“...ake up!” who? Who's talking? Could you keep it down? My bucking head hurts, it feels like a woodpecker's been having a party on my skull. Wait, why does it feel like a woodpecker is having a party on my skull?! Where am I? Why can't I see?
“Oh thank heavens! You're awake! How're you feeling, sugar?” crooned my conscience, his voice filled with a sense of uneasiness. That is not a good sign, where has his peppy demeanor gone?
“What's up mister drag queen? Care to explain why I feel like I have the case of the worst migraine in history and why can't I see?” I groaned, rocking myself side to side in hopes of alleviating my headache only to be stopped by a tight feeling aroung my limbs. I tried moving my legs and received even more pressure aroung my joints in return. Am I tied down? What in the hell is going on?
And is that a blindfold over my eyes? Okay, panicking now!
“Calm down sugar, can you remember anything? Freaking out won't help us no matter how hard you spaz out! Now all I remember is that we were going home, there was a letter on the ground and a...flash of light? Any of that ring a bell?” he's right, just have to stay calm for a moment. As my breathing slowed as well as my heart I thought for a moment as I recalled what was happening before, well, this. I do indeed remember a letter, I was opening it when a weird buzzing noise came out of the envelope. After that it's a big blank.
Perhaps the envelope had a sort of spell trap of some sort inside of it? I remember reading an article about it in the Canterlot Daily when I was still in grad school. A kidnapping tool to sweep up unsuspecting mail readers. The author of the article said killers, ponynappers and...rapists, used them to catch their victims. Okay, bad thoughts are back, permission to freak the hell out now?
“Granted! Get us the hell out of here! Struggle! Break those cuffs, girl!”
“You don't have to tell me twice!” with a grunt I pulled at my bindings, feeling what felt like coarse rope chafe against my fur. Every struggled jerk only caused whatever was wrapped around my legs to tighten. Wave after wave of burning pain ran up my forelegs, but I persisted in my struggling. And just for an instant I felt whatever was aroung my limbs loosen, only for it to tighten in retaliation.
“Come on! Loosen, you motherbucking piece of-ow! Criminy...” it was no use, these ropes or whatever these are wrapped around my legs wouldn't loosen. Somepony tied these like a champ, and now my legs are numb. Fantastic, great job, self. Time to get desperate...
“Hello? Is anypony there? I need help!” I called out to the darkness, my voice sounded raspy to my own ears. And hell, my throat feels like i've been chugging glasses of sand. How many hours has it been since my last drink of water? I'm so thirsty, but I have to try calling out again.
“No! That's a bad ide-”
“Help! I need help! I'm thirsty and in very much need of help!”
“Oh for buck's sakes, sugar”
And just as my words left my mouth a muffled chuckle sounded out from somewhere in front of me followed by silence. Deafening silence. Turning my ears towards the origin I could faintly hear the clip clop of hooves, it sounded like it was coming from an adjoining room by my guess.
“Stay calm, stay calm, maybe it's your rescuer come to save you? Just stay calm, be positive...” but try as I might I couldn't take advice from my mantra. The oncoming feeling of a panic attack set in, my heart thumping in my throat and a cold sweat just barely starting to appear. Soon enough the hoofsteps stopped, followed by a clanking noise nearby. Another clank, a turning of a key? Yet another clank, it's definitely a key, just how many locks are on that door? My ears perked up at the sound of rusty metal screeching against some force, somepony is opening a door.
But the question still stands, will it be my rescuer or my kidnapper? Seconds ticked by as what sounded like the last lock opened. Slowly but surely the sound of a door creaked open, my heart nearly popping out of my chest at the possibilities of who would be there. Please let it be a familiar face, please!
“Ello, ello? Are ya awake in there then?” oh Celestia no! Please, my luck can't be this bad! Please let it be some other pony with that accent! The voice didn't speak again, instead the sound of hoofsteps grew closer and closer until the owner of the voice sounded like he was hovering over me. I could hear him breathing, his ragged breathes puffing against my face. Oh Celestia, he feels like he's inches away.
And then it hit me, his breath! Oh by the sister princesses, his breath! It smells like pure alcohol, alcohol and cigarettes. I nearly gagged at the smell but I kept a straight face to look strong in front of my kidnapper. Another set of steps, he's behind me? Just then I felt a tug on the ropes that bound me. A dry chuckle and then came the soothing sensation of the ropes being loosened around my legs.
“Now don't get your hopes up, poppet. We wouldn't want ya to pass out from some poor circulation eh? How do you feel?” that nickname along with that voice, it was Mortar. Buck my luck, seriously.
“What the hell is going on here? What the buck do you want from me? Untie me this instant you brut-ah!” a swift jolt of pain smacked me on the cheek. He just bucking slapped me!
“Shut yer trap, poppet! Another outburst like that and i'll tighten those ropes again. Don't try me!” I wanted to yell every curse in the book at him but the mere thought of feeling that pain again shut me up. With a shaky breath I relaxed, I thought that there was no need to incur this bastards wrath. For now anyways.
“That's a good girl, and good girls get rewarded” I don't like the sound of that. Just then I heard him step in front of me, that same disgusting alcohol stench returned along with him. What is he planning? “And I promise you will enjoy this...” just then I became blinded by light as my blind fold was removed, and damn did I wish I still had it on. There was the mother of all bastards, Mortar, and he was inches away in front of me, and he was closing in.
All of a sudden the stench just became unbearable, why the buck is he getting closer? Oh buck me, is he going to kiss me? Buck that! And so I struggled, pulling away from him as best as I could. But I couldn't budge myself an inch and the smell kept getting worse. Suddenly a high pitched sound stopped us both in our tracks. Is somepony brewing tea, now of all times?
“Well, well aren't you lucky? Sounds like me tea is just about ready. I'll take a break for now, even you aren't worth missing tea time for, poppet. What say we reschedule this little get together after my cup of tea? Gives ya a wee moment to prepare, get yourself all gussied up for our date” with a raspy cackle Mortar left the room, locking the door behind him with a click. Buck me, that was way too close. Bucker almost prenched me!
'What a blowhard, don't let him get you, sugar! Stay strong!' my conscience rallied me, bolstering my courage to look as half as brave as that I felt.
“I had no intention to whimper for mercy, but I'm not going to lie when I say that I would rather die than slip that sick bastard some tongue. We'll get through this, there has to be something here we could use?” I thought all the while scanning the room for any faults, any sign of something to cut these ropes for starters. Looking around for something sharp to rub my ropes against I tried to loosen my bindings. This time in a more careful manner as to not have a repeat of earlier, buck me that hurt!
As I rolled my hooves together against the rope I noticed a pile of wooden boards nailed up against a corner of the ceiling. Small beams of light shown through the cracks, a window perhaps? And judging by the location of it it means that I must be in a basement. But where exactly?
“Interesting, and did you notice those crates over there? See those symbols? It does look familiar, it's a little faded but...” my conscience pondered, his voice trailing off into silence as he mumbled to himself. Craning my neck to my left I spotted the boxes he was talking about, as well as the faded markings on the wooden cubes. Sure it was faded, but I recognized the symbols.
“The Rusty Horseshoe's Swill Inc” was stamped in not so eloquent letters across the crates. No way, Mortar brought me here of all places? But this place was closed down...oh, so that's your game?” a faint smirk threatened to stretch across my lips, a single half hearted chuckle escaped my lips. “What pony would expect to look for me in a placed closed down by the government? Nopony would think somepony would be dumb enough to hide here, except for Mortar. He probably brought me here for two reasons, for a place familiar to him and a setting for his scene of poetic vengeance.
What a overdramatic, toothless drama king.
But what am I going to do now? I cut these ropes off with a stray piece of glass and then what? There isn't exactly a open window or door for me to escape out of. And Mortar is a unicorn, he can easily overpower me without breaking a sweat. Image after image of what I could do popped in my head one after another. Each picture a situation where I end up losing, not one premonition ended with me coming out on top.
"Well I got nothing" grumbled my conscience.
“How incredibly helpful. There has got be something we can do...”
Elsewhere...
It's been nearly an hour and a half that I have been sitting here. One hour and a half of waiting for her to come back. What's taking her so long? It's just a scroll, I even put it out in the open. Granted, I did put it on top of a precariously high shelf...but still! Surely finding that scroll shouldn't have taken no more than twenty minutes at the most. Where is she? Dinner is getting cold...
With a sigh I regarded the two lonely bowls of soup in front of me with chagrin. The steam long departed from the meals, leaving behind cold soup untouched. I'll have to reheat these later, what a waste. They'll lose the flavor if I do that, but it's better than nothing, right? But before I could think any more melancholy thoughts the sleeping dragon on the couch began to stir.
Spike stretched and yawned as he woke up. His green eyes fluttered open to meet my own.
“Morning Twi, did you and Cheerilee have a great dinner? Spike asked, a large yawn escaped his toothy maw as he spoke.
“It's still nighttime, Spike. You've been asleep for little over an hour and Cheerilee is still out” I explained to the purple dragon with another sigh.
“Really? Well that's a bummer, I guess you really hid that sucker pretty well then. Maybe you should go check on her?” Spike said as he got off the couch and scampered off into the kitchen. A clink and a clang soon followed him, followed by the smell of coffee. Looks like he's making himself at home, I'm sure Cheerilee won't mind, hopefully.
“And while you do that, I'll make some coffee for you two. I should...I should...” Spike never finished his sentence as a loud snore came from inside the kitchen. Looks like Cheerilee and I aren't the only ones that will be needing that coffee.
“I may as well go see what's holding her up. I'm starting to get worried” my words seem to wake the little dragon as the sound of something crashing emanated from the kitchen again.
“W-What's going on? What year is it?” sputtered Spike as he popped up from behind the counter. His eyes bearing little bags underneath them.
“Nothing's wrong, Spike. I said that I am going to go check on Cheerilee. Just in case something happened” my worried words only made Spike scoff exaggeratedly while he rubbed the sleep from his eyes.
“I'm sure she is fine, just go get her before she drives herself crazy trying to find that scroll!” letting out what felt like the thousandth sigh of the evening I followed Spike's advice and left Cheerilee's home. Yet I didn't make it past the welcome mat when I caught sight of something curious, something out of place. Just a few feet away from the front door lay a letter, my letter and it was open. Even more curious was that a satchel lay next to it, it's contents tumbled about the ground. Did somepony drop this in a hurry, or was there a struggle of some kind?
“Did somepony read my letter and bolt off or something? That is just plain rude!” I growled while focusing my magic to envelope both the envelope and satchel. I floated them over into the light of Cheerilee's home for a better look. Dropping the satchel down on the ground before me I noticed something peaking out from within. And what I saw unnerved me, it was the scroll I sent Cheerilee to find.
She was here, but where did she go? Did she get cold feet after reading the contents? Was my letter too forward? Did somepony kidnap her? Nah, that's just silly but...
More and more unpleasant thoughts filled my head, I started to feel the panicky feeling arise from just the mere notion of something terrible happening to my marefriend. Bothered by my own troublesome thoughts I pushed back the heavy feeling in my gut as I examined the torn letter carefully.
“Why is this all torn up? Did she...” I thought aloud as I looked over the torn scraps that was my letter. Suddenly a spark shot out of the crumpled mess, magic. With a raised eyebrow I poked the letter with my own magic. Cautiously I conjured a bubble around the torn item. A shield that I would use for...explosive experiments. Just in case my hunch was right, and dear Celestia I hope it's not.
Almost instantly as my magic probed letter it exploded in a shower of sparks and lights. Leaving the remains of an already chewed up letter to turn to cinders. As the ashes fell to the ground so did my heart. Somepony cast a spell on my letter, a knockout spell by the looks of it, and a shoddy one at that. But it definitely has been used once already.
“If somepony did this, then that means...Spike!” without a second thought I rushed back inside and shouted my assistant's name. Immediately Spike barged out of the kitchen and stood at attention. A apron far to big for him draped over his little form.
“What? Where's the fire, Twilight?” Spike stammered.
“I need you to send a letter to Celestia, now!” I ordered him as I began to pace the living room.
“W-What? But why?”
“No time to explain, find some paper. Scratch that, it doesn't have to be paper, anything you can write on! Just find a pen and get to it!”
“Got it!” as Spike nodded he ran off. Not even a minute later he came back with a piece of paper and pen in claw.
“Alright, start writing. Dear Princess Celestia, I have an urgent need of a platoon royal guards to be sent to Ponyville. There has been a kidnapping and I fear for the life of the pony at stake. I need only six guards at the most, one for each of my friends and I. I know it is late in the night but I desperately need your assistance, I promise to explain everything later. Please send the guards to my home at the library at your greatest leisure. Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle” as I finished my sentence I gave Spike a nod and he burnt the letter.
“What was that all about? Who got kidnapped?”
“I think it was Cheerilee, there was a letter outside and-look, there's no time to explain right now. I want you to go out and look for Rarity, Pinkie Pie and Applejack. Tell them there is an emergency and I want them to gather at the library. Look, I know this is very sudden but I promise to tell you everything later, okay?”
Spike gave me one final worried filled look as he nodded and took off running. Now all that is left is to go get Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash. As I left Cheerilee's house and locked the door behind me I berated myself for involving my friends in all of this. Especially involving them in something so serious at this hour, I hope they will understand. What am I thinking? They're my friends, of course they will!
With that thought I spread my wings and took off to my first stop, Rainbow's house. As I took to the skys I cursed at the sudden pain in my joints. I keep forgetting the number one rule, always stretch before flight. But I had to keep moving, I can deal with the soreness later! And so after what felt like a few agonizing minutes I arrived at Rainbow's cloud home.
“Please be home, please be home, please be home!” I muttered to myself as I knocked on her door. Nopony answered after a few seconds and I knocked again and again. All of a sudden the sound of something crashing was heard from withing followed by a familiar raspy voice cursing aloud. A few moments later and a very disgruntled Rainbow Dash opened the door. Her eyes already set on her death glare but it immediately faltered at the sight of me.
“Twilight? What are you doing here, do you have any idea what time it is? It's like, midnight or something!” the rainbow maned mare said with a whine.
“I know it's late and I am sorry. But something bad has happened. I need your help!” I begged the mare, hoping to the stars above that she would agree. I knew she would, but sometimes the stubborn pegasus would need a pretty damn good reason to ruin her power naps.
