Everything was packed and ready, tickets provided and sitting in my pocket sent by Cadence and Armor. The zoo was back everyone having brought their pets early in the morning eager to get them all settled in. No fights thankfully and we did our best to provide each of them with a place they could each call their own as well as plenty of space for them to play and interact together.
We said our goodbyes then not wanting to drag all the pets to the station having just gotten them settled nor willing to leave them all on their own, individually... Even a few of them not a problem but altogether... Well they could be handful.
Rarity and Sweetie Belle as well as Applejack and Apple Bloom hugged saying their goodbyes while the three of us hugged our own little Angel...
"Now Angel if you have any problems one of you gallop and get Magnum or Pearl, and you can always ask Miss Cherilee too, maybe als..."
"Daad! We can handle it."
"I'm sure you can I just don't want you to get overwhelmed..."
"They'll be fine love, they might even learn something..." Twi grinned.
"You bet!"
"Yu bet!" Star echoed giggling.
"We'll do great dad you'll see, you'll be proud!"
Her adorable determination made me smile. "We're always proud of you Angel, okay... I won't promise not to worry but I'll try." I scooped her up giving her a big hug and kiss.
The pets got their goodbyes too everyone would miss their companions and I was sure vice-versa. Together we headed toward the train station looking back once and waving.
"Ootaloo!"
"Bye Star! Be good!" She called back waving wildly.
"Ootaloo..." She sniffed as we boarded.
I gave her a squeeze and a kiss. "You'll see her soon baby... And you’re going to meet your cousins Prism and Shimmer."
"Guzinz?"
Twilight smiled. "You'll get along so well and we've got so much to show you."
It was a long train ride though likely a bit shorter than our first trip due to increased track and train maintenance. The Crystal Empire since its rediscovery was quickly becoming a very popular vacation destination, word was spreading and the train was filled to capacity. The eight of us had a cabin near the back of the train but we discovered it only had six bunks. Undeterred Twilight simply levitated one of the mattresses onto the floor where the three of us could settle down comfortably.
We all chatted as we watched the scenery fly by excited by the prospect of returning to the Crystal Empire and helping Cadence and Armor, as busy as we were going to be I was sure the girls were going to be even busier...
"There they go..." Sweetie Belle sighed.
"Well we better git ready fer school!" We got special permission ta each bring one pet ever day... Ah'm bringing Winona!"
"Well, I'd bring Pan but he usually sleeps when I'm gone... I'll bring Tank!" Scootaloo giggled.
"And I'll bring... Um..." She looked over at Opal who scowled at her briefly then turned and strutted away ignoring her. "Um... Angel bunny?" She smiled hopefully as he perked up his ears hopping over to her letting her pick him up and give him a squeeze.
"Ok that's settled, an tomorrow we'll bring three others!"
"This is gonna be great!"
"Yeah... But we still need to feed them and make lunches for us..."
All three of them gasped and looked at the clock jumping.
"Ahh! We’ve only got twenty minutes!"
"Hurry, hurry!"
Food was quickly doled out and fast and easy lunches put together and they were out the door and away! Sheepishly returning moments later to collect Winona, Tank and Angel bunny...
Owlicious swooped down from the window upstairs perching on the back of the couch. "Their gone."
"Well finally, honestly my pet clearly still needs more work. This is the second time she's left me here, and in the care of those three! That settles it, when she gets home a hairball right in the middle of her bed, she's really left me no choice..."
"Who are you talking to?"
"Certainly not your feathers, or this furry tube..." She gestured at Pan curled up asleep on the couch. "And as for you..." She glanced at Gummy resting on his rock suppressing a shudder. "Why did they have to take my Tankie wankie instead of one of you? At least I'd have someone to talk to and we get to see each other so rarely, once a week really isn't enough..."
"Or far too much... No idea what he sees in her...?” Gummy mumbled under his breath crawling away.
"Oh? Are you still pretending he has a thing for you? And here I always thought he fancied Winona..." Owlicious smirked taking wing.
"What?! That... That bitch?! How dare you imply...!" She trailed off realizing Owlicious was teasing her and more so that he was out of reach of any repercussions she might levy. "Humph..." She sauntered over to the kitchen jumping up onto one of the chairs and curling up ignoring him.
"Touchy..." He chuckled landing on his perch by the fireplace. "And how are you there Gummy?"
He flicked his eyes to him for the briefest of moments before resuming their distant and practiced stare. "Gummy good... Sleepy..." Damn bird sees too much... He silently cursed as he laid his head down on his comfy rock closing his eyes.
Owlicious watched him a moment longer, he's definitely not as dumb as he appears... I wonder just what he's hiding? He yawned making himself comfortable, well past his bedtime anyhow, time to get a little rest before those three get home and things get really interesting...
