Family and Friends

So it's been a few weeks since I saved a hive of changelings... and got kicked so hard in the nuts by my wife, she very well could've made them burst. Lucky they didnt but I still had to take anti-inflamitory pills, wear a cage and ice em every so often for three days. Hell in that time Gilda came back and apologized for slapping me when I came back... Applejack and I did have a talk about things and she was just... She hated herself. Yeah she was scared but that doesnt mean when I do show back up to hit me like I just cheated on her without her knowing and getting a second wife or something. But we talked and we agreed to spend some time apart. Not like a divorce. Just me getting out of town for a week doing whatever. Cadence and Shining promised to stay in town for a bit, make sure Applejack and the family rest okay. Have a few things set up... first stop? My mother. I just got my clothes together and went off to see Mama Spitfire. And yes... I had to bring my medallion that was given to me from Celestia to prove the change in title. Had to actually leave during the late afternoon. Drove all the way to Cloudsdale and up to the Wonderbolts Training Facility. Luckily I wasnt alone.... well... With my thoughts anyways. Had Daring on the phone. "I do really apologize Ryder! I really didnt want to do that but the Princesses just... They had to ask Sunburst to do it and I didnt want ANY connection to drugging you!" She said.

I gave a huff just taking a glance over at the rainbow falls. "...With how much that's happened lately I dont know if I believe that..." I said. "Princesses said you did it yet you hesitated even though you were paid off to do it. Daring. I trusted you. Yet you took money to drug me. They apologized yes but just..."

"Ryder please believe me! Whatever it is you want for my apology to count for something PLEASE! Name it and its yours! I will not hesitate to get you down to this shelter, and strip naked for you the whole time or even just come out to where you are, take your family to a nice dinner or something!"

"Daring. We'll talk about this with Celestia. She was the one who made you do it. She's gonna be the one who you have to ask to apologize to you before we talk about anything. Now try to contact Celestia, set up a meeting where we both can do something. I've gotta go. Pulling up to see my mother here." She stayed silent. After a moment she gave a sigh.

"...Ryder... I understand... I'll talk with you later. Stay safe Ryder and... if I didnt say it before I'll say it again... Congratulations Prince."

I hung up there. Definitely weird to hear me being called a Prince. Does it feel any different? No. No it doesnt. I turned onto the main road going towards the WBTF. I had to just listen to music and breathe... The memories of the 'simulation' were crawling back. Felt as if I should've kept Daring on the call until I parked but then again we'd be arguing, she'd be begging for my acceptance of her apology which I know was bad. She took money from the Princesses and just fucking drugged me and my friends... That hurt the trust I had for her. She still trusts me to keep her secret and I'm not an asshole. That's like paying me to drug my friends for some guy who wanted to uh...... Force themselves upon them.... I wouldnt do that at all but the fact she did? Guess its more like hanging a shelf up, setting something up on it and that shelf which you knew was sturdy decided to just fall. Better analogy. Anyways I felt better once I got to the top. Pulled in, parked and just hopped out throwing my bag over my shoulder. Saw everyone just flying around. Mostly recruits and such. I just hurried for the office and dipped inside. The inside was a bit busy. Saw recruits lined up in chairs near my moms office, recruiters just talking with ponies, receptionists just taking calls trying to make appointments. Nobody I knew inside. Just knew my mother would be inside yelling at the recruits for dumb shit. Once of the receptionists looked to me as she hung up the phone. "Hello there, do you have an appointment?" She asked.

I gave a smile. "No I dont. Just here to visit with my mother... Maybe see Soarin' if that's possible." I replied.

"Oh! I thought you looked familiar. Go right on ahead in. Soarin should be in the mess hall preparing a meal. Your mother is obviously busy at the moment. Do be mindful of the recruits training on the runway on your way over." I gave her a nod and just started weaving through ponies and desks.

I walked out of the office and just put my backpack on and just rushed through. Made sure I avoided the recruits taking off or landing. When I got to the messhall I could just fall in LOVE with the smells in here. It was mostly empty but I fucking LOVED it! Best part about it? Hayburgers, fries, pasta just... Everything healthy and unhealthy just for a balanced meal. Didnt see anyone in the back. Just saw a stallion that wasnt Soarin making sure everything was prepped and ready for the meals. He looked up and just pointed. "Hey! Nobody is allowed in here! Get out before I have you escorted out!" He said just coming around the counter.

I gave a huff looking over his shoulder. "Yo Soarin! Tell this guy to calm down!" I called out. I saw Soarin just poke his head around the corner behind the counter.

Soarin gave a bit of a smile. "Let him through!" He said. "If not, get back here and finish up!" The stallion just huffed and turned right around just going into the kitchen. Soarin swapped places with him and he just didnt break eye contact with me until he was out of sight. Soarin sighed. "Sorry about him... Not used to seeing you while recruits are here training." I gave my friend a fistbump.

"No worries. Dont expect everyone here to know me... Thought I'd come to find you, visit with you and see if things are good with you since our little outing." He sighed as we started walking out.

"I can admit, I've been better.... Maybe a nightmare or two that made me not able to sleep. One reason why I've been in the kitchen...."

"Something tells me flying somewhere next thing you know you get hit with something and you fall?" He nodded. "...Shining's been a bit weird with sleep too... Big Mac? Havent seen anything different with him... Might be good to see what's going on with him... But... Just... Cant stop thinking about what happened.... I still feel bad that we couldnt do anything to save you and you just had to... uh...."

"You're fine not to say it... Wont make you... Surprised I didnt do it earlier... Had the thoughts.... Thought when I got drunk I would've... but nope... So gone I didnt realize the time and you guys were up and talking about me being in the pain I was..."

"Well... we dont have to go through that now... its over, we're back where we should be..."