“What? What happened? Is Fluttershy hurt or something? What's up?” asked Rainbow Dash, now fully awake at the sound of bad news. Her wings flared open, ready to charge ahead at a moments notice.
“I don't have time to explain right now. I'll tell you everything on the way to Fluttershy's house” and with that I took off flying.
“Hey! Wait a second!” called out the pegasus behind me, the sound of her wings flapping furiously to keep up. As Rainbow Dash caught up I explained everything to her. By the time I had caught her up we arrived at Fluttershy's cabin. The lights where out and not a single animal was to be seen. I mentally berated myself for bothering my friends in all of this but I needed their help. As Rainbow Dash and I landed on her front porch I knocked on the door.
“This is so bucked up, who would kidnap Cheerilee? Scootaloo tells me she's such a chill teacher. I promise you we'll find her, and what is taking Fluttershy so long!?” Rainbow grunted as she banged her hoof against the door. I rolled my eyes at her actions and heard what sounded like Fluttershy shriek from within the cabin. It didn't take long for the front door to creak open slightly.
“Y-Yes? Who i-is it?” stuttered the yellow mare.
“It's us, Fluttershy. I know it is late but I need your help in something major. Cheerilee has been kidnapped” at the sound of the word kidnapped Fluttershy gasped and creaked open the door fully revealing her night gowned self.
“Oh my, that is just terrible! What do you need me to do? Should I get some animals to help? I know just th-”
“Now's not the time, Shy! Let's go!” Rainbow groaned as she hooked her legs around the mare and took flight. Silently I followed the bickering duo all the way back to Ponyville. Now all that's left us for Spike to gather everypony else. After a short flight we arrived to the scene of Apple Jack, Pinkie Pie and Rarity chatting among themselves with Spike pacing. They all looked up to see us land, each of there faces locked into one emotion, worry. And then I spotted somepony I had not expected, Scootaloo was among my friends. What is she doing awake at this hour?
“There ya are Twilight! What in the hay is happening, Spike said something about somepony getting kidnapped! What in the name that of all that is holy that you had us wake up at this forsaken hour?”
“Indeed! I demand to know what is going on as well! Spike awoke me from the most beautiful dream and I-”
“I had a dream too! Gummy was talking and there were monster cakes doing some weird voodoo or something! It was weird!” All five of us stopped to stare at the pink party pony with raised eyebrows.
“What?” she squeaked, tilting her head at us with a raised eyebrow of her own.
“Right, well I gathered you all here today for a good reason. Cheerilee has been kidnapped, earlier tonight I sent her out to get something for me from the library. She didn't come back, when I went to go look for her I found a letter. More specifically it was my own letter I had left for her and it had been tampered with a knockout spell. I found that it had been used recently, and Cheerilee is gone so...”
I began to trail off listing all sorts of situations that could happen in my head. Too many to say out loud, but my silence only caused my friends to panic. Each one bickering among themselves about their own solutions.
“Well ah say we go find her! We ain't doing much sitting here panicking when we could be out lookin for your her!” Applejack said sounding annoyed at the idea of us wasting time. And so was I.
“I concur with Applejack! Every minute we spend here bickering could be spent on a search!” Rarity added with a flip of her mane.
“Believe me, I understand completely. But we can't leave yet, I still haven't gotten a letter back from Celestia. I asked for her help earlier in sending some guards to accompany us” I pondered aloud, wondering what was taking her so long to write a letter back.
“Pfft, guards? We can handle ourselves! Let's just go and tear down every single house down in Ponyville if we have to!” Rainbow said with her chest puffed out and her wings splayed out defiantly. We all let out a sigh at our rainbow maned friend. Even without words we all knew that busting down everypony's door wouldn't do us any good.
“Um, why don't we just let the guards deal with this? They should be here any minute, and I don't think it would be safe for us...” Fluttershy's words dissipated to mere mumbling, perhaps in her rethinking her words for the moment.
“Let's all quiet down, let me think for a-” A loud burp interrupted me, we all turned around to see Spike grasping a scroll in his claws. Worldessly I took it and quickly read it out loud.
“Dear Twilight, this is most unusual for you to ask such a request. However, I trust in your judgment and have sent a group of royal guards just like you had asked. They will be there soon and I do hope you will regale me with the details of this situation later. Whatever you are doing, please be careful. Sincerely, Princess Celestia”
I felt a little guilty reading the letter, Celestia must be worried sick over my sudden actions but I promised her I would explain, and that will have to suffice for now. Now all we had to do was wait for the guard to arrive, I hope they get here soon. Seconds ticked away a fully minute had passed, how long would it take for the guard to reach Ponyville? At fully speed it may as well take twenty minutes at the most.
Twenty minutes wasted, I can't have that. And just when I was about to say, buck it, Pinkie Pie suddenly shrieked.
“My Pinkie Sense is tingling! Something good is on the way, I think!”
No sooner than Pinkie had spoken had a chariot landed in front of the library. I counted six guards along with the two driving the chariot. Quickly they lined up in front of me, bowing in unison. I still can't get over that Pinkie sense of hers.
“Princess, we are here at your command. What are your orders?” spoke on guard in front, presumably the captain of the group.
“I want each of you to accompany my friends, you, go with Fluttershy!” I ordered one particularly muscular guard and then to Fluttershy. The stallion said nothing but merely nodded as he took his place by a cowering Fluttershy. But noticing she was afraid of his rather large self, he muttered something to her, no doubt about animals, which set her at ease. One down, five to go. Finally the last guard, a gangly looking thing, I assigned to Pinkie Pie.
As soon as the poor guard got withing hugging reach Pinkie Pie of course, hugged the living hell out of him. It's going to be a very long night for that poor guy.
“Alright, now I want each of you to search Ponyville high and low for Cheerilee. Rainbow Dash, you take to the skies and look out from above. Fluttershy, I want you to check around near the Everfree forest. Applejack you go downtown along with Rarity, and Pinkie Pie?”
“Yes, captain?” Pinkie stood at attention, a hoof raised in salute.
“Go around and use that Pinkie sense of yours!”
“Roger dodger! C'mere, mister guard!” and with their orders given to them we all parted ways to search for Cheerilee. Just as I was about to leave I received a tap on my shoulder. Turning around I found a hovering Scootaloo, a look of seriousness upon her face.
“And what about me? Where do I go? Can I go with you? Give me something, Twilight!” said the orange filly with her hoof raised in mock salute.
“I'm sorry Scootaloo, but you are going back home. This is far too dangerous for a filly like you to come along” as soon as my words left my mouth Scootaloo let out a loud sigh.
“Aw, what? But Cheerilee's missing! I want to find her just as bad as you do! She may be your marefriend, but she's my mom!” what? Mother? Was Cheerilee going to adopt her? Is that what Cheerilee wanted to talk to me about before she left?
“Scootaloo, listen, I want to bring you alon-”
“Stop trying to baby me! I'm coming along and that is final! I may be a kid, but I can still hold my own!” Scootaloo spoke with such heated defiance in her voice, her eyes blazing with determination. Slap some armor on her and she'd blend in with the royal guard just fine.
“Alright, alright you can come along. But stay by my side at all times okay?” with a resigned sigh I motioned for her to take the spot on the ground next to me. Scootaloo cheered, pumping a hoof in the air as she took residence by my side.
“You won't regret this, I promise! Now let's go find Cheerilee!” Scootaloo puffed out her chest as she saluted my guard and I. Looking over to my still stoic faced guard I whispered to him.
“Keep a close eye on her, even if we get separated. Promise me you won't let her out of your sight, she can be a feisty one” my guard nodded once and he immediately began watching Scootaloo. His eyes studying the little orange pegasus with curiosity before whispered a “yes ma'm”. good, he may have questions but at least he follows orders. Even if said orders lowered him down to a glorified, armored nanny. In the end I can take care of myself, this guard is more for Scootaloo than anypony else.
“Now then let's get going, you two stick tight by my side. We're going to the not so nice side of Ponyville. Without further ado we began our search for Cheerilee.
“You think that's where we'll find her?” Scootaloo asked, a mix of curiosity and worry in her tone. I gave her a reassuring smile as I fired up a spell. One spell that I had been practicing recently for a situation like this. And one that I hoped with all my might that I would never have to experience. A purple globe radiated around us in it's artificial light. It cast a warm pleasant aura, a nice balance to the dark and dreary darkness of tonight.
Reaching into my satchel I pulled out a small vial filled with purple hairs. Uncapping the vial I emptied it's contents into the glowing orb. The hairs sizzled and popped causing the globe to glow green for an instant before hovering forward. Seemingly on it's own will.
“See this? This is a tracking spell that can help us find her. Using her bio organic frequency found in her hair from this vial. I can search particular wavelengths in the air to...”
“Give me the short version, Twi. You're losing me and I don't think we have time for a magic lesson” Scootaloo grumbled dryly. I scoffed at the filly while I thought of a simpler explanation. Not to mention I feel a little hurt, I never get the chance to explain these things my way. Philistines!
“It's a spell that will hover towards Cheerilee's approximate location. The closer we get, the faster it will travel. Basically it's like a floating seeing eye dog that will hunt for Cheerilee's scent. However, I wish I had a blood sample, it would make the spell far more potent and effective” I explained, hoping the dumbed down version would be enough. Not that she was ignorant by any means, I just hope it made sense.
“Why didn't you just say that before? Bah whatever, let's go!” Scootaloo's words caused my guard to let out a soft chuckle. However he snapped shut at my less than pleased look. Yep, definitely a bunch of philistines, this is not the time to joke around! Nopony ever appreciates the fine arts anymore. Anyways. “Oh, and why do you have her hair in a vial thingy?”
Buck, I really hoped she didn't ask. Here we go.
“I uh, I just took some hair samples from Cheerilee when she was sleeping one night. It was purely for research purposes, I swear!” try as I might I couldn't stop the oncoming blush from appearing on my face. And my little reaction only made their chuckles transform into full blown laughter. At least my actions raised their spirits a little bit. Sigh.
“Let's just get back to the task at hand. This is no time for joking!” I yelled, causing both of my companions to jump back in surprise. I went to say sorry but I held my tongue, there was no time for pleasantries. “Anyways, let's hope my little spell can find Cheerilee soon. Come on little guy, find her!”
Some time later...
It's been twenty minutes since we first started our search, and my spell hasn't changed course at all since the beginning. The globe, whom Scootaloo has nicknamed “Glowy” has been going on a straight path forward, only occasionally taking a left or right turn here and there. Little by little the ever growing sense of dread hovered over our little group. Why was it taking so long? Was Cheerilee even in this part of town, or even in Ponyville? There is a limit as to how far this spell can track.
Have we been wasting our time? Are we too late?
No! Stop thinking like that! Maybe the others have already found her? And it hasn't been an hour yet, calm down! Just as I was about to berate myself for doubting myself I felt something nudge against me. I looked to the origin to see Scootaloo, a reassuring smirk on her face.
“Don't worry, Twilight. We will find her, I have a good feeling that Glowy will catch her scent. Never ignore a good feeling!” Scootaloo tried her best to reassure me and I just gave her a false smile to lighten the mood. I can't get rid of the dread that hovered over me, are we already too late in searching for her?
“This little filly is right, ma'm. You have the best of the best of the royal guard along with the elements of harmony bearers searching for this, Cheerilee. With respect, there is no need to be a complete worry wart, princess. We will find her, don't give up!” both Scootaloo and my guard smiled. And in the end I couldn't stop my lips from curling up into a grin as well.
They're right, I feel so stupid. Why am I even doubting myself in all of this? Everything is going to be alright. By Celestia it has to be!
“Thank you, you two are something else. Let's get back on track! Onward!”
And so with newfound vigor I marched on with Scootaloo and my guard, whom I learned his name was Brand, by my side. But all of a sudden, as if charged by our regained vigor “Glowy” suddenly picked up speed, yet he never changed direction. Wherever Cheerilee is, it's forward that is for sure. Staying vigilant in case of a change in Glowy's course I found my eyes wandering the area around us. Everywhere I looked I was met with shadows and dark alleys. The light emanating from Glowy created ominous shadows that seemed to taunt us with their wicked contortions. And just for a moment that feeling of doubt threatened to fill my mind. But I trudged on, intent on finding my beloved, my Cheerilee.
I hope the others are doing well in their search, if I don't find Cheerilee I can count on my friends in finding her. I have to remember to take them all on a girls night out and thank the ever living tartarus out of them for waking them up so late. Especially Fluttershy, this whole thing has to be a wreck on her nerves. I'll be sure to make it up for her, nopony should have to deal with a situation like this. I just wish this never happened, I would be safe at home with Cheerilee enjoying a nice warm dinner otherwise.
Where did things go so wrong? Ugh, there I go again thinking gloomy thoughts! Think positive! I'll find her in no time at all, just have to keep searching...
“Twilight! Glowy's doing something!” my eyes snapped back to the glowing orb and it's now erratic movements. The orb shook rapidly before shooting off in one direction like a speeding bullet. Our little group gave chase to Glowy as it snaked its way through alleyways to streets to even the rooftops. Where was it going? Did it finally catch onto Cheerlee's scent? Whatever the reason, it is going to where it wants to go, and it is doing so at a extremely fast pace.
“Princess! Where in the world is it taking us?” shouted my guard in between pants. I glanced back for a second to see the poor stallion struggling to keep up pace with Scootaloo on his back. Turning back to Glowy I saw that it stood still, floating in front of an familiar old building.
“The Rusty Horsehoe” I announced, eyeing the building with contempt. The memory of Cheerilee nearly taken advantage by Mortar flashed in my head. What a horrible night that could have been.
“Do you think she's inside?” Scootaloo wondered aloud.
“Maybe, Brand? Please secure the area, look out for any signs of anything suspicious” I ordered the stallion without taking my eyes off of the old building.
“Yes ma'am!” Brand saluted before walking out of sight, intent on accomplishing the task given to him. Now for Scootaloo.
“Scootaloo?” I said the filly's name aloud causing her to immediately stand at full attention.
“Yeah?”
“Stay with him, and don't do anything reckless. Understood?” my words caused her to grimace but she nodded once, albeit with obvious disdain.
“...fine” and off she went. Tailing behind my guard with a huff leaving me to investigate the bar. Speaking off the bar, let's see why Glowy stopped here of all places. Would Cheerilee be here? The door's are boarded up as well as the windows. It's just as abandoned as I had left it weeks ago when I shut this place down. I wonder...