"We're home!" Three filly's burst through the door Winona by their side and Angel bunny on Sweetie Belles back, Tank similarly on Scootaloo's.
"Okay we need ta give em some snacks..."
"And clean up!"
"We'll be responsible they'll see!"
"Well duh, they would never have left us alone if they didn't..."
And just like clockwork came a knock at the door, it popped open and Big Mac looked in Inkie beside him a basket of groceries balanced on her back.
"Checkin up on us already big brother?"
"Eeyup..."
"Aww... An here I thought they trusted us!"
"They do sweetie, their just being careful..."
"Well as you can see nothings gone wrong at all!" Scootaloo stated tactfully quickly stepping over to block view of Opal sharpening her claws on the couch.
"Hmm..."
"Now Mac..." Inkie giggled. "We all know you three can handle a lot of responsibility but some situations require an adult understand?"
"Yeah..." All three of them echoed.
"An ya'll will ask if you need anything right?"
"Ok brother."
"Yes Big Mac!"
"Thanks for looking out for us."
"We'll see you later then!" Inkie called out as they turned to go.
"Bye!"
"An don't be forgittin your homework..." Big Mac called back with a grin.
"Aww..."
"Dang..."
"What? I like doing homework, Rarity usually comes over and... Oh..." Sweetie Belle hung her head sadly.
"It's ok Sweetie Belle, we'll help each other! But first things first. Snack time!"
Owlicious watched the three excited fillies a moment before focusing on the three returned pets below. "So how was the school?"
"Well..."
"It was great! So many scritches! So many hugs! So many treats from lunches!" Winona burst out interrupting Tank.
"Yeah it was ok, the treats especially." Angel casually remarked.
"It was nice, so may energetic young ones..."
"You know it! I chased the ball so much!" She sat down panting slightly as Opal strutted up having taken a detour around to avoid the fillies.
"Tank darling!" She gave Winona a look before interposing herself between the two of them. "I missed you! I hope those beastly children didn't hurt you...?" She rubbed against him with a small purr.
"Not at all, a few were curious about me but most of them were distracted by Winona and Angel..."
"Yup..." Angel hopped up onto the couch stretching out and relaxing. "But who could blame them? So many bits of leftover lunches I'm stuffed..."
"Oh yeah! Me too, I couldn't eat another... Ooh! Look! Treats!" She tore off toward the kitchen joining Pan who had woken up as soon as they had gotten home and was now perched happily on Scootaloo's back as they gave treats to each pet as they came over.
The rest of the afternoon the girls did a bit of cleaning up, the house wasn't too dirty but with all the pets visiting there was plenty of extra fur, feathers and even scales being shed. They also made plenty of time for the pets, play and attention even Opal allowed them to stroke her a few times...
As evening fell they made sure each pet was fed before eating themselves spending reluctant time with their homework as well before bed.
Pan waited until he was sure all three were asleep before wiggling out of his ones warm embrace. He snuck out of her bedroom where all three of them were bedded down into the open tree.
"All asleep are they?" Owlicious asked from above.
He jumped slightly not able to smell or hear him up there. "I asked you not to do that!"
"Sorry..." He chuckled.
"Yes they finally fell asleep, a bit later than usual, must be the excitement of being together."
"I'm sure, well the others are still up too though Opal has been complaining nonstop..."
"Sounds like her." He chuckled, in a moment they reached the fireplace where the others were catching the tail end of another of Opals tirades.
"...and another thing, I need my beauty sleep..."
"But ya slept almost all day! How d'ya get any work done?"
"Work?!" She looked at Winona like she was insane. "Why would I want to...?” She shook her head remembering who she was talking to. "Just small naps Winona to refresh myself."
"Well I guess I can't argue with ya there I'm plum tuckered..." She yawned widely.
"I'll be ready to sleep soon too but Owlicious wanted to tell us something..." Pan bumped into Tanks shell reorienting himself and taking a seat beside him.
"Well hurry it up, I'm tired too." Angel commented already comfortably stretched out on the couch.
Owlicious cleared his throat nervously. "Um... Yes. As you know they've left us in the care of the three young ones..."
"An indomitable situation if there ever was one! I have half a mind to..." Opal got a bit worked up but then trailed off sitting back down when Tank patted her paw comfortingly.
"Thank you..." Owlicious nodded. "While it might not be what we're used to, our life friends entrusted us to them and them to us and I for one think that is very important to note..."
"Hmm... I guess you’re right, I hadn't thought about it that way. They've always been good to me so I guess it's natural I treat them the same..." Angel yawned and nodded in agreement.
"Well ya... The goddess in training's always good ta me ah trust her... Wait a moment, Fluttershy's always been so good ta you but you’re not always so nice..."
