Well a new day! Scootaloo apparently went back to her own bed sometime during the night and had Luna sleeping on the floor with her! I have no idea how she managed to get her back there but I thought it was cute. As for the first night in my new home I actually had a little bit of a tough time sleeping even with Scootaloo around me. Maybe a minute before Luna had come in and grabbed Scootaloo I woke up from a slight nightmare. It wasnt a very scary one but it did scare me awake. I was flying and when I came in for a landing I lost my footing and tripped just to fall flat on my face. That doesnt happen often. I dont really fly much unless it's just to exercise my wings or if I'm just preforming for the Summer Sun Celebration for my birthday. Anyways I got up and felt like crap. No coffee, a bit disoriented, and lonely actually... I guess I was so used to being woken up by my faithful student, Spike or even Scootaloo. Yes I woke up on my own but I'm so used to seeing one of them coming to check on me if I was awake. As I got up my nightgown stuck to my body which felt a bit sweaty. I went over to Scootaloo's door to see how the generals sister was doing. The door was opened wide just perfect for me to see my sister asleep on the floor covered by a blanket as if I caught her by her games back in Canterlot. She must've been on one hell of a dream walk because she never up and passes out on the floor just because she wants to. Scootaloo was cutely curled up in her bed snoozing away. I couldnt help but pick my sister up with my magic and put her into my arms only to take her back to my bed laying her in it not disturbing her sleep. Even kissed her on the head before I left the room and went in the hall. My day time guard looked to me and bowed in respect. "Good morning princess!" He said as I cracked my back and rubbed my neck. "Did you sleep well?"
I shook my head slightly. "...I woke up every other hour just to make sure that little filly was alright...." I said. "...She went back to her own room sometime during the night and my sister was on the floor in there... Do check on her every once in a while and wake her up before noon.... I want her to rest on the way back home so she has enough power to get back to her room... I dont want her brought in on a gurney again..." He saluted me just as I was going over to my wardrobe room across the hall.
"Yes princess!" And yes my sister had to be wheeled to her room on a gurney at one time. You see she passed out one time while we were out and I had to rush somewhere to do something and I was basically the only one strong enough to carry her but apparently four guards all at the top of their game couldnt carry her to the door. Medics had to help them get her to the top of the steps, lie her on the gurney and wheel her to the room. They even had to try and lift her since she is the hardest to wake up when its this late in the day. I had to send one guard back home for medical leave since they nearly threw their back out! Anyways I stripped myself down to my underwear and changed them as well. Yet... I did feel as if I needed a shower. It has been a while since Scootaloo bathed as well. I'll get her in the shower after breakfast. I quickly got into just a plain grey pair of panties and a sports bra just matching. I threw on a pair of jeans and a tank top before walking out bare footed. With how cool the tiles and carpet were I enjoyed it. Even the silence.
I took a deep breath and sighed exiting the hall coming to the foyer. It felt nice not hearing a TV, crying or just waking up wet. Part of me wishes I did because I had to make a new rainbow falls out of gold. I had to go but not bad. Just as I hit the bottom of the stairs a guard from out front came in and I could hear yelling. I thought the WORST. "Princess! We need you out here immediately!" He said. I ran to the door and followed the guard out. The concrete outside was still cold but was only shaded by the wall somewhat. Just at the gate with a few guards standing between them were an in uniform Spitfire looking a bit ticked and Soarin looking just as ticked but in plain clothes. A tank top and jeans as well as sneakers. "They've been yelling at each other since they got here and we cant really ask them why they're even here!"
I sighed and looked to him. "I'll handle this... You just have my back just in case one of them decides to start fighting..." I said. He nodded just before I came to the arguing ponies sides. "Hey! HEY! QUIET YOU TWO!" I grabbed both their muzzles with my magic holding them shut. "What is going on here? Why are you too even here? When I release you I need one of you to speak! Am I understood?" They each gave me a thumbs up and immediately I released them. "Alright... Spitfire... Speak and tell me what your troubles are. I dont want to have to hold your mouths shut again!"