Taking a look at my spell, which was now bumping itself against the front doors, it was safe to say she was here. My spells never fail, except on some occasion, but this time I am sure of it. She is here, and so might be her kidnapper as well...
Only one way to find out, let's see if I can't get rid of these boarded up barricades. Focusing my magic around the wooden boards I prepared to tear them off when suddenly “Glowy” took off again. This time in the opposite direction of the bar. What in the world? Was there a glitch in my spell? With those thoughts in mind I took off after the speeding orb.
Something told me to stay at the bar, my gut feeling screamed at me to recheck the bar. But my rational side irked me to pursue my spell for Cheerilee. When has my rational side of thinking ever been wrong? I just hope Scootaloo and Brand won't be too upset if we split up for the time being. What can go wrong?
Meanwhile...
I watched as Mortar's horn stopped glowing, his spell cast and complete. But what was the spell exactly? And why the hell is Twilight leaving?! What the buck?!
“Well that was a tad too close for comfort, can you imagine how lucky you could have been? It's a good thing I cast a spell to throw her off our tail eh? But think about it, Your marefriend, the princess and her guard busting down my doors, it's a shame they didn't poke around here any longer huh? Glad the universe is finally siding with me for once! Anyways, now where were we? Oh yes, an eye for an eye, right? Poppet?”
“Mph! Mph!” I screamed, trying my hardest to cry for help behind this damned gag he conjured with his filthy magic. But it was to no avail, Mortar's magic proved too strong for my words to breach it. Mortar on the other hoof just laughed at my attempts to scream for help as he lumbered over to me. His face hovering inches away from mine, his heavy musk of his alcohol breath burned my nostrils.
“Quit struggling, you're just going to give yourself a fit! And you wouldn't want to tire yourself out too quickly, poppet. Now where did I leave that special something? You sit tight, don't go anywhere my sweet” I rolled my eyes at his vain attempt at comedy as he left my side to search for...something. No doubt this “something” would be his tools he mentioned earlier. I shuddered at the thought, the very idea of what such tools he could be searching for.
Please don't find them...whatever they are.
“Aha! There you are!”
Buck. Me.
“Almost didn't find ya! Exclaimed my captor as he returned to me with a rusty brown tool box floating by his side. I watched fearfully as he sat on his haunches, a creepy look on his face, one of disturbing giddiness. Those beady brown eyes never braking their gaze on me as he flicked the tool box open. He chuckled, his horn lit up and several objects rose from his little box of horrors. Spread out before me was a hammer, a filer tool of some sort, a tool driver, and a pair of pliers. All of them were rusty as hell, fanbuckingtastic, torture and tetanus.
“Which one do you prefer? Personally I like the filer whooziwatzit for it's exquisite accuracy. Makes for a quick and easy job...if done right with care of course. But the hammer is, hey why aren't ya-oh that's right! Silly me!” suddenly there was a flash from Mortar's horn and just like that my gag was gone. Jeez my jaw hurts like a motherbucker.
“Better?” never in my life have I ever wanted to buck somepony in their face so much right now.
“Buck you”
“Buy me dinner first and then we'll talk, any who, the tools. What was I-right, the hammer monologue. Ugh, I had this whole thing planned out and everything. Just pretend we're starting over, eh poppet?” Mortar droned on as he eyed his tools with disgusting child like glee.
"Well he's gone officially insane" gee, what was your first clue, oh all knowing drag queen in my head?
“Ahem, but I think the filer is too easy. Somepony like you needs something extra special special tool. A hammer? Too brutish, the screwdriver? Far too obvious. However these pair of pliers?” I watched as one by one each tool fell to the ground. Leaving behind a single floating pair of pliers, aimed right towards me.
“Ah, ah, I saw that look! I knew you would love my choice, that flash of fear in your eyes! Good, keep fearing the little old me, now listen here, I believe in the old saying, an eye for an eye. You've got your job back after I stole it from you, fair is fair. Then you had to go and knock me teeth out of me gob, that little move of yours made it personal...” and there he goes monologuing again. Something tells me when he finishes he won't be leaving for another cup of tea.
This is it, this is how I am going to die? Strapped to a chair to be tortured to death by my deranged ex for Celestia knows how long.
"Don't give up! We can still-"
“Can still what? Magically will these ropes off of me and fly out of here on my nonexistent wings? I don't have a lot of options here!”
"Don't sass me, don't give up yet..." silence, that's all I had to think.
“Yeah I wish. Damnit don't cry, don't cry in front of this bastard. Don't give him the satisfaction...don't cry. Celestia bucking damnit, I won't ever see Twilight again, Scootaloo too. I am so bucked, or so I thought as I spotted an orange blur dart into the room.
“What in the?” I thought, scanning the room with my eyes for that blur. While Mortar kept doing his monologue I kept looking for the mystery blur. Was I just seeing things? Right when I was about to notch it off as nothing I spotted somepony I never thought I would see again. Scootaloo! What in the world is she doing here? How did she even get inside?
“Stay calm. I got this!” was what she said, or rather mouthed with her lips as she gave me a reassuring look. I watched wordlessly as the little pegasus kept her eyes glued on the mad stallion while she snuck around. I nearly rolled my eyes at the sight of Scootaloo performing aerial flips in and around the furniture of the basement. Like a cat she winded to and fro, cover to cover sneaking ever so closer to Mortar and I. So as Mortar kept droning on, Scootaloo kept up her little ninja charade.
As Scootaloo moved she kept giving me reassuring glances with every hoofstep. What is she planning? Where is Twilight? Don't tell me she came here all by herself?
“...and that is why this is only fair, poppet” I snapped back to Mortar, his eyes scrutinizing me for a reaction. Quickly glancing over to Scootaloo I noticed her giving me the old “just go with it” look. And so I obliged my little rescuer, time to bring out my inner actress.
“Oh Sweet Celestia, please don't hurt me! I'll do anything, I'm worth more to you intact, I promise I can make it up to you. Please, anything you want! Just name it! Please...” and now for the kicker!
"Queue the crocodile tears, just like in your novels!" cheered my conscience, let's hope this works!
“I want to live! I'm going to be a mother, I have somepony to love. Just let me go and I won't bring this up to the guard. I'll just tell them I got lost someplace. Don't you have any compassion in your heart? I know some small part of you still cares, still loves...” of course I already knew the answer but I had to keep up this cringe worthy charade for a little while longer. Anything to give Scootaloo time for...whatever she was planning.
And judging by the winks Scootaloo was giving me I was about to find out. Mortar's dry laughter tore my attention away from Scootaloo and right back to his ugly mug.
“Is that the best you can come up with? Tell me, did you pull that little gem out of one of those god awful romance trash you read? I gotta say that it was well worth a laugh, but we both know I aint the kind of stallion you think I am” oh don't worry, I do.
“Jokes aside, shall we begin? I promise this will only hurt a lot for a few seconds...” suddenly my jaw opened by itself, that familiar cold feeling from before surrounded my muzzle. I could do nothing but watch Mortar come at me with his horn a glow. Those rusty pliers inching closer and closer to my gaping maw.
Whatever you're going to do, do it now, Scootaloo!
“Dynamic entry!” without warning Scootaloo canonballed herself straight into Mortar's unsuspecting back. Her battle cry deafening as she wrapped herself around her target's neck and before the poor bastard could react she was already pummeling him without mercy. I watched in awe as my little filly punched and kicked the crazy stallion all the while yelling every curse word in the book.
“That's it! Get him, sock him in the eye! Good, now go for his neck!” I cheered all the while Scoolaloo unleashed utter hell on Mortar. And right when things started looking up they went crashing down in an instant. My cheers turned to screams as Scootaloo was thrown across the room, her entire form bathed in Mortar's magic. Her fragile body slammed against the far off wall with a sickening smack. I could do nothing but scream her name as she fell to the ground like a ragdoll, still and unmoving.
“Scootaloo! Scootaloo, come on! Get up! Scootaloo...” my anguished cries fell on deaf ears. I could only stare as she lay there motionless, not even a twitch came from her. Fresh new tears ran down my cheeks, no, this can't be happening. “No, no, no! She's not, she can't be-”
“Ah shut your gob, poppet! Well, what a feisty little lass she is ain't she? So is this your rescue party? Honestly I expected more, what a pitiful thing she is. Must have been the runt of the litter where she came from...” Mortar said thoughtfully, his grey magic lifting Scootaloo just before his eyes. He examined her still form just before dropping Scootaloo to the ground like an unwanted doll. I couldn't look away, I can't tell if she's alive or not. If only I wasn't tied down, I could check for her pulse...
“Ah, ah! No time for tears poppet. We haven't even started the party yet. Oh and be happy I didn't bring that runt of yours into all of this, it's not my fault she bit off more than she could chew. Law of nature and all that, she's a runt anyway” how can he be so cruel? Disregarding life like this, what happened to you, Mortar?
“You're a monster” I choked, struggling to say those simple words through my tears glaring daggers at the monster of a stallion before me.
“Thanks for the compliment, now are you done? Or will I have to suffer your oh so annoying cries for the rest of our evening?” I said nothing, what else was there to say? Why fight this, Scootaloo's gone, Twilight isn't going to find me. I guess this time, I don't get a happy ending.
"Just-"
“No, I'm done” and with that stoic thought I hung my head as I waited for what was coming to me. This is it, I thought as I heard Mortar's hoof steps come closer and closer. The tell tale buzzing of magic being used, this is it.
“AAAAEEEGHHHAAAH!” a blood curdling scream filled the room, and surprisingly it wasn't mine. Snapping my gaze back to Mortar I saw the oddest sight I have ever seen. Mortar thrashed about the room, running back and forth like a madstallion possessed. Just then for a split second I saw why, there hanging on his left ear was Scootaloo.
"Is that?"
“Scootaloo?!” to my greatest surprise I saw the reason why Mortar screamed in agony. There hanging on his left ear was Scootaloo, her mouth clamped tightly on the spot.
“Get off! Get the buck off!” Mortar squealed like a pig while he tried his hardest to shake off Scootaloo. But no matter how hard he thrashed, no matter which way he went she never let go. And with every passing second Mortar's screams grew louder, and his movement more erratic. Again I was in awe at the sight, I'm speechless!
“Son of a-BUCK!” all of a sudden a sickening squelching noise filled my ears and the sight of blood spurting like a sprinkler filled my sight. Mortar finally dislodged Scootaloo from his head...and his ear along with her. As Mortar collapsed to cover his now bleeding head, Scootaloo stood back on her hooves spitting a crumpled piece of flesh on the ground.
“Blech! Grody! I can't believe I just did that!” Scootaloo spat as she wiped blood off of her lips. I didn't either, did she really do what I think she just did? My goodness that is a lot of blood.
“M-M-M-My...did you just bucking bite me bucking ear off?!” Mortar stammered, fear in his voice as his eyes slowly trailed down to the bloody remains of his once intact ear. His pupils widened instantly at the sight of it, his lips quivering in fear or was it anger?
“YOU BUCKING DID! YOU DIRTY LITTLE CUNT!” Mortar squealed in the highest pitched voice I have ever heard him yell in. Yep, definitely anger, with a dash of fear.
“Yeah I did, and let me tell you it was disgusting! You taste like failure!” Scootaloo taunted as she circled the stunned stallion, his hooves ever so carefully cradling his wound.
“Y-Y-YOU BITCH!” Mortar roared as he lashed out with his magic only to miss Scootaloo by that much. Scootaloo only laughed and continued to taunt the now ranting Mortar with ease. For a second I felt a little bad for Mortar, but only for a second.
“What's wrong? Can't focus? Where's the big bad stallion, huh?” Scootaloo's taunting sent Mortar over the edge as he charged her. His horn aimed straight for her.
“Scootaloo!” I screamed, expecting the worse to come to pass. But Scootaloo simply side stepped the mad stallion. A crash and a thud later Mortar was out like a light. The cause was due to him smashing his skull into the back wall. Horn first, might I add.
“He's going to feel that one in the morning, you okay, Scootaloo?” Scootaloo nodded her head once at me while she untied me. I let out a sigh of relief at the sensation of the newfound freedom around my hooves. As I stretched out my limbs I couldn't help but feel shaken up about all of this. Mortar's down for the count, but Scootaloo did all of this. Which brings a new question to mind, where is Twilight?
“Scootaloo, where's Twilight? Don't tell me you went out to find me all by yourself?” this time Scootaloo shook her head, no. Oh thank goodness!
“It's a long story, Twilight got this magic ball thingy to find you and we got here, then she split us up and...” as soon as she began explaining I already lost track of where she was going with this.
“You know what? It doesn't matter, all that matters is that you're okay. C'mere you!” sweeping up my little filly in my hooves I squeezed her as hard as I could. But then it hit me, this little filly did...that. My eyes glanced to the unconscious and very much bleeding Mortar and back to the orange pegasus in my grasp.
“And never, ever scare me like that again! I thought you were...” the exact moment when Scootaloo was thrown across the room flashed in my head. She looked so lifeless...
“B-But I'm fine! Geez, I might be young but I know how to hold my own!” despite Scootaloo's struggling I held fast to the whining filly, not willing to end my embrace on her.
“Now that is an understatement” I said as I wiped a few specks of blood off of her muzzle. I still can't believe she did that!
“An understatement, eh?” I froze, that voice, it can't be. Slowly I turned around with Scootaloo in tow to see a very much awake Mortar as well as the death glare he was giving us. My eyes flicked to the door behind him that he was blocking and to the floating knife beside him. I turned to shield Scootaloo from Mortar, it might as well be the last thing I do.
“An understatement?! You call this an understatement?!” Mortar yelled, pointing his knife at the bloody stump that used to be his ear. He was positively furious, and there was nowhere we could go. Perhaps I can distract him long enough for Scootaloo to escape? Damnit, we were so close!
“Buck torturing you, I'm gonna kill y-” suddenly the room was flooded with a bright light. My eyes stung even as I shut them closed, am I dead? Did Mortar fire a spell? I don't feel dead, I think.
'Good question, are we?' slowly I opened my eyes, fully expecting to see a knife to hit me. Except there was no knife, there wasn't any pain or death for that matter. Just the sight of a struggling Mortar underneath that big wooden door. And there standing like a knight in shining armor was her, Twilight Sparkle. Her horn ablaze in her magic and only now did I realize that she was the reason Mortar was struggling. Her magic squished the door on Mortar like an ant.
