It was around 8 AM in the morning and the sun was shining through the kitchen window, gently lighting the room. Spitfire was busy cooking breakfast whilst Connor was reading the paper. As he was waiting, there was a knock at the door.
"I'll get it," he told Spitfire.
"Okay."
Connor made his way to the front door and opened the it to find a messenger pony. A familiar one as well.
"Hi Derpy, what brings you here?" he asked with a smile.
"Hi Connor, I've got a special delivery for you today. One of them has the Royal Seal."
"The Royal Seal? Don't they usually contain a summons to appear before the Princesses?" he asked as he looked at the cream coloured envelope, sealed with red wax and stamped with the symbol of the crown.
"Sometimes, why? You've not been eating Princess Celestia's cakes again have you?" she asked smirking.
Connor rolled his eyes, "You eat her cakes one time and you're never allowed to forget it."
Derpy giggled, "Don't worry Connor, I was only teasing. I'll need you to sign for the letter though, given what kind it is."
Derpy handed Connor the letters before filling out a form sheet specifically for letters bearing the Royal Seal. Each letter had a serial number and a designated courier and the letter had to be delivered to the addressee only. The addressee then had to sign to confirm they received the letter and the courier had to sign to say they delivered it. A designated courier would be assigned so that if the letter went missing or was failed to be delivered then there would always be a starting point for an investigation. Theft of letters bearing the Royal Seal is a serious crime, more serious than theft of 'standard' mail. As the Equestrian Postal Service operates under a Royal Warrant, couriers are considered to be servants of the Crown and actions committed by others that impede the delivery of mail is dealt with severely.
"Was there any other mail?" Connor asked as he signed the form.
Derpy shook her head, "No just these two letters. Anyway, I must be going. Lots of deliveries to make, bye Connor."
"Bye Derpy."
Derpy flew away as Connor went back inside, closing the door behind him. He walked back into the kitchen looking at the letters as he did so. The non-Royal Sealed letter was also fancy looking. The non-Royal Seal Letter was addressed to him and Spitfire. Tearing it open as he sat down he began to read.
It was a letter from Fancy Pants. Apparently he was having a Garden Party soon and Connor and Spitfire were invited.
"Anything interesting?"
Connor looked up to see Spitfire place a plate of bacon, sausages, baked beans, fried eggs and fried bread on the table in front of him, along with his usual cup of tea.
"We've been invited to a Garden Party by Fancy Pants. It's in a few days time at his mansion in Canterlot. We'll have to make sure we're dressed in our best then."
"We'll just go in our flight suits, we go to other special occasions in them," she said as she poured herself and Connor some coffee, "Besides, we'd be expected to wear them anyway."
"Will other 'Bolts be there?" asked Connor.
"Maybe, we'll have to ask them. And while we're talking about special occasions you haven't forgotten about later on have you?"
"No, I haven''t forgotten," he replied as shovelled bacon into his mouth, "Doesn't mean I'm not nervous about it."
Spitfire looked at Connor and could clearly see he was feeling tense. Later on they'd be 'Meeting The Parents', and Connor was a nervous wreck over it. He kept assuming the worst case scenario in every situation just like in the film.
"What should I wear?" he asked, wondering what kind if attire would be most appropriate.
Spitfire rubbed her chin with her hoof, deep in thought, "Why not wear that new shirt Rarity made, you know the dark red one."
"Suppose I could, along with trousers and shoes. It's no good turning up like an unmade bed."
Spitfire laughed, "No it wouldn't, my family wouldn't think much of you if you didn't take care of your personal appearance."
"What time are we going again?"
"We're going for around 4pm and we'll be staying the night. Oh and don't worry about tea, I've told my mother you can't eat hay or flowers. Or apples."
"Thanks. Any idea what we are having tonight?"
"Roast beef, roast potatoes and vegetables. And gravy if you want it."
"Sounds mouth wateringly fantastic, what about Yorkshire puddings?"
Spitfire blinked in confusion, "What's a Yorkshire pudding?"
A small part of Connor died. He went numb as the very question sank in.
"What's a Yorkshire Pudding?" he repeated in disbelief.
Spitfire nodded meekly, confirming the question she asked.
Connor simply looked a Spitfire before placing a hand in her shoulder, "Oh my dear Spitfire. How have I failed you so?"
He sighed before resting his head in his hands. Spitfire looked at him in bewilderment, completely at a loss as to what he was going on about. Spitfire needed answers before her brain became more of a mess.
"What are you talking about, would you mind explaining a few things?"
Connor looked up, "Don't worry Spits, I'm not really mad. Yorkshire pudding is food made from batter consisting of eggs, flour, and milk or water. It's usually served with roast beef as part of the traditional Sunday Roast."
"What does a Sunday Roast include?"
"It's what we're having tonight."
Spitfire let out a small laugh, "You'll be looking forward to it then?"
"Yep. I'll tell your mum how to make them properly if you like?"
"Sure, I take it when you say 'make them properly' that there is a way not to make them?"
"Oh yes, there are good Yorkshires and there are bad ones and I'll make sure your mum makes good ones."
"I'm sure you will. What was that other letter about, I saw it had a Royal Seal."
