Family and Friends

It's been... I think a week since I was saved from the fucked up prison that was the Shadow Skin complex. The night after I got back I slept downstairs on the couch just to be around the family... I was actually happy to hear my daughter start crying the moment I got into the house though because when she did start crying she was with Shining as he was just trying to keep her calm while Cadence was out with Big Mac, Scootaloo and Applebloom. I was actually glad to take over for a bit just to calm my daughter... changing and feeding.... All she needed. I played with her for a bit but that night I did wake up with a little scream... startled her. She cried, annoyed AJ... luckily I was padded because I may have pissed AND shit myself.... though the shower after was a bit shameful I still felt alright when Scoot came out to check if I was alright. I told her I was fine, to go back to sleep and just went back downstairs just to try to sleep as well as I could. Though that's when I had to start sleeping at the castle until Luna helped clear my mind. Though after that week I did find comfort... Managed to sleep in the same bed with Gilda as a comfort. She knew I was gone and was told by Twilight to keep quiet about it to my family. She was worried yeah but when she knew I was back she was told just to give me space until I could get back to the feeling of this... and yeah.... Prison life is WAY different than on the outside. Anyhow I was just in bed with Gilda... She was just trying to get me comfortable.... Had me stripped down with her to our underwear. I stayed dry during the night a few nights but she wouldnt mind if it did happen. She sighed as she pushed her bare chest up against mine. Oh she was warm... Missed this. "...If this werent something to keep you calm during the night I'd love to make a beast with two sets of wings...." She said. "...Princess only told me to stay close to you and not sleep with you.... Technically I'm still within boundaries.... But you wanna enlighten me on why you're freaking out again? Is it because of you going missing again?"

I nodded. "Yeah... Not of my own accord this time but... It was not a fun experience... All I'm saying..." I said turning towards her. ...I may or may not have put a hand near her crotch and teased her with a finger. "....If I do manage to stay calm tonight... maybe if I ask Applejack we might just do something like that... Though... not here.... I may have an idea that I wanna put to use...."

"Hopefully its good.... Now get as comfortable as you want.... From what the Princess tells me you've got a big day tomorrow." She fondled me a bit before cuddling right up to me. I just cuddled with her but stayed awake for a bit before falling asleep myself.

I was honestly preparing myself for the worst nightmares. That night I actually scared the shit out of myself literally was the only time it was that bad. Did I still have nightmares? Yeah. Was this one? Not really. I came into a dreamscape that was calming for me. Hillside, cherry blossom tree and just the view of an ocean... I know I take comfort in the Rainbow Falls but that kinda changed after the nuke dream.... After seeing the falls going and mixing together mixing with the faked death of my mother... I couldnt see that as a comforting spot anymore. I just sat there as petals fluttered through the air onto the ground. A sigh was heard. "...Alright... I think I'm just about done fixing your mind here..." I heard a familiar voice said. I looked back just to see Luna coming around the tree in a kimono and her mane up in a ponytail. Was actually cute the way it was done. "...I have to say... With the amount of death at your hands... This has to be the most fucked I've seen your mind... And I dont usually want to say that to your face.... But you're doing good so far." I huffed looking back out to sea.

"...The other times... It was the blood of those who deserved it.... This time? Innocent blood... Something I never wanted to have AT ALL on my hands.... Its why I have to try to speak my mind when some fucking idiot talks bullshit when I'm with Applejack at a sale day. Yeah I only hurt those who need their ass whooped but the fact that my hand was forced to put someone out of their misery that needed to be saved made it ten times worse...."

"The mare was mutilated beyond recognition.... The scarring of her mind would probably have lead her to suicide... If she had taken her own life she would've probably cause her partner to go insane and maybe go on a killing spree, maybe getting himself killed in the process... The fact he did still died by someone elses hand meant that he and his marefriend spend their afterlife together... it might not be what you wanted but... you may have given them the better of the options..." I just stayed silent... watching the waves... hearing them crash against the cliffside. She came to my side and knelt down next to me. "...I know it doesnt bring you comfort at all about that.... I can tell... I have asked mother about them after you came back to Canterlot... They did hold a grudge after being brought up there... but she explained your actions... she told them of your silent prayers.... They forgive you for that...."

"...You're gonna have to bring me there to hear them first hand... I trust your mother but... After the scenario that you guys put us through.... Trust is hard to come by..."

"...I understand... you've trusted us for a while... from when you first became General... Yet we decided to bribe someone you saw light in... had a mutual trust in... Only for that to just break that trust.... Both in her... and us... Tell you what.... If it helps... I will do anything you wish. I would degrade myself, make myself a whore just for you. If its my body you want, its yours. If its something else just name it."

"...Luna... I would not have you as a partner for sex unless it was consensual and Applejack said it was okay. I know you and I have past together... Would I want to lay with you again? Yes. But not you being degraded by me. I'd see you as an equal, doing whatever you wished. And... What have you done with the others?" She thought for a moment.

