Doctor, my eyes
Tell me what you see
I hear their cries
Just say if it's too late for me.

It was another week in Canterlot before I caught a ride back to Ponyville. Shining Armor asked me question after question regarding my knowledge of warfare, continuously feeling out the possibility of an assault into Changeling territory. I made myself quite clear on multiple occasions that he shouldn't do it, but finally, I convinced him not to.

"Look, the numbers are against you! You can't expect to win with this kind of action."

"I already told you this, John. I have to try!" I shook my head and grabbed his shoulder.

"Shining, I don't like this at all. You'll just end up stirring up a hornet's nest that you can't escape. Just let sleeping dogs lay!"

"But they're NOT sleeping! We know they're planning something. We have to-"

"We also know that the only time they'll ever try anything is if the Elements are out of action. Last time, they got the drop on you. Don't let it happen again and it won't." He sighed heavily and looked me in the eye.

"What would you have me do?" I bit my lip and thought for a moment before answering.

"Step up the guard on the border and around the princesses. Have them check in periodically. Use code. Nothing written down and nothing that can be guessed. As soon as a guard post goes quiet, you'll know."

"Know what?"

"That they've been infiltrated. Put trusted lieutenants from Canterlot in command and make sure to screen the runners. Have them all know different codes for the different posts and look for discrepancies."

"What if they bypass the guard completely and go straight for the girls? Shouldn't we step up patrols around Ponyville?" I shook my head.

"I'm not sure that's a good idea. Once they see that, they'll have to change the plan. They'll know we're onto them. I'll stay in Ponyville and guard the best I can." Shining gave me a look.

"And how good would that be against a large changeling force?"

"You would be surprised. Besides, you heard it from the bug itself. The girls are too strong. Somethin' big starts headin' into town and we'll be ready."

He walked with me to the courtyard where Arrow and Cross were waiting. I climbed up and looked over to my shoulder to the Captain. He looked from Cross and Arrow, then back to me.

"Even so, I want you to take these two. They're a couple of my best and I know they'll help." Cross looked up.

"Permission to speak freely, Captain?"

"Granted."

"What in the Goddess' green world are you talking about?" Shining looked back to me.

"Marshall will fill you in. At this point, you two are officially under his command... if that's alright with him." I rolled my eyes.

"Yeah, yeah. Just remember what I said, okay? Beef up the border and escorts. Use code. Do NOT provoke an attack." He nodded reluctantly.

"Have a safe trip, John. Good luck to you."

"Same to you, Cap'n"

About halfway to Ponyville, I had Arrow and Cross set us down so I could fill them in.

"Look guys, the Captain says this is all need-to-know info and I think y'all need to know. The changelings are probing for weaknesses. They're lookin' to make another try." The two guards sat stone-faced as I explained.

"The changelings won't move as long as the Elements of Harmony are still active. So, we're gonna head to Ponyville and make sure to keep those fillies protected. Now, Shining gave y'all to me, but the way this is gonna work is y'all have complete freedom to do what you like. Just do your job and I'll be happy, okay?" Arrow piped up.

"How do you want us to handle this?" I shrugged at him.

"However you see fit. Only thing I have to say is lose the armor and look as civilian as possible."

"Split up?" Cross asked expectantly. I nodded.

"Arrow, you'll shadow Miss Pinkie Pie, Cross, you'll shadow Miss Fluttershy. Don't make it obvious, don't make it uncomfortable for them and for God's sake, don't lose focus. We'll be here indefinitely. That means until Canterlot figures out a more long term solution for us, we're here. Clear?"

"Why don't we just relocate the Elements?" Cross asked.

"We don't want this to be well known and we don't want the enemy to figure out a different plan. This way, we know what they want and how they're gonna try and get it. It'll buy us a little time on figurin' somethin' else out."

"Will there be like... time off? I've got a-" I interrupted Arrow quickly.

"If either of y'all have a marefriend, come and see me. We'll figure something out. It probably won't be the time you want or the way you want it, but we'll work it out. Any more questions?" They both shook their heads and I nodded. "Good. Let's get there and get to work."

They got hitched back up and we took off. I felt the pace quicken at this point as the urgency of the situation hit the guys. Now, they just wanted to get to Ponyville that much faster.

The closer we got to Ponyville, the more anxious I got. Here I was, basically dedicating myself to protect a pony... A pony that more than likely doesn't want anything to do with me

Is there anything you can do about it, John? No. Maybe. Then maybe you should do that something. If not, there's nothing for you to worry about right now, so stop being so strung out over it. Yeah, yeah.

Another hour ticked by and we were nearing the town. The chariot started to drop beneath the clouds and who else but Rainbow Dash was already next to us, flying us in.

"Good to see you finally figured out what's important in life, John!" she called out.

"You've got no idea, Dash. Good to see ya!"

