GREEN 2003 1 23278 130.06 KB 2581

Dash Mom Chapter 4

By wingedanon
Created: 2026-08-12 02:49:32
Updated: 2026-09-12 02:46:33
scootaloorainbow dashanonstallion

  1. 1.
    >Be Scootaloo, class has been on the quiet side today.
  2. 2.
    >After what happened yesterday, it isn't all that surprising.
  3. 3.
    >Diamond didn't bother trying to mock any blank flanks.
  4. 4.
    >Just staring at Ms. Cheerilee, but not really.
  5. 5.
    >A nudge by Sweetie Belle gets your attention.
  6. 6.
    >"Hey, Scoots."
  7. 7.
    "What?"
  8. 8.
    >"You were by the doors when everything happened. What did you see?"
  9. 9.
    "A giant scary monster, and some--"
  10. 10.
    >Anon's body lying on the ground.
  11. 11.
    "Other stuff. I don't really want to talk about it."
  12. 12.
    >"Mom and dad didn't tell me the details. Told me to stay put when the adults went outside."
  13. 13.
    >Entire town came out to rip that monster to pieces.
  14. 14.
    >Surprisingly violent.
  15. 15.
    >And you're watching him on the ground.
  16. 16.
    >Not responding.
  17. 17.
    >Shake your head.
  18. 18.
    >Think about something else.
  19. 19.
    "Want to ask that weird tree thing about our cutie marks?"
  20. 20.
    >Sweetie Belle pauses with a worried look.
  21. 21.
    >"I dunno. What if we have our cutie marks stolen? I'm afraid to ask."
  22. 22.
    >"Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, please stop whispering to each other."
  23. 23.
    >Sit up straight as Ms. Cheerilee calls you out.
  24. 24.
    >Cheerilee overlooks the class and sighs.
  25. 25.
    >"All right."
  26. 26.
    >She closes her study book.
  27. 27.
    >"Let's do something different. I know yesterday was scary."
  28. 28.
    >Snails nods slowly.
  29. 29.
    >"Yeah, I saw you crush a monster's spine with your bare hooves."
  30. 30.
    >Cheerilee looks away sucking in her lips.
  31. 31.
    >"Yes, well, not something I or any of you should be doing."
  32. 32.
    >Clears her throat before continuing.
  33. 33.
    >"Inside your desk I've put cards and writing materials inside for you. If you want, we'll make some 'Get Well Soon' cards for Anon. Anypony who doesn't want to participate may take recess now."
  34. 34.
    >Not one classmate gets up, not even you.
  35. 35.
    >Look down at your card.
  36. 36.
    >What do you even tell him?
  37. 37.
    >You both verbally spared.
  38. 38.
    >Him being a jerk.
  39. 39.
    >Lying on the ground for everypony's sake.
  40. 40.
    >And you were also a jerk.
  41. 41.
    >A twitch of your ear catches something, along with a few other ponies.
  42. 42.
    >Diamond crying quietly.
  43. 43.
     
  44. 44.
    >Anon.
  45. 45.
    >You thought you knew him.
  46. 46.
    >We're both alike, or so you thought.
  47. 47.
    >Goal oriented, status building, and resource gathering.
  48. 48.
    >He's got it all.
  49. 49.
    >Magic powers were only a tool for him.
  50. 50.
    >Mom said a lot of things about him.
  51. 51.
    >Said Anon was worthy of being a part of your life, that you should pursue him.
  52. 52.
    >We would do great things.
  53. 53.
    >It didn't matter.
  54. 54.
    >You saw him, on the ground clutching himself after falling.
  55. 55.
    >There was so much blood.
  56. 56.
    >Thorns stuck out everywhere on Anon's body.
  57. 57.
    >Protecting what?
  58. 58.
    >A small dog monster?
  59. 59.
    >Protecting you.
  60. 60.
    >A pain in his side.
  61. 61.
    >Fear had taken hold of you.
  62. 62.
    >Anon saw that, saw you, and still went out of his way to protect you.
  63. 63.
    >Like a stallion would.
  64. 64.
    >Even after what you did.
  65. 65.
    >Looking up to him as he held his ground.
  66. 66.
    >Against that thing.
  67. 67.
    >A fuzzy memory right now, too scared to think about it.
  68. 68.
    >Want to blank out the memory of Anon on the floor dying.
  69. 69.
    >Can't forget it.
  70. 70.
    >Somehow you didn't have any nightmares last night.
  71. 71.
    >Can't forget hearing what it sounds like when a heart stops.
  72. 72.
    >The other monster.
  73. 73.
    >Never have you seen such hate in something's eyes.
  74. 74.
    >Anon was already gone, but it still hated him.
  75. 75.
    >Feathers and blood were on the claws.
  76. 76.
    >Anon, were you fighting that thing the whole time?
  77. 77.
    >...
  78. 78.
    >Taste of blood is still on your tongue.
  79. 79.
    >Trying to save him.
  80. 80.
    >Mom told you CPR was a useless skill after it was taught in class.
  81. 81.
    >Help couldn't reach the pony in time.
  82. 82.
    >You would like to think that you helped.
  83. 83.
    >Pushing air into him.
  84. 84.
    >That's not how you expected your first kiss to go.
  85. 85.
    >You wouldn't have minded sharing that first kiss with Anon.
  86. 86.
    >Was planning on making him work for it.
  87. 87.
    >He was so limp in your hooves.
  88. 88.
    >Eyes just blank.
  89. 89.
    >All that intelligence was gone.
  90. 90.
    >Mom told me my CPR saved you.
  91. 91.
    >How funny is that?
  92. 92.
    >Dad won't stop hugging me.
  93. 93.
    >He said he was so frightened that he almost lost his daughter.
  94. 94.
    >You're scared.
  95. 95.
    >You love your cutie mark.
  96. 96.
    >It's special, it's yours.
  97. 97.
    >Anon's was stolen, or deleted.
  98. 98.
    >That is so unfair.
  99. 99.
    >Why?
  100. 100.
    >Why does somepony who does good get punished?
  101. 101.
    >Saves your life!
  102. 102.
    >Then gets rewarded with a backhoof.
  103. 103.
    >You saw how scared he was.
  104. 104.
    >A fear you can relate to.
  105. 105.
    >He should have his cutie mark now!
  106. 106.
    >Anon deserves better.
  107. 107.
    >"Diamond?"
  108. 108.
    >Be Diamond Tiara.
  109. 109.
    >Shake out of your thoughts as you look up to Ms. Cheerilee.
  110. 110.
    >A dour expression on her face.
  111. 111.
    >"Bring your letter."
  112. 112.
    >Back down to your damp letter.
  113. 113.
    >Find several false starts scratched out.
  114. 114.
    >Trying to say something to him.
  115. 115.
    >Failing to find the words.
  116. 116.
    >Only have enough space for something simple.
  117. 117.
    >'I'm sorry.'
  118. 118.
     
  119. 119.
    >“She looks so sad, doesn’t she, Scootaloo?”
  120. 120.
    “Who wouldn’t be?”
  121. 121.
    >Lunch had the odd feel of being mundane retread after such overwhelming chaos.
  122. 122.
    >Still got to eat.
  123. 123.
    >Lily was grazing again, by herself this time.
  124. 124.
    >Everypony was in their own click, talking about how surprised they all were with what their parents did.
  125. 125.
    >Beats thinking about what happened to Anon.
  126. 126.
    >Almost every other time adults would run when a monster rolled into town.
  127. 127.
    >Not tear the monster limb from limb.
  128. 128.
    “Come on, Sweetie Belle."
  129. 129.
    >"Wait, what?"
  130. 130.
    >You take lead without giving her much time to think so she just follows along.
  131. 131.
    >Trot the grassy slope to Lily.
  132. 132.
    >Her ears tilt back towards you before returning forward facing.
  133. 133.
    >If a bit down turned.
  134. 134.
    >"Hi."
  135. 135.
    "How's lunch?"
  136. 136.
    >"Same as usual."
  137. 137.
    >Sweetie Belle gives you a confused look.
  138. 138.
    "Then tell us what you're thinking about."
  139. 139.
    >Lily raises an eyebrow as she chews.
  140. 140.
    >"Um, not much. Trying not to anyway."
  141. 141.
    >Shrug as you sit down to eat your daisy sandwich.
  142. 142.
    >Sweetie Belle joins the two of you.
  143. 143.
    >"Sure. I can get that."
  144. 144.
    >Chew a bit more of your sandwich.
  145. 145.
    >"I wish I could do more."
  146. 146.
    >Perk your ears up.
  147. 147.
    "Yeah?"
  148. 148.
    >Lily gazes at Canterlot Castle.
  149. 149.
    >"Now everypony important is going to be doing stuff. What can a filly do?"
  150. 150.
    >"Hey now, that ain't no way to think."
  151. 151.
    >Nearly jump when Applebloom joins.
  152. 152.
    >"After all, he was just a colt and look what Anon did. He saved everypony."
  153. 153.
    >See a few more foals join the herd.
  154. 154.
    "So what do you want to do?"
  155. 155.
    >Lily hesitates when she notices just how much of the class had gathered.
  156. 156.
    >She starts to play with her ponytails.
  157. 157.
    >"I dunno."
  158. 158.
    >"I'll tell you then."
  159. 159.
    >Oh great, Diamond Tiara.
  160. 160.
    >Most of the ponies gulp as she trots her way in.
  161. 161.
    >She points at you.
  162. 162.
    "What?"
  163. 163.
    >"Creepy stalker here has hay bells of stuff about him and his mom."
  164. 164.
    "Hey!"
  165. 165.
    >"How about you put it all to good use and make us a report."
  166. 166.
    "What are you getting at?"
  167. 167.
    >Diamond gives you a look.
  168. 168.
    >That look of 'you know and I know'.
  169. 169.
    >Lily and the rest of the ponies look between the two of you.
  170. 170.
    "Fine. What are you thinking?"
  171. 171.
    >"If some weirdo stole his cutie mark, maybe we can figure out how. When. Where. I dunno. You're the leader of that club right?"
  172. 172.
    >Suck in your lips and look around innocently.
  173. 173.
    >So does Sweetie Belle.
  174. 174.
    "Rainbow Dash club right?"
  175. 175.
    >"Stop playing dumb. That cutie mark thing."
  176. 176.
    "It's supposed to be a secret, and I'm not the leader."
  177. 177.
    >"Some secret. Maybe if ponies don't pay attention to you screaming your lungs out."
  178. 178.
    >Applebloom raises her hoof.
  179. 179.
    >"A what now?"
  180. 180.
    "Cutie Mark Crusaders. We work together to acquire our cutie marks."
  181. 181.
    >Answer with a disappointed tone.
  182. 182.
    >That lights up her countenance.
  183. 183.
    >"Why didn't you tell me? I want mine."
  184. 184.
    "I dunno. Busy."
  185. 185.
    >Diamond groans and rolls her eyes.
  186. 186.
    >"We're getting off track. Figure out that problem. Lily, you were planning on a date for him?"
  187. 187.
    >"Why do you care?"
  188. 188.
    >Lily stands up with a frown.
  189. 189.
    >Diamond doesn't even hesitate.
  190. 190.
    >"Because I want to."
  191. 191.
    >You have some doubts.
  192. 192.
     
  193. 193.
    >"Don't give me that look. Are you going to sit on this hill and pout? You better not. He needs our help. From all of us."
  194. 194.
    >Rumble actually takes a step back.
  195. 195.
    >"What?! How could any of us help?"
  196. 196.
    >Most of the rest of the foals nod in agreement and voice their doubts.
  197. 197.
    >"Because adults can't do everything. Anon is proof of that. You don't have to think of something now, but if we can work together we can get that cutie mark back. No pony should have theirs stolen."
  198. 198.
    >That makes most everypony shudder.
  199. 199.
    "Yeah. That's scary."
  200. 200.
    >Lily sighs and sits back down.
  201. 201.
    >"So what were you thinking?"
  202. 202.
    >Diamond rubs her chin as she thinks.
  203. 203.
    >"Well we saw what happens when you fall into despair. He lost his color. Now I don't know much about magic, but what if the opposite happens?"
  204. 204.
    >Tilt your head at the thought.
  205. 205.
    "Like make him so happy that he becomes more colorful?"
  206. 206.
    >"It's a stupid idea, but with what's happened I can't say it isn't impossible. A cutie mark and a pony are connected. We make him so charged up with bliss it can't help but try to come back to him."
  207. 207.
    >Sweetie Belle scrunches her snout.
  208. 208.
    >"I've never heard of anything like that."
  209. 209.
    "Never heard of a cutie mark being stolen either."
  210. 210.
    >"It's the best I can think of. We're really working with foggy unknown nonsense here."
  211. 211.
    >Snips sighs as he scratches his head.
  212. 212.
    >"I miss when it was just about pop-quizzes. This is confusing."
  213. 213.
    >Simpler days.
  214. 214.
    >Tiara stomps her hoof.
  215. 215.
    >"We make him have the best date a colt could ever want. Any suggestions from you guys?"
  216. 216.
    >That makes the dudes all pause.
  217. 217.
    >"Uuuuh, I dunno. Never been on one."
  218. 218.
    >"I wouldn't want to be on one. Fillies are weird."
  219. 219.
    >Thanks Buttons.
  220. 220.
    >"I saw what you all did to Anon at that stupid event."
  221. 221.
    >Diamond facehooves and drags her face.
  222. 222.
    >"Useless! All of you."
  223. 223.
    >Noi raises her hoof.
  224. 224.
    >"Give him a kiss?"
  225. 225.
    >That gets you all to blush.
  226. 226.
    >Lily starts playing with her pony tails faster.
  227. 227.
    >"I-I-I-I dunno. That's scary to think about."
  228. 228.
    "I saw Diamond give him one."
  229. 229.
    >"S-shut up! That was CPR. You are all impossible!"
  230. 230.
    >The bell rings to return to class.
  231. 231.
    "Fine. Let's think about it. Who knows what will happen."
  232. 232.
     
  233. 233.
    >At least Anon is resting peacefully, thank you Princess Luna.
  234. 234.
    >You weren't sure what you were expecting with a royal medical wing.
  235. 235.
    >Stuffy maybe?
  236. 236.
    >Guess Princess Celestia wants a more homely feel whenever she gets a cold.
  237. 237.
    >You're Rainbow Dash, staring at a nice full plate of food that the staff brought you.
  238. 238.
    >Haven't touched it yet.
  239. 239.
    >Might have to reheat it now.
  240. 240.
    >Heavy hoof clops stop next to you.
  241. 241.
    >"Hey Dash."
  242. 242.
    >Tilt your head up to at least acknowledge him.
  243. 243.
    "Royal Guard. I'm surprised to see you. Thought they would put you on leave or something."
  244. 244.
    >He throws his arm out and back in.
  245. 245.
    >"Only if you're injured do they make you. Got lucky this time."
  246. 246.
    >Snort loudly.
  247. 247.
    "Breaking a leg moving a mountain is lucky?"
  248. 248.
    >Royal shrugs, then steals a hay-fry from your plate.
  249. 249.
    "Dude!"
  250. 250.
    >He spits it out.
  251. 251.
    >"Cold, yuck! Dash, how long have you been sitting here?"
  252. 252.
    "I dunno. A little while. Doctors and nurses need space to work at the moment."
  253. 253.
    >Nods at that, then sits down next to you.
  254. 254.
    "Wish I could do more. I wish I could have done more."
  255. 255.
    >"Throwing lightning right back at that monster is not enough? Dash, that saved everypony's life. That was incredible."
  256. 256.
    >A small smile breaks on your face.
  257. 257.
    "I guess so"
  258. 258.
    >"I understand though. I wish I could have done more."
  259. 259.
    >Workers and guards move past the two of you going about their daily regiment.
  260. 260.
    >Catch him looking at a particular unicorn guard.
  261. 261.
    >"My talent might have saved Fluttershy's life, but I think I could have done a better job if I was an unicorn. Zip, zoom, teleport right out of there with her. Instead of shattering my leg."
  262. 262.
    "That magic sapping fumes would have been a problem."
  263. 263.
    >"Probably."
  264. 264.
    >He says with a straight face as he steals your apple juice.
  265. 265.
    >Just glare at him then smack him with your tail.
  266. 266.
    >"Ow."
  267. 267.
    >You know he could've deflected that, he just didn't want to.
  268. 268.
    "So when we were both fighting that smaller monster, you did all that with a bad leg? Didn't that hurt like tartarus?"
  269. 269.
    >"Totally did, but I was motivated by piss and anger. I saw how you looked. That wing was mangled badly."
  270. 270.
    "Didn't feel great, that's for sure."
  271. 271.
    >Both of you chuckle at that.
  272. 272.
    "Wow, what a terrible day. Top five for sure."
  273. 273.
    >"Not even top one?"
  274. 274.
    "It's a competitor."
  275. 275.
    >Eat a hay-fry, then spit it out.
  276. 276.
    "Gross. Maybe I should get a new plate."
  277. 277.
    >"If you ask for a griffon meal, I think they have tuna salad."
  278. 278.
    "Eh, I usually only prefer it when I make it. Go to an ocean, snatch up a tuna, then bring it home to cook."
  279. 279.
    >Royal Guard stares at you dumbfounded.
  280. 280.
    >"R-really!?"
  281. 281.
    "No you goof. I think I'll just grab an apple."
  282. 282.
    >"Ms. Rainbow Dash."
  283. 283.
    >Both of you perk up when a nurse approaches.
  284. 284.
    >"We're done. You can be wi--"
  285. 285.
    >Didn't need to hear the rest.
  286. 286.
    >Moved like a rainbow lightning bolt and stopped cold in front of the door.
  287. 287.
    >Paper and curtains are thrown aside.
  288. 288.
    >Quickly open the door.
  289. 289.
    >He's asleep still.
  290. 290.
    >Blink a few times.
  291. 291.
    >Hop up on the bed, curl up around him, pull him in with legs and wings.
  292. 292.
    >A soft murmur escapes his lips.
  293. 293.
    "Hush, mom's here."
  294. 294.
     
  295. 295.
    >Don't feel tired.
  296. 296.
    >Probably should be, but holding him puts you at peace.
  297. 297.
    >Sometimes you forget just how much smaller he is.
  298. 298.
    >Anon still fits into the safety of your chest.
  299. 299.
    >Wings still shield him entirely.
  300. 300.
    >This feels right.
  301. 301.
    >Him asleep sounding in your embrace.
  302. 302.
    >A brief nostalgic memory of him in your hooves just after he was born flashes to the forefront of your mind.
  303. 303.
    >Hoof clops by the door make your ears twitch.
  304. 304.
    >They hesitate, then turn back.
  305. 305.
    >About five minutes pass when they come back.
  306. 306.
    >Strange.
  307. 307.
    >Cradle Anon in your wing, and cup the other wing around your mouth.
  308. 308.
    "Who is it?"
  309. 309.
    >She seems startled at being caught based on her gasp.
  310. 310.
    >"Sorry."
  311. 311.
    >Princess Celestia?
  312. 312.
    "Come in."
  313. 313.
    >A gold hue grabs the handle, and sure enough; Princess Celestia comes in.
  314. 314.
    >Thought she would be sleeping at this time.
  315. 315.
    >Whisper quietly.
  316. 316.
    "Is something wrong?"
  317. 317.
    >She shakes her head no, but you can see how she holds her wings.
  318. 318.
    >Anxious.
  319. 319.
    >"Apologies, Rainbow. I wanted to see how he was doing."
  320. 320.
    >Lift your wing to reveal his sleeping self.
  321. 321.
    >Celestia nods, then just stares.
  322. 322.
    >She sits down and can't seem to tear her gaze away.
  323. 323.
    >"I can't sleep."
  324. 324.
    >Eyes widen at her confession.
  325. 325.
    >Something was wrong.
  326. 326.
    >Lift your wing to talk quieter, hopefully her wing language was good.
  327. 327.
    'Something is eating you, Princess?'
  328. 328.
    >Celestia blinks a few times at your wing gesture before lifting up her own.
  329. 329.
    >It's a bit clumsy.
  330. 330.
    >'Been a while speaking like this. It was a difficult day.'
  331. 331.
    >Move her mane aside so you can see both of her eyes.
  332. 332.
    >'I was terrified. All I could think about was failing everypony. Failing him.'
  333. 333.
    >That was you 110%
  334. 334.
    >'How did you do it? He is the bravest pony I've ever met.'
  335. 335.
    >Pause at that.
  336. 336.
    'You've ever met!?'
  337. 337.
    >'Most adults in similar situations have strength or magic to face the challenge head on. Anon had none of that, but still showed astounding bravery and sacrifice.'
  338. 338.
    >Wow.
  339. 339.
    >A sense of pride wells up in you.
  340. 340.
    >'I must confess, Rainbow Dash. I had promised myself when my sister returned I would pull away from being emotionally attached to another foal.'
  341. 341.
    'Right, you're Twilight's teacher.'
  342. 342.
    >'And here I am again, with a new foal. I can't help myself.'
  343. 343.
    >Celestia looks out the window at the moon, then back to you.
  344. 344.
    >'Rainbow, may I be Anon's godmother?'
  345. 345.
    >Jaw drops.
  346. 346.
    >She waits for your answer.
  347. 347.
    >Celestia wants to be part of Anon and your life.
  348. 348.
    >Never had you thought this would be a thing.
  349. 349.
    >Mom is going to explode with joy.
  350. 350.
    'You look tired, come sleep with us.'
  351. 351.
    >Celestia sits up straight as you wave her over with your wing.
  352. 352.
    >Eyes water slightly before she wipes them away.
  353. 353.
    >Regalia is removed until she's bare.
  354. 354.
    >Glad the bed was made to handle her.
  355. 355.
    >She softly lies down and curls opposite of you.
  356. 356.
    >A giant warm wing envelops you.
  357. 357.
    >Shared breath mixes between the three of you.
  358. 358.
    >Feel sleep luring you.
  359. 359.
    >Not sure what this means going forward.
  360. 360.
    >Hopefully it won't change too much, just another pony in your life.
  361. 361.
    >And Princess Luna as well.
  362. 362.
    "Good night, Celestia."
  363. 363.
    >"Sweet dreams."
  364. 364.
     
