Family and Friends

Out of the frying pan and into the oven. I got kidnapped a week ago only to escape only to go see one of my favorite bands get fucking kidnapped and held hostage somewhere backstage. Not to mention a few dead security personnel. I just carefully wandered through the hall just hiding in side rooms. Sat in one for a while in the dark... watching the door... Every so often I'd hear gunshots. Bursts from automatic weapons, screams from fans who were running away.... Either that or just staff that were unfortunate trying to think they'd escape. Just as I was about to run out I heard talking. "REALLY?! REALLY! FUCKING ROYALS WATCHING THE SHOW?! HOW FUCKING STUPID ARE YOU THAT YOU DIDNT KNOW THAT!" I heard someone yell.

I just stuck to the shadows but peeked out the window of the office I was hiding in. Two gunmen. Masked up, body armor, combat boots and bandoliers of ammo. "I didnt! This was a last fucking minute that they were here! I dont even know who they were!" The other gunman said. "We decided to do this AFTER I fucking went to go and see how many fucking attendees were gonna be here! Number 1 said we fucking take everything from who came here, then fucking get the band for 10K a head! THERE WAS NO MENTION OF ROYALS ANYWHERE."

"THAT DOESNT SAVE US FROM THE SHIT WE'RE IN!" There was silence for a moment. The one tasked with the scope part of this 'heist' flinched a bit. "You just start patrolling here. I'm gonna go check the boxes and see if I cant fix this mess..."

"Woah woah you cant be serious! You cant just shoot at Princesses! You'd be fucking shot on sight!"

"If the guard did their job we're more in the clear than we are. If they were still in here we'd be drowning in guards"

"We're still gonna have an army outside. Just dont come towards me and tell me to draw fire!"

"Just get patrolling Six... And keep your fucking head on you....." He just waited while the other walked down the hall from where I came from. I ducked out of the window and just waited. I heard doors open... Gently. I went and got myself ready.... I just got the cloaking up before just getting into a stance. The door opened and the gunmen came in. I quickly disarmed him, shut the door and just pinned him to the wall bringing the cloak down.

The gunman looked back at me scared. I growled. "...How bad do you wanna stay alive?" I asked brandishing my blade. "....Your friends out there are making a mistake.... Royals were here... still are.... Yet one is out... the other one is right here and he will not fucking sit back... not after what you guys did...."

The gunman swallowed just staring at the shining blade. "....I-I swear we didnt know you were here!" He said. "....We only came for the money and the band.... Th-that's it! We got tired of the small scores.... we wanted bigger... this is the first time we've done this!"

"...And yet you still didnt answer my question... So I might assume you dont wanna live that badly...." I brought back my hand and drove the blade right into the wall I slowly brought it out just having a shaking stallion pinned beneath my arm. "Awww I missed.... One more chance... How bad do you wanna live? ANSWER ME!"

"I.... I...." ...You'd think I'd question myself here with my sanity and all. I pushed that blade up against his throat.

"...Three seconds before I have you meet a friend of mine... If you dont tell me how much you wanna live, tell me how many of you guys there are."

"S-S-Seven! Three roaming, the other four with the band! Our leader might be trying to negotiate for their release! Just dont-"... I dragged that blade across his throat... Just listened to him gurgle as I dropped him to the floor. I grabbed his gun and just made sure there was something in the chamber. I just walked out and looked up and down the hallway. Decided to go back the way I came.... And sure enough what I heard... bodies of innocents trying to run. I just walked, saying silent prayers and just getting the gun ready. I didnt have to walk long before I reached the boxes. The one we were in had the food thrown out the door and I could still hear someone inside. I peeked inside from around a corner. The other gunman tearing the place apart. Probably seeing if there were any valuables left. I aimed the gun and slowly crept in. It wasnt until he turned around just to have the barrel in his face where he noticed me.

"Ah.... No reaching for it now.... less your brains are gonna be all over the nice viewing window we had...."

"...Princess?"

"No... Princes.... This one isnt fucking around... Came out here to have a good fucking time and what the fuck do you guys do? Try to make bank. Also... Should've been nicer to the other guy.... You made him so sad he slit his own throat! Looks like more take for you...."

The guy swallowed as a radio sounded on him. Just heard muffled movements before we heard the voice clearly. "Four. The hell is happening? Where are you and Five?" They asked.

"...Answer... And say anything about Five being dead, you are too... Just say you're fine, cleaning up leftover jewelry left behind...." The stallion was frozen staring down the barrel. "....Five..... Four..." The stallion started to shake. "Three...." I continued to count. Each second felt longer. "...Two...." Before I had the thought to even say one... He panicked, went for his gun.... I put one right through his head, his blood splattering behind him on the glass, the glass itself cracking almost immediately as the blood hit it. I went for his radio... just patting down his body. Found more ammo, a pistol and a wallet. Didnt bother with robbing him. Just grabbed the radio and picked it up.

"Four. Answer me! What the hell is going on? I'm hearing gunshots but no answer! Dont tell me you found the one fucker who broke your radio with a lucky shot...." I pushed the button.

"....Seven turned five because two crossed the wrong royals... One with a smile, the other with less brains than the lot of you combined.... Release the band, the rest of you walk free...." I released the button to silence.

"...The hell we will. You pay us, ten bars for each member...."

"...You'd probably get more for me.... I've been told I've got bounties worth twice that... maybe triple..."

"...I'd say you're full of shit...."

