//------------------------------//
// Hide n’ Seek 
// Story: Subject 27 
// by Phyrexian 
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								Chapter 74 - Hide n’ Seek

        “Oh! Baby kicked again. Did you feel it girls?”

        “Please tell me she isn’t making the other girls want foals; I can’t handle four of these things,” Colt nervously states.

        “You know how girls are. With one pregnant, they kick into mother-mode.” 

        “Damnit...”

        “You’re still young, you have a few more years before kids will be the only factor in your life,” I reassure him with a hearty pat on the back.

        “On one hand, a pregnant Pinkie Pie sounds freakin’ adorable, but how hyper would her foal be?”

        “No clue budd. It could be a polar opposite.”

        “I can only ho-.”

        “Whatcha talkin’ about?!” Pinkie Pie asks, appearing right behind the both of us.

        “That’s a very bad idea sneaking up on us like that, Pinkie Pie.” Tail greets her with a hug.

        “Oopsie, sorry,” she says, hugging Tail back.

        “Why aren’t you up there with the girls, Pinkie?”

        “Oh, I was, didn’t you see me?” she asks, cocking her head.

        “No?” Colt recovers his composure after our little scare. He then scoops up Pinkie Pie for a hug before walking over to the rest of the girls and sitting on the couch with Pinkie Pie in his lap. “So, what have you girls been talking about?” Colt prods.

        “We were just talking to Fade about her foal,” Fluttershy squeaks.

        “Wait, do you guys have foals?” Belle asks, lightly poking Fade.

        “That’s a question I can’t answer, 27?”

        “Well, not exactly. Humans have babies, the equivalent of a foal but human in form. For what Horrors have, I really can’t tell you myself. If I had to hazard a guess? They’re probably more like insect larvae at birth.” I join Colt on the old couch, it groans as I ease into it before the legs give way and the couch crashes down into the floor.

        “Well that happened. Everyone okay?” Pinkie Pie nods.

        That hurt; don’t know why I didn’t expect that to happen. “Yeah, yeah I’m alright. Don’t expect much from the cots either.” I state as I rub my lower back.

        “Hey Cloud, looks like no pillow fight for you,” Belle teases, sticking her tongue out.

        “Oh I can wait Belle, I can wait.”

        “Trixie does not look forward to this.”

        “Look forward to what, Trixie?” I ask as I try to find a comfortable position in this horrible excuse for a couch.

        “Cloud’s attempt to rut an unwilling changeling.” She states flatly, and Colt chuckles.

        “Oh.” 

        “Belle will come around, eventually.” 

        “Why her though? If you want changeling, you could probably just walk in the Everfree Forest with your tail raised and hope for the best,” Colt jokes.

        “Why not her?”

        “She said no and appears to have no interest in being anything but friends,” Colt says matter of factly.

        Cloud turns to me with pleading eyes, I know what she’s going to ask and I’m not going to be a part of it. “27, co-.”

        “No, I’m not playing match-maker,” I state, feeling awful for shooting her down so quickly.

        “Eve-.”

        “No, I won’t make roofies for you.” I honestly don’t believe that Cloud would ever drug someone just for some fun, but I have to be clear that I’m not making any kind of drugs for anyone else ever again.

        “Roofies?” She asks.

        “Cloud, if Belle ever fell unconscious, I am holding her at all times. Last thing we need is you to become a rapist.” Belle and my eyes go wide to what Colt just said.

        “N-No! I would n-never go as far as rape! I just wanted a l-love potion!” She shouts.

        “Still not consensual, so therefore rape.” Cloud tries to argue back with Colt, but he won’t let her get a word in edgewise. “And yes, changing her emotions via chemicals so she loves you voids any consent she could give until she is back to normal.” An awkward silence falls on the room. I’m left baffled by the concept of a ‘love’ potion.

        “Awkward...” Pinkie Pie whispers to Colt as Cloud slumps out the door with her head hung low.

        “Love potion? Really? What purpose would that serve?” I blurt out, extremely confused what purpose a ‘love’ potion would have. “Know what? Don’t even answer that question... Really? Love potion...” 

        “Belle, has she always been like this?” Trixie asks in a concerned tone.

        “I don’t think she has.”

        “I haven’t seen her act like this before.” Did she really change so drastically during our time apart? “It does concern me greatly. I’ll talk to her tonight, see if I can’t shed some light on her strange behaviour.” 

        “Yeah, because this got really dark fast. From teasing to drugging, and I don’t like the sound of it.” Nor do I. “Teasing is fine, but openingly asking for drugs is a cry for help if I’ve ever heard of one.”