Arrow and Cross brought the chariot down on the far side of town near the hospital. Together, we pulled the chariot just inside the tree line of the Everfree and broke down some tree branches to cover it up and keep it away from prying eyes.

"Hey Sarge," Arrow started, "before we get too involved here, we have a location for your place. Wanna head that way first and move from there?" I nodded sharply.

"Yep. Stash your armor there. If there's enough concealment in the area, we'll move the chariot around nightfall."

We walked along the outskirts of the forest for some time, ambling along and staying away from town. Eventually, we hit a familiar road; it was the path to Fluttershy's cottage. Arrow looked to me and pointed just a hundred yards or so past it towards a new building.

"What do ya think, John?" He asked.

"It'll work. Y'all come on inside and get outta that armor."

I got to the house and immediately noticed there was only a small lock on the door. I made a mental note to upgrade and turned the knob to go inside. The house, like any other, looked much bigger on the inside than the outside. The hardwood floors were bare of any kind of run or furniture except for a small table with a note. I walked over and picked it up, finding the key under it. I dropped the key in my pocket.

"Y'all go on upstairs and put your things in the bedroom. I'm gonna look around." They moved off into the house and I walked to the kitchen to read the small letter.

John,

Hope you find the house to be adequate. Followed your plans the best we could without going over budget. Your key is the only one in existence. If you would like a copy made, please send word and it will be there in a day. Although you refused initially, I felt it was more than appropriate to officially induct you into the Royal Guard as the acting commander of your task force. You already know your duties and we expect that you will perform them admirably. Stay steadfast and strong. The kingdom counts on you.

-Capt. Shining Armor

Goddammit... That's the last thing I wanted. I reread the note several times before crumpling it and tossing it towards a corner. Shit Rusty, no pressure right?

Slowly, I meandered around my new home. Spacious... Modern... it was something I could get used to and definitely something I could see living in for the rest of my life at some point. Arrow and Cross came down the stairs to find me waiting at the door.

"Y'all ready to go?"

"Ready," they chimed in unison.

"Okay, let's head into town. I'll introduce y'all to your charges."

The market was busy as usual for this time of day. I greeted the familiar setting with a smile and a little resurfacing apprehension. Arrow put a hoof on my back and looked at my face.

"You alright Sarge? Nothing's changed. You'll be okay." I shook my head.

"Naw, man. Everything's changed. Just hope it's not to late to change back."

We walked through the market stalls, slowly surveying the crowds. A few ponies saw me and smiled. A few still looked confused, as if they expected me to stay gone. Other than that, it was a normal day. A minute or so in and I heard the first familiar voice so far. Applejack was at her kiosk calling for business.

"Git yer fresh apples here! Right here! Fresh picked apples and fresh baked apple pastries!" She fell silent and I looked around to see just where she was. A few stalls over, she was waiting with Applebloom and talking to another familiar pony, Fluttershy. My apprehension was gone for a few seconds as I strode confidently around the last couple of vendors between us and stood behind the yellow pegasus. Applejack had her back turned, but her little sister spotted me right away. The look of glee on her face was almost irresistible, but I put a finger to my lips and winked at her. Grinning ear to ear and biting her lip, she waited for me to strike as I reached out slowly with one hand towards Fluttershy.

"Oh Applejack," I overheard her say, "It's okay if you can't find it. I'll just come back another time."

"Ah swear it's here somewhere, Fluttershy. Just lemme find it!"

"Oh. Okay."

I paused for a second and looked at Applebloom for a second before wrapping my arms around the yellow mare and bringing her off the ground in a tight bear-hug. She didn't even scream the poor thing. The only sound she made as she went limp in terror was a quiet 'eep'. I buried my face in her mane and squeezed her tight for a few more seconds before turning my head towards her ear.

"Didya miss me, darlin'?"

A slight gasp was heard and I set her down. Applejack turned to look at what the noise was, but froze when she saw me. Fluttershy almost immediately spun around and wrapped her hooves around my waist.

"I'll take that as a yes!" I said with a laugh. Unable to contain herself anymore, the littlest Apple ran out from behind the stall and jumped from the ground to Fluttershy's back, then to my shoulder, putting her hooves around my head and squeezing hard.

"AH MISSED YOU MR. MARSHALL!"

"I missed y'all, too. Just needed some time away to figure it out." I heard Applejack chuckle and I smiled at her. "You want in on this too, AJ? There's plenty to go around." She shook her head and smiled.

"Ah think I'll be fine. That bein' said, I think we need to talk. All of us. Twilight's got a meetin' in the library and everypony's gonna be there." Applebloom jumped off my shoulder and walked around to her sister, still smiling at me. Fluttershy finally let go and took a step back before looking up at me with a placid frown.

"First," she started, "you need to come back to the cottage with me. The girls can all talk to you later, but I need to tell you something." I nodded knowingly.