"I don't know," Connor replied picking the letter up, "I've not opened it yet."
"I wouldn't put it off too long, it could be important."
Connor nodded in acknowledgement, "I'll open it once I've had my breakfast."
Fifteen minutes later Connor had finished his breakfast and was now sat on the sofa in the living room, Spitfire joined him to see what the letter was about. Connor carefully broke the seal and opened the envelope. Inside was a letter and a golden ticket.
My little human
Dear Connor
I heard you and Spitfire have successfully moved into your new home in Cloudsdale and are settling in nicely. I am writing this letter as I wish to invite you to the upcoming Grand Galloping Gala. Whilst the Wonderbolts attend as the norm, I wish to invite you as a personal friend (though you can still wear your Wonderbolt flight suit if you wish, I know how much you like to show off in it wear it). I have enclosed a ticket for you and the castle guards are aware you will be my personal guest and will treat you accordingly. I do hope you attend as I have a few more surprises for you.
Your friend
Celestia
"So you like showing off in your flight suit huh?" Spitfire asked gently elbowing him in his sides, "Is that why you wear one often?"
"I don't have to answer that," he replied neither confirming or denying the question.
"I know you can't get enough of seeing me in mine," she said as she stood up and slowly walked across Connor's lap, "You know how the tight fit shows of my body you like so much, how sexy you know it makes me look."
"Stop getting me hot and bothered or my wings will go stiff again!"
"So."
She could see him consciously trying not go stiff winged as she turned around.
Play with him a little more, he's nearly lost it.
Spitfire sat on his lap directly facing him, her muzzle almost touching his nose.
"You'll go stiff winged again will you?"
"Yes," he replied trying to remain calm.
She started to caress his cheeks with her hoof and brush her tail against his legs. She then put her forelegs around his neck and kissed him on the cheek, deliberately making sure her soft fur brushed his bare chest.
She then booped his nose.
*POOMF*
Spitfire smirked.
Connor and Spitfire were walking into Cloudsdale town centre to do a little shopping before going to Spitfire's parents house later. Spitfire was still snickering about earlier. One thing she loved doing with Connor is getting him hot and bothered to see how long it takes before his wings stiffen. He'd gotten better at controlling it but Spitfire just seemed to know what to do to make them spring to life.
"Come on Spits it's not that funny."
"It is when you try to forcibly fold them again. And when you have to walk through doors sideways."
"Yeah yeah, I'll find a way to get back at you, mark my words."
"Of course you will......Stiff Wings."
Connor scowled at that name. It was given to him by the other Wonderbolts when his wings became ironing boards mid-flight, ultimately causing Connor to crash into a tree. Much to the amusement of the Wonderbolt's. He didn't mind the nick name, he's been called far worse in the past.
"Oh I most certainly will......Sugar Sprinkles."
Spitfire returned a scowl. On her first day she had the misfortune of falling into a vat of sugar. How she managed it is anyone's guess. After flying out she was in such a rush to get back to HQ to avoid being late she didn't check to make sure no sugar was still on her. As she flew over HQ, the other 'Bolts noticed bits of sugar falling from Spitfire. The flapping of her wings caused her to 'sprinkle sugar' on her squad mates.
Spitfire turned to look at Connor who himself was grinning mischievously, "Watch yourself Stiff Wings, you're on thin ice."
"No I'm not, I'm on a cloud," he replied with a cheeky grin.
Spitfire, unamused, pushed him off the cloud.
A couple of hours later the duo were outside Cara's Fudge Shop and Cafe. They went in and straight away Connor noticed something different. He looked back to the door, looked down and noticed something missing.
"I removed the bing-bong."
Connor turned around to the source of the voice and smiled, "Cara, it's good to see you again."
Connor went over to Cara and wrapped her in a hug which she returned.
"Likewise little brother, hi Spitfire."
"Hi Cara."
Connor and Cara let go of each other and Connor's expression turned serious, "Why is the bing-bong gone?"
Cara narrowed her eyes and looked intently at Connor, "Because an annoying two legged creature kept abusing its existence."
"I told Spike not to mess with it," Connor said trying to defend himself.
"Stop pretending Spike is to blame, or do I have to get my broomstick out again."
Connor felt a chill go up his spine. He hated that broomstick and made a mental note to later formulate a plan to expedite its departure from the world.
"No no, I'll be good."
Cara immediately put on a bubbly smile, "Excellent. Now, how can I help you today?"
"Table for two please."
"Right this way."
Connor and Spitfire followed Cara to a table next to the window where they ordered two Espresso's and Chocolate Fudge Cake. She managed to find a company who were able to renovate the previously mostly empty space into a cafe. She used some of her personal savings to fund the renovation. She had already taken out a loan to buy the building from the previous owner, and didn't want to take out another loan if it could be helped.
There were a few other ponies in the cafe, including a few colts and fillies. Almost immediately they made their way over to the dating duo and asked for their autographs. Connor and Spitfire happily obliged.
After they fillies and colts had their autographs Cara arrived with the orders.
"So, what are you two little love birds doing today?" she asked as she placed the drinks down on the table.