        “She’s lonely,” Fade whispers, I tilt my head back to see Fade, but only to have my horns meet her stomach. “It’s obvious she’s trying to connect with a close friend but doesn’t know how to with said friend being of the same gender.”

        “But I’m with Colt. The first time we met, I needed help with this idiot!” Belle shouts, practically punching him in the face.

        “I deserve that.”

        “Cloud and I had time to get to know each other while 27 was in his coma.” That’s good, glad to see Fade and Cloud get along, hopefully they’ll approve of PRHL. “She did talk a lot about you Belle. You’re her first actual mare-friend. All she’s trying to do is just get a little closer; she doesn’t mean any harm by it.”

        “But she asked only moments ago if 27 could help her drug me! Plus I don’t feel the same way about her that she does about me; it would fall apart!” Maybe, but anything can happen. Hell, I’m living proof.

        “She was asking for advice, not asking for 27’s services. It’s rude to interrupt someone.” Staring up at Fade, watching her lay down the law really puts a smile on my face.

        “So is pursuing a relationship that would never work,” Belle argues.

        “Belle, that’s the way she knows how to connect with ponies. This whole relationship thing is new to her, and she’s scared. For 27 it’s easy because he’s male; but for you Belle, that’s a whole different story. She’s scared and doesn’t know what to do.”

        “She has 27 already, why does she need me? Can’t she just find another mare?”

        “I’m going to put this very bluntly for you all to understand.” Aww snap, Fade is about to lay down. “You’re the first, actual mare-friend shes’ had, one that isn’t based off rutting, and that scares her. She’s trying to connect with you the only way she knows how, Belle, and you keep on shutting her out. She’s lonely, I know because I’ve been there myself. Not physically, but mentally and you’re the silver lining in her dark cloud. She’s desperately trying to hold onto that the best way she can.” There we have it ladies and gentlemen, Relationship 101 by Fade.

        “But why me? Why is she obsessed with me? We’re only friends, and I thought she just liked to tease me.”

        “Because I love you Belle, not in love, but love you as a younger sister. I’m sorry if I came off a little clingy lately. Fade is right, it’s been very hard on me while 27 was away and you brighten up my darker time Belle; and I thank you for that.” Everyone turns to see Cloud quietly standing in the doorway, her rough mane hiding her face.

        “If I’m like a sister to you that’s fine, just please no potions. And I can’t complain about being clingy...” Belle sighs.

        “Like Fade said, I was asking for advice, not a potion. I became a little butt-flustered when Colt mentioned rape, that’s all.”

        “Sorry, bad habit of jumping to worst case scenario, guess I just made it worse. Can you forgive me Cloud?”

        “I can. I also have a surprise for you all too.” Cloud raises her head, revealing a smile on her face. “Everypony, this is my crew, they’re here to help.” She flies back into the living room, followed by Shell Shock, Lemon Face, Hare, and last but not least, Stella.

        “Horror!” Stella shrieks in utter delight. I jump to my feet with Tail already madly wagging.

        “Who are these guys, friends of yours 27?” Colt asks with a rather relaxed looking Belle in his arms.

        “They’re my crew Colt,” Cloud announces, again. “This is Shell Shock,” he waves. ”Lemon Face,” he merely nods. “Hare the gryphon,” he just stands there nonchalantly. “Last but not least, is-.”

        I bolt over to her and scoop her up for the biggest hug she’s ever received. “Stella!” Dibs dibs dibs dibs!

        “Cloud, I regret to inform you that I was only able to teleport us and a few supplies. Give me a day and I’ll be fully charged for another run.”

        “That’s fine Shell. Thanks again guys for helping us out with this.”

        “So these are your literal partners in crime, are they well behaved?” Colt asks, looking over the group. I’m too busy to care right now, I gots me a Stella.

        “Hoof-picked by yours truly! Yes, they’re well behaved.”

        “Don’t you worry your fleshy little behind. Our alliance lies with Uncle,” Lemon Face flatly states.

        “No matter your allegiance, just keep your business away from Ponyville and I won’t stop you.” I don’t think you’re in Kansas any more, methinks you’re in the mountains now Dorothy.

        “Ponyville is off limits, Lunar Knight here made sure of that,” Hare finally speaking up.

        “Not so much off limits, but I will deal with any problems that arise.”

        “Simmer down now Colt. Uncle has no interests in Ponyville and Razo-.” 

        “What I was saying is you may visit, but you conduct your business elsewhere.” Jeez, who appointed him protector of a little town?

        “As I was saying, neither of the two mafias have any interest in Ponyville; it’s safe.” I’m pretty sure the first time I tell him something, it doesn’t get through. Hopefully the second round does, hopefully.

