Family and Friends

So .... It's been a week since I had to take Gallus out to pick his brains and give myself a little break from Applejack being tired and pissy.... And now she's letting me take care of Mash when she cant or doesnt wanna.... But we take turns now. But right now? Rarity asked for me and Big Mac to go with her to Manehattan for an important 'fashion emergency' as she called it and we'd be compensated for our time. What it is she hasnt said but she had to have Applejack and the girls to get help from Twilight..... and somehow she agreed.... Somehow... But yeah. Right now Big Mac and I are packing bags for a few days with Rarity.... She hasnt told us where we were going or why she needed us.... It was early in the morning and thankfully Mash was sleeping better. I was wearing jeans, white tee and my Lunar Republic camo service shirt. Mac was wearing a leather jacket, jeans and a Metallicolt tee. Applejack was up making sure we were getting everything together alright.... Swear she was sounding like a mother every day.... "You boys need to text me when you get on the train, call me when you get to Manehattan and Big Mac if you see Ryder starting to freak out, you know what to do." She said just as Big Mac and I got our bags ready by the door.

Big Mac sighed. "Applejack, he's been fine this long so he should be fine still..." He replied. He took a glance at me as I looked at my phone... Just making sure that I hadnt had a missed message from Rarity. "But... Course I could still be on the lookout there...." He looked back at Applejack. "And please dont freak out if you try to call us and we dont answer. Rarity might be havin' us somewhere fancy 'n us havin our phones go off aint gonna be good for us or her..." Applejack sighed as she fixed the collar of my service shirt.

"Alright but please let me know if you do go anywhere like that with her so I know not to do that."

I huffed. "Yes mommy we will!" I said almost mockingly. She gave me a light slap on the cheek.

"Hush now sugarcube. Aint nobody gonna take your lip here." I couldnt help but chuckle.

"Sorry AJ. You're starting to sound like a mother sending her children off to school and only one of us acts like a kid here sometimes..." I blushed a little bit as both Big Mac and her had a little giggle.

"Well... Gotta practice for when our sweet baby girl starts going to school and just knowing that'll happen one day breaks my heart..." I sighed.

"Luckily that day isnt too soon.... I'll call later to check on you guys and please let the girls help you with Mash..... I dont wanna come home or call later to hear you're being stubborn again..."

"I'll pretend I didnt hear that.... You just get on now." I gave a nod and grabbed my bags before giving her a kiss on the cheek. I looked to Big Mac who just slung his pack over his shoulder and extended his suit case handle before we opened the door into the still moonlit morning.

As we walked out Big Mac huffed. The cool morning air and a light fog in the air felt good. He looked to me. "Your car or the truck?" He asked.

I sighed. "Lets take the truck. Just in case AJ needs to go anywhere. Either way we're meeting Rarity at the train station." I said. He gave a nod and we tossed our bags into the bed, closing up the tailgate. We hopped in and I just couldnt help but just feel as if I was just.... Being taken off to war again.... Leaving everyone I love just when things are getting better. Still doesnt help that my mother was still making me question whether or not I should still be a guard... Or even why I still am a guard. As Mac started to turn the truck around he huffed glancing at me.

"You good? Last chance to tell Rarity you dont wanna do this."

"I'm fine Mac.... Just... Just tired is all."

"Ryder.... Be honest with me...." I sighed feeling like he just caught me with my hand in the cookie jar.

"Fine.... Tired and I just.... Do you think I'm still being a good father? Husband as well?"

"You're doing fine on both parts. Sure you might be away more than usual but you're still pickin' up slack. Might not be givin' AJ what she wants but... Rather only one kid than two runnin' around."

"Yeah... But... Just.... Another thing.... With me being a guard.... Do you think i'm good with it?"

"Of course man. You're one of the only ones I trust bein' in the guard. Why you askin?"

"....Blame my mother.... I originally picked this guard thing up because I wanted to protect Scootaloo from the world.... same with my friends and family.... We've seen what happens.... Everything from the small time kidnappings to big time ones, assassination attempts and even the terrorist attacks.... There's just so much out there I know I wont be able to take it all on... nor do I know if any one of those is gonna take me out...." He stayed silent for a moment as we turned out of the orchard and headed into Ponyville. I almost thought he was gonna stop the truck, tell me to grab my bags and just go back to the house. Force me to stay.

"Heavy question from your mother.... Just making you question yourself? I'm gonna say this is your mother finding out all the crazy shit you've gotten yourself into and she just doesnt want her baby boy ending up in a pine box before her...."

"Yeah... That's basically it... But... I'm gonna be honest when I say I'm even scaring myself with the danger I've been getting into.... Hasnt killed me, some of it came close.... and with everything I've got? Do I wanna give it up to be there for my family? Or would I keep going on, protect them because I can?"

"See now that's something I dont wanna answer all because if I push you to do what I said, you might regret it, try to turn it around.... and knowing how your mind works? I'd rather not feel responsible for putting that in your mind." He took a hand off the wheel and put it on my lap. "Just for right now, breathe, maybe text Rarity, let her know we're coming. And if you feel something coming on, tell me, we'll see what we can do to get you grounded. Kay?" I gave a nod and just did as he said. Took a deep breath, grabbed my phone and told Rarity we're on our way.... Know what she did? Told us to meet her at her place... Yeah... Why? Because she was not gonna be leaving her car at the station.... And I'm glad we brought the truck.... Why? Because she had at least 4 bags full of stuff.... Though it was annoying it was expected.... And guess who had to sit in the back with the bags until we got to the station? Yours truly, cold as hell but Rarity promised a warm drink on the train.

Didnt have to wait long for the train. Apparently one of Rarity's friends got her tickets for us. Caboose car room too. We dropped our bags off, Mac stayed back while Rarity and I went to the food car. Sat there at the bar and just huffed looking at the menu. Rarity was just in tight jeans, knee high boots, and a sweater. She sighed as the attendant came over. "One hot coaco for my friend here and a tea for me please." She said. The attendant nodded before going to some machines behind them. Rarity looked to me as I yawned. "Thank you again for coming Ryder." She said. "So nice to have company on this long train ride! Last time we went to Manehattan it wasnt the best time...."

I huffed. "Yeah... That time Celestia kinda flipped her lid a bit all because of a dickhead she met with..." I replied. "So... You're still aware of the stuff that I've dealt with in Manehattan right?"

"Sadly.... I still commend you for your bravery in saving your family. I still feel bad for yelling at you over Sweetie Belle being in danger.... I just... I love her as much as you do your sister..."

"Yeah... You've already seen what I do to keep her safe and come back to her...." The attendant put two steaming mugs in front of us. I grabbed mine.... So warm in my hands. I gave a nod to the pony. Rarity took her mug and smiled.

"Thank you!" She said before sipping. She glanced to me as she set her mug down again. "I have and I must say its just.... I'm speechless as to what you've been through..." I sipped my warm chocolaty drink. Went down smooth.

"I cant help but think back to those moments... What could've happened... and it scares me..."

"You and I both... You more than I but... Nonetheless I cant help but dread to think if you and I had our places swapped..." My mind couldnt help but think if i was like her.... I'd lose Scootaloo, I'd be dead in all cases after.... I just drank my drink. "But enough of that. What's your take on Fatherhood so far? You have a darling of a daughter and she's too cute with the outfits I've given her!"

"Its.... strange.... Taking care of a foal.... Padding someone up who actually needs em rather than to help them.... Holding a little ball of joy, giggling without a care in the world, not even knowing what goes on.... Just playing with mommy and daddy if he's ever around... I feel like I'm just not around enough but I wanna be there for her more..."

"You're still doing a great job with her while you're there. I've had to have Sweetie Belle slap some sense into me because of all the outfits I was planning for your daughter. Had to turn the outfits I was making into concepts that I might start selling to those with foals. I've had to try getting the idea of foal clothing out of my head by starting to make Sweetie Belle some dresses... Yet somehow I still manage to have an area to attach a pacifier on it. Dont realize it until she puts it on...." I blushed slightly and looked around. Nobody within earshot thankfully.

"When we get home, I'll pay you for a onsie my size with one of those on it."

"All yours darling. Perhaps Applejack can help model some maternity wear if she still wishes to?"

"That's something you'd have to ask her... Speaking of her I should tell her we made it to the train okay." She sipped her tea.

