A Friend In Need

by JForte

Rating: mature
Tags: Slice of Life, Sad, Romance
Length: 11127

After a close brush with death, a crippled Pegasus becomes an apple bucker. Traveling to Appleloosa, his past begins to resurface, making him question himself... if he deserves to be happy or if he should end his pain once and for all.

After spending nearly a year hospitalized, a troubled Pegasus finds himself unable to preform his duties for the Cloudsdale weather factory. Needing to pay his debt off, he travels Appleloosa to become an apple bucker where he begins to question himself… if he truly deserves to be happy or if he should end his pain once and for all.

Featured on Eq:AD - Right here!

(M/M)(Third Person)(Clop)(Feral)(Romance)(Heartwarming/Sad)(Braeburn/OC)

Published 1970-01-01 00:00:00 UTC
Last updated 2013-01-16 00:59:59 UTC

Welcome to Appleloosa!

A Friend In Need

"The person who tries to live alone will not succeed as an individual. His heart withers if it does not answer another heart. His mind shrinks away if he hears only the echoes of his own thoughts and finds no other inspiration.”

-Pearl S. Buck

Pre-Read by Shadowflash

Edited by 59caddyel

Welcome to Appleloosa!

***

The noise of trains leaving and arriving overshadowed the constant chatter throughout the station. Many ponies were bustling about the area, minding their own business as a small bell rang.  A tall Pegasus pulled his hoof away from the noisemaker, sitting idly upon his haunches while he waited for the Earth stallion from behind the desk to answer him.

“Welcome mister--” the teller started to say, immediately being hushed by the Pegasus.

“Don’t say my name... I don’t quite enjoy hearing it.” the stallion looked to him with a stern expression.

I swear if I have to hear that Celestia forsaken title once more... I’m going to rip somepony’s still-beating heart out. An angry look fell upon the white Pegasus’ face, one filled with hateful memories and pain from his past.

The teller turned around to examine the passport that the pale stallion had placed on the counter, glancing towards the cloud symbol on the front cover. "Ah, from Cloudsdale I see. What is your business here in Appleloosa, if you don't mind me asking?"

        "I'm here to work for Madame Ziti as an apple bucker." the Pegasus said reluctantly, looking towards the stallion’s hooves with an exhausted expression. Circles under his eyes indicated the recent hell he had spent the previous seven months in, responsible for his current demeanor.

The teller squinted at him. "Sure ya shouldn't be working for the Cloudsdale weather factory?"

Old age must have blinded the fool, that or he’s just continuing to test my patience. The white stallion sighed, lifting his head to the teller. The Pegasus glared directly into his eyes, spreading his his scarred wings slightly - riddled with dark streaks caused from the intense trauma they had gone through - a look of irritation upon his face.

"Used to, but it's kind of hard to fly when your wings have been broken in every place imaginable."

“I didn't mean to upset you...” the teller scoffed, “I didn’t notice your injury there, son, in fact I was just surprised to see you since we hardly see any Pegasi around here.”

Shaking his head, the teller opened the passport. Using an iron stamp to approve the certificate, the stallion turned to grab the remaining slips he needed to finalize the document. He brought the small pair of glasses that hung around his neck up to his eyes to examine the slips closely.

"Any way a stallion can get directions around here?" asked the Pegasus, glancing around the small room for any sign of a map.

Really, just really? No maps or charts in sight. For such a renowned settlement they sure are ignorant to the basics of tourism. The white stallion chuckled sarcastically to himself, and the teller briefly glanced with a look of playful confusion as he closed the passport booklet.

        "You could try a shot at one of the townsfolk, but your gonna have to use a gentler tone lest ya want to start something." said the Earth stallion with care, raising his head to the Pegasus with a look of concern.

Yeah ok, like I’m just supposed to roll over and act all kosher to everypony I meet. That’s surely gotten me to where I want to be. The white stallion rolled his eyes at the thought.

        "Well, best of luck to ya, mister--" the Earth stallion started to say, the Pegasus' eyes grew wide -anger filling every corner- throwing himself at the framed box office.

"I told you to not use my name!" the stallion growled, making the teller stumble backwards with a look of surprise on his face.

Why... are others so oblivious to simple requests? The Pegasus continued to grab at the box office frame with his hooves; his eyes filled with fury as he panted.

The Earth stallion hastily passed the small book over the tabletop, turning his attention away from the Pegasus who picked it up with his hooves and placed it in a saddle bag upon his back. Turning towards the swinging doors, he ensured that the pendant on his front right limb was fastened.

***

Looking around the large town, the Pegasus slowed his stride - a vendor crossed the cripple’s path.

“Get your daily news right here folks, everything you need is here in the Tumbleweed Chronicles!” shouted the brown colt with a heavy Bronx accent, his cart blocking the Pegasus’ path.

The stallion pushed the cart off to the side, startling the vendor as papers were knocked into the breeze.

“Watch it, pal.” the seller said angrily, scurrying to get them all as they were blown across the dirt road.

Shouldn’t havewalked out in front of me then. Is it really so hard to look out for others nowadays? The Pegasus continuing on his path, bobbing in between others -a few bumping into him obnoxiously- as he made his way through the small crowds that had gathered around certain stores.

“I swear... it wasn’t me!” shouted a voice, a stallion being thrown out of a nearby bar.

The Pegasus turned to watch the site, a smirk upon his face Salty Spitoon, eh, why do bars always have to have the weirdest names? A half empty beer stein struck him in the middle of his back, sending him to his knees as he let out a pained whinny.

"We don't want yer kind around here, so you can just turn around and beat it!" shouted a voice from the bar. Everyone stopped as a large earth stallion in bandit’s clothing stepped from the crowd.

Looks like some smug motherfucker’s either going to get it, or he’s going to grant my wish after all. The Pegasus slowly shook the pain from his back, his eyes focused on the large muscle bound bandit that now stood in his path; he was smoking a cigar within his menacing grin, the stallion had a deep blue coat which complemented his baby blue mane .

"Well, well, well, look what we have here, fellas. A cripple! And not just any cripple, a crippled Pegasus." said the Earth stallion in a playful yet menacing manner, looking at the closed locket hanging from the pale stallion's front right hoof.

"I don’t want any trouble, at least not with your parents when I’m done wiping this dirt road with you," the injured stallion said with a grin, slowly standing back up as two more bandits made their way towards their leader.

"Really, now, I think whatever you ate on your journey has swelled your ego. Now what's your name, cripple?" asked the bandit, chuckling while he turned to the two stallions on his sides. Both of them joined in as well.

"It’s none of your business and if you don't get outta my way I'm going to shove your hooves down your fucking throats faster than I can fuck your mother!" shouted the Pegasus as he bared his teeth, still trying to shake the pain from his body.

"Woah there, looks like somepony has cojones... boys, you know what to do," the leader instructed, still grinning evilly.