  365. 365.
    >Be Anon, open sky is all around you with a sea of clouds below.
  366. 366.
    >Very relaxing for a pegasus.
  367. 367.
    >Casually do an aerial pirouette.
  368. 368.
    >Let the mane whip around in the wind.
  369. 369.
    >There should be a bit of a chill being this high up.
  370. 370.
    >Where are you?
  371. 371.
    >Don't see anyone around.
  372. 372.
    >Sure Equestria isn't exactly a bustling population except in a few major cities, but there should be at least one pegasus around somewhere.
  373. 373.
    >Scrunch your nose with confusion as you land on the clouds.
  374. 374.
    >Feels thick beneath your hooves.
  375. 375.
    >Very springy, but doesn't part.
  376. 376.
    >Would take a great deal of effort to bust a hole through.
  377. 377.
    >What were you doing?
  378. 378.
    >Memory is a bit hazy at the moment.
  379. 379.
    "Hello? Mom, are you around?"
  380. 380.
    >"Anon."
  381. 381.
    >Luna?
  382. 382.
    "Oh, good--"
  383. 383.
    >Check the position of the hazy sun.
  384. 384.
    "Afternoon."
  385. 385.
    >"Are you well?"
  386. 386.
    "Lost mostly. Not anymore with you here now. Can you help me go home?"
  387. 387.
    >Her horn glows as the clouds vanish, revealing your home.
  388. 388.
    >Right here all this time?
  389. 389.
    "Didn't realize we were this close. Well, Rainbow might be working right now. Want to come in? We should have some cookies grandpa made."
  390. 390.
    >Might as well be polite and neighborly.
  391. 391.
    >Luna looks disappointed about something.
  392. 392.
    >"I have a long way to go it seems."
  393. 393.
    "Back to Canterlot? It isn't that far."
  394. 394.
    >You say as you kick open the door.
  395. 395.
    >Fun to do as you can't really knock a hole in the cloud wall.
  396. 396.
    >Everything is easy to patch when you can Magneto your surroundings.
  397. 397.
    >"Anon. This is a dream patch we are residing in."
  398. 398.
    >Dream?
  399. 399.
    "I guess that explains the strangeness. I don't remember falling asleep."
  400. 400.
    >Luna glides into the landing room.
  401. 401.
    >"We brought you into it. We're not at our full strength yet so the dream is desolate."
  402. 402.
    "Got it. So the cookies in the jar?"
  403. 403.
    >"Aren't there sadly."
  404. 404.
    "Now I am sad."
  405. 405.
    >Smile cheekily as you trot past the kitchen and up the stairs to your room.
  406. 406.
    "Any reason why we're in a dream then?"
  407. 407.
    >"To help you. You were falling into despair."
  408. 408.
    "That bad huh?"
  409. 409.
    >Open the door into your room.
  410. 410.
    "Now you're going to be the first filly I've ever brought into my room. We'll have to behave or I'm grounded."
  411. 411.
    >Luna gives you a side eye with a small side smirk.
  412. 412.
    >"We'll be on our best behavior then."
  413. 413.
    >Hop up on your cloud bed and sit down.
  414. 414.
    "So what's the plan?"
  415. 415.
    >"We will slowly bring back your memory and work through the problem. A great deal of internal turmoil boils. You are mature in many ways, but there is only so much burdens you can handle."
  416. 416.
    >Night sky is outside the window.
  417. 417.
    >Stars twinkle brilliantly with the blue moon.
  418. 418.
    >She's got her domain down at least.
  419. 419.
    >"Anon, you died."
  420. 420.
    >That makes you sit up straight.
  421. 421.
    >"Skillful medics brought you back, but that experience is still there. We need to address that first."
  422. 422.
    >On her side of your room, it morphs into a familiar pleasant grove.
  423. 423.
    >She opens her wing, telling you to come to her side.
  424. 424.
    >Luna steps in circles before laying down.
  425. 425.
    >Shrug as you nestle yourself beneath her wing.
  426. 426.
    >"Let's begin. I'll be with you the entire time."
  427. 427.
    >A chill fills you, a pain in your chest.
  428. 428.
     
  429. 429.
    >Sitting around a campfire at your request.
  430. 430.
    >Stare at the dancing flames.
  431. 431.
    “I would do it again. Not because I want to die, but if some-pony else was in danger I would want to help them.”
  432. 432.
    >Luna stirs the fire just by looking at it.
  433. 433.
    >“We would wish that you would never have to make that decision again.”
  434. 434.
    “It would be terrible. I don’t know if my mom would survive losing me.”
  435. 435.
    >If her reaction to Tank hibernating is anything to go by.
  436. 436.
    >He wasn’t even dying.
  437. 437.
    “I’m glad the Tree of Harmony was able to heal me so deeply. The stress was burning me.”
  438. 438.
    >”Not fully we fear. There was a revelation that made you burn out.”
  439. 439.
    >Great, it gets more complicated.
  440. 440.
    “Do we have time for that? You’ve been working all day and night. You have to be exhausted.”
  441. 441.
    >”It has to be done now before you wake up. Rest will be our reward when the task is finished.”
  442. 442.
    “Let’s get started then.”
  443. 443.
    >Luna does not look eager.
  444. 444.
    >She sighs and shores up strength.
  445. 445.
    >A cool breeze makes the flames tremble.
  446. 446.
    >You remember the Tree of Harmony being whole again.
  447. 447.
    >Then it asks you.
  448. 448.
    >Where is your cutie mark?
  449. 449.
    >The thing that makes a whole pony, and yours is missing.
  450. 450.
    >Something deep within you is terrified, the pony that you are.
  451. 451.
    >There’s a hole here, even if you can’t see it.
  452. 452.
    >Human you?
  453. 453.
    >Just a mantra starting to repeat.
  454. 454.
    >‘No free rides to Equestria.’
  455. 455.
    >Just as it starts to rise, it gets settled with a cool kiss to the forehead.
  456. 456.
    >”None of that. Anon, your fears shall not stay rooted. They shall have no place to reside in you.”
  457. 457.
    “But what do I do? Sweet providence help me, what do I do?”
  458. 458.
    >Was your life so full of hate?
  459. 459.
    >Do you lack faith?
  460. 460.
    >”We will shield you from sadness, worry, and madness. Anon, let your loyalty be rewarded. Everypony will support you.”
  461. 461.
    >Can feel her words soaking in unusually well.
  462. 462.
    >She’s making sure you stay calm.
  463. 463.
    >”Anon, this is an attack upon you. Neither Celestia or myself have heard or seen anything like this. It does not make you less of a pony. We will help you right this wrong.”
  464. 464.
    >Never heard of this happening.
  465. 465.
    >Wait a moment, really?
  466. 466.
    >What about the others?
  467. 467.
    >Luna studies you as you think.
  468. 468.
    >”Care to enlighten? What are you thinking about it?”
  469. 469.
    >What happens if the truth is found out?
  470. 470.
    >It would change everything, and you doubt for the better.
  471. 471.
    >Time to be careful.
  472. 472.
    “The Pony of Shadows, do you think he had something to do with it?”
  473. 473.
    >Princess Luna shifts her weight to better look at you.
  474. 474.
    >”My sister and I were discussing that on the way to our hospital. That thing has been a worry since that night it revealed itself. Whatever part it plays must be addressed, whether instigator or tool.”
  475. 475.
    “I’m still unsure how he pulled it off.”
  476. 476.
    >”Take whatever he said to you with great hesitancy. He was trying to drown you into despair to be a better host. He is a liar most likely.”
  477. 477.
     
  478. 478.
    >Him lying to you is a possibility, but there has to be a grain of truth somewhere.
  479. 479.
    >You are here after all.
  480. 480.
    >”We aren’t done here, but I feel comfortable releasing you to the waking world.”
  481. 481.
    >Lean into her neck to nuzzle her.
  482. 482.
    >Luna quietly gasps, but quickly returns the gesture.
  483. 483.
    “Thank you.”
  484. 484.
    >Season 1 Luna is the cutest.
  485. 485.
    >”I should tell you before you wake. You’ve stolen Celestia’s heart.”
  486. 486.
    >Wat?
  487. 487.
    >”Don't be so surprised. Foals have always had a tender spot in her heart. Like Twilight before you, she has become invested in your well-being. We will be more involved in your life.”
  488. 488.
    >Celestia must feel your death was her responsibility.
  489. 489.
    >Triggering a protective response.
  490. 490.
    >This is not what you expected to have happened.
  491. 491.
    >Things have really gotten out of control.
  492. 492.
    >Can’t assume this is a bad thing, just a different thing.
  493. 493.
    >”Do not be hesitant. This is still our decision, godson.”
  494. 494.
    >Such earnestness makes you tremble.
  495. 495.
    “Okay, God-mom.”
  496. 496.
    >Pull away from her side and face her.
  497. 497.
    >Hold out your left wing towards her.
  498. 498.
    >Luna does the same, then pushes her wing into yours, interlocking the feathers.
  499. 499.
    >Feel her magic interweave with your own.
  500. 500.
    >Like a chilled winter evening, without the bite.
  501. 501.
    >You feel yours become familiar with hers.
  502. 502.
    >”We’ll have to do this again when we wake up. Anon, we care for you. Many ponies care for you. Please don’t forget.”
  503. 503.
    >Can feel yourself waking up.
  504. 504.
    >Luna is your God-mom now, treat her like one.
  505. 505.
    “Love you mom.”
  506. 506.
    >That makes her beam with joy.
  507. 507.
     
  508. 508.
    >Blink awake to light sneaking between curtains of a window.
  509. 509.
    >Smell isn't familiar, this place is different.
  510. 510.
    >Dash is hugging you tight enough that you might need a crowbar to pry you free.
  511. 511.
    >No one else is in the room.
  512. 512.
    >Well, not anymore.
  513. 513.
    >Celestia must have been here recently because you can smell her.
  514. 514.
    >Her air is very unique as well.
  515. 515.
    >Must have just left to raise the sun.
  516. 516.
    >Probably to lower the moon as well if Luna was busy all night with you.
  517. 517.
    >Right, you need to go to the restroom.
  518. 518.
    >Try to wiggle free, only for Rainbow to pull you in tighter.
  519. 519.
    >Wheeze out your request.
  520. 520.
    "Please let me go."
  521. 521.
    >"No."
  522. 522.
    >She's awake, and being a pain.
  523. 523.
    "I really need to go to the restroom, and you're about to squeeze it out of me."
  524. 524.
    >There is a pause, you really hoped she would have released you faster than this.
  525. 525.
    >"Hmm."
  526. 526.
    "Don't hmm!"
  527. 527.
    >"Fine. Guess making a mess would be trouble, but we're getting a shower as well."
  528. 528.
    >’We’ means communal shower.
  529. 529.
    >You probably stink horribly after yesterday.
  530. 530.
    >Freedom!
  531. 531.
    >Restroom!
  532. 532.
    >Restroom is big.
  533. 533.
    >Good grief this might be bigger than the dining room.
  534. 534.
    >Big ponies get big showers.
  535. 535.
    >Take care of business, wash the limbs, then turn on the shower.
  536. 536.
    >That should at least let Dash know you're ready.
  537. 537.
    >More bottles then you know what to do with.
  538. 538.
    >Rainbow is like a guy with a single bottle that covers mane, coat, and tail.
  539. 539.
    >What is this, conditioner for each color type?
  540. 540.
    >Celestia you have a magic mane, what are you doing?
  541. 541.
    >There's a knock at the door before it opens.
  542. 542.
    "Should be warm soon, do you have any idea what we should use?"
  543. 543.
    >Slowly look up from the mysterious conditioner.
  544. 544.
    >A naked Celestia has invaded the room.
  545. 545.
    >She has a small smirk as she picks up the bottle with magic.
  546. 546.
    >"Not that one. Now, how do you feel about a bubble bath?"
  547. 547.
    >Rainbow closes the door behind her.
  548. 548.
    >"Eh, never really had one. Oh right, Anon, Princess Celestia has something important to tell you."
  549. 549.
    >Feel magic pick you up to eye level with Celestia, she has a fun grin as she nuzzles your nose.
  550. 550.
    >"Can you guess?"
  551. 551.
    "Princess Luna is my godmother?"
  552. 552.
    >Celestia's face falls slightly.
  553. 553.
    >"Oh that mare, stealing my thunder."
  554. 554.
    "Oops, my bad."
  555. 555.
    >Get dumped into the water for your terrible humor.
  556. 556.
    >Dash cannonballs, almost tossing you out of the bathtub.
  557. 557.
    >Shake your mane as you emerge from the turbulent bath.
  558. 558.
    >White wings grab you safely and pull you close.
  559. 559.
    >A sponge appears in your peripheral vision.
  560. 560.
    >"Rainbow, let's get this colt clean."
  561. 561.
    >"With what!? You have like 10 different bars of soap."
  562. 562.
    >"Grab the green one. Smells like pine. It's rough so it'll help really get the grit out."
  563. 563.
    "This is getting ridiculous."
  564. 564.
    >"I'll do the mane and coat. There is a feather parasite cleaner you can use on his wings. After all the visits to the Everfree Forest I'm sure he's got plenty of hitchhikers."
  565. 565.
    "I keep myself clean of pests! Aunt Fluttershy's birds peck me clean."
  566. 566.
    >Rainbow tries and eventually opens the bottle.
  567. 567.
    >"Then I guess I better check to see how well they're doing."
  568. 568.
    "You're both next."
  569. 569.
     
  570. 570.
    >Who would have guessed Celestia's nipples were ticklish.
  571. 571.
    >Fun times.
  572. 572.
    >Got revenge on Rainbow by cleaning her hooves.
  573. 573.
    >At least you don't smell like the Everfree Forest anymore.
  574. 574.
    >Currently you're dripping water onto the floor.
  575. 575.
    >Shake like a dog, wings out, tail swings wide.
  576. 576.
    >Rainbow follows suit, who then has to duck when Celestia's gargantuan swan wings shake everywhere.
  577. 577.
    "So where's the rest of the family?"
  578. 578.
    >Dash groans and drags her damp wings across her face.
  579. 579.
    >"Great. They don't know either. Celestia, my mom is a real fanatic about you."
  580. 580.
    >"A little infatuation is something I can handle."
  581. 581.
    >"She would pray to you everyday at mealtime if she could."
  582. 582.
    >"Ah, part of that order."
  583. 583.
    >Churches aren't really a thing in Equestria, but fan clubs are.
  584. 584.
    "Order of the Sun's Grace. She's been a member for as long as I can remember. She's got a lot of plates with your face on them. I got one for one of my birthdays. Ate my birthday cake on it, just how you would like it."
  585. 585.
    >Celestia doesn't grimace, she ponders mistakes.
  586. 586.
    "We could keep it just between us."
  587. 587.
    >"Hush, I don't need you saying my terrible ideas out loud as I think them."
  588. 588.
    >Rainbow shakes her head.
  589. 589.
    >"I'll let you announce that. Anon, I noticed something when I was cleaning your wings. Somepony else?"
  590. 590.
    "That's Princess Luna. While I was dreaming we did the wind touch."
  591. 591.
    >Dash raises an eyebrow.
  592. 592.
    >"That worked in a dream? That's some crazy stuff."
  593. 593.
    >Both of you look at Celestia's albatross sized wings.
  594. 594.
    >Those took the longest to clean between the two of you.
  595. 595.
    >Princess fluffs them, unconsciously or flexing, you're not sure.
  596. 596.
    "Do you want to?"
  597. 597.
    >Rainbow places her own wing on your head.
  598. 598.
    >"Careful kiddo, she's packing some air. Don't get too eager and get overwhelmed."
  599. 599.
    >"Rainbow, I will be utmost careful. Our doctor would be upset if he had to realign Anon's flow after working so hard on him yesterday."
  600. 600.
    >Luna's wing is one thing, she's still low power.
  601. 601.
    >Celestia can cover you three times over.
  602. 602.
    >Alicorn wings are so different as you discovered when you were helping clean them.
  603. 603.
    >Like holding out a baby's hand, you stretch out your wing.
  604. 604.
    >Dash does the same next to you.
  605. 605.
    >Celestia extends her wing over the both of you, then slowly aligns to mix wing into wing.
  606. 606.
    >"Hmm, it has been a very long time since I've done this with a foal. I forgot just how youthful your air is. Very energetic."
  607. 607.
    >You don't say anything, but goodness you can feel the difference.
  608. 608.
    >She's holding back, and you can tell just how vast the heat is.
  609. 609.
    >"Whoa, that is so awesome. You have a ton of different weather spins."
  610. 610.
    >Rainbow, being the weather genius she is, reads it faster.
  611. 611.
    >"Is that, fire?"
  612. 612.
    >Celestia actually beams at that.
  613. 613.
    >"Well done, Rainbow."
  614. 614.
    "I don't follow."
  615. 615.
    >Mom pats you on the head.
  616. 616.
    >"Fire can be a factor in weather, but a very rare one. Not often you need a forest fire nowadays, but some pegasi's wind can control blazes. Guess I shouldn't be surprised you can, Celestia."
  617. 617.
    >Well that's a neat new fact.
  618. 618.
    >Then your stomach growls.
  619. 619.
     
  620. 620.
    >It really sucks knowing that you've scared ponies who care about you.
  621. 621.
    >Trotting into the dining room, you find the rest of your family.
  622. 622.
    >San Fluttershy.
  623. 623.
    >Before you can even get a word of 'Good Morning' they're all over you.
  624. 624.
    >Grandpa Bow was the first to spot you, and moved like a frontline pony to lightly tackle-hug you.
  625. 625.
    >"There he is! See, right as a fiddle and cleaner than a filtered spring cloud. Nothing to worry about, Breeze."
  626. 626.
    >"Can you blame me? That doctor was scary. Saying that he'll be keeping Anon for a week! Look at you dear colt, I'd say you're ready to go home."
  627. 627.
    >Probably the loudest you've heard Grandpa Breeze voice his opinion on anything.
  628. 628.
    >Just as you can wiggle free, Grandma Posey snatches you up.
  629. 629.
    >Like being aggressively cuddled by plush pillows, aka the opposite of Rainbow Dash.
  630. 630.
    >Posey doesn't say anything, mostly just nuzzles you with her entire body.
  631. 631.
    >Nose, wings, hugs.
  632. 632.
    >Tears.
  633. 633.
    >Grandma Windy Whistle is in hover mode.
  634. 634.
    >"Oh Dashie, how was he during the night? No nightmares I'm sure, not when the best mom in the whole world was protecting him. Look at you, Anon! You look ready for a cloud bank flight! Tell you what, this kitchen has so many options to really give you extra energy."
  635. 635.
    >She'll probably go on for a while.
  636. 636.
    >Pegasi family romps tend to take up a great deal of 3D space around you.
  637. 637.
    >Above, below, all sides are taken up by a family member.
  638. 638.
    >A different hoof pats you on the head, you look up to see dad.
  639. 639.
    >Zephyr has a small smile, but you can tell there's conflict behind those eyes.
  640. 640.
    >Bow grabs him with a powerful side hug and points at Zephyr like he just touched down the winning game point.
  641. 641.
    >"Anon! This stallion was incredible. Never have I seen CPR used in the face of a monster. Rainbow did a fantastic job clobbering that beast, and all the while your dad was making sure you were safe."
  642. 642.
    >He did what?
  643. 643.
    "I, uh, don't know what really happened."
  644. 644.
    >"None of that nightmarish talk, he's been through enough."
  645. 645.
    >Posey glares, her chin resting on your head.
  646. 646.
    >"It can wait until he's feeling better."
  647. 647.
    >Grandpa and grandma Shys are expressing more backbone than usual!
  648. 648.
    >Kind of curious now.
  649. 649.
    >Glace over to Celestia, who smiles warmly at the family reunion.
  650. 650.
    "Breakfast please."
  651. 651.
    >Grandma Whistle puts on a pair of reading glasses for the menu.
  652. 652.
    >"We've already ordered a nice omelet to start you off, but nothing wrong with some delicious pancakes"
  653. 653.
    >"I do apologize, I'm usually the one who makes the pancakes. Didn't have time to make any this morning."
  654. 654.
    >Celestia finally speaks up, not about the Godmother thing yet.
  655. 655.
    >Whistle whistles politely with a small hint of joy.
  656. 656.
    >"Maybe next morning! I do know about those wonderful sunrise pancakes my princess. Such a lovely blessing it would be."
  657. 657.
    >Right, normally she's eating with Luna and Cadance.
  658. 658.
    >Really have thrown off her schedule.
  659. 659.
    >Where is Cadance?
  660. 660.
    >Sitting at the table, the entire family is very animated.
  661. 661.
    >"Your Aunt Fluttershy is currently at home taking care of that pup thing."
  662. 662.
     
  663. 663.
    >Be Fluttershy, drained in ways you never thought.
  664. 664.
    >You've read how foals can do dangerous things you have to anticipate for.
  665. 665.
    >Much to your relief, Anon was never that way.
  666. 666.
    >Clear headed, listens, and a kind heart.
  667. 667.
    >Today was a Wonderbolt marathon.
  668. 668.
    >Coming down after all that stress and tragedy is making you lighthearted.
  669. 669.
    >All you want to do is hold him, tell him everything will be okay.
  670. 670.
    >Why would he listen to you, you told him you'd protect him.
  671. 671.
    >"Hey, cut that out, Fluttershy."
  672. 672.
    >Angel Bunny kicks your hind leg.
  673. 673.
    >"Don't even think for a moment that was your fault."
  674. 674.
    >He's thumbing his foot on the ground, classic frustrated bunny behavior.
  675. 675.
    >Trip back home was a quiet one for all the animals.
  676. 676.
    >Except for one.
  677. 677.
    >"Wow! Look! Where?"
  678. 678.
    >Lupine is exuberant like a, well, puppy.
  679. 679.
    >Such enthusiasm should be infecting you, and it is to an extent.
  680. 680.
    >She doesn't talk full sentences yet, but that should change in a few months.
  681. 681.
    "My home, Lupine. Which is now you're home as well."
  682. 682.
    >"Smells! Smells, smells, smells."
  683. 683.
    >She thrusts her nose to the ground and serpentine around.
  684. 684.
    >Harry carefully watches his step as she weaves around his paws.
  685. 685.
    >"Well, you did say you wanted to care for a Timberwolf. How do we take care of her?"
  686. 686.
    "Fertilizer and water mostly."
  687. 687.
    >Angel Bunny gives the tiny monster dog a side eye.
  688. 688.
    >"Right, and then bunny foot as a side dish? Who are we kidding?"
  689. 689.
    "Angel, Timberwolves are territorial. Their preferred diet is detritus like fungi. They attack animals and ponies out of aggressive fear."
  690. 690.
    >"Smell Anon! Where? Here?"
  691. 691.
    >That makes most of the animals sigh sadly.
  692. 692.
    "Not today dear. He's at a hospital."
  693. 693.
    >Lupine stops, scrunches her snout, and shakes her head.
  694. 694.
    >"Hos-hos-al. Hmm."
  695. 695.
    >"Hospital you woodworm magnet. Ponies go there when they're hurt."
  696. 696.
    "Angel, be nice."
  697. 697.
    >He 'bahs' and throws his paws in the air in a 'whatever' tone.
  698. 698.
    >Lupine doesn't seem to understand much, but she does focus on 'hurt'.
  699. 699.
    >"Hurt. Lot hurt inside. It chased, hurt Anon. Anon fine, right?"
  700. 700.
    >Turn to your side and point to your cutie mark.
  701. 701.
    "This is a cutie mark. Ponies get these when they know who they are."
  702. 702.
    >"Not Anon?"
  703. 703.
    "A foal, er puppy, pony get theirs when they find who they are. Mine is butterflies."
  704. 704.
    >"Fun chase."
  705. 705.
    "When I talk, play, care, love animals like you, my cutie mark came to me because of all that. I was close to Anon's age."
  706. 706.
    >"Cutie. Mark."
  707. 707.
    >Seems to be understanding.
  708. 708.
    >"Anon's cutie mark?"
  709. 709.
    >Angel kicks dust alongside you.
  710. 710.
    >"Gone, vanished, stolen. Complete nonsense. How do you steal something before it shows up? Stupid, stupid, I hate it."
  711. 711.
    "I don't know."
  712. 712.
    >"Of course you don't know, who would!? How do we win against that stupid giant monster, and still walk away like we lost? It's so...stupid!"
  713. 713.
    >He glances up to Bruce, still sleeping under your wing.
  714. 714.
    >"Maybe we can get a straight story out of him."
  715. 715.
    >Most of the animals have nestled themselves into their home burrows.
  716. 716.
    >Tank has been sitting in the middle room rug, waiting.
  717. 717.
     