"Yeah... The memories dont go away though and I think you know that better than anyone here..." Dont I know it... Ponies just say 'its all in your head' or 'just get over it!' BUT IT ISNT THAT FUCKING EASY! If it were I would'nt have put a gun to my head, threatened to slit my own throat, threaten to jump, do I need to go on? Anyways I sighed as we went towards the Barracks.

"Yeah... It's like gum that gets in your mane but you're trying to shampoo it out... Doesnt work real well unless you get your hair cut. Always helps when someone else does it. You do it yourself, you might screw it up." I patted him on the back. "I mean... you, my mom, all our other friends..."

"Speaking of your mother, did you tell her the news yet?" I shook my head as we got inside the barracks. Thunderlane and Cloud Chaser were just finishing getting ready for something.

"She's busy. Wont doubt someone in there might say I'm here. Speaking of being busy... the fuck is going on?"

Thunderlane stretched his wings. "Princess told us she was coming for inspection." He said. "We were just getting ready to go make sure everyone's ready for a few performances."

"And let me guess... My mother is trying to make sure the troublemakers stay out of trouble while the Princess is here?"

Cloud Chaser stretched a bit making her uniform stretch along with her. "Yep. Wouldnt believe how many class clowns she goes through during practices." She replied. "None of us here have the guts to do what she does but you already know she's a big softie just like her kid. Doesnt change a damn thing about you though!"

"Well... Thanks... But uh... Anything I could help with while I'm here? Dont wanna look like the odd one out here."

Soarin hummed as he took my stuff hiding it in a corner. "I'm assuming you didnt bring your own jumpsuit here?"

"Didnt fit in the bag and I didnt feel like digging it out of the closet. Just base essentials."

"I think I might be able to find a spare uniform for you. Lets just hope your mother is gonna be okay with letting you do this without pissing her off... When I say she's very to the point and formal when it comes to the Princesses I mean it... And maybe hold off on letting her know of your new title at least until tonight if possible..."

"That is if the Princess can keep her mouth shut... Rather this would be a surprise."

"Fair... Hell if anything maybe take the Princess aside, have her keep quiet about it until tonight when we can go for some dinner or something. Now lets get you into a uniform so you dont stick out like a sore thumb." I gave a nod and just followed him out and to a storage area. Grabbed one of the suits that looked alright and fit. Was a more standard one compared to the one I have at home. Still military grade material, not as many pockets but even though it was unique looking still I could still blend in.

We both walked out and just stashed my other clothes in my bag before walking with Soarin. We just took off and flew right back over to the office and surprisingly there was less recruits there. Just a few and we just waited for them to be cleared out before going in. My mother was just in her suit she wears when not out teaching recruits. Aviators and just staring me down, hands folded with a serious look until Soarin closed the door behind us. She took her glasses off and set them aside before just getting up and rushing around the desk hugging me with a smile. "Ryder! This is certainly a surprise! Didnt know you were coming!" She said. "How are you? Is everything okay at home? Is the baby keeping you up?"

I sighed hugging her. "I'm fine ma.... Did want this to be a surprise... Kinda was a surprise to me knowing the Princess was coming." I said. "Home life is fine... Got into a little fight with AJ... Kinda got a little physical with me but she realized she did wrong, apologized and we agreed to take some time apart..."

"Oh you poor thing! What happened? Why did she do that?" She sat me down in the chair before leaning on her desk.

"Went out the other night, thought I'd be on a quick walk, next thing you know I'm passed out somewhere and Shining had to come find me... safe to say I scared both her and Scoot but I'll admit it was my stupidity on going out late at night when I was tired...."

"Ryder you know mommy doesnt like it when you do stuff like that! What if you got hurt? What if you got bit by an animal??"

Soarin huffed. "Spitfire, leave it. Boy's been through a lot lately." He said. "Remember when I told you he got shitfaced with us? He was puking his brains out the entire morning after. We were just lucky where we were helped us rest without having to deal with anyone other than each other. The owner of the place even helped us get back to ourselves within the day." Mama Spitfire sighed.

"...Alright... fine... We'll leave it where it lies.... Just glad my baby boy is alright after that..." She came over and pinched my cheek making me blush. "Now why dont we get ready? Princess should be here any minute and we need to make sure everyone here is in top shape." I gave a nod just as she grabbed her sunglasses again. I got up out of my chair and Soarin and I followed my mom out. I just gave him a quick and subtle fist bump letting him know I appreciated the backing to the lie I just told. We all walked together back out to the tarmac just to see everyone grounded and falling in line in groups. My mother looked back at me. "Ryder, I want you to at my side when we greet the Princess. Judging by how everyone's grounded they must've gotten sight of the Princess on her way..."

I huffed. "Mind if I take a look to confirm?" I asked. She nodded and I took off for the highest point I could find. Right on the barracks. I just looked around a bit. Looked towards Ponyville, then to Canterlot. Saw the chopper coming from Canterlot and it looked like it was getting closer. Couldnt help but fly off that way. Took a little while for me to reach it and match speed with it. Had to wave down the pilot just for them to let me in. The door opened and I just had to land on the skid carefully.

I just stepped inside only to see Princess Celestia and a few other guards. Celestia just in her royal gown pinching her nose. "...Ryder what are you doing here? I thought you were going to be spending a few days with your family..." She said. I sat down in an open seat.

"Technically am. Twilight told you what happened right?"

"Other than the fact that you made contact with Changelings and made peace with them even having Twilight meet with her even though she did threaten expulsion from her castle..."

"And what she didnt tell you was that I scared AJ so bad that .... Well... Lets just say I had to step out for a day or two... Just visiting with my mother...."