Everything grew quiet as the townspeople gasped, two of the bandits slowly approaching the Pegasus as a loud whinny echoed through the town bringing everything to a halt.

"Enough!” a stallion’s voice shouted. The once-fearless bandits instantly were as still as the grave.

“Bullet, you and your boys leave him alone or you're going to be spending the next week in lockup!"

The Pegasus turned to look at the figure, using his hoof to cover his eyes from the brightness. As he approached, the sunlight beaming down upon his blonde coat sent off a glare that was near blinding; all the Pegasus could make out was a shadowy silhouette of the stallion’s body. Oh great, who the hell is this joker?

The leader of the gang spit out his cigar, "Braeburn... do you really think someone has your back assisting this pathetic fool?"

"Why yes, indeed I do. I think you're forgetting who's the new sheriff around these parts." the yellow stallion said as three deputies made their way behind him and glared at the group of bandits. Everything grew quiet as a breeze picked up through the little town, the sounds of birds echoing from the distance.

Bullet grinded his teeth, looking towards the Pegasus with rage burning in his eyes. He leaned closer to the cripple as he spoke. "I have my eye on you, I promise the next time we cross paths you won't be so fortunate."

        The Bandits slowly trotted away as the town started moving about once more, the deputies returning to the sheriff’s office. The blonde stallion quickly bolted towards the Pegasus, trotting beside him. A heartwarming smile was upon his face as he turned to speak with the newcomer.

"Sorry bout them. He’s never been one to enjoy the company of Pegasi, bad experience and all as a kid but don't let him make a bad impression on ya," said the yellow stallion excitedly as the Pegasus continued trotting forwards without even flinching a neck muscle to look at him.

Maybe if I don’t look at him, he’ll go away.

"I greatly appreciate the help, but I'm running rather late," said the Pegasus in a gruff tone, lowering his head as he looked at the ground.

"Late for what? Maybe I can take you to where you need to go," insisted the Blonde stallion ecstatically, a smile upon his face as he continued to burn holes into the irritated Pegasus.

Both of them stopped as the Pegasus finally turned to look at him, his deep brown eyes staring right into the yellow stallion's. "Look, I don't need your pity and I surely don't need your assistance. Just tell me where to go and I'm sure I can find my way."

Those eyes... why did I have to stare into those eyes. Please, I beg of you, Celestia, stop him from talking to me. The cripple now rolling his eyes, pushing a few ponies out of the way in order to make it harder for the blonde stallion to follow him.

“Watch it, jackoff!”

“Woah there!”

“You looking for trouble, punk?!” the many voices said as he weaved their way through the crowd.

There we go, peace and quiet. A smile grew on the stallion’s face.

        "No, I insist that I lead the way." the yellow stallion said with a chuckle, catching up with the Pegasus who slapped a hoof to his forehead.

Closing his eyes, he pulled his hoof down his face. "Fine... since  you're obviously not going to leave me alone, Mr-...?"

"Braeburn, of the Apple family. I helped build this here town a few years ago. Now what is your name, my compadre?" Braeburn questioned, the Pegasus ran his hoof through his long black mane as he pondered the thought.

My name, so many bad memories associated with that thing. Why did ‘he’ have to make it such a burden to bear... beautiful name my ass.

"I don't have a name." he said after a brief moment, turning his attention back towards the the edge of the city. He started trotting forward again, eager to move on.

Smooth move, like he’s really going to fall for that.

"You're pulling my hooves... I know, I'll just call you Catcher, since you seem to be catching everypony’s attention today." Braeburn walked alongside the cripple as he chuckled; the Pegasus only rolled his eyes.

Just why, he’s-... No, don’t suspect that, you idiot. The cripple shook his right hoof as he raised it, shaking pain from the limb before placing it back on the ground.

"Whatever floats your boat, you goof." Catcher said irritably, turning his gaze towards the pendant.

"So where exactly are you headed? I'm not a mind reader you know!" The yellow stallion walking ahead of Catcher, turning back to look at the Pegasus with great curiosity.

"Madame Ziti's farm, I'm going to work for her as an apple bucker."  Catcher said sternly, still staring at the strange pendant as he and Braeburn continued to trot forwards.

Cuethe big question in...

3

2

1

"A Pegasus as an apple bucker... why is that exactly?" Braeburn asked, turning his attention to Catcher's scarred wings.

"A tree jumped out and bit me when I was on weather duty one day,” Catcher explained in a sarcastic tone. “They told me I was lucky to have survived. It's hard to find work when both your wings and a leg are broken in critical areas, but unfortunately I need one to pay off my debt."

Braeburn's expression turning to one of concern as he noticed a limp in the Pegasus’s stride. A question formed in his mind.

        The two stopped at a pathway where many carriages were passing through, Braeburn turning towards Catcher, unsure of how to ask the thought that bore at the back of his mind. He took a deep breath before he gathered the courage.

"I'm sorry to hear that. I don't mean to intrude anymore, friend, but how are you going to buck?” Braeburn inquired. “You need to use your front legs as much as your back legs just to support yourself." The Pegasus slowly turned to him with a glare.

"Are you saying that I can't handle myself? Because I can assure you that I am quite capable of handling the job." Catcher said, his anger quickly fading as Braeburn looked to him with a frown of apology.

"Well, I'm always here in town if you ever need anything... anything at all." Braeburn said with burst of laughter, trying to lighten the mood.

My Celestia, his personality... the eyes and the personality. Can I at least wallow in this sick joke I call a life without suffering any more? Catcher let out a small ironic chuckle, turning to the sky as if he were pleading to some higher power.

"You are one odd bastard, you know that, right?" asked Catcher rhetorically, shaking his head with a grin as he closed his eyes.

Braeburn chuckled as he started to lead the way, the two quickly reaching the edge of the small desert town. The environment seemed to rapidly change as they went from stepping on dry dirt to lush green grass within moments.

***

The sun beat down on them as a breeze picked up, blowing through the many apple trees on the orchard. There were a few oasis-like ponds scattered through the area along the way towards the large barn-like structure.

Fencing soon came into view as a bunch of stallions could be seen bucking the many trees around the area, some turning to look at the two as they traveled up the road.

"Well here we are, I hope you find yourself comfortable. In fact..." Braeburn started to say as Catcher cut him off, using one of his hooves to cover the excited stallion's mouth.

"Look, thank you once again. You've been a tremendous help, but I think I can handle the rest from here." The Pegasus sat on his haunches. Braeburn placed a hoof on his shoulder, causing him to lean away from the yellow stallion. "Woah, sorry if I was being a bit friendly. I'm here strictly on business terms, no friendships for me." Catcher stood up to greet a Unicorn that was trotting up to meet them, using her magic to open the gate as she approached.

That’s a good boy, just let him down gently. You don’t want to go through the same pain you did last time, would you? The Pegasus shook the thought from his mind. The mare smiled as she glanced towards the energetic stallion.