  718. 718.
    >He blinks as Lupine sniffs him, then moves on to a new smell.
  719. 719.
    "Tank, oh sweetie, what are you waiting for?"
  720. 720.
    >Slowly he turns his head up to you.
  721. 721.
    >"Rainbow Dash."
  722. 722.
    >Tilt your head, he was home here.
  723. 723.
    "Why?"
  724. 724.
    >"I'll tell you."
  725. 725.
    >What followed was an enrapturing story, most of the animals listened intently as Tank tells what happened.
  726. 726.
    >"We worked hard to lift that thing. Very heavy, but I didn't give up."
  727. 727.
    >Sniffle at that, almost want to break out in tears.
  728. 728.
    >Angel Bunny pats him on the shell.
  729. 729.
    >"Buddy, you saved the day. Rainbow would have never made it in time if it wasn't for you. Well done."
  730. 730.
    >Tank smiles, if he could blush he would.
  731. 731.
    >"Thanks. So Anon and Rainbow?"
  732. 732.
    "Anon had to go to the hospital."
  733. 733.
    >A slow blink is your answer at first.
  734. 734.
    >"Oh. Oh no."
  735. 735.
    >Lupine bounces her way back into the living room.
  736. 736.
    >"Cutie Mark. Find it?"
  737. 737.
    >Harry sits down, making everyone bounce a little when he does.
  738. 738.
    >"Lupine, someone took it. Not lost. Taken. I don't know if a hospital can help. Anon needs a smart magical unicorn. Maybe Twilight?"
  739. 739.
    "He has ponies that will help him now. More reliable ponies."
  740. 740.
    >Several animals protest your comment.
  741. 741.
    >This is still on you.
  742. 742.
    >Angel is pulling his ears down.
  743. 743.
    >"We saw what happened! Rainbow Dash was also right there. This isn't all on you! Manure happens, and we all worked together to make the best of it."
  744. 744.
    "Anon died."
  745. 745.
    >Bunny pauses, and rubs the back of his head.
  746. 746.
    >"I know."
  747. 747.
    >Start to go on autopilot getting the food for all of them.
  748. 748.
    >"Mom died."
  749. 749.
    >Freeze from that.
  750. 750.
    >Lupine staring at the floor.
  751. 751.
    >"Anon saved me. Anon died. I'm sorry."
  752. 752.
    "No, no, no Lupine. This isn't your fault."
  753. 753.
    >Take her up in your hooves.
  754. 754.
    "You were both in a very dangerous place and very brave."
  755. 755.
    >"He cried."
  756. 756.
    >Bruce's voice makes you sit up.
  757. 757.
    >He sounds so tired.
  758. 758.
    >"We were stuck, hoping to see you again. It was horrible in there. Fluttershy, he was scared the entire time, but we wanted to see you again. When he sees you again, please don't forget to smile."
  759. 759.
    >Smile.
  760. 760.
    >It'll have to be a real one, he'll be able to tell that you're faking it.
  761. 761.
    >You'll need to see the girls tomorrow.
  762. 762.
    >Need help to work through this.
  763. 763.
    >Maybe Pinkie can help you get a smile.
  764. 764.
    >For now, you have a new family member to take care of.
  765. 765.
    >Anon is relying on you to help Lupine.
  766. 766.
    >Pat her on the head as her tongue pokes out slightly.
  767. 767.
    "Let's get you a nice snack before bed."
  768. 768.
     
  769. 769.
    >Back to being Anon, yeah I know, another scene transition.
  770. 770.
    >Family is happy to yap away about staying at the castle.
  771. 771.
    >Personally you feel there are places in Cloudsdale that are grander.
  772. 772.
    >Bias for cloud cities.
  773. 773.
    >Windy Whistle has been scooting closer and closer to Celestia the entire time.
  774. 774.
    >"Princess, it has been an honor being graced by your hospitality."
  775. 775.
    >Celestia politely smiles, looks like she's ready to lean back.
  776. 776.
    >"Young Whistle, by all means, enjoy your time here."
  777. 777.
    >Dash wipes the milk mustache off her face, then leans over to bite down on Whistle's tail to pull her back.
  778. 778.
    >"Easy mom. Don't smother her."
  779. 779.
    >It sounds like grinding stone with every centimeter Windy is dragged back into place.
  780. 780.
    >"Smother!? Oh Dashie, you know I taught you better than that. Celestia's light can't be smothered by us. Only embraced."
  781. 781.
    >And put on coffee cups, plates, and little plaques with scripture, sorry, quotes to remember.
  782. 782.
    >"I'll behave. Don't you worry about that."
  783. 783.
    >Whistle pats Dash on the back with her wing.
  784. 784.
    >Then pauses.
  785. 785.
    >Her eyes widen as she slowly drags her wing off her daughter's back.
  786. 786.
    >Rainbow was in mid bite with her melon when she realizes her mom was inches away from her face.
  787. 787.
    >"Yeah?"
  788. 788.
    >"Dash, did you join wings with somepony recently? I feel a different air."
  789. 789.
    "That was me."
  790. 790.
    >"I can tell you were there, but there's a warm air as well."
  791. 791.
    >Rainbow puts down her melon and turns to face her smiling mom.
  792. 792.
    >"Warm air huh?"
  793. 793.
    >Celestia taps her tall glass with a spoon.
  794. 794.
    >"I might as well. My dear little ponies."
  795. 795.
    >Ahhhhh!
  796. 796.
    >"My sister and I have become very involved in your colt's well being. After everything that has happened, I wish to continue to be a part of his bright future. I made a request from Rainbow Dash, to be his Godmother."
  797. 797.
    >That gets a few glancing looks from the maids and butlers.
  798. 798.
    >As expected, the rest of the family stare with jaws dropped.
  799. 799.
    >Could drop a feather and it would be louder.
  800. 800.
    >"What!?"
  801. 801.
    >Bow is sputtering with shock, checks his pulse, checks the pulse of his wife as she faints.
  802. 802.
    >Posey practically melts in her seat, too much excitement back to back if you had to guess.
  803. 803.
    >Breeze pats her on the head.
  804. 804.
    >"Really? I thought you adopted unicorns into your fold. Not that we're not honored, Princess Celestia."
  805. 805.
    >Zephyr drops his fork, slowly turns towards Dash and you.
  806. 806.
    >"You said yes, I take it."
  807. 807.
    "Pretty cool, huh?"
  808. 808.
    >"It's amazing!"
  809. 809.
    >Whistle jerks back up like a spring board after fainting.
  810. 810.
    >"And you shared wind! Oh Anon, this is wonderful. Our little colt is so incredible. Bow, where's the camera?"
  811. 811.
    >Glace at Dash as she nudges said camera back into a hiding spot.
  812. 812.
    "So what happens now?"
  813. 813.
    >Celestia stands up, letting her wings spread wide.
  814. 814.
    >"Now? We need to help you. No pony should lose their cutie mark. Rainbow, he'll need at least a week for my doctors to understand his case. I have already summoned cutie mark specialists."
  815. 815.
    "I'm going to need my homework from school."
  816. 816.
    >"Don't worry squirt, I'll fly back home to get that."
  817. 817.
     
  818. 818.
    >You’ve changed your mind, you want to be dead again for only they know peace from this misery.
  819. 819.
    >Grandpa Bow and Grandma Whistle have taken out the Anon Journal so they bring Celestia up to speed.
  820. 820.
    >”He hated diapers, no matter how tightly we got them on him he’d wiggle his way out in no time.”
  821. 821.
    >Bow points to a big blank spot on the page.
  822. 822.
    >”This was where his first diaper was. It went missing sadly, but we remember it in spirit.
  823. 823.
    >You burned it.
  824. 824.
    >Celestia is absolutely stone faced, until an idea crosses her.
  825. 825.
    >”Did you record his first flight?”
  826. 826.
    >Dash sits up straight.
  827. 827.
    >”Better believe we did! Had a few false starts, but it was so sweet when he got the hang of it.”
  828. 828.
    >Rainbow yoinks the book as her parents were already turning to it.
  829. 829.
    >Pointing to a picture, you’re covered in padding.
  830. 830.
    >A helmet, four knee pads, wing bracer.
  831. 831.
    >One of the few times Rainbow went into hover mom mode.
  832. 832.
    >It was terribly annoying.
  833. 833.
    >You were jumping over a cloud trampoline, it was impossible to get hurt.
  834. 834.
    >Didn’t help your first attempt ended with you face planting at Fluttershy’s place.
  835. 835.
    >Angel double hare dared you so you couldn’t say no.
  836. 836.
    >Fluttershy was upset with both of you.
  837. 837.
    >You hope she’s doing okay.
  838. 838.
    >Celestia smiles brightly as her eyes dart from picture to picture of your clumsy maiden voyage.
  839. 839.
    >Bow had taken enough pictures it could be an animated slide show.
  840. 840.
    >”You can see the moment when air finds purchase under his wings.”
  841. 841.
    >Dash family nod nostalgically.
  842. 842.
    >“He’s turning into a fantastic flier. Dash, honey, why haven’t you put him in junior races like we did when you were young?”
  843. 843.
    “Not a lot of pegasus foals in Ponyville.”
  844. 844.
    >”What Anon said, if we stayed in Cloudsdale, sure.”
  845. 845.
    >”I do have to say, your report cards are very impressive. You’ve excelled in every subject.”
  846. 846.
    >Zephyr leans next to you to whisper.
  847. 847.
    >”Is it because of that vision stuff?”
  848. 848.
    “That only helped with a few things. Everything else I wanted to know more.”
  849. 849.
    >World building is a fan’s life blood.
  850. 850.
    >You just got lucky by becoming part of Dash’s life.
  851. 851.
    >Luck is still to be determined if it was premeditated by an unknown third party.
  852. 852.
    >Celestia looks up to her clock.
  853. 853.
    >”I need to get going. I hope your stay here is expedient. Rainbow could you take him to the infirmary room. I’m sure Doctor Blotch will be around very soon.”
  854. 854.
    “Who’s Doctor Blotch?”
  855. 855.
    >She leans a wing over you.
  856. 856.
    >”Cutie mark specialist. He’ll ask you a lot of questions, if you’re scared or worried you don’t have to answer them.”
  857. 857.
    >Odd, you thought cutie marks were mysterious branding that ponies were still unsure how they work.
  858. 858.
    >Posey and Breeze shift uncomfortably behind you.
  859. 859.
    >As Celestia trots to the grand double doors, she pauses.
  860. 860.
    >”Don’t forget about Luna, she wishes to meet you all as well.”
  861. 861.
    “Of course!”
  862. 862.
    >Wave goodbye to her and turn to the family.
  863. 863.
    “Doctor visit then?”
  864. 864.
     
  865. 865.
    >”Anon, Dash, are you two sure? This all seems a bit much.”
  866. 866.
    >Breeze nervously rubs his hooves together.
  867. 867.
    >”I know you both are always fast paced with a go-get-um way of life, but nothing wrong with just slowing down. Let things settle.”
  868. 868.
    >Not yet, you need answers.
  869. 869.
    >Dash on the other hand is actually considering it.
  870. 870.
    >”I get what you mean, I really do. Shouldn’t we also do anything we can for him to get help?”
  871. 871.
    >Something catches her eye, which in turn you follow to see your Dad.
  872. 872.
    >”Zephyr, you’re leaving?”
  873. 873.
    He freezes in place, ears pointed straight up.
  874. 874.
    >”Sorry, I want to go check on something. Go check on that doctor, you two.”
  875. 875.
    >What is he up to?
  876. 876.
    >Maybe you’re more like him than you thought.
  877. 877.
    >Dash seems suspicious as well, but shakes her head.
  878. 878.
    >”After this, we go back home and chill out. I promise that much.”
  879. 879.
    >That would be nice.
  880. 880.
    >Turn your head at Grandma Whistle as she nuzzles you.
  881. 881.
    “You smell Celestia on me don’t you?”
  882. 882.
    >”Nope. This is all for you.”
  883. 883.
     
  884. 884.
    >Passing the halls, it seems Rainbow knows where to head to.
  885. 885.
    “So no escort for us?”
  886. 886.
    >”Nah, I got a good look around. Were you hoping for one?”
  887. 887.
    “It would be nice to know how Royal Guard is doing.”
  888. 888.
    >Dash pauses her step for a brief moment.
  889. 889.
    >”He’s doing good. I had a chance to chat with him. You didn’t get to see, but he deflected that giant head to save Fluttershy.”
  890. 890.
    “You’ve got to be kidding me! That thing was huge!”
  891. 891.
    >”I know, pretty awesome huh!”
  892. 892.
    >There’s a familiar voice that catches your ears.
  893. 893.
    >Princess Cadance is also heading to the infirmary.
  894. 894.
    >Turnabout is only fair play.
  895. 895.
    >Don’t say anything, fly up and ninja cling to the ceiling.
  896. 896.
    >Dash’s confusion yields an adorable head tilt and ‘huh’.
  897. 897.
    >You wave her to follow you, which she does after a shrug.
  898. 898.
    >Perfect timing, Princess Cadance in a nursing outfit and miniskirt bounces her way down the hall with a tray of breakfast.
  899. 899.
    >She hums happily to herself, completely oblivious.
  900. 900.
    >Pinkie says pink is the superior color for stealth, doesn’t mean pink can’t be snuck on.
  901. 901.
    >Bounce, bounce, bounce.
  902. 902.
    >She’s right under you.
  903. 903.
    >Drop down like a ninja.
  904. 904.
    >Open your wings at the last second for the perfect height.
  905. 905.
    “Hi Cadance!”
  906. 906.
    >”Whoa!”
  907. 907.
    >Her bounce turns into a leap and a shriek.
  908. 908.
    >Breakfast remains intact.
  909. 909.
    >Princess Cadance holds her chest as she tries to calm her beating heart.
  910. 910.
    >”Anon! Why you sneaky colt, I forgot you were here.”
  911. 911.
    “About to visit a doctor. Who are you visiting?”
  912. 912.
    >She gets a small blush, which is hard to see on pink.
  913. 913.
    >”Shining Armor burnt out his horn so I wanted to cheer him up.”
  914. 914.
    “Burnt out his horn?”
  915. 915.
    >”Dude held back the biggest explosion I’ve ever seen, the one that took out the monster.”
  916. 916.
    >Dash floats down, chuckling from your prank.
  917. 917.
    >”Hi Dash. He’s nursing a headache to match. We saw that explosion in Canterlot.”
  918. 918.
    “Sorry about that, I didn't have much of a choice. So he didn’t get healed by the tree?”
  919. 919.
    >”I think he was just outside Ponyville, missed it by a hair.”
  920. 920.
    >Unlucky.
  921. 921.
    >Look over her nurse costume.
  922. 922.
    >Maybe not unlucky, the dog.
  923. 923.
    “Tell him we said hi.”
  924. 924.
     
  925. 925.
    >Nicer than a standard hospital room, Celestia probably designed it that way.
  926. 926.
    >Nurse Hearth was waiting for you two to show up.
  927. 927.
    >She leads you both past several rooms where you see some of the soldiers resting.
  928. 928.
    >"So how does this work? I thought you poked him and stuff yesterday."
  929. 929.
    >"Well Ms. Dash. That was essentially a physical checkup. Anon's situation is more unusual. Dr. Blotch isn't a staff member here, and had to be brought in on special request by the Crown."
  930. 930.
    >Feel your eye twitch when she turns into a room.
  931. 931.
    >Filled with nauseating sugary sweet colors and artwork for foals.
  932. 932.
    >A crayon drawing of Celestia is on the ceiling saying 'get well soon'.
  933. 933.
    >The stuff you would see in a daycare center or the children's pediatrics.
  934. 934.
    "What was wrong with the other rooms?"
  935. 935.
    >At least you can enjoy the beanbag chair.
  936. 936.
    >Nurse Hearth opens the curtains to let the sunlight in.
  937. 937.
    >"A place just for you sweetie! Princess Celestia has had many students who've had boo-boos and brought here."
  938. 938.
    "Like what? Did Twilight Sparkle blow herself up with a fireball spell?"
  939. 939.
    >"Yes, and more!"
  940. 940.
    >You were joking, she doesn't seem to be with that sincerity.
  941. 941.
    >"I'll tell him that you're here. Dr. Blotch is very eager to see you."
  942. 942.
    >"No need, Nurse Hearth. Whole reason why I'm here is for this."
  943. 943.
    >Almost had to refrain from jumping from this guy popping up behind you.
  944. 944.
    >Trotting past you, this stallion looks around the room.
  945. 945.
    >"Hmm, interesting. We won't be needing this."
  946. 946.
    >Nurse Hearth flicks her ears.
  947. 947.
    >"Needing what?"
  948. 948.
    >He points erratically around him.
  949. 949.
    >"This room. I can tell it was made with unicorns in mind. We're going outside. What do you say, Anon? Fancy a walk in the gardens? I'd like to. Never been there."
  950. 950.
    "Yes, please."
  951. 951.
    >Glance up to his own horn.
  952. 952.
    >"I know I'm also a unicorn, but this visit is for you. A pegasus must find this place stifling."
  953. 953.
    >Rainbow breathes a sigh of relief.
  954. 954.
    >"I think we can pull that."
  955. 955.
    >Dr. Blotch smiles as he throws off his medial jacket to reveal a jogger's shirt.
  956. 956.
    >"Perfect, let's go running."
  957. 957.
    >Oh you see where this is going.
  958. 958.
    >Remove the clinical element and put you into a better mood to talk in an open air place.
  959. 959.
    "Do you want us to gallop with you or fly?"
  960. 960.
    >"Either or is fine, just so long as you keep pace with me. Don't want to be left behind."
  961. 961.
    "Okay."
  962. 962.
    >Get a look at his cutie mark.
  963. 963.
    >It looks like a rorschach inkblot.
  964. 964.
    >"So, what do you see?"
  965. 965.
    "Your cutie mark."
  966. 966.
    >"Hah, very on the mark. What about you, Ms. Dash."
  967. 967.
    >"Call me Rainbow Dash, or just Dash. It's, um, dark clouds?"
  968. 968.
    >Blotch trots on ahead with not even a misstep.
  969. 969.
    >"I've gotten that one a few times. If you were wondering, I got it because I was trying to understand how ponies got cutie marks. That led to further studies as it is a field with lots of mysteries. Identity and magic seem to be intertwined with a cutie mark."
  970. 970.
    "How rare are trifecta cutie marks? Where three ponies get the similar ones at the same time."
  971. 971.
    >"Doubles and triples are unusual events. Can count them offhoof."
  972. 972.
     
  973. 973.
    >You decided to gallop alongside him to see if he would outpace you instead.
  974. 974.
    >No doubt he's going to try and make a profile of you in his noggin.
  975. 975.
    >So why not see how he reacts to you reacting.
  976. 976.
    >Does he underestimate you or change tactics?
  977. 977.
    >Dr. Blotch has a healthy cantor to keep pace with your gallop.
  978. 978.
    >Rainbow Dash lazily flies upside down staring up at the sky while her ears are steered right at you two.
  979. 979.
    >"Wow, they weren't kidding when they said this place was worth the visit! Makes you want to ignore the 'Do Not Eat' sign and just chow down."
  980. 980.
    "I'm sure there have been many ponies who've ignored the sign."
  981. 981.
    >He stops at a patch of sunflowers and sniffs.
  982. 982.
    >"Very tempting. Care to partake?"
  983. 983.
    "I've already eaten."
  984. 984.
    >"Maybe next time then."
  985. 985.
    >Then proceeds to take an oversized chomp out of the biggest flower.
  986. 986.
    >He is smiling as he chews, but you're not sure if he's enjoying it like someone who loves to eat flowers.
  987. 987.
    "Taste good?"
  988. 988.
    >"Nope. Not ripe enough."
  989. 989.
    >Swallows rather loudly.
  990. 990.
    >"What flowers do you prefer?"
  991. 991.
    "Lilies."
  992. 992.
    >Answer with a sneaky smile.
  993. 993.
    >Dash almost snorts.
  994. 994.
    >"Good choice. Not my kind of snack."
  995. 995.
    >Lots of positives and negatives here.
  996. 996.
    >"By the way, while we are resting. What do you think about your cutie mark?"
  997. 997.
    "That I would get it like everypony else when I discover my talent. I wasn't rushing it. Most of my classmates have found theirs."
  998. 998.
    >Well, not anymore.
  999. 999.
    >He noticed your aside look.
  1000. 1000.
    >"Not in the cards?"
  1001. 1001.
    "I dunno anymore."
  1002. 1002.
    >"How did you find out about that?"
  1003. 1003.
    >Look up at him as he raises his eyebrow.
  1004. 1004.
    "Did they not tell you?"
  1005. 1005.
    >"You haven't told me."
  1006. 1006.
    "Well, the Tree of Harmony told me."
  1007. 1007.
    >"You believe it?"
  1008. 1008.
    "Do I believe the being that can bestow Honesty to a pony? I find it rather reliable."
  1009. 1009.
    >"It did give you Loyalty even though you don't think you should have it."
  1010. 1010.
    >Oh sure, now you use information given to you.
  1011. 1011.
    "Surprised me."
  1012. 1012.
    >"Hey!"
  1013. 1013.
    >Dash injects with a sharp answer.
  1014. 1014.
    >"You earned it. He earned it, don't talk him out of it."
  1015. 1015.
    >"I wasn't planning on it, Dash. Just want to understand why he doesn't."
  1016. 1016.
    >Guess it's your turn to be confused.
  1017. 1017.
    "What did they tell you?"
  1018. 1018.
    >Blotch licks a stray petal off his lips.
  1019. 1019.
    >"All kinds of stuff. Magic, prophecy, destiny. Reads right out of a fantasy novel."
  1020. 1020.
    "Daring Do books are fun."
  1021. 1021.
    >He pauses at that.
  1022. 1022.
    >"Ah, well that is also true. Went a different way than I thought."
  1023. 1023.
    "So you think clairvoyance and my lost cutie mark are linked?"
  1024. 1024.
    >He gallops away without giving you a head's up.
  1025. 1025.
    >Try to keep pace avoiding his dust clouds.
  1026. 1026.
    >"Strange times do seem to be a happen'. Apple folks like to say that a lot where I'm from. Though I wouldn't give it too much weight. They say the weather schedule change makes for strange times."
  1027. 1027.
    "Oh good, then I'm just experiencing puberty normally."
  1028. 1028.
    >"Imagine if that was true. Our world wouldn't be boring, that's for sure."
  1029. 1029.
    >Equestria isn't boring!
  1030. 1030.
    >No, don't fall for bait, even if it isn't actually bait.
  1031. 1031.
    >Blotch gallops past Discord.
  1032. 1032.
    >You slow down to look up at him.
  1033. 1033.
    >Not boring.
  1034. 1034.
     