"I'm meeting the parents," Connor said glumly, sighing, "I'd rather be in the tending loving care of the matron again. It's less intimidating."
"You'll be fine Connor," Spitfire said taking a sip of coffee, "You've no reason to be worried."
"Spitfire's right," Cara replied as she handed Connor his coffee, "Just be yourself and you'll give a good impression."
"Are we stopping the night there?"
"Only if we're invited," Spitfire replied.
"Will we be sleeping together if we do stay?"
"I can't see why'd they'd disallow it, but if they do just go with it."
"Sure, it's their house after all."
Cara placed the rest if the order down, "OK, I'll leave you two lovey-dovey's in peace. Do get something from the shop before you go, you wouldn't want to turn up tonight empty hoofed, or empty handed in Connor's case."
Connor walked up the garden path towards the front door. He may as well have been walking the green mile to the electric chair. The front door of Spitfire's parents house got closer and closer with each step with dread building up in Connor every second.
"This is going to go bad I know it."
"It won't be bad so stop moping or I'll refuse to let you cuddle me for a whole month."
Connor didn't like the sound of that at all.
"Alright," he said sighing, "I'll be good."
"Good to hear," she said as she rang the doorbell.
The duo could hear the clopping of hooves approach. The door slowly opened and Connor saw a mare that looked like and older version of Spitfire. She had the same fur and mane colour and was wearing what looked like pearl earrings and a purple cardigan.
"Spitfire sweetie it's good to see you."
"It's good to see you too mum," Spitfire replied hugging her.
They let go of each other and Spitfire held up a hoof, "Mum, this is Connor, Connor this is my mother Stormy Flare."
Stormy Flare looked at Connor. He was dressed tidily enough and clearly took care of himself, smelled nice and had his hands on her daugthers' withers.
She scowled at that.
"Please take your hands off my daughter," she said coldly.
Connor felt a lump in his throat and slowly and reluctantly removed his hand. Spitfire had a look of awkwardness like she wasn't expecting such a response from her mother.
"Thank you," Stormy Flare continued, "You will do well to remember she is my daughter and not your pet to do with as you please."
"MOTHER!"
Stormy Flare said nothing and simply stood the side and allowed the dating duo to enter the house, Stormy Flare eyeing Connor the entire time. Spitfire and Connor entered the front room where several ponies where sat down. They were her family. Avro Lancaster whome Connor had already met during his first visit to the Cloud Coliseum, her younger sister Lightning Skies and her older brothers Gloucester Gladiator and Hawker Hurricane.
"You must be Connor," said Avro.
"Yes, I believe we've met before."
"Indeed we have. You were dressed differently then."
"Yeah, and my wings weren't permanent then either."
"Yes, Spitfire told us about your......situation."
"I thought she might."
"Well sit yourselves down, make it look like your staying."
Spitfire and Connor sat down next to each other on the sofa. On Connor's other side sat a red stallion with a red and lave-like orange mane. The stallion looked at Connor and scowled.
"Connor," said Spitfire," This here is Hawker Hurricane, my slightly older twin brother."
Connor extended his hand, "Pleasure to meet you, Spitfire's told me about you."
Hawker looked at Connor's hand, extended his hoof and said with no amount of enthusiasm, "Pleasure."
Connor awkwardly shook his hoof before letting go. Spitfire next introduced the rest of her siblings. Gloucester looked at Connor the same way Hawker and Stormy Flare did. He did little more than grunt when Connor extended his hand. He shook it but on a half-arsed way, slightly offending Connor.
Lightning Skies was different. Her cream coloured fur and ice blue spiky mane, similar to Cloud Chaser's, certainly attracted attention. She confidently held out her hoof, "Pleasure to meet you Connor. As Spitfire's probably told you, I'm Lightning Skies. Pleasure to meet you."
"Pleasure to meet you to," Connor replied shaking her hoof, relieved at least someone here was trying to be nice.
Stormy Flare came into the front room and went to sit on the other sofa next to Avro. There was an awkward silence until Avro spoke up.
"So Connor, tell us about yourself."
"Well," Connor started, "It's complicated."
"In what way?" asked Avro.
"Though I was born and grew up in a different world, both of my parents are ponies."
"Yes I've been reading about it in the paper," he looked at Connor, "I've been reading a lot about you in the paper."
Connor got the feeling the night was only going to get worse. And it had only just begun.
"You've certainly been making a name for yourself," Avro continued, "Events Manager for the Wonderbolts, personal friends of the Princesses, hugely popular with the foals of Cloudsdale, the son of Vulcan and dating my daughter who just happens to be Captain of the Wonderbolts."
Connor wrapped an arm around Spitfire, "I would still date your daughter even if she wasn't. I love her for who she is, not for what she is."
Lightning Skies 'awwe'd while Gloucester and Hawker both scoffed.
"That's what the others said and they turned out to be arsewipes who were only interested in using my sister for their own needs," Hawker said scowling at Connor, "Why should we believe you?"
"Because I mean what I say. Spitfire means a lot to me and I have no intention of using her for personal gain."
"The others said that as well."