"Full of shit... maybe. But I've got enemies out there... Gangs in ikkebuckero, griffon mercs... Princesses themselves could pay for my safety.... Last chance to come find me before I come find you guys...." There was nothing but silence before I watched someone come out on stage. Thankfully alone. Gunman and he looked pissed. Big LMG. He scanned the arena before spotting me. I ducked quick just as he started unloading. Debris from the ceiling, broken glass pieces fell on top of me. Did my best to crawl through without hurting myself and keeping the gun and radio with me. Once I was out the door I bent the gun barrel and tossed it aside. I pushed the button on the radio. "....Missed me..... Now come find me before I find you...." I crushed the radio in my hand. PISSED. I rushed down the hall getting the hell away from there. Last thing I want is a grenade to fly through the window and send me flying into a wall and becoming a red mist in the process. No grenade came, didnt hear an explosion. Just rushed off but started taking it slow. I made my way down some steps... These were covered in stuff. Papers, merch and whatever else fans or staff was holding. I just fiddled with the device on my arm and just pulled up heat sensing. I just looked around. I saw groups outside rushing about in a mashup of red and orange. I could see guards in full swat gear that had cooling magic on it. Showed up as blue. I couldnt tell where Shining was. Only hoped that he made it out okay.

I had to dip into a room just to see more towards the stage. I had to stay crouched as I moved to not make any noise.... As I moved deeper into the room I just saw heat signatures. Four on their knees, others looking like they were holding weapons and another pacing slowly. And I mean real slow. Walking pretty much. I turned on what I'm gonna call the eavesdrop setting. It took a second for me to focus in on them. "....Seems there's a Royal in here and he's not happy.... I've already sent one of my best men after him...." The main guy said. "...You pay me what I want, I call him off, everyone goes free.... You dont.... Someones blood is all over the place... band... the royal...anyone you try to send in?"

I heard the radio static. "What is it that you do want?" The guard or what I'm assuming is a guard on the other end asked.

"Twenty for each member. Was ten... That royal pissed me off... Band goes for twenty.... I get my hands on the royal... Seventy."

"So you want... One fifty for all?"

"Only if I get that Royal.... He might be damaged goods when he gets back but on top of that... need a ride out of here... Wont doubt the cars we used to get here are gone but rather get something out of here... maybe to the airport with a chopper. Make that decision quick. Once I get my hands on that royal... price hike and we're more better to negotiate... Get em while they're cheap.... I'll give you a bit to chat it over with the Princesses...."

I huffed as I turned off the eavesdrop mode. I turned back around and exited the room. I looked both ways down the hall. I wondered which way I should go... both to avoid the guards and get a clean shot.... Take em one by one maybe.... But how I wondered. Maybe I just play a game of cat and mouse. Or whack-a-mole. Pop my head up, taunt him, maybe see about grabbing the next guys gun and take a potshot or two. But did I really wanna go and risk him getting more pissed and killing the band? No. No didnt wanna risk that either. Still wouldnt mind a little cat and mouse.... I just went to the concessions area. The smell of fast food graced my nose as well as a slight burning smell. Guess even the workers here had to get out. I made my way back there.... even with the blood I've drawn in two gruesome ways I may have been wanting a snack. I did wash my hands dont worry and I just found the fries in the heating area. Grabbed the scoop, poured it in a box and just started eating. Yeah.... I know what you're thinking. 'You're stealing fries while your life is in danger! You're a fucking idiot!' Think I dont know that? I've got a moment of safety, I can stomach something at least.... and then yeah... If I have a low intelligence score in a game I managed to get stuck in, YEAH its true. Anyways I sat there eating the fries. Grabbed a drink from the drink cooler, even some dip for the fries. Though as I ate I felt... watched. I just ate the last of what I had and just sipped my drink before just walking out. I just sighed as I came out. "C'mon out.... Looking for me and I'm right here..." I called out.

I just waited a moment relaxed as everything as I leaned on the counter. Just heard a gun cock from one side. Looked only to see a gunman come out, pistol aimed right at me. "...Heh... Not putting up much of a fight...." He said. "I should kill you right where you stand."

"...You do that, you miss out on big money my guy...." I replied barely even putting my hands where he could see them. "....Kill me? Guards will be so far up your ass, prison goons would be able to walk right in if you live.... and that's IF they dont kill you on the spot." I could see him struggle with the logic. He huffed after a few seconds of silence.

"...Fine... Come with me, do as you're told and I swear to fuck if you dont I'm gonna blow out both your knee caps and feed you your wings!"

"...Rather have cauliflower wings drenched in buffalo sauce.... Maybe even some honey lemon pepper....Willing to whip some up if you wanna wait here." I could see him think... Hear his stomach growl.

"...Do anything stupid while we're in there, I wont hesitate... got me?" I gave a nod before hopping the counters. He followed still aiming the gun at me. Went in, found their little fridge where they kept the cauliflower and just dumped em into the fryer. I gave it a moment.... And this... this was where I really should've realized there was something wrong with me. I had to do this perfectly. I bent down to stretch... When I bent down towards the gunman I grabbed his leg and before he had a chance to react he was on the floor and I smashed his hand with my foot, knocking the gun away in the process. Didnt stop there because I've broken a guys arm and leg before making him crawl away... But this? This would've made anyone sick. I grabbed him and just picked him up before pushing him towards the fryer.... He didnt save himself from going into it, burning himself in hot blistering oil. I grabbed him by his pants and vest where it didnt have oil crackling. I just took him out and went all the way back to where the boxes were. I set him down... He tried crawling away but the still searing oil made it hurt as he tried. And... A warning from here... This got darker.... There was a fire hose on the wall. I cracked it open, unraveled it and grabbed the end.... I.... I wrapped it around his neck a few times before picking him up the same way I did.... I just took aim for the broken window in the box before throwing him out. He only screamed for a second before that hose tightened.