Angels eyes narrowed for a moment before he rolled over ignoring her. "That's none of your business Winona."
"Ya but..."
"Let it go Winona..." Pan knew very well Angel wasn't nearly as tough on Fluttershy as everyone thought but for whatever reason he tried to keep his feelings secret. He didn't know why but it didn't really matter. "Angel has his reasons leave it at that."
"But..."
"We all care for Fluttershy Winona." Tank smiled. "Some of us just show it differently than others."
"Alright, alright..." She turned in a circle a few times settling herself back down onto the floor.
"Right... Again, thanks. I was just thinking if they trust them to take care of us then we should too right? Their still earning I know but we can help them, teach them even train them a little..." He chuckled.
Gummy's eyes widened for a moment a small smile spreading across his face. Yes... Training... He could see it now, trained minions for him with the Pink one and their unstoppable powers of 'cute' he could rule it all! Suddenly he became aware that everyone was staring at him, the chuckled he hadn't even been aware he was emitting cut off and he cleared his throat blushing. "Gummy agree... Be nice to them..."
"Yes, Gummy's... Enthusiasm aside we can't be too accommodating, they certainly do need some training quite badly don't they?" Opal giggled stretching.
"A little kindness and understanding goes a long way isn't that what Fluttershy says?" Tank added nudging Opal gently.
"Well... I suppose."
"Good points everyone, are we agreed then? We'll take it easy on them, but not too easy...?"
They all looked around before nodding together. "Agreed."
"Well then if I'm to enthrall the young ones tomorrow with my beauty I had best get my sleep. Goodnight Tank." She rubbed against him a moment before looking up remembering herself. "Goodnight all." She strutted off to her bed.
"My one calls to me too and I had better get some more sleep if I'm going to have to be up extra tomorrow. Night all." Pan scampered off towards Scootaloo's room as Angel stretched out on the couch getting comfortable. "See ya in the morning."
Gummy crawled away to his rock without a word but they were all used to his odd ways.
"Ah'll see ya'll tomorrow too, it's gonna be fun!" Winona grinned skipping over to her own well-worn bed.
"And you Tank? Headed to bed?"
"I don't need much sleep really, care for a game or two?" He inclined his head over towards the chess table.
"Why not, I'll need a little nap later if I'm going to join the girls at school tomorrow. But for now, let's play..."
Pan snuck back through his bolt hole and was surprised to find his one awake rustling a paper something, she often stayed up reading and giggling after bedtime telling him stories he couldn't understand but loved to hear nevertheless.
He quickly hopped up onto the bed snuggling up close to her finding damp spots on her fur, he sniffed and tasted tears...?
"Of tjdhdw ynf aje Pan, lhes mds ahg dke swbh mf a ljebej..." (Oh there you are Pan, look mom and dad sent me a letter...) She sniffed giving him a squeeze. "I gjedc yje cfm'd lejd sjey..." (I guess you can't look sorry...)
He couldn't make out her meaning but her sadness was clear and he knew what to do about that, he crawled up onto her rubbing against and licking her until he heard her giggle putting aside whatever she had been holding. "Tkdnhs Pan, I mdhh tjeg. Ensj Shed..." (Thanks Pan, I miss them. Even Star...) She yawned cuddling down with him between her forelegs. "Nfhdt Pan." (Night Pan.)
He nuzzled against her getting comfortable, sleep tight my one...
On her nightstand a simple scroll unfurled blown by the breeze from the window the end secured under her alarm clock...
Our Dearest Scootaloo
One day apart and we miss you terribly, Star has been asking for you constantly she really misses her big sister!
We hope you're doing well and have had no problems but if you do we know you'll be able to handle them.
Another day will find us in the Crystal empire and two more to help with the preparations...
It all seemed like such a short time when we were planning...
We'll write you every day and let you know what we're doing and we can't wait to come home and hear all about what you've been doing.
Love you, Mom
Love you Angel, Dad
(And at the bottom a mass of indecipherable scribbles from her sister.)
The next morning three sleepy fillies dragged themselves out of bed quickly cleaning and waking themselves up before making breakfast and feeding the pets as well as taking care of any 'business' that needed to be taken care of.
They were surprised to find Owlicious, Opal and Pan all waiting together as if they somehow knew they were next to go with them to school!
School was loud! So many voices and so many smells it was more than he could comprehend but safe on his one's back he could manage. Plenty of pats and strokes some rougher then he was used to but her voice rang out admonishing them, some came close and to them he gave friendly licks receiving giggles and even a soft kiss or two in return. After a while a different voice rose above the others, older but soft and sweet and everyone quieted down.
Owlicious perched himself atop the coat rack watching with interest while Opal made herself comfortable down below, Pan was curled up in Scootaloo's desk tired from the mornings excitement, the desk smelled of papers, ink the occasional smuggled treat and his one... He had no trouble falling asleep.