To say Spitfire felt awkward would be an understatement. She knew her family would be suspicious at first given her coltfriends in the past but it was like they were going out of their way to cause problems. Fortunately, Spitfire had the idea of showing Connor her old bedroom.
It was unsurprisingly Wonderbolt themed. Wonderbolt posters, bedding, curtains, wallpaper, and furniture decorated the room. On a bookshelf were several of Spitfire's awards from when she was a filly. Many were for best flier or 1st Place from various races. Connor looked at a few photos of Spitfire as a young filly. He got a punch in the arm when he said she looked adorable. One of the photos showed her as a young filly at around eight years old drinking a banana milkshake almost as big as her. There was a double photo-frame and the left frame showed the day she first became a Wonderbolt trainee and the right showed the day she became a full fledged Wonderbolt, wearing the legendary iconic flight suit.
The pleasant aroma from downstairs indicated tea was ready.
All but Stormy Flare and Connor was sat around the dining room table. Spitfire persuaded her mother to let Connor show her how to make Yorkshire puddings. They had made enough so that everyone could have at least three each if they wanted. Because they didn't take long to make they were ready at the same time as everything else. Tea included Connor's Yorkshires, roast potatoes, vegetables and the main part of the meal, Roast Beef.
The food was steaming hot and smelt absolutely wonderful. Everyone filled their plates with food and finished off by pouring gravy on top. A glass of red wine was poured for everyone also.
As everyone was done filling their plates, Stormy Flare spoke up.
"Connor, Spitfire mentioned the two of you had recently bought a house together."
Avro, Hawker and Gloucester looked at Connor with raised eyebrows. Lightning looked like she wanted to squee.
"Yes. A very nice place as well. Come round some time, we'll show you around."
"Yes," Stormy Flare replied coldly, "We'll have to arrange something."
Tea was an awkwardly quiet affair. Very little was said and to Connor time seemed to be slowing to a halt. The whole evening was like having a root canal on his teeth again. The only questions related to his job with the Wonderbolts and what he did. They seemed satisfied enough when he told them he'd already managed to secure a few sponsorships. Lightning Skies was particularly pleased when Connor mentioned he was Cara's brother. Lightning buys from her fudge shop regularly.
Everyone had finished their tea and Connor offered to help clear away and wash up but Stormy Flare refused, but thanked him nonetheless for the offer.
Everyone was sat down in the front room when the questions started again.
"So Connor," Avro started, "How was tea?"
"It was great thank you, your wife's a really good cook."
Avro chuckled, "Yeah she is."
"Hey Dad," Spitfire said, "Did you know Connor's human father served in the Air Force?"
The eyes of Avro and Hawker lit up.
"He did?" asked Avro, ""How can he fly if human's don't have wings?"
"In my world we have flying machines called aeroplanes. My dad was a qualified pilot of the RAF and upon retiring held the rank of Group Captain. He was qualified to fly the Panavia Tornado. A family of twin-engine, variable-sweep wing multirole combat aircraft. He saw action during the Gulf War too."
"Sounds impressive," Avro said with genuine interest, "How fast can it fly? What's it's service ceiling? What's it's rate of climb?"
"It has a maximum speed of Mach 2.2, a service ceiling of 50,000ft and a rate of climb of 15,100 ft a minute. They're almost 55ft long and a 45.6 or 28.2 ft wing span depending on wing sweep angle."
Connor felt a little pride at recounting the details of jet aircraft. He hoped this common ground might get Spitfire's family to warm up to him.
"Wow! Equestria doesn't have anything that even comes close to that," Hawker commented, "And your human dad flew them?"
"Yes. He later flew the Eurofighter Typhoon as well, an even more advanced aircraft," Connor said before letting out a small chuckle, "He likes the new F-35 Lightning II as well. The F-35 Lightning II is a family of single-seat, single-engine, all-weather stealth multirole fighters. They're in the final stages of development and cost a small fortune."
"How much?"
"In Equestrian monetary terms, between 850 million and 1.1 billion bits depending on the variant."
Everypony in the room sat in shock.
"That's quite an eye watering sum," Avro said, "It must be a good aircraft for that price. Why the variants?"
"For different purposes. For example the F-35A is a conventional take-off and landing or CTOL, the F-35B is the STOVL or short take-off and vertical landing variant. The F-35C is the carrier variant and features larger wings with foldable wingtip sections, larger wing and tail control surfaces for improved low-speed control, stronger landing gear for the stresses of carrier arrested landings, a twin-wheel nose gear, and a stronger tailhook for use with carrier arrestor cables."
"That's not even the best," Spitfire said, "Wait until he tells you about aircraft from decades ago."
Stormy Flare walked back into the front room and sat down next to Avro where the two nuzzled each other.
"Honey, Connor was just telling us about flying machines from his world."
"I heard darling," she said as she turned to Connor, "You seem quite knowledgeable on the matter."
"Well my dad was a pilot so it's only natural I would take an interest in aircraft."
"Why don't you go and get your laptop and show them what you showed me?" Spitfire suggested.
Connor got up and went to get his laptop. He was back a few seconds later.
"What's that?" asked Hawker.
"My laptop, it's a portable computer."
"Like that monstrosity in Canterlot?" asked Gloucester.