This is where Shining would've hit me with tranquilizers if he was as bullheaded as I was. That was too far. But I didnt stop. I just rushed down the hallway the opposite way before finding an employee door to the rafters above. Once up over the empty stadium I turned on the eavesdrop mode. Just looked around and saw the body of the guy hanging out the window. "...A high value target is giving us so much trouble... If not saving him, SAVE US.... Get us what we want, get us out before he does... AND PUT THAT ANIMAL BACK IN ITS CAGE!" I heard the main gunman yell behind the stage curtains.

I heard radio static for a moment. "Look the best we can do is twenty five grand for the band. No car but we will let you walk free!" The stallion on the radio said. The gunman grunted. I heard a gunshot. Loud. Thing really boosts everything...

"I'm getting impatient... The lower the sum you want to give, the better my aim will get.... Twenty. For. Each." I slowly started walking the catwalks.... cant tell if i was trying to get a better angle on the situation or if I was going to find a good way to drop in on them.... I went across just as quiet as I could just keeping my attention to the curtains just in case. I had to walk all the way to the other side to even get within sight and still stay hidden. The entire time I heard more grumbling from the main gunman. "This royal is really getting to be a thorn in my side... That's three of us taken out... Nobody goes out... We hold here... Guard come in, we hold back, keep them at a distance. They wanna pay, I go out, you keep them here until I give the word..." This gave me an idea.

I had to stealth out. May have had to do a risky move and glide to the broken window and... yeah mistake... the guy was cooking still... the smell just grossed me out a bit... surprisingly not enough for me to puke. I wrote it off as to some of my past experiences. The blood i've spilled, the things I did to the bodies... and who i had to kill as well. I landed inside just stepping on broken glass, and over the body that was just torn up there. The guy was just still there, bullet holes, flesh torn from him.... Blood everywhere on the ground which I tracked out. I just just walked right down stairs again and out.

Crowds were everywhere. Guards too. For every guard swat van, there was at least twenty five civilians. Once the guards saw me they rushed over and just started to lead me to one of the vans. As we got closer to the van I looked to the closest guard. "Three dead. All enemy." I said. "Who here is handling the negotiations?" The guards stopped as I did. I just looked to each of them. "Find who's handling the negotiations and tell them to find me. And for fucks sake Shining Armor better still be here" I was herded around the van and I just leaned on it while a few of the guards ran off to figure out where Shining and the negotiator went. During that wait the guards urged me to get inside the van just in case of snipers. I agreed but I told them I needed a uniform. Mask, helmet, the works. I got the uniform first. Changed into that real quick... had to take the blade off and put it back on after I put the guard swat top on. And the ballistic vest. I actually felt the weight on it which was... weird. Didnt question it. Thought it was just due to my adrenaline coming down for right now.

After I was done I sat for a while... Getting it all together... Meditating almost. Once those doors opened I saw two ponies climb in. Masked guard and Shining Armor. Shining took one look at me and huffed. "...I'm glad you're alive but what the FUCK are you even thinking?!" He snapped. "I run out of there, head covered and into cover to call the guard if someone hasnt already and I hear gunfire like its a fucking warzone and I have ZERO clue if you were turned to fucking swiss cheese or not! This answers my question but I dont doubt that the gunfire is your fault in the first place!"

"Wont argue but there's three dead.... Just.... Giving a warning to the guards who have to go in to clean that up... lots of blood on one.... Another was uh.... Well... Lets say the guy was stupid and trusted me for a moment. And anyways I have a plan...."

"No! No no no you are NOT going back in there!"

"And with every low ball they get thats gonna mean more blood on the floor that doesnt need to be... And I'm willing to spill the blood that does deserve to be there. Just gonna have to agree to the terms, give em a loaded case with a few phone books or something with the money on top, then once the band goes free I finish the job...."

"Or you can give em the money and when the band goes free we get in there and fucking get those assholes."

"You're no fun...."

"And you're a fucking psychopath if you think I'm letting you go back in there!"

"And you'd be an idiot if you think you can stop me from doing this! I wanted to have fun tonight but this is some shit that I didnt wanna have happen but whoopdie fucking do! These assholes fucking ruined a great night so I might as well ruin their dreams of being rich and figure out why I'm the wrong one to fuck with!" Shining wanted to argue. I could tell. But I was a brick wall here. More than usual. I huffed as he just turned away annoyed as I looked to the negotiator. "Alright.... As much as you'd hate to hear this, give him what he wants.... Get me and just so pissy mcgee here is happy, give me a few other guards to keep an eye on me.... Just... Have them ready to pounce when I give the word...."

The negotiator sighed. "If I may sir, the Princesses arent in the mood to deal with these guys...." He said. "Celestia's having to make sure her sister isnt going to have a heart attack because of both of your safeties and she's well aware we cant just give them the money they ask for."

Shining's ears perked up and he looked to the negotiator. "Do NOT tell me you're going along with his fucking hairbrained scheme!" He snapped. "If you say you are, get this fucking idiot out of this van and get me the hell out of here! Princesses be damned if I'm staying here another fucking minute with this going on!" The negotiator stayed silent. He looked to me. "When and IF you get out of this fucking shit alive, find me at the hotel and spread your fucking legs because I want a good shot right at the jewels because maybe that will put your brain in the right place!"

I huffed just glaring at Shining. "....Lets just finish this outside. Get him out of here...." I said getting up. "If these guys let us do a redo on the concert I want you NOWHERE near it! and if you have to be there, I dont even wanna be in the same room as you!" I opened the door and hopped out. The Negotiator followed. I just slammed the door and there was a part of me that wanted to break the door to where he'd have to have someone cut the fucking thing off. I looked to the negotiator. "Get things together soon. I want at least three to four guards on me.... Maybe a marksman or two if they can sneak onto the catwalks above.... Either that or find another box, stage left, audience right and just pop one through the glass... Either that or get a heat sensing scope...."

