont wanna be the one to see you fuck something up... I've already had this talk with Babs. I dont want to see the ones I love fuck up and not go anywhere."

Gilda sighed coming over. "Yeah.... When I got you earlier in the day you were just down... Told me you were distracted... Not to mention you were crying..." She said. "Why else do you think I even checked your arms? Its because I dont want you to end up trying something like I did too many fucking years ago. I still expect your arms to be that way every day unless you fall or something but even then I dont want that fall to be intentional!"

Dash stepped up and threw an arm over me. "And even though doofus here isnt with us anymore, that's not gonna stop me from meeting you somewhere to make you feel better." She said. "Hell before you got here I stayed up half the night thinking about when your brother got trapped here before Twilight had to send him back." She looked to Ryder. "Long story, ask Luna or the new General next time you see them." She looked back to me. "But seriously squirt, even though I'm busier than anything here, I'll drop whatever I'm doing to come spend time with you. We could go for dinner, I could stay at the house, you could even come up here and stay with me for a day or two. And you wanna know something? I'm thinking about having Soarin throw together a routine that we can perform to honor this dumbfuck right here!" She patted Ryder on the back.

Ryder huffed looking to her unamused. "....I might be dead but you really could hold back on the insults Rainbow Sprinkle!" He said. He laughed a bit with Gilda and I laughing along as Dash blushed a bit... Still had tears in my eyes but I was happy here.... Knowing of all the support I have... even if it is from beyond. And I guess if you dont know, that's what my aunt and uncle called Dash when she was younger and still wetting her bed. She does NOT like that. Applejack uses it every now and again when Dash is being a bitch. I just went and hugged Ryder and Gilda and Dash just crowded around me. Oh it felt so good...After a few moments we broke the hug. Ryder hummed looking at me for a moment. "....Something missing here...."

I wiped my eye. "...Ryder I dont want you getting in trouble here...." I said.

"Nonsense. Already did something like this with Babs and I dont think this is gonna be any different... Now c'mon. Hold out your hands." I sighed and held my hands out. He took my hands, almost covering them. Had a glow come through his fingers and before I knew it there was something in my hands. He took his away and took the thing out of my hands. It was a necklace. Silver chain with a golden medallion on it.... It was a 3D representation of his cutie mark.... Gear with wrenches crossing.... Only saw it once first person and that was only because he forgot to lock the door when he was going to the bathroom..... Awkward. "Might as well give you a little reminder that'll stay close to your heart like you are to mine... Not to mention this might give you a little kick in fixing things like i did.... Unbreakable and it will always find its way back home to you just in case you lose it... By the by tell Babs to leave my tags with you for a night... She'll figure that out real quick." He hung it around my neck and I could only just grasp it holding it close to my chest.

I hugged my brother about ready to cry again. Dash sighed. "...If your mother asks.... I'll tell her I had it commissioned by a metal maker." She said. "Speaking of which we really should wake up soon.... Dont wanna be sleeping through the rest of the day if she's on her way here." Ryder hummed a bit.

"Ma's coming to visit? In this case let me just..." He quickly reached behind Dash's ear and pulled out another chain with a pendant on it... Kinda like my locket.... Except the pendant was solid and it had an engraving of Ryder's cutie mark and Mama Spitfire's.... That was on one side. The other? 'Always In My Heart, Forever In Flight' ...The last words he ever said to Mama Spitfire before he died.... A week before he did, we went to visit and when we were finished flying together he just said he loved her and then uttered those words.... He handed it to Dash. "Here.... A gift for her.... I miss her.... Give her a hug from me..." Dash took it and sighed looking at it before shooting him a smile.

"...I definitely will.... Now c'mon... Wake us up..."

Gilda huffed. "Well dont wake me up just yet! We have some unfinished business to deal with dweeb!" She snapped.

Ryder gave a chuckle and sighed prying me off and handing me off to Dash. "Gil... I'll give you time for that unfinished business but you're gonna need to get up too..." He said. "And while you're at it? Why not soak it through?" She blushed hard as Dash and I giggled... Babs told me Ryder always used to tell her that when she wet her bed after a few drinks. And it makes her hornier than he was on changeling pheromone... He told me after he went to propose to Applejack he got hit with some when he was in the Crystal Empire he got hit with it and it apparently hurt quite a bit... And it definitely does suck because Applebloom and I had to be exposed to a little bit from Rocky and even just a little bit was enough to make me and Applebloom realize our heat cycles were nothing. Hornier than anything, sweaty as hell and good lord even the chastity belts we had to wear werent helping. Ice baths, cold showers and we had to rest until it wore off. Took an hour.

"No. NO! YOU ARE NOT DOING THIS TO ME NOW!" He gave a cocky smile before just tapping her on the nose.

"Too bad! Wake up now!" Almost immediately she started fading.

"YOU MOTHERFUCKER WHEN I SEE YOU I'M GONNA-" And there she was fully faded away.

Dash and I laughed a bit. "She is going to KILL you!" Dash said.

He looked to us giving a chuckle. "Yeah.... One thing I miss is teasing her... Not to mention she'd enjoy hearing that from me first hand...." He said. "Now... I think you two should wake up too... Just remember you two... Be there for each other, check on each other from time to time and remember.... I love you both." Neither of us said anything. Just hugged him and we had just started fading out. When we woke up I was in the private suite alone. I got up and walked out only to see Dash in a tanktop and underwear just sitting on a bedside holding the pendant she got for Mama Spitfire... Made me just clutch the pendant around my neck... Even took a selfie to send off to Luna and Celestia.... They sent something while Dash and I got cleaned up in the showers before drying off and getting dressed... Luna sent back a facepalm emoji while Celestia loved it. After getting dressed we walked out to the tarmac.... Sun was starting to set and Soarin was wheeling Mama Spitfire around as they walked with Gilda. We showed her the pendants and lied about the metal maker who I supposedly got mine from while Dash got a jeweler to make the pendant... Oh god when we hung it around her neck she started to cry.... Couldnt help but hug her. After that we got into Soarin's truck and went for dinner. Soarin was driving thankfully. Dash, Gilda and I had a drink for Ryder.... That night when we got back to the WBTF I sat with Dash and Mama Spitfire while Gilda went for a quick flight around with Soarin... We just sat there looking out over the landscape... The rainbow falls lit with lights from the cloud factory above... And for a moment I could swear Ryder was sitting next to me, wing rested on my back... It just felt amazing there... I felt comfortable... That night Gilda and I helped with Mama Spitfire getting her comfortable before heading to bed ourselves. It was a nice night.

Shining Bright (Babs POV)

It's been... what? A week since Scootaloo and I went to Canterlot because of that fucking nightmare? And when we left Cantrerlot I went back home and she went back to work as well. For me? I've had to get used to my new found strength which apparently the tags keep suppressed... Princess Twilight let me use the gym in the castle to test it.... Four. Hundred. Pounds AND FUCKING COUNTING! ...I really hope this helps with weight loss rather than hinder it... Otherwise I'm pretty screwed... Twilight was honestly a bit confused on why I had the strength but was glad I had it. She just told me not to use it unless I REALLY REALLY needed to. Like even gave specific scenarios. But as for now I was on a train early morning bound for the Crystal Empire.... Princess Twilight actually accompanied me on the train. Spike was here too but... he was just passed out in the bed car.... Where I wanted to be but Twilight wanted me awake for a little while at least.... We both sat in the food car having ourselves a drink. I had some warm tea while Twilight was drinking an espresso coffee.... She sighed. "I swear its been ages since I've seen my brother and sister in law..." She said. "I just hope they're well even with the information they know of the friend they watched grow in the guard then off in a pine box...."

I sighed. "....Just hoping everything is okay there...." I said swirling my drink. Sweet tea, warm honey taste... Tasted great. "...Just... Is everyone gonna be alright at home? I've heard something from Scoot since she went to visit with her mother and Dash with Gilda.... She told me Ryder visited her.... and.... I know Dash came back with Gilda and everything but.... Just... Gilda.... She.... She seemed so sad when she called me that night when she came back.... told me she couldnt stop thinking about him.... she just sounded like a little filly who just went through a break up of someone who she truly loved....." I looked off to the kitchen area. The chef there was making something for us to snack on.

"Babs... I made her go to Sweet Apple Acres before we left. Made sure Applejack texted me that she was there and that Scoot will be watching her every move." She sipped her drink. "Give your cousin a call once we get there... Or once Celestia raises the sun or so.... Gonna be hard to tell which comes first...."

"....Yeah...." I looked into my cup... just saw my reflection from the dark liquid in it. Twilight gave a hefty sigh.

"If you want to sleep go right ahead, find somewhere comfortable and get some rest. I'm too nervous to sleep right now.... And excited I guess... Excited because I always love seeing my brother.... Nervous because... Well... last I heard from him he chewed me out for taking the pill after Ryder passed.... Got so scared of my own mortality I just.... I took it without even thinking.... about my friends... my family.... It would be the only one I take and if I wish for another I fight for it because Celestia under a strict word of my brothers will not allow her to give me another and neither will Luna.... I'm just... glad that he still cares enough to listen to me about what we went through...."

"Did he have any comments on Ryder's sudden reappearance?" She nodded.

"Told me it had to have been a changeling impersonating him... but you and I saw first hand that it wasnt that... Just... Scares me that he just.... Knew he was dead... I just hope when he went back that his timeline diverted from ours without screwing anything up for us..."

"If he has.... I wish him well.... Though I hope that I'm able to tell him how I feel before he goes down...." She sighed.

"I know you've shown him after the fact but... I REALLY hope that its just staying that way..." She sipped the rest of her drink and set the cup down. "...For now why dont you just get somewhere to sleep? I'll wake you when we're getting ready to stop."

"Are you sure Princess?"

"Very sure. Just get some sleep so you dont have to be carried to the castle... not that I wouldnt mind but its an experience walking through the streets to the castle itself.... Especially for the first time. I remember my first time.... It was after Shining and Cadence' wedding... They were having a blizzard but when we got into the protective barrier around the city it was just... Beautiful. But seeing it after? A real first walk up that wasnt greeted by snow and a paranoid older brother... Yet he was right to be paranoid that day..."

"What was he paranoid about?" I asked.

"Sombra.... Apparently the Crystal Heart in the middle of the city went missing and Sombra was slowly gaining power to come back... I ended up following clues he had left to find the heart and return it to its rightful place where its been ever since... Yet Spike had all the love there since he was the one to return it while my friends and I were almost too late."

"I heard of Sombra.... He used to reign over the Crystal Empire with an iron fist and slammed it down on anyone who dare betray him, putting its citizens in slave shackles and forcing them to mine the crystals in the area that make the citizens glow in true happiness."

"The very same... And I'm surprised you actually know about the crystals seeing as you've never been up here before."

"And I think you'd be proud that I actually did a bit of research before we got on the train." She gave a giggle smiling.

"Well... Not proud but you definitely got some brownie points because of that." I sighed sipping my drink. "Just get on to rest General. Finish your drink, toilet is in the corner, then get some sleep. And.... If you see.... well... him.... tell him I miss him and let him know what we're doing... maybe have him tell something only he and my brother would know.... y'know... just so he doesnt think we're crazy or we've been infiltrated..."

"That's if I do... Sometimes I wish he'd manifest himself in front of me... talk to me like he's there while I'm awake and I'm not dreaming..."

"Well if he ever does.... Dont go trying to fuck him please.... dont need to explain to anyone why you're just masturbating in a hallway or something..."

"Trust me... If I ever get to that point, I'll excuse myself... Just.... Lets just stop talking about this. I need to get some sleep.... This is starting to sound like a talk from my mother about adult things...."

"Uh... Yeah.... Carry on." I gave a nod and drank the rest of my drink before heading towards the corner. You know these 'bigger on the inside' spells just amaze me. That and sectioned perception spells. Hide in plain sight and nobody would ever know unless they already knew. I know of a few in Ponyville Castle but I only used it for training purposes. I was acting as a high value target in the exercise. Applebloom and Scootaloo agreed to help with the exercise. I was put near the library, Scoot was near the dining hall and Applebloom was... I actually forget where she was. But we got the alert that the castle was on lockdown, we had to think fast to hide in the safe spots and the training guards were tasked with finding us with one hint each group. Applebloom was found the fastest after one of the guards tripped over her. I was next but the guards needed to be helped to find Scootaloo. Safe to say that group was a fail and needed to retrain on where the hiding spots are.

Anyhow I just did my business and just went to the couch in the same car and just lied down for a bit of shuteye. As I slept I just.... Well... I was just sitting on the balcony of the throne room in Twilight's Castle. I just overlooked everything... Sunset, I saw Sweet Apple Acres on the horizon and just.... I loved the view. I heard a sigh behind me and footsteps coming up next to me... then just an arm around my shoulder. "....Sometimes I wonder.... where would I be if I were still among the living?" They said. Looked over and just saw Ryder.... Cant say I didnt get a little tingle in my pants seeing him.... He just was looking out at everything with me.

"....Probably at home, with your wife and daughter having a merry old time..... Maybe having a drink with me, your sister.... Maybe Big Mac would still be in town.... Helping Applejack out with everything..."

"Yeah... but then you wouldn be a guard.... or even General in fact.... But... If I knew you'd be a great guard or even General...? I'd've stepped down to give you my spot.... Princess allowing of course."

"....But then you'd have my dad breathing down your neck about talking me out of being a guard.... Dunno what I'd do then.... Cant do anything except feed off daddys paycheck then.... Glad I'm independent enough to have money just in case.... y'know...?"

"Yeah.... Totally understandable there." I sighed.

"....Princess and I are heading up to visit her brother and his wife.... I've never met em before but.... they've heard stories... about us meeting the way we did...."

"Shining.... Goddess knows i miss that son of a bitch.... Basically got me my title nearly dethroning him as captain but... I'll take General over that.... Yet he still outranks me as a Prince... Good guy still before and after what the asshole did..... Do I still harbor some feelings bout it? Yeah... But... I mean.... It was something that gave me hope, strength.... Even have something for Scoot to fall back on incase I didnt live long enough for her to take care of herself... But I did.... Still glad I did what I had to...."

"Yeah.... But... What do I say to him and have him believe us about you being seen and visiting me like this... and he even thought the you that... uh... did me.... was a changeling...." He sighed.

"...Many did. Though when my existence was felt by the Goddess... She thought she was going mad.... She called me to her side that showed her I was still where I should be but we watched as much as we could of my other self being in a familiar yet unfamiliar world... I saw the destruction he had done, the sadness he had felt, the pain knowing I was here.... There are still days where I wish I could just break through these clouds and just see my family once more.... Yet the goddess only allows me to touch dreams..."

"I know.... And it pains me to see you every time like this.... What I wouldnt give for you to just...."

"....Well... If we're lucky.... but back to what we were saying so you're not toying with yourself?" I gave a sigh blushing. Still might do that later.

"....Right right.... Shining.... how can we convince him I saw and talked with you....?"

"You have my tags with you?" I shook my head.

"Nope... Left those at home hanging on a hook above my bed... Forgot to grab em before I left."

"Those would've been a mind blower for him...." He sighed climbing up on the balcony railing.... I got uneasy fast and I guess he felt it. "...Dont worry... I do my best thinking when flying... And its not like I could get myself killed twice.... I dont think...." I watched as he just dropped off the edge and fell a bit before taking flight. He hummed and it still felt like he was just there next to me. "....What can I tell you to convince Shining that I wasnt a changeling.... Or the fact that I'm communicating with you like this....?"

"Couldnt you... Just... wait until he falls asleep, meet with me and maybe go over into his dream?"

"Nope.... After I visited with Scoot, Dash and Gilda I was kinda forbidden to have more than one at a time... Blame Gilda for that one.... Though I still have to ask if I can do more than one.... Goddess said so...."

"...Alright.... So that's not there.... Maybe I could tell him something only you'd know?"

"....I mean... The guy pretty much knew everything about me... I mean since day one of my guard time everything I did had been documented and some shit I've done is known to just about everyone.... He knows I nearly killed myself multiple times.... He knows I went to war and just.... Hm....." He stopped flying and just stopped on a cloud that just appeared out of nowhere. He sighed. "...I'm gonna have to think on it.... Just sell it....Do what ever you can to convince him.... Guys my best friend next to Big Mac.... I might be only able to do this once today just.... Might see if I cant at least influence a little bit out there, give you little hints here and there.... You're gonna need to wake up soon but just.... look out for something.... Take in the sights and see something you wouldnt normally see..." I gave a nod.... But just opened my arms for him.... He landed next to me and hugged me.... And maybe I planted one on him before I ended up waking up.

When I woke up it was to the train whistle.... And it was still loud. I sat up stretching.... Just looked around the car. I was alone.... No cook in the kitchen area, no Princess at the table.... Not even Spike. I got up and just thought to myself on what I could try to think what Ryder would do to just make me know he's there.... I went from car to car trying to find the Princess.... As I passed through the car I felt the chill of the wind and combined with the cool morning air with clouds above? Yeah... Rain expected.... either that or snow.... Princess didnt really know but never got confirmation. When I found her she was just sitting on the bed in the rearmost car.... My cousins told me they rode this train long ago.... Slept in it a bit on the way up as well.... when Applejack was madder than a hornets nest you just threw a rock at.... I learned that the hard way with a few stings... Thankfully that's all I got but I had to go to the hospital to get treated because it hurt so bad. Spike was asleep in a bed just a few feet away from the bed she sat on. Twilight smiled as I walked up. "Sleep well General?" She asked in a hushed voice.

"...As well as I could until I woke up.... Our mutual friend contacted me again.... told him we were meeting your brother..."

"He say anything about how you can get my brother to believe us about him?" I shook my head hesitantly.

"...Nope..." I sighed sitting next to her. "...I dont have his tags, he's a bit restricted at the moment and when it comes to what your brother would know about him, everyone already does." She sighed.

"...Not gonna be easy...." She threw an arm around me. "...We're gonna have to try to convince him somehow...."

"What about the destruction we saw that day?"

"He doesnt believe it... just thinks we're crazy, says we're seeing things because someone mentioned something.... Tells me he's seen car wrecks that look like he's been there...."

"....I shouldnt speak bad about your brother but just.... How would he explain your saferoom door being destroyed the way it was?"

"Tried that.... He just said it was a probable assassination attempt with explosives.... Even told him to take guard witness accounts but he wanted nothing of it!" I sighed.

"Well he's gonna have to listen to something...."

"But he wont. He was replaced by changelings when Ryder decided to propose to Applejack and he wanted it to be a surprise.... He went on this very train with your marefriend and they didnt even know they got duped by Chrysalis and Rocky.... Rocky you'll meet soon but she's trustworthy compared to her former leader.... But from the beginning they were there and if Shining didnt get a hold of me to authorize Manehattan guards to send a bullet train to get them to the Crystal Empire as fast as possible.... When they got there they had to act fast because changelings had definitely been evident in the castle because Ryder went missing, pheromones were there and several guards were knocked out as well. When they found where the changelings were they thought it was too late.... Next thing I know I get called by my brother telling me that Gilda and Ryder were safe, jammers were taken down stopping all communication in the castle and Ryder is being iced and caged until further notice and that they had a changeling that.... Well... I'll save that for later.... But since then he's been weary of ponies coming in from outside the empire.... I didnt say anything here but Cadence told me that my brother had implanted secret love exposure sentinels in the train station. They've already caught changelings who werent expecting it but it works." The train horn went off once more. She sighed. "....You go make sure we have our bags and prepare to depart. I gotta wake Spike up and make sure he hits the toilet and gets something to eat as well."

I gave a nod and got up from the bed before just going back another car. Our bags were separated from us when we got on so it didnt feel like a weird stay in a fancy hotel... That and I guess they didnt want us to lose items if we were going from car to car. I had a suitcase full of stuff for myself, Princess had two for herself and one for Spike. I grabbed my bags making sure everything was zipped up and just strapping it to my back as I got the Princesses bag and started to bring it up a few cars. Had to go back and get the rest but it was a fast process. When the train stopped I was left there waiting with the bags, waiting for the Princess and Spike to join me.... At this point I honestly wasnt sure whether or not to wait here or if I should've gone and waited on the platform. I waited a few minutes before the doors to the train opened up to the platform. Almost immediately I was greeted by four guards and a changeling.... And this changeling? Wearing armor... She was shorter, had a green mane that hung over her eye.... though her mane... it was something I could call a mane but wasnt really a mane.... Almost mimicked my manestyle from when I was a filly. Still kinda that way now but not as annoying to deal with. She entered just stopping before me. "Well.... You must be the new General.... The one who claims to have seen an old friend...." She said. Her voice was a little raspy like she hadnt drank anything for a while. She held out her hand. "I'm Rocky.... I assume the Prince's sister told you about me?"

I huffed trying to ignore the blatant disrespect against the Princess by not calling her as her title but I guess she's just always heard Twilight being referred to as 'sister' or something. I shook her hand. "A bit..." I replied. "....Can I ask something?" She sighed.

"I once served with the old General in his war time under a different form..." Green flames suddenly enveloped her which caught me off guard. Had to block my eyes before they faded. Looked back and just saw a stallion in front of me, just a little taller than I was. Long grey mane, wrinkles here and there. "....I was to follow him, stalk his every move and upon return I was to alert the queen about the love he carried. But when the queen brought me along to go and capture him I didnt wanna go along with it.... Though like I listened to him I had to listen to the queen... Otherwise I were to be dispatched for being disobedient.... But the queen listened to me to get him calm, get him to listen... but if I hadnt shown I cared for him like he did for me... or well... the stallion who never existed.... then I wouldnt be greeting you here today...." The green flames came once more and she turned back to the changeling before my eyes. "Forgive me for that but.... Its what would've been asked.... correct?" I hesitantly gave a nod. "Good.... Now allow my protection to handle your baggage. We must find the Princess and lead her to the castle." That honestly surprised me there.... Guess my assumption was wrong.... She's so trusted I guess calling someone by their title is optional for her.... Anyhow I nodded before having the guards enter the train and strip me of all our bags. Once they had all our bags I went from standing there to following Rocky through the train.

When we found the Princess she was in the bedroom just.... holding Spike.... Just like she was holding a stuffed toy. Spike was awake yeah but... he was just hugging her looking a bit worried. Spike looked to us as the Princess just stared off into the corner of the room. "...She's scared of talking with her brother...." He said. "...She hasnt talked to him since he chewed her out after uh... you know who passed...."

I gave a sigh. "Princess.... Princess come on! Trains arrived and we're expected." I said. "Longer we stay here, more trouble your brother is gonna think you're in." I honestly would've threatened to carry her but I honestly do NOT trust myself in even touching anyone which she says is fair because he was the same way. I rested a hand on her shoulder... its almost like she was in a trance and I just broke it. "Princess.... Everything will be fine.... This visit is more about me than it is you.... sorry to sound so egotistical about it but I need to stress that."

Princess Twilight took a deep breath. "...Right right... Sorry.... I'm just...." She said just hesitating.

Rocky took her hand having her release Spike. "The Prince is scared as well." She said. "He's been scared for your sake... and from what Cadence says he's been just.... distant.... and when he does talk he's always looking at old photos... talking about old things you've done together.... Just please.... come with us.... talk with him over a drink.... maybe a meal if you want."

I sighed. "I think some sleep after a meal would be good for her... she's been up since we had to get on the train in Ponyville.... Least as far as I know...." I said. I looked to Rocky. "You wanna see about getting her out?"

"I'll do as much as I can. You just get on up to the castle. We'll bring the bags. Bring Spike with you." I gave a nod and just looked to Spike before we left the car. I only looked back once to see Rocky hugging the Princess.

Spike and I left the train and we just... Well we just walked but I couldnt help but just act like my dad just took me into a candy store and told me I could get something. My favorites are the rock candy and those gummy worms that are like multicolored. Just the ponies walking around, not a car in sight, and EVERYTHING made of some crystaline wood material and it was BEAUTIFUL. When we got to the castle which was a prominent center sitting monument we were greeted by Princess Cadence. She was wearing a royal gown, pink, purple and yellow matching her mane which was put up in a ponytail like Applebloom likes to do every so often. Both Spike and I bowed in respect to her. She gave a little laugh. "Well hello you two! Welcome!" She said. "I trust the train ride was alright?"

I gave a nod. "Yes ma'am." I said. "Princess, my name is Babs Seed, I'm the newly appointed General for Princess Celestia and I'm currently accompanying Princess Twilight with the trip." Her face lit up like it was a Hearths Warming tree.

"Twilight's here?! Where is she?!"

Spike cleared his throat. "She got a bit scared getting off the train because of her brother.... Rocky's back there trying to get her out...." He said a bit nervously. Her face went from happy to worried.

"Oh the poor thing! You two just head on up, ask guards to point you towards Shining! I gotta go make sure she's alright!" She quickly flew up and over us. I looked to Spike.

"She really loves Twilight like she was her actual sister. I mean... She watched Twilight a lot growing up so they have a special bond."

"Makes sense... Lets just find the Prince so I can introduce myself." He gave a nod and just started leading me to the door.

We walked in and just.... The castle looked a lot bigger than it was inside. Climbed some stairs and just walked with Spike having my badge out just in case someone questioned me. Nobody batted an eye. But seriously when it came to these guards here? Silver armor with little crystal gems on the chest plate. Awesome stuff. Spike stopped to ask where Shining was and the guard just took us right to him. He was sitting in a den area... bar in the corner where he was at with a soda in hand, TV on with a movie going and an arcade corner as well as a lounge couch taking up one half of the room. Hell with the lounge couch there were consoles that I hadnt even seen since I was a filly! Shining himself had a silvery mane with some blue in there, beard as well. His mane was a bit longer than mine and he was wearing a tank top and pajama bottoms. Shining looked over at us. Spike happily waved while I just kinda.... clammed up a bit... Shining sighed giving a smile. "Spike!" He said getting up. "Good to see you dude! How's things? Bring a friend with you? I dont mind just uh.... Rather you ask than surprise me like this...." Spike gave a chuckle as I stepped forward.

"Spike and I are friends but uh... I'm the new General Celestia appointed sir. General Babs Seed. Your sister gave you my number?" He thought for just a moment... almost wistfully as if he were remembering Ryder for a moment just by me calling myself General.

"Oooh right! Right right right! Its you! Sorry if I didnt recognize you there Babs. Just havent been myself lately." He motioned to us to follow him. "Get you guys anything? Drink? Some food maybe?"

"Drink for now I guess... Still waiting on the Princess to join us."

"Guessing Celestia or Luna here with you?"

I stayed silent.... didnt know if it was good to say anything but spike gave a sigh. "Not really Shining.... Twilight's here with us..." He said. "She's wanting to come along just for Babs here... That's pretty much it. You wanted to meet Babs, Babs wanted to stay up here for a few days, maybe learn some things from you or something." I just watched as he sat down and reached over the bar getting a few cans of soda ready for us.

"...Twily.... I just.... I hope she's alright.... I'm just... still in shock that she took the pill..." He looked to me as Spike took my hand and brought me closer. "...You know what the pill is right?" I sat down and shook my head. "Well.... just think of injuries you could get.... Broken bones, lacerations, dislocations and such.... All gone.... One miracle cure for anything... Yet in doing so it extends your life a fair bit.... Twily told me she wouldnt take it.... but once.... He.... passed.... She got scared.... weak.... took the pill and when I had heard.... I just lost it..... I know it would've been far off for her going the way I will but.... its like she would've been here until everything ceased to exist around her.... I yelled at her.... Made her cry... my mother and father.... our... mother and father.... they told me I was too hard on her... that everyone is scared of their own mortality... Him? He was but... He just gave death the finger every time until death had enough...."

I sighed as I sat down next to him taking my soda. Cold cola. I cracked it opened and sipped. The bubbles felt good on my tongue. "...You know he was the inspiration I had into becoming a guard.... Built me up to be strong not only for myself but for others..." I said. "...Do I know how dangerous it is? Yeah.... I've already had a gun to the back of my head from someone who didnt respect the title. You heard about that?"

"Report read as such. Alleged changeling disguised as my best friend gained entrance to the castle, castle guards oblivious to it all as well as everyone around him believing it was him... Destruction was reported, multiple injuries, nobody seriously hurt, one guard detained and fired. Luna told me that you were near him.... right?" I nodded. "Tell me about him..."

"Well first off.... He wasnt a changeling... believe me or not when I say a changeling couldnt do the shit he did.... nor perform like he did..."

"...Ah... so you got a really good look at him...." I nodded blushing.... Just the thought of his 'performance' that night... How he felt just got me wanting to find a nice quiet spot to handle business.

"I mean... he was scared... he just found himself outside of where he shouldnt have been... where he couldnt have been.... I had to do something to distract him from his situation until your sister could come back from what she was doing..."

"Always did freak out.... Especially when its something out of his control.... Hell I remember before Ryder went off to war he and Celestia were having a slight prank war to basically get him in a good mood... she went too far, made him freak out and Cadence and I had to coax him out of the room, make sure he got some sleep and even have Luna dig around in his mind to basically wipe that from his memory. I took him out for drinks, dinner.... next thing you know he's stable enough and I get the call he's gotten the call to war.... Thought it was a joke until Celestia told me it was true... Distracted myself until I ended up getting all forgetful until I saw Scootaloo with Celestia one day...."

Spike coughed a little drinking his soda. "C-Can we please stop talking about him? Please!" He snapped slamming his can down. Both Shining and I looked at him scared. I saw the pain in his eyes though... I just set my can down and hesitantly got up... I went around to Spikes side. Shining sighed.

"...Yeah... Yeah we can stop.... Sorry Spike.... its just... been so hard without him..." The Prince sipped his soda while I hesitantly rested my hand on Spike's shoulder. He just let it happen as he sipped his soda.... Guess he still needs time to just get used to his friends death... even though he died a while ago....

I sighed. "...Shi- Pr-.... Sir... could you.... maybe go and wait for your sister? Make sure she's alright?" I asked. He chugged the rest of his drink and nodded before teleporting out of the room leaving me and Spike alone. I just sat next to him. "....Spike.... You need to talk dude? You're not normally this short with anyone... Even when we do talk about him...."

Spike drank his drink.... Just stared down at the bartop like he was drinking his sorrows away. "...I just... I cant help but just... think of him... what we could be doing together..." He said. "....Last thing we did together was go digging for gems.... Mostly was for Rarity but.... When I got greedy he snapped at me, made sure I didnt go and start taking everything for myself... I got a bit mad at him, hit him... he hit back and just... neither of us spoke with each other after that.... the day I was gonna apologize for getting like that... hitting him.... He was already gone.... I guess I'm more angry with myself than anything... and hearing his name? It just.... It makes me mad.... that I couldnt apologize... that I cant ever apologize..... I was an asshole and that's basically what he left this world thinking of me...." I saw tears well up in his eyes... I just took his drink from him and hugged him.... He had no issue latching onto me.... I sighed.

"...Spike.... I know how you feel.... He might've saved my life but... he never got to know how I felt for him after.... I guess you heard about the day Twilight had to send the Ryder we saw back?" He nodded in my shoulder. "....He didnt know you feel this way... I admitted to him how I felt and... things just went on.... But after that I started having dreams... dreams that involved him.... Told me how I was a good fit to be the new General.... To at least carry on his legacy..."

".....I just.... I wanna.... I just wanna say I'm sorry to him...." I sighed as he sobbed into my shoulder.

"....Maybe after the Princess gets here we go out.... try to find something to do.... To honor him maybe.... show him you're sorry.... Anything you wanna do is fine.... On me.... Could even ask the Prince if there's a spot we could go Gem hunting.... Maybe something to give to Rarity, have her make something for him and we could lay it at his grave.... Would you like that?" He gave a nod. "...Alright.... just breathe dude.... breathe nice and deep dude...." He did breathe albeit shakily. I hugged him for a few minutes before he was calm enough to drink his soda again. After he was done I herded him to the couch and sat him down on it before going out into the hall to see where the Princess was. And lucky me she was rushing down the hall with Cadence and Shining behind her.

I quickly stepped out of the way giving her enough room to head into the den. I went back in just to have Princess Cadence and Shining Armor stop behind me. I just saw Twilight sit on the couch hugging her uh.... I'm... not sure what Spike is to her to be honest.... Assistant I guess? Anyways she hugged Spike. "...Oh Spike.... I gotcha...." She said.

Shining stepped forward. "That's.... Kinda my fault Twily...." He said. "Started talking about you-know-who and just.... Got to reminiscing and Spike just.... yeah...."

I gave a sigh. "...Guess I'm fuel for that as well..." I said all guilty.... I mean I pretty much was...

Princess Twilight looked at us. "You kinda should know better Babs... Shining didnt really know...." She said.

"My apologies Princess.... But... May I talk with you and Princess Cadence....? Please?" Princess Cadence and Twilight looked to me.

"Everything alright?" I just stayed quiet as Shining went over to Spike just leaning on the arm of the couch. I just slowly turned around and walked out. Walked down the hall a ways before stopping and leaning against the wall. Twilight and Cadence walked out together just kinda looking to each other... Cadence gave a shrug. They walked up to me looking worried. "Babs if this is about making Spike feel bad its not your fault... Shining took full responsibility for it." I sighed.

"Its not that.... Just.... I just wanna ask something.... First from you Princess Twilight and then something from Princess Cadence."

Cadence gave a huff. "You know General... Babs was it?" She asked. I nodded. "Well... You know Babs now that you're General you are given the option of not calling us by our titles in private. I know he had that option before and we might as well pass that on to you. Might make it a bit easier to address us." I gave a little bit of a smile.

"Thank you Princess.... I just asked both of you to come out here because... Well... I found out from Spike that he's kinda beating himself up over something that happened before Ryder passed... told me he went digging with Spike, Spike got a little greedy and Ryder snapped at him yet Spike snapped back and didnt speak with him for a while.... basically was gonna go and apologize the day Ryder passed and just feels bad he never got a chance to do so.... So I suggested we do something to remember our friend... do stuff he would do... and maybe later we take Spike digging for gems if there's a place out there where that's possible and not vandalizing homes and such.... Maybe have Shining make a list since he was one of Ryder's best friends? Do things that he'd do with him that we all could do?"

Cadence and Twilight looked to each other. Cadence looked back at me. "That sounds like a WONDERFUL idea!" She said. "I actually know of a place to get gems for when Spike visits and he's deserving of it. I can bring Rocky along so she can at least pay her respects."

"I dont see why not." I replied. "She told me how they met and what he did for her.... Does.... everyone know she's a changeling?"

"Yeah and she's trusted considering she's our new Captain of the guard so technically you answer to her. But as for now you have been relieved of duty for your stay. Twilight and I thought it would be a good idea to not think of this stay as work but a little vacation and family time. And we wont mind including you in on any fun and to get to know you better. I already know you're the little filly that he had saved all those years ago but.... I still wish to know more about you so just in case you're out here we dont do anything that makes you uncomfortable. We knew how Ryder worked.... Lot of anxiety in that one but for fair reason.... But enough talk about him for now. Would you care for a drink? Maybe something to eat?"

"I mean... I could eat.... didnt get anything on the train over here."

"Say no more. Its about breakfast time here so I think its safe to say everyone here should eat if they havent already."

I gave a bit of a smile. Skipped things here beause it was boring... Just ate, Shining and Cadence talked about things Ryder would do... Lots of gaming and fucking.... But a few things Ryder would do.... especially for his friends... us... Spike wanted to shop for some games, specifically for the Alley Brawlers Ryder was in, Shining wanted to just go for a drink but we'll do that later after we go digging for Gems with Spike, Twilight wanted to shop for some music stuff because.... I mean the guy loved his Gems n Tulips and Metallicolt. Cadence is gonna buy something for Applejack and me? ....I guess a few things.... Maybe get something for Gilda that basically says he's always in your heart or some sappy bullshit like that.... But.... The other thing? I just wanna get a toy made of him.... And yeah that's asking for something HUGE.... But... Cadence said Rocky would be available to do that because like me she's seen him REAL well.... Hard for her to forget the details. Anyhow we were all walking outside.... Ponies just stared in awe at the two Princesses, the Prince and about five guards not including me or Rocky. Spike and Shining were talking, Cadence and Twilight were talking but Rocky and I were just staying silent.... I just took in the scenery. Rocky sighed. "....I hear from Princess Twilight that you've seen him.... Correct?" She asked.

I nodded just checking out a cafe menu board. 'Coffee and Crepes, 5 bits!' "Yeah... but it was a situation even I wouldnt wanna be thrown into." I said. "...The Ryder I saw? He was younger.... Maybe about as old as he was when he saved me give or take a few years... my cousins told me they attacked him but when he said something only they'd know they felt bad and when it came to me...? I swear I just was so glad to see him... but to know he was nearly stuck here? I was kinda feeling bad for him... he had known of his death, scared he wasnt gonna make it back... but if he didnt.... what would've become of us? Would our fabric of space and time just cease to exist?"

"You watch too many time travel movies... But... I cant help but know he was here... Shame I couldnt salute him one last time... Shame I couldnt be around to save him the way he saved me."

"...He saved himself... Yet I nearly died when he did.... All I remember from that day is the panic of running through the halls, dodging guards left and right until I stumbled when Ryder was running out to the helipad..... One of the guards grabbed me and held a gun to my head.... Told me to not move... not run, no screaming.... Almost like I was gonna be kidnapped...." I started tearing up. "....He was using me... as... as bait to arrest him... But then.... I guess in a crazy way I had to arrest him... save him and myself... but when I did... I just... I thought I wasnt gonna be any good... that I was gonna see him either locked away or executed right then and there...." A sob escaped as tears rolled down my cheek. Rocky quickly grabbed my hand and pulled me in for a hug. I had no problem on latching onto her.... Her chitin felt weird.... but... it was comforting.

"Princesses! Hold!" She called out.

Twilight and Cadence looked back at us and gasped. Twilight hurried to our side and joined in on the hug. "Babs? Babs are you good?" She asked a bit panicked. "Oh no she's freaking out!" She looked to Cadence who was already charging her magic. Twilight quickly backed away and both Rocky and I were shrouded in pink magic with little heart embers.... basically what I could describe it as.... I immediately calmed down... didnt feel like I wanted to cry but I didnt feel happy either.

Cadence sighed. "There.... Crisis averted..." She said just as Rocky released me with a bit of a smile on her face. "Definitely a fitting replacement for him.... Take a few deep breaths.... We can stop for a bit if you want...." Twilight looked to Cadence.

"We'll stop.... You, Shining and Spike go on ahead and we'll catch up." Cadence gave a nod before hurrying off with a few of the guards. Twilight and Rocky took my hands and just led me over to a table outside the cafe and sat me down. Twilight sat with me while Rocky just stroked my hand. "What happened? Something tells me you were remembering something and Rocky caught you before you had a bit of a mental breakdown... right?" I hesitantly nodded wiping my eyes. "...Thought so... he did the same thing before...."

Rocky sighed. "No offense here Princess when I ask do all your Generals do this?" She said.

"Nope... Only the two most recent.... Mind enlightening me what she was talking about?"

"Well... When she met with the old General... I trust you already know the full story?" Twilight nodded just resting a hand on my shoulder.

"Yes.... I saw it towards the end.... The field day I had stripping that guard of his job and arresting him gave me some sort of settling with that... He is remaining in maximum security without being sent to Tartarus... But Babs... I just felt so bad for her... being in that situation.... Something Ryder would've done and I wouldnt doubt has done a few times just to save himself and family.... Probably has without my knowledge but.... I just..." She huffed. "....I guess both you and are magnets for trouble... Yet you've got more of a mind on you than he does.... Though I cant help but miss that negative IQ stallion.... Might not've been the smartest but he was great...."

"Would you like a drink Princess? Something to steady your nerves?"

"Nothing for me... The General maybe. I say something fruity... always see her drinking some juice around the castle." Rocky nodded before looking to a guard at our side just keeping watch out.

"You there! Go into this shop and get the Equestrian General a smoothie or a juice drink!" The guard nodded and saluted before heading into the cafe. I sat there just breathing... just to try to keep myself calm. As I sat there a breeze had a napkin hit me in the face. I took it off my face and just looked at it making sure it wasnt used... still was kinda disgusted by it but it had the logo of an 'R' on it. Rocky sighed taking it from me. "I swear some ponies just cant keep the streets free of garbage... have to ruin the empire that way..."

You know... if that wasnt a sign I wouldnt know what was. I waited there until the guard came out with a drink. Strawberry Banana smoothie... fucking DELICIOUS! After a few sips I insisted we catch up to Spike and the Royal Couple. We ended up finding them just inside a local game shop that really isnt seen in Equestria unless you know where to look for it. Inside was just.... games from old stuff, consoles looking restored to brand new condition, games from new stuff and even what looked to be some concept art from games hanging on the wall for sale. Dont think my dad wouldnt mind me getting a Bass Villain character sheet for Scoot. She just loves that game. Anyhow I went and wandered looking at the collection of board games.... I actually used to love playing board games. Especially with Ryder... I swear the look on his face when I rolled a twelve on the game where you just have to upgrade hotels in each lot? Oh he was about to lose it because I landed right between his highest paid places and ended up winning because it was always the draw spot and four times out of ten he manages to pick up a card that makes him LOSE money. He bet me fifty bits one time.... I walked away with my own money to buy myself a new game that Dad wouldnt buy for me. Anyways Spike was just looking all over the game section while the Prince was just checking out comic books. Twilight and Cadence went over to another shop across the way with the guards. Now the worst part about this store? It was just a starter store so there werent fancy display cases, no register and no security cams. Shining and I were near the door while Spike was on the other side of the store around the register. We were all just doing our own thing.... Well... Until one guy burst into the store with a gun. "YOU TWO DONT FUCKING MOVE!" He yelled. Shining and I just looked back as he aimed the gun at the store clerk keeping Spike within easy range incase he charged. I motioned to just stay still and lucky Spike knows hand signals. The guy robbing the place was a pegasus.... And a noob robber at that.... No mask, no gloves just.... All awful.... didnt even check if there was anyone else besides the cashier and Spike... Shining and I crept closer from different sides. Lucky me I still had my drink. I motioned to Spike to be ready to tackle the cashier and then to Shining to distract.... Shining whistled getting the robbers attention and just as he did that Spike rushed the cashier while I blindsided the guy with what was left of my drink and quickly wrestling the gun away from him as Shining took him down pinning him with his knee.

Shining huffed. "Hostile down, disarmed." He said almost like he was talking to other guards that werent me. He looked to Spike. "Spike! Get over to the guards with the Princesses, tell them we have a situation over here!" I dropped the clip and cleared the chamber of the gun. Full clip, 9mm, Semi auto.... Gun could've been automatic if given a longer clip and the right attachments.

I set the gun down just as Spike ran out. I replaced Shining to hold the guy just as the clerk sighed with relief. "Perfect timing for the guard... any longer and who knows how that could've went." He said.

I looked up at him just holding the guy down. "Sorry about the floor with the drink... Kind of a waste if you ask me... just like this fucker here... waste of space." I said. The clerk huffed.

"Nothing I cant get cleaned up. Better than blood...."

Shining huffed. "Yeah.... I can definitely tell you that its not easy to clean up... Gotta use special chemicals and- you dont really wanna hear it." He said. "You alright? Nothing that needs to be attended to?"

"Uh... No no... I will get to cleaning once he's out of here... Just uh... Just so you know for you guys and your little friend who ran to get guards get anything you want at a discount for the save! Even for royalty, and apologies Prince... still need to make a living." Shining gave a smile.

"No worries there. I was gonna pay for everything here. Not even like that. But maybe while I have you.... Got anything related to Alley Brawlers with the Equestrian General in it? Game or some marketing stuff?"

"Actually yeah I do. Nobody's wanted them for a bit so I had to keep em in the back to make room for more stuff. Once he's out you're welcome to come back with me." We both nodded and waited for the guards to just come clean up, take the report and what not. The guy basically gave me some paper towels to clean up some of my drink from the floor a bit before they took him away.

After we were done with that guy the clerk locked the door, mainly to clean but it just left me and Shining in there. Guess Spike was so freaked out he stayed with Twilight... Either that or Twilight made him stay next to her after telling the guards. Both answers I was accepting.... But the clerk took us to the back and we started looking around. Just saw a lot of stuff that hadnt hit shelves yet, piles of boxes and garbage and even some weird anime body pillow covers being hung up on a rack. I sighed as we looked around. "Any idea where it is?" I asked.

"Its around here somewhere... Where? Its just.... here?" Yeah... that doesnt sound promising at all.

Shining huffed. "After we're done here I think I'll send some guards down here to help you clean this place...." He said.

"After that guy I might close up for the day... get things all cleaned up and take the rest of the day for myself.... Not every day you stare down the barrel of a gun wondering if you'll see tomorrow..." He looked to Shining. "Why are you trying to find stuff relating to that Equestrian General anyways?"

I sighed. "He was a friend of ours.... The Prince and the dragon were closer friends to him than I was and he saved my life at one point." I said.

"Ah... So more personal reasons for this.... Fair there..." He started going through a box with a lot of mixed material in it. "Reminds me of a time where I lost my brother.... he always wanted a good collection of games and stuff like this. Guess I do this to just.... make sure he's happy where he is.... seeing me living on his dream...."

Shining started looking at the wall, seeing if he couldnt see any boxes that were marked. "He was the same way...." He replied. "Any time we'd get together whether it be here, his own place or my sisters castle just to play games. He was a major fan of the Nukes Galore series as well as the Alley Brawlers series. Got his own character in one, then a terminal entry in another.... I still couldnt believe I was the one to have to type that out like he would..."

I started to tune them out to keep my emotions in check.... Felt something coming on. Just took a deep breath as I came looking around a table with leftover lunch on it.... It was something from the place with the R on the napkin....One of the napkins was just on the table, crumpled but.... in a way that looked just... TOO SPECIFIC. One half was crumpled but there was a corner just pointing to a corner. I slowly wandered that way and just looked at everything here. Saw games, movies, posters and such.... But a little thing creeping out from behind a box... The box was marked 'unsellable'. I looked into the box and saw copies upon copies of games. Games like Morning Catz, early Nukes Galore stuff and just the game we were looking for. Alley Brawlers 5 Definitive Edition Ultra Deluxe.... Yeah... I dont know what they were doing with the naming either... like some idiot said it in a board room and just said 'YEAH THATS IT!' But anyhow... behind the box? Martketing material... Specifically a few posters advertising the DLC and a cutout of Ryder! I looked back to the Prince and the clerk. "Found it!" I called out. Shining teleported over to me while the clerk just ran over.

"Awesome! Spike's gonna be so excited!" He looked to me. "Good eye Babs! How'd you know to look here?" I sighed as the clerk grabbed the game and then the advertisements including the cut out. I just smiled.

"Had a feeling... Lets just get this and make sure Spike's okay... Might need to rush the Princess back to the castle if they havent started going back already..." He gave a nod and we paid for the drink... Maybe I picked up a few games and a console for myself before we headed back to the castle. Surprising we were right... or at least I was.... Princesses headed back to the castle, Spike included.

When we got back both Shining and I were brought in front of Cadence and Twilight.... And honestly Twilight didnt look at all happy. She wasnt mad just.... scared looking. "Babs thank you for your service out there today." Cadence said. "Does remind me of our friend.... There at the right time without even meaning to be...."

"Just doing my duty ma'am." I replied.

Twilight sighed. "....You sound like he did...." She said. "He'd get himself into a situation, get out of it and next thing I know he's either injured due to his own stupidity, someone else is injured because they did something to piss him off and he broke his arms...."

"Are you alright Princess? How's Spike?" She just looked away.... as if seeing someone off to the side....

"Spike's fine.... Told me it was like... when you saved him... it was like he did... But me...? I just...." She stayed silent.

Shining sighed. ".....I take it he was the first one you thought of.... the one you wanted to yell at...." He said. "....Am I wrong?" She just.... stayed quiet.... I knew tears were coming. I just nudged Shining forward... He knew as well... Just hugged his sister. She latched onto him..... Then came the water works. Not only from Twilight but from Shining as well.... "...There we go... its okay Twily..... Its okay... big brothers here.... I gotcha...."

"....Shining... Oh Shining.... I.... I'm sorry..... I'm so sorry......."

Cadence looked to me. "...They havent hugged like this for a while.... Its..... Honestly amazing to see them together like nothing ever happened between them...." She said. "...Why dont you go find Spike? Last I checked he was gaming in Shining's den."

I gave a nod just giving a bit of a smile to the siblings. Pained but heartfelt. I looked back to Cadence. "Drinks are on me later if we're still up for that. Let me know where and when." I said. Cadence nodded before I started walking away.

I walked all the way to the den... with pointers because foreign land.... Actually wondered how far north the Yaks are from here.... And what I'd need to make that trek. Anyhow when I got to the den I just saw Spike sitting there but.... I felt something... something a bit more. Like... Someone else was there... and it wasnt just Ryder's cut out standing by the bar. Went over to the couch but.... had to go sit on the other side. Sat down and just watched Spike play his game. "....Guess you know he's kinda here too... right?" Spike asked without even breaking his gaze from the screen. Prison level, Ryder and The Orange Hurricane fighting.

"....Yeah.... and something tells me he's chilling with us... watching you play...." I sighed. "....You alright Spike? Didnt expect you to be so calm with what just happened."

"...I've been through worse." He replied. "I've had to go and face down Discord, Sombra, even Nightmare Moon.... Heck even Tirek was scary." I actually remember my encounter with Tirek.... Went throughout Equestria taking all the magic he could.... he even got me and my dad... mom too.... Wasnt until the magic returned we knew what happened.

"...That was kind of a first for me having to save someone like that.... Wouldnt be the first time I'd be around chaos but... just never gets easier for me."

"Might not ever will Babs... I seem calm right now but I wont doubt that later I'll be trying to sleep but freaking out because I had a nightmare or something..." I sighed.

"Been there.... Hell after I became the General I went to Canterlot, freaked out during a nightmare and ended up pissing the bed.... Not the way I wanted to welcome in becoming the new General but... Cant get everything I ask for...."

"If I remember right Ryder ended up pissing himself around the time he became General as well so.... I guess its an inherited tradition?" WE both kinda chuckled at that. I sighed.

"...You know Spike.... I'm not sure if I'm just saying this or if its from him but.... I wanna say Ryder forgives you.... that he regrets not being able to apologize for what he did.... definitely feels sorry for not doing anything before he passed to get your apology...."

"Guess you got that feeling too.... I actually feel at peace with that... Could accept it like that.... And what you and Shining got me? Feels like a gift from him.... like he wanted me to have this stuff. Sure I have you guys to thank for this stuff... but it feels like something he'd give me...." I looked over towards the empty spot on the couch.... past that was Ryder's cutout in full view. Then back to the TV.

"The Prince have another controller? I kinda want a few rounds with this game!" He gave a nod and went to grab another controller. We just played for a good while.... and I mean a good while. The only thing that basically stopped us was Shining and Twilight coming in with Cadence and Shining wanting a turn.... Who knew there was a detail in the game where he commented on himself being a changeling.... Like no joke. Basically says 'Hey handsome.... Here to talk or fight' the other replies 'Talking sounds good but I did hear there was a changeling pretending to be me.... Seems like I found him.' and then the original says 'Well fuck, and here I thought I was gonna share a beer with myself.' Kinda like that because well... he has had runins with changelings before and Rocky could attest to that.

Anyhow we went to the bar later. Cadence actually requested for us to be the only patrons. Just me, Cadence, Twilight, Shining, Spike and Rocky. Even though along the way there were some assholes that Rocky had to put in their place and holy fuck I thought one of em would've up and pissed themselves right then and there but Shining just stood there, watched as I did. Cadence let em off with a warning but told em next time they talked like that to the captain of the guard, boy-howdy would there be some trouble.... I'm talking like my cousins now.... fuck.... But anyhow we were at the bar and along the way we had to try to remember what Ryder's favorite drinks were other than Senor Salt. We settled on a shot of whiskey for everyone.... even ordered an extra to just give him something, to show he's always with us when he isnt... Though when everyone was ready to leave I just couldnt help but stay there... drinking another drink with the shot still next to me.... The only ones who didnt leave were Rocky and Shining. Shining sat right next to me, Rocky next to him. He looked to the Bartender who was just trying to figure out what to replace soon. "Another whiskey shot for me, water for the Captain... Maybe a soda if she wants." He said. The bartender nodded before Shining looked to me. "So... You good?" I sighed.

"Yeah... Just.... I guess I just dont wanna leave yet.... Mostly because I just feel like this remembering of Ryder.... Its just making me miss him...." Shining sighed.

"...Yeah... I feel that...." He replied. "...You know... after that takedown today.... Actually reminded me of him.... How he'd distract an idiot with something before taking them down...." The bartender set a few glasses down on the counter for Shining and Rocky to enjoy. Shining grabbed his shot and quickly downed it like it wasnt even there. He set the glass down and gave a hefty sigh. "Ohhh.... that burned.... Dont drink that too often.... Fuck...." He gave a quick shake of his head before looking back to me. "But yeah.... That was something he'd do... Guess it was just to embarrass them before taking them out.... Very few times they'd piss him off so bad he'd kill em.... But they'd've had to do something so bad to have him do that..."

"....And with the stuff I saw the day he returned... I wouldnt doubt he'd be doing anything he could to get home...."

"...Wanna tell me what you did see from him...? I mean... Other than the whole nine yards?" I sipped my drink. Tasted sweet but burned the way down.

"Well... If you know how he works in uncertain situations he starts to freak out.... wonders if he's gonna get into the castle without being detected or questioned by guards.... Scootaloo tipped me off from that and I had to pull off so he could get out and breathe.... Scoot got him a drink and we ended up going to Rarity's... and from what Applejack, Scootaloo and Rarity said is that they were told things only he'd know... If that didnt basically say he was who he was when the lockdown happened he had me running through the halls after knocking out a guard to make sure he didnt hurt him or anyone else.... Guess it was mostly to make sure his daughter was okay... But we had gotten to uh... Sector Theta where the nest is?"

"Close.... Sector Delta. Theta is the kitchen area. I'll give you points though for secrecy."

"Thanks... But... When we got to Delta he didnt even bother doing any code breaking.... just physical breaking.... moving things by himself that even I couldnt move myself.... Just... destroyed the door like it was a crumbling cookie.... hell during the escape he just... had this sledge hammer that just.... didnt even have anywhere to hide on him.... With what he was packing he couldnt have hidden that in his pants."

"Sledgehammer? Last I checked my sister doesnt have a sledgehammer in her room...." I just looked over to the shot left untouched.... like I was just waiting for him to pick it up, down it and tell me what to do next. "Huh? Uh... Babs you got a napkin on your back looks like.... That's like the second one you've had on you today...." The napkin. I glanced back at Shining.

"Uh... Dont take it off me... Just tell me where it is and I'll get it off..." He poked at my back just between my shoulders. Felt weird but hesitantly I reached back and grabbed the napkin.... Though I felt something more solid in my hand before hearing a few gasps.

"Uh.... Dont do anything just yet... I need to uh.... Here... Just try to keep your arm like that and stand up... I'll back you away for a sec...." I gave a nod and slowly got up trying to keep my arm where it was. He pulled me back a few feet. "Now just... bring your arm slowly over your head and try to keep what you got down until it gets in front of you...." I did as he said.... Whatever I had felt weighted on the other end.... Heavy like a weight but slender as a grip to a bat. When I brought it around and it came into view I had to hold it up in my hand. A.... Sledgehammer... the exact one he held. Rocky and the bartender were both looking at me surprised. "....So.... You really did see him.... Didnt you?" I nodded just admiring the grip.... Looked old and worn but felt tough still... The hammer part was larger on one end, glowing almost with red as if it were on fire and the smaller end looked somewhat sharpened like you could drive it into the ground and have it stick if you did it right. "...That actually used to be his.... Used to because... well.... yours now... and I guess it was either him bestowing it upon you to have you carry on his legacy as General.... or Heavens Light passed it on since he cant use it any more...."

"How do you know that?" I watched as he crossed his arms grabbing at his waist before pulling two daggers flipping them around so the points went straight down. Both worn, looking as if they were made of the crystals that make up the land around us.

"I too have weapons like that.... Just appearing out of nowhere. Big Mac and Soarin have theirs as well..." He put the daggers to his side and they just disappeared. I put the hammer back on my back being careful as to not break anything. Sure enough that thing disappears out of my hand and I just have a napkin stuck there... with the same monogrammed R on it. He gave a smile resting a hand on my shoulder. "There.... You're learning.... actually a good pick for a General if he thinks you should have that stuff.... Why dont we finish our drinks and get back to the castle?" I gave a nod as he walked me back to my seat. He looked to Rocky. "Pay the barkeep.... Least uh.... 200 for the drinks and to keep quiet about what he saw here tonight?" Rocky gave a nod sipping her drink. Didnt hesitate on putting the drink down, whipping out a bit bag and paying. While we drank I just sat there with Shining on one side of me, Rocky on the other side of him and then the other side of me? Ryder.... He might not have been there physically but I felt like he could've been there.... Even felt like he was resting a wing on my back like he was proud of me for getting his friend to believe me about him. Honestly couldnt have done that any better.... But yeah... after that we went back to the castle, I had to get some sleep, share a room with Spike to make sure he slept alright but uh... that didnt stop me from using some padding as a toilet during the night.... Only had to because Cadence insisted on it after drinks.... even if I did use the can. Not saying if that was the right call or not but.... you could probably guess. For right now we just relax and just... enjoy time away from home.

Two Too Many (Gilda's POV)

Its been a bit since I had my dealings with Ryder in a dream.... Got me to miss him even more but I've had the distraction that's been the new General... Babs.... That first time we did something it honestly felt like something Ryder would've wanted.... I couldnt tell if Ryder would be the one watching or if he was the one I was doing it with but... still felt nice.... But she's my cute little marefriend.... Dash hasnt been the best lately with me mostly because she's been busy with the Wonderbolts... that and she and I argued a bit before she kicked me out... I was lucky to have the Princess put me up at her castle and take on some guard stuff to keep me there just in case.... I still dont know how Ryder did it... Or did he have to do it at all? I'm not sure about that.... its been so long.... Ask Applejack for months I kept calling Ryder's phone just to leave messages.... telling him I missed him.... That was until she asked me to stop... She basically took over his phone since his passing.... Dont blame her for telling me to stop but... at least she did it in a way saying that it was a way to cope with his loss but it stressed her out a bit... more because I was calling during the night.... His pic is still there in my phone for the contact even if it is Applejack now. Its just a few days away from his birthday.... before he passed I'd buy him a drink, ask wifey to get him prepped in bed and we'd just.... go to town on him.... We'd even go halfsies on a potion from Zecora that gave us HUGE fucking dicks.... I still go to her every now and then for potion testing.... Wait I'm getting off track.... His birthday.... there I go fucking reminiscing again.... But yeah... Tonight I was just outside the castle having a smoke.... Princess doesnt like me smoking inside... Especially when it comes to the personal herb..... and the meat I get but I only get that as a bit of a treat.... But as I sat there still in some tight shorts, a tanktop and some slipons a black sports car pulled up. V6 engine, mega grip offroading tires and looking like it needed a bath.... but I knew who owned the thing.... His sister.... Scootaloo. She hopped out slinging a bag over her shoulder. Looked like she was just ready for bed... Sweat pants, sneakers and a shirt that looked a little too big for her. One of the guards at the door walked past me. She tossed the keys to the guard and gave me a smile just sighed. "Got another one of those or is it your last one?" She asked.

I huffed grabbing the pack from my back pocket. Few left. Even offered her the book of matches I had. She gladly took one from the pack, took the matches, struck one and lit it between her lips. Not gonna lie.... when she turned 18 I jokingly asked if she wanted a roll in the hay.... She gave me a good deck to the arm but kissed me saying that we'd have to wait a while... never did anything. At all and I dont think Babs would be happy to see me (or hear of me) having my hand down someone elses pants unless I was talking about Ryder. I took a drag of mine before letting out that cloud of smoke. "...The hell you doing here kid? Isnt the old mare you live with gonna freak out that you went out in the dead of night?" I asked. She sighed flicking ash from the stick she took a long drag from.

"Nah.... She knew I couldnt sleep.... She was downstairs talking to the picture again.... I had to get her up to bed just to get some sleep because Mash has school in the morning..."

"Yeah? And something tells me you couldnt sleep because of whos on that picture?" She gave a nod taking another drag. "....Yeah.... I feel that here.... Cant forget the stuff we used to do this time of year...."

"....Couldnt agree more there.... I'd be out there looking for a gift for a game he didnt already have, maybe some nice clothes to wear to dinner but.... just not the same without him...."

"I'd tell you what we'd do but... think you already know at least a little bit..." I blushed a bit taking a drag of the rest of my smoke. Just tossed the butt to the ground and snuffed it with the bottom of my shoe.

"Yeah... I have an idea.... But I came to ask you something Gil...." She took a drag and huffed... the smoke almost lingered just in front of us. "...Applejack and I have been talking and.... well... we kinda want to get everyone together.... friends, family.... Just about anyone you can think of together so we can celebrate his life.... No hate to anyone, no bad feelings to anyone... just love for him.... And after recent events? I figure its probably one of the better things we could do.... Babs already told me she had a shot set out for Ryder the other night... She's kind of on board with this thing... was wondering if you'd be on board as well." I thought for a moment.... and literally just a moment because I already knew my answer.

"Sure thing." I replied with a bit of a smile. "I'd do anything for the dweeb.... Just about anyways.... Everything from talk with the dork at night, find pictures to give him.... Other things you'd know I'd do.... But I think the most important thing i'd do is just be there for him... even his family... So that means anything you, Applejack, Applebloom, hell even that little girl you guys are taking care of? If need be I'd give that kid a place to live even if I had to. Sure I live with the Princess... but... still...." She blew the smoke from the last and longest drag she took before tossing the smoke down, embers flying from the still lit tip before stepping on it.

"....Yeah.... Still a good thing to know..." She replied. "...Lets get upstairs... getting a bit chilly here...." I gave a nod and walked with her upstairs. "...You know... sometimes I cant help but think back to the day he just... appeared.... Dash told you about it right?" I nodded.

"Yeah... She told me that he just came around, said something that she'd know and just.... She thought she was freaking out for a sec.... either that or tripping on something I had in the fridge but even I'm not stupid enough to keep stuff that gets you loopy where someone else could get it. And with how she was crying? I just couldnt believe it myself until... well... I saw him in my dreams and he told me to just....." I stopped myself getting blushy... and a bit hot in the shorts....

"Yeah... I think I remember that.... Came yourself in your sleep and just hid it as wetting yourself.... even after you still pissed yourself...." Yeah... Apparently that dream I had where I saw him made me just.... squirt.... didnt even touch myself, no toys or outside help.... just up and came in what I was wearing, got up, realized it, pissed myself and changed.... didnt stop someone from taking a slight look at me while cleaning myself up.... Anyhow she sighed once we reached the plateau for the first floor. "So.... You wanna sleep alone or have some company?" I sighed.

"I can do it however.... but if we do end up needing company... you keep your hands away from me.... not sure how Babs would react to her own cousin feeling up her marefriend...."

"Fair enough there.... still wouldnt mind someone to sleep next to.... Might help me sleep a bit better considering a few wet beds and a restless night doesnt go well with work...."

"Lucky I actually have some.... Dont wanna make you sleep in another bed...." I looked back at her. "...Still want me to wear one if you're wearing one? I remember you were younger and wanted someone to at least wear with you so it didnt feel like a punishment...."

"....Would you?" I sighed giving a smile.

"Yeah... I've had a few drinks tonight and some sleep would do me good.... plus I'd rather not want to try to find the bathroom and pass out on the can again..." Yeah.... I was so tired one day, drank so much of my energy drinks to try to stay awake that when I went to the bathroom after they wore off, I pissed, passed out and the Princess had guards wake me up with my ass covered in a towel and then have me wheeled to my room with a wheel chair. Wasnt my most favorite moment with my pants off but I just hope the guard who saw me like that rubbed one out when he was on break.... if it were Ryder he'd've gone and fucked me while I was passed out, pulled my pants up before carrying me to bed and I'd wake up with a hangover and wondering why my panties felt sticky... Is it bad I dreamt that after he passed? I guess not only because I missed him but because I was just that horny in heat? Yeah... anyhow she gave somewhat of a relieved sigh.

"....Thanks.... Knew my brother loved you for a reason other than a place to bury a bone when need be." I got a bit of a warm spark in my heart.... Same one I get whenever I saw him around... except for the feeling I'd get in my pants.... Now I get that when Babs is around... cute gal and I can talk Ryder with her for hours if we need to remenice.... yet she always brings up the time he saved her.... how scared she was..... I caught her with the thousand yard stare a few times. Did what I did and had to hold her... sometimes down, sometimes just gently. One of those 'down' times she puked.... Yeah... that time I really should've learned from experience with Ryder but no... Lost it all... anyhow I smiled.

"I'm more than that... just gotta get to know me there squirt." She sighed.

"...I'll let you get away with calling me that once but only Dash calls me that..." I chuckled a bit.

"Sorry sorry.... Just.... Trying to be friendly is all...." Yeah not the best start.

"It's alright... just Scoot is fine... or Scootaloo..." I just stayed quiet up until we got to the room. When we got in I just started digging under my bed while she just went and started looking around.... Mainly around a picture I have of the Dweeb... He decided to surprise me for my birthday one year, took a stripper-esque picture for me... Signed it too. 'To the lucky bitch who shares someones husband. -Ryder' Yeah he called me a bitch but.... He's the only one to do it jokingly. I looked to her as I pulled a few packs of diapers from under my bed. Just looked at both.

"So... What size are you? Got some smaller ones but they're pull ons... not as absorbent..." She sighed.

"Just give em to me.... Tired here..." I gave a nod and just handed her the pack she wanted. Cutting things out because not much was said and you really dont give a shit about undressing myself... or if you do, sorry I'm just not in the mood to talk about that... at least yet... We changed, got into the bed and she passed out.... Took a bit longer for me to fall asleep... Just wanted him to just come into this bed, hold me close and tell me he'd never leave me again....

I ended up falling asleep after so long... didnt know if it was a half hour... hour... or even just a few minutes. Just passed out. As I slept I just started to dream. I was just flying around Ponyville.... Just me. I was flying about and went towards the outskirts just overlooking Sweet Apple Acres. A cloud just came out of nowhere and I landed on it. Sat down and just looked over the apple trees.... Oh the things we would do.... If he wanted to play hide and seek like a kid, we'd play that. If he wanted to play hide and seek with no pants.... that's what we played too but we had to make sure we had to be alone at the house or making sure someone was watching his sisters. Either that or REALLY fast. And most of the time we were good... There was one time Dash caught us with our pants down and he just up and just came right into my pants when I was trying to pull em back up.... Lucky me he saved me a shower that night and doing laundry... he had some to do too anyhow. But just.... as I sat there.... I just started to get sad.... Hugged myself curling up in a ball. Eyes started tearing up as things just started getting cloudy. That's when I heard a sigh as someone sat next to me. "....Miss me that much huh....?" Someone familiar said. I nearly jumped out of my feathers at the voice. Just looked next to me and there he was. Ryder.... Just sitting there watching over the same trees I was. I just up and tackled him giving him a kiss and just.... sobbing into his shoulder. He sighed shushing me. "...I'll take that as a yes... Guess you and the others know its my birthday soon... Dont wanna go and sit aside and do nothing for it huh....?" I just shook my head. "...Thought so.... Well... I just hope this is good for you.... basically a present for myself here just seeing you..."

I sighed as I sat up with him. "....But why me...? Why not your sister? Your wife? What about your daughter?" I asked. He sighed wiping my tears away.

"....I love Scoot too much to visit her and bring her pain.... I'm afraid of seeing judgement of Applejack because she did something stupid... and my baby girl? I'd rather meet her in person rather than in a dream...." He looked back at the trees. "Besides.... I think you're the one who needs a little visit.... time to vent.... maybe a little time just to be here together...."

"...It wasnt right... the way that fucker took you from us.... that way especially...."

"....There isnt a day that goes by where I cant think about that.... what I could've done versus what i did.... I just yelled at the guy... thinking I could just scare him.... no... Pissed him off, fucker pulled a gun and there I go...."

"....He was lucky I wasnt there.... I would've gutted him with my bare claws....."

"Dont yell at me here when I say this but.... I'm gonna call bullshit here.... If you were there you would've just ran and hid or died trying.... hell if you did try to save me there might've been a chance you'd actually get me to live.... but maybe cost your own.... and I'd rather not live if you died.... Would've been my hot head that got you killed so it would've been my fault."

"....Still.... what I wouldnt have given to just lay with you one last time in a primal embrace.... I would've just drained your balls, bladder.... Hell I wouldnt stop until you passed out.... Wouldnt've cared if I ended up pregnant... Hell... we both would've been jelly after that...."

"....You know.... if I ever come back.... Few things I'm gonna do.... First thing is spend time with the family... Dash, Applejack, Applebloom, Mash.... Scootaloo.... Hell even Babs.... she's a cousin but with how she's been growing up its been like she was a sister.... But the next thing? And if it doesnt get me kicked out of where I am.... I'd love it even more... and that's take you to bed, rail you so much that all you could do is think about it.... And maybe have a thing made just for you.... Maybe something to share with the wife and your marefriend if you need it...." I blushed a bit.... Maybe putting a hand right on my crotch.

"....And if the goddess would allow it, when I die, I want you all over my slice.... and that's if I go there...."

"Well.... I could see about pulling a few strings.... maybe have you get somewhere cushy to be down there if you do end up.... Made a few friends in low places if you get my meaning...."

"....Oh you better visit.... Maybe give that bitch of an ex you had a piece of my fucking mind while I'm down there.... doing you wrong like that.... but you did turn out better after her...." He laughed a bit.

"Oh yeah... He's definitely gonna love you.... Might actually ask if I couldnt descend a bit and pay her a visit with punishment..."