        “Just making sure, I like the town the way it is, small and quiet.”

        “It was until you arrived,” Pinkie Pie says, bopping his nose.

        “You know what I mean.”

        “Cloud, Lemon and I have business to attend to. We’ll be taking our leave. Shell, Stella, you two staying?” Shell nods and there’s no way I’m letting Stella go.

        “Yeah, I’m burnt out, I’m just dead weight right now.”

        “Yep! I’m stayin’ with Horror!”

        “N-Now little filly, do your parents know where you are?” Fluttershy asks.

        “I don’t know!” She sequels as she latches onto the tip of Tail and I chase the both of them. “Mommy and daddy have been on a mission for soooo long now, the Family has been takin’ care of me!” Fluttershy’s face goes pale from the sudden realization that Stella is an orphan.

        “O-Oh, I’m sure they wouldn’t m-mind then,” she says, immediately dropping the subject.

        “We’ll be back to pick you up in a day or two Stella. Be a good girl for your big sis and Horror, got it?” Stella agrees and gives them a hug goodbye before they depart.

        “Kay! Love you big bros!” She shouts.

        Stella and I stop our merry game of chase to take a breather. Shell on the other hand is keeping his distance from me. “Still afraid of me Shell Shock?” He jumps at the sudden question. “I take that as a yes.” I chuckle to myself as he slinks behind Cloud.

        “So Stella, 27 here is a good friend of yours I see,” he says, grinning.

        “I love Horror! He’s the one who gave me my cutie mark!” She points at the six white shooting stars trailing behind the black one. “The black star is Horror!”

        “What did you do to the little filly?”

        “You make it sound like I wronged her in some way. I did nothing of the sort. Neither of us could sleep so we took a walk outside. Sat under the stars and a meteor shower occured; we watched it late into the night. Stella fell asleep wrapped up in Tail and when she woke, she had her butt-tattoo.” 

        “What’s a tattoo?” Belle asks.

        “I’m not 100% certain on the process. 27, you know how to explain it?”

        “Cutie marks for example are what we consider tattoos. It’s a long process to get one, minor discomfort in it. But humans can get tattoos of literally anything on any part of their bodies.”

        “One man even had his entire body tattooed. Imagine how awkward that was.”

        “Pffft hahaha!” Pinkie Pie bursts into laughter.

        “O-Oh my.”

        “Shell, what did you bring with you?” I asked, trying to bring him out from hiding.

        “Blankets, pillows, food; that and a hoof-full of ponies with me that just left.”

        “Oh, okay. Thanks Shell, let’s get everything inside.” Shell and I step outside, bringing everything into the house. Takes us two trips to do so. I set the food related items on the table for everyone to grab at their lejour. “We’re going to need some firewood, who wants to do that?” 

        “I wi-.”

        “No C-Colt, you can’t keep going around with that leg.” Fluttershy advies.

        “Tri-er, I mean I will do it.”

        “I’ll tag along and help you out Trixie.” Cloud announces, the two trot out the door without another word.

        “What’s next?” Pinkie Pie asks as she bounces in place.

        I peek my head out the front door to see the storm rolling in on us. “Storms a comin’, I can feel it in my bones.” Fade pulls me back inside and points to the herbs.

        “You need to go play doctor. Colt won’t be much help with a bum leg.”

        “Eh, I’m sure it will heal by tomorrow.” He says with a shrug.

        “I won’t hear of it Colt, come now 27, go make that healing potion.” Fade gently pushes me, ordering me to go to work.

        “I can get most of it done, going to need that firewood to be able to finish it.” I say as I lay out everything in an organized manner.

        “How are you going to fix a broken bone? I doubt you have the tools for that kind of operation. And if you do, I wouldn’t trust their sterility with a penny.”

        “What’s a penny?” Pinkie Pie asks.

        “The lowest denomination of currency our society had. So low in fact they were thinking of discontinuing them because to buy anything you needed at least one hundred of them.”

        “Where does it hurt Colt?” 

        “My shin to be precise.” I apply light pressure to his shin, he flinches as I reach about halfway down.

        “You most likely have a hairline fracture in your tibia.” Just an educated guess. “Without an x-ray, I won’t be able to know for sure.” We’re too far to take him to a hospital, he’s immune to magic so teleportation is out of the question. “This world’s medical tech is far behind ours.” I assume, the only “real” hospital I’ve ever been in was the facility. “I’ll have have to rely on my alchemy skills to get the job done.” 

        “Well I think it was more than a hairline fracture considering the grotesque angle my leg was bent at.”