"No wonder Twilight seemed troubled after you got back to the castle with the Changeling... uh... leader? Its strange Chrysalis wasnt leading them...."

"We can talk about that later. Right now I need you to PROMISE me that you wont say anything about me being a Prince to my mother. I wanna surprise her later. Just keep calling me General at least for her sake." She smiled.

"But of course.... General.... Secret is safe with me. And your underlings here."

"Thank you Celestia... And if I dont call you Princess just roll with it... I already know my mother is gonna give me flak for even flying all the way out here to meet you..."

"I'll do something to make it seem like you were being reprimanded by doing that. Wont make it too harsh because you're trusted but for the ponies there I'll put on a show." I gave a nod and just waited just trying to get my 'fucked up and sorry' face right. Ears back, looking as if I was holding back tears, head down just hoping the chewing out was gonna be over soon. When we were getting close the show was on. She just looked to me, pissed and went for it. "General! That was the stupidest thing you could've done! If you werent known by your face or your antics surely you'd've been seen as a threat and you could've been taken out right then and there!" I just glanced out the window and just saw we were starting to land, everyone at a distance and also fallen in line ready to greet the Princess. "And another thing you REALLY need to be IN the chopper when it takes off because you really could've been hurt!" I looked back as we touched down.

"Apologies princess just.... Please dont punish me too harshly..." I winked a bit. She winked right back.

"I wont but do that again you will be. Consider this a warning!" One of the gaurds opened the door and we all stepped out. Guards first, me next and then the Princess. Just kept my head down a bit as my mane whipped too and fro with the chopper taking off not moments later. More than likely to go back to Canterlot to refuel.

Mama Spitfire stepped forwards giving a quick salute. "Welcome Princess!" She said. Everyone else behind her stood in attention and saluted as well. "I apologize for my idiot sons invasion here. Thought he was just going up to see where you were... not fly out to greet you before you got here...." Celestia nudged me forward.

"It's fine. I gave him a stern warning after letting him in... Agreeable he's an idiot but he still has some ideas in that head of his..." ...Wont lie I was feeling a little offended here but didnt last long as I went to my mothers side. "Now... I guess its time to commence the inspection."

"Yes ma'am. Why dont you follow Soarin? I need to have a word with Ryder here...." The Princess nodded and my mother just grabbed me by the wrist and started dragging me towards the office. If years of my father dragging me into the house after a bad day at school told me anything... this was bad.... She dragged me through the door and into her office just closing the door behind her and just sitting me in the chair. "RYDER WHAT THE FUCK?! Do you know how much trouble you could've caused us with that stunt?!" I flinched a bit keeping my hand in my lap making sure I didnt piss myself... Yeah... little trauma from last time she yelled at me. "Do you even think I like yelling at you? Yelling at my own flesh and blood?! I dont but this doesnt mean I'm not gonna act like a mother and punish her son when he needs it! "

I just whimpered a bit. "S-Sorry Ma... I.... I just thought-" I tried saying but she cut me off.

"You thought? You thought what?! That you could tell the Princess to go easy on us? That you could tell the Princess that there might be some stuff she should overlook!?"

"N-No! No nothing like that! I just.... I thought the Princess might like to know that I'd be here, helping out with some things... Maybe keeping things in shape while I'm here!"

"And you could'nt have waited until she landed?"

"I..." Mama Spitfire sighed.

"Ryder I appreciate what you're doing but seriously. Unless Princess Celestia or I order something, you are to stand down. Have I made myself clear?"

"Yes Ma'am...." I replied.

"Good... Sorry I had to yell..." She picked me up out of the chair and hugged me. "I dont enjoy yelling... even at my own son but if someone needs a reality check I have to."

"...Cant let even me get away with anything in front of the recruits... gotta show reason why you're in charge."

"Just like you lay down the law for real, I lay down the law with some of those rejects out there... speaking of those rejects why dont we go back? See what they're up to eh?" I gave a nod and just let mom go. She just opened the door and we walked out.... I have to admit my mother is SCARY when she yells... Then again I've been yelled at by my adoptive father, been in gunfights that nearly took the lives of loved ones, stuff that could've ended my life (take your pick) and even shown the deepest parts of Tartarus trying to prove a mare was there and that she hadnt escaped. Need to ask Celestia if Sunset is good to hang out with. See if she's gotten used to being on the outside. Anyways the groups were over preparing a few routines I could tell.

We rejoined the group... I just had some of the recruits looking at me as if this was school and I had just come back from a suspension. We went through all the way towards Celestia just to see her chatting with Soarin and Thunderlane while Fleetfoot and Cloudchaser were both getting the recruits into their spots. The Princess looked over at us. "Glad you two could join us again. Something tells me there needed to be some words exchanged?" She asked. My mother sighed.

"Unfortunately... Hoping this doesnt affect the score we get."

"Since my General has had two talkings to, I'd say it doesnt affect it at all. I do hope there will be no more interruptions today because of him. Though if there's anything he needs to take care of before the rest of the inspection commences I would suggest he do it now before it does end up affecting it."

I gave a bit of a worried smile. "Well... Now that you mentioned it I did forget to tell Scootaloo I made it here okay..." I said. "Left my phone in my pants... Gonna go grab it real quick!"

"Well be quick about it! Dont want you to miss the performance!" I gave a quick nod and made a break for the barracks. And you'd think I'd lie about this but I dont lie about letting Scoot know I'm alright and Celestia should know that. I mean... when i had to do it during my time with Pinkie and her family it was actually something I do while away. Still is.

When I got into the barracks I went for my stuff and just started digging through it. Found my pants and just grabbed my phone and sat on one of the cots. I just started a video call with Scootaloo. It buzzed a bit before she answered. She was still in her pajamas and looking a bit worried. "Uh... Ryder... Kind of a bad time to call..." She said.