The negotiator sighed. "No can do. None of that around here. Only military outposts get it, nearest one is somewhere between here and Manehattan." He replied. I sighed fighting the urge to just ask for a rifle myself. I wanted to get them to bleed and do it up close and personal. I just huffed.

"Then we go in. Still want a few guards on me.... But once the band is out I want these guys dead. If I have to do it myself, I will." The negotiator huffed.

"Yes sir."

"Good. Now get things together and get him the fuck out of here!" I pointed to the van we just left. He saluted just as I hopped up onto a van just to sit there. I had guards urging me to get down but I just sat there watching over everything. Nothing happened the entire time. But I just had my eyes trained on the building. Had to ignore the guard van pulling out getting Shining out of there. No doubt that he was calling the Princesses letting them know how much of a fucking moron I was.

I waited up there scanning the building for a while. Maybe took about twenty minutes for me to get word that it was happening. The negotiator up and told me they were gonna do the full amount to make sure I get out alive.... Celestia's pissed at me but... its to protect me. I still didnt like it but I was ready to rip someone in half. I hopped down and grabbed the suitcase of money from the guard holding it. He didnt mind. Didnt question it either. No guard here questioned me. Though I was actually afraid to say anything they understood. I hid my face, with the mask I was given. I just walked in between four guards, all armed. Behind me had rifles, in front had smg. I designated one of the ones in front to do the talking while I handed things over. When we got inside we had to keep our eyes peeled. Checked corners, even made sure we were good going backstage. Rather would know if I'm gonna get a gun to the back of my head. I just walked down the backstage halls. I didnt know if I was gonna roll up, see dead civilians, fans, just.... Yeah... Didnt wanna think about it. Just took a deep breath and kept following the guards until we found ourselves on the stage. I saw the band just on the floor, Sparkplug just covering her head, Gash just sitting against the wall with Jax and the drummer just leaning on each other, hands bound in front of them. Two gunmen at their sides had their rifles aimed towards them, fingers ready for the triggers. They knew trigger discipline. So they had some sort of training. The main gunman stepped forward, his rifle down but ready. We all stopped a fair distance away. "....See? That's all you had to do...." He said. "....I dont know how you stopped the royal from mucking around with my plans.... But I appreciate it.... Rather you get the band and us out of here...."

The guard I told to talk cleared his throat. "Understood there." He said. "Release the band, we give you the money." The gunman just stared at us. Tightening his grip on the gun.

"...And how will I know you wont just take aim and execute us like we're on the line for a firing squad?" The guard stayed silent. "Money first. Then the band." The guard looked back at me and nodded. I walked forward and was just about to set it down. "Ah.... Dump it.... I wanna make sure there's gonna be no tricks.... I know the old padding to make it seem like its all there trick.... Used it myself once..." I just looked to the guard. He nodded. I carefully opened the case and just dumped it all out. Just stacks of bills which made me feel better. Just shook it a bit making sure nothing was stuck before closing it and stepping back. The gunman whistled a bit and one of the other gunmen rushed over, the other one keeping everyone in check. Barely anyone there flinched. Only one who did was Sparkplug from what I saw. He grabbed bills left and right as if he were mentally counting each and every bill like some robot. He looked up at the main guy. Nodded. The gunman looked to us. "...Good... Good! Band is free to go.... Have your men get them out...." I tossed the case aside and just went with the other guards towards the band.... Though as I got close to the gunman next to them... I snapped. I stabbed him with the hidden blade. Grabbed his gun, popped the gunman counting the money before dropping both the gunmans body and the gun itself rushing for the main gunman just before he got his weapon ready.... Stabbed him right in his back and lifted him up.... I felt the blood run down my arm, the pain and gasps he had done trying to escape as screams.... But... something was wrong... Really wrong. The guards I was with disappeared. I looked back at the band.... They were..... All faced down... pool of blood... but it wasnt them.... it... it was my friends... Fluttershy, Dash, Rarity, Pinkie.... And Applejack next to them.... I looked to the gunman on the floor. Big Mac.... and the one in my arms? Shining. I tossed him down and just started backing up towards the stage... I couldnt look away. I just walked backwards until I fell off....

Everything went black. I just screamed, waking up in the hotel room.... I was drenched in sweat. I tossed the beanie I wore off, the jacket just stripping myself down to cool down... I didnt even have the blade on thank fuck but.... I just rushed to the bathroom looking into the mirror.... Didnt take a minute or two for Shining to rush in to see what was going on... I rushed him and hugged him... We just lowered to the ground as I cried. "Hey hey... easy dude... Easy... It was just a dream... I... I think... It was a dream... right?" He asked. I just cried nodding. I was actually glad he was okay... "Look... you were only out a few hours... we can still see the band tonight but you gotta calm down first.... I think Luna still has somethings to iron out in your head..." That she did.

I calmed down... shook but all it took was some alcohol... a good amount to do it but not get me too fucked up, a little food to even me out and a call to Luna... I had to have Shining leave the room with me on the phone but... She just requested after I get done with the concert I get to the helipad of the hotel and come to Canterlot. The entire concert I was jamming out trying to ignore things I saw. Shining kept having to check in with me, make sure I ate something. I did enjoy the concert but no matter what Shining went and forced me to leave when it was done. Had to go and leave under guard supervision and straight up to the chopper. I'm gonna be honest here... I had flashbacks to the train when I wanted to step down from the guard... I just sat there, bag with me just on the way back. I was listening to music, just eyes out over Equestria. I could see Ponyville in the distance, the castle glowing a bit in the moonlight. When we landed Luna was there to greet me. She looked worried. I hopped out and just hung my head as I approached having the chopper just take off once more back to Shining. Fuck me was it hard to even be here. "...Ryder..." Luna said. "...Just... Just say it.... My gift to you was a mistake... you'd rather do anything else...."