"...Big Mac is getting that truck of his a brand new engine. Once your fathers old truck is back in your hands we'll take that and do what we can with it without changing it style wise. Soarin' already agreed to a charitable donation in our names. You and Shining are the only ones to not have anything. I've asked Shining and he said whatever it is you want to do he'll do with you... And since you dont want to have me be just a breeding mount you'll have to think of something.... And I'm kinda glad... Dont exactly want a threesome or a divorce on our hands..." I huffed as I stood up.

"...Well flip it around, ask Shining what he wants to do, then do it. My mind is so muddled I dont know what I want anymore..." She sighed.

"...Its understandable.... I wont bother you further with it.... I just...." I heard her whimper a bit. I looked back at her just trying to fight tears. "...I... I just feel... so bad about what we put you guys through..." I went over and just knelt down next to her. "...I.... I dont care if you believe this or not... but... I... I told Celestia not to do it.... I TOLD HER NO.... But... she had to go through with it... test you and your friends... yet... you just ended up doing what you did... I... I had to have them pull you out... I couldnt go and watch any longer with that.... It.... I... I cant.... I didnt...." She broke down just as I hugged her. I sighed just consoling her.

"...Luna.... please PLEASE dont cry... For what its worth... I believe you... I will accept anything you give me but PLEASE.... do not degrade yourself... I dont want you out in public, pants around your ankles while you piss yourself or you on a leash or whatever! You're forgiven with whatever! Celestia pays for her role in the matter. You've already paid for it...." She just held me tight... Cried into my shoulder. We sat there for a bit... The tree started to decay and the sky started to turn dark as my mood went down... just watching a Princess cry... It hurt to see to be honest. After a while she wiped her eyes and stood up. She helped me up and hugged me, pressing my head against her chest.

"...Oh.. Oh thank you Ryder... I... I'm so sorry...." I huffed trying to push away... guess my strength in dreams isnt strong enough to pry myself out of princess arms.

"...No worries Luna.... Just... Do what you think is best, invite Shining and give your sister what for and tell her to do something for all of us. Now uh... Can I go?" She whimpered a bit holding me a bit tighter.... tight enough to where a warm spot started growing.... I just looked up at her. "Princess....? Did.... Did you just....?"

"...S-Sorry Ryder... I... I know how you feel about these things in dreams but... I... I should at least show that I was serious about the degredation.... but.... Come morning you and Shining shall have your gift.... Now... I... I should wake you up and get changed.... I might need to crawl in bed with my sister after I clean up.... I... I do apologize for your sheets but you should be fine... right?" I just blushed hard. "....You.... Arent in bed alone... are you....?" I shook my head. "...Someone who will understand?" I sighed.

"Sure hope so... I still couldnt tell if she was expecting it or not... Just hoping she's not gonna be mad about me soaking her sheets...." I was kinda right... Once Luna woke me up Gilda was just making sure I was balls deep in her, still pissing.... I could feel it but she didnt realize I was awake. I just groaned a bit... Felt a wet patch beneath me. She just looked back at me, the dim light from her phone light just illuminating the bed. "...So... Please tell me you have a plan to not spill everywhere...."

Gilda just blushed a bit. "Uh....I can try to turn around... Either that or you carry me to the bathroom across the hall...." She said. I huffed as I just sat up and grabbed her legs.

"...You're gonna have to be my arms here... And for fucks sake next time just ask..." I stood up just carefully making my way to the door. She opened it and we had to go out sideways.... And yeah... Guard patrol was right there. I looked to them as we went for the bathroom. "...Say anything, there goes your job!" The guards nodded and just rushed the opposite direction. Once we got into the bathroom it didnt take long for me to uh.... Finish... Yeah... We got in, closed the door... Fucking came right inside her. And you could hear it too if you were in the same room. She knew it too... She moaned, wrapped an arm around me and.... Well... I guess it made it harder to pull out the way she squeezed her legs together while I flared up. Took a minute for me to pull out.... Worst part was I had to position myself over the toilet and just lift Gilda off me. Everything just poured out and she couldnt keep quiet about it. Had to at least finish up everything there and clean up. After that we cleaned up, had to pad up along with her and just had to flip her mattress and get back to cuddling... Yeah... did have a word with Gilda about what she did while we were cleaning up but I was tired. And yes... that is EXACTLY what she wanted....Maybe not that way but she would've let me do it after we woke up.

But yeah... safe to say that sleep was a little fractured. She shifted, I felt it and kinda woke up but for the most part just kept my eyes closed. After a while the alarm went off waking us both... Yeah... decided to shower together just to be safe before getting dressed. We ended up going down to the kitchen where we saw Twilight and Spike preparing breakfast. Twilight was just in her pajamas, wings still unbrushed but her mane was. "Morning you two... Care to explain why my guards tell me of seeing something interesting around Gilda's room early this morning?" She asked. I huffed.

"...Princess.... Do you really wanna know? Because I'd rather not ruin an appetite...."