"Yes ma'am." I turned to Applejack. "Looks like y'all are gonna have to wait. Anyways, I'd like y'all to meet my friends Arrow and Cross. They're new in town, so y'all might be seein' em around here a little more from now on. Anyways, I'll be back in town later today. Library at three?" She nodded once.

"That'll do fine."

"Alright. I'll see y'all later. Boys," I said to the partners, "y'all make yourselves at home. I'll find ya later."

Fluttershy visited a couple more stalls with me in tow. Pinkie Pie ran up just as we were leaving and gave me a tight hug before running off. I looked up for Arrow and saw that he was already tailing her. Nodding in satisfaction, I walked off with Fluttershy towards the edge of town.

The walk to the cottage was quiet. If I tried to ask a question or make small talk, she would either stay silent or give me a one word response. It was harder than hell to gauge just how well this one would go, but mostly I was getting the feeling that she had a lot to get off her chest.

The cottage came into view after a while and Fluttershy walked towards the door calmly and purposefully. I closed the door behind me and stood inside looking around. The yellow mare pointed silently towards the couch against the wall and nodding my head, I sat down.

She placed her bags in the kitchen, came back and started pacing slowly back and forth. After a minute, I decided to break the silence.

"Fluttershy, I-"

"Wait." She said calmly. I nodded and leaned forward, resting my arms on my knees and watching her walk back and forth in front of me.

"John... I'm disappointed in you."

Even though I knew what was coming, her words cut deeper than I would have imagined possible. My head dropped to my chest and I felt like a young man being scolded by his mother.

"To think that you left behind your responsibilities and commitments just to escape your problems."

"Fluttershy, I-"

"We didn't know what happened to you. We thought you would never come back or that one of us did something wrong. We didn't know anything until Dash came back and told us where you were and what you were doing."

"Fluttershy-"

"Even so, we had to hear it from her! That letter you left was garbage, John. You don't just do something like that to your friends! Weren't your exact words to just 'cowboy up'?"

"Fluttershy, please."

"You hurt us, John. You hurt me. I hope you know what you've done."

She had stopped pacing and was now standing in front of me, staring down into my eyes with a sad look on her face. I had so much I wanted to say to her. So much that I couldn't form words. They stuck in my throat with the lump that started to form. Her expression softened slowly. I looked up into her big eyes and choked on my words.

"Oh John..." She moved slowly around to my side and put a hoof around my shoulder. "You're not bad, John. You're just hurt and confused. You have to let us help you. You can't just keep running from problems." I nodded against her cheek and choked back the hurt.

"Would you like us to help you?"

I nodded again.

"Will you let us help you?"

I nodded.

"Do you know how much you mean to us? All of us?"

I hesitated before shaking my head.

"Oh John, we love you. Some of us even more. We don't want you to feel like you have to run away from us." I exhaled heavily and pulled away from her.

"I'm sorry."

"It's okay, John. We make mistakes. Then we make up for them." I nodded again and put my head in my hands. "You're going to need to start doing something about it, John. You need to start being you. This isn't you. What happened that made you do this?" I shook my head and slowly eased out the words.

"Fluttershy... I can't tell you."

"Yes you can. We can help you, but we need to know."

"No... I don't want you to hate me. I don't want you to be afraid of me." She hugged me tighter.

"John, I couldn't hate you. I just couldn't."

"I... I... can't." After a few moments she sighed.

"John, I promise that I will not judge you. I can't. I promise that no one else will know about it until you're ready for them to know." After a few seconds, I nodded. "Was it something that happened to you where you're from?"

"No."

"Something that happened here? Recent?"

I nodded.

"Is it something we know about?"

"Probably."

"Tell me, John," she pleaded. I sighed and rocked backwards for a second to look at the ceiling. Jesus John, you're really gonna tell her? Yeah. I leaned back forward to look at the floor.

"You know what I used to do for a living, right?" I started calmly.

"You were a soldier. I remember. I haven't heard much else."

"After I was a soldier, I worked for a company that paid me to do some of the same things. We did good things. Sometimes. But what it came down to was I got paid a lot of money to be good at... killing people. And I did, Fluttershy. A lot of people." She recoiled slightly before shaking her head and moving closer, putting a hoof on my hand.

"When I came here, it was a chance to be something better. A quiet life, you know? But goddammit, when Shining Armor heard about what I'd done and that he would pay me for a few things, what was I supposed to do? I tried to say no, but he said you were in danger. That Ponyville was in danger."

"Oh, John..."

"I spent the last few months trying to find anything I could about the changelings. What they were like, what they did, what was the ... most available and efficient way to... kill them. I found it. After months of looking, I found it. Fluttershy, you can't tell anyone what I'm about to tell you." She was silent.

"Caramel is in the hospital because he had been in a cocoon for a few years. The Caramel you've been seein' was an imposter. So, I broke into his house one night before the ball. I broke in and killed it." She held me tighter.

"I'm so sorry."