"Braeburn! Who's your friend here?” the Unicorn mare asked, stroking her purple mane.  “Another come to assist old Miss Ziti?"

"I'm here as per our business arrangement,” Catcher butted in, cutting off Braeburn as he stared into her deep blue eyes with an exhausted look. “I'm to work off my medical bills from Cloudsdale Memorial."

"Better keep an eye on him, Miss Ziti. Bullet was standing him down earlier when I found him and I'm sure he'll be back for more trouble. The yellow stallion turned around, tilting his hat as he walked away from the two. Ziti frowned a little as she led Catcher down the hall towards his accommodations .

        "So you met our ecstatic new sheriff, haven’t ya mister-...?" Ziti asked humbly, leading him towards a small dormitory.She used her magic to manipulate a comb into stroking her mane in between strides.

My name... the one ‘he’ used to call me. No never again, I don’t want to remember. Stop thinking about him dammit. That stallion, what did call me again? Catcher, the cold... why is it fading? The Pegasus slowed his pace, his expression briefly changed to a lighthearted one.

"Catcher,” he declared, feeling some of the weight of his past slide mercifully off his shoulders, “and yes, he’s definitely a character." Ziti turned to scold him, but, noticing his scars and limp, she quickly changed her mind and turned back around.

"Catcher, hmm, well anyways he's a caring soul and if he cares about you then you're obviously important to him. Maybe you should try talking to him later; he’s very easy to get along with." Ziti using her magic to open the door , both of them stopping in the room's entrance.

 Catcher entered the small room as he glanced around, a shaft of light flowing in from the window that sat across from his bed. Simple, yet somehow homely.

"Eh, I'm not really the best friend to be had, besides I’ve spent some enough time around types like him. I don’t seem to have it in me to return the kind gestures." Catcher said, examining the mahogany ceiling.

Especially if my sense are correct, there’s no way I’m going to possibly throw myself back into the line of fire. The stallion continued to look absently at the woodwork, which glistened with sunlight that flowed into the room.

Madame Ziti  briefly smirked at him, as if she were hinting at something, before switching to an authoritative tone.

"Today you can rest, but tomorrow you start work. Dinner will be ready soon, and I expect you to be there, cleaned and ready." Ziti turned from the room as she entered back into the bowels of the structure.

"Great..." Catcher replied as he stopped examining the room, hoofing his forehead as he closed his eyes.

***

Catcher tossed and turned in the sheets as tears poured down his face, his body covered in sweat. The moon was the only thing illuminating the dark room, which was quiet and calm aside from the occasional scream.

Moments passed before the Pegasus opened his eyes, screaming once again in agony as he frantically searched around for an object on his nightstand. Quickly grabbing the locket that sat on the small table, he covered back up as he sat in the fetal position fixated on the small pendant.

"Please, just make the cold emptiness go away," cried the stallion aloud, panting as he looked around the room with wide eyes. Catcher pulled himself tighter as his ears lowered, his eyes glazed with tears which glistened from the moonlight.

"Why did I have to survive that fall...?" the stallion asked himself in a brief moment of silence, continuing to pant as he closed his eyes while crying himself back into a slumber.

***

Light poured through the windows of a large hall filled with many of the orchard’s workers, all of them eating bowls of barley. The  Pegasus walked into the hall, looking towards -his seat labeled ‘Catcher’ - shaking his head in a comical fashion.

"Ah so this is how it's going to be, just like school all over again," Catcher mumbled to himself, slowly walking over towards his assigned seat. Upon sitting down, the stallions on his sides turned to him, still munching on their food. The Pegasus turned his head to both sides, lowering his head as he closed his eyes.

Celestia help me, do I look like a mare in heat? Is that why I can’t seem to just get an ounce of peace around this place? The stallion raised his head, looking up to the ceiling in a sarcastic manner.

"I know I must be such a sight for you guys, being a cripple and all, but if you're going to admire this immaculate sight you may just want to take a picture."

"Heard you screaming like a little bitch the other night. Who’s the pitcher... Catcher?" said one of the workers, making himself and the other stallion to laugh. Catcher looked to both of them, closing his eyes again as he let out a sigh.

They can’t possibly know, can they? The Pegasus  exhaled, using his hooves to turn his torso towards one on the right.

"I take it that's the rumor that's floating around? Well, I can assure you that the only thing I love is the pain I'm going to rain down on both your asses if you say one more word about it," explained the Pegasus, leaning down to eat his barley.

"You hear that, he's going to rain pain down... on our asses," said the other worker to his right, again making both of the Earth stallions laugh. The  Pegasus  laughed with them as a look of anger grew on his face, causing the stallion across from them to take a gulp.

I swear to Celestia, one more fucking gay comment. Catcher stopped abruptly, a nasty grin upon his face -spread from side to side- as fire flowed through his eyes.

"Ugh guys, I think we should all just be quiet. We all are working here as a team remember." said a concerned worker from the other side of the table, the other two turning to him with a glare.

"What is he gonna do, beat us to death with his limp or 'molest' us in our sleep?" said one of the workers rhetorically, both of them laughing hysterically. The irritated Pegasus caught them by surprise, using his hooves to slam both of their heads into their bowls.

That’s it, fucking game time!

Barley and shattered glass flew along the table, both the worker stallions were knocked out but otherwise unharmed. Everyone turned to the Pegasus as he took one last gulp of his meal before getting up to leave the area.

        "Hey, where do you think you're going?" questioned one of the workers, stopping Catcher as he limped towards the door.

The angry stallion grinded his teeth, "I was going to start on my work, but if you want to dance I can pencil you in right now."

"Let him pass!" shouted Madame Ziti, a look of anger on her face as she stared at the sight before her. Catcher turned to look at her, his expression changing back to its sullen state as he started to limp towards the entryway.

"As for you, you're going to drag those other two and yourself to my office after meal and were going to have a little discussion!" exclaimed the angry mare.

Catcher continued to walk through the doorway, limping towards the orchard as he passed through the compound.

Something Unexpected

Something Unexpected

***

        "So there I was... apples everywhere!" Catcher said to himself aloud, closing his eyes in an amused manner. Pulling the cart towards one of the orchards edges, he prepared himself to start bucking.

"Hey there Catcher!" said Braeburn excitedly as he galloped towards the startled stallion. The Pegasus opened his eyes as he planted a hoof into his forehead.

"Oh for Celestia's sa-... Why are you here?" Catcher asked, his voice muffled as he brought pulled his hoof down the front of his muzzle.

I get it, “almighty” powers that be, I just can’t win. The Pegasus turned around to face Braeburn.

"I just came by to check on you. Bullet's gone missing and I had assumed that he was up to no good with you again." Braeburn explained in a concerned tone, happy to see that the Pegasus was unharmed.

The stallion let out a sigh as he turned around to face the excited pony. "Thank you for caring, but as I have said before I am quite capable of handling myself."