Recess, lunch and another recess each of them had the chance to show their special skills from Owlicious's aerial skill, Pan's goofy antics and Opal's... Well Opal's beauty and grace. Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon were especially impressed by her gently stroking her fur and encouraging others to do the same.
At the end of the day they carried the pets back to the library all of them tired but a good kind of tired after the day’s excitement. As soon as they opened the door Winona was there tail wagging happily.
"Aww, didja miss me girl? Ah missed you too!"
Owlicious flew up to his high perch where he often slept the day away as Apple Bloom took Winona out for a quick walk and Scootaloo tucked the already asleep Pan into her bed, Opal hopped off Sweetie Belle stopping a moment to rub against Tank before waiting in front of her bowl patiently.
"Everyone was impressed weren't they?" Sweetie Belle squeaked while filling up pet bowls starting with Opals.
"You bet! I think the pets had fun too!"
"Ah know it! Kin we bring Winona again tomorrow? Ah think she was bored cooped up in here all day..." Apple bloom asked coming back inside with Winona at her heels.
"Sure! Gummy hasn't had a turn either and who else..."
"Angel! He's soo cute and sweet everyone just loves him!"
Angel apparently agreed as he hopped up onto Sweetie Belle's back snuggling against her with a smile. The girls cleaned up a bit gathering together in the kitchen to make some snacks talking and giggling together as the pets finished eating and gathered together in the living room.
"So how was it? You don't look too disturbed Opal."
"It wasn't nearly as bad as I feared Tank darling, they were quite gentle. It was a nice surprise."
"Did you play? Did you run and chase? Chase and run?!"
"No... Honestly Winona it's as if you don't know me at all..."
"I did do a bit of swoop and chase with the young ones it was quite fun and witnessing their teaching methods was also very interesting."
"Uggh... Is that what that was? Sitting and talk, talk, talk...! How'r they supposed to learn from that? They need to get out and experience to learn!"
"They learn differently than us Winona, they rely less on instinct and more on teaching, books and the like."
"Very true Tank, and it seems often they still need us to teach them a thing or two... Gently of course."
"I suppose Opal... Frankly I'm often surprised at how much I learn from them even just watching them." Owlicious nodded.
"Your right, it's amazing how hectic their lives can be." Tank agreed.
They all nodded in agreement even Gummy he knew all too well how crazy the pink one’s life could get.
"We're all pretty lucky I think to have such special ones in our lives."
"Darn straight Owlicious!"
"I agree, I know I give you all a hard time... Alright everyone! But I am grateful to have such a special friend as Fluttershy..." Angel blushed slightly.
"And...?" Tank grinned.
Angel rolled his eyes with a sigh. "Fine... You all too..."
Everyone laughed but all nodded in agreement again.
"Well I'm bushed. Good day to you all, see you later this evening." Owlicious soared back up to his high perch.
"I could use a bit of a nap myself... Tank, come talk with me a bit?"
The two of them wandered off to Opals bed side by side talking quietly.
"Whatta you want to do Angel? Run? Play? Wrestle...?!"
Angel sighed, he liked Winona but her enthusiasm was a little overboard sometimes. He rolled over retrieving something from between the couch cushion's a small red ball, he held it up. "Want the ball Winona? Go get it!" He tossed the ball towards the kitchen snickering as Winona tore off after it at full speed.
"Winona!!!"
After a bit of cleanup from Winona's over-exuberant charge Apple Bloom and Scootaloo took her out to burn off some of that excess energy while Sweetie Belle tided things up and did some tail fluffing for Angel.
While they were eating dinner another scroll arrived Twilight's neat script telling them all about how the trip was going and the challenges they thought were ahead to get ready for the inspector and how much they missed them.
"Wow, do you think they'll be able to convince her?"
"Come on Sweetie Belle! With my mom and dad there, Rarity, Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash! How could they not?!"
"Darn right! Ah wish we could see it..."
"I know we will someday!"
"Yeah..." All three of them daydreamt a moment imagining the possibility's.
"You know..." Sweetie Belle opened her eyes and grinned.
"What?"
"Twilight and Rick did leave you a lot of bits..."
"So...?"
"Well, we could go to the Crystal Empire... You know, to meet them!"
"Ah'm not so sure about that..."
"It'd be nice Sweetie Belle but I don't think..."
"Yeah... Ok... I just miss them."
The three of them hugged sighing and sitting down with Winona and Angel snuggling close. They did a bit of studying taking short breaks to play with Winona, Angel and even Tank who had come back over after Opal had fallen asleep, Gummy too got dragged along even though the girls found him strange Pinkie loved him and that was good enough for them.
They all slept well that night dreams of the Crystal Empire dancing in the three fillies heads, simpler more primal ones in the pets.