I kinda tilted my head. "Uh... Why?" I asked. She looked back over at her door and leaned in.

"...Applejack is a little mad at me for accidentally stepping on one of Mash's toys.... Accidentally broke it and made her cry..." I sighed.

"Something I would be able to fix?"

"Nope... Not without a lot a glue and something to help it take shape first... I can buy her a new one I swear!"

"...Look... What I want you to do is take your phone to Applejack. If she yells at you, tell her its me, I'll tell her to take you and Mash to the nearest toy store or something to buy her a new one. I just called to let you know that I made it to Cloudsdale alright... Forgot to call because when I got here I was told the Princess was coming... Mom doesnt know about my new title yet and I already got into some trouble with both her and the Princess to try and keep it secret..." I watched as she grabbed her phone and stood up.

"...You're still gonna tell her right?" She poked her head off screen and just looked up and down the hall.

"Yeah... Not gonna change that... would rather she be in a great mood and maybe during dinner or something."

"Good idea.... Now... Just gotta find AJ..."

"Big Mac still there?"

"Nope... He and Applebloom are heading out to get some formula for Mash... AJ's probably out on the porch still trying to calm down Mash... Think that toy was her favorite..." She carefully walked down stairs.

"The little green toy car with the bells?"

"Yep...."

"Ah shit... as annoying as it was it was her favorite... Now when you talk to AJ, just tell her I'm on the phone... I'll explain things..." She gave a nod and just hesitantly opened the door. Just watched as she opened the door and poked her head out.

"Uh... Applejack..."

I heard Applejack sigh with a whining filly in her arms. "Scoot I thought I told ya to stay in that damn room until Ryder got back!" She snapped.

"Well... That's just it... Got Ryder on the phone..."

"And didnt I tell you to fuckin' leave your phone and games alone?"

I huffed. "Applejack. Leave her alone and let me talk to you!" I said. "Scoot. Hand the phone to her or just have it to where she can see me." Scootaloo just fumbled with her phone a little but now had it held pointing at Applejack. AJ looked tired herself, my little girl just resting her head on her mothers chest looking very upset... broke my heart.... "Applejack... Scootaloo said she'd pay for a new toy for Mash and it was an accident so she didnt mean it. Take her to a toy store or something to get it. If she does pay for it, she gets out of her grounding. Deal?"

"Ry, she made our little girl cry and I aint gonna stand for it!"

"Applejack.... Calm down..... It was an accident... We can get a new one.... Its not like she hurt our daughter directly... Now are we gonna find a solution to fix this or do we have to talk about this when I get home? We have Celestia here and I'm already risking my ass to surprise my mother!" She sighed.

"Fine... She gets that toy she's free to go... But when you do get home, you and I are going out to dinner and I choose where we go!"

"Deal. Now give our baby girl a kiss for me and I'll let Scootaloo get back up to her room to change. Love you."

"...Love you too..." She replied in a defeated voice pissy voice.

"Good. Now i really wanna see Scootaloo not being grounded when I get home. Gotta go now, my mother is probably wondering where I'm at." Scootaloo went back inside turning the camera back to herself. "Please try to keep me in the loop until I get home if you can... I know Applejack is gonna be pissy after that but just try to do what you can okay?"

Scootaloo sighed as she went upstairs again. "I'll try. Thanks Ry... Tell Mama Spitfire and Celestia I said hi!" She replied.

"I will. Talk with you later!" From there I hung up, stashed my phone back into my backpack and ran back out.

As I ran out I saw fliers going every which way. I hurried back over to the small group that was Celestia, Soarin and Mama Spitfire. Soarin looked to me. "There you are dude! You're missing the performances!" He said.

I huffed. "Sorry. Sister was in a bit of trouble all over something that happened on accident." I said. "New toy for the filly to replace one that was broken on accident.... Seems AJ's motherly instincts are just all over the place right now..."

"Sure sounds like it if you're here...." We both looked to the performance. Didnt know what was going on but I was enjoying it. Think I'd rather be in the stands watching this go down with a race after this. To think in the future I'm gonna be enjoying this stuff with my daughter... Gonna think her uncle Soarin and grandmother are so cool. I just glanced to the side at my mother just standing at attention, not saluting but watching the spectacle just like the Princess was. I could tell she was enjoying it. The performance lasted about ten minutes from where I came in at.

Once the performance was over the Princess and the guards clapped. "Wonderful WONDERFUL!" She called out as all the recruits were landing. "Spitfire you've outdone yourself here today! I do think you're just about ready for the Summer Sun Celebration soon. That's to be expecting but still a few more to go through before we really know. Perhaps we take a break for a meal and something to drink?"

Mama Spitfire gave a little nod. "Sure thing Ma'am. These recruits have been preparing all morning and a break seems fitting for their performances." She said. She looked to Soarin. "Soarin! Take Ryder and go make sure everything is fit to eat. I'll bring the recruits in after we get them to fall in line."

Soarin saluted. "Yes ma'am!" He said. He looked to me and just patted me on the shoulder. "Alright. Come on dude. Get the good stuff before its gone." I gave a nod and we both just flew straight over to the mess hall. He looked to me as we entered the still good smelling area. "So, when you gonna tell your mother about your new title?"

I sighed as I just looked around as if I were just entering the lunch room trying to find a place to sit at school. "If all goes well, I can see about having the Princess take us to dinner back to Canterlot maybe so I can tell her... Rather wouldnt want her to make a scene at a fancy restaurant..." I said. "Dont really have the clothes for it anyhow... Not to mention it would give me a chance to speak with the Princesses alone about what happened..."