And Twilight? She was the boot, and she looked beyong pissed. Her eyes glowed a furiously bright white, her lips twisted into a stoic frown as she gazed down at the squirming stallion below.
“Twilight?” my voice shocked my marefriend out of her stupor. Her eyes dimmed down back to their purple splendor as they met my own. Tears started to flow down from them as she looked at me as if I was a mirage.
“C-Cheerilee?” before I could answer she dived bombed me, tumbling into Scootaloo and I as she squeezed us both in her grip.
“Thank goodness I found you two! I thought I lost you, I thought I...” whatever she was planning to say was drowned in her sobbing. I smiled, returning the favor as I hugged her back with Scootaloo in between us. Looking down to the pegasus I saw that she too was crying and now, so was I.
Nothing was said between the three of us, and there was no need for words now. This moment was enough.
"Hate to be that guy, but it feels like we forgot something huh?" my conscience was right, did we miss something? Mortar!
“Hey! You lot, hugging like a bunch of idgits! I ain't done wit-SLAM” shocked out of our little moment we all got up to see a stallion standing tall over Mortar with that door in his hooves. The very same door from before was now crumpled and bent. One didn't have to be a genius to put two and two together to realize why Mortar was out cold.
“Bucking finally, what a blowhard” the stallion sighed as he tossed his makeshift weapon to the side with a thud. Giving Mortar the once over he left the mad stallion behind and approached us with a raised eyebrow.
“I see you found her eh, princess? Are you all alright?” neither Scootaloo or I got a chance to say a word as Twilight slapped him with a resounding smack. Saying ouch would be a understatement.
“W-What-” stuttered the stallion, now flinching away in surprise from being smacked by his princess.
“What did I tell you before we split up? Answer me Brand!” I watched as Twilight circled the guard named Brand, eyeing him with squinted eyes, judging him harshly.
“To k-keep an eye on the filly, m-ma'am” Brand stammered, his eyes aimed straight forward. He didn't dare to look Twilight in the eye, and I don't blame him. A mad alicorn is something you don't want to deal with.
“And why didn't you? She could have been hurt! You let her out of your sight and look what nearly happened to her, to them both!”
“But they're safe, p-p-princess...”
“I don't want to hear it! And another thing!” seeing a perfect opportunity to interrupt I coughed loudly, catching both of their attention instantly.
“Twilight, it's okay. Scootaloo and I are fine, give the poor dear a break” I said, hoping she would listen to me and give Brand some slack, he did help. A little bit, the door crushing on Mortar especially my favorite part of his entrance.
Twilight disdainfully groaned as she returned to me, but not before casting a death glare at the guard. Scootaloo and I giggled at the scene, it's quite comical to say the least. Except for Brand, who just grumbled to himself while he looked over Mortar's limp body.
“W-Well then, what about this fellow? He's the perp, right?” Brand said, giving the limp form a kick.
“Why that is a very astute observation, what do you think you should do?” Twilight said, her tone cold as ice and filled with sarcasm.
“Wow, she's scary when she's in protect mode huh?” whispered Scootaloo, a hint of fear in her voice and I don't blame her. Twilight is one scary mare when she gets like this.
“No kidding, Scoots. Twilight, please stop pushing him so hard. Let's just go home” I said with a sigh as I made to stand, only to topple over myself.
“Ow” and that was putting it mildly. My legs are on fire, but at least I can still feel them. I'm just lucky Mortar didn't leave me tied up that tightly for long.
“Cheerilee! Are you alright? Can you walk?” Twilight asked, fear evident in her voice as she helped me back up. But as soon as I got back up I fell down, the pain is just too much. Looks like these wounds are here to stay for a while, fantastic.
"Well what do you expect, sugar? Wounds don't heal quick, this ain't a story you know! Get that checked out before you lose a leg or something!" spoke my conscience, his worried words causing my eyes to roll instantly. But like always, he did have a point. Best not to leave my limbs fate to chance. And I just want to go home to forget about all of this.
“I'm fine, but I'm afraid I won't be walking for a while. I just need to keep off my legs as much as possible so I don't strain them so much. There isn't any chance that we can get a stretcher or something?” I asked while carefully laying on my side so as to not put anymore pressure on my legs. Jeez this stings something fierce.
“I can get a stretcher, or we can carry her” suggested Brand, a sound idea. I don't like staying in here any longer than I have to however. This basement is way too bucking dusty!
“That's a stupid idea, she weighs a ton” joked Scootaloo.
“Very funny, next idea please. Let me know when you three think of something that gets me home” I grumbled sarcastically.
“Hush you, up you go!” suddenly I was surrounded in a purple aura as Twilight carefully placed me on her back. She didn't even flinch under my weight, either being an alicorn made one stronger or she's just trying to look tough. Either way this feels nice, romantic even if it weren't for this whole situation. “Better?”
“Better, off we go then?” I hummed, feeling my cheeks heat up at the sudden contact. And to think I may have never felt this feeling ever again, thank Celestia these three showed up when they did.
“Off we go then indeed, come you two” and so we left with Mortar in tow. Once we left the dreary hovel that was the bar we were greeted by Twilight's friends and the rest of her guards. Everypony, even the guards, gasped as they rushed over to see if I was ok.
“Oh my goodness, darling! Are you alright? Oh my those hooves, your mane! What did he do to you?”
“Geezy weezy! look at your legs! I bet that must hurt, I can make a party to make you feel better if you want! I'll make you a get well soon cake! Wow they're red! Look at them, guys!”
“Pinkie stop poking her, give her space to breathe! Wow her legs do look bad, where the buck is that Mortar guy? I want to give him a piece of my mind!” the rainbow maned speedster growled, her eyes looking for a certain stallion to pummel.
“Hold your horses Rainbow, beatin on that varmint ain't gonna fix the problem. No matter how much we all want to get a piece of that stallion. What matters is the health of our friend here, that Mortar feller can be dealt with later. And Speaking of the bastard, were is he?”
“Over here, I got him!” we all turned to see Brand dragging Mortar by the tail. With a flick of his head he tossed him in the middle of us with surprisingly little difficulty. The royal guard training must make them ripped beyond belief. But I'm getting off track, what are we going to do with Mortar?
“So we got him, what're we going to do with him? Any ideas, girls? Cause I got a few, but somethin tells me y'all got other ideas” Applejack thought, kicking a hoof against the very much unconscious Mortar. I for one wanted to knock the remaining teeth he had left to the stone age and toss him in a cell. But before I could say my piece, Twilight spoke up first.
“First of all we aren't going to lay a hand on him, he is a criminal in custody. Second, we will take him as well as Cheerilee to the hospital to have their wounds treated. I know you all want Mortar to get what's coming to him, but this isn't the way. Even though he has done terrible things, not treating him to a fair case is unethical. No matter how rotten to the core he is.”
Everpony agreed, nodding in unison except for Rainbow Dash who just huffed angrily. I was in the same boat as her, we all wanted to do what she was thinking. Mortar's lucky Twilight and the rest of us are good ponies or else I would make sure he would spend the rest of his days eating through a straw.
“Besides, Cheerilee is safe and that is all that matters. Quite frankly I think we all just want to send Mortar on to his deserved place in a cell and go to sleep, right girls?” again more nods. And so with that said we all left with Mortar in tow. Not much was said as we all made it to the hospital, everypony seemed tuckered out, except for Pinkie Pie who asked me question after question over what happened. After that we all went our separate ways, Twilight's friends left for home but the guards stayed behind with us. Half of them stayed outside and the other half escorted Mortar, Twilight and I inside to check in.
We were instantly taken in by the nurses whom led us to a room for treatment. It was a fairly normal patient room, a cot for you to lay on and the scattered essentials for doctors.
“I will be outside, princess. Let me know if you need anything” said a nurse who I didn't catch her name, nonthe less she left us with a bow. As we were left alone I felt the familiar tingle of Twilight's magic encasing my body as she carried me to the cot. Ever so carefully she lay me down and gazed at me with tired eyes. The fur just below them still stained with fresh tears.
“You look tired, Twilight. You can snuggle with me if you want. It's been a long night, and I didn't even make it to second base” I tried my best to clear the air of uncertainty and thankfully it worked. A small smile crept up on her face as she nuzzled me.
“I'm glad to see you're still okay. For a while there I thought I wouldn't find you in time...” fresh new tears threatened to break free but she still kept that melancholy smile.
“You and me both, but I think we have to give a little more praise to our daring hero over here” we both looked over to Scootaloo who smiled shyly at us. And to think this little filly could be so brave, protecting me from Mortar the way she did.
“Remind me not to get on your bad side, Scootaloo. I think you have a griffon in your family tree, don't you think so Cheerilee?” Twilight chuckled and so did we. Unfortunately our laughter came to an end as a knock on the door ended the moment.
“May I come in?” a mare's voice asked, although it was muffled I could already tell who it was.
“Yes ma'am” and with that the door opened to reveal nurse Redheart, a familiar face and a drinking buddy of mine. Long story short, she can drink anypony under the table, most of the time.
“Hello everyone, and hello your majesty” Redheart bowed before turning her attention to me, curiosity obvious in her gaze. She said nary a word while she looked me over, her expert hooves swept over me. Poking and prodding me gently as she examined my legs.
“Let me know if anything hurts” her bedside manner was calming and professional. You can tell she has been doing this for a long time. But as she began testing my joints I felt the same burning pain sweep back up them.
“Right there, geez” I groaned, biting back the urge to squirm in agony. It took every ounce of willpower not to cry. I can't believe it still hurts like this, damnit, Mortar. I looked over at Scootaloo and Twilight for support. They both looked worried and so was I. Just how bad were the wounds? I really, really hope amputation doesn't come into play here. That's only for dead limbs and extreme cases, right?
But with every twitch I made, she stopped to write something down on her clipboard. Every time I held back a yelp she wrote a note. Just what was so damn interesting about my movements? Please don't let those notes be instructions on where to amputate...
'Calm down, you're getting overdramatic. Let the nurse do her thing' there wasn't much else I could do. So I listened to my conscience and endured for the next few minutes until Twilight spoke up.
“How bad is it? I know she was only tied up for a few hours so there can't be permanent damage. Redheart? Hello?” Twilight battered her with question after question while she paced the room.
“Princess, I know you are worried but I need silence to focus here. Please give me a moment. I am almost done checking her” Redheart calmly said, but with a hint of annoyance in her voice as she spoke. Twilight just grumbled something under her breath and Scootaloo rolled her eyes as she sat on her haunches. A few minutes of painful examination later Red Heart was finished. The room was silent as we watched anxiously as she scribbled away on that little clip board of hers.
With a click of her pen she looked to me, to Scootaloo to Twilight and then back to me. A expression of pure seriousness rested on her face. I looked to her eyes for reassurance and found none, she just gazed at me coldly. Uh oh.
“I'm sorry, Cheerilee but...” oh no, please don't say what I think your going to say!
“Your legs are pretty damaged, after poking you for a bit I didn't find the normal reactions. I suspect some nerves had been permanently damaged from the ropes. I am afraid we will have to amputate...” buck me! But one leg? I suppose I can live with that, wait. She's pausing, crap.
“All of your limbs, I am sorry...just kidding!” the room was silent until Redheart burst into laughter. My mouth fell to the ground, are you bucking kidding me?!
“Are you serious?” Scootaloo and I said simultaneously, Twilight just shook her head at Redheart's terrible joke. Seriously, who would joke about that?!
“Yes ma'am! Sorry for the scare, but I just couldn't resist! Your legs will be just fine, you will just have to stay off of them for a week or two and you will be right as rain! But I will call in a doctor to look you over for a second opinion though!” be still my beating heart. I am going to kill this mare, mark my words on all that is holy. Bucking. Hell.
“What? Why are you all looking at me like that? Geez, tough crowd!” Redheart laughed again before scribbling on another sheet of paper.
“However, kidding aside I will prescribe you pills for the pain. Nothing too strong, I recommend you take one every six hours, two if the pain gets worse. I doubt it will, but you can never be too careful. Here's the form, just take it to the front desk and they'll get you sorted out. Good evening to you all. A doctor will be with you shortly” Red Heart said her good byes as she handed a slip of paper to Twilight and made to leave. But before she could leave, Scootaloo tugged away at her tail. No doubt to get her attention.
“Um, you wouldn't happen to know what happened to that other dude that came in with us? Mortar was his name”
“Why yes I do, I didn't examine him but according to the nurses I talked to by his room? He broke a few ribs, has cuts here and there. But that isn't the shocking bit! He's missing half his right ear! Did you have a diamond dog with you or something?”
“Something like that” I chuckled all the while Scootaloo shot me a death glare. I was going to get beat up by a grade schooler, but it would be worth it.
“So she'll be fine to go home then? If so can we get a wheel chair for her please? After the doctor look her over of course”
“I think that would be lovely, although I think riding bareback on you would be far more therapeutic” Twilight blushed at my words all the while giving me the go ahead to politely shut the buck up
“So the rumors are true then? Well it looks like my boss owes me lunch tomorrow, anywho I will be back with a wheelchair! You three just hang tight!” and Red Heart left us to stew on our own thoughts. And mine were filled with just how our oh not so secret romance became so wildly known. Who spilled the beans?
“At this rate there will be a article about us on the Canterlot Daily. The princess and the teacher, a by the book romance. As if I needed that headache when I go eat lunch in the teacher's lounge” I rolled my eyes at the image in my head. Images of the other teachers noses deep in the pages of the morning newspaper. I can see it now, half of them snickering and half of them in awe. Both at my sexuality and at the idea of me dating royalty.
The impending cluster buck is looming on the horizon.
“I hardly think that this whole search and rescue operation is normal in most romance novels. It would be quite the conversation piece, wait until Celestia hears about this. I can't wait to write to her about Scootaloo's daring act of the night!” I can only imagine Celestia's reaction when she reads it. I hope her sister takes pictures.
“Yeah I know, I am pretty awesome. Just like Rainbow Dash! Maybe with a little less biting action, but still! Just tell the princess how cool I was! Maybe leave out the ear thing, it's kinda gross to talk about...” that's right, this little pegasus managed to pull off that little show. Wait, she bit Mortar, did she didn't swallow his blood did she? Knowing Mortar he would be blood type alcohol and drug positive to the max.