"...What I wouldnt give to just see how you punish her.... Maybe like you punish me for being a bad girl....?" I took his hand looking into his eye. He was just blushing as I put it right on my crotch. "...I miss your touch.... Bet you miss how that feels just as much... Right?" He just hesitantly nodded before I laid back on the cloud. "Hopefully you can still get your rocks off.... Maybe with a stern talking to but... I want you to do it.... Rip my clothes off and fuck me like the whore I am..." I could really see the hesitancy... the situations going around in that brainless skull of his.... But then he did it.... he climbed on top of me and just tore my shirt off before just sucking on my tits.... Really felt like he was actually doing it.... He slowly just depantsed me.... I was just soaking wet for him.... ready for him.... Slowly he lowered himself before fiddling with his pants.... Pulled out the monster I missed SO much.... He prodded at me.... just teasing the hell out of me the way I loved..... Slowly he pushed his way in and I swear I was already having the sweetest fucking orgasm ever. Even though he only humped me for a few minutes it felt like we were already going on an hour.... But after that few minutes? Ringing.... Loud ringing.... ringing that made me tense up and try grabbing on to the closest thing I could to try to keep myself asleep.... Didnt work... Grabbed Ryder and held on to him. It didnt work because the fucking cloud under us broke and we started dropping like a bag of rocks.... "FUCK FUCK FUCK RYDER HELP!" I screamed. He was flapping his wings faster than he thrusted which... I'm gonna be honest here I WISH he would've done with me while he was alive.

"I'M TRYING! ITS NOT WORKING!" He grabbed a hold of me and flipped over. "BRACE YOURSELF!" I held him so close..... And I mean so close I could swear we were just gonna get mashed together....

When we hit the ground my eyes snapped open and I just sat straight up in bed only to see Scootaloo ready with a bat I kept in the corner.... Somehow that felt oddly familiar... like that I had been in a situation that involved a bat and just waking up.... I looked down at myself.... my clothes were either off or torn slightly, the diaper I was wearing half off... I quickly silenced my alarm and looked back to Scootaloo. "Gilda? You good??" She asked still scared. I nodded slightly.... I wasnt sure if I was actually.... My heart was pounding, my head kinda hurt and my crotch was still on fire.... Scootaloo dropped the bat and hurried to my side of the bed just to hug me.... The warmth of the hug just calmed me.... Guess it calmed me so much I may have just up and wet myself.... I had to quickly fix it... Didnt stop a slight leak but she didnt care.... Just sat there and held me... "Good.... I.... I almost didnt wanna get close to shut your alarm off.... you were just going crazy thrashing about.... I was just lucky you didnt start until the alarm went off... I got up and then.... you just started struggling... like someone was trying to hurt you...."

I sighed.... Deep breathed sigh. "....I... Yeah... the dream I was having was good until the end.... The uh..... dream had a little bit of a jail break... one of the fuckers who did it was trying to rape me...." I said. Big lie there.... if she knew what her brother did to me.... She sighed.

"Well nobody's gonna do that.... Not when you got guard training to help protect you." She released me. "Now uh... why dont we just go find a shower and wash up? From what I can smell you need to drink more water...." I blushed fixing myself as she let go of me. I could only watch as she walked out, her padding just barely poking up from her shorts. That left me to basically finish pissing myself, stripping my bedding and just getting it ready for laundry day.... thankfully today... There wasnt much of a stain on the mattress itself but I flipped it anyhow... need a new one soon... after that I just grabbed some clothes and went to my shower which was just a few doors down... Great when I drink too much. Went and stripped down, hopped in and just stood there in the warm water as it cascaded down me....I dont know what it was about me but I felt weird.... more than normal... I was still kinda horny... almost feeling like something was shoved up there... and yeah... I checked... Nothing but that got me a few knuckles deep playing with myself.... I dont usually do this but I didnt care.... Just felt so fucking good but the Princess has gotten on me about taking long showers.... Played with myself for a bit nearly climaxing but I just couldnt and it sucked. Finished washing myself, got dried off, went to the mirror to make sure my feathers werent fucked up to where I'd have to get em cut... but when I did I just about had a heart attack. I didnt see me in the reflection.... I saw Ryder! I looked down at myself. Still saw talons, feet, no dick but I still felt like there was SOMETHING inside me. And it was ANNOYING. I hid from the mirror and took a deep breath.

"....Its alright... you're just... freaking out a bit Gil... you're still half asleep... you miss him... Just.... finish getting ready.... Just get dressed, grab your brush and just go find Scootaloo, see if she cant help brush out your wings and vice versa...."

"....Yeah you're REALLY missing me IF I'M SEEING MYSELF IN YOUR FUCKING BODY TOO!" I heard someone say.... Freaked me out to just look around the room because that's what I was hearing.... someone in here.... And the thing is? It sounded like who I saw in the mirror.

"R-Ryder?!" I said.

"No.... THE FUCKING ICE CREAM MAN YES ITS ME!" I flinched a bit... he sounded like he was right on top of me. I quickly got back in front of the mirror and just looked at the reflection.... Definitely Ryder.

"Can you stop yelling?! Please?!" He sighed.

"Yeah... Yeah sorry... Just... freaking out over here wondering how the fuck we're gonna get out of this.... I wanted to come back but definitely not like this...." It was at this point I realized he was basically making my mouth move when he talked. It felt SO WEIRD to move my mouth but not talk.

"You're freaking out? I'm freaking out! I was just fucking you in a dream and now we're one! I'd rather have you inside me but NOT BE ME!"

Just as he was about to talk back there was a knock on the door. "Miss Gilda? Everything alright?" I heard a guard ask. I looked to the door and then to the mirror.

"....Ryder... Keep your mouth shut, I'm gonna figure something out..." I felt myself nod autonomously before looking over to the door. "Yeah... Nearly slipped but I'm alright!"

"We'll get someone in there to dry up the water once you're out." I sighed looking back at the mirror.

"...Okay... Just.... Are you able to talk to me in a way that makes me look and feel like a puppet?" I whispered. I nodded slightly... almost hesitantly....

'Uh... hows this?' He said, my mouth not even moving.

"Good... What are you doing to even do that?"

'I guess suppressing my strength? I.... I'm honestly not sure.... Can we just get out of here before those guards think you need help? Please?' I nodded and just got dried off more getting dressed. Even dragged a brush through my feathers trying to make sure they looked good.... Ryder even just helped me a bit and I knew he did because since I couldnt go and do it myself.... He's my reflection after all.

I went out carrying my pajamas. Went back to my room just to see Scootaloo pacing back and forth half dressed. Panties, and a tee shirt. She looked up at me just as I tossed my clothes onto the bed. She sighed. "Fuck Gil.... You alright? Scared me a bit when we woke up...." She said. "...Kinda reminded me the way my brother would wake up sometimes after shit went down...." My heart sank.... Couldnt tell whether or not it was just me being sad remembering having to hold him back while he was asleep or if it was just him pulling at my heart strings, making him just sad seeing his sister. Dont even know if it were him or me doing this but I just went over and just kinda offered a hug. She looked hesitant at first but took it anyways... I admit it felt slightly awkward but it was nice. She let go after a moment before going for her bag grabbing her stuff.

I sighed. "You know.... if ever you cant sleep my phones always on." I said as I grabbed some socks and shoes. "Something I let him do and I can extend that to you.... hell even AJ if she wants..." I watched as she put her pants on, that burning tire cutie mark she has showing off to me. "You hungry at all? Could go and grab something real quick. My treat!" She looked to me as she grabbed her sneakers

"You sure? I'd be alright making something here if you want." I gave a nod.

"Yeah I'm sure. Princess doesnt trust me making things myself since I nearly burned some muffins.... Kept thinking of the scones I used to make before I left Griffonstone... One time I did burn something I was distracted and she wasnt happy.... So.... Any time she's out like now I'm having to deal with food myself and I'm lucky I get paid a good amount to clear the clouds... Just got paid too." She sighed.

"Yeah... Sounds good. Wanna drive or you want me to do that?" I got up stretching.

"You drive... I'll pay." She gave a nod and we just started walking out of my room.

I heard Ryder's sigh in my head. "....Didnt know Scoot was here.... and that she got the shit scared out of her because of you remind her of me...." He said.

'...Yeah.... Sorry.... Should've said something....' I thought.

"You're fine... just.... are you able to let me get control at one point.... maybe after we get someones attention as to me being stuck here....?"

'Got a plan yet?'

"Nope.... I'm not the guy with the brains so this might take a while...."

'Figured that out on your own didnt you?'

"....If I werent inside your brain right now I'd be slapping your ass.... Hard...."

'Punishment or pleasure?' He stayed silent. 'Alright... well chime in if you have anything useful to say.... Maybe give somepony hints as to what's going on...'

You know as we walked I pulled my phone and just snapped a pic of me and Scoot for Babs. She's still with the Princess in the Crystal Empire and... not gonna lie... when she has some time, I wanna take her to the movies, dinner and just spend a day with her... And I know this was me saying this. We know each others pain of losing the fucker in my head, I know how to handle her if she gets a bit freaked out and just.... Honestly she's cute. We got downstairs to the parking lot and hopped in her car. Still had my bike but that's not been doing so well lately. My car was doing a bit well. Traded in the one I had, got a more sporty muscle car. Wonderbolt blue, moon roof and when it roars to life even Ryder's toes would curl. We got into Scootaloo's car and just drove out. I just looked in the mirror on the side. Saw Ryder just.... looking kinda bummed. Scootaloo looked over at me. "You alright? Need me to stop for an energy drink?" She asked. "Could go to Sugarcube Corner if you want." I glanced at her.

"Sure. Just.... Sorry if I'm quiet... last night got me thinking...." I replied.

"About him?"

"Yeah.... He and I were close as you know.... maybe not as close as family but.... we were close...."

"I already know that. If he wasnt in bed with Applejack, sleeping on my floor or at the castles with a princess he was with you.... and with how you treated each other its amazing Applejack didnt leave him to you."

"She loved him more than I did. She only let him get to me to work himself out when he was mad or upset at something... Other than that she was always happy to see him happy and in her arms when he was done with me." I leaned back in her passenger seat. "....There were times he was so pissed with something or so scared of something that he didnt wanna snap at you, accidentally hit you or anything...."

"...Makes sense.... The times he'd cry or scream during a nap or something...."

"And that's why he did things with me. He'd rather beat me up in his sleep or something rather than accidentally hit you guys. Would've just killed him to know he hurt you guys."

"Yeah.... Glad he didnt.... but... can we just.... stop talking about him....? Please? Starting to get a tad misty eyed."

"....Sure.... Kinda getting that way myself...." I honestly was.... This was more than likely his doing but.... I couldnt help but just accept it as myself doing that. She started turning the wheel making what I felt was a complete 180 but no. Just a very tight turn. '...please dont tell me you're staying because of this dweeb.... I want full control back....'

"...You'll get it Gil... I just.... I'm sorry... this just fucking hurts...."

'...I know... I know it does... just... take control for a bit... take a deep breath and just... dont say anything weird... please....' I slightly nodded a bit and just took deep breaths....

That lasted for a bit until we got to Sugarcube Corner.... I honestly was surprised at who was there. I mean... other than Pinkie of course. There inside was Applejack, her daughter, Applebloom and the biggest fucking surprise since she joined up with the Wonderbolts.... Dash. Guess Applejack saw us pulling in and got up to come out. We parked and hopped out. Applejack gave a smile as she came closer to the car. "There ya are girl! Woulda thought you'd call when you woke up." She said hugging her sister in law.

Scootaloo sighed. "Sorry AJ, just had a little bit of a scare this morning...." She said glancing at me. She looked back to AJ who definitely got the hint. I just blushed looking away. "Why's Mash out of school? Everything alright?"

"Yeah.... School's closed today on account of a janitor basically making an accidental chemical bomb with cleaners.... Didnt go off but the damn idiot gassed himself out and had to call in hazmat just to make things better there. Should be good by tomorrow afternoon.... so you might have some babysittin' to do." Scoot shrugged a bit just as AJ looked over to me. "Hey Gilda.... You good? Hadnt heard from ya since you and my cousin got a bit close...."

"Uh yeah I just.... Well.... Been busy is all..." I blushed scratching the back of my head.... "That and I couldnt help but remember whos birthday is soon.... Scootaloo reminded me last night when I was having a little bit of a smoke...." She sighed.

"Yeah.... Guess'n she asked you to be a part of it?" I nodded. "....Well thank you for bein a part of this.... You had as much of a connection to him as any of us." She grabbed me by the shoulder pulling me closer before we started walking in, her arm just pulling me slightly along. "C'mon girl... We got some plannin' to do."

I felt hesitant to even go in.... That was him feeling that.... My own emotions were a little hard to read. I was happy to do it but he wanted to just try getting out of this in some way that didnt make me look bad.... Or embarrass me but he knew that might turn me on.... Yeah... Embarrassment turns me on. Wet myself in public one time, walked home and every time someone noticed I just got a little itchy in the trousers. I almost didnt make it home before just sending a pic to Ryder and handling business. Anyhow she herded me in to the shop. Pinkie was already fixing up a box of donuts and getting drinks together on a tray. Scootaloo headed over to the counter to get something for us to eat while I was kinda forced over to the table. Dash was wearing a lettermans jacket, jeans and a tanktop. AJ's daughter was just in a little jean jacket, little rainbow skirt and a pink teeshirt. Her mane was even in pigtails which... I strangely thought was adorable.... GOD DAMMIT RYDER. Anyways Dash smiled a bit as she got up immediately hugging me. "Gilda you sonova gun! Missed the heck out of you!" She said obviously censoring herself because of the kid. "How've you been? Havent seen you since you were with Scoot at the Wonderbolts facility."

I wanted to speak but.... he was kinda choking me up. 'Ryder!' I thought. 'Ryder lemme talk! Everything's alright!' I just hugged Dash.... held her tight....

"....Something tells me time hasnt been good to you since then.... Wanna talk about it?"

Ryder was scared... Making me scared. Just locking up like he used to.... And he made it OBVIOUS I was freaking out.... And how I knew? I was honestly near pissing myself but before I even could Pinkie and Scootaloo were coming over to set the drinks and donuts down before Pinkie looked to me and just instantly knew. That mare was FAT but she picked me up like I was Applejack's daughter and hurried with me over her shoulder into the back and carefully upstairs. She carried me to her room, tossed me onto her bed and just lied down on top of me. I was honestly surprised as fuck that her ass could pick me up like she did. I was even calming down from whatever she was doing. I couldnt see much from the cleavage shoved into my face but I heard a sigh as someone came into the room... her boots just hitting the wooden floor. "Pinkie what in the hell are you doing with Gilda?" I heard Applejack ask. "My daughters askin' what you're doin with her and if its what I think it is I aint gonna tell her until she's older!"

I blushed a bit as I could breathe on my own... Pinkie slightly got off me but still pinned me just to look at her friend. "What? I'm just helping! She was having a panic attack!" She said being her usually annoying bubbly self.

"Gilda doesnt have panic attacks girl! She's probably the most mentally stable out of all of us!"

"Applejack are you loco in the coco?? She WAS! I could tell! Its like Ryder was having a panic attack! Anypony could have one of these! You, Dash, even Pound Cake! Did you know Pumpkin was afraid of asking out a girl in her classes because she was scared of her mother finding out? I had to hold her, make her breathe, talk her through things and its just-"

"Alright alright fine! Girl was having a panic attack! Just... Please stop yellin.... Dont want my little Mash hearin' this and make her scared of ya Pinks!"

I cleared my throat a bit. "Yeah uh... Can I get up now please?" I asked. Pinkie gave a nod and Applejack helped her up. I sighed swinging my legs out. "Jeez... As much as I like big tits in my face.... I'd rather have them willingly rather than just stuffed into my face like that...."

Pinkie giggled a little. "Sorry Gildy! I only did that because its something I had to do with Ryder and you and him almost work so much like each other with stress and I thought that was just something you'd like! Seems I was kinda right!" She said. I sighed stretching my wings out.

"Well next time you do that... Give me a fair warning I might be smothered...."

Applejack came over and knelt next to the bed. "We'll try to remember that for next time.... Why dont you just take a deep breath, tell us whats got your panties in a knot?" She asked. I stayed silent for the most part. Though in my mind.... I was near screaming.

'RYDER! You better not be hiding in here! What do I say?'

I heard Ryder's uncertain voice echo in my head. "Yeah... Yeah I'm still here just.... Tell them that you've been thinking of me lately and just started getting a bit scared of going back to old ways!" He said.

I looked away nervous. "You still need a bit of a drink there Gilda? I can get Scoot to bring up that energy drink she got for ya!" Pinkie said. I nodded and just watched as she walked out. Though it wasnt me nodding.

"Sorry there Gil.... Just.... She doesnt like knowing somepony was hurting themselves.... Just.... tell it to AJ and make sure she doesnt say anything!"

I sighed as Applejack sat next to me. "'S wrong sugarcube? Something you dont want Pinkie hearing?" She asked. I hesitantly nodded. "....Just go on n tell me.... Aint gonna mention a word there but know she's gonna be helping with our thing for him..."

I took a deep breath and sighed. "....I just.... ever since Dash told me about him coming back randomly... I just got to thinking of him more and more...." I said choking up slightly. "....Distracted myself for the most part but.... Just... now that its getting closer to his big day.... I just cant help but think of him and all the stuff we used to do for him.... and its just getting me scared that I'm just gonna fall back into.... old ways.... ways before I was talked down by him if you know that story...." She slung an arm around me pulling me in for a hug.

"....Yeah... yeah I remember.... Dash called me crying that day on the way to the hospital.... told me everythin'...." She replied. "....I can admit i've had those thoughts after his passin but.... always remembered my daddy and what happened to him and me.... dont want my little girl seein' that.... hell.... even ask your marefriend how I went and beat it into her about how my daddy went and how she shouldnt be hurting herself like that either...."

I can say I honestly whined a little bit just holding back tears. Didnt realize I was almost about to cry but.... Guess when someone else is controlling your emotions its hard to tell. I sat there hugging the motherly mare until Scootaloo came in not even a moment later. Had my drink in hand too. She handed it to me and I just cracked it open getting a good sip in of the bubbly citrusy nectar. "There we go.... You good Gil?" Scootaloo asked. Applejack sighed.

"...She's alright... just.... a little scared of hurting herself.... all because she's missin' your brother...." She sighed.

"Yeah.... Started talking about him last night.... and now that I think about it the dream she was talking about this morning didnt seem right anyways.... Was your dream actually involving Ryder?" I nodded hesitantly. "....Yep.... Knew something was weird.... you really dont mind being handled roughly....." I blushed hard as I just kinda sipped my drink.... Guess Ryder was also trying to think of something to say because my mind was RACING. "....You know talking about my brother doesnt bug me as much as you think...."

I sniffled a little bit. "...But... You told me to stop talking about him...." I replied.

"...I only said that so you wouldnt go and cry.... Doesnt stop most I know but.... Just.... sorry about that Gil...." She got on the other side of me and joined in on the hug.... Just something that made him feel a bit better. I just sat there breathing, drinking my energy drink for a while until it was gone.... Though before I had to go downstairs I made a quick stop at the bathroom next door. Lucky me I didnt go and piss myself... He probably would've loved that but the kid would've made fun of me or something.

When I got back downstairs Scootaloo talked with Dash about my little episode there.... she definitely understood there. Though it was kinda cute that Applebloom and her niece were drawing together with crayons and little place mats Pinkie gave em. Though after that we agreed to go back to Sweet Apple Acres. I just sat outside away from the house just looking at all the cars parked there. Old truck, Scoots car and even Dash's bike. Thankfully Scoot had some smokes she needed to get rid of because of her niece so yours truly was out here gonna smoke one. Though as I lit it up Ryder sighed. "Do you HAVE to smoke now?" He said. "I can stand staring at my family yet they're looking at someone I was fucking but I can feel my lungs burning with every drag you take there!"

I sighed as I let out the smoke. "Well sorry this is the only thing that's keeping me fucking calm!" I said to myself. "Need I remind you you're the one giving me panic attacks?!"

"WELL SORRY I HAVENT BEEN ALIVE FOR SO LONG TO FEEL AND CONTROL THESE EMOTIONS!" I huffed.

"WOULD YOU CALM MY ASS DOWN?" I responded in a hushed whisper yell. "I'd rather not be going into your fucking home, yelling at anyone when they brought me here to have a good time! Now fucking let me smoke or you're gonna feel so on edge just from me you're gonna wanna fucking choke on ash." Oh if that didnt piss me off this did. He basically took control of my arm, threw down my smoke and used my own leg to snuff it out. "Ryder if yelling at you wouldnt make me look fucking crazy I'd do it because YOU'RE REALLY PISSING ME OFF!"

"Gilda as long as we share a body CAN YOU JUST NOT DO THIS SHIT? Please?!" I stayed silent just looking for a way to just blow off steam that isnt gonna scare anyone inside. "Seriously Gilda. I'm not happy about this accidental hitchhiking and I REALLY dont know if the Goddess is seeing this and trying to help us do something without explicitly saying something to anyone. And if she is seeing this I am REALLY hoping I'm not gonna get in trouble for this.... already been in trouble for something... wont say what, wont do it again and just.... Sorry I'm just panicked!"

"Yeah and its making ME panicked. Why do you think I smoke? It. Helps. ME!" I just turned towards the house. "....Think the wife will give me a drink? Juice or a soda or something?"

"Wont object to a drink... Just.... No alcohol until later.... Whiskey if you can..."

"Now you're speaking my language...."

The thought of a nice whiskey really motivated me a bit.... then again that was probably him. Still appealed to me because that's the best shit I drink. Other than beer. Few shots of whiskey and I'm good.... Then someone dares me and then the whole bottle is gone.... Most of the time its me making the dare, drinking the bottle anyways and trying to make someone pay me for the dare that never was. One guy did pay me but only to try to get into my pants.... I flashed the jackass and dropped him. Didnt catch charges because he was being a creep anyways. Bartender told him a few times to stop before he was thrown out.... Gave him what he wanted and needed. Wanted some pussy, needed a reality check and a beat down. Anyhow as I went inside I saw everyone sitting in the living room having a little powow about Ryder's celebration of life. Scootaloo and Applejack's daughter werent here but, Applebloom, AJ, Pinkie and Dash were. AJ looked to me as I went to the empty recliner to sit down. "About time there Gilda! Thought I would've had to have you wrangled and hogtied to get you back in here." She said. "You good?" I nodded. "Good. Now we're thinkin' on hittin' up Canterlot tonight to get the Princesses in on this since they had as much to do with Ryder as we did. Already called Twilight, she agreed to send us some transports to get there. She even told me she's gonna be comin' back with Babs, Shining and Cadence so probably good we're gonna do something there. And before ya ask, we did ask Celestia and Luna if we could do this there and they said we could so no worries about anyone getting stopped by guards because they shouldnt be there."

"That's.... Actually awesome.... Dont think I've ever actually been inside Canterlot Castle."

"Well its your lucky day. All of us have been in there at one time or another and we've got a pretty good standing for them so its almost like we're an extension of Royalty."

"If that's so I think he's the first one of royalty I've been with.... Or at least the closest I've been with him...." I could tell that Ryder was impressed with that subtle hint that we're close and that's something is wrong.... and I'm pretty sure he was excited that we were going to Canterlot and meeting PRINCESSES! Like a fucking compass leading us in the right direction. Applejack leaned back on the couch putting her feet up on the coffee table.

"And I'd be the first with a kid from him." She hummed. "...Y'know... speakin' of him and where we're goin.... Might be a good idea to bring a bag with some clothes...." She looked to me. "We're gonna need to head back to the castle here soon to get the transports but do you wanna take someone and head back to get a bag together? Gonna be there a few days maybe and with how some of us drink.... Might be a good idea..."

"We getting anyone else in on this or is this just everyone?"

"Rarity's busy but said she'd try to do something in the future, Flutters is busy with her animals so its just us and the Princesses."

"That's.... Alright...." I looked to Dash. "Can I use your bike to get back to the castle?"

I watched as my rainbow maned friend grabbed her keys from her pocket tossing them to me. "You still remember how to ride one of those dont you?" She asked. I caught them and huffed.

"Better than the dweeb when he stole my motorcycle!"

I heard Ryder sigh. "Bitch." He said.

'You're the one who needed to talk to me and couldnt do it face to face....'

Dash gave a smile. "Well alright.... Just try not to kill yourself! Helmets on the bike on the side of the house!" She said. I gave a nod and started back out... But as I did I saw a stallion just standing there, back to the house, phone out taking a picture of himself. Red coat, orange mane, built like hell and wearing skinny jeans, boots and a flannel. I just closed the door just as he turned around.

The stallion was Applejack's brother! You know he hadnt lived in this house since after Ryder passed? That broken up about it... Anyhow he just looked to me surprised. "Well lookie here.... The hell you doin' here on the farm Gilda?" He asked. "You remember me? Big Mac?"

I walked out a bit and nodded. "Yeah... Yeah I remember..." I said feeling uneasy because of Ryder's fucking control over my emotions. "I was just heading back to the castle to get ready for the trip to Canterlot.... You uh... You here to visit your family?" He nodded.

"Eeyup. Cousin was going outta town for a bit, thought I'd head out too and come here, see how everyone was... maybe check on Babs since I last saw her."

"Well.... Babs is out right now but she'll be at Canterlot later.... You uh... You wanna come too?"

"Sure thing. What's the occasion?" I stayed silent. At least for a moment.

"I'd say... Just go inside and ask someone inside.... Just.... Fair warning.... it involves someone close to you guys...." I could tell he understood what I was talking about. Just gave a nod. "Well... I gotta get going here. See you later!" I hurried to the side of the house and grabbed the helmet putting it on before hopping on the bike, starting it and riding down the road. Swear while I was getting on that bike I heard Applejack scream.

As I rode I felt a bit better, Ryder was just enjoying the ride and just.... well he was honestly surprised at the fact that Big Mac was coming around again. About the only thing interesting while I was riding. Other than that it was a pretty normal ride. Got to the castle, changed my clothes into something a bit more presentable for Canterlot (and something that didnt smell like smoke), packed a bag, had a pack of my smokes, lighter included. And I waited for an hour. AN HOUR! Guess family time was important. When they got here we all piled in to two transports. Applejack, Applebloom, Big Mac, Mash in one, Me, Pinkie, Scootaloo, Dash in the other. Pinkie and Dash were just chatting about how Dash was gonna just getting everyone prepped to fly for the summer sun celebration next year and how they're just about ready for the Lunar Celebration for Luna's birthday and they werent even asked to do it. I was just looking out the window at the highway and all the cars we passed. Mostly to give something for Ryder to look at, see what kind of cars we got after he passed. Scootaloo sighed leaning on me. "...Y'know Gil.... Its nice you're willing to join us for this.... Would really mean a lot to him..." She said. "You still alright there? Need a drink or anything?" I sighed.

"Yeah... Drink sounds nice... Feeling like something sweet." She gave a nod and sat back up. She grabbed my leg forcing it back against the seat.... I didnt question it. Just put my other leg next to it while she felt around on the seat and then pounded a certain part. Almost immediately a small cooler popped up right in front of me. Left just enough room for me to still move about if its up, Dash and Pinkie as well.... surprisingly enough room for the chubby pink pony opposite me. I grabbed a strawberry soda and a small bag of chips. Kinda felt a bit hungry. Watched as Scootaloo grabbed her juice, Dash and Pinkie both grabbed something, sharing a quick kiss before cracking open their drinks themselves.

Ryder sighed as I opened my soda. "....I'm not gonna lie.... This whole thing is kinda freaky.... Feeling your feelings, you feeling mine, seeing everything through your eyes, just.... why did this happen to be on a day where we'd be doing something for me?" He asked. I sipped my drink. Sweet.... Actually makes me wish I had something chocolate.

'I wish I had an answer.... Probably just some way you get punished for doing what you did with me in the dream.... Either that or its just some unfortunate coincidence...'

"And here I'm hoping its a coincidence.... If it is a punishment why are we not being told by anyone it is?"

'Maybe the Princess can give us some answers when we get there..."

"Talk with Luna if she's awake. If not... We might have to wait... and try not to get too hammered to talk with her... Maybe one drink so you're still good... and when you get me outta here, take a few more drinks for me.... AND AT HOME!"

'I'll see about having a drink with my marefriend.... Maybe we do something tonight before we speak to Luna? Probably would be the weirdest threesome you'd ever have....'

"I've fucked you and Applejack while you and her just had dicks bigger than mine! AND MY COUSIN! You talk more about weird stuff like that if you actually experience it."

'Wanna do that with Babs?' He stayed silent. 'Got it, I'll ask her and we're gonna go for it. For now, shut up, enjoy the ride and try to stay calm.'

"....I swear you're turning into me with how horny you are.... then again you were always horny...."

'Well I can take a look in the mirror and just see who I've been fucking to make that happen...' Just then I got an idea.

"....Okay you're thinking of something and I fucking just know what you thought of.... A mirror..... And how you saw me in it!"

'....Yep... One time you know what I'm thinking that doesnt require either of us to take our pants off.... plus my IQ is higher than yours so....' I went to drink but somehow managed to drink but have some of it go down the wrong pipe.... Still could swallow but I had to hand my drink off to Scootaloo as I coughed my brains out.

"What was that Gilda?"

'Eat a fucking DICK!'

"You can and so will I if we do that.... Now as you said... enjoy the ride..." ....I swear he's as much of an asshole dead as he was alive. I had to go without the drink for a bit to get back to normal. In that time I checked my phone a bit, saw my reflection in him and even checked the camera just to be sure but I made it like I was checking my eyes making sure there wasnt anything in them.... I saw faintly a silhouette of Ryder but I still saw me. Makes me think of what Big Mac saw... But my mind was set on the mirror. But how I'd get someone in front of a mirror with me without making it weird would be a little trouble....

It wasnt long later until we all got to the castle. Princess Celestia was standing outside the castle as we all pulled in. Few guards around her, one of which being Babs! Oh I immediately got excited... dunno if it was me or Ryder but... Yeah... I was happy to see her. I waited as Scootaloo, Pinkie and Dash piled out. When I got out Babs saw me and had no issue of just running over to me. Tank top, tight jeans, sneakers... and goddess above that tank top really did something for me.... Either that or that was Ryder realizing his other weird fucking clone got lucky. Once we hugged she just planted a kiss on me. Oh how this girl made my heart skip a beat. Celestia gave a little laugh as we all came together. "Seems someone couldnt contain herself..." She said. Everyone got a bit of a laugh as she blushed holding me. "But enough about that. Today we know why we're here. A time to celebrate a life we all had a hand in. Some to build him up, others to hold him high, some to even give him a reason to hold himself in high regard. Friend, Father, savior and lover. We all know him, love him and naming him here would assume nobody would know who he is. But as for now, come on in! Guards will show you to your rooms if need be, our den shall be open to all, drinks will be served, meals prepped and so on and so forth."

Oh Babs did NOT take any time on just dragging me away and up the stairs. "God Gilda am I SO glad to see you! I missed you so much!" Babs said as we entered the foyer of the castle. If I didnt stick out like a sore thumb alone, it makes me feel better there's a group of us. "You HAVE to see everything we got when we were out in the Crystal Empire!"

I could only just try to walk as fast as I could while she pulled me along. "Woah woah where's the fire Babs?!" I asked. "You have SO much energy right now!"

"Two energy drinks, barely any sleep and just... Just excited that you're here!" I huffed yanking my arm away.

"Okay. After this, we're gonna get you some water, have you sit down for a while and once you're nice and calmed down you're going to take a nap! I dont wanna act like your mommy here but I will if I need to. Understand?"

"Calling yourself mommy now?"

"Because you're acting like a hyper four year old who found coffee for the first time. Now take a deep breath, calm down before I bring your ass somewhere, find some diapers for you and just put you in one until you filter out the caffeine from those drinks."

"Ooh this little filly LOVES it when mommy wants to punish me.... You wanna just take me somewhere private and spank me? That it? Take that hand, take it to my ass and make me scream your name?"

....I'm not gonna lie I was blushing a bit as she gave a giggle.... May have had that little itch in my pants too but... Someone had an idea... "Cant believe I'm saying this Gilda... but play along...." Ryder said sounding uneasy. But I did realize where he was going with this.

That's when I started getting a bit dirty. "Little bit of a mommy kink huh?" I asked. She nodded and I could tell she wanted something.... "Alright.... Lets find a bathroom so I can make you feel like a cute little filly, who just made mommy very mad...." Oh I could tell she was excited. Just looked around for a sec making sure nobody was looking for us before turning to a hall and just dragging me down a hallway. I swear it was like she was just drawn to the nearest one.... And this one? Princess sized. She locked the door behind us, dragged me over to the bench on the side near the toilet (I guess for when the Princess is sick or something?) and sat me down. Oh if this were a strip club and I were a stallion I'd be having the biggest fucking erection ever. Hell I'd be like the fucker who's sharing a brain with me checking me out while I'm soaking my pants, dropping them for him and such. But with Babs? She just picked her top up, tossed it aside... No bra.... Just big. Fucking. Tits. Right in my face. And I could Tell Ryder was uncomfortable having to watch this but he didnt wanna do anything to ruin things. After that she turned around and just dropped her pants... Just kept her panties on before willingly bending herself over my lap. Oh I just couldnt help but slap it hard. With that first slap its like she was getting fucked from behind because she just went and just moved with it. Even gave a little moan.

"...Gilda... Let me take over... I cant stand this...."

'Go for it dweeb....' He didnt even take the time. Just started spanking her a bit faster... harder.... The fucking pervert even went and started teasing between her legs.

Babs moaned with the next spank. "Oooh... Mommy's rough with her naughty little filly...." She said. "Punish me mommy..... Punish me!" My hand just clapped against her ass again, she moaned again.... And my hand just went straight for her crotch..... Those panties got pulled to the side and I slid right in. She moaned more as I was a few knuckles deep just fingering her. I pulled back and spanked her a few more times and all she could do was cry out in pleasure. Oh she was loving it so much she grabbed her breast wanting to put her other hand where I was teasing her. I didnt let that happen. I grabbed the hand, put it behind her back and just spanked her more and just kept doing what I was doing. Spanking a few times, fingering, back and forth, back and forth.... That happened for just a while before I just started fingering her fast and.... I honestly think I made her squirt. Even piss herself. Hell she had to throw herself off me before straddling the can just to piss her panties. Oh I could only watch as she pissed, staining her panties in the process still just moaning as she did.

I gave a sigh as I got up. I wanted to play with myself but... no... too much time in the bathroom already. "Why dont you clean your self up and you can service 'mommy' a bit later.... Feel alright?" I asked.

"...I.... I think I need some new panties...."

"I'll get you a diaper. Just lose the panties, go commando until we get you a nice little nappy to wear!"

"....Y-Yes.... M-Mommmy....." She shuttered a bit as she got off the toilet. I gave a glance as I went over to the sink and just started washing up with Ryder mirroring images in front of me. I just saw Babs bending over to take off her panties, taking toilet paper and wiping herself off... Hell she used the dry parts of her panties to wipe up the floor. But as I washed up i just slowed up staring the stallion in the mirror down... I could tell this was it... even he could tell this was done. She came right over, washed her hands... Her top was just barely on, panties hanging out of her pocket, stained as well as her pants. She looked over at me. "...Oh babe.... You... are... fucking wonderful...." I didnt break line of sight.... Just saw her looking at me, blissful.... I could tell she was just loving me.... But me? I just kept staring. "Uh.... Gilda? You alright?" I sighed.

"Yeah... Just.... Looking at someone who just so happens to be along for the ride...." I heard myself say, Ryder echoing those words. Babs looked to me confused.... But she glanced at the mirror for a second shooting her gaze back to me... but she realized something. She looked back at the mirror and just stared at him. I turned the water off, dried my hands with a towel and just held on to her. She began breathing a bit uneasily before suddenly turning to dead weight I slowly lowered her to the floor starting to feel panicked. "Fuck fuck FUCK!" I said. That actually was me. I was sure of it. I just lied her down and just rushed for the door. I unlocked it and opened it up just to poke my head out and look around for a guard or someone to help. First guard I saw. "Hey! Hey I need some help over here! General fainted! G-Get a princess or something!" The guard nodded and just started mumbling on a radio before I dipped back in to the bathroom just to start raiding drawers for a wash cloth. Found one, just wet it with cool water before going back to Babs. Rested it on her forehead before going to grab a few towels just to lay under her head.

I just huffed as I paced back and forth. Just trying to keep calm, breathing just not wanting to go and make things worse or something. "Alright... Alright she saw us.... She saw me..." Ryder said. "...Guess the combination of sex and seeing me REALLY got her out of energy and is taking that well needed nap.... and just be glad she already pissed herself so you dont have to explain to the princesses why she up and wet herself.... Still might have to explain that but just... make sure you dont get yourself arrested for being in the same room with a general who honestly might've been on duty making her pass out.... Who knows if there was someone out there who heard her screaming...."

"Let hope if there was guards hearing that they really arent gonna have me arrested until they really figure what's going on.... She is still breathing right?" I went back over and knelt down and just rested my hand on her chest. She was breathing which made me feel a bit better. "Good... good just... just gotta wait until the Princess gets here...." I just couldnt help but look over her.... Slightly disturbed I did that but.... kinda happy I did because she definitely awoke something in me that I actually wouldnt mind doing for her every so often...

As I sat there I heard a knock at the door. I looked up just as it opened just to see Princess Twilight and Celestia rushing in. They were both in their royal gowns. Twilight just knelt down just as Celestia stood me up backing away from her. "Gilda! What the hell happened?!" Twilight asked.

"Would you be surprised if I said I had a thing for your Generals?"

"....Got it so you just fucked her and she passed out? Did she hit her head?"

"Didnt hit her head and she didnt pass out because we did that.... Apologies for that Princess... but she did pass out when she was watching up... Combination of fatigue and uh.... Something else..." I just pointed a bit. Twilight huffed and got up before going over to the sink.

"I swear if there's a spider in here I'm going to get Luna.... Just... Ugh... Hate those things...." I watched as she looked all around the sink area. When she looked in the mirror I could tell we were seen. She just.... Stood there staring.

Celestia looked to her. "Twilight? Twilight is everything alright?" She asked. Twilight was just frozen being unable to answer. Celestia broke away from me just going to Twilight's side just to look at what Twilight was looking at. Celestia pinched her nose as I got a bit excited. "....Sweet mother of me.... Why am I not surprised....?" She turned to me. "Ryder? What the HELL are you doing in there?"

I just let Ryder take control here. He sighed. "Princess.... I'd like to refer back to the 'I have a thing for your generals' line Gilda said.... Though this is more of a thing Princess Luna could possibly fix... Considering it was a dream where it happened...." He said. "Just... When you do wake your sister up and get me back to where I need to be.... PLEASE tell your mother seeing all my family and friends was punishment enough! I gave this bitch an anxiety attack for fucks sake!" Celestia sighed before looking to Twilight.

"Wake Luna and tell her there's an emergency.... Dont say anything about this.... just.... have her get to the medical wing...." Twilight nodded before teleporting away. Celestia looked to me. "Help me with the General and follow me..." I nodded and just sat Babs up, carefully getting her into position for Celestia to pick her up. I followed her out and we just went upstairs. I made sure that she at least got her padded up while she rested. I just sat nearby on a couch while Celestia was trying to figure out how to prove I was mixed with Ryder.... even with three accounts of seeing that.

When Luna got there she looked a bit tired. Still in her pajamas. Tank top and jogger pants... She saw Babs and IMMEDIATELY got scared. "Oh... Oh no.... What happened?!" She asked going right to her bedside trying to find something wrong with her. Celestia came in behind her sister.

"She's fine sister. Just.... She just fainted from what Gilda was saying after a roll in the hay in a downstairs restroom... But it wasnt the after effect of said roll in the hay that made her faint.... it was what she saw after...." Luna looked to her sister.

"What did she see?" Celestia's horn glowed a moment before a hand mirror just appeared out of thin air. White and gold. Nice looking as well. Something that really could be sold for quite a bit at a pawn shop, no questions asked if you go to the right place.... What? I used to hock stolen things when I was a kid. Always had a guy. Paid me what it was worth, he'd keep some as hush hush money. Anyways Celestia grabbed the mirror and just angled it slightly as for me to come into view. Luna gasped and just looked to me. "....You crafty son of a rotwing.... Would you mind explaining to me how this happened?"

I averted my gaze sighing. "....One wet dream lead to another and someone didnt have time to pullout before I woke up so.... Somehow we merged like this and.... yeah..." I said. "Safe to say I'm some how pregnant with a stallion but I cant give birth without a bit of help...."

Ryder sighed. "Real classy Gil.... Thats EXACTLY what you should say in the company of a princess...." He said.

Luna just blushed a bit looking to me. "Was.... was that you or Ryder saying that? It's hard to tell considering both your humor is similar...." She said.

I sighed. "Apologies Princess." I said standing. "He started teasing me in a dream, we did something and my alarm woke me up, I didnt wanna but i was forced to wake up and he didnt pull out in time and somehow managed to just mind meld with me if that makes sense." She sighed.

"....Guess I shouldnt be surprised his libido got him into this... that and how you felt about it....." She started thinking. "...If this happened in a dream we're unable to do anything right now.... If you would allow it I'd like to put you to sleep with my magic and dreamwalk to see if I cant separate you..."

Ryder took over here. "Uh... When you return me just.... Please tell your mother I've been punished enough...." He said echoing my own voice. "And.... Just... Please dont say anything to my family... I dont think I could take it more than I already have knowing they were right there next to me without knowing it was me... Just... hurts not being next to them.... actually here with them...."

....And I swear the fucking goddess heard him, knew about this the whole time. There was a knock at the door.... Celestia just opened it up and poked her head out.... I heard her mumbling before she just turned back inside and groaned. "...Gilda.... That's his family..." She muttered.

"...Oh shit.... Uh.... D-Dont let them in... For Babs sake.... Please...." I started getting a bit nervous. Celestia looked a bit uneasy.

"...Oh... Goodness.... Should I really deny them?"

"Just.... Ask why they wanna see us.... if its for Babs, have them leave... if its for me.... lead them elsewhere...."

"And you?" I stayed silent. I didnt know what to say and I dont know what he was gonna say. She sighed and just turned back outside. Said something there. Couldnt hear an answer. That's when she turned back in. Just closed the door and walked over to me. "Ryder.... or Gilda... They dont want to leave.... They know you're there... They just want to see you..."

I thought for a moment about how they even knew.... Babs couldnt have texted them since she passed out.... But then I realized.... When I checked my camera on my phone... I saw Ryder... Big Mac took a picture just as I was leaving the house! HE KNEW! I sighed. "You have anywhere that has a big mirror that you can take us to that isnt a bathroom?" I asked. Celestia nodded and just went outside with the family. Ryder was already in pain knowing this couldnt be helped and that he had to do something now.

Princess Luna looked to me as I got up. "Please... try not to take too long... this has to be fixed...." She said. I gave a nod and sighed.

"We'll try Princess.... Just... keep watch over Babs.... if she wakes up tell her 'mommy's sorry'." I slapped myself knowing DAMN WELL HE SAID THAT! I blushed so hard just hearing Ryder laugh. Gave Luna a snicker as well.

"Will do.... And General.... Please dont act like this around your little girl if she's with them...."

"I wont. She aint gonna let me and would I ever act like that in front of a filly?" Princess Luna looked at me... judging him in the process. "...Okay.... I may have tried to pull AJ away a few times around Scoot and 'Bloom but in front of my daughter is another story!" I blushed hard knowing that came out of my mouth but it wasnt me saying it.

"Alright... Just get going and try not to embarrass your vessel there any more than you have." Nobody said anything... I just left the room and just... followed behind Celestia who was keeping me separated from Scootaloo, Big Mac, Applejack and even her daughter. I caught occasional glances from her, some from Scootaloo. Even one from Big Mac. Applejack just didnt look at me.

When we got to where we were going Celestia just had the family go in before I did. She stopped me outside and just looked to me. "...Gilda... Ryder... I'm gonna say this now.... Dont be surprised if there are tears somewhere in this...." She said.

Ryder made me sigh. "Understandable...." We both said. "...I was just hoping this would be something I could get in and out of without being found out by them.... I mean... think of how they were when I died.... Mash wasnt even born yet but.... Just.... They were so broken up...."

"...So... You'd just leave without as much as a good bye? No telling your family you love them? The Ryder I know would sit there.... be with his family... tell them he loves them... Just cherish being there for them high and low...."

"....And the Ryder you know would want to be here physically rather than using a friends body as his own without anyone knowing other than through a reflection.... Just having my family knows that I'm inside Gilda is gonna get me in trouble with the wife and get Scoot and Big Mac asking! Hell Gilda's gonna be weirded out by a little filly calling her daddy! And do NOT get me started on what we had to do with Babs to get her to see me and get you guys here! Its embarrassing that I even did that through Gilda!"

"And that didnt stop the other you from doing that.... so she wouldnt care... And I'm gonna pretend to not know about this." She just looked to the door. "....Just get in there.... I'll be by your side... If not for me... for your family.... Because when we do a dinner bringing you back- and Gilda... Please do not say anything about this.... we're gonna bring you, your family and just surprise them. We'll try to visit with details on how but as for now.... just get in there and stop stalling..." I nodded before taking a deep breath. Celestia even took my hand just leading me in.... I just saw them sitting there... just watching as I came in.... The room? It was sort of a.... Ballet dancing room? Mirror, bar along the wall.... Celestia's horn glowed a bit bringing a few chairs around just for us to sit.

The air was tense as we sat down.... Big Mac, Scootaloo, Applejack in their own chairs, the little Apple sitting right in her mothers lap. The air was tense as Celestia just stood between us. I could just feel their eyes boring through me as I just glanced at the mirror.... Just saw Ryder sitting in front of his family... Not me anywhere in sight.... I just looked back at the family before me. I took a deep breath and sighed but before I could say anything the little filly jumped from her mothers arms rushing me. "Daddy!" She said..... and Oh fuck he just had to start crying.

Applejack just got up from her chair and just came over hugging us.... She loosened the hug a bit before looking right into my eyes. "Gilda... Sorry for this sugarcube but... this one's for that Stallion you're sharing a brain with...." She said just before surprising me with a kiss right on the lips.... I would mind but.... Eh... Babs shouldnt find out.... hopefully..... if she does, blame Ryder.

Big Mac sighed. "...I swear out of all of us? You pick her to possess??" He asked.

I broke the kiss with dumbasses wife. "I'll admit it wasnt his fault but that's all I'm saying...." I said. "That.... and he's just.... He doesnt wanna trigger anything.... you know...."

Scootaloo sighed. "And with all the stuff we've already been through?" She asked standing up. "You dont know the Wheeler-Apple family.... Maybe you do but hey... been away for a while..." I sniffled.

"Yeah... Just his worry though... you know how he does..."

"Yep... That's my brother alright...."

Applejack looked to her daughter. "Mash... Why dont you go and sit with your uncle? Got somethin' I wanna say here and you aint old enough to hear it..." She said. I blushed knowing DAMN well what she was gonna say.

The little filly in my lap sighed. "Yes mama...." She said. She looked up at me. "...Love you daddy!"

Now this? This was all him. "I love you too.... I told you I'd always be right there when you need me even when I'm not there.... Now go on... Listen to your mother.... Go give uncle Big Mac a hug for me real quick." He said.... My voice sounds weird when he's talking.... especially when I hear his words at the same time... Anyhow the filly just scooted off my lap before running over to Big Mac jumping into his lap giving him a big hug.

My attention turned back to Applejack who just... had that look in her eye. She leaned in close and whispered. "...Sugarcube...." She said with somewhat of a sinister undertone. "You do something like this again and you best hope you can get my boot separated from your ass when I get up there.... But... If I can get a word with the Princess to keep ya like this... I might have a spell you can take over while Gilda's backseating if'n ya catch my drift...." Oh my face lit on FIRE.

I looked to her. "....Th-that spell?" I asked. She nodded just... licking her lips. "...Tell Babs when she wakes up that you're gonna do what you need to do.... Let her know I'll do anything to keep her happy if she doesnt like this..." She gave a nod and just backed off leaving me a blushy horny mess that I just.... Tried to suppress. Keyword tried.... the pervert in my head didnt wanna let that happen.

Celestia sighed. "Alright.... Anything you want to say to Ryder?" She asked resting a hand on my shoulder.

Big Mac sighed. "....Ry... You're obviously missed by us.... heck... I went 'n left the homestead...." He said. "....I was just so broken up about you... my best friend... my brother in law.... Just couldnt take being around the house we had to drag you to after yours burned to the ground.... everything we been through... Just to see it all end like that.... Hurt like heck.... Just wanna say I love you bro... miss you as well...."

Scootaloo whimpered a bit. "....I.... I really do wish you were here too... not through Gilda...." She said holding back tears. "...That day you died.... if I was as old as I was now and just as feisty.... I just...." Celestia didnt hesitate from leaving my side to go to Scoot's. She didnt hesitate just hugging the Princess and breaking down. I got up and just walked over joining in on the hug.... Couldnt help breaking down myself... dammit dweeb... We sat there. Cried, talked... Ryder did most of the talking.... After we were done we took a bit of a family photo with Celestia's help. Even talked about a way we could go and surprise everyone. Babs actually woke up after an hour, cried because she was scared that she missed Ryder because I guess Luna explained that it actually was Ryder that she saw and not just some hallucination she had. I'm still not sure how she got this detail but.... Apparently the only way Ryder and I could separate is for me to uh.... enjoy myself.... and with what Applejack suggested I guess its not much of an option.

Not to mention how awkward it actually was here but.... Babs wanted to join... Film us doing it.... She even went down to the mall with Celestia to find a camera to use.... Just so she'd have something to.... uh... yeah... Not gonna lie that would be a porno I'd watch too... But I only could watch as both mares started undressing. Almost like they didnt mind seeing one another naked. I, with my even tighter bulging panties and my top just.... hugging my breasts as I watched just made me feel like the odd one out. After they were naked they both looked at me. "Alright Gil...." Babs said. "...Go ahead and let Ryder take the reigns.... and he can pick a mare to start with...."

I was honestly frozen. I was actually getting used to seeing the dweeb in the mirror but... Rather wouldnt go to take a picture or something and actually see myself.... Especially when someone says 'you got something right there'.... Plus I guess I'd rather not have to let him take the reigns and visit with his family like this... Who knows how his family would be though... not being able to see him like they see me.... Hell maybe not even Babs loving me for me... just.... Who's with me... but then again I'd never be able to fuck even when I'm in heat. Applejack sighed as she came over to me. "....C'mon sugarcube.... Aint gonna be easy for any of us...." She said. "...Need some help getting stripped down? Thinkin' we wanna see what you got packin...." Babs didnt do much other than just fondle me under my top... Slowly stripping it off with one hand, the other prying a hand away.

"....There we are.... that's what I like to see...." She said. She kissed me just as her cousin dropped my panties letting what I had just hang out. Had a little bit of uh.... shy side. Nothing for take off if you get me..... Applejack just started massaging the balls I had, kissing my crotch a little bit.... And yeah.... Ryder took the reigns here... just started teasing Babs.... Holding his wifes head right where it needed to be. Oooh and whatever she was doing was working.... Just worked her mouth around my sheathe, licked at my balls, and just slowly started unleashing the monster that was the fucking red rocket I had.... Oh she unleashed everything.... Knot and shaft....

I looked down at Applejack breaking the kiss with Babs. "...AJ.... I want you sitting on my face.... Think Babs deserves this..." I said. Babs almost immediately grabbed my beak.

"No.... No no.... This is all AJ's.... that pretty face is mine...." Oh if that didnt make that member I had twitch with excitement.... Applejack stood up after giving my shaft a good licking. I watched as she just dragged me over to the bed before tossing me down. I just lied on my back watching as both mares came over to me. Babs climbed onto the bed and just straddled me. "Take a niiiiiice deep breath.... If you need a breath, pat my ass twice... Got it?" I nodded and took a nice deep breath before she went and just sat right down on my face. I still felt Applejack licking at my shaft, tip to knot even. I felt her climb up and just start teasing herself. And when she was ready I just moaned a bit as she lowered herself onto me. But from where I was? All I could do was just lick at my marefriends snatch.... oh and Ryder was loving this. His moans matched mine. Hell I could even feel Babs just squeezing my tits as I just ate her out.

Applejack moaned as she started riding. "There we go.... Damn this is big....." I heard Applejack say. "...Gil... Hope this aint gonna make you a quick shot... I wanna enjoy this...." She started out slow, riding on that rocket to her stars. I had to tap on Babs' ass to get some air. She got off and just leaned to the side a bit, her crotch still in my face but hers? Now just face first in her cousins crotch just licking at my knot.... Even catching little tastes of her cousin as well... Not gonna lie when it came to Ryder and Dash fucking with me and AJ for Ryder and AJ's anniversary? Kinda hot because that's the first time I actually saw Dash suck a dick. That and... well... She was fucking her cousin.... Is it wrong to have those kinds of fantasies? Wanting some part of someones family bending them over a couch and railing them right there? Oh well. No time to think about that.... Time to just live the experience. I just couldnt help but watch as Babs was masturbating, waiting for her cousin to just take the knot.... but it definitely wasnt gonna be that easy. But this is where Ryder took over. He pulled Applejack down on top of us, kissed her before nudging her off a bit. Got Babs against the head of the bed, spread her legs wide and just got into position. "...Yeah... I think I get what Ry's askin before ya even say it...." AJ said looking at her cousins wet cunt.... licking her lips. She almost immediately started eating out her cousin and just the look on Babs face as she went deep.... even using her fingers. I just started getting behind Applejack and teasing her before just sticking my dick right back in her. And yeah... Ryder took control just give her the fucking she missed. He slapped her ass and just started thrusting... Hell he thrusted so hard Babs tits were even moving as she just held Applejack's head to her crotch moaning. Oh the noises she made as well as those moans were just adorable. Though... I just couldnt help but know the end was coming soon.... And Ryder knew as well... The way we were thrusting just went faster and faster....

That feeling I hadnt felt for a while started building... I felt it building.... I just couldnt get any control... He had it all because I just felt so good. "....B-Babs.... Applejack..... I... I cant hold on any longer...." Ryder said as I mimicked.

Babs looked to me just slightly pained but still in pleasure.... "...Ry.... We... We....." She said.

"...I ....I know.... I.... Love you too.... All of you.... I.... Should see you soon.... Aj... Get ready... this is gonna be big...." He just started thrusting faster and faster just as Applejack was starting to scream with pleasure.... I could tell she came a few times before I just shoved my knot just right into her cunt and like that I was just shooting so much into her I was quivering. But along with that quivering I had a bit of a headache which made me yell more in pain than in pleasure.... not gonna lie when I say it was a weird feeling. Once the pain dulled down I ended up passing out. Didnt know what went on there....

Though as I slept I went to a dream world where I just.... It was the same as where I was when I saw Ryder again. This time? Things were brighter.... a rainbow just loomed over Ponyville... and I was actually in an outfit he just loved.... Yeah... That skirted onsie with the diapers and shit..... Lucky me it looked like a normal outfit for me... I just couldnt help but love it because the dweeb did... But hey... low and behold who I see flying down with Princess Luna towing along two other ponies.... The same duo who I slept with.... Babs and Applejack.... Babs was just in some guard uniform, AJ in a flannel and such.... Her usual attire. I couldnt help but just spring up and take flight just tackling Ryder out of the air almost. Hell Luna had to just go and make a cloud appear below us. She sighed. "...There we are... All fixed..." She said. "You honestly need to be more careful... And before you say anything Ryder I know what you're gonna say! 'Since when am I not careful?'" She mocked giving Babs and Applejack a chuckle as they sat us up together. We both blushed.

Applejack sighed. "Oh yeah sugarcube... You're about as careful as a clumsy cat with a house of cards at times..." She said. "But... Just so ya know... You do something like that again, you best hope when I finally do come through those pearly gates, you best get a head start because when I find ya I'm gonna put your balls in a vice grip!"

Ryder kinda cowered into me a bit. "Y-Yes AJ...." He said. "...I... I just went to Gilda because I just kn-know she could handle things.... I... Just didnt wanna have you start thinkin...."

"...Ry... Do you know who you're talkin' to? I aint gonna think of anything but that little girl we got, our family and my love for ya!"

Babs huffed. "Yeah... she's probably the strongest apple out of all of us." She said. "That griffon you're holding on to? First hook up we just couldnt stop talking about you or even thinking of you there... Made things a bit better in bed but... Hey... She knows how you work, helps for any of us..."

I sighed. "....I'm not gonna lie... I miss THE FUCK outta this dweeb.... " I said. "....The fact we just... had to do what we did? It just makes me miss that feeling.... Just being able to hold him when he needed it... give him the stress relief he needed when he couldnt just.... Y'know... but you knew I wouldnt try to steal him away.... he always came back to you, happy, loving.... just there for you.... He showed me how much I meant to him.... But you mean so much more to him than even I do.... He was just afraid of making you hurt more than you already do... Shows he cares...."

Applejack sighed just pinching her husbands cheek. "...Yeah... I know... But he should know better..." She replied. "...I do appreciate the hesitation to visit though.... always were your worry wart self..." I just pushed him over to AJ... He just blushed hard before kissing her... I honestly just couldnt do the same but with Babs.... We just hung out there for a while... Just happy to be with each other... But someone had to wake everyone up... Babs... Pissed herself in bed and woke AJ and I up... And guess who was still tied together by the knot they had? Yep... I was still balls deep in Applejack and we had only been asleep for an hour.... And apparently the spell used doesnt wear off for at least a day... and I am NOT sure how long it takes for a knot to deflate... well... at least I didnt until maybe about three hours later... Oh the way AJ shivered when it finally popped out and with it a nice heavy glob of cum splattering down on the floor and dripping down her legs.... She did admit she needed help cleaning up which I was glad to do considering it was my mess.... But when we did clean up? She just asked if we could just cuddle... only the two of us... It was nice. Babs actually agreed to let it happen because she kinda was feeling a bit weird knowing she fucked her cousin with her marefriend who had her cousins husband in her head.... Yeah I admit I felt weird too but.... AJ agreed to just let me come over and spend the night if I need someone to talk to... As long as I dont smoke around the house.... She smelt it but didnt bring it up considering she thought it was left over from Scootaloo. Safe to say all of us spent another day in Canterlot... Babs actually took me shopping down at the mall.... mostly for her but she wanted me to pick out some... intimate things for her because of what Ryder and I did when she was wired like that the day before... And can I just say? Getting her a cute outfit and some super absorbent pull ons actually turned me on a bit. Meh... Well that was fun....

Reunited and Divided

It's been... A week I think after Ryder was given back to us from Heaven's Light herself. Luckily she was still there when we woke up... Ryder and I went to her, asked her if there were any catches with this gift. She did insist that her husband was the one with the catches. Gifts from him would come with something... She recalls a gift he once gave to a stallion long ago for eternal life. The catch was if he tried to kill himself because he grew tired of it, there would be no death no matter how mutilated he would become. He fought in a war between Griffonstone and Equestria only to be felled in battle. Though he did make a deal with the devil, he was sought as a hero and got into the Mother's domain. Forgiven of his sins and allowed to walk into the hall of warriors. Would've been great to have my mom hear that from Heaven's Light. Either way I was glad to have Ryder back. First thing we did? Well... We had to make sure everyone got time with Ryder in Canterlot. You and I both know his daughter was first. He spent so much time with her a few of the group had to agree to spend time with him at home. Big Mac was next knowing damn well he had to go back soon to make sure my brother got into the house. That leaving kinda hurt him but he understood and didnt wanna just leave my brother high and dry when it came to moving out if he does end up wanting to. Once he left everyone else got their turn... The best part? I got to join him, Big Mac and Shining just to go see Spike... Spike had NO clue about this. Twilight didnt tell him and it was HARD to keep that a secret. Big Mac had to get Spike to come down and get in a transport. Ryder was flying right behind it and when we got to where we were going Ryder was just playing the long game. Shared a meal and just... my fucking god it was annoying how he tried to hide... LIKE SERIOUSLY. Ryder wanted him to notice but did everything to have him not. Though to make it quicker we just had Ryder sit at the bar, slip the bartender a note. Said 'tell the purple dragon that I paid for the drink he's picking up.' I swear once he did order and he saw Ryder he could SWEAR he was losing his shit. But once Ryder greeted Spike it was all over. He cried, hugged him... Kinda made up a lie saying he was deployed when the bartender asked. Bought it. After that we all went to get Gems for Spike and oh fuck did Spike just apologize over and over and over again for how he acted. Was adorable. Anyways I was at home and i was just... Well up late as usual but this time I had a bit of a sleepover with Scootaloo and Applebloom considering we wanted Ryder to adjust alright back to life. Scootaloo sighed stretching on my couch. "...Feels so weird to have Ryder running around... So used to having to get up when Mash cries...." She said. "...The fact he comes, wakes me up like he used to... Oooh it just makes me feel like a filly again!"

Applebloom sighed. "Cant say I know that feelin' but... Good to see ya both actually happy." She said looking over at us... Weird she was in fancy shmancy pajamas that Diamond bought her... They've honestly been together so long I'm surprised neither of them popped the question yet... Hoping its soon and I'm not gonna have to have a guest room open to my cousin because her heart's broken... either that or somewhere guards can watch her so she doesnt try anything stupid. Even if I have to keep her in cuffs.

I yawned a bit getting cozy in my blanket. Just had a tank top and basketball shorts on. "...You know I dont remember the last time I actually felt this good..." I said. "...That night I spent with him was great..." Applebloom chuckled.

"The way you were walkin'? I'd say you had the time of your fuckin' life!" I blushed a bit hugging my legs... even getting that little tickle in my panties thinking about it.

Scootaloo groaned. "Can we NOT talk about what my brother's packing? Rather not think about him dicking down Applejack NOR do I wanna hear about how he was fucking Babs!" She said.

"The fact you knew what happened says a lot sis!" Scootaloo groaned throwing a pillow at Applebloom.

"Shut up! I do NOT think about my brother like that!"

I gave a huff throwing the blanket off. "Alright you two, I'm gonna cut this argument short here and say what I saw and felt stays with me!" I said. "Now... We staying up for another flick or we gonna go to bed here soon? Dont mind either way here but I dont wanna hear anything more about Ryder unless he's telling me what he's wanting to do."

"BABS!" Both Applebloom and I chuckled as she just hid her face with the next pillow she grabbed. My chuckle died quickly as Applebloom just quieted hers.

"Alright alright sorry Cuz but gotta joke..." I went for the kitchen... Swear I just saw the younger Ryder in here the other day with Applejack and her daughter... Cooking, having fun while they were eating... Even just had the feeling of guilt wash over me, getting into a fight with Scootaloo about his emotions... I just looked back. "Anymore pop or snacks while I'm in here?" Scootaloo took the pillow from her face.

"Water for me!"

Applebloom sighed finally letting the laughter die out like a flame after getting hit with water. "Any cider? If not I'll take a soda." She said. "And uh... Maybe some chips too if'n you dont mind Babs!" I did grab her a cider I had. Was saving it for myself but rather her having it than Scootaloo... Scoot kinda has this thing where she drinks Apple Juice and she ends up losing control of her bladder. Dont know why but she has to wear diapers to prevent it... And I dont have any nor do I wanna be up all night comforting a grown mare who pissed the bed... more a job for her brother but... Not me. She understands this too. And unless she wants to piss the bed which... secretly she does more often but does her own laundry and makes sure at least most of it isnt in her bed... Didnt hear that from me.... Well... Cant say I dont do that too but without the help... Glad to have waterproof mattresses. And that I do my own laundry... Maid and landscapers do NOT touch my stuff other than what they're told to do. They know my laundry is my own thing just because I think the first one my dad hired stole my panties.... I was fourteen. Guards on him REAL fast. Even asked the guard who arrested him- Guess who- to kick him where the sun dont shine... He supposedly ran away from them, I managed to 'disable him by knocking him down and getting him good.' Other guards went along with it.

Anyways we watched a show or two more before we decided it was bed time. I went up to my room while Bloom and Scoot got the guest rooms. Though I didnt go straight to sleep. These past few nights I've actually been having trouble sleeping... Took sleeping pills to knock me out the first night, edibles the second but didnt do anything tonight... and yeah... Princess actually doesnt mind we do edibles or smoke on our off time, just that we dont show up smelling or affected. Says it actually helps out with stress. Not everyone thinks that but eh... I'll take it. But tonight? Yeah. Tonight I just closed my door, opened up my computer and just started a call to Princess Luna. I just sat there with what was left of a drink and waited for her to answer. When she did I saw her smile. "Oh good evening General! How are things? Everything alright?" She asked.

I huffed. "...Would say things are alright but... Just having trouble sleeping is all... Not sure what's doing it..." I said. "...I'd come up and take the open door policy you got with Ryder's car but... I have Applebloom and Scootaloo here already asleep and I dont think they'd like it if I just up and left without them knowing." She hummed as she set her phone down. Saw she was in the dining hall.

"I would say bring them both but its late and they're more than likely already asleep. Rude to wake them yes but it would be because you didnt wanna leave them behind. But I think for now you're fine where you are. How are you feeling now that you have Ryder back in your life? I have to say... It was unexpected of mother to do such a thing... Yet to see all the pain each and everyone of you had because of his loss... It's nice to have him back..." I sighed sitting back in my chair... again getting that tickle in the trousers.

"...Its surreal to say the least Princess... To know he's touched my dreams, Scootaloo's and Gilda's just to show he was still with us and wanting to see us succeed was nice but.... That? I.... I would swear when he picked me up walking outside like that I swear he broke my neck and killed me.... But considering I can still feel everything from the pain of pinches to uh... Other things he provided.... Its something else...."

"Good... I only ask because I know what you had gone through after his passing... Not sure if there's any thoughts in your head that shouldnt be... Are you still comfortable with your position?" ...I hesitated. Just thought for a moment.

"...I... I dont know.... He was your General before he died.... Yet you gave me the position because he... well... the other him.... Had me contact you, and use his code to get help..."

"...Perhaps that is the issue? Just because he's back means that your title becomes forfeit? I would make the call but... Seeing as he hasnt come back to claim his spot or even talk you into stepping down I would see about asking him tomorrow if he even wants it back. I'm sure he'd take the question to heart and let you know."

"....But... If he does... what happens to me? Where do I go?"

"You'll still be in the guard. Yet where you fall? Again. Up to him. Do try to find a good moment. Dont want to interrupt play time or work time or motherforbid his... leisure time... Just maybe ask over a meal or a drink. Something where you feel confident in asking... Maybe away from his family but considering how you left the Honeymooner's Room in Canterlot... I would say let him choose what to do that isnt in an intimate setting." I blushed a bit.

"Uh... Y-Yeah... sorry about that.... Think we got a little carried away...."

"Oh dont be sorry! You were excited and wanted to welcome him back with some fun which... Well... Almost wish I was there to have fun myself watching the festivities... Forgot how he felt to be honest but... Lets not talk about that... At least not until we're alone and if you're comfortable with talking about how... Big he felt.."

"...Well uh... Gilda wishes she was on the receiving end of that after she asked how I felt the morning after.... She actually scooped out some of his left over cum from inside me and ATE IT!"

"That much? Wow... Now I REALLY wish I was there to see it..." I crossed my legs a bit, that tickle getting stronger. She sighed. "...Perhaps in the future I can tap into your head and see that... I think you should get some sleep so your words are coherent to him. And before you say anything.. this is an order General." I sighed.

"Alright Princess... Have a wonderful night." I hung up and just turned off my computer before going to my bed. Didnt climb in bed.... I actually was horny enough to lose my pants and underwear and just grab my box of toys... Grabbed a vibrator and just started using it. ...Just pushed it up against my pussy, started it up and slowly pushed it in... Oh I couldnt help but let out a moan... Had to be quiet enough to hear it barely squeak out... Hell you had to be in the same room as me to hear it. I held back the moans of pleasure as much as I could, feeling each and every time it plunged deeper and deeper, touching my clit and sliding all over it at varying speeds.

I just closed my eyes a bit and grabbed a pillow, biting it... I felt my climax grow ever closer. It just built up and up and up.... Only until someone decided to come in my room without knocking. I came, squirted and... since I got scared from my door opening I may or may not have peed myself even going as far as shoving my pillow into my lap hiding my shame blushing as my quivering cunt sprayed piss all over my legs from the pillow being there. I looked over at my door just to see Scootaloo just looking a bit shocked, scared and blushing hard. "Oh... Uh.... S-Sorry Babs.... Should've knocked..." She said. "...I... I was just coming to see if... you uh...." I whimpered a bit.

"....Give me ten minutes alone... or grab me a towel while I start stripping my bed down... maybe throw this pillow in the trash...." She gave a nod and just quickly backed out of the room. I frantically just started balling up my wet sheets and covers even going as far as drying my legs with parts of my covers that werent soaked with my own urine but once Scootaloo brought the towel I just started wiping myself up while she helped stuff my bedding into my laundry basket and let me get dressed before helping me drag it downstairs to my laundry room... Thank fuck I have an auto loader in my washer that transfers everything to my dryer and starts it for me at the time I set it... Wont say how it works but it does.... Again, didnt have any diapers. Wish I did now that Scootaloo watched me wet my bed.... Though she was nice enough to have me share her bed with her. I sat down on the bed with her holding myself.... I was tired and embarrassed. "...Sorry you saw that... got a little worked up...."

"...I can tell..." She replied as she got the covers rolled down. "...I was coming to see if you needed the company.... Kinda need it myself because.... I just missed him so much... Feel like this is a nightmare that hasnt reared its ugly head around yet..." She lied down and just got under the covers. "...With Ryder... He used to say that if everything is going right, something has to go wrong soon... balance of life and all... something will go wrong if it can or something like that..."

"...You're tellin' me... I just... Do you think I'm even fit for my position...?"

"...Babs... I'm not gonna argue with you about this right now... Just get some sleep, we'll talk about it during breakfast.... Hoping Ryder's gonna make some pancakes..." I sighed just laying back on the pillows.