"Still affecting you?" I nodded. "...I'm not gonna lie... that whole thing scared me until the moment i 'died'... Hell just seeing you break down broke my heart before I ended it.... Had nightmares that kept me up at night some nights... Tried to convince myself that it wasnt real... even tried listening to what the Princess was saying about it but just.... Doesnt wanna work there.... Still sits in my mind that I'm dead, this is the slice we have to share considering everything else was full...."

"Think Shining and Big Mac are the same... Big Mac is too big of a stallion to admit it but I can tell. After you did I just... I wanted to do everything in my power to just see my family again.... the fact that I could see them again and still be alive comforted me a bit... Did it help with the imagery of the end? No... no it didnt... Still scared of the end. My own, the worlds.... Dont know when it will come or where I'll be.... I can only hope I'd be surrounded by friends and family." I looked to him. "Maybe if you can get the Princess alone, maybe with me at your side we can talk with her together about that." He gave a nod and just looked behind us.

"Lets just get our share and get ready here. Should be in any minute." I gave a nod and just rolled up the sleeves a bit and just started getting a plate together. Just grabbed some moderately healthy stuff. Hayburger slider, cheese covered carrots and I even raided the fridge for a whole cucumber... Yeah... I eat whole cucumbers.

I sat off in a secluded corner at a small table. Celestia and my mom came in first with all her guards being followed by everyone else. Princess got her food first with everyone following suit. Celestia came right over to my table while my mom just stepped behind the counter most likely to talk with Soarin. Celestia sat down next to me , her guards just creating a protective perimeter with their food. She looked to me. "So... 'General'... Did you enjoy the performance?" She asked.

I sighed setting down what I had left of the cucumber. "From what I saw, yeah. Almost wish Scootaloo was here with us to watch it." I said. "Even though I want today to go swimmingly for my mother... I still wish to talk to you alone with Soarin sometime if that's alright... maybe if we can go to Canterlot for dinner if that would be alright." She smiled.

"But of course Ryder. And with that talk... I understand the reasoning behind it... This is almost like the time my mind was clouded with the hatred for that little fuckwit from.... fuck if I know ville... Been so long since I've thought about him I've forgotten his name and where he was from... That and well... the other things that happened that day... I only remember waking up after you and my sister dream walking only to see Luna with you on the floor, stark naked, smoking like you were on fire but not responding to anything... She told me what you had Nightmare Moon do and... Well... It might be why her full power didnt kill you considering she wanted you as a minion... think you know what I mean there..." I huffed.

"Oh yeah.... Considering that's what pissed you off and got your doctor at the time fired and made you not want me to be a guard I would NOT want that again... Not to mention that did make sense why I survived.... That moment there answered so many questions.... Did I feel like an asshole jumping through that portal that Starswirl made? Yeah... Yeah I did... Was it worth it to get back home? That's for you to decide."

"I'd say it was worth it. Considering you did fight your way to become my General and being trusted enough to run my guard... Not to mention trusting me to watch over your sister while you were leading my army to victory.... I'd say allowing you to be a guard was a good thing.... and you see where that lead when you felt yourself fall from grace...."

"True but... The fall from grace was nothing compared to the celebration of what happened..."

"I understand.... I wanted to keep this secret but.... My sister and I have something in the works to make it up to everyone... You, Big Macintosh, Shining and Soarin. We cant say what we're doing but I assure you it should make up what happened. We are working on this. My word might be softer than the action but the action will speak loudly for everyone involved." I looked up sighing just to see my mother coming our way with a plate of her own.

"We'll see but Soarin and Mac might need Luna's help as an addition to that... Now we need to change the subject... mother inbound." She gave a nod just as I kept eating my food.

My mother smiled as she sat near us. "There we go. Much needed lunch, quick rest and then we go for the next performance." She said. She looked to me. "So Ryder... How's Scootaloo and my grandbaby doing?" Gave a smile here swallowing the rest of the green.... phalic... food... I dont know just roll with it.

"Mash is fine. Been trying to trade off care and play time here and there but considering what happened, AJ's taking a few days while I'm resting." I replied. "Scoot... Apparently she got grounded for an accident that happened but agreed to make it right to be ungrounded and I'm trying to make sure of it.... Though I'm not gonna lie it felt like since yesterday she wanted to rip my throat out if I said anything wrong... She did apologize for hitting me but then again saying I was going for a walk in the middle of the night only to fall asleep somewhere.... Air between us still felt tense as a trip wire waiting to snap..."

"Sounds like motherhood stress is getting to her... Even sounds like stress is getting to you too if you're having trouble sleeping. I'm open to coming down to help take care of your foal if you want. Gives me a little time to actually feel like a mother taking care of her foal..."

Celestia chuckled a bit as I ate more of my food. "Someone saying she misses trying to care for a foal?" She asked.

"Maybe a little...." Ma blushed a little.

"Well I'm sure Ryder would love the help from his mother. Even to see her get to be a mother."

I sighed. "Would love to see how she can be with a foal in her care... As long as she isnt gonna sneak off with my kid..." I said. I looked to my mother who just looked unamused. "Kidding ma. Still wouldnt mind you visiting, maybe helping foalsit.... AJ's honestly expecting a date night too... Would be great to see you bonding with Scootaloo and Mash... Give AJ and I a break as well as Big Mac... Feel bad for the guy always having to watch the girls when AJ and I are busy with other things."

"Take me out for mothers day and I wont mind spending time with the girls."

"Deal. So... when's the next performance?" Mom just looked around at everyone.

"Hm.... I'd say within the hour... Maybe in an hour... Recruits need time to eat, digest and limber back up for the next routine." She looked to me. "Why? You wanting to be part of the routine?"

"Not particularly. Was hoping for a quick race or something with a few of your fastest fliers if you know who they are."