"Go right ahead with that Ryder." I gave a nod and grabbed my phone sipping my drink again. Just sent a text to AJ saying I was on the train with Mac and Rarity. Even just scrolled a little bit through my texts she sent me.... best one was a pic of Scootaloo just napping on the bed next to Mash while AJ was doing laundry and Big Mac was out in the orchard... Me helping him. I sighed. "Something the matter?"

"Nah.... Just... lost in thought...."

"Why dont you finish your drink there and head back to the private car? I'll be fine here for a while and we have a long way to go." I gave a nod and just put my phone away before finishing my drink and going back to the car.... I had to breathe and just keep my head down.... I dont know if I was freaking out because of the train ride again or what....Once I lied in that bed next to Big Mac I was out. Didnt take long for me to fall into a dreamscape immediately being met by Luna.

I sat in the middle of the park in Manehattan.... Didnt really know what it was like so trees were in odd shapes. Bushes were strange too. Luna came over dressed in some comfortable pajamas including a teeshirt. She sighed. "Everything alright Ryder?" She asked. "I havent found you in a place like this in a while... Beautiful and verdant but you never come to a place like this unless you've got something on your mind."

I couldnt help but just give a hefty sigh myself. "....I... I honestly dont know... Maybe I'm already homesick..." I said. "....I'm on a train with Big Mac and Rarity bound for Manehattan... Not freaking out... Least I dont think so... and just the biggest question that's wracked my mind since the twist ending to Blood Dawn 4 when everything went to shit anyways...."

"A question? Are you contemplating something...?"

"....Yeah but it's not what you think.... Its just... I dont know what I'm still doing in this stage in my life..."

"What's thy question Ryder? Ask me anything if it helps clear your mind." I thought about it for a moment... did I really wanna tell Luna I'm not sure if I wanted to lead the guard? Let alone still be one with my family worrying about me? And vice versa? I just took a deep breath and sighed before leaning into her.

"....Princess... If I tell you this... Dont make the choice for me... I wanna do it on my own.... And not a word of this to Celestia please.... I've already told Twilight and I'm taking a risk on telling you...."

"I see.... Well.... Go ahead... whenever you're ready." I took a moment.... Got myself comfortable... climbed into her lap and just hugged her.... Her embrace was warm.... Dream yeah but... warm...

"My mother... Spitfire.... She asked me a question a while back... It just... it made me think... Not sure if I'm having a crisis or something... but... I've told her about the things I've been through... she's scared that.... being a guard is just gonna send me to my death... and it scares me too.... She doesnt want me to die and I dont want to either... at least this early... but... I took this guard job to take care of my sister... that extended to family... friends... even you and Celestia and contacts from all over.... I wanna keep doing that but.... I wanna just not put myself in danger... but.... If I dont I leave my family open to those dangers and they could get hurt.... So the question is... What am I doing still being a guard? Am I doing this because I like keeping my family safe? Or am I just doing this because I'm still trying to provide for my family who pretty much has everything they need?" Princess Luna stayed silent for a moment... Just as if she were enjoying my company.... But she too was deep in thought... or shock... couldnt tell...

"That is.... indeed a heavy question to bear... Yet only what fruit grows is yours to know... The pros and cons are there... Pros of being a guard are saving your family and providing for them further... Cons are you might not come back home one day due to an unseen danger taking you down. Pros of not being a guard are being safe and sound with your family but the con is not being able to provide for them in a case of dire need. Either decision wont change the way my sister or I will perceive you.... But... perhaps I point something out perchance?"

"Go ahead... I... guess...."

"Before you became a guard... you definitely had the jewels to stand up to those who wanted to hurt your friends. You saved the mare that became your wife and a mother to a sweet baby girl from a murderer who could've taken a third victim.... Then you tackled a robber who threatened to hurt Pinkie Pie and her surrogate family of the Cakes. Sure you might've been banned from working there but you even had the balls to go back there, ask for something to do to get some money to help your sister... That all changed after that.... But you've done things then but what would stop you from throwing out some vigilante justice if you were in the wrong place at the right time? Hm?"

"...I know I've done those things but... that was because if I hadnt done anything... who would've?"

"A good question indeed... But being a guard saves you from someone blaming you for something that was different than what actually happened..."

"It does but doesnt.... I remember coming home from the war, having Shining show me something while I was still awaiting surgery for my wing replacement... Basically a news story that was put out about me executing that spy... Saying I executed a soldier for not following orders or something...."

"I too remember seeing that and for the lies, that journalist was fired on the spot. They wont do any journalism again and if they do whether it be a blog post or for a news station something will be done." We both looked out hearing a train horn go off. I sighed.

"There's my queue to wake up.... Please remember not to tell your sister.... If you want to talk more about this later we can."

"Alright... Just keep your wits about you General.... Speak with you soon." I just gave a nod as everything faded.

As I woke up I felt the hug still... As I opened my eyes I saw that I was right in Big Mac's arms...I'd pry him off but with the strength I had? Nah... dont wanna hurt him. I just wiggled a bit against him.... Very well could've grabbed his package but I'd rather not make a stallion cream his own pants when he's asleep... I'd rather do that when they're awake and willing.... And already horny. I wiggled a bit and he just snorted waking up... Before just yelling and pushing us both out of bed.... He got up moving his mane out of his face. I just huffed fixing mine as I stood up. "....Ry I swear you werent there when I fell asleep..." He said.

"I wasnt but you were the one who was cuddling me so... Balls in your court." He stretched a bit making sure he had everything.

"We nearly in Manehattan?" I stretched my wings a little bit.

"Should be soon..." I replied. "You wanna go find Rarity or you want me to?"

"All you bud... I gotta get our bags together, make sure everything's there." I huffed.

"You're not gonna be the one carrying it....."

"Yeah but she's gonna be pissed if she cant find the one missing bag in the five that she's taking...." I huffed and just went for the door.

"Just make sure we have everything.... I need to go and find her..." He gave a nod just as I stepped out of the car and into another. Went all the way to the food car just to see Rarity there with another cup of tea talking with the attendant. "Still here Rarity?"

Rarity jumped slightly hearing me. Luckily keeping her cup steady before looking my way. "Oh! Ryder! Awake already?" She asked.

"Yeah. Should be ready for Manehattan soon. Why are you still here?" She used her magic to pull her phone from her cleavage... The attendant definitely saw that. She checked and just gasped slightly.

"Oh! I dare say I've been here quite a while darling.... Too much tea and the conversations..." She drank the rest of her tea and huffed blushing a bit. "Uh... Ryder would you be a dear and pick me up? I'd move but... Tea.... and dont worry... I've paid for the five cups I've had..." I sighed rolling my eyes before carefully picking her up. At least she helped me open the doors back to our car before she had to grab a spare from my bags and use it because guess what? THE TOILETS ON THE TRAIN WERE FUCKED. Lucky I didnt have to go that bad. Though until we got to the station she had to wear it because she didnt wanna use a trash can and dispose of something she wouldnt wanna be caught dead in.... Yeah like she hasnt slept in one a time or two... Drunk or sober.

Anyhow once we got off the train and ran to the nearest restroom, Rarity and Mac first I just couldnt help but sit with the bags and start a call with Applejack. She answered real quick but I heard a little crying. "...Great timing Ry...." I heard Applejack say. "...Just got back to bed to feed our Mash.... Aint what I thought my mornin' would be but I'm just lucky Twilight made a little surprise visit with Spike to help make breakfast while you two are out.... How was the train ride? Assumin' you're at the station already?"

I sighed. "Yeah. Stuck watching the bags while Mac and Rarity use the toilet...." I said. "Just.... Still feeling like shit knowing that I cant be there to help you with my baby girl..."

"Oh dont you worry... I understand Ry. You're busy with stuff on Princess orders. You're a busy stallion and when you're here you're still a good help with her...."

"I cant take the credit there... Girls are a big help as well as your brother."

"Yeah... Maybe when you get back, we take em out to dinner?"

"Yeah... Their choice though."

"Of course. Now you just get on. Girl's getting hungry and the more talking I do aint gonna get her fed any faster."

"Alright... Give Mash a kiss for me and if the girls arent up yet, tell Scoot to text me later what she'd want from Manehattan if anything at all.... And please make sure she asks Applebloom too and have you text me what they both want if possible? I just... I've kinda not been trusting Scoot even after she says she did her chores when she didnt..."