“That reminds me, you didn't swallow any blood, did you? If you did-”
“Bleh, don't remind me! No I didn't swallow his gross blood. But he tasted terrible! And jerkiness tastes pretty bad, I wouldn't recommend it” all of the tension in the air was gone just like that. Everything felt normal, well, as normal as things could get tonight.
“We three are pretty weird, aren't we? I don't think anypony in Ponyville can beat us on adventure stories. How can they top Scootaloo's daring bite attack?” I joked at Scootaloo's expense and received a jab in the ribs for it, worth it in my book every time.
“I guess we're pretty perfect together. The perfect family just a signature away huh? Oh! Oops...” the room went silent as Scootaloo trailed off into her own thoughts. Her eyes staring down at her hooves, avoiding our own.
"The jig is up, sugar. Time to spill the news to your honey! Open that can of worms! Be brave!"
“Twilight, we need to talk about some things. I was planning on telling you this, you know, before the kidnapping thing. I'm planning on adopting Scootaloo, I know it's sudden and all out of the blue but I jus-”
“I know all about it” well there goes half of my hastily planned speech.
“Oh, really? Well that is, that is...huh. It must sound crazy, we haven't even been going out long enough to think about raising foals. It must seem crazy, maybe it's...” crap, I've really done it now. Here I am talking in circles like a complete idiot. I can't find a way out of this! I should have kept my mouth shut and played it off as a joke.
Please don't get mad, Twilight! Please don't get mad! At least be grumpy, I can handle grumpy.
“And I think that it is a wonderful idea” yeah I don't blame-what?
“What?” I asked, thinking I had misheard her words. I looked to Scootaloo and she was just as dumbfounded as I was.
“You didn't think I would say no, did you? I love you, Cheerilee. And I love Scootaloo a lot as well, I wouldn't mind adopting her with you. We're family, aren't we? Blood related or not, we'll take it in stride” oh my goodness she is going to make me cry. Don't cry, you're going to make everypony cry if you do. I can't believe she's accepting this, but then again she's Twilight. Why doubt her in the first place, somepony slap me, please.
“Although it may be a little too early to consider adopting a child, especially with how long we've been together. Yet, it doesn't sound so bad. Hay, I raised Spike and I think we can handle it. Besides, I think at least one of us has to know how to raise a filly. I've done my fair share of reading you know” my tears fell freely now and I couldn't stop smiling like an idiot. This mare is perfection to me, I can't stand it.
“You are so impossible, making me cry like this. You hear that, Scootaloo?” Scootaloo nodded like crazy as she bounded to Twilight. Hugging her with all her might. And so we three hugged it out, paving the way to our future as a family. One step at a time we will get there. Eventually a doctor came to confirm Redheart's suspicions and we left the hospital behind with Scootaloo hovering at my side and Twilight pushing me along in a wheelchair. Taking one last look at the hospital my thoughts went to Mortar.
The bastard deserved a lot worse, but in the end was it worth it? He's a terrible being that I am sure that we all want to beat the stuffing out of as much as we could and soon he would be out of the hospital and into the hooves of the guard. I wonder where he would be imprisoned, would they have visiting hours so I can cuss him out whenever I wanted? Nonetheless I don't know where he would go and frankly I don't care. All I care about is getting my better and taking a long, long nap at home.
"Nearly getting offed by your ex, starting the road to making a family with your marefriend and being hospitalized, oh my! What a Monday, huh?"
What a Monday indeed, buck Mondays. With that single thought in my mind I started to feel the impact of all that happened tonight lay in on myself. I felt exhausted, sore and most of all just plain done with tonight. Letting out a soft yawn I let my heavy eyelids close shut and drifted off into sleep.
“Cheerilee? Wake up” my eyes fluttered open to meet Twilight looking down at me, I smiled at her and she smiled back.
“Morning Twilight, what did I miss?” I said yawning, my eyes drifting off to the world around me. I was back at the library, and more importantly in Twilight's bed. I could smell something being cooked and the voices of idle chatter from downstairs. Spike and Scootaloo, I wonder what they're up to?
“It's still night time actually, I didn't want to wake you, especially after what you've been through but you haven't taken your medicine yet” oh, right, that. I almost forgot about that unpleasant business.
“So here you go, open wide now” out of the corner of my eye floated two tiny pills. Eyeing the capsules warily I opened my mouth and in they went. Thankfully they weren't too big to warrant a glass of water, but only barely.
“Hopefully I won't get too much of a buzz. Let me know if I start rambling about nonsense, Twilight” I said with a laugh, Twilight just rolled her eyes at me all the while running her hooves through my mane. And here we are again, blissfully relaxing together as if I wasn't almost killed tonight. Talk about bucked up date nights.
“I love you” the mare beside me whispered ever so softly. I never tire of hearing her say that, never growing weary of those perfect purple eyes that I gaze at now.
“Oh do you now? You still do, even after tonight?” I asked, laying my head against the crook of her neck.
“I do, what happened tonight was crazy but when you do the things I do, see the things i've seen? I would do anything to make sure everypony I love is safe and sound. Especially you, Cheerilee. You're precious to me” without a doubt I am the luckiest mare in Equestria. But I'm still not satisfied with her answer, I couldn't get enough of it.
“Even more so than all of the books in your library?” the trap was set, now all I had to do was wait for her answer. But without missing a beat Twilight answered.
“Even more than any ancient tome in history and besides, a book is good for a read or two. But it can't keep you warm...” her voice went silent. She didn't need to say anything, she let her hooves do the talking. She moved carefully on her bed as she lay on her side next to me, her hooves snaking around my body as she did in one smooth motion.
“Technically they can, just start a fire and-” with a soft boop on my muzzle she silenced me and continued her speech. I rolled my eyes at her and she rolled her eyes back with a smile. With a giggle she began to speak once more.
“They definitely don't talk back too, well there was that one time...anyways. Books can't hold you, can't tell you they love you. And most of all...” again Twilight went silent. All she did was look into my eyes, her face inching closer and closer to my own. I responded in kind, breaking the distance between us and our lips. The rush of warmth from her lips melded with mine, sending my heart into overdrive and tingling me to the core.
We lay there kissing away, but never straying away from our chaste lip lock. I didn't need to, and neither did she, we were content with just this little moment. And after a eternity we parted away, but only just.
“I love you too” I whispered, nuzzling my muzzle against hers and she did the same. Nothing more was said between us as we held each other in our grasp. As the minutes passed by silently I began to feel drowsy, no doubt the pain pills taking effect. Or perhaps my body felt it was time to rest, Celestia knows that I need it. And so I nestled into the crook of my marefriend's neck, shutting my eyes closed. It wasn't long until I felt my consciousness drifting away, the sounds of Twilight's breathing lulling me to sleep.
A week later of recuperation...
“I don't know about this, Twilight. I don't think we should, I mean it's too early for this you know?” I said, feeling anxiety hit me like a speeding carriage. This was a bad idea. Here I am laying on her bed and she wants to up the anty, so to speak.
“Why are you worrying so much? Scootaloo is in school right now and Spike is out getting groceries. We have the tree house all to ourselves, why not give it a shot?”
“Well...alright, oh, oh! That feels soooo good...” she didn't even let me get a chance to brace myself as she went at it. And boy did it feel amazing, my legs I mean.
“How is it? I'm doing it just like the book said. Let me know if anything feels sore so I can work it out for you” she reassured me while she massaged my legs. Right now she worked on my lower left one but what does it matter? This feels amazing! And to think I thought it was too early for physical therapy!
“You don't have to tell me to twice, ah! Lower!” I let out a sigh of relief as the built up tension in my joints were kinked out by Twilight's masterful touch. Twilight warned me that sitting on my ass waiting for my legs to get better would make me feel stressed, but not quite like I thought. Have I really been this pent up? Even for only a few days?
“Geez your tense, didn't Rainbow tell you to do some stretches once in a while? Exactly in case so that this wouldn't happen to you?” Twilight's words reminded me of what Rainbow Dash had said when she came over to visit a few days ago.
“Remember to stretch your legs out from time to time. You don't want your joints to get sore in any way, especially in your condition. This one time I was racing with Applejack and I forgot to stretch...” her ramblings aside, that is what the blue speedster had told me. But procrastination is a bitch, and I caught myself sleeping most days instead of stretching like she told me to do.
“Yeah I remember, I just got lazy is all. I'm sorry, Twili-ow!” I winced a little as Twilight got to an especially tense part of my legs. Right near the hoof too, my legs still haven't healed all the way yet.
“Was it here? Sorry, it looks like we can't go through with the stretching near your hooves just yet. Maybe in a day or two we can get to it hopefully" ugh, why can't I just magic just fix this and be done with it?
“Wonderful, can't you use a healing spell to make this whole thing go by faster?” I didn't want to sound too impatient but I couldn't help it. I always ask her the same question at least once a day and the answer I get is always the same. No, let your legs heal normally or she'll sometimes say that her magic would only accelerate my healing by a day at the most. And then there could be complications or something. Go figure, am I right?
Besides that, the real reason why I am positively miffed at is that I'm getting tired of sitting on my ass not being able to do anything. If I was a unicorn I wouldn't be complaining. But it isn't all bad, I have Twilight, Scootaloo and Spike to help me through this.
I just wish I wasn't being such a damn burden to them. I know they don't see me like that, but damn it all I don't like sitting around like this for so long!
"'Says the mare who does just that whenever she comes back from work! You'd think this is the high life for you, sugar. Your marefriend catering to your every whim, just like those rich dames in your books with their prince, well, princess in your case!" and right on cue came my conscience to make matters worse as usual. Witty quips and all.
“Relaxing while reading a book and being confined to a bed for a month or more are two completely different things! Shut up!” I yelled at my conscience, but in my mind of course. Could you imagine me doing that out loud?
Moments had passed in silence with Twilight humming a tune as she continued her ministrations. The next thing I knew I fell asleep somewhere along the way, because I woke up to the sound of a silence as I woke alone.
“Twilight? Scootaloo? Spike?” I called out and received not even a peep. Looks like they're out, perhaps they're out doing errands of some kind together? Whatever the reason I hope they are alright, I bucking hate being confined to this damn bed. Suddenly my thoughts were interrupted by the sound of something crashing mixed with somepony screaming their lungs out. A couple of thuds later a voice yelled from downstairs.
“I'm okay! But I think somepony might have to take a look at the door hinges! Is anypony home by the way? I am really, really sorry about your front door! Hello?” instantly I recognized the owner of the voice, Ditzy. I really hope she didn't break anything.
“Nopony is home but me, Ditzy! I'm upstairs!” I yelled back at the mail mare. Seconds later she came dashing upstairs with a apologetic look on her face.
“H-Hi, Cheerilee. I got some mail and I didn't break anything this time!” she said with a salute as she approached. Well I'll take her word for it. I can't exactly waltz downstairs to check anyways.
“It's alright, Ditzy. I haven't seen you around in a while, how's your daughter doing?” I asked, sitting up and stretching my legs a little to find them just as sore as I had left them earlier. Looks like that massage didn't do jack.
“She's a little angel as always, she keeps talking about how she can't wait for you to come back to teach her class again. Apparently the sub isn't exactly popular. Anywho, here's your mail for today!”
“No kidding? Well let her know that I will be back soon...” I stopped for a moment, noticing the letter came from my job. With a lump in my throat I tore open the letter and read away. Thankfully it wasn't bad news, just a simple notice that the date of my return to the workplace was fast approaching. According to the date I had a week and a half until I get back to teaching.
“What's it say?” Ditzy asked as she plopped herself at my bedside.
“Just a notice that I'll be back in the saddle so to speak soon”
“Great! I am sure my little muffin will love to hear that. Oh, but what about your legs? Are you feeling okie dokie and stuff? I heard about you got hurt or something? They look pretty red, like sore strawberries!”
“They look more like a cherry color, but I can see the strawberry color now!” we both had a laugh at my own expense, but it was a good laugh nonetheless.
“So the mean guy that did this to you is gone, right?” Ditzy asked, I noticed a hint of caution or fear in her voice. She doesn't know the half of it, and thankfully she never will have to experience it. Now that that psycho is in a cell where he belongs.
“Yep, they threw his rotten behind in prison where he belongs. But enough about that, you should get back to your routes. I've taken enough of your time I am sure”
“Nah, not really. This was my last stop, so I am done! And my little muffin is having a sleepover tonight so I am free for today” I watched the bubbly mare gush over her daughter with the biggest smile in the world. Every time she talks about Dinky she acts like the proud mother she is.
“You wouldn't mind staying for a cup of tea then?” I offered, making to get up only to fall back down at the soreness that remained.
“Sure! But don't get up, please! I don't want to be the reason you hurt yourself. Oh and, um, I don't know how to make tea...” Ditzy blushed, embarrassed by her lack of tea making skills. To be honest I don't know how to make tea either, just coffee. But were out of coffee and I was hoping she would know how to so...never mind.
“Some juice maybe instead then?”
“Oh! That I can do!” perfect.
Meanwhile in a dark, dank room...
“Let me go you blasted son of a whore! I tell you that I-woah!” and here I am, flying through the air, thrown by a guard like a damn baseball. Time seemed to slow down as I realized that all of my cursing wouldn't stop the incoming cobblestone wall of my new cell.
This is going to hurt.
And with a sickening crack followed by pain, oh so very painful pain, I lay there curled in a ball. Celestia be damned! Laying on the ground, I'm missing an ear, I think a rib is broken and now I have a splitting headache.
“Tonight just aint my day, where did I go wrong? Hey guard! When do I get my first free call or whatever you bastards call it?” I said, sitting up to see the very same brute that chucked me in here closing the cell door.
“You have the right to remain silent, please adhere to that right” he said as he snorted at me, walking off with a flick of his tail.
“Don't you walk away from me! Do you know who I am? I am motherbucking Mortar! Scourge of Manehattan, grifter with a heart of coal! You come back here, I have rights!” yelling with all my might I threw myself at the iron bars of my cell. And what a stupid idea that was, make that two broken ribs. I can't believe this crap, one minute I am resting it up at the doc's and now here I am in a cell! Buck prison!
“Bucking damnit, bucking damnit!” I yelled and cursed my lungs out as I banged the cell door. But the guard never came back, no matter how loud my tantrum was.
“Calm down Mortar. It will be alright, you've been in bigger jams than this. Just think, what should I do? Maybe I can make some friends in the cafeteria or wherever they pass out the slop in this joint. Bribe a guard or two, then make a break for it...” I thought aloud to myself. Going over every possible scenario that could work out well.