Celestia chuckled a bit. "I would just LOVE to see some friendly competition between your fastest fliers and my top guard." She said. "Been some time since I've seen Ryder's flying and from what he's told me he's pretty fast."

Mama Spitfire sighed. "Well... Alright... I'll admit the last routine still needs work anyways..." She said. "But only because my boy wants to be a part of something."

"Then its settled. One more performance fit for the summer sun celebration, I give the grade and we watch your son race a few of the recruits and then perhaps... Maybe a nice rest in Canterlot for the night for you and the team?" My mother smiled as I just kept eating trying to hide the smile on my face.

"That sounds... that's actually nice of you Princess... Thank you... We'd be glad to join you in Canterlot."

"But of course! Would rather see my General and his mother being as comfortable as they can after recent events for someone here..." Celestia glared at me... Made me uncomfortable.

"Of course! Hopefully we can get him to sleep easily and actually keep track of him if he starts to wander!" ...I swear if Applejack were here she'd be running my ass through the wringer for that lie but the fact she bought it just made things better. Well skipping the rest of the meal and the R&R as well as the next performance because I honestly wasnt paying that much attention and that I was just stretching my wings up for the race.

When the performance was finished everyone landed and those who could just tried to relax. "Alright!" Soarin called out. "Change of plans! Instead of the last performance the Princess wants to see a race between The General and a few of you guys! Any volunteers?"

I waited for a moment. Nothing. At least for the moment... Until I heard a snicker... "Doesnt look like he flies very fast..." They said.

My eyes snapped to the point in the crowd of recruits. "WHO SAID THAT?!" I yelled. "FRONT AND CENTER!" When I did that EVERYONE backed up quick. Hell even Soarin did as well and he knows what happens when I get pissed and yell like that. The pony in question walked out of the group. Her mane orange but looking like she got a jolt of electricity, her coat turquoise with just a cocky grin on her face. "You got a lot of nerve talking about me like that! Glad you actually had some balls to come and face me and not hide like a little filly who just pissed her pants! Surprised you aint doing that now! What's your name?" She made sure her mane didnt linger in her face.

"Lightning Dust."

"Well Lightning Dust... You wanna know what happened to the last fool who talked to me like that? I pinned his ass up against the wall and made an example out of him. But I'm a guest here... So I'll go easy on you.... Surprised to not see you in line near my mothers office getting your ass chewed out before I did... Guess you can see it runs in the family..."

"You're about as threatening as a kitten so far.... Guard or not..."

Mama Spitfire got between us. "LIGHTNING DUST YOU ARE OUT OF LINE!" She yelled. "After this race is done, win or lose I want you in my office! That is NO WAY to talk to a guard NOR MY OWN SON!" I could see how frightened some of the recruits were, hiding behind either Thunderlane, Cloud Chaser or Fleet Foot or just one another. The guards at Celestia's side were unfazed. Celestia herself? Looking... Not pissed or annoyed like I thought she'd be. But... looking as if her 'General' were just keeping his cover very well like he hadnt given up said title days earlier.

I sighed nudging my mother back. "No need for that... If she's up to the challenge I'll be sure to put her in her place...." I said.

"This better be a fair race otherwise she's coming into the office with me anyhow to sign discharge papers! I will NOT have any cheating ANYWHERE!" I looked to my mother.

"She cheats?"

"And how. Surprising she hasnt been discharged yet but she knows damn well if she does she could be out of here today! Glad Rainbow Dash isnt here.... She'd lay into this bitch harder than even you would..."

"She knows Dash?" My mother nodded. I looked back to Lightning Dust. "Yeah... This just got personal..."

Gonna skip this... She got her ass handed to her, everyone cheered blahblahblah. We had to stay back while all the recruits funneled out. Though I didnt hold a grudge against Lightning Dust there. She just apologized for opening her mouth like that in front of Celestia and Mama Spitfire. After all the recruits had left Celestia had us around her. She was just clapping a bit. "Bravo everyone! Those performances were amazing! And that race? It might've not been planned but it was beautiful!" She said. "Seems one hot headed Wonderbolt and A hot headed guard arent one in the same this time." She laughed a bit patting me on the shoulder. "Anyhow... You've passed the inspection and well... I would like to invite all of you to Canterlot for dinner as a way to say 'job well done' and to show I've no hard feelings when it comes to my General's antics today."

Mama Spitfire sighed taking my hand. "Antics or not he does show authority when it comes to someone badmouthing him...." She said.

"I'll say. He's changed a lot from the lowly recruit he was to my faithful General... Now... I only have so much room in my chopper for two others. I'll send transports for the rest."

I gave a sigh. "I think my mother and I would like those spots if possible." I said. "I drove over here and I think giving my keys to Soarin for the rest of em will help if they have an escort."

Celestia smiled. "I suppose that will work. Do make sure everyone has everything they need, change clothes if you need, maybe clean up." She said. "Not sure who that is but I can smell you from here..." We all just backed away from the Princess.

Mama Spitfire gave a nod. "Y-Yes ma'am! We'll be in and out in about ten minutes!" She said. She looked to us all. "Alright! Hit the showers! I want all of you fresh smelling and ready for Canterlot!" We all gave a nod and just rushed for the barracks. Soarin, Thunderlane and I went first, Cloud Chaser and Fleetfoot right behind us. Even got back into my street clothes before handing my keys off to Soarin. And yes. I made sure I had everything after leaving my bag inside the barracks. I just kept the bag at my side as we flew.

I sighed as we started to depart from Cloudsdale. Just looked out the window and saw the Rainbow Falls in the sunset. "...You know... I wont ever forget flying in this chopper only to be thrown out quite literally over Canterlot..." I said. "...I mean look at how far I've come since then... Getting in the air like its nothing."