  1035. 1035.
    >No, don’t think about it, don’t think about him.
  1036. 1036.
    >You’ve caused a lot of chaos.
  1037. 1037.
    >He could break out soon, maybe even now.
  1038. 1038.
    >Force your focus ahead.
  1039. 1039.
    >No laughing, just you worrying over nothing.
  1040. 1040.
    >”Keep up! I was told you were fast.”
  1041. 1041.
    >He has stopped galloping ahead.
  1042. 1042.
    “I’m coming. No need to wait for me.”
  1043. 1043.
    >”Something both-“
  1044. 1044.
    >Before he could finish his line, Dash zips up above you.
  1045. 1045.
    >Looking right at Discord.
  1046. 1046.
    >”Why did you stop here? Who’s this?”
  1047. 1047.
    >There’s no way to lie out of this situation.
  1048. 1048.
    >Not when she can just someone else like Celestia.
  1049. 1049.
    >“A future problem. I rather not talk about it.”
  1050. 1050.
    >Dash glances over to Dr. Blotch before leaning down into your ear to whisper.
  1051. 1051.
    >”Does that thing scare you?”
  1052. 1052.
    “A little worried. It’s complicated.”
  1053. 1053.
    >Rainbow looks unsure about the chimeric statue.
  1054. 1054.
    >Blotch trots over patting the sweat off his head with a towel.
  1055. 1055.
    >”All right, that’s probably enough from me today then.”
  1056. 1056.
    >Dash midair twirls around to face him.
  1057. 1057.
    >”What?! You haven’t done anything?”
  1058. 1058.
    >”Today was just me getting an idea what kind of colt your son is. I got a lot to work with so now I’m retiring the session.”
  1059. 1059.
    >”But nothing about his cutie mark?”
  1060. 1060.
    >“I’ll get to that. Anon, do you have any questions for me before I go?”
  1061. 1061.
    >Not really, but maybe you can give him something else to latch on to.
  1062. 1062.
    “Can I get a tattoo on my flank? I want to put a question mark on it.”
  1063. 1063.
    >Dash shakes her head no.
  1064. 1064.
    >”Absolutely not.”
  1065. 1065.
    >”A question mark cutie mark. Even more ambiguous than my own. I think you can do better.”
  1066. 1066.
    >He taps his chin as he looks skyward.
  1067. 1067.
    >”A question mark, where have I seen that before? Bah, it’s nothing. Try to relax today. You’ve both earned it.”
  1068. 1068.
    >Rainbow looks frustrated, and ready to go off before you touch her leg.
  1069. 1069.
    >She looks down.
  1070. 1070.
    “Mom, please. We don’t have to rush. I want to sit down and enjoy the sun.”
  1071. 1071.
    >Her face relaxes.
  1072. 1072.
    >"Okay. That sounds fine. We can do that."
  1073. 1073.
    >Can hear the doctor trot off leaving you two in the gardens alone.
  1074. 1074.
    >Dash seems unsure, probably expecting more.
  1075. 1075.
    >"Seems like a waste of time."
  1076. 1076.
    "Not really. He was trying to pin me down. There is still the pony part of a cutie mark he wants to figure out."
  1077. 1077.
    >"Weird way to do it."
  1078. 1078.
    >Flop on your back with your wings sprayed out.
  1079. 1079.
    "Eh, I could be wrong. I was poking at him too."
  1080. 1080.
    >Feel Dash also flop next to you.
  1081. 1081.
    >Take a deep breath, then sink into the grassy garden.
  1082. 1082.
    >Minutes pass without another word.
  1083. 1083.
    >Until it is broken by a whisper.
  1084. 1084.
    >"If we stay here I'm liable to fall asleep."
  1085. 1085.
    "Good."
  1086. 1086.
    >"Good."
  1087. 1087.
    >Her wing stretches out and pulls you in closer to her side.
  1088. 1088.
    >"Then you stay here with me."
  1089. 1089.
    >No arguments from here.
  1090. 1090.
    >Can hear the wind blow through the garden.
  1091. 1091.
    >Animals chitter in the distance.
  1092. 1092.
    >Start to drift off.
  1093. 1093.
    >"Oh. You're sleeping?"
  1094. 1094.
    >Blink awake?
  1095. 1095.
    >Nope, this is a dream.
  1096. 1096.
    "In the garden with mom. Where are you, princess?"
  1097. 1097.
    >Next to you, Luna drapes her wing over you.
  1098. 1098.
    >"Good morning, precious child."
  1099. 1099.
     
  1100. 1100.
    >Be Princess Celestia, taking a break and going out to stretch your legs.
  1101. 1101.
    >Court has been boiling over due to the panic in Ponyville.
  1102. 1102.
    >Many have questions on what occurred.
  1103. 1103.
    >Trot out to the garden.
  1104. 1104.
    >You hear something obnoxiously loud.
  1105. 1105.
    >Glide through the garden until you find Rainbow Dash and Anon.
  1106. 1106.
    >Rainbow is snoring like she's in a competition to be louder than lumberjacks working.
  1107. 1107.
    >Anon, doesn't seem phased.
  1108. 1108.
    >Or used to it.
  1109. 1109.
    >Precious colt.
  1110. 1110.
    >Lean down to kiss him on the forehead.
  1111. 1111.
    >Then leave the pair to get back to work.
  1112. 1112.
     
  1113. 1113.
    >Blink awake, wasn't that long of a nap based on the position of the sun.
  1114. 1114.
    >Stretch your limbs out and yawn.
  1115. 1115.
    >Wiggle your nose, and you realize you might have just drooled over Dash's barrel.
  1116. 1116.
    >Oops.
  1117. 1117.
    >Shake your body like a canine, starting with your head and working all the way down to your tail.
  1118. 1118.
    >"Huh? Oh, I'm awake! I'm awake!"
  1119. 1119.
    >Dash half asleep bounces to her hooves.
  1120. 1120.
    "How was your nap?"
  1121. 1121.
    >A grunt answers you as she pops her stiff neck.
  1122. 1122.
    >Then does her famous stretch.
  1123. 1123.
    >Don't look.
  1124. 1124.
    >Even if it isn't anything you haven't already seen before.
  1125. 1125.
    >Probably for the best, 'cause there are a few guards watching you both from a distance.
  1126. 1126.
    >Wave at them.
  1127. 1127.
    >They turn and call out with a whistle, bringing in more guards who start to approach.
  1128. 1128.
    "Mom. We have company."
  1129. 1129.
    >Scratching her rump, Dash wipes the sleep from her eyes.
  1130. 1130.
    >"Really?"
  1131. 1131.
    >Marching their way to you, one of them steps in front to salute.
  1132. 1132.
    >"Good day! Rainbow Dash, Anon, we've been waiting."
  1133. 1133.
    >'K.
  1134. 1134.
    >Rainbow blinks a little bit more awake.
  1135. 1135.
    >"Right. What's this about?"
  1136. 1136.
    >"Ma'am, would you and your son join our event at the barracks? We'd be honored to have the guests of honor show up."
  1137. 1137.
    >Perk right up with that.
  1138. 1138.
    >Dash seems to do the same.
  1139. 1139.
    >"Event? That seems cool. Where are the barracks?"
  1140. 1140.
    >"We will escort you, and we have a shameless request. We wish to carry you both there."
  1141. 1141.
    "Uh, what."
  1142. 1142.
    >"Guests of honor get special treatment? Color me intrigued. Let's do it."
  1143. 1143.
    >What kind of whimsy did you fall into?
  1144. 1144.
    >"Boots and saddles, soldiers! Fall in!"
  1145. 1145.
    >Surrounded then hoisted up into the air.
  1146. 1146.
    >"Forward!"
  1147. 1147.
    >So this is what it feels like to be carried by a cartoon dust cloud.
  1148. 1148.
    >"Hoorah!"
  1149. 1149.
    >Mares and stallions march rapidly with Dash and you in tow.
  1150. 1150.
    >Repeating 'Hup' over and over again.
  1151. 1151.
    >Quickly get taken out of the gardens, around the castle, and into a familiar training ground.
  1152. 1152.
    >Several of the maids, butlers, and groundskeepers step out of the way with annoyed huffs.
  1153. 1153.
    >Without missing a beat, your tour guides take you to the double doors to the larger building and kick it open.
  1154. 1154.
    >"We've procured the Civilians of Honor."
  1155. 1155.
    >So many guards are here, several you recognize from the mission.
  1156. 1156.
    >They all turn around with frothy drinks in hoof.
  1157. 1157.
    >Before you can even wave hello, they all whinny 'Hurrahs'.
  1158. 1158.
    >Can't help but feel embarrassed from all the attention.
  1159. 1159.
    >The troops carrying you, set you down after an 'at ease'.
  1160. 1160.
    >Shining Armor, with a bracer around his horn, marches up to you both.
  1161. 1161.
    >"Welcome Dash and Anon. Figured you both deserve to be here."
  1162. 1162.
    "Is this a mission celebration?"
  1163. 1163.
    >"Pretty much. Not everyday you have to fight a mountain size monster. Everypony here wants to meet you, or at least see you doing good."
  1164. 1164.
    >Looking around, you see a poster with said monster on it being pincushion with darts and arrows for target practice.
  1165. 1165.
    >Dash has the biggest grin on her face.
  1166. 1166.
    >"Count us in."
  1167. 1167.
    >Then glances at you.
  1168. 1168.
    >Shining answers her mental question.
  1169. 1169.
    >"No salt until past his bedtime. This party will go all night."
  1170. 1170.
     
  1171. 1171.
    >"In this corner, Colt wonder Anon is blind as a bat wielding a bat."
  1172. 1172.
    "Bats aren't blind."
  1173. 1173.
    >"In the other corner, one dumb monster. He's trying to hide from you kiddo! Give him a whack!"
  1174. 1174.
    >Blindfolded and holding a bat in your mouth.
  1175. 1175.
    >Rather tame game for adult ponies then what you expected.
  1176. 1176.
    >Or they set this all up specifically for you.
  1177. 1177.
    >"Go colt!"
  1178. 1178.
    >"Smack it good!"
  1179. 1179.
    >"5 bits he misses."
  1180. 1180.
    "I heard that!"
  1181. 1181.
    >Whatever, you can hear it wiggling around in front of you.
  1182. 1182.
    >You were hoping you can read the air movement, but that is a no go.
  1183. 1183.
    >Waggle the bat in front of you, and slightly tap the 'pinata'.
  1184. 1184.
    >It's on a pulley system, somepony is ready to yank it up.
  1185. 1185.
    >"You can do it, Anon!"
  1186. 1186.
    >Thanks, Dash.
  1187. 1187.
    >Strain your wings under the bindings.
  1188. 1188.
    >Can't fly, but maybe jump good.
  1189. 1189.
    >Time to be a nerd and call out your attack.
  1190. 1190.
    >Point the bat straight ahead, then toss it straight up in a high spin arc.
  1191. 1191.
    >Leap high straight up.
  1192. 1192.
    "Aether!"
  1193. 1193.
    >Grab the spinning bat with your mouth and slam it down on the monster.
  1194. 1194.
    >Hear the rope joint connection snap as the pinata crashes into the ground with your bat crushing the spine.
  1195. 1195.
    >Then you bring the bat back up to bisect the target completely.
  1196. 1196.
    >Crowd is silent as you take off the blindfold.
  1197. 1197.
    >Monster is absolutely decimated.
  1198. 1198.
    >It was made of paper.
  1199. 1199.
    >Then they all go wild.
  1200. 1200.
    >'Hoorah, Anon! Nice show."
  1201. 1201.
    >"Oh no, my 5 bits."
  1202. 1202.
    >The stallion snarks, rolling his eyes.
  1203. 1203.
    >"Flashy, but impractical."
  1204. 1204.
    >"Then why did you let him hit the monster?"
  1205. 1205.
    >"Hush."
  1206. 1206.
    "No candy?"
  1207. 1207.
    >Honour Bound shakes her head.
  1208. 1208.
    >"Sorry kiddo. We got Apple Cider, er, Juice."
  1209. 1209.
    >Notice Dash is shaking her head.
  1210. 1210.
    "Come on mom, I want to try it."
  1211. 1211.
    >"Not yet."
  1212. 1212.
    >She says as she drinks her fifth.
  1213. 1213.
    >"Let the lad drink some, you only live once."
  1214. 1214.
    "Twice in my case."
  1215. 1215.
    >The mare who suggested it is given a dirty look by Rainbow.
  1216. 1216.
    >"Last thing I need to tell our family is that I let you drink. I'd get my ear chewed off."
  1217. 1217.
    "Boring!"
  1218. 1218.
    >Accept your juice.
  1219. 1219.
    >A stallion sits down next to Dash.
  1220. 1220.
    >"Hey, remember me?"
  1221. 1221.
    >Spinning around, Rainbow takes a big swig.
  1222. 1222.
    >She blinks a few times.
  1223. 1223.
    >"Dude! You were with me when we threw the lightning back!"
  1224. 1224.
    >That catches the attention of several ponies.
  1225. 1225.
    >"You two did what!?"
  1226. 1226.
    >Shining Armor calls out from his table.
  1227. 1227.
    >"They sure did. Saved our lives. We were in a real tight spot."
  1228. 1228.
    >"I was trained to do that, where did you learn that, Rainbow?"
  1229. 1229.
    >Basking in the praise, Dash leans into the bar.
  1230. 1230.
    >"Weather control dark cloud sector. I needed the bits so I got into the dangerous stuff. I was fast enough so I passed the requirements."
  1231. 1231.
    >The only pegasus who owns a cloud home in an earth pony town.
  1232. 1232.
    >There are a lot of regulations.
  1233. 1233.
    >"Tell you what, when that thing was charging up I was really feeling the power. Crazy stuff."
  1234. 1234.
    >Dash nods with him.
  1235. 1235.
    >"Gotta have real good reflexes and control."
  1236. 1236.
    "I could tell."
  1237. 1237.
    >They look down at you uneasily.
  1238. 1238.
    "What? It was about to do the same thing to me. I knew I couldn't do it."
  1239. 1239.
    >Soldiers and guards shift uncomfortably.
  1240. 1240.
    >"Hey, no pony invited you."
  1241. 1241.
    >Spitfire?!
  1242. 1242.
     
  1243. 1243.
    >You were spinning in your chair when you saw her.
  1244. 1244.
    >The guard at the entrance has a shiteating grin.
  1245. 1245.
    >Almost drop your drink when Spitfire, Soarin, and Fleetfoot trot in their full uniforms.
  1246. 1246.
    >Dash hasn’t noticed yet, until Spitfire speaks and whips around.
  1247. 1247.
    >”Hilarious, tell the nerd we’re here.”
  1248. 1248.
    >It starts to build from soft to loud.
  1249. 1249.
    >”Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh!”
  1250. 1250.
    >Gate guard spins around.
  1251. 1251.
    >”Captain Armor, the performing arts branch is here.”
  1252. 1252.
    >Shining Armor chuckles as he answers.
  1253. 1253.
    >”Let them in.”
  1254. 1254.
    >Rainbow hasn’t taken a breath yet.
  1255. 1255.
    >”Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh!”
  1256. 1256.
    >In a moment of passion, she grabs your whole body and squeezes.
  1257. 1257.
    >Ribs shatter, spine turns to dust, life leaves you.
  1258. 1258.
    >Air forced out of your body makes you sound like a squeaky toy.
  1259. 1259.
    >Wonderbolts flutter towards you two.
  1260. 1260.
    >”Anon, the Wonderbolts!”
  1261. 1261.
    “I know.”
  1262. 1262.
    >You manage to wheeze out.
  1263. 1263.
    >Eyes are probably bulging from the bludgeoning hug.
  1264. 1264.
    >"You two must be Rainbow Dash and Anon."
  1265. 1265.
    >Spitfire calmly says, without a clue just what is about to happen.
  1266. 1266.
    >Exploding out of her seat, Dash is up to them in an instant.
  1267. 1267.
    >"We are your biggest fans! Sign my son!"
  1268. 1268.
    >So this is what being held like a limp cat feels like.
  1269. 1269.
    "Hi."
  1270. 1270.
    >Damn it, you sound lame.
  1271. 1271.
    >"Hey, the kiddo is starstruck. Don't worry, we ain't going anywhere quick."
  1272. 1272.
    >Soarin pats you on the head.
  1273. 1273.
    >This is the first time you've gotten an up close view of him, and dude is jacked.
  1274. 1274.
    >Holy hay-bells this guy has some serious muscles.
  1275. 1275.
    >"You can hold him."
  1276. 1276.
    >Dash please.
  1277. 1277.
    >"Huh, okay."
  1278. 1278.
    >Just let this moment happen.
  1279. 1279.
    >He holds you like a stallion that has been asked to hold someone's baby one too many times despite never having foals of his own.
  1280. 1280.
    >Dash has Pinkie Pie'd a camera out of existence.
  1281. 1281.
    >"Anon, suck in your tongue, you're derping out again."
  1282. 1282.
    "Just awestruck you know."
  1283. 1283.
    >"I do, now be cool like I taught you."
  1284. 1284.
    >Go serious mode.
  1285. 1285.
    >"Not that serious."
  1286. 1286.
    >Slightly more casual serious mode.
  1287. 1287.
    >A flash, and you've found that you've changed places with Dash already.
  1288. 1288.
    >"My turn. Make sure nothing is cropped out."
  1289. 1289.
    "Yup."
  1290. 1290.
    >Lighting is crap, but whatever.
  1291. 1291.
    >Focus and snap several times.
  1292. 1292.
    "Got it."
  1293. 1293.
    >"Excellent!"
  1294. 1294.
    >Dash takes the camera carefully like a cribbed newborn.
  1295. 1295.
    >"Wow'th, sh'eth go'th th'at down gth'ood."
  1296. 1296.
    >Fleetfoot whistles and lisps at how fast that went.
  1297. 1297.
    "She has several posters of all of you that go into cycles in our home."
  1298. 1298.
    >Spitfire snorts with a suppressed laugh.
  1299. 1299.
    >"Who's in your room?"
  1300. 1300.
    "Cycles between Soarin, Fire Streak, and Silver Zoom."
  1301. 1301.
    >"Not any mares?"
  1302. 1302.
    >Like a spread?
  1303. 1303.
    >Would love to.
  1304. 1304.
    >Maybe one day, though are you allowed to have one if you have a fillyfriend?
  1305. 1305.
    >Better be careful with that.
  1306. 1306.
    "Maybe one day if you're cooler than them."
  1307. 1307.
    >"Listen to this colt. He knows what he's talking about."
  1308. 1308.
    >Soarin rubs his shoulder to Spitfire.
  1309. 1309.
    >So why are they here?
  1310. 1310.
    >Military branches don't usually mingle like this except for special occasions.
  1311. 1311.
    >Wonderbolts didn't participate in this military effort.
  1312. 1312.
    >All for you?
  1313. 1313.
     