I huffed throwing my stuff down. "Princess... The gift was fine... My mind just... it nearly ruined things for me...." I said. "...If you want we could go somewhere but please... dont go doing what you did earlier...." She used her magic and picked my stuff up.

"...I wont... already got an earful from Celestia about it...." She just beckoned me to follow. "...I requested that I speak with you alone anyhow... Celestia has a feeling she already knows about what happened..." I just walked along side her. "....Shining told me that you took a nap and woke up screaming.... Mind telling me what happened?" I stayed silent for a moment as we entered the castle.

"....Well..." I started. "....I just... I remember going in to see the band, getting ready to enjoy the show... But a group of gunman took them all, scaring fans.... killing some.... I didnt wanna take it sitting down but.... I found myself doing... darker things... stuff that I'd usually do but.... It disturbed me that I even did that.... At the end of everything I pissed Shining off, I went in with guards under disguise.... We freed the band but I killed the gunmen after we bribed them.... I.... I didnt know it was a dream until the band and gunmen turned into friends and family... I.... I'm just... I dont think my family is gonna be safe around me... with or without me..."

"....Are you certain?"

"Yes.... It might've been a dream but.... I still wouldnt rather wake up just to see AJ or one of the fillies who crawled into bed with me ripped apart because I got violent in my sleep.... I love them too much to hurt them.... and if I did I'd rather your mother strike me down as soon as it happened..."

"....I... I dont know what to say...."

"I dont either.... How am I going to tell Applejack that I just... I need to seclude myself until I know they're gonna be safe..."

"My magic should-" I stopped and looked to her.

"Princess, no offense but I feel like your magic isnt powerful enough to stop these thoughts!" She jumped back a bit. "How many times have you tried to suppress the shit that goes on in my head and have it not appear again?" We just stared at each other. "...I'm sorry but I think I'm gonna need a professional.... without the magic.... I do thank you for trying to help but this isnt helping when the fucking memories keep crawling their way back! And with that hell of a nightmare? I need somewhere to go to just keep my family safe." I sighed. "....Lets just go put my stuff in a room, maybe go spend some time together... play some games or something..." I just turned and kept walking. Luna trudged behind me a bit. We did throw my bag into a room near hers. Went down to the dining hall and just sat there to get a quick snack. I was hungry but didnt wanna eat much. Just had a quesadilla.... jalapeno cheese.

We went and played games for a while... Lost ourselves wandering an open world game together. I didnt know what time it was until I got a call from Applejack. I just looked to Luna as she paused the game. She knew this was something that just..... That I didnt wanna do but I had to... I just took a deep breath and answered. I set my controller down and got up. "Finally! Scoot and I have been trying to text you to answer all damn night!" She said. "Would've appreciated a text saying 'made it back to the hotel' or 'concert was great, gonna sleep now' or something at least!"

I hesitated. Just locked up. Luna huffed and took my phone as she stood up, sitting me in a nearby chair with her magic. "Apologies AJ... Ryder's in Canterlot again..." She said.

"Oh sweet fuckin.... Is he alright? Did he have too much fun and get drunk or somethin?"

"No he isnt drunk.... Dont doubt he has something in his system but he's coherent, not pissing his pants yet but... I.... I do want to let you know he did have another scare.... And I'm afraid he doesnt want my magic to help... He says when I do use my magic things always seem to come back... I hate to say it but... I feel he's right... my magic doesnt stay forever... just blocks it out long enough for him to forget for a while.... but it comes crawling back worse.... He just wants to face it head on but have someones help with it... Just... not mine..."

"Is... Is he... is he needing to be under guard watch...?" She looked to me.

"...No... I'll be keeping a close eye on him over night.... But... there is something else.... And... You're not going to like this...."

"...Do... Do I wanna know....?"

"...Its either I say it or he does... and right now... I think if he said it he'd cry.... But... He loves you and the family very much.... He wants to distance himself from you and the family for the forseeable future.... It.... It hurts both you and him... but he just wants to make sure if he does fall asleep that he doesnt wake up with one of you covering him with your own blood... I know its not what you want to hear but this is what he wants..."

"...Can... Can he hear me?"

"Yes..."

"Ryder. Are you. Or are you not leaving me...?" I stayed silent. "Ry. I asked you somethin.... Are you thinking about leavin me....?" I heard her voice weaken. "...Please sugarcube... just... just say something..."

Princess Luna handed the phone to me. Just urged me to talk while wordlessly asking. I took the phone and took a shakey breath. "....AJ... I... I'm not leaving you... I love you and the girls too much to hurt you guys.... Would you think I'd like it if I woke up after taking a nap with Scoot in the bed... maybe bloom or Babs for that matter... and only to wake up with them just..." I stopped. Shook my head and whimpered. "...I want you guys to be safe... with or without me... and the current state I'm in.... I want to make sure nothing like that happens.... I can come home... grab my things.... stay at the castle for a few days or so... visit a few days out of the week or more to keep watch over Mash... maybe help in the orchard... But its all you guys when I'm not there.... I can explain this to Scootaloo... Just... She stays with you... Rather she stays with you because I'm not gonna put her through anything drastic like a move somewhere and still keep her in danger..."

There was silence. Luna sighed. "...See Applejack? He loves you... he'd never forgive himself if he hurt you.... And if I know either of you, the things you've been through together were strengthening that bond.... And with Ryder away at war, you still worried for his safety... you cared enough to sit down, speak with him over video about your woes.... Probably brightened his day to see you each time he did. Vice versa as well. He saved your life. Multiple times. He's even gone and given you a child whom he'd do anything for.... And he is doing this for both your sake and his..."