Mama Spitfire sighed. "...I still regret that day... I honestly didnt know if doing that would've left you more scared or just..." She said stopping herself.

Celestia sighed. "...I will admit it was harsh to do that... I regret even doing that because it could've killed you whether it be from the stress making you black out, have a heart attack or just make you panic and your wings just stop working..." She said. "...But just seeing you flying down like you were having the time of your life... Made me smile... Even helped Babs too... Speaking of how is the little filly?"

I huffed looking back to Celestia. "She's good. Should be trying to get her out here to help her with height training but... I think she's just getting better and better." I replied. "Maybe we could put together a Canterlot sleepover so you can see Scootaloo again?"

"That would be lovely! Maybe after dinner we could talk." She gasped as if she remembered something. She took her phone out and just messed around with it for a bit. "Speaking of talking, I just reminded myself! General when we get to Canterlot, Luna requests your presence in her chambers with Soarin. She wishes to speak to you both!" I gave a nod.

"Yes Ma'am. While I do that, do show my mother something to relax a bit if you can. Please...?" She sighed.

"Oh alright I'll show mommy a little love from her sons request.... Say... Maybe a nice spa day tomorrow afternoon?"

Mama Spitfire smiled. "That sounds amazing Princess. Thank you!" She said.

"Oh dont thank me. Thank Ryder for doing what he does."

I couldnt help but just give a smile as my mother took my hand just as I was staring out the window at everything... even just seeing Twilight's castle off in the distance... Though my heart did sink a little... just remembering the destruction I saw from the top of the cliffs.... And yet... Just knowing my own mother's corpse was just yards away and we didnt know until we needed to get scrap for safety... The flight only took a little while... Give or take twenty minutes. When we landed I split off from my mother and Celestia and just went for Luna's room. Had to stop by a room near to Sunset's to drop my stuff off but I still made it to her room fast. When I got there I just waited outside. The guard at the door just let me sit there, wait for Soarin. He came about ten minutes after with a guard escort. I got up and we both approached the guard. "Princess Luna requested us to meet with her as soon as we got here. Is she awake?" I asked.

The guard nodded. "Yes sir!" She said. She saluted and stepped aside. "Go on inside. Anything you need, we're outside sir." I gave a nod and just opened the door for Soarin. He entered before I did. We closed the door just seeing Princess Luna in a night gown, sitting at her bedside preening her wings with a brush.

Luna just looked up for a moment before just looking back to her wings. "Welcome on in Ryder... Soarin... I'm glad to have you here." She said. "...I know this visit is referring to the scenario you and your friends have experienced... I do apologize for that... and I will do what ever I can for forgiveness... I will delve deep into your mind, the deepest parts of your memories.... That's only one part.... The other? Anything you wish. Materialistic or not, I will get it for you. No catch. Just all out of love and wanting that forgiveness. I might have Ryder's forgiveness... But his trust in me is hurt... I understand that with each of you... I will contact both Big Mac and Shining in my own time... I still just wish forgiveness..."

Soarin sighed. "....I wont lie Princess... There's not much I'd even want other than a fixed sleep schedule...." He said. "Nightmares of all the death and destruction..... the fact that I saw a mentor I care dearly for lifeless... I'd rather not remember that.... If I see that again, it's to be the time that it happens... Would rather not be at all soon...."

"Then it shall be so.... Tonight while you sleep and until you are sleeping normally I will fix what ails you. Same with your friends but I know the others might want more... what they want I dont know but they will get without fight." She stood up and just set her brush aside. "Now... Go... I must be ready for the evening meal and since we have guests I need to be presentable than how you see me now."

"Yes Princess.... Thank you ma'am..."

I gave a nod just as we went back outside. To be brutally honest I dont feel like Royalty even though I have the title and the medallion cementing it. I looked over to Soarin. "If you wanna distract yourself we could just use some of Luna's consoles if you want. Always decide to do that if I'm here." I said. "Least distracts us while Celestia and Mama Spitfire are doing whatever they're up to." Soarin sighed.

"...Sure... Just... Really wanting to get some good sleep tonight..."

"...Agreed... Wouldnt mind that myself... Took a nap after we got out of that afterlife... I just had a nightmare where I had to just end the wife.... Couldnt do it without taking myself out... Left me scared... Since then havent had the best time sleeping but I did get comfy with AJ... Well... Until the other day.... Between you and I, I did manage to go and get myself lost in Everfree trying to get someone help but when I showed back up.... Safe to say I needed to spend a night in an infirmary... Right in the jewels and she did not play nice... Took Scootaloo to chew her out... to realize what she was doing... and PLEASE do not tell my mother about that..."

"I wont I wont.... Just... Hope that isnt gonna cause anything between you and AJ..."

"...I hope so too.... She seemed afraid of even speaking to me before I left.... I still owe Scootaloo something for protecting me like that...."

"Sounds like she's earned something... Might chip in if anything..." I sighed.

"No need for that dude... I got it... Now lets just stop moping around and have some fun or now." He gave a nod and we just went straight for the entertainment room. We just played a racing game that I've loved since I was a colt. Oh it was FUN. Cartoon characters in gokarts throwing shit at each other. Loved it then, love it now. We played for what felt like a few hours.

Actually was until Celestia herself came in. "There you are! I've been looking everywhere for you two! I thought you'd've been coming back to join Spitfire and I for things!" She said. I huffed.

"Sorry Princess... Kinda needed a distraction from things... We ready for the evening meal?"

"We've been waiting on you two for at least an hour or so! Come on, put the game up and join us already! Your mother is starting to worry!" I huffed as we just shut off the game.

"Do I at least have time to get my medallion?"

"Nope. I'll have a guard get your bags. You chose a room near Sunset yes?"