"Understandable but I gotta go... Girls gettin' more and more fussy... Love ya sugarcube."

I just hung up and kept watch over our bags until they got out... Then I ran in, did my thing and came back out to help with the bags again. When we got street side... I... felt something.... Again... being watched but.... this wasnt the type of being watched my father does.... this one was literally right in front of me. Few guard trucks were across the street and a few were just looking right at us... I recognized them both. Mare with a brown coat and this time a neon purple mane, the other, pegasus, red mane, grey coat. Both wearing local guard armor. Pepper and Cinder! They both waved. "GENERAL!" Pepper called out before they both rushed across the street.

I swear I almost wanted to jump in the middle of traffic the way they ran over. They stopped maybe a few feet away and saluted. I just couldnt help but smile and salute back real quick. "At ease ladies!" I said. "How are you two doing? Havent seen you in a while!"

"A hell of a lot better since my trip to Appaloosa..." She replied. "...Heard from Rouge that you got married while I was in the nuthouse getting help for myself..."

Cinder sighed. "After Manehattan I swear you'd've been dead... but after Pepper said she saw you in the middle of the desert I thought the heat got to her head." She said nudging her other half. I chuckled slightly. "The hell happened last I saw you anyhow? Dropped you off at ground zero, next thing you know I'm trying to save as many ponies as I can before rushing the hell out of there, truck full of scared ponies and I think from Pepper you remember the rest."

I huffed. "Yeah... I remember." I said. "Maybe sometime later after you're off duty I can explain things if you wanna hit me up for a drink."

Pepper huffed. "Might take you up on that." She said. "What're you doing here anyways? Didnt get word from the Princess saying you were coming."

"This visit is a bit off the record.... But even I'm not sure what I'm even doing here...." I said glaring at Big Mac and Rarity just chatting among themselves. I looked back at Pepper. "Uh.... Maybe wait here for a sec? Gotta see what we're doing and where we need to go.... and what we're doing here.... The mare talking to my brother in law is keeping things extremely secret.... All I know is this is a trip to Manehattan but I know there are strings being pulled for something...."

They both snickered slightly just as I went over to Rarity and Big Mac. Rarity sighed looking at me. "Please tell me you can get us a ride to where we're going because Big Mac doesnt have any family that can get us and my friend cant come pick us up either!" She said.

"I'll get us a ride once you tell us what in Celestia's good name we're doing here. We came with you without knowing why we're coming with you in the first place and it doesnt seem like a vacation!" She huffed.

"I thought you knew at least!"

Big Mac sighed. "I didnt know either Rare." He said. "All I know is Twilight talked with Applejack, Applejack talked with us, made us go and there aint nothin' more to go on!"

"Twilight.... She didnt.... Say anything???" We both shook our heads. "THE NERVE! She agrees to help me but doesnt mention this!?"

"Rarity! Calm your fucking ass! She's a PRINCESS! She probably had other things on her mind that werent telling us what was happening! Now tell us why we're here or I'm taking my bags back to the station and waiting for the next one home!"

"Wait wait dont! Please! I'm sorry just.... Dont leave!" I could see in her eyes how worried she was... either that or scared.... Hard to tell with her.... "If you really must know why you're here its uh.... well...." She looked around. "Could uh... Could you get us a ride before I say? I would rather not leak anything and have any ideas stolen...." I just huffed resisting the urge to grab my bags and just walk back into the station... That and Big Mac was ready to tackle my ass and get my friends on me... I sighed.

"Fine... Tell us and I really hope dinner is included in this...."

"Trust me darling it will be. My friend who we're going to see is going to be paying for all our dinners." I gave a sigh before heading back over to Pepper and Cinder.

Cinder looked to me as Pepper ran back across the street to their truck. "So? Figure it out?" She asked. "Pepper's gonna see about swapping our patrol vehicle for a transport for you and your party here."

I gave a huff. "Yeah... Good... Kinda need it right now because the mare I'm with isnt wanting to say anything until we have transport...." I replied. She nodded.

"Fair enough. Just bring your bags on over to the truck and we'll wait there." I gave a nod and just grabbed a few bags before just nodding across the street to Mac and Rarity. Cinder stopped traffic for a moment while we crossed and waited at the truck. I swapped numbers with Pepper and Cinder, told them I talked to Rouge, had a drink with him and even got into contact with 'shadow'... Told them he came to the wedding and was scared shitless when guards rushed the place after I was kidnapped... Rarity and Mac basically confirmed it was Changelings and I swear the look on Pepper's face was just as shocking as when she heard I jumped out of a burning building during a fucking terrorist attack. Though I had to fudge the story about Appaloosa a little bit and actually have Big Mac keep his mouth shut while I told what 'actually' happened. We had to actually cut that story short before the transport came.... And we actually had to commandeer the patrol car to follow us with our bags in there too because RARITY'S FUCKING HAUL. Even the guards who showed up to take the patrol car couldnt believe it... Least they got a breather from action in this city.

After we started down the road with Pepper and Cinder in the front seats Big Mac huffed. "Mind tellin' us what we're doing out here?" He asked. "We waited long enough and now we've got the privacy. What's so secret we needed this anyways?"

Rarity sighed. "I have a friend who invited me to participate in a photo shoot..." She said. "She asked me if I knew anyone willing to participate and it had to be anyone who had modeled stuff for me before and well..."

"Lemme guess.... We were the only ones you could think of but asking us directly wasnt an option was it...?"

"Unfortunately with everything going on I thought you'd say no and with Ryder's newest addition its obvious he would've said no unless it was from a Princess."

I huffed. "....And I guess Applejack wouldnt have been able to come? Or the girls?" I asked.

"As much as I would love to have Applejack and the girls with us I dont want to get your daughter sick because she came with us traveling and the poor thing isnt even taking her meal from a bottle yet." I just huffed pinching my nose annoyed at this. Yet I didnt know which sucked more. Being ripped away from my family to do something I had no clue I was doing or that she didnt want to include the family either... At least she's caring for the new foal.... I just sighed.

"...Right... Next time you do something like this, ask them, see if we're good to do this as a family...." She looked out the window.

"I shall in the future.... You can assure that next time family will be involved. With them along for the ride or you with them just as a guest while they do the same thing you... That is if you'd be alright with that."

"I'd have to talk it over with Applejack... Big Mac would have to get input too....."

"Understandable... But... For now... My friend will be expecting us. She doesnt know you yet but... Please try to work with her as best as you can..."

"We will but... is there any outcome for us here?"

"Compensation for your time, meals, gifts for when we get home. I will be forever grateful if you do this."

I huffed. Big Mac sighed. "Can we not talk about this now?" He asked. "Rather deal with the bullshit we're in now.... Aint what I wanted but we're in it now...."

"Fine fine darling its alright. We have a while to go to get to my friends place."

"How long?" Rarity looked to Pepper in the drivers seat. "Miss? How long until we get to 24263 Adamantium Drive?"

Pepper hummed looking at the streets as we slowly cruised under the stop light we were at. "Lets se... We're on Creedence Boulevard right now...." She said. I could see the numbers being crunched floating around her head. "Give or take a half hour unless there's an accident in the tunnel... and when I tell you that it happens often enough to think about we better be lucky...." Rarity sighed.