"...And if he cant, gladly take us all out for some breakfast...." And with that we both went to sleep... Honestly didnt fall asleep right away... Just.... couldnt help but still feel embarrassed I did that... in front of her no less... Though I did go to sleep it feeling wasnt restful but... felt alrightish. Woke up at eight sharp. Scootaloo's alarm. Not mine. We both got up, I went and got dressed, even got my sheets and stuff to my room just putting everything on my mattress. When I got dressed I just got jeans, sneakers and a tanktop. Been getting warmer out. Especially in the morning. Central air does well but when I step outside... Goddess help me I WILL burn.

Just had to wait for Applebloom and Scootaloo to gather their things before we all crammed into 'Bloom's truck. Apparently Scoot's AC doesnt work and she's trying to fix it... and my car? I've been hesitant on driving it just because I would rather not have Ryder get sad seeing his car in my hands... but since he hasnt come to me asking for it back it does make me feel better about driving it. I had the backseat to myself. Lied back on it while they had their bags on the floor back here. Applebloom looked back as the gate opened up with the remote I gave her. Only her, AJ, Scoot and the rest of their little family can use it any time. Just gotta make sure I can unlock the door for them or leave it unlocked if I'm not home. "Good back there cuz? Thought I heard ya dealing with somethin' last night." She said. I sighed.

"...I'm alright... Just... Forgot to do laundry... Thought I'd get something done there... Thankfully the other beds are enough... Scoot couldnt get comfortable all things considering."

Scootaloo looked back giving a slight smile. "...Not my fault my brother makes the best cuddle buddy." She said. "I mean... He's only cuddled with me long enough for me to sleep comfortably but... still good to have him back...."

Applebloom huffed. "Well glad everyone got some sleep... I honestly couldnt get comfy without thinkin' Diamond was in the bed with me and ready to steal the covers." She said. "Comfy bed, comfy covers, just couldnt get it outta my head that she was in the bathroom or getting ready to come back to bed and just steal em from me."

I chuckled a bit. "...Well next time you come over, I dont mind if you wanna bring her around." I said. "All I ask is for her to not be too harsh with anything I provide."

"She's gettin' better with that. Girl's getting her own stuff done and only help she has is cleaning and pool cleaning is done by me. Aint no 'eye candy' pool boy gettin' in between this shinin' Apple and her diamond!"

Scootaloo huffed. "Getting jealous of someone wanting to give your marefriend something to look at more than you after a few?" She asked.

"Bitch."

"Not my fault you lost your pants three drinks deep with hard stuff!"

I sighed sitting up. "Cool it you two. Dont want a fight to start and we crash because someone cant keep their hands on the wheel." I snapped. "Scoot, you wanna just call Ryder see if he's awake and what the plan is?"

"Good idea... We get there, he could've already cooked something. Might see about stopping what ever he's planning...." I just saw her whip her phone out and IMMEDIATELY start calling Ryder.

The phone buzzed for a bit before it clicked. "Hey Scoot! How are you? Everything okay with everyone over there?" I heard Ryder ask. Scoot sighed.

"Yeah... We were actually on our way back and we were wondering if you're cooking anything for breakfast yet."

"Yeah... unfortunately already finished eating. Mash wanted waffles this morning... Why did you guys want something?" Scootaloo looked back at me.

"Kinda... Babs offered to take us to breakfast and wanted to see if we can invite you guys out. But... Since you're already done eating we'll get something over at Sugarcube Corner. Maybe something like Lunch or Dinner later maybe?"

"Dinner sounds good. Up to Babs if she wants to have some hayburgers here at the house or if she wants to take us out. Good with either but just gotta know daddy is kinda needed at home tonight..." I blushed so hard hiding my face and laying back on the seat. Scootaloo feigned ignorance here but she knew. She knew.

"Yeah... Mash needs her dad after her string of accidents... Speaking of how was she last night? Everything alright?"

"Uh... Kinda? She had a nightmare, nearly had an accident... up until she wet her night time pants at the potty... Still daddy's big girl, trying to not cry after that..."

"...She'll get it... Just gotta work on those nightmares.... Anyways we'll be back after we eat. See you after breakfast!"

"Alright girls have fun and uh... Can you bring me a couple blueberry muffins if they have any? I've been craving them for a bit.... Just two... For tomorrow I promise!"

I heard Applejack chuckle. "Yeah... Best not let that sweet tooth touch those until tomorrow!" She said. "Only sweet thing that mouth touches is either gonna be an apple during work or when you're kissin me on the cheek!"

Scootaloo blushed a bit... Could tell Applebloom didnt like hearing that either. "Uh... alright then..." Scootaloo said. "We'll be back in an hour or so. See you soon! Love you bye!" She quickly hung up and just leaned back in her chair nearly sinking into it. "....AJ has been.... really... REALLY happy since he came back... Spark I havent seen since I was young..."

Applebloom chuckled. "Yeah... Good to see her back to her old self... Just hopin' this new found energy aint gonna make her throw her back out again." She said. "I'll be damned if I gotta ask Diamond if she can cover a few massages and maybe a chiropractic adjustment..."

I huffed. "If she does, I'll cover it... Hopefully Ryder doesnt go and try it himself... Rather he not forget his own strength..." I said. "Speaking of his strength-"

Scootaloo fixed herself and looked back at me. "I swear to Celestia Babs if you say ANYTHING about how he performed in bed I'm gonna bitch slap you harder than how he fucked you!" She snapped. I stayed silent.

Applebloom pulled over and just hit the brakes. I had to hold on to the seat since I wasnt wearing my seatbelt.... Yeah... I'm a General of the guard, who should know to be safe but here I am being a dumbass. Anyways once stopped she looked to her sister. "Scootaloo what the FUCK?" She asked. "She aint gonna do that! And even if she did you wouldnt know anyways! Might be saying that to Gilda but you need to calm the hell down before we get to Sugarcube Corner because Pinkie aint gonna want a mopey pony who's only thinking about her brothers dick!"

I sighed. "Yeah Scoot... Does sound like its coming off that way..." I replied. "....And you know I'm not one to talk about how performance was with someone related to whoever it was.... Unless it was to Rarity when apologizing about hurting Sweetie on her birthday... As much as I do love your brother, I'm not gonna say what I'd do to him...."

Scootaloo blushed hard. "...Oh... uh.... W-Well... What were you going to say?" She asked.

"...If I could remember, I'd tell you... but that threw me off so hard I'm over in Manehattan!"

"...Sorry... I..." I sighed and rested a hand on her shoulder.

"Dont be. You and I can talk later. Right now, breathe, and think of what you want and I'll get it...Alright?" She nodded starting to breathe... She had tears in her eyes. I just scoot myself over and hugged... Had to lean forward a bit... she actually leaned her chair back. Applebloom even put some music on that wasnt country bullshit. I actually hate it. Blame my brother for that when we were younger. All he did was play records with country music before he ended up getting booted out because of him being gay.

Took a good ten minutes because we got through every light surprisingly. Love it. When we got there we made sure their stuff was with us. Dont know how many times someone left bags unattended in a vehicle for a half hour or so, look away and someone decides to break in to steal it. Anyhow they sat down in the booth with their things and I went to go get our food. Pinkie was behind the counter with Pumpkin Cake helping her out. The pink party pony mare smiled brightly. "Heeeeeey Babsy! Here for some sweets?" She asked. "What can I getcha?"

"Usual for them, two cream filled and an energy drink. Whatever flavor sounds good." She gave a nod and rang me up.

"Be right over with your stuff!" I gave a nod and went back over to the table. I sighed sitting down.

"Alright... We wanna talk now or later about what happened in the car?"

Scootaloo blushed. "...Uh... Wh-When you said we were gonna talk I thought you meant... Alone?" She said scared.

"And you didnt have any problem with thinking I was gonna say something about your brother's tool belt?" She blushed harder and hid her face. "Something tells me some feelings are rising up because her brother's back and she's a little too glad he's back? Hm?" She whined slightly... Actually saw tears start streaming down her face. I sighed as I slipped into the booth next to her. Applebloom was just blushing hard. Eyes wide open surprised. "...And now I see why you wanted to talk in private... Sorry Scoot...."

Applebloom sighed. "...Yeah.. Sorry sis but uh... between you and me...? Caught a good look at Big Mac one day... Cant say you're alone in that..." She said. "Just uh... maybe stop cryin' before Pinkie comes and starts draggin' ya up stairs..."

I just snapped my fingers at my cousin just holding Scootaloo close. She just nodded understanding that now isnt the time for this shit. Pinkie came over mere moments later just to set our stuff down in front of us. Just some donuts for me and Bloom, my energy drink and for Scootaloo some OJ and a tofu wrap. Pinkie smiled setting the tray down. "There we go! Here's everything!" She said.

I huffed comforting Scoot... Not that much of a bitch to let her cry and not comfort her. "Thanks Pinkie... Can you just give us a little space?" I asked. "...Someone here still a little emotional about her brother being back..." Pinkie took a closer look at Scootaloo... She hummed.

"....Those dont look like tears of joy.... I know what those look like and those arent that.... They're full of embarrassment.... Like someone peed their pants in front of the class when they went to hand in a test and ask for the bathroom pass..." I looked at her blushing myself.

"...Uh... Have you been talking with my old teachers?" ....Word for fucking word that happened... One of the last tests of the school year and one of my teachers in middle school didnt let ANYONE leave for the bathroom until they finished their class work. There were students who had legitimate reasons to leave, me being one of them but he thought just because I had the opportunity to use the restroom when needed and never really used it because his class was always after lunch he thought it was all a lie. I was the last one to hand in a test and when I went to ask him for the pass to go two doors down I started leaking... it took my dad and cousins to get that teacher fired. And that year? I was having major kidney stones and BAD. There were days I had to wear diapers just because I hadnt pissed and since it hurt so bad my dad was wanting me to get it out any way. Even after passing the stone I did leak occasionally and it was always to the point of full on pissing my pants that I had to have that issued by a doctor. And that day was just a week or so after I had passed it. That pain lasted for a month. Not kidding. Anyways Pinkie pulled over a chair with her tail... as weird as that pink puffball is at times.... and sat down.

"Alright... What happened? Why is she crying?" Applebloom and I looked to each other. Neither of us knew what we were gonna say.

Scoot sniffled and just looked up. "...P-Pinkie... can you just... leave us...? Please?" She asked.

"Not until I know why you're crying and how I can make you smile!" My cousin-in-law looked to Pumpkin and then to the door and then back to Pinkie.

"....Can... can we have some... Privacy? Just us talking?" Pinkie nodded and looked to Pumpkin.

"Pumpkin? Can you lock the front door and put up the on break sign real quick? You're good to go to lunch anyhow!" The unicorn mare nodded and just teleported to the door, locking it and flipping the sign on it before just teleporting outside and starting off down the side walk. She's a good kid. Anyways Pinkie looked back to us. "Alright... Start talking otherwise I might have to call some other guards because this doesnt seem like something someone doesnt need to hear and I'd rather keep somepony safe from anyone trying to hurt them!"

I sighed. "...Not really a guard needing issue Pinkie..." I said. "If it were, we'd be having a chat with guards and Ryder would know... but this kinda does involve Ryder a bit..."

"And is Ryder doing anything? He would never as far as I know!"

Scootaloo sniffled. "...N-No... He hasnt... But... I just... I think my feelings are getting out of control for him..." She said. "...I missed him so much... but... now that he's back... I just... I dont want to lose him again... but... I just cant get these thoughts out of my head..." Pinkie hummed sitting back in her chair.

"...Okay... I think I see whats going on... Now that Ryder's back you'd rather enjoy being with him physically rather than just hanging out with him... Right?" I just held Scootlaoo close as she just started to cry again. Pinkie huffed. "Yeah... This is gonna be tough to do.... I'd make something so you dont think of him that way but last time I mixed some stuff together I almost made a chemical bomb... Yeah not much of a scientist nor am I a mixologist... Only thing I can mix are sodas and ice cream for floats. And with this? Going at it head on is gonna hurt just as much as avoiding it... We might need a professional for help..."

Applebloom huffed. "A professional eh? Who we gonna call? A Princess? Therapist?" She asked.

"Welllllllllll..... A therapist would work but that'd be uncomfortable and expensive so we might have to talk with a Princess about this. Cadence specifically and lucky lucky lucky us! Twilight is expecting Cadence and Shining to come down sometime today! You can talk to her then!"

Scootaloo whimpered a bit as I cracked open my drink and sipped. "...But.... She's gonna think I'm weird..." She said.

"Scootaloo, she's like Celestia. She takes ponies feelings seriously! And when it comes to love, she's the expert we need!"

I huffed. "And if someone needs a slap its me because I just... kinda made fun of you for it...." I said patting my cousin on the back. "She might have had her brother married into the family but she's family still. Even if not blood bound."

"Yep! Pound and Pumpkin still call me auntie even though I'm not related to them but they still consider me family! Isnt Ryder not your blood brother but your loveable one?" Scootaloo whined a little. "Wrong wording... sorry... But you get what I mean!"

"Yeah... Lets just take a deep breath, eat our food and just get back home soon. While we're on our way back to the orchard I can make a call to Twilight if she can have Cadence call me if possible... That sound okay?"

Scootaloo whimpered a bit. "...I... I guess...? But... Dont say anything about me wanting to.... uh.... you know... Ryder...." She said.

"I'll mention you got some sort of love problem and she wont be able to resist. Just gotta find a way to do it that still lets me talk with Ryder about something... Sound alright?" Scootaloo nodded into my chest a bit. "Alright... Good... Wanna go with Pinkie to calm down somewhere?" She nodded again. "Alright... Gimme a sec... And... Sorry for teasing you a bit...."

"...Bitch..." I'll admit I deserved that. Applebloom snickered just as I scooted out of the booth so she could get out. About twenty minutes later we were back on the road.

The drive was quiet. I actually texted Twilight asking her if she could pass word along to Princess Cadence to call me when she can because of a private issue that she might be able to help with. She told me she would but to not expect a call until a little later. When we got back to the house I just hopped out first and just looked at everything... Call me paranoid but since Ryder pulled me up into the air on the night of the dinner I've been watching my back around here. Do NOT want some fucking surprise making me piss my pants or shit myself.... Did that one time but that was only because well... Home alone, curiosity and just... Well that happened but I still didnt like it. I was actually constipated, trusted gas a little too much after a laxative and... well safe to say I needed new panties. Felt great after. Anyhow I went for the house just giving a nod to Applebloom and Scootaloo as they were just getting out. I just went over and knocked on the door just waiting like a little filly for someone to open their door on nightmare night for candy. After a moment the door opened and there was Ryder just standing there in a tank top and shorts. I couldnt help but hug him and he just lets it happen. "Morning Babs!" He said. "You're already done with your donut run?"

Scootaloo rushed over and right by us with her bags. Applebloom sighed. "Yeah... Think we actually forgot to grab you somethin' after Applejack kinda got you by the balls over the phone." She said. He sighed as I jumped back a bit.

"Yeah... No worries.... Those donuts would've been taken by her and Mash anyways.... Still gotta admit it's strange to be waking up with Applejack and just seeing my little girl just running around having fun...." He just leaned on the wall. I just nudged Applebloom. She just pushed past him inside just nudging him out and closing the door behind him. He sighed and just looked to me. "...Something tells me you need to talk eh...?" I gave a nod. He just gestured around the house. I just started walking and he followed.

"....Bit for your brains there Ryder?" He sighed.

"...I... I guess... I guess I'm just not used to this... This and the fact that I just feel like this is a punishment for the things I did... Disobeying Heaven's Light... She does say its a gift to everyone from how much they missed me but... Just... I still cant shake that feeling..."

"...She might have some motives for this... Maybe it is a punishment for you but... I think its a great gift back to everyone who missed you... Only if you could find the other Ryder, bring him back here, and... maybe just thank him for reminding us how much we did miss you...."

"....Maybe... But I think he's dealing with his own problems... He might be me but from what I know? He's from a different timeline... I died in this one... might mean he's gonna die sooner or later.... If it wasnt dead in this one he could've been... But who knows if he's gonna live a full life anyways..." I sighed as we came upon the treeline.

"...I'd rather not think about you dying... either you in front of me or the you I kept from freaking out best I could knowing you werent around..."

"...And with what you did the night I was given back? You kept his mind off that great...."

"Yeah... until he freaked out and puked... But... I just... Can I ask something here?"

"Sure."

"...I just.... Its hard for me to even ask this.... But... Do you want your position back? Or even your car?" He sighed just putting a hand on my back.

"...Babs... When I first came back... I thought of that... Do I want my job back? Or my car? I dwelled on that for a little while until I heard from Twilight on how good of a job you were doing with your new found position. You had more training than I did when I got that position. I had to learn on the go. And that car? ...I can say it still pains me to say its rightfully yours and unless you give it back to me its still yours. Its gonna take me some time to get back to working... and if anything I might go back to working the garage in town with Scoot... If all the old ponies I worked with were there, they'd have some sort of issue with me being there but since Scoot is the owner more than likely they're all gone... if anyone frequents the place, depending on who they are I could give a discount... if Scoot will allow anyhow."

"....I.... Your car is yours again.... All you have to do is ask and I'll have no trouble going out to find a car and giving you yours... As for being General.... Perhaps I can ask you for advice if possible? I wont ask you to do dirty work and get you hurt. All the dirt is gonna be on my hands for that."

"That I can do. Call, text or ask the Princess if I'm not available. But you've been doing alright so far.... I just might have to ask the Princess not put our family through any more deployment for military time... or at least put it back for a bit, maybe giving someone a high chain of command an idea of what you'd do. And trust me when I say I know your father would have something to say if Celestia even thought about drafting you."

"....He cares but I doubt he'd even take on a Princess...."

"Trust me when I say he would and has... cant say how but he did and Celestia agreed to not give him any trouble for what had happened."

"...What did happen?" He stayed silent. "....That secret huh?" He nodded. "Alright... Maybe we can talk with my dad about it over a drink or something?"

"I suppose... still up to your dad... Lets just get done with our walk and... maybe see about going for lunch... Up for a food run?"

"Maybe later but... Think we should just relax." He smiled and nodded just taking my hand and leading me back to the house. My heart might've been skipping a beat but I knew this wasnt going anywhere. We hurried back to the house and he had to fly into the window of his room to unlock the door... Fucking Applebloom... Once inside we just sat and watched cartoons with Mash. Apparently Applejack was just spending more time with Big Mac since Braeburn was still out doing whatever business he was doing with his whiskey. He already promised me and dad the first bottles. Even promised I could give him a good chunk of my allowance to help pay for a little marketing campaign to help get word out there of that stuff. I had to excuse myself to the bathroom to 'clean up' a bit. Kept quiet.

I came out and just looked over the banister just seeing him watch cartoons with his daughter.... To be honest? ....It's cute seeing him actually being there for his daughter.... When we heard AJ was pregnant we were all excited... but the fact he passed soon after hurt more... knowing that kid would grow up without him... Everyone was worried about Applejack after that... Took a week for her to eat something solid. Other than that it was pseudo solid stuff because of how heart broken she was. Cried up until she had to say goodbye to him.... Fact that this was happening made me smile more than how I did when the other him was railing me like I was his naughty little school filly... If I could pretend to be that little school filly all padded up with a pull on diaper and just... Ooooh I'm gonna ask Gilda for a role play when we can get together next. Anyways I ended up walking over to Scootaloo's room to check on her. Only knocked and waited for a minute. She opened the door and just gestured inside her room. I went in and just leaned on the wall. She just sat down on her bed. "....What? Here to tell me you're gonna bed my brother in front of me....?" She asked hanging her head. I sighed.

"Nah... Just coming in to see how you are.... Seems you're still dwelling on it a little bit...." I went and sat down next to her. "...Well... Had a talk with your brother... told him everything I had an issue with but he thinks I'm doing just fine where I'm at... and when he gets the chance he's thinking about working with you if you'll let him.... Guess all we gotta do is get a hold of Princess Cadence and she can help with your problem..." ...You ever talk about someone and just have them show up? Yeah. Speak of Cadence and SHE SHALL APPEAR. Literally fucking called me. Didnt have her number but I'm sure Shining gave it to her... or Twilight... I just pulled my phone and answered it on speaker. "Hello?"

I waited a moment just to hear a slight huff. "Is this Babs Seed?" I heard Cadence ask.

"Yes ma'am. Princess Cadence I presume?"

"The one and only! What seems to be the issue? Having a little trouble with your uh.... 'charming' marefriend?"

"Nah... She and I are great for the time being. I just.... Well..... I got someone here who's got some thoughts in her head and might need some help ridding herself of them and its something only you can help with if you can."

"Oh?" I looked to Scootaloo who just went all red in the face. "Who is it? One of your friends? Family?"

"Well... Its kinda both? Not by blood but.... I think you would know just by that..." She hummed a bit as I rested a hand on Scootaloo's thigh. The heat from her crotch was just like I was putting my hand next to a heater.

"....So... Not Applebloom... last I checked she was just asking for uh.... things to try out with her marefriend... didnt hear that from me though... So it must be Scootaloo... What's up with her? Finding some impure thoughts about someone not at all interested in her? Hopefully its something that Rocky could help with if she'd let her..." I sighed.

"...Well... Its sorta complicated.... Nothing dangerous that's gonna get her in trouble... just something about changing feelings for someone.... And someone close I might add.... Trying to not say too much because she does look like she's gonna cry...."

"Oh my... That bad? Where are you? I'd like to meet in person if it's that bad..." I looked to Scootaloo. She just gave a nod.

"We're at Sweet Apple Acres. Not sure where you are but... Please try to be easy on her.... And please try not to scare anyone here... AJ and Big Mac are out and its just us, Ryder and his kid... and you know how she's been lately with guards..."

"Of course. Gonna have Shining and a small convoy with us. No sirens when entering. Shining is coming down to the garage right now with me as we speak. Rocky is with us too but she can opt to stay back if you wish."

"...I say bring her just in case.... This is my call here... I'd rather see these feelings dealt with rather than a friend who's hurting just being near someone...."

"Alright. On our way. Give Ryder a heads up I'm coming."

"Yes ma'am! Over and out." I hung up and just looked to Scootaloo. "...Alright... Cadence is coming... if anything take a flight real quick, maybe get a drink from downstairs... If he asks just make something up... Okay?" She nodded. I just patted her on the leg and stepped out. I just went back downstairs and just watched some TV with Ryder and Mash. Actually something I used to watch when I was younger... surprised it was still on after all these years. I just sat there and watched for a while. Scootaloo came down, grabbed a bottle of soda and just went outside. Ryder kinda popped out to check on her and she was fine... as far as he knew. He came back in and just a good twenty minutes later there was a knock at the door.

Ryder and I looked to each other a little confused. I just got up while he just stayed near his kid. I just opened the door and immediately I was greeted by Princess Cadence and Shining Armor. Shining just pushed past me slightly. "Excuse me here...." He said going straight for his friend. "Ryder you knucklehead! Get over here!" They just grabbed eachothers hands, a big clap of them coming together before forcing each other towards themselves. Seemed like Ryder was having more of a chance in that mess. Obvious reference to an OLD movie.... Hell I think even older than Ryder and Shining... maybe by a few years. At least for Shining. Great movie though.

Cadence sighed as he watched them hug it out. "...Shining definitely has been happier since his friends return... Even with everyone else Twilight's been noticing changes..." She said. "....Speaking of changes... why dont we get Scootaloo and have a chat hm?" I gave a nod and just went back outside with her. I just hummed and looked around trying to think of where Scootaloo would go. I looked to the guards. Just unicorn and Earth Ponies from what I saw.

I looked to Princess Cadence. "You dont have any pegasai guards do you? Scoot might be out on a relaxing flight..." I said. She hummed looking at her guards.

"Huh... Guess I dont..." She hummed. "Call her maybe?" I gave a nod and pulled my phone out just immediately calling Scootaloo's phone. Waited for a moment before she answered.

I heard her sigh. "...I'm at the treehouse... Mash is inside and cant go into it until Ryder fixes it for her..." She said.

I huffed. "On our way. Just sit tight and we'll be right there." I said just before hanging up. I looked to the Princess. "She's in the treehouse. C'mon." She nodded and we just started walking into the trees.

I knew where it was. It was a bit far out but it was safe for us when we were younger. Think the worst thing we've had happen was a stallion here wandering through the trees. If it werent for the fact Scoot had her phone that guy would've found us and did something... yeah... he was a sex offender.... and a known one at that... Ryder caught him, cuffed him, pinned him down until the guard came and that's when we had to be trained a bit to protect ourselves. Mostly some martial arts in self defense. Though we all got to learn to fight dirty from Gilda actually who.... Well... She was lucky to have a stallion around to take what she could deal out... and saving the best one for last because it was one that would disable most stallions and we were lucky he could take a few hits before falling to his knees.... It took both Applebloom and Scootaloo to bring him down but Sweetie and I got the idea. Anyhow we found the treehouse and Scootaloo was just sitting in a tree branch just looking at it. She hopped down just drinking what was left in it. She sighed as she just handed me the empty bottle. "....Lets get this over with...." She said.

Cadence gave a little huff. "...Is there anywhere you wish to go to talk about this? Maybe somewhere not so open?" She asked.

"This is far out enough where nobody's gonna hear us unless we scream." Another thing. I remember it was just Scootaloo and I out here one day because Applebloom was sick in bed and they didnt want us to get it if we slept inside the house... or get sick because it was a stomach bug with her and there was a coyote who apparently found something to eat in the orchard, scared the living daylights out of me and Scootaloo making us scream and... maybe one of us wet our pants.... Okay maybe both of us.... I did first, Scoot did second... but that was because she had a nightmare after we went back into the house.... Just had to set up our sleeping bags in his room on the floor. She screamed, waking us all up and I just remember being eye level with her as she just wet herself. He turned the light on just as the stain was growing and it was dripping to the floor. Embarrassing for both of us. Anyhow Cadence sighed.

"Good... Now what is said here stays between us. No trouble no matter what it may be.... Depending on the seriousness it can be addressed in a nice calm manner... Just.... Start off by telling me what kind of thoughts you're having." Scootaloo turned away.

"....I... I just have been having.... dreams.... dreams of him... just.... leaning me on a bar while I'm having a drink.... Just feeling every curve of me.... I dont scream, I dont fight.... I just let it happen... I wasnt drugged.... I still had full control.... I just reached back, grabbed him by the collar and planted a kiss on him... After I do that, I climb myself onto the bar, pull my pants down, bearing... everything to him.... he does his thing spelling the alphabet of a long dead language down there.... Then he climbs onto the bartop, his pants down only to just fuck me silly.... filling me to the brim as we share a kiss.... Though after... the feeling of disgust fills me.... feeling as if I actually had been raped.... violated in every imaginable way.... Not because of what he did... but because of who he was.... knowing he would never do that.... I almost wondered if it were a changeling.... hypnotizing me.... making me do that stuff.... making HIM do that stuff... But it wasnt.... It was just our primal urges...... just wanting to do it.... Without any care of who we were to each other..." Cadence hummed while I just... blushed at the thought... I mean... Not like I havent thought of that before... or wrote it in a diary entry of mine before... I REALLY HOPE SHE DIDNT READ THAT!

"...Okay... That's... descriptive.... and I think I know who you're talking about with that last part.... Its someone who you love.... not as a lover but... as family.... And its just that is what's keeping you from just ridding yourself of this pain that is plaguing you.... Correct?" Scootaloo didnt move.... I just walked around and just saw tears streaming from her eyes as she kept back sobs. "....Nail on the head....?" I gave a slight nod. Cadence came over and just rested her hands on my cousins shoulders.... she actually jumped, bracing herself for a smack or something.... but what it ended up being was a hug. "Scootaloo... You have nothing to worry about here.... I can help with this... All we need is someone to watch your niece, then we take Ryder and get you two together to do something. I can provide spells and the means to get it done and I hate to say it but... It has to be done otherwise you'll just be more and more scared of your brother. And from everything I know about you, you value your brothers love over anything." I huffed.

"Lets get her into the transport and maybe see about getting her calmed down before her brother sees.... Want me to let Shining know about any plan you might have?" I asked. Cadence hugged Scootaloo just as she fully broke down.

"...Might be a good idea.... Thinking I can take her to the castle get her calmed down and I can send another transport back for you and the others... Just gotta be sure that we get Ryder and have his daughter being watched somewhere not near the castle...."

"If anything... might have to hide it as a dinner invite, adults only just to be safe... Might need Twilight to help with that if she's up for it..."

"Better idea than what I'd get... Gonna have to make it a small gathering just for this family alone..."

"Whatever is wanted, I'll get it. Now go. I'll head back, take Shining aside and get him to be with the lie here..." She nodded and just kinda shooed me away as she started consoling Scootaloo.

I just hurried back to the house and just dipped inside just to see Shining and Mash just sitting together. No Ryder. Shining looked up at me and smiled. "Hey, General. Everything alright?" He asked. I sighed giving a nod as I just sat in the recliner. Favorite spot in the house...

"Yeah... Where's Ryder? Still in the house?"

"Bathroom. Guess he forgets how much his own bladder can take..." He chuckled.

"Good thing he hasnt wet himself yet.... Though uh... Question... You think you can talk with me alone once he gets back down here? Just some questions I have about being a General." I gave a slight nod to Mash who was just enthralled with the cartoons. He gave a little grin.

"Yeah I can give a pointer here and there if you're still not used to some things. Maybe we take a step outside when he's done?" I gave a nod. Thank goodness he knows subtlety. And for good reason... Like Rainbow Dash, AppleMash is just a little fucking blabber mouth.... I stole one of Scoot's sodas one day because it was that hot, next thing I know Scootaloo is yelling at me telling me to fucking ask next time. The whole time Mash has her hands on a soda herself and a grin on her cute little face.... And she doesnt have her cutie mark by being a little tattle tale.... Hasnt gotten her cutie mark just yet but I've got a feeling she'd get it soon.

Anyhow cutting this short once Ryder came back, he asked where Scoot was, I just told him Cadence just borrowed her to go out for a bit and she'd be back in a bit. Stepped outside with Shining after that and got a bit away from the house seeing if he cant get Ryder to agree to a dinner tonight, get someone to foalsit his kid and just... Agree that what happens tonight stays between us... He agreed and just did what he could. He got Ryder to agree, called up Pinkie to see if she could watch Mash, she agreed and once she arrived we were on our way to the castle... And he had to call Applejack to get her to know where he was and to come on over. Once at the castle I split off from Ryder and Shining who just went to go find his sister. Guess who found her first? She was in the kitchen with Spike just in the middle of eating. She just set her fork down as I just bowed in respect to her. Always been told I was a bit of a tomboy with my mannerisms with royalty. Agreed but nobody ever said anything. Just bowed, fist to my chest and rose standing straight again. "General? How's things? Did the issue you contacted me about earlier get fixed?" She asked.

I gave a sigh pulling a seat out next to Spike. "Not yet Princess but... hoping it should be fixed soon..." I said. "And I dont care what you want for us to do this but we need to takeover your castle and your night for a fake family dinner for it.... Shining is already faking it as if it is just him wanting to spend time with Ryder some more than just a quick visit. I can and will be at your beckon call when the need arises for this and anything is on the table."

Twilight huffed setting her drink down. "...I swear you and Ryder are alike in some ways.... But I'll agree on one condition. That the next time this happens, I'm in the loop on it to give my own feedback on it. And the fact you had me contact Cadence for you makes me think someone is having some love trouble.... I'd pry but... me thinks someone closer than you and I are...."

"How often do you hang out with Pinkie?"

"Often enough to where I can pick up on things.... And I will allow this..." She looked to Spike. "After you're done there, have a guard take you up to Canterlot to stay the night. If Celestia or Luna ask why, tell them to contact me." Spike gave a nod and just hurried out of the dining room. She huffed as she just put Spike's empty plate into the sink with her magic. "He was done with that anyhow... But now that he's gone... Who are we talking about?"

"...If I tell you please act like I hadnt or if you do find out just let it be a total accident that you found out.... Promise me?"

"Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." I just took a deep breath and sighed trying to get rid of the nervous shaking i now felt.... This was pretty much between me and Scoot as well as Applebloom.... And... Cadence and Shining I guess....

"....Well... Uh... It was... Ryder and uh..... Scootaloo...." Her eyes opened wide.

"Who uh...?"

"Scootaloo... She's been trying not to act on the feelings and goddess forbid if he even did anything to her unwillingly we'd all come down onto him... but this is consensual and what I'm hoping is going to be consensual just to get it out of the way.... Speaking of plans, is Rocky here? Cadence said she was gonna be the plan B just in case something went wrong."

"Yeah she's here. Actually having to seclude herself right now just because my guards still arent used to her.... And she's been in her position for years now... They know this too but some guards still harbor hate for Changelings... Understandable why but she's trusted...."

"Any who speak out that way answer to me. I trust her, Ryder's trusted her and you do as well. They dont like it they can turn their armor in and fuck right off! Now uh... Maybe we can see about getting things ready?" Princess Twilight gave a nod and she just went and finished her food. Might've just been about lunch time but it still was gonna be forever just to get things done.

Though things went well for the time leading up to things. I saw Spike off shortly there after and yeah... Celestia had questions which Twilight answered but that was way after. Went and met up with Scootaloo after that and she was calm with Cadence in the entertainment room. Though I had to take Cadence aside and speak with her. Ryder hasnt made any contact but that's because Shining and Ryder went and got distracted themselves and just went to go see a movie but should be back by dinner... And yeah Cadence had to pull the dont eat before dinner.... Had to pull the card my mom had to pull just so I wouldnt snack before Hearths warming dinner. No joke. I was hungry in the morning and I knew we wouldnt eat until like fucking seven in the evening. I went out, grabbed a donut from the shop downstairs, came back up and my mom just ripped that thing, out of my mouth when I was almost done with it and then got pissed off because she and the cooks we had at the time because this was a year or so before the Manehattan attack were cooking for the entire day just to get a feast ready for when my family was coming over. Yet I was pretty sure that fucking donut saved me that day because my dad ended up getting sick because he was saving room for the dinner but that's what happens when you dont eat since lunch the previous day. He nearly ruined things for us but was lucky when he ended up getting some donuts for us all just to eat something before we either ended up passing out or getting sick ourselves. You do not know how much my mother hated me for after that for actually being smart. Did I ruin my appetite for dinner? Not really but she thought so considering I didnt go back for seconds. Anyways I just killed time by playing some games and such until dinner came around and I was tasked with going downstairs and just waiting for them to come back. Good part was I was with Cadence. She sighed as we exited the elevator into the parking garage. "...Alright... Rocky is on board with being the back up... I told her if things go well she could join in and give Scootaloo that extra experience." She said. "With that said I do have to be there to watch and make sure things dont get too rough... Or that Scootaloo gets knocked up...."

I sighed. "I dont think it will come to that." I said. "But uh... Would it be any trouble for me to watch? Think you already know what that stallion can do to me.... Maybe give Rocky a little toy to play with if she's not comfortable taking the fun away from Ryder if he's alright with this..."

"...As much as I'd rather keep it private I feel it might be safe to have you in there to comfort your cousin in case her brother doesnt go through with it... And I hope he will... Awkward as it is to say this but I know he's done something like this before..." I looked to the Princess as we walked closer to one of the transports.

"He has?" She nodded.

"You never heard it from me but.... there was a get together at Canterlot for family. He brought his mother and well... Long story short he fulfilled his wish to bed his mother... And that was because he nearly did when they first knew they were mother and son... probably still would've went through with it if they hadnt been interrupted."

"You mean... he fucked his own mother?" She nodded shushing me. We just watched as some guards passed by on their patrol route.

"Yes..." She replied in a hushed tone. "...It had plagued his mind and nearly ruined relations for him and Applejack. He would know this helps better than leaving it where it lie... otherwise it builds up into something worse... and trust me when I say I've talked with stallions and mares who let some feeling build up and... Well... Things with their relationship didnt get fixed.... One just left standing and that's all I'm saying..." I gave a slight nod and just watched as a transport pulled in, Shining and Ryder in the front seats.

"No worries... Lets just get Shining and Ryder back upstairs to prep for a meal and help his sister..." We just watched as they pulled in and parked.

We walked on over and just waited as they got out. The engine cut and I could just hear the metal inside ticking as it started cooling down, the heat still emanating off of all the under workings of it. Might not work with cars like that but still gotta have the know-how just to fix mine. Shining and Ryder got out just chuckling, one with a drink in hand the other with a half eaten bag of popcorn. "Oh man that was GREAT!" Ryder said. "I really needed to see that.... Fucking guys head blown CLEAN OFF! I've seen some blood in my time but that? Only movie magic could make that entertaining."

Shining sighed a bit as he sipped the drink. "And when all those cars exploded? That was awesome. If I could spare some plastic explosive and some decommissioned cars I bet we could recreate that!" He said.

Cadence huffed. "We are not buying decommissioned cars and we are NOT using supplies for war for anything like that!" She snapped. "Now i hope you two have saved room for dinner.... Not gonna be happy if we have to throw away any dinner that isnt eaten!"

I just snagged the popcorn. "Think I might just confiscate this... And do keep it down with the spoilers." I said. "You really might piss someone off who would want to see those movies."

Shining huffed. "Yes ma'am." He replied sounding a little down. I just popped some of the delicious buttery treat into my mouth. Bag was half gone. "How long before dinner though? Kinda wanting a little game time with Ryder."

Ryder just nudged Shining back a bit. "Even better what're we having?" He asked. Cadence and I looked to each other as i snacked.... this was REALLY salty... saltier than... well.... I really shouldnt finish that thought. Cadence would probably agree.

Anyhow Cadence looked up. "Twilight and I were thinking of having some pasta but we cant really decide on the sauce." She said. "Twilight really wants Pesto but she does wanna ask you two for input. I can relay just to give you more time there."

Skipping a lot of stuff.... This was annoying to hear... they bickered back and forth about having some tofu sauce, alfredo, spicy tomato or just something else but we ended up deciding when I asked what Scootaloo's favorite would've been. Apparently Alfredo sauce with a hint of spicy pepper. To be honest? It was great. Asked for the portioning for this because I would definitely want some more. But after dinner I was in a room with Scootaloo who was just trying to build up the courage to ask her brother. She was just on the bed in... what I can just say is an outfit I'm pretty sure was in Gilda's closet. It was black leather, the panties she wore with it had a slit on her crotch, her tits were.... well.... She's not very big but she still has some nice ones. The outfit itself was just hugging her in all the right spots but she was just hugging a pillow looking almost as if a date stood her up... which happened a few times.... You dont know how many times I got a call from her about Applebloom wanting to kick someone square in the jewels.... There was one time she did and thats because the guy sent a dick pic to see how she'd react after asking her out... I let that one slide and then let the guy get off with a warning that doing that shit could get him in big trouble and get him on a list. Anyways Scootaloo just whimpered. "...Why the fuck am I doing this....? Is this really the only way?" She asked.

I just huffed as I slowly paced trying to not catch looks of my cousin and bed her myself. "Its what Cadence said to do." I replied. "Princess says she's had to do this before with uh.... and you didnt hear it from me.... but she's had to do it with Ryder and your mother..." She blushed hard.

"....You mean he... and.... Mama Spitfire...." I nodded. "....I.... I wanna say I'm surprised but... I think he's talked about it before with Dash.... But this...? I'm his sister...."

"Yet you're not blood related to him like she is." I sat down. "...Yeah he might have some feelings about this but Cadence should be able to talk him into it.... All you gotta do is find him, ask him and try getting him to do something, anything.... Might be gross but sit on his lap and piss yourself while you plant one on him! Goddess knows I would..."

"...I.... I.... Maybe...? But... the Princess...."

"I'll offer to clean it up if she gets all weird about it...."

"But... why me? Why suggest I do that....?"

"You want those thoughts to be done and over with or you wanna just be awkward around your own brother for the rest of your life?" She just hugged the pillow tighter, her face turning bright red... and I could just see her marehood just wink at me... just thinking about it.... What would be better? Getting fucked like a whore by someone you love or being so awkward around that loved one you'd think you just lost touch with them. I could see her piecing together each outcome. The feeling of keeping her brother at arms length, the pain she feels not being able to act on her own urges.... calling out his name while masturbating.... the possibility of getting caught in that moment.... and then the other side. The part where she straddles her brother, kissing him deep as he fondles her curves, the warm slit between her legs either gushing out piss to turn him on even more or even just dripping wet with excitement, ready to just be thrown onto the nearest bed and given what she most desires.... and I'm not gonna lie the more I even think about it the more i wanna do what i want her to do. She just took a deep breath and sighed.

"....Find me something strong and hard that isnt my brother just yet... I wanna knock one back before I let my brother knock me back."

"Ay atta girl! Think Gilda has a bottle of whiskey stashed away. She complains, I'll buy her another bottle and I wont skimp out neither." She tossed the pillow aside and just got up. She did look down at herself and just wonder... could tell. "Ah come on. First step to building that confidence is to get comfortable in an uncomfortable situation. And if guards say anything, I'll have a word with em.... Now c'mon before I'm carrying you!"

Didnt have to carry her. Did take my hand and we walked through the hall. She had to cover her crotch a bit. One guard was staring at us. All I had to do was snap my fingers and he just averted his gaze and just hope he wasnt saluting between his legs. Two I'm pretty sure saw us but I didnt catch them.... Hell one we passed covered their eyes. We managed to sneak into Gilda's room and I found the bottle... Though the shot glasses were in the kitchen. We just took the bottle and hurried on over to the kitchen and I could tell Scootaloo was getting braver with each step. Either that or scared her brother was gonna catch us.... And he did. We both knocked back two shots before he walked into the kitchen. He cleared his throat and startled both of us. We just looked back and seeing the look on his face was just.... both scared and just surprised. "...Uh.... You uh.... you girls getting ready for something...?" He asked.

Scootaloo shrieked and just hid behind me holding me to just cover her. "RYDER! NO! NO NO NO PLEASE DONT LOOK AT ME!" She yelled.... Not the smartest move because just as Ryder stepped forward to try to quiet her down we had Princess Twilight, Cadence, Shining Armor.... AND Big Mac and Applejack come in... thankfully no Applebloom OR any little fillies who dont need to see this.

Applejack blushed looking at us. "...Scoot, what the hell are ya wearin?" She asked. Scootaloo whimpered.... and wet herself.... I could feel it dripping down the back of my pants and splattering on the floor.

Twilight blushed harder, scared not knowing what to do as she watched her previous Generals little sister piss herself and her current Generals pants.... "....I.... Uh... Sco- General! What the fuck is going on?!" She asked.

Oh Cadence got in between us real fast. "Woah woah woah! Easy Twilight! This is what I'm talking about! No judgement!" She snapped. "Yes she's doing something that is weirding everyone out but right now she needs guidance and with what Babs is doing was helping but its either now or never with this!" I could really tell that Twilight was both confused and concerned. Well... At least until Princess Cadence turned to me and Scootaloo. "...Alright.... Everything's fine... Just... Just say what you need to say and things should be okay!" I looked back at Scootaloo.... Head dug into my shoulder.

I just sighed. "Want me to explain?" I asked. Scootaloo just hesitantly nodded still whimpering. I looked to Ryder who was just blushing kinda looking down at the floor and my stained pants.... I had to reach over, pick his head up forcing his gaze into mine. "...You'll see more in a bit but right now Scootaloo needs your help. Since you've gotten back she's been having thoughts and thank fuck it isnt the kind of thoughts I've had but hers relate to you in about the same way I did.... She loves you a lot... guessing her love for you grew a little bit stronger and she's wanted to uh.... well.... You know.... She didnt want to do something like this but this was just a little suggestion from me... alcohol included just for a little jumpstart. Two choices here.... you let her down gently, maybe make her a toy with your stuff... or just agree to an incestuous orgy with her, my cousins and me.... One might work better than the other so... you need to think, just think on it.... But uh.... You do agree I might have a little present for you that adds onto the mess she made...." I glanced downward before looking back at him only to see him look down again.... and he never looked back up. I just looked to Twilight. "Princess, if someone can clean this puddle up, I will be in a maid outfit for a week cleaning the entire castle and I dont give a fuck what you add onto that outfit..." I just took a deep breath and sighed just as a nice warm sensation engulfed my panties and started running down my legs.... yeah... I was pissing myself too... and I could tell Ryder was loving what he was seeing.... Princess Twilight just pinched the bridge of her nose, asking herself why both her generals, previous and current were such fucking perverts to do anything and everything in front of her. "...Come on Ryder.... Anything you wanna say or do to your sister to show her you're alright with this...? Might need to punish this baby girl though since her mommy isnt here to do anything...." I gave him my best puppy dog eyes... and if that didnt get him I dont know what would..... He just reached out as Cadence just started stepping aside getting paper towels to stop the mess from spreading.

Ryder took his sisters hands and pried her off me before taking mine and pulling us close to him.... He grabbed my piss drenched ass and just.... He just looked lustfully into his sisters teary eyes and kissed her... She did not mind him using tongue. Yet we both just had a hand on his crotch... feeling the bulge he had just for us. I just glanced over at Applejack and Big Mac who were just staring at us, blushing as hard as Big Mac was red. Big Mac just cleared his throat. "...I uh.... Is it bad I wouldnt mind a little 'family bondin' with you sis...?" He asked. "...I mean... Been away from each other for a while too and... I mean... cant say I didnt wanna see if you couldnt uh..... maybe gimme a pic of you so I could just...." Applejack just turned around and grabbed him by the shoulders and kissed him as well.

A moment later she backed away from the kiss. "...Mac... Shut up, and make me feel like a fuckin' whore!" She snapped. She even looked to Twilight. "Twi.... why dont you just start leading us to a room and get someone to clean up? Already know you're gonna pad up your new 'maid' for the week so thick she aint gonna be walkin' right like I am after this happens.... Keeps your mind off this and you are welcomed to watch!"

Cadence looked over at Twilight. "Go for the honeymoon suite and dont worry... I'll bring Shining in to help you out while I do some foalsitting." She said. Twilight just nodded and teleported just out of the room. I broke off being mindful of our mess just following my cousins outside the room. Didnt get out the door before hearing a little scream. I just looked back only to see Scootaloo now being carried over her brothers shoulder.... and he even teased her pussy a little bit through the panties... And I could tell someone wanted to release the monster held within... his zipper was down.

It wasnt long before we got to the room and he just tossed Scootaloo down on the bed.... We all just undressed around her. Though she just was ready, spreading her legs and her pussy for her brother. I just stripped off my clothes and my god did it immediately feel cold... Did not give the slightest of fucks but I was ready to hop onto that bed and be ready to start cleaning his cock after he uses his sister as a cum dumpster..... Scootaloo whimpered a bit. "....G-Go slow.... I.... I need to get used to this...." She said. I grabbed Ryder's cock, slowly toying with his sister's clit while my cousins and the Princess were just getting stripped down themselves.

I licked his shaft and fondled his balls a bit. "...Not yet.... Dont want any accidents...." I said. "...as cute as you would be filled and knocked up.... Dont think you'd want to be bearing your brothers foals...." I felt Ryder twitch.... I looked to him only to see him staring at where their parts met... He wanted it so bad. I looked to Twilight who was just using her magic on my cousins. "Princess? Little aid here as well?"

Twilight huffed as she was done with Big Mac. He just grabbed a hold of Applejack's breasts and kissing her, pressing her up against the wall. We just started to glow for a moment. "Let me just do this for juuuuuust a moment...." She said. "There.... No foals for you guys.... Just... Please try to keep things clean in here after you're done... I'm still expecting you in a maids dress and a diaper tomorrow General... Might only be for one day but.... You do need to clean up after your little hormone spike there...." I licked Ryder's shaft balls to tip before aiming it for him.

"...It will be real worth it after this...."

Ryder's ears perked up a bit just as I started teasing both him and his sister. He pulled the Princess over and just started whispering into her ear. She looked to him and he just nodded giving a grin. She used her magic on me taking me off of them and sitting me in a chair nearby. She used her magic on the chair and it grew restraints that grabbed my arms and legs. "Dont worry there Babs... Your punishment is still going on..." Ryder said. "This one is just a little something from me... And trust me you know who would love this...." He looked to Twilight again. "Now... Think we need another spell for her and a nice toy.... Maybe some way to contact her lover?"

Twilight sighed just looking at him. "...I swear you are either a changeling or you're just being very evil...." She said. "...But... If I know what spell you're talking about that no changeling could know about.... This is gonna make her hate you.... I love this as a punishment!" I was so horny I didnt realize how nervous this made me.... She used her magic on me and I found myself already dressed like a maid and... I definitely felt a bit thicker around the hips.... Though the maid outfit? Skimpy... Black and white bra, skirt that was too short.... And yeah... I had a diaper.... "There we go... Still got a maid but the only thing she needs to clean is her act.... This should help..." She used her magic on me once more before a wired vibrating egg toy appeared in front of my face. "....And just so she knows the stakes...." That thing floated down and the egg part of it got stuck into my diaper and into my cunt. She didnt hesitate on turning it on full vibration. I gave a little squeak as Scootaloo just pulled her brother on top of her.... Guess she was letting him know to stop stalling. Twilight walked over to me making her dress disappear only revealing her long stockings and the garter holding them up.... no underwear....She brought a side table over with her hands and used her magic to make her computer appear. She just got on it, opened up the application that I know was a video call one... I have the same one...

She started a call... And I know who to.... Gilda.... She just tilted the screen towards me a bit so I could see before turning back and kneeling down just below the screen. I heard the sound stop and some background noise start. "Oh hey Princess! Checking up on me? I'm fine here I swear!" I heard Gilda say. Twilight giggled a bit.

"Oh I know you're good there. Just called to show you something...." She tilted the computer towards my cousins and my uh.... Who I want to be my daddy in bed.... Oh he's changing me after I hope.... Already getting wetter than a fucking ocean here.

"What the.... Oh you are such a tease Princess! But... Is that.... Ryder and his sister...?" She turned the computer back getting up a bit.

"Yep... And I might be wanting to have a little fun but... there's someone here who's kinda being punished for pissing on the floor..." She turned the camera to me. I couldnt help but just turn my face away, blush so hard and just want to cover myself. Even with the strength I have I couldnt break the restraints. She just tilted the camera down slightly and used her magic to lift the skirt a bit. "...All padded and humiliated... wishing you were here to save her... or toy with her more.... Though she would enjoy it she would never finish... No matter how long or how hard you tried..." The Princess just gave me a bit of an evil lustful grin.

"Oh.... Uh.... You mean you used that spell to.... just... stop her from finishing?"

"Yep.... She'll be able to finish... but only once her..." She cleared her throat. "Daddy.... gives the word...." Oh she got me fired up there..... Like I blushed so hard my face felt like it was on fire. "Take some screen shots, toy with yourself.... Give me suggestions on what else to do to her to make this punishment a bit worse...." I heard Gilda sigh.

"Well... Sorry about this Babs but... Princess... Go ahead and tape some vibrators to her nipples.... She just loves it when I pinch and twist them...."

"Pinch and twist eh....? Oh I have something that will help...." She used her magic once more and now in front of the camera were two clips that looked.... tight.... She put them on my nipples and oh my fucking god it felt like heaven and hell all at the same time. What else she conjured.... two vibrating bullets. These things were small, meant to just be inside a dildo to fit them. She taped them right onto the clips and I just about lost my mind.

I looked to the camera. "...M-Mommy... You.... You bitch!" I snapped trying to hold back my moans.

Gilda grinned. "Oh naughty girl! Princess I think we need to show my baby girl what happens when a naughty filly mouths off like that..." She said. Yep... Dug myself even deeper. The princess conjured up a ball gag just plucking it out of thin air. She stood behind me and put it in my mouth, fastening it to my face. She made sure it wasnt too loose so I'd spit it out or too tight to make marks... Not that I... Might like having some marks.... at least not self inflicted and bleeding- fucking whatever you know what I mean! Twilight sighed.

"Good.... That's better.... no more foul mouthed fillies.... Now let me just..." She used her magic on herself almost instantly sprouting a dick and balls that would rival Ryder's... or Big Mac's.. And then a masturbation toy for stallions.... Though something was off about the toy. Orange and it looked like an asshole... I watched as the Princess used her magic once more to make a bottle of lube appear.... She just slathered it up and down her massive rod. Gilda whistled admiring what she saw.

"Oh Princess... Next time you wanna cuck my marefriend.... make sure its with me... I might make it a rule that she can fuck her daddy but if she does I have right to fuck anyone else and in front of her while she's like that...."

"Noted but.... I feel like this is more of a cuck for you but.... At least you're allowed to touch yourself." I watched as she got her stroker ready.... Just pressed up against the hole with her tip.... Though I jumped a bit. She just looked to me. "Relax General.... It might hurt if you keep all that tension...." She pressed onto the hole more.... I relaxed myself a bit and just.... She entered the toy, her length just disappearing into it... Though at the same time I felt something enter me... Yeah... A portal toy.... The exit? My ass! The princess sighed as she just pushed it deeper making my eyes cross.

"Oooh.... Something tells me this show is interactive...." I just looked away only to just look at Ryder as he just started fucking his sister.... Oh the noises she made. Applejack was still pinned up to the wall, Big Mac just plowing her fields.... Neither of them making a sound.... Just staring deep into each others eyes. I looked back to Gilda.... I was lucky she was in her hotel room. She stood up and just started taking off her pants... Oh her panties were just stained and obvious she wanted to play. Now if only she were here. "...Oh my cute Babs-y.... Mommy thinks you look so cute in that outfit...." I just blushed hard trying to close my legs a bit. Couldnt really. Mostly because the diaper I was wearing was now fucking soaked with my pussy juices and my legs were attached to the chair. "...Aww come on... Show me what you're wearing there... Thinking mommy needs to change you... maybe spank you for being such a naughty filly.... Oh how I wish I was there to use that diapee as my own toilet...." ....She knows how to push my buttons.... and I mean REALLY knows.... I love being babied by her... humiliated and just used as a fucking toilet.... I know this is kinda gross but she's pulled her panties aside, pissed on my pants and made me thank her for that.... And that was before she had me kneel down, she pulled the back of my underwear out and.... yeah... I needed a shower after that but my fucking god I wanted her to do it again and spank me.

Ryder looked over as Scootaloo was just grabbing her nipples... I was just starting to lose feeling in my own. "Give her a show Gil!" He called out. "She needs to see everything you got going!" I just watched her on the screen. She gave a little giggle before just stripping her top right off..... I gave him a glare. He couldnt help but just.... Make a peace sign and lick between them. I may or may not have flipped him off. Scootaloo just grabbed him and kissed him and wrapping her legs around him. Oh this was gonna be interesting to see. I could just see him locking eyes with her, rutting her faster and deeper. Big Mac had to get Applejack off the wall and just lay her down on an open part on the bed, still going strong.... Though the look on both their faces told me they were just getting started. Big Mac just started slamming his hips into hers and she just started to cry out. Ryder was just starting to go faster thrusting into his sister.... I just felt like I was burning up. I was sweating, I was so close to climax that honestly it started to hurt.

The princess started to stroke herself faster and I could feel her starting to flare.... I was just getting cross-eyed. "...Wow... So tight... I.... I dont think I can hold it anymore....." She said. She looked to Ryder. "D-Do you want me to get her to finish?" Ryder just slammed his hips against his sister for the last time just holding her there..... She just squeaked and whined as her wings extended and her back arched. Big Mac just kept going but you know by the splatters you could hear hitting the ground he was giving her everything he had.... And yeah.... I could tell she was getting filled right up as well.... Her eyes were crossing and she was just gasping for air, silent.... no screaming or noises from her. Anywho Ryder looked to her.

"Do it.... But.... Finish on her face..... Let Gilda see how much a slut her marefriend is...." She pulled herself out of me yet all I could do is whimper into the gag just as she made the toy disappear.... She used her magic to aim her massive cock at my face still stroking herself with her magic. She used her magic on me just as I looked to Gilda.... And my fucking god this orgasm? I think I just about pissed myself again. Gilda was cumming as well.... didnt see it but I could just tell by the look on her face... Before I could even do anything else the Princess shot a hefty load on my face.... Hit my face, my tits.... Oh I looked like a whore after that. Once the hose dribbled to a stop she released me from the restraints. I just fell limp. I couldnt even get my arms up to my face to get the gag off. Ryder came over getting the computer to face him. I could hear Gilda give a whistle... just loving what she was seeing... his cum covered dick and him just... dripping with sweat.... He sighed getting his face in the camera. "There we go... Hope you enjoyed that show Gil... Maybe next time you get to be here to be a part of it.... Think for right now.... Try to clean up your mess while I clean up mine." He just nodded to me. I could hear him close the call and watched as he closed the computer before turning his attention to me. "...Let this be a lesson to not always think with your pants... or your bladder in this case missy.... Need some help getting to clean up?" I weakly nodded. He picked me up and got me over his shoulder..... He had to wait for Twilight to get dressed before casting a perception spell on both of us so we could walk down to the nearest shower... Though I needed more than just cleaning in my face and my crotch... Yeah... Guess the walking stirred something and the gas wasnt gas.... Once inside the bathroom he admitted he deserved that and got me into the shower, washed me down and got me into some pajamas the princess had to get delivered to us.... That night I did spend the night with him but only because Scootaloo had trouble walking and freaked out.... Mostly hurt to walk but she was fine. Just a little jelly legged from that fucking... Applejack... Yeah she needed a chiropractor after that... guess being up against the wall being fucked isnt the greatest... But yeah... Lesson learned.... Though as weird as it was to ask... I had to get a picture from Scootaloo of the aftermath just to uh..... dream it was me... She agreed but asked me to not hold it over her head as a threat.... But yeah... tired... gotta... gotta go here... later....

The Apology

I couldnt sleep. Been a few weeks since Ryder made me look like a slut in front of Gilda, his sister, my cousins and Princess Twilight. Was it embarrassing? Yeah. Was it hot? Fuck yes. Would I do it again? As long as Gilda is there for Ryder and I to call her mistress or mommy I couldnt care less. But that's not what this is about. Today I was at Sweet Apple Acres. Ryder was the only one here since Applejack took the rest of the family to help Big Mac gather all his stuff. Yeah. He's moving back in now that his best friend is back. Just made sure my brother was alright with it.... I offered to just pay to have his stuff moved out here but he said he'd get it himself. Yeah my brother is alright with it... Cant say he isnt gonna be lonely but he's been looking at maybe moving somewhere closer to family.... He's always loved our family... Me, our mother and dad... Even despite dad's bigotry for years he still loves him. Our mother even though she's divorced from dad still comes around, sends us Hearths Warming gifts and cards. Anywho... its just me and Ryder at the orchard. It was snowing and Ryder and I were just walking out in the orchard. We were both in our winter clothes, me in my winter guard coat, him in just a puffer coat, jeans and a beanie. I sighed just giving off a puff of steam from my mouth... Something I've always done since I was a kid. Watched the snow plows drive up and down the road sometimes pretending I was a dragon... Dad always thought it was cute. "...I'm glad I could be over here...." I said. "...Keeps you company and just.... keeps me away from the house... Might be my own but... Feels a bit lonely there...."

Ryder gave a sigh too. Just grabbed some snow from the ground and balled it up before throwing it at a tree across the road. Knocked all the snow off the dead branches. He chuckled. "Surprised you dont have Gilda move in with you... Might help get her out of Twilight's hair." He said. "Got to talking with Twilight last few times I was with her just to see what happened before my return.... Told me Gilda's been a bit of a thorn in her side. Told me Gilda's a great room mate but.... Just.... I guess she doesnt feel alright with her around."

"How so?" I asked as we walked. Snow just crunching under our feet.

"Its like.... She's getting antsy, a bit nervous... She's been tested for drugs but... Nothing apart from her medicinal stuff.... You noticed anything?"

"I dont think so... She's always so lovey dovey with me.... Guess me being with her is triggering something.... Probably both maternal and something else. Probably the need to make sure I'm alright...."

"Sound like anyone you know?" I just stayed silent. He just huffed. "Up for a trip to town? Might be able to grab Gilda and head out if you wanna have a day out with us."

"And do what?"

"Certainly not enjoy each others company with our pants off." I just blushed a bit hiding my face a bit. "Aw c'mon... I'm not mad about your little stunt the other day... Made me realize sometimes you gotta show family how much you mean to em... even if it does mean showing some things that family shouldnt see but.... Scoot really did love that. Now we doing something outta town or what?" I huffed.

"As long as we stop by my place so I can get a bag together sure. You able to get things from the castle when we get there?" He gave a nod and we just started for the house.

"Mind if I drive? Been a while since I drove my car...."

"Did say you could have it back whenever Ry. Dont mind if I gotta get myself a new one."

"That's sweet of you but no.... Now if you wanna get me a car or something... that's another story...." I just gave a smile and grabbed some snow quickly throwing it into his face. He just brushed it off before tackling me into the snow. We both laughed as we traded handfuls of snow until he just grabbed some snow and put it into my pants. I screamed a bit before just tossing him off and getting up.... I'm lucky I'm wearing a diaper because I immediately just started pissing my pants.... What? Did I not mention the extra warmth around my crotch? Easier than taking off two layers of clothes just to piss. I blushed just glaring at him. "...Too far?" He asked as he got up brushing snow off himself.

"....Next time you wanna put a hand in my pants you better have a toy or explicit permission...." He huffed.

"...Yep... Too far... sorry...." He slipped a bit trying to get up. I went over and helped him up. "...Alright... lets get back to the house, get you changed and then get to the castle.... Can I still drive?" I just rolled my eyes as I started pulling him along back to the house.

The change was... somewhat quick.... Somewhat because I may or may not have kept something in the tank to try and hit him with it.... Missed and pissed on the floor. He was a bit too far away... Just though he was close enough when he was coming back.... Lucky we had a towel ready. Anywho we changed, got in the car and yeah... I let him drive because I love him. And maybe because pissing myself in front of him got me a little hot under the collar and I cant focus on driving when I can only focus on wanting to fuck myself or him.... and there's no way I would give him road head while he was driving... Especially on icy roads. We got to the castle and hurried up stairs after leaving our coats in the car. Once we got upstairs I had to start asking guards left and right if they've seen Gilda around. Took five guards. The one who told us had to get on her case about something the Princess allowed her to make.... I only found out when we found her. Cookies! Oh you bet your ass when we found her in the kitchen I went for those. She just grabbed me and smacked my hand. "Hey not yet! Still warm and they're for guests!" She snapped. I took my hand back just as Ryder stepped forward pulling me away.

"Guests? Princess having someone over that we havent caught wind of?" He asked. I went over to the fridge and ducked inside. Grabbed a water for myself and Ryder. She sighed as I tossed the water to him.

"Yeah... Apparently Twilight's been chatting with Celestia for some reason. Not sure what but I think its gotta do with the dweeb who put this entire castle on lockdown and almost the entirety of Equestria..."

"Me? What the hell did I do this time?! I just got back!"

I huffed sipping my water. "Not you right now Ryder... The you that got shot forward in time." I said. "The Ryder who protected me, his family... even let me show my appreciation to him... the fuckin' pervert... but not much difference from you." He huffed.

"...Ah... makes sense but... Why me? I mean why him?"

"I think I know why... Before your return and after I was pissing my bed because of that stupid fucks gun to my head Celestia told me she regrets not apologizing to the Ryder that was here before he left. She agrees it was a fitting punishment for her but... I just.... I have a feeling she's being tormented by her inner demons.... Wouldnt doubt it because some inner demons tormented each of us... why not a princess?"

"Ah... Yeah... And its probably something she'd rather not have Luna help her with... either that or Luna thinks things are fine because I've returned...."

Gilda looked to me as I went and sat down. "It... makes a lot of sense...." She said. "...He comes around after being dead for years, he does something stupid that makes himself known and trusted by many yet she thinks its not him, and goes all fucking nuclear only to find out he had the balls to bite back like he usually does yet when its time for him to go she doesnt get the chance and he just flips her off before fading off into the god damn oblivion of time space..." Both Ryder and I looked at Gilda just... confused. She huffed. "...I blame my love for time travel movies..."

I huffed. "...Yeah... Could tell by that quote there Gil...." The movie she referenced is a reboot of an old movie... the reboot sucked but that didnt stop a sequel from being made of that.... But yeah... Story goes that the main character is sent back in time, tries to fix what he accidentally fucked up, pretends he's someone else before fixing everything he needed but to the one person he had issues with- or at least his father who had problems with this fuckwit- caught him time traveling, flipped him off and just transported out. When back in his own time, his fathers bully went off about the kid flipping him off and just disappearing... which gets a call to the looney bin which he escapes in the sequel to get proof of the time travel... Main character has to go back to stop him from getting things, fails the first time and it basically ends the world, the guy goes back again, learning from mistakes he made and boom. Things are fixed, main guy brings back something for the fathers bully when he's back in the nuthouse and now there's a third movie in the works.... anywho I sighed. "...So I'm guessing Princess Twilight isnt here is she?"

"Nope... Not even Spike so I'm stuck baking cookies on my own just to have some treats for Celestia. Right now its been... I'm gonna say a few hours since the Princess and Spike left? She just told me to bake these cookies before she left and so far I've only made a few batches.... Four dozen cookies is enough... right?" I huffed.

"....If you're up for a trip we could go meet Princess Twilight in Canterlot... No use in staying here.... Nothing to do nobody to hang out with who isnt busy..."

"Alright... Give me a bit to package these cookies up, get a bag together and lets go... Just... Gotta make sure that we're not gonna go out there for nothing."

Ryder pulled out his phone. "Leave that to me... Make sure she stays in Canterlot. Might have to tell a little tale but... Might be good enough to just roll up in the car." He said. "You girls do your thing, I'll make sure we can keep her there." We did just that. She gave me a cookie as soon as he left the room, I ate it and helped her start packing them up in some tupperware, got em down to her room where she got her bag together and a bag to carry those cookies down to the car and we got in. She was fine being in the back with the four bags after we had to go to my place just for me to rush and get a bag... and maybe a few spares to give to Gilda. That ride definitely took a while. Two hours when it usually takes an hour all because of the weather. Snow all over, some iced roads that were being plowed still and we had to use a back road just to get to Canterlot proper. Hell Ryder was so annoyed at the exit we usually take he was gonna get out and FLY us the rest of the way. You dont know how fast both Gilda and I told him no... I nearly pissed myself again. This time on accident. But yeah... we got to Canterlot still in time. Pulled up to the gate and went on in... Though of course the first stop was the bathroom after dropping off our coats and winter wear. Fuck it was nice in here. I mean I could take my jacket off and roll up my sleeves up on my shirt... Even though I'm still the size of a cow- and still trying to bring it down but considering my strength being several times what a normal earth pony like me should be able to lift I cant really lift weights to help bring weight down... I've actually been trying to go on runs with Ryder when he's not with his wife or daughter.... or sister... Speaking of did you know she kinda blacked out after he started fucking her? She didnt remember a damn thing but when she realized she was creampied oh you bet your ass she freaked out. Thought her own brother knocked her up. Applejack, the Princess AND I just had to sit her ass down while she was pissing in her panties- LITERALLY I might add- and just give her a rundown on pregnancy and how it worked for us... Did she not see her brothers cutie mark on her abdomen? What about Big Mac's on AJ? Oh you bet she was embarrassed.

But anywho enough of that. We went and found Twilight and Spike just sitting with Princess Celestia in her throne room. Celestia... She just looked a bit worse for wear. Night gown, ice cream stains, mane a mess.... Tired as all hell as well. Twilight wore her regal gown and Spike just had a polo and some jeans. Twilight sighed as we all did our bows for Celestia. "Thank you for coming you three." She said. "Maybe some friendly faces might make her feel better... That and not having to leave the castle... Though why Ryder had to say that there was a problem with the castle but couldnt elaborate because it was just that bad I have a feeling this was to keep me here...." He gave a huff rising taking the bag of cookies from Gilda.

"Guilty. Now if court is adjourned I'd like to question someone." Twilight just sighed.

"...I swear one of these days you're gonna say something stupid to the wrong person again...."

"It was a lesson I learned too late but I still learned it."

Gilda huffed. "Dweeb shut the hell up and just give the Princess the cookies before-" She said before he cut her off just glancing back at her.

"Yeah yeah yeah shut up before your boot goes so far up my ass I'll be tasting leather!" He sighed just as I held Gilda back from actually fulfilling her promise. He approached Celestia and just opened the container handing it to her. "Apologies Princess... Just.... Can I just ask something Princess?"

Celestia took the cookies just taking one, inspecting it closely. She just took one and took a bite. She sighed and swallowed. "...I suppose... Is it something to do with what's on my mind...?" She asked. He just looked back to us and I just nodded along with Gilda. He looked back and just gave a nod as well. "....I.... I cant get it out of my mind... The way I nearly got two of my Generals killed.... Careless of me and... Now that Ryder's back I just... I feel like there's just something nagging at me... just... pulling at my heart, asking to be rectified.... I think I know what it is... Its... You... Ryder.... Not you as you are right now but... the one who was here.... who gave himself up just so Babs could go free..."

Twilight sighed as she brought us up. "...She's feeling guilty about not being able to apologize to him...." She said. "...She called me last night, scared out of her mind about the event.... She thought.... She had that nightmare that Luna saw... about the event going differently... Ryder getting killed because the guards didnt stand down.... everyone hating her for it... Even Babs going and helping Luna take over Equestria, overthrowing her, banishing her to Tartarus for that..."

I huffed. "...That is honestly fucked up...." I said.

"...It is but she just cant shake the feeling... It didnt happen but she still feels that Ryder- not ours- still holds some hatred for her for making the call for the code black and not going for the standard changeling protocol..."

Ryder huffed looking at Twilight. "She was scared that some changeling impersonated me... and they knew why that was a bad idea in the first place!" He said.

"Yeah... Fucking changelings tried to impersonate you after you died and guards had NO restraint on loading a round or two into them. Still kinda hurt to hear them they had to pull the trigger on their superior for years. Though I kept having to reassure myself that it wasnt actually him and that he was buried and we all saw it. I may have cried a time or two with that but those times it was still a bit fresh in my mind..." I just kinda hugged myself. Gilda just brought me closer and gave me a kiss on the cheek. And that was only one of the things that happened. Weeks passed, someone saw Ryder walking around and then he had the balls to try to approach his family.... Applejack tied him up, called the guard and put a gun to his head, told him if he tried anything she'd do it... she.... she did too.... Guards rolled up, she had blood on her face, the gun was nearby and there was blood and chitin around the body. Her and the family had to be brought out into a guard truck where they were brought to the castle, AJ had to go to therapy.... Oh it hurt to see. That was maybe a few years after Ryder passed. After that they stopped for a while before that day I got to tell A Ryder how I felt... not THE Ryder....