"...If I could sleep soundly next to you without looking like some sort of prisoner and still wake up to you every morning safe and sound I would.... But with my strength I'd be put in a strength diminishing collar, a straight jacket, leg restraints.... You'd probably have to sleep with a tranq gun nearby...."

I heard a sob or two come from the phone. "....Ry.... I... I dont want you to do this..." I heard Applejack say.

"...I have to.... You want me to wake up and you crushed to death...? That's neither a threat or something I even want AJ.... I dont want to hurt you if we're in bed together.... I dont want to lose my sister, our daughter not even Bloom or Big Mac! I've pretty much severed a princess' spine before almost after one of my freak outs. I dont want to leave you, immobilize you or the girls.... I love you guys too much to hurt you... Just... I.... I'm sorry... It has to be this way..." I gave the phone back to Luna.... I didnt... I didnt want to hang up on her myself. I just had tears fill my eyes. Just filled and overflowed. Luna hung my phone up and just hugged me... I hugged her and just broke down. She just brought me up and sat me on her lap just to console me. She just sat there for a while with me until she took me to my room and lied me down on the bed. She just sat with me for a while as I cried. Just gave me a pillow to hold. I lied there.... Just until I passed out. Didnt know when I did pass out but I started dreaming fast.

When I did start dreaming I found myself just... in the house.... I was just in the living room... Trails of blood lead right out the front door, to Big Mac's room and up the stairs. I followed the trail up the stairs and just looked where it lead. It split up... One down the hall into the girls rooms, one into our baby girls room... and then one into ours.... I didnt wanna follow any of them. I went back downstairs... There was blood that lead outside... It was the only way to go.... But even then it was the wrong choice. I walked out only to see just... Torn clothing. Bodies everywhere... Most of them unrecognizable. Arms, legs just everywhere... Even heads just.... covered in blood... I didnt even wanna pick em up to see.... I just looked around seeing trees uprooted, cars flipped... I didnt get half way down the road before I saw a tree.... Pinning Applejack's body to the ground..... I went over and just lifted it up but I was forced to snap the branch to get it off. I didnt get a chance to inspect her corpse before I was rudely and quickly awoken by the sound and feel of a taser. It was still dark. I just had a sharp pain in my side as I rolled off the other side of the bed from where the pain was coming from. I quickly propped myself up still tired yet still in pain a bit. I saw a guard with a taser just ready between me... And... Celestia... who was holding her arm... sitting against the wall. The guard came around the bed just causing me to dive right back over the bed and to Celestia's side. The guard rushed me getting the taser ready just before Celestia blocked him from me. "NO! STOP! He... He's awake now! Stand down! He's not a threat!" She said letting the arm she was holding go limp. "Just... Go fucking get my sister and have her bring me a pill!" I could see the guard hesitate. I had to take a quick breath.

"Y-You hear her! That's an order! Pill and Luna! NOW!" The guard didnt know whether to listen or not... but he did. He rushed out turning the taser off. I looked to Celestia rubbing my side. "...Fucking.... That's three times I got shocked by something without knowing...." I huffed. "What happened? Are you alright Princess?" Celestia shifted and groaned a bit in pain as she tried to keep her arm from bending into an unnatural position.

"I... I got woken up by my sister who sensed I was worried for you... I wanted to make sure you were alright... Tried to wake you... but... bad idea..."

"...I... I grabbed your arm and broke it didnt I?" She nodded. "...I... I... I knew this would happen.... I... I'm sorry...." She sighed.

"Guard heard me scream and just... Well... You know... but I hold no grudge against you Ryder.... I know better than to try to wake you like that... Mind my language when I say this... this fucking hurts...."

"...This is... this is exactly why I dont wanna be near AJ if I freak out and dream like that... I break her arm or worse... I'm gonna fucking hate myself..."

"....I heard you had told Applejack... and she didnt like that... I told Luna to call Twilight, go spend the night with her and keep a close eye. She should be good until you get there tomorrow for your things... I've arranged for you to stay at Twilight's until you decide to go back... But... As... As for now could you pick me up and set me on the bed...? Please? And be gentle when setting me down...." I hesitated. "...Ryder dont worry... Cant hurt me anymore than you have... Well... you can but... just... Please try not to..." I hesitated yet again. I did get my arm under her legs and then got onto the side with her arm that was good... I slowly picked her up and moved as carefully as I could before laying her down on the bed. She sighed as she rested. "There... Right there... Just... Wait outside for my sister... and if that guard gives you anymore trouble... You have my permission to put him in his place... Just... dont hurt him...."

I nodded and just walked out of the room.... Just walked right across the hall leaving the door open just to sit on the floor and hold my head making sure nothing was gonna spill out of it. I spaced out quite a bit... Just staring at the floor. I saw reflections in the dimly lit castle flooring with what lights were there. It wasnt until I closed my eyes trying to stop the tears from coming that someone tried nudging me. I jumped and just tried to scurry away before I heard someones voice. "Ryder wait! Its only me!" She said. I looked up and just saw Princess Luna looking scared. She offered a hand and I took it... she helped me to my feet and hugged me. "...Thy mind is plagued and truly nobody sleeping in the same bed as you is safe...." The crying started. And hard. She shushed me. She just picked me up and carried me like the child I was acting like. She brought me back into the room I had just left... Inside I saw the guard getting a lecture from Celestia now sitting at the foot of the bed.

"Yes you did the right thing but he's still a royal and he's going through something serious! You woke him and helped release my arm but he wasnt some criminal you needed to chase after!"

The guard huffed. "Princess forgive me for speaking out of turn but he hurt you!" He said. "Whether he meant to or not still needs to be investigated and necessary action should be taken!" She grabbed the guard by the armor and just pointed to me.

"This stallion has seen more blood than you have when you skin your knee! He's killed, he's saved and he's done more for me than you have for the other guards.... Now we're going to drop this matter and you will apologize to him." She released him. He just backed up a bit scared. He just looked to me.