"...Totally fair there... Just... One thing about being royalty Ryder... Guards dont like it when their jobs are threatened. Even if what they see is.... out of the ordinary with royalty. If Celestia and Luna's guards could speak about what they've seen, they would... but since their jobs would be on the line for having loose lips they're best to keep quiet anyways." I sat down just as Spike came over with a jug of juice.

"Well... If you speak with them again, give them my apology... I know they'd rather hear it from me personally but.... You know... All the stress I've had lately...." She sighed as she just levitated a collection of forks and knives over to the table.

"I'll be sure to let them know royal life isnt treating you well so far. You know you're gonna have to adapt some time." She just stirred a pot as the cutlery just assorted itself in our spots. "Speaking of.... How are you feeling right now? Heard about your ordeal...." I took the drink Spike poured for me and drank just giving a sigh.

"...an ordeal was an understatement.... This was a one man army against idiots who thought it was a good idea to get me to be one of them...."

"Considering what Celestia told me of what you told her? Yeah... That's the gist of it... But uh.... Shining told me he was coming down here soon so you may wanna eat and get on down to the train station. Said he wanted you to pick him up personally."

"...And something tells me he either heard what happened and wants to see if i'm good or drop something off with me to see you Princess." Twilight chuckled a bit.

"He did he wanted to see you... and I get it still calling me Princess thing Ryder. Hard to adapt to being royalty when you were just a normal somepony. Lets just take a deep breath, eat and get you on your way. Alright?" I gave a nod and just sat back waiting for food. Food was quick. Pancakes. Nothing special. But it was good. Spike always does good when he's cooking. Anyways after that I just went downstairs to the garage and hopped in my car... Though as I hopped in there was a present in the passenger seat.

I'm not gonna lie... I was a bit scared of this thing after what I went through... I didnt know what this was actually gonna be. I felt the box carefully and pulled a tag. 'From a friend' it said. I carefully took the top off the box and inside was the blade I was given... but upgraded a bit? This one looked like how it was when i was given but.... There was some technological aspect to it. I could definitely feel the difference. More plastic than leather. Leather strap just hung off it. And attached to that? A note. I took the note and started reading it. 'Lad, here. Boys in the lab. Might not work the same as before with punches but put it on underneath. Gives you a little bit more than just a sharp surprise for someone. Got a few surprises for you. Some you could use to your advantage if you ever get in trouble again. Also plannin' on dropping by sometime soon just to see my grand daughter. Aint gonna bring anything other than myself. Also... If you wanna bring me to your mother, cuff me, make sure she doesnt have her gun (yes she has one, Soarin' confirmed) and let her just kick me between the uprights and let her know I'm gonna have to be a part of your life whether she likes it or not... gotta keep you on your feet somehow. If you need to use this thing, lets hope you pounce on em like in Ikkebuckero... -M. PS: We're picking apart that armor slowly but surely trying to figure out how its made and if you can use the original frame. Dont worry. Got rid of the guy and we're cleaning it real well. Will be in contact.'

I huffed just stuffing the damn thing in the glove box and tossing the box into the back seat. Fired up my car and just drove it out. Didnt take long to get down to the station. Hit green lights and drove pretty quick. Pulled in just to see guards milling about. Had a few look like they were about to stop me but they let me on through to park. I just pulled into the first parking spot that wasnt already occupied by a guard truck or a civilian vehicle. Did get out and just get up to the platform. Had a few guards salute me, I just saluted back real quick before just sitting down on a bench just waiting. Took about fifteen minutes or so for the train to start pulling in. Crystal Empire logo emblazoned on the side of the engine. Three cars followed behind... Once the middle one was in front I stood up. The doors opened and out came Shining with a backpack over his shoulder. He gave a smile as he just opened up his arms and I felt like a magnet when I hugged him. "There's my bro!" He said. "You really need to stop going missing dude! Nearly gave Cadence and I heart attacks but I'm glad you're alright." He broke the hug and huffed as the door to the train closed up behind us. "So... Here's what we're gonna do... first... We're gonna go back to your place and you're gonna get a bag together... Second, you and I are gonna take the train all the way to Las Pegasus for something that Luna got us into all because of that dream we shared... think you know which one..."

I sighed. "...The one where I wished I had a geiger counter..." I said. "....What does she have planned? Still kinda feeling weird after her 'apology' last night..."

"Do I wanna know?"

"...Better if you dont.... Lets just say your sister had something to say about a warning I had to give guards understandingly because of my mood at the time...."

"Ah... Annoyed and tired.... I've been there before. Guards wake me up in a weird position after a few, i'm hungover and naked with a nudie magazine between my legs and I threaten their job if they say anything... I do apologize yeah but some guards need a reality check every once in a while.... Just gotta make sure the reality check's dont happen to those who are new or who are getting used to their orders at their rank. But hey, lets just stop talking about that and relax.... Lets just head back to your place, grab some stuff and get back here. I'll let you know whats going on when we're back here. Kay?" I gave a nod and just walked him to my car. Backed out and went on the main road. Shining sighed as we were now having a few guard trucks escort us. Started blowing through lights with them having their sirens on. "....There... Quick and easy...." He looked to me. "Ordered them to do this. No worries there. But... How does being royalty feel if I might ask?" I huffed.