"I don't think you understand. He's a tricky one and I believe you're underestimating him. He's not your typical hoodlum, he's got connections with many and if you're not careful you may find yourself in a rough spot." Braeburn insisted, hoofing at the ground.

"Trust me, I can watch my own back. I've been doing it for as long as I can remember. I've never really been one to rely on the help of others. Don't trust no pony... never will." Catcher smiled with smug pride, turning his back to the Earth stallion.

"Well shucks, I can see that.” Braeburn said closing his eyes as he grinned. “Why do you think I won't leave you alone?"

        The Pegasus scoffed at the remark. "You mean to tell me that you're purposely being a persistent bastard all because I just don't want to talk to you?" asked Catcher, squinting one eye towards the blonde stallion.

"I guess you could.. I mean... Yes." Braeburn said happily as he stuttered over his words, lowering his ears as he approached the stallion.

"Just to let you know, you are a weird one, but I guess you're alright. Now if you wouldn't mind I am getting paid to do a job and standing around while I talk to odd stallions isn't quite part of it." Catcher said, lifting himself as he bucked the tree. Apples fell into the cart and he made his way to pull it towards another tree.

"How bout you and I work together? You know, so that you can get more done?" Braeburn said, trotting next to the troubled stallion.

Remember the pain, the emptiness. The Pegasus turned his head to look at him.

"Hmm, no. I can handle this by myself." Catcher was insistent. He stopped the cart once more. His front legs were wobbly once more as he bucked the tree. A bead of sweat rolled down his forehead as he made his way back towards the cart.

"You look like you're having a hard time, are you sure you don't want help?" Braeburn asked, causing the Pegasus to stop dead in his tracks. Without turning around he sat on his haunches, looking towards the sky in a melodramatic manner.

Letting out a sigh, “You’re not going to leave me alone... are you?”

“Well, with Bullet on the loose, it is my duty to protect my citizens.” Braeburn said, a smirk on his cheerful face. “And you are a target of his.”

I can’t believe I’m going to do this. The Pegasus faced the saddle on the cart with an implied look.

"Fine, but I will handle the bucking. The powers that be may have taken my wings but I most certainly can still use my legs," Catcher said reluctantly, the blonde stallion laughing at the statement. "Is there a problem, or do you think that my pain is amusing?" Catcher asked irritatedly. Braeburn saddled the cart upon his back as he pulled it to the next tree.

        "I was just having a moment. I don't mean you any disrespect," Braeburn apologized with a smile, causing the Pegasus to ponder at what he had said.

Such a dork. Catcher smiled happily, positioning himself as he bucked the apple tree.

"So do you talk to every misanthropic pony you see, or am I the first?" asked the Pegasus while he and Braeburn continued to move to another tree.

"Believe it or not, I don't really talk to many around here anymore.” Braeburn said, turning to give Catcher a smile. “I just do what needs done, say my bit, and leave. To answer your question though, you have to be the most stubborn pony I've ever talked to."  The Pegasus took a moment to stare into Braeburn's green eyes, briefly turning to shake a thought from his head.

Why do you have to have those damned eyes? The stallion slowing his stride, pain coursing through his front right limb.

"You remind me of somepony else, a stallion I once knew many years ago," Catcher said softly, turning to look at the ground with a look of sorrow.

"Was he important to you?" asked Braeburn, stopping at the next tree. The breeze blew between them as Catcher took a moment to clear his mind, turning to buck the tree.

"You could say that, in more ways than one," Catcher said, a sullen look of pain upon his face. Braeburn looked to him sympathetically, watching the mentally exhausted and physically beaten stallion take a few pants as he wobbled on his front legs. Quickly bucking the tree, he gathered himself and stood looking up at the sky.

"Family or a friend?" Braeburn asked, raising his hoof slightly as he tilted his head in an inquisitive manner. Catcher turned to look off into the distance, as if something were picking fiercely at his mind.

"Friend... just a friend is all." Catcher said in a soft tone of regret, turning back towards Braeburn.

"I thought you said you didn't have any friends. Somepony's hiding something!" Braeburn leaned forwards in anticipation as the Pegasus' ears twitched from the rush of sudden emotions.

"I lied... now can we please drop it?" asked the Pegasus, still in a sullen tone of grief.

Braeburn unsaddled himself from the cart and walked over to Catcher, placing a hoof on his back as the two sat upon their haunches. The Pegasus lowered his head as he closed his eyes, memories flooding through his mind.

         "Look, I don't know what happened to you, or even who you are, but I what I do know is what I see," Braeburn sympathized, stroking the stallions pitch black mane. Catcher turned to him, staring deeply into his green eyes as his began to tear up.

"I know what you see... what everypony else sees, a stubborn cripple who doesn't deserve to be happy because it's his own fault that he's angry at the world." said the Pegasus, a look of self loathing prominent in his expression.

"No, of course not! I see a troubled stallion who's obviously bothered by something that, if he would just open up, could probably be a lot happier," Braeburn said in an uplifting tone, looking into the stallion’s brown eyes. Catcher wiped the tears from his eyes, standing up to head to the next tree as Braeburn watched him limp.

That touch, those gestures... Damn You.The Pegasus grinded his teeth to block his thoughts and the pain.

"You're... different, in a good way that is," Catcher said humbly as he walked away, the blonde stallion trailing behind him happily.

"I'm glad to hear that... friend." said Braeburn, trotting beside the Pegasus. A moment of silence fell upon the two as they both halted, Catcher continuing to face forwards as he briefly smiled.

"Friend..." the Pegasus repeated happily, turning towards the blonde stallion with a smile. Braeburn returned the gesture, another moment of silence falling upon them.

"Well, are you going to pull my cart for me or are you just going to admire me from a distance all day you strange bastard?" asked Catcher in a playful tone, closing his eyes happily.

***

“You promised, please don't leave me!” pleaded Catcher -tears in his eyes- on his knees as he looked towards another Pegasus, bearing emerald eyes and a blonde coat.

The blonde Pegasus looked to him with sympathy, his eyes glazed with tears as he briefly closed his eyes “I know, I’m sorry.”

“Don’t go, I can’t live without you!” cried Catcher once more, lowering his head as he closed his eyes. His body shaking as his sobbing grew more intense, tears running down the other Pegasus’ cheek.

Both of them wallowed in silence as the blonde stallion turned around, jumping up into the air as he spread his wings to take flight into the night sky. Catcher briefly glanced up, turning his head to the side while he closed his eyes again.

“Come back...” he softly cried softly, curling up into the fetal position; his body continuing to shake as a cold grip flowed over his body. The dream faded as he abruptly woke with a gasp - Again. When will this end.

Using his hooves, Catcher pulled himself back towards the head of the bed. His tear glazed eyes glistening with the moonlight. The Pegasus turned towards the window as he glanced up to the stars, lowering his ears as he mumbled to himself in a hurtful tone “Good riddance.”