The next morning things went smoothly the girls seeming to have gotten the hang of things and with the pets cooperation (mostly) they were ready to go in record time. Gummy, Winona and angel going this time, with them gone the library was quiet. Owlicious and Pan asleep, Tank and Opal talking quietly over many a game of checkers a surprising number of which she won giving an excited squeal as Tank smiled knowingly complimenting her prowess.
Before too long the school day was done the girls and pets returned home happy to be back after a long day.
Gummy was intrigued, so many young ones and all so adorable and full of energy, possibility's... If he could somehow harness their power along with the pink ones near inexhaustible supply... He settled down on his rock a wide grin on his face, yes... Possibility's...
Winona waited at the goddess in training's heels, school time was great fun, all the little one's so cute and friendly, hugs and scritches but... She missed her goddess, spending time with her, helping her with anything she needed, she sighed. Soon she hoped, soon...
Pan perched on his ones back having awoken as soon as she got home, it was nice having the others here but to be honest he was a little tired of sharing her attention with the others. Selfish he knew, no matter soon enough everyone would be in their own homes and things would be as they were...
Opal sighed stretching rubbing against Tanks hard shell, strange he was only as warm as the environment around him but she still was more than happy to lay beside him. As unpleasant an experience as this had been left in the care of... Them, odd mealtime and ugh, canned food she was still having a very good time. Having so much time with her Tankie-pie was a big part of it to be sure but she was even finding the others tolerable. Still she missed her pet, the cute things she did everyday walking up so disheveled and prettying herself up for her every day! Just a few more days Owlicious said...
Tank jumped slightly in his shell feeling her soft caress, he remained in his shell feigning sleep though truly he hadn't slept a wink since they laid down together for one of her many daily naps. What am I doing? What is she doing? Try as he may he couldn't comprehend her attraction to him, vice-versa wasn't too hard to see though she might be a bit... Difficult, she was beautiful and vivacious things he definitely... Wasn't. He was quite sure the others looked at them together strangely and he couldn't blame them heck he wasn't even sure what was going on. Well he smiled to himself, a few more days and things will be back to normal, might as well enjoy it...
Owlicious stretched comfortably up on his perch, it was fascinating the dynamics similarities and differences within their group and the ponies, despite the huge differences between them. He was glad to see everyone getting along so well, during their weekly pony / pet 'playdates' there was often a clash or two usually between overly rambunctious Winona and Opal. He was used to things being more quiet... Well since the little one came the noise levels had increased but certainly not to these levels...
He chuckled, a few more days...
Angel twitched slightly, he was napping, dreaming... He saw Fluttershy without her friends, bullied, pushed around, in danger! And he couldn't do anything... He didn't fool himself, he knew he couldn't stop anyone from being mean to her but he could and did help her toughen up, be more assertive! It was an uphill battle he knew but every time he saw he do something courageous, stand up for herself and her friends... Something so out of character for her he liked to think he helped... At least a little but she was so far away... He awoke with a jerk, Fluttershy! He gasped trying to catch his breath, a dream? Just a dream... But... What if it wasn't...?
"So what should we do tonight girls?" Scootaloo asked.
"We got all weekend to do our homework!"
"An the house is lookin good!"
"Exactly! We can have some... Angel bunny? What are you doing?"
Everyone's attention was drawn over to the door which he had managed to partly open standing half in and out a confused and concerned look on his face.
"Angel bunny...?" Sweetie Belle gasped as he turned his head away ashamed squeezing out the door and hopping away.
"Wait!" Scootaloo raced out after him returning a moment later. "He's gone!"
"We gotta find him!"
"I know, I know..." Scootaloo got a determined look in her eye. "Let's get ready and go find him! Fluttershy's counting on us!"
"Winona kin track em down, right girl?"
Winona barked happily licking Apple Bloom but casting furtive glances at the door.
The girls quickly got their saddlebags on packing snacks for themselves as well as the pets not wanting to leave anyone home unsure of how long it would take to catch up to Angel. They gathered up all the pets putting their collars and harness's on attaching Tank's flying apparatus before heading out together Apple Bloom letting Winona sniff Angel's bed before she was out the door like a shot half dragging her and everyone else on her heels.
"He must be homesick!"
"But Winona's takin us into the middle of town..."
They wove between buildings doubling back and taking strange turns almost as if he knew they'd be following him! But Winona's nose was too good, she led them through every twist and turn with only the occasional stop in a busy area to reorient herself. As evening descended they were all getting tired and irritable when Winona finally stopped and they found themselves at the train station.
"What would he be doing here...? Wait! There he is!" Sweetie Belle squeaked pointing towards the train.
Everyone turned just in time to see his long ears disappear behind one of the windows. They rushed toward the train only to have their passage blocked by a stern conductor.