"I mean... so far I feel like I've had a target on my back after I was made royalty... First with Changelings wanting peace to then actually being kidnapped out of my own will only to fight my way out through.... means.... It just is weird...."

"Yeah... I gotta congratulate you on those Changelings... Heard news from guards down here that people are a bit weirded out that changelings are down here but they're getting jobs and helping everyone out the best they can. Few guards did get called about a changeling or two being inappropriate but with things they got on camera saved em." I sighed.

"...I ever see Thorax again I'm gonna see if I cant invite him out for a meeting to see how things are going and if there are any issues."

"Not a bad idea... Might have to wait until after we're back in town for that. Lets just keep rolling." Oh if a guard truck werent in front going somewhat of the speed limit I'd wanna GUN IT.

Anyhow we just kept going until we reached Sweet Apple Acres. He grabbed his stuff and just waited outside the house as I went in. Inside I just saw Big Mac doing some dishes while Applejack was on the couch feeding Mash. Applejack looked up as my foal just drank from her bottle. "Well looky here Mash! Daddy's back!" Applejack said. I sighed kneeling down just making it easier for Mash to see me. I could see a slight smile behind the bottle too.

I looked to Applejack as I sat down on the coffee table. "Hows things here? Miss being in bed with you..." I said. She sighed.

"...Things are... alright I guess... Scoot was having a nightmare last night, had to crawl in bed with me... Bloom's been mopey about Diamond being outta town but I'm thinkin' we get her a phone so she can keep in contact with her... Course we're gonna have to put parental controls on it... Aint gonna hurt to make sure she aint gonna go on anything and mess her phone up... But... Other than that, things've been fine... Just... Honestly feelin' a bit sorry I freaked out atcha still... blamin' you for doin' shit behind my back...." I sighed setting a hand on her lap.

"No worries about that... I forgive you.... But uh... I need to get a bag together here... Shining is here and apparently we're going to Las Pegasus for something... Never said what but I have a feeling it has something to do with Luna..."

"Luna? The hell she do now?" I stood up and walked around the couch.

"Apart from making me wake up early this morning in an extremely awkward position and threaten guards... I have no clue...."

"... Shouldnt ask but I'm tempted to...."

"Trust me. No. You dont."

"Uh... Right... Somethin' tells me it was real weird...."

"And the shit I've been through would be more normal compared to that.... Rather you not know... Now if you'll excuse me..." She stood up and just started following me.

"Yeah but... Just a quick question sugarcube?" I looked back as I climbed the stairs.

"Shoot."

"....Just... How're you doin' after that sugarcube...? You good?" I sighed as we entered our room.... There were baby clothes everywhere, her panties just hanging off the bed... A diaper just sitting, open on the dresser... its clean and mine.... Yeah... First night she offered it to me but I said I'd be fine.... How wrong I was...

"...I... I dont know... I'm just glad to be alive..." I said. "...Scared me to know I was heavily guarded... somewhere I couldnt be touched... or thought i couldnt be... yet... next thing you know I'm waking up in a cell, naked, already knowing I wasnt gonna fight my way out and get myself killed...." I looked to her. "....Can you put Mash down for a sec? I'd rather you not drop her with this next thing...." She gave a nod and just went into Mash's connected room laying her in her crib... In that time I grabbed my backpack and just started packing things in. Underwear, extra pants, shirts, a diaper or two and even some charging cables for my phone. Once she was back in the room she sat down.

"...So...? What happened?" I took a deep breath and sat down setting my bag between my legs. Faced away from AJ.

"...They said they could get to you guys if I didnt cooperate.... What made it worse was my own father was there.... The fucker who raped my mother.... He was there, stuck with me.... My only form of sanity in that godforsaken place. They asked me to do thing I'd never want to do in a million years... no amount of money would change my mind on doing so... but they had me just.... take out those who needed to be.... I didnt know if they were innocent or if they werent...." She gasped. "...I know... shocking... stallion who has blood all over him has blood he didnt want there... But they said if I didnt... they'd hurt you.... Scoot... everyone I knew and loved.... And they had an army around me at all times... only thing that got me out was obeying...." I looked back at her. The worry on her face. I held out a hand. "...It was worth it to come back to you though... we've been through a lot... and ....I'm just glad we're still together.... Just so I can say I married the most beautiful mare in the world...." I pulled her over and sat her in my lap. Gave her a kiss and cuddled with her a bit. "...Do I like that I had to do it...? No.... Something I cant ever forget like everything else.... Its why when I have these freak out moments... I wanna stay away from you and Scoot... not because I dont wanna scare you... but because I dont wanna hurt you guys..." I just sat there with her for a while before just laying her down and covering her up. She wasnt tired but I figured she could use a bit of a lie down... didnt fight me on it. I went back downstairs with my bag over my shoulder just as Big Mac was grabbing something from the fridge.