"I better call my friend, let her know we're on our way... Need everyone to be quiet while I get this done." We all nodded as she pulled her phone out. I pulled mine out and just started looking at my texts... Saw one from Gilda and this one was just a bit of a tease.... She's been hella horny lately... Dash told me she was down at the park with her the other day and Gilda is wearing- guess what? A punk style school girl uniform... and no panties with the skirt as short as Applejack's shorts in the heat.The best part? Vibrator attached to her leg teasing her the whole time.... Hell Dash even took video of her walking around, flashing the camera and when she came? Good lord it looked like she pissed herself. Dont doubt in the slightest she held it until she did that. But as for the thing she sent me? Pair of pink panties, stained with the caption 'Miss you!' on it... Gotta say I miss her too but I'd wanna not fuck willynilly and end up with another kid... at least until this one is old enough to talk... Or not piss her pants. And yeah I know condoms.... But With the luck I've had I do NOT want a broken condom, a creampie to boot and a fucking kid with what I really consider a living sex doll who would take the rage I would put into it.... And I swear if you tell Gilda that I consider her a sex doll that willingly gets raped I'll gut you myself.... Somehow. Anyhow Rarity gave a hum as she put her phone to her ear. Took not even a minute before someone picked up I guess. "Hello Coco? We just got in to Manehattan and we've got a friend of mine helping us out with a ride to your apartment. Yes he's the one we're working with for the photoshoot. What does he do? He's a guard and I guess his friends from the guard were at the right place at the right time.... No he's alright with this. He basically is the one who allows this. Rank? Well... I'm not sure I'm at liberty to say but he's in good standings if you get me... I've got his brother in law with me as well. Both strong, able bodied and both are... Shapely to say the least..." Shapely with her means well endowed.... And dont ask what she offers if you try something on and get hard as a rock.... "Alright alright we can talk more about them later over drinks and lunch if we can. I just called to say we'll be there soon... Give or take a half hour or so... Oh! Oh alright! Alright I'll tell him. I'll chat with you when we get there! Toodles!"

I sighed looking to Rarity as I pocketed my phone. "So.... Why say I'm a guard? And tell her Big Mac is my brother in law?" I asked.

"She needs to know who she's working with Darling. Rather she knows who she's working with rather than have it be a surprise. She hates that sort of thing."

"Alright... Just.... When you ended the call she wanted you to say something?"

"Yes she did. She told me to tell you that she appreciates you doing this and to let you know there's a reward for doing this. Not sure what its going to be but with Coco she's willing to work with you on it."

"Alright... Just.... Hope this is gonna be quick.... No offense Rares..."

"Oh none taken darling. I completely understand. You'd rather be with your foal than here but trust me after a few days here you'll be glad to go back home and I'll not bother you unless you come to me."

"Alright..." I looked to Pepper and Cinder. "So... Got music you wanna listen to?" Oh they looked to each other like it was just the question they wanted to be asked. They ended up putting on some Sapphire Shores and both of em took turns singing. Even Rarity and I sang a few songs we knew. Hell in between songs Rarity told em how my mother got us to meet Sapphire Shores in Las Pegasus. They didnt believe it until I showed them pictures. Hell they didnt even know my mother was Spitfire until I told them and we had a huge fucking reveal and everything! Hell Pepper told me she'd suck my dick to meet her but I agreed to maybe schedule a meetup and yeah... without the alleyway bribe that some nightclub bouncers get when someone wants in and they know they wont be able to get in any other way. And there? That's a bad bouncer in my opinion.

Anyhow that drive took AN HOUR. Tunnel we wanted was blocked off, traffic was insane because the suggested route had an accident involving 3 cars and then the next route had us going literally on a fucking tour of the city. Hell I was about ready to order lunch waiting in traffic AND THERE WAS A MCHOOVIANS ON THE CORNER I COULD'VE EASILY WALKED IN, ORDERED AND GOT BACK IN THE FUCKING TRUCK! Yeah... That traffic annoyed the hell out of me. What bugged me even more was that the route we had to take took us past the memorial a few times.... First time was before the crash, second time we had to find a street to loop around.... The whole time Rarity, Pepper and Cinder were talking. Big Mac was on his phone and me? I just kicked back trying to pretend I wasnt in a car in a city that nearly killed me away from my family who I REALLY feel like I should be with at the moment but no.... I had to be here. Anyhow I just had to distract myself.... Nap, phone.... Didnt know... But we went all the way across town, passed by central park and came up to a fancy hotel... or... apartment complex? Was just a fancy place in general. Cinder looked back at us. "Alright, here we are. 24263 Adamantium drive!" She said. "Lost the car with the baggage along the way but we'll check where it is and bring your baggage up when it gets here." I huffed as big Mac opened the door for Rarity and himself.

"I'll stay down here to help with the bags."

Rarity sighed. "I hope it comes soon because Id rather do introductions only once and its rude for a late arrival." She said.

"I'll apologize once I'm there now get on inside, I'll call you when the bags get here so you can be ready for us." She gave a nod as she stepped out. I followed and just stretched a bit before flying around loosening my wings out. After maybe a few minutes I landed and just sat on the top of the transport.

Pepper huffed as she leaned on the truck after getting out. "So General.... You mentioned something about a wife and kid?" She asked. "Already know about the wife but the kid? How old?"

"....Month or so.... hard to tell considering I've been running around like this since she was born.... Beautiful little filly.... My eyes, Momma's mane.... Just.... Still shocking I'm the father..."

"Aww how adorable! Any pictures?" I sighed.

"I'll show a pic later but.... A question if you will?"

"Well.... guessing something tells me you're in crisis mode again.... C'mon. Hop down, lemme get a quick eval in before we talk." I rolled my eyes.... I forget she was my medic for a while because of trust issues due to that fucking spy.... Hell since I got there she's been there for me.... Considering I've been there for her.... Second in command was my best help there.... Anyhow she opened the door again to the front of the cab and had me sit inside.

Cinder looked to us as as I got myself settled in. "Uncomfortable up there sir?" She asked. Pepper looked over my shoulder.

"No. Doing a mental eval.... Been having to do it for him all the time while I was deployed. Quiet the radio chatter if you can." I saw in the reflection of the side mirror that she nodded and I heard whatever chatter quiet down right away. "Alright.... Any dark thoughts in the past few months?"

I swallowed. "Would thoughts about being afraid of losing the wife to childbirth count?" I asked.

"....Uh.... I'll count it.... Any thoughts of suicide?" I shook my head. "...This city doing anything? Making you uneasy by being here?" This? I didnt have an answer for this... I just shrugged. "Okay.... Just sensing some general anxiety.... Nothing a good chat, maybe a nice cup of tea and a deep breath couldnt fix. Go on. Ask the question." I just swallowed..... Took a look out the front of the vehicle at some parked just up ahead... sedans, SUV... Think one sports car but that was neither here nor there.

"...Have either of you thought of just.... getting out of this? Just... Getting out of the guard and do something else...? Something that wouldnt risk your life unless you used your own training to do something?"

Pepper and Cinder both looked to me. I didnt even look away from the cars in front of us. Cinder leaned on the steering wheel.... just made sure she didnt lay on the horn. "...After the attack that I swear killed you? I just wanted to go... stop doing this from everything I saw that day...." She said. "...Everything from having to find families for missing kids, pulling dead bodies from underneath rubble hoping I wasnt gonna find yours there and then to rush home to let Pepper know I was okay? I.... I can admit the thought stayed in my mind for a while.... I didnt wanna do anything that would get me killed.... and with how Pepper was? I was just glad that Princess Celestia herself gave us paid leave for a while.... You kinda know the rest for Pepper... For me? I had to head out to see my parents.... Would've brought her but... My father is a judgemental piece of shit.... Doesnt want her near me.... disregards her own struggles as 'part of the job' despite knowing she nearly fucking died and just....." I just looked to her.... She had tears in her eyes, struggling to try to say more... Pepper reached over my lap and grabbed her hand.

Pepper sighed. "....You love him enough to keep him around but he needs to learn to think about how he would be in our situations...." She said. "...take a deep breath hun.... Just breathe...." Pepper looked to me giving a huff. "...I've been asking myself that since the plane crash.... I could swear you died a few times on the mountain... hell when we got into Canterlot I thought you were gone.... Right in front of everyone... After that I thought what if I were in your position? Would I have survived the fall? If I did would I have mutilated myself for survival? I was scared shitless for you... Hell I thought about how Rouge acted after the crash... He was freaking out too...."

I sighed. "...Thinking back on that?" I asked. "...Makes sense... Wouldnt doubt he thought the enemy was around..... That we were gonna be targeted and it was survival of the fittest.... I should just.... Contact the Princess... have him contacted, do a mental evaluation on him.... he seemed fine when I saw him last but.... Who knows what goes on underneath?"

"....Aint that the truth.... Up until the attack here.... I thought I was fine... maybe a nightmare here and there but... that bomb went off and my brain just went to red alert....."