Spitfire sighed and crossed her arms. "We're very sorry Princess... I really needed to see you to see if you can give Soarin' something to do around here." She said. "He landed weird and rolled onto his wings injuring one of them. Now he just wont shut up about ANYTHING! Everyone at the training facility is just about ready to kick his ass up and down the strip! I was just about to stomp his flank on the side of the road on the way over here!" She glared at him and growled just as a few guards held her back. I looked to Soarin.
"Well... You're injured... Cant really do anything too harsh.... Nothing too heavy duty either... Your guard duties were legendary before you became a Wonderbolt...."
Soarin smiled nervously at me standing in half attention. "I can do what ever you need me to!" He said. "I'll carry food trays, I'll clean, I'll do literally anything for you! I wont hesitate to even clean the toilets!" I glanced at Spitfire who was literally PRAYING to mother to have me have him clean the toilets. I smiled at him and sighed.
"I actually have the perfect thing for you to do... You my good sir are going to aide me and my little friend Scootaloo until you can get back in the air. Shouldnt be too long should it?" I looked to the wonderbolt leader.
Spitfire huffed a bit disappointed. "A few days... it's already been a week..." She said. "All we need... is a FEW DAYS... of silence... You want me to call and check in later on him?" She asked. I gave a slight nod. "Ah then expect a call after practice. Three in the afternoon. If Soarin says anything about me lying about this time feel free to give him a slap on the wing or something. He needs a bit of correction sometimes and it's either Thunderlane smacking him across the face or me making him clean the sleeping quarters! I've got a few days worth of his things in the car. I owe you big for this princess! Anything you want I can do!" I smiled.
"Well... I'll call in that favor when it's needed. It might be for me, it might be for my sister and it might even be for a friend. Just taking out make somebody a Wonderbolt so you dont have to worry." She smiled and nodded just before pushing Soarin over to me. I looked to a guard that was keeping things civil between the two 'bolts. "You follow Miss Spitfire out and bring in this stallions things." He nodded and did as he was told. I looked to one at my side. "You go out to Ponyville and get some light armor for Soarin here to wear. I'll be sure he knows what he's going to be doing for me today." That guard nodded and started walking off towards a few motorcycles sometimes used for motorcades sometimes for quick pursuit.
I looked back at Soarin who just had a slight frown to his face. "....You arent really going to treat me like I'm a servant are you...?" He asked almost like Scootaloo would. I sighed.
"Well... I do have quite the attendance here.... I've got me, my sister, little Scootaloo- i'm sure you've met with her before right? Had to live with Princess Twilight for a while while her brother was in jail?" He gave a nod. "Ah well she's here along with her favorite band member from Gems n Tulips sleeping else where inside. If you wish I can just have you serving just Scootaloo. She could use something to make her smile. But... Maybe just so you know if she needs a nap today or something she might need a bit of padding that we have at the ready so no accidents happen... I wouldnt worry too much because she's been good lately but it's better to be safe than sorry. You can handle a little filly cant you?" He nodded.
"Yeah but.... Just a question.... That band member from Gems n Tulips isnt Sparkplug is it?" I gave a hesitant nod as we walked over to the front door again.
"Yes... Is there something wrong between you two? Bad blood from one of your performances?" He shook his head and gave a bright smile.
"She's actually my cousin believe it or not! We're both so busy when we're in the same part of Equestria we just cant find the time to visit or even see a show! We once performed together during The Summer Sun Celebration over in Fillydelphia and Spitfire said I wasnt even allowed to see the band practice. She and I were really close when we were younger... basically like my little sister in a way... One day I got my cutie mark just flying around and then I got sent to a private school where I met Spitfire... Sparkplug and I wrote to each other every other week and when she got her cutie mark playing music she just stopped... I always wrote to her and occasionally I'd get a letter back but once we joined our respective groups we just got torn apart....It's gonna be good to see her again..." I smiled a bit.