Gilda huffed. "...Yeah... And you already know what I do to protect you and your family..." She said. "Why dont we just all put our stuff away, get dressed and go out somewhere? We can figure out what to do about that Ryder later... Just gotta take a deep breath and maybe later we can do a deep dive in the library for something to find him."

Twilight sighed. "That sounds like a good idea... But I honestly cant just go out while there's no way of trying to help her...." She said. "Like actually helping her and not distracting her..."

"Ah c'mon Princess. You need to relax right now too. I dont want you stressing out but if you can, ask guards to check the library for the books you need. If anything wait for Princess Luna, have her aid you." The Princess just thought for a moment. Then just took a deep breath then sighing.

"...Fine.... I'll let the castle librarian know what books I need... While I do this I need Babs and Ryder to get Celestia to her room to change.... You can follow me Gilda." Gilda smiled and just took my bag.

"At least let me get a guard to take our things to a room for later." Ryder huffed as he handed Twilight his.

I just watched as she took it and threw it over her shoulder. "Yeah... Seems like a great idea for the time being...." He said before I looked back to the Princess on the throne. "Alright Celestia... Lets just get you to your room.... Can you walk?"

Celestia gave a hesitant nod as she tried to stand up. Used both Ryder and I to use as supports as we brought her down to the floor. Her throne is raised up with a few steps just because if anyone tried to rush her throne, she could jump back and the assailant would be slowed down. Of course... That was in the old days before firearms.... If they got in to the castle with firearms- and it was done before... ask Scootaloo- that turns into a whole different ball game. We actually had a little training about this. Us guards have access to a paintball building that is can just give us anything we want for training purposes. All the civilians get is video game levels, shit like that. But us? We get a one to one recreation of this floor of Canterlot just to practice. There are teams of guards that know placements, those doing the training arent told anything other than find the 'princess' and get her to safety. There were recruits that snuck their way through somehow but still failed because they ended up getting hit as well as the 'Princess' And yeah... the test princess was actually a random guard. The guards who did make it got promoted based on their performance. If they were hit in the legs or the arms, they could still pass but anywhere in the torso or head... yeah game over. I did decent. They didnt say anything on taking other weapons to shoot faster. No rule against it, no rule breaking. Anywho we brought Celestia all the way to her room. I sat on her bed while Ryder helped her get dressed. It was... Strange seeing a Princess stripped down to her underwear. She sighed as Ryder set her clothes aside. "...I thank you for the help Generals...." She said. "...I just.... I'm fine walking on my own... really." Ryder huffed.

"Yeah... The slow walk up the stairs putting all that pressure on our shoulders really shows it...." He hopped up on the bed next to me just as the Princess went over to the wall having a panel open up revealing just... a nice roundabout of clothing ranging from dresses to shirts, to pants, shorts, other pairs of underwear... Grand selection. She started looking at her gowns.

"...Alright alright... I'm not that alright.... I havent actually eaten anything since lunch yesterday.... I was too worried... scared even of just... everything unraveling before my eyes... The love of my friends, my sister turning against me... I just refused to eat anything thinking it would've been poisoned.... I know my sister is too good to do anything to me.... but... I just couldnt help but think it...."

I huffed as she picked out a gown and just started putting it on. This one was a violet color with gold and white accents. "Things are fine Princess." I said. "Those thoughts... They're gonna be normal after what happened... I remember hitting someone in the face during my high school days... broke their nose and got suspended... I was afraid I'd be expelled but my dad kept me in there through persuasive means. After that I was afraid of the kid I punched getting back at me.... Never saw him around school but I was scared he was just gonna corner me, jump me... I barely ate lunch, tried to get my dad to call the school, have me stay home a few days and I've tried to get out of school early... Came to a head when I passed out after not eating for a while... Only found out later in the hospital that the kid I punched was also there... Asked the doctor if I could talk with him, told him I knew him.... That kid got a bit scared but I told him I wasnt gonna harm him... Just wanted to talk, see why he did those things... turns out his asshole friends wanted to play a joke on him and told him to kick my ass.... I apologized to him, asked how long it would've been until he got back in school and asked him to have lunch with me, even I'd bring him anything he'd want...."

"But that's different General.... You could apologize... I couldnt.... Right now I just bet that Ryder is already sitting on my throne with Luna being his queen...."

Ryder huffed. "Calling bullshit once again Princess. If he and I are one in the same, he wouldnt do anything to you no matter how bad! and even if he did do something it would've been around the same thing as the beating you got when I heard Scootaloo was put in danger by you!" He snapped. "And if its the same case of us being one in the same, there is absolutely, positively NO fucking way that he'd leave Applejack just to marry your sister! Maybe bed her because we're both perverted assholes but there's no way we'd leave our wife after so much!"

The Princess just froze with her gown half way up. Ryder and I walked over taking her arms and slipping them into the gown sleeves. He just pulled it up and onto her shoulders where he helped her put her wings through the holes. "...Princess... Deep breaths.... Please? Dont want a medical emergency to happen." I said just taking her hands. She just looked at me, tears in her eyes. She took a deep breath but... a few tears already started just streaming down her cheeks. I honestly saw the pain she was in because of this. Ryder huffed as he zipped up her gown.

"There we go... All we need to do is preen your wings and get shoes on and we should be ready to go. Need help?" She just nodded a bit. "Alright... Lets have you sit down on your bed, let me get your brush and I'll help you." She gave another hesitant nod before walking with us over to the bed. This was over pretty quick. Ryder just brushed her wings, I just sat there with her helping her breathe.

After a while we were down in a transport heading somewhere to get some food... I was honestly starved. I just sat there with the Princess and Gilda. Ryder, Spike and Twilight were in another transport... cant have two Princess and four others in the car... As we rode I had the Princess drinking a bottled smoothie to keep her energy levels up. Gilda sighed. "Good to see you at least getting out Princess... Rather we get out there, have a nice day out than stay inside afraid of your own shadow." She said. I just gave her a quick nudge. She looked to me. "What gives?!"

I huffed. "She's got some real worry to this Gilda!" I snapped. "It's good she's getting out but do you know how it feels to regret something only for you to think its gonna blow up in your face?" She just huffed and looked away.

"...Alright... Sorry Princess...."

Celestia sighed as she capped her smoothie drink. "General... Its fine..." She said. "...Its only been a few days but... It still just... I feel like I'm scared for good reason... but it could be just... nothing... my own shadow as she says...."

I looked to the Princess as Gilda just moved to the other side of the truck. "Its not fine Princess. She knows she shouldnt be bad mouthing royalty!" I said. "It might be something to worry about, it might not be but its mostly the might not be part. If we do that later and pull the Ryder I saw back for you to apologize and he tries to do anything you bet your ass I will not hesitate to throw him back!"

"....I would expect you to... He just.... He's good but... piss him off and... bad things..."

"Yet if he wanted to hurt anyone that day, he would've but he chose not to. Doesnt mean he would. Could he have been pissed off? Yeah but he seemed pretty happy that everyone was safe and that Twilight took the risk to send him home. He risked his ass to defend me and get himself home. He may panic in situations like that but he knows if its worth fighting for or not. And going against you? He'd have to go through the entire Equestrian guard, me AND himself. Just deep breaths Princess..... No need for a panic attack." She just started breathing... I wish she was like Scootaloo or Ryder... apparently they have a thing where you can see their emotions with their wings... Frizzed out they're pissed, shaking, they're scared, tight feathers, anxious, the list goes on.

Anywho we arrived at a restaurant. Ryder had to run in first, ask for a private section if available. We got a room all to ourselves and were still served as if it were still open to everyone else. Of course the Princess barely ate. I made sure she at least had a goal. The guy serving us was a bit worried and stopped me when I went to the bathroom, asked if everything was alright with the Princess. Just told him she's getting over a little bit of a stomach bug so she's taking it easy on herself. Not a total lie. We paid and just went for the nearest mall for a walk to get things moving. Twilight took Gilda and Spike leaving me with Ryder and the Princess. She was looking better but we knew what hid behind he smile she used to greet the public. Ryder looked up to the Princess as we walked. "How are you feeling Princess?" He asked.

Celestia looked down at him. "...A bit better... more energy but still on edge...." She said. "Are you two doing alright?"

I huffed. "We're fine Princess. I'm a little full from breakfast but I'm glad to see you out and about." I said. "You're doing good so far. Not too cold?" She shook her head. Yeah... Forgot to say we did have to grab our coats, Celestia did have to have us go and get her a coat that went with her dress... Neither Ryder or I are anywhere near Rarity's fashion knowledge.... We just got a picture of her dress, took it to a shop, asked the attendant about what would be good for her dress, bought the one they suggested and brought it back. Anywho I sighed, a puff of steam coming from my mouth. "Good... If you get too cold, let us know and we'll find the nearest coffee shop for something warm." She grew a bit nervous looking around almost paranoid.

"...Uh... M-Maybe a warm drink will help steady the nerves... Actually dont know if its the cold doing this or my nerves... I just... I just need to breathe..." I grabbed the Princess hand before looking to Ryder.

"Ryder, look where we can find a coffee shop, once you find it take us there." I looked to the Princess just as he nodded pulling his phone out. "Alright... Steady breath's Princess..." Celestia looked to Ryder.

"...R-Ryder... When you find one just go there, order us drinks and let Babs know where it is.... I just... I need to... To...." She looked to me and immediately got green in the face. I just started looking around before just pulling her towards the first trashcan I saw. She just leaned on it as I rubbed her back. Nothing came up even with the dryheaving.

"Easy easy.... You're too tense... Just need to breathe Princess.... Just breathe, keep things from coming up..." She just kept hold of the trashcan... I slowly nudged her off the can and carefully embraced her. I just patted her back and just started leading her in the breathing. That went on for a few minutes until I looked up at her. "You good now Princess?" She hesitantly nodded still breathing. "...Alright... We're gonna find a convenience store real quick, find you some nausea meds to help you keep everything down... Rather you not lose your breakfast...." I started leading her down the lane a bit. "You feel something coming, tap me and do what needs to be done... Just try to keep it down if you can." The princess kept breathing but nodded. We did find a corner store, the clerk offered a chair for her to sit down while I grabbed a drink and some medicine for her. She took the medicine and sat there drinking just breathing. That lasted about ten minutes before she was grounded. After I paid for the drink and meds we left. I looked to her. "You alright Princess?"

"...Yes... Now I am... Thank you General." She said.

"What made you start panicking like that? Just started thinking about that Ryder you nearly hurt?" She nodded.

"Yeah... I just.... I dont want to say it out loud but... I just... I feel you have the need to hear it... I feel that by Ryder being back its punishment for me for what I did with Ryder.... It may have been a gift for you and your family... but.... just to show me I made a wrong move..."

"I asked your mother Princess. She said there was no catch. I honestly believe her. If she would lie straight to my face, I feel like we would know. Right?"

"...Its my mother we are talking about... She could lie but her good nature and where she is would make us believe her..." I sighed feeling a bit uneasy myself.

"...How about this? After we get back to Ryder and get your drink we head back to the castle? You might need some rest. We could have Twilight get you prepped and help you get some sleep... Worse comes to worse we use your sisters magic to keep you asleep and we do a little dream walk to help you. Sound alright...?" She stayed silent for a good minute thinking as we walked before giving a sigh.

"....I... I suppose.... Sleep is needed...." She yawned a bit.

"Alright. Lets go get our warm drinks and get back to the castle. I'll call Twilight and let her know the plan. Just continue breathing and let me know if you're gonna get sick." She nodded and we went to find the coffee shop. On the way there I called Twilight and told her the plan. After about fifteen minutes we were back in the transport and on our way back. This time Twilight and Celestia were alone leaving Gilda, Spike, Ryder and I in the other.

Spike huffed. "I'm honestly glad to get back to the castle... Fucking FREEZING..." He said. "I'd rather spend time in a lava bath than outside in the freezing cold..."

Ryder huffed. "Dude, you can survive in one of those.... I'd rather be in the cold than one of those dude...." He said. "Look.... We're gonna need to do something with the Princess. Gotta make sure she's comfortable, make sure she's calm and even make sure if she does panic she doesnt do anything that gets me hurt."

Gilda huffed kicking back as I sipped my fruity tea. "What can we do? I'm not really in the best shape to fight a Princess..." She said.

"That's a last resort Gil. What I really mean is I've just got a bad feeling right now... With what she's scared of is me- mainly the fact that she thinks the past me that was thought to be a changeling is now plotting against her... You already know I wouldnt ever."

"Yeah you might be an idiot but you're not that much of an idiot to take on the entirety of Equestria and the Princess. But what does that have to do with what we're gonna do?"

Ryder looked to me and I leaned forward. "Alright... With everything we know there might be a chance she freaks out and has Ryder detained on grounds of conspiracy to commit treason... If she does things wont be good." I said. "I looked to Gilda. "Spike already knows as well as Ryder but if she does do something, we have the power to stop her in her tracks. Any one of us could call Rogue Princess if there is immediate danger. In that moment, you're in control, guards will listen to you no matter rank and the royal its called on has no power to do anything other than run or fight if worse comes to worse. What we're gonna do when we get to the castle is get Luna to get her sister to sleep while we try to find a way to get the other Ryder back here so she can apologize."

Spike leaned back laying his head down on Ryder's lap. "And if we cant?" He asked.

"We'll figure something out. The royal librarians are looking for time travel spells right?"

"Yep. Twilight and I made sure of that before we left. I wouldnt mind texting Twilight to go check while you escort her back to her room."

Ryder moved him off his lap and sat him up. "Sounds like a good idea." He said. "Gilda and Babs will escort the Princess, I'll grab Luna and have her meet us at her sisters room and you and Twilight will make sure to find that book. Anyone catch wind of anything going down, call it. Can we all agree on that?"

I looked. Everyone nodded and then it came to me. "We're all on board here." I said. "Anyone has any questions, talk to Ryder or I about it." Both Gilda and Spike nodded. I'm not gonna lie the rest of the car ride felt slightly tense. Stress mixed with a little anxiety.... Most I felt that was coming from Ryder. Once we stopped Babs and Spike hopped out leaving Ryder and I inside. I stopped him from moving.

"Everything okay Babs?" He asked as I shut the door for a moment.

"Uh... I'm not sure.... Just.... Something the Princess said got me thinking... That you're only back to be a punishment for Celestia... I'm honestly hoping it wasnt that... or that there's some catch that none of us know.... Last thing I would wanna know is that you're immortal, forever to watch your loved ones die time after time...." He huffed.

"Trust me Babs... I've had that thought.... I asked Heaven's Light and she told me there was no catch to it, I'm back to live until I die again. Trust me when I say I've had Luna connect me to her mother after I was brought back to tell me if there was something I should know."

"...Alright but... she could've said something then erased your memory of it... We have to at least ask her!" He sighed.

"...Okay... We'll ask Twilight to help us with that... Get Luna to put her sister to bed, after that I'll ask Twilight... Lets just go out there and get to work." I gave a nod before I went for the door. He stopped me. "...Babs... Just remember... Whatever she tells us... I will always love you and everyone else in our family... If she does tell us something like that... we keep it secret from EVERYONE...." I gave a nod before blushing a bit looking at the door before just going and giving him a kiss before jumping out. I swear if we werent on the clock I'd want this truck put somewhere nobody could bother us.... Gilda allowing of course.... She's a bit of a strict mommy... Babs likes.... We got out and hurried over to the Princesses. Gilda and I immediately took Celestia's hand and started leading her back up the steps. Ryder took off while Twilight grabbed Spike and teleported out of there. I'm not gonna lie I've kinda wanted to be either a unicorn or a pegasus. Well.... Maybe more unicorn than pegasus after Manehattan. Still would kinda like to be either of those... Would just love to use magic to levitate stuff around... maybe pull someones pants down or something as a joke but its alright just being an earth pony... Hellofa lot more damage with strength than Ryder but we can talk about that later.

As we were about half way to Celestia's room she looked to me. "...Thank you for that medicine Babs...." She said. "...I... I honestly feel a lot better...."

I huffed. "That's good Princess." I said giving her a smile. "Lets just get you to your bed for some rest. I'll have some guards outside your door to help you with whatever you need. Still would need to get you some protection... no wet beds for you." She shuttered a bit.

"....As much as I wouldnt want that... I think its needed.... I'm honestly a bit too tired for anything...." She gave a yawn.

"I'd offer to cuddle but eh.... Not really that tired yet..."

Gilda chuckled. "Plus I might wanna see more of Canterlot outside of the castle and who better to spend the day with other than my baby girl?" She said. Oh my face burned when I blushed. Gave Celestia a chuckle though.

Celestia sighed a bit. "...I'm sorry but it tickles me so to hear of such things... You two make a great couple..." She said.

I just looked to Gilda as we started approaching Celestia's room. Even felt my marehood quiver a little. "Gil... Not the time..." I said. I was just silently hoping that she wouldnt say anything more... Especially because Ryder was coming down the hall with her sister...

Luna was still in her pajamas as she was walking with Ryder. She sighed as she met us at the door. "Sister, finally feeling good for some sleep?" She asked hugging her. Celestia nodded.

"Apologies for waking you Princess. Just need to get her prepped for bed and I dont feel comfortable with getting her prepared myself..."

"It's fine General. Better for family to do it... I know you're good but I'd rather no funny business goes on with any guards no matter the rank." She looked to us. "I'll take things from here. You go on and do what you need." I gave a nod and just started down the hall with Ryder and Gilda in tow.

Ryder sighed once we were far enough away. "Great... we got this..." He said. He looked to us. "You do NOT know how long I had to wait outside the window for Luna to open it up... Definitely colder while flying..."

Gilda chuckled. "Be glad you were still covered in that stuff.... Think you remember my dare with Dash that one time...." She said. She looked to me. "Dash dared me to streak from her place to Sugarcube Corner only being able to fly a block or two and I hated it. Lucky me there werent that many eyes on me until I got to Sugarcube Corner.... Had to make up a lie to Pinkie for her to cover me up while Dash brought me clothes. Of course she had to run back home to grab my car but still cant believe she bought the lie about my clothes getting torn up by me flying through trees." Ryder looked to Gilda.

"That must've been a sight to see... Happened after I died?"

"Yeah... Next year after that... But seriously, I dont wanna talk more about that. More important shit going on and the more we talk, less we hear." I gave a nod before we just kept on walking in silence. We just kept our ears up and our heads down just in case Celestia gave word on trying to take Ryder down. Guess anxiety ran high with him.

After a while of nothing we arrived at the library. I wasnt really partial to the libraries in my youth. Most I came to one for was mostly safety. Thought guys were following me, went in there, called my dad on a payphone and he'd send one of our workers to get me. Other times I had a book report, the fuckin teacher wouldnt let us take the books home because the same book was also being studied by other classes and just... yeah not fun. Anywho we found Twilight just going through book shelf after book shelf quickly looking over each with a few books in hand. Spike was with the librarians just putting books that werent needed back onto carts to return. Twilight flew right over us before just doubling back to land right next to us. "Good you're here! I need one of your guys help with something!" She said just handing the stack of books to Ryder who passed it off to me who just gave it right over to Gilda.

"Uh... Alright but uh... Just before we do there's something we need to do first." I said just as Gilda went and set the books down on a table next to us. Twilight looked at us curious.

"Whats up? Is Celestia doing something?" We shook our heads.

"Thankfully no not yet... Yet being the key word... But what I wanna do is at least speak with her mother about Ryder. Just wanna keep this off the record before we finish this." She hummed.

"...Alright but someone needs to stay back to keep an eye out just in case guards are mobilized. Dont wanna be surprised here...."

Both Ryder and I looked to Gilda. She just huffed knowing she wasnt gonna get out of this. "Alright... Fine... I'm gonna go and be the watch... Anything happens I know what to do." She said. Twilight huffed.

"Alright. That settles it. Gilda stays back, keep watch for guards acting weird. Lets go somewhere else for this." Ryder and I saluted before we followed her deeper into the library. We found a silent reading room just closing the door behind us, even telling a librarian we're not to be disturbed. Didnt know how many librarians Celestia and Luna would have but it would make sense if they have guards or students coming around to borrow books. Once inside Ryder and I shielded our eyes in the corner while Twilight used her magic. She strained slightly but after a flash of light she huffed heavily breathing a bit. "Alright... its done.... Lets go so you can ask your questions." We turned back just to see her just wiping her brow as a large ornate door sat against a once blank wall. Ryder and I opened it up before going through with Twilight following.

Last few times I was here.... I honestly didnt like it... Sure its everything everyone wants it to be but.... I had friends here.... Or who I hope would've been here. Manehattan. Yeah. I had to take Ryder's hand just.... scared of what we were doing.. We werent gonna back down. As we came upon the throne of Heaven's Light we stopped just seeing her dismiss a few small children into a nearby door. Once the door closed it disappeared as Heaven's Light rose. She sighed as she walked over to us. "...Too young.... Apologies you had to see that..." She said. "...Murdered by their own father before he took his own life... He would stay at the worlds in between but he deserves punishment.... But enough about that.... I assume you're here for something and not just a visit?"

Ryder sighed. "No ma'am. We just.... We have some questions...." He said obviously trying to ignore the thought of kids dying. "It's got something to do with Celestia and I.... Specifically the me that randomly appeared." She hummed.

"I've been thinking about that as well... His life is different and somewhat better now because of it. What do you want with him?"

I sat down on a chair that appeared from the clouds. "Apparently because of what happened with me and him has Celestia afraid of Ryder and not only that but also afraid of what he could do all because of the order she had done." I said. "When Ryder revealed himself to Luna to get me help, Luna told her sister, Celestia freaked out, called the code black resulting in complete lockdown, no chance to talk to Celestia and even if we did we couldnt talk her down from it. Even then it would've ended poorly if we had gotten Celestia to listen... But as for right now we have questions about the Ryder we have here... We just have to know.... Other than giving him his life back, making everyone elses lives better... is there ANY catch that we should know about? Like.... Is he immortal, is he unable to have another kid or from what your daughter thinks.... is he a punishment meant for her for what happened...?" She sighed just going back to her throne. Its like it got closer without us even moving.

"Time and time again these questions were asked but that last one I've gotta say is one I didnt mean to have asked.... Celestia perceives it as a punishment to know she messed up.... But the answer to all those questions is a big no. He isnt immortal, he is going to be able to have more children if he so wishes and he isnt a punishment for my daughter. I keep my word that he is a gift to you. Nothing more. No catches... If there was a catch it would've been from my husband but since you knew where he resided there was nothing for that. No tricks. I hope that answer suffices?" I sighed standing again.

"...That's good to know... Last thing I want is for his family to see him stay the same age only for them to just-" I stopped myself.

Twilight nudged me to Ryder to hug him. He just patted my back. "Seems that thought was deep rooted." Twilight said. "Apologies if it felt as if we were accusing you ma'am."

Heaven's Light smiled. "It's alright. They were curious." She said. "But... Perhaps I could aide you with what you're trying to do."

"How so?" The Princess asked.

"Well..." Heaven's Light started as she rose from her throne. "...Ive seen you picking out books that may hint to time travel or something. You have one such book at home in your castle. Though I'd rather you not rush back home to find it but instead I bring him to you."

"I... Dont know how that would be possible..."

"To you it may not seem it but I am a goddess. I can see timelines, old and new, some where worlds have ended, others to where worlds still go on for years. I would just need someone who was close to him to sense memories and simply borrow him from his timeline." I blushed as Twilight and Ryder looked to me. "Miss Seed? Would you care to tell me a memory you shared with him?" She extended a hand to me.

I huffed just not seeing any way out... I know Applejack and Scootaloo would've offered but... I was the only one here with close contact with him.... I hesitantly stepped forward. "...Alright but.... What I got to say may- WILL.... What I have to say will make you uncomfortable...." I said taking her hand. She took me and sat me on the arm of the chair holding me up. "Well.... I got the call from Applejack, just said to come down to the orchard for a surprise.... When I got there she told me she had Ryder but told me it wasnt her Ryder.... He was panicked and apparently got sick and when I got there he was showering. When he was done I saw him and... I just got excited. AJ told me to take him home and keep him comfortable.... I did so and it broke my heart to see him the way he was... fearing his own death. I...." I swallowed a lump in my throat. "...I got comfortable... maybe a bit too comfortable for him but.... I needed to show him how I felt after all the years after he's saved me.... We.... Oh we made sweet love.... He made me feel like it was a dream I didnt wanna wake up from..... Even got a little cuddle session after he finished.... It was amazing..." I blushed and just hid my mouth squishing my legs together... just feeling that tingle remembering that moment in time.... I looked to Heaven's Light. "....another question before you bring him... he doesnt.... do anything bad to me in his time line... does he?" She shook her head as her horn started to glow.

"No he doesnt. He would rather die before he does anything to you or his family. But... After that memory I think I have him... One moment and...." The glow on her horn became slightly brilliant before a portal opened up. It was up high and facing downward.

Didnt take but a second to hear yelling before I saw a younger Ryder fall from it and hit the ground. He was dressed in a mechanics jumpsuit. He groaned as he propped himself up. He saw the ground and just looked around seeing me, Heaven's Light, Twilight and even himself. He looked back at me as I hopped down from the arm of the chair. "...What uh.... what's going on...? Do not tell me Twilight fucked something up again..." I rushed over and helped him up before hugging him.

Twilight huffed. "Not this time but... Glad you're here..." She said joining in on the hug. "Are you doing alright since we last saw you?" We released him and he brushed himself off.

"Yeah..." He replied. "Guess memories caught up with me, fear of death and all that... Stepped down from being General but... Princesses thought it was time for me to step up as a Prince.... So you're looking at a newly crowned Prince by bestowment!"

Our Ryder- I'll just call him daddy... yeah... I'm.... I'm sorry but cant tell them apart if they're both Ryder now can you? Anyways... Daddy just chuckled. "Well shit... And here I thought I was in a good timeline..." He said going up to him. Daddy was a slight bit more muscular and rugged looking than the long haired mechanic we saw fall from nothing a moment ago. "So you're the Ryder that made Celestia go berserk. Good to finally meet me." Ryder shook his own hand and sighed.

"Yeah... guess I am... Hows uh... How.... Wow this is hard to ask..."

"Dying sucked, watching my family grieve sucked more, but I got a little bit carried away with some things even after death... Though I was given a second chance and... Gotta say its strange knowing I died and came back."

"So you're alive again??" Daddy nodded. "That's.... Wow... Are you and AJ-"

Twilight huffed. "Can you two just stop asking questions for a minute so we can get out of here?" She snapped. "Longer we stay here, the more chance there's gonna be a battalion of guards ready to put our Ryder under arrest for absolutely nothing!" Ryder sighed before looking back at his counterpart.

"We'll talk along the way." Daddy gave a nod and we just looked to the goddess. "Thank you! We'll bring him back soon... Hopefully you can put him back at the same place you grabbed him from."

Heaven's Light smiled. "Dont worry about that. I'll handle it when you get back." She said. I gave her a wave before following the Ryder's and Twilight out of here. We closed the door and just kept it up.

Just before we left the safety of this silent room, a thought came to me. "Wait!" I said to Twilight. Twilight looked to me. "We gotta hide the Ryder we pulled! Guards see him, they're really gonna panic and think theres a fucking changeling again and its really gonna send Celestia into having a heart attack!"

Daddy huffed looking to himself. "Yeah... He's the same as me but with a slight difference..." He said. "...That difference is still big enough to see.... We gotta hide him if possible. And last I experienced a perception spell it didnt go so well when I sneezed.... Guards nearly slapped me..."

Ryder huffed hopping onto the table. "Well... What've you done to try to find me other than snag me from my shop and my family?" He asked. "Sorry about this.... None too happy about leaving a job half finished...."

Twilight hummed. "....Well I tried finding books and bring you here myself." She said. "...Now that I think about it I'm not sure even if I found the book- which... honestly would've taken me a day to figure out was at home....- I dont know if I'd pull the right you... But... I guess thanks to what you and Babs did we got the right you..." I blushed hard as Ryder looked at me.

"Ah.... Yeah... Cant say I'm too proud of fucking someone who is still a filly from where I'm from but... I did have a talk about stuff that I really tried to not make awkward... Just asked her dad if she felt she thanked me enough for saving her, she ended up having her dad take me out to dinner so she can give me a gift of a watch she picked out.... with her fathers money of course..." Daddy and Twilight gave a little 'awww' making me blush harder. "Buuuut... since all things considered... hormones and an absence may have gone and made that 'thank you' a bit more special."

Oh my face was on fire but I just sighed waving my hand to my face trying to cool off my heated blush. "....Alright.... Enough embarrassment otherwise I'm pissing someones pants by pinning them down!" I snapped. I looked to Daddy. "Just... Go get some guard armor for him to wear and get a book to make it look like he's important and helping us!" He gave a nod before sneaking out the door. Even heard him fly away.

Twilight sighed and grabbed a chair. "...Yeah.... That's probably best to send him... Last thing I want is to find you naked with them just..." She said just stopping herself blushing. She looked to Ryder. "How well are you under pressure since we last saw you?"

"Considering I've been kidnapped not even a week after being a prince and was gone for a couple weeks before inciting a riot caused by two lieutenants of a shadow faction dying by my hand and one being a signal to cause said riot for me to try to take down the main guy.... I'd say very well. Then again I've had to distance myself from my family to keep from accidentally hurting them... Got bad but I went to therapy instead of having Luna see to it.... rather face the demons i've seen rather than let them nag at me until my time came.... Plus I've gotten a few new powers and toys at my disposal..." He just snapped is finger and its like he lit his finger on fire for a moment before blowing it quickly out. We both looked at him surprised.

"...I'll have to ask about that later... Just keep your voice down. We need to wait and for Celestia's sake if you start feeling panicked or something just take Babs hand and breathe!" He nodded.

We waited for a while until there was a knock at the door. I went for the door and cracked it open seeing Daddy out there and... Luna.... He huffed. "Sorry... This was my big mouth... Luna saw me, asked me what's going on and I told her we found him..." He said.

I sighed opening the door. "Its fine... She's trusted..." I said.

They both entered. Luna just looked to Ryder and smiled. "So... You're the one I talked to that long ago.... I do apologize for the trouble that followed that fated call." She said.

Ryder hopped off the table and took his armor. "If the guards had questioned me and did the changeling test, I wouldnt have done what I did after but if I didnt do what I did? Yeah... I dont think I'd've been walking out of there..." He said.

"And yet here we are with my sister panicked but thankfully asleep... for how long is another question..."

I huffed helping him get the armor on, helmet included. "Yeah... and I'd rather she not wake up until we want her.... So no being seen by anyone other than who's here." I said. I looked to Luna. "Anyone asks, he's a recruit you're showing around and decided to introduce him to me." She nodded.

Once he was suited up and ready to go we moved out. We grabbed Spike and just took a random book and started walking. Ryder stayed between us. Luna and Twilight in front, Spike in the rear, and.... Yeah me and Daddy in the middle... Fucking hate this.... I looked to him as he gripped the book to his chest. Twilight looked back. "You alright?" She asked Ryder. Ryder nodded. "Good. Just say nothing, remember what to do if you start feeling panicked." He nodded once more.

"Princess Luna, how long is your sister believed to be out? Any alarms set?"

"Three hours. That's if my magic doesnt wear off.... And considering how Celestia's sleep has been these past few days its possible it may...." I sighed.

"Guards at her door to notify you if she does awaken?"

"Always when Celestia is laid up with either a stomach bug or something. Should at least stop and check..."

Ryder huffed. "Would NOT wanna sit around and do nothin' and end up in trouble..." He said with a slight Manehattan accent. Even tweaked his voice enough for it to be nowhere near his normal voice. Gotta say, slightly impressed.

Daddy looked to him and smiled as we passed guards. "Considering this is your first day we're gonna go easy. You get breaks and easy tasks. Be lucky I'm at least here to train you." He said.

Luna looked back at us. "You take him to his assignment area around the entertainment room." She said. "I'll meet you there once business I have is attended to." I gave a quick salute before she teleported out. Lucky we had Twilight with us. She had to lead us to the entertainment room. Of course Ryder knew what to do. Sat in one of the front most seats, got a drink and kept his helmet mask ready just in case.

Lucky us nobody came in and saw. Twilight requested that we just watch a movie for a distraction to Ryder and to kill time while we waited. Though when that time came it kinda frightened Ryder. He got out of his chair and immediately got to the wall fixing his mask. We all looked to the guard who thankfully was looking at a clipboard. "Apologies for the intrusion Princesses but Celestia is awake and requests Princess Luna's help." The guard said.

I got up and looked to him stretching a bit. "Anything keeping us with her?" I asked.

"Dont see why not. She seemed pretty panicked when she asked... Could've been a spider for all I know..."

Luna sighed. "Lets hope its nothing more..." She said before looking to the group around her. "Come along now." The guard stepped outside and we followed. Ryder stayed close to me trying to act like a nervous recruit and.... honestly I feel his nervousness was legitimate considering we were going straight to Celestia herself. That who knows what situation we were walking into.

We kept the same formation. Royals up front, Generals in the middle, miscellaneous in rear. Ryder grasped my hand and just started breathing. Hopefully no guard who walks by and sees me holding hands with a recruit. They'd make fun on him SO hard... Then again if they said anything if this were a real recruit, I'd let em have it. Once we were at Celestia's door Luna poked her head in just to make sure we werent gonna go into anything that wouldnt be fun. "Sister! Good you're here!" I heard Celestia say. "Come in quick! I need you!"

"Alright but... I have our friends here. Can they come in?"

"Yes yes but hurry please!" Luna turned to us and waved us in. I just put Ryder near the door as everyone else filed in just so Luna could close the door. Inside Celestia was just in her bed, mane looking a mess and her just looking panicked as her sister went to her side.

"What's wrong sister? Did you have a nightmare?" Her breathing was shakey but she nodded. "What happened? Apologies if I didnt catch it sister I thought my magic would've helped you rest some." Celestia swallowed just removing her blankets and fixing her gown.

"...I just.... I just dreamt that.... Ryder... Just... rolled up to Canterlot... all the guards at his command... he just... burned and took everything for himself...."

Daddy gave a huff as he approached the bed slowly. "I wouldnt dare do that." He said. "Trust me, even if I wanted to the guards would stop me before I could do anything, and Babs would have to hold me down and cuff me! And trust me after what she went through it would just bring back bad memories... and I would know bringing back bad memories." She looked at me.... Past me actually. At Ryder. The past one.

"...Does... Does he need to be in here hearing all of this?" I looked back at him and I could see the fear in his eyes. "You! In front of me at once!" Ryder hesitated but he walked forward and stood within about four feet of Celestia. "I want you to promise me that this wont leave this room! I need nobody finding out!"

Ryder obviously choked on his words. Just trying to get something to come out but not tip her off it was him. That's when Gilda huffed. "Alright enough!" She snapped. "I'm gonna call Rogue Princess on you Celestia! This is fucking ridiculous!" Everyone looked to Gilda a bit shocked. "You fear something, its understandable, it was because someone we knew died, mysteriously came back and got you panicked because you couldnt be sure and wanted everyone to be safe! But here? We want you to just face your fear and do what you need to fucking do!" She walked over to Ryder and just took his helmet off leaving Celestia to just look on in fear.

Ryder smiled nervously as she threw the helmet aside. "Uh... H-Hi Princess...." He said nervously. I just looked to her just seeing her eye start twitching.

I hesitantly approached. "Uh... Princess? You okay...? Its just Ryder... The Ryder that came to us that day.... Are you-" I said. I was quickly cut off by her letting out a just... BLOOD curdling scream. Oh I just got between her and Ryder just as she started throwing pillows and just scrambled to the other side of her bed.

Guards at her door ran in panicked, tasers at the ready. "CODE BLACK! CODE BLACK!" Celestia screamed. Immediately Daddy and I got into position ready to protect.

I growled. "STAND DOWN! ROGUE PRINCESS WAS CALLED! I REPEAT STAND DOWN!" I yelled. The guards aimed their tasers. Guards funneled in behind also getting their tasers ready. I looked to Ryder- Our Ryder. "RYDER! LUNA! GRAB CELESTIA!" He nodded and immediately Luna made a magic supressing ring appear before Daddy grabbed it and flew right at Celestia, slipping that ring just on her horn before just grabbing her arms and forcing her forward. Celestia looked at her guards as Ryder cowered behind me.

"Y-YOU IDIOTS DO SOMETHING! PLEASE!" I looked at the guards.

"REMEMBER YOUR GOD DAMN PROTOCOLS! ANYONE FIRES I'LL HAVE THEIR ARMOR AND BADGE! WEAPONS. DOWN!" The guards hesitated but threw their tasers down. Some holstered, others tossed them to the floor away from them and us. "Good!" I looked to Celestia. "Now here's what we're going to do... You're gonna sit on the fucking bed and we're gonna perform that changeling test you failed to take into account the first time! Do. You. Understand?" Celestia nodded just having tears stream out of her tired eyes. "Good. Now sit and breathe. I dont like having to yell at you Princess but I'd rather not have another gun pressed to my head because of your antics!" I looked to the guards. "Run Changeling Protocol Theta fifty five!" The guards saluted and most of them rushed off. Two stayed just waiting. I looked to Ryder as I pushed him into the corner away from everyone. "You good?" He nodded breathing. "Good... Now you're gonna sit here, I'm gonna go to the other side of the room with everyone else. Just dont freak out... or change into a changeling somehow..." Yeah... I dont know how that made sense.

We had to wait for a good while before guards came in with the concentrated love magic and papers with the questions. We all waited in silence before the guard walked over to us. "Alright... Yeah... He's the General alright..." He said. "...Not sure where you found him but.... I... I almost think we should test everyone else here." I huffed.

"No need for a full test. Expose us to the love magic and be on your way." He gave a hesitant nod before doing as such. We were exposed to it for a while longer since I said to not do the questions. Only to make sure. After that he left and Ryder ran over just to hug me. I brought him over to Celestia and just sat him in her lap. "There we are! See Princess? Real deal right here. Now dont you have something to say to him?"

Celestia sniffled and hugged him. "...Ryder... I... I'm so sorry... I'm sorry please dont hate me..." She said breaking down again.

Ryder sighed returning the hug. "I couldnt hate you Princess... You were just afraid someone was tricked into believing me alive when I've been dead for so long...." He replied. "....I forgive you for that Princess... But even if someone does pass... My friends, family, your friends.... Just dont go all crazy and call code black...."

I'm honestly gonna call this cute here. Celestia cried and just was holding Ryder close. I looked to ours and... He was just sitting against the wall just smiling slightly, all the stress from the situation and today just taking off all at once. We sat there for a while before Ryder easily worked his way out of her arms before laying her down. He looked to Luna as she came over helping him down off the bed. He pulled her down a bit and whispered just making her look to us. "Alright everyone out." She said. "Babs, take him back to mother and have him returned to his timeline. Twilight, go with her and everyone.... Well done..." We all smiled and just left the room.

Once we were down the hall I sighed looking over at Ryder as he handed off his armor to a guard. "What did you say to Princess Luna?" I asked.

He huffed. "...Not saying much but... I think Celestia got a bit scared...." He said. "Lets just get me back home. I got some cars to work on." I gave a nod and on the way back we asked him what else he'd been up to since he left. Other than becoming royalty. Told us he was kidnapped, nearly left AJ because of it, bought the garage he was fired from years before and lives in it. I think our Ryder was impressed... And surprisingly he had a little toy with him that he showed us hidden up his sleeve. Course he had to get a leather strap on his hand to do it but it was kinda cool. I wanted one but when he said its a finger filet-er blade I decided quickly against it. We all got to give him a hug before Heaven's Light opened up the portal for him to go. Oh he had to tease Gilda by doing that 'soak it through' bullshit... OUR RYDER GOT SLAPPED FOR THAT and I was fucking DYING! I'll admit its cute to see her flustered but... .eh... I think thats enough for now...

Kidnapped (Ryder's POV)

It's been a week since I was dragged to Canterlot for helping Celestia.... I'm not gonna lie when I went to sleep that night I at least went into Celestia's room just to make sure she slept well. She slept well and I was lucky to be in there with nothing to wake me or deal with. The next morning I did have to get Luna for Celestia.... Not gonna say what happened but you know what happened. But now here's this thing, Big Mac moved back in! Few days after Celestia's stuff, a moving truck pulled up and we got Big Mac back into his room. And with me being alive again... its... strange... When I passed, AJ was pregnant and everyone else was younger... not even old enough to drink but old enough to drive... But enough of that. Today? I was glad to be home alone... Glad because what happened would've scared everyone... Applejack would've had a heart attack, Big Mac would've fainted, Scoot would've screamed and... I dont want my baby girl to be worried. I was on the roof shoveling snow off it. Just making sure that the roof wasnt gonna cave in nor avalanche off and block anyone in. Just as I've finished half the roof I looked to the road. Flashing lights caught my eye and sirens my ear. Guard trucks were rushing down the road. I jumped off the roof and landed tossing the shovel into the snow pile I had made. The guard trucks pulled around and I just looked at them confused and got slightly worried. Once they stopped one of the guards driving it got out and rushed to the side opening the back door only for Princess Twilight to step out. I... I honestly still cant believe she took the pill... Shining told me what he had done and... Gotta say even if it was well deserved it still must've hurt. Anywho Twilight was in a thin puffer coat and sweat pants with her boots. She approached me looking worried. "Ryder please please PLEASE... Tell me you've seen Babs today!" She said.

I thought for a moment. Only thing I saw Babs related today was a few texts asking me out for dinner... or for a quickie with her and Gilda... Maybe both. I huffed, steam coming from my mouth. "Nope. Cant say I have." I said. "Why? Something up?"

"....Are Applejack and the family gonna be home soon?"

"Nah. They went back out to Appleoosa to make sure Braeburn is gonna be alright. Mac told me after he left Brae sent him texts crying and drunk. Rather they make sure he's okay than anything else."

"Good... I need you to get your phone, any weapon you might have and come with me. I need your services and I need them yesterday!" ...Yeah.... Fancy talk for 'help now its urgent'.

"Uh... Yes Princess." I replied saluting. After the quick salute I ran back to the house and just kicked my snow boots off before running upstairs. I grabbed my phone, my gun, badge and even my combat boots to wear because of this snow. I came back out, locked the door and hurried on over to the truck getting in with Twilight. Twilight knocked on the window separating us from the driver. They rolled the partition down. Twilight looked to him.

"Keep this house locked down. Nobody in or out after we leave. Guard access only." The guard nodded before bringing up the partition. I heard the door open and shut for a moment before Twilight looked back at me.

"What's happening Princess? What's going on?? Why do you need me and my gun?!" I asked.

"I tell you, DO NOT tell Applejack or ANYONE in the family. Am I understood? Only report to me about this."

"Yes ma'am." She sighed as the door opened and closed on the truck again before we started rolling.

"...I hesitated on using you because of this but you've got connections... I didnt want anything happening to you but.... Its a risk I need to take... As of last night my castle was infiltrated from an unknown enemy. No casualties but a number of guards hit by tranquilizers, Gilda included..."

"Gilda?! Why her?" My heart dropped.

"She was in the same room as Babs who was kidnapped.... Gilda woke up to them entering her room, went for a bat and before she could grab it went down. She recounted what she remembered this morning when guards were on patrol and followed the trail. Gilda was taken immediately to the infirmary and there's no injury. When questioned thats what she told us."

"...And you want me to get my head back in the game and find Babs?" She nodded. "....Is there anything else that we know about what happened?"

"No idea. There was nobody that reported anyone being forced in, nobody outside that got hit with tranq darts...." I hummed as I hit the seat to grab a drink. Needed something because of the work I was doing and to steady my nerves.

"....Sounds almost like an inside job..... But where the hell would they go if not out any door?"

"Surely someone would've had to report it... Either that or someones with holding information thats detrimental to this.... I think we need to question some guards at any way into the castle. Helipad, garage, front door."

"Might throw anywhere around the balcony near the throne room and thank Celestia its weather proofed with magic."

"...But might not be pony proofed.... I'll get kitted out with armor and a strap for a holster and start my investigation there. Might have Gilda there to keep her calm and let her know we're not gonna let them get away with it."

"Well when you do get there, please work quickly.... I'm honestly scared that someone would take her.... She's strong enough to fight back too..." I sipped my soda.

"...She is... And she's got my sledgehammer.... I'm not getting that shit back... My strength is still with me but.... No outright destruction. She very well could've gotten hit with a tranquilizer before she woke up.... I'd ask for swabs in Gilda's bed but I think we both know what they would've been doing..." We both blushed.

"Noted... But... A question if you will. Do you want me to make sure the rest of your family is alright? Guards nearby, escorting them, maybe keep watch just in case?" I thought for a moment. They were in Appleoosa, way away from me and no way for me to protect them... But did I really wanna be worrying them? I huffed.

"....I wanna say regular patrols around the orchard area and no contact unless necessary... but I'm not sure if thats the best form of action... Think we should just give em guards to escort them? I just dont want them to worry.... Or know what's going on...."

"Last thing we want is Applejack having a heart attack... She might be an iron pony but that ticker she's got could be on the decline... Rather we dont push it...."

"Just patrols then. For now, lets just compose ourselves and let me meditate." She gave a nod and grabbed herself a drink.

We sat in silence for a while. I just sat there keeping myself composed. It may have been about ten years since I've passed but I was still there when my sister, Bloom, Sweetie and Babs were kidnapped out of Babs home... Once we actually got to the castle I did give word to send an investigative squad to her home anyways to see if they could find something. Other than that I went up to the infirmary where I found Gilda just laying there tightly holding a pillow. She saw me and... Honestly I've never seen her so broken... She sat up and just looked at me like Mash does when she wets the bed. I just took the pillow from her and she hugged me. She was still in her pajamas. Cut shirt tanktop, sweat pants and socks. "....Wh-Why would someone take her...?" She asked whimpering in my ear. I sighed.

"...I dont know... Can you walk? I wanna walk and talk, see what you remember if you dont mind recounting what happened last night." She carefully stepped down onto the floor before stumbling slightly. I helped her to her feet and just held her. I just held her hand as we started walking. She just breathed as we stepped outside the room and started going towards her room. "Alright... Just start talking any time you feel comfortable. Anything you could say might be able to help me find Babs." She whimpered a bit before taking a big breath.

"....We went out to dinner last night and she broke off to go to the bathroom last night. When she got back she seemed pretty annoyed but I just assumed some asshole was hitting on her just because she was wearing a cute outfit.... Asked her what happened, she told me to not worry about it...."

"Doing good so far Gil.... Anything else?"

"She.... She drove us in your old car.... Thought someone was following us but she says I was just jumpy because of whatever I drank last night." I looked to her confused.

"Dont remember what you had last night to drink?"

"Nah... Didnt order it myself... Babs did... But she pulled in and we went up to my room for... well... cuddle time.... and we both fell asleep.... She slept deeply but I still felt something was wrong. Slept lightly and what really got me was hearing someone in armor hit the floor outside..... Babs was still out of it... I just waited a moment hoping if we stayed quiet enough they wouldnt come in..."

"What happened when they did?" She stayed quiet for a moment.

"....Once that door opened I went for the bat I keep nearby... you know that thing.... your sister nearly beat us with it when we were sharing a mind...."

"Yeah... dont remind me of that... After I got back to the goddess she didnt know that I did that but she did say I suffered enough with that but.... Honesty was weirdly interested with that... But yeah... Something tells me you didnt get far with that bat..."

"...All I felt was a pinch and next thing I know I'm being hooked up to machines and guards hounding me asking what happened... Lucky me I didnt hit my head. Just slammed against the wall and slid down I guess.... Yeah they did check me over, flushed my system, just.... Still feeling it I guess but at least I'm on my feet..."

"Thats good. Any description?" She shook her head.

"No... The door opened, I jumped up and I was down again.... Of course I asked where Babs was but the guards just didnt know...." She whimpered a bit more just as we got to her room. I hugged her and it didnt take long for her to break down. "...I... I want Babs back....." I just carefully picked her up, brought her into the room and put her in a beanbag she had in the corner for when she smokes. I turned the light on and just looked at her room. It was a mess but it usually was. The covers were dragged off towards the door, Gilda's bat set aside from the corner. Everything marked with investigation markers. I just looked over everything and even went to the bed. I was glad the marker was near the floor because I just started picking up the blankets and checking the sheets. Of course... my answer hit the floor with a metal 'tink'. I tossed the blanket to the other side of the bed and even looked close at the sheet. A little red spot. Blood. I looked to Gilda as I carefully picked up the what I now knew was a metal dart syringe. "Was Babs closer to the door when they came in?" Gilda nodded just trying to calm herself. She's tough but... Shit really got to her. I took the dart and went over to her kneeling down. "Gil... Here's what I'm gonna do here... First I wanna get you back to the infirmary... I'd rather not have anything happen to you... you're strong but you just had someone you love taken from you... I know that feeling.... I'm gonna do something about it. Gonna need a few guards to do some analysis on this.... Should be a dart that hit Babs... might still have something left in it." I showed her the dart.

"...That.... That thing.... Just...."

"Dont worry... I'll get it away... Let me just call some guards, get this looked at and get you back... I need to get to the throne room... see if they came in that way since no guards at any entrance saw anything." She sniffled.

"....Please... just find her... bring her back to me... I... I'll do anything if you bring her back safe...." I sighed.

"I will... I'll save her and goddess help me if I die trying..." Gilda sat up quickly and grabbed me by the jacket. Just pissed, still crying.

"...You die... I'm never. EVER. Gonna forgive you...." I huffed.

"Gil.... I've been out of the picture, out of action for who knows how long... I'm rustier than a car thats been sitting at the bottom of a river for years. Just... breathe. I'll do everything the best I can..." She sniffled and released me just holding herself... the enraged look now scared.

"....Sorry... I just-"

"Its fine Gil... you're scared, stressed and worried." I stood up and just slowly backed out of the room. I found one guard and gave him the tranquilizer dart telling him to bring it back to the infirmary, see if they cant identify whats in it. That and get Gilda back to her bed in there.

As I walked I started thinking. Memories that just sat at the back of my mind creeping up. This wasnt the same as those jackasses who got the girls the first time. They're all dead. I would know. But... I needed to make a call but this wasnt something even I wanted to do.... I took out my phone and just scrolled down to 'Uncle Orange' and yeah... I know he's still going but my dad isnt.... I was told by Heaven's Light and... I gotta say I forgave him for doing what he did to my mother... But he still ended up with Hellfire... Though he started to work for him so I guess he got a good ending in that? Anywho I just tapped call and put it up to my ear. Was only a minute before he picked up. "Ryder? Been a while since I've heard from you... How are you? How've you been?" I heard him ask.

"I've been good but I need help from our mutual friends... maybe you if you can spare something to help me."

"Something happened... What?"

"I tell you, nothing goes to Applejack or the rest of the family..."

"What about Babs?" I stayed silent. I heard him gasp after a moment. "...I.... Ryder.... What happened to Babs?"

"Kidnapped. I dont know if you still have the chip in her active but I might need it as well as some armored clothes, weapons, maybe a team if possible. I'm going after her and you know I wont go easy...." He gave a dry chuckle.

"You know I cant help but track her... she's my princess and you know I wouldnt stop tracking her unless its her or me in the ground. And that hasnt happened yet..." I heard him start typing on a computer. "I'm remotely downloading an app to your phone, basically jailbreak it and more."

"What's it got?"

"Paired with a visor gives you increased perception. Increased hearing, increased visuals through sound too. Camera is upgraded as well to analyze chemicals, blood and it goes and matches it to a profiler for someone or something. I'm even allowing you to track Babs with the app just so you can get her. Best part about this is if there's a locked door with anything mechanical attached it will be high lighted. Your phone will pick it up, tell you how far it is, once you confirm thats what you're looking at, tap the one you want and just hold it down for a second or however long it takes."

"Wow... Lots of new tech since I last got a taste of this..."

"Yep. Lots of advancements thanks to a little undisclosed payments here and there. Oh and speaking of which, any time you hack something whether it be a computer or a power box or whatever you wont be traced. Work fast enough and you may not set alarms off if theres a firewall but that should be the worst you should get. You can even use any camera system. If you see a camera with the visor you can use it."

"First person or through the phone?"

"Toggleable. First person might be a tad disorienting but you'll see that it might be easier either way. Keeping you away from anything that can steal money but I can give you access to locate encrypter keys, download from anywhere within ten meters.... Theres more but I cant explain it all day. Got meetings later. Just be on the lookout after you find what you need. Get my girl home and I'll make sure you're rewarded and I wont take no for an answer."

"Alright... I'll get her home as fast and as carefully as I can. Tell your guy to ping me once he's here... I'm driving myself to where she is."

"Will do. Smoke out." And just like that he hung up. I pocketed my phone and made my way to the throne room. I just made my investigation quick. Dirt was left on the ground leading from the balcony. Floor wasnt snow covered but the railing was. It was slightly mishapen here and there around a corner but thats all of what I saw. I just looked up and down knocking snow off. The thin layer of fog almost disrupting my view of the ground. Almost. I pulled out my phone to test one of those things. The camera thing. I just hovered the camera over the dirt prints and just saw little information bubbles pop up just connected to the stain. Dirt, rubber, shit like that. But there was something more. Sand. Lots of it. Like... More than the dirt and around here the only sand we find is either by a lake or in a sand box. Thats when I just started walking back down the hall towards the elevator checking the ping from Babs chip. I hated that I know this. I really did. I had Babs location. It was somewhere in the middle of the desert to the south. And yeah... just outside Appleoosa...

I just huffed and stayed silent as I walked. As I was getting to the elevator I found Twilight there. She was leaning against the wall. "So? Find anything?" She asked. I sighed.

"Two things... Dart that was used to knock Gilda and a number of guards out. And sure enough.... The throne room balcony was their way in but it was too high up for them to get grappling hooks in... Though it its a bit high doesnt mean they couldnt have jumped down from high altitude or even were pegasus. And from what I'm gathering... highly trained...."

"Nothing that tells you where they went?" I looked up and down the halls. Nothing. I got closer to her.

"...Friend gave me a few toys... I know where she is and I have means to get to her.... Only thing is... its somewhere too close to home if you get my meaning..."

"...Near AJ?" I nodded. She sighed. "...Do what you need and for fucks sake get her back safe...." I gave a quick salute before getting down the elevator. I've honestly been meaning to get myself a new car but havent gotten the chance and you know I dont like help with it. But I didnt have the keys to the car.... Though I did just grab a guard truck and took it. I met a contact out near an abandoned shop. Just got changed into a coat, ballcap and neck gaiter. Even grabbed a silenced pistol and enough ammo to stash in the coat pocket. Even grabbed a vest just to be safe. My strength is a godsend to be honest... carrying everything because I can. After that I was carted off to a helicopter just to get there faster. Oh even with the door closed it was freezing. I just sat there monitoring the location of Babs on my phone. Felt like every ten minutes we were closer and closer. Took around forty five minutes when I told the pilot to hover. Now... I really regretted.... I just shoved my hat into my coat and just jumped. And holy shit it was cold. I didnt fall for long before I opened my wings. I'm ballsy yes but I'd rather not miss time it and run my ass into the ground. I flew around doing small dives here and there to just make sure I got to the ground faster. Once I landed, mask was up, cap was back on and the phone was out. It was strange seeing yellow sand poking through small amounts of white powder. I just looked around hoping my ass wasnt a sitting duck for someone to shoot me. I just pulled my phone out and just started looking around at pings to any automatic doors or some shit. I just wandered over the ping where Babs was and just sat down before pulling out a visor I had in my coat pocket. This was like a pair of glasses. I activated the sight and everything just started glowing weirdly. I saw stuff start glowing yellow like a large door, camera and other computer stuff. The yellow dor quickly flashed green and I heard something loud and mechanical sound off. The door I saw started to lift up. I hit the dirt just around a bush. I kept out of sight only to see the ground lift up and someone come out. They had a strange helmet on. Looked ballistic. He huffed as he took the helmet off setting it down before grabbing a pack of smokes from his pocket. I just grabbed my pistol, attached the silencer and stood up before giving it a quick aim and all it took was one quick shot and he was down. I rushed over and just looked at his uniform. I hummed.

"Nah... Too small..." I looked to the hole before me. "Alright... Just take this slow, listen to your surroundings...." I quickly looked back to the body quickly grabbing him and tossing him aside. I grabbed his helmet and just checked it real quick....Nothing needed so I crushed it before tossing it at the guys body. I slowly descended turning the sight the visor gave me into a slow ping just because it was well lit in here. It still high lighted everything I could use. I just quickly went for the nearest room to hide. And I made sure nobody else was gonna use it. Janitors closet. I huffed just starting to use my phone to hack into cameras.

Just started sliding from camera to camera until I found Babs. She was in a cell looking awful. Her hands bound and she was just sitting on a bed with a strength sapping collar. Yeah... Definitely guards. This was used on me before as a test. Never had it actually used. Oh I was pissed at this point but the last thing I wanted was to just have enemies swarming me with nothing but a peashooter to protect myself. I just huffed. As I started looking through cameras, starting to mark enemies. Only could mark about half a dozen. Even found the closet from where I was. And of course.... bad thing there. Two guards on patrol and talking. "...Really surprised nobody has gone and sent an army after this bitch... probably not enough evidence to go on... We are DAMN thorough." One of the guards said.

The other guard huffed. "Assuming nobody saw where we went or left anything behind..." He said. "We made sure not to leave anyone to see our uniforms. Griffon bitch nearly did... Honestly would've loved to see her put up a fight if one of our guns jammed... would give us a story to talk about..." They both stopped in front of the door.

"From the research we've done we honestly couldnt have pulled off that shit better... Went in, grabbed an Equestrian General and got out, no alarms raised. They're probably doing everything they can to try and find her...."

"Well if we left anything behind, we're gonna expect an army to roll down on us... if they can trace us..." I just kept my composure watching them talk.

They jawed for a few more minutes literally just STANDING THERE. Oh you dont know how bad I wanted to go out, pop a few bullets into em and continue but again, rather not without a secondary or something faster than a silenced semi automatic pistol. Though I wouldnt mind a couple knives... or machete... Or my sledgehammer. But as I watched someone yelled out. "PRIVATES! WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING TALKING TO EACH OTHER?!" I heard someone yell out. "YOU'RE SUPPOSED TO BE ON PATROL!" I just kept watching while another stallion walked in from off screen. Could actually hear his yells through the door. The private's stood in attention. Heheh... I'm a child.

"We were just-"

"I DONT CARE IF YOU WERE SHOOTING THE SHIT OR TALKING ABOUT THE MISSION!" The stallion growled a bit. "AND ADDRESS ME AS SERGEANT! I WORK FOR A LIVING YOU MORONS!"

"YES SERGEANT!" Both stallion yelled saluting. The Sergeant sighed annoyed.

"Thats better!" He looked to one stallion. "You! Report to the messhall for your punishment and for fucks sake I better not see you sitting down!"

"YES SERGEANT!" He said as the sergeant looked to the other stallion.

"And you! I'm getting fucking sick and tired of your dumbass thinking you can do whatever you fucking please! Your punishment is I want you to walk into that fucking closet, grab cleaning supplies and if I dont see you working on cleaning this entire facility top to bottom I'm gonna personally kick your ass so hard the whole base will feel it! From there only the colonel will have your ass for dinner! Am I understood?"

The stallion gave a nod. "Yes sergeant!" He replied.

"GOOD! I'm going to continue this patrol and if I dont see you anywhere but the halls with a mop or someone in your place because you're being allowed to the restroom, or running for your damn life! DISMISSED!" The stallions jumped and I had to act fast. I just looked around the closet quickly.That was until I saw the sergeant walk away while the other guy ran. The private huffed.

"...jackass.... I had an idea but... honestly there was a fifty fifty of it working. I got ready by the door. When it opened I quickly grabbed the guy and closed the door pinning him against the wall before closing the door.

I shoved my gun in his chest and just started breathing heavily, my heart racing. "You scream, or alert anyone, you're dead. Now... What happened with this Equestrian General! I know you have her!"

"I... We..." He stayed silent for a moment before slowly raising his hands and removing his helmet. I watched as he took out an ear piece and shushed me silently before I plucked it from his fingers and crushed it in my hand. He sighed. "A-Alright... now nobody will hear us... She's safe for now but... Th-They may want to kill her or use her as leverage for power... weapons, whatever they want...."

"They? Who's They?"

"I... I dont know.... We're just the protection... Its a need to know basis and only the Sergeant has clearance for that knowledge... I just know destroying that comm link will get them to lay into my ass but... I just wanna get out of here..."

"Any way for them to track you? Maybe make your life a wreck?"

"Nope. Thank fuck.... I can just go and the only thing they'll do to me is keep my last paycheck... not worth getting shot at.... Or held hostage like this..." I sighed putting the gun away.

"Good... When we leave this room, go straight for the door and watch the body at the top... if thats a guy you knew, I'm sorry..."

"If its a guy who smokes alot, fuck him.... Always makes it seem like the shit he does wrong is my fault..."

"Good. Now get out of here. And if you ever find yourself in Ponyville I may have work for you if there's no trouble... if there is, tell me, I'll handle it..." He nodded and put the helmet back on before leaving. I just watched him through the cameras before he just bolted for the door. I grabbed the weapon he dropped into a nearby bucket... SMG and it looks like it was already silenced from what I saw. I checked the chamber, even the clip itself. Seemed to be a good chunk of bullets but rather keep this in single fire and use it as a projectile if I run out of ammo... And yeah... throwing things hard enough is a specialty of mine.... Shining tested me once before I died. Gave me a throwing knife, taught me how to throw it, I did and it went through a tree and into another. Yeah... AJ was pissed.To be honest I could probably throw bullets at a good speed or even fire em off in my hand. Rather not do that but I'd be lying if I said I didnt wanna try it. I went down the halls just being careful and quiet just keeping eyes out for patrols... Especially from that asshat Sergeant. I came upon two guards patrolling. I just came up behind them, snapping ones neck, the other got my gun point blank to his chest.... I took ones hidden knife. Curved bade, end had a ring lined with glass beaker spikes. Oh you bet I took the sheathe to that and attached it to my belt. But next thing I knew I found an armory. Unguarded.

I slipped in and just grabbed everything in my coat before ditching it. To be honest I was kinda burning up in that jacket... Best I ditch it and get into something that makes me blend in more.... Even found some more ammo for this SMG. Though just as I came out in a vest and a helmet that actually fit my head (had to stuff my hat into the vest and just made sure I wasnt gonna be suspicious.... Though I got the last thing I wanted to hear. "YOU THERE!" I heard someone shout. "You wanna explain to me what you were doing in there?!" I looked over hesitantly and just saw the Sergeant... Same loud and obnoxious voice.

"I uh... I was getting my issue Sergeant! I'm a new recruit!" The Sergeant looked me up and down before just standing in front of me... Rant coming.

"YOU'RE OUT OF UNIFORM SOLDIER! WHERE IS YOUR COMBAT SHIRT?!"

"I wasnt issued one and this was approved by the one who brought me on!"

"YOU EXPECT ME TO BELIEVE THAT MAGGOT?! THE TRUTH IS, YOU'VE LOST AN EXPENSIVE PIECE OF YOUR FUCKING UNIFORM! THAT PIECE IS GOING TO COME OUT OF YOUR PAY!"

"But sir I-"

"I AM NOT A SIR! I WORK FOR A LIVING YOU MORON! GET BACK IN THERE AND FIND SOMETHING OTHER THAN THAT FUCKING EYESORE!" I took a deep breath and huffed.

"Yes Sergeant! But are you able to help me out finding one that might fit? Sizes arent usually similar with my luck." He gave an annoyed grunt.

"Since you're willing I'll give you the once in a life time opportunity for this... I'll pretend to be a nice guy and aid your sorry ass before sending you on your first assignment! Move it rookie!" I turned back inside and just stood off to the side just waiting for him to enter. Once he got in I closed the door.... I spent no time dispatching him as cleanly as possible. Grabbed his helmet, ripped it off, shot him in his stupid face and just frisked him. Found a keycard and key ring. Took both of those and pocketed them before dumping his body into some laundry before exiting. I huffed walking down the hall once more.

"...One more stop like this and I'm gonna rip into someone and just find a fucking mini gun or something big and just walk my ass into the fucking mess hall and unload... Honestly getting too old for this shit." ....I'm honestly feeling old but I'm what... like... forty somethin'? No idea. Anywho I just went on a patrol... Just made it seem like I knew what I was doing passing everyone with no salute, no words, not even any attention. Surprisingly my visor fit in here but I didnt wanna use it considering my vision was already blocked enough. I did keep my phone within reach though just in case. I did stop and hide just to find where I was and where I needed to go. Just so close to her.

I went and found the cells just to patrol there, being weary of other guards. Yet there was one.... He was at the end of the corridor. Just looking into one of the cells. I got closer and just listened. "We're lucky to have you.... God damn General of Equestria and being so well mannered in her cell...." The guard said. "...We had our eyes on the last one but we knew he'd be trouble so we'd've had to go and refined that serum we knocked you out with.... Thankfully he bit a bullet.... It was only a matter of time before we found someone else." I let my SMG dangle on the strap I had. I slowly approached him from behind and slowly unsheathed the knife before giving it a twirl on my finger... Oh I stuck that thing right under his helmet, pulled him right back onto it and just made sure he wasnt gonna get back up. After I took the knife out I put a couple rounds in his chest before looking into the cell. Babs. She was just backed up against the wall just looking at me in fear. I wiped the blood from the knife on the uniform before sheathing it again.

After that I just put my finger up to where my mouth would be, wordlessly shushing her before raising up the helmet and pulling on my mane. She immediately gave a sigh and came off the wall. I just pulled my phone again and just immediately started looking for things to hack. First I ended up hacking her cell door, and then her shackles. That door opened and she hobbled her way out. I just kept her at arms length for a sec while I took the strength suppressing collar off her and immediately she just hugged me. She sighed looking to me. "And here I thought I was fucked.... How did you find me?" She asked.

I huffed as I just turned off the camera. "We can talk later. For right now, grab this guys gun and follow me." I said. "I think I'm needing to see if I cant get this place cleaned out for some mutual friends...." She just went for his gun and checked it, same as I did.

"Alright but... I've never killed anyone before..."

"Trust me, its better to do this to survive than not... and these guys might not fuck around.... Its either fight or keep your head down..." She huffed and handed the gun to me. I grabbed it and huffed. "Alright... Just keep your head on a swivel and if you see anything, get out of the way...." She nodded and we started hurrying to the door. I stopped her and just poked my head out of the open door. I looked to her and just looked at my phone real quick... Then I found something that could help us. I took my helmet off and gave it to her. "Here, put this on. Not sure how secure it is but this seems like it could help you see in the dark...."

"But... its not dark..." She said putting the helmet on. I showed her my phone with a button that said 'blackout'

"I know..."

"But... how-"

"Not the time Babs. Just.... Get under the door, hands up and brace yourself."

"What? Why?"

"I dont know if these doors have an auto lock feature for safety reasons." She nodded as the helmet was on. She got under the door and put her arms up. I hit the button and within a few seconds things flickered before going out. I turned on the sight I had before the door just came right on top of her. She held it there for a moment before hearing something burst. Most likely the hydraulics. She carefully bent it just so it would stay and I could hear the prisoners start yelling. That's when I hummed looking back at em. "I might regret this but we need to free these guys. Either that or my friends could...." Babs looked back at me.

"Get your friends to do it... longer we stay here the bigger we are for sitting ducks!" I nodded before we both ran out. I quickly bolted back the way I came and just kept the guns ready. I started hearing more yelling from ahead. I just pointed at a box for Babs to hide before I just crouched down getting ready. I could faintly see some flashlights from around the corner of a hallway. I just kept em ready.

Soon I saw three goons rush around, one took a look at me. "C'mon asshole, we're-" He said... I may have not let him finish. I just sprayed both the guns dropping all three. I looked back to Babs who was just peeking over the box.

"Babs... C'mon... And please just grab a gun or something... Rather you have something even if you dont use it...." She came from behind the box and just carefully approached.

She shuttered seeing the bodies. "...I might be a guard but... I've never been in a gun fight... Only had one pressed up against my fucking skull..." She said. I sighed.

"Look... Its not gonna be easy... It never will be.... I can already tell you right now that I'm probably gonna have to make sure if Applejack comes home that I make myself sleep on the couch... Either that or pretend that Gilda invited me over just so I can sleep at the castle without any suspicion... We're already a fucking stones throw from Appleoosa again..." She huffed as she walked over to one of the bodies and kicked it before taking their side arm. Revolver, snub nosed.

"Cant escape waking up in a fucking desert now can I?" She rolled the chambers on her arm getting a good look at em. "Alright... You do all the shooting, i'm only shooting this if I feel in danger...."

"Keep it around if you want, I might tinker with it if I can get the right parts from the Princesses... Make it yours?" She hummed spinning it in her hand.

"...A keepsake? Fuck it... Rather this than ever lasting memories of death..."

"Please do not give me that attitude... I know you're stressed and I'll forgive it this time but just breathe, aim first and then fire once you know you have your target... Now lets move." She nodded and I just rushed by her. She followed me being careful of the bodies. She huffed.

"I'm glad I was in my underwear last night... Gilda should still have my phone and my wallet... just hoping she didnt use any cash I have...."

"She's been laid up after getting tranq'd. Worried sick too. She's probably not gonna go anywhere until you get back to her.... Just hoping we can get out of here without having to resort to heading towards Brae's place... And unless we make up a story that AJ will believe I dont think that's a good idea...."

"Yeah... Think we can at least get away from here before we think about anything like this?"

"Yeah... Good idea." We just rushed through the halls, being weary of everything around us. Oh I even had her wait so I could try something to a few guys around the corner. Yeah... I know I was told to be careful but they were coming our way. I still have my cocky side and all it took was a dive and a quick burst from both SMG and they dropped like rocks. It got a little laugh from Babs but she just rushed over, helped me up and we just kept on going. That's when we made it to the door. Upward ramp to pretty much nothing. She quickly ran up it and just started pushing. She didnt get much force behind it because she slid down slightly.