"It didn't bother me. At all. It was done. But when I went to the ball, I got asked some questions. It made me remember things. Stuff I didn't want to think about. The night was goin' so well. I don't know... It's my fault. I just... I don't know. I shouldn't have done it. I just hurt. So goddamn much. I started drinkin' and I did a bunch of stupid shit. Now, I'm not so sure of anything anymore."

She was still quiet when I finished. I couldn't say anything else. Hell, there was nothing left to say.

"Please don't hate me, Fluttershy."

"Oh John, I know what you used to do. Twilight told us when you left. We know about you and we still love you." I sat back again and pulled away from her.

"I love y'all, too. And I ain't leavin' again. I might have to do some things I don't like, but I'm gonna stay right here." She smiled and nodded.

"As long as you can let us be there for you, it won't be that hard."

The walk to the library was quiet, but pleasant. We passed a few more busy ponies going about their day and finally stopped in front of the library. I looked to Fluttershy, who was still just as calm and strong as before.

"So," I asked her. "What's gonna happen?"

"We agreed that when you came back into town we would all come together and sit down with you. Rainbow came to tell us as soon as she saw you, so everyone's in there waiting."

"Is it gonna be bad?"

"We missed you, John. Not all of us are mad. Really, just two and Applejack isn't really mad, she's just disappointed."

"I can probably guess the angry one." I added quietly.

"She was heartbroken, John. When you left, she didn't know if you'd ever come back. When Dash came back without you, it was just one more thing." I nodded.

"So everyone's in there?"

"Everyone except us." I took a deep breath and held it with my hand on the doorknob. I looked over to Fluttershy's assuring face, exhaled and pushed the door open all at once.

I stepped into the library and immediately six pairs of eyes turned towards me. I took a few more steps in and stopped to look at my friends. They were all still here. They were all still smiling... Kind of. I looked at each of them. Rainbow... Twilight... Pinkie... Applejack... All of them smiling serenely in greeting. I felt Fluttershy touch my arm as she walked past and took her place between Spike and... Rarity. Our eyes met briefly and she looked away. Twilight gestured towards the last empty seat in the room.

"Please sit down, John. We need to talk to you. All of us." I gave a nervous laugh and walked slowly around the room.

"Hah. This ain't one of these bullshit interventions is it? I swear I'm not on drugs or anything." Rainbow laughed, but the rest weren't as amused. Rarity stood up and started for the door.

"I could have told you, Twilight. HE, MOST of all wouldn't take this seriously. You can enjoy his presence as much as you like. I have a large order that needs my utmost attention." Pinkie Pie opened her mouth, but Twilight quickly motioned for her not to protest.

"Rarity," I turned towards her to stop her as she moved quickly for the door, but she rounded on me as soon as my mouth opened.

"NO, John. All of the things we have done for you... All of the things I'VE done for you... You should be ashamed of yourself. Trust me when I say I could live a thousand lives and be perfectly happy in each of them if you never spoke to me again." With that, she slammed the door behind her, leaving the rest of the room in silence. I slowly walked over and took my seat. Twilight shot a worried glance at the door.

"I was afraid of that. John, you have to understand... When you left, we were hurt. Some more than others." I nodded slowly.

"It's alright. I should have taken this seriously." Twilight looked around the room and smiled.

"Well! Now that we're all in and settled, I feel like we should start. John, we all have things that we need to say to you. When you left-" I held up my hand and cautiously interrupted her.

"Twilight, if I could? Really, this isn't necessary. I understand that y'all have a lot of things to say. Fluttershy has told me plenty already. But I'd just like to say one thing. I'm sorry. I've been a lot of things in my life. Stubborn. Foolish. Stupid. When I left, I wasn't thinkin'. I wasn't bein' rational. I don't have excuses and I don't have explanations.

"AJ, I left the job y'all gave me out of the goodness of your hearts without a word. Rainbow, you were to bring me back and I practically blew you off. Pinkie, Twilight... y'all deserved at least an explanation. I know it's gonna take a helluva lot more to ever come close to fixin' this with y'all... But I'm gonna do my best." Unable to contain herself any more, Pinkie jumped up from her seat and ran over to me, threw her hooves around me and squeezed.

"I'm just happy to see you back!" She said in her characteristically bubbly voice.

"It's good to be back, hun."

"I was just so sad, cause I knew you were sad! It made me want you to come back so I could throw a party and cheer you up! Don't leave again, please?" With that, Pinkie shot out of the door and disappeared. AJ and Dash were already walking over.

"Well shoot, John. We just figured you was hurtin' somethin' awful. Granny's gonna need some convincin', but you still got a job with us whenever yer ready ta come on back!" I smiled.

"I appreciate it, hun." Rainbow shook her head and smiled.

"I already chewed you out for ditchin' us like that. I'm just glad we've finally got you back!" she chimed in. The two mares walked out and took off to do their thing, leaving me with Fluttershy and Spike. Twilight looked put out.