        “I was under water at the time so I never got the chance to look at it. But you seem to be doing just fine with a splint on, as long as you don’t over do it’; you should be fine.” 

        “Okay.” He says as he shifts about in the couch with Fluttershy sitting on his right, Belle and Pinkie Pie sitting on him. “Wait, are you girls being so cuddly so I can absorb magic faster? Awww, thanks girls.”

        “O-Of course we were.” Belle stutters.

        “You were? I just like hugs because they are soooooooooo soft!” Pinkie Pie announces.

        “Whatcha’ doooin Horror?” Stella asks, flapping her little tiny wings so fast she looks like a hummingbird as she flies over to me.

        “Oh my god, that is freaking adorable!” Colt shouts.

        “You should’ve seen the two fledglings, Lizz and Fizz. I nearly OD’d on kawaii.” Stella lands on the top of my head and tucks herself in between my horns. She’s a little bigger than Lizz, but she manages to squeeze in.

        “Nice.”

        “I hate birds.” Daimon finally makes himself known.

        “Even adorable baby gryphons?” I ask with bowl in hand.

        “He hates all birds.” Colt adds.

        “What about pegasi? They have bird-like wings.”

        “Only Fluttershy.”

        “Horror, he scary.” Stella whispers as she tries to hide.

        “Don’t worry Stella, he’s harmless.” 

        “Well right now he is.” Colt adds, which doesn’t help my case.

        “Pay him no mind Stella, Daimon is just all bark and no bite.” I comfort my little sister by stroking her mane, which earns me squeals of merriment.

        “Dude, when does she stop getting cuter? She’s nearing the ‘Embarrassed Fluttershy’ level of cuteness.”

        “I-I’m not that cute, am I?”

        “Yes you are.” Belle states.

        “You have no idea how cute she can be, just wait ‘till she falls asleep inside Tail.”

        “Tail is best blanket!” Stella blurts out, immediately everyone bursts out into laughter.

        “Is she always this entertaining?”

        “Words can’t express how playful she is, Colt.” 

        “Oh! Let’s play Horror!”

        “Yeah Colt, lets go play.” Belle says, winking at Colt and getting a nervous look from Fluttershy. “Don’t worry Shy, you can join in.” Fluttershy’s face turns a crimson red as she faints.

        “Belle, I think you broke her.”

        “Horrrrrror! Let’s go play already!” Stella cries, tugging on my horns.

        “Not right now Stella, it’s about to start raining any mo-.” A flash of lighting lights the world outside the window, shortly after its followed by a loud boom. “Let me finish making this potion for Colt and we can play a game inside, okay?” 

        “Hide n’ Seek!”

        “Anyone got a tissues? Shy’s got a nosebleed!” 

        “N-No I’m fine!”

        “You sure? It won’t stop.”

        “Y-Yes.”

        “Awww, that’s so cute Shy, did I do th-.” Fluttershy silences Belle via hoof to the mouth, meanwhile Trixie and Pinkie Pie are giggling.

        “S-Sorry Belle.”

        “It’s ok, you just some attention.”

        “I don’t know why you two are laughing, need me to bring up your alone time? Their laughter ends immediately as Colt brings this up. “You girls want to play hide and seek?” They nod.

        “You guys go have fun, I’m going to help Fade with the planning.”

        “You sure Cloud?” I ask out of concern, knowing that we all need to blow off a little steam.

        “Yeah, I don’t mind.”

        “Okay, if you girls need any help, just let me know.” 

        “Yeah yeah, go play.” Cloud smacks my rump as I walk by, I let out a playful yelp.

        “This potion needs to set before I can administer it to you Colt, so this will make for a good distraction while I wait.” I set the potion off to the side for now, should only take about half an hour to be ready. “This is how we’re going to determine who’s going to be it, old school.” I form a circle with both my arms out in front of me. “Okay, everyone put a hand or hoof into the bucket.” Stella flies down from her perch, landing on the makeshift platform that Tail has created for her. Everyone puts their respective limb into the ‘bucket’ as requested. “Good, now would somebody be kind enough to put a hand or hoof into the bucket for me?” Without hesitation, Trixie goes for the bait and sticks her other hoof into the ‘bucket. “You’re it, Trixie.” Got’cha.

        “Wha-Why?!” But before she gets an answer, everyone takes off running in various directions. “Fine.” She sighs before beginning her count.

        “Horror!” Stella hangs onto my horns as I run downstairs into the basement. “I don’t like the dark...” She whimpers.