"Like it but this is much more advanced."
Connor booted up the laptop and brought up the video and picture files. The first picture he brought up was a WWII fighter.
"Hawker, I think you'll like this one."
Hawker looked at the screen, amazed at the technology he was seeing and wondering how it worked, and saw a what was clearly a flying machine.
"What's the name of this aircraft?"
"This one, is called the Supermarine Spitfire."
Hawker looked between Connor and the screen in shock, an aircraft had the same name (almost) as his sister.
"She looks good."
"Thank you," Spitfire replied.
"I wasn't talking about you."
Spitfire just stuck her tongue out, Hawker rolled his eyes.
"Moving on," Connor continued, "Have a guess what this aircraft is called."
Hawker looked at the screen. It showed a similar aircraft to the one before.
"I don't know. What is it called?"
"The Hawker Hurricane."
Hawker looked at Connor slack jawed, "You're kidding me."
Connor shook his head, "Nope. The aircraft in the picture is definitely the Hawker Hurricane."
A big grin adorned the face of Hawker, "Any more aircraft have the same name as us?"
"Yep. This four engined bomber," Connor said as he brought up the relevant picture and turned the laptop around, "Is called the Avro Lancaster."
The large green stallion soon went from content smile to a huge grin that Pinkie would be proud of.
"Avro Lancaster?" he repeated almost squeeing in delight.
"Oh and the next one the called the Gloucester Gladiator," he said as he brought up the picture of the aircraft, "And this one......let me find it.....is the English Electric Lightning."
The two other siblings' faces lit up with glee.
The next half hour was spent with Connor talking about the history of aviation in the RAF. They were fascinated by it all. They had definitely warmed up to Connor, Stormy Flare included, and eagerly sat around the laptop when Connor suggested watching am aviation film. One of the best films ever made.
The Dam Busters.
They liked the film. Spitfire liked it better than Top Gun. Spitfire's family had plenty of questions about 617 Squadron and the Dam Busters raid. Connor gladly answered them, delighted to share the tales of brave men who risked their lives for freedom and democracy and to take down one of the most vile and rancid regimes in history. The very least those men deserve is to be remembered.
During the film though Spitfire cuddled up to Connor, resting her head on his chest. This didn't escape the attention of Avro or Stormy Flare but neither said anything. They both could see how happy Spitfire was, her fur seemed to have an extra radiance to it. She was happier than they'd ever seen her since she started dating Connor and whenever she visited her parents before there wasn't a time when she didn't talk about him.
It was late and Connor and Spitfire had a busy day ahead of them tomorrow. The were scheduled to appear at the Hug-A-Pony stuffed toy store. The unique plushie of Connor, in his Wonderbolts flight suit, was being released to the masses and it was expected to be a best seller. It was quite a big plushie as well, two feet high. There were also plans to release a larger four foot high variant as well depending on demand. A very small number of life size plushies of him were made. Those ones though were for store display purposes.
The plushies though were excellently made with close attention to detail. His Oakley sunglasses were replicated, miniaturised, removable and available in several colours. Magical enchantments allowed his wings to be extended and retracted. The plushies would cost 200 bits, but as a first day special they would be available for 150 bits. And any lucky colt of filly that goes to the store will be able to have a signed photo of Connor to take home.
They would be at the toy store at midday and be their until closing time. A large crowd was expected along with the Press, the other Wonderbolts and Connor's friends from Ponyville. Hopefully it will act as a springboard for more sponsorship deals and official partnership.
Before going up to bed, Connor remembered the fudge he and Spitfire bought and went to get it. He came back a few seconds later with a large paper bag in his hands. He opened the bag and started to hand out the fudge.
"Spitfire and I bought some fudge for you all from my sisters' fudge shop."
Everypony took the fudge that was handed to them and thanks to Spitfire's inside knowledge she knew the flavour each of them liked most. Her family were appreciative of the fudge and thanked Connor and Spitfire for it.
Connor felt relieved. When he first came here he could almost feel the icy cold glares of her family, except for Lightning Skies, but now they'd warmed up to him. Stormy Flare wasn't even commenting on Connor wrapping an arm around Spitfire.
Hopefully things would continue to go smoothly tomorrow as well.
Connor shut down the laptop and headed upstairs with Spitfire to her bedroom. The bed was big enough for Connor to fit in, just. Her parents said nothing when they went up together. Connor got changed into nightwear again, though this time leaving his upper body uncovered, and snuggled into bed with Spitfire. It wasn't long before there was a knock at the door.
"Come in," Spitfire said aloud.
The door opened and in flew Stormy Flare holding two drinks.
"I brought these for the two of you," Stormy said as she hoofed over two banana milkshakes.
"Thanks mum," Spitfire replied taking a milkshake.
Connor took the other, thanking her also.
"Connor, I'd just like to apologize for earlier at the front door. I shouldn't of spoken to you like that."
"Don't worry about it, you're concerned for Spitfire's well being. What good mother wouldn't be concerned about their daughter."
Stormy Flare smiled, "Thank you Connor, now I'll leave you two alone. You'll be up early no doubt to get ready."