"And where do you think you’re going with this menagerie?"
"We just need to get on a moment and grab our wayward bunny..."
"A likely story, it's fifteen bits for each of you and five for each animal with a twenty bit charge for no proper carriers..."
"But..."
His unimpressed look left no question to his feelings on the matter, with a heavy sigh Scootaloo dug through her saddlebags counting out her bits eliciting a surprised grunt from the conductor as he doled out their tickets clicking each of them in turn.
"Make sure you keep your pets in line and cleaned up after, you’re liable for any damages they cause..."
"We just need to..." Scootaloo sighed again realizing the futility of it all. "We will sir."
They quickly boarded galloping to where they last saw Angel but no such luck, they began to search car by car disappointed again and again but Winona kept sniffing and sniffing despite the other passengers and the delicious smells coming from the dining car she led them further and further to the back of the train where they finally found him hiding in a small fort made out of luggage.
"Angel bunny!" Sweetie Belle scolded.
"Why'd ya run off on us?"
"You’re going to get us into..."
A loud whistle sounded and the train suddenly jerked into motion an announcement coming over the speakers. "Canterlot express Ponyville direct to the Crystal Empire nonstop."
"What?!" All three of them cried out.
"Quick we gotta..." Apple Bloom leapt forward to grab angel but he easily slipped between her legs, the jerk of the train had apparently spooked the other pets too as they all tried to move in different directions pulling the girls every which way, in the few minutes it took to get everyone under control and snag Angel when they stuck their heads out the back of the train they found it moving at speed.
"I... I can get us off one at a time!" Scootaloo exclaimed spreading her wings.
"Maybe... I think the trains moving too fast! By the time you drop one of us off it'll just keep getting further and further away!"
"Oh..."
"Maybe we could ask them to stop or go back? We did buy tickets..."
"If we made too much fuss it would definitely get back to our folks..."
"Right..." All three of them sat their ears drooping.
"We were doin so good too..."
"Yeah..."
"Dad was right that bunny is trouble!" Scootaloo fumed turning to glare at Angel who immediately hid behind Sweetie Belle.
"Scootaloo... I think he's just really missing Fluttershy you can't blame him for that... But you did go way too far mister!" Sweetie Belle admonished softly pulling him forward and giving him a hug.
"Ok, ok... We can figure this out... Any ideas?"
"Well, I recon we should find a cabin an keep outta sight. Don't want anypony tellin they saw us here right?"
"Good idea Apple Bloom! Let’s go." Scootaloo looked once more at Angel bunny as he hopped up on Sweetie Belle's back shaking her head, silly bunny. I wonder what he was thinking...?
A short while later they'd found an empty cabin near the back of the train and settled in as the girls looked over what they'd brought the pets gathered together under one of the bunks.
"Angel! What were you thinking? Were you trying to get them in trouble?!" Owlicious scolded.
"N... No, I..."
"A trip can be nice but honestly I don't even have my things here how am I supposed to enjoy it?"
"You all weren't..."
"What did you think would happen? My one wouldn't let you run off! Neither would the others!"
"I didn't think..."
Winona and Gummy didn't comment, she was busy nose pressed to the window tail wagging as she watched the scenery wiz by and Gummy sat to the side lost in his own thoughts.
"Ok, ok everyone just calm down... I'm sure Angel wouldn't have done this without some good reason so let’s just give him a chance to explain..."
"Thanks Tank... I... I'm sorry, really I didn't think you'd all get caught up in this..."
"In what? What are you doing here?"
"I had a... Dream..." His ears went down feeling foolish saying it out loud. "I saw Fluttershy and she needed me, needed my help but I couldn't... I..." His eyes squeezed shut tears leaking out.
Tank patted him on the back comfortingly... "A dream... I understand, we all love Fluttershy but the two of you have a special relationship the same as we all do with our special companion’s right?"
All around there were nods even Winona and Gummy having started paying attention again when Tank began to speak.
"What makes you think she's really in trouble though?"
"I don't know... It just seemed so real, never had a dream like that before... And I haven't seen her for so long... Sorry..."
Owlicious snorted clearly uncomfortable with the whole situation. "I suppose if it's for Fluttershy I can overlook this transgression..."
"Your right, for Fluttershy." Pan smiled.
"For Fluttershy!" Everyone agreed.
The girls passed out the treats they had brought but their own rumbling bellies reminded them it was a two day ride to the Empire and they were going to need more food for all of them. Fortunately even after the tickets there were plenty of bits left over, not surprisingly Scootaloo's mom and dad had left an excessive amount 'just in case', and they were glad they had.
Apple Bloom disguised herself by taking the bow out of her mane then went out to the dining car to get food for them all, the selection was limited and for Opal, Pan and Owlicious not at all what they were used to but they hoped for a few days wouldn't hurt them.