  1314. 1314.
    >What follows is several hours of games, military chants, and fun shenanigans.
  1315. 1315.
    >Feels like a birthday party.
  1316. 1316.
    >A suspicious amount of smiles and positive vibes.
  1317. 1317.
    >Ponies be ponies sure, but you wonder who set this up.
  1318. 1318.
    >Celestia?
  1319. 1319.
    >Maybe, but she's been busy and has spent most of her time with you.
  1320. 1320.
    >Spitfire is cool though.
  1321. 1321.
    >Can also hear her talk to Captain Shining Armor.
  1322. 1322.
    >"So all this then, calling in a favor, why?"
  1323. 1323.
    >"Keep your voice down, he pays attention."
  1324. 1324.
    >Playing your game of aerial hacky sack with Soarin, Fleetfoot, Rainbow, and some other pegasi guards.
  1325. 1325.
    >Doesn't stop you from listening.
  1326. 1326.
    >"Did you read the report?"
  1327. 1327.
    >"Dude, that isn't released yet to anypony, did it all really go FUBAR down there?"
  1328. 1328.
    >Shining stops, watching you play.
  1329. 1329.
    >"I'll let you read it later. It'll make sense."
  1330. 1330.
    >Damn, he really is paying attention to you.
  1331. 1331.
    >What almost stops you is when Zephyr knocks on the door.
  1332. 1332.
    >"Hey, have you seen my son and Rainbow Dash?"
  1333. 1333.
    >"Dude! It's you! Guys, it's the father!"
  1334. 1334.
    >Several of the soldiers turn and give him a roar of approval.
  1335. 1335.
    >"Brilliant work with that CPR right in front of that monster. The wings of this stallion!"
  1336. 1336.
    >Zephyr, probably for the first time, is getting deserved praise, and he seems overwhelmed.
  1337. 1337.
    >A mare guard grabs him by the hoof to lead him in.
  1338. 1338.
    >Which becomes easier to do when he sees who you're playing with.
  1339. 1339.
    >"By my feathers. Those are the Wonderbolts!"
  1340. 1340.
    "Hi dad!"
  1341. 1341.
    >Dash bops the sack up into the air before launching it right on Zephyr's back.
  1342. 1342.
    >Probably could have been his face, but she was being nice.
  1343. 1343.
    >"What's up? You're looking for us?"
  1344. 1344.
    >"Y-yeah."
  1345. 1345.
    >He squeaks out when Fleetfoot nabs the limp sack straight off his back.
  1346. 1346.
    >Don't blame him, she's hot in that form fitting outfit.
  1347. 1347.
    >"Our f-folks were wondering where you both went. Dinner is getting close."
  1348. 1348.
    >A playful groan escapes Dash's body.
  1349. 1349.
    >"Blast, lost track of time. Guys, I'll have to come back later. Princess Celestia is hosting us."
  1350. 1350.
    "Aw dang. It's been fun playing with you guys."
  1351. 1351.
    >Many of the guards give you their goodbye hugs.
  1352. 1352.
    >"Thanks for coming by Anon!"
  1353. 1353.
    >"Stay cool kiddo."
  1354. 1354.
    >"Don't be a stranger now."
  1355. 1355.
    >Almost blush from all the attention.
  1356. 1356.
    >As you reach for the door, you nudge mom.
  1357. 1357.
    "Hey, I left my signed autograph at our snack table."
  1358. 1358.
    >"I'll get it. Zephyr and you go on ahead."
  1359. 1359.
    >Nod and give the door guard a hoofbump on the way out.
  1360. 1360.
    >Zephyr still seems to be in a daze.
  1361. 1361.
    >"Wow, that was incredible. Wasn't it, Anon? Anon? Anon, where are you?"
  1362. 1362.
    "Shhh, up here."
  1363. 1363.
    >Wave him up one of the windows hiding in the long shadows.
  1364. 1364.
    >"What are you doing?"
  1365. 1365.
    "I left behind my stuff on purpose. I'm just curious. Listen."
  1366. 1366.
    >"Oh. Okay?"
  1367. 1367.
    >He is a bit bewildered, but goes along.
  1368. 1368.
    >Listen and peek carefully.
  1369. 1369.
    >Dash is thanking ponies as she leaves, until Shining Armor stops her.
  1370. 1370.
    >"Rainbow Dash."
  1371. 1371.
    >His solemn tone makes her pause.
  1372. 1372.
    >"It is in our creed, oath, and declaration as soldiers that we protect and serve. We failed you and your son. I promised to keep him safe, and I failed."
  1373. 1373.
     
  1374. 1374.
    >Every guard, soldier, and agent stands at parade rest towards Rainbow Dash.
  1375. 1375.
    >Shining continues.
  1376. 1376.
    >"This party will never make up for not living up to the standard set forth by our founders. You took a hit for Princess Celestia. Anon made the ultimate sacrifice for hearth and home. Humbly, we ask for your forgiveness. We, I, do not deserve it and never will."
  1377. 1377.
    >Rainbow Dash stands still with jaw dropped.
  1378. 1378.
    >Shining Armor brings his hooves together, mirrored by everypony else around him.
  1379. 1379.
    >Then one single motion, salute.
  1380. 1380.
    >"Whoa."
  1381. 1381.
    >A single utterance.
  1382. 1382.
    >Come on, Dash.
  1383. 1383.
    >Do better than that.
  1384. 1384.
    >"Are they serious?"
  1385. 1385.
    >Zephyr mutters quietly.
  1386. 1386.
    >You stick a hoof to his mouth to shush him.
  1387. 1387.
    >Dash backs up towards the door.
  1388. 1388.
    >"Listen, guys. This whole thing, I'm still trying to take it all in. It's cool. We're cool. Thanks for not blowing us off."
  1389. 1389.
    >Jerking your head back towards the castle.
  1390. 1390.
    >You motion to Zephyr that now is time to go.
  1391. 1391.
    >Zip quickly across the yard to a door, with him lagging behind a bit.
  1392. 1392.
    >"Is this how you're able to do stuff all the time? You're like a tiny ninja."
  1393. 1393.
    "What do you think? About all that?"
  1394. 1394.
    >He shakes his head.
  1395. 1395.
    >"Crazy. All of it. You, uh, not going to tell Mom that you were spying on her?"
  1396. 1396.
    "Spying? You give us too much credit, that was all window watching."
  1397. 1397.
    >"Right. You are a very sneaky colt."
  1398. 1398.
    >Time to play it off him.
  1399. 1399.
    "So what have you been getting up to then? Doing your own little sneaky time?"
  1400. 1400.
    >Zephyr coughs before patting you on the head.
  1401. 1401.
    >"Don't worry about it. I'll let everypony know when I'm done. Almost am anyway."
  1402. 1402.
    >Okay.
  1403. 1403.
    "Hey dad."
  1404. 1404.
    >"Yeah?"
  1405. 1405.
    "Thank you for saving me."
  1406. 1406.
    >Hear him suck up some air and blink away any threatening tears.
  1407. 1407.
    >Then he grabs you into a full body wing hug.
  1408. 1408.
    >"Please, don't do that again."
  1409. 1409.
    >...
  1410. 1410.
    >Just in time for Dash to burst into the room.
  1411. 1411.
    >"Got your stuff. Oh."
  1412. 1412.
    >He does not let you go.
  1413. 1413.
    >"Hey Rainbow, just hugging it out. You know?"
  1414. 1414.
    >"Yeah. I know."
  1415. 1415.
     
  1416. 1416.
    >Dinner brought in Princess Luna as well.
  1417. 1417.
    >Sadly it seems the grandparents are a little more subdued interacting with her.
  1418. 1418.
    >Not you.
  1419. 1419.
    “Soarin was so cool, he was wing wrestling one guard after another non-stop!”
  1420. 1420.
    >Really surprised some of the earth ponies when we beat them.
  1421. 1421.
    >”Impressive.”
  1422. 1422.
    “Yup! He’s the one they pick for the dangerous high body stress maneuvers.”
  1423. 1423.
    >Show her a hoof print.
  1424. 1424.
    “Fleetfoot put a hoofsie on my chest!”
  1425. 1425.
    >Dash got all three on her.
  1426. 1426.
    >Luna looks between the two of you, surprised by the fanatical behavior.
  1427. 1427.
    >”I see.”
  1428. 1428.
    >Bow and Whistle gingerly hold the most precious gift, a downy feather from Spitfire.
  1429. 1429.
    >”You’re framing this right?”
  1430. 1430.
    >Dash is rubbing her hooves together.
  1431. 1431.
    >”Framing and grading it. To the Bolt room at home it will stay.”
  1432. 1432.
    >A tired Celestia raises an eyebrow.
  1433. 1433.
    >This is the shenanigans you wanted to be part of princess, live with it.
  1434. 1434.
    >“It was so sweet of Shining Armor to invite them.”
  1435. 1435.
    >Princess Cadance is not even fazed by your family’s behavior.
  1436. 1436.
    >“When he told me I got so excited for you!”
  1437. 1437.
    >Celestia leans down to her sister to whisper.
  1438. 1438.
    >”It seems to run in the family.”
  1439. 1439.
    >Breeze gently nudges you.
  1440. 1440.
    >”Anon, how did the doctor visit go?”
  1441. 1441.
    “I’ll find out tomorrow. He mostly wanted to get to know me. I may have messed with him a little.”
  1442. 1442.
    Grandpa gives you a disapproving head shake.
  1443. 1443.
    >”You’re supposed to take it seriously. Rainbow, he isn’t giving Dr. Blotch a hard time?”
  1444. 1444.
    “I am being serious.”
  1445. 1445.
    Dash rolls her eyes at the mention of him.
  1446. 1446.
    >”I’m not sure Blotch was. He didn’t seem to do much. Also, no Anon, we’re not getting a tattoo on your flank.”
  1447. 1447.
    “I was joking! I wanted to see his reaction.”
  1448. 1448.
    >”And what was his reaction?”
  1449. 1449.
    >Celestia breaks through with her question.
  1450. 1450.
    “He seemed more thoughtful than I thought he would be. If he actually thinks I want one there he’s a quack.”
  1451. 1451.
    >Seems your joke falls flat with everyone around you.
  1452. 1452.
    >Can’t win them all.
  1453. 1453.
    “Still need homework stuff. Don’t want to be left behind.”
  1454. 1454.
    >Dash raspberries the idea.
  1455. 1455.
    >”You left behind, if anything it’ll give the rest of your class time to catch up to you. Don’t pout, I’ll do it. Tomorrow after this next visit with Dr. Blotch I’ll head down to Ponyville. I want to check up on the girls as well.”
  1456. 1456.
    >Celestia thoughtfully hums as she takes out a scroll.
  1457. 1457.
    >”I can send Twilight a heads up.”
  1458. 1458.
    >”That’s perfect. Tell her we can do the lunch meetup.”
  1459. 1459.
    >That’s perfect.
  1460. 1460.
    >Gives you time to go information hunting.
  1461. 1461.
    >Go to the library, find the census, cross-reference with the list of past Anons turned pony to see their cutie mark.
  1462. 1462.
    >Maybe that can lead you to some clues.
  1463. 1463.
    “Don’t forget to ask Aunt Fluttershy how Lupine is doing.”
  1464. 1464.
    >”I’m probably going to get told everything even if I didn’t ask.”
  1465. 1465.
    >Posey sighs quietly, aka her normal volume.
  1466. 1466.
    >”I hope she’s doing okay.”
  1467. 1467.
    >Zephyr shrugs at his mom’s worry.
  1468. 1468.
    >”If anything, that new animal will give her plenty to do. Does it even get shots?”
  1469. 1469.
     
  1470. 1470.
    >”I am surprised at the intensity at which Rainbow and you show your support for the Wonderbolts.”
  1471. 1471.
    “It was something instilled into me at a young age. I think I attended a show when I was a week old.”
  1472. 1472.
    >Luna wants to do another round of dream therapy.
  1473. 1473.
    >Dinner went smoothly outside of some quirks.
  1474. 1474.
    >You didn’t go back to the medical wing room, you got your own bed this time.
  1475. 1475.
    >It includes a Rainbow Dash that won’t let you go when she gets back from the guards’ afterparty.
  1476. 1476.
    >Going to enjoy waking up to that deathgrip in the morning.
  1477. 1477.
    “You can take a break if you want. These past few days and nights must be draining.”
  1478. 1478.
    >Luna settles into the dreamscape, allowing a starry sky to spring up overhead.
  1479. 1479.
    >”My pain and weariness will be set aside. You are our focus.”
  1480. 1480.
    >Adults, good grief.
  1481. 1481.
    “Just don’t forget to take care of yourself or I will find you. I know where you sleep.”
  1482. 1482.
    >She grows serious despite your banter.
  1483. 1483.
    >”Anon, tell me what happened inside the colossus monster?”
  1484. 1484.
    >Oh.
  1485. 1485.
    “It was dark. Painful. Loud. Throbbing that overwhelms.”
  1486. 1486.
    >Bruce screaming in your ears to keep flying.
  1487. 1487.
    “I think, for the first time…”
  1488. 1488.
    >A slobbering malformed overbite snaps at you.
  1489. 1489.
    >Getting closer.
  1490. 1490.
    “I felt like prey.”
  1491. 1491.
    >Beating heart.
  1492. 1492.
    “I crawled into a heart as it pumped around me. Crushing me. There was no way out.”
  1493. 1493.
     
  1494. 1494.
    —
  1495. 1495.
     
  1496. 1496.
    >Be Luna with Anon, trying to work him through this trauma in a safe controlled space.
  1497. 1497.
    >As soon as he starts talking about being prey the dream starts to warp into a nightmare.
  1498. 1498.
    >Primal fear.
  1499. 1499.
    >Unknown predator lurking in the darkness.
  1500. 1500.
    >No stars to guide, no moon, just a void to oblivion.
  1501. 1501.
    >Anon is shaking like a leaf, his eyes are closed shut.
  1502. 1502.
    >Nip at the base of his neck and rip out the nightmare parasite hosting on his mind.
  1503. 1503.
    >Putting Anon to sleep, and leaving you to deal with the nightmare.
  1504. 1504.
    >Create a tiny guardian tulpa called a Tantabus.
  1505. 1505.
    "Protect him while I deal with this."
  1506. 1506.
    >The shade nods as both it and Anon vanish into a safer dream.
  1507. 1507.
    >Primal nightmare shudders, wants to run from a predator it can't see.
  1508. 1508.
    >But it knows it's there.
  1509. 1509.
    >Being hunted.
  1510. 1510.
    >Step boldly into this old fear.
  1511. 1511.
    "I will purge you from his mind every night if that is what it takes."
  1512. 1512.
    >That's when the howling starts.
  1513. 1513.
    >Time to get to work.
  1514. 1514.
     
  1515. 1515.
    —
  1516. 1516.
     
  1517. 1517.
    >You wake up in a cold sweat.
  1518. 1518.
    >What?
  1519. 1519.
    >Can see morning light breaking through the curtains.
  1520. 1520.
    >Where did the time go?
  1521. 1521.
    >That ended too fast, unless you don’t remember what happened next.
  1522. 1522.
    >Glance up to Dash as she snores away.
  1523. 1523.
    >Not as loud as she usually is.
  1524. 1524.
    >Luna must’ve done something.
  1525. 1525.
    >Regardless, you have a day to plan out.
  1526. 1526.
    >Wiggle out, which wakes her up halfway through your buttwiggle dance to free yourself.
  1527. 1527.
    >”Morning.”
  1528. 1528.
    >Ha, someone got salted last night.
  1529. 1529.
    >Free yourself from her zombie-like embrace.
  1530. 1530.
    >Peck her on the snoot with a kiss then bound off.
  1531. 1531.
    >First bathroom, then the world.
  1532. 1532.
    >If the world was breakfast.
  1533. 1533.
    >Feel like you're spry and full of energy.
  1534. 1534.
    >Just to be a little silly, you traverse the halls of this castle by walking on the ceiling.
  1535. 1535.
    >Have to buzz your wings pretty hard to maintain the position, but that ain’t a problem.
  1536. 1536.
    >Ponies don’t look up as they shuffle about the daily morning routine.
  1537. 1537.
    >Can’t help but giggle looking at top mare profiles.
  1538. 1538.
    >Something raises the hair on the back of your neck.
  1539. 1539.
    >Whip around.
  1540. 1540.
    >Nothing.
  1541. 1541.
    >Pretend everything is fine.
  1542. 1542.
    >Getting close to the breakfast area.
  1543. 1543.
    >See most of the family fly by.
  1544. 1544.
    >Top Posey and Whistle are top cute.
  1545. 1545.
    >Discreetly drop some downy feathers, but keep them close.
  1546. 1546.
    >Dash zooms past below you.
  1547. 1547.
    >Use the air she displaces to updraft the feathers and throw them behind you like they’re in a vortex.
  1548. 1548.
    >”What?”
  1549. 1549.
    >Ha!
  1550. 1550.
    >Soft ticklish feathers brush all over your stalker.
  1551. 1551.
    >A haze wavers until Celestia takes off a cloak.
  1552. 1552.
    >Got one feather stuck in her lips, most in her mane.
  1553. 1553.
    >”And here I thought I would be catching you.”
  1554. 1554.
    >That’s the cloaking robe you used!
  1555. 1555.
    >She’s playing with the toys you rightfully stole!
  1556. 1556.
    >You’re a bad influence.
  1557. 1557.
    “Is that the gravity spell you’re using?”
  1558. 1558.
    >”It is, come now. Cleaning hoof prints on the ceiling is difficult.”
  1559. 1559.
    >Look down to see a sleepy Luna drifting her way down the hall to the dining room door.
  1560. 1560.
    >Drop down with legs outstretched to land next to her.
  1561. 1561.
    >Before you can pull a repeat scare like what you did on Cadance, a golden glow envelops you.
  1562. 1562.
    >Momentum is gone.
  1563. 1563.
    >Instead you are held gently before being placed on Luna’s back.
  1564. 1564.
    >Luna keeps trotting for a few moments before stopping and turning her head to you.
  1565. 1565.
    >She slowly blinks with baggy eyes.
  1566. 1566.
    “Boo?”
  1567. 1567.
    “Ah, Anon. Are you heading to breakfast now or did I miss it?”
  1568. 1568.
    >Not even a hint of being surprised.
  1569. 1569.
    >Celestia floats down gently and lands.
  1570. 1570.
    >”Just in time, sister. You seem well.”
  1571. 1571.
    >”Hardly. I’m ready to collapse in my bed.”
  1572. 1572.
    “I don’t remember how our dream thing ended.”
  1573. 1573.
    >”For the best. Come along, we shall converse with your kin then find solitude in a pillow.”
  1574. 1574.
     
  1575. 1575.
    >Breakfast didn't have anything eventful that stood out.
  1576. 1576.
    >Casual chit chat really.
  1577. 1577.
    >At least Princess Luna got to attend.
  1578. 1578.
    >Slept through most of it.
  1579. 1579.
    >So here you are, walking around the military race track with Dr. Blotch.
  1580. 1580.
    >"While it is true that no pony will know when it will show up, or what the cutie mark can look like we can make some pretty educated guesses."
  1581. 1581.
    >Not really sure what his goal with this current session.
  1582. 1582.
    "I know several classmates who are obsessed with discovering their cutie marks, but I don't think they'll end up like you."
  1583. 1583.
    >"True, that curiosity isn't unique among foals. What I was looking to understand is what they were."
  1584. 1584.
    "If you look at the Cloud family you would think that they can be hereditary."
  1585. 1585.
    >And all the weirdness that can come with that.
  1586. 1586.
    >He has to think for a moment.
  1587. 1587.
    >"Cloud family? Who?"
  1588. 1588.
    "Do you know the Apple clan?"
  1589. 1589.
    >"Of course."
  1590. 1590.
    "Think of a pegasus family known for the cultivation of clouds and the weather technology we use today. Upper echelon in Cloudsdale."
  1591. 1591.
    >"Got it. Well, would you want a cutie mark like your mom?"
  1592. 1592.
    "I don't know. Having her face on my flanks would be strange."
  1593. 1593.
    >That gets a snort out of Rainbow Dash as she passes by you two.
  1594. 1594.
    >"That's not funny."
  1595. 1595.
    >She's been galloping around the course the entire time.
  1596. 1596.
    >"Okay, maybe a little funny!"
  1597. 1597.
    >How does a pony get a cutie mark with their face on it like Whoa Nelly?
  1598. 1598.
    >"Not what I intended to mean, though maybe it would be appropriate."
  1599. 1599.
    "You're making my tattoo idea actually sound more appealing."
  1600. 1600.
    >That makes Dr. Blotch start 'hmming'.
  1601. 1601.
    >Which only means a point that he was hoping he could reach is now within reach.
  1602. 1602.
    >"Do you think it is possible to get a bad cutie mark?"
  1603. 1603.
    >Oh boy, a fandom classic!
  1604. 1604.
    "I haven't meet a pony who thought they had a bad one, society said they had a bad one, or a cutie mark that was so elusive in their interpretation they might as well not have one. I'm sure there are other ways too look at it."
  1605. 1605.
    >Blotch smiles at that.
  1606. 1606.
    >"Which is only cutting the surface! For a young colt who says he's just waiting like anypony else, you have a lot of interesting thoughts about it."
  1607. 1607.
    "I study everything."
  1608. 1608.
    >"I'm sure that's it."
  1609. 1609.
    >He says with that adult tone of 'I've caught you in a logic trap'.
  1610. 1610.
    >"Naw, that's him all right. Reads everything."
  1611. 1611.
    >Dash to the rescue as she gallops past you two again.
  1612. 1612.
    >"Anon is an egghead, but don't tell anypony I said that."
  1613. 1613.
    >"No need to deflate my idea so quickly."
  1614. 1614.
    >Blotch mutters.
  1615. 1615.
    "You studied them. Tell me about 'bad' cutie marks?"
  1616. 1616.
    >"Nah, ah, ah, doctor confidentiality."
  1617. 1617.
    "You might as well had said yes."
  1618. 1618.
    >"True, but I will not divulge information like that."
  1619. 1619.
    "How about cutie marks that result from disease."
  1620. 1620.
    >"The pox? Those are a bit different from real cutie marks."
  1621. 1621.
    "Then you have mine, altered or taken. I know ponies haven't seen a taken one."
  1622. 1622.
    >Outside Starlight, but that comes later.
  1623. 1623.
    "What about an altered cutie mark?"
  1624. 1624.
    >"I see your line of thinking. Yes. There are."
  1625. 1625.
     