My brother in law looked to me. "Y'good there Ry? Where's AJ?" He asked. I sighed.

"....I'll be fine... AJ's just relaxing in bed upstairs.... You just stick around to help her and I'll be back home soon.... Hanging out with Shining." He gave a nod and I walked out with him coming behind me. I went for my car and grabbed the box in the glove compartment before closing it up and tossing the keys. I looked to Shining.

Shining smiled. "Ready to go?" He asked. I gave a nod and just walked towards the guard trucks. He just followed me and we both hopped in the first one that opened its doors. We hopped in and took our own bench... I just leaned back and looked out the window. Not much happened on the drive between here and the train station. Though the train ride was good. Took a while. In that time we ate some food the chef on board cooked for us and I took an hour nap. Though after that, a quick drink and a bathroom break we sat down to game for a while. Alley brawlers... And yeah... the one I'm in. I went and hit him a few times before he executed a combo that just floored me for a moment. I sighed.

"So... Now that we're on the train you wanna tell me what you got planned in Las Pegasus?" He sighed as he ended up doing a finishing move... Bloody as hell.

"I suppose there's no harm in telling you...." He said setting his controller aside. "First things first, we hit the hotel that's got the carbon copy room of the Princess' suite in your favorite Nukes Galore game, drop our stuff off, rest, gamble what ever.... But tonight? Oh we got something BIG planned. Gonna take a trip down to the arena and this is where Luna came in. She pulled a few strings, and got us a box to enjoy one of your favorite bands! She's even got merch lined up for us, buffet and a bit of a meet and greet.... You probably know the band since we've already had one run in with them."

"Gems?"

"The very same. I know they were kinda freaked out last time after you destroyed their venue but this time we're not gonna let you touch any instruments and if you do, I'm gonna have a tranq or two ready.... And so are the guards who are gonna protect us... Single fire, clip fed but you need to cock it every time." I shuttered a bit as I just set my controller down and went to a mini fridge to grab a soda.

"...I feel like I've been hit with so many tranquilizers since I got a spot in the guard and now that I'm just a fucking pincushion for em... You hit me with a few, got grazed with ones from the some friends of mine... And then that kidnapping.... I fucking hated that one... but thanks to a trick I learned in Ikkebuckero I purged the toxins from my system... Though when we get to the hotel I'm gonna show you something I picked up during that visit... Rather you not say anything about it to anyone...."

"...Its not a toy or some weird pervert thing is it? Because if its some cage I am NOT holding the keys for you...." I sighed as I grabbed a Senor Salt and cracked it open.

"Shining... if it was the keys to a cage, I'd be under changeling pheromone again.... and we both know how bad that was for me.... But this is something that I learned to use.... Take things slow, steady.... And trust me after actually being kidnapped without putting up a fight it does put things in perspective on why rushing into things could get me killed...." I sat down and sipped the drink. "...The fact that all the injuries I've had, the scares that I put everyone through didnt do shit to make me stop and me being taken out from under the dead of night, under princess' noses in a heavily guarded area means that if someone tried hard enough I could have my throat slit in my sleep... And if I am captured again.... I'm gonna have to fight my way out slowly... either that or not at all... I've got a lot to lose and its just NOW hitting.... Feels like someone took a brittle two-by-four, smashed it over my head and stuck splinters in my chest... I might've been wearing a helmet but the slight stab that at any moment could end me...." He took a deep breath and sighed after a moment.

"...Yeah... It's good you're realizing that now but.... I just wanna make sure that you're not gonna get into any fights, get yourself killed... I know its been rehashed so many times at this point but... Nobody wants to pull the short straw and tell your family you kicked the bucket because of the danger you got in and you ended up doing something stupid...." He huffed as he picked up his controller again. "Lets just keep playing. Still got at least an hour or so before we reach the station..." I nodded and set my drink down to play a few more matches. I honestly dont know how he does it but he somehow perfectly counters me. Perfectly counters my special move, stuns me and juggles me! And of course he has to do that bullshit that makes fun of me but doesnt kill me. Its like playing a shooter and teabagging someone in front of their family.

When we pulled into the station we were greeted by guards who lead us out of there and into a transport. This one solo. We went and rode all the way to the hotel... big tower.... The Sky Peircer as its called in game. It's actually called Cloudsdale Needle resort and casino. That game brought so much business to that hotel they decided to make an entire section themed around the game, rooms, games.... Even a food place and a store. Food place didnt fare well. Store? Merch... Shining basically grabbed our bags and went for the room Luna allowed us to use and I went STRAIGHT for that store.... May or may not have gotten a replica jumpsuit and a duster coat that I'm SO wearing to the show tonight... The coat. Not the jumpsuit. Hundred and fifty bits. WORTH IT considering the show, dinner and merch was comped by Luna. When I got to the room I found someone more than just Shining there.... Luna was there as well. And the suite itself? Just like I walked in out of the wasteland to find a companion... There was a fully stocked bar, a small kitchen area, entertainment area.... Honestly looked like a small luxury apartment. Luna herself was at the bar... Guard just serving her a martini. She was in an outfit from the game as well. Jumpsuit mixed with a few leather armor detailings but she did look a little thicker around the hips. She looked up as I just set the stuff I bought down. "Good of you to join me Ryder.... I was afraid you didnt come with Shining until he told me you went to shop." She said. "You're not... mad over last night are you?"