"Whats the matter, hun?" I asked her. She pouted briefly before tossing her notes into the air.

"That's not how it was supposed to go. None of this is in the book... We were supposed to go around the room and each say what we planned. I even accounted for Rarity's ten minute speech!. NOW what am I going to do with the next twenty minutes?" I gave a slight chuckle.

"Sorry, Twilight. I guess we'll just have to roll with the punches." She crossed her hooves tightly and heaved a sigh. "Did you have anything you wanted to say to me?"

"No," she said. "I was just going to moderate. Honestly, I could have guessed that this was something you would do eventually. You exhibit many of the classic symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Depression, not to mention the possibility of alcoholism. These things take time and therapy, which you really haven't done since you came here. It was only a matter of time before this really started to affect you and your relationships. I am glad to see that you're back, though."

"Well, it's like I said. It's good to be back."

"Are you going to be leaving us again?"

"Yes, but you'll all know in advance. And I'll be back for sure." She smiled and nodded.

"Good! You're a good friend to us. We just wanna make sure you're okay." I smiled and leaned forward.

"Thanks, Twilight. Hey, do you mind if I borrow Spike for a bit?" She looked to the ceiling for a moment and nodded.

"Sure. Why?"

"I'd like to talk to him for a minute. Maybe take him to go get some lunch?"

"It's fine with me as long as he wants to go." I stood up and beckoned for Spike to follow me. He hadn't said a word yet and I was worried about what would come out when he finally did. I looked back at Fluttershy and Twilight and waved.

"Y'all take care now, I'll see ya later."

Spike followed me outside to the front of the library where we sat down in the grass and I lit a smoke.

"You probably got a lot to say to me. If not about me leavin' y'all, then at least about me leavin' HER behind like I did. It's gonna sound kinda strange, but I wanna hear it. I need to. Don't worry about me, I'm just gonna sit here and listen. What's on your mind?" He was still quiet. Just sitting on the ground messing with his claws. Finally, he looked up at me.

"I don't really know what to say. I could tell you about how everyone was worried that you wouldn't come back. I could tell you about how every time I went to go help Rarity in the boutique she was either just finished crying about you or just angry with you about something. Then, she seemed to forget about you when she started seeing that one guy, but about four days ago she was crying about you again. I wasn't worried about you. I figured you could handle yourself. But I was mad at you. Now, I don't know what to think." I nodded slowly.

"I get it. And I'm sorry I put y'all through it. Can't really do much beyond that except show y'all that I'm not leavin' like that anymore."

"That's good enough for me, I guess." He said reluctantly.

"Still friends?"

"Sure." I reached over and patted him on the shoulder, careful not to bother the spines on his back.

"So," I said slowly. "What has Rarity been sayin'?" He shook his head.

"I can't say. Mostly bad stuff, but if I know her, I think she misses you a lot."

"Any chance of makin' it up to her?" I asked hopefully.

"Maybe. But you'll have to work hard at it." I sighed.

"Yeah, I figured. Alright." I stood up and turned to face him. "You want some lunch? I'm pretty hungry." We walked off together into the market to find a place to eat. I started to feel better about things, but I knew the hard part was still on its way.

The question reverberated through the library.

"What?"

I was just as confused as the girls were.

"Princess Celestia has asked for us to go to Canterlot to talk about something urgent!" It was early evening in Ponyville and everyone was gathered in the library again.

"I wonder what it could be about," Twilight mused aloud as she paced back and forth in front of us." I had my own ideas, but the general consensus was it was an important occasion.

"Maybe the Crystal Empire is in trouble again?" Rainbow suggested.

"Cadence and my brother are there all the time keeping it safe... I don't think that's what is happening." Twilight said.

"When do we need to go?" Fluttershy questioned quietly.

"The princess said as soon as possible, so probably tomorrow." The girls all nodded and left to get ready. I walked past Rarity who completely ignored me and went to Twilight.

"What do you need me to do?"

"You should come with us. It may be good to have someone else there to help." I nodded and headed for the door. Random thoughts about my current assignment jumped through my head. What If Celestia knows and wants to warn the girls? This isn't gonna be good. What if the changelings actually attacked already? Doesn't seem logical, but still...I stepped out of the library for the second time today and found Fluttershy talking quietly with Rarity. I cautiously walked forward.

"Well ladies, what do y'all think?" Initially, Rarity looked startled, but quickly put her nose into the air.

"Fluttershy, I shall discuss this with you later." She said curtly and started to walk off towards the boutique. Fluttershy caught my eye and jerked her head towards Rarity as if to say 'well, get going.' I nodded and turned to start following Rarity as I called back to Fluttershy.

"I'll meet you back at your cottage here in a few. Got somethin' to show ya." She nodded and started home while I chased down my quarry.