  1626. 1626.
    "Is that why you wanted to gallop right past Discord?"
  1627. 1627.
    >Dr. Blotch's face drops at the mention of that name.
  1628. 1628.
    >"You know?"
  1629. 1629.
    "I do. How do you know?"
  1630. 1630.
    >He starts to mutter.
  1631. 1631.
    >"Right. Clairvoyance. Sorry, I wasn't given a full account of what you do know."
  1632. 1632.
    >Hmm, he knows who Discord is.
  1633. 1633.
    >A stallion who studies cutie marks and knows that they can be altered.
  1634. 1634.
    >Was there a pony who was altered by Discord?
  1635. 1635.
    "You probably aren't going to say who it is are you?"
  1636. 1636.
    >"Correct."
  1637. 1637.
    "But you think I might suffer from the same issue."
  1638. 1638.
    >"It has crossed my mind."
  1639. 1639.
    >"What has?"
  1640. 1640.
    >Dash is immediately in his face, she was all the way on the other side of the field.
  1641. 1641.
    >Going turbo mom mode.
  1642. 1642.
    >"Well come on, spill it."
  1643. 1643.
    "Mom, he's wrong."
  1644. 1644.
    >For a moment, Dr. Blotch looks offended, but is able to rein it in.
  1645. 1645.
    >"You've deduced that so quickly?"
  1646. 1646.
    >Look up at Mom as she has turned into protective hovering mode.
  1647. 1647.
    "It doesn't match the MO. Long term planning, he's bad at it."
  1648. 1648.
    >"Huh, you seem to imply he's an active force."
  1649. 1649.
    >Oops.
  1650. 1650.
    >You played that card wrong.
  1651. 1651.
    >Dr. Blotch now just looks concerned and confused.
  1652. 1652.
    >What happened to his patient?
  1653. 1653.
    >"Can you tell me more about this Discord?"
  1654. 1654.
    "No, I will not."
  1655. 1655.
    >Dash groans as she throws her hooves in the air.
  1656. 1656.
    >"Will you two stop playing games?"
  1657. 1657.
    "He is free to speak with Princess Celestia about it."
  1658. 1658.
    >"Fine. Anon, the fact that you have tampered with powerful forces means you have put yourself into a unique situation of being tampered with yourself."
  1659. 1659.
    >But not by Discord.
  1660. 1660.
    "So you think I found something that led to my missing cutie mark."
  1661. 1661.
    >"It is my leading hypothesis, but not my only one."
  1662. 1662.
    >He's been trying to get you to open up, without feeling pestered to talk about what you've been up to.
  1663. 1663.
    "You're going to have to give me some basis to your hypothesis. Give me something to work with so I can help you help me."
  1664. 1664.
    >Blotch stops trotting as he looks down to the ground.
  1665. 1665.
    >He actually looks sad.
  1666. 1666.
    >"It isn't easy, but I have to admit your condition doesn't match hers. But we are dealing with so many unknown factors."
  1667. 1667.
    >Think, Anon.
  1668. 1668.
    >Who could he be talking about?
  1669. 1669.
    >Pony affected by Discord before Discord is free.
  1670. 1670.
    >Oh.
  1671. 1671.
    >He notices your eyes widen.
  1672. 1672.
    >With a hoof, you draw on the sand a ball and screw.
  1673. 1673.
    >He steps back with a defensive posture.
  1674. 1674.
    >Raised hoof, leaned back, paler.
  1675. 1675.
    >"W-what!?"
  1676. 1676.
    >Bingo.
  1677. 1677.
    >Screwball.
  1678. 1678.
    >A one scene wonder, she had to come from somewhere.
  1679. 1679.
    >But anymore then this is conjecture on your part.
  1680. 1680.
    >You can guess he is her doctor, and it isn't going well.
  1681. 1681.
    >Dr. Blotch takes a moment, but eventually gathers himself.
  1682. 1682.
    >"You are not what I expected. I need to rethink this."
  1683. 1683.
    >Simply nod with understanding.
  1684. 1684.
    >Dash tries to look at what you drew, but you quickly wipe it away.
  1685. 1685.
    >"That's really annoying you know, Anon."
  1686. 1686.
    "Sorry, mom."
  1687. 1687.
    >"You!!!"
  1688. 1688.
    >A shrill scream makes all three of you pause.
  1689. 1689.
    >Random filly appears.
  1690. 1690.
    >Boy does she look mad.
  1691. 1691.
    >"You."
  1692. 1692.
    >Now that is just pure venom straight at you.
  1693. 1693.
    >Raise an eyebrow as this unicorn filly marches towards you.
  1694. 1694.
     
  1695. 1695.
    >"I am Sunbeam Glory. Daughter of the Heaven House!"
  1696. 1696.
    >Ok.
  1697. 1697.
    >Well she looks like a sunburn Sunset Shimmer.
  1698. 1698.
    >Just no bacon mane.
  1699. 1699.
    >Maybe they were related.
  1700. 1700.
    >"And you're Anon! The colt who stole everything from me."
  1701. 1701.
    >Good grief she even has that childish nobility voice.
  1702. 1702.
    >Bet she covers her mouth when she laughs.
  1703. 1703.
    >"I was supposed to be Celestia's next student, and you pilfered my birthright. A pegasus!? You don't even know magic."
  1704. 1704.
    >Her horn is sparking with those little magical motes.
  1705. 1705.
    >Eyes burning with furious passion.
  1706. 1706.
    >"What do you have to say for yourself, Anon."
  1707. 1707.
    >Both adults seem a little taken aback by the little fireball.
  1708. 1708.
    "Sorry, you got the wrong colt."
  1709. 1709.
    >Adults scrunch their noses.
  1710. 1710.
    >Sunbeam's fury is extinguished for a moment.
  1711. 1711.
    "My name is Zephyr Jr."
  1712. 1712.
    >Dr. Blotch's jaw drops.
  1713. 1713.
    >Dash slaps both hooves to her, her cheeks puffed out.
  1714. 1714.
    >"Oh. Sorry. I got told it was a green pegasus named Anon. Sorry I wasted your time, Zephyr Jr."
  1715. 1715.
    >She couldn't help it, Rainbow Dash explodes with laughter.
  1716. 1716.
    >Falling from the sky, clutching her stomach.
  1717. 1717.
    >She tries to say something, but all that comes out is heaving giggle snorts.
  1718. 1718.
    >Dr. Blotch shakes his head, confusion hasn't abated.
  1719. 1719.
    >"I don't understand."
  1720. 1720.
    >Glory isn't sure what to say.
  1721. 1721.
    >"Um, you okay miss?"
  1722. 1722.
    >Dash points a hoof at you.
  1723. 1723.
    >"Zephyr Jr. huh? Never thought that would come up again. Wow."
  1724. 1724.
    >Wait for a minute or two until Dash is brought back down to earth.
  1725. 1725.
    >"Okay, okay, I'm back. Whew."
  1726. 1726.
    >Sunbeam scrunches her nose, probably feeling she's been played.
  1727. 1727.
    >"Hold on, are you actually, Anon?"
  1728. 1728.
    "Zephyr Jr was put on my birth certificate, but got overruled very quickly. I do go by Anon now."
  1729. 1729.
    >That document probably doesn't even exist anymore.
  1730. 1730.
    >She facehooves and just growls.
  1731. 1731.
    >"You think this is a joke?"
  1732. 1732.
    >Ear twitches as several guards show up.
  1733. 1733.
    >"My destiny is all a cheap thrill, huh?"
  1734. 1734.
    >More guards march next to you.
  1735. 1735.
    >"I should smack you for your--you--oh."
  1736. 1736.
    >A wall of guards stands between her and you.
  1737. 1737.
    >"Young filly, shouldn't you be back in magic school?"
  1738. 1738.
    >She's standing her ground, but is still intimidated if her trembling hind legs are anything to go by.
  1739. 1739.
    >"That's what this is about. Princess Celestia should be my teacher. He shouldn't even be on the castle grounds."
  1740. 1740.
    >Wonder who told her about you.
  1741. 1741.
    >Rumors go fast, but not complete information.
  1742. 1742.
    >Guards are not having any of it.
  1743. 1743.
    >Not surprised that they're on your side.
  1744. 1744.
    >"You have five minutes to leave the premises. Any complaints can be directed to the main office."
  1745. 1745.
    >Sunbeam Glory gives you the meanest glare a filly could muster.
  1746. 1746.
    >"This isn't over."
  1747. 1747.
    "Could we not?"
  1748. 1748.
    >Turning on her hooves, she gallops out as fast as she can.
  1749. 1749.
    >Guards sigh and turn to you three.
  1750. 1750.
    >"Sorry about not containing that sooner. You three done here?"
  1751. 1751.
    >Dr. Blotch nods.
  1752. 1752.
    >"I need to get to my office."
  1753. 1753.
    >Dash still has a smirk.
  1754. 1754.
    >"That was funny. I'm going to head to Ponyville now. What are you doing, Anon?"
  1755. 1755.
    "May I go to the library?"
  1756. 1756.
    >"Fine. Tell a family member, one might go with you."
  1757. 1757.
     
  1758. 1758.
    >Shelve this whole Sunbeam Glory thing for now.
  1759. 1759.
    >You got bigger fish to catch.
  1760. 1760.
    "I'm heading to the library bye!"
  1761. 1761.
    >"What!?"
  1762. 1762.
    >Before the grandparents can even deliberate you're already out the building.
  1763. 1763.
    >Though you can hear one of them.
  1764. 1764.
    >"Okay, have fun!"
  1765. 1765.
    >Soar over the city.
  1766. 1766.
    >Easy to do when the pegasus population is low.
  1767. 1767.
    >Kind of like Ponyville, you don't have to worry about traffic.
  1768. 1768.
    >Thankfully it's pretty easy to tell where the library is.
  1769. 1769.
    >So many students come in and out with books.
  1770. 1770.
    >Land with a soft clop in front of the door, surprising several unicorns around you.
  1771. 1771.
    "Sorry. Just passing through."
  1772. 1772.
    >Opening the door, you're pleased to see just how big the interior is.
  1773. 1773.
    >Rows of shelves, stairs for multiple floors, study rooms for quiet reading.
  1774. 1774.
    >"Young colt."
  1775. 1775.
    >An older heavy-set mare dressed in a very professional outfit blocks your path.
  1776. 1776.
    >"I've never seen you here before. You won't be allowed to check out any books. Canterlots only."
  1777. 1777.
    "Don't worry, I'm going to read the book and put it back."
  1778. 1778.
    >She gives you an even glare.
  1779. 1779.
    >So you smile sweetly.
  1780. 1780.
    >Name tag says 'Clean Record'.
  1781. 1781.
    >Several ponies trot pass with confused expressions.
  1782. 1782.
    >"I have my eye on you."
  1783. 1783.
    >Sure silly serious mare.
  1784. 1784.
    >"No galloping, swooping, and horseplay of any kind. I will throw you out by your wing."
  1785. 1785.
    >Pinkie Pie bounce past her.
  1786. 1786.
    "I'll behave!"
  1787. 1787.
    >She's never going to catch you.
  1788. 1788.
    >Flutter towards the counter.
  1789. 1789.
    >"Pay her no mind, sweetheart."
  1790. 1790.
    >Another elderly mare leans over the counter with a sweet smile.
  1791. 1791.
    >Her name tag says Clear Print
  1792. 1792.
    >"What are you looking for dearie? Wonderbolt material?"
  1793. 1793.
    "References please. Catalog census records, Ms. Print."
  1794. 1794.
    >Head tilt is your answer.
  1795. 1795.
    >Print shakes her head before leaning over closer.
  1796. 1796.
    >"I'm sorry. I must be hard of hearing."
  1797. 1797.
    >In a library?
  1798. 1798.
    "I want to look up newspapers or census records."
  1799. 1799.
    >"Okay, honey, sweetheart, I'm going to have to ask why. Why?"
  1800. 1800.
    "I am looking for a particular pony. History lesson. I want to find their cutie mark."
  1801. 1801.
    >She looks at your blank flank.
  1802. 1802.
    >"Oh! I see. In the back of the third floor there is a catalogue room with projectors."
  1803. 1803.
    >Using the fact that you're a colt to get what you want.
  1804. 1804.
    >Rather manipulative.
  1805. 1805.
    >Hover up, up, up.
  1806. 1806.
    >Print's gaze follows you until she's looking straight up.
  1807. 1807.
    >Third floor, students and teachers buzz around you doing work.
  1808. 1808.
    >Only one notice a pegasus has invaded the airspace so you give her a friendly wave.
  1809. 1809.
    >Quietly hum to yourself as you find the ancient records room.
  1810. 1810.
    >"Anon?"
  1811. 1811.
    >Humming stops short.
  1812. 1812.
    >Look at a dark corner where no one else resides, except the recluse.
  1813. 1813.
    "Moondancer. Hi."
  1814. 1814.
    >Her eyes dart around.
  1815. 1815.
    >"You? Are you following me? Looking for me?"
  1816. 1816.
    "No. Just an unexpected encounter."
  1817. 1817.
    >"Then why are you here in a space that no pony else is interested in visiting?"
  1818. 1818.
    >Point at the catalogue room.
  1819. 1819.
    "I'm going in there."
  1820. 1820.
    >Confusion doesn't leave her features.
  1821. 1821.
    >"You are?"
  1822. 1822.
    "Yup. I'll, uh, stop bothering you."
  1823. 1823.
    >Her eyes follow you, in complete disbelief.
  1824. 1824.
    >Door creeks as you open it.
  1825. 1825.
    >Dusty room.
  1826. 1826.
     
  1827. 1827.
    >Click on the switch for the light.
  1828. 1828.
    >At least you don't have to bring out a torch like in a medieval castle.
  1829. 1829.
    >"Anon!"
  1830. 1830.
    >Turn to see Moondancer has decided to follow you.
  1831. 1831.
    >Might be a roadblock.
  1832. 1832.
    >"Listen, I know it looks like I'm slacking on the research."
  1833. 1833.
    "What? Moondancer, you answer to Princess Luna. Not me."
  1834. 1834.
    >"I know, I know. Just well, you know."
  1835. 1835.
    >Blink at her before shaking your head.
  1836. 1836.
    "Listen, if you're having a break I'm not going to fault you. I know it isn't an easy task."
  1837. 1837.
    >Start to go down the corridors, and she keeps following you.
  1838. 1838.
    >"Not easy is putting it mildly. I'm hitting some major roadblocks just trying to read the spell. Star Swirl the Bearded put some serious safety features on the spell. Keep in mind this was already a restricted spell, but what I found fascinating is that it's easier to use than it is to understand."
  1839. 1839.
    >Dates, dates, where are you dude?
  1840. 1840.
    "I know this is going to sound basic compared to what you understand, but I did recently look at the teleport spell and was surprised at the mechanics that go into casting it. It was from a fellow classmate if you were wondering."
  1841. 1841.
    >"Reading spell books? Even though you're a pegasus."
  1842. 1842.
    "Had a wand and was trying to use it. Discovered how difficult it can be."
  1843. 1843.
    >"A wand!? Wait, go back to that. You can use wands?"
  1844. 1844.
    >Look back at her with a confused expression.
  1845. 1845.
    "Did you not study how other ponies can use magic?"
  1846. 1846.
    >"Not really. Might have been an elective class."
  1847. 1847.
    >Guess Mage Meadowbrook wasn't worth studying.
  1848. 1848.
    >Here we go, census archives.
  1849. 1849.
    "I can use a wand if I hold it with both wings. The issue is that I can't just cast a spell, I have to translate it from unicorn magic to pegasus magic."
  1850. 1850.
    >"Magical languages, of course. I do remember now."
  1851. 1851.
    >Right, he would have been around 150 years ago.
  1852. 1852.
    >If you remember right, this human turned pony was the one who gave you all of those magic scrolls.
  1853. 1853.
    >Pony name is Anonymous Letter.
  1854. 1854.
    "So what's the issue with the time travel spell? Star Swirl made it purposefully obtuse to dissect?
  1855. 1855.
    >"My Old Ponish is okay, but he was using it in ways that made my head hurt. I'm still trying to understand why he put the limitations on it that he did. Kind of like the teleport spell with the restrictions it has."
  1856. 1856.
    "So on top of ancient language issues; which I understand completely, that stuff was hard to read. He probably has code, memory implanting, and security checks to make it hard to study."
  1857. 1857.
    >"Explains why it hasn't been duplicated. I have to cast Mind Shield just so the safety features don't block my ability to study it."
  1858. 1858.
    >Moondancer blinks a few times as she watches you struggle to open a drawer.
  1859. 1859.
    >Her horn glows and it pops open easily.
  1860. 1860.
    "Thanks."
  1861. 1861.
    >"Who are you looking for?"
  1862. 1862.
    "I found an old letter with this guy's name on it. Curious mostly.
  1863. 1863.
    >"A lot of work for being curious."
  1864. 1864.
    "That's me in a nutshell."
  1865. 1865.
    >Oh gosh, this tome is heavy.
  1866. 1866.
    >Another magical glow and it flies up and down to the floor.
  1867. 1867.
    "Thanks, again."
  1868. 1868.
    >Start to flip through the pages.
  1869. 1869.
    >Until you find him.
  1870. 1870.
     
  1871. 1871.
    >Name, Anonymous Letter.
  1872. 1872.
    >Origin, Canterlot.
  1873. 1873.
    >Profession, Professor.
  1874. 1874.
    >"Oh!"
  1875. 1875.
    >Cutie Mark, you see a symbol of a quill writing on an open scroll.
  1876. 1876.
    >He has a cutie mark.
  1877. 1877.
    >A human can get one.
  1878. 1878.
    >Guess you can't be surprised at this point.
  1879. 1879.
    >Would be a bigger deal if he didn't.
  1880. 1880.
    >So what happened to you?
  1881. 1881.
    >Moondancer looks like she has a revelation.
  1882. 1882.
    >"I know about him."
  1883. 1883.
    >Now it's your turn to be surprised.
  1884. 1884.
    >She notices your expression.
  1885. 1885.
    >"He's on a portrait in the hall of exalted professors at the school. Hold on."
  1886. 1886.
    >Moondancer takes a closer look at the page, squinting and sticking out her tongue a little.
  1887. 1887.
    >"Right! He should have research papers in here somewhere. I see why you wanted to find him."
  1888. 1888.
    >Since when is she taking the reins on this?
  1889. 1889.
    >This was your mission.
  1890. 1890.
    >Then magic envelops you as she gallops away with you in tow.
  1891. 1891.
    >"Come on, Anon! Let's see what he wrote."
  1892. 1892.
    "Why would his research papers be here and not in an archive as the school?"
  1893. 1893.
    >She looks behind her with a big grin on her face.
  1894. 1894.
    >"Copies are brought here for public use after 100 years. I know where to find them."
  1895. 1895.
    >Want to pout at being held like this, but you can't help but enjoy her enthusiasm.
  1896. 1896.
    >Moondancer skids to a stop in front of another row, then quickly canters down the aisle.
  1897. 1897.
    >Thankfully, she releases you.
  1898. 1898.
    >"Okay, and right about here!"
  1899. 1899.
    >She yoinks out the entire cabinet and softly plops it down on the ground.
  1900. 1900.
    >"This is great. He might be able to help me to!"
  1901. 1901.
    >Keep the facade of you knowing what the heck your doing up.
  1902. 1902.
    >A research paper is pulled out, studied quickly, and put aside.
  1903. 1903.
    >You look at it.
  1904. 1904.
    >Sure enough, it belongs to him.
  1905. 1905.
    "Help you?"
  1906. 1906.
    >"Yes. He specialized in researching translation spells. I don't know if he made a conversion for unicorn to pegasus magic, but he did help translate foreign unicorn spells from distant lands."
  1907. 1907.
    >Documents are pulled out in rapid succession, until she stops cold.
  1908. 1908.
    >She reads this stuff so quickly.
  1909. 1909.
    >"I found it! Yes, yes, yes!"
  1910. 1910.
    >Look at the title and abstract.
  1911. 1911.
    >'Old Ponish: Transcription, Rescription, & Defragmentation.'
  1912. 1912.
    >"This is brilliant, Anon! I can use this."
  1913. 1913.
    >Moondancer pauses, then slowly puts the document down.
  1914. 1914.
    >"Sorry. Forgot you were looking for answers too. I didn't find anything to help you."
  1915. 1915.
    "It was a long shot."
  1916. 1916.
    >Keep looking at the research paper.
  1917. 1917.
    >Wait.
  1918. 1918.
    >Those are English letters.
  1919. 1919.
    >Just four in the abstract.
  1920. 1920.
    >Check another research paper and find those letters again next to his name.
  1921. 1921.
    >'Loss'.
  1922. 1922.
    >...
  1923. 1923.
    >'You sneaky bastard.'
  1924. 1924.
    >Like you have room to talk after rickrolling all of Ponyville.
  1925. 1925.
    >Why 'loss' though?
  1926. 1926.
    >It's a clue.
  1927. 1927.
    >In the map for artifacts to find, one was in Canterlot at the magic school.
  1928. 1928.
    >Did he leave another stash for you there?
  1929. 1929.
    "Moondancer, if he had an office where would it have been?"
  1930. 1930.
    >Hoping that the building hasn't been renovated.
  1931. 1931.
    >"You think he had hidden research papers?"
  1932. 1932.
    >Sure, let's go with that.
  1933. 1933.
    >Shrug.
  1934. 1934.
    >"I'll let you in on a secret."
  1935. 1935.
     
  1936. 1936.
    >She leans in to whisper in an isolated room.
  1937. 1937.
    >"My professor during my graduation showed me a secret compartment all teachers had. Their alcoholic cabinets."
  1938. 1938.
    >Is she forgetting you're a child?
  1939. 1939.
    "Got sloshed?"
  1940. 1940.
    >"Hard core. So if Professor Anonymous Letter hid research papers, it might be in a similar hidden compartment."
  1941. 1941.
    "I would think it would be found by now."
  1942. 1942.
    >"That's the thing. Hidden stuff is found all the time. Just need to have the right spell, or code, to find it. You want to learn magic right?"
  1943. 1943.
    "It would be really cool."
  1944. 1944.
    >Her enthusiasm grows.
  1945. 1945.
    >"Magic is amazing, and I would not deny you the chance to learn. I still have privileges to go on campus, and I can take you. We go there, figure out where his old office was, and do a little bit of snooping. Hopefully the current professor in that office is busy."
  1946. 1946.
    >Nevermind, you were wrong about her being a liability.
  1947. 1947.
    >Moondancer is best pony.
  1948. 1948.
    "Sounds great. Glad you found something that can help you."
  1949. 1949.
    >"I know! This will jump start the research. Glad you were looking for him."
  1950. 1950.
    >Throwing everything back into the cabinet, and cabinet into the archive drawer, Moondancer jumps up and gives you a hug.
  1951. 1951.
    >Aw, thanks.
  1952. 1952.
    >Poor neet nerd needs friends.
  1953. 1953.
    "Let's go to school."
  1954. 1954.
    >"Yes! I love school."
  1955. 1955.
    >She lets you go.
  1956. 1956.
    >Time to get out of this dusty room.
  1957. 1957.
    >Trot back to the door and open it.
  1958. 1958.
    >Grandpa Breeze is standing there, huffing hard and eye twitching.
  1959. 1959.
    >"Anon. You are in a great deal of trouble, young colt"
  1960. 1960.
    >Uh oh.
  1961. 1961.
     