I gave a sigh. "I did say you didnt need to do that...." I replied. "But no... Not mad.... Was I tired? Yeah. I feel like I was more pissed off at the situation I found myself in when I woke up.... And lets just say when it takes two to tango you're better off not moving somewhere else during.... And with Gilda no less...."

"...And with a dirty birdy like her I think I've learned all I needed to.... But I truly am sorry Ryder..." I went over and just hugged her gave her a kiss on the cheek and sighed.

"....I forgive you Luna.... Yet your sister still needs to answer. Your debt has been paid yet your sister is holding back, making it seem like her problems are everyone elses." I broke the hug and joined her at the bar.

"She will let you know what she will do. I had to distance myself from her this morning because of not only what happened last night but what I said to her. I told her that I've done my part to apologize for what happened yet she alone still needs to atone for what had happened. I may have used some words that left her unable to finish her meal but I drove the point home."

"Good.... Hope she contacts me soon... As for now I need to go find Shining and get ready." She gave a nod and sipped her drink. I got up and went to grab my stuff.

I found Shining in a shared room. Two beds, my bag on one, his on the other as well as some clothes for each of us. He was just putting on a jacket sighing. "Got a few hours until the show tonight. Could walk the strip and see stuff. Either that or we could gamble a little bit... wouldnt mind hitting the tables." He said. "Anything you wanna do?"

"Not sure. But... Still need to show you something and if this gets me in trouble with who gave it to me I'm gonna have some words.... But this doesnt leave us....." He nodded as I closed the door and went for my bag. I grabbed the box from my bag and pulled out the gauntlet. I put it on trying to get the leather strap on right. Felt weird but I just held it up. Just gave him a full 360. Then I extended the blade. Just brought my hand back pulling the leather strap. He just looked at it interested. That's when I retracted it and started fiddling with the buttons on it. "...Got that little toy from while I was on a forced vacation.... Combined with tech from friends...." I turned invisible. "...I might be harder to find and more of a danger to those who want to give us trouble." I fiddled with it appearing again and just started messing with the other things. Found the infrared and saw ponies all over the place... some having a little fun, turned on night vision which made things brighter and there was even a sound amplification thing.... turned that on and I heard a gurgling.... "...Shining, bathroom....." He blushed holding his gut before just rushing to the bathroom. I shut off the enhanced sounds just as the door slammed.

"YOU FUCKER HOW?!" I heard him yell.

"Just.... Forget that if anything..." I just took it off and tossed it on the bed. "Just.... Make sure you spray in there. Gonna get changed here!" I did end up getting changed. The clothes that were waiting were a long sleeved Gems n Tulips shirts, black jeans, ballcap, beanie, even a few other accessories. I even had a few packaged up marked for Scootaloo and I do recognize Sparkplug's hand writing. I put the beanie on and the coat I bought and just looked at myself in a mirror. The coat was more of a marked ranger coat. The Marked Rangers in game were part of one of the major factions that came down from the north that didnt really know what a desert was. Had NPC's complaining about the heat, the mutated animals.... Even complained about how they wanted to go back to the Nuclear North. Which raised a question, is that place still livable? Anywho their jackets were made to withstand the heat for them but still didnt help most ponies who went down there to try and expand territory. Heat stroke is a sonovabitch. Doesnt care if you're wearing tank tops or hoodies. Anyways... I just huffed once I was dressed. "Shining! I'll be at the bar!"

"A-Alright... I'll be a minute anyways..."

I went back down to the bar and sat with Luna. Just wanted a shot of whiskey. Downed it and just sat there until until Shining was ready. Guess it took a bit. Once he was done we left Luna there and just went down to the Casino. We did gamble a bit... Lost... Not much but I did lose. He didnt do any better. We just started walking the strip and I couldnt help but talk lore on the game and where things were, what happened canonically... Yeah Shining just let me do that. Though we did ask Luna if it was too early to just pop in, watch the band practice maybe. She did say there was no harm in it. That's when we just found the nearest place to sit down and wait for a guard truck. Came fast to pick us up. Took us a bit to get to where the concert was. We got lead in by guards, and we just got right back stage just off to the side seeing the band side view. They were just in the middle of one of their older songs but I was too busy jamming out to know what one. Once that song was over they all put their instruments up. "Alright! Take five guys!" Jax called out before heading off stage opposite with the drummer while Gash and Sparkplug came our way.

Sparkplug smiled a bit. "Hey you two!" She said giving both of us a high five. "If you're here for the show you're a bit early."