        “There’s no monsters down here Stella, I promise.” I reassure her with a pat on the head. “Hold on.” I say as Tail lifts up into the rafters. There isn’t enough clearance between the floor and the rafters for me to hide in between, but enough where I can wrap my arms, legs, and Tail around. I grab Stella and place her on my chest and we sit there quietly.

        I don’t know how long we’ve been hiding down here, but Stella dozed off, and my limbs are becoming stiff. The door to the basement swings open and what very light from upstairs floods into the darkness.

        “Y-You sure he’s down here?” Fluttershy asks.

        “Of course silly! This is the only place we haven’t checked yet!” Pinkie Pie jumps down each individual step at a time.

        “Trixie suggests we find 27 quickly.” I watch as as the three of them stand there at the bottom of the stairs.

        “Hmm, it’s a little dark down here...” Fluttershy whispers as she tries to retreat back up the stairs.


                                                - - -

        “We could scare them.” PRHL says with a grin. “We should scare them.”

        “You’re right, we should scare them.” I reply with a grin of my own. I grab hold of the sleeping filly with one arm and wait tell the girls slowly start their search. Reluctant at first to step forward, Trixie is the first one who goes in, quickly followed by a frozen Fluttershy being pushed by Pinkie Pie. “Wait for it.” Just a little further, that’s right, trust the power in numbers.

        “Now?”

        “Now.” Tail lowers me down behind them, quietly.


                                                - - -

        “Boo!” I shout, Pinkie Pie literally jumps into the rafters, Fluttershy continues to play statute and Trixie’s horns flares up as she shoots a firework at my general direction. “How long have we been hiding?” I ask with Stella snuggled up in my arms.

        “Trixie doesn’t appreciate being startled!” She retorts.

        “Boo!” Pinkie Pie ninja'd her way behind me somehow, causing me to jump a little. “Weeee! I got’cha!”

        “Good one Pinkie Pie.” I give credit where credit is due. I enjoy a good prank, especially when it’s a counter-prank.

        “About half an hour.” Pinkie Pie answers.

        “Jeez, I was up there for awhile.”

        “Yep! Oh! Colt’s the last one! Help us find him!” I agree, I could use a nap myself right about now.

        We venture upstairs, I do a quick check on the potion to see if it’s ready. Both Cloud and Fade are resting on the broken sofa. Kinda funny honestly, it’s slanted to one side so Cloud is kinda sliding into Fade as she tries to find a comfortable position. I hand Stella over to Fade, who in return gives me a welcoming smile.

        “Trixie has checked every room twice, but no Colt.” She says a little concerned. “Trixie tried to open your closet, but it’s locked.” A lock on a walk in closet? That seems a little strange to have.

        “I can pop it open most likely.” I say as I leave them. As I enter our room, I hear faint moans coming from the closet. Both Belle and Colt are currently missing, and as I near the closet door, I hear Belle hushly calling out Colt’s name. “Oh my.” I say, taken by surprise by the fact they’re already going at it this early.

        Tail pushes the tip of one of his spikes into the lock and it easily pops open. I push the closet door open to see Colt, bound by the hands, no pants, and Belle riding him. I look down to where they meet to see blood. Not bad Colt, got a cherry and what I can see, he’s not a bad size for someone as young as him. “Well, this is awkward.” I simply state.

        “Hey 27!” Cloud shouts from the hallway. “Did you find Colt or Belle?”

        “Not yet, keep on looking.” I holler back as I give Colt a wink.

        “Tha-.”

        “No talking unless I say so!” Belle commands.

        “You’re lucky I was the one who found you and not one of the girls. Just keep it down next time, these walls aren’t as thick as I originally thought they were.” Colt gives me a nod as I close the door.

        “You say something 27?” Cloud asks as she approaches the closet door.

        “Just thinking out loud, that’s it.” She reaches for the hand, but I quickly intervene. “Cloud wait! They’re not in there, I already checked.” 

        “Well I want to double check, make sure because none of us can find ‘em.” Everything goes into slow-mo as she grabs the handle. I stammer to keep Cloud from entering the closet, Tail on the other hand coils around her body and pushes her against the door. “H-H-Hey! What do you think you’re doing?!” Honestly, I don’t know, but thank you Tail. “O-Oh, do you really want to do this now? Right here?” Boom! Yes! This will work perfectly! “When they’re so many ponies that could possible catch us in the act? So hot.”

        Tail passionately throws Cloud to the floor and I follow suit; leaning over as she looks seductively up at me. “Just a little taste in what I have in store for you tonight. Now, go before I change my mind.” 