"Shit its stuck!" I took my phone out and just looked at it. Nothing to connect to.

"Nothing to help me open that... still might have to use force..." I looked back at her as I pocketed the phone. "Grab that hammer if you still remember how to grab it and give it a swing or two!" I looked back down the hallway getting my guns ready. "Hurry. Think we're gonna have company in a minute!" I hunkered down on the other side of some crates and just peeked over. And once I saw the lights from flashlights you bet your ass I opened fire. Babs put her hand behind her back and grabbed the hammer... I honestly wish I still had it.... But glad I dont. She just readied it before a volley of bullets answered mine. I just hunkered down and she just pulled it back like she was readying a golf swing. She grunted and swung that thing hitting the door. It gave a little and I cold see light. "KEEP GOING!" I glanced over the box again and just sprayed again. Once the one I took was empty I just stood up and gave that thing a good chuck hitting someone with it. I quickly hunkered back down grabbing some extra ammo reloading my gun just before shooting again. She swung the hammer again, sparks flew from the hit. Again I could see more sunlight. "ONCE MORE! WITH FEELING" I quickly spent the ammo in the smg and quickly chucked it before going for my pistol. I just took the silencer off and just started blind firing knowing they were getting closer and growing in number. That last hit couldnt have come sooner. One guy was right on top of me. I shot him used his body as a shield, kicked the box at the rest of them which were still down the hall a bit and just rushed over to the door just before crawling out. Babs of course was out first. She still had the hammer. I took it, put the dead guys head under the door and looked to her. "RUN!" She didnt hesitate before just keeping the gun ready as she ran away. I got up onto that door and it took my weight and just one rage filled slam on top of that door to sever the guys head off letting it drop in. I even put the guys body on top of the door. I even slammed on the door a couple times just to break it and make it unable to open... or at least buy some time. That's when I rushed after Babs.

We just kept running through the frozen desert. I just started a call to Uncle Orange. It didnt take a few minutes for him to answer. "That was fast... Get her out or do you need saving?" He asked. I huffed.

"Got her but I hope you have that location pinned for the boys.... Dropped a few of em but I think we might need a bit of a bunker buster to get back in there... or a shit ton of breaching charges stacked on each other...."

"Oh I wouldnt let you play without backup... Should be around you momentarily.... Extraction included."

"Good... Get us out of here and somewhere safe... Bring us to Manehattan if you want but if you do that I think you owe her a bit of an explanation on how I found her..." He huffed.

"Alright.... Should see a couple choppers over your location, I'll tell the one coming for you to bring you to my office. I'll have clothes for both of you, maybe a drink and some food... Think she'd need one...."

"Understood. We'll be there. Just... Know if she freaks out just... be gentle... She's been through some shit...."

"Right... I'll see you in a while." I hung up my phone and we rushed for one of the first choppers that landed. They all had masked ponies come out armed to the teeth which honestly scared Babs. I just had to hold the gun she had just out of view before taking it myself. I actually was glad this chopper had holsters for side arms. I just slipped it in there as well as my own before we just sat there relaxed.

Babs looked to me as she slammed the door shut and sat down strapping herself in. "...Oh thank fucking Celestia neither of us caught a bullet...." She said. "...How the fuck do you stay so calm with that?"

I took a deep breath and sighed as we started taking off real quick. I handed her a headset and she put it on while I got mine on just flashing a two for the channel she should use to talk to me. Once I saw her find the channel I huffed. "It's been some time but I had to be... Something tells me we're not gonna sleep soundly tonight..." I said. "And before I forget, I apologize for how I acted down there but rather you be safe rather than dead... Wouldnt forgive myself if you got fragged because I wasnt paying attention or something." She sighed.

"Stressful situations... sorry if I acted the way I did... worried that there was more than just me that was nabbed..." I grabbed my phone and just opened up the camera.

"Wanna smile for the camera? Gotta make sure Gilda and Twilight know you're safe if thats cool." She gave a nod and I just snapped a picture of her. "There... and about that, dont be sorry. You still kept your head on straight despite us both being anxiety, trauma ridden ponies.... Now lets just take a deep breath and relax.... Got a long flight ahead of us..." She nodded and stretched out. I sent off the picture of Babs to Gilda and Twilight and Twilight was the only one to respond. Just said that it was good that we're alive and uninjured.

That flight took a bit. Took so long Babs actually nodded off. I had to swap seats real quick to make sure she stayed upright as we flew. That took about an hour almost. But when we were circling a building I nudged her awake. She jumped a bit and looked around rubbing her eyes. Of course it was snowing here so most of the buildings were covered in snow on top. The chopper came into land and I could just see snow blowing all over the place. We waited a moment before opening the door and Babs just squealed feeling the cold air rush in. I crouched down just so she could get on my back just so she didnt put her bare feet in cold snow. I carefully brought her out from under the blades and we watched as the chopper flew out. Once the airborne snow cleared a bit we saw Uncle Orange coming out of a door, cane in hand supporting him. Suit, faded green gray mane, but still looking good. "C'mon you two! Inside or you'll catch a cold!" He said.

I rushed on over and once we were inside I set Babs down. This place was nice. Old regal rich look. Antique clock, flat screen above a fully stocked bar.... oh it was amazing. An upgrade from what he used to live in before the Manehattan attacks. "Dad...? What are we doing here?" Babs asked. "Why'd the pilot bring us to you and not back to the castle?" He huffed as he came back in having the door shut firmly behind him.

"...Who do ya think sent your boyfriend there?" He asked.

"You? You sent him?"

I huffed. "Wanna sit us down and give us something to warm us up? Its like negative ten up here!" I said.

He gave a chuckle and a sigh. "Right... where are my manners?" He said leading us over to the bar. A bartender quickly appeared. "Whiskey for me and the other Stallion, Vodka Raspberry cocktail for my daughter. Waters too please." The bartender nodded and quickly got to work making our drinks. He sighed looking at Babs just glad to be somewhere safe but confused on why it was here with her dad. "Yeah Babs... I sent him.... Same reason we found you and your friends when you were kidnapped all those years ago... but... I should just up and say something...." The bartender set glasses of whiskey next to me and Uncle Orange. As soon as he did that he started shaking out a shaker that he had quickly got filled up with a few things. I sipped my whiskey and it burned real good on the way down. Once that drink was poured and Babs had it in her hand Uncle Orange sighed. "Babs... I know how you were after what happened here all those years ago... scared that you nearly died, I was scared thinking I'd lost you.... Yet it was better once I found you alive and well... your mother never knew but... I was so scared I'd lose you to a kidnapping or some other attack that.... I was worried.... When I scheduled your shots one day to make sure you were protected from the flu and such... I had implanted a microchip in your arm just so I could track you like this.... And now I know what it seems but.... I'd rather not lose you because you went missing."

I looked to Babs... She just drank her drink and huffed as she set her glass down. "....Honestly makes sense every time I was stopped at venue's for bands and shit..." She said. "...Always get the metal detector to go off, they'd frisk me, wave the wand and somehow it would always pick up around my arm but... Never knew what it was.... Thought there might've been some debris or something from being a scrapper but... I...." She stayed quiet.

"...I do apologize for this sweetie.... though its not easy to admit it.... I was scared and didnt know what else to do.... I could have it shut off and extracted or I could even have someone encrypt it so just in case something like that happens again only a select few can track you just in case...." She looked to him.

"Dad... We can talk about this later.... I think we just need to finish our drinks and go get some food... could go for a hayburger right about now...." He sighed.

"Let me get someone to go get you some clothing and we'll go get something." She nodded and he just took his drink and hobbled away from the bar.

I waited until the bartender just got waters for us and left us alone. "....You good Babs?" I asked. "Thought you'd've yelled more or something...."

Babs sighed swirling her drink in its glass. "...He's right to worry for me... I go missing and dont turn up.... What's stopping you or him for worrying yourselves sick until I do turn up either alive or dead?" She asked. "....I honestly cant yell at my dad no matter what happened... Even if he did pretty much spy on me my entire life..."

"....So... you are mad?"

"Honestly not really.... I kind of applaud him for keeping me in his sights, showing he cares.... Might be some weird helicopter parenting bullshit but.... At least I can say I've got a dad who loves me..." I sighed.

"He's a caring one... Might be going at it a certain way but.... Yeah... true...." I just drank my drink and just got started because my phone started ringing. I nearly dropped my drink because it was Aplejack's ringtone... I set my drink down and just drank my water real quick just to stifle my coughing. Once I got my breathing back I answered it. "Hello? AJ? Whats up?"

I heard Applejack sigh. "I'm calling to tell ya that we WERE gonna be home sometime tonight but somethin's happenin in the desert." She said. "Called the guards and they say its a training exercise and they might be a bit too close for comfort... Just telling us to shelter in place... even telling us any roads out of here are gonna be closed until tomorrow." I looked over to Babs.

"Hopefully everything's alright over there. Actually had to get inside and out of the snow.... Got most of the roof shoveled but I honestly dont wanna go back out there."

"Ah its fine. Aint like you're gonna have to go back up there.... Heard there might be a blizzard headed your way! If I was you I'd get the hell outta there and somewhere else. We should be fine staying here a day or two more."

"Give it two. Might be able to clear up the road if I get the chance and a little help from some friends."

"Just dont go making a giant sledding hill... Aint wanting Mash having any ideas or injuries because of that... Just.... I dont know get it out of the way somewhere. Now I gotta get going. Brae's making some dinner for us."

"Alright, give Mash a hug and call me if you need help moving anything! Dont want you hurting yourself now!"

"Jackass..." I chuckled.

"Love you too AJ, see you later." I hung up and just gave a relieved sigh.. "Well there's our alibi if we end up getting home late...."

"Anyone asks I came by and stole you away just for coming out to see my dad to get away from the storm.... Might have to borrow from my dad just to do anything until we get back to the castle."

"Good.... I forgot my wallet too... Only grabbed my phone and my gun-" I looked back at the helipad. "Which... I left on the chopper... fuck...." I huffed looking back at Babs. "Gonna have to make a side trip unless that thing gets given back to me somewhere...."

"Well if my Dad sent you, ask him and he could get it. For right now... lets finish our drinks. Get ready for later." I nodded. We finished our drinks and I gotta say it was good whiskey. We ended up getting some clothes from a shop just downstairs and across the street. Had to go out with Babs and Uncle Orange. And yeah I had to carry Babs across the street. The way ponies looked at us was weird.... Her in a jumpsuit and no shoes while we were both under dressed. We just got whatever was good, me I just got a thick coat and a beanie, Babs got an entire outfit. We ended up going to a bank shortly there after just for her father to give us about five hundred each- me a bit more considering what I did. That night we did stay up a bit being not really able to sleep. It was however a bit of a light sleep considering she kept rolling and whimpering every now and then. I had to hold her, make her felt good. We actually flew back to the castle early in the morning... We were pissed about it but the fact that Uncle Orange had us ready for this. Gave us new clothes he got, energy drinks for us to be ready for the flight, my gun back and he even put in a call to Princess Twilight after we went to bed just to let her know we'd be coming back... AJ didnt even know what happened thank fuck... rather not put her into the hospital because of my antics and saving her cousin. But Gilda? Oh she got so excited she pissed herself. Like she hugged Babs, next thing you know she's pushed her away and had her hands pushed between her legs with her pants just getting wetter.... Embarrassing but I acted like a father getting her changed. Was glad I got Babs back. I did continue to check in with Babs to let her know I'd be there for her just in case she did start freaking out badly like I used to. But hey... She's good for now... Next time? Yeah... next time...

The Scared Filly's Scars (Babs POV)

Well... that was something. Let me recap. I was just on a date with Gilda and it was going very well. Until I noticed a group of stallions looking at me. I excused myself and went to the bathroom. Even told the host we might need someone to walk us out after our meal and to keep an eye on the stallions. I got back, reassured Gilda things were alright and we left soon after. Got back to the castle and I guess Gilda and I were good enough to fool around. After that we managed to get some sleep, she woke up and dove over me just to grab a bat but I barely got my eyes open before I woke up in a high security prison underground outside of Appleoosa... Why the fuck do I keep waking up in random spots? Dont know. But the saving grace was Ryder... Apparently sent by my father... After being flown out to him, getting a few new outfits on his dime.... Awkwardly I might add.... I was in a prison jumpsuit which... I can admit I kept and just altered a bit via Rarity... Just told her I bought it. But there were a few ponies who ferried children away from me and even wanted staff to call the guard thinking i was an escaped convict. We did speak with the guard after purchasing our clothes with my dads card- which Ryder had to call my dad to have him verify the name on the card and everything- and they left us alone... They were about to be dug into by a mare who wanted us to be arrested but I gave her what for. Told her it was a costume, I got mugged and they dont have jumpsuits like this in ACTUAL prisons! Oh she shut right up and apologized. But you can bet I had a long talk about how I was found with my father.... Apparently after the Manehattan Attacks he took me to get my shots and he had a tracking chip put in my neck. I told him I dont care what he does with it but to ask and let me know what he wants to do with me in case shit happens to me. But its been a week since then... We stayed a few days in Manehattan and I just told Applejack I wanted to invite them but only found Ryder and got him to come. And I even had a fake text typed up on his phone and told him to not send it so she'd believe it. But yeah... We were back in Ponyville and... I couldnt sleep in my house alone... I just felt like there was something wrong there. Like I wasnt safe. Same with the castle. And that place is crawling with guards... same with the night I was taken... but it still didnt make me feel better... Even with Gilda around... Tried everything from alcohol, drugs (melatonin and edibles) and even went up to Canterlot to have Luna help me... She did but she could only keep me asleep for a few hours before I pissed myself... Lucky me she was prepared for that. But yeah... Right now I'm sleeping on the couch at Ryder's place... His family all back around us... It felt nice... like this was the way it was supposed to be... well.. minus me on the couch of course... and... Applebloom still moved in with Diamond and such.... But I was mostly comfortable... Mostly... Meaning I was able to sleep here but not as deep as I'd like.... I was somewhat tossing and turning here until I got up and had to rush to the restroom to piss... And... Hug a trash can... I had to grab it half way through... And I couldnt keep it down... Not even a moment after I did lose dinner into that there was a knock on the bathroom door. I looked up weakly, the bright light of the bathroom burning my retina. "Babs? Babs you good in there?" I hear Ryder ask.

The door opened a bit and I grabbed a towel off the rack to put on my lap over my legs. I just hugged the trash can spitting into it. I just watched as he came in, pajama bottoms and a tank top, closing the door behind him. He came over and sat on the edge of the bath tub and rubbed my back. "...I... I'm sorry if I woke you...." I said softly. "...I thought I was just getting up to not mess up the couch but.... My stomach had other ideas...."

"It's okay... Applejack was gonna check on you but I told her I'd handle it. What's wrong...? Another nightmare?" I nodded slightly before gagging a bit. He pushed the trashcan up a bit and I hacked a little bit into it. I whined like a little filly just... holding a bucket with half my dinner and left over toilet paper tubes and stuff in here. She just shushed me and rubbed my back. "You done here?" He gestured to the trash can. I shook my head. "Alright... I'll see if we cant move things around with sleeping arrangements and see if we cant get a bed to share.... Think Big Mac can spare his bed for the night... When you feel like you're done, bring this downstairs... Kay?" I nodded sniffling. He huffed. "I'll have something to make sure your stomach stays good for the rest of the night... Meds, a snack and something to drink... You'll be fine..." I gave a nod. He just got up and left me in here for a bit. I just sat here waiting for a bit just breathing making sure I didnt do anything more....

Lucky me I didnt. I just got up carefully, cleaned myself and just went back downstairs. I brought the trashcan down only to see Big Mac just moving my stuff into his room. He handed them off to Ryder before looking to me in the dim light of the room. "...Another one eh?" He asked. I nodded. All I could do. He sighed hugging me. I hugged him back.... Always loved my cousins hugs.... There was all love in those hugs. Any time I'd see him before or after Ryder's passing he'd give me a hug and it was the best. Felt like shit after school or after dad was pissed off at me and just didnt want me in the house? Mac gave me a hug and it just made me feel a bit better. "Least this time I dont gotta sleep on the floor in here... Or the recliner..." ....Okay yeah I pissed myself on the couch one night.... He had to flip the cushions, wash the linings.... Yeah not fun. He just put his hands on my shoulders and looked at me. "....You're always welcome here and I dont mind giving up my bed if need be. Just ask." I gave him a little smile and just nodded before I went into his room just stopping to just hand him the trashcan. He took it and I closed the door behind me. Ryder was on the bed almost like my dad would be on a night after I wet the bed.... Diaper in hand.

I didnt fight it.... Nor did I do anything to stop it. Or do anything to tease him. I just didnt know what else to do. He just got me all padded up, dressed me again, gave me a drink, a snack and some meds. He even made sure I was comfortable. I was... I actually fell asleep... Only way I could sleep and feel comfortable doing so. Though as I slept I was now sat in the middle of a park in Manehattan. Course it was just a different style of Manehattan I saw in a movie. Everything was just.... Well... Think like ancient oriental areas. Cherry Blossom trees, zen gardens shit like that. I was just sat on a bench in a kimono as I just looked up at the sky looking as if it were from the paintings of the time. Even a place marked for my old home... I heard a sigh and looked over just to see Princess Luna walking down the path, her dark blue kimono swaying in the wind with each step as she held and twirled a silk umbrella. "There we are... Finally caught you for a chat." She said. "Is everything alright General?"

I just sighed and shifted. A little crinkle coming from my flank. "....Just another nightmare...." I said. "...You heard what happened recently... Yeah?" She sat next to me and looked on as she closed the parasol and set it between us.

"I have. Read the full report on what happened with Twilight's castle. Safe to say security is being revamped everywhere. Perhaps you could recount as best you can?" I sighed.

"....I got shot with a dart while I was asleep, got woken up, told I was being imprisoned and sent to work for a shit shady group or else they'd kill me, just stayed quiet. Didnt touch me at all because they knew my connections. Too bad one of those connections came in and fucked them up. Got me out somewhat clean. Squads sent in to clean up. Of course the thing that the reports didnt mention because neither me, Ryder nor my father wanted to mention is that I was chipped after Manehattan. Explains how I was found but... I guess I'm just scared I'm a target for more bullshit..." Luna huffed throwing an arm around me.

"It seems that shit hitting the fan comes with the title. Ask Ryder about his encounters. I assume the other Ryder when he was here told you about some of his?" I shook my head.

"Wasnt really paying attention... He did talk with himself when he was here."

"From what I've heard is that the Ryder in the other timeline... He was kidnapped, shot at and just taken advantage of.... Even had his own life threatened. All because of who he was. General turned Prince and even then he was still sought after. Kidnapped and forced to kill just to see his family again."

"...Is.... Is it wrong to say when he was saving me that I didnt wanna shoot anyone during the escape?"

"It isnt. Is it good that you didnt shoot in your escape? It's not known. Could've been better, could've been worse.... If you had, you could've gotten hit and it would've been another ball game entirely. It may have put Ryder in more danger but he was already risking himself for you...We honestly could've lost him again..." I sighed slumping down a bit on the bench.

"....Dont remind me please...."

"Here.... Something I would suggest that might help... Take Ryder for a day, thank him for saving you. Something that might make you feel comfortable. If I could suggest something, perhaps make your way to Canterlot and have lunch with us?"

"...Invite him and the family and I'll consider... I already feel guilty having him away from his family enough..."

"Understandable.... I'd have my sister do something but.... Applejack might get suspicious if you and Ryder are split off from everyone else.... We could just bring the family up and just say its a friendly check up, see how things are going.... I just dont know how we could split off the family and you and Ryder to do anything...."

"And the last thing I want is to make Applejack think I wanna steal her husband from her... He's hers, I've got Gilda and I know boundaries... Just.... I just dont feel comfortable away from him for the time being because of the kidnapping...." She held me closer as a tree nearby started to lose color. The petals that became discolored fell off, fluttering in the small breeze. "...I mean... Just because I went missing meant he had to put his life in danger... He just.... He could've died again... and it would've been my fault...." Luna took her arm and just grabbed both of my shoulders. The tree just lost all color now... the sky turned gray.

"Easy easy General! You're starting to freak out again.... Just breathe Babs..." I started to breath.... Tears just started coming to my eyes. The breathing just.... Made me start crying.... I couldnt stop it. Luna just looked to the sky and huffed. "General, I'm sorry but I have to wake you up now! I dont know where you are or how you're sleeping but you need to wake up!" I didnt want to but... She just used her magic and next thing you know I'm sitting up in Big Mac's bed, sweating, panting and just in the middle of pissing myself... It was in the morning....I was just in the room alone... I just grabbed a pillow and started crying.

I just tried to keep it as soft as I could... The occasional whine and loud sob escaped. I felt like I was crying for a while before there was a knock at the door. I just held the pillow close just trying to not cry harder. Thats when I saw Applejack come in, her mane in a braid... Gosh it was cute... Wonder if Gilda would like my mane braided if I grew it out... But yeah... She was coming in, giving a little bit of a worried smile still in her pajamas even carrying a fresh change for me. "Mornin' there sugarcube... Just checking on ya... You alright?" She asked. I shook my head. She came over and carefully sat on the bed, setting the diaper aside before hugging me. "Aww its alright Babs.... Got everyone here for ya.... You want me to get Ryder?" I nodded into her shoulder. "Alright Babs... Sit tight... Gonna pull him away from makin' you some breakfast." I actually got up with her help carefully just making sure I didnt leak on the sheets... thankfully I didnt. I just took the blankets and covered myself making sure Mash didnt rush in looking for her mother or even Scootaloo coming in to check on me.... And she's walked in on me masturbating.

She left and a minute or so later Ryder came in. He closed the door behind him and just came over kneeling on the floor. "You good Babs?" He asked. I shook my head. "Another nightmare?" I sniffled and shook my head. "Alright... Just breathe.... Tell me what happened." I just threw off the blanket and tackled him to the floor. He just held me as I just sobbed into his shoulder. He just sighed stroking my messy mane. "...Alright... I'm gonna call Gilda after breakfast- that I expect you to eat by the by- and we're gonna do something.... I've got all the time to spend with the family, Applejack and everyone else could go visit the Princess and we can go elsewhere... Everything will be okay...." We lied there for a while as I calmed down.... He had to push me off just so he could change me. He had to wipe me down, make sure I didnt cry more and get sick... He even had to have Big Mac bring me a drink and clothes to change into.

Just sweat pants, a long baggy shirt... Okay maybe it was short but I wore one of Ryder's old service shirts because... Well... You know... Lucky me it did cover the waistband. Anywho once I was calm and redressed I was brought out to the living room again and sat on the couch. Mash was sitting at the table still in her pajamas just kicking her legs under the table as she ate her sandwich. Cartoons were on and godess forbid you try changing the channel... Ryder tried doing that after he got back and Mash just... Oh she let him HAVE IT. Daddy might be a strong daddy but if his daughter wants something SHE GETS IT. Anywho Big Mac brought me a small stack of pancakes topped with whipped cream and chocolate chips... And maybe some brown sugar. Sooooo goooooood..... He just sat next to me. "You good now girl?" He asked. I shrugged as I cut my pancakes and took a bite. "Well considering you're eating, I think things are gonna be good. Just wanna make sure you aint gonna get sick again.... Got me a bit worried there... guess I still aint used to the sounds of the house happenin' like they use to..."

I sighed as I set my plate down and went for the chocolate milk I had.... What? I can enjoy these things as an adult like I would as a filly!... Okay maybe not everything.... But seriously... If I have pancakes, I have chocolate milk.... Fuck off. I took a nice sip and set it down again. "...I sure hope so Mac.... I just... I've just been having so hard a time sleeping that it just seems.... weird that I just cant sleep alone anymore... not even Gilda could comfort me..." I said.

"...Gil might not be the best to cuddle with at times but I know you've takin' a liking to her... like a certain someone has before shit hit the fan but you'll figure somethin' out.... Hell I'd even suggest maybe headin' to a mall... Maybe a specific one in Canterlot or even Manehattan if you're willin' to go back that way, maybe see about gettin' you something to cuddle. Aint saying a stuffed toy might help but.... Anything is possible." I sighed.

"...Maybe... I just.... I almost feel like it'd feel silly for me to just have a stuffed toy to cuddle... especially being the General of the guard...." He leaned a bit closer as I sipped my drink.

"...Babs, please.... That stallion over there?" We looked over to Ryder who was just having a quiet chat with Applejack as they both ate their food on the kitchen counter. "Boy's lead the guard for years, wearin' diapers, pissin' his pants, even suckin' on pacifiers during naps at times. Anyone wanna judge you for that? Remember someone else." I gave a bit of a nod before going back to eating.

After breakfast was done Scoot, AJ, Big Mac and Mash went off somewhere just leaving me and Ryder cuddling on the couch. I was still tired. Ryder huffed. "Alright... had a talk with AJ during breakfast and she agreed to let me spend some time with you after last night just to make sure you're alright." He said. "Mac did say he wanted to spend time with his sisters more just to catch up for old times. They're going to pick Applebloom up from Diamonds and they're gonna do stuff which leaves us to do what ever... as long as it doesnt upset your stomach again... And I'm sorry if you would rather drive but just to be safe I'm gonna drive us wherever you wanna go. I'll even call Gilda just to make sure you have your mommy around."

Not gonna lie... I got a little tickle below the belt... thinking about Gilda... Love her so much. I sighed. "...Yeah... Can you just help me get dressed...? I'm... I still feel a bit tired..." I replied. He gave a nod and helped me to stand up. He just redressed me pretty quick. New pants, new shirt... wish I wore a bra... even got that on me as well. After we were done I called Gilda, asked her to get ready, grab some changes and meet us downstairs in twenty. On the drive over I just was curled up in the back seat. I sighed. Ryder just looked into the mirror at me as we drove through the melting snow.

"You alright Babs?"

"...Ryder I.... I just feel so bad... I feel like I nearly got you killed when you came to save me..."

"I'd rather risk my ass for family and show why they shouldnt fuck with my family rather than just throw my life away willy nilly when I just got it back. And if anything it would've been Princess Twilight's fault considering she's the one who pulled me into that mess... I'm at least glad you're safe...."

"...I'm safe sure... but... I... I'd hate to lose you again.... Just because I was in trouble...." He huffed.

"...Remember what I told you when we were escaping? Sometimes you gotta do what you can to protect yourself... even if it means taking another life... I know its the last resort with you but you'll have to one of these days... you're a guard and it would be expected... And if you get called off for war I think both your dad and I would have words for Celestia..."

"...If I cant... am I still even fit to hold such a position?"

"Babs... I was fucked up after the war... I executed someone who was a spy.... I stayed up that night vomiting, having some of my squad talk to me, tell me I was doing the right thing by doing that... But in my mind I was thinking I could've executed an innocent pony. Each pony of my squad came in, told me he wasnt innocent... Lucky I had help coming home... Luna helped me with night terrors. Didnt keep the memories away. The fear died down as Celestia took all mention of the execution and made sure that was accurate. The guy was a spy, he was executed because he held secrets that would harm Equestria and it needed to be dealt with in a timely manner so nobody would ever get their hands on said secrets. I was fucked up for a week after thinking I was in the wrong. I saved Equestria from who knows what. And you? If you pull the trigger... Think of it this way... Its to save yours, mine, and everyone elses. That next stallion who you have to arrest could end up having a hidden knife.... Get close without a weapon and next thing you know you're on the ground bleeding and he's rushing away wondering what else he could get away with. But right now lets just take a deep breath, keep calm and if you do end up crying... I really think Gilda would rip my throat out for having you crying."

I took a deep breath and gave a nod. I just was breathing, trying not to cry. When we pulled up to the castle she was standing there, jeans, leather jacket and a messenger bag slung off her shoulder. Gilda was quick to hop in. Just got in, turned back and just pulled me up to hug her behind the seat. "Awww there's my baby girl.... Whats wrong? Are you okay?" She asked.

Ryder huffed as the door was shut before we pulled off. "She's had a bit of a night last night.... been having trouble sleeping since what happened..." He said as he pulled a quick u-turn. "Speaking of... Are you doing alright? No side effects from the darts?" Gilda sighed as she pulled the bag onto her lap and just.... handing me a pacifier..... Honestly.... I couldnt help but take it and just start suckling on it....

"...If I'm honest I can say I've had a little trouble sleeping and not just because of little missy back there." She patted my hands and slowly pried me off making me lay back down on the seat. "...Not only did worrying about her keep me up when she was trying to be with me in bed, I just couldnt help but flinch at the slightest sound of guards walking outside my door.... Think I've even leaked a little in my panties hearing a group of them come near my door....Princess did reassure me that we were safe now.... Still have that occasional scare that does make me leak a bit...."

"Either that or you're getting old..." I heard Gilda growl a bit. She didnt do anything, than what I'm assuming is just glaring. "Easy Gil... Just a joke.... But its good that we're doing this.... Heading out to Canterlot for a day to rest, relax and breathe. Seems like a great idea." Gilda leaned back in her seat.

"...I guess... just.... dont expect me to be awake the whole time.... still fucking tired from last nights scare..."

"Soak it through?" I giggled a bit.

"...Oh fuck you....."

"Maybe later Gil... Dont want it while driving your 'baby girls' car." I shifted positions, putting my head on the head rest where Gilda was laying back. She was just short of it. The ride was long.... I played games on my phone, maybe looked at some pictures that Gilda and Ryder both sent me... sometimes together teasing me... Even silently watched videos on mute and it took everything from putting my hand in my pants.... That and Gilda... She was just holding my hand. When I was bored I did try to take a short nap... Couldnt get comfortable enough for it but lasted long enough for us to pull right into Canterlot castle. When we parked, we were immediately met by Princess Luna just sipping on an energy drink. Gilda and Ryder stepped out. Gilda had to let me out and I quickly had to hide the pacifier... Just gave it to Gilda who stuffed it into the bag before getting out completely. Though of course as soon as I stood up I felt immediate pressure on my bladder and... yeah... Just grabbed onto Gilda's shoulder and she couldnt help but sigh, nuzzle me and just pat my head. I couldnt stop it... Just had to pray I didnt leak.

I finished and just slowly walked around the car and over to Luna with Gilda's help feigning a limp. Luna handed her energy drink off to Ryder coming for me. "Oh General! Are you alright?" She asked concerned.

I gave a nod and a slight grunt. "Yeah.... j-just a leg cramp is all... need a water...." I said just hoping my false pains are enough but not too much or too little. "Just... head on in... I'll be up in a bit...."

"No worries there General! Allow me to carry you!" I put pressure on my leg and just went to my knees just giving a grunt. Gilda dropped with me and just kept my arm over her shoulder while my other hand gripped my 'bad' leg.

Ryder came over and sighed. "No worries there Princess I got her. She's stubborn...." He said. "Just go on in, tell the kitchen to drum up a glass of water or a smoothie with something with potassium in it." Luna just gave a worried nod and just teleported away. Ryder came over and helped me up. I stood carefully as there were still guards watching. "Need a change or something?" I gave a hesitant nod. "Alright... Lets get you to the nearest bathroom for a change, I'll run and grab your drink. Just... Keep up the act. I gave a nod and he just helped me. Just grabbed my other arm, slung it over him and helped me walk quicker up the stairs.

To be honest... I wasnt expecting that.... probably not the best thing for me to do.... pretend i had a cramp. The bathroom thankfully was close by. Got in with Gilda while Ryder rushed off to distract Luna more. Gilda changed me real quick, even made sure I was alright before going back out to the foyer and sitting on the stairs, my leg stretched out a bit. Even Gilda helping me 'stretch it out'. After a few minutes Ryder came back with a tray carrying drinks for each of us. A colorful smoothie for me, an energy drink for Gilda and a bottle of soda for himself. Gilda grabbed my smoothie and just handed it to me. I sipped it and just enjoyed it. Luna sighed sitting on the steps nearby. "There.... Not the best start to your day is it General?" She asked.

I sighed. "Nope... Nightmare or that cramp..." I said swallowing the fruity strawberry banana smoothie. Tasted a little bit of some citrus in there but dunno. "....Just... just wishing this was better for how we're meeting..." She rested a hand on my shoulder.

"I agree. We should be meeting on better terms but this is why I keep an open door policy for both you and Ryder. Would rather you get help at any time you need it. If we never had that... I'm afraid what would've become of Ryder in his darkest hours..."

Gilda huffed and just put her boot between us leaning on her knee. "Princess can we cut back on the talk of dark stuff... All of us here know the feeling.... Some more than others but.... we've all been there." She said. "Just.... Maybe figure out what we can try to get Babs to be able to sleep through the night without the use of drugs or waking up wet." She sighed.

"Right... Right... Apologies. Celestia doesnt know you're here but she will be around for lunch. This is going to be a day of relaxation and problem solving. I'll let you sit here, finish your smoothie or until you feel good enough to walk. Let me at least make sure your things get into some rooms for you." I gave a nod sipping on my smoothie just massaging my leg. Would love to massage something else but uh... guard patrols are vigilant.... Oh you bet I tried that before. Found what I thought was a nice secluded spot in Twilight's castle, started my fun but left myself wet when I got caught by a guard.... and Twilight... Oh my face was so red it blended into my mane. Couldnt even finish and you bet Twilight and I had a word about that... Guard was understanding just.... If the Princess wasnt with him he would've ignored it and went on his way. Maybe even stood guard somewhere to make sure others didnt accidentally find me. Told him to just forget about it.

Anywho Luna collected our bags and just walked off. I just sat there and finished the smoothie before we got up and just started walking down the hall where Luna took our bags. I just gave the first guard we saw my glass telling him to have it returned to the kitchen. I just held Ryder's and Gilda's hands as we walked. Did make me feel a bit better but.... I just still felt like things wouldnt be okay.... Gilda looked over at me. "You alright Babs?" She asked. I just put my head down. "...I'll take that as a no.... we're here for you Babs... If you need to pull one of us aside to chat." I just turned away, my mane hiding my face... It was like I was a filly again. Always hid my face. Any time I needed to hit the pool before I had my cutie mark I'd be hiding my flank with my tail.... Guess it was reactionary because I did here as well. Gilda looked to Ryder. "Dweeb, find a room, talk with her. I need to find Princess Luna." She let go of my hand and just started a jog down the hall as Ryder and I slowed down. I just reached out to her like I was just trying to pull her back.

Ryder huffed as he just hugged me and pulled me into a nearby room. He brought me over to the bed just as I started breaking down again. "...Hey hey... its alright Babs...." He said.

I sniffled and just brought him down to the floor. "...No... No its not..." I said. "...Celestia... she's.... She's gonna freak knowing you risked your ass for mine...."

"If she does, she should be more pissed at Twilight instead of me alone. And if she does wanna say anything you bet I'm not gonna take it sitting down..." I pushed off him and wiped my eyes.

"...S-she's gonna bend us both over and spit roast us alone...."

"She yells at you, she's gonna yell at me and you already know Gilda wont have a problem laying into Celestia.... And by my calculations Celestia could have a slight panic attack. Either that or my math is wrong and she actually will anally face fuck us into next week..." He just crawled over to me and hugged me. "...Breathe Babs.... Just... breathe... daddy's here...." I just sat there.... like a child sitting there, listening to his heart beat.... the beat I nearly had snuffed out when I got kidnapped. I was honestly so tired I ended up nodding off in his arms.

I just... I found myself in the graveyard where Ryder was buried. Just knelt at his grave, hearing just soft sobs around me. I looked over just to see Scootaloo... Head hung, eyes covered in shadow.... tears running down her face. "....He... He's dead and its ALL YOUR FAULT!" She screamed, not even looking at me. I went to get up but... I was just chained to the ground. Couldnt even break them. More sobs came to my ears.

I looked over again... This time I saw Applejack, same position as Scootaloo. Eyes blacked out by shadows, tears running down her cheeks. Could even see mascara running with those tears. "....We just got him back only for YOU TO JUST TAKE HIM AWAY!" She yelled.

Tears started clouding my vision.... I could hear more and more voices around me... telling me he died and its my fault.... I just looked around seeing everyone.... Shining Armor and Cadence, Rocky, Rarity, Pinkie, Gilda.... just everyone....I just sat there taking the abuse, feeling shittier and shittier, each voice blaming me for Ryder dying..... That's when the voices stopped. I just looked up to see someone coming around the grave... Princess Luna. She knelt down and took my hands in hers. She wiped tears from my eyes and brought me in for a hug. "....There we go Babs...." She said. "...You're afraid... afraid of losing Ryder again.... You feel as if Ryder got hurt or died during your encounter with those kidnappers that everyone would blame you...."

I sobbed lightly. "...I... I didnt want him to put his life on the line.... I dont want to lose him again..." I said.

"Even though he was rusty.... He still came and saved you... He could've said no but with so many loved ones around you, they'd wonder where you are, why you cant call or even answer a call.... Your father would've probably sent someone else after you if he had known Ryder's death had been reversed.... The fact Ryder called for his help meant he wanted to save you... I agree, he could've gotten himself killed... But we would've fought tooth and nail with mother for his return...."

"...I... I feel like a failure.... I havent fired a weapon... I havent drawn blood other than my own.... I... I dont deserve to be the General...." Luna sighed.

"Babs. I will only say this once. You are the General because I felt you can do this. Same with Ryder. I met you, saw the strength you had... not only for physical strength but the fact you never backed down from your time in the guard.... If he thought it was a good idea for you to take up the mantle after our phone call, I wouldnt have allowed it if he wasnt the stallion he was. If your father hadnt talked with you, asked you to step down after you were kidnapped, he would think you are unable to do this job! But Ryder and your father both believe in you. They believe you to be the mare who can do this. Do you need to have some combat skill to protect yourself? Yes considering you'd be the last line of defense when it comes to protecting Celestia and I."

"....But... I could still fail... get you killed..."

"It could happen... But Celestia and I can fight as well. Attempts on our life are rare but we will always need to be ready. We can train you, ease you into that .... We can teach you lethal and nonlethal methods, perhaps even commission something that might help if you do not feel comfortable taking a life. We just want you to feel comfortable..." She hummed as she just comforted me in her arms... "...Perhaps that was it... You didnt want to fire any weapon because you're afraid to hurt Ryder possibly.... actually have it be your fault if you had gotten mobbed.... You were being blamed for his death by everyone who knew him... Only makes sense with that..."

"...th-The last thing I wanna be blamed for when losing him.... is just... killing him..... I dont want him to die.... I really dont want him to go... he just got back...." She sighed.

"It's alright... we're not gonna lose him any time soon.... Lets get you woken up... You've been out for a few hours now... just need to wake you up and do something to clear your mind... maybe have you talk with Ryder... He's been worried since you passed out in his arms.... Gilda should be in bed with you, making sure you're comfortable. Lets just have you breathe, calm yourself and wake you up." I nodded and just started to breathe. We sat there, breathing together for at least a few minutes.

When it was time for me to wake up, she made sure I stood up, she wiped my eyes and gave her a big hug. Everything faded and I ended up waking up, half dressed, sucking on that pacifier I sucked on in the car, no pants and thankfully dry.... For at least a minute. I woke Gilda up because she was sleeping a bit, got out of bed and just made her watch as I wet myself... Oh I got a little spanking when she changed me. But after that, I got dressed again and we were walked by a guard to the dining hall. Thats where we saw Celestia and Ryder sitting at the end of the table comforting each other. It was a bit sad seeing Ryder all worried but... i can say I felt better after my sleep. We approached the end of the long table and Ryder looked up and gave a sigh before hopping out of his seat to hug me. Celestia stood up and smiled. "There we are... Finally awake.... How are you feeling General?"

I sighed. "...More awake I guess?" I said. "...Where's Princess Luna?"

Ryder broke the hug and pulled out a chair for me and Gilda. "She came in and talked with us before telling us she needed to make a call to a weaponsmith.... Are you alright Babs?" He asked. I sat down after helping Gilda into her chair. These things were slightly taller than our chairs. Mostly fit for Princess.

"I'm.... Fine? You already know.... Guess Luna helped me realize something...." He sat on the arm rest on the chair next to mine.

"Yeah... I heard.... But I get it.... I came back just to see everyone I love happy.... And you.... You getting into that situation definitely could've been avoided yes but.... Still the fact I went in there could've been something to take me out again... I chose to risk my ass to save you because I told myself when I became a guard that I'd do anything for the ones I love. Its the reason I died in the first place. I told some guy to apologize or go fuck himself just because he bumped into Scootaloo and my pregnant wife.... and he pulled a gun on me when I had my back turned.... I still remember the last words I said... Told AJ and Scoot to run and with my dying breath I cursed him out, told him I'd see him in hell.... I'm promising myself from now on, unless I know the gravity of the situation, I'm not going in alone or at all. ...I'm still proud of you for keeping your head through that. Lets just wait for Princess Luna, get something to drink until she gets here. If you need to talk, always here for you." I smiled a bit and nodded just before he got himself sat right in his seat.

Celestia sat with us again. She got someone to come take our drink order and we chatted, sipping on our drinks. Made a plan for the day. Still some of that would be postponed because of my unexpected nap. First a walk around the mall, dinner either at the castle or at a place in town. After that we decide what movie to watch in the castle theatre. Ryder and I wanted something actiony, Gilda wanted a comedy... Celestia and Luna couldnt decide. Luna took so long we actually had to order food because I was starting to get a slight nauseous feeling. Then again... with how my stomach is I had to get something small but filling. We ate, Luna joined us and ate her food which was just some watermelon. Wasnt much but she ate it. Once we were out at the mall Ryder and Celestia went one way, Luna, Gilda and I another. Gilda stretched and sighed. "I'm gonna be honest here, I feel SO out of place here in Canterlot... Feel I'm more a southern city Manehattan gryphon." She said.

Luna sighed as I looked to the stores. "It feels strange for anyone who doesnt frequent Canterlot." She said. "We get gryphons who come for the Equestria games and many other countries around the world also say they've felt out of place." I huffed as I kept a look for that one store with the make your own stuffed toys. Princess Luna looked back at me. "You alright General?"

I looked to her. "Yeah... Just looking for something.... Kinda was suggested by my cousin.... and... maybe I wanna get something for my niece as a little cute gift for staying dry for the past few nights..." I said. "Should probably visit with her. Check why she keeps wetting her bed."

"I'll keep a look out and I might do that later. Perhaps see how she's feeling after we gave her her daddy back." I was about to respond but we heard gunshots. Oh it scared the shit out of me. Luna, Gilda and I had to duck down before rushing towards the nearest shop. Luna stopped and looked to me as Gilda just hid behind a pillar. The Princess reached into her top and pulled out a revolver before handing it to me.

"General, I know you dont want to do this but Celestia is out there! Find her and bring her and Ryder back here!" I hesitated on grabbing the gun.... But I took it anyways. "Just please... Be careful and make any shots you need to take count!" I gave a nod and just waved Gilda in. She just grabbed me, gave me a kiss and rushed in with the Princess just getting deep into the store.

I rushed past ponies hurrying away from where the shots came from... My heart was racing and I didnt know where they came from... or if they hit anyone... I didnt have my answer until I saw guards outside of a store guns drawn. As I approached I just.... Oh I wanted to be sick... I saw a masked gunman... He just had a gun to Ryder! I wanted to scream, I wanted to piss myself and throw everything I've ever eaten my entire life up. I could see the fear in Ryder's eyes. I just got the gun ready but.... I just stopped... I didnt aim. Something just told me not to. I slowly approached before the fucker aimed the gun at me. "HEY HEY! BACK UP!" He yelled. "I dont wanna have to blow this idiots brains out but I will if I dont get some fucking money right fucking now!"

I stood straight and just carefully unloaded the bullets into my hand.... Made sure each chamber was empty before showing him. "Easy there... Not here to hurt you... Dont wanna anyhow... I dont wanna hurt anyone, neither do you it seems." I said. "What's the money for? Home? Car? Family?" I stepped forth slowly. He put the gun back to Ryder's head.

"I SAID BACK UP! DONT COME CLOSER!" I flipped the chambers closed and pocketed the bullets and shoved the gun in the back of my pants.

"Aw c'mon... Just wanna talk man... I mean... How fast do you think I am looking like this? Just tell me... Why do you want money?" I could see his bloodshot eyes just dart around. At me, at Ryder, at the guards. The guards were looking at me. I just waived at them to lower their guns but keep em ready.

"...I... I have a family.... My son... He's... He's sick! Dont have money for the hospital..."

"Family... Always boils down to it. How many in your family total?"

"...Just... Just me and my boy... Wife's gone.... Left me with him... Can barely feed myself anymore and him... fucking assholes keep taking my money.... No matter what I do I cant feed us both.... Been... two days without food for myself?"

"Alright.... You're in pain... you're scared.... I understand that.... We can help you... All you gotta do is put the gun down, let my friend there go.... He's got a family too... Daughter and a wife...."

"I cant.... I cant let him go unless I get that help!"

"How much?" The stallion studdied me. I took slow steps forward. I saw him shaking. Either his body was eating itself and he was trying to ignore the pain or he was breaking.

"....T-Two thousand...."

"Put the gun down, let my friend go and I give you fifteen.... Two to pay off the debt, the rest to get yourself on track.... You might've fired a gun around royalty and guards.... Did you hit anyone with the first few shots?" The stallion was silent. Ryder shook his head slightly. "My friend there says you didnt.... You let him go, set the gun down I can make sure you go home tonight, see your son... No cuffs, no jail.... Promise. All you gotta do is get some therapy, maybe a new job...."

"...H-How do I know if I just let him go and drop the gun you wont drop me...?"

"Trust me.... We all want this to end peacefully.... You do this, sit down against the wall.... I can buy you food and drink after you just do as I say..." I looked to the guards. "You two, stand down... Just back away, no trouble... No cuffs, no arrest to be made..." The guards looked to each other and just took their fingers off the triggers, one resheathing his gun the other setting it down. I looked back to the stallion and Ryder. "There.... Just let him go... Gun down... Just head off to the wall behind you and sit down...." The stallion hesitated.... But... He let Ryder go... Ryder quickly ran to the guards who ferried him into the shop. I just came closer and just offered a hand.... He gave the gun right to me, the barrel away from me thankfully. I took it and dropped the clip and clearing the chamber as he broke down crying.

"...I... What have I done...? Why did I have to drop so low....?" I sighed.

"....Sometimes life pushes us to do stuff we dont wanna do.... Rather there be some way we try to avoid it but... sometimes life still puts us in those situations and we have to figure a way out..." I waved over the guards. They came over with their weapons holstered. I gave one the gun he had and just gave a huff. "Take this, sit with him and make sure he's alright.... I need to speak with the Princess about what I wanna do with him. The guards nodded and walked with the guy over to the wall and sat him down.

I rushed over to where Ryder ran into. Empty store. I went for the back giving a quick few knocks before entering. As I entered I saw Ryder with Celestia who had a gun ready, same with the store clerk. Celestia sighed as she got up giving Ryder her gun and lowering the store owners with an open hand. "General! Is my sister alright? Where is she?" She asked as she rushed and hugged me. I hugged back and sighed.

"Safe... Are you and Ryder hurt at all?" Celestia helped Ryder up and just held him close.... Godess if you could see the fear in his eyes. It was like he just saw what he had of his life back flash before his eyes.

"...I'm fine... Shaken up by this.... Ryder might need some time to calm down but.... I think he's fine.... Grateful even that you saved him... Suspect apprehended I presume?" I sighed and hung my head.

"...No Princess... Talked him down and... I just dont wanna ruin what family he's got left... he was a desperate stallion who just needs some help and.... I'll give him something out of my own pocket for the help... Just... With your permission I'd like to let him go... Maybe give him some resources for help... I do understand you and your sisters as well as Ryder's lives were in danger but..." I just stayed silent staring at Ryder. Celestia sighed.

"...I will allow this... But I wish to have a chat with the assailant.... Take Ryder and go tell my sister and any guards coming its safe now."

"...Thank you Princess... I just-"

"We can talk more later."

"Yes ma'am." I hung my head just before Ryder was passed over to me. I hugged Ryder and just took his hand before walking him over to the shop where Gilda and Princess Luna were.

When we got there Ryder immediately went to Gilda.... They hugged and even Luna joined them. Luna just looked to me. "What happened? Is anyone hurt? Where's my sister?!" She asked. I took a deep breath.

"Hostage situation, hopefully not and she's having a chat with guards... Just hoping my out reach is a good idea..."

"Outreach? What do you mean?"

I stayed silent. Ryder took a deep breath and gave a pained sigh as tears came to his eyes. "...She... She talked a guy down... offered him money to let me go..... I... I had a gun to my head..." He said fighting back sobs. "...I... I thought I was dead again... I.... I just.... Just..." Oh he got green in the face fast. I looked around fast and just grabbed a bucket, tossing a mop aside before giving it to him. Oh he took it and nearly dove into a corner puking in it. Gilda and I turned away as Luna just.... Looked on at him in horror. Like she was just picturing him in a box again... or in a jar. I just nudged Gilda towards Ryder who just... went over and started rubbing his back.

I took Luna's hand. "Here... Lets go see your sister." I said. "We can talk along the way... that is if you... feel like talking to me..." I just pulled Luna out of the shop slowly. Making sure she was just not gonna faint. I just started leading her to where I came from. "...Princess... I just... Please... say something.... This scared me more than you think... I just wanted to help someone who needed it... If I'm wrong to do that... tell me I am.... if I'm right... again... tell me... I just didnt wanna ruin two lives with one move..."

Luna stopped and just pulled me closer. I saw tears in her eyes and... I peed again.... I thought she was gonna yell... But no.... She just hugged me. "...Th-thank you General.... I... We need more guards like you...." She said. "...I.... I'm sorry it's just.... I havent had this much of a scare since Canterlot castle was assaulted when Ryder went off to war..." I gave a relieved sigh like I was gasping for air after holding my breath. "...I know not of how my sister will react to your heroism but whatever she does... you have my support... Thank you..." I huggd her again before trying not to waddle as we walked.... Oh she made me blush harder as we rounded the corner to still see Celestia flanked by guards just watching the stallion just shaking and eating what looked to be a bag of chips and even had a bottle of water next to him. But.... Yeah Luna looked over to me and just wiped a tear from her eye. "....I'd run back to Gilda and Ryder if I were you.... might help with that 'leg cramp' you just got..."

My face burned red as I released her hand. I stuck around long enough to watch her reunite with her sister before running back to Gilda and Ryder. We soon left the mall.... AFTER I went back with Gilda and Ryder to that one shop for a stuffed toy- which Ryder bought for me... It was something I loved. Just a little pink cat monster plush from that one game. Forget the name of it but this was one of my favorites from that game. We rode in one transport while Celestia and Luna rode in another... Lucky me these things have enough room for me to change. Even luckier the driver had a bag from his lunch for us to toss that. After that I let Gilda take Ryder off to comfort him while I just went out to the balcony overlooking the fields of Equestria behind Canterlot Castle. Had a bottle of juice as I watched the snowy mountains in the distance.... I still wont forget the day Ryder told me about the plane crash.... What I saw... I think there's a proper memorial up there now rather than just the fusilage. Anyhow I just leaned on the railing just listening to the silence in a place that brought me great happiness before... That silence was broken by the sound of footsteps behind me. I looked back to see Celestia. "General? Might I join you?" She asked. I just gestured with the bottle next to me before looking back at the mountains.... She came right over and sighed. "...General.... I wont lie.... when that guy grabbed Ryder I thought I was gonna have to call Applejack and tell her to get ready for another funeral for him... But we avoided that... Now all we need to worry about is if he'll be able to keep his pants dry for the forseeable future. But... I wanted to talk with you.... Luna made it VERY clear that I was not to harm you nor threaten you in any way. I wasnt intending to despite the thoughts I had at the beginning of all this.... I just wanted to scream, saying you could've gotten him or yourself killed... Worse enough it could've led to Luna or I being assassinated. But you helped more than anyone could've."

I huffed. "...Glad you think so Princess.... that guy really needed it... Though.... I just couldnt help but see myself in that situation again...." I said. "...That day when the old Ryder came around.... that asshole.... I know how Ryder feels... instead... he knows how I felt that day... I'm assuming he didnt save himself because he didnt wanna hurt him nor did he wanna get hurt himself...."

"You might be right... I just hope Ryder wont yell at you or anything once he calms down.... Are you alright?"

"....I... I dont know.... Just.... its scary knowing these things that happened these past few weeks... First I get kidnapped and Ryder risks his ass for mine... Next thing I know Ryder gets held hostage and I risk mine AND his just to get him out... I could've gotten the gun turned on me and after Ryder ran.... He could've shot Ryder, and me.... I just...." I started trembling.... Celestia took my drink and set it on the other side of her before hugging me.

"Breathe General.... Everyone is alive... Everyone is okay..." She led me in breathing deeply.... Felt calmer after a few deep breaths. She sighed once i was okay breathing by myself. "...Babs.... I want to do something with you... this was something we had done with Ryder... My sister as we speak is opening a door somewhere.... We're gonna go and have a chat with my father."

"Your dad...?" I asked looking up at her. "...Isnt he... evil...?"

"He is but when it comes to what his daughters want it doesnt matter. He helped Ryder with his issues, he can help you with yours...." She broke the hug and gave my drink back to me, taking my open hand. We walked back through the dining hall and out into the hall. She huffed as we walked. "I'm not sure if this is common knowledge when it comes to that stallion who did what he did to you... but he was arrested and ended up getting into an accident in prison and died. The inmates who did it are serving more years to their sentences but we're gonna focus on that guard..."

"...He.... He got killed? What did he do?"

"Seems the ponies he put away recognized him.... They cut him down within months of being there... Just had to find a way to do it and when to. They made it seem like an accident until someone ran their mouth... He still got years just not as many.... Was even moved prisons for his own safety."

"...Cant blame him for that.... guess the guilt caught up with him.... But what does that have to do with what we're doing?" She gave a sly smile.

"Well... Ryder killed his parents murderer.... She still plagued his and his sisters minds for a while until they confronted her and beat the ever loving tar out of her... Scootaloo had quite the hook and she knocked the bitch out of her chair... Here? You're going to tear your assaulter a new one.... perhaps quite literally."

"You mean... We're going to see him?" Celestia nodded.

"Yes. And you're going to use him as a punching bag in a rage room of your choice. So... Psyche yourself up, choose some way to make sure its known how you feel, and make yourself feel better. Perhaps we could include Ryder in on it but... last I heard its probably best saved for later...." I sighed.

"Wont doubt he'd want a round 2 to thank me...." I didnt however say either that or yell at me... Anywho we walked all throughout the castle until we found Luna passed out in a chair, hellish looking door off to the side. Celestia had to call guards to move her to a stretcher before taking her to her room...

Once that was done we entered. Where we entered was.... honestly quaint. A study, fireplace against the wall, burning fire with the smell of cinnamon and burbon in the air. The stallion himself- Hellfire, Celestia's father- sat in his chair, smoking jacket, suit pants and a nice glass of alcohol in hand, a burning cigar in an ash tray... that was someones skull off to the side... He looked to his daughter and smiled as he floated his glass over to a desk across the room. "Ah Celestia! What brings my eldest daughter here to visit?" He asked hugging his daughter.

Celestia hugged back for a moment before pushing off. "Father, you remember my newest General dont you?" She asked gesturing to me. I couldnt help but give a nervous smile.

"Ah yes!" He replied extending a hand. I hestitantly shook it. "Good to see you madame. I assume this isnt a social call?" He looked back to Celestia.

"Nope. This is another.... Mind cleansing if you can recall my last General's issues...." He hummed sitting back in his seat.

"Ah.... Yes... That bitch.... If I recall before his passing he punched her so hard he sent her head flying onto a pike... Oh that was something that I wish I had recorded. Oh hearing her screams even with her head detached was beautiful...." He looked to me. "I think you need something similar...."

I cleared my throat. "Y-Yes sir... I heard from Celestia that the stallion who held a gun to my head died from being attacked in prison." I said. "...I... I want to pay him a visit... actually take out some aggression on him if I may." He stood once more.

"It would be my pleasure!" He clapped his hands and a small winged imp appeared. He spoke to it in a hushed tounge I dare not repeat. The imp spoke back and disappeared. He looked back to me. "Whilst we wait, perhaps either of you would like a drink?" He floated his burbon over again dangling it in front of me.

"Apologies sir but... I respectfully decline... Alcohol just... It fucks with my legs...." Celestia just held a hand up. He sighed.

"Fine fine... Perhaps a drink or two after things are done... Should take a minute or two for things to be set up..." We waited. I just walked around the room looking at things while Celestia spoke with her father. I just couldnt help but look over everything I saw. Books both with words I could read, languages I could recognize, others with script you wouldnt even get described to you. I kept my arms crossed as I kept looking... saw a few weapons on the wall... A greatsword and a pair of daggers both looking as if they were forged from molten metal and remained in a state of being melted and somehow solid at the same time. There was more but... nothing much interesting. That little Imp came back and spoke with Hellfire before he had stood and cleared his throat. "Alright General... He's ready... Follow me."

I gave a nod and I started to follow him and Celestia through a door that... I somehow didnt even notice it was there. We walked along a bridge of this brimstone castle. I looked out and just saw just... endless waves of molten lava as it flowed like the ocean. I heard screaming... chanting.... just coldnt go and describe it. Even saw some flying demons that... Honestly I envied with their wings... Dont think I'd trust myself with magic and wings? I think my dad would've pissed himself if I had come out a pegasus. And there's only one way I thought of getting wings but no need to go there. We soon came to another room where I saw him... The asshole who had the gun to my head... we were on some recreation of a destroyed Twilight's castle. He was in prison rags and shackled up. His eyes whited out with grime and blood all over his face. Celestia huffed as I went over to the table of weapons. "Fitting.... Seems you deserved every bit of your punishment.... Even then some..." She said.

That stallion- lets call him the Ex-Guard- gave a groan. "...Princess... I..." He mumbled before quickly being cut off by Hellfire slapping him.

Celestia's father growled. "Silence whelp!" He commanded. "Now... You're going to face true punishment... true revenge from the one you tormented...." He looked to me. "Feel free to choose anything you want.... Put it to good use any way you want... If you want a shotgun shoved up his backside, go for it."

As fun as that sounded I just didnt wanna... Just had to go look at the weapons. Of course the shotgun was there.... Semi auto, pump action, revolvers, clip fed pistols... Baseball bats with chains and nails I could attach, and just... a lot of other weapons. I grabbed a pistol and just held it, merely carressing it. Then I walked over cocking it. "...You... You BASTARD!" I screamed getting the gun right against his forehead. "You really fucked up... Yes the Princess called a code black BUT THAT DOESNT MEAN BREAK FUCKING PROTOCOL NOR DOES IT MEAN HOLD YOUR GOD DAMN SUPERIOR HOSTAGE!"

The Ex-guard just groaned. "...I... Please... I... I'm so-" He tried apologizing but I pistol whipped him before sending a few rounds into his chest where he yelled in pain. I tossed the gun aside and Celestia caught it in her magic before setting it back on the table. I just grabbed the guy by the rags and looked to Hellfire.

"Unlock his restraints... I need to give him a few reasons not to fuck with me or the ones I love...." Hellfire gave a devilish grin before his restraints just up and disappeared. I dragged him over to the edge of the helipad and just held him up. "Those shots? One for each life you could've snuffed out that day.... Now this next one? Its for that stallion you forced me to arrest..." I reeled him back and just tossed him off. I could only watch as he fell. I looked back to Hellfire and Celestia, Celestia just.... looking a bit disturbed and scared. "He's gonna hit the ground and teleport back up right?"

Hellfire chuckled. "Of course... He'll feel every ounce of pain that kind of fall takes but he'll be back as if he had never fallen... but he will remember the pain of everything...." He said. I just drew the hammer I was given to by Ryder.

"Good...." I could tell Celestia didnt like what she was seeing. She ended up telling her father to lead me to the exit once I was done and that she was going to check on Ryder and Luna. I will admit I did just about everything I could think of. Smashed his arms, legs, knocked his head off like a golf ball off the tee and just... I may or may not have slit his throat, ear to ear, forced a smile onto his face and then left some grenade shrapnel inside him after I shoved a live frag in his mouth. When I thought I was done I did give him a good kick between the legs. Each way I basically kinda manifested ideas associating them with Twilight and her friends... That grenade was AJ, the smile was Pinkie, slit throat, Fluttershy, shotgun blasts were Rarity... Yeah you do NOT wanna know what I had for Dash and Twilight. But once I was done I was walked back with Hellfire. He sighed.

"Been a long time since anyone has been that brutal with one of my eternal prisoners.... last one was that stallion- Ryder." He said. "Sometimes when he was with my wife, I'd have him invited down to give him something to do that wasnt sitting around and being all mopey that he was ripped away from his sister and wife. Made him feel a bit better for a while but it took a long time for him to accept his death. Speaking of- how are you feeling?" I huffed a bit feeling the adrenaline dying down.

"I'm doing juuuuuuuuust fine now... Guess I'm still worried about Ryder because he had his life flash before his eyes again but... He should be fine.... right....?" I looked up at him.

"He will not have dark thoughts. I simply refuse to give him any. I will have Luna work her magic on his mind... Perhaps I might send a little gift- for old times sake. Think you may be deserving of one as well but... perhaps later."

"As long as it doesnt come with a cost I'm fine accepting."

"No worries. I think the cost of it was already paid for... I might be an evil being but... I do have a heart for those my daughters deem worthy to serve them as close as you do." We soon came to the door we first arrived in. "Now go. I think my daughter needs to see you are better. Perhaps give her word that I might want to see Ryder later." I gave a nod before just walking out back into Canterlot. I think i was having too much fun because the sun was just starting to set. The door closed behind me and disappeared and I just went out to ask a guard to lead me to Princess Celestia. She was in the dining hall with her sister awake once more, Gilda and Ryder just sitting together just cuddling. It was cute the way they looked. Of course they saw me, hugged me and we just had a normal rest of the night. I checked with Celestia and she was alright, I apologized if I had disturbed her but she said it kinda reminded her of Ryder when he did that. Though it did kinda sicken her when I tossed him off the building it was deserved. I did tell her to speak with Luna, have him taken there to decompress. When we finished dinner I went off with Luna just to talk with her and have her watch me while I drank something... Gilda and Ryder had a drink while they ate dinner. Maybe more than one so they were a little sloshed- Ryder more so because he has become a LIGHT WEIGHT. Like... I know Scoot when she drinks she can pound down four shots and feel NOTHING but Ryder? He's like a toddler you just gave a sip of beer. Safe to say my 'mommy' had to be his for the night... even had to text Applejack that he's drunk and he'll be fine... AAAAAAAAND we agreed that we would not talk about what happened to Ryder at all. Though if he wets the bed because of a nightmare.... We're just gonna say we watched a movie that he hadnt seen and it had a section that actually scared him and bad.

Though back with Luna... I sat in a wheel chair, a fruity drink resting on a nearby table as we enjoyed the night air. She was leaning on the same railing I did when speaking with Celestia. I didnt wanna go to sleep yet. Luna just looked up at the stars and the moon that once contained her. "...Babs, I know you're free to do so but... Drinking memories away isnt the best thing... even after stressful situations." She said. "I still need to make sure Ryder sleeps alright.... if he falls asleep after that... He drank and i'm hoping it puts him to sleep... Rather we dont fill his system with more alcohol and have to keep him here another day..."

I sighed grabbing my drink and sipping from it. "...Princess... I dont drink because I'm trying to forget... I drink because I just want to." I said. "I feel safe to drink here despite not being something I bought... But... I just want to talk... about what your father said.... That he wanted to give gift both to myself and Ryder.... Just... saying I had already paid a price for the gift..."

"Father does things mysteriously. But when he speaks directly to you when not summoned... he is serious. If he offers gift without payment, accept it. If you ask for a gift, you pay prices no mortal is ready to pay. He might be the diety of the underworld but even he has his good side. Stay on it, you may get gifts. Same goes for my mother... Though even she has her bad side. If I were you, I wouldnt be worried. How can you be when you're sloshed six ways to sunday?"

"...Princess I've only had two drinks tonight and I'm still coherant enough to hold on a conversation."

"And yet you're in a wheel chair."

"I've got a thing that goes on when I drink. Legs decide they just dont wanna work and I'm not even fucked up from the floor up." We stayed silent for a moment. Felt like longer than that... "Are... you alright Princess?"

"....It.... It felt like we havent felt that type of fear for some time... The fright of wondering if you'd even see your loved ones again... I didnt know if my sister was hit.... or if Ryder was alright but... I just...." I could hear her get weaker as she spoke. I set my drink down and wheeled up next to her. I held her hand... I was expecting her to take it back but... she squeezed my hand. "...Thank you B-Babs.... I.... I just...." I sighed.

"Its alright Princess... You were scared, same as I was... I just disarmed myself, made it a more dangerous situation for myself... I'm just glad he let Ryder go without bloodshed... May I ask what happened to him after we separated?" She sniffled.

"...We.... We brought him in to a hospital, made sure he was aided with his son.... We covered things there so you didnt have to.... Though in accordance to getting that help, he agreed to be unable to purchase or own weapons again.... We saw him off and gave him something that could help with his home life." I sighed.

"...If I find him again, I'm still gonna help him out.... Just.... Thank you.... For just... everything... not firing me for being dumb in danger, not arresting him just.... yeah..."

"Most guards would've shot if given a window of opportunity.... You saw another window open and climbed right in... Gave safety to everyone in that moment. Yelling at you would definitely mean you did something very very wrong...." I sighed.

"....Princess... Why dont you wheel me to my room and go dream walk with your sister...? I think she was just as afraid as you were." Luna sniffed and held back a sob. She gave a nod wiping her eyes before wheeling me back inside. I did grab my drink and finish it before she had me back at my room.... Of course Gilda was already asleep so I had to have someone get me into a thicker diaper before helping me into bed where I just pinned Ryder between Gilda and I..... We slept fine... maybe I didnt because I kept waking up to check on Ryder who moved slightly while in my arms. But he slept still.... I did end up passing out after a while but both Ryder and I still had to stay an extra day while Gilda had to be flown back in Celestia's chopper.... Ryder and I had to spend the day in the infirmary, puke bags ready and drinking nothing but water. Yeah... That was fun to explain to Applejack but Celestia and Luna confirmed our story of the movie... and maybe said we forgot to mention alcohol. And the worst part was I couldnt get up and walk around. Bound to the bed and the doctors made me use a bed pan until I pissed myself when I fell asleep.... That was fun to explain before puking again mid sentence... and having to be showered off because I shit myself as well. And I still couldnt shower myself either. Legs were still jelly from the strong alcohol I had. Oh I honestly cried with how embarrassed I was... Lucky me by that time Ryder was okay enough to help me mostly... Even he couldnt keep much down but held it together long enough to get to a toilet. But... .yeah... not much of an eventful day but... he did show his appreciation for saving his life in the shower... until the moment was ruined.... yeah... not describing. Anywho... Im gonna go... just.... not feeling so well all of a sudden...

Fluttering Feelings (Gilda's POV)

It's been a few months since I experienced probably one of the things that nearly put ME in the hospital and it wouldnt have been my fault. I'm old. I get the jokes and shit. But I nearly put myself in the hospital when there were gunshots in Canterlot and I didnt know if Ryder was okay or even Celestia... I wanted to scream if Babs had came back and told me Ryder bit the dust again... I... I probably would've even done it... But I had my mind elsewhere. Racing just... wanting to know if this was something that was just me actually thinking it or if I was so worried about losing her that I wouldnt get a chance to do this again. And what I'm talking about is... Oh fuck this is hard.... Harder than Ryder's dick when I drop my pants. Lets just say Ryder did this a long ass time ago... feels like... like an eternity ago. I was out with Dash and Fluttershy shopping... Decided to hang out with Dash and be muscle while her and Fluttershy went on a date. Last time apparently when Dash and Fluttershy went out on a date like that they got mobbed by a few fans who got grabby.... She told em off and threatened the guard but security already caught em on camera doing that so they got ejected. They apologized after they had left but she still gave em what for. Still accepted their apology but told them if they ever did that again she'd have em arrested. Asked me to be there next time, set some ground rules for anyone who wanted a picture or an autograph. No touching, no screaming and only ONE warning. That and... Well... Makes Fluttershy feel a bit better because she's always afraid of someone seeing them both together and thinking someone is out there judging her. But yeah.... We were walking around a shop and I just couldnt help but look at some mares checking out the jewelry.... Of course... I think I should've been watching where I was going when Following Dash and Fluttershy... Ended up tripping over a fucking display knocking over a mannequin... Dash, Fluttershy and even the clerk at the counter rushed to me and either helped me up or went to fix the display. Dash got me to my feet and dusted my ass off with her wings. Lucky she looked good in her skinny jeans, and tight shirt.... "Damn Gil, and here I thought my head was in the clouds!" She said giving a chuckle. "You alright? Havent seen you this distracted for a bit..."

I huffed making sure I didnt throw my old ass out of whack... Just twisted my hips a bit cracking my back like I was unpacking some ice from a tray. Fuck me do I need a chairopractor. I huffed fixing my beanie.... I had even had to check my pockets of my jeans and my hoodie just to make sure I had everything. Thankfully I did. "Yeah... I'm good... Just... Guessing I'm in deep thought..."

"You? Think? What're you thinking about?" I looked around... Mostly at the worker who was just making sure the mannequin and display were alright after Fluttershy's help. She took occasional glances at me... The mares at the jewelry counter were just looking at me as well. I looked back to Dash.

"Can... Can we find somewhere to sit down? I think I need something to drink...." She huffed.

"Yeah. Why dont you go and take Fluttershy, find us a spot at the food court? I might be in here for another minute looking for what I need."

"You sure you dont want Flutters to stay here with you? I can go by myself."

"Nah... I can handle myself here. Just go on, go find a spot, sit, and breathe Gil." I gave a nod and just waited for Fluttershy to be done with helping the clerk with the mannequin... I did apologize for wrecking the display but the mare said it was alright and that it was an accident which... she's not wrong...