***

The time passed as daylight shone over the orchard as many of the workers started to wake, Madame Ziti walked into the room with a look of concern upon her face; her gaze gazed fixated on Catcher who was facing the ceiling with his worn eyes open.

"It's been a couple days and I've noticed that you scream every night, something that can only mean two things." the elderly mare said, causing the Pegasus to look to her as he rolled his eyes.

"Yes, you found me out! I am so totally taking it in the ass every night," Catcher replied hastily, turning back towards the ceiling as he continued to hold the locket in his hooves.

        The purple Unicorn tapped her hooves as she sat awaiting another answer from the sarcastic stallion, an irritated look upon her face.

"Look I have trouble sleeping every night, now please, Ziti, can you just leave me be. I'll be in the breakfast hall here in a few. I just need to gather myself."

Madame Ziti shook her head as she turned to walk away, mumbling as she left the room "You need to gather yourself something fierce then."

The Pegasus crawled out of bed shortly, limping his way down the hall once more as he made his way through the bowels of the compound and towards a large hall where every other worker had gathered. They all sat idly, talking to one another quietly as they ate their barley.

"Oh look, the same thing I've been having for the past few days!" Catcher sarcastically said, causing a few of the stallions to chuckle a bit. Other just gave him a glare as he sat down, slowly eating the dish in front of him.

"So I hear Braeburn's taken you under his eye. You should be happy that he's got your back because their are a lot of others around these parts that would love to see ya suffer." said one of the stallions in a gritty tone, causing Catcher to scoff.

What, afraid to say ‘wing’? The stallion gazed around at the many workers, all fixating their attention on him.

"I also hear that these 'others' are just a bunch of 'wussies'." the Pegasus mocked, turning his eyes back towards his dish.

"You definitely have one hell of an attitude problem," the worker said again, causing Catcher to roll his eyes.

"No... actually everypony else has an attitude problem, I'm just trying to mind my damned business," the white stallion said, taking a few more bites out of his dish.

The worker stallion let out a little chuckle as he turned his attention away from the irritated Pegasus, finishing up what was left of his barley. Catcher let out a sigh of relief as he too finished his bowl of steaming food, quickly heading out to the orchard field.

Madame Ziti blocked the Pegasus at the door, a humble look upon her face as she sat down upon her haunches in front of him.

“You’re going to run a special errand for me today. I would send one of the others but unfortunately I think they would be much better right here.”

…

“Are you implying that I can’t keep up with the work?” The Pegasus slammed a hoof down, as he gritted his teeth.

“I see how much pain your in, I can see it in your stride and as ya work. I mean ya no disrespect, besides I have a feeling ya won’t mind this little request.” Ziti said, Catcher letting out a scoff.

Disrespect... pity, what's the difference?

“You're gonna be making a quick stop to somepony you already know, Br...--” the mare started to say before being interrupted by the eager Pegasus.

“-- Braeburn, am I correct?” finished Catcher, a small look of joy upon his face as he raised his ears.

Madame Ziti closed her eyes, “Why yes, you're going to run this letter to him. Afterwards I want you to take some time to pick up a parcel from the bank. The rest of the day is yours to do whatever you wish with.”

The Unicorn used her magic to gently place a satchel on his back, the strap brushing against his wings. Small traces of pain flowed through his body as he slowly spread them to alleviate the pain.

“Thank ya dear, I’ll see you later tonight.” said Ziti with a smile, turning to leave as Catcher turned his attention to the door.

A day off... Braeburn, should I ask him? Catcher lowered his ears, a look of uncertainty upon his face as he walked through the door.

***

Strange, I don’t remember the town being this... festive. the Pegasus glanced around, examining the varying decorations. Crowds filled the streets once again; larger and more vibrant than when the stallion had first arrived.

“What the fuck?!”

“Who the hell are you?!”

“Get your hooves off me!” shouted many of those within the crowd as Catcher pushed his way through, knocking a few to the ground as he weaved his way towards the sheriff’s office.

These crowds are starting to become really ridiculous. The  stallion shook his head, slowly pushing his way through the small hinged doors. A baby blue stallion made his way to greet Catcher, a smile upon his face; he was wearing a black vest similar to Braeburn’s with a silver star. “Deputy” was written across its shining surface.

“Why hello there sir, how may I help you?” the Earth stallion asked, his blue eyes containing traces of curiosity.

“I’m here to deliver a letter to Sheriff Braeburn from Madame Ziti.” explained Catcher, looking around the small open floored structure for any signs of the Earth stallion while he sat on his haunches.

“I’m sorry sir but as you can see he’s not in. I've been told he's been busy with the setup for the festival tonight.” the deputy walked over towards a desk that sat across from a few cells.

Letting out a sigh, Catcher hoofed at the ground. “May I ask where exactly he may be...Please?”

“Why of course, he was assisting the mayor when I saw him last. If you want though I can hold the letter for you here.” the Earth stallion said, closing his eyes as he smiled.

Catcher smiled as he turned to face the door. The mayor's eh, that’s right next to the bank.

"I’m just going to deliver it to him personally.” Catcher stood up and walked to the door, the deputy bidding him farewell as he exited the small structure. “Suit yourself friend, you have a good day now ya hear.”

The Pegasus strolled through the streets once more, heading to the bank which was only a short walk away. Now if only this glare would go away I could probably make out everypony a lot more clearly.

Catcher halted in place, raising his hoof to shield his eyes. He scanned the large crowd as he looked to both the city hall and the bank entrances; there were no signs of the energetic stallion anywhere.

“Hey there, fella, come to help me set up for the festival?” Braeburn placing one hoof on the Pegasus’ back, startling him as he turned to look at the smiling stallion.

“Almost made my heart stop... Nah i’m just running a few errands for Ziti, in fact I have a letter for you right here. ” Catcher said softly, grabbing the letter from the stachel. Braeburn unrolled it, using his hooves to stretch it out as he sat upon his haunches.

Braeburn was quiet as his pupils scanned the scroll, starting to laugh happily as he rolled the letter back up.

“Well thank you friend, now I must ask... are you available tonight?” Braeburn leaned towards the stallion as he used his hooves to tilt his hat.

Just say it, you dork. Catcher took deep gulp as he closed his eyes.

“Why, yes... yes I am.” the Pegasus sat on his haunches, looking deeply into the Earth stallion’s emerald eyes. He used his hooves to cover his muzzle as he coughed, blushing as he turned his eyes towards the ground.

“I promise I’ll give you the time of your life!” Braeburn shouted hastily, Catcher letting out a chuckle as he stood up and turned to the bank. The yellow stallion did the same, following the Pegasus into the building.

I would like that... Catcher thought to himself, pushing his way in as he turned to face Braeburn. “Shouldn’t you be helping the mayor? I was told you were busy with the preparation today.”

