The Other General

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...