This isn't the first time I broke out of prison, but a prison in Canterlot? With the royal guard themselves patrolling the accursed halls within? Buck me.
“This is going to be hard...”
“That's not the only thing that's hard, honey” said a deep low voice from behind me. I froze, I'm not alone in the cell am I? I made to face the voice only to be pushed against the cell bars, hard.
“I can't breathe! This bucker weighs a ton!” I thought as I tried my hardest to break myself free, only to get pushed down even harder. It doesn't feel like I'm being smothered by fat, rather I think I feel one hoof on my back. Wait, one?!
“Quit struggling, I ain't gonna hurt you. Don't move and I promise not to rough you up. What's your name?” I relaxed a little but I didn't drop my guard. Who the hell does this bloke thinks he is? Every time I try to move he just adds more pressure!
“Mortar” I barely managed to say and my single word made the voice bellow out in laughter.
“Mortar, Mortar, Mortar...has a nice ring to it. I'm Slag and it seems we are cell mates, huh?” the voice named Slag chortled, his voice deep and low like a baritone sax. Suddenly I felt the pressure on my back disappear. I gasped for breath and tried to face my attacker only to get slammed against the bars again.
“Tisk tisk, darling. Trying to move when I clearly said don't? Looks like breaking you in as a proper bitch will take some work...” Slag muttered as two hooves clanged against either side of me.
What did he say? And what the hell is poking my flank...oh hell no! No bucking way, this is not happening!
“Just relax, this will only sting for a second or two” Slag's baritone voice purred in my ear, his breathe sending chills up my spine.
“N-No! I am Mortar of Manehattan I don't swing that way so let me go!” Slag just laughed a sinister laugh at my words. The hard you know what poking at my back side tentatively. Maybe if I yell at him really loudly he'll listen to reason! I have to try.
“Let me g-go you filthy fruity fag-AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH”
Back in Ponyville...
“Ditzy, did you hear something?” my ears twitched at what I thought was a muffled scream. Am I imagining things? I looked to my wall eyed companion as she downed yet another muffin and tilted her head side to side.
“Mmmnope!”
“Right...I guess I was just imagining things. Anyways, what were you talking about? I believe you were talking about a enchanted muffin?”
“Oh yeah! That story! Where was I? Ah, right! Listen to this, one night Dinky was practicing her spells...” the night went on as Ditzy and I shared stories throughout the evening. But one thought still bugged me for some reason, I wonder how Mortar is doing?
A week later...
It's been a solid week and my legs had gotten better, those stretches really sped things up unsurprisingly. I can walk by myself now without much difficulty, but an attempt to sprint would be disastrous. Besides that I woke up today feeling amazing, today was the day I regain my throne. Or in a less metaphorical way of saying it, I'm getting my job in teaching back today. And so as I sat in my kitchen waiting for my coffee to brew I thought about several things. Most of them about my job but one thing stood out.
Scootaloo, Scootaloo and those adoption papers that I had yet to finish. I've been meaning to complete the paperwork but I haven't had a chance to do so. But today I'll make it up to her and get Twilight to finish her half of the work if she hasn't already. And speaking of that winged little rascal I wonder if she made it to school alright? Last night she left to the library early on the account of “It's a surprise!” oh boy. I'm afraid to figure out just what she has planned.
Ding! Coffee's done and it's about time too because according to the clock I had fifteen minutes to get to work. Plenty of time if there's no traffic on the way to school, or if there's another flash mob of singing. Celestia I hope not!
"Yeah, since neither you or I can't sing for crap! At least you still got your looks" and it wouldn't be a Monday morning if a certain flamboyant voice in my head didn't pop in to say a annoying comment or two.
“Ain't that the truth” I said absent minded as I sipped my coffee. And as soon as the brew hit my tongue I instantly felt better. Ah the wonders of caffeine, where would I be without you to help me through my mornings? Taking another long drink I dumped the remains of the brown wonder mix of sugar and caffeine into the sink.
“Time for work” I said aloud to nopony in particular. And so as I gathered up my satchel filled with the essentials of any teacher I left for work. Stepping outside I was greeted by the sights and sounds of a bustling Monday morning. The air smelled fresh, the ponies of Ponyville happily went along their daily morning routes, well most of them anyway. Regardless I made my way through the crowds with a skip in my step.
On the way to school I met with some familiar faces, Bonbon and Lyra worked the candy store as usual. I wish I had the time to chat but I settled for a wave as I passed by the two busy bees. I made a mental note to fashion up a double date with Twilight and those two, but with less alcohol. We wouldn't want a repeat of drunk Lyra, right...you know what?
"What is it, sugar? Something on your mind?" asked my conscience, his voice popping into my head.
“It just hit me, I have never called you by a name before”
"Now that you mention it I haven't even noticed. Odd, ain't it, sugar? Why care about it all of a sudden?" my conscience wondered, curiosity evident in his voice.
“Why shouldn't I? I know I should have done this a while ago but don't you want to be more personalized? You may be a disembodied voice in my head but you're still a individual, no matter how crazy that might sound to anypony else!”
"That is true...what should I be called? Maybe something heroic sounding, or maybe something normal sounding?" pondered my conscience, he was really getting into this.
“You? Normal? Very funny”
"Hush! I'm thinking! Let's see, maybe...no, that's too fruity. Even for me! What about..." the next few moments were spent in silence. With myself making my way to school and my conscience humming away as he thought and thought.
"I got it! This'll be ace!" yelled the drag queen in my head, his voice turning all giddy for a moment.
“And what name did you settle on? Sparkles? Flutterbutter?” this'll be rich, I bet it's something really gay sounding.
"No and nope! Basil! I want to be called Basil from now on!" and never mind.
“That is actually...not bad. Honestly I expected you to choose something far more flamboyant”
"Nope, Basil has a nice ring to it. An herb that is fragrant and aromatic. A plant that is sweet and pure to the senses. And arguably pretty fruity, so it's perfect!"
“You know I once knew a stallion named Basil and last time I checked he fancied mares” I teased.
"Sounds like a total loser to me" I couldn't help but burst out into laughter and so did my conscie-I mean, Basil. Sure I got a few odd looks but I could care less. I was just having too much of a wonderful morning. Mortar's in jail, my marefriend loves me, I have my job and most important of all I have my passion back in my life. My job and my students, I wonder if they miss me?
"Of course they do, or not. I dunno, we will see soon enough, hurrah for optimism!" well that comment didn't help my esteem. Never change, Basil, never change.
“Funny” I grumbled silently as I kept my pace until finally I arrived to my destination. The school grounds was devoid of students save for the morning passerby ponies and teachers rushing to work. Well it's good to see that things haven't changed at all since then. It's been a while though, the air feels different somehow. Nostalgic even or is it something else?
"Nervous?"
“A little, yeah” I muttered, eyeing the school grounds a little warily. As if this was all a dream and I would wake up back in that dusty cellar with Mortar. But with a quick pinch of my cheeks I found myself very much still awake. Why am I nervous? I'm just heading back to work, same as always. Yet I can't stop feeling a little shaky.
"Well I am ready when you are, sugar" with Basil at my side, or more specifically in my mind, I took a deep breathe and with it I went inside. As I entered the front doors I said my hello's to the receptionist, signed in and followed the same path to class that I always took. Passing by classrooms I saw children and their teachers going about their day with smiles. A filly accompanied by a teacher occasionally passed by me, each one with a smile or a hello to say.
Oh how I have missed this, to think I took this whole environment I worked in for granted. Looking back now, I had been a little hard on the kids back then. The tedium must have gotten to me, had I really been that crass? If I could slap my cynical self I would do so with prejudice! That is no way for a teacher like myself to act!
"And you were especially tough on those two kids, Snips and Snails right? Oh, don't forget about little miss prissy filly! You got her good, I wonder if she is still a brat?" flashbacks of Diamond Tiara and her father came rushing back. What a fiasco that was, I still can't believe Filthy Rich did what he did. Damn rich fat cats, corrupt, the lot of them.
“I have no idea, we'll see when we get there” a moment of silence befell us as the fabled door that lead to my classroom appeared up ahead. Anticipation set in, I couldn't wait to get back to work, to teach my students once more.
'You think your students will be happy to see their old teacher walking through that door?' I replied without an answer, just a thoughtful hum/I am, I feel nervous as all hell. I know I shouldn't though but...”
"No butts, sugar! It'll be fine, I don't know why you're worrying so much. It's not like they'll jump you or some malarkey like that"
The image of all my students rushing me like a pack of timber wolves flashed in my mind. Nah, that would never happen. Just my imagination going overdrive again, stupid brain.
"Yeah, kind of spacey up in here. Honestly it could do for some furniture"
“And I'm ignoring you for the next five minutes”
Ignoring my conscience I went back to pondering in silence, and as I did I realized just how long it was taking to get to class. It must have been five minutes and it feels like so much longer. The curses of rambling I suppose, why am I worrying so much? Was I afraid my students wouldn't welcome me with open arms? Well maybe only Diamond Tiara would ignore my presence like she usually would. Yet again, why am I getting this sickly feeling that something is going to happen.
Besides all of that,the question is, will everything be as it used to be?
"Honey, you're mentally rambling again"
“Sorry”
"And don't you dare go on a apologizing spree! Enough with the nervous rambling! By the order of your fairy drag queen in your head, stop and relax!"
Okay maybe I should count down from three. That always helps, mostly.
One, oh crap! I see the classroom, mere seconds away to my rightful place as teacher. Don't get nervous, Cheerilee. Relax and breathe, wouldn't want to look unprofessional and worrisome to the children. I wonder if my class missed me?
Two. Getting closer I noticed the lights were off in the classroom. It's pitch black in there, even the windows were covered up. How pecuiliar, am I too early? It can't be, I left at the same time as always and there's no holiday today. I think.
Three. My hoof is on the door knob. Just twist and push to reclaim what was taken from you months ago. My goodness it's dark, wait...did I see something move in there? With a squint of my eyes I noticed movement, a shadow darting around in the dark for a second. And then another as somepony or something flickered through the darkness that was my classroom.
And exhale, my breathe slipping past my lips leaving a ripple in the air. My hoof rigid on the door. The tension was killing me, I had to face whatever was inside at some point. Oh well, buck it. Here goes something! With a twist and a push the door creaked open revealing the oh so very dark classroom. Without taking my eyes off the pitch blackness I reached for the light switch. A flick later I was blinded and at the mercy of whatever lurked inside.
“SURPRISE!” before my eyes could adjust to the light my ears were greeted with the most jovial of all cheers and the force of a train knocking me down. Blinking rapidly I saw my attackers with full clarity. Where I expected scowls and beady eyes I met with bright smiles along side eyes full of life.
“Cheerilee! You're back! We missed you so much! What took you so long?” so many words and questions assaulted my ears as my beloved students swarmed me with hugs and kisses. As my lips curled into the biggest smile I pulled as many students as I could into one big hug.
“My oh my! It is so wonderful to see you all again, I take it you didn't miss me much?” I said with a laugh.
“We missed ya bunches!” a voice with an accent I could never miss said from somewhere in the dog pile. Suddenly none other than the red bow wearing Apple Bloom leaped out of the crowd into my hooves.
“More than just bunches! Like tons more than that!” and shortly Sweetie Belle soon followed after, a giddy smile on her lips.
“And it was about time! That sub just sucked!” last but not least came Scootaloo buzzing through the air and landing in my grasp alongside her friends.
“Look at you three, did you plan all of this?” I asked, ruffling the trio's manes playfully as I rose up, much to my student's disdain. To ease their chagrin I bent down to nuzzle each of them one by one. A serenade of giggles tickled my ears and set my heart a flutter. I missed this sound, the sound of happy children. There isn't a sound quite like it in my opinion. It's good to be back.
“Yup, we sure did! The hardest part was makin' that darn confection we made for ya!”
“Apple Bloom! That was supposed to be part two of the surprise!” scolded Scootaloo, annoyance clear in her voice. All of the other classmates sighed and moaned their disappointment almost simultaneously. Poor Apple Bloom could only blush, a shy smile shown on her face while she fondled her bow.
“It's okay, she was going to get it eventually, Scootaloo. Leave her alone!” added Sweetie Belle, asserting her role as the voice of reason as always. But before the trio could argue I coughed to get their attention as well as the class.
“Now now, class! It doesn't matter if the surprise was ruined or not! What matters is that we are all together again at last and I have missed you all oh so very much. So let's not ruin this wonderful moment with arguing, instead how about we all share stories of what I have missed these past months?” as my words left my mouth my students all agreed nodding in unison as they all sat at their desks.
“Miss Cheerilee, can we ask ya what y'all did when you were gone first?” Apple Bloom asked with curiosity. The rest of the class liked the sound of that and soon all eyes were on me.
“Well then, no pressure huh? It's a long story and I don't think we have the time...just kidding!” my little tease just rewarded me with rolling eyes and only just one snicker from the back of the class. Oh well at least I tried to break the ice.
“My what a tough crowd. Let's see, let's start from the day I got fired...” and so I began my story as I retold the events of that terrible day. I felt sick talking about my depression spell. That is a memory I really don't want to think on too heavily. But as I went along in my story suddenly a hoof sprang up from the sea of desks. The owner was Snips and I nodded at him to ask whatever he wanted to say.
“Did ya really eat five tubs of ice cream? I can't make it past the first one! How'd ya do it?” his question caused an uproar of laughter from both the class and I. Looking back on that moment now even I was surprised at how much desserts I shoveled down. Depression nearly ruined my body in more ways than one!
“Well if we are all being open here...I actually ate seven tubs of ice cream. Believe it or not. I can't say how I ate that much but I would have to blame how sad I was those nights. It was like a rain cloud had been hovering over me the entire time I was at home. It seemed like nothing could make me feel better, it's hard to explain” and now i've done it. The class all gave me apologetic looks as they all mumbled amongst themselves.
“But I didn't stay down in the dumps forever, class! Things took a turn for the better!” and boy did things get better. I still remember that night, when Twilight and Scootaloo helped turn my life around. It feels like forever.
“Yeah! Princess Twilight Sparkle and I busted in just at the right time to rescue Cheerilee! I think Twilight got her job back and all, but I was there and stuff!” now everyone's attention grew on Scootaloo. Soon everypony asked questions about her and Twilight. What did smell like lavender like they say in those magazines? How tall is she exactly? Are those wings really real? Is Miss Cheerilee really going out with the princess? Wait what?