"Well... Scootaloo loves both The Wonderbolts and Gems... Perhaps you two can bond again together and maybe make today fun for a certain little filly at the same time! You're a guest here and a lucky one at that. You and Spitfire could've been thrown right out and told to go elsewhere. You see this place was made as a safehouse for me. I wanted to be safe after the Canterlot attack and hiding away in the Crystal Empire isnt an option since the filly has friends just down the road. My sister told me if she is ripped away from her friends things wont really bring anything good... She's too close to them to just up and leave the country like that. They'd be worried if they havent heard from their friend and I dont want to just disappear like that. Ponies are going to think Luna might've set up said assassination attempt and all of Equestria would go insane unless I'm seen around." As we entered the mansion he gave a sound of amazement just looking at my home.
"...Wow... This place is pretty big even with Canterlot as a comparison. If I'm staying here where am I going to sleep?" He looked to me just as we reached the bottom of the stairs.
"Well... Once Luna is back in Canterlot you get her room right across the hall from Sparkplug's room. There should be a bathroom right next door as well so dont worry about having to go far for it." He hummed a bit as we started to climb the stairs.
"Huh... That's good I guess... It's hard getting to the toilets in the sleeping area in Cloudsdale... I have to walk in the dark using the bed bunk frame as a guide just to drop it four bunks down and try not to hit the wall, a shelf and a bunch of chimes Spitfire uses if she ever needs a meditation session. She tries not to freak out at us that much and that helps when you arent the only one getting yelled at. If its one of us- this one now being me- she will freak out, make you do what ever as punishment and if it's not enough time taken she makes you scrub her office with nothing but your toothbrush or sanitary wipes. Sanitary wipes are easier but the smell is horrible having it just burn your eyes." I huffed as we went back towards my room.
"Well I never have any of my guards clean a certain area with their tooth brushes or little baby wipes. Canterlot is cleaned section by section each other month. This home to be cleaned every other week while Scootaloo and I are out doing something...." I hummed as we came to Scootaloo's door. "You know... it just occurred to me that we really dont have anything to do today... do you have any ideas on what we can try? Perhaps a beach day or a day beside the pool?" He hummed a bit leaning against the wall next to Scootaloo's door.
"Well... If i remember seeing the weather report before leaving, Ponyville's supposed to have a little breeze blow through town and from the south dropping the temperature a good bit... Might get somepony sick and I dont think you should go in the water. Manehattan is supposed to get hard winds with thunderstorms.... We could try for Las Pegasus maybe?"
Someone gave a huff. "You're always wanting to go to some form of arcade Soarin! You never grow up!" Someone said startling both of us. We looked back down the hall towards the stairs and there in her bra and a pair of shorts came Sparkplug with a messy mane and her wings folded onto her back. She gave a grin as Soarin got off the wall and opened his arms. She couldnt help but punch him square in the chest knocking the wind right out of him. He buckled down hunching over clutching at his chest. He stayed down for about a minute before coughing and taking a deep breath. "And you still cant take a hit! Who'da thunk that someone who spends most of their time up so high would be able to catch their breath faster!" Soarin coughed a bit looking up at Sparkplug.
"...It... certainly has been a while... Just... help me up please... I cant get my breath if I'm down like this..." We chuckled a bit and stood him right up. I had to hold him upright so he could take deep breath after deep breath before I set him down. He looked up at me and smiled. "Thanks... That hurt more than my wing but... what you did helped a lot...."
I smiled. "You're very welcome. Maybe you'd like a drink to help you?" I asked. I guess he would've said something to me just so I could have a guard get it but just inside the room Scootaloo screamed and cried out. I hurried in just to see Scootaloo sitting up in her bed hugging her legs with her wolf toy hanging off the foot of the bed. Sparkplug and Soarin followed me in. I knelt down at the side of the bed. "Scootaloo what's wrong? Why are you crying?"
Scootaloo hugged me and buried her face into my shoulder holding me tight. I pulled her from under her sheets and held her. She was VERY wet. And I mean she wet herself so much her diaper leaked a bit when I moved her. Felt the wetness on my arm. "...D-dont let my big brother die... please... dont let him...." She said between sobs. Yup. I was afraid of this.