The two stopped, awaiting a teller as they turned to each other.”The thing about that...--” Braeburn closed his eyes as he started laughing “I lied.”

Catcher looked to him as he shook his head slowly, placing a hoof on his back he too started to laugh.

Heh, maybe I was wrong about everything. The Pegasus turned to the incoming teller, a smile upon his face.

“Good evening, sirs, how may I help you on this fine day?” asked the orange Unicorn, his monocle giving off a reflection as Catcher looked to him.

“I’m here to pick up a package for Madame Ziti.” explained the Pegasus as the Unicorn used his magic to levitate a parcel to the tabletop in front of him.

Pulling out some papers, he levitated the pen to the stallion. “Sign on the X’s and you can be on your way.”

The Pegasus signed the papers, returning the pen as he grabbed the box. Picking it up with his hooves, he placed the box upon his back, letting out a groan of pain as the weight bore down on his wings.

“Here... I’ll get that.” said Braeburn, using his hooves to grab the box. Placing it on his back he winked towards the Pegasus.

Catcher tried weakly to resist, but then just let it happen. “I can handle it my-... I mean I thank you.”

The Pegasus gave him a smirk as the two headed towards the door, the sun shone down on them as they headed back towards the orchard.

***

Braeburn and Catcher both continued walking along the red expanse as they slowly approached the oasis like area, laughing as they joked with one another.

“You should have seen the looks on their faces! And that’s why no one messes with this tough hombre.” Braeburn proudly smiled to the Pegasus, a gleam of happiness in his eyes.

If I only knew... he has to be, though, I can sense it. The stallions stopped, both looking towards the farm compound.

“Thanks, Braeburn, I can handle it from here.” Catcher said, using his mouth to pick the parcel from the blonde stallion’s back. Braeburn looked to him with grin, “Just call me Brae.”

The Pegasus shook his head with a smile, “Thank you, Brae, I’ll see you in a few hours then?”

“You betcha, might have to wait a bit, though, with that storm that’s coming. It’s only supposed to last for a little while so you can expect that the fireworks will still be a’ shootin later tonight.” Braeburn exclaimed cheerfully, causing Catcher to lightly laugh.

Why do I always have to fall for the dorks. The stallion shook his head with a smile, standing up and continued through the green of the orchard as he parted ways.

Setting the package down, the Pegasus turned to the sky, looking back to his wings with a look of great sadness as if the storm were taunting his inability to fly. Tears formed in his eyes as he opened the saddlebag to pull out the locket. He held it close to his chest as he opened it, looking to the picture of himself as foal.

Grandfather...

"Please... forgive me for my ignorance." the stallion said, taking a moment to contemplate everything as he lowered his head.  He closed his eyes as he sat on his haunches, turning towards the sky once more as the rain fell upon his muzzle.

Moments passed that felt like ages as the rain soaked his black mane, the sound of nearby galloping waking him from his little slumber.

There was a loud crack as he was struck across the muzzle by a pair of hooves, throwing him into the ground with enough force to send moistened dirt and mud into the air.

"I told you, next time you wouldn't be so lucky. Now, where were we?" Bullet said menacingly as Catcher gathered himself. The hit to the face still stung, and his coat was covered with mud, but he still returned a hateful, menacing glare.

"Yay, you guys are back! I believe we were at the part where I ripped your throat from you neck!" shouted the Pegasus, throwing himself off the ground and at the Earth stallion.

Catcher hit the stallion, knocking him back into a tree as he cried out in pain. The other stallions charged at the Pegasus, exchanging blows as the crippled stallion continued to fend for himself. Eventually managing to beat Catcher back to the ground, Bullet looked to him and watched as blood trickled down his snout.

"You're going to wish you never stepped a hoof in this town when I'm through with you, Pegasus." Bullet sneered, pulling the locket away from the injured Pegasus.

Catcher used what strength he had left to fight back, desperately trying to pull it back towards himself but unable to keep his grip. Tears flowed from his eyes as his hoof slammed to the ground, still trying to fight back despite the fact he was obviously outnumbered.

"Enough of this!" shouted Madame Ziti, using her magic to place a shield around the cripple. Bullet and the rest of his gang gave glares as sharp as daggers at her, stumbling back away from the Pegasus with the locket.

"You and that sheriff are seriously starting to get on my nerves!" the large Earth stallion shouted, baring his teeth as he and the others started to turn away.

"That's right, go on... leave this orchard, ya bastards, or else you’re gonna have to face my wrath!" the elderly Unicorn said with great irritation. Bullet and the gang galloped away, taking the locket with them as Ziti rushed over to the beaten stallion.

"So cold..." cried the Pegasus, starting to curl into a fetal position as he closed his bloodied eyes. Madame Ziti leaned down, stroking his mane and coat with her hooves in an attempt to calm him while the rain continued fall in a drizzle around the both of them.

For One Moment...

For One Moment...

***

The storm had ended and Ziti sat tending to Catcher, looking sullenly towards the window with his ears lowered. The Unicorn tended to the bruises on his body, the pain somewhat lingering.

The Pegasus slowly pulled himself away from her, standing up as he limped to the exit.

“I already told ya, Braeburn is looking for those bandits. You need to stay here and finish recuperating, unless ya enjoy the pain you're in.”

You know nothing of what I feel. The stallion stopped, turning his attention back towards here. “I just want to take a quick stroll, need to contemplate my thoughts.” the stallion slowly started moving again.

“Look, ya stubborn fool, if you go out there you're only going to hurt yourself more.” Ziti rushing to the door, blocking the bold Pegasus.

Can’t I do anything without the pity or concern of others?! Catcher gently pushed her aside, turning back to look at her.

“I need to take a walk, I promise that I’m not going to get into any trouble.” said Catcher, his voice wavering with grief.

The mare opened her mouth to speak but quickly changed her mind as she closed her eyes, her ears lowered as she prepared to respond. “Please, just take care of yourself.”

Thank you. A tear running down the Pegasus's cheek as he limped away from the compound, heading towards a small mountain formation near the outskirts of town. The sky started to fill with stars while twilight faded and darkness took over.

***

Catcher limped up to the plateau of the hillside, looking over the town and orchard as the moon’s light reflected off of his tear-glazed eyes.

Maybe... I should try once more, it’s not like anypony’s going to truly miss me. The stallion looked to the edge, the ground a good drop from the rocky mountainside.

The wind picked up, his dark mane flowed wildly over his eyes as he took a few steps forwards.

“Just let go, everything will be alright soon.” Catcher limped a few more steps, starting to shake as he approached the edge

No more... pain. No more... emptiness. No more... cold feeling. The Pegasus closing his eyes once more as he scooted a little closer.

“CATCHER!” shouted Braeburn, causing the stallion to immediately turn around.

“What the hell are you doing?!” questioned the concerned stallion, halting a few feet from Catcher. The two looked to each other, the Pegasus trying to speak -no words- only small faint cries leaked from his mouth.