Anywho I went with Fluttershy over to the food court down the way... went to get a lemonade from a sandwich place before sitting down with Fluttershy who reserved our seats. I'll admit she definitely showed she was Dash's marefriend... Wonderbolts tee with Rainbow Dash's cutie mark on it, bell bottom jeans and some boots. She leaned in on the table while I hung my head and sipped from my drink.... "Alright Gilda what's the matter?" She asked. I almost felt as if she was mocking me but... Its Fluttershy... she doesnt mock ANYONE...

I gave a huff setting my drink down. "...I just... I cant help but just... think of my marefriend...." I said. "...I dont know if its me worrying about her or what but.... sometimes I just.... feel like...." i just stopped... Looking for words like they were in the air. Then I leaned in. "...I feel like... any time she's with me.... I just find myself acting just... not like myself.... You know what I'm like... I'm tough, I'm mean... mostly... But when I'm with her... I feel soft... Distracted... There are times where we cuddle and she falls asleep but I dont wanna move... Like she's a cat that just fell asleep on my lap and I feel guilty trying to move her even if I have to piss like... really bad...." Fluttershy giggled a bit. Kinda pissed me off a bit but... knowing how Dash is since we fought at her place before I moved out, I didnt wanna snap. "W-What are you laughing at?" I blushed harder. "I-I'm not saying I pissed myself while cuddling but just-"

Fluttershy grabbed my hands and shut me right up. "Gilda breaaaaaathe." She said. "Its alright I dont judge... I can say I was there before with an actual cat. But What this sounds like... it sounds like you're in love." I just stared at her. She just booped me on my beak.... If I werent in public I probably would've bitten her finger.... But of course... Dash... I just took one of my hands back and just hid my face. She sighed. "Gilda its alright its natural that you're feeling like that. How long have you and your marefriend been together..." I whimpered a bit going back to my drink acting like drinking it would go and cool the fire behind my face making it burn bright red. Once I got a good big sip in what I WISH was alcoholic I set it down kinda gasping for air.

"...She-She and I have been together for.... Before Ryder came back? I dont know how long its been... But just.... Since then my feelings for her have gotten a bit... deep.... First it was just cute texts and phone calls... Now its just.... I feel like being apart from her just.... makes me feel worried... alone... Of course when I'm with her I just cant help but defend her, even if its from someone we know or some other dumbfuck trying to give her shit..." I looked to her and sighed. "Apologies for the swearing 'Shy.... Just... Making me feel a bit better." She smiled.

"That's okay! I think with you defending her is just your griffon genes doing its thing. If I remember right from the studdies on Griffons and Griffonstone, any Griffon may get uppity and puff up their feathers defending potential mates and sometimes that means to ones they know and love could be threats according to them. Now... What to do about this...?" She gave me control of both hands back and leaned back in her chair. "...I think Rarity said she had plans to head up to the Crystal Empire soon to make a gown for Cadece and a suit for Shining Armor for the Grand Galloping Gala in coming months... If you ask you could probably could see about tagging along and speaking to Princess Cadence about things. But... I guess before Dash gets here... Do I know who your marefriend is?"

"Its... Babs... Applejack's cousin..."

"Oh! Even better! You could ask her or Ryder about what you can do with-"

"No! No no no not doing that! I can NOT have Ryder or Applejack knowing! A-At least not yet...."

"Hm... I think I get it... dont want word getting around to Babs if they're talking around thier daughter... as cute as she is she ruins suprises.... Couldnt tell her what I got her mother for her birthday without the surprise being ruined when she went to open it." Yeah i remember that party. Just about a year before Ryder came back. She was glad to have a party with her friends and Fluttershy got her a locket necklace with Ryder's photo in it... Oh her daughter just before she opened it yelled out 'ITS A NECKLACE WITH DADDY IN IT!' and even though it got some laughs she still got grounded for the rest of the day with no cake. Anyways I sighed.

"Y-Yeah... Let me just... Calm down here... Call Rarity and.... see if I cant tag along..."

"Alright... You just breathe, maybe get yourself another drink, maybe a snack and I'll go get Dash and we can finish up our shopping trip here." I gave a nod and she just got up before rushing back over to the shop Dash was in. I gave a quick text to Rarity, asking her to call me when she's free.

That took about an hour after Dash and Shy dropped me back at the castle. I was in my room when the phone rang. I was already packing a bag full of clothes. I saw Rarity's face on my screen. Flicked the green icon on my screen and put it on speaker. "Gilda darling! You asked to talk?" She asked.

I huffed. "Yeah... Just... Heard you were heading up to the Crystal Empire and... Kinda wanted to tag along to speak to Princess Cadence if I can..." I said. "I've just got some business and... its kinda important..."

"Oh of course Gilda! I dont mind. I'm going to be taking the train later and I could use a traveling companion!"

"Great! Uh... So... I'll make my way down and get a ticket in a bit. Just tell me what train you're taking."

"Its Princess Cadence' personal train darling. She's sending it down here because I've got a little job making them outfits for the Gala! Would actually like to have you dressed up for the Gala as well... Perhaps I could make an outfit for you and all I ask in return is for you to model some outfits I have for other Griffoness. Mainly dresses but with your phyisique I think you may even aide with a couple suits as well." I gave it a quick thought.

"Eh... Sure... might as well... Just please dont make it humiliating..."

"Trust me, these are as modest as they come. You want humiliating? I'll have a camera set up to record Ryder modeling some marewear for me... I tell him its for a client but this is something for Big Mac to prank him with." I gave a snicker.

"Oh THAT I have to see... But uh.. back to the subject... What time should I meet you?"

"Once you're done packing a bag, just meet me here at the boutique! Applebloom is coming down to help me with my bags with her marefriends SUV. Should be big enough for supplies and you for a short drive. OH! And before I forget, do dress warm. I heard it should be snowing out there so you might want to pack some warm clothes."

"Good to know. I'll head down there once I'm done!"

"Alright see you soon Gilda!" She hung up leaving me to just wonder... the fuck am I doing and why? But then I look at my phone screen and realize why... Babs' smiling face, pressed up against mine. We took this picture on our first date. She took me out to dinner, we went to a movie... Got out of it right at sunset because apparently- get this- the fucking movie theatre had the part we were in have a huge surge in power, their projectors got fried AND IT WAS HALF WAY THROUGH THE MOVIE. They gave us all refunds and free movie vouchers for next time. Babs even talked the manager into giving us free popcorn and a drink next time. He even wrote down a little thing for us just to use it. Anywho I grabbed one of my suit cases- a big one- and just repacked my stuff. Got a winter coat, some pants and boots, even some warm clothes to sleep in... maybe a few diapers for myself... One of Babs' because I just wanna have it just as a reminder I'm doing it for her. I even got into the shower for a quick wash up, hit myself with deoderant... And yeah... Little PTSD from her complaining about how I was smelling after I worked out one day. And if I was gonna be stuck on a train with her I needed to smell great so she wouldnt regret bringing me.

I hurried on down to her place and waited there with her. She gave me a glass of bourbon to calm myself because well... apparently I looked tense... Yeah... Yeah I needed that. And she knows I dont do wine. She once tried giving me a glass of wine for a tasting and I drank it.... She ended up bringing around a bucket and... Yeah... She didnt tell me how the tasting was supposed to work so I had no fucking clue I wasnt supposed to drink the wine. Anywho I drank that and considering my high tolerance I barely felt a thing. It calmed me but it didnt get me drunk. We ended up sitting there a while. I just drank water after the bourbon. Applebloom came and got us, didnt question what I was doing with Rarity but Rarity said I was there to help her with her things going to the Crystal Empire... Not wrong. Yeah... We got to the station, hopped on the train (after a bit) and we just split off. She wanted to rest for a bit because she spent most of the night preparing. I just stayed in the entertainment car.... But of course I got a call... Guess who? Yep... my baby girl.... I didnt say anything but her contact photo is actually her during a nap just suckling on her pacifier. I answered quickly just having my heart skip a beat. "Heyyy babe!" She said. "I'm heading to the castle now and was wondering if you wanted to go to dinner or something?"

I sighed. "Sorry Babs... Just got a last minute invite to join Rarity on the train and heading out of town." I replied just leaning back on the couch here. Soft. "She hasnt told me where we're off to but... I'm just helping with the bags. She even got me a ticket!"

"Aww... And here I thought mommy and I would get a good night together...."

"Ah dont worry sweetie... Mommy will be back in a few days and she'll be glad to do anything you wanna do. Promise."

"....Alright momma... Just... Please bring me back a gift from wherever you're going?"

"Will do sweet heart... Now I gotta get going... Mommy's feeling a bit tired and needs a nap... Love you."

"Love you too... I'll miss you while you're gone!"

"Dont be afraid to ask Twilight to let you into my room if you miss me that much... Now I really gotta go..." I faked a yawn before hanging up. I felt bad having to lie to her but... its worth it. I went over to the food car and got a meal because... I was kinda hungry. Hell even while I passed between cars it made me wish I had a dick. Would've whipped it out and pissed out the side.... Didnt stop me from waiting for a while till we had nothing but countryside outside and I went to the back and just tok off my pants... Lucky me, no kids... that was the kids car. Took my pants off in the car, stepped outside and let loose. May or may not have recorded myself for Ryder to enjoy... Went back in after I was done, got dressed again and just went about the day.

Took a nap, watched some TV with Rarity and just waited for a while more for the train to stop. Saw transition of grass and dirt to snow and then some. I actually had to get one of my winter coats ready just to leave the train. Once we were ready to leave the train we were met by Guards all clad in masks, winterized armor. Only one not in full armor was Shining. He was still in armor but he had a nice coat with a fur collar on it, even goggles to protect his eyes from the cold. He smiled as all the other guards came in to help with our bags. Rarity grabbed his hand and just hugged him. "Welcome Rarity! Glad you could make it" He said. He looked to me as she broke the hug. "Gilda? Wasnt expecting you either but let your welcome be the same! What brings you with Rarity?" I huffed.

"I just... Well... Can I speak with your wife once we get to the castle? Got some questions she might be able to answer...."

"Oh yeah? Maybe I can try to help while we ride? Snow's a bit deep so we gotta use some Snowmobiles and sleds to get back to the castle. Guards have been on patrols to make sure doors arent snowed in and that everyone has everything they need so dont worry if you need to go out and see a bunch of guards everywhere." I gave a nod before guards handed me and Rarity a mask and goggles... Rarity ended up getting an entire helmet for her mane. To be honest I didnt get much time to talk... I forget how loud these things are... that and I was kinda having a little PTSD from my motorcycle days... Crashed mine and thankfully got only scrapes and bruises but my bike was fucked.... Worst part was IT FELL OFF A CLIFF... Oh you bet Dash and whoever else cared about me dropped whatever they were doing to come make sure I was okay. But I made through it alright. Thankfully without pissing my pants.... That got handled earlier and somewhere in a field. We got to the castle and immediately headed up. Rarity wanted to stay down just to make sure all our bags were there. And I guess to make sure nothing was damaged. Anywho Shining looked to me while we were making our way upstairs. "Alright... What's up?" I huffed.

"...Well.... first things first... You already know I've got a thing for Equestrian Generals... right?" He chuckled as we got to a plateau and started down a hall.

"Yeah... Ryder and Babs. I honestly dont understand how you and Applejack didnt fight over Ryder but... Good you were there for him when he came up here to get tips on how to propose. Why? Thinkin' of popping the question?" I blushed and just averted my gaze. "So... Assuming that's a yes... But I honestly wouldnt worry. Its a big step and it takes the courage to do so. I wouldnt even overthink it to set up the moments just right. As rare as it is things can go wrong with dinner of course in your case nothing should go as bad as Ryder's did... Applejack still said yes but it could've still been the nerves of what had happened that made her say yes but I could say they've been in a strong relationship."

"Yeah... Just.... I just need to know where to start here.... I'm not one to usually think about settling down but... Babs seems to just... make something click that Ryder never could fully. Just... Babs makes me protective over her... Even WITH Ryder... That night he came back he went and took her into a bathroom and... Well he was gonna help her change but I saw them run off so I felt like I needed to stop them before it went further than it did.... I never did that before... Not even with Ryder.... guess my griffon instincts kicked in... If i wasnt in front of anyone I think I actually would've hurt him."

"From what Ryder told me, he never held it against you since emotions ran high that night. That and... Seemed Babs was too happy to see him and... I think you'd know how much you miss someone when you wanna drag em into a bedroom, bathroom or even an alley just to do the deed but... Seems you told him you'd stake claim to your mare."

"Yeah... And after what happened recently... Guess I'm kinda scared to lose her... just wanna wake up every day to her, tell her I love her until I cant anymore...."

"What happened if I may ask?" I took a deep breath and sighed.

"Promise me... What I say doesnt go back to Applejack because it does involve Ryder.... Alright?" I looked to him.

"Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." Fuckin' Pinkie Promise... I always hated that... Only because I've broken a few. Got my ass spanked a few times before Pinkie found out I liked getting spanked or spanking in general (fucking Ryder....) and Princess Twilight did a fucking spell on me that had orgasm denial like Babs had when she called me to watch Ryder fuck his family and then some and she used it on me, got a vibrator in me, tied me down and left me for HOURS. I wet myself trying to make myself cum but no... She let the spell go off and that orgasm... Holy fuck I thought I wouldnt stop leaking... Or even be able to move. Pinkie had to clean me up, pad me up again and once I could speak properly and not slur my words I could apologize... She didnt care that pissed that very bed hours earlier but we cuddled in it.... Weirdly... Anyways.... I huffed and stopped leaning against the wall.

"...Few weeks back I went with Ryder and Babs out to Canterlot to make sure they were going on alright.... Babs wasnt sleeping right and blames nightmares she's had. Ended up being some regret for not being able to save her own life because she doesnt wanna shoot anyone... Towards the end of that visit with a walk at the mall, I had to duck into a shop with Luna to hide away from gunfire while Babs ran off... Scared the shit out of me... Twenty minutes later she's walking back with Ryder who was apparently held hostage and she let the fucker who held him hostage go only because he was having a mental episode.... Everyone was fine, Ryder was a bit messed up but he's okay now.... least that I know but.... Guessing that was what triggered this...."

"Ah that! I heard about that and heard that Celestia praised Babs handling of a situation... Ryder and other guards might've found a way to cause more danger or end it peacefully but with whoever did whatever they did still getting arrested." Gonna be honest I teared up here.

"Yeah..... Yeah.... She was real brave but... Last thing I want is for her to do something stupid like that and leave me dealing with losing someone again..." I wiped my eyes and he just up and hugged me. I dont like hugs but... I just felt like I needed one.

"Think we all feel that way... Cadence is always hounding me to not get involved when it comes to some guard stuff and I agree I might be getting to old for this... But all guards know their limits... Even Ryder pushed his but I think Babs knows situations where she's gonna be useful. She knows not to be stupid like Ryder was.... IS...." I nudged him off taking another deep breath feeling a bit more composed.

"...He might still be stupid... but he is wise... Wisdom doesnt exist alongside smarts... Is uh... Is there somewhere I can relax? Train might've been comfortable but... I think I need to lie down for a bit..." He gave a smile and gave a nod. He lead me to a room where Rocky was staying... She was all cozy in blankets and watching TV but... Seems he talked with her, told her to make me comfortable and just turn into someone who could make me comfortable and loving and suggests either Ryder or Babs. Babs was her choice.... Oh you can bet I got comfortable fast... And a bit handsy but she didnt mind as long as she was getting a meal of love. I just hugged her, cuddled her... Managed to even fall asleep for a short while. I was glad to just not piss the bed but... I think as gross as it would be for her she'd still get dessert.

After I woke up Rocky was gone and I had to have a guard lead me to where Princess Cadence and Shining Armor were. They were in their den just getting some warm tea served. Shining was now in track pants and a long sleeve tee while Cadence was just in warm looking pajamas, matching slippers and even just a coat to add on to the warmth. Cadence set her tea down and got up from her seat and came around the couch they sat on... I got a small look around here... Small bar in the corner with a teapot being held over a bunsen burner by a small metal rack, an assortment of tea next to that and a few arcade machines in the corner. I looked back to Cadence as she grabbed my hands. "Gilda! You're awake!" She said bringing me in. "Come in, sit down! Want some tea?" I sighed fixing my feathers.

"Sure... Uh... Got any peppermint tea? MAybe green tea?"

"Peppermint tea yes, green tea no. Its not something we keep here in the castle. Doesnt really agree with Shining and we'd rather not risk anything." She brought me over to the bar and poured me a cup and gave me a tea bag. I just brought them both over set them on the table and just started dunking that tea bag. To be honest? I've actually opened up a few tea bags and just burned em trying to get that smell... Yeah it didnt smell good... Ended up having to buy a humidifier with oils. "Alright... So Shining tells me you think you're ready for proposing?" I nervously gave a nod still just dunking the bag. "This is a very big step in anyone's life. You've seen first hand how Ryder felt when he had to propose to Applejack... Then again that thought might've been overshadowed by a sudden Changeling attack... By the by... Are you alright being back here again?"

"If you're asking if I'm okay after that... I should be fine as long as we dont get ambushed again...."

"Only changeling that should be here is Rocky and at the moment she's up first in getting fitted for her outfit for the Gala. Would you be open to attending?" I stopped with the bag and just picked up the cup, my hands shaking slightly as I raised it to my mouth. Tasted good. Little bitter but whatever.

"...Maybe... Not much into fancy gatherings... More of a barfly who could get into a fight if she's not careful... Been way too long since someone tried picking a fight with me at one and I'd like to keep it that way."

"That's alright! I only ask because that might be a place to show your love. Anywhere can be that place if you dont feel comfortable but a nice place is always good. Sometimes a busy place isnt always nice, and nice places arent always busy. Anywhere from home to a restaraunt to maybe even a night at the beach... I would even go as far as sectioning off parts of where you want to... celebrate so to speak." I sighed sipping more of the warm tea.

"...I have a feeling but... I just dont know where to start... what to say...."

"And that's why you come to me. I can help with all of this. Sure, at one time I was watching my now husband stumble through a proposal but he had advice from his father while I have the ins and outs of what makes things in ones love life special, whether it be the start or something that keeps it from ending. Perhaps just giving aide for after it ends or preparing it for end. For any and all stages in between. This being the start from someone who only thought love was whoever would be in a bed and whoever there making you feel good while still filling that void only temporarily. That void now needs a more permanent filling. Just allow me to take you under my wing and pass on knowledge to start you off in this step of life." I downed the rest of my tea... Sorta burned on the way down but it felt good. Wished it was the burn of whiskey but I've had a little more than what I needed earlier.

"....I now know why Ryder went to you... Just how he felt before and after... Even with that being Chrysalis... When do we get started?"

"Right away. We can start off with building confidence. No matter where you are it might be nerve wracking to make sure you say the right thing and do the proposal right. Some times you could want to start talking, build up that courage but start skipping over words, tripping over your own tongue but that's fine. Its alright if that happens. Your partner will know, once you whip that ring out and ask that all imporatnt question, they might know you're nervous. They might not have words to help you along but... If they truly do love you they'll say yes. I can say a little alcohol will give you that much needed nudge, maybe a hidden friend who you can pull aside and chat with to give you words of encouragement. Though either of those has its issue. The friend could be obvious and you'd be made. You could drink yourself into a tizzy and you'd end up having to be chauffeured back to your home or hotel and possibly miss the chance."

Shining took my cup and his wifes. "Why dont we get up and take a walk? I need to check on patrols downstairs. See if there's anything I can do to help." He said. Cadence looked back to me as we stood up.

"That sounds just like something that can build confidence. Why dont you go out with Shining and help him with things? Might not be anything inherantly dangerous other than frostbite but we will provide anything to keep you warm after you get back."

I huffed. "Yeah... Sure... Guess that might help..." I said. "What are you going to do?" She used her magic to take all cups, even Shinings and set them over on the counter next to the bunsen burner while she also turned that off.

"I'll be checking on Rarity and making sure everything is ready for dinner tonight. Anything you'd want in particular?"

"Maybe some soup? I'm not all that hungry with my stomach in knots about this..."

"Very well. I'll have the chefs prepare a stew for everyone!" I gave a smile and a nod before following Shining out.

I was given a guard jacket and the goggles again, even a mask to cover my beak. We got downstairs, sun was starting to set but was still bright enough to look out over everything. We were even given a thermos of coffee. Even vests that had lights attached. I had my thermos attached at my side via a strap. As we walked my phone rang... And it wasnt Babs this time. It was Twilight... I huffed and just kinda froze realizing I didnt fucking tell her I was leaving... AND FOR GOOD REASON. I answered and put it on speaker hesitantly. Didnt even get a 'hello' out before she started talking. "GILDA! Where the hell are you?!" I heard Twilight ask. "I've been looking all over the castle, asking Dash where you were and I find out from guards you took a transport down to Rarity's and of course when I get there she's NOWHERE to be found there?! WHERE ARE YOU?!"

It didnt take a second before Shining stopped with me and took my phone. "Twily be nice! She's with me and doing something very important while also accompanying Rarity here." He said.

"Shining? Wait... Why is she in the Crystal Empire?! She should've told me she was going! I would've even supplied transport there!"

"That's why she went with Rarity. Rarity was already coming here and Gilda needed to speak to Cadence about something. Is uh... Is your current General around?"

"Nope. She's off at her place enjoying her day off."

"Good. Now... With Gilda's permission I can tell you what she's doing up here but you need to calm down and breathe." I heard her sigh.

"Sorry... Just... She should've told me she was going somewhere and now I need a backup cloud clearer. Think Dash is still around town... Might ask her if she'd like a little performance time clearing clouds..."

"Alright... Gilda... She's thinking about proposing to Babs. She's just a bit lost and needs someone to guide her. Who else but your sister in law?" She stayed silent for a moment.

"Oh.... Oh! Gilda I-I just... I'm sorry for yelling but... Please do go on and make my General the happiest she can be! And no worries the secret is safe with me!"

I huffed taking my phone back. "Better be.... I want this to be a surprise!" I said.

"Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye!"

"Good... I'll hold you to that Princess. Now I gotta go... Getting cold out here."

I hung up and sighed just giving Shining a fist bump as I pocketed my phone. We kept on walking before reaching a couple snow mobiles. We both just got on one because... As I said, my motorcycle crash that nearly fucked me over. Though I was more comfortable here. We did pull up on some guards who were shoveling out a doorway. Shining of course got off and helped. I just couldnt help but figure out what I could do because they looked like they were clearing it pretty quickly. Thats when I got pegged with a snowball... Hit me right in the face and I got IMMEDIATELY pissed... but I was wearing guard uniform so I didnt wanna do anything that makes it seem like guards will do this shit. I just saw some kids dart around a corner.... Then I thought of something. Grabbed me a snowball and just waited a moment before chucking it... My timing is GREAT. That snowball nailed one kid as he ran around the corner. I heard other kids start laughing which actually caught the attention of the other guards. Some of the guards went over to the kid, checked on him before getting the group from around the corner telling them all to go home and get inside. To be honest I kinda wanted a snowball fight to go on... havent had one for years. After the guards thanked Shining for the help we went along our route before having someone flag us down. We stopped and just hopped off real quick. "Please help! Someone's robbing my shop!" This mare said. She was just up and dressed in heavy snow garment. "I got a notification that someone tripped my security system! They might still be inside!"

Shining huffed. "Alright, get somewhere safe, my partner and I will check it out!" He said as I looked to what I realized was a jewelry shop. Shining looked to me as the mare shuffled off through the snow path going across the road. "Gilda, you head on around back and be careful. I'll go in the front so be ready in case anyone tries to run out the back." I gave a nod and just hurried as fast as I could around back. I just made sure I was ready on the other side. Not too close to the door but nothing too far.... Even better I just packed together a big snowball and got ready with it. After a moment I heard yelling and got the snowball ready. Didnt take long for that door to open and having me just chuck that snowball as hard as I could at who came out. Stallion, masked, blunt weapon armed and I knocked his ass down with a big ass snowball. Fell so hard he ended up dropping what he had before both Shining and I piled on him making sure he didnt run off. Fuck me was Shining fast with that arrest. Just up and cuffed him. I didnt stay on him long for that to happen. Shining stood him up when I got up and smiled. "Great work! Go back to that mare, tell her we took care of the problem. I'll call the guards with the store phone and get him out of here."

I gave a nod and just flew up and over the building. Holy SHIT that was a cold moment of flight... Now I know why I dont fucking fly in snow usually unless I have tight fitting warming garments. I landed near the mare and just shuttered. "Oh shit... Yeah..." I said trying to get my bearings. My adrenaline was still pumping. "Alright... My friends got the guy, looks like he was doing a smash and grab but doesnt seem he got very far. Calling the guard to take him away now. Are you alright?"

The mare gave a relieved sigh. "It might be a minute before the nerves come back to me but... I'll be fine..." She said. "Once they're gone I need to go and assess the damage.... See what needs to be replaced, what needs to just be fixed... altered maybe..."

"Things shouldnt be that bad. I'm not sure what my friend is gonna do but... I'd like to stick around if you would like?"

"Yeah... Yeah would be good just in case anyone else decides to show up to meet with their friend... hopefully this guy worked alone..."

"If he did work alone, he's an idiot... A desperate idiot..." She looked to me confused. I huffed. "Doing this a while, you learn things... Originally from Griffonstone and you see a lot of greedy assholes who just want to line their pockets." Lies but some truth there. I used to make plans for stealing shit all the time... never got too greedy but greedy enough for me to snag something expensive looking and run. Hocked stuff before anyone could notice. Sometimes it got back to me but always told the cops I found it after some guy wearing the same shit I wore during the thefts, knocked into me and dropped it. Nobody could prove it was me but I did get arrested so they could figure it out. Two days. All it took for a 'not me' verdict.

We waited until Shining came out as four snowmobiles pulled up. One had an extra length to it with a bar where the guy was put and the handcuffs were attached to. Shining came out with the guy and handed him off to a guard before looking to me. "Alright, gonna take this guy back to the holding cells until we can move him. Some guards will stay behind and take statements. Perhaps note anything damaged or stolen."

The mare sighed. "Thank you Prince." She said giving a slight bow. "Your partner here says she'd stay behind and help. Make sure nobody else comes around."

"Well if they do, I think she'll go to great lengths to keep them out." He dug into his pocket and handed me a key. "Here, for you to get back." I took it and pocketed it giving a nod just before he walked off towards the guards that came and got onto a snowmobile with one other guard driving. I ended up following the mare inside and it was a mess. The door was smashed, cases were smashed in- debris was just everywhere. Most things looked untouched. Necklaces and rings were still in the cases, gems were knocked off the little stands they had, maybe damaged but nothing noticable...

I hummed. "...Seems he just smashed, didnt grab..." I said. I looked to the mare who just was taking the jewels and such out setting it on clean counters. The mare gave a huff.

"...I think I might know who did it... just need the security footage from a few days ago..." She said. "...Probably my ex... So pissed off that I wanted nothing to do with him... He was complaining about how I still have some of the stuff he had in my home but I gave EVERYTHING back. Got the guard, he couldnt prove anything I had was his and when he tried suing me for part of my shops income and failed I guess he just wanted to damage as much as he could..." I huffed as well.

"He's an asshole... through and through... greedy... My advice, get a restraining order. This act of vandalism is gonna get him three years tops depending on the cost of most of this stuff he smashed."

"Yeah... I might just do that.... Three years will keep him away but I want him nowhere near me...." She looked to me as she went around the counters and just started pulling lock boxes out. "Do you plan on getting married at all?" ...My heart skipped thinking of Babs... I nodded.

"Yeah... actually... Was brought out here to propose... or at least learn how to... I'm honestly nervous as hell and I've barely got a plan together."

"Well hopefully whoever you're proposing to wont be some psycho who thinks they're owed the world on a silver platter.... Speaking of silver..." She beckoned me over and opened one of the boxes. I hesitantly went over and she grabbed my hand, just measuring my talons with just her eyes. She then produced a couple rings and put them into my palm. "Here. Two silver rings. A gift for getting that asshole out of my life forever hopefully.... I know guards cant really take anything above a certain price... but this is more for you and whoever you're planning on spending the rest of your life with... Make them happy, and make yourself happy as well." She closed my talons around the rings and held my hand shut. I just shuttered a bit giving a smile and a nod... maybe with a tear in my eye but it was good to have. "Alright... Hide those and get yourself back to whatever you were doing. I need to speak with the guards and have them look around. You stay safe out there." I nodded again and just pocketed the rings in my jacket pocket... these things had ZIPPERS! Oh I wanna ask Shining if I could keep one of these jackets and just have it altered for myself. Uh... Maybe as a gift? I dont know I love it all the same.

I walked out, sent the guards in and just drove back to the castle. I headed up after taking a swig of the coffee that was in my thermos and it took all that time was I had the tools to aide with what I was doing... No help or cost other than what I did to help. I had a guard lead me to Cadence. She was with Rarity just waiting in her entertainment area for the meal. Cadence got up seeing me and just rushed over. "There you are! Where's Shining at?" She asked taking me out of the room again.

I huffed. "He's dealing with someone who broke in to a jewelers and smashed everything up... Nobody's hurt thankfully but... Guess my guard combat training and my whimsical way of thinking got me to help on the arrest." I replied. "Just.... The mare we helped thinks it was her ex... Just coming in to make sure she couldnt make money off anything she was selling since he couldnt have it... I dont know if this is good for me but... She gave me two rings to help with the proposal as a gift for getting that guy out of there..." I took the rings out of my pocket and showed them to her. She took the rings and looked at them giving a smile.

"These might not be the best.... But they'll do... We can practice with these. I can send them in to my personal jeweler to have them engraved, put diamonds or whatever you want on them. Get them all ready for you... Might even donate to the jeweler to aid in making things safer." She handed me back the rings. "You hold on to these. I'll provide a box to put them in after our meal. We'll start practicing first thing in the morning. As for now, you deserve your rest." I gave a nod pocketing the rings once more. Kept checking on them throughout the night. Even when I should've been asleep.

Dinner was alright. Nice warm soup, bit of spice since I wanted to add hot sauce to mine. Padded myself up before hitting the hay and honestly... Rarity was a dear just wanting to share a room with me, making sure I was alright.... I swear I'm starting to sound like a grandmother... That next morning after breakfast we started to practice.... I kept tripping over my tongue, dropping the prop rings (not using the real ones because Cadence was getting them redone), nearly got sick because I got nervous all because that changeling- Rocky... I'm still bitter about what happened years ago despite my trust for her saving Ryder's ass. She understands but asks I treat her with respect as if she were anyone else. But we took breaks for me to just calm down, loosen my tongue and everything. That was until tonight. Took a long break and just was outside of the dining room with Shining. They were setting up for dinner. I was dressed in one of Shining's suits that didnt fit him anymore which... I'm surprised actually fit me... He might be a bit bulkier than I am but I was about the same height as he was. But he was just patting me on the shoulder as I peeked in at Rocky who was just sitting there, transformed as Babs. She was wearing a red dress with sparkles, her mane just how I love it.... I didnt wanna take my eyes off her but Shining forced me to look at him. "Alright... Gotta get this Gilda.... Rarity's gonna be here another day but we cant keep taking breaks from our outfits to make this work..." He said. "If Ryder were here, I'm pretty sure he'd tell you to breathe, psyche yourself the fuck up with a little alcohol and just do it. If you want, we can go in there, you can wait by the other end of the table while I get whatever you want from my personal stash and you take a shot before trying to do it... Once you've done it, I'll stand by, give you a word on whether you're ready or not. If you're not, you're free to call Cadence but you might be Ryder's problem from there on out. Understand me?"

I gave a nod swallowing the lump in my throat. "Y-Yes sir.... Just... dont care what you pick... just make sure its strong.... but... not too strong of course..." I replied.

"Alright... Whiskey with cinnamon... Just to distract you and loosen up that tongue of yours." I gave a nod and he just took my arm and walked me in. I just hid how nervous I was with my arm considering my wings were bound to my back because this suit hadnt been altered yet and Rarity said she'd need her sewing machine for that. He sat me at the end of the table before going through a door to the kitchen. I watched as it just flapped shut.... Kinda just sat there waiting... not even meeting Rocky's gaze towards me. He came back out with a bottle of whiskey with a red label and a shot glass balanced with a glass of water on a tray. He set it before me and just cracked open the bottle pouring the shot. I took the shot glass and just looked to Rocky and then back to the shot before giving a huff.

"...Now or never Gilda.... You can do this...." I quickly knocked back the shot and... this was something I never had before. It burned everything. My beak, my tongue, the inside of my throat.... I slapped that shotglass down before grabbing the water and drinking it like my mouth was on fire. Once I got a few good gulps in I wiped my mouth with a napkin and just took a deep breath before getting up and slipping the ring box with the practice rings out of my pocket. I went around the table and... I felt like things were just going in slow motion. My heart ready to just... explode as I got closer to Rocky. "...Uh.... Babs..." I started nervously... Weird calling someone else I know by my near-future-fiance's name. "...We've been through a lot together.... when we first met... thought you were pretty cute being all drunk.... but.... More cute as the mare who I got to learn about and love... We both bonded over our missing of Ryder and enjoyed when he came back.... a few times.... Just.... Things recently have scared me and... I just think I'm afraid to lose you.... So..." I slowly got down on one knee and just opened the box slowly. "...Babs... Would you do me the honor of making me a married griffoness?" ....Rocky stayed silent.... But... It wasnt Rocky I was looking at.... I saw a green glow out of the corner of my eye. I just looked over to the end of the table and just saw Rocky standing there in what Shining was wearing, the real Shining just coming out from the kitchen with Cadence on his arm. I just looked back to who... I now realized was Babs.... Tears forming in both of our eyes.

Babs smiled as tears ran down her cheeks. "...Of course.... I will you... dweeb!" She said holding back sobs. Oh you do not know how fast I set that box aside and just KISSED HER. The three others in this room just cheered and clapped... Oh Dash and Ryder would have a field day knowing I cried.... Wouldnt be the first time... I was so pent up one day when Dash took me onto a cloud, I came, it rained for a sec and oh she just cuddled me and wiped my tears away because I felt so good. But this... This was more than that... I was so happy that this happened.... Shining hurried over and pried us apart scooching my seat closer to hers just as Cadence got a camera ready and took a picture of us.... It wasnt until I went for the box and realized the rings were in there... A ruby for me to symbolize my burning love for her, and a sapphire just to represent how cool she is under pressure.... Cadence made sure I got a picture of putting the ring on with her....

After dinner she carried me back to my room- well... our room now that she had her stuff delivered there and just started a call with everyone... Dash, Ryder, Scootaloo... Basically all our friends and family.... Ryder and Applejack were on one part, Scootaloo was on another with Dash and Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Twilight.... Hell even Applebloom and her marefriend as well as Sweetie Belle with them. Ryder smiled as he saw us. "Gilda! Babs! Got everyone here eh? What's up? Miss us that badly?" He asked.

I sighed just squeezing Babs' hand under the table and camera. "Yeah but.... I think this calls a bit more important than that...." I said glancing at Babs. We took our hands from under the table and flashed our rings at the camera.

Ryder and Applejack's jaws dropped, same as Dash's while I got gasps from Applebloom, Scootaloo and the only ones to be smiling was Fluttershy, Pinkie and Twilight. "Gilda..." Dash said. "Do NOT tell me that... you..." I gave a nod looking to Babs and just kissing her on the cheek. I looked back to the screen only to see Ryder have his eyes roll back and he just fell straight down. Hell Applejack tossed the phone and just made sure he was okay. He... should be.... Heart couldnt take it I guess?

Applebloom chuckled a bit. "Damn girl! Beat me to it!" She said. "You best make my cousin happy... Apples dont take kindly to heart break!"

Babs sighed as she looked back at the camera blushing. "Ah Bloom.... Be nice... I dont think she'd even break my heart... Think she knows what I can do if she does..." She said. ....Here I couldnt tell if I was turned on or scared. "Besides... All you gotta do is ask your lover behind you and I might pay for the rings."

Applebloom's marefriend leaned over her shoulder. "Its either she asks or I do.... And I'm not one to beg." She said wrapping her arms around her marefriend who just blushed and stared at the camera scared.

I chuckled. "Could always do what I did here 'bloom.... Just be tricked into popping the question early.... But you're better than I am with that... and I speak my mind!" I said. "But... Yeah.... Thought we'd at least spread the news before we get some sleep... But... uh..."

Scootaloo chuckled. "Yeah... You're not sleeping...." She said... Oh if Ryder werent passed out he'd comment. Dash and Fluttershy gave a laugh while Twilight blushed a bit. "But uh... Yeah... I should go make sure Ryder's alright.... You two love birds go crazy!" She hung up.

Applebloom cleared her throat. "Uh... Yeah... I should go too.... Think I uh... Think I hear somethin' vibrating..." She said just before they disappeared. Pinkie was just distracted making plans for parties....

Just left us with the Princess. She sighed giving a smile. "...You uh.... You're probably wondering how Babs ended up getting there... right?" She asked.

I huffed returning my hand below the table.... maybe copping a feel of my fiances padded crotch...Oh Babs didnt like that but she just held it there. "I'll admit... Yeah... But... Something tells me you had something to do with that...." I said.

"Yep... She overheard the call.... thought it would be better to surprise you than for you to surprise her... Shining ruined it but I called, told him Babs was getting the next train out there and hid all day wondering if you'd catch her but.... But it came out alright in the end and I congratulate you for this big step. But please... next time, tell me where you're going so stuff like this doesnt happen... But I trust it wont..."

Babs closed her legs around my hand making it press more against her crotch. "Dont worry Princess... I'll keep her in line... Now uh... We need to get going... Have a great night...." She said just hanging up on the princess. Oh she spent no time in tackling me to the bed and getting on top of me.... stripping her dress off.... She didnt even hesitate on going for her bags next to the bag and taking out a small bottle... A potion... something she brought along just for me. She popped the cork on it, gave it to me and I downed it.... I soon figured out it was something that made my pants feel VERY tight... She made no struggle as I went for my pants... She helped and I just had me a big old red rocket, ready to dock in my favorite bay.... She just put her ass in my face... But I had to get rid of a blockade.... Just ripped it off, tossed it aside and just grabbed hold of her ass giving it a good spread. She was just stroking me before downing my new member. Oh I will NEVER get used to that feeling... I just gave her a good licking... Then again, prep for her wasnt needed with how wet she was. Oh but I needed to give her some good feelings.... Once we felt the other was ready Babs rolled off and just let me get on top.... I just got into position and teased her... She helped me get the suit off more, just throwing the jacket and the shirt aside before I just slowly pushed my way in.

"Saddle up baby girl.... Mommy's gonna give you a good RIDE...." I pushed in and just started thrusting. Her moans were just melodic.... I know we should at least wait until our wedding night but... This couldnt wait with how happy we were. My balls just slapped right against her and I could only help but just watch her tits flop up and down as I thrusted. She just kept her arms around me, trying to not pull hard and smother me... not that I wouldnt mind that.... I just leaned down and kissed her as I started thrusting harder, her moans just filling my mouth... We broke the kiss... we were both just slobbering wanting more.... And if I didnt intend this knot for filling her up? I'd shove it down her throat... but... that would need someones help to get it out... And i'd rather not suffocate my new fiance to death.... Especially with my dick... Yeah that would be a headline for the papers.... Griffoness with a dick face fucked her fiance and knotted her to death. But yeah... anyhow I just thrusted faster.... She just gritted her teeth a bit... and wet herself.... I just started thrusting harder giving a grin. "Naughty naughty.... Baby girls dont wet the bed when mommy's using her.... Princess parts!" Oh she was cumming HARD. Felt her squeezing my dick.

"S-Sorry mommy... I... I couldnt hold it.... too much to drink... dinner...." She was breaking... she was just slurring her words as I kept fucking.... Oh you best bet I felt myself just building up pressure. I started thrusting faster and harder before I just couldnt help but knot her.... Oh the moans we made probably echoed down the hall... Guards would just LOVE to jack themselves off outside the door.... Maybe if they came in to check on us.... As I came in her I just collapsed and waited for the pulsing to stop.... Though once that happened I relaxed and just started pissing inside her... She just looked at me as I sighed.

"Gilda... Thats gross but... fuck it... I'm your toilet for tonight.... Just dont shit anywhere.... Please....." I chuckled....

"You're the one who already pissed the bed.... We... We might need to have someone help us to the shower after that knot deflates..... You got the strength to carry me over to my phone or something....?"

"...We're just gonna cuddle until it comes out.... Rather we be separated before doing anything.... besides... rather not hurt you or spill anything before you're finished...."

"Love you Babs...." She smiled and gave me a kiss.

"...Love you too...." And like that we passed out in each others arms. That lasted for at least a couple hours before she woke right up moaning in my ears as my dick slipped out and my piss and cum just sprayed all over the bed and us.... I was a bit embarrassed to ask guards for help and even they were a bit disgusted from that but Cadence was fine with the cleanup help. Guards who I asked to help got uppity and then I threatened to wake Cadence... She gave em a good talking to when tired and still had them clean up while Babs and I had to have help to clean to the shower... though as awkward as it was having a Princess aid in washing us she did talk with us like this wasnt her first rodeo with washing someone else after sexual escapades like that... She spoke with us about if we wanted to do something like that to just ask her about everything being prepped for that but... we got a bit excited over that proposal and she was glad we were good together... Hell she even helped us back to our room, padded us up and tucked us in... I might like playing mommy for Babs... but doesnt mean I dont like being babied.... But... yeah... anyways I need sleep and a breather after that...

Thrown Back

Alright.... I.... I can say I hate magic bullshit.... I would up and say what happened but I think this isnt gonna make sense unless I start from the beginning. It was early morning... Twilight asked me the night before to come to the castle when I could... Maybe because I told her I already had some alcohol... Nothing to stop legs from working but enough to make sure if it did affect my legs that I wouldnt be in danger. Not only that... I was kinda celebrating with Gilda after she proposed... Oh her face when she realized it was me and not a changeling pretending to be me. Honestly? Dad took it pretty well... Considering that now neither of his children are straight. Then again I did lay into his ass saying that someone he does love might not be there tomorrow... But when I showed him the ring he was just happy. Definitely wants to meet Gilda one of these days. But I had to leave a note for Gilda... She was DRUNK. So fucked up she wet her bed twice... Once after she got to bed by herself, the next she was sobered up but not hating life just yet... She did call me to help flip the bed and it was soaked through.... Gave her those words Ryder told me and she just blushed grabbing one of my pullons telling me to just shut up. But it's been at least an hour since then.... She's all dry and clean in my bed, trashcan ready, bottles of water and crackers for when she wakes up. But I at least got something to drink, a little toaster pastry to eat and headed out. It was a cold morning. Think there was supposed to be rain later. I just went out in my hoodie, jeans and boots, energy drink in hand because I was still tired as hell. I drove out to the castle taking sips of my drink at lights. Once at the castle I just headed up with guard escort to Twilight who was in her library. She was sipping on a cup of coffee as she was reading a book floating in her magic. She looked up as I came in. "Oh Babs! Thank you for this and... again... congrats on getting engaged." She said.

I sighed giving a smile looking at the ring... I made sure this thing will keep shining... The gems handpicked by Cadence with my approval, Gilda wanted hers to be a surprise so... matching it was. "Thanks... To be honest it was a surprise to hear she wanted to do that." I said. "...Oh but you should've seen her face when she pulled out the ring to 'practice' only to realize she did it for real. I swear if she was allowed away from Princess Cadence with those rings she would've still gotten a yes even if she never got a word out." I chugged the rest of my drink... was about 1/3 left. After that I trashed it in a can she had in here for notes and such. "So... What's going on that you need me here this early?" She shut her book and sipped her coffee a bit... I could see the steam coming from the cup.

"Well," she started grabbing a few other books from the shelves around us. "I found a spell I kinda want to try... Its a time spell and I just wanna see what goes on with the past since we have our Ryder back... I just got that feeling something is different...."

"First off... what makes you say that....? Second, will that really work?" She held up a finger and just read a book for a moment before just opening a portal. She took the empty can from the trash with her magic, crushed it and tossed it into the portal. I just looked at her confused. She walked over to me.

"...Three... Two... One..." She got behind me and I watched as another portal opened up and the crushed can now just fell into the trashcan. "There. What I do is choose a point in time, open the portal and go in. Or in that case, send something in. Only problem is it only stays open about as long as something is in the way before it closes."

"How'd you figure that out?"

"You can blame Ryder for that one. Wakes me up from a dead sleep only for him to toss himself through a portal back to when Nightmare Moon was released from the moon.... Dont rightly know if it was before or after the portal happened for that to happen." I just shook my head trying to not think about it.

"Right.... So... What are we doing?"

"We're going back in time to before all this. Hopefully to after a time where Ryder remembers us being from a time he was sent to. If I'm right there might be some change where he survived and didnt die... I mean... Ryder still remembers his death but something had to have changed... right?"

"...Yeah sure whatever." I stretched still tired. "...We got time before we do this or not?"

"Got somewhere to be?"

"...Maybe a bathroom... Feels like that energy drink went right through me..."

"Closest bathroom is down the hall to the right. Now hurry. I wanna do this as fast as possible before the sun rises." I gave a nod not really thinking about what she just told me... my tired mind just didnt click with what she said and I doubt my awake mind would either but... Yeah.... I just rushed to the bathroom, did my thing and texted Gilda if I wasnt back by the time she woke up to just call Ryder to help her make breakfast... or make sure she didnt shit herself. TMI but she's told me after she drinks like that, she pukes she does end up being a bit heavier in the britches sometimes. In fact... just in case Gilda doesnt see it... I did text Ryder that when he sees it to just head to my place to help with Gilda. He does know the gate code incase I'm ever in trouble. Code word even to let him know I'm in trouble even it doesnt let Applejack know what happened. I just text him 'Skullfucker' and he's on my position fast. Anyhow I went back real quick after doing what I did and she had a portal ready.

I just saw her staring in it from the door. What I saw through the portal was just an overhead view of Sweet Apple Acres. My family's farm. I just went and just slowly walked forward just staring at the portal as well... To be honest I should've gone and wached where I was going... I ended up tripping over a fucking small pile of books that I KNOW I'm gonna have to pay to replace. I stumbled for a bit trying to catch myself but nope. GUESS WHO FELL RIGHT THROUGH?! and the wost part? That overhead view wasnt just a special camera for portal work.... And me being an earth pony I really thought I was fucked. I screamed LOUD... Thankfully loud enough for someone to hear and grab me... And the only one strong enough to actually grab me and hold me there... Ryder. I just panted heavily as we just looked up to see the portal I fell through close. "Oh son of a BITCH!" Ryder exclaimed. He quickly flew me down and just set me on my feet. I just didnt wanna let go of him. "Now I gotta call Twilight, find her and-"

Oh fuck me did my adrenaline die down fast... Too fast.... I passed out in his arms. When I woke up I was just half naked. Of course I was in Ryder's bed but I didnt stay there for long. I just rushed out of the room and into the bathroom across the hall just to puke my guts out. It sucked but I soon heard someone rushing upstairs. That tasted so bad... I just backed off once I felt alright for a moment just to see Ryder come in.... He just got right down next to me and huffed. "...I... I...." I tried saying but I was shushed.

"Easy Babs... Breathe... You're alright.... I gotcha..." I took a deep breath over and over again, calming myself more and more. "Alright... Get the obvious out of the way, you're from the future.... Guess you got here on a lucky day but an unlucky day... Lucky day being everyone else is out of town... Unlucky because Twilight's also gone... Wont be back until tomorrow at the earliest. Just told her she needs to get back here and that it was an emergency... of course still with that, its the earliest she can because she's at least giving me that time to fix it... And fixing this? Yeah... Leaving that to her considering brininging you to Canterlot would really bring back memories I dont need.... Would get the fix done but uh.... Last I checked Celestia had you and your father there... For uh...." I sighed sitting up and flushing the toilet, using it to just prop myself up as I stood carefully.

"...Ryder... I know my dad has some sort of weird connection to a military outfit... Had you save my ass or something using the chip in my neck...." He huffed and stood up as I now sat on the toilet. I was just in my bra and panties. "...I... thank you for saving me... Glad you did otherwise you'd've come home to me on the ground either badly injured or dead..."

"And if that happened, I'd really have to take to the heavens and find the fuck out where you came from.... Speaking of uh... You know what day it was and what time you came here from there?" My heart kind of dropped.... I scrunched up a bit, swallowing the lump in my throat.

"...I.... I know it was just... a few days after I got engaged...? I was kinda celebrating a bit and just... I didnt check...." He sighed.

"....Yeah... Not good.... If you did, this would be easy.... Guess not.... Now its either we wait for Twilight or barge in on Celestia... And last time I did that... Yeah she wasnt happy..." I whined a bit thinking of Gilda.... I was just hoping she wasnt awake and trying to call me... wondering where I was.... Either that or Ryder thinking someone kidnapped me and of course the chip in my neck not coming back with a signal. Ryder picked me up and brought me back to the room... There were a few more doors than what I remember in the house.... He lied me down in the bed and cuddled with me. "...This is scary... I know... But we're not gonna give up that easily! You know I'm not gonna give up and I expect you're not gonna give up... Tell me... Who is it you're engaged to?"

"...G-Gilda... She... She proposed and... She was drunk when I left... Pissed the bed..."

"Hopefully she soaked it through...." I held back a giggle... Though it did get me to smile just knowing what her face looked like after I say it... "Dont worry. You'll see her again..." He hummed and got up. "...Huh... I'm wondering if she'd at least help keep you calm... Hopefully not make it weird..."

"Please... No... I.... I dont trust it... it could fuck up the happiest moment of my life...!" He sighed and went over to the window looking out.

"...Fair... Though I dont think that would do anything.... But I'll agree to not do it... Though... Still up to you whether you wanna go and ask Celestia for help or wait for Twilight... Though... I just dont know if we'd avoid either risk if we go or wait...." He looked back. "We might not have long to choose but as long as you make the choice, we can prepare precautions for everything... Maybe more one than the other but... anything is possible..."

"...I... I guess we might have to go to Celestia... Just... I dont want my younger self seeing me..... Especially if my scars show...." I looked at my arms. Most of the scars I had were healed. Others didnt because they served as a memory. More of a sign to remember how much something hurt and to not let it happen again... He came over and huffed.

"We'll try not to. If she does see you, asks about your future, say nothing too bad for her... You're still a filly healing from trauma already... Something I've learned is the creator of the spell has chatted with himself when using it. But... Still... We should avoid contact. If contact is made and she's curious, just... tell yourself something that you'd wanna hear at that age..."

"Can we go to Rarity first for something? I'd say I'd pay you later but... I... I think I'd feel better with something to hide me well... Speaking of uh... where are my clothes?" He huffed getting back up, even helping me to my feet.

"Lucky you, I got you out of your clothes before you wet yourself or something... Rather give you something to wear thta isnt wrapping a besheet around you... And you didnt piss yourself... yet but... doesnt mean things like that cant happen...."

"...I'll take anything.... and its a good thing too... Glad I went before I came here... Just... Gimme my clothes... Your choice to stay and help me change if you want... A feel might make me feel better." I gave a blush dropping my panties a bit on one side. He blushed as well.

"Uh... considering we're gonna be seeing the younger you later, not a good idea...." I fixed my panties and just.... hugged myself now just feeling a bit disgusting. He sighed. "If you want, Applejack keeps her toys in the closet to the right... Up to you from there. I'll give you a few...." I just nodded and he just left the room... I just dealt with my situation. Stood there, maybe rubbing myself through my panties making a stain but other than that I didnt finish. Ryder came back up, gave me my clothes and I got dressed. You do not know how bad I wanted to just finger fuck myself in my own pants after that... Buuuuuuuuut if I did, more than likely I'd've actually wet my pants. I'm a squirter okay?

Once I was dressed I did have my phone and thankfully the games worked still. Of course even my keys and wallet, surprisingly the car key still worked for Ryder's car. Of course we didnt use em. I wanted to keep EVERYTHING I had on me, on me. When we got to Rarity's I felt nervous... I just hurried up to the door and kept my face hidden with the jacket I was wearing. Ryder had to knock and we waited in silence. When the door opened I wasnt even looking when I heard Rarity speak. "Oh Ryder! Darling you must call if we're to be meeting! I'm very busy today!" I heard her say.

"Sorry Rarity but I'm in a little bit of an emergency at the moment with a friend here and I need clothes for her YESTERDAY! May we just... Come in so I can explain?" I heard her give an annoyed grunt.

"Fine... But you owe me BIG..."

"Put me in a dress, make up, shove me in a tight bikini and have Twilight take my junk away again just to do it. This is important."

"Just get in here before I shut the door!" Ryder grabbed my arm and just lead me into Rarity's boutique. She sighed as she shut the door. "You're lucky Sweetie Belle isnt here to hear you saying this stuff." He huffed.

"That's good.. Really dont need her hearing that... or seeing my friend here but what EVER you do, you can NOT say anything about this to anyone! Understand?"

"...I swear if you're fucking her behind Applejack's back..."

I just grunted and looked to Rarity. "Are you gonna just berate him or are you going to help me Rares?" I asked. She just looked at me shocked. "He may have fucked me but Applejack knows... And she allowed it!" Ryder facepalmed and Rarity blushed.

"Oh... I... Well... Babs? Is it? How did you get so... Old? And... Is it as you are now or uh..."

Ryder huffed. "Twilight threw me forward in time, I fucked up and died, she kept my mind occupied with kinky shit and got mistaken for a changeling calling in a code black to the castle. I would NEVER touch a filly that way! I ever do, KILL ME!" Rarity jumped a bit.

I sighed a bit taking my jacket off. My scars visible to her. "I apologize for both his and my attitudes. This is stressful for both of us." I said. "I just wanna get back to my time and I cant do that unless I have a disguise. Twilight isnt going to be back for a while and that even is with as big as an emergency as this. Last resort is Celestia and I'm there with my dad!"

"Now you see why I need your help so bad to interrupt whatever you're doing? Just... Give her a cloak, a different outfit, something to help hide her face. Just... Measure her, do whatever you need to."

Rarity gave a nod and just took my hand leading me into her boutique area. She lead me to a podium and just helped me up onto it. "Alright, get undressed or just tell me what sizes you are. I might have some stuff that doesnt need alterations since this IS an emergency..." She said somewhat sounding like she was mocking Ryder. "But before you do... A... Question...."

"Rarity I am not saying anything about the future for you. All you need to know is you're still gonna be a beauty in your old age."

"Oh well that's a relief but I wasnt going to ask about that darling... I was going to ask about uh..." She glanced down a bit and just tapped at her arm.

Ryder sighed sitting down on a couch. "Rarity I dont think she'd want to-" He said but I cut him off just clearing my thraot.

I looked to Rarity after giving him a glare. "...Its fine... I just... Well... When my Ryder passed- not sure if this is the same timeline or something different but.... I got down bad.... so bad that pain was the only feeling I could feel." I said. "... I starved myself, I cut myself all up until my dad found me mid cut and dragged me out of the house to the orchard where I swear Applejack and the others were gonna tie me up and keep me alive any means neccessary. It got me back but.... I still had flashes here and there after that.... Lucky this knuckle head showed up and just let me show how appreciative I was...."

Rarity started taking my top off and sighed. "Well... I guess he did do what I thought he did at first...." She said.

"Applejack was the one who called..."

"So she did know?" I nodded as I carefully undid my pants. "And I take it you might still be appreciative right now as a young filly?"

Ryder groaned a bit. "...She might still be but I talked to her, her dad took me to dinner and that was that. And again- no way I'm touching her like that with a hundred foot pole!" He reminded.

"And glad of it. Though Sweetie Belle has told me about some things whilst staying here, I hold no ill will... Just ask that things be quiet and safe. Now drop em!" I dropped my pants and kicked em off to the side. Rarity quickly got some measurements while I thought about what she meant and... Yeah not going there. Use your imagination perv. After Rarity got measurements she went over to racks upon racks of clothes and just started picking out things. She came back over and handed me the clothes. "Put these on. These seem your style and they might help hide your face...." I took the clothes and put them on as she stepped away going over to a shoe rack. It was a long sleeved shirt with a hood attached, a design of shimmering skulls on it. Pants that were a bit light and cut but looking as if they were stiched together but obiously. "I feel like your shoes are good for your style as they are but.... I could offer something more."

I huffed making sure these moved well and I had my things from my other pants. "I think I'm good with that Rarity... Just.... Make sure Ryder really does go through with what he helps you with." I said pocketing my phone and wallet as I slipped my feet back into my own shoes. Rarity turned and smiled.

"I shall indeed... I'm even going to have to go with that idea he had with Twilight... Might make a perfect model for some muscly mare... Fairly sure Gilda would enjoy it as well." I... I honestly just froze.... Looking to my ring.... Tears welled up in my eyes. "Um.... Did I hit a touchy subject...?" Ryder came over to my side picking up my clothes, folding them over his arm before pulling me in... I just lied my head on his shoulder. ".... Yeah... Yeah I did.... Apologies Babs..."

Ryder sighed. "Its... fine... Rarity... Just...." He said rubbing my back. "...Let me call you later... Think she just needs a drink, maybe something to eat.... Seems about that time anyways..."

"Alright just... When you do get back to where you go, please... Just give me a smile in any way you can Babs, even if it means just a dinner or something."

I didnt answer. Ryder just dragged me out almost literally. I just held back sobs, stared at my ring just remembering things. Just... remembering the words Gilda said when she proposed. "...I just think I'm afraid to lose you..." I heard her words echo in my head. I was loaded into the car, my clothes folded into my lap.

I was nudged snapping me out of my trance. "Babs! Babs breathe! You'll see her again!" He said firing up the car. "...Look... I know it hurts right now but seriously, breathe and keep a level head... Only way we'll get through this. Dont be afraid to call for that help from the valley when you get home!" ...I swear if the universe was listening that help from the valley just fucking came to ME! Princess FUCKIN' Luna was calling Ryder. I could tell because Ryder back home has the same video game music set for Luna. Alley Brawlers 2, the military guys theme. He went for his phone and mounted it on the dash before answering. "Luna now's not really a good time!"

I heard a huff. "Apologies Ryder but Babs' father had to run off somewhere and asked us to watch Babs." She said. "Would you be willing to come to Canterlot to pick her up? We'd like to watch her but... Celstia and I have to do something soon and we dont want to have to cancel it!" I just whimpered silently hugging myself....

"You may have to watch her for the time being! What's so important he had to leave her with you?"

"He had to run off to just- Hold up a tick why cant you come pick her up? She's pretty much your family! Or are you indesposed of with your pants off?" He looked to me blushing before nearly headbutting his steering wheel. I'm fairly sure if he did, the fucking airbag would deploy and maybe break his neck. That would be something to explain... Then again this is a modified version of an older vehicle, new things installed everywhere you look. Radio included.

"Luna I just cant right now! If you can hold off until later for things I might be able to make it but I need to do something right now! Expect me later!"

"Ryder I need you to tell me why you cant come and get her now. Otherwise the guards here will not be letting you in unless you are coming to get Babs!" He looked to me and huffed.

"Give me a minute. Just... Make sure you are NOWHERE near Babs when I return. Please!"

"I swear if you're naked..." He grunted and hung up before letting out a just primal yell. It only lasted a second but... Yeah... I kinda curled up a bit. He went for his phone again and started a video call. He just closed his eyes and leaned back before Luna answered. "Ryder I just- Seriously what has gotten into you?! You're not naked which is good but that still doesnt explain-" He quickly turned his phone towards me as I just showed my face and kinda blushed embarrassed. "Oh... Oh... Uh.... Is .... Is that Babs? The one you uh...."

"Yes and this is why I cant come pick Babs up! Right now I just wanna get her something to eat and we should be there later! Why I want you guys to watch her is because I do not want some sort of stupid paradox happening and jeopardizing something that went on in her life! Longer this keeps up, the less time we have to do anything remotely on getting her home and right now I'm making sure she's fed and keeps her mind focused! She's nearly having a fucking mental breakdown all because of this fucking situation she's in- same one that I was in but at least she has someone who can vouch for her rather than being dropped into your lap wondering who I am and what I was doing there!" He just panted and took a deep breath as Princess Luna stayed silent. "...Princess... I.... I apologize.... I just dont know whether or not this is gonna fuck shit up or... whatever... Or even if I'm even gonna end up going into the timeline she came from...." Luna sighed.

"Its fine Ryder. Just... Babs, keep a level head. Breathe. A stranger in a strange land pretty much but you've got it. We'll help any way we can!"

"Just tell Celestia I cant but do not tell her why. Just... Make something up that sounds like me! If she wants to call me tell her when you called I had a massive migraine and was very iritable!"

"Alright but you better show up later. We can try to keep Babs out of the way but you need to do something to keep her away from anyone else to keep her from altering her future." She hung up and he sighed.

"....Apologies for the yell there Babs... Just... You can understand how frustrated I am with this... Especially with accusations of me doing anything with you younger than when I came to you- I mean when I got transported to your time!"

I huffed and just fixed myself and dropped my pants for him to see. "You wanna help keep my mind off things, just get a feel and dont stop until I tell you!" I said kinda wiping my eyes. He huffed and just kinda swiped at the glovebox before opening it and pulling out a sex toy... I took it and looked at it.

"Use this, try not to make a mess or draw attention to us.... Gonna just drive around until you finish... After that, food, drink whatever you want. I rolled my eyes but just prepped it. Leaned back in my chair, lowered myself down the seat and even grabbed my shirt from my other set just covering my lap. I'm not gonna describe what I did but you know what I did. We drove around for a few blocks while I just thought of Gilda... Maybe Ryder railing her in front of me with an orgasm denial spell.... Oh I NEED Twilight to do that as payback.... She wouldnt mind.... Nor would be if its to make Gilda horny as hell and make her piss the bed so much she actually soaks it through... She's getting tied up for that though... last thing I want is Gilda to beat Ryders ass because she cant finish... Though maybe I have some fun and make them both unable to finish until I say so....

But yeah... Finished, he drove around a bit allowing me to make sure I was alright, tossed my shirt in the back with my other pants, and just fixed myself... May have actually wrapped the toy in my shirt just so he could clean it later. But we ended up heading to a southern equestrian food place. Best. Burrito's. OUT THERE! Like I loved this place but this was an OLD recipe.... if there's one thing I could change about my future, this would be it. This place swapped owners multiple times over the years and the last one drove the place down. Still in business but its not good at all. Will I go there from time to time for some Quinoa Asada fries? Yep. Just... other places make it better but their salsa is to DIE FOR! Though as we ate... There was a call I didnt wanna have to hear. Gilda... Lucky I was done eating but... Of course I kinda started to panic and worry again. I just took a deep breath, closed my eyes but of course I couldnt ignore it no matter how hard I tried. "DWEEEEEB!" She yelled as soon as he answered. "Where the fuck are you?! I thought I'd come to surprise you but I didnt know if you were here, called your wife, she told me you should be but of course NOTHING!" Ryder groaned a bit.

"Sorry Gil, something came up. I had to run quick and I might not be back for a while. Princess' wanted me to come to Canterlot. Actually grabbing a bite before heading out there." ...I swear I wanted to strangle myself with the fucking pants I had in the back. Gilda, if you told her where you were gonna go somewhere and she wanted to see you, she's gonna invite herself along.... and she wont take no for an answer.

"Where are you? I'll meet you there!"

"I'm at my garage picking stuff up but I'm-"

"Stay RIGHT THERE! I'm coming and if you leave before I do I'm getting your workers to prank you and you dont know what or when it will happen!" She hung up.... FAST. And yeah... She does mean it. I told her I was going to get dinner one night, she calls me, asks to hang out, I told her I had plans, she wanted to be included and I went without her. She met me at the house and... may have spanked me for it.... Yeah... She told me and meant it when I thought she was trying to be cute... I cried a bit when it actually hurt... But she did apologize and realized she should've given me a warning about that. Since then if she wanted to join me, she joined me... And I think Ryder knows.

"...Fuck... That was a mistake..."

I looked to him opening my eyes. "You think?!" I snapped. He huffed laying his head onto the steering wheel and trying to make sure his burrito didnt fall out of his lap.

"...If I didnt need to return you somewhere important, I'd kick you out of my car for that.... But I will look past it due to the stress we're under...."

"...When she does come, apologize, ask what she wants but just.... Make it seem like I'm in some sort of trouble and you're trying to help..." I just flipped the hood on this shirt up. It hung pretty low with my head down, just continued eating. Though of course... thinking of Gilda got my heart beating a bit... kinda gave me a little comfort... She might be a bitch but... She's the bitch I love... Especially when it comes to her soft side which she denies having. She might act tough to protect those she loves but get her in bed or if you're down and depressed? She's mommy. Anyways we finished our food and just parked up by his garage. He went in to check on things, ask how things were going, if he could help for a minute while I just sat in the car keeping an eye out for Gilda.

When Gilda pulled up... my god she was RIPPED when she was younger. I almost wanna ask Princess Twilight to just... Give her youth back just so I could see what she could do. Just the thought gets a tickle in the trousers. Ryder came out and met her half way and I could see them just argue for a second before Ryder pointed to his car. I just kinda looked down hiding my face. I glanced up a bit just watching them come over to me. "The fuck you mean she's in trouble?! Why the fuck are you leaving her out here if she's in trouble?!" I heard her ask, pretty much yelling

Ryder huffed. "Cars pretty much bullet proof and please dont ask how I know." He said. I looked to the mirror as they came around my side... I could see Gilda looking around.

"What kind of trouble is she in? Any way for me to help?"

"Gil, I really wouldnt unless you want to put your ass on the line. I'm just tasked with getting her up to Canterlot and right now these stops are a risk. She got hungry but she's fine so far so thinking nothing in the food that is going to hurt her." Gilda huffed as she opened up the door.

"If she's in trouble, that puts you in the crosshairs and if you're in the crosshairs I'm gonna do something to help even if it means getting her to safety while you distract those assholes!" She kinda knelt down on the side. "Hey, names Gilda, your friend here hired me to help keep ya safe. Got a name?" I just turned away a bit.

"As per protocol she's forbidden to tell you her name. Makes it harder for someone to accurately identify in case of kidnappings. That happens, of course I'd kill whoever took you... Maybe let you help if pissed off enough."

"And you'd have no argument from me... Just... Would you believe I'd actually trained with shooting back in Griffonstone with my uncle? He owned guns growing up and always was taking me shooting when he wanted to spend time with me."

"Letting either of us near a gun is a risk but... If it kept her safe, it would be worth it." I could see Gilda tilt her head a bit.

"...Sorry if this is weird but... Gotta say you're kinda cute...."

I glanced a bit at her blushing. "...Thank you...." I said giving somewhat of an accent that was like... Eastern Steuropean.

She smiled a bit as Ryder sighed. "For now, I say just call her Baby Girl as her code name. Her significant other called her that a lot and decided to just refer to her as that." He said. ...This was payback but it got better.

"...Well then 'Baby Girl'... Scooch up a bit if you can and let me get in... If you'd like I can just wrap my arms around you, make sure you feel safe while nutcase here drives." ....I swear if my face could catch fire here it would... But it felt good to hear her call me that because well... she does call me that.... makes me feel all little to have her here... I did lean up but apparently not far enough for the seat to go that far. She had to go around because I just didnt wanna get out... She didnt even try to make me either. After she got in, Ryder got back in the drivers seat.

"Alright... Lets get over to Canterlot... Just remain calm and we'll get there in no time." I gave a nod as he fired up the engine and pulled out. As he pulled out of the lot I saw a bike I know Gilda loved to talk about. A garage hand was rolling it in to the garage. She was proud she kept it running for a while until she couldnt no more. Built that bike herself of course with stolen parts and somehow still managed to keep it going after welding the parts together that needed to be put together. She lost it in a wreck and was kind of afraid to get on a bike again. She was injured, needed help to do some things until she could on her own again but when she was getting ready for a little cardio exercise Dash tells me she pissed her pants on the bike machine. Got so scared she had to have Applejack help pull her off. She did end up getting back on bikes.... Diapers were needed but she doesnt do anything more than mountain bikes. Anywho she did put a hand on my shoulder which... i just took... Of course with the ring on my finger still. She just looked at it and gave a hum.

"Ah... Something tells me your significant other has some good taste in jewelry... Love the look of those gems!" Ryder huffed.

"Gilda, please dont say much more.... She's already under a lot of stress, she doesnt need to think about them right now wondering if they're safe." He glanced at me as we pulled into the road. "No worries there. She's safe and sound with Celestia but wont be out of where she is until you're safe." I gripped Gilda's hand a bit tight.... Just... Having a tear stream down my cheek....

"Apologies there Baby Girl... Just.... I just cant help but open my mouth sometimes..." I wanted to say something but... I couldnt bring myself to speak... I would've just told her I loved her, I was sorry and I'm scared.... The ride felt long. I fought the need to sleep.... The feeling of being with those I loved comforted me to the point I was nodding off. What kept me awake was the fear I wouldnt get back, the scary reality that i may face myself when I ws younger... And the music. Ryder did play his music pretty loud. I fought tooth and nail trying to not rock out... That and want to pull over and puke... Or piss with my cutie mark on display.... Not that I havent done that before but a bail jump before I'm old enough to have a cutie mark? Yeah... Rather not do that... or even wet myself in new clothes. I had a rule. I ever get new clothes, I have to wait to use them like that. Plus I have to be in the mood. Trust me. Ryder could say something, Gilda could send me some shit, I get naughty and tease one of them with a little stain from me pissing myself a bit or full on bladder empty and a little middle finger... Oh Gilda loves me being a little bitchy brat.

Anywho we made it all the way to Canterlot... Had to take a few turns, make it seem like someone was following us just to lose them... Gilda wouldnt have believed it until a car he pointed out turned with us but kept distance. He sped up, took a few turns and even cut through a parking lot to hide. As we pulled up to the gate the guards looked us up and down, even getting on the radio.... could barely hear what they were saying. The raido sounded off with somoene saying something back before the gate opened and we drove in. We parked off to the side and Ryder got out running over to a guard and I could tell he was trying to act like this was an actual situation. Gilda just kept a hand on me as I was doing some deep breaths. I could see the guards nod before they split having Ryder come back to the car. There were two guards who came to my side and opened my door. "Alright ma'am we got you from here. Lets get you to a saferoom." He said. I kinda gripped Gildas hand a bit... She huffed.