They watched the scenery fly by and played with the pets to try to keep them from going stir crazy and tried to stay in their cabin and other then a few trips out for 'elimination' and food runs it wasn't too difficult.
Angel, Pan, Opal, Gummy and Tank didn't need too much room to be comfortable or even to get some exercise. Owlicious too didn't need much room to be comfortable but to exercise... Fortunately he could escape out the window and fly free for a while and still catch up to the train. Winona however... Well she didn't need much room to sleep but to play and exercise she needed a lot and she needed that exercise to be happy so Scootaloo came up with a risky plan, she flew out with Winona onto the roof of the train where she could run like mad feeling the wind rush by and a thousand different smells every minute. Scootaloo stayed close of course worried about the edges and to play with her keeping both of them entertained. If the ponies down below heard her claws clicking above none of them ever came to see...
That night another letter came appearing above Scootaloo and together they read it, so many things to do helping to get things ready and naturally trying to impress the games inspector. Tomorrow would be the decider though and they promised to let them know how things went.
Scootaloo’s ears went down as they finished reading. "I feel guilty..."
"Me too..."
"Ah know how ya feel but we didn't have any choice! Right...?"
"Yeah..." They both agreed.
"We're being responsible keepin the pets safe."
"So you think we should tell them?" Sweetie Belle asked.
"Um..."
"Well..."
"What?"
"Maybe they don't need to know..."
"If we can get back before them... There’s no need to get in trouble right?"
"I guess..."
They all settled down to sleep, Tank and Gummy nestled between the three of them to keep them warm. The clickity clack of the rail soon lulled them all to sleep...
The next morning's sun awoke them along with some insistent nudging, they split up to acquire breakfast and take care of 'business' before settling back down to eat sharing with their friends watching the scenery change from the hills and woods they knew to more desolate badlands and finally to tundra, scrub and snow. Opening the window they could feel the cold but it wasn't so bad, a light coating of snow shone in the sunlight and far in the distance they could barely see a dome of slightly translucent energy they were racing toward.
"Woow..." All three of them echoed before they all burst out talking.
"What do you think the Crystal ponies look like?"
"Ah wonder if everything is really made of crystal?"
"It's so beautiful... I mean... Its ok I guess... I wonder if any of the Crystal ponies have wings...?" Scootaloo stammered and blushed making the others giggle.
"Coming up Crystal Empire station, visitor disembarking and refueling..."
"What should we do?"
"Hide?"
"Well... I kinda wanna see the Empire..."
"Me too..."
"Well I guess a little peak couldn't hurt."
Just as well they hadn't tried to hide as there was a staff member waiting for them to check their car but thanks to the pets amazing cooperation and good behavior other than a bit of extra fur nothing was amiss.
They disembarked last and just stood there a moment staring at the majesty and wonder of the Crystal Empire, all at once they took off looking in windows, gawking at Crystal ponies each of them talking excitedly to one another as they moved from sight to sight dragging the pets along with them.
Winona followed happily along glad to be out the tiny room looking and sniffing at everything the girls did. She wasn't sure what they were so excited about but she did have to admit there were some amazing and new smells! Even... She sniffed the air excitedly, her goddess! She wanted to run to her... But she couldn't abandon the goddess in training... She sighed following along content in the knowledge that she'd see her soon...
Owlicious perched on Scootaloo's back sharing the space with Pan, he kept his guard up knowing if the adults caught the young ones here... Well it wouldn't be the end of the world but it truly wasn't their fault, he glanced down at Angel who hopped slightly ahead of the group looking around and sniffing the air. Fluttershy's fine you silly bunny he thought to himself, I'm sure of it...
Gummy looked around from his seat atop Apple Bloom's head, his usual blank stare replaced by one of amazement. The spires, town, buildings and in the distance a huge castle all built of a strange shining material, so much more massive and incredible then the buildings he was used to. If the creatures here could accomplish a feat such as this...! Just imagine... The size of a heated rock they could make...!
Tank glanced at the goofy look on Gummy’s face before shaking his head slightly as he focused back on the task at hand trying to keep his flight stable and straight. He'd tried ever since she'd given him this gift to master the flight she made look so effortless... easier said than done he had to admit, he'd made very little progress constantly bumping into things looking every bit as clumsily in the air as he did on land. He just didn't have the reflexes but he wasn't about to give up, he'd make her proud...
Opal relaxed on Sweetie Belle's back watching the scenery and ponies pass, it was all quite lovely but she was a creature of habit she had to admit and all these new things and places scared her... She tried hard not to show it, the others relied on her poise and composure they'd be lost without her guidance... That’s what she told herself at least, she'd give anything just to be back home with her pet just like things should be...