"....Scootaloo sweetie Ryder's going to be alright.... It was just a graze he's just fine! I know you're scared for him but you need to calm down.... We've got someone here who's visiting with us. Dont you want to say hi?" I looked to Soarin who just looked a bit worried.
I nodded him over and he grabbed her from me sitting her back on her bed. Glad these are stain and wet proof. "Hey there you.... didnt think I'd see you here with Princess Celestia..." He said softly. "...Guess your brother isnt here to watch you... I bet you he's doing just fine wherever he is..." He looked to me.
"...Well... The general is laid up in bed in a medical bay where the war is going on and she was very hurt to know of his injury... She's scared for his safety and I cant really do much for him other than make sure he's doing alright via video call or letter. I cant really bring him home just to shove a prince out there or someone who doesnt know what they're even doing. It might go the complete wrong direction of where things are going. The war efforts are pushing in our favor and I dont think a princess would enjoy being ripped apart from her husband and I dont think anyone else can handle things like he can. Perhaps you can meet him later on if he's feeling well." I rested a hand on Scootaloo's back. "...For now we need to get her all cleaned up... I'll take her into my shower and wash her. You two just make sure she didnt leak onto her bed and if she did no worries. I'll have a guard clean everything here. Just let the one at the end of the hall know if you need something cleaned." Soarin handed her off to me but i held her out as she dripped more from the movement. I sighed. "You two just go outside and get a mop and a towel from the guard. I need to get her out of these PJ's and that wet padding...." Soarin and Sparkplug patted Scootaloo on the back.
"...It happens Scootaloo... I can just say from experience I've had an accident flying one time.... Others laughed but Spitfire approached me after I was cleaned up and lying on my bunk and she told me she wet her bed a lot months before becoming a Wonderbolt. I wasnt supposed to say anything about that but... Just remember that alright?" Scootaloo gave a hesitant nod wiping her eyes away.
Anyways Soarin and Sparkplug left the room and not even minutes later I was drying her damp flank right off. She was calmed down but embarrassed. "...I... I cant believe they saw me in a diaper... I dont want ponies from two awesome groups knowing I have to wear diapers...." She said.
I sighed patting her waist down with the towel and wrapping her in it. "...I'm sorry but Sparkplug was going to be here a few days and might see it at any time you're sleeping after what happened yesterday..." I said. "...And Soarin? He's coming to work for us here since he's grounded from a busted wing... I wasnt even expecting him and was gonna have him wake you up to surprise you.... Werent you the least bit surprised to see him?" She shrugged. "...Well... He's here to help and that means if I'm busy I'll have him or Sparkplug diaper you. I'm not letting a guard get near you unless it's absolutely necessary but only if you tell me what he does... If he touches you wrong you scream as loud as you can and if I dont run in right away another guard will be there to save you. That one right in front of our rooms is VERY trustworthy... That's why I put him there... He has done a lot of foalsitting before I had him brought here. I can even say he's had business with your friends when their sisters werent home and when your parents were still caring for you...." She sniffled and hobbled to me being mindful of the towel.
"....Really...?" I nodded. "...Well.... I'll keep an eye on him just in case... I'm still kinda scared of guards since that one tried hurting me...." I took her into my arms and held her close.
"Oh Scootaloo... you know what happened to that guard.... Any other one that tries to hurt you is going to be imprisoned and once Ryder gets back he's going to have a field day with them.... I might even look the other way just to have Ryder beat him bad! A guard protects his princess and to him you're his little princess who he's very fond of.... You understand what I'm saying?" She gave a nod and hugged me sniffling still. I opened the door to my room and quietly walked through the room. Luna was hugging one of my pillows snoring. I've been away from her for a while to forget she sleeps like a rock when very fatigued. That gave me cause to just shut the door almost hard enough to be a slam. I looked to Scootaloo just as she rubbed her eyes again. "You want me to give you your swim suit or are you alright?" She gave me a little smile.