Braeburn continued to stare at the stallion as he panted, the Pegasus slowly limping towards his worried friend.

“Bullet and the others that attacked you are in lockup, found ‘em at a small settlement not far from here. Took me half a day, but I did it, just for you... even managed to retrieve this for ya.”

The Earth stallion pulled the locket from the satchel on his back, causing Catcher to limp as quickly as he could to the stallion.

“I... I don’t know wha--.” the Pegasus started to say as he was interrupted by Braeburn.

“Why is this locket so important to you? I’ve watched you treat that thing like it were a gift from the heavens!” exclaimed Braeburn, tears in his eyes as he awaited an answer.

“It... it was my grandfather’s, he used to wear it all the time. You could say that it’s a little keepsake, something that I hold to remember him.” Catcher explained, tears starting to flow down his cheeks.

There was a brief silence between the two before Braeburn took a deep breath, looking to the Pegasus with a sympathetic look.

The blonde stallion took a few steps closer. “I take it he was important to you?”

“It’s funny you know, I wake up every night from nightmares... screaming. The moment I realize this locket’s with me I start to feel safe and comfortable.” Catcher said softly, using his hooves to wipe the tears from his eyes.

Braeburn sat down upon his haunches as he listened to his friend, setting his hat upon the ground as he looked deeply into the Pegasus’ brown eyes.

“I used to have the same thing happen when I was really young, would drive my parents crazy. My grandfather however... would strap me to his back and fly me around at night, talking to me as I would watch the stars. He would tell me everything would be ok and that he would always be there to help me.” Catcher sniffed as he turned to the night sky, tears falling from his muzzle to the red stone below him.

The Earth stallion shed a tear, rolling from his eye down his muzzle. “He sounds like he was a great pony.”

“He was definitely a father figure to me, but that all changed one day when he grew terribly ill. My parents told me that he might have to go away soon and that I should spend as much time as I could with him. So every day for six months... I sat by his side, watching the stallion I considered my hero slowly turn into a husk of his former self.” Catcher explained closing his eyes as he brought his head closer to his chest.

Braeburn tilted his head, wiping the tears from his as he lowered his ears.

“Then one day... after school, I walked to his room. He placed his hoof on my head and stroked my mane, told me that everything was going to be alright soon and that he was proud of me. I leaned to give him a hug, closing his eyes he smiled and when I asked him when exactly that would be... he didn’t respond.” Catcher said closing his eyes as he shook his head, the Blonde stallion scooting closer to the mourning Pegasus.

“Catcher... I know you miss him but that’s no reason to throw yourself from a cliff.” Braeburn explained, placing his hoof on the stallions shoulder.

“Brae, I’m not doing it for him... I didn’t do it for him the first time, either. I did it for the stallion who ripped my heart out many years ago. Somepony who I dedicated all my love and trust to, until he shattered it...” Catcher slowly spread his wings, turning to both his sides he glanced to Braeburn.

A moment of silence fell on them once again as Braeburn turned his tear glazed eyes towards the damaged limbs.

Catcher retracted his wings back to their idle state, looking up the sky once more as he flicked his ears. The breeze picked up once more, their manes flowing to their sides.

        “I was on weather duty by myself for the first time in ages, it was late and I had felt so cold... so alone. The pain of that emptiness was just too much, more than anything I had ever felt. So I looked to the forests below, took a quick flight up into the night sky as I watched the stars, retracted my wings, and closed my eyes.” Catcher explained, closing his eyes as he relived the moment.

“As I fell, I could feel the cold winds rushing around me, with a smile upon my face I curled up and tried to let nature do its thing. I chickened out, though, and tried to go back when I came close to the ground, crashing into a few trees as I fell. It was then that a warm feeling flowed through my body, one which replaced the cold emptiness I had building within.” Catcher opened his eyes as he turned back towards Braeburn, his head and ears lowered.

Catcher lowered his ears, “For one moment... I felt at peace, all the pain vanishing from me. I just kept hearing my grandfather telling me everything would be alright.”

The Pegasus sat quietly as Braeburn picked up his hat, placing it on his head.

“I know... I watched you fall. I was returning from my cousin’s in Ponyville and I saw you fall from the heavens. I rushed to help you but I realized that if I didn’t get proper help you would have died,” said the Earth stallion, a stutter in his voice as he approached Catcher.

No... It can’t be, there’s just no way.The Pegasus looked at the yellow stallion with a look of disbelief as memories started coming back to him, ones revealing that Braeburn was telling the truth.

“I couldn’t stay with you and by the time I was able to return they had already picked you up and carried you off. No one to ask, I thought I would never have the chance to see you again. That was until I saw you in town...” Braeburn said, tears of joy in his eyes as he leaned towards the Pegasus.

 “You’re not worthless, you’re not a burden, and you’re certainly nicer than you let on. You also don’t have to be alone any longer.” Braeburn quickly used his hooves to gently grab Catcher’s shoulders, the Pegasus sat idly.

This feeling...

No don’t do it you idiot. What if he’s not like that? Then you’ll push that final nail in the coffin and make yourself the fool that you are. Catcher looked to Braeburn with his tear glazed eyes.

I have to know, I just have to.

Catcher leaned forwards, closing his eyes as he prepared his lips. Happily his surprise Braeburn hastily locked lips with him, slowly moving their heads about as they savored the moment. Their eyes still closed as they pulled each other closer, tightening their embrace.

Slowly pulling away, they looked at one another passionately as they continued to cry tears of happiness. Braeburn chuckled slightly, “I told you I was gonna give you the best night of your life... didn’t I.”

Fireworks shot off from Appleloosa, their light glistening in Braeburn’s eyes as Catcher looked deeply into them. Ponies cheered as the light show continued, the thundering bursts muffled as the two pulled each other closer, their heads nestled against each other.

***

        The two trotted down from the small mountain, settling themselves on a grass patched area next to an oasis. Braeburn removed his satchel as he gently placed it and the locket gently to the side, turning his attention back to the Pegasus.

“I haven’t felt like this in.. well ages.” exclaimed Catcher, wiping what remained of his tears from his eyes.

Braeburn returned a smile with his eyes closed, “Well I’m about to make you feel a whole lot better.”

The yellow stallion leaned himself against the stallion as they locked lips once more, using his hoof to stroke at the Pegasus’ dark genitals. The sensation causing the stallion’s leg to twitch as his cock rose from its sheath, its veins throbbing as its peach-colored head grew to its erect size.

Using both his hooves, the Earth stallion grabbed the growing member, slowly stroking it as he smiled towards Catcher.

        Pulling away, Braeburn lowered his head as he closed  his eyes. Using his tongue he slowly made his way up the shaft, stopping at the thick ring of meat as he opened his eyes to look up at the results.

Please don't stop. The Pegasus let out a long slow moan as the Earth stallion continued his creeping advance up the shaft. Stopping once more at the head, the Earth stallion used his tongue to lap up the pre from the tip.