"Rarity... Rarity, slow down. I wanna talk to you." She didn't acknowledge me. "Rarity, c'mon. Sweetie, Please just listen to me." She whirled around and glared at me, stopping me in my tracks.

"NO, John. I will NOT listen to you. I have no reason to listen to a heartless rogue such as yourself."

"Rare, don't be like this. I'm sorry. I wasn't thinkin' and I know I can do better." She put a hoof to her chin and mocked thought before she posed a rhetorical question.

"Hmmm... Now, when have I heard THAT before? Oh yes, that's right. The FIRST time you got completely intoxicated and slept in my home. No, John. Your word isn't good enough for me anymore." She turned back around and left me standing in the street. I was frustrated and at a loss for what to say.

"Rarity!" I called to her. "Rarity, please!" Without stopping, she shouted back to me.

"Too late for manners and charm now, Mr. Marshall."

"But... I love you." I said quietly into the fading light. She paused halfway through a step as if she heard me... Felt me say it, but continued on her way without a backwards glance all the way to her door. Almost imperceptibly, she turned her head to look at me, seeing me standing in the evening before getting into her home and closing the door behind her. I walked to Fluttershy's feeling rejected, tired and angry. Goddammit, John,. what the hell were you thinking? I said it when you left; You'd lost your chance. What? Can you blame me for trying? It's done. Get over it. No. Fuck that. I'm not gonna just stop. I'm done with the giving up bullshit. Done. It's too late, John. Day late and a dollar short is the story of your life.

Once I got to Fluttershy's, my mood had improved slightly. She met me at the door with a quizzical expression.

"John? What was it you wanted to show me?" I smiled and gestured for her to follow me.

"You'll see when we get there." She closed the door behind her and started to walk hoof-in-arm with me in the direction of my new home. A few minutes of walking passed before she asked me the question I was waiting for.

"So, did you get a chance to talk to Rarity?" She asked carefully. I sighed and shrugged.

"It was a pretty one sided conversation. She really didn't wanna listen to me." Fluttershy nodded.

"I'm sorry. It's like I told you. She's really hurt."

"Has she said anything about me to you recently?" She started to nod, but stop.

"Ohhhh no, John. She hasn't... said ANYTHING... to me... n-nothing."

"You always were a horrible liar, Shy." She looked scared for a moment.

"N-no... I'm being... serious. She hasn't said anything."

"You don't have to tell me, hun. I'll drop it." She looked relieved.

"Oh. Okay."

When we got into eyesight of my new house, Fluttershy got curious.

"I saw this when the crew came in to build it. What is it? Is... John! Is this yours?!" My smile must have given it away.

"Yep! Built and bought for me. What do ya think?" Fluttershy smiled and hugged me.

"Oh John, I'm so happy for you! But, how did you get that kind of money together?" I hesitated before answering.

"Work." However simple and misleading, it was still truthful.

"Gosh, I'm really going to miss having you in my cottage." I squeezed her a little harder.

"Well, I can come over whenever you need me. I'm just down the road here. Don't ever feel like it would be a burden, okay? I'd do anything for you." The crickets chirped in the late summer night air as the moon and stars started coming out for us to see. Silently, I swore to myself that I wouldn't ever leave this behind again.

Not my friends.

We took a train to Canterlot the next day. I ended up staying at Fluttershy's for the night at her insistence. Apparently, as long as she was alive, I would NOT be sleeping on a floor. Now, we were on the way to Canterlot and things were mostly cheerful in the car. Rarity wasn't saying much and she damn sure wasn't saying it to me.

After a while, I figured it would just be better to spare everyone the awkward train ride and go bother the conductor or something. I ended up helping to shovel coal for the engineer and talking the day away. Before I knew what was happening, we were pulling into the Canterlot Royal Transit Station. I waved goodbye to the crew as I hopped off the engine car and waited for the girls to come out. I smiled when I finally saw them hop down to the platform. They were all smiles; the scene was almost picturesque.

"Well ladies," I said walking up to the group and wiping the coal dust off my face. "I'm followin' y'all. Don't know my way around nearly good enough to get there myself." Twilight turned and pointed a hoof in the direction we would go.

"The castle is right over there, but we have another entrance. It saves us the hassle of wading through guardsponies and puts us closer to the throne room." I nodded and followed the girls up a side staircase out of the station and into the castle grounds. Twilight broke into a run once the door to the throne room came into sight and the other girls followed suit. I settled for a quick walk, falling behind quickly. The girls ran in, but AJ stayed behind to wait for me.

"C'mon John! We need to git in there and see what the trouble is!" Reluctantly, I bumped up my pace to a quick jog.

"I'm comin', hun. Hold yer horses."

Once we were all in the throne room, the Princesses Celestia and Luna stepped out from an archway at the back and took their places on the thrones.

"My faithful student, Twilight," Celestia began, "I am sorry to call you here on such short notice, but this message is an urgent one and this is the only room we can be sure it won't be overheard." Twilight stepped forward.