"Yep. Sunset gonna be joining us?"

"Yep. And I've already had her swear to secrecy until you reveal it." I gave a nod and just followed Celestia. Soarin was silent during the walk. Either scared or just thankful he could eat. Didnt know. Didnt ask. When we got to the dining hall I saw Mama Spitfire just chatting away with Luna and Sunset, both looking Canterlot ready whilst everyone else there kinda stuck out like sore thumbs. Surprising for Sunset because last I saw her she liked wearing stuff I did... Probably heard there were guests and had to make herself presentable.

As we got closer to the head of the table I saw my bag sitting just along side a chair next to my mothers. Luna glanced up and smiled. "About time you join us! We were just about to order without you two!" She said.

I sighed. "Apologies Princess. Both Soarin and I needed a slight distraction." I said.

"Oh of course. After what you had told me it was to be expected." She gestured to two chairs that moved out of the way in her magic. "Come now. Sit down and be ready to order." We both nodded and went to our seats. Soarin had to fly over the table for his seat. Got right next to Sunset who just gave him a smile. We just gave our order shortly after but we all got a drink.... Something with Whiskey for Soarin, mom had some wine, I got something with rum, Celestia and Luna both had cocktails. I swear this was like I was getting ready to propose... except this time I wasnt in a protective suit and strapped. I just sipped my drink... Burned and bubbled going down... before I knew it half of it was gone in one drink.

Sunset definitely noticed as I set it down. "Drink that good there Ryder?" She asked.

I gave a sigh and coughed slightly. "Yeah... Real good." I said. "Havent had something like that in a while.... it feels like that at least...." I looked to Celestia.... Looked at her like without anything to say even I was asking her to help me start something.

And with that I felt like she understood what I was asking. She took a piece of silverware and just tapped her glass a few times. "Everyone! Everyone I would like to make a toast. If everyone will stand and raise your glass...?" We did as such. "This toast is for the friends.... the family... The ones we love, the ones we have here, the ones elsewhere and the ones who have gone on to the next. They pick us up when we fall down and vice versa... Everyone here has someone here like that, all with connections to someone who has been through the ringer but stood tall among us all. Not only does this toast go to family and friends... but to Ryder as well..." I'm not gonna lie... I blushed as everyone looked to me. Though I did notice something be pushed into my hand from below. I glanced down just to see my medallion waiting next to my hand in dark blue magic. I grasped it a bit and looked to Luna who was just drinking her cocktail hiding her magic use. "I have seen this stallion go from a depressed stallion, worried about the sweet little sister he has brought up after their parents had passed to a guard happy to protect his sister only to shoot all the way up to our General, leading the armies of Equestria to victory, showing his might everywhere he went. Though after many battles through saving family from attacks, saving himself from his homecoming, saving his family from those who would hurt them and onward... He has some news to share.... Right Ryder?"... I may have downed the rest of my drink and just choked back the burn before setting my now empty glass down.

"Unfortunately yes.... I know all of you knew me as General... Though thanks to a push from my mother, questioning why I kept the title all this time if I had achieved my goal of keeping my sister safe and keeping her clothed, fed and warm... For a while I didnt have an answer... I didnt until I had to go to Manehattan... ground zero for one of the worst terrors I had to go through.... I had met with two other guards who gave me their perspectives... One guard who helped find ways around when my family and I arrived in Manehattan on that faithful day, and my second in command during the war and my personal medic who kept me on my feet the whole time I was away, checked on me in and out of stressful situations and even saw me during my bachelor party in Appaloosa... They both told me after their harrowing ordeals that... I should step down... They both saw me before and after tragedy. Thankfully alive and well after both... But even though I step down from being the General of the Royal Guard... I do step up for something else... Something that allows me protection even if its not me doing the protecting. But to know what I do step up to... I think the one who urged me to step down deserves to say what I've become." I held up the Medallion and just got a few 'ooh's and 'ahh's from the other Wonderbolts. My mother just looked at me a bit surprised. I took her drink setting it down and replacing it with the Medallion.

Mama Spitfire looked at the Medallion in her hands, feeling the weight of it just running her hands over every inch before giving a gasp. "...This... This has to be some sort of joke...." She said. "....My baby boy... a PRINCE?! There is no way this is real!" The gasps from the others nearly drowned it out from her.

Princess Luna came around the table and sat my mother down setting the Medallion down with it. "There is nothing to joke about here Miss Spitfire." She said. "My sister and I spoke of this for a while, wondering what to do with your son to set your mind at ease... Yes he has scared us quite a few times and you're worried he might not make it to see you one day... We understand that... Neither my sister, myself or his friends would want to break the news to his family of his passing... But with everything he's done... I'd say he rightfully has cemented his place here among the Royals.... He might not be royalty by birthright or marriage but he fought, bled and more for that status... We dont ask that he stays his hand but if forced he does so with caution and we shall see to it he does... But if at all there is trouble in Equestria that doesnt involve him or his family but the entirety of Equestria they shall be protected. We are proud of his achievements and his time doing what he has paid off wouldnt you think?" Oh I could just see the tears in my mothers eyes... She just couldnt break her eyes away from the Medallion. I just helped her back to her feet and hugged her and just the embrace made the waterworks flow. There was a small bit of applause from everyone else but I just couldnt help but love seeing my mother happy... She just didnt wanna let go when our food came out... I made her but when we went to bed she just HAD to make sure we were in the same bed.... And yes... I was her 'padded prince' as she called me... Embarrassing as it was I was glad I could make her smile with that... But to be brutally honest I thought she was gonna blow me when she was padding me up.... Wouldnt have stopped her but.... Rather would leave the padded pounding with Gilda... Hopefully she can forgive me for running off....