Catcher’s eyes moved about in a discombobulated manner, grunting as he tried to hold back his primal emotions. Braeburn closed his eyes, opening his mouth wide as he started to swallow the thick equine member. The cock stretched his throat as he slowly pushed his way forwards.

        Catcher’s ears were lowered as he bit his lip, trying to hold in his cries of pleasure while the blonde stallion engulfed more of his throbbing member inch by inch.

“Fuck me!” shouted Catcher with his eyes closed, causing Braeburn to slightly chuckle as his throat tightened around the pulsing cock.

Braeburn’s mass of black flesh had made its way out of its meaty prison, pre leaking down along his urethra. The clear substance gave off a scent that caused the Pegasus to grow intoxicated with lust, letting out a whinny as he slowly thrusted himself further into Braeburn’s throat.

The yellow stallion’s gag reflex started to squeeze Catcher’s veiny member in a rhythmic fashion, sending waves of pleasure through his body as he let out small sudden cries of euphoric bliss.

Braeburn pulled himself back, saliva pouring from his muzzle as he stopped for a brief moment. Using his hooves the Pegasus grabbed the stallion’s head gently, pushing Braeburn back down on the shaft as his ears flicked.

Continuing to pick up momentum, Braeburn started making slurping noises as the saliva started to profusely pour from his jaw.

Catcher released the Earth stallion’s head as Braeburn grabbed the Pegasus’ haunches for support, pushing himself down as far as he could, all the while struggling against his gag reflex. Holding it for a few seconds, his throat tightened once more, causing the white stallion let out a sharp cry of lust.

Braeburn placed his hoof on Catcher’s chest as he pulled himself off the equine member, a mixture of saliva and pre pouring from his mouth as he panted. Blushing, he rolled over raising his tail to give the Pegasus a clear view of his flanks.

Braeburn panted wildly as he turned his head back towards the Pegasus, blushing as he eagerly awaited.

Catcher smiled as he scooted forwards, using his hooves to grab the Earth stallion’s flanks for support; he slowly pushed the wide head of his cock against his rear, the copious amounts of saliva and pre allowing it to slowly fit. Both of them bit their lips, their eyes closed and ears lowered as they let out a groans of pain and ecstasy. A loud audible pop rang out as Catcher started to push as much of his shaft as he could into his partner’s rear, causing  Braeburn to let out wail of pleasure.

The two let out moans of relief as the pulsing shaft vanished into the blonde stallion, Catcher stopped as soon as he noticed Braeburn slamming a hoof into the grass.

"Brae?" Catcher leaned down nestling his head next to Braeburn’s as the Earth stallion panted “Keep going.” The Pegasus pulled back and then brought himself back to the hilt, the Earth stallion let out an abrupt wail. Catcher continued the motion as he brushed his head next to the Earth stallion’s. His beastly shaft covered in pre as he continued to pump himself into the stallion, Catcher's sac brushing against Braeburn's with a slapping that only increased in pace as he continued to go to town on the smaller stallion.

Letting out a cry, Catcher pulled himself off Braeburn, rolling him over with a smile on his face. The Earth stallion leaned up towards the panting Pegasus, his eyes gleaming in the moonlight.

“Let me return the favor.” insisted the Pegasus, softly pushing Braeburn’s back to the grass. Using his hooves he grasped both of their members and held them together as he thrusted forwards. The bodily fluids on his cock lubricated the Earth stallion’s as they both let out moans with every thrust, both cock's sliding together.

Ropes of pre fell from the two thick members, falling upon Braeburn, who closed his eyes as Catcher continued to rub their throbbing cocks together. Surprising the Earth stallion, Catcher moved forwards, grabbing the lubricated flesh behind him as slowly forced himself onto it.

Now that’s what I’m talking about!” shouted Braeburn as he opened his mouth to let out a moan. His tongue hung out of his mouth as he continued to squeal with every inch that vanished into Catcher’s rear.

Pain wracked the Pegasus’ lower body as he closed his eyes, stopping as he reached the hilt. Letting out a moan, he leaned forwards as he nestled his head next to Braeburn’s. Using his muzzle, he started to nape at various places around the aroused stallion’s neck and ears.

“Don’t ever leave me... please.” cried Catcher as he panted, Braeburn starting to thrust into the white stallion’s rear.

“I promise...-” Braeburn bit his lip as he pulled back out, starting to thrust continuously as he picked up speed. Catcher closed his eyes as he let out a sharp wails with every thrust.

Braeburn looked to him with smile as he continued to abuse the Pegasus’s rear, using his hooves to slowly stroke his wings.

Catcher’s ears raised as he closed his eyes, his wings slowly spreading. Blood coursing through the feathery appendages as Braeburn continued to stroke them, each gentle brush causing the white stallion to shiver out of joy.

The Pegasus’ member began to flare between the two, smearing pre on them as they reached their climax.

Spreading his wings to their full capacity, Catcher threw his head back to let out a loud scream of euphoria, torrents of cum shot from his cock. Covering Braeburn with his seed as he continued to let out euphoric wails.

Braeburn’s muzzle was covered with the white sticky fluid, the Earth stallion letting out a long-paced moan as he thrusted deep one last time, releasing his load into the Pegasus with a winny.

Braeburn blasted Catcher’s insides, the pressure sending wave after wave of pleasure throughout his body as moans bursted wildly from his mouth.

“UGH, YES... UGH!” moaned Catcher excitedly as cum slowly poured from his rear, running down the Earth stallion’s pulsing shaft.

The two took a brief moment to look at each other as they panted wildly, their cocks slowly vanishing back into their sheaths. Catcher rolled to the side as he retracted his wings, the two looking at one another with looks of bliss, basking in the afterglow.

“Thank you... for everything.” Catcher said, still panting he closed his eyes as he locking lips once more with Braeburn.

Pulling away, the Earth stallion took a moment to chuckle as he smiled. “Nice lips.”

Catcher let out a chuckle as licked the cum from the edges of his mouth. The two looked at each other with smiles as they pulled each other close..

***

The Pegasus woke up, the morning breeze blowing through his mane as he stared at the sky. He closed his eyes as he took in the warmth of the sun, a new aura of happiness about him. The pain that had coursed through his body for over almost a year had faded to but a small tingle as a warm feeling started to replace the cold emptiness that he had once felt.

Catcher’s eyes glistened with the sunlight as he took in a deep breath. He finally felt content that he had gained the one thing he had never dreamt would happen again, to have the love and company of another.

The Pegasus gazed over at Braeburn, who was laying beside him on a grass patch in the middle of the red expanse. He smiled, as he decided it was time.

"Brae, my name... is Forte." He closed his eyes, snuggling into Braeburn's side.

Braeburn gave a snuggle of affection back, smiling as he stroked the Pegasus’ mane. "Glad to have ya in my life, Forte."