"S-Sorry sir..."

"Good. Now leave us!" The guard nodded and saluted before leaving shutting the door leaving us inside. Luna sat next to her sister still holding me. "There.... all better there...." Celestia moved her once busted arm as if it werent just minutes ago. "Are you alright Ryder?" I shook my head. "...I'm silly to ask that but... I still need to check... Why dont you at least let Luna use her magic to allow you to sleep more soundly? We can get to therapy next week but as for right now I do urge you about using Luna's magic to aid you for a bit. Just to sleep. When you feel comfortable with trying to sleep on your own, say something and we'll allow it. Okay?" I gave it a thought. Would be better than thrashing about in a nightmare. I nodded. "Alright... Lets get you in something comfortable... Luna should be there to keep you at ease until morning. After that we'll take you to get your things and we'll both help as best we can to get you all set up." I gave another nod sniffling.

They had to run out and get me some padding and some PJ's but I slept comfortably as I could with Luna distracting me. We talked, shared stories... she even wanted to see the things that happened in the dream that caused that revelation that nobody around me is safe. I cut that short after the first guy I killed.... Told her the rest. Bullet through the head, stuffed into a fryer and out a window being hung then disguised and butchered... That next morning I could barely stomach a meal. Had to go from Canterlot with Luna and Celestia with me all the way to Sweet Apple Acres. I felt like here was the moment we were trying to get Shining to his final resting place in the nuke scenario. Though instead of bypassing we went on... Pulled up to the house just to see Twilight's car out front. Celestia had to carry me to the door and inside... It was empty other than Applejack and Twilight on the couch... no Big Mac, no girls.... Goddess above Scoot isnt gonna like it at all. Applejack looked tired out of her mind.... Good reason too. Twilight looked to us, tired as well but not as much as my wife did. "...She didnt wanna stay asleep last night.... Especially after what was said..." She said. "...Big Mac has the girls and Cadence made it down here as fast as she could last night just to foalsit.... Everyone heard the crying in here, wondered what was going on.... she didnt say anything but I had to explain to Big Mac.... He wanted to put your balls in a vice grip until I told him why." I hung my head.

Luna sighed. "I hope he's either explaining it to his sisters... or trying to at least...." She said kneeling down. "...I... I feel so bad for this... But there was evidence of what he said ringing true last night... Ryder was having a nightmare and ended up breaking my sisters arm and that caused a guard to taze him awake." She lifted up my shirt. There was actually a few welts where I didnt even notice but were very red from how hard he had pressed them in.

Twilight just covered her mouth looking wide eyed at my wound. "Yes... I know you didnt like hearing that he would do that but he's being safe... And with proof like that... it shows he cares enough to keep from injuring his family..." Celestia said kneeling down next to the couch. "...I could take it with my stature.... You? He'd snap you in half like a twig... And when I tell you he cried hard when he found out he broke my arm. Think how bad he'd feel if he paralyzed you. Either that or killed you.... We'd get you back... but we'd have to keep him from offing himself..."

I went around the couch and just sat on the arm. I just rested my hand on Applejack's arm. She looked up.... I just... felt like her heart was just.... broken... like I actually was divorcing her. "...I... I know how you feel AJ... like... I'm just taking your heart and ripping it apart... I feel the same way..." I said. "...I just want to keep you safe.... same with Scoot... and our daughter... I can come by every day... Take the girls to school, take care of Mash... Do whatever... I just wanna make sure nothing happens to you... Promise I will continue to help you guys as much as I can...." I just got up without her saying anything. Just went upstairs and grabbed my suitcase and just started stuffing it with clothes. Even grabbed a diaper bin trash bag from the stash and used that.... Luna came up to help me get things together. Grabbed my charging wires and everything. Didnt take but a few hours.... Loaded things into the truck but as we loaded the last of it... I saw my car pull up... Big Mac in the front seat, Scoot in the passenger and Bloom in the back...

Once they stopped Big Mac didnt even bother turning off the car. Just threw it in park and hopped out... He just rushed at me, grabbing me by the collar and pinning me against the guard truck. "You best explain why the FUCK you had AJ cryin' last night.... Otherwise I aint gonna mind beatin' the ever loving shit outta you!" He snapped.

Before I had a chance to answer Scootaloo ran over. "Big Mac leave him alone!" She yelled trying to push him away from me. Applebloom rushed over and started hitting her brother. Gave him enough to be distracted by to pry him off and push him away.

"Oh no you dont you asshole!" He rushed at me. I just dodged out of the way and started running back for the house.

I ran inside didnt even bother closing the door. Just went for the stairs and past the Princesses and AJ. I didnt get too far up the stairs before tripping. Why didnt I fly you ask? Panicked brain can only make one decision at a time. I just cowered in a corner as Big Mac grabbed me again pinning me against the wall. Applejack actually got up and rushed up stairs! "Big Mac let him go! Just stop it and let him go!" She snapped. Big Mac looked to her.

"After he made you cry?! Not a fuckin' chance until he says why!"

"Just. Put. Him. DOWN!" He just stared his sister down.

Celestia came up the stairs and just caused a small concussive magical blast between me and Big Mac. "That's enough!" She snapped. "Ryder is going through a crisis and he hates that he's having to do this. If you wanna know what he's doing, you're gonna sit your ass down on that couch otherwise I have no objection if Ryder wants to put you in cuffs." Both Applejack and Big Mac looked at me. I could see the fire in Big Mac's eyes and the worry in Applejack's.

He looked back at Celestia giving a huff. "If the reason aint good enough I got all right to beat the shit out of him!" He said.