"Yeah... Just... Just glad you got the help you needed...." I looked in the mirror. Just saw a squad car pull up. I sighed. "Well ladies, take a deep breath and relax.... Bags are here... Gotta get inside soon." They both nodded. Pepper stepped out of the way and let me hop out. She got in, gave Cinder a kiss before they both hopped out and went towards the squad car. We grabbed our bags and went in.... and god the snooty jackass at the counter didnt believe I was here with friends. I had to call Rarity, Rarity had to tell her friend, her friend called the front desk, the front desk had to push a few buttons, lead us to the elevator WITH SECURITY BECAUSE THREE GUARDS WERENT ENOUGH and we went straight up to the suite level.

Lucky me Rarity was just at the top of the elevator waiting for us. She sighed. "Its about time! You have all our bags Ryder?" She asked.

"Yeah, got everything Rarity. Wanna make sure you've got everything in your bags or can we just go find your friend?"

"Use that tone with me anymore and the wife will hear about this!"

Cinder huffed. "Apologies for his attitude ma'am.... He's just.... Well... Stressed...." She said. Rarity gave a sigh just looking to me.

"Very well.... Just... Follow me...." She started down the hall. Just walked until we got to a door. She stopped and knocked. "Coco! Our things are here! Big Mac let us in!" She looked back to me. "When we get inside, dont touch anything, dont make an ass of yourself and for the love of Celestia puh-LEEZE act like a gentlecolt! I'd rather not have myself be embarrassed because you went and said something utterly stupid and before you say anything YOU DO IT ALL THE TIME!"

I huffed. "So... You're just expecting me to shut myself up the whole fucking time? Its gonna be rude if I fail to answer any questions your friend could have." I replied.

"....I'm not saying stay quiet the entire time I'm saying just dont say anything indicating your IQ is the same as your shoe size! Try to sound smarter than Pinkie but not as smart as Dash."

"You saying my cousin is smarter than me?"

"If you insist but seriously my friend is high class, we both make clothes and I'd rather not hear from anyone we associate with asking why you and Big Mac are acting like neanderthals!"

"Since when-" She just gave me a death stare that.... honestly scared me... and she only gets this way when someone REALLY pushes her buttons. And something tells me I was starting to press buttons... Anyhow the door opened up revealing Big Mac sitting at a side bar with a drink in hand watching a TV over a bar stocked with drinks... seems like everyone in the town drinks. The mare at the door? Short sleeved white button up, light purple vest, matching skirt, fishnet stockings and black heels, cream coat, neon blue mane. Rarity sighed as she looked to the mare.

"My apologies for the lateness with our other guest Coco. Our bags had gotten lost and he insisted on staying behind to bring the bags up...."

The mare smiled a bit. "Oh no worries there Rarity! You cant just expect our protectors to haul bags up by themselves!" She said stepping off to the side. "Come in! Come in just set the bags off to the side! My assistants will take them to your rooms momentarily! For now why not sit by, have a drink?"

I sighed as we entered. "As good as that sounds, I think for right now us three has something non alcoholic please." I said. "Two still on duty, one just.... Rather not drink until later..."

"Ah quite alright. I understand not everyone drinks this early but doesnt hurt to offer."

As we entered I couldnt help but marvel at the chic 50's diner-esque interior. Large sitting area with an entertainment center, a grand view of the city out the window, fire pit in the corner with a chimney... It was actually beautiful even with the art on the walls and a little bit of a workshop in the other corner. "Wow... This place is amazing!" Pepper said. "Wish our place was somethin' like this...."

I looked back at Cinder. I could see gears turning in her head as she was looking at everything. "...High end studio apartment, fashion supplies, Coco...." She said to herself. She looked to Coco. "You're Coco Pommel! The fashion designer arent you?"

Coco nodded. "The one and only!" She said.

"Ma'am can I just say I am a huge fan of your work? I have very few of your earlier designs but with your latest designs from your summer collection its something I've been saving up for!" Coco giggled slightly as Pepper set the bags aside as Rarity went for the bar to get a glass of wine.... always...

"I always strive for fashionable and affordable. And a guard wearing the summer sun couture? Its actually perfect because its designed for those who are active and with how breathable the fabric is you wouldnt be able to tell you've been sweating. The fabric also works with you so you arent as likely to get caught up with anything.... Armor, anything whilst on a run whether for your own health or trying to get someone."

I couldnt help but give a smile. "A fashion designer eh?" I asked. "No wonder Rarity wanted us to meet you."

"She at least did mention a photo shoot right? Rarity always forgets to mention things like this."

"Yeah she mentioned it. We good to talk details after some lunch? Kinda getting a little hungry here..."

"Oh but of course where are my manners? Lunch will be on me. Just right now, stretch, make yourself at home and take a breather if need be." I gave a nod and just walked over to the bar to sit with Big Mac as Rarity walked off with her friend. Even had Cinder and Pepper both strip off their armor just to join us.

As I sat down Big Mac sighed just as a bar tender just started taking orders.... Thankfully Pepper ordered for me a soda. "About time Ry. Thought you woulda been down the road and flying that damn truck over." He said.

I huffed taking my drink from the bar tender just giving him a nod. "Would've if it wasnt for that question I asked you earlier... wanted a little perspective from others in my position..." I said. "...Just.... seems there are always thoughts.... I'd ask for a definite answer but... I'd rather not get an answer in the form of something that nearly takes me out or anyone else I love..."

"You try talking to the Princesses?" I gave a nod.

"....Twilight, Luna... Havent talked with Celestia yet but... I'm just afraid to talk to her.... forcing her to make my decision... Could force me to stay.... either that or just cut me entirely.... I just still dont know why I'm here... doing guard stuff...."

"I know there.... You got a family now... wife... daughter... Hell our sisters just love the hell outta you.... Saw Scootaloo cry worrying about you.... That... Incident with Timber wolves.... That girl was so scared she didnt even sleep after getting out of the house.... I had to go to Rarity's, talk that girl into being strong for you... hell... that day you went and changed? I saw some fucker off himself with a guards gun.... Aint the first time I seen someones lifeless body hit the floor... just still disturbin' all at the same time... But your sister.... she's getting bigger... stronger.... been seeing her take more and more care of herself....She's been even getting more and more bold with bullies lately from what Cheerilee's been tellin' me... Girls growing up I tell ya..."

I just sighed turning my attention to the TV. News stories.... Most involving guards here and there either with arrests, takedown of dealers and such... Think there was one about a few guards injured in a fire fight down town.... Luckily no fatalities... but I just kinda spaced out there.... Just drank my drink mindlessly watching. Every now and then I just tuned back in to hear something about guards to something having to do with family. I guess everyone was getting up to do something leaving me there and I didnt notice until Pepper nudged me. Just looked around to see Big Mac gone, Cinder gone, Rarity and Coco not even anywhere near but Pepper was the only one, helmet under arm. "General? You good? Been here a while...." She said. I looked at my drink. Empty.

I sighed as I got up. "...Honestly dont know if I'm good Pepper.... That question just burrowed into my mind and I just cant stop thinking about it...." I said stretching. ".... I wanna stay to be providing for my family... but I wanna leave because I'm afraid of leaving my family alone.... Though I feel like there's no inbetween...."

"Take a deep breath.... Please.... I feel like there's gonna be a little breakdown here soon... Rather you'd calm down so nobody feels uncomfortable with you just having a mental breakdown... and with the city you've had issues in.... I dont think any good would come of it...." I started taking deep breaths... Made sure I was steady... "You wanna call your wife? Check in?" I thought for a moment... Nodded. "Alright.... Just go on... Grab your phone, call your wife... video chat if you want...." I just sat back down on the stool and grabbed my phone from my pocket.

I pulled up the video chat app and just hoped that she was free or not just putting Mash to sleep or something... I started calling her and just set my phone back down propping it against the glass. I just watched a little animation where it just looked like a signal going out before an exclamation mark appeared over the picture I set for AJ.... Her maternity photo Braeburn did. Amazing job. Before I knew it I saw her face pop up... Mane down looking fresh out of the shower and relaxed. "Hey there sugarcube! What's goin' on? Rarity gettin' on your nerves?" She asked. I just shook my head and looked over to Pepper. She sighed and just angled my phone towards her to get us both in shot.

"Uh... Sorry... Name's Pepper! I was helping your husband through the war and from what my significant other tells me she drove you guys around town during the attacks.... I'm just kinda butting in to say your husband is kinda having a little moral dilemma... Mostly out of the love for you and his little filly.... which I... Gotta say I kinda wanna see some pictures of the little darling if that's alright with you ma'am..."