I huffed a bit straightening myself out. "Yeah well.... I got a bit excited about this and wanted to come see you guys, see how things were after our last run in." I said.

Gash huffed. "If it werent for the Princess helping pay for the damages to the stadium after the 'generator' blew I'd say we'd be better off but safe to say the manager of that place will be doing everything he can to keep the power on and keep things from blowing up in his face." He said. "Just... Dont touch any more guitars.... Rather not have anything like that happen here.... Jax already got us put on notice for puking outside after drinking a bit too much...."

"Jeez the guys here that strict?"

"Yeah and we werent even doing anything that day! We literally had JUST gotten in..... We were drinking, kept telling Jax to drink water, kept grabbing alcohol and once things stopped moving..... You get the picture."

Sparkplug walked over and just hopped up on a speaker being held back here. "So.... what's new with you guys? Sure as shit nothing ever changes around here..." She said.

I sighed. "Well...." I started. "Some time ago I became a father... Then just a lot of shit happened that.... To be honest I'd rather not talk about."

"Well congrats on becoming a dad dude! What's the little tykes name?"

"AppleMash. She's just the cutest!" I pulled out my phone and quickly went to find a picture of her. Best I could find was just after she was born. Applejack wanted some sleep, I just couldnt after I passed out trying to get to the castle.... Twilight came in to check on both of us and snapped the picture of me looking into the little crib she had brought in from the medical area. Did come in to bring her back but she wanted to take a picture to capture a moment for me so I could just remember that moment forever. It was beautiful actually. I showed Sparkplug and she just melted.

"Awwwwwww! SHE'S SO CUTE!" She handed my phone back and I showed Gash. Not as enthusiastic but I saw a smile on his face. "You REALLY need to come see us after the show. We'll see if we cant get the merch guys to set aside a few little gifts for your foal. Gonna need the sizes of that little cutie to do so." She hopped down. "Anything else?"

I looked to Shining. "Well... Few bits of news he wants me to say about..." He said as I pocketed my phone once more. "Not too long ago... Ryder's had a lot to think about and it pushed him to make a big decision to step down from the guard... That little bundle of joy you just saw was probably part of it...."

"You have got to be kidding! No more guard stuff?" Sparkplug asked me. I just shook my head. "Aw man.... I'm sorry dude... What are you doing now?"

"I actually was just getting to that." Shining said. "After he had that thing that made his decision to do so easier he got the Princesses talking.... They've noticed him being a little deep in thought with that because you already know how much he loves his family and would do anything to protect them. And I actually would like to introduce you to a new Equestrian Prince, title bestowed upon him by Celestia herself." He gestured to me and I gave a slight bow. Yeah. I'm a cocky asshole.

Gash chuckled a bit. "Now he goes from being a pain in the ass to a Royal pain in the ass." He said getting a chuckle from everyone. Me included. "Well that's awesome to hear dude! Just uh... Try not to flex that title to get free stuff. We got paid by Luna to let you guys have all that merch in the hotel and even letting you into that show." He looked to Sparkplug. "Speaking of which we gotta get something to eat before we get back to work out there." He looked back to me. "Up to you guys if you wanna go back to the hotel or chill until the show. Either way we'll see you guys later!" They just fist bumped us, me having to make sure they did the hand without the gauntlet. Didnt wanna accidentally activate it and injure someone. Or just vanish before their eyes. Yeah.... rather be a ghost to our enemies. Not friends. We just watched as they hurried to find their bandmates. Shining and I looked to each other.

"Hungry as well Ry? I could eat a little something." I gave a shrug and we just left there. Went to go find a place. And we found the WEIRDEST place we could find. And I mean weird weird. Normal food yeah but this was served even weirder. Like no joke. I had a hayburger. But the way it was served was half was going into a portal, the other was coming out of another and the fries it came with were colored to the portals and the sauces were just in the middle of everything. Oh I loved it. Shining covered the bill for lunch but we went back to the hotel. Luna had gone but left me to take a nap for a bit.

Though as I lied down I decided to text Applejack. See if it was okay to call her so I wouldnt wake Mash if she was sleeping. She wasnt thank Celestia. I called and AJ answered almost immediately. I huffed. "...There we go... Sorry I had to run off like that AJ... Are you doing alright?" I asked.

Applejack sighed. "...yeah... I am.... Just... shocked.... I... I do hope Luna's helping you with that...." She said.

"Yeah... she is.... I didnt wanna do that.... yet.... it had to happen.... Luna saw some of the things I had to do... "

"....Please next time that happens... please... at least make the Princesses tell the truth to me... hurt knowing you just ran off... when I went to just see the Princesses and get an answer I had to be detained and held there until they found you.... I still just thought you ran off.... I... I shouldnt think like that all things considerin.... but I'm glad you're alright sugarcube..."

"...Yeah... glad you're alright too.... and for the record... I'm gonna be stuck with you unless we're agreed that we cant stay together... either for each others safety or for other reasons...."