"Why dont you escort us? She's scared and she's just got a good grip on me. Just... I dont know... create a perimeter so we can get out once we're ready?"

They looked to Ryder. "Do as she says. I'm the one who hired her to help with protection. Technically my own personal body guard." He said. They nodded and just went to either end of the car. I sat there and just took deep breaths before Ryder came around the car and helped me out.... I hugged him as Gilda stepped out. "Its okay... I gotcha...."

"Ready to go sir?" Ryder gave a nod.

"Yep. We'll set her in Omega. Luna wanted to speak to her in private. I'll lead her there if you want to go and get Luna ready." The guards saluted and rushed off for the door. We followed soon after. Ryder just had me keep my head down while he had Gilda grab my clothes... I swear with the way we walked down the hall its like I was walking with my family, mom trailing behind me with new pants, dad walking me to the nearest bathroom to change.... giving me a lecture along the way.... Happened before my parents separated. I waited too long to get to the bathroom, of course there was a spider ON MY DOOR when I went to go there, screamed, wet myself, the spider disappeared as I tried to clean it, dad didnt believe me that it was there but I was crying so he just talked to me, made sure I was good and calmed me but kept talking about stuff that could've been the problem while mom just got me new pants and underwear.... Though of course dad threatened diapers but mom just said to just let it go because I was already through enough... Didnt stop later that night when I was put in one for bed.

Anywho as we walked I just felt like there was something wrong.... Like... ACTUALLY wrong. We were just walking down the hall but... I stopped... Ryder stopped as well... In front of us? Celestia, Luna... and myself.... I quickly turned away just as I noticed Ryder. "RYDER!" She yelled. I saw the guards escorting us push past a bit before Ryder stopped them with a huff.

"Easy! I got this! Just step back!" Gilda hugged me.... I was trying REAL hard to not bury my face into her chest... or grab her ass. Though I just cowered in fear. Ryder sighed as he picked her up... Just going by sound here. "Babs you gotta be careful here! These guards arent gonna be nice if a little filly just bumps into em! Besides I'm doing something really important right now!"

I heard more footsteps get closer as Gilda just rubbed my back a bit. "Ryder Wheeler what the everloving HELL are you even doing?!" I heard Celestia ask. "First off you're the one stallion I expect to lie to get out of something but this filly is one you saved and she loves you! Why lie to get out of visiting her? Second, who the hell is this and why are you having guards escort you and her as well as your griffon friend?! If you had asked I would've allowed both of them in-"

"Celestia can you give me a minute to explain?!"

"You have one minute!"

"Alright, Luna could you take Babs into another room?"

"No she is not going anywhere! Explain to us why you think this filly isnt important enough to come get yourself!"

"Princess, you know I'd do anything for this filly but PLEASE let your sister take her into another room."

I heard Luna huff. "Sister just let me take her-" She said just having Celestia give a grunt.

"Luna do NOT tell me you're taking his side over this!"

Gilda.... She... She loosened her grip and looked down at me just cowering in fear. She just looked up away and back down again at me as the arguing continued. She looked up one last time before giving a huff. "HEY HEY! EVERYONE NEEDS TO SHUT THE FUCK UP RIGHT NOW DAMMIT!" She yelled. Just like that everyone got quiet. I could just hear an almost silent 'oh fuck' from Ryder. "I think I'm understanding why Ryder did what he did..." She turned me around and I just couldnt do anything to fight it... Did not want to hurt mommy. Fuck my brain sideways for that. I just opened my eyes, now teary and just looking at Ryder who was just pinching the bridge of his nose while my younger self looked on in confused amazement.

I jumped down from Ryder's arms and hesitantly stepped forwards a bit. "...wait... Is that.... Me??" She asked.

Ryder grunted and looked to Celestia just throwing his hands down. "Now do you see why I wanted to keep this shit secret?!" He asked.

Gilda huffed. "Called it by the way." She said. He looked back.

"Oh shut the fuck up PLEASE!" He looked to Celestia who was also confused. "Dont you remember years ago when your sister came back from the moon and I needed help to get back to where I was?"

Celestia nodded. "...Yes... I do and... I... I really should've let Luna take Babs...." She said just... staring at me, staring at my younger self. It was just scary seeing myself.... Ryder huffed.

"Wouldnt worry... Think I remember something about Starswirl... If I'm correct we're probably going to need with your mothers help... But I remember he said something about having a conversation with himself.... I'd trust it but.... She doesnt..."

Luna sighed. "Too late now..." She said. She looked to Celestia. "Sister, why dont you get to the throne room and fetch mother and Starswirl? I'm going to take everyone somewhere to calm down." Celestia nodded and just teleported out. Luna looked to the guards as Luna picked the younger me up, sitting me on her arm. Ryder came over and wiped the tears from my eyes before taking my hand.

As we started walking my younger self looked to me. "...Are you... me?" She asked.

I huffed. "...Yeah... I just... Dont ask questions about your future... okay? I dont know if yours and mine are gonna be the same..." I said flipping down the hood. "And if they are the same... I'd rather not change things and mess things up for me.... Just... I'm having a happy life and to ruin it... I wouldnt want to trade anything for it... Okay?" My little self gave a nod. I gave a sigh looking to Ryder as he lead us down the hall. "...All I'll say is... No matter what happens... You're a strong filly.... stay strong.... Life will hit you like a sack of bricks here and there... but you'll get through them... just accept any help you can get... Alright?" She gave a nod and just clung to the Princess.

We were lead to Luna's room. I still remember one of the days after Ryder's funeral she invited me into her room with Scootaloo and Applebloom just to see how we were doing... I was lying through my teeth and I just couldnt help but stare into her tank of Spiders... Always was kinda afraid of one of them coming out and biting me... And yeah this was before dad knew I was hurting myself. Anyhow Luna set the young me down onto her bed, my feet just cutely dangling off the side. Canvas sneakers, skinny jeans and a baseball button up. Manehattan Maulers MAUL THAT BALL!... Yeah... sorry... Always loved the team. Luna sighed as Gilda and Ryder hopped up onto the bed at different points. "Alright... I really should've been going out to meet you but all because of my sister I was forced to keep watch over Babs- the young one I mean." She said starting to pace. "And because of Ryder's lie, of course she made it my duty instead of having a trusted guard watch her... Even just leaving her somewhere with snacks and entertainment would've been good as long as a guard could help her if she needed it!"

Ryder just plopped back into the bed. "After this is done, I'll tell Celestia I'm already lined up for a punishment but she can add anything she wishes to it..." He glared directly at me.... I couldnt help but chuckle.

The younger me just looked to Ryder and then back to me. "...what?" She asked.

I sighed. "You'll know when you're older hopefully...." I replied. "But... I guess while we wait.... What say we get some questions out of the way?" The younger me just.... Looked down and thought for a moment before looking back up.

"....Do I ever get over my fear of heights?"

"Honestly? Yeah... I think heights are pretty much the least of your worries but you do get better with them as time goes on and you can thank Ryder for that, sticking by your side through it all."

Gilda hummed. "How'd you get here anyhow?" She asked.

Ryder sat up. "Something tells me Twilight..." He said. I just snapped my fingers and pointed to him.

Luna looked me up and down. "...You seem to know guard tactics well.. hide your face, attempt to remain inconspicuous... Trust of outside sources when need be.... Did Ryder teach you those or did you learn those on your own?" She asked.

I went and leaned against the wall near her bathroom. "A bit of both.... Learned most of what I know now through hard work with the guard though... Ryder did have to teach me a few things to get where I was...." I said with a blush knowing I was skirting around something big.

The younger me gave a confused look. "I'm a guard in the future??" She asked.

"Yep... Damn good one too... Had some big shoes to fill but you still know how to pick battles just like you did in school." She just gave a little fist pump which... honestly comforted me a bit. Guess I wanted to be a guard for as long as I could remember but never told dad until the day I got accepted into the guard training stuff. He flipped but as time went on he felt more and more confident about me being one.

Gilda hummed a bit. "Who's the ring from?" She asked.

"I dont kiss and tell." Oh you do NOT know how bad I wanted to actually say but... Of course... my future... not to mention she'd probably give the younger me a look and vice versa. The younger me glanced at Ryder. I just huffed. "Dont worry. He knows, he appreciates you and he'd do anything for you... Just give it time... For now... Just hold onto him... Love him like he was your brother... Speaking of... Try to get Dad to talk with him, spend time with him... I know he misses you a bunch." Ryder just wrapped an arm around the younger me and pulled her in for a hug.

Luna came to my side and just faced away whispering into my ear. "...Good way of confirming that it was you he did it with when he returned... and a good way to put it for now..." She said near silently. I shot her a smile and winked.

As we continued to talk I felt more comfortable with everyone. Of course I avoided topics like... Well who I was with and how it happened... and of course the death of one of my best friends (Ryder) but it was a good chat. That was until there was a knock at the door. Luna went over and opened it just to see Celestia come in. "Alright. We're all ready whenever you are Babs." She said rather somberly. I looked to myself and went over to her on the bed.

The younger me clung to Ryder but... I just offered a hand and she took it. I pulled her in and just gave her a hug. "....You're gonna have to grow up sometime... just not today girl...." I said to myself. "....Be brave, be strong... and maybe one day you could probably beat Ryder in an arm wrestling contest!" I broke the hug and stood up. "Just... Dont tell dad about this... Even with Ryder giving you a back up on a story like this, he wont believe it... Trust me...." She gave a nod and smiled a bit. I looked to Gilda. "After we're done... I'd say take her out for ice cream or something with Ryder." Gilda gave a nod and hopped up from the bed with Ryder. I looked to Luna. "...Princess? If I could reccomend something... Extend your 'help from the valley' to her as well... Only when she needs it of course..." Luna just looked to me surprised and nodded hesitantly before glancing at Ryder and back at me. I nodded as well.

Luna sighed going over to the bed as Ryder and Gilda joined at my side, of course Gilda holding my clothes still. "Alright... safe travels back Babs... If I may suggest something... Celestia might have to give you a code for a little... extra help... But... If I may say... Being a General goes a long way in our eyes." She gave a wink as the younger me just kind of gasped a bit. "Dont let me keep you. Just go now. You're needed elsewhere." I gave a nod and we followed Celestia out.

Gilda huffed as we got further down the hall away from Luna's room. "'Dont kiss and tell' huh?" She asked. "....I think I have a feeling who gave you that ring because that's some shit I'd do...." Oh my face caught fire. I flipped the hood back up. "Please tell me you already know the phrase that turns me on."

I sighed holding back giggles. Ryder just looked back. "...I swear I am not getting out of any trouble for admitting I told her... but I told her already." He said.

"I'll believe it when I hear it."

Celestia huffed. "Enough you three. Faster we get this done, faster we can get along with our days." She said. "Ryder... You and I need to talk after this... Not to mention I might need to have a talk with Twilight... She's the only one who would mess around with Starswirls spells..."

I sighed. "Whatever you do, go easy on Ryder... He's been through enough and he's gonna be going through more." I said.

"...Fine... Twilight will just get a warning anyhow... I wont forbid her from doing the spells but she needs to run it by me or Luna and have one of us there to aid her." We definitely agreed. Ryder just wordleslly thanked me before we reached the throne room. As we entered we saw Heaven's Light and Starswirl sitting on the thrones having a chat. Celestia sighed as we stopped. "Alright mother. We're here."

Heavens Light stood up as Starswirl just sat there. I'm not gonna lie... I felt a bit starstruck with him... Blame Twilight. Anyhow Miss Light walked over staring me down with a smile. "You seem a little out of place Miss Seed..." She said. "How did you end up here?"

I sighed just looking away. "...Portal spell that sent my friend here to my time got reversed in my case and... well... Yeah.... I'd just like to go home..." I said looking back to her. "Only problem is... I dont remember what time it was or what day it was... Was kinda having a fun night the night before just to celebrate my new step in life... I know how it works. Ryder told me... Time and day but to arrive earlier but... How early is early enough?" She hummed.

"Miss Seed... Do you remember how I got this Ryder to you so my daughter could apologize?"

"Yes... You had me... recount the memory of what happened that night...."

"Correct. Now... What I want you to do is recount your recent good news... I'll attempt to find the memory you are describing, tune to the right point in time and try to find a good time to put you at that has this time, cross with that one. Whenever you are ready." I took a deep breath and sighed. I looked to Gilda. Just smiled as I took her hand.

"...My marefriend... She was so distracted from what someone told me... I had noticed it, chalked it up to being tired... Until one day... I called her.... Said she was going out of town with a friend who bought her a ticket as a friendly gesture. All I knew was she was just going somewhere on a short trip...." I pulled Gilda along to the throne alongside Starswirl. "...Next day I'm with my Princess Twilight and she calls her... wondering where she was because of the job she took over for a friend. She basically called herself a mess and after that call I was told she was in the Crystal Empire and she was planning to propose. I messaged Princess Cadence, offered my services and I was up there the next morning. That next night I was sat at their dinner table, romantically set up and everything... She comes out with the ring she apparently got from saving someone from robbers in a jewelry store. Rocky, a changeling was supposed to be in my place but... due to the circumstances and how nervous she was... She knelt down in front of me.... Told me how much she loved me, how scared she was to lose me because of the shit I know i've done..." I slipped up my sleeves just.... lowering Gilda down... She grasped my hand with both of hers, just counting the scars on my arm. "...She knew my pain, wanted to help me, make it better... And when she fumbled out those words I couldnt help but cry and accept. I wanted her to make sure no more scars appeared... And if they did, she'd put me in check. Make sure we both dont have more scars... And I couldnt be more happier to call her my fiance...." Oh Gilda knew. She blushed just looking into my eyes. Albeit a bit sheepish, I pulled her closer and kissed her on her cheek. She just held the spot where I kissed blushing.

"A beautiful way to describe it General." Miss Light said. "I've pinpointed the date and time the portal was opened. Let me give it to Starswirl here so he can open the portal."

Ryder sighed pulling Gilda away. "Make it a bit earlier with the time. Say... Half hour... Just like mine." He asked her. She nodded as I got up. She went over and helped the oldtimer to his feet before whispering into his ear. He gave a nod and I swear almost effortlessly he opened a portal just showing Twilight's library.

I looked to Gilda and Ryder. Now both just standing hand in hand. I took my clothes from Gilda, stuffed them in my hood making sure they stayed. I sighed. "Thank you Ryder for helping me... Always can count on you..." I said. Oh I know I'm gonna pay for this but I looked to Gilda. "And... Gilda? SOAK IT THROUGH!" Oh the look on her face before I ran for the portal while Ryder died laughing? PRICELESS!

That payback kinda came about instantly. Dove through the portal, it closed behind me and I slammed into a shelf thankfully I stopped from fully crushing me while books fell off and pelted me. A guard came to help me when he heard the commotion. I had to have him get the Princess while I made sure everything I had was still on me... That and I wasnt really hurt. She came in, asked what the fuck I was doing and what happened, I told her and she nearly kicked me out just so she could fix the books that fell. That was until I asked her to just text or call Gilda's phone, ask for me or just call my house and tell me to come to the castle for that same stupid time travel spell that got me here. She was going to humor it. But when I answered she almost didnt know what to say until she just took a deep breath and asked what I needed to do. I had to wait until I was there, hid away before tripping myself through the portal. After that I went back home just to find Gilda awake and puking again. Her top was just half off but her butt looked cute in my own diapers. I just rubbed her back as she was puking in my toilet. She groaned as I flushed. "...What... the fuck did we do last night?" She asked. "Where the hell were you? I just woke up and... And..." She went back in for another loss kinda coughing a bit. I sighed.

"...You had a lot to drink there... You pissed your bed.... I put you in mine and went to go see Twilight... Other than that? Nothing else you need to worry about...." I flushed again for her. She just grabbed some toilet paper wiping her mouth. We sat there for a moment making sure she was alright before I got up taking her in my arms, her pullup leaking slightly. She cuddled with me a bit as I brought her back to my bed... which I now found was soaked in her piss. I just ended up carrying her back to the bathroom setting her by the toilet again, changed her into something more absorbant and got my bed sheets off flipping my matress. Ended up bringing her downstairs, laying her on the couch, putting on something we could watch together and even getting her some ginger ale and some soup. Even some painkillers to ease the hangover I know is harsh. We honestly spent all day together... I did call Ryder over to help me with her. Though when she was down for a nap after eating and feeling alright with a trashcan nearby, I went upstairs and had a chat with Ryder about what I went through. And judging how things went... I think everything was alright. Not sure how but... guess Ryder was right. The best part? He definitely would've loved to see Gildas face after I dropped her favorite phrase before getting out of there.... And I may or may not have given Ryder a quicky just to uh... thank him for helping me keep my head.... even if it wasnt actually the one who helped but... He accepted.... and of course once Gilda was okay she did ask why I had my panties stained with cum.... She found Ryder passed out in the den area.... Pants halfway off.... Yeah... We did it there but dont worry... He didnt cum inside... I just shoved my ass in his face, jerked him off with my panties and put them on.... Yeah. I'm weird. So what? Anyways... gotta make sure she doesnt puke or piss the bed again...

Broken Heart, Broken Mind

I'm Babs Seed.... Newly appointed General of the Royal Guard... Still feels weird to say... Even after what happened that felt all so real.... A bit about me.... I'm 31 years old.... Chubbier than I'd like to be but that's what years of trauma and depression gets you.... Trauma because I was nearly killed many times.... First in the Manehattan attacks, then by some drunk dumbass who wanted me to buy him more booze and since I declined he got uppity, broke the empty he had and threatened me with it... You dont know how fast my cousin- and my best friend since her brother died.... came in and helped. And then there's what happened a few days ago..... Ryder somehow magically is alive only to be attacked by his wife, his sister and an entire army of guards and somehow got Twilight to save us while we were on the helipad.... Seriously dont think I'll ever forget the gun that was to my head or the way I had to cuff Ryder and just see how unnecessary that was. He broke them up! Though... I got to keep the busted pair.... Not for any use but... Just to remember him.... He may have broken the chain that bound em together but he had Twilight unlock the now actual metal bracelets.... But before Ryder left he had me do something.... Ask Luna for 'Aid from the valley' .... Had me use his special request as my own. Luna couldnt believe it but that's how I got that gun to my head.... She told Celestia, Celestia freaked out and just put the entire castle on Black Alert. Its like Red Alert but you can only answer to Celestia about this. Twilight shut that down real fast.... Even sent a picture of Ryder with me before he left and she just.... She wanted to apologize. Not only to me but to Ryder as well but the way Twilight put it, having Ryder leave before she could was punishment for not believing her sister... She honestly felt horrible and wanted me to meet with her, give a report on what happened.... Though the first day- yesterday- when I got here I just.... I had a moment.... I just.... I remembered the day of the funeral. Everyone was brought to Canterlot for it. Princesses, Families, his, mine, and just.... even Applebloom's marefriend was there to comfort her.... Some I knew, some I didnt.... but we were all there for him.... As for right now? Its two in the god damn morning and I basically wet my bed. Nightmare that just scared the living hell out of me. Lets just say it had to do with Ryder, that gun and my own life being at stake. Dude that held me hostage, put a bullet in Ryder and there I am being tossed off the castle.... Landed in a pond which Applejack told me to NEVER touch water in dreams... Found out the hard way. A guard heard me scream, came in to check on me and when he saw me still pissing my shorts he just went to go get Luna. I just sat in the corner, no pants or underwear on, my shirt under me leaving me just naked and hiding myself from whoever was coming in next. Lucky me it was Luna.... She came in with a robe and helped me up covering me in it while her guards got to work cleaning my mess. She was wearing a tanktop and sweat pants. Must've been gaming or something as she does... Anyways she sighed as she ferried me out of the room just.... Holding me like I was a child still... like how he held me when I was scared. "....I still apologize for what happened at Twilight's castle...." She said. "...I'm just.... I'm so sorry.... If I could've made my way out there myself and stopped that from happening I would've... But Celestia put the entirety of Canterlot under lockdown... even the Crystal Empire castle as well since we were all associated with Ryder.... Didnt want another one showing up just to shoot pheromones at us and take over that way... I know you're not really in the mindset but.... Can we talk about him the other day?"

I sniffled as I held the robe against my body.... brought the back up through my legs to hide my shame. "...It... It was like a dream.... Like.... a dream that I just didnt want to wake up from...." I said. "...Applejack called me.... told me to hurry on to the orchard... Lucky i was right over at the castle and when I got there.... She... She told me Ryder was there... told me what he said and... I honestly took it all on faith... that it actually was.... I was happy knowing it was... I know him anywhere... I could tell it was.... Applejack didnt want him in the house because she just didnt want him losing his mind knowing he was dead.... Had me take him home and keep his mind off it through uh... ways.... Seems a bit disgusting I know but.... I just.... I felt like I had to have him know how I felt with everything he's done.... Didnt stop him from having a panic attack and freaking out on my bathroom floor.... Just... I would trade anything for another moment like that...." She sighed as we started upstairs a bit.... I could feel my own breasts just jiggle with each step.

"Wouldnt we all...." She replied. "....I still remember the last time we had some... intimacy. It wasnt the best but.... I just couldnt let him go anywhere without him knowing how appreciative that I was with his work in the line of duty... even with all those close calls... Something about him barely skirting danger just... awakened something in me. I almost didnt want him to think we werent appreciative.... Guess that didnt stop him from continuously doing stuff to get himself killed...." She tightened her grip on me a bit.... She even shuttered. I just cuddled up to her....

"It's okay Princess..... Just... just breathe....." Luna took a deep breath.... I did along with her. Even wiped a tear from her face. "....I just.... forget I said anything." Luna gave a sniffle.

"No no... its alright... I just....... I miss him.... same as you and the others.... I guess Applejack and I miss him because we've had more... personal relations... Doesnt help that she always looks at her daughter and sees him.... good thing she's still strong enough to continue on taking care of her. Even keep going for the sister she adopted as her own over the years... the sister who had lost her best friend and hero who had saved her many times..... even cared for her when nobody else could..."

"Scootaloo deserved him.... I didnt yet.... I feel like he was just a staple of my life that just made it turn out the way it did.... I just still remember that day of the attack.... Just... Waking up from a nap screaming not knowing what was going on, next thing you know he's in my room packing a bag for me while I just get changed real quick.... Then we're just running through smoke filled hallways, me just... crying my eyes out... the smoke just burning my eyes and my lungs.... He ended up sitting me on a bed, smashing out a window and then jumping out.... I could swear I felt the heat from the last bomb that went off... I was just so scared we werent gonna land..... When we did he had to hide against a building but by that time I was hacking and coughing with all that dust in the air and smoke in my lungs...."

"I still remember seeing you and him being brought in.... I had to be in my armor but.... I'd rather be in that than just vulnerable during a tragedy such as that...." We finally arrived at her room where she brought me in and walked me into her bathroom. "Why dont you go on and use my shower to clean yourself up? I need to.... I need to get prepared." I gave a nod and just watched as she left me in her restroom... Never used a Princesses personal potty before... Her shower was just middle of the room.... Fixtures sticking up out of the floor and a towel rack just on the otherside of where the fixtures were. I just dropped the robe and walked over just to start washing myself. Washed everything.... Mane, body.... even some of those hard to reach places. And the body wash Luna uses? I just loved it.... Smelled like cherries. Mixed with the shampoo and conditioner? I honestly smelled like a pie afterwards...I dried off, grabbed a brush from her sink- which honestly I'm surprised she had a stepstool in there for me to even reach it. I walked out tugging at my mane a bit... Hadnt washed it in a bit.... Mostly the shit that gets in my tail when I'm having to chase assholes down through bushes and shit..... I'm faster than I seem. Mane gets washed every friday and.... I guess I forgot? Anyways as I walked out Luna looked to me as she set a few articles of clothing down. Pair of my boxers, sweats and a sports bra. "Here. I grabbed these for you to wear." I nodded and grabbed my boxers.... size 40 waist in Stallions but I wear an extra large in shirts. Though my cup size? 36DD. I gave a sigh and put all those clothes on... The sports bra was a little snug but then again I really dont wear these things all too often.... Only wear em when I'm out on patrol. But I'm mostly around the castle.... Glad I'm General now but... it still feels like I'm Staff Sergeant. Even after Twilight made the announcement to all her guards.... Anywho once I was dressed I looked to Luna.

"....I almost thought you would've grabbed a diaper or something...." I said. "....Though..." I looked away. "...That's something he would do after I wet my bed.... or my pants...." I blushed and hung my head tearing up again.

"....I understand there Babs." She replied picking me up and sitting me on her bed. She sat next to me. "...I almost did but... This is something I didnt want.... Not because I dont want you treated as if you were still a child but... I didnt want you to think of it as his doing...."

"....I-I know.... I just..."

"Listen.... It hurts... I know.... Honestly when I heard his voice come through that phone..... I just... My heart skipped a beat... Like.... Like it was all a trick to hide out somewhere.... but we saw his body in that casket... we saw him be put in the ground.... but that Ryder wasnt ours.... He went back to his own family.... hopefully changing his path all together so it doesnt come to this...." I just leaned on her trying to keep myself composed. She hugged me. "...I feel as if I owe this to him.... and to you.... but... wouldst thy like to cuddle while you get back to sleep? I need a bit of a nap but you cant stay up the rest of the night.... you're tired enough." I gave a slight nod and she just hiked me up more onto her bed and lied down with me. I was just.... almost literally smothered by her breasts.... But they were right in my face. Like... if she were naked I could just suck on those tits.... Wouldnt doubt she'd let me if I asked but.... I just didnt have the energy to.... As soon as I felt comfy I fell asleep.

As I slept I could swear I was having another dream.... I found myself in my old house... the penthouse where I was during the attack.... I was in my fathers bar.... I know when I see this I get scared... Being here usually results in explosions.... Though I'm usually my younger self.... I was still as old as I am now... even dressed what I was dressed in when I went back to sleep. I heard a sigh behind me with footsteps to follow. "....You know I can never forget this... even with where I am...." I heard a familiar voice said. "...Just too much here that even I care to talk about.... but the one best thing about this place was the bar.... what I wouldnt have given to just sit here, have a civil discussion with your father with a whiskey in my hand...." I turned around and there I saw Ryder.... The way I remember him.... He had his mane in a ponytail, a beard that just.... Not gonna lie- a beard that I just wished to feel below the belt if you get my meaning.... He was wearing a Celestian Camo duster with matching camo pants and an off white tanktop. I got up from my seat and just rushed him hugging him. He sighed as I just squeezed him. "....Yeah... I miss you too Babs...." He let me hug him for a few moments... seems like he needed it too before he pried me off and took my hand. "C'mon... Lets sit down... I wanna talk with you for a moment..."

I shuttered a bit... Is it bad I wanted to ask if he could bend me over the bar just to rail me? Yeah... That experience with the other Ryder the other night got me all riled up thinking about him that way.... At least AJ offered... hopefully that doesnt uh.... make him do things to a younger me... As far as I know he hasnt otherwise my memories of him would be different... I think.... I'm not sure. I dont know how time travel shit works. "....Why talk? Cant we just sit here and enjoy a drink?" I asked. He sighed as we looked at the bar.... Daddy's bar was usually stocked with whiskey, vodka, gin, some sodas and some other forms of hooch... Think he even had some moonshine that was distilled in Manehattan. But here? It was almost empty. Just soda, video game and real, even some unlabeled bottles of beer... and I think a Sarsaparilla I always got from my brother Braeburn.... You know just after Ryder was given his service I started cutting myself.... My dad took me in my underwear out of the house and forced me to go to Sweet Apple Acres to see Applejack.... show her my cuts and stuff.... She kept me there, cried with me, held me when I slept.... diapered me when I had an accident.... My cousins even yelled at me for doing that.... Hugged me.... They ended up bringing me to my brothers house after getting me some clothes to wear since my dad was going through my stuff trying to find knives, needles, drugs, razors what ever and get them out of my room and didnt trust me to get my own clothes thinking I'd take something and hide it form him. They got me some clothes, both to wear and a few spares just to change into.... Even a bathing suit because we hopped on a train to go to my brothers house... dad always forbid me to go see him.... Always because he was gay. But he saw me, told me how good it was to see me and such.... Hugged me and acted like a great older brother.... That sarsaparilla I tried when he took us out to eat and I had to find a case to buy and take home. Dad was pissed I went and saw him but I told him to stop being an asshole and actually care for once about Braeburn. He shut right up and after a week he contacted Braeburn and apologized.... Said its not too late to at least be in contact because you never know what's gonna happen... like with what happened with Ryder. Anywho he huffed.

"... I would have a drink but.... I dont have much time.... I just.... I wanna tell you what I saw after it was brought to my attention from the mother in the sky...." He replied. "...She felt me being alive again and just came to check on me.... I was still where I was with my parents.... She questioned me but showed me what was going on... Saw me.... Scared of my own family, frightened of death and then.... A side of you that I havent seen...." I blushed hard putting my head down on the bar hiding my face. I knew what he meant. "I appreciate it Babs... Really I do but... What I saw next was just... disturbing even after that show of affection.... After your.... promotion.... my guards didnt think once to question the younger me.... They knew protocol for changelings. They knew protocol for keeping our family safe.... Yet they didnt.... What really pissed me off was that guard who captured you and put a gun to your head.... He's in jail yes but you dont know how badly I wanted to break out of here and put him in his place.... Either that or ask Heaven's Light to allow me to at least ask her husband if I could do work for him.... You dont know how fast I'd be slamming down and just dragging him into the pit of hell where he belongs.... That was too far for even him...."

"...He made me arrest you... otherwise... you know..."

"I know.... I didnt wanna be the one to greet you up here.... if anything I would've begged for time to be restarted for that moment.... If not I would've started the apocalypse just by myself...."

"....I.... I just wanted to protect you... it hurt... cuffing you... but... the way you broke those cuffs.... God.... I just.... You could've ripped that guy apart couldnt you?" I looked to him as tears just welled up in my eyes. He just nodded.

"....I have blood on my hands from all the assholes who deserved it..... I was protecting you, Applejack, Applebloom, Big Mac... And Scootaloo most importantly of all.... I'm surprised I'm even allowed up there at all with all that blood.... If it wasnt for her daughters I would've had to endure a trial that would've cemented my place up there.... Luckily that was already set for me... But all that blood if I was showered in it.... I'd be drowning in it..." He looked away from me. "....Didnt want you to see any of that.... or even know but.... now you know how far I went to protect you...." He looked back at me with a bit of a smile. "....But I wanna say I'm proud of you.... Taking my place.... I know you think you might not be ready... That you're a bit unprepared.... I know that feeling.... You're a bit of an outlier just given the position out of nowhere.... I was given it just after I lost my parents and was trying to provide for Scootaloo.... I was brought on as a recruit and immediately given the position because Luna saw something in me that I never saw.... I learned what it meant to be a General over time.... You've climbed the ranks more than I have so you're ahead of me in that.... Wish I were there for a congrats in person.... I hope this at least suffices." I watched as he grabbed a chain around his neck and pulled it over his head. It was his tags... He was buried with them.... Just so his family was close at heart.... He placed the chain around my neck with his tags. "....Here.... Take these... These might not be useful to you but.... At least look to them to give you strength... And a bit of advice before you wake up: pick your fights carefully."

"....but dont you need em?" He... Honestly just gave me the most serious look and honestly... I deserved it with how stupid I felt. "Oh... R-right.... sorry...." He sighed.

"Its fine.... Its a sad reminder every day I'm up there.... I'd say... Maybe... Just maybe see if Luna and Celestia can have a family dinner or something.... Maybe not as a favor for you but... for me.... Maybe just have the family come up as a surprise...." Just then the bottles on the bar started clinking together. He sighed. "....Welp.... that's my queue to go...." He turned back to me. "....Be strong Babs.... This hurts you as much as it does me...." He brought me in for a hug, gave me a kiss on the cheek before getting up from the bar and walking away. "Let the Princess' know I talked with you.... See you soon."

I choked up a bit as I watched him disappear around a corner.... I wanted to stay asleep... call him back just to stay with me. Fuck me on this bar even.... But I couldnt say anything.... Things faded fast and I woke up jumping only to see Luna over me. She sighed as I just clung to the covers that were over me.... Felt warm... Comfy. "Good... You're awake...." She said. "Its time for the morning meal Babs. You hungry at all?" I yawned a bit and just put my head back down on the pillow. "....If you arent hungry then just please come to the dining hall to make yourself present for Celestia... She has something for you." I just whimpered a little bit... just thinking of him. "....Babs come now.... I know it hurts... But you cant just stay in bed all day.... Not in mine anyways.... I dont even think you'd be wanting to have an accident there staining my sheets...."

I gave a sigh. "...Why'd you have to wake me up....? I was having such a nice dream... with him especially...." I said. Luna gave a sigh and sat on her bed.

"Alright.... Its good you had a dream... about him is understandable.... What happened in it?"

"...He just.... spoke with me.... in my old home... in Manehattan.... its.... its been so long but I still remember it like it was yesterday...."

"What did he speak with you about if I may ask? Questions you had in your mind flowing through him wanting to know the answers to?" I swallowed looking at the pillow.... Nice and soft honestly.... Black silk pillow cases... Could see a bit of my mane under me... Always hated messing with my mane.... even after a shower.

"He.... he said he saw everything from the time he arrived to the time he left... what he wanted to do to the bastard that held me hostage.... Told me even how proud he was of me being where I was at.... told me how he started out as General while I worked my way up a bit...." She looked to me curiously.

"That's........ interesting.... Tell me how he did become General... Perhaps you can tell me that?" I tugged the covers up a bit.

"....He wasnt specific.... Just said he became a guard and a General because you saw something in him that he didnt...." She hummed a bit.

"...I saw potential... that he wouldnt give up no matter what.... I was right.... seeing him fight for his sisters freedom and safety, his own life and the lives of others... Even our lives and yours. He had it up until his final fight.... Anything else?"

"...He.... Gave me his tags..... It was a dream though..... it was just... probably symbolic or some shit.... Like he's always gonna be with me or something.... But.... I guess an added thing.... He did say that he saw me and him uh.... doing our thing....."

"And he wasnt disturbed by it?"

"Not that I know of... but he definitely got me a bit flustered and embarrassed...." Luna giggled a bit.

"Yeah... It would do that.... Maybe he's a bit jealous of himself.... Now come on... Breakfast can only wait for so long and maybe a quick bathroom break before we go anywhere. And perhaps later we could shop around a little? I'm thinking of staying up for a bit anyhow." I sighed.

"...I guess.... Havent been shopping for a while.... clothes especially..... Speaking of clothes did you bring any of the ones I had?"

"No but... we could stop by so you're not in your sleep clothes.... Just bathroom first.... My guards werent exactly thrilled to strip down a soaked bed while I had to carry the soaker out. Understand?" I gave a nod and she just smiled and got up. "Good. You just get up and I'll be outside my room. You're welcome to use my personal toilet once again if you wish."

"Sure Princess... Thank you Princess...." She started for the door and I kicked the covers off before sitting up but... I felt something around my neck.... I grasped at my neck and felt something.... a chain and a few pendants.... small, thin metal pendants... "Uh... P-Princess.... Can you... Can you tell me what I have around my neck...?" Luna looked back at me and gasped, her face turned from happy to shocked. She came back over to the bed and grasped at the necklace, pendants and all.

"....Sweet mother of me..... I.... I know for damn sure.... You were not wearing these when you came out of my shower...." She looked me in the eye. "...Once again... You did say he gave you his tags... right?" I hesitantly nodded. She brought the chain up from over my head... then she lifted it up in front of me. ....I saw a silver tag and a multicolored tag with... Applejack's cutie mark on it.... The silver one read 'Gen. Ryder Wheeler, 206th Battalion, Blood Type: AB+' and a few other things... age, birth date and such.... "...He really did give you his tags.... I just.... I dont understand how he gave them to you.... unless.... just...." She looked around as if trying to find the words if they were just going to manifest out of thin air... I looked too but to no avail. She just grabbed my hand and brought me off her bed. "We need to go find my sister NOW. I did say you could get clothes but she needs to see this!" I... hesitantly nodded. She just dragged me along out the door. The cold linoleum tiles under my feet with each step.... We blazed downstairs, past the room I had, and all the way into the dining hall where we saw Celestia staring out the window at the field behind the castle.... I remember when I was younger that Ryder and the family were here just after the attacks.... We were having dinner and Luna told me that she saw the plane Ryder was on falling out of the sky when he was coming back from the war.... About five years after that they invited us out and showed us the fusilage from the plane.... It was.... awesome yet kinda scary... knowing those things could just fall out of the sky if something goes wrong.... Hasnt really been a crash since then... well.... that we know of.

As we approached Luna released me. I had to rub my wrist a bit not realizing how hard she was gripping me... Celestia looked back at us. "Ah! Babs! Sister! I take it we're ready for the morning meal?" She asked.

"We are yes... but we have something here that just.... I'm not sure how it happened but I know mother is behind it. Look!" She held up the tags and Celestia had to do a double take. Looked at her sister, the tags and then me.... Then back to the tags and her sister before snatching the tags up and just inspected them closely, running her fingers over the indents making up the lettering and the chain.

"...I... what?! HOW?!" She looked her sister in the eye looking just... frightened.

"I dont know. Babs had a nightmare, pissed her bed and I had her clean up and I saw her stark naked, nothing to her name and watched her dress herself. She woke up and had these on after saying she spoke with the keeper of these!"

"Sister just say his name! I can handle it! But you're saying she spoke with Ryder?"

"Yes she did! And she even recounted what he had told her. Even mentioned when he became a guard and not many know other than you, me, Twilight and Applejack..."

"Applejack could've told her! But.... That doesnt explain how she got his tags...."

I gave a huff. "Princess I'm telling the truth here! He spoke to me!" I snapped. "...I'm not losing my mind here... I swear! If he didnt tell me to give you his regards or even ask if you could do him a favor I wouldnt even be here! I'd probably still be in bed! It's even your fault you didnt believe that was actually him and sicked the others to attack him!" Both Luna and Celestia looked at me shocked.

Luna huffed and came over. "Babs I... I would apologize for that... Now!" She said a bit afraid for my own safety.

Celestia sighed. "Sister its fine... I swear she even reminds me of Ryder the way he lets me know I've fucked up...." She said approaching us. "...But yes... It was my fault.... I should've at least had them group everyone together calmly and not lock down the entire castle.... I was just so panicked that someone infiltrated Twilight's castle under the guise of our old General that I just wasnt thinking....."

I gave a grunt pulling away from Luna. "Yeah! They still should've followed protocol even with that order!" I said. "Now I cant sleep well because I had a gun to my head because of that protocol that I have no fucking clue about because Twilight's castle is enchanted to shit too much to even let a changeling even through those doors under a disguise!"

"....You... You dont even know what that protocol is?" I shook my head.

"Nope. He just mentioned it and I didnt even know it existed until then! What even is it?"

"It's.... Well.... Lets say we have a changeling among us... They act like one of us if they know how to blend in very well and they do.... Shining Armor and Princess Cadence have a Changeling that I'm sure you've already met right?"

"Rocky? Yeah. She's sweet.... Kept me and my cousins calmer during the funeral.... Gave us someone to hug...."

"Yes. And have the guards at least taught you what they do?" I nodded.

"They feed off love.... Sometimes steal it by force if they're desperate enough...." Yeah... Applebloom told me she was molested by a changeling during a wedding that she was in as a junior bridesmare. She's still kinda weird about Rocky when she's in but at least its not just total avoidance.... But now she's always equipped with a taser. Anyone tries anything that mare will drop them with self defense and she's already tased a guy in the balls. He thought he was slick copping a feel while she was waiting at the movies with Diamond and then next thing you know he's on the ground after hearing a loud snapping sound and her and Diamond just share a kiss while she pockets the taser again. He called her a bitch, she called him out on being a pervert and he ended up getting arrested. Caught on camera RIGHT IN PLAIN VIEW and still fucking denied it. Diamond and AB got to see their movie and I may have had to come drive them back to my place because Diamonds towncar got in a wreck and the driver may have been a tad drunk so they didnt want Diamond around. Not sure why but.... Yeah...

"Correct... The protocol that we do is expose any high ranking official with exceptions to your family members and their friends and sisters to a concentrated love magic that Princess Cadence devised after the attack on her wedding with her husband. Its to tempt a changeling into revealing their true form. To better cement it we ask questions only that official would know. Once cleared they have to be ready for anything. If it turns out that one of the other officials is a changeling they are to attack and apprehend. The only time changelings have gotten away with it was when Ryder went to propose to Applejack... Rocky and Chrysalis were very resistant to that magic...." We all converged on the table, Luna pulling my chair out for me.

"And.... Somehow Rocky defected?"

"Exactly. Now... Here..." She used her magic to put the tags around my neck once more. "...If he gave them to you there must be a good reason he did... I wont question it any further....."

"...Thank you Princess... Now uh... before we eat is there a bathroom nearby? Didnt have time for my morning routines..." I gave a little bit of a blush. Celestia sighed giving a smile. "Yes. Out the door to the left, second door on your right General." I shuttered a bit as she said that.... felt weird... I hopped out of my seat and hurried over to the restroom. God I swear once my ass hit that seat I swear this toilet was going to over flow with how much I had to go... Didnt really think I did..... Just did my thing, washed up and returned. We ate, I ended up getting a hayburger that just... oh god Ryder would've loved. After that I went back to my room just to see the bed fitted with new sheets, my clothes that were just pissed last night folded neatly on the bed. I grabbed em and shoved em into my bag before grabbing some replacement clothes to change into Jeans, boots, a tee that.... I'm not gonna lie.... is just a reminder of him... He got me a Gems tee shirt right before he passed away and.... I just cant not wear it when I wanna... Even grabbed a jacket because it was just cooling off.

Had to make sure I had everything before we left to the nearby mall. Phone and my wallet. As we left I just clutched the tags... they still just felt unreal..... I looked at my phone... Few texts I missed. One from Twilight, one from Applejack and the other from a number I didnt have registered... I read the one from Twilight first. 'Hey Babs, I wanna again congratulate you on becoming General.... Albeit through means that I... guess I had a hand in? But I only texted to tell you I gave my brother your number. You're already familiar with him. Shining Armor? He should be contacting you when he can. Contact me when you wake up as well. I'll have my phone on standby.' ...Explains the number i didnt have registered. I read that one next. 'Babs? As in Babs Seed? Applejack's Cousin? And the filly that Ryder saved all those years ago? My name is Shining Armor, Captain of the Guard and Prince of the Crystal Empire along side my wife Princess Cadence. I heard through Twily (please dont tell her I called her that) that you've been promoted to General.... Cant say i havent seen something like this before but I congratulate you as well upon achieving the rank. I'll be sending something to Twilight in a few days so be expecting something. Please call me if you have any questions or if perhaps you wish to visit here and get out of Equestria for a while. We offer that last one just as extension of the General before you.... Just be sure to ask first and we wont object if you need a travel companion. Plus ones are always welcome.' I replied to that.

'Thanks sir... I might make my way up there within the week if you'll have me... After what happened... I think time away from Equestria is what I need... Hopefully Twilight told you what happened....' I sent that off and saved his number before looking at Applejack's text.

Applejack's text read: '...I cant stop saying this but I'm proud of you Babs... Taking his place and everythin.... Hopefully Twilight still keeps him on payroll just so we got food on the table.... Still selling as many apples as we can. I'm just... I'm honestly missing him as much as you are.... maybe a bit more because well... I see him every time I look at our daughter.... Girls as happy as can be... I'm staying strong for her and Scoots sake... and yours as well... I'm always a phone call away and we always got a spare room for you to stay in if you need it... Dont you worry about me none though. I'm fine... I swear.... Got Twilight and the girls checking in on me giving me that extra boost in mood.... Call me or text me if you want... We're family and no matter what we're always gonna be family.... Love you Babs.' Replied to this one too.

'I sure hope so AJ. I dont wanna see you in a pine box leaving your sister-in-law and your own flesh and blood wondering what went wrong to put you in that box... Not only will I be there to keep you on your feet I'm sure your friends will keep you on your feet as well. Dont even care if you need me to get things ready I'll give you and the family a few nights at the house.... Even if I'm not at home.'

Luna looked to me as I put my phone away. "Everything alright Babs?" She asked.

I sighed looking out at the streets of Canterlot. Just.... It was honestly beautiful. My father might be Manehattan born but he's always wanted to live in Canterlot.... He still wants to but when I turned twenty- since he didnt wanna assume I'm gonna be good come my eighteenth- he left the house leaving me on my own. I still hire a maid and a landscaping service to keep things clean both inside and out but I cook my own meals and godess knows I can protect myself. My dad even learned that one day I was out on my own.... Dude tried grabbing my ass after I was promoted to Staff Sergeant. Dude got dropped harder than a rock being thrown straight down out of a plane. Someone called the guard, guy tried blaming me for assault but with video evidence at the bar I was at (yes I was of age here for a drink. Wasnt promoted until I was at least 26) and me flashing my badge that guy just shut right the hell up but I left him off with the warning of 'do it again and I'll personally break your nose and it doesnt have to be me you touch.' Dude got banned from the bar even. But anyhow I sighed. "...Yeah.... I just.... Family checking on me.... Making sure I'm alright and everything...." I said. "Even still getting those 'congrats' texts..."

"Ah..... Something tells me Applejack being a little uneasy after what happened...."

"Yep... That and Twilight being helpful.... Giving my number to one of Ryder's friends if I remember right... Shining Armor... Guess he and his wife offered me a place up there if I need to get out of town for a while."

Celestia gave a chuckle as she sipped a drink she brought with her. Ice cold bottled tea. "Good ol Shining Armor...." She said. She looked to her sister. "We should invite him out here with Cadence.... Maybe for dinner?" That honestly sparked something in my mind. From last night. I looked to Celestia.

"Oh uh.... That reminds me.... During my dream last night Ryder asked for a favor... And I'm pretty sure its for him... But he wants a dinner.... Just to reconnect with everyone.... But he also mentioned to not to tell Applejack and the family.... Just as a surprise." Celestia looked to me.

"....I suppose we can.... its been a while since we've had a family dinner...."

Luna nodded. "Yep.... Last we had was with him after he came back from the war.... Had his family here, the parents he knew growing up and just...." She said stopping herself. Celestia looked back to her sister.

"It was an eventful dinner.... It was so long ago but.... I feel as if we owe it to him.... Maybe make it a double event.... Both for him and Babs?" Luna took a deep breath.

"...I suppose... Fitting even...." She looked to me. "We'll do this... Might take something to get it done because.... I mean... it's gonna be an emotionally taxing one.... You understand...."

I sighed. "I do...." I replied. "For now... Lets just take a deep breath and get ready to greet the public.... No need for questions on why two Princesses are crying." They both gave a nod and took deep breaths. I just.... Looked back out the window again. As a thing to where my Dad is if not Canterlot? He's in Fillydelphia. Ryder talked him out of moving there with me before our house was being built and while I was still wetting my bed scared of heights. I mean... I still get uneasy here and there but I just pretend he's holding my hand. Either that or closer to the ground than I think.... There was one time I did piss myself but that was because I looked out over the balcony in Twilight's throne room... She got me some new clothes, comforted me after getting me away from there while her guards cleaned up.

Anyhow once they were calmed down we stopped at the mall and just started walking around.... Celestia and Luna went separate from me. I just went and sat down at a bench with flowers around it. Shops around here changed from year to year.... That padding shop Ryder went to whenever we came out here and he was just.... Not feeling alright. Yeah that closed. The one near Ponyville stayed open because well.... New mothers need just about everything they can get at a little bit of a discount.... either that or some of the more endearing customers went in to hide their shame with some absorbancy. In its place was a comic shop where any one I've seen had something Ryder related in it.... He was a character in one of the Alley Brawler games yet sadly was a one off character.... Though each purchase went towards veteran shit. Guess after that he became a fan favorite, even stood at Alley Brawlers booths just to sign some stuff. Hell they even gave him costumes that his character wore with each variant that they made.... Now I think at least one of them sits in my closet because I liked it so much. Applejack let me have it after he died... and after I was brought to her house with those scars on my arm... Twilight helped remove most of em but the ones that I wont ever see are the ones in my memories. But as I stared at everything someone- the last pony who I think would even be up here - sat next to me and sighed putting a hand on my shoulder. "...Takin' a load off Cuz?" They said. I looked over and there I saw Applebloom. Jean jacket, work boots, skinny jeans and a red tanktop. Her red mane up in a ponytail with that pink ribbon she always had. Right behind her was her marefriend Diamond Tiara.... Not gonna lie she's definitely cute but I prefer a good stallion to a mare but... I still dont mind barking up that tree. Diamond was wearing a purple dress and heels... Probably the last pony you'd see courting a country mare. I gave a bit of a smile.

"Yeah... Just... Having a moment I guess..."

"What? Aint used to your position yet? "

"Nah... Not yet... But there's more... Just... I guess having a gun to your head reawakens some memories...." Applebloom sighed and looked to her marefriend.

"Di? You mind leavin' us for a bit? Need to have a little bit of a personal talk."

Diamond sighed. "Sure... if you guys need me I'll be at the coffee shop down the way." She said. "Want anything love?"

"I'll get something when we're over there. Dont want it melting." She nodded giving a smile before walking off. Applebloom looked back to me. "So.... What's on your minds Babs?"

I kicked back on the seat. "...With what happened the other day...." I said. "...I just.... Yeah it gave me something I've been wanting to do.... But just... It scared the shit out of me when that asshole had me begging for my life.... And when Luna gave me my promotion.... not to mention.... it just... it made me miss him even more.... Its like someone took my heart, ripped it out and just.... ate it right in front of me...." Bloom sighed.

"I get it.... You miss him." She threw her arm around me. "...Werent easy for any of us.... I know he saved your ass and you just.... well... you never really got to thank him the way you wanted to.... And with that guy that held that gun to your head? Lord knows what I woulda done if Twilight let me at him.... Not to mention if Applejack were still able bodied you know even if Twilight said not to that boy woulda been hogtied faster a hedgehog running down a hill. God Big Mac woulda just ended him right then and there for attacking his best friend.... Aint sure if he would've attacked like Scoot and AJ did but... Rather wouldnt find out and make him scared of the whole family. The scar that idiot made holding you where you were with a gun is gonna hurt for a while.... I'd know scars like that.... hell it still hurts me every now and then and you know what I'm talkin' about. But that heart break? The love for that stallion that aint buckin' no more? That'll pass.... and as much as it hurts to hear its the truth...."

"Just.... What if it doesnt?! What if I slip back into the way I was?!" She grabbed my hands as tears welled up in my eyes.

"If you do, I'm coming to that house of yours, ripping everything outta the wall just to find how you're hurting yourself and I'm dragging you down to the orchard and tying you to a tree just to make sure I dont lose my favorite cousin. Understand me?" Honestly.... its not every day where your own cousin makes you scared enough to piss your pants.... Lucky me I didnt piss myself. "Now here's what's gonna happen.... You're coming with me and Diamond.... I'm gonna get you a drink, you're gonna drink it and cool off. Understand me?" I gave a nod. "Alright... Now c'mon. Dont wanna keep Diamond waiting any longer...." I gave another nod and she took my hand just pulling me off the bench and then leading me down towards that coffee shop.

Diamond was sitting outside sipping on a coffee. Applebloom got one as well though I just got one of the sweet drinks. I only get my caffeine boost when its early enough and I only had mine at breakfast. But when we went back out after waiting for our drinks there was a stallion leaning on the table with just the most dumbstruck look on his face with Diamond just trying to enjoy her drink. "Ah come on at least give me a chance!" He said.

Diamond huffed setting her drink down. "You heard me. Fuck off!" She said.

"Come on, I can get you anything you like and you definitely look like you need a stallion on that arm!"

I huffed as Applebloom pulled up a chair. Even pulled out my badge. "Sir I'm gonna have to ask you to step away." I said flashing my badge as he looked at me. He chuckled.

"Right.... Put that cereal box badge away otherwise I'm calling the real guard. Now buzz off while I bag myself a mare!" I huffed putting my badge away.... And here's something... I always keep a pair of cuffs on me. I reached into my jacket, pulled the stashed pair out and grabbed him.

"You're about as stupid is as stupid does.... When a mare says no, she means it!" I slapped one of the cuffs on him and forced his other arm behind him.

"H-Hey! Come on it was a joke! Let me go!" I clasped the other wrist and huffed.

"Nope. You had your chance. Already catching a charge of harassment. I could tack on attempted rape but I'm feeling... generous right now. Now you're coming with me." He gave a huff as Diamond and Applebloom shared a kiss before just waving at him before I walked him away. Didnt have to go far to find guards guarding a shop that the Princesses were in. One of them rushed over to me and took him from me. "Asshole was harassing a mare who didnt want anything to do with him. Call in a transport, read him his rights, and charge him with harassment. I'll fill out the paperwork later." He saluted while the cuffed stallion whined a bit knowing damn well how he fucked up. I took his place and just stood there at the door with the other guard. You dont know how many guys who are just 'oh it was a joke' when they get in trouble.... with me especially.... I still have my Staff Sergeant badge but it works all the same. Its either the 'it was a joke' bullshit or the 'dont you know who I am?' or 'my parents will sue your ass'. Yeah... that entitled bullshit. Its worse when its in those areas where you know rich fuckers just thrive. Ponyville might be my main area but ever since I became a guard I've been here and there.... Back home in Manehattan, Fillydelphia when I'm visiting my dad and I guess here in Canterlot as well. I've even gotten calls to bars late at night to get rid of those pervy guys who drugged someones drink.... I hate to pull up, have to make that announcement of drugged drinks and its even worse when someone needs to be taken out via an ambulance and we have to check who did the thing.... Most of the time fruitless, others, the guy is still there trying to remain calm... Then freaks out when we catch him and say he was framed.

After maybe about ten minutes the guard returned taking my spot and allowing me to go inside. Luna and Celestia were the only ones inside other than the staff.... Was just a ritzy jewelry store. One of the attendants looked me up and down and sighed. "Miss I might have to ask you to leave.... You're clearly not part of the clientele we serve here...." He said.... As I said. RITZY. Dude was in a suit, twiddly mustache, and just that awful stuck up attitude.

Princess Celestia looked back at me and smiled. "She's with us sir. Leave her be." She said. The guy huffed.... Fucking racist unicorn.

"Of course Princess...." Its either the way I was dressed or the guy is just an asshole because he's a unicorn. I wanted to give this guy the finger but I'd rather remain professional. I went and started looking into the case next to the Princess'. Celestia looked to me.

"Got bored of wandering by your lonesome?"

I sighed. "Nah.... Ran into Applebloom and then had to take care of some guy who wasnt taking no for an answer." I replied. "...Hope ya dont mind me asking but.... Can I bring em to the castle for the night? Rather would have someone to make sure I dont stare off while driving...." No joke that nearly happened on the way up here. Stared off while at a light and the guy behind me laid on his horn. Lucky me I was at a stop.

"Of course. Your family is always welcome."

Luna gave a huff. "I'll go find Applebloom." She said fixing her dress. "Not really seeing anything I like in here...."

Celestia nodded just as I looked to her. "They're around the corner at the coffee shop." I said. "Think I left my drink when I was trying to take care of that asshole... Have AB bring it for me?" Luna gave me a smile and nodded before leaving the store.

Celestia rested a hand on my shoulder as I looked back into the case. "See anything you like General?" She asked. I looked at the case... Shining gems, gold and silver bands, chains of all shapes and sizes. Though... there were a few that stood out to me... A necklace with a heart, a bracelet with a butterfly and a pair of earrings. The earrings were just little bars that went through the ear. The thing they were on said they were only around five hundred. That and... I've honestly always wanted my ears pierced.... mom never wanted it because I was always getting in fights.... Think that's at least the one thing I wanted that was girly.

"Well... These ones are cool...." I replied pointing out the earrings. She looked to the nearest attendant.

"Can I get those earrings for my General here? She just got her new position and I'm wanting to give her a bit of a smile after having a bad time on the day of her promotion." My heart jumped a bit... Actually made me feel a bit warm and fuzzy knowing she was getting me those.... Shoulda seen it coming. Even though these things were just going through the ear they were made of silver. No gemstones or anything other than that to stand out.

The mare she spoke to gave a smile as she grabbed a key from a waiting rack. "Good choice Princess. Would you like to wear them miss or would you like to go home with them?" She asked me.

I swallowed a bit. "Uh... You pierce ears here?" I asked unsteadily.

"Yes ma'am. We do it by hand and its safer and more sterile than the piercing guns you see at lower class stores."

"Well... Alright then... I'll wear them out..." To be honest... my mom here would've been surprised.... Havent seen her for a while.... Around twenty three she left dad and went off with someone who she claimed loved her more than my dad did.... Dad loved her enough to drink a bottle of whiskey one night and puke his guts up the entire next day actually forcing me to call medics for him just to be sure he was alright and got his system flushed out. Yeah... that drunk.... Couldnt keep anything down, couldnt walk just.... damn. The mare gestured just across the way at a waiting chair with a sign that was just hanging off the wall explaining the legal shit for some stuff in here. Tools, substances and other stuff....

"Alright just go on and sit down I'll be right over and get those in." I gave a nod and just went over to the seat. Celestia paid and just came over to me... Even saw how kinda.... worried I was I guess. As I said. Always wanted my ears pierced but never could because I got in so many fights... Seriously. High School I got suspended twice because one asshole who fought me tried to grope me in the hall... Yeah that guy learned his lesson real quick. Teacher saw, I got suspended for a few days while he got expelled because it wasnt his first time doing that.... Swear they fucking want us to get suspended and expelled. Oh you bet that his parents wanted to have words with my parents and try to get me expelled... Nah... School told his parents he was lucky he didnt get arrested. Parents still wanted our info to sue and you can bet my dad would've put them in the ground and out of business. But yeah... She kinda held my hand while I got em installed but it wasnt as bad. Disinfected it, numbed it a bit and put it in. Didnt hurt as much as I thought. Told me to disinfect it every night and every morning to avoid infection and if any bleeding occurs its normal.

After that I thanked Celestia, showed off my new jewelry to my cousin and her marefriend and we just shopped around a bit.... still didnt make me happier sipping my drink or getting shit for myself, clothing or otherwise... Before we left I went into the bathroom and just.... clutched the tags while I went.... if the Princesses and my cousin werent waiting on me I'd be handling business... thinking of him..... But no... I didnt... just clutched them like I was clutching my heart with how bad it hurt. When we left we had to split off into different transports. Celestia went with Diamond and Applebloom while I was alone with Luna.... She was tired.... I just leaned on her. She hugged me. "...Still hurting Babs?" She asked. I nodded. "...It's going to hurt for a bit... I can even guarantee that if you ever cant sleep or are having issue with dark thoughts... My phone, Celestia's and even Twilight's phone are always open... You can even make that late night drive and sleep here if you're that afraid to be alone... I give you the same liberties he had.... but if you do end up having those thoughts just.... Think of your family who cares for you... if you can, get as much distance you can between anything that can hurt you- lock it up even. If need be I'll have a safe delivered to your home. Store dangers to yourself and any valuables you want in there... I just dont want you to make any stupid mistakes he almost did and I'm sure if he were here he'd let you know...."

I curled up a bit. "...But why....? Why now? Why does he choose now to reach out to me...?" I asked. "....and just... why give me something that meant something to him....? Something that he was buried with... I know he doesnt need them but... why does he want to just give them to me....? Why not Applejack? Or Scootaloo?"

"Because he knows you're in need of that strength. Especially after what you went through. And with him? He was the strongest.... Maybe not mentally but nothing would deter him from doing whats right.... Not only that but I'm not sure if you've seen it but he's had the strength of twenty stallions. He could tear through cars like they were tin cans. If he was really pissed off... say... the way you were put in danger... If our Ryder were here and he wanted to he really could've took that guard and ripped him a new one... I wouldnt doubt he even would've tossed him off the building, waited a moment before going after him just to scare the shit out of him... He was sorta psychotic but... we let it slide because he still kept that head on his shoulders... Never went totally off his rocker unless he needed to... Think there was only one time he did have to and it was against the guards from what I remember.... Twilight screwed up a spell, made everyone forget everything and just... That's how we knew he destroyed those cars..."

"....He was really that strong....? I thought.... Just because he was a pegasus he was more likely to break bones if he did shit like that."

"He really was.... Neither I nor my sister know how he got that strong to this day..." She brought me onto her lap and cuddled with me a bit. "....Is it wrong to just.... wait for him to break out of his grave and give us a hug....?"

"...If it were a joke.... its one that's went on for too long... But if he did.... I'm pretty sure there would be a few ponies who would bust his balls before giving him a hug... " I looked away for a moment before back at Luna. "...Do you... do you need someone to cuddle with a bit when you go to sleep...? I.... I could use a bit of a nap and a hug...." Luna gave a smile.

"For you? I'll allow it... He'd get the same treatment with... a few added bonuses but I think as time goes on we may see if you're worthy of those same bonuses." I smiled a bit and just cuddled with her the rest of the way to the castle. I ended up having to help Luna to her room with a few other guards who had to do this before.... Apparently she had to be wheeled to her room on a few occasions via a gurney from an Ambulance.... Like... Nothing was wrong other than she was tired and passed out and she sleeps like a rock. When we got in to her room I helped her into her pajamas and..... I may have had to ask for some padding if they had any.... Didnt trust myself after last night.... Laid down for an hour with Luna and just went and met up with Applebloom, Diamond and Celestia. Apparently Applebloom loves hitting the spa with her marefriend.... wonder if they're gonna get hitched at this rate... I think I might be done here... Tired. Later.

Author's Note

I had this idea after I wrote the chapter on Ryder's end. Now this is a true AU to my AU. Plus this kinda gave me a way to just refresh myself on Ryder's end. This might not last as long as Ryder's thing but it's gonna be a good one. I'm going to at least try not to integrate things after that chapter on Ryder's end. And I will put warnings before every chapter with some dark themes such as self harm and noncon stuff

Something Big (Babs' POV)

Its been a few days since my marefriend, my cousin and I had a weird ass foursome with Ryder who was literally on Gilda's mind... and in mirrors and pictures.... Applejack went on and on about how she's gonna get Ryder's balls in a vice grip if she ever gets back together with him for an hour the next morning.... It took just about everyone at the table to tell her to shut up about it... I didnt want to yell at her and tell her that but I was listening to that on repeat since we woke up.... Gilda didnt get off easy either... Gilda had to apologize, on her knees to both me and Applejack.... Me because she didnt tell me sooner and AJ for even being combined with him in the first place.... Hell she even started to cry. That's how bad it was with her. Tonight? I just couldnt sleep.... I dont know if it was just because I was back at the house, alone or if I needed someone.... Wasnt too late but I was two hours late on getting to sleep... yeah 11 at night is late for me... big fucking whoop... Wasnt even in bed at this point. I was out of bed on my toilet texting. What? I wasnt actually going. I actually do my best thinking here on what I could even do some days. No joke I had the best idea here to do something for my cutie mark and low and behold I can fix shit just like Ryder can! His was a gear and wrenches, mine is a screwdriver and a pipe wrench crossed over each other. No joke my dad broke something, tried to figure out how to fix it, did and when I dropped my pants later to use the can I SCREAMED. He literally thought I found a spider or some pervert camera and just got scared. Anyhow I was just sitting there on my phone, texting Scootaloo. 'I'm serious Scoot. Cant sleep for shit here.' I told her.

I waited for a moment before she texted back. 'Yeah... I cant either....' She said. 'I honestly wish I could've been there to at least tell him I love him before he just came and went...' I couldnt help but snicker there. Yeah... I'm a child.

'Would you wanna see two cousins kissing while a griffon with a hardon and a knot the size of my fist pounds the everloving shit out of them?' I waited a moment.

'...if it didnt have anything to do with my brother being involved... yeah... I kinda would.... But considering those cousins were pretty much MY family...? I'm gonna pass there...'

'Well offers open to see anything here if you want~'

'SHUT UP!' I laughed a bit, my voice just echoing off the linoleum of the bathroom.

'Sorry sorry! Couldnt help myself.'

'...I swear sometimes I think you and my brother are one in the same with your dirty fucking minds....'

'Might be that he's in my brain now and you wouldnt even know!'

'...I swear if I hear one more thing about him being in someones mind other than his own I'm gonna rip someones throat out and feed it to a timberwolf.'

'Yeah... too far... Sorry....'

'Dont be... His fault for getting stuck that way with Gilda.... Guess even Heavens Light had to let him get something before having her husband throw a curveball for him.'

'Celestia's mother?'

'Yep. She's the goddess who actually lets me visit with my family every so often... Havent done it since you and I went to Canterlot for a nightmare I had.... Just about family I think and I just cried myself to sleep there cuddling with my mom... Still no idea why you yelled at Heaven's Light...'

'Trust me, its better you dont... But uh... Enough talk here... If I drive over do you think you'd be able to let me in? I can bring blankets and sleep on the couch. I mean... Big Mac IS still there right?'

'Yeah... Braeburn isnt gonna be back for at least a week and he's okay with Big Mac being here... Kinda glad he is here... Making sure we're okay here... But seriously... Get your ass over here. Dont wanna drive over myself and drag you back here....'

'Sure thing. I'll text you when I'm coming up the road so you can just unlock the door.'

'Already is unlocked, I'm gonna go to bed.... Just make sure nobody wakes up when you get in....' I hopped off the can and just ran for my room. Just changed into some sweats, sneakers and a hoodie. Even grabbed my phone charger and stuffed a bag of clothes. Went and grabbed a blanket too from the foot of my bed and just headed out to the car, tossing everything in the passenger seat before taking off.

I'm not gonna lie... it hurt seeing this car after I got home.... I was just lucky I had this thing parked underground at the castle. Twilight.... she actually understood the pain there when I came back to see it.... Told me Applejack had the same reactions when Ryder went off to war... and when he passed... I only keep it because its iconic with him.... Anyone who drives it just has that feeling that nobody wants to mess with you. Almost like they knew the reputation of this car before it was given to me. Didnt take me long to reach Sweet Apple Acres. Actually managed to get on and stop without waking anyone... Though the quiet didnt last long.... As soon as I got everything inside and tried getting comfortable on the couch, Mash started crying upstairs. Hell not even soon after Applejack ran out and down the hall. Hell even Big Mac ran out of the room down here... Nearly ran into me trying to hurry upstairs to see if his niece was okay. I had to follow myself just to make sure everything was alright.... Didnt sound like the 'there's someone watching me' or 'someone's trying to take me' scream but.... Still... the guard in me wanted to make sure things were alright. When I got to the little fillies room I just saw everything in the dim light. Applejack hugging her daughter, both in their PJ's, a wet stain on the filly and her bed, Big Mac just giving a sigh. "...Hey hey... its alright girl.... Momma's gotcha..." Applejack said. She looked to Big Mac. "You wanna handle this? I'm gonna get her cleaned up.... Third time this week...."

Big Mac nodded and just got to work. I stepped aside and just watched as Applejack took her daughter into her arms and carried her right past me into the bathroom. I looked back at Big Mac who was just in a tanktop and sleep pants just starting to strip the bed apart. He looked back at me as I got the pillows off her bed. Pretty pink with apples all over.... yeah... she's AJ's kid.... "Now I know you werent here when we went to sleep.... The hell you doing here?" He asked in a hushed voice.

I sighed. "Couldnt sleep because of the other night.... Fact that your best friend was in the brain of my marefriend didnt make it any better..." I said. "...Asked Scoot if I could come over... here I am and at a bad time...."

"Might be not the best time to find out we have a guest but it's never a bad time to help family out Babs." I sighed.

"...Really should visit Braeburn every so often.... maybe call dad up too... Need to keep in touch with them... How is my brother by the way?" Big Mac chuckled as he tossed the soiled sheets aside, the bed more stained than mine when I was her age.

"He's good. You know he's starting to try to make his own whiskey now? Aint got a damn clue what we're gonna call it but he's got me being part of the recipes. Got straight whiskey, even got an apple flavoring in the works and we're talking to local bee keepers about honey flavors... He's more the talker than I am... I just sell the stuff." I just licked my lips. The drinks I had the other night were on my mind.

"Ah... Hope I can get a bottle of that for the bar at the house... Havent had a whiskey shot for some time.... Last time I did..." I stopped. He just flipped the mattress while I just stared at the wall...

"...Something tells me it was with him wasnt it?" I nodded. He sighed as he set the mattress down on its other end. "...What I wouldnt give to sit and have a drink with that boy again.... You know years ago before Ryder became a guard and before his parents passed, he just admitted to fucking up the family truck... Threw his ass out of the house... Drank myself silly that night and he had to knock my ass out.... Didnt know until the morning when I woke up in cuffs, AJ was gone and Shining was asleep on the recliner.... Had to kick a glass off the table to wake his ass up.... He had to unlock the cuffs, help me to the bathroom to puke... Boy didnt even give me coffee or water until I apologized to Applejack. Didnt apologize to his sorry ass until I picked him up from the precinct where he was just losing it after his parents were murdered. Since then any time I had a drink, it would've been with him... Wouldnt touch the shit any other way...."

"...Last time I did drink socially I ended up running through the desert naked only to show up at your door step..." He sighed.

"Yeah.... Cant forget that.... Reminded me so much of him after you left.... Glad you're okay though.... But think as for right now you should check on AJ and Mash.... Make sure they're alright...." I took a deep breath and nodded before just turning around for a sec.... Something stopped me and I just started raiding the drawers for something for my cousins daughter to wear.... Just grabbed a pair of sweat pants before heading over to the bathroom door.

I knocked and just waited a moment. I heard the filly crying a bit inside and her mother just consoling her telling her everything was okay and to just sit tight for a sec. After a second the door opened and Applejack poked her head out. "Whatcha need sugarcube?" She asked.

I handed her the pants sighing. "...Everything alright here AJ?" I asked. She just sighed shaking her head a bit.

"...I dont know... Just gimme a minute to clean her up and get her in my bed... we can talk after..." I nodded and she closed the door.