"Moral dilemma? And his...." She pinched her nose. "Ry.... I'mma say this once.... and if you even hesitate to answer I'm hanging right up.... are you plannin' on leaving me alone with that filly you helped bring into this world?"

I sighed. "No AJ... It's not that... I love you guys too much to leave now... I feel like I've already left too much to even spend time with Mash but.... Its that love that makes me think of this dilemma... Something my mother brought up and I just cant help but get it out of my head..." I replied. "...Its about me and being in the guard.... Princesses have told me time and time again the shit I do could end up getting me killed.... and they're right... do I still do them? Yeah... all because every time I do it I see you and Scoot in that trouble.... I protect those who need it like I'm protecting you guys.... but... I just..." My eyes started tearing up. "....I dont wanna go out, protect someone and just have it take my life in the process... but I dont wanna leave it behind.... because I dont know if I can find something to do to support you guys like I do now... If I stay I could end up getting myself killed... if I leave....? Then there's the possibility we start losing money... start losing money we set aside for the girls... our Mash..." I sniffled a bit just as Pepper just grabbed a napkin for me to wipe my nose a bit. Applejack sighed.

"...Sugarcube.... I'm gonna be honest... I am GLAD you're in the guard and doing what you do.... it might scare the living shit outta me and your sister... but knowing you do that for us makes up for that.... the fact you come home, alive, well.... Maybe a bump and a bruise every now and then but that's from another can o'worms we aint gonna open up here but... it does scare me to think one of these days you're just gonna turn up dead on the doorstep.... either that or we got Celestia, Twilight... one of our friends or something just runnin' up the road, bawling just because they drew the short straw on telling me... You know how many times Twilight vented to me about something idiotic you got yourself into because it nearly tore you away from me for good? Think you know when it started but... she keeps telling me because she was afraid of how I'd react... But she knows now hiding it from me is only gonna make it worse... But the last thing she told me....? Tartarus.... that you nearly got your ass thrown in there because of some mare that came through a portal? I can handle you being in a drunk tank and a prison where I could actually visit.... But tartarus? Sugarcube... my heart just wouldnt be able to take it... knowing that you'd be there, away from us... not knowing who or what could be trying to kill you in there.... Just here.... This one's up to you... Aint one to make decisions for others.... if it were my decision you'd've been at my side doing whatever you could here at the orchard... Probably would'nt've had our little filly..."

"....Even though I say I'd give up anything and everything to keep you two safe.... I just dont know if giving up guard work would be a good idea..."

"Again... your call sugarcube... Now I gotta get going. Girls should be coming home from school soon and I gotta be there to meet em at the roadside. Love you sugarcube!" She hung up just leaving me and Pepper together.

I grabbed my phone and huffed as I turned back around. "...I can see this might not've given you an answer...." Pepper said. "...C'mon. Lets get down to the transport. Just put your mind on something else if you can..." I gave a hesitant nod before we walked down to the elevator taking it down. Once in the transport we had to wait for Big Mac, Rarity and Coco to come down.

We ended up going to a nice place that was trendy but not fancy to the point where I'm looking like a bum compared to everyone. We ate, actually enjoyed my meal but the place we went to? Just down the street from the memorial. Pepper, Cinder and I went down there after we ate. Actually just went down there, said our little things... me with my 'sorry I couldnt save everyone', Pepper and Cinder probably saying the same things.... We were just silent when we did it. When we met back up with Mac, Rarity and Coco at the restaraunt something didnt feel right.... Not the thought I was plagued with but... It just seemed like Coco was kinda... staring at me... Didnt say anything but I just caught glances. On the way back I sat in front to rest my eyes for a bit on the way back... had a good bit of traffic... But when we got back to the apartment Mac was just itching for a nap. I went with him considering we had to share a room. I sat down on my bed as he was just getting into something more comfortable. "C'mon Ry... We're here to have a good time. Just take a breath, have yourself a lie down, maybe get yourself a shot to make it easier to deal with." He said.

I huffed just laying back on my bed. Soft, warm sheets. "Its not that Mac." I said. "Just.... Caught Coco staring at me before we left the restaurant... Kinda made me uncomfortable... Just like... she realized something or was just questioning if I should even be here... Or just... Something.... It was like she was undressing me and dressing me with outfits like Rarity does... but just... with her eyes..." Big Mac huffed getting some sweat pants on, kicking his pants aside.

"You're saying that like Rarity hasnt. Girl told me few days before we came out here she could see you getting in a dress for her and she'd pay you real well for that."

"Sure its her saying that or you? Might dress up just to tease you if that's the case." He just gave a sigh like he was caught in a lie.

"Oh shut your yap before I shut it for ya... If her starin' at ya is botherin' ya so much, go talk to her, ask whats goin' on."

"...And if she doesnt wanna answer?"

"Then back outta this whole thing. Either that or have Rarity ask her for ya so you dont have to deal with her directly." I watched as he just started getting under covers. "Now... Unless you're gonna nap as well... Leave me be so I can get some shut eye before later..." I huffed getting up from my bed before leaving the room.

I went back out to the living area.... Rarity and Coco were off near the little fashion design area. Cinder and Pepper were just relaxing with each other by the fire pit. I was going to go over and join them before Rarity called out to me. "Oh Ryder! Could you come over here for a moment?" She asked... Honestly made me stop in my tracks and just let out an annoyed sigh. I went over to them... Just saw Rarity just looking to me with a slightly warming smile... Coco just looked uneasy with a high powered camera in hand. "I've been meaning to check in with you since we got here Ryder. How are you feeling?"

I sighed. "Fine.... Just.... Wanting to be home with Applejack and Mash..." I said.

"Anything.... stressful about this city?" Of fucking course. Yeah... I just couldnt help but just take a breath and give a deeper sigh.

"...A lot stressful about this place... The fact I had to keep visiting this place for multiple different reasons.... Everything from royalty issues, personal or just.... issues that turned the entirety of Equestria on its head...." I went over to the window just looking out... We actually were in perfect view of where Ground Zero was. "....So many issues, I'm like a fucking comic book series that still hasnt ended... And there? Out there? That pit, statue and everything over there? Worst fucking issue that nearly killed me for the umteenth time..." I looked back at Rarity and Coco, Coco still clutching the camera like she was ready to take shots. "The other guards that have been driving us around today? Pepper? She and I got thrown out of a plane that went down in the mountains. I was so scared I wasnt going to see my wife or sister again... even our friends.... Her marefriend? Cinder? She was with me at ground zero.... Thought I fucking died when in reality I was bailing out a window with my cousin-in-law clutching me, screaming her head off as we were trying to escape the chaos...."

Coco just gave a pained sigh while Rarity just slowly lost emotion, looking as if she regret even asking. "...One reason why I support the guards endlessly...." Coco said. "This photo shoot was for a line of clothing that supports guards with everything made from sales going to anything that helps guards. Funding, psychiatric help, medical help, whatever it takes...." She held the camera up. "May I show you something?" I hesitantly gave a nod before sitting down on a waiting stool. She came over to my side and turned the back of it towards me.... Screen and buttons.... None of which I knew what they did.... thought the screen? I saw the building... burning.... an explosion.... "...I saw this that day.... I was just so shocked with it.... I caught these to give to the newspapers.... I did but there was one that I never did...." She flipped through pictures... More of the building on fire, burning, the chaos down below.... Then a picture that just.... I never thought I'd even see.... yet it still plagues my mind.... The picture was of me.... Saving Babs.... Just flying away from the building.... It was slightly grainy but.... I could tell it was me... "....I never did because I never knew who this was.... I didnt want to have them use it.... only to have some blame you for the act, using this as an excuse to say you were a victim.... Yet with your account, family, those guard friends of yours.... It would have some merit... That is if you want to share your story.... Nobody will make you.... All your choice...."

I just froze.... All the choices I have.... the choice to stay or leave the guard, the choice to stay at home or leave, the choice to tell my story of a tragic event.... All these choices just got me frozen like you opened up too many programs at one time on a computer. I was spaced out so much I didnt even see Pepper and Cinder both come over. "General? General! C'mon man snap out of it!" Pepper said. She looked to Cinder just as I had caught my breath like I had just stopped breathing. "Cinder! Go grab him something to drink! Soda, water, alcohol anything!" She looked back to me. "Unless its something you dont like please dont refuse this.... Just breathe...." Coco handed the camera off to Rarity before she looked to Pepper.