"Yeah... and if a gunfight, a war and a shit ton of other stuff didnt push you away, I aint going nowhere..."

"Love you AJ.... If you see Scoot soon, tell her I've got a present for her... And uh... Might have a few gifts for Mash... What size is she again?"

"3T. She's small but gettin' heavier every day it feels like.... Lucky you got that strength.... Dont really notice... But you're a gentle one with it and.... Well I might wanna have you throw me over your shoulder and we go find a nice quiet spot...."

"...Maybe... But all depends on how I feel.... But... Yeah... just called you to tell you I'm here... check in... Gonna lay down here for a while...." She sighed.

"Well I'll let you be for now.... Just hopin' I can cuddle with you in bed one of these nights.... Missin' your touch...."

"...And i miss yours baby.... I'll keep you updated and bring you a few gifts as well as the girls..."

"Alright. Have fun sugarcube and please... bring something for Mac at least. He deserves it for the things he does."

"Will do. Love ya."

"Love you too.... Be careful while you're out there...."

"...I'll try. Give the girls a hug and a kiss from me."

I hung up, put my phone on the charger and just lied there. I couldnt help but feel there was something wrong. Didnt fall asleep for a while... Nodded off but still just didnt sleep lightly. Just felt there was something wrong as I was asleep. I wrote it off as something that was left over from the kidnapping... Someone just wanting to come up and slit my throat while I slept but with how guarded this place is not to mention the population? Yeah... There has to be a witness to that. Woke up an hour later but still couldnt shake the feeling. Went downstairs, took a shot of whiskey and then went to find Shining down in the Casino. He was just chilling at the wasteland themed bar. Bar was actually made in the style of the one you start out in. Even got the name for it. Radioactive Runoff. Despite the name its a pretty popular spot. "Hey Ryder! Glad you could join me! Have a nice nap?" He asked. I sighed as I joined him, watched him drink his beer.

"It was a nap. Nice? All depends on what you call nice.... I'm just a little bit on the iffy side right now..."

"Iffy? How so?" I grabbed a little tablet they have to order. Soda. And a little snack of some chips.

"...I just... I dont know if this is paranoia from what I just went through or just general anxiety.... I just got this gnawing feeling at the back of my mind..."

"Alright look... I know how your mind works.... Something bad happens, you dwell on it, once things get better, you think its gonna all come crashing down... Just take a deep breath and relax.... I dont want you ruining your little gift from Luna and I dont think she'd like it if you went home early when she did this for us.... Rather you enjoy yourself than break the heart of a princess who's heart was already broken because of what she did. Understand?" ....I gave an annoyed huff.

"Fine... I'll stay here and enjoy it... we get back home without something going wrong I'll apologize.... Something does go wrong you know what I'll do..."

"Yeah yeah.... Tell me 'I told you so' and I buy dinner next time we're out together."

"I pick the place too, remember that."

"Yeah yeah... still got a bit before the fucking concert so just chill and dont piss me off more than you already are."

I gave a shrug and just waited. Few moments later they brought a basket of chips, salsa and my soda. Fuck was that salsa KICKING... Spicy and I loved it. Shining took one dip of that salsa and he went for his beer. I laughed a bit. After that we went to the tables, played a few hands.... lost.... and then went back to the concert. This time we had to go into a VIP area, up some stairs and escorted into our own private box. It was quiet inside though we had it all to ourselves. Just a few TV's above the seats, a window out to the filling stadium area. We could barely hear the fans chanting. "GEMS. AND. TULIPS! GEMS. AND. TULIPS!" They chanted. Oh it almost shook the box we were in.

We felt on edge. Shining being excited because of the concert. Me with being both excited but still not knowing if this shit was gonna be bad. I just took deep breaths, smelling the food we had being warmed near us. I still couldnt tell where the anxiety ended and the excitement started. Though I really did feel excitement when the curtains pulled back and the first strum of Gash's guitar just graced my ears. Best thing was this was a cover of a great song by a classic rock band that had its lead bassist pass away. Great song. Oh we rocked out for a few songs... Right before an 'I fucking told you so moment' scared the ever loving shit out of me. Shining and I watched as at least four gunmen rushed the stage. Real weapons. One of em fired into the air breaking a few lights and it made me and Shining just hit the deck. I just looked to Shining and he just shook his head before I just carefully poked my head up over the window sill just to see gunmen ferrying the band off stage leaving their instruments on the floor... Some guards actually tried rushing the guy on stage... Worst idea... and I just saw it happen... These guys had assault rifles. Few guards rushed into our room and just kept our heads down before bringing us out into the hall where we had to rush out.... But I wasnt gonna let that happen. "RYDER DONT!" Shining yelled.

I looked back as I just side stepped. "YOU GO! GET OUT NOW! I'LL MEET YOU WHEN I'M SAFE! NOBODY FUCKS WITH MY FRIENDS!" I yelled back before just breaking out into a sprint blowing past guards and civilians. I was scared yes. But I was pissed.

To be continued....