        “Oh... Oh! Whatever you say, stud.” Cloud makes sure to smack me in the face with her tail as she wiggles out from underneath me. I smack her on the flank, which earns me a yelp.

        When she leaves, I open the closet door to see Colt fully dressed. “Come on, there’s only so much yarn I can spin before people start wising up.” Tail grabs him by the arm and pulls him out.

        “Okay, okay! How did you distract her?” He asks in a loud whispers, dragging Belle along as she hovers behind him.

        “A silver tongue, quick hands and an even quicker Tail. Somethings I don’t like to use on my friends, but it got me there.”  Note to self, praise Tail.

        “Okay, I’m not going to ask any further.”

        “I am, what did you do?” Belle asks enthusiastically.

        “Tail, mind showing her what you did?” Tail furiously wags before darting off at Belle. He wraps around one of her hind legs, around her barrel, then up her neck and coiling around her around before pinning her against the wall. “Silver...” Crap. This was one of Silver’s favorites... “She loved this one, no matter how many times I did it; she would still love it.” Damnit Tail...

        “Hmmmmm, this gives me ideas for later. Come along Colt.” She orders, removing herself from Tail’s hold and leading Colt along.

        “Who’s a good boy? You are! Yes you are! You’re such a good boy Tail!” I still owe him praise for his quick thinking.

        “Belle, let’s just keep what happened in there to ourselves, okay?”

        “Keep what to yourselves?” Pinkie Pie asks, bouncing next to Colt, giving him a good ol’ fashioned scare.

        “N-Nothi-.”

        “I tied him up in the closet.”

        “Belle!” Colt stammers, the other girls of his harem fall on their flanks and burst into laughter. “FIne, I guess you don’t want me to do anything for you then?” He teases and they stop.

        “If you want to be tied up Colt, Tail can do a much better job than any handcuffs or ropes.” I pat him against his back, hard, hard enough to send a resounding thud through his chest.

        “Does everyone have to know?!”

        “Life is so much easier when you don’t try to hide Colt, trust me.” 

        “But it’s her thing!”

        “I know, but you were enjoying yourself though. I saw it in your eyes.” I whisper in his ear.

        “Lies! All lies!”

        “If bondage is your thing, more power to ya. I myself like to partake in it sometimes; it spices things up. Isn’t that right, Tail?” Tail wags happily, beating against the floor as he does.

        “Bu- forget it.” He sighs in defeat as he sets down on the couch.

        “It’s okay Colt, next time we’ll lock the door.” Belle adds as she lands next to him.

        “You did.” I add. “That lock was simple, didn’t even take three seconds to pop it open.” This earns me a facepalm from Colt. One that is most satisfying.

        “If the door was locked why open it? More importantly, who has a closet that locks from the inside only?”

        “If I find something locked, I’m obligated to open it, it’s in my nature. But to the weird lock, I have no clue.” 

        “Damn it, at least Cloud doesn’t know.”

        “Cloud doesn’t know about what?” Cloud asks as she lands in front of Colt with Stella on her back.

        “I was hiding in the closet... I heard everything!” Colt tries to divert the attention off of himself and onto Cloud. Who in returns looks over to me with a shocked expression.

        “Awww, 27, we should’ve done it right there! That would’ve be-.” Tail quickly covers her mouth, effectively shutting her up.

        “Not around impressionable minds Cloud.” She nods and Tail picks Stella up and places her on top of my head.

        “Thank you Mr. Tail!”

        “Yeah.... So now what?”

        “Time for you to take your medicine Colt.” Tail hands him a small vial filled with a milky green substance with chunks suspended in it. “This one is a bit stronger than the first healing potion I administered to you. Hopefully it will heal your leg enough so you won’t need to rely on my cane as much.”

        “Alright, down the hatch.” Colt says, chugging the drink. “This one actually doesn’t make me want to vomit.”

        “Did you really need to say that?” Trixie asked.

        “Probably not, sorry.” Rather than giving Colt a verbal response, Trixie punches him in the arm. “So, what now?”

        “Not much we really can do, unless you want to go play outside in the rain and at night; go for it.” I say already looking out the window to see the rain is pouring even harder now. “You’re probably famished after the event that transpired in the closet, no?” 

        “Du-.”

        “Of course he is!” A blushing Belle says, interrupting Colt.

        “Why would he be tired?” Fluttershy asked.

        “Yes Belle, would you like to explain?” Belle frantically shakes her head, refusing to answer the question. “But I think they would like to know about you ti-.” She silences him with a hoof to the mouth.

        “No! Lets just eat dinner!” She says quickly.

        “Tail, can you pwease hand me a apple?” Stella asks, tucked between my horns. “Thank you!” She says cheerfully before biting into the apple.