"...I trust you.... You're caring for me and.... you've been protecting me for a while anyways...." I smiled brightly. She needed someone to help her with washing after she was attacked in Canterlot and I guess I cant deny her help after having a nightmare that caused her to have that big of an accident....
Skipping the shower because nothing interesting went on. No speaking just washing up. A guard brought us a few towels to dry off with and a new set of clothes for Scootaloo to wear. He got her a pair of jeans, a short sleeved tee shirt with the Wonderbolts logo and a pair of running shoes. Basic athletic shoes so I just to be at her level I put mine on and we walked together going down stairs acting as if we were both just not even in the shower together. Neither of us found it awkward and... Well... I'm always helping her bathe. She gave a little giggle as we started for the sound of music coming from the TV room. I let her go and she started running as if her shoes were making her do that automatically. I hurried along behind her and when we got to the door we see Soarin playing a Gems n Tulips song. Paradise Island. Sparkplug was sitting off to the side watching as her cousin shred on a plastic guitar controller. Sparkplug looked to Scootaloo and smiled brightly hugging her. "There she is! You feeling better?" She asked Scootaloo hugging her. Scootaloo looked her idol in the eyes and nodded just as I got two brushes with my magic handing one off to Sparkplug.
"Yeah I'm okay now... Just a scary nightmare is all." She replied. "You having fun out here? Without me?" Both Sparkplug and Soarin gave a laugh.
"Yeah sorry kid.... Heard Celestia start talking about washing you and well we didnt wanna sit at the door for who knows how long just waiting for your cute little flank to get out. Decided to just come down here and play a few songs on the game. Soarin's trying to best my high score on Paradise Island from last night! So far he's almost there but he's not even gonna get past Gash's solo. I couldnt even pass it without missing a few notes! There's no way he can get them all!" I sat down on my recliner next to the couch that I had just in case Scootaloo decides to watch a movie with her friends. I knew how this song went but sometimes I mix the songs up depending on the bands. RCR I mix up 'Up Around The Corner' and 'Walking out my Front Door' and I'm not sure why i mix those up. Soarin got into a readied stance before moving his fingers sporadically on the plastic guitar hitting all these colorful notes one after another. His good wing extended while the other one just stayed flat on his back. The stallion started to head bang slightly keeping with the beat. I glanced at Sparkplug and saw her expression go from smug to shock slowly. Each note he hit the more shocked she got. "...What the HELL man?!" Sparkplug got up having Scootaloo sit on the floor. Soarin didnt even flinch. He hit the last few notes and just as the score board came up I saw five golden stars and what looked to be fire igniting the stars with '100%' shining in silver. "HOW DO YOU GET ONE HUNDRED FRIGGEN PERCENT!? Gash's solos are near impossible on the hard difficulty! Gash did this solo on this song on a real guitar and even he cant get the game version right!"
Soarin gave a laugh handing the guitar off to Scootaloo who immediately started looking for a new song to play. "Sorry Sparky!" He said. "I played this at the arcade TOO many times to miss a note! Just like my routines i memorize the note patterns everywhere and match it. If I fail I follow the rest of the song and listen to it to see where I messed up. I will spend bit after bit just practicing until I have it like I was a pro at this!"
I sighed getting up from my seat. "Alright no fighting you two!" I said. "You are worse than me and my sister when we cant agree on where to eat when we have something to do out of Canterlot." I looked to Scootaloo who was still looking through the song lists. Luna gave a few ideas on this just for her. "Scootaloo! Turn the game off. We need to get ready for breakfast!" The little filly gave a little groan and walked the controller over to the wall where the console was set up with a few other ones as well. Luna's idea. She hung the guitar controller up and came back between both Soarin and Sparkplug. Soarin gave a laugh.