I froze, my cheeks a fully blown rosey red color as I faced the judging looks of my students. The silence was deafening as both the class and I waited for somepony to say something. Another second ticked by when I realized that I had to say something at some point. Crap.
“Y-You all may have heard rumors of T-Twilight Sparkle and I getting...” oh Celestia, what's a good word? Intimate? No, that word is too strong for little ears. Think of something!
“Lovey dovey?” oh thank Celestia! Thanks whoever said that!
“Exactly, somewhere along the way I couldn't help but fall in love with her. I just got that warm feeling in my chest whenever I was next to her, you know? Things were tough, but she was my special somepony in the end don't you know. So yes, whatever rumor is floating around about Twilight and I is true. We are a couple!”
“That sounds so romantic, miss” said a starry eyed Peppermint Twist, always sitting in the front row like a good girl.
“Well my folks think it's yucky. And you're mares too! Mommy said that's um, sinful, I think!” and of course here comes Snails with his insightful comments. But it's not his fault, not everypony is open minded about relationships like this. What can you do?
“But what do you think about it, Snails?” now that is a dangerous question. I wonder how he'll answer? I hope I don't get fired again due to Snails telling his parents about all of this. I suddenly regret everything now. But the answer he gave me surprised me as well as the class.
“I don't get why my mom says stuff life that. Shouldn't everypony love whoever they like? Mares or stallions, it shouldn't matter I think. Even Celestia and Luna say that to tolerate everypony like your equal, love should be under the same idea. I mean, boy or girl it's still love ain't it? What's the problem, cause I just don't get it myself.”
Did Snails just say something intelligent and thoughtful? I think Tartarus might have frozen over, am I dreaming? Looking at the priceless looks on my students it is safe to say they were thinking the same thing.
“Yeah, I agree! Everypony should have a special somepony! Love who you want!” yelled one student. And then another and another piped in with their approval. Soon the entire class began telling me words of congratulations and reassurement. This whole scene warmed my heart, these kids are so pure hearted it could make me cry.
"Is that a tear, sugar? You're gonna make me cry you big softy!" and a chide came into play as Basil chuckled in my thoughts.
“Shut up, your ruining the moment you block head!”
“Did you say something, Cheerlee?” oh crap, did I say that out loud?
“I said where there any more question or would you all like me to continue my tale?” I blurted out, hoping they wouldn't ask why their teacher was talking to herself. Thankfully everpony nodded a yes and I continued my story. Next I told them how Twilight gave me a job, to the time I began developing feelings for her. They especially found it funny when I forced myself to eat fish that one time at the restaurant. After a good five minutes they let me continue, but not without a few snickering here and there.
Oh and I left out the part when I threw up on Diamond Tiara by accident. It's just bad taste, honestly. Speaking of little miss priss, where is she? While I kept talking I spotted the filly in the back of the class. She looked tired, her mane wasn't fashioned up and most shockingly she lacked her trademark tiara. Even more odd was that Silver Spoon sat beside her, chatting away like nothing was wrong.
I distinctly remember her saying that they were no longer friends. What's the story there? Regardless they looked content. They were actually listening to me for once as well, now I'm curious. But with a mental shrug I kept on with the story. Right to the part where my feelings were getting the best of me. Until finally I grew a pair to pursue my love for her right to the point where I nearly bucked everything up.
Everypony in the room scolded me for that mix up, especially Scootaloo. Nonetheless I went along with my story, finally ending with how I received the letter of acceptance to come back to work. For the next part I chose not to tell the class about how I was kidnapped for obvious reasons. Scootaloo however gave me a knowing glance, urging me to skip over that dark little piece of history. Some things were best left unsaid, especially that night.
It just gives me shivers thinking about it. Ugh, enough of that memory. The present is all that matters, damnit! Shaking my head free of the dismal drivel I finally went to finishing my story.
“And that is how I ended up back with you all today! Quite the story, isn't it?” as I ended my tale I was met with the sound of little hooves coming together in applause. I smiled at them all and bowed in a cheesy behind my desk, eliciting a chorus of laughter from the once applauding students.
“Now that my tale is over, who wants to tell me about what I missed? Did the substitute treat you well?” and bam! Just like that every single hoof was raised in the entire class. This is going to be a long day. But I don't mind one bit, it's good to be back at last. After quite a long time I learned what happened in my absence, and the news wasn't as exciting as my own story. Yet I don't feel bored listening to my students, my kids speak.
This is as much my home as it is my job. It just feels natural, like nothing has changed these past months. It sure doesn't feel different, even though time has passed. It's as if my absence had never happened, like I was here yesterday. This odd feeling felt...good, nostalgic I think. Before I could delve into the deeper meaning the classroom had been interrupted by the end of the day bell.
“My goodness, has it really been that long? I nearly forgot to give you all your homework!” and then came the onslaught of moaning and groaning. There wasn't really any homework, I just wanted to tease them. What? I haven't messed with my students in a while, I deserve one little moment!
“Hush now, children! It am just joking, there will be no homework. I promise! In fact there won't be any homework for the rest of the week. I think we all deserve a little time to relax, am I correct, children?” instantly those groans turned to cheers. As I prepared to leave, so did my students. But not before they all surrounded me in a flash mob of a group hug. One by one they said their good byes and out they went through the door.
As I said goodbye to the kids as they left, one by one they were soon gone. Except for two little fillies, Diamond Tiara and her partner in crime. I stared into her eyes and she glared back at me in return. Before I could even say a good bye she huffed at me and with a flick of her tail she was out the door. Always being the shadow Silver Spoon followed close behind. She stopped only for a moment to throw a apologetic glance and a sigh.
In the end the only ones left were behind were Scootaloo and I.
“Well that went swimmingly. It feels great to be back, Scootaloo. But I have a question, what's the deal with those two? Didn't Silver Spoon say they weren't friends anymore?” I asked, genuinely curious.
“Oh that! You should have seen Diamond Tiara after the sub came over to replace you. She tried her usual preppy crud to get her way and the sub wasn't having any of it. Do you have any idea how many times he called her dad for conferences? Don't tell anyone you heard this from me but I heard that Filthy Rich has had enough of little miss priss's crap. Especially after what happened with that Mortar guy!”
Well that explains Diamond Tiara's bad mood. Big daddy Filthy Rich has finally gotten over the mirage that was her so called perfection. Yet I feel a little guilty, some part of me wishes that Diamond Tiara was set straight in some other manner. What's done is done I suppose, maybe I should let her off easy in class for a little bit. Just to get her usual pep back anyways. Her dad is still a jerk though.
“Equestria to Cheerilee! You all accounted for up there?" Scootaloo groaned, poking at my side to get my attention.
“Oh! Yes I am quite alright, just day dreaming again for a second there. Were you saying something?” I stuttered sheepishly. Dang it, I did it again!
“Ugh! Whatever, anyways what was I saying? Hmmm, I forgot! Eh, no skin off my muzzle!”
“Indeed, shall we head home, daughter?” Scootaloo nearly fell over as she heard me say the magic word. Her eyes wide and cheeks red with embarrassment. She's so adorable when she's embarrassed! Rough and tough my behind.
“That is not official yet! You haven't turned those papers in though!”
“You're still going to have to get used to being called that eventually” I teased her in a sing song voice. My act of egging her on didn't have consequences though, in the middle of my chuckling she leaped on my head and swatted away at me.
“Stop laughing! Ugh!” Scootaloo whined as she pelted me with playful punches. Yet even she couldn't help but laugh along. And If you asked anypony who walked the halls who saw us that day? They would probably call us two bumbling idiots laughing their flanks off all the way to the front gates. However, all good things came to an end as our laughing fit ended with a calm walk back home.
Well, her home for now, anyways. Scootaloo and I grumbled at the sight of the orphanage. Hopefully when I send those adoption forms in this place won't be her home for much longer.
“So...you promise you're going to finish signing those papers tonight, right?” Scootaloo's words topped with those puppy dog eyes made my heart crack in two. She knew just the right ways to push my buttons. If it wasn't for the rules of turning her in early I would let her stay over for the night. Buck the rules.
“I promise, my little filly. When I get home I am going to finish those forms and send them in right before the orphanage closes. I just have to sign a few things and get Twilight's signature to finish, okay?”
“Really?” the way she said that word, just hearing the desperation, the uncertainty hurt. I can't mess this up for her, for both our sake. Without a word I swept her up in my grasp, holding her tight to my breast as I ruffled her mane. She let out a sad sigh as she returned the gesture, squeezing me hard like I would disappear if she stopped for just a second.
“Really really, don't worry. Now get going before Young Heart chews me out again. Until tomorrow, same time as always okay?” with a kiss to her forehead and one more squeeze I let go. But she didn't, she hung from my neck defiantly.
“Scoots...”
“But...fine I'm going. I swear to Celestia if you don't-”
“Don't worry, I got this. Now get your flank in there, trust me” and with that she let go. Disdainfully she dismounted me and scurried up those steps to the dismal orphanage. But not before stopping to face me once more.
“B-Before I forget! I l-l-love you...mom” did she just say the word? The big M word? Oh my.
“I love you too, Scootaloo. Goodnight, sweet dreams my daughter!” and with that said she was gone. I sighed wistfully, thinking about how I was to become a mother soon. It was only a few papers away from making it official, but even if for some reason it doesn't pull through? I wouldn't care, she will always be my little filly.
"So, mom, what's the plan now? Gonna go get the adoption forms and split for Twilight's?" asked my conscience and to which I simply nodded.
“Yes sir, I think I will stay over at the library as well. I do have to get Twilight's part of the paper work done and I haven't stayed over there in a while” as my conscience and I conversed in my head I made my way home. Quickly gathering the many papers needed I galloped to the library with an extra pep in step.
"So how do you feel about being a mom?" my conscience suddenly asked, and right as I was about to knock on the door too. I smiled, thinking about my answer as I knocked on the door. Not a moment later Spike let us in, but all was not well it seemed. Coupled with the little dragon's worried look the library was overtaken in a maelstrom of books. And at the epicenter of the book tornado sat Twilight, her muzzle buried in a book as she scanned through it before tossing it aside for another one.
“Friday night cram session?” I asked glancing over worriedly at the focused alicorn.
“Friday night cram session and I get to clean up the mess afterwards. Anyways, did everything go well at school?” the little dragon wondered as he went about picking up scattered books. And just as he picked up one, another was tossed away nearby by Twilight. Poor Spike.
“Everything went swimmingly”
“And the adoption papers?”
“How did-”
“It's all she's been talking about lately. She's been researching how to be a good mother and all that junk. You might want to stop her before she passes out from reading too much again” as Spike hurried off to wherever he was going my mind flashed back to a certain incident. One where I walked in on Twilight in the same situation.
It was a Friday like tonight, and let's just say that Twilight reading books like this? Without sleeping for nearly three days? I still remember taking care of her while she snapped at me in a weird book hangover like it was yesterday. Apparently she tried a spell on herself that worked similarly like coffee, but overcharged. Worked like a charm, but the side effects were pretty yelly.
And so, being the responsible marefriend I was I went to stop her for her own good. Dipping and dodging the swirling books I made my way to Twilight. As I got closer I noticed how frizzy her mane was, she was hunched over and her eyes were staring right into her book unblinking. With a sigh I did the one thing that could break her out of that nasty trance of hers. A special technique that works every time she gets like this.
Gently I pulled her steely gaze away from the book and into my eyes. The blinding white glow in her eyes sputtered away leaving behind those purple orbs I love so much. And as she opened her lips to speak I covered them with mine. Silencing her with a deep kiss. Snaking my hooves around neck and she did the same. And just as I felt the sensation of a tongue prodding my teeth I, albeit unwillingly, broke the kiss. As I did, Twilight let out a cute angry sigh that left me giggling.
“Hello Cheerilee, I almost did it again didn't I?” she mumbled, nuzzling affectionately against my cheek.
“Glowing eyes and all, you didn't use that spell again, did you?” I mused while nuzzling her back.
“Oh no, no no! Of course not, I learned my lesson...” and there's the tell tale eye twitch accompanied by a slight blush. She's lying, She can't put anything pass me.
“So you did do it?” I pulled away, crossing my legs over my chest. But I didn't pull the incredulous raised eyebrow just yet. Maybe she isn't lying, maybe.
“No” Twilight's eyes drifted to the left, yep, she's lying.
“Twilight...” and there goes the raised eyebrow.
“I only used it in moderation. A teeny tiny bit, honest!” I shook my head at her words and sighed at my marefriend's actions. Unicorns and their spells!
“Okay I believe you, just promise me you'll stop cramming so much for now. We'll be just fine in taking care of Scootaloo when we adopt here, it won't be any different than raising a baby dragon. With more or less the same amount of fire accidents of course. And speaking about that, did you finish your half of the paperwork?”
“See for yourself” Twilight looked to the side at a table positively piled with papers. Her horn went a glow and the immense stack floated between us. Page by page the stack of papers flipped over and over again showing signature after signature. Thank heavens, she even filled in my half of the work I missed too!
“I love you, you know that right?” nuzzling up to the mare I love so very much I planted a kiss on her cheek for he reward.
“I know, and you know what?” Twilight asked with a peck on my cheek.
“Hm?” I wondered, raising an eyebrow at her playfully.
“I love you more” so that's how it's going to be, eh? I'm always game for endless loop wars.
“Oh no you don't, your not getting me to commit to the I love you, loop! Not this time my dear, princess” I held back a giggle as I put on my war face but only ended up chuckling like an idiot. Twilight smiled at my antics as she giggled along with me.
“Aw, alright my seductive school teacher. But you have to commit to one thing. A little get together” she said as her giggle fit subsided as well as mine. And a get together? What was she planning? I just had to ask, of course.
“And what would that be?”
“You'll just have to follow me to find out!” and just like that she was gone, literally! She blinked away in a flash of light leaving behind a envelope. A letter no less, and in that familiar purple envelope that I knew all too well. Tentatively I picked up and tore open the letter to read the contents within.
“Dear my very special Somepony, Scootaloo and I have a surprise for you. But where we are I shall not tell. However, I will leave you with a clue to help you figure out where I have gone. Read carefully!” excitement and adrenaline began to fill my senses. I haven't felt like this ever since we stopped sending each other little love letters. It feels like forever since we've done this! With a wistful sigh I returned to reading where I left off.