        “Dig in everyone, I’m really not that hungry right now so help yourselves.” Everyone besides Fade and myself grab various fruits or veggies to snack on. We keep to ourselves on the couch, just enjoying each other’s company.

        “Here Belle.” Colt says, giving her a banana. “I know how you like them.” He teases.

        “When we get home, I am so getting you back.”

        “Hey Cloud, have you seen Shell Shock around? He just kinda disappeared when we started playing hide-n-seek.” I ask. Cloud looks up from a half eaten orange with bits hanging on the side of her mouth.

        “He crashed in the bedroom. Hauling all this stuff really took it out of the kid.”

        “Oh, okay then. DIdn’t know if he wandered off somewhere. Probably be for the best if we didn’t wake him.”

        “Awww, isn’t that precious?” Fade points out the sleeping Stella on top of my head.

        “Yes, yes it is. What do you think about children, girls?” They all, except Pinkie Pie, do a spit take as they look at him. “What, hasn’t it ever crossed your minds?”

        “Nope!” Pinkie Pie says.

        “W-Well...” Trixie says awkwardly looking around.

        “Ummm...” Fluttershy whispers.

        “N-No...” Belle says avoiding eye contact.

        “Alright then.” Yeah, that wasn’t a train wreck at all, good job Colt.

        “You really can’t plan on having kids, they just happen, you know? Hell, finding out that Fade was pregnant blew my mind. Then I slipped back into my coma. Could’ve be the internal bleeding, the extensive damage, or great news she dropped on me. Hell, it could be all of the above. But I’m happy that I’m going to be a father soonish.”

        “Yeah, I just have no idea about this though. Hey Belle, how do changelings have kids anyways?” She blushes even further and pretends not to hear him. “Okay then... So, can humans even reproduce with ponies?” He looks to me for this one. Why always me, I may never know.

        “Most certainly not, physically humans and ponies are just too different; apples and oranges Colt. Or to simplify it, it would be like trying to have a dog and a cat produce an offspring; just wouldn’t work.” There are a few ideas that come to mind though. “Unless you were to transform into a pony or some kind of compatible creature; or even undergo extensive evolution/devolution; thus making you compatible.” I simply shrug my shoulders. “I’ve seen weirder things happen on this planet, so I could be entirely wrong. But this world is flooded with dark energy, so the impossible is possible.” 

        “I’m just going to hope for the best then.”

        “W-What do you mean by the best?” Fluttershy asked.

        “That I will somehow find a way to have kids, although a little annoying, kids are great. I’m just going to make sure mine doesn’t end up like the kids in our world.”

        “It’s not the kids faults, but the lack of proper parenting.” I bitterly state.

        “I know, I’m not going to be like the parents in our world, bad parenting equals bad kids. And the parents must have really screwed up to have kids that bad. Seriously, my school had twenty arrests/hospitalizations a week!”

        “All that planet was, was just a festering cesspool of corruption, backstabbing, degenerates; Earth can burn for all I care.” The words might as well be poison.

        “T-T-27! How can you say such an awful thing about your home world?!” Cloud’s expression is a fusion of shock and horror.

        “Yeah, but he forgot ignorance, intolerance, racism, and all the hate. Other than that, he hit the nail on the head Cloud. And think about this for a second, if our world wasn’t messed up how did we end up like we are now?” He asks in a monotone voice.

        “B-But both of you are human! Why do you have su-.”

        “He’s human. I’m Horror.” 

        “I don’t think I am one hundred percent human-.” Oh boy, here we go again. Colt trying to prove how little ‘human’ he really is. I don’t know who’s he trying to fool, himself or us.

        “Anymore, thank whomever for that.”

        “Yeah, unlike you ponies we got to the point to where we were tearing each other apart. Let’s just say we are messed up for a reason.”

        “Since the first day that humans walked the earth, we were at each other’s throats; it’s in our nature. Be thankful Colt that you were just a simple civilian sitting in the comfort of your home while soldiers died for you. I’m thrilled that you are the last of the human race.” 

        “Why? I’m mentally unstable, short tempered, and I’m lazy; so basically the perfect American stereotype.”

        “Exactly, when it’s your time, the human race will become extinct.”

        “Although I can’t help but be a bit offended by that statement, I see your point.”

        “That’s enough venting for one lifetime. If I continued, I might just have to kill you right here and now.” The poison spewing from my mouth is replaced by sarcasm.

        “Trust me, if I ever ended up like my dad I would want you to execute me.” Noted.

        “Colt!” Belle shots.