"Yep, such is the life of a Wonderbolt," Spitfire said before sucking milkshake through the straw.
Stormy Flare left the room and closed the door, leaving Connor and Spitfire alone to get some sleep. The love bugs snuggled up to each other and drank their milkshakes, and ate some white chocolate covered pretzels they bought earlier. They chatted for a little bit, mostly about the following day. It would be Connor's first official engagement as a Wonderbolt.
What could possibly go wrong?
The morning sun shone through the room. A sleepy human and a sleepy pony slowly and reluctantly got up. Both of them trudged to the bathroom to get showered before breakfast. On the way they met Avro.
"Morning dad."
"Morning Spitfire, getting a shower with Connor?"
Spitfire nodded, "Yeah, it's we usually bathe together. Cleaning wings on your own can be difficult."
"Tell me about it, anyway I'll let you get washed ans see you both at breakfast."
30 MINUTES LATER
Connor and Spitfire, now both in their Wonderbolt flight suits, headed downstairs for breakfast. As they entered the kitchen their noses immediately picked up the smell of toast.
"You're just in time," Stormy Flare said picking up the toast, "Would you like some Connor?"
"Yeah please, I'm starving."
"Would you like anything on it, jam, marmalade, peanut butter?"
"Peanut butter please."
A few moments later Stormy Flare hoofed Connor two slices of peanut butter on toast.
"Thanks Stormy Flare."
"You're welcome Connor."
Connor sat down at the table and poured himself and Spitfire some tea. The sound of hooves thundering down the stairs indicated the arrival of the rest of the family. Hawker, Avro, Gloucester and Lightning walked into the kitchen and sat down at the table, each of them taking note of Connor.
Avro had already seen him dressed as he is, but the others hadn't. Needless to say they were impressed.
"Looking good Connor," Lightning said, "Spitty wasn't kidding when she said you look good in that."
"Don't encourage him Lightning."
"Well it's true," Lightning replied, "He does look good in it."
"Thank you Lightning," Connor said before turning to Spitfire, "Your sister's nice."
Spitfire narrowed her eyes and looked at Connor, "Somepony will be sleeping on the sofa tonight if they don't behave themselves."
"Alright I'll be good."
"Yes you will."
Connor finished his toast and was offered some more breakfast by Stormy Flare, this time she offered Equestria's own Shredded Wheat. Connor had the traditional three with plenty of milk and sugar.
"When are you headed into Cloudsdale?" asked Hawker.
"For around half eleven," replied Connor, "Arrive early and get ready before the masses descend upon us."
"How does it feel to have a plushie of you made?"
"Odd, but if foals get enjoyment out of having plushies of me then so be it."
Hawker smirked, "I think I may get one."
Everyone else at the table raised an eyebrow.
"Why?" asked Spitfire.
"Just to annoy you," he replied grinning.
Connor sighed, "When you say that I get the feeling my sister will get one as well."
Spitfire laughed, "Yeah she definitely will. She'll display it in her shop for the whole of Equestria to see."
"Are you close to your sister?" asked Stormy Flare.
Connor sighed, "Not as much as I'd like to be. Even though we get on great since our reunion, I still feel as though we've missed out on twenty five years of growing up together."
Everyone felt a lump in their throat. Hawker sympathised with Connor, he was very close to his twin sister and he couldn't imagine what growing up without her was like.
Connor continued speaking, "I can't help but wonder what my life would have been like had my mother not appeared in my human world. Would I be dating Spitfire? Would I be friends with the Princesses and the Elements of Harmony? would I be part of the Wonderbolts?"
"I wish I had the answers for you Connor," Avro said sympathetically, "All I can say is not to dwell on it. What happened happened. You've got yourself a good job, great friends and best of all, a special somepony."
Just then Connor felt Spitfire's hoof on his hand. He turned his heads to her and she gave him a kiss on the cheek.
"Yeah, I do."
Spitfire, her family and Connor touched down outside the Hug-A-Pony toy store. There was a long queue of colts and fillies with their parents, with a few Earth Ponies and Unicorns among them. The eyes of the foals lit up as soon as they saw their heroes and they immediately began cheering and waving. Connor and Spitfire returned with a wave of their own as they made their way towards the store entrance.
The workers opened the store and let the two in along with Spitfire's family. As they went in they saw rows upon rows of two feet high Connor plushies just waiting for a new home. As he was looking around taking everything in, he heard the voice of a familiar mare.
"Hi Connor."
"Hi Cara. Come to get a plushie of me?"
"Of course, how could I resist having a plushie of my baby brother?"
Connor laughed, "I heard you've made a business deal with this place."
Cara nodded, "Yes and it's a good deal for all involved. I get permission to sell Wonderbolt related Hug-A-Pony plushies in my fudge store and in return this place gets to sell my Wonderbolt related fudge. It's an even deal."
"Sounds good. I hope it goes well. Speaking of plushies, I bet you'll get the four foot plushie of me should they be made."
Cara grinned like a Cheshire cat and nodded her head vigorously.
The store ponies spent a few more minutes setting up getting ready in time for the later than usual opening, making sure as many Connor plushies as possible were on display. Connor went over to were a table had been set up where he would sign Wonderbolt memorabilia and meet his fans. Every foal who bought a Connor plushie, or more likely their parents, got a signed photo of Connor in his Wonderbolt flight-suit.