“A weathered tree still holding onto it's summer leaves, standing tall amongst the grass. A memento of lovers that had yet to come to pass, a unrequited love yet to blossom. A place where wishes go to rest in it's bosom, until a love comes to answer. Go to a place where love you furiously sought after” I smiled as I read aloud cheesy the rhymes. My chest filled with warmth when I realized exactly what had Twilight described.
The old oak tree at the park, that's where I must go. Back to where our little charade began and the start to our romance. It's just like in my romance novels! Except those stories were between a mare and stallion, but buck the norm for today!
“Twilight, Scootaloo, I am on my way” and on my way to the park did I go. With every step the park came closer and I couldn't get rid of the goofy grin that I was wearing. As my hooves crinkled the fresh grass, my eyes scoured the park for my two precious loves of my life. My hoof steps went on autopilot for I had walked this path many times before. And so as I came upon the old oak tree I spotted Scootaloo and Twilight chatting amongst themselves in the shade.
But that wasn't all, placed neatly next to them rested a basket that held who knows what. My guess it would taste heavenly if the savory smells that met my nose could be trusted.
“Well, well, well! What have we here? Looks like I found you two sneaky minxes!” I greeted the two loves of my life as I sat between them. Giving Twilight a kiss and Scootaloo a peck on the cheek I got comfortable.
“And it took you long enough! We were about to start the celebration picnic without you. I was about to doze off for a second there, you slow poke!” Scootaloo teased as she climbed on top of me, resting on my back with a yawn.
“Nice to see you too, Scootaloo, as well as my fair lady” turning to Twilight I gave her another kiss which caused Scootaloo to erupt in a series of gagging noises. She jokes about it now, but I will get my revenge when she gets a special somepony of her own when she gets older. Just you wait!
“Bleh, grown up love!” spat Scootaloo, but I just rolled my eyes as I looked over to Twilight and shot her a look. Without saying anything she just smirked, seemingly knowing exactly what I was thinking.
“Oh I am oh so very sorry. Twilight? It seems we are neglecting a certain somepony” I said with mischevous intent in my voice.
“Why I do believe you are right, but whom?” Twilight pondered as she picked up Scootaloo in her grasp.
“Hah, hah, very funny you two. Put me dow-wait. Why are you guys looking at me like that?” Scootaloo's eyes widened in horror when she finally realized just what we were planning. But before she could react we pounced on her, our hooves attacking her belly without mercy. Scootaloo could do nothing but laugh and laugh like crazy. After a few seconds of tickling Scootaloo unfortunately broke free and playfully smacked us both on the muzzle.
“Tag! Your it!” and just like that she dashed off, flapping her wings as she soared just above the grass. I looked to Twilight and she looked at me. Just as I was about to get up to run I remebered how bucked my legs were.
“I'll sit this one out, you go have fun, Twilight” I said letting out a sigh.
“Just relax, I will be right back in a jiffy” with that said, the purple alicorn was gone as she galloped after Scootaloo. And as another sigh left my lips I watched as Twilight chased Scootaloo all over the park. With Scootaloo just barely a hair away from being caught. Now isn't this embarrassing, a little filly is out speeding Twilight the alicorn. Rainbow Dash would be proud, and she would be snickering like a mad mare if she was here.
And that was the start of our day as a family. We spent the nearly the whole day at the park, and just as we began to settle down under the setting sun I remembered Scootaloo's curfew.
“Scootaloo, it's time to head on back, okay?” I warned as I got up, stretching my body while Scootaloo and Twilight did so as well.
“Ugh, yeah, okay. But speaking of me, have you finished those papers like you said you would?”
“Yes ma'am, we'll swing by the orphanage after this to drop them off” Twilight added as she cleaned up the picnic and stuck everything into her satchel neatly.
“Wow, really? Then what're we doing here standing around like a bunch of dummies? We can do that at the library! Let's go, c'mon!” with Scootaloo leading our little group it didn't take us long arrive at the orphanage, and right before the curfew too.
The three of us kept a steady pace as we walked up the steps and into the orphanage. With the opening of the front doors let loose the booming sound of little fillies screaming at the top of their lungs. Some in joy from playing and others from arguing amongst themselves. It looks like we stumbled upon a lively moment here. And within the chaos roamed the dozen or so caretakers doing their best to control the hoard.
But as Twilight, Scootaloo and I marched our way through the swarm they all came to a stand still at the sigh of a certain purple alicorn. They all whispered amongst themselves as they watched from afar in silence.
“Looks like you have some fans” I chuckled, watching how all the little fillies look up to Twilight in awe as they chattered silently.
“It seems I do, hello everypony! I am just here on some not so royal business, keep doing what you were doing before!” and just like that the whole orphanage was in a uproar once more. As the madness resumed, the caretakers went back to panicking while trying to organize the mess that was the orphanage. I can't say I envy them but I had to give them credit. Sure, I take care and teach of students but these folks are on a whole other level. Looking past the chaos we approached the front desk to meet with Young Heart, whom was scribbling away frantically in a ledger.
“Hi Young Heart! I'm back before curfew like always!”
“Who? Ah, hello Scootaloo. You're back home earlier than usual today, what's the occasion? Are your friends trying to string you up to help with their chores again?”
“Not this time Young Heart, we finished those adoption forms! Show her, guys!”
“Adoption pap-oh! I nearly forgot about that, I'll take those of your hoo-oh my goodness hello, Twilight Sparkle! It is an honor to meet you, I was wondering why the children were so quiet a moment ago. Anyways, do you have the adoption papers, Cheerilee?” I simply nodded a yes to her question as I dug through my satchel to bring out my half of the forms. Twilight followed suit and brought out her respective half as well, stacking it under my own as I gave it to Young Heart herself.
“So the rumors are true, huh? Well congratulations to you both on your relationship as well as deciding on adopting Scootaloo! Now then let's see here...” as Young Heart flashed a smile at us she looked down at the stack of forms. Taking her sweet time flipping page to page, her eyes flicking to and fro. Several minutes had passed and she hadn't even read half of the papers, occasionaly her eyes would flick up to us and then back to the form as time went on.
“She sure is taking her sweet time, isn't she?” I whispered to Twilight.
“She's just making sure everything is in order, don't freak out just yet” Twilight said as she nuzzled me reassuringly. Her warm touch helped calm me down but I still couldn't get rid of this feeling of dread that hung over me.
'Yeah, y'all got this covered! Listen to your marefriend and hush up now!' disdainfully I listened to both Twilight and my conscience. Taking in a deep breath to calm my nerves I looked back to Young Heart to see her writing something. What was she doing? I wanted to ask but I held my tongue, I didn't want to risk pissing her off somehow. Not that she would but I didn't want to try it.
“You three may as well have a seat over there. This will take a while, now off you go!” Young Heart said to us without looking up from her desk. One of her hooves outstretched, pointing at a empty couch to the side of the entry hall. And so we sat in silence to patiently wait for Young Heart to finish her judgement. Time had passed while the three of us chatted the minutes away. After what felt like an hour I looked around for a clock of some kind for the time. Thankfully I spotted one nearby and saw that it had been only twenty minutes, Celestia bucking damnit, what is taking Young Heart so long?
Peering over to the front desk I saw that Young Heart was still looking down, no doubt at the adoption forms. But I can't tell how much she had gone through from this angle. I guess all I can do is just wait, how hard can that be? Apparently really bucking hard, I couldn't stop looking at the clock over and over again only to find that five bucking minutes had passed. It's going to be a long wait, fantastic.
“Miss Cheerilee?” or not, apparently.
“Yes? Is there a problem with the forms? Cause if there is I can fix it” buck, did I miss a form or something?
“Not at all! I am actually done looking through everything and I have just one thing to say” Young Heart began to say, pausing for just a moment to pull out a form to gaze at silently before looking back at me. Come on, say I passed, say it'll work out!
“Congratulations, you passed the first hurdle on your road to parentage!” yes! We did it, we did-wait a second. First hurdle?
“Next is the home examination to make sure that your home and or homes are safe for Scootaloo to live in. But you don't have to worry about that, I am sure it'll be easy seeing how you two are probably the most responsible ponies I could think of. All that is left to do is to schedule an appointment for the examination. What days are you free and which home will Scootaloo be mainly staying in?”
As Young Heart explained our new predicament I couldn't help but feel relieved. This was our only wall in the way of adopting Scootaloo, huh? This'll be a cinch!
“Well Twilight and I settled on making my house the place for Scootaloo to live in. and for the appointment date? I would say that next Saturday would be fine for me” Young Heart nodded to herself as she scribbled down my words on her notepad before looking back up to us with a friendly smile.
“And that is that for you three. Your forms are ready to be filed away and the appointment is set for next Saturday. So will that be all for you folks? Oh my goodness, I didn't mean to sound so rude, I just have a lot of paper work to catch up on. It's what I was working on before you came in and I am rambling aren't I? Sorry!”
“Don't worry about it, Young Heart. We'll just leave you to it, good night!” Twilight reassured the flighty mare with a smile to which she smiled back with a bright grin of her own. And so with our business here done we prepared to leave. But not before saying goodnight to a certain orange pegasus.
“So, you two are really going to adopt me then. It feels like a dream, you know? Am I dreaming, let me pinch-ow! Okay, not dreaming, awesome!”
“It is awesome, isn't it? Soon we're going to be an official family after Saturday. I can hardly wait!” I was just as giddy as she was. I'm going to be a mom soon, an official one! No more angry letters from the orphanage about keeping Scootaloo after curfew!
“Neither can I! Just be sure to clean up before, and not during Saturday, okay?” Twilight warned. I felt a little annoyed that she had to say it like that but then again I can be pretty sloppy when it comes to things like this sometimes. It wouldn't hurt to prepare early.
“I got it handled, Twilight. Nothing can go wrong” maybe I shouldn't have said that, buck.
“And jinxed, nice one mom. Wow...it's still feels weird to call you that. Wait a second, you're both, and that means...” Scootaloo looked at us both with squinted eyes. Her lips pursed in a pondering pucker as thoughts unknown to us swam through her head.
“Wha-”
“Your both girls! How am I going to yell for mom when both of you are my mom? Maybe Twilight can be the dad or something?” that is a very good question. I still wonder the same thing actually. But why does she get to wear the metaphorical pants in the relationship?
“Why does she get to be the stallion in all of this?” I whined, I thought myself to be responsible enough, usually.
“Because I am royalty, duh!” how could I forget? I'll give her that one, for now.
“I think I'll stick with calling you by your names. Maybe I will make a nickname or something for you guys! Like, Twimom or Cheerimom!”
“Alright you goof ball, go to sleep. It's getting late after all” I said, noticing just how late it was getting. Even the rowdy crowd of kids had dissipated, leaving only a few orderlies and us three taking up space.
“Okay, I guess I'll see you guys tomorrow?” Scootaloo asked as she made to leave.
“Same time as always, Scoots” I said with a smile.(EDIT?)
“Cool! Night Cheerilee, night Twilight, I love you!” Scootaloo flew up to us both, planting a peck on both of our cheeks before flying off to Celestia knows where. Probably to her bed but anything is possible for her. And so Twilight and I left with a warm feeling in our hearts. Well I know I did and she probably did too. If that little flutter of her wings while she walked was any evidence. She always does that when she's all giddy like.
Our walk back to the library was under the clear moonlit sky. The stars sparkled with their luster, dotting across the sky this way and that. Needless to say it was a beautiful night to a just as beautiful day. And we both enjoyed the brisk walk home without a word said between us. With I leaning into her side and her wing over my shoulder, it felt perfect. It always did when we went on walks like this. And for me, the magic would never die.
But everything good comes to an end as we arrived at the tree house and the lights were off. Looks like Spike went to bed early it seems. Twilight made a shushing motion as she carefully opened the front door and I complied. Following silently behind her as we entered the library. And just as we closed the door behind us I noticed a note on the back side of it. Twilight noticed as well and she read it aloud.
“I am sleeping over at Rarity's tonight, Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom want my help with a project or something. So I'll be back tomorrow, have fun! Sincerely, your friendly neighborhood dragon Spike”
“Well that wasn't discreet at all” I said with a roll of my eyes. Even though Spike is a kid he knows about “that” stuff. Ugh.
“Looks like we have the library to ourselves tonight in any case” I heard Twilight say behind me. And just when I was about to say another witty quip I felt a certain somepony's hooves hook around my neck. Looking over my shoulder I saw her hovering just above me, wings flapping away as she hugged me.
“Indeed we do, how do you propose we spend this night? Hmm?” with the best sultry tone I could muster I lidded my eyes at her. And Twilight's reaction was the one I was looking for, rose red cheeks with that cheeky grin of hers.
“I think we should have a study session, upstairs. You still have a lot to learn before you become my most trusted subject” and just as I was about to ask just what in Equestria she was talking about she flew over to the stairs. Landing deftly on the top of the steps.
“Coming? My subject?” she asked, flicking her tail playfully at me. But only just so to block the important parts it concealed. She is such a tease! But before I could admire her derriere she disappeared upstairs, giggling all the way.
“I am the luckiest mare in the world” I said to myself, the image of Twilight's flank still fresh in my mind. How many mares can say that a princess and a alicorn no less, invited them to bed? Nopony I know, that's for sure!
“What is taking you so long, my subject? Your princess is all alone in her cold, cold bed without somepony to keep her warm!” hearing my lovers call broke me from my trance and sent me walking with purpose.
“On my way my sweet princess!” I sang back to my oh so special princess. And so as I stepped my way up to her bedroom I thought about how lucky I am. Soon I am going to be a real mother with Twilight at my side, or am I at her side? It's hard to say, either way the future looks bright. And my how bright it is, my job returned to me, parenting on the horizon too! I just hope everything goes smoothly from now on. As Celestia as my witness I am going to make the most of my life from here on out!
"I am waiting!" Twilight's muffled words sounded out from inside her room. Smirking a bit I placed my hoof on the door knob and turned. And as I approached my marefriend I took in the scene. There lay Twilight, all bundled up in her covers casting the most blatant bed room eyes I have ever seen at me. Carefully I jumped into bed and into her waiting embrace. Without naught a word to say to each other we let our eyes and lips do the talking. And so I lost myself in Twilight's touch as the night went on until we both finally fell asleep.
A smile on my face, and hope in my heart as I dreamed the night away.