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