"Princess, what is happening?" Celestia traded a glance with Luna before turning back to her.

"An old enemy has resurfaced. The Changeling Hordes are believed to be growing in strength again."

Oh shit, John. Cat's outta the bag, now. The girls gasped loudly before Celestia continued.

"Your brother has dispatched additional support for the borders, but I worry it will not be enough." After the girl's initial shock subsided, they steeled themselves and stood defiantly.

"Well shoot, Princess... We'll just use the Elements of Harmony and drive them critters right back outta here!" Applejack said proudly. Luna's eyes narrowed and Celestia nodded.

"Yes Applejack, that certainly is an option. However, until they make their move, there is nothing to use it on. With the changeling's abilities, that may be too late." Luna explained softly. Celestia nodded in agreement and turned back to us.

"We ask you to be ever vigilant now more than before. If one element is gone, there is nothing to stop a full invasion." The girls nodded. I just stood in the back with my arms crossed. "We have arranged for a special train to leave Canterlot and take you home to Ponyville. At the urging of Twilight's brother, you will continue to live your lives as if nothing is wrong. The train leaves tomorrow. Until then, I have arranged for you to stay in the Royal Canterlot Hotel Suites here in the city.

"While normally, we would put you here in the castle; the only rooms available are housing dignitaries here for the World Summit Banquet this weekend. Someone will be there to meet you." The girls nodded and turned to leave. Without a word, I moved to follow.

"Mr. Marshall, you may stay right where you are." Oh shit.

"Yes ma'am," I replied immediately. She waited until the girls got out the door before she continued.

"Captain Armor believes you are a most capable guardian. Why would he believe that?" I cleared my throat and looked at the two royal sisters.

"Ma'am, Captain Armor has already been briefed in my experience and knows I am more capable of discretely guarding any high-value individuals than most in this world. While you may remember desperate times here, the ponies under your command do not. Captain Armor swallowed his pride and listened to my advice on this matter. He knows my experience level enough to trust it. That's all I can say."

"Perhaps you already know of my sister's role as Princess of the Night?" Celestia asked. "You have many troubling dreams, Mr. Marshall. Some of them are of before your time here. Violent. Graphic. Some still could only be from recent events. Do you have anything to say?" I shook my head slowly.

"No ma'am. I figure you already know just about everything at this point. It would be pointless to argue." Celestia burned me a serious look.

"We have also decided to trust you, Mr. Marshall. Your methods are highly unsatisfactory, and we do not support them. You are not permitted to continue this. You are however, as Shining Armor said, the only man that can keep them safe without drawing anymore attention to our knowledge of the plans. We will not promote open conflict. DO you understand?"

"Ma'am, I don't want open conflict. In fact, I discouraged the idea. I just want those girls to stay safe." Celestia nodded.

"Then make sure they do. Now, I must go. Do not disappoint us, Mr. Marshall."

"Yes ma'am." The Solar Princess walked out of the throne room, but Princess Luna remained. "Did you also wish to speak with me, princess?"

"You regret your actions... Most of them, at least. I do not wish to bring this up again. I do remember desperate times in this world when violence between cultures was common. I have fewer qualms with your actions than my sister does, but perhaps this is because they are still fresh in my mind. What does concern me is the mare you love. I brought you here, John Marshall. I do not wish for you to be upset in your coming trials. She still dreams about you John. Remember this. You should be with them now." I exited the room quietly into the hallway where I found everyone waiting patiently.

"What did she have to tell you, John?" Dash asked bluntly.

"Nothin'. Just a few questions."

The girls and I spent the day out on the town. More like the girls did and I was their shadow. When we settled into the lobby of the Royal Canterlot Hotel Suites, everyone was still excited about the day and working out what to do about the Princess' most recent warning. The suites were every bit the classy hotel and as if on cue, a young receptionist came down to address the girls.

"Excuse me ladies, my name is Quick Cut. Anything that you require, I will provide. Check in is at 3:00 PM and checkout is at 11:00 AM. Please feel welcome to visit our restaurant during your stay and if desired, our full service bar might be of interest to you. Please enjoy your stay."

It was an hour later and Rarity was tossing back another martini. She had begun to slur and lean side to side. I walked over to her and touched her shoulder.

"Hun, you should slow down a little."

"What's THIS?" She exclaimed loudly. "Is the Great and Powerful Drunk John Marshall suggesting I stop drinking?!" She drained her glass.

"Seriously, Rarity. This is completely unnecessary." She got another drink and turned to look at me.

"Look familiar, John?" The other girls looked worried. Applejack actually walked over to Rarity and they had a hushed argument. When AJ walked away with a worried look on her face, I knew tonight was gonna get interesting. Rarity continued drinking.

"Rarity, if this is a way to teach me a lesson or something-"

"Teach you a LESSON?! John, you are incap- inca- urgh... incapabububu.... INCAPABLE of learning ANYTHING!" I got up to the bar and grabbed the barpony as he walked past.