His wings were twitching slightly due to nerves but he was on the whole looking forward to the event.
The time had come and the staff opened the doors. Colts and fillies flooded in and every single one that came in went for the Connor plushies with a few picking up other plushies also, most notably ones of Spitfire.
It wan't long before foals rushed over to Connor's table with plushies of him in hoof, all of them looking very excited.
"Hiya Mr Connor," said one particularly exited colt, "I'm really excited to meet you."
Connor couldn't help but smile. Who wouldn't feel all gooey inside at the sight of excited children clearly in awe of their idols.
"I'm excited to see you as well. Are you enjoying yourself?"
"Yeah a real lot. I've been waiting since forever to meet you," The colt replied with a beaming smile.
"How do you like the plushie?"
"It's awesome, it looks so much like you."
Connor laughed as he signed the photo of him and handed it to the colt, "Here you are, enjoy your plushie."
"I will do Mr Connor, it's been super awesome meeting you."
Connor extended his fist, "It's been nice meeting you too. Hoofbump?"
Connor extended his fist and bumped it against the colt's hoof. The colt giggled and ran back to his parents, clearly in jovial spirits as he hugged his Connor plushie. Connor turned his attention back to the queue in front of him. Next in line was a small filly who almost bounced up to the table in excitement.
She, like the many that followed were all over the moon at meeting Connor. After a couple of hours of meeting and greeting foals Connor was just about to break for dinner when a familiar looking colt turned up.
"Connor!"
"Swift Wind!"
"Hiya Connor," Swift Wind said excitedly holding a Connor plushie, "My parents brought me today to get the plushie of you."
"I thought you'd be getting one."
"It looks so super awesome," he squeed hugging it tightly.
Connor signed the photo of him and handed it to Swift Wind.
"Thank you Connor."
"You're welcome."
Just then Swift Winds' parents came up to the table, having been looking elsewhere in the store.
"Hi Blossom, hi Thunder."
"Hi Connor," Thunder replied, "I see Swift is excited to see you again."
"He usually is."
Swift Wind's eyes lit up like he'd remembered something, "Mum, Dad you have to ask him."
Connor was confused. Ask what? He looked at the small family and saw they were quietly talking amongst themselves. Swift Wind looked nervous about something. Blossom, however, walked up to the table.
"Connor, Swift Wind was wondering if you would like to come round for tea one evening. He would ask himself but, as you can see. He's a little nervous," she said whispering the last part.
Connor laughed a little, "I know that feeling. Swift Wind."
Swift Wind slowly walked up to Connor, "Yes?"
"I'd love to come round for tea one evening," he said with a smile.
Swift Wind grin lit up the room, "OH MY GOSH THAT IS SO SUPER AWESOME!"
"Can Spitfire come to?" asked Connor.
Swift Wind gasped in excitement and nodded his head vigorously. He then practically dragged his mother over to the till to pay for the plushie, leaving Connor with Thunder.
"He looks up to you," Thunder said, "You mean a lot to him."
"I'm not sure why though, I haven't really done anything to earn his adoration."
"Don't be daft Connor. You saved his birthday and he got to meet his heroes, and believe me he was truly devastated when he found out you were in hospital."
"I suppose so. I'm just not used to having this kind of attention. Back on Earth, outside of my own family I was pretty much ignored."
"I understand, but Swift Wind and many other foals have taken a shine to you. Even before you officially joined the Wonderbolts they liked you, remember outside your sister's fudge shop?"
"Yeah, that was a good day. Swift Wind's 10th birthday as well."
"He enjoyed himself that day. He talked about you for days afterwards. Anyway, it seems they're ready so I'll have to go. We'll send a message to your HQ to let you know when the best time to have you round is."
"I look forward to it."
"Likewise. See you later Connor," Thunder said extending a hoof.
"See you later," Connor replied shaking his hoof.
It was late afternoon and Connor and Spitfire were leaving the store after a long day of entertaining foals. Hug-A-Pony had an excellent sales day. They estimate they had around a thousand sales making them a tidy profit. The duo met with Spitfire's family again. They told Connor they'd like to see him again and they were pleased that he made Spitfire happy, and that they didn't have to worry about her now she was with him. They parted on good terms and headed back to their respective homes, Spitfire;s siblings each having their own place.
Connor enjoyed himself, not as much as the colts and fillies though he guessed. Foals weren't the only ones to buy a Connor plushie. Apart from Cara, there were quite a few adult ponies who bought Connor plushies. And a few, slightly embarrassed, stallions who bought plushies of the Princesses. One stallion who bought a Celestia plushie caught the eye of a cute mare he'd had his eye on, but was too shy to ask out. The mare in question saw the stallion and saw right through the lie that the plushie wasn't for him. Long story short, the stallion now has a date to look forward to. And a new Celestia plushie. Win win for him.
"So Milkshake, we're we headed to now?" Connor asked stretching his arm and wings.
"We need to pick up a few things from Pricecutters then we'll head home if you like."