"...Definitely close to him.... And from what he said you and he were involved in a plane crash? Was it the one in the Foal Mountains?" Pepper sighed as she checked me up and down.

"Yeah.... I was a personal medic for him, second in command when he was out of commission due to injuries... Kept him company during emotional distress so he didnt do anything stupid.... From what he's been through it shows he's a strong stallion... Though I'm not sure if he's still strong or if the will he has is weakening.... and judging from here? Seems like he's weakening a little bit.... if not a lot...." She looked to Coco for a moment. "I've seen this stallion at his high and low during the war.... His highs being in command, gaining ground, making short work of the war.... Lows just.... mostly about his family.... missing them... hearing they were in danger but being thankful they were safe after the fact. And with the mountain? he had to make decisions that helped us get off the mountain even while injured.... last one out of the plane, nearly died from the fall, had to do a field amputation that thankfully the Princess' helped with replacement and just making it look and feel realistic...."

Cinder came back with a glass in hand. Looked to be some whiskey on the rocks.... She handed it to me and I just took a good sip. Burned. Fires burned more in my mind but this was a good burn. "There.... A little alcohol helps but... just please dont overdo it.... Dont want you always drinking to kill the pain...." Cinder said. She looked to Pepper. "Everything okay? Thinking that psyche eval you did earlier didnt get everything?"

"No no... I covered everything... Just seems something was awoken...." She looked to Coco. "Mind filling us in here ma'am?"

Coco sighed as I sipped my drink again. "I just... I had a feeling I recognized him but didnt know where..." She said taking her camera back. She showed Pepper the image of me flying away from the building. "...This was a picture of that day of the attack.... He tells me you drove him around?" She looked to Cinder.

Cinder sighed. "Yeah... He's... His family was visiting...." She said. "I remember him going up, his family coming down, passing by.... Didnt see him.... All the chaos that happened I was loading up with anyone I could just to get em far enough away for safety before going back.... Only got three trips in before the building collapsed... I thought he was dead until Pepper told me he was in the desert on her mandatory vacation. Almost didnt believe her." I honestly wanted to down my drink... but slowly sipping it calmed me. Took deep breaths in between sips, feeling the cool glass get colder.

Pepper just patted my shoulder. "There... He's stabilizing..." She said. She got up and looked to Coco. "This stallion loves his family so much he doesnt let anything stop him from seeing them... Not injury, not fear of death, nothing...." She sighed looking back at me. "...Though for current circumstances? Guess the fear is getting to him...." She looked back at Coco. "Told us he has a wife and kid now... Too afraid to die leaving them alone now..." Oh if this were a game of 'drink every time you hear something you dont like' and I already had a few drinks prior I'd be fucking GONE. Though gladly I drank more of this just to cough slightly feeling the burn.

That's when Rarity sighed coming to my side. "....What say we just get your part of the photo shoot over with and you get to go home on the first train tomorrow?" She asked. "Big Mac can stay if he wants but I want you to go home and enjoy your time with your family... okay?" I gave a hesitant nod. "Alright... Just calm down, drink a little water and we'll get your outfit ready... Okay?" I nodded more sure before Pepper and Cinder helped me up and walked me over to the bar. I drank the rest of my whiskey before being given some water. Once calmed I was just brought to a restroom to splash water on my face, wash up and get dressed in the outfit given to me. The outfit was a bit of a guard outfit.... Kind of... Something similar with the fabric, looked older but felt new. Boots, socks, pants that were just like fatigues, shirt was a service shirt... at least a mockery of it but I wasnt complaining. Had me wearing it, the shirt had to be open because it was a little bit too small to close but I was given a tank top Coco made for her Summer Lineup. I posed a few times, took a few natural pictures, some of which were just looking over the city, even did one without the shirt but I kept the tank top on just holding out one wing. That photoshoot took an hour or so. Even gave Coco the right to take our stories, record them and even release them for this... Tells me the line of clothes she's taking pictures for is inspired by guards and the things being made are gonna be sold, most of it goes to local guard depots.

After changing back I had to wake Big Mac because we had to go out to dinner which Coco again paid for... This place? Might've had to dress up a bit more for this one but it was still good. That night after going back to Coco's place I grabbed my stuff and went back to Pepper and Cinder's place to sleep in their guest room... Next day I was back on the train heading home... Guess Rarity contacted Twilight, Twilight put in a word for me at the station and paid for a private car on the way back. Though I didnt go to Ponyville.... I went to Canterlot. Even contacted Twilight letting her know. When I stopped in Canterlot it was around 9AM. I was on the train about two hours or so... Still so tired... Though from the station I actually flew through Canterlot just to land at the castle gate with my bag slung over my shoulder. The guard let me in just opening the gate enough for me to slip through. I walked up the steps a bit and just.... Stopped at the door... Like I was just hoping I wasnt gonna just be thrown out for this..... I entered and went straight for the dining hall... I remember last few times around this time was the morning meal so I just had a feeling Luna would be there to help me. When I got there I saw both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna just eating their meals.... Neither of them noticed me walking towards them before I just dropped my bag almost at Luna's side... They were both wearing their royal gowns.... Luna got up just as I fell to my knees. "General? General what are you doing here? Is everything alright?!" She asked picking me back up and hugging me. I had no hesitation just hugging on to her.

Celestia got up and flew over the table. "Do you need a medic? Are you hurt?" She asked. Luna turned me around and they both started surveying me.... Only a pained expression on my face, holding back tears. "Not seeing any injuries... At least not anything of what we can see...." She started feeling my arms and legs. "No reaction...." Luna sighed turning me around again getting down to my level.

"....Okay... Okay that's good... No injuries... Thought that doesnt mean anything plaguing his mind...." She picked me up and sat me in a chair that Celestia turned around with her magic. "...Come on General.... Please talk with us...." Luna looked to her sister. "Get him a drink or something! Might help us!" Celestia nodded before teleporting away. Luna looked back at me. "General please... There is something wrong here... I just know it.... You wouldnt just show up here unannounced unless there was something wrong...."

I sniffled before the waterworks just started happening. "...I... I dont wanna do this anymore...." I said before just breaking down. I latched back onto Luna.... I feel like I was a child again just hugging my mother because I scraped my knee or something. "...I.... I just wanna .... be... be at home... with my wife.... my daughter.... my family.... I just dont wanna do this shit anymore...." Luna gave a slightly pained 'oh' as she held me tight.

"....Something tells me this is the answer you had for your mother.... The answer of whether or not you want to be a guard... Right...?" I nodded hesitantly. She sighed. "...I was honestly afraid of this.... but... it just seems like the answer you'd give.... What with the family and the near death experiences you've had...." She pulled out her chair and sat down. "....I know you want out.... we know you want out... I... Told Celestia even though you told me not to... But she had to know.... But we need you to know we've been talking.... we think you deserve something more.... For honor and your duty.... still keeping those safe but without doing anything yourself unless your hand was lifted from the start... I'd tell you now but... I'd rather tell Celestia your decision with things before you're told.... Alright?" I nodded again.... Sniffling. "Good... You hungry? Could get you a hayburger if you want some food." I hesitantly nodded and just.... I couldnt help but pull out my phone.... Started looking at pictures of the family I took over the years.... Mom and Dad bringing Scootaloo home for the first time, me getting to hold Scootaloo..... Those were old pictures I had before the house burned down.... After that I saw Scootaloo sleeping in my bed when she was sick, few of me and mom and dad moving in my stuff.... After they died? Days I became a guard, days I could spend time with AJ, getting time with Scoot.....

It wasnt long before Celestia teleported back and handed me a drink.... Was a thing of juice... She opened it up for me, before handing it to me. "There we are...." She said as I sipped the drink. She looked to her sister. "Luna, did he say anything at all while I was gone? Or has he still been silent...? I dont want to put him in a room and have him watched by the medical staff...." Princess Luna sighed.

"He did open up but.... it wasnt what we even wanted to hear.... He just... doesnt want to be a guard anymore it seems..." She just looked to me and knelt down.

I just lowered my head in defeat. "...I.... I'm sorry Princess...." I said. "... I just cant anymore.... I.... I'm just so scared of leaving my family alone.... Just.... Yeah I was confident going through dangerous events.... but... I just.... I just dont want to do this anymore...."