  1962. 1962.
    >Grandpa Breeze is breathing hard, must have rushed over here as fast as possible.
  1963. 1963.
    >Which isn't all that fast, but he must have pushed himself.
  1964. 1964.
    >Also, he's mad.
  1965. 1965.
    >In a move that surprises you more than hurts, he snatches you up by the scruff of your neck.
  1966. 1966.
    >Moondancer is shrinking back, eyes darting between the two of you.
  1967. 1967.
    >"A-anon!? Who is this?"
  1968. 1968.
    >Grandpa Breeze glances at her.
  1969. 1969.
    "My grandpa. Grandpa, this is Moondancer. Moondancer this is Gentle Breeze."
  1970. 1970.
    >"Good day, Ms. Moondancer. Sorry to be bothering you."
  1971. 1971.
    >Dangling from his grip, he starts to slowly descend the library.
  1972. 1972.
    "Bye, Moondancer. If you want to talk I'm at the castle."
  1973. 1973.
    >"Young stallion, did you really think you can just go about as you please after what just happened?"
  1974. 1974.
    >Unicorns watch you get berated, most of them try to look away.
  1975. 1975.
    >"First of all, did you really get permission from Dash to go off by yourself to the library?"
  1976. 1976.
    >Le sigh.
  1977. 1977.
    "She said to tell somepony and they MIGHT want to go with me."
  1978. 1978.
    >"Might is now will. Do you think it's safe?"
  1979. 1979.
    >He doesn't land on the ground when you two reach ground level.
  1980. 1980.
    >Clear Print waves politely and mouths 'sorry'.
  1981. 1981.
    >See Clean Record smirking as you're escorted out the library.
  1982. 1982.
    "The only thing I have to worry about is a unicorn saying I don't belong because I'm a pegasus."
  1983. 1983.
    >"Exactly, bad ponies like that are everywhere."
  1984. 1984.
    >"Hey!"
  1985. 1985.
    >Doesn't slow down for her as grandpa pushes through the doors and takes off to the open sky.
  1986. 1986.
    >Slowly.
  1987. 1987.
    >So you just dangle.
  1988. 1988.
    >Don't say anything as you watch ponies below.
  1989. 1989.
    >Some notice both of you overhead.
  1990. 1990.
    >Of all the times for him to grow a backbone, he does it now?
  1991. 1991.
    >Where was this when he was raising Zephyr and Fluttershy?
  1992. 1992.
    >Over going to a library.
  1993. 1993.
    >Freeze when you see a familiar pony.
  1994. 1994.
    >Twilight Velvet and Nightlight are in their yard working on their garden.
  1995. 1995.
    >Velvet is wiping the sweat off her brow when she sees you slowly fly by like an amazon package being carried by a drone.
  1996. 1996.
    >She mouths an 'oh?'.
  1997. 1997.
    >Wave politely at her.
  1998. 1998.
    >Nightlight follows his wife's gaze and finds you quickly enough.
  1999. 1999.
    >How embarrassing.
  2000. 2000.
    >See that they're talking to each other now.
  2001. 2001.
    >Probably about you.
  2002. 2002.
    >Wait, Grandpa, why aren't you landing at the entrance.
  2003. 2003.
    >You're going over the castle walls and towards the guest bedrooms.
  2004. 2004.
    >Great.
  2005. 2005.
    >Guards spot you, but decide to not get involved with an upset grandfather and you.
  2006. 2006.
    >Just fly past the open windows where Princess Celestia governs.
  2007. 2007.
    >Yup, there she is with a host of ponies there to talk with her.
  2008. 2008.
    >Her eyes snap to you the moment you fly by.
  2009. 2009.
    >Celestia blinks a few times before bringing a hoof to her mouth.
  2010. 2010.
    >Sigh and wave hello to her as well.
  2011. 2011.
    >With your wings you tell her what's up.
  2012. 2012.
    'Went to library by myself. In trouble.'
  2013. 2013.
    >'I see."
  2014. 2014.
    >A simple answer from her, she is busy.
  2015. 2015.
    >Straight to the balcony where Posey is waiting.
  2016. 2016.
    >Breeze lands and puts you down.
  2017. 2017.
    >At least he didn't slobber on your neck.
  2018. 2018.
    >Posey calls into the room.
  2019. 2019.
    >"Whistle, Bow, he's back. We need to lay ground rules."
  2020. 2020.
     
  2021. 2021.
    >"Come on, Breeze. He went to the library. This is overreacting."
  2022. 2022.
    >"If anything this is an appropriate reaction."
  2023. 2023.
    >Bow Hoof might be way bigger then Gentle Breeze, but Gentle was way more fired up.
  2024. 2024.
    >Gentle points at you with his wing.
  2025. 2025.
    >"This is behavior that needs to be corrected. No matter how benign."
  2026. 2026.
    >Bow shakes his head.
  2027. 2027.
    >"Got to be a difference between going into the Everfree Forest and on a front lawn."
  2028. 2028.
    >Posey groans and sits you down between her legs.
  2029. 2029.
    >"Anon, what did your mother say to you exactly."
  2030. 2030.
    "Like I told grandpa. She asked what I was doing today, told her I wanted to go to the library. Mom said tell your grandparents that I was going to the library. One of you might want to go."
  2031. 2031.
    >Posey sits her head on yours in a very domineering way.
  2032. 2032.
    >Horsey way of I'm in charge don't you dare do anything.
  2033. 2033.
    >"Too much wiggle room. Dash needs to be more specific in her instructions, actually drop you off at our hooves, or you need to follow instructions better. Maybe all three."
  2034. 2034.
    >Whistle chirps out an objection.
  2035. 2035.
    >"Rainbow is doing just fine raising him. Anon is a normal pegasus colt. Full of spunk and energy."
  2036. 2036.
    >"You might be okay raising Rainbow into plowing herself straight into the ground to win a competition. Anon has had enough close encounters with death thank you."
  2037. 2037.
    >Nope, nope, nope, nope.
  2038. 2038.
    >Not going to have your family fissure on how to raise you.
  2039. 2039.
    "Hey. I went behind all of your backs. All of you, every time you watched me. Don't lay it down on just one pony."
  2040. 2040.
    >Breeze, in a moment of stress, starts messing with his mustache.
  2041. 2041.
    >"Right. Focus on the now. No more doing whatever what you want until we learn from the doctors what is wrong. Follow our instructions. While Dash is out, you will be with one of us. Just spend time with a family member. Doesn't matter who. Be with one of us."
  2042. 2042.
    >Look between all of them.
  2043. 2043.
    >This is bullshit.
  2044. 2044.
    >"Well, what are you thinking?"
  2045. 2045.
    "I don't want to say."
  2046. 2046.
    >"Anon, I'm your grandfather. I can handle it."
  2047. 2047.
    "No. It isn't nice and I don't want to hurt your feelings."
  2048. 2048.
    >Posey loosens her grip on you allowing you to slip into the middle of this grandparent circle.
  2049. 2049.
    >You feel very rebellious right now.
  2050. 2050.
    >Ruining a good day of planning and snooping.
  2051. 2051.
    >"Well Anon, how about a nice calm nap?"
  2052. 2052.
    "Yeah?"
  2053. 2053.
    >Bow Hoof shrugs at the idea.
  2054. 2054.
    >"I can stand guard if that's fine."
  2055. 2055.
    "Okay. I know a place."
  2056. 2056.
    >"Anon? I don't like that grin."
  2057. 2057.
    ---
  2058. 2058.
    >"Anon, this is a bad idea."
  2059. 2059.
    >Grandma Whistle whispers loudly.
  2060. 2060.
    "You said any family member."
  2061. 2061.
    >You're on Princess Luna's bed as she sleeps.
  2062. 2062.
    >Guards let you pass without a word and you quietly flew to her side to nestle down.
  2063. 2063.
    >It's dark in her room, but you can feel her air so you know where to go.
  2064. 2064.
    >Family is standing at the doorway uneasy.
  2065. 2065.
    >"Maybe come back?"
  2066. 2066.
    >Wiggle under the covers until you find your godmother.
  2067. 2067.
    >Then nestle yourself into her embrace.
  2068. 2068.
    >Cool, like how you want a pillow at night.
  2069. 2069.
    >A murmur.
  2070. 2070.
    >"Hmm? Anon?"
  2071. 2071.
    >Stretch out your limbs then place your head under hers.
  2072. 2072.
    >Hear the parents talk amongst each other before Bow Hoof is the first one to take a confident stride in.
  2073. 2073.
    >Followed by Posey, then Breeze, and finally and most hesitantly Windy Whistle.
  2074. 2074.
    >What was once a lone mare sleeping in her bed has turned into a pony pile.
  2075. 2075.
    >Luna murmurs once more before sleep takes her.
  2076. 2076.
    >"Good---this is---good."
  2077. 2077.
    >Yeah, this is nice.
  2078. 2078.
     
  2079. 2079.
    >"So I wasn't mistaken. You did jump in bed with me."
  2080. 2080.
    >Look around in a forest grove with the moon shining brightly overhead.
  2081. 2081.
    >Stars glitter brightly in a constellation not found in Equestria or Earth.
  2082. 2082.
    "I got in trouble, so I found refuge with you. Grandparents are actually sleeping with us right now."
  2083. 2083.
    >Luna leans back with a shocked expression.
  2084. 2084.
    >"Truly? They were so distant during our dining hours."
  2085. 2085.
    "They're probably overwhelmed by the whole situation."
  2086. 2086.
    >"Hmm, if they're sleeping with us I might be able to conjoin this dream into a shared dream."
  2087. 2087.
    >Great, so they can nag you here too?
  2088. 2088.
    >"You don't seem pleased with the idea? Something to do with your actions?"
  2089. 2089.
    "I went to the library without one of them. Breeze and Posey are putting their hooves down."
  2090. 2090.
    >"Ah, they care so much that it feels suffocating when you were used to having a great deal of freedom."
  2091. 2091.
    "Kind of dramatic, but yeah."
  2092. 2092.
    >Luna looks around at the setting.
  2093. 2093.
    >"Would they be scared of a setting like this?"
  2094. 2094.
    "A dark forest with the moonlit skies? Afraid so.
  2095. 2095.
    >"Something I noticed you don't mind."
  2096. 2096.
    >Luna changes the space to be a warm cabin lit by a soft fireplace.
  2097. 2097.
    >"This should be more welcoming. Bring them in from the other room."
  2098. 2098.
    >See the door leading to somewhere.
  2099. 2099.
    >Shrug at the unusual liminal space and open the door to see the bed where they're at.
  2100. 2100.
    >"We're still sleeping right, hon?"
  2101. 2101.
    >"I think so."
  2102. 2102.
    "Hey. Grandpas and Grandmas. Over here."
  2103. 2103.
    >"Anon, where are we?"
  2104. 2104.
    "A dream. Follow me please."
  2105. 2105.
    >The herd basically drifts towards you in their half dazed state until they wake up fully in the warm cabin.
  2106. 2106.
    >Posey is the first to fully come into the dream.
  2107. 2107.
    >"What? Princess Luna! Apologizes, we didn't mean to intrude."
  2108. 2108.
    >She went full Fluttershy mode there.
  2109. 2109.
    >Went quieter the longer she spoke.
  2110. 2110.
    >"I welcome you all here. Please rest."
  2111. 2111.
    >"I thought we were."
  2112. 2112.
    >Bow scratches his head trying to figure out the whole situation.
  2113. 2113.
    >Luna laughs at that.
  2114. 2114.
    >"I suppose you are. Now then, please enjoy the hearth."
  2115. 2115.
    >Oddly enough, you feel like something else is here.
  2116. 2116.
    >Watching you?
  2117. 2117.
    >Windy Whistle notices your unease instantly.
  2118. 2118.
    >"Anon, my favorite colt, is something wrong?"
  2119. 2119.
    "Is something else here?"
  2120. 2120.
    >Luna tilts her head until her ears point up as she remembers something.
  2121. 2121.
    >"Ah yes, your guardian."
  2122. 2122.
    >What now?
  2123. 2123.
    >"You are having terrible nightmares and I need help so I made a guardian to protect you."
  2124. 2124.
    >Breeze raises his hoof.
  2125. 2125.
    >"I'm sorry? A guardian?"
  2126. 2126.
    >Luna nods, looking a little embarrassed.
  2127. 2127.
    >"We are still very weak, so help is needed. I would rather him have peaceful rests. Any nightmares about what he's been through will be of no threat. It will act independently so if I'm unable to help Anon for whatever reason he will still be safe."
  2128. 2128.
    >Grandparents look at each other, still confused.
  2129. 2129.
    >"Well, that sounds good, I think."
  2130. 2130.
    >Clearly they are out of your element.
  2131. 2131.
    >Very strange situation.
  2132. 2132.
    >Luna seems to take their silence in stride.
  2133. 2133.
    >"But let's converse about other matters. Tell me about yourselves."
  2134. 2134.
     
  2135. 2135.
    >Be the Tantabus.
  2136. 2136.
    >He's with you again, along with his family.
  2137. 2137.
    >Anon is a safe place so you can relax.
  2138. 2138.
    >You want to protect, you feel the need for it.
  2139. 2139.
    >She made you to do this task.
  2140. 2140.
    >Protect this precious child.
  2141. 2141.
    >From nightmares, real or imagined.
  2142. 2142.
    >Nothing will touch him.
  2143. 2143.
    >You can feel something else.
  2144. 2144.
    >The other ponies.
  2145. 2145.
    >Grandparents.
  2146. 2146.
    >They've had nightmares too.
  2147. 2147.
    >About what happened to Anon.
  2148. 2148.
    >Feel an urge to protect Anon, real or imagined.
  2149. 2149.
    >Latch on and find the root nightmare festering inside them.
  2150. 2150.
    >Draw it out and consume it.
  2151. 2151.
    >Eliminate it.
  2152. 2152.
    >Nothing will harm him.
  2153. 2153.
    >They don't notice.
  2154. 2154.
    >She probably did, but doesn't say anything.
  2155. 2155.
    >Approval isn't necessary.
  2156. 2156.
    >She made you to protect him.
  2157. 2157.
    >You are going to protect him.
  2158. 2158.
     
  2159. 2159.
    >Be Rainbow Dash, flying feels good right now.
  2160. 2160.
    >Sure you could've taken the train, but you need to stretch your wings.
  2161. 2161.
    >Speed is your goal, so you claim it.
  2162. 2162.
    >Rip across the sky like a missile from upon high.
  2163. 2163.
    >Rainbow-color streaks trumpet call your arrival.
  2164. 2164.
    >Air flows around you despite your less than ideal body shape.
  2165. 2165.
    >Hip flare ain't something you can work off.
  2166. 2166.
    >Ponyville comes into view almost 20 minutes after your descent.
  2167. 2167.
    >Pass your house, work, and over downtown.
  2168. 2168.
    >Straight towards Fluttershy's place.
  2169. 2169.
    >Slow down so you can come in for a landing.
  2170. 2170.
    >Sweat collects across your body in small droplets.
  2171. 2171.
    >Not enough to be a real workout.
  2172. 2172.
    >Just as you land in her front yard, a convergence of animals swarm you.
  2173. 2173.
    >Almost jump back as they all jump out at you.
  2174. 2174.
    >Birds fly around you, rodents chirp and jump, that giant bear just whines and groans.
  2175. 2175.
    >Pretty disconcerting.
  2176. 2176.
    "Guys, guys please, I don't understand any of you."
  2177. 2177.
    >Then you see it, that timberwolf puppy sticking her head out of a bush.
  2178. 2178.
    >Still got mixed feelings on that thing.
  2179. 2179.
    "Fluttershy! A little help, your animals are going crazy."
  2180. 2180.
    >"I'm coming!"
  2181. 2181.
    >She doesn't come out the front door, opens her window and flies out.
  2182. 2182.
    >Unusual behavior from her.
  2183. 2183.
    >"Friends, give her some space. I'm sorry, Rainbow, they all want to know how Anon is doing."
  2184. 2184.
    "He's fine guys. Up and about and still a hoofful."
  2185. 2185.
    >Her rabbit stomps her foot very hard several times.
  2186. 2186.
    >Pretty sure that's aggressive rabbit behavior.
  2187. 2187.
    "What did he say?"
  2188. 2188.
    >Fluttershy clams her mouth shut for a moment.
  2189. 2189.
    >"Don't worry about it. He's just upset. Talk with me as we go meet up with the other girls. Please tell me more details."
  2190. 2190.
    "Yeah."
  2191. 2191.
    >Most of the animals follow closely behind.
  2192. 2192.
    >Angel Bunny has hopped on her back.
  2193. 2193.
    "Doctors have given him a clean bill of health. We have this weirdo called Dr. Blotch that does cutie mark stuff. He's still evaluating Anon about his situation."
  2194. 2194.
    >"That's good?"
  2195. 2195.
    "It is, just the two of them are trying to one up each other. Aggravating really. I want it figured out now without all this nonsense."
  2196. 2196.
    >Remember, new family members.
  2197. 2197.
    "Oh right."
  2198. 2198.
    >Fluttershy is practically hugging you with how close she's trotting next to you.
  2199. 2199.
    >"What?"
  2200. 2200.
    "Anon has some godmothers now."
  2201. 2201.
    >Fluttershy's wing whips out and grabs on to you to stop you.
  2202. 2202.
    >Look at her with surprise.
  2203. 2203.
    >She looks straight at you; a million questions behind those eyes.
  2204. 2204.
    "Princess Celestia and Princess Luna want to be part of his life."
  2205. 2205.
    >"Oh."
  2206. 2206.
    >Well that didn't sound like high praise.
  2207. 2207.
    >She shakes her head before turning to the rest of the animals.
  2208. 2208.
    >"Stay home. Make sure Lupine stays out of trouble."
  2209. 2209.
    >A wave of displeasure washes over them.
  2210. 2210.
    >"I know you want to learn more. I'll tell you the rest when we get back."
  2211. 2211.
    "Chill guys. I ain't done there anyway."
  2212. 2212.
    >"What do you mean they want to be his godmothers?"
  2213. 2213.
    "Just that. Are you upset about it?"
  2214. 2214.
    >"Don't tell anypony. Please."
  2215. 2215.
    "You got my word."
  2216. 2216.
    >"Dash, I almost lost Anon and you because they couldn't keep either of you safe."
  2217. 2217.
     
  2218. 2218.
    >Where did this come from?
  2219. 2219.
    “I mean, it might be why they want to do it. They feel responsible.”
  2220. 2220.
    >”So is it just guilt?”
  2221. 2221.
    >That stops you.
  2222. 2222.
    >There is a hint of bitterness in her voice.
  2223. 2223.
    >Slow down Dash.
  2224. 2224.
    >Take in everything.
  2225. 2225.
    >Eyes take in all the details.
  2226. 2226.
    >Her coat recently brushed.
  2227. 2227.
    >Makeup.
  2228. 2228.
    >She forgot a detail.
  2229. 2229.
    >On the tip of a few feathers are recently dried tears.
  2230. 2230.
    >Forget about the princesses
  2231. 2231.
    “You’ve not been sleeping well, have you?”
  2232. 2232.
    >That makes her look away and whisper quietly.
  2233. 2233.
    >"No."
  2234. 2234.
    >Too quiet, you're going to have to guess she said no.
  2235. 2235.
    "If you want, I can watch the animals tonight and you can sleep with Anon tonight."
  2236. 2236.
    >"I--"
  2237. 2237.
    >She stops herself, you can tell by the eagerness she really wants to.
  2238. 2238.
    >"I can't. You won't be able to take care of Lupine."
  2239. 2239.
    "Oh by the clear blue yonder, why do we care about a monster?"
  2240. 2240.
    >"She's not a monster! She's a lost puppy with no home, except Anon. He's her only family now. You're her only family now."
  2241. 2241.
    >That makes you grit your teeth.
  2242. 2242.
    "I already feel like I'm a terrible mother. Why don't I just double down on that and bring in a plant monster."
  2243. 2243.
    >"You're not a terrible mother."
  2244. 2244.
    "And you're not a terrible aunt."
  2245. 2245.
    >"I--oh."
  2246. 2246.
    "Yeah, see what I did there?"
  2247. 2247.
    >"Not fair changing the subject like that so quickly."
  2248. 2248.
    "Just how I do things."
  2249. 2249.
    >She falls silent as you walk into town.
  2250. 2250.
    "You don't buy it do you?"
  2251. 2251.
    >"I told him I would keep him safe."
  2252. 2252.
    >Fluttershy stares at the ground.
  2253. 2253.
    "Same."
  2254. 2254.
    >Her ear flicks up, then back down.
  2255. 2255.
    "Same for Celestia too. Maybe I am biased because we both fought hoof and feather together."
  2256. 2256.
    >Like some kind of comradery found in the pegasi of old against their enemies.
  2257. 2257.
    >Or you're just tired.
  2258. 2258.
    "There's something else."
  2259. 2259.
    >Can tell ponies are looking at you when they notice.
  2260. 2260.
    >They have questions.
  2261. 2261.
    "Anon is honest with them in ways he's not with us."
  2262. 2262.
    >"Why? Why can't he just be open with us? His family?"
  2263. 2263.
    >Fluttershy sniffles.
  2264. 2264.
    "I think he's scared, more than anything, of ruining our relationships we have with each other and the girls. If we know the good and the bad of each other before we even live it."
  2265. 2265.
    >"But he can tell Celestia."
  2266. 2266.
    >That finality in her voice echoes how you've been thinking.
  2267. 2267.
    "He told her to her face that he thinks she messed up."
  2268. 2268.
    >"Oh."
  2269. 2269.
    "Yeah."
  2270. 2270.
    >Fluttershy looks up with a sad frown.
  2271. 2271.
    >"So what can we do? I feel helpless."
  2272. 2272.
    >Share the same wind sister.
  2273. 2273.
    "I'm still trying to figure that out, but I know what I want to do. I'm going to adopt Tank."
  2274. 2274.
    >She perks up brightly.
  2275. 2275.
    >"Y-you are!?"
  2276. 2276.
    "I owe him. I don't know if it's the right thing to do, but maybe it will put Anon's heart at ease. Anything so he doesn't crash again."
  2277. 2277.
    >Not sure if it's a step back of your authority.
  2278. 2278.
    >Balancing everything is hard.
  2279. 2279.
    >"That will make Tank happy."
  2280. 2280.
    >See that dopey smiling face.
  2281. 2281.
    "Going to need some help making his cloud safe."
  2282. 2282.
    >"Not a problem. We can get some gizmos from Dr. Hooves. He likes to tinker with stuff like that. I can get you some feed and a schedule for vet visits."
  2283. 2283.
     