"Sure. What do we need from the shop?"
"Milk, sugar, tea, butter, chocolate digestives, fig rolls, shortbread, bread, ham plus a few other things."
"We could have a look and see what wines they have if you like?" he suggested as he placed his messenger bag around his waist.
"Why not, a bottle of wine tonight sounds nice. Are we watching another film tonight?"
"Yep. There's another one I want to show you. It's called Zulu and it's based on true events that occurred in my nations' past."
"Can't wait," she replied giving Connor a small kiss on the cheek.
LATER THAT EVENING
A freshly showered Connor sat down on the sofa getting the film ready. They had both had their tea, beef noodle soup, and here now making themselves comfortable. Spitfire was pouring the two of them a glass of dry white wine each. The living room curtains were closed and the room was illuminated by the wall lights giving the room a soft, warm glow.
"It was a good day today," Connor commented, "The first of many public relations events I presume?"
"Oh yes. There'll be plenty more days like this to come," she replied hoofing Connor a glass of wine, "Many many more."
"I look forward to them."
"Same here. They'll certainly be more interesting days with you around."
"Thank you very much my little Sugar Sprinkles."
A mischievous smirk adorned her face, "You're welcome Stiff Wings."
BACK IN EARTH
Alexander walked back to his bedroom after having yet another late night meeting with authorities. Since Connor's disappearance there had been........developments. The three daughters he had with Star Light, or Svetlana as she was called as a human, where now living with him again. Only this time they were under 24/7 protection.
A few weeks ago the three girls experienced excruciating pains in their backs and long story short, had grown a pair of wings each.
Just like Connor, though they obviously didn't know that.
After the hospitals they were staying at were 'persuaded' to remain silent, they were transferred to a secure facility on the RAF base Alexander previously worked at. They then moved back in with Alexander, their father. They were quite surprised when they saw their mother.
Now back in pony form.
It certainly made the reason of their growing of wings more believable, and make a lot more sense.
None of the family were in trouble and they weren't being held prisoner. The protection was simply to prevent unauthorised personnel from discovering Sveti/Star Light and the girls and exposing them to danger.
The house they were staying at was specially built not long after Star Lights arrival. It was in the countryside away from prying eyes but close enough to the air base to allow for a quick response should one be needed. Naturally, the sisters all demanded an explanation in response Star Light retold them the events of twenty five years ago.
After being found in his back yard, Alexander, then a 30 year old Squadron Leader, alerted his superiors. It was clear she was terrified out of her wits and when Alexander and his superiors approached her she was crying and begging the, from her perspective, 'scary apes' to 'not hurt my baby'. After an investigation and questioning of the still-in-pony-form mare, conclude she is no threat, Alexander is tasked with her well-being. A medical examination confirmed her and her baby were healthy which helped her relax a lot.
An investigation revealed nothing into how she arrived, meaning they had no idea to get her back home. She was distraught over not being able to go home and losing her wings. Being a pilot, Alexander understands how she felt. After a few more years in the RAF Alexander later took early retirement with the rank of Group Captain. He also received a generous amount of financial support from the government to help with her upkeep and well-being.
Shortly after arriving on Earth, she transformed through unknown means into a 27-year old woman. After she became human, she was given all necessary documentation and what not and took the name Svetlana. A name of Slavic origin meaning 'Light'. Alexander ultimately fell in love with Star Light married her. It was difficult for Star Light to move on from Vulcan and Cara but she finally accepted what had happened and decided to move on. They had three daughters together and decided to raise Connor, born human, without telling him of his true nature.
They didn't like hiding it from him, but they felt it was necessary. Besides, would he have believed them had they told him the truth?
Maybe they'll never know.
Alexander looked at his bed to find Sveti laying on the bed having her mane and tail brushed by two of her daughters. The third daughter was looking through photos of Star Light's first days on Earth. Star Light wasn't bothered either way if people called her Sveti or Star Light.
"Sveti darling, how are you?"
"All over the place. Considering what's happened to us I can only assume the same has happened to Connor."
"He'll be fine Sveti, he can take care of himself. Remember when he dealt with those bullies?"
Sveti giggled, "Yeah. I can imagine Vulcan would approve if he found out."
"We'll see them again Sveti, maybe these transformations are a sign that you'll return to Equestria."
"I hope so," she replied before realising how that could be interpreted, "Not that I don't like it here. I do, Earth is an amazing place. But Equestria is my home, and I still have family there."
She looked down at the photo underneath her hoof, "Cara, who had to grow up without a mother."
Star Light started to cry. She was immediately hugged by her daughters, "Don't cry mum, dad's right. Everything that's happened could very well be signs that we'll go to Equestria."
"We?" Star Light repeated, "You would want to go to Equestria?"
"Why not? It's not like we can have a normal life here anymore. Besides.....I think we'd all like to see Connor again."
There was a short agreeable silence as the thought of seeing their son/brother again crossed their minds. They all missed him, especially his colourful and blunt opinions on football referees.
"I wonder what he's doing now?" said Star Light.
BACK IN EQUESTRIA
"Connor," Spitfire said, "That was amazing."
"I know."
A few seconds later, the two fell asleep.