"No more for her, please? What does her tab look like? Close it out and give me the check, please." Suddenly, she levitated a bottle at random from the shelf and filled her empty glass from it. The scotch looked delicious to me, but Rarity was in for some trouble.

"YOU think you can just... do whatever you wish and just come back with an APOLOGY? Well, forget that tripe!" She lifted her glass to her lips and drank. It almost looked like she was going to gag at one point, but she carried on until the glass was empty once again. I tried to count the drinks she already had. What John? Anywhere between 8 and 12? That used to be a pretty good night for you, huh?

It was all catching up to her fast. She had gone from slurring and stumbling over her speech to practically falling out of her chair. The other girls looked shocked that Rarity would ever be doing this in public.

"Barpony!" Rarity called out, "One for the road if... if you please." He shrugged and poured another drink for her. All I could do was scowl at him and throw a sack of bits across the bar and close her tab. Rarity leaned back on her stool and called out to her friends.

"GIRLS! I do be- believe that I shall call it a night, as they say. Au revoir!" With that, she crashed to the floor. After all of her attempts to stand were unsuccessful, she gave up. "I think I shall be sleeping in here, tonight. Could somepony bring a bed down, or will I have to just MAKE one?" It was officially something I never thought I would see. Rainbow's face said it all. Rarity's actions had officially embarrassed Dash in a public setting.

I walked over to Rarity's still form and touched the top of her head. Still just as soft as ever. Her eyes snapped open and she blinked owlishly before scowling.

"Do NOT try ANYTHING, sir! I've got friends, something you seem to have trouble with." At that, she moved to hit me across the face with a hoof. It didn't take much to catch it of course; the girl telegraphs like crazy. I waved over Twilight and we stood over Rarity.

"Y'all go ahead and enjoy yourselves. I'm gonna make sure she gets to bed alright."

"Do you need any help?" I bent down and lifted the intoxicated mare from the floor, putting her in a half-assed fireman's carry and ignoring her protests.

"Nah, I think I got it. I'll see y'all in the mornin'." I turned and walked out of the bar and started towards the rooms. We were on the third floor in suites 321, 322 and 323. I got to 323 and carefully opened the door to reveal a gorgeous suite. The luxury was lost on me, mostly due to Rarity's next drunken revelation.

"I don't even CARE anymore! Why? Why do I have such HORRIBLE luck with stallions?" I dropped her on the enormous bed and tucked her in.

"Jesus Rare, is that was this is about?"

"What ELSE would it be?" She almost yelled at me, a wail noticeably creeping into her voice.

"Whatever it is, you just need to sleep."

"I-" she started, but grimaced and shook her head.

"What?"

"I... I... I-" before she could get it out, the poor mare vomited all over the floor next to the bed. I looked up at the ceiling and shook my head.

"Why God? Just why? Is this my punishment?"

"I think I'm going to vomit." She finally stated in a matter-of-fact tone.

"You feel any better?" I asked her.

"... No."

"Alright, give me a minute." I found a bunch of towels in the main bathroom and grabbed one to clean up the mess. Luckily, she hadn't eaten much, so wiping it up didn't pose a problem. Once the mess was dispatched, I pulled the covers off her and lifted her again. I felt a hard series of taps on my shoulder and quickly got her to the toilet. More vomit.

"Damn girl, just how much did you have to drink?" A half-whine, half-sob echoed around the toilet bowl before she finally came up for air. "Feel better now?"

"Some. My mouth tastes horrible." I filled a little glass with water and held it up.

"This is gonna help with the taste. Probably gonna help with tomorrow, too." She groaned and I tilted the glass slowly into her mouth. "You wanna brush your teeth?" She only nodded in reply. I slowly made my way back into the room and found her dedicated 'Vanity bag'. "I could always say this about you, Rare. You don't pack light, but you are prepared for just about anything." When I got back to the bathroom, she was quickly fading out of consciousness on the cool tile floor and muttering incoherently.

"Feels pretty good, huh?"

"Uhhhhhhhhnnnnn."

"Okay, let's get you to bed." I tucked her in again and sat on the end of the bed, watching her. In a random moment of clarity, she looked over at me with half-lidded eyes and smiled.

"You're still a complete ass. You realize this, right?" She said.

"Yeah, that's fine. I'll be here. Get to sleep. I'll see you in the morning."

"John, did you mean it?"

"What's that, hun?"

"Did... Did you mean it?"

"You gotta tell me Rare. What did you want to know?"

"Did you... do you really..."

"What? Rarity?" I was answered with a snore. I shook my head.

Well John, enjoy it now. In a few short hours, she'll forget this ever happened. I lit a smoke and settled into a chair where I could keep an eye on her.

Author's Note

I'm sorry for the wait, folks... Hope I can make it up to ya!