Applejack grabbed her brothers hand. "...You lay one hand on him, you are sleeping in the tree house... I will tell all my friends that you are NOT allowed in their homes and I'm gonna keep your fuckin' wallet in here so you cant get a hotel! Keys too!" She said. Big Mac took his hand back as I straightened myself out. He just glared at his sister before going back down stairs and hopping the couch. Applejack followed him down but went to the recliner. Twilight just stayed with them while Celestia escorted me downstairs. I just stood across the table just taking some breaths making sure Mac wasnt gonna rush me.

When I was calm enough to talk the door swung open and in rushed Scootaloo. "RYDER NO YOU ARE NOT LEAVING! NOT NOW! DONT LEAVE!" She yelled crying.

Luna and Applebloom rushed in after her when she was just hugging me crying. "Scootaloo please! It's only temporary!" Luna said prying my sister off. Scootaloo fought to not leave my side.

Big Mac just looked at us while we struggled to keep Scootaloo under control while she cried and yelled. He sprang up and grabbed her holding her while he sat back down. Twilight used her magic to mimic Cadence' magic. Hearts fluttered down over Big Mac and Scoot... Scoot didnt stop crying... but she did stop yelling... She sighed. "...There...." She said. "Now lets all take a deep breath and calm down... Just.... Let Ryder explain...."

I huffed still holding back tears. "....Thank you Twilight...." I said before just turning my attention to Big Mac, Applebloom and Scootaloo now on the couch together. "...Well... You heard Scoot... I... I have to leave... I love you guys too much and this hurts me as much as it does you guys...." I felt myself pause up a bit. Went to the fridge, grabbed a cider, cracked it open and chugged it. Let out a hearty belch before just walking back over. "...Sorry... Just..... As of last night I had a freak out moment.... Celestia tried waking me during it and I broke her arm... Magically healed but.... I knew something like that would happen... if not to her... To one of you.... I could be in bed with AJ, next thing you know she cant walk or.... worse.... Either that or on the floor in Scoot's room after she had a nightmare... Next thing you know her legs broken because she tried stepping over me to go to the bathroom.... I.... I dont even wanna think about whatever happening to my baby girl.... I just dont wanna hurt anyone here.... deliberate or not...."

Everyone stayed silent. Applejack sighed coming over to me. "....You best come back and visit Ry.... Dont want her not knowing who daddy is...." She said hugging me. Scootaloo whimpered a bit. I sighed pushing AJ off gently. I knelt down in front of my sister.

"....Scoot... I'll be there for you still... Might not be in the house.... Always a phone call away... I'm doing this because I love you.... You're getting to be a big girl.... It might be hard to spend the night here without me... but I'd rather you be safe..."

She just.... Scootaloo just broke down again hugging me... It was heartbreaking.... I just sat with her.... Clinging to me.... I went and sat with her for a while... I did run her to the bathroom because she did cry hard enough to nearly get sick... nearly.... Luna had to get her off me and calm her. I felt like hell when I got everything. Scoot didnt still like me leaving.... Got all my stuff and made sure we went and got everything... Actually had to wait for another guard truck to pick us up. Celestia and Luna sat inside talking with Applebloom and Scootaloo, making sure they were okay... Though I was outside just.... staring at the trees.... Kinda like I was looking for something but I wasnt... just... admiring the view like I was just being banished from here. Big Mac followed me out there and sighed. "....Ry.... Next time you gotta do shit like this.... Please just be honest with us..." He said patting me on the shoulder. "...I know my record with you being honest aint that great but... Just have someone slap me or something just so I sit my ass down and listen next time... Sorry for attackin' ya like that... Just... didnt like hearing AJ screaming and crying last night... I had to bring her down to my room, sit up with Mash until she went back to sleep, made sure the girls were alright and made sure AJ got something to eat this morning.... Hell if it werent for Twilight and Cadence pretty sure AJ would be more of a wreck...." I just sighed glancing at him.

"....I hated having to do that.... Originally I was just gonna come home, sit everyone down and do that.... but Celestia got her arm snapped in half while I was dreaming.... I dont wanna be sleeping on the couch nor do I wanna be near any of you to have something happen to you guys.... I mean.... I had a dream where I was just killing everyone who was doing bad.... only just to find out it was you, our friends and family.... And my fucking god the things I did to who I did think was the enemy.... I threw someone out a window hanging them with a fire hose and shoving him in a fucking fryer.... Even just slit some guys throat looking into his eyes the whole time... fucking even point blank shot a guy in the face...."

"....More of questioning your sanity to add on to the night thrashings?" I nodded. ".... Damn... And here I thought your night terrors would've just been slapping diapers back on you and just making sure you were taken care of.... guess this is gonna need more than a babying..."

"Yeah... Just.... Get me a few days to be alone, get used to things.... I'll just be back, weeks time or something like that.... wont mind calls... Just need some time..." He nodded.

I heard the door to the house open. We both looked back and just saw Celestia and Luna coming out with the rest of the family. Celestia sighed. "....It's time to go Ryder." She said. "The longer that goes on the more heavy emotions happen..." I sighed and nodded. Since Big Mac was the closest I hugged him first. Next I got Scootaloo and Applebloom up for a hug.... Scoot didnt wanna let go again... Luna had to take her and hand her off to Big Mac while I gave a hug and a kiss to Applejack. It was.... It hurt... real bad. Luna had to sit with me in Twilight's car while Celestia took the transport back to the castle. It was weird getting things set up in the room I was given. Gallus came in, asked what went on and I told him.... He was worried but I was alright for that moment. For the night... yeah... wasnt fun.... I was given a pillow to use as something to cuddle... Woke up to the thing ripped in half. Twilight wasnt happy to see that but she did start enchanting everything in my room to be unbreakable. The adjustment was hard. Got easier but not as fast as I thought. But... I think that's it for now....