Pan sniffed the air again amazed at how many new smells and sounds there were all around, he made sure to hold tight to his one he wouldn't want to become separated from her here. He had faith that he could find her again no matter how long it took but why take chances? All this excitement, adventure and travel was fun but all he really wanted now was to be at home with his one playing, having fun or just snuggling together, soon...
Angel sniffed the air his ears rotating trying to pick up something, anything...! He thought he would feel better once they got here but he remained anxious, stressed and worried. Despite all the reassurance the others had given him he wouldn't be able to relax until he saw... Fluttershy! There through the throng of bodies he saw a flash of yellow and pink, he immediately darted towards it heedless of the cries behind him.
"Owlicious! You’re the only one who can stop him! Quick!" Tank cried out floating carefully over to help him slip his harness.
He hesitated a moment before spreading his wings and taking flight high above his keen eyes somewhat blunted by the bright sunlight and shimmering buildings but thousands of years had honed owls to be able to spot fleeing prey and before too long he did just that. Angel was making slow progress towards what he was now sure was Fluttershy having caught a few more glances of her as he darted and dodged between ponies and luggage when he was suddenly sized and bore aloft by a pair of very sharp but gentle talons.
"No! Let me go Owlicious! I've got to..."
"Relax... Look."
He had been so busy struggling he hadn’t noticed Owlicious had lifted him up but not turned to go back yet, from their roof high vantage point they could clearly see Fluttershy with her friends laughing with them about something.
Angel breathed a sigh of relief. "She's ok..."
"I had little doubt... But, it is good to see her well and the others too... We better get back."
"Your right... Owlicious?"
"Hmm?"
"Thank you."
"Glad to help..."
They quickly flew back to the girls who were just starting to look for the two of them.
"Owlicious! You found him! Thank goodness!" Sweetie Belle hugged him tightly putting him on her back to Opals slight annoyance.
"Glad that’s... Ack!" Scootaloo had begun hovering just over the crowd to look but immediately plunged back to the ground. "There they are!" She peeked up again. "They didn't see me... Whew."
"Now boarding..."
"Ahh!" All three of them squealed.
"We've got to get on board!" Luckily there were two places to board, they presented their tickets getting them punched again making them ineligible to be used again and quickly got to the same cabin they had before near the back of the train.
"We made it! Now we just have to stay low and..."
Tap tap tap...
They all went silent clutching each other a familiar voice coming from the other side of the door. "Is this cabin taken?"
"Dad..." Scootaloo whispered. "Yes, sorry..." She dropped her voice as low as she could holding her breath.
"No problem..."
She pressed her ear to the door listening then collapsing back on her haunches. "Wow... That was close."
Sweetie Belle peeked out the door immediately pulling back and shutting the door. "Their taking the cabin diagonally right across from us!"
"Shh... As long as we kin be quiet we'll be ok."
"Maybe we should just go confess..."
"No Sweetie Belle! We've come so far, and we've done so well!"
"We have kept the pets safe an all..."
"Ookay... How are we going to get food and take care of...? You know..."
"We'll just have to be... Ooh! We can do it all at night!"
"Shh! But ya your right, well we better try'n get a little sleep then."
They pulled the shade and snuggled down together, just a couple days...
The next two days and nights were a bit nerve racking they were a bit worried that when Twilight sent her letters because they were so close that she would know but it didn't seem so, it was boring for them and confusing for the pets but they still did their best to keep them entertained and happy, for their part the pets were glad that Angels premonition of Fluttershy was nothing to be worried about and they were headed home. They excitedly watched as the Ponyville station came into view everything packed up and everyone cleaned up, the moment the train pulled into station they were out the door and off the back of the train quickly lining up on the far side of the train. The train pulled ahead to the refueling station the steam clearing reveling them.
"Hey! We thought we'd come and meet you at the station!"
Everyone came together in a barking, hooting, licking, hugging and loving mass... Finally everyone headed to the library to collect their pet’s belongings before heading home.
After everyone left I did my rounds quickly stopping to thank Magnum and Pearl and Big Mac and Inkie before heading home for a quick dinner, Star was so happy to see her sister she refused to leave her side so I tucked them in together in Scootaloo’s bed Twilight and me giving them both a kiss.
"Sleep tight Angel, sleep tight baby. Love you."
"Sleep sweet my loves."
"Thanks mom, thanks dad, love you..."
"Love you mommy, love you daddy..."
Their little heads nodding I rubbed Stars chest for a few moments guaranteed to put her right to sleep then turned out the lights the two of them snuggled together with Pan between. Twilight and I cleaned up quietly brushing against one another here and there both of us smiling and happy to be home, we crawled into bed together snuggling close kissing softly.
So...
So...?
How long should we ground her?