The Other General

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"...And yours?"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"I do NOT!"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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