Celestia sighed.... her look of shock turning to a pained sadness. "...Ryder.... We understand this completely.... Over how many times you went to great lengths to keep everyone you love safe..." She said. "...I still cant help but think of that day you had to be carried in to the castle when we just were about to tell Scootaloo of the crash and your passing.... Nobody expected you to just burst in like that.... No word from guards saying you were alive, not even Shining or Cadence could believe you survived that crash.... And to hear you nearly died in the Manehattan attack.... That was fearful enough without knowing you were there... when Twilight told us.... Oh god she was so scared.... Luna checked on your wife and sister since they were both frightened but when she met you in a dream she up and cried knowing you were safe... But enough of that..." She stood up again. "Ryder.... If you would.... after this meal would you accompany me to my flower garden one last time as General? Please?" I nodded. She sighed and gave a warm smile. "Thank you... I promise only good will come from that walk...." She used her magic and turned my chair around again before hurrying around the table to sit back in her seat. Luna had to use her magic to pick up my bag and hang it on the arm of my chair before we ate. Thankfully I was calmed during the meal... ate like nothing was wrong. After that I walked with Celestia through the castle, my pack just slung over my shoulder.

We walked for a bit until we got out into the flower garden. When we got out there we saw Sunset dressed in a tight yet flexible outfit. She was just out here doing yoga... Guess Celestia passed on something Fluttershy does on a weekly basis. The outfit was a black and orange and she was wearing sneakers. She looked to us as she was getting up from her position that I wont even attempt to describe. She looked to us and smiled. "Hey there Princess! General! Come to join me?" Celestia sighed.

"Unfortunately not at the moment... Here for a talk with Ryder.... But while you're here could you take Ryder's things to a room nearby yours? You can come back out here in about twenty minutes." Sunset stepped off the mat she was on and rolled it up with her magic even taking my bag off my shoulder.

"Sure thing Princess!" She snagged my bag out of her magic as it floated closer to her. Everything she had disappeared as she teleported away. We just kept walking through the garden... my mood just felt ready for anything... She sighed.

"...The exact spot where you found out Daring Do... I still remember that day... You had to fly down here with my sister and I had to help her back to her room... Daring did give me what for when I berated you for being afraid of heights.... and with everything you went through I honestly felt sorry...."

I sighed. "Yeah... That was a day that just... God I just couldnt believe Daring was real.... And just... That thing about her berating you was hiding the fact that uh... well... Waking wet dream I guess..." I blushed a bit.

"It still wasnt right of me to say what I said." We walked towards the bench and sat down. I just couldnt help but look at the blue sky above, birds flying about, a few clouds painting a beautiful picture with the topiary of the garden.

"It was still an amazing day despite that... I got to live a dream, make a new friend out of it... speaking of which... I should contact her... let her know of me stepping down as General...." I just looked down to the ground... the cobblestone brick making a circle around into other gardens featuring Luna's cutie mark, Cadence' cutie mark and even Twilight's all made from flowers.

"...You will but... I do have something for you..." She used her magic as she held out her hand. A box appeared. She handed it over to me. "...This is just for you... something to thank you for your service... from the lows of the start, to the highs of being hailed as a hero when the time came for you to be that hero... Though there is something more to this.... Open it up..." I did as she said. I opened it up just to see a medal.... Golden, shining, engraved with the cutie marks of herself and Luna and a green emerald in the middle. Though on the top of the box? There was my name. Ryder Wheeler.... PRINCE. Ryder. Wheeler. Royal crest and everything. I just looked at Celestia. She smiled. "...You might be stepping down as our General... but after talking with mother, father and my sister.... I think we formally welcome you to the royal family.... Never again will you have to be called for service. Never will we order you around. And unless your hand is forced from where it rests.... you do not listen to the call to action. And by extension.... Your family becomes royalty as well... They may not live like it but will be treated as if they were of Canterlot or even the Crystal Empire..." I just started tearing up... a loss for words. Celestia chuckled a bit and used her magic to grab my phone... even typed in my birthday to unlock it... "Wow.... your father is right... you do need to update your password on this thing.... No matter... thing cant be hacked anyhow..." She navigated to the video chat app and opened it up starting a call with Cadence and Shining, Applejack, Twilight... Even Scootaloo.... Lucky for the weekend... otherwise she'd be in trouble with the teacher... unless she knew it was Celestia on the other end... still dont know.

It took a minute for everyone to pop up. Had Applebloom and Scootaloo in Scoot's camera, Cadence and Shining in theirs, Twilight, even AJ and my little filly, Mash in her arms. I could see Applejack give a confused look in the camera as I hesitated picking up the medal and showing everyone. "Princess? The hell you doing with Ryder? Aint he supposed to be in Manehattan with Rarity and Mac?" She asked.

"Well that answers where he was before this... Though... I called you all because I need to announce something..." She looked to me. "As of this moment... Ryder is no longer the General of the Royal guard... He faced one horror after another and came out strong after each though that didnt last for long..."

I heard Shining sigh. "...So no more leading the guard? Fuck... Never thought I'd see the day he stepped down... thought he would've been going for years to come..." He said.

"We thought that as well...." She looked back at my phone. "Scootaloo... Your brother loves you very much... same as your new niece. Though he wont be a guard... he is something... better than that...." She looked to me. "Show them." I gave a nod and just held up the medal in its box.... Kept the emblem out of frame for a moment... when they saw the emblem.... Oh I heard a lot of stuff. Gasps, a 'holy shit!' from Scootaloo... I'll let her get away with that one.... even a cheer from Shining. "He is no longer General Ryder Wheeler... He is now a full blown Prince with approval from mother and father. And by extension... Scootaloo, Applebloom and Applejack... You three are his princesses." I couldnt help but chuckle as Scootaloo scrambled to mute her phone only for both of them to scream and just hearing it through AJ's side... and Applejack? She was just in tears, smiling, happy for this moment like I was. "...Applejack, if you wish I will send a transport for both you and Twilight and your family to come to Canterlot for dinner tonight. Bring everyone you can. A celebration is in order. Thinking as for now Ryder needs to experience things with his new title... Up to Twilight if she wants to bring anyone else along."

Twilight smiled brightly. "I'll give the others a call! Though uh... Not sure if I can get Rarity out here because she's out of town doing something... and last I heard Ryder and Big Mac were supposed to be there... Guess we know where Big Mac still is..." She said. "But no worries there. This will be AWESOME!"

Cadence sighed. "We're gonna be ready to leave now! Gonna have Rocky with us too if thats alright. She needs to see her superior getting this." She said. "Got Shining packing our bags now! Should be there no later than tonight!"

Celestia smiled. "Go on and get packed everyone! I'll have Luna prep things on our end. We'll see you soon!" She said. One by one they all hung up... last one to do so was Scootaloo because she was just still freaking out. Celestia hung up and handed my phone back to me. "There. You've got friends and family along the way.... You're free to do whatever you need here in Canterlot. Though now? Lets go put that in your room and have you experience my spa.... Relax a bit and get a well needed massage." I just sniffled and nodded again before just hugging her. She just patted my back and sighed as we sat there for a while... After that she took me into her arms, me still clutching the medal as if this was my own child. We stopped by Sunset's room, I was right next door. I went in, set that down on my bed, closing it up and stashing it in my bag like I was afraid of someone stealing it. And after that? Spa. She took me up an elevator, set me down about half way up and we walked in to.... almost like we were in clouds. Golden clouds lined the floor, the sky above was almost spectral... Shining bright yet almost with a night sky, showing galaxies, constellations multicolored and just amazing looking. We went to a couple of tables and the massages we got? Oh fuck me side ways if this werent the best massage I had ever gotten. That night (after a much needed nap) we had ourselves a fucking PARTY! Hell... I even gotten surprised by Daring who just turned up at the party as A.K. Yearling... apparently Twilight told her and if it werent for Gilda being there I'd wanna do a threesome but eh... Rather only have Gilda because she has told me she wanted to bed royalty. She got her wish but Daring did invite me to the bunker in about a week for a party with my friends. She's only going to allow those who I can trust... I know Twilight and her friends know... and my sisters... but I think I'm gonna bring the guys with me. As for now I think I'm gonna relax.... I think I deserve it... Later!