"I'll be downstairs when you're done." I just waited a second before just heading downstairs. Had to hold on to the railing and turn a light on just to sit back on the couch and wrap myself in the blanket. Big Mac came down first with the bed sheets and just throwing it in the washer. Decided to join me, get me a drink and sit with me before Applejack came down. She was just in shorts and a tee shirt. She sighed.

"....Babs what in the godesses good name are you doing here? Its damn near midnight...." She said. I huffed.

"...Couldnt sleep. Scoot let me in. Everything okay with Mash?" Applejack sighed as she sat down on the recliner next to the picture of Ryder.

"Yeah.... Just.... keeps having nightmares.... Guess'n because of the guard Gilda had to call to get you to the infirmary in Canterlot kinda scared her... Thinks just because the guard came and the Princesses ran means the whole castle is gonna be locked down again.... Damn Ryder giving our baby girl nightmares and he didnt even mean it..."

"....I honestly thought I was losing it when I saw Ryder in the mirror.... Didnt really know that's actually what I saw until I woke up.... Princess had to fill me in..."

"Still cant believe that jackass decided to visit Gilda and not his wife...." She just looked longingly at the picture at her side.

"Gilda told me it was good reason that he visited her and not you.... something to do with something years ago?"

Applejack stayed silent. Just stared at the picture. Big Mac sighed. "...I think I'll tell this one here..." He said. "...Years ago after Ryder came home from the war the Princesses decided to invite us up to Canterlot... didnt explain anything, just invited us for dinner.... Next thing you know we're having dinner along side our long dead relatives... Mom, dad... Granny smith.... Shit even got to see Winona again.... miss that dog something fierce some days.... Hell we even ate with the Dark King himself and The Goddess as well... Not many can say that.... But.... After that.... Ryder started to have nightmares.... Didnt know what it was about until we found a... rope... in her closet.... You do not know how fast we dragged her ass out of the house and up to Canterlot...." My mind started flashing back a bit to the day my dad found out I was cutting myself.... Dragged me out of the house in my underwear, I was in tears and just threw me in the dirt with my family looking at me.... He apologized after that.... Just said he was scared about losing his little girl.... I forgave him with that but my cousins just gave me what for.... Even have to thank Gilda for giving me some help to stay strong... but something was just scratching at the back of my mind.... Something else other than the memories....Big Mac nudged me breaking me out of a trance. "You good there Babs? Starting to get tired?" I just hesitantly gave a nod. He huffed getting up. "Probably good to get some sleep... Got some work to do tomorrow..." I nodded just as he went over to his sister. Just took her hand, pulled her up off the recliner and started walking her to the stairs. All she could do was just stare at Ryder's picture. He looked to me as they hit the stairs. "Babs go on and use my bed. I'll take the couch cousin."

I gave a hesitant nod and just got up before going into the room... I did toss a pillow back out for Big Mac to use but I just covered right up and just closed my eyes. The sleep I had was shoddy at first. Heard Big Mac and AJ talking upstairs but couldnt make out what they were saying. Even heard Big Mac come back downstairs and settle in on the couch. I did end up falling asleep staying comfortable. Didnt have a dream but I was out of it. I almost forgot I had an alarm on my phone. Almost meaning I woke up before my alarm and shut it off. I ended up getting dressed and going outside. The morning air was crisp, the sun shining through the fog... It was mornings like these that made me miss Ryder..... He'd just fly so far into the fog that either you wouldnt be able to see him or you'd just see his silhouette in the morning sun... Made for some great pictures. I just walked out and just leaned on my car. It was wet with dew but I honestly didnt mind. I was wearing dark jeans and a leather jacket with a tee underneath. I was enjoying the sound of birds chirping, the trees rustling with the slight breeze. It was calming.... Though my hearing picked up something. Sound of an engine, tires on a dirt road.... I looked towards the entrance and saw fog lights burning through the mist. Two low, four high. Started thinking if I should be prepared to protect my family or not based on the make and model it could've been. Didnt need to. Two trucks pulled up going off to the side of the house. Guard trucks. Transports. I just sighed getting off the car and going over slowly, hands in my pockets.... I watched a few guards step out before seeing Princess Twilight step out. She was just in jeans, a coat and sneakers. Guess even she doesnt like the feeling of being in gowns or dresses a lot. She smiled as she saw me. "Babs? Good to see you here. Here visiting?" She asked.

I sighed. "...In a way yeah..." I replied looking to the ground. I looked back up at her. "What are you doing here Princess?" She sighed.

"Well I had nothing to do today so thought I'd see if AJ and the family wanna come over to the castle for a little bit. You're welcome to come as well." I looked to the house.

"Might do us some good.... Guess after the other night at Canterlot with Gilda's issue... guessing everyone has a thought in their head and from what I heard last night... might be for the best...."

"Oh? What did you hear?" I looked back at her.

"Well... First off a little filly crying because she had an accident... And the other... Uh..." I looked away for a moment. She just sighed.

"....Something tells me you didnt like what you heard huh...?" I gave a nod. "...You or someone inside?" I nodded to the house. She sighed and just shook her head. "...Dammit.... Thought this would've been something I wouldnt be thinking about..."

"Take it you already know....?" She nodded.

"Yeah.... Happened after a dinner long ago with Celestia and Luna and since Ryder's passing.... It honestly just scared me.... thinking that she'd be thinking about this again.... Might need to authorize a search on the home just to be safe.... That day Ryder found that... you should've seen how scared he was.... it was like he saw Scootaloo kidnapped right in front of his eyes while he had a gun to his head and made to watch everything while a spider crawled on him...."

"That bad?" She nodded.

"....Thought it was just a nightmare but... we ended up preventing something...." She looked to me. "Everyone awake?" I shook my head. "Must've gotten here too early.... Still thinking they're on a school schedule.... You think you could wake everyone up if you can?"

"I would but... eh... feel like everyone should just sleep for now... Maybe I give you some money and surprise everyone with some donuts for breakfast? Just remember nothing with milk for Mash."

"Maybe keep your money and I ask for a favor later? I'd be happy to get breakfast as long as nobody eats while I'm out." I gave a smile and nodded before watching her get back in to the transport. Made sure they could get out safely before going back inside. When I got back inside I went upstairs and just checked in on Applejack. AJ was just cuddled with her little girl... Only thing that would've been better there would be the father to complete it.... Turned around but I didnt get very far before hearing Mash start whimpering a bit. Just turned back around only to go back and nudge her a bit. She jumped and just crawled out from her mothers arms and into mine just breathing heavily like she was scared. I shushed her before taking her out of the room and into hers just sitting her on her bed.

"Hey hey... its alright... What's going on? You have another nightmare...?"

Mash nodded whimpering a bit. "...Is my daddy really my daddy....?" She asked. "...I keep hearing everyone saying that the daddy I saw that day wasnt actually him... but he said he was...." I sighed.

"...He really was your daddy Mash... Just.... There was a lot to think about that day.... But he was... Who's saying all these things about him?"

"....I heard Princess Celesty talking with guards about it...." Ah... cute... she cant pronounce Celestia.... almost... I guess...

"....She wasnt there.... And those guards werent either... but I can tell you that that stallion was your father... Now how about you get changed, use the potty and we wait until the others are up hm?" She just whimpered a bit looking down and then back up at me. "...Ah... Okay... too late for the potty... but we wont tell mommy about that... Lets just get you cleaned up and changed into something nice... Got a visitor coming over in a bit." She nodded and just ran to the bathroom. I just grabbed some clothes for her and followed.

Maybe a good ten minutes later I was downstairs. Mash was sitting at the table and watching Cartoons. Big Mac woke up too but he just didnt wanna get up from the couch. I grabbed a cider while I just gave her some fruit punch. Seems she has the same issue Scootaloo has. Wets the bed when she has apple juice. Not gonna ask if she had apple juice last night... just gonna assume it was nightmares. We were up for at least half the show on TV before Applejack came downstairs looking more dressed than I saw her last night. Sweat pants and a tee shirt. She yawned a bit as she came downstairs tugging at her mane. "...Mornin' everyone...." She said. "Scoot up yet?" I sighed.

"Nah... Not yet.... Want me to get her? Feel like I should because I had her up a good chunk of the night..."

"Might be a good idea.... Maybe bring her something cold to drink to wake her up... Got plans to meet 'Bloom later and we've been thinkin' about doing something as a family since Mac's still gonna be in town for a bit...."

"Well... If you're thinking about making breakfast, already got it covered." I got up from my seat grabbing another cold cider from the fridge before just walking past my cousins. Applejack just looked at me as I went for the stairs.

"What? You paying for breakfast or somethin?" I didnt answer. Just went upstairs to wake up Scoot. I gave a slight chuckle hearing something being said to Big Mac. Something along the lines of 'You know what the hell she's talking about?'

Anyhow I knocked on Scootaloo's door and waited a moment before entering. I got in and her room was just.... Almost just punk-emo like. Dark paint on the walls, Gems posters on the wall, one or two signed by the band and framed, even a few signed guitars on the wall too. Even had a replica of the bass guitar sitting off to the side of her desk which had sketches all over the place, even a picture of her, Spitfire and Ryder all together as a cute little family. Scootaloo however was still passed out in her bed, snoozing away.... She was just in her panties and a hoodie.... Might I say my cousin-in-law has interesting taste in underwear... these werent just your run of the mill boyshorts or anything... nah... Near bathing suit levels of show... Oh I was asking for it here. I set my cider down on her desk and went over to her with her bottle.... Instead of waking her up with a nudge I may have shoved that bottle right onto her flank, that flaming tire getting an ice cold wake up call. She screamed a bit before looking at me. Only took one look at me as I laughed, grabbed her drink and threw her pillow at me. "You bitch!" She snapped. "...Couldn't you wake me up some other way than trying to shove an ice cold cider bottle up my ass?!"

I chuckled grabbing mine again. "Sorry Scoot. Couldnt help myself." I replied. "Now be quiet. Your niece had a little bit of an accident last night when I got here... Girl's scared the Ryder we saw wasnt actually her father.... Thinks it might be some sort of changeling or something..." She huffed stretching, her wings fanning out, feathers just frizzing a bit before setting them back into place and cracking open her cider. She drank a little bit of it before flicking the cap at her desk narrowly missing me.

"...I mean she was kinda right but that actually was her father.... not as old as he was when she had been conceived but it was him... Wonder if Princess Luna would be able to take us in dreams to see him with her.... if it wouldnt be asking too much...."

"We can probably ask later... For now just get yourself dressed. Princess is coming but dont say anything to anyone. Kay?" She nodded drinking more of her cider. Just waved me towards the door. I nodded sipping my drink before walking out and back downstairs.

Nobody questioned me about what I said. Applejack and Mash were just sitting on the couch watching TV, Big Mac was already back in his room probably getting changed. I just joined Mash and AJ on the couch watching more cartoons. Not gonna lie... some of these are good, others are shit compared to the ones I grew up with. Scootaloo came down after a bit just as one of the shows finished. She sighed having AJ look back at her. Scoot was in black skinny jeans, motorcycle boots and was even wearing a tailor made combat jacket like what Gilda has but... it was made for her by Celestia. "Mornin' Scoot. Heard you were the one to let our guest in here." She said.

Scootaloo sighed. "Yeah.... Sorry AJ.... Didnt wanna stay up to let her in so just left the door unlocked and knocked out.... you know I havent been sleeping right since Canterlot...." She said. She looked to her niece after sipping her cider. "Mornin' Mash! You have an accident last night I heard?" The filly next to her mother blushed a bit nodding. "Aww its alright.... Had plenty of accidents at your age you know... Maybe you try staying dry tonight I might take you out to get a new toy or something... sound good?"

The filly looked to her mother gasping. "A new toy Auntie Scoots?!" She asked surprised. Fucking. ADORABLE.

"Yep but only if you dont have an accident tonight so that means going potty before bed, no drinking anything too sugary and even letting us know you need to go okay?" The filly smiled.

"I will!"

Big Mac sighed as he came out of his room, flannel shirt, jeans, work boots and tee shirt combo. He stretched a bit as he came out. "There we are.... Comfy and ready for the day...." He said.

Applejack huffed and looked over to me as I finished my cider. "So Babs.... Said you got breakfast covered?" She asked. "Already planned on making pancakes or something but guess you had something better in mind?"

I got up starting to think. How long was it since the Princess showed up? "Yeah I did... Just thinking here... Breakfast should be here in three... two... one..." I said walking over. Once I leaned near the door, the bell rang. I was actually pretty good with the timing thing. So good, the Princesses are freaked out... and with how Twilight reacted the first time I did that she swore up and down I was hanging out with Pinkie... Anyways I just gestured to Applejack. She just got up and came over just to open it.

Surprise surprise in comes Princess Twilight, Box of donuts in hands and a bag of drinks. "Morning AJ! Thought I'd drop by, see how everyone is!" She said ducking under the door frame.

Applejack smiled a bit. "Well spritz my bushels.... Guess this was what Babs meant when she had breakfast covered...." She said. "Well its good to have ya Twi! C'mon in, have a seat! Been a bit since we had you visitin'." Twilight sighed as she sat down on the couch, Mash just crawling into her lap like a little puppy.

"Its a pleasure to just be near my friends even when life is so busy for me or them... And with everything that's happened as of late I just feel the need to make sure everyone's okay...." AJ sighed.

"Cant speak for everyone here but I'm fine... Sure a tad bit confused but... I'm fine." She looked to Mash. "Course... My idiot husband scared my little darlin' half to death with guards yellin' every which way..." Princess huffed.

"Of course... He just manages to surprise us even after he left us... But this is what I'm worried about... with him popping up left and right lately... I really wanna know if everyone is alright... Physically yeah but mentally? I dont know... We dont need anymore scares... Especially not for a little filly..." She just hugged Mash who just cutely turned around a bit and hugged her right back.

I huffed. "Yeah AJ. Cant have a scared filly now can we? She's already been scared enough and more scares arent good." I said.

My cousin huffed giving me a glare almost like I was the one who made her daughter wet her bed. "We can talk about this later... Right now, I just wanna get ready, eat something and figure out what we're gonna do..." She said. I gave a nod and just split off from her.

Princess Twilight followed me outside... I just walked over to my car, looked at the morning dew dripping off my mirror, glistening in the sunrise. She sighed. "...Thinking everyone here is missing him deeply.... Even his own daughter who never got to know him really..." She said.

"...Makes me worried about everyone here.... Big Mac left because he didnt have his friend to go to with the loss... Applejack and Scootaloo both lost someone they loved and would spend all their time together... and his daughter.... Never got to meet her father until he came back to us in a way... and that ended up scaring her into wetting the bed... Scared to know guards were around, saying that her own father couldnt be trusted, that... ANYONE she knew couldnt be trusted..."

"....Maybe we should get everyone out of the house.... have em come to the castle maybe..."

I turned around but just as I was about to say something a puff of smoke startled both me and the Princess. I just rushed her and got between her and whatever could've been attacking us. I got her to the ground only to hear a laugh. "OR! You could come to Canterlot to enjoy a NICE royal dinner with the Princesses, friends and family of all ages are welcome!" A voice said with a gameshow crowd cheer and applause happen after. We both looked up confused but the Princess knew what was going on. She shoved me off into the dust and flew up giving her wings a good flap just clearing the smoke. I looked up to see her flying up and a weird... dragon frankenpony monster hybrid just floating there, wearing a plastic looking pompador hair piece, wearing a checkered suit jacket with a messy looking tie and holding a stick microphone. Twilight landed and I just scrambled to get behind her.

"DISCOOOOORD! WHAT THE ABSOLUTE FUCK ARE YOU DOING?!" The weird creature she called out gave a chuckle taking his stick mic and hair piece and just mashed them together in his.... claws? Hands? I... He had griffon talons and a lions paw... It really throws me off there... Anyhow he mashed them in those... appendages and when he released it just turned into cotton candy.... which he handed right to me.

"Oh Twilight you know me! I have to have a grand entrance with an invite to do something with the Princesses!" I hesitantly took the candy floss and just took a bite... it was actually edible... felt it melt in my mouth.

"WELL YOU'RE SCARING ME AND MY FUCKING GENERAL! Not to mention THERE ARE CHILDREN ABOUT!" I watched as he sighed and- I shit you not- just took Twilight's mouth clean off... Like... not ripping and tearing of flesh... just literally removed her mouth.

"Well I agree that you should watch your mouth but at least allow me to give everyone involved an invitation for a dinner with the Princesses in Canterlot! And come now Twilight wouldnt you want to be invited to these things looking like that? I mean look at you you're all filthy!"

Twilight just snatched her mouth back stepping away. I just looked to... Discord... "Cant tell whether to blame you or myself for that one..." I said.

"Oh no worries I'll take the blame on that one... Let me just...." I watched as he removed the suit jacket... like it was just a cardboard cutout he taped to himself... I watched him fold it up into a bucket.... Immediately knew what he was gonna do. Not enough time to stop him. He just reeled back and just threw water from what was assumed an empty bucket right at Twilight. She just clenched up, her wings just frizzing out. She turned right around and immediately flew right at Discord grabbing him by the neck and pinning him against a tree.

I rushed over just as she started yelling at him. "DISCORD I SHOULD FUCKING GUT YOU WITH MY HORN FOR DOING THAT! THAT WAS FUCKING COLD YOU JACKASS!" She screamed. I got up to try to pry them apart but... Twilight... her mouth and nose were upside down.... I snickered and she looked to me. "WHAT ARE YOU LAUGHING AT GENERAL? WIPE THAT SMIRK OFF YOUR FACE BEFORE I WIPE IT FOR YOU!"

I looked to Discord backing up a bit. "Uh... Can you fix that real quick before she kills one of us?" I asked scared.

"Uh... S-Sure! Let me just....." I watched as he grabbed Twilights nose and turned it right around.... I heard just the cranking of an egg timer and once it was on right I heard the ding.... "There we are! Beautiful yet again! And at least you're clean now! Could at least be thankful!"

The princess grabbed his snout holding his mouth shut. "....That was cold and I'm wet.... DONT TELL ME TO BE THANKFUL YOU ASSHOLE!" She yelled. She threw him to the side and just huffed. "Tell the Princesses we'll be there but if I see you there, you best have an apple atop your head and pray I dont miss!" I could see her charging up her magic... Horn almost sparking with how much power she was channeling. He just grunted and snapped his fingers just turning to dust in the wind... literally.... just disintegration pure in form. I looked to Twilight who was just holding herself.... her shirt uh... yeah that water was definitely cold.

I cleared my throat. "Uh... Permission to speak Princess?" I asked. She nodded just hiding herself with her wings. "Do you wanna just... head back to the castle and change real quick? I think I'll inform everyone here of plans. Will you send transport along?"

"Y-Yes.... When we get to C-c-canterlot.... I think we should tell Celestia... to... sh-shove a fucking scepter up that draquien ass of his!"

"Agreed. Now get on back, change and be ready. Dont want you catching a cold now Princess." She nodded and just rushed back for the truck. I went back into the house with more questions than answers but... Just... Yeah.... As I entered I had Big Mac ready with a frying pan ready to swing. Looked around and just saw everyone ready with something.... Mash just hiding away in the kitchen with her hands over her eyes. Cute.

I just motioned for Big Mac to lower his weapon just as Scootaloo and Applejack got up dropping theirs. Scoot just... putting her knife back in her boot and Applejack tossing the bat she had aside. "Babs what the hell was that all about? Why was Twilight screamin'?" AJ asked. I huffed.

"Someone decided to send us an invite to Canterlot... Via a strange being that just.... I dont know what to make of him... nothing made sense with him..." Applejack pinched her nose.

"...Swear that fucking Discord is gonna give me a dang heart attack with the shit he pulls... gettin' too old for this...." She sighed and looked to me. "So... Y'said we got invited to Canterlot? For what?"

"Dinner." I replied closing the door behind me. "Princesses invited us. Not sure who else but guess me and Twilight got the invite spectacular..." I just handed the half eaten candy to Big Mac.... He never had said no to finishing something we couldnt... if not him, Ryder.

"Well... Guess that sounds nice.... gets us outta the house... And it'd be rude to turn down the Princesses with this...."

"And if we're going to Canterlot... I think I might go pack more of a bag... Maybe see about getting Applebloom if she's willing to pull herself away from Diamond for a little family time."

Big Mac sighed walking over to the kitchen, grabbing the bat and putting it on the table while he just put the pan in the sink. "I'll handle her. You just go get something ready... And maybe call the Princesses.... See if that invite was for us or just Twilight... Discord loves to make fun of us sometimes and from the shit I heard? Real jokester." I gave a nod and just grabbed the stuff I did bring before just heading out to the car.

Once I was in the car I just started a call to Princess Celestia. I just drove for the main road while I waited for her to answer. After a few moments on the road she finally picked up. "Ah General. Discord tells me you've gotten our invitation. Did you let your family know?" She asked.

I huffed. "Yeah... They wanted to have me check on that making sure Discord wasnt fucking with us." I said. "Speaking of Discord... Twilight's pissed.... Wants me to tell you to shove a scepter up his ass for what he did."

"What did he do?"

"Cold bucket of water, scared the shit out of us, and just... weird ass magic.... And Twilight. Was. PISSED. Like even I was scared."

"...Yeah... We'll make sure he stays well away from what we have planned... Now all we need to get is everyone involved and you may bring your marefriend out. This will be a night to remember and I want everyone we hold near and dear in Canterlot. And before you say anything this isnt any type of suicide pact or anything so please dont worry about this. We've got Shining Armor and Cadence coming down with their guard captain, your family and their friends, Twilight and everything."

"Wow... Sounds like something big is going on."

"It will be Babs. It will be. Now I have to go. Things need preparation." As she hung up I got excited and just IMMEDIATELY called Gilda.

Took just about twenty seconds for her to answer. Sounded like she had just finished exercising. "Oh hey baby.... Was just thinking of you..." She said. "What's up? Wanting to go to dinner later?"

I just took a slight double take at my phone on the console. "Uh... yeah.... Was wondering if you'd like to go to Canterlot with me..." I said. "Princesses are inviting us, said I could bring you. Up for it?"

"Do I have to wear a dress?"

"Good to look your best but in a dress? Unless you plan on not wearing anything underneath for private time, I'm sure a suit would be just fine."

"...Y'know maybe I should wear the dress now that you put that idea in my head... Fish net stockings and heels do anything for you?"

"Act like my mommy and we'll be good... But seriously. Wear something so nobody sees a wet spot on your dress and asks why.... Maybe bring a toy or two for later though.... getting me in the mood..."

"Want some diapers so we can put you to bed right you little bed wetter?"

"....Yes mommy...."

"Alright. I'll bring some. You just bring your cute little outfit I love so much. Now lemme shower and be ready... PRincess just got back and she sounds pissed... rather not smell like I ran a mile...."

"Good idea. See you soon! Love ya!"

"Love you too sweetie. See ya." She hung up leaving a tingle in my panties and my heart skipping a beat.

I went home, showered myself, padded up in secret and grabbed my best dress, packed some clothes in a bag and headed back out. Actually texted Twilight that I'm gonna be at the castle... and when I stepped out of that car in the parking garage all the guards just looked on, not believing I was their General. Still acted like I was. Just threw the bag over my shoulder and strutted over by the elevator. Nice emerald dress flowing with each step, my heels just clicking against the concrete. I went to the elevator... Not to use it but I had a feeling. I looked at the buttons, even a little screen showing a numbered floor and 'in use' was on there. When that door opened I was greeted with Gilda in a suit just fixing cuffs, Princess Twilight with her Royal Gown and a slight entourage of guards. Twilight smiled as she saw me. "Oh! General! Nice surprise you're here. Thought you'd've been with your family." She said.

I gave a sigh as I took Gilda's hand, her eyes wide just looking me up and down. "Well... Had to clean myself up and get presentable." I said. "Confirmed with the Princesses we're all invited." She sighed just as Gilda took my bag, shouldering it over her own.

"Good. Rather not come with who ever isnt invited... Assuming that our friends are gonna be there too I think I should send everyone a text, have them pack bags for Canterlot... should at least check with the Princesses..." We walked towards the transports, Gilda just slyly grabbing my ass... Could tell she felt what I wore.

"No need for that. Celestia said everyone can come. Friends, family, hell even your brother, Cadence and Rocky are coming. Wanna send a few transport for them and their bags?"

"Good idea! Lets do that!" She didnt even have to look at the guards. Four transports at the ready... assuming one for us, others for my family, our friends and such. We did that, waited just so we could start a convoy picking everyone up. Two went for Sweet Apple Acres, grabbing my family and their bags, Scootaloo and Applebloom surprisingly with us both in dresses, Applejack, Big Mac and Mash in the other. Surprisingly Big Mac still had clothes there. Tux that he wore for Applejack's wedding. Applejack even braided her mane even wore a nice red dress... something I knew Ryder would like.

The ride was long but comfortable. Drank a drink or two and just tried to not piss myself until we got out of the transport. Once we stepped out we found ourselves in front of Canterlot castle. Princess Celestia and Luna were watching from the top of the steps with surprisingly Rainbow Dash and Spitfire at the bottom of the steps. Just looked over and saw Applejack getting out with her daughter in her arms, Rarity and Fluttershy both getting out, their manes looking intricately done by each other, Pinkie just trying to make what cotton candy blue blouse stay down with some dress pants and heels, and even Sweetie Belle was just strutting her sisters fashion stuff. Deep purple dress, sparkly breast area.... Yeah I'm no fashionista but if she wasnt taken by Button... I wouldnt mind seeing if I could uh.... yeah... Pervert brain here. Anyhow Scootaloo pushed past us and rushed to Dash as fast as she could without tripping over herself. "Mama Spitfire! Dash!" She called out. I watched as she hugged both of them as we all gathered in a group at the base of the steps.

Celestia and Luna both in their gowns carefully walked down the steps. "Welcome welcome one and ALL!" Celestia said. "We thank you for accepting our invitation for this grand dinner! Big plans for everyone here! And... Just a warning. We are going to have guests and we do not want anyone here feeling intimidated by them. They may seem intimidating but truly they are like you and I. Treat them with respect but not out of fear."

Princess Luna stepped forth. "Applejack, Scootaloo, Rainbow Dash, Gilda, Spitfire and General Babs Seed? Wouldst thy follow me?" She asked stepping down carefully.

"Everyone not named, follow me." We watched as everyone else climbed the steps past Princess Luna. Once they were all on the steps, Applejack, Gilda, Mash and I went to the small group with the Princess.

Applejack set her daughter down on Spitfire's lap, the filly cuddling up with her grandmother. "There ya go sweetie. Say hi to grammy." She said. She looked up to Princess Luna. "Wow... Certainly a party if y'got everyone here.... Surprised to see everyone..."

Princess Luna sighed as Scootaloo got behind the wheelchair her adoptive mother was in. Glad she got adopted by his mother... "Well considering recent events we decided to have a broad spectrum of guests." She replied starting to walk to the left. "We wanted to make sure everyone was alright, even treat them to something nice such as this. But with things such as they were, it would've been hard to get everyone together... Their struggles and such, muddying the waters of their lives... once getting clean, something else comes along muddying them as well... We wish to help cleanse those waters so the shine of light can reach thee." We followed closely as we started walking towards the garden areas. Couldnt help but feel as if we were being watched.

Scootaloo sighed. "Yeah... Conflicting schedules, emotions just bringing their ugly faces around making us all feel bad... Get that all too well..." She replied. "...Those dreams... the nightmares I've had.... they muddied my mind up so much... ended up missing a few days... not sure how... or why... but... just.... scared me..."

"I know there Scootaloo... they were about someone close... to all of us..." We all knew she meant Ryder without even saying his name. "This is exactly why we're doing this. We want those memories to bring happiness... not sadness... The fact you are still going is the strength we see in each and every one of you. Some have scars shown, others their scars are hidden very well. Do they let their scars speak? No. They do not. No matter how much they urge you to let them."

I just grabbed Gilda's hand a bit tighter looking around.... She just rested her wing on me. "Something wrong Babs?" She asked.

I shuttered. "...I... I dont know... Just... feels like there's someone watching us..." I said. "....Just got goosebumps and last I checked its near 80 degrees still..."

Dash huffed looking to the skies. "Felt that too huh? Just cant shake it but... just really feels that way..." She said. I hesitantly broke away and just looked around... High and low.

"Uh... P-Princess... Maybe we should hurry... I do not like this feeling and I'd rather not be out here much-" I was cut off REAL fast when I was just snatched up and taken up into the air just SCREAMING... And I may have wet myself...

I was just bracing myself ready to fall... the feeling of being off the ground scared the piss out of me enough and I was just ready to accept fate. "What? Rather not be out here much longer and enjoy the fresh air?" A familiar voice said... and last I heard it... I was asleep. I hesitantly opened my eyes and I swear I either passed out on the way to Canterlot or knocked out when whatever hit me... well... hit me... I looked around and felt uneasy knowing I was high in the air. I saw Scootaloo, Gilda, Dash, Spitfire and Applejack down below me, shocked, with Princess Luna just pinching her nose looking annoyed. Even Mash didnt even look.. Just hid on the other side of Spitfire's wheelchair. And when I looked to the other side at who was holding me... Oh I swear I just died and went straight to heaven.... IT WAS RYDER! He was wearing just a white combat jacket and celestian camo pants with black boots. I honestly screamed and hugged him breaking down. He chuckled. "Good to see you too Babs! How's about we get down from here? Get you back onto the ground and get you changed.... Think you might need one..." Oh I blushed hard. So hard I could've had a nosebleed.... Or matched my hair.

He brought me down to the ground and just handed me off to Gilda as best he could... I honestly wanted to fight just to stay in his arms... maybe whisper in his ear to escort us around the side, drag me out after they're inside and destroy me so I need this diaper.... Maybe see if we cant sneak away for that later... But once I was out of his arms and in Gilda's she gave me over to the princess and EVERYONE there just dogpiled him. I mean Scootaloo, Applejack, Dash AND his daughter just ran at him. "DADDY!" His little filly screeched.

Oh that was ADORABLE. Princess Luna sighed. "Ryder was under strict orders to stay INSIDE and surprise everyone at the same time but I should've known this would happen...." She said. "Ryder, why dont you pry yourself away from them for a moment and come see your mother? She's feeling a little left out here!"

I watched as everyone except for his daughter backed away from him. He took his daughter into his arms almost like he was carrying Scootaloo or I. He came over and set his daughter back in her grandmothers lap as he knelt along side. "...Where are my manners there...? Cant see everyone here without visiting with the best mother I could have...." He said. "...Hey ma.... you doing alright? How are you?" I could tell she was speechless.... She just leaned forward and hugged him just breaking down on his shoulder. Then I got an idea.

I looked up to Princess Luna wiping my eyes. "Princess?" I said. "...Are there any masked guard helmets and armor you can get? Might have a GREAT surprise for everyone and just to spend a little time with him..."

The Princess sighed looking at Ryder, his mother and daughter all hugging. "...I might have something... Might have to delay slightly our entrance but if Celestia comes to find us... Something tells me father dearest might be having a word with a certain stallion..."

Ryder huffed as he stood up, setting his daughter down on her grandmothers lap once more. "He better be gentle. Got too excited and wanted to see my family!" He said. "Perfect you had em all together there Princess but... seem to be missing a filly and a stallion here..."

"Well since the secret is out among us, it seems that this will be a bigger surprise to everyone else... Just need to make sure everyone keeps their mouth shut, and not ruin the surprise."

We all just looked at Dash and Scootaloo... Scootaloo's been better with her secret keeping but Dash on the other hand.... Holy shit she's horrid with it... Gilda was trying to keep in touch with Dash after last time and she told us that Soarin was caught jacking it in the showers! TO THUNDERLANE NO LESS! Didnt change what happened later there... oh uh... whoops... Anyhow they just looked back. "What?!" They both said blushing a bit. Princess Luna looked around.

"Should get to the gardens before someone comes looking for us...." She looked to Ryder. "General, you go ahead and lead everyone there. I'll find some armor for you posthaste!"

Both Ryder and I saluted. "Yes ma'am!" We both said. We just looked to each other, me blushing a bit still.

"Why not have the old dog teach the new one something hm? Now go before someone sees!"

She just teleported away just before Ryder looked to me. I may or may not have slapped him a bit. "That's for scaring me!" I said just before grabbing him by the shoulders. "And this... is for grabbing me in the first place!" I looked over to Gilda and Applejack. "Sorry about this you two..." I turned back to Ryder and just PLANTED one on him. He let it happen for a moment before pushing me away.

He just cleared his throat. "Uh.... Y-You're welcome there Babs... Now uh... Lets just get on here..." He replied nervously.... Oh what I wouldnt give to have everyone else away from us in that garden... But no... Unfortunately. Anyhow Scootaloo went and grabbed Spitfire's wheelchair and started pushing the mare as Ryder lead us.

Applejack huffed walking next to him. "I swear Ryder y'nearly gave your mother and I heart attacks when you did that!" She snapped. "I appreciate you not grabbin' me or Dash but why grab anyone?!" He glanced back at us.

"Didnt wanna hurt anyone nor did I wanna just land in front of you. Guys gotta have an entrance of some sort and now I'm making two!"

"And yet you couldnt just do it all at the same time?"

Scootaloo looked over at her sister in law. "AJ leave him alone! He just wanted to see us!" She snapped. "Doenst that mean anything to you?" Applejack sighed.

"...Why do you always have to be right?"

"You always just blow things out of proportion!"

Ryder huffed. "Can it you two! We can talk about why someone is right later." We all just stayed quiet as we walked on. Found ourselves in the garden soon after a few. Gilda and I sat on a bench cuddling.... We actually had only just sat down because she wanted to see the damage when he scared me.... Yeah... Soaked... Bad... And the spares were in her bag.

We waited just around ten minutes or so... In that time we just saw Ryder and his daughter fly and run around together playing, Applejack just watching on with Spitfire and Dash and Scootaloo talking. When Princess Luna returned she gave Ryder the armor and helmet. Nice golden armor, masked and chestplate to match. Princess Luna sighed as we all grouped back up. "You're lucky that Celestia bought the lie about a slight malfunction in the kitchen and that I've already sent someone to fix it." She said. "Just hope she doesnt go to see it being fixed but we have a window to join the group undetected. Now seriously. Pinkie Promise that NOBODY will spoil this secret!"

We all sighed or groaned a bit. And yeah, not even our word would help here.... We all just raided a hand and recited what Pinkie Pie taught us ALL. "Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." We all said. And yeah. We have to keep this secret. We dont and Pinkie finds out? She screams, paddles you if old enough and if nobody objects to you getting paddled, if you cant get paddled... Oh you are made to drink a cocktail of NASTY... I've had both first hand... Both on accident... Applebloom made me promise not to spoil a surprise for her marefriend and it accidentally slipped because I was a tad bit drunk. Her paddle hurt. Had a welt on my ass. And the cocktail? This one was Sweetie Belle. And I didnt even say anything here or even do anything. She didnt take my word there and made me lie to myself and her to do it... Thing was a condom that she used with a toy and threw out.... Rarity found it, screamed at her about it and... well that lead to me... I was the one using the toy on her and we promised to not tell anyone. And when Rarity called me over for a glass of wine... Oh that wine was cayenne pepper, lime salt, cola, olive juice, tomato paste and milk in one double shot glass....And I had to knock it out in one shot.... Coughed my brains out and ended up getting sick shortly there after. Anyhow the Princess smiled.

"Alright. Lets move. Faster we get inside and join the group, faster we get things prepared." We all agreed and just started moving, Luna in front of us. We went from the gardens into a side door thankfully not up stairs. We ventured through the halls a short way just to come to the foyer where we saw everyone mingling, Celestia just standing atop the steps speaking with a group of guards. Luna motioned for us to stay at the base of the stairs before she went and spoke with her sister. I looked around and just saw Twilight, Shining, Cadence and Rocky talking with Big Mac and Rarity while Fluttershy, Sweetie Belle and Applebloom had a chat.

That's when we heard Celestia speak up. "Attention! Attention all! The issues have been resolved. If everyone will follow us we shall converge on the dining hall." She said. We watched as she just walked down the steps with her sister and just started going to the right. Basically straight if we had just kept going down the hall. I stood close to Ryder as he pushed his mother. The armor covered his wings and I could tell he was Nervous as Princess Twilight got closer to us.

We tried keeping with everyone carefully as to not blow cover. Though Princess Twilight made it a little hard.... She looked over at us. "Well hello there!" She said to Ryder who just didnt wanna make eye contact.

I smiled for Ryder. "Forgive him Princess. Celestia's new guard, first day. Really nervous." I replied. "Princess Luna introduced us. Gotta show him this isnt anything to lose his head over." She chuckled and sighed.

"Yeah... Apologies. You'll do great. Tonight should be easy for you as long as nobody pulls anything stupid like my brother did with the previous General... And considering how that went anyone who does answers to the General next to you!" We both chuckled whilst Ryder stayed silent. I just looked to Spitfire who was just too enthralled with her granddaughter in her lap whispering something in her ear. I looked back at the Princess.

"Uh... Princess... Mind giving us a little space? Might be making him more nervous than a chihuahua with firecrackers going off."

"Oh! Sure thing! Sorry about that." She gave Ryder a smile before just rushing ahead to walk with Celestia and Luna. I sighed looking to Ryder who just gave me a little nod.

When we got to the doors of the dining hall we all gathered around Twilight, Celestia, Cadence and Luna. Luna gave a loving sigh. "Alright! Now... We should have things already fixed and we will ask everyone here to recite an oath of sorts." She said.

Pinkie Pie started jumping up and down. "OOH OOH! Pinkie Promise time?!" She asked.

Celestia chuckled a little as Rarity and Fluttershy had her settle down. "Yes Pinkie." She replied. "For this we must have everyone raise their hand and recite just as we should have the word what you see here tonight, will not touch ears that are outside the circle of friends and family." Everyone did once more. Though I had to nudge Ryder slightly as to just make him blend in more by following us in the Pinkie Promise... Everyone did it again just reciting the cupcake thing... making me want one... After everyone did Celestia looked to her sister. "Good! Now that is out the way we do welcome you to this Royal Family dinner!" Both Luna and Celestia grabbed a knob and pushed the doors open each standing to one side as we all entered. Inside? Heavens Light stood at the other end of the table with some... Demonic looking stallion wearing a red suit and tie, slippers and suit pants... Even recognized my aunt and uncle and even Granny Smith... even Scootaloo's mom and dad as well standing along side them. Celestia walked around the group and just looked at the group. She counted all the guests we've had and looked around giving a sigh. "Oh... Seems we might be missing someone... Probably went out for a flight. She looked back at me. "General! I need you to find a guest we're missing... and considering everyone here, I think you know who I mean..."

I couldnt help but grin and grab Ryder's hand. "Sure thing let me just...." I said pulling him away from his mothers wheelchair. Once next to Celestia I just removed his helmet revealing his nervous looking face, smiling away. "Found him!"

Gasps and some... choice words were heard. I counted down turning Ryder around just before looking out to the mostly shocked crowd. "RYDER!" They all screamed just before rushing him. I had to get in between him and the crowd quick.

"WOAHWOAHWOAH ONE AT A TIME! ONE AT A TIME EVERYONE!" Oh that didnt work. Celestia IMMEDIATELY pulled me up forcing me to make sure my dress stayed down knowing what was underneath. With everyone rushing him they actually managed to tackle him to the ground. Celestia set me down next to her and I fixed myself. "Th-Thanks Princess...."

Celestia sighed. "You're welcome... Just thought it'd be more of a surprise..." She said looking at the pile of ponies slowly helping eachother off one another with a few guards to help. "Something tells me this was the issue that Luna was telling me about..."

"Unfortunately.... Guess he got too excited to sit idly by and let us experience it with the rest of us... almost like it was planned the way Luna pulled each one he cared about so much away PERFECTLY.... Just so he could do that...."

"Seems like it... should ask mother about that but I do think we should at least spend time with one another. Make this time last."

I gave a nod and just went to help everyone... Took three ponies to pry off Pinkie. Me, Shining and Big Mac but safe to say there were only tears. Kinda from everyone but Ryder most of all. Ryder just blushed and came over to me. "Well... That was worth a try but... cant keep a stampede from happening..." He said. "Gonna let the family see theirs. Need you to come meet Hellfire."

I smiled at the Princess and gave Ryder a nod but... not in that order... heart started racing and got tingly in my pants.... He lead me through the group of ponies. Passed by Applejack and Applebloom hugging my aunt and uncle.... kinda wish dad was here to see his brother... Doubt he'd like me being padded... and with Gilda.... He accepts Braeburn but with me being with a mare? Yeah he may flip again... Though someone would have to remember to remind him that we're not gonna be here forever. We slowly approached the tall devil stallion... His horn tapered off into a red point almost as if he had stabbed someone with it recently and didnt clean the blood off... The stallion grinned a bit bending slightly. "Ah... You must be the new General for my daughters..." He said, his voice sounding as if it were just... coming from an empty hallway in a deep cave. He cleared his throat a bit. "Apologies. Forgot to turn that off before coming here..." And as if he hacked up a furball and spoke he sounded as normal as you or I.

Ryder had to nudge me to get me to speak. "Oh uh... Y-Yes sir. I'm General Babs Seed... This stallion saved me from dying in the terrorist attack some years ago..." I said getting closer to Ryder. Hellfire sighed.

"I do apologize for the scare that was that terrorist attack. I dealt with those heathens who took all those lives while my wife showed the innocent in that attack where they resided for eternity..."

"That day... If it werent for his heroism we both would be there, waiting in line to see where we both would end up... Wouldnt be where we are today that's for sure...."

"Well between us... those four are suffering... they claimed what they did was in the name of the holy mother.... yet they rose in front of me, their punishment severe for all eternity as their flesh slowly burned away, ripping and tearing with every agonizing pain felt explosion."

I.... I honestly became a little uneasy hearing that description. Ryder just threw an arm over me pulling me close. "Good to know but uh... Maybe just leave it at they're suffering next time..." He said. "Would rather not have to explain to anyone why she's pissing herself again tonight..." He looked to me. "Speaking of which... need a change? Surprised nobody's said anything yet other than me...." I blushed hard giving a nod. "Alright.... Go see about getting a spare and I might have to excuse us.... Might make you feel better after scaring you like that... Sorry about that Babs...." I quickly separated from the two stallions and quickly went for the nearest guard.

The guard looked to me saluting. "Uh... Can you have my bags brought to the nearest restroom? Need something out of that..." I said. He nodded and went out of the room. I went back to Ryder and just took his hand dragging him away, my own cunt just feeling like the diaper I was wearing. I took him out and down the hall and just found the nearest restroom dragging him inside and looking to the guard just outside. "Wait for my bags and whatever you hear in here, PLEASE do not say anything to the Princess about this!" The guard nodded and I went back in closing the door and locking it. Just saw Ryder sitting on the toilet.... He still had his pants on but I was fixing to change that... I dropped my dress around my ankles and he just blushed hard, his eyes growing wide just before I straddled him. He just stared at my chest as I wrapped my arms around him. "...Make me yours big boy.... I want this to be more than a night to remember..." I grabbed his arms and just guided his hands to my hips.... he didnt hesitate on taking the used wear discarding it into a waiting trashcan... Now I was just wearing heels... my whole body exposed to this stallion... He looked to the door and just back to me.... "Dont worry... Locked leaving us alone.... Now make me a babbling mess.... Please... I-I need it so bad...." I just touched myself.... spreading my sopping wet cunt to him... He pushed me off him Gently and just shushed me before just going to the door. I watched him walk over, count down from three and then once he hit one, a knock came to the door. Scared me and I rushed for my dress to cover myself.

He opened the door slightly but it was forced open more and in came Gilda holding my bag and Ryder by the neck now as she made her way in, knocking the door shut once more. I just stood there watching as she pushed him back towards the sinks... thankfully not into them. "Dweeb... I know I let you fuck the everloving shit out of me... but you being in here trying to change my babygirl? No. Not on my watch!" She said. Turned me on a little more hearing mommy call me that... did I just....? Yeah... yeah I did...

Ryder just looked over to me. "Y-Yeah... Knew this would happen..." He said keeping an eye on Gilda. "Now G-Gilda... I know what you're thinking! But we didnt do anything yet!" She looked into the mirror and then back at Ryder.

"Then why the fuck is she naked?"

I had to rush over and grab Gilda. "M-Mommy please! At least join us? Please?" I asked.

Ryder looked to me. "M-Mommy? Babygirl???" He asked confused.

Gilda looked at me as I gave her puppy dog eyes... lip quivering.... my mouth.... not the other one yet....My dress crunched up in my hands as I stood bare naked in front of both of them. She sighed and tossed the bag down looking back to Ryder. "You're lucky! Maybe if our cards are played right tonight you can join..." She said. "I wont say a word of this to anyone but right now we need to get back to the dinner. Applejack asked me to go find you just so you can get a family picture with everyone! Now you either stay in here and help me clean Babs up to go back to the dinner or clear out and come to me after dinner! Okay?"

"Y-Yes Gil... Sorry Gil..." She shoved him over to the side just for him to flap his wings and stabilize himself just as Gilda looked back to me sighing.

"Alright... Lets get you changed and dried up... but know mommy wont be as nice next time knowing your connection to this dweeb... Okay sweetie?" I swallowed and nodded. "Good. Now lets get a new diaper for you and get your dress back on. As cute as you look all nakie, the others might not think so..." I glanced over at Ryder still wanting him to assert himself and make us his sluts but I just looked back at Gilda who sighed. "Alright... Go give daddy a kiss if it'll make you happy...." I smiled a bit and just rushed over hugging him and just kissing him nice and deep... like movie worthy. I stood him back up and he just blushed hard wondering what just happened before I just skipped happily back to Gilda who couldnt help but chuckle at the sight.

We made the change fast. Dried me up but had to have me explain why I had to take Ryder off to Applejack but she didnt wanna hear it... not only because her daughter was in ear shot but she already knew why but I did have to tell her we didnt do anything but I got a little carried away. The dinner went well after the photos. Got my picture taken with Ryder, Gilda my family, his... Just was a great time... By the end of dinner I walked out with Applejack and Ryder who were just accompanying their little filly as they carried her to her room for bed time. Mashed yawned rubbing her eyes. "...But I dont wanna go to bed mommy...." She said. "I wanna stay up and play with daddy some more...."

Applejack sighed. "I know hun... But you gotta go to sleep sometime... Cant stay up all night and play..." She said. "Daddy'll be here in the mornin and you can play more then okay?"

"But I wanna!"

Ryder sighed as we got to the door. "Mash you listen to your mother. Dont wanna be grounded and we miss out on playing now do you?" He asked. The little filly sighed defeated.

"...No daddy...."

"Then you're gonna go to bed... Okay? I promise promise PROMISE.... tomorrow morning we can play after breakfast... Alright?" She nodded. He kissed her on her forehead and handed her over to Applejack. "Good... Now get on to sleep here. Momma should help you get ready for bed sweet heart... Goodnight..."

"Love you daddy..." He sighed smiling.

"Love you too..." He opened the door and just let Applejack in before closing it behind her.

I just sighed and hung my head now that she was behind closed doors. "...Um... Ryder? Can we talk?" I asked.

"This about what happened earlier?" I nodded hesitantly. "...Look... It's alright... Didnt change a thing I think about you... I see what I did had an impact... and seeing what you did to the other me? I understand that you'd wanna do that with me... Course hiding it from Applejack is the last thing I'd wanna do right now but just going for it? Especially after Gilda? Yeah... Think we should let it lie for a bit.... Not saying we shouldnt do it but... rather would spend time with my wife and kid.... If we get time like this again... You might be on the list to spend time with...."

"...I... I understand... I just couldnt stop thinking about you... missed you so much and just.... After that time with the other you? ...Goddess spare me I'd've busted his pelvis..."

"Hope you dont do that with me if we ever get the chance... But remember... AJ and my daughter come first... You come after."

"...I'm sorry..."

"No I am... If this were any different like it just being only us and the Princesses? Maybe I'd consider it." He hugged me and just held me close... Could just hear his heart beat, low and slow...It struck me as weird knowing he was dead.. But I was trying so hard to not let tears in my eyes happen and someone see. No makeup to ruin but yep...

He just was comforting me. At least until Applejack came out. She carefully closed the door and just shushed us. She sighed. "Aw... Someone miss him as much as I do?" She asked. Ryder sighed.

"Yeah... wanted me all to herself a little bit... Dont blame her after everything she's been through... kinda blame myself for that but its alright..." She sighed as she patted the back of my head.

"...I know... Judgin' the way she was when you came around that one time... Shouldnt be surprised... makes me kinda worried.... Almost wish this wasnt temporary... scares me to think what could happen after..."

"Girl's strong... Glass cannon kinda... Powerful in what she does but something goes wrong once it happens... And I getcha.... Scoot and I are strong when it came to ya... But Babs... I think you're afraid of what she's gonna do when you go again... Right?" He nodded... My heart felt as if it were breaking.... Like they both just found it together and were fighting over it.

Just then a guard came rushing over to us. Applejack immediately shushed him before getting to us. "Oh uh... Sorry... The Princesses have requested everyone be in the grand ballroom immediately." He said in a hushed tone. "And before you ask, I apologize but I know not of what goes on. Only that the Princess only uses the Grand Ballroom for important things."

Ryder sighed. "We'll be there. Just... give us a moment." He said just glancing down at me. The guard nodded and just started off again. He looked to Applejack. "Next guard I see, I'll have him stand guard just in case our little princess needs us. You just take Babs and get to the Ballroom. I'll be along as fast as I can." Applejack nodded and pried me away. She just took my hand and lead me away down the hall... I couldnt help but look back at Ryder just looking on as we hurried away. Felt like I was leaving for school in my first day of kindergarten... Teacher was leading me away from dad.... Didnt like it one bit.

We weaved through halls asking a few guards which way... why none of em could lead us there but they just pointed us in the direction. When we got to the ballroom we saw everyone there just mingling once more. Celestia, Luna and Heavens light were chatting by the big glass doors. No hellfire to be seen. We wormed our way through the crowd of friends until we were noticed by Celestia who came right up to us. "There you are! Where's Ryder?" She asked.

I stayed silent.... Applejack sighed. "He should be here soon... making sure our daughter sleeps alright and have guards notify us in case somethin' happens with her." She said. "Ryder... He... He aint in trouble is he?" She shook her head. "...Aint time to leave yet? He promised my baby girl that he'd be there when she woke up...." Celestia sighed.

"No. Not yet. My father might've returned to his domain early but everyone else should be here for at least another day so you all have time to spend with them. My mother has some news and she said she needs Ryder to be here." My heart dropped.

I pushed away from Applejack and hugged the Princess. "Please... I... I can take it... Just tell me... he's in trouble... Please..." I said starting to cry. She pried me off and knelt down.

"General... Please calm yourself.... I assure you it's nothing bad! Mother told us as so. Do you wanna have her tell you herself?" I gave a nod as she wiped my tears away. She stood up. "Alright... Come on..." She ended up taking my hand and walking me to her like she was my mother... Though she does have that feel to her at times... this being one of em. She walked me over to her mother who just smiled at us. "Mother, my General needs to hear what you told me. Might make her feel better... She thinks this is some ploy to get my previous one in trouble..."

Heaven's Light gave a sigh. "I dont know what gave you that idea but what I do intend with the previous General is good indeed." She said, first part sounding as unsarcastic as anything knowing what I know before. "Speaking of... is he around? I need him for what I have planned and without him makes it hard to do. I cant say anything more until he gets here."

"...F-For all I know this could be a trick!"

"This is no trick... Tricks are my husbands idea of fun... I'd rather see smiles and hear laughter... and with all the pain anyone of this group has felt or is feeling now? I think I'd rather give everyone a smile, bring moods from the depths of hades to the highest of heights making the biggest stresses seems like little anthills. And most of the sadness you have? I think that needs to change... I wish to see you smile bright and see someone just to spend time with them not because you need to bring your mood up but just to be happy with one another whilst you're feeling happy... Understand?" I sniffled and nodded. "Good... Now... I would like Ryder here soon as possible and not brought here in cuffs as scary as that would sound for you. And I do have news about that-" She cleared her throat. "Pardonnez-moi l’expression.... asshole as you call him.... He's suffering a horrid afterlife considering he committed suicide a week after your scare with him... Ask my daughters and you might be able to visit him with my husband to deal your own punishment to him as Ryder did with his exmarefriend. Rotten to the core that one is... Now if you'll excuse me I need to calm myself... thinking about them makes my blood boil..." I watched as she stepped away going with Luna.

Celestia smiled looking to me again. "See? She only means well." She said. "Here. Why dont we get some fresh air? A bit stuffy in here dont you think?" I gave a nod and the Princess just took me over to the glass doors opening them up. A cool rush of air poured in but it felt great. We both stepped out on a large balcony overlooking a large field just north of Canterlot. You could see the Foal Mountains faintly in the distance, fireflies lit up sections of the grass and flowers here and there. "There.... I dont come out here very often... but when I do it always makes me appreciate things more. Born into a life knowing I rule over everything one day and when that day came not knowing what I was doing.... Everything handed to me and my sister on silver platters... Just once we wanted something to earn... And the friends we have now? Well earned... The bonds we held near and dear with those we cared for and still do hold strong... stronger than... well... Ryder... That stallion could rip somepony in half if he wished to... wouldnt doubt he would to the bastard who put him in the ground if he isnt dead already... Already serving life in prison... Made sure of that myself." We walked over to the railing... I leaned on it... Cold wooden but smooth to the touch.

I sighed. "...I keep telling myself if I could... I'd go back in time, stop that asshole from doing that..." I said. "...When I told that to Ryder one of the first few times I saw him... He told me I wouldnt have gotten close... I could've gotten hurt... killed... got someone else killed... He's right but... It would always be in my mind that if I could give up the role as General just to see him survive that moment... I would do it in a heartbeat... See him watch his family grow... spend time with him and not with friends just remembering him... that time I spent in the Crystal Empire? We did things for Spike just to make him not feel bad for being pissed off at Ryder for hitting each other... Ryder died the day he wanted to apologize and Spike was kicking himself for that..."

"And yet he did something to strengthen the memories he once had with his best friend... Ryder and Spike were inseparable. Played games, dug gems, took him out on Nightmare Night, for birthdays and such... Ryder probably had his regret as well not being able to give Spike that chance to do so... Wanted to fight to stay alive to make that happen... He was strong for the funeral... But after? I could see whenever Twilight came over with him, he was sad... depressed even... Yet you showed him how to smile again remembering him. Last I saw Spike he was overjoyed to be here and doing things with us."

I heard someone land off to the side. Looked over and saw Ryder. "...I actually visited Spike in his dreams not too long ago..." He said walking over to us. I hugged him again. "...Told him I was proud to see the man he grew up to be.... Apologized on how I acted towards him before I passed... He did as well... buried that hatchet like I was. Six feet under."

Before anyone had a chance to say anything more we heard the group following us out. Heaven's Light and Princess Luna leading them. "Ryder! There you are!" Heaven's Light called out. "Come here a moment would you?" Ryder nodded and just took my hand... leading me along back to the group. Celestia followed and stood next to us. "There we are...." She looked out to the crowd obviously just curious as to what was going on... few like Pinkie and Rarity looking to the stars, gazing at some shooting ones in the sky. "Everyone! Attention! I do have something to say at the moment!" The group quieted down and all eyes were on us. Made me feel a bit stage fright.... I just tightened my grip slightly on Ryder's hand. "Now... I know everyone here had a hand in Ryder's life whether it be building him up, knocking him down a peg or had him help you up from the depths of wherever your mood was at the time... But I sense the pain from some of you... Most from his closest family... Wife, child, sister, cousin... And even the new General showing the biggest pain she's had on her wrists and arms... Thankfully held shut by the one Ryder helped long ago with her troubles, talking her down from ending her own life... As much as I would like to erase those scars I unfortunately cant.... Though I do have many broken heart to heal.... and smiles to bring here... all at once.... I do know there will be tears and possible faintings to happen... but they will be worth the trouble I go through here tonight..." She turned to Ryder and I. "General. Please step away from Ryder for a moment. You'll be back in a second." I gave a nod and... I couldnt help myself here... Gave him a kiss on the cheek as if I were still a filly... Got a few 'aww's from the crowd. I just stepped forward getting met by Gilda who just... She had tears in her eyes.... I hugged her and kissed her before looking back at Ryder and Heaven's Light with the Princesses. The Goddess herself had her horn glow, Ryder in its magical pull. He floated up, looking confused glowing brighter and brighter. Luna quickly had a dark magical shield placed in front of the group still allowing us to see through to them but dampen the flash that happened soon after. Ryder fell to his knees and panted. Once that magical shield went down I rushed to his side helping him up. He huffed.

"....I-I'm fine... Didnt expect the ground to be that hard..." He said getting up with an arm over my shoulder.

"Apologies Ryder..." Heaven's Light bowed slightly.

"No worries... I'll be fine in a bit..." Heaven's Light looked back out to the confused crowd.

"...And here... Is my gift to you all... Ryder lived on in your memories... But now once again... Living at your sides..." Everyone gasped... Few ponies actually had to be helped to the ground slightly... Cadence and Applejack among them... Rarity being one as well...

Both Ryder and I looked to each other and then to the Goddess. "W-Wait... Are.... Are you telling us... HE'S ALIVE AGAIN?!" I asked. Heaven's Light smiled and nodded.

"Yes Babs. Your savior returns once more to live the remainder of his life amongst his friends and family... Enjoy!" Oh you bet I fucking broke down, screamed and just tackled him to the ground. EVERYONE cheered and screamed, some just coming up to hug him with me. Scootaloo, Gilda... Fuck even Pinkie! Hell he was even so happy to be back he started crying... You bet I asked Celestia to get a bottle of champagne or something out here to celebrate.

I had a few glasses but just let him spend his time with Applejack. Gilda on the other hand? I was hanging on her arm quite literally... She knows I'm unstable while drunk and I dont mean emotionally. Mightve Only had a few drinks but they were one after another... and I pounded them down celebrating... Though drinks were cut off quickly after Scootaloo pissed herself... Had to be ferried off by Celestia to change and get to bed but by that time we all decided to turn in. And let me tell you I was soaked... Like. Bad. Though it didnt matter when we went to see how Applejack was doing. Gilda, Applejack, Ryder and I were just in the halls walking together... Each of us just slightly drunk or just finishing crying. Gilda was doing most of the crying surprisingly but you didnt hear that from me. Gilda sniffled. "...Dweeb... I... I'm glad to have you back!" She said. "...I'd ask for something to celebrate but... I feel like wifey needs you more for tonight...."

Applejack sighed and kissed Ryder on the cheek. "...Now... I wouldnt say that..." She said. "...He might be back.... But I think tonight he's all yours... I got him for a long good while after tonight.... Might as well let you have your fun and work him over for me... Just try to not tucker him out too much... Mash wants to play with daddy and daddy aint gonna play if he's too tired...."

I grabbed Ryder by the arms and just pulled him close grabbing his package. "...Your little girl might not want daddy tired... but this filly does..." I said licking my lips... he blushed hard. She chuckled a bit.

"Try not to break him too bad... Still wanna feel that later myself."

Gilda put a hand on my back. "Sure you dont wanna join? Got room for one more if you do." She said.

"As much as I do... Think I should just keep near my baby girl in case she has an accident again... Not to mention I've had my share of weird foursomes with this knucklefuck I call a husband.... Plus still cant get the thought of me and you being stuck together for a while there Gil.... Not saying I dont mind it.... Just... Not wanting it to happen for a bit... But that's only if we do that to torture him... maybe as a birthday present?"

"Oh yeah... tie his ass to a chair and go at it making sure he creams himself just without touching himself but the sight at us going at it.... Maybe with a toy in his ass moving all about but he is just edging only until we say he can finish in his pants...." Oh if me fondling him didnt get him hard THAT did.

I just grinned and looked back at Gilda. "...Think daddy LOVES the sound of that.... Now we should hurry to our room before he really does finish in his pants..." I said.

"Good idea..." She looked to Applejack. "Last chance to join us. Have to ask the Princess to do that spell and we give Ryder a good welcome back gift...."

Applejack rolled her eyes and just sighed. "...Alright... Talked me into it..." She said. "...Lemme just see if Big Mac isnt too plastered to take care of a little filly... Might have to see if Scootaloo or someone look after her..."

"Just go and do that. Longer you take, more time we get alone and less time he has for you to join in!" I started dragging him down the hall by his hand like a giddy school girl.

Gilda was still with Applejack but she knew I had to wait otherwise I'd get a spanking... Yeah... Yeah that is a rule she made... Tested it out after she said and well... Caught with my hand in my pants and next thing I know my bare ass is being slapped, my hands being forced together in front of me. Cant say I didnt like that. And lucky lucky me! Ran right into Princess Twilight who was just seeing her brother off to sleep. She stopped me. "Woah! Where's the fire General?" She asked me.

Ryder huffed. "In her pants.... and I think she needs you for a little spell to use on Gilda... Think you know which one...." He said blushing.

Shining huffed. "Cant let you rest even after you're dead?" He asked with a chuckle.

"Aint no rest for the wicked.... or the horny in this case..."

Princess Twilight sighed as I just gave a nervous smile. "...Normally I'd say no but... Feels like saying no would be a crime..." She said looking to Ryder. She looked to me. "Alright... But one condition... I get to join in!"

I huffed. "As long as he gets me filled, anything you want!" I said. "Just need a spell or three... Think you have a few in mind that could work...."

"So... Dick spell, waterproofing spell and considering how long its been since he's gotten any action... Sterilization and a forever edging spell...." She grinned making Ryder blush harder.

Ryder shuttered. "...I uh.... I thought you werent gonna use that spell on me again...." He said.

"That was before... this is now... We dont want a hair trigger on our special guest...."

"....Oh have mercy on me...."

Twilight and I grinned and we ended up moving to the 'honeymoon' suite the Princesses give to lucky couples... Shining and Cadence included as well as Ryder in cases of both his marriage and now... Twilight was just using her magic with the bedding, the floor and once Gilda and Applejack got there, them as well. Though as they prepped themselves I just sat with Ryder who was just... oogling my naked body... cant tell if he was admiring it or scared that this was happening. He just sat on the edge of the bed, hands between his legs trying to hide the monster I was after... I just pushed him back and climbed onto the bed next to him. "What's wrong? Too fast for this?" I asked him softly. "....Could still send the others away... then its just you and I... Rather you not be alone to handle yourself... Could need some help cleaning up..." He glanced at me taking a deep breath.

"...Wont lie, this is just.... a bit much for a welcome back... but I'm not complaining.... I just feel like its the first time for me all over again but uh... Already knowing what each of these mares could do... But you? I dont know what you're gonna do...."

"I could do anything you'd want me to do... Yours to control but only yours for tonight... Like a pumpkin from that one story, I go back to mommy at midnight... and no worries... I'll take good care of her for you..."

"Wont doubt that... and I'd ask why mommy but... considering what went on when I was trapped in her head... I think you're perfect for her... She loved to play a very harsh mother to me when I wasnt feeling up to play time... Padded me up, had me 'clean' her, next thing I know she's holding a wand to my diaper and masturbating at the sight wanting me to beg to cum.... Few times I came without her permission and she spanked me good but give great after care... even when 'feeding' me..." Oh my heart pounded hearing about that... I just ran my fingers along his chest, down his stomach and straight to his crotch.... I moved his hands out of the way, slowly fondling his balls, full and ready to pump me full... I just started to stroke him slowly... Long, hard, and just what I needed.... "....Need me to prep you...? Very thorough anywhere that needs to be..."

Before he had a chance to answer Gilda came over... Oh I LOVED what I saw.... Big throbbing red rocket, knotted and ready for what lay before her. "Either her or I get the lube.... You're still gonna be giving her what she wants so she'll shut up but... Hey... Cant say I didnt wanna see my filly filled with cum, taunting me, letting me know she's been bred by someone else...." She said. "...Now... Choose dweeb... either let her lube you up, or get yourself lubed up..." Oh I barely gave him a choice. I just went, kissed the tip of his cock and DOWNED it. He had no time to say anything or stop me. He just gasped. Gilda licked her lips moaning a bit.... prodding at his ass. "Oooh.... Seems like we're really gonna have fun.... Now... After she's done... Let her get ready... There's gonna be a nice train for us to ride and your caboose is gonna be starting it...." She looked over at my cousin and Twilight who were just lubing their huge dicks up... Not the first time I've wanted to suck my own cousins dick but hey... Guess since me and AJ already fucked like animals with Gilda who had Ryder's brain in... yeah I'm just gonna.... gonna drop that one... Oh but I enjoyed the taste... Almost didnt wanna breathe just to die choking on it... but for him to come back to life and me die? NO. Not now. Not while he's back. After a minute both Twilight and Applejack came over.

Twilight grinned using her magic to get me off him... I coughed slightly but ooh... my mouth was wet as my cunt was... "Alright Babs... Why dont you get yourself into position... Think Ryder needs a gag and something in the other end..." She said. I just saw Gilda just starting to prod at him... Hell the face he made was so cute.... Too bad it was gonna be choking on Twilight's dick. I just straddled him and teased my pussy a bit.

"Get ready dweeb.... Just relax and take a deeeeep breath.... Just make sure you tap the bed if you need a breath... dont want you passing out on us and damaging that already damaged brain more..."

I slowly lowered myself down just giving him the feeling for a moment until I hilted him. He just shuttered. "Ohh... FUCK... I forgot how good this felt...." He said. He looked up at Twilight... her dick just dangling over his face. "Uh... C-Can we try my muzzle out some other time? Rather royalty be following close behind if you get my meaning... dont want AJ to feel left out...." She huffed looking down at him.

"...You're no fun... I wanted that cute mouth of yours to be sucking my dick... But I guess you'd rather see your wife dripping with cum rather than coughing it up and craving more... But fine... I best get this opportunity later..." I watched a bit as she got off the bed and went around.... And when she got to the other end Gilda penetrated. I knew because Gilda just sighed slipping in. That and Ryder went crosseyed for a moment. I just started slowly riding him laying on top of him. He had no issue grabbing my breasts and starting to suckle on them.

That lasted for a moment until Gilda slapped my ass. "Ah! Those are mine for later! Understand Ryder?" She asked.

Ryder moaned a bit just grabbing at my tits, twisting my nipples. "..Y-Yes mistress...." He replied. "...Th-They're all yours...." She chuckled.

"....There's the submissive slut I missed.... Now might as well give Babsy a kiss.... She missed you so much... But keep those hands on her hips... and remember to hold her down when you cum... I wanna see her BEGGING for more of your essence..." She pushed me back down onto him... Oh I didnt stop riding him. My hungry cunt eating up every inch of his rock hard stallionhood. He just kissed me, tongue and all and I swear he was just what I wanted there... Thought my sexual desire wasnt satisfied...

I sat back up just wrapping an arm around Gilda... Saw Applejack fucking her in the ass and Twilight behind her doing the same thing. I kissed Gilda and she could taste him... "M-Mommy... Let him use me as a toilet tonight... I need to be a toilet for his piss and his cum.... Oh please mommy please...." I begged. Gilda grinned just grabbing a tit for herself.... My fucking chest and my pussy were on fire at this point, burning as if there was a lighter somewhere around there.

"...Dont sound half bad there slut.... Maybe you can be all of our cum dumpster and toilet.... Our cum glazing that cute face and chest of yours, our piss just making you soaking wet and glistening.... Oohhh.... Better stop talking like that or you're gonna make me finish before the dweeb does.... Think I can feel wifey back there flaring up..."

Applejack huffed. "...Sh-Shut your ass up Gil... Still got enough energy to destroy your ass even if I finish!" She said. "Dont... Dont help that Twilight's balls deep back here.... Oh fuck.... That and she might be flaring up too..."

Twilight whimpered a bit. "Dont... Dont make fun of me! It's been some time for me too! And... I think I forgot to hit myself with the stamina spell... Fuck...." She said. Applejack looked back.

"Just... Just pull out sugarcube! Go on and paint Babs' tits! Aint nobody makin' fun of ya! We... We'll all get off just.... Just... Oh fuck.... Might need to get me outta here too...."

Gilda huffed thrusting faster... I felt Ryder flare up inside me... Knew this was coming. "LEAVE ME HERE! DWEEB NEEDS A KNOT AND A FUCKIN' REASON TO CUM INSIDE MY FUCKING MAREFRIEND!" She yelled. I swear my ass turned into a wrecking ball as I bounced up and down on his dick. A flash happened and I found both Twilight and Applejack in front of me furiously jacking themselves off. And I swear in just moments my fucking body and face were just being covered with cum, Ryder getting pissed on by me as he just filled me... Oh and Gilda just grunted loudly, holding me close, Ryder just going wide eyed, looking up at the Princess and his own wife just covering me with their own cum.... Oh it was ecstasy until the end. Oh I collapsed onto him and just kissed him.... Didnt even bother getting off until the Princess made me clean up... Gilda was the one having to clean herself and Ryder but... Well... that was because that knot she has was up there good... Ryder wanted it out but what Applejack told it would be a while until it did.... I had to help carry both of them around to the bathroom connected to the room for... Obvious reasons. And when I said I wanted them to piss on me I was serious.... Ryder did, Applejack did and so did Twilight albeit hesitantly... Though Gilda... She didnt care.... She started going in Ryder's ass. He did NOT like the feeling but knew it was probably gonna happen anyways.... Yeah... They're sleeping on the floor.... With me cuddling.... Applejack and Twilight had the bed... though I didnt sleep long... Woke up to just Gilda's knot coming out... woke Ryder right up with... THE. MOST. Disgusting sound I've ever fucking heard! All the cum and piss just sloshing out of his ass... He was so embarrassed but we understood that was just Gilda's fault entirely.... We cleaned them both up again, separately this time.... Though now we could all get into the bed.... I got in between Ryder and Gilda and just cuddled the fuck out of them both.... Maybe even cried a little... but its understandable.

Author's Note

This one took a while... I'll admit this wasnt what I had planned but I needed a break away from Ryder's actual story rather than this one. This one I do plan on making more and more of but not as many as Ryder has had. This chapter isnt over yet though. Few more should do it ;)