  2284. 2284.
    >”There they are! Get your feathery selves over here! I brought snacks-er-roos, snicker-snacks, and if you’re feeling boring, snacks."
  2285. 2285.
    "Nothing spicy please."
  2286. 2286.
    >Pinkie pauses as she puts away the rainbow sauce.
  2287. 2287.
    "I'm kidding, give me a kick in my juice. Hi girls. Hope things have been quiet here."
  2288. 2288.
    >A roll call of happy hellos greet you like a wave.
  2289. 2289.
    >"Imagine my surprise when Spike belched out a letter from Princess Celestia about you coming for lunch."
  2290. 2290.
    "Yeah, that was cool of her sending a letter. Saw your brother, Twilight. His horn still looks like it's cooked."
  2291. 2291.
    >Twilight grimaces from that memory.
  2292. 2292.
    >"I'm glad he's fine. That was painful to look at when I said bye to him. Otherwise-"
  2293. 2293.
    >"How's Anon?"
  2294. 2294.
    >"How's your colt?"
  2295. 2295.
    >"Is he okay?"
  2296. 2296.
    >You knew that question was coming, still crazy how they all just echo each other.
  2297. 2297.
    >They look at each other after accidentally speaking over each other.
  2298. 2298.
    >Rarity coughs politely.
  2299. 2299.
    >"Well he is certainly on all of our minds. Though I would also love to know how you're holding up dear."
  2300. 2300.
    >Scowl a little as you reflect on the past few days.
  2301. 2301.
    "Confusing mostly. I still have more questions then answers. Anon seems to have bounced back; galloping, flying, talking all of it. I have my doubts."
  2302. 2302.
    >Applejack chews on her apple slices before spitting out some seeds into a cup.
  2303. 2303.
    >"How so, sugar cube?"
  2304. 2304.
    >Bring your voice low enough to be a loud whisper.
  2305. 2305.
    "Well, sometimes I wonder if he copes or lies to himself to keep going."
  2306. 2306.
    >Twilight nods slowly as she tries to piece her own thoughts together.
  2307. 2307.
    >"Well, that might not be the whole picture. Princess Luna was helping him. She pulled him back. We all saw it. The, um-"
  2308. 2308.
    >Twilight pauses as she thinks.
  2309. 2309.
    "Losing his color."
  2310. 2310.
    >"I've been looking into it. That only happens to a pony when they lose magic or fall into a deep despair. Princess Luna had to force him out of that state. She is the reason he's walking around at all."
  2311. 2311.
    >Pinkie pushes a rainbow colored cupcake your way.
  2312. 2312.
    >"I've been listening to the fillies and colts as they come into the bakery. They're all talking about the cutie mark theft."
  2313. 2313.
    >Rarity sighs as she mulls over her tea.
  2314. 2314.
    >"Indeed. Sweetie Belle keeps asking her parents and myself all about that. I can tell it has shaken her. I know she and some of her friends tried talking to that crystal tree."
  2315. 2315.
    >You and the rest of the girls pause at that.
  2316. 2316.
    "They did!? What happened?"
  2317. 2317.
    >Rarity shrugs.
  2318. 2318.
    >"Nothing. It hasn't done anything except be a tree. Beautiful certainly."
  2319. 2319.
    >"A'im sure Applebloom was part of that group. Still have to tell her to stay out of that crater near town."
  2320. 2320.
    >As the girls chat, you notice ponies are staring.
  2321. 2321.
    >Not at you, but somepony in a cloak.
  2322. 2322.
    >She's walking into town very spooky-like.
  2323. 2323.
    >Normally ponies would be galloping away screaming from the strange.
  2324. 2324.
    >Now they just glare warily.
  2325. 2325.
    >Recent events seem to have emboldened them.
  2326. 2326.
    >Twilight notices you staring at something and turns to check the object of your gaze.
  2327. 2327.
    >"Who's that?"
  2328. 2328.
    "Zecora."
  2329. 2329.
     
  2330. 2330.
    >Twilight looks a little confused.
  2331. 2331.
    >"Zecora? I haven't seen her."
  2332. 2332.
    >"You wouldn't have darling, she lives in the Everfree Forest. She's some kind of shaman, puts those ghastly stripes all over her body."
  2333. 2333.
    >Rarity whispers under her breath.
  2334. 2334.
    "Hey, uh, girls. She's marching straight towards us, and doesn't look very happy."
  2335. 2335.
    >Pinkie Pie shrieks and scoots all the way around the table to your side.
  2336. 2336.
    >"Curses are upon us!"
  2337. 2337.
    >"Pinkie! Curses aren't a real thing. Also, Zecora is a zebra. I've seen them in my books. Now please, would you all calm down, if she wants to say hello let's just say hello."
  2338. 2338.
    >Those hoof stomps don't belong to somepony who wants to say hello.
  2339. 2339.
    >All of you--
  2340. 2340.
    >Hold on.
  2341. 2341.
    >Most of you hold your ground.
  2342. 2342.
    >Pinkie and Fluttershy hug and tremble with each other behind you.
  2343. 2343.
    >"Greetings, I'm Twilight Sparkle. I was told you're Zecora."
  2344. 2344.
    >She throws off her hood to reveal a rather cool mohawk.
  2345. 2345.
    >"So you are the hoodlums that brought great disasters, shook the entire forest with your spell-castors."
  2346. 2346.
    >Oh mare, you are about to be cursed.
  2347. 2347.
    "What!? We saved the forest from that monster."
  2348. 2348.
    >"Raked across the lands, to my house where it mostly stands. Beast and pony fought with no regard, leaving me almost scarred."
  2349. 2349.
    >"Your home?"
  2350. 2350.
    >Twilight replies with her hoof to her mouth.
  2351. 2351.
    >"Mostly destroyed by debris, to a most unprecedented degree."
  2352. 2352.
    >"I had no idea. Listen, Zecora, maybe we can help you fix your home. That monster, we were running from it. Completely took us by surprise. We had no intention of getting you hurt."
  2353. 2353.
    >Zecora sighs as she sits down.
  2354. 2354.
    >"Precious things were lost, sorry for being cross. No safe place I have to stay, if I tried I would end up prey. Neigh, what a day."
  2355. 2355.
    >Twilight scoots a little closer to her; brave soul.
  2356. 2356.
    >"Stay in my place until we can fix your home."
  2357. 2357.
    >"Can you accommodate the few belongings I have left? Outside of town in a cart it is quite the heft."
  2358. 2358.
    >"I can try."
  2359. 2359.
    >Twilight sounds a little unsure and glances to you all.
  2360. 2360.
    "Don't look at me. I live in a cloud house. Her stuff will fall through."
  2361. 2361.
    >Applejack still seems uneasy.
  2362. 2362.
    >"I do have a barn if we need it. Hate to owe somepony for damages, even if it was out of our hooves."
  2363. 2363.
    >Zecora hasn't stopped studying the moment you said something.
  2364. 2364.
    >"You sound like a colt I've seen before, in the forest he would often greet with distant rapport."
  2365. 2365.
    >Great job Anon, messing with strange mares in the woods.
  2366. 2366.
    "That is my colt."
  2367. 2367.
    >"Quiet and clever, meeting him has been an endeavor. Once he had saved me, before I could reward him he flee."
  2368. 2368.
    "Sorry, he's not available right now."
  2369. 2369.
    >Zecora might not curse you now if she owes one to Anon.
  2370. 2370.
    >"Did he often have an entourage of animals follow? Bear, rabbit, bat, even a swallow."
  2371. 2371.
    >Fluttershy finally, if quietly, speaks up.
  2372. 2372.
    >"Those are my friends. I taught him how to speak with them."
  2373. 2373.
    >"Impressive."
  2374. 2374.
    >Yeah, maybe this is your cue to leave.
  2375. 2375.
    "So, I got stuff I need to do. Sorry to cut this short girls. Flying back is slower than diving down."
  2376. 2376.
     
  2377. 2377.
    >Applejack quickly springs up, surprising you.
  2378. 2378.
    >"Hold on, let me go with ya. We got some things we need to chat about. Pinkie, keep your mane on."
  2379. 2379.
    >"Aw muffins, well you know my opinion."
  2380. 2380.
    >Applejack tilts her hat.
  2381. 2381.
    >"Appreciate it. Girls. Zecora. I'll get my barn ready for your stuff. You'll have to share the space with another pony's wagon."
  2382. 2382.
    >Zecora nods, taking the muffin being offered by Pinkie.
  2383. 2383.
    >"Thank you, Applejack. I hope this won't be a setback."
  2384. 2384.
    "Fine, I'll cool my wings off. We're heading to the schoolhouse for Anon's homework and stuff."
  2385. 2385.
    >She quickly trots up next to you, flicking the little straw in her mouth from side to side.
  2386. 2386.
    >The farther away you are from Zecora, you notice the more chill ponies are.
  2387. 2387.
    >They also won't stop waving at you.
  2388. 2388.
    >"Dash, good to see you."
  2389. 2389.
    >"Everything is good?"
  2390. 2390.
    >"Hoping to see your colt!"
  2391. 2391.
    "Yeah. Okay. I see ya."
  2392. 2392.
    >Better pace yourself, can't wave at everypony.
  2393. 2393.
    >"Are you really surprised by the attention, you basically announced yourself when you did your flyby."
  2394. 2394.
    >Applejack smirks.
  2395. 2395.
    >Laugh it up applemare.
  2396. 2396.
    >"Which is why I wanted to talk with you first."
  2397. 2397.
    "Jumping in line first, I really did rub off on ya. All right, out with it, tell me how awesome I am. I accept praise in song if you harmonize the chorus."
  2398. 2398.
    >That earns you a shoulder bump.
  2399. 2399.
    >"Cut it out you joker. Just want to talk about when you bring back your family for real."
  2400. 2400.
    "Yeah, what about it?"
  2401. 2401.
    >"Some ponies want to throw a party for your colt."
  2402. 2402.
    >"As we should."
  2403. 2403.
    >Applejack's face droops and she mutters a 'buck'.
  2404. 2404.
    >Filthy Rich marches up next to you both.
  2405. 2405.
    "Hold on now, I want to hear what she has to say before you throw in your two bits."
  2406. 2406.
    >She straightens up.
  2407. 2407.
    >"Maybe holding a town size party to celebrate your colt dying ain't really in his best interest or his speed."
  2408. 2408.
    >"We aren't celebrating his death. He went beyond brave and should be recognized for it."
  2409. 2409.
    >Great, can't even respond to AJ without his input.
  2410. 2410.
    "I guess I shouldn't be surprised about a party being planned. Well then, AJ, what is your recommendation?"
  2411. 2411.
    >"Bring him over to my place. We'll cook up a nice meal, sweet apple juice, and just small personal shindig with his family and friends."
  2412. 2412.
    >Well, that doesn’t sound bad.
  2413. 2413.
    >Might even get cider.
  2414. 2414.
    >"He deserves more. The whole town wants to honor him."
  2415. 2415.
    >"Rich, I understand why you want to. He saved your little filly."
  2416. 2416.
    >Rich looks over to you.
  2417. 2417.
    >"It isn't just me like I said. Please, Rainbow Dash. Mayor Mare and I have already drawn up the plans to make sure he has a great time."
  2418. 2418.
    >With Pinkie Pie most likely.
  2419. 2419.
    >"It's too much too fast. You saw what happened to him, he was frightening out of his mind."
  2420. 2420.
    >Now you feel like a fence between these two.
  2421. 2421.
    >"Anon felt like something was wrong with him. No better way to disqualify those fears than hometown support and rapport."
  2422. 2422.
    >They face off against each other, neither are backing down.
  2423. 2423.
    >Filthy Rich and Applejack sigh and look at you.
  2424. 2424.
    >"As you can see, we're at an impasse."
  2425. 2425.
    >"So you decide."
  2426. 2426.
     
  2427. 2427.
    >Immediately, you want the biggest, most awesome party.
  2428. 2428.
    >Glad you have the maturity to not blurt it out without thinking.
  2429. 2429.
    >You know what you would want.
  2430. 2430.
    >Anon, however, whenever a party was in the cards, would ask for Bon Bon's service.
  2431. 2431.
    >Not Pinkie Pie.
  2432. 2432.
    >Bon Bon is good for those low key adult parties.
  2433. 2433.
    >No games.
  2434. 2434.
    >Pinkie Pie even approached you one day asking why a long time ago.
  2435. 2435.
    >Now, with context, you know why.
  2436. 2436.
    >He never wanted you to know Pinkie before you should have.
  2437. 2437.
    >Well Anon never actually said that, but you can draw lines between dots.
  2438. 2438.
    >So the question is, what does Anon actually want?
  2439. 2439.
    >Great, you're his freaking mom and you don't know.
  2440. 2440.
    >"Whoa, whoa, didn't mean to make you depressed, sugarcube."
  2441. 2441.
    >Applejack shakes you out of your thoughts.
  2442. 2442.
    >Filthy looks just as surprised.
  2443. 2443.
    >"You alright there, Ms. Dash? You seemed to have a rather depressing thought."
  2444. 2444.
    "I don't know."
  2445. 2445.
    >Rich and AJ look at each other, then start chewing on their lips.
  2446. 2446.
    >"Ah."
  2447. 2447.
    >Filthy Rich glances towards a certain pink pony who was following the group.
  2448. 2448.
    >"Let's have a middle ground. Pinkie Pie can host a party and we bring in his classmates. Small, but still big enough."
  2449. 2449.
    "Yeah, sure. We can go with that."
  2450. 2450.
    >"Yes!"
  2451. 2451.
    >A hay bale wearing glasses and a party hat cheers before running off.
  2452. 2452.
    >Filthy chuckles before giving you a nod.
  2453. 2453.
    >"Have a good day, and thank you. I mean it."
  2454. 2454.
    >He leaves AJ and you behind.
  2455. 2455.
    "So what have you been up to? Still apple season?"
  2456. 2456.
    >"Yeah, almost done. What has been annoying has been that Trixie mare staying at our place. That mare can talk until the cows come home. They complain too."
  2457. 2457.
    "Right, she was the one with a cannon. Why is she hanging out with your family?"
  2458. 2458.
    >"Trixie helped them get into town. Big Mac still bandaged up and granny ain't exactly spry. She rolled by them with her cart and picked them up. I am mighty grateful, but she needs to tone it down with all that bragging. Doesn't help Applebloom is cheering her on. Also-"
  2459. 2459.
    >AJ glances around you two before whispering.
  2460. 2460.
    >"I think Big Mac has a thing for unicorns."
  2461. 2461.
    >Hehe, horn lover.
  2462. 2462.
    "Aw crude, I haven't paid her for her fireworks."
  2463. 2463.
    >"Swing by and you'll find her. Telling tall tales to Granny Smith."
  2464. 2464.
    "Great. First schoolhouse then her."
  2465. 2465.
    >Applejack tilts her hat to you with a stern nod.
  2466. 2466.
    >"Glad we could catch up. I need to get back to work. And Rainbow."
  2467. 2467.
    >You were just about to fly off until you had to do a flip.
  2468. 2468.
    "Yeah?"
  2469. 2469.
    >"Tell your colt we miss him."
  2470. 2470.
    >Salute her then zoom off.
  2471. 2471.
    >School house comes in fast, so you stop on a bit.
  2472. 2472.
    >Let's see, lunch time should be over.
  2473. 2473.
    >Not sure what activities they have right now.
  2474. 2474.
    >"Scootaloo, you got it done? That was fast."
  2475. 2475.
    >"Yeah, it wasn't that hard. Got plenty of material."
  2476. 2476.
    >What is this about?
  2477. 2477.
    >"I can edit it down for the rest of the foals. Don't want them to know everything."
  2478. 2478.
    >That's Filthy Rich's filly, Diamond Tiara.
  2479. 2479.
    >They're in a side room for activities.
  2480. 2480.
    >"So do you have an opinion on what's going on with Anon?"
  2481. 2481.
    >Oh?
  2482. 2482.
    >Sneaky Dash mode activates.
  2483. 2483.
     
  2484. 2484.
    >Scootaloo seems to take the question seriously.
  2485. 2485.
    >"Ignoring the other stuff. What if this is the natural reaction a pony has when they have their cutie mark stolen? Like he will stop for nothing to get it back. Anon doesn't know it, but it's like a silent motivator nagging in the back of his mind."
  2486. 2486.
    >Diamond taps on the table as she thinks.
  2487. 2487.
    >"I mean, that's a pretty wild guess. Kind of stupid."
  2488. 2488.
    >Scootaloo snorts and rears back.
  2489. 2489.
    >"All right, smartie, answer your own question."
  2490. 2490.
    >Diamond sits down and looks up at the ceiling, a sour expression.
  2491. 2491.
    >"What if he's right? About everything. He wasn't supposed to be born, but he was because somepony made sure he was."
  2492. 2492.
    >You do not like that answer.
  2493. 2493.
    >Also, how did she know?
  2494. 2494.
    >"How is that not a stupid idea? What do they have to gain with everything he's done?"
  2495. 2495.
    >Scootaloo bites back with her own mocking tone.
  2496. 2496.
    >Diamond shakes her head and rolls her eyes.
  2497. 2497.
    >"Whatever. What we can put together based on your report. Anon has never stopped his mission. At the cost of every relationship, including his mom. He never made friends, acquaintances at best. Now don't take this the wrong way. Anon never made friends with ponies he should have bonded with, like you."
  2498. 2498.
    >Scootaloo scrunches up her nose.
  2499. 2499.
    >"What's that supposed to mean?"
  2500. 2500.
    >"Don't give me that. If it wasn't for both of you being feathered brains you two would be peas in a pod. Though it was mostly on him purposefully self sabotaged, and you took it personally like a little toddler. Way to hold a grudge."
  2501. 2501.
    >Diamond jabs a hoof into Scootaloo's chest to drive her point home.
  2502. 2502.
    >"Either way, he's made himself an island. As strong as he is, it has affected him."
  2503. 2503.
    >Stealth mode off, spooky cool entrance activated.
  2504. 2504.
    >Scootaloo nods her head as Diamond talks, until she notices you rise up behind the filly.
  2505. 2505.
    >Her jaw drops as her voice leaves her.
  2506. 2506.
    >Diamond pauses as her partner in crime starts pointing at you.
  2507. 2507.
    >Slowly she turns around with you floating right behind her with crossed forelegs.
  2508. 2508.
    "And what are you two doing?"
  2509. 2509.
    >Tiara yelps and jumps into Scootaloo's forelegs.
  2510. 2510.
    >"Rainbow Dash!"
  2511. 2511.
    >"Why wasn't your fan-filly radar working!?"
  2512. 2512.
    "I didn't want to be found. Are you two stalking my colt?"
  2513. 2513.
    >"N-no."
  2514. 2514.
    >"Maybe a little."
  2515. 2515.
    >Diamond facehooves.
  2516. 2516.
    "Chill you two. I just want to know why."
  2517. 2517.
    >"Ms. Dash, that's what we're trying to do. Find out why. Scootaloo has a lot of stuff just from watching you all the time. For years."
  2518. 2518.
    "Number one fan."
  2519. 2519.
    >Scootaloo buzzes her wings.
  2520. 2520.
    >"I am!"
  2521. 2521.
    >Okay, you two. Anon is getting help, this isn't necessary."
  2522. 2522.
    >Both of them frown, but don't say anything.
  2523. 2523.
    "Princess Celestia and Princess Luna are helping him. That's some pretty awesome help. He'll be fine."
  2524. 2524.
    >They look at each other.
  2525. 2525.
    >"Well if you say so."
  2526. 2526.
    >"Oh? Oh! Yeah, we understand Rainbow Dash."
  2527. 2527.
    "Thanks, squirt. Don't need to worry too much. I hear we will have a party for him soon."
  2528. 2528.
    >"Did you agree with my dad's idea!?"
  2529. 2529.
    "Er, not quite Diamond. We're having a Pinkie Pie party with the rest of the class."
  2530. 2530.
     
  2531. 2531.
    "So then, when did you find out about Anon?"
  2532. 2532.
    >Diamond Tiara taps her hooves together and puts on an innocent face.
  2533. 2533.
    >"I don't know what you mean? Being a heroic colt?"
  2534. 2534.
    >Scootaloo lightly kicks her side making Diamond 'oof'.
  2535. 2535.
    >"Don't play games with her. We were walking home when Anon told you he 'stole' your life."
  2536. 2536.
    >Facepalm at how reckless you were.
  2537. 2537.
    >Great going Dash.
  2538. 2538.
    "So you knew and decided to still bully Anon into being your coltfriend."
  2539. 2539.
    >Diamond was scowling at Scootaloo until you start scolding her and she shrinks under your motherly glare.
  2540. 2540.
    >"N-no! I just thought we work better together than Lily. I've learned my lesson. Honest!"
  2541. 2541.
    >Scootaloo quietly snickers behind her back, only you see it.
  2542. 2542.
    >Not sure Spoiled Rich has learned, haven't chatted with her since that day.
  2543. 2543.
    >All right, time to stop grilling fillies.
  2544. 2544.
    >Especially one that your colt saved personally.
  2545. 2545.
    "Just be his friend, you two. Now that he has nothing to hide he should be more open to friendship. Then again, maybe some colt friends before more fillies."
  2546. 2546.
    >Pat Scootaloo on the head.
  2547. 2547.
    "I'll see you around."
  2548. 2548.
    >Fly out the window then zoom around to the main school entrance.
  2549. 2549.
    >Quietly open the door and trot down the hall to the school room.
  2550. 2550.
    >Look into the doorlight on the door to see class is in session.
  2551. 2551.
    >Cheerilee is drawing on the blackboard, she quickly sees you.
  2552. 2552.
    >"Come in, Dash."
  2553. 2553.
    >Slip inside as she sticks her head in her teacher's drawer.
  2554. 2554.
    >Entire class stops writing the equation notes and stares at you.
  2555. 2555.
    >A desk screeches loudly as it is pushed away.
  2556. 2556.
    >Lily quickly canters up to you past the other students and hugs your leg.
  2557. 2557.
    >Rubs her muzzle on your leg before looking up, lips quivering and eyes threatening to break out with tears.
  2558. 2558.
    "Hey Lily."
  2559. 2559.
    >Nuzzle the top of her head.
  2560. 2560.
    >"Is he okay?"
  2561. 2561.
    >Geeze, could compete with Fluttershy with how quiet she is.
  2562. 2562.
    "Almost as good as new."
  2563. 2563.
    >Still causing trouble.
  2564. 2564.
    >You raise your voice.
  2565. 2565.
    "Don't worry kiddos. Anon is doing just fine. We should be back soon."
  2566. 2566.
    >Hooves are raised, questions are thrown your way, Noi is by your side asking more questions.
  2567. 2567.
    >"Class, settle down! Lily, Noi, go back to your seats!"
  2568. 2568.
    >Cheerilee shoos them back to their seats then gives you the homework.
  2569. 2569.
    >"Here, Rainbow. This should be the work he'll need to do for the week. Not that he'll have any problems doing it."
  2570. 2570.
    "We'll probably be back sooner than that, but thanks."
  2571. 2571.
    >She looks like she wants to ask more questions.
  2572. 2572.
    >"Okay, just bring him home. We all miss him."
  2573. 2573.
    "Yeah, got that impression from a lot of ponies. No pony misses me?"
  2574. 2574.
    >"Hush you jokester. Now get out of here, I have a class to teach."
  2575. 2575.
    >Salute her then zip straight out of there.
  2576. 2576.
    >Right, got that done.
  2577. 2577.
    >Head to Applejack's, then to Fluttershy's to meet up with Tank.
  2578. 2578.
    >You got a tortoise to adopt, and still need to figure out how to freakn' take care of a timberwolf puppy.
  2579. 2579.
    >Anyway, glance around the farm and see her eating an apple
  2580. 2580.
    >Land in the front lawn.
  2581. 2581.
    "There you are, Trixie."

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