        “I wo-.” Trixie throws an apple core at his face, which surprisingly shuts him up.

        “Just stop talking like this, Tri-. I’m sick of it!” Fade walks over to the both of us, we turn to look at her and then she delivers a hard slap to Colt. Ouch, that kinda look like it hurt. Sucks to su-. Then she slaps me, even harder. Yeah, that hurt.

        “Stop it ,the both of you!”

        “Stop all this self hatred you two!” Belle orders.

        “Yeah, don’t be so hard on yourselves!” Pinkie Pie chimes in.

        “Who cares where you came from, or how bad your planet is?! You’re here now! That’s all that matters!” Cloud yells a little too loud, causing Stella to stir from her slumber.

        “W-What’s with all the s-shouting Horror?”

        “Shhh, it’s okay. Colt and 27 were just getting in trouble.” Fluttershy says gently, hovering over to Stella.

        “Horror, I’m c-cold. Can I sweep with Tail?”

        “Sure thing Stella, sorry we woke you.” Tail gently plucks Stella from my head and coils around her into the makeshift cone-hut.

        “If you wake that child up again, I’ll deep-freeze you both. Do I make myself clear?” We both timidly nod. Scary Fade is scary.

        “You two done now?” Belle asks.

        “Yeah, sorry, we kinda got on a rant.”

        “Yes, I’m finished.” 

        “Good. Colt, would you kindly start a fire? I doubt the girls want to be cold tonight.” Fade suggests, pointing at the firewood stacked against the fireplace that Cloud and Trixie chopped.

        Colt talks to himself, or Rage I assume before his hand bursts into flame and he sets a fire. Trixie scolds him for not using a match and Fluttershy bandages him up. “Rub the ointment gently and it should be okay.” Fluttershy says as she fishes out a tube.

        “Thanks. Now that I’m done hurting myself for the day, what’s next?”

        “That’s the third time tonight that you’ve asked me what’s next. You’re an adult.” I know, I’m being generous here. “Stop turning to me for guidance and start thinking for yourself.”

        “Sorry, thought you had something else we needed to do tonight. If not, I think I’m going to bed.”

        “Not much we can do, hopefully it will stop raining before sunrise so we can get more work done outside.” 

        “Alright, bed it is!” Colt says, getting up from the couch and heading down the hall with his harem in tow.

        “I’m watching you.” Belle says as she's walking backwards.

        “Yeah you are.” Cloud retorts, sticking her tongue out at Belle. She laughs a little before turning around and joining the other’s.

        We sit there in front of the fire for a little while longer. Fade is the first one to fall asleep as she leans against me with her head resting on my shoulder. Cloud motions to me, and then to Fade. “She out?” I nod. “Okay.” She whispers as she begins to stretch out.

        “I’ll be right back.” I say before carefully and skillfully getting up off the couch without waking Fade. I pick her up in my arms and carry her to our room, she’s typically a light sleeper but not tonight. I manage to reach our room without waking her; note to self, ninja level improved. With a little more skill and a lot of luck, I am able to place her in the cot, then Tail places Stella right next to her and Fade instantly starts to cuddle with the sleeping foal.

        “Hey.” Cloud whispers from the doorway. “Come out here for a second wouldya?” I tuck the both of them in and slowly close the door on my way out. “I’m in the kitchen 27.” I follow Cloud’s voice down the hallway, as I round the corner I see Cloud sitting on the table, waiting. “You, I, right here, right now.” She beckons me closer with her wing. “One rule.” She says, stopping me with her hoof.

        “Let’s hear it.” I’ve been looking forward to this ever since last night in the camp.

        “Rut me like you hate me.” I step back a bit, looking her over and I can see she’s determined about this.

        “Why?” 

        “Because, angry rut is best rut. You’re tense, I’m tense. No better way to blow off some steam and some angry rutting.”

        “Cloud, I’m sorry, but you’ve done nothing to anger me.”

        Cloud takes in a deep breath, like she’s about to unload on me. “Silverwing betrayed you! She used you to remove her father! She broke your heart! And I applaud her!” If there’s one thing I know that Cloud is good at, that is being very aggro. “She played you like a scratch table 27! Made you turn on a whim and then tossed you aside when she no longer needed you! I gotta hand it to her, gurl got some skills.” I move in closer and Cloud looks up to with with a smirk on her muzzle. “That’s right, I wen-.” White hot flashes go off in my mind. And the next thing I know, I have Cloud pinned to the table by the neck, not choking her, but just pinned. “She never loved you.”

        “You’re going to regret ever saying that.” I snarled.

Credits

Editors

frieD195 - Tsujin Rilauco