"Not gonna be the first time I've had a meal with a princess but maybe one of the first with my cousin and a fan we both share." He picked her up and she just hugged him. The way I saw it was she was hugging Ryder. Or at least another version of him. If I had no idea it was Soarin I'd seriously say it was Ryder. Soarin looked to me. "What say we talk about something to do over breakfast? I could find somewhere fun to go if that guard ever brings my things inside. Spitfire shoved my phone into my bags with a bunch of my clothes as well.... She wouldnt even let me get it before telling me to get in her car." Speaking of cars i might want to check in with Applejack and see how Ryder's car is doing and if the mechanics in town are doing everything right. I have a guard watching them closely. He knows cars better than Ryder does but lets not tell him.
Anyways we started for the dining hall and I grabbed my phone with my magic. I have to do this sometimes. I get so busy with Scootaloo I forget I dont have my phone on me when I leave my room. Really helps if I'm stuck in one place and cant move like a lock down. I looked over at Sparkplug hearing her give a sigh. "Guess there's still nothing from my band mates about a new venue yet... Not sure how long this will take either." She said. "You'd think they would've had something by this time but I guess not."
I started to think as I scrolled through my contacts. So many 'A' contacts and most of them I'm pretty sure havent been where they were for years. "...Well... Maybe you can use that park right in the middle of the city. It's very beautiful this time of year and... I must say it is very big for a concert for a band known by many. If you like I can have the entire park sectioned off and barriers put into place for a very large turn out. I can even pay for it as well!" I've been very generous lately. I feel Ryder dumping Scootaloo on me brought out a side of generosity, kindness and a slight motherly side to me. It feels nice. I really shouldnt have been so hard on him when we first met face to face. Anywho Sparkplug gave a little laugh.
"No need. Since the venue we first had got burned down they're compensating us with any venue we want and pretty much the guys cant decide which one and sometimes I cant even do the tie breaker unless they even get me something that might make me favor them more which ends up making the decision harder. One thing from Gash the next from Jax and it keeps going back and forth and its SO annoying!"
"Well... Why not call them up and pitch that idea to them? It's yours to keep. I dont mind as long as its used in some way." She thought for a second just as Soarin and Scootaloo ducked into the dining room.
"....You know maybe I should at least get some input in there. Dont want to make it seem like I'm taking a free vacation while they fight their flanks off with no one to help compromise. I'll make the call before I get my food and maybe keep the kid happy for a little while longer at least. Might spend the first half of the day here and get back to my ride at the castle... Probably should've had someone bring my car or drive myself here.... Sometimes I dont know how I get dressed in the morning...." We both had a little laugh as she followed her cousin and Scootaloo into the dining hall while I just stayed outside. She glanced back at me just as I found Applejack's contact. "Arent you coming?" I shook my head.
"Got a call to make. You go on in and tell Soarin to order anything he wants. Maybe order an appetizer to last you until you think you know what you want. Make sure its something small though. I dont want any food going to waste!" I got a nod and looked back to my phone just to tap a green phone icon and put the phone up to my ear just as it started to buzz.
As it buzzed I was thinking of things maybe we could do with a few others. Maybe Aj would know what to do. Maybe I could fly out to Fillydelphia or something. Those thoughts stopped just as I heard a click. "Howdy there princess!" I heard Applejack say. "You caught me just at the right time here! I just got done packing for the family trip to Appleoosa! My cousin Braeburn just built a new ranch house with a couple other family members and he wants us to come out n see it! Oh and... Applebloom's been trying to call Scootaloo for the past fifteen minutes. she alright? She just wants to see if she can come with us to hop in the pool and get away from the weather we're getting later." I hummed looking in at Soarin, Sparkplug and Scootaloo.
"Well... Scootaloo and I have a few guests over at the moment and I would rather not have both of them get sent home. One might have to speed back to Manehattan but the other cant go back until his wing is healed...."
"Who ya got there? I know Sparkplug from Gems n Tulips is there because Dash told me but... Who's the other one?" I smiled and leaned against the wall.
"Well... Don't tell Dash she missed this but Soarin' was dropped off here just to have me give him something to do. I should have a guard bringing him some light armor to wear while at my side. He's just a temporary guard until a busted wing is healed. We were trying to plan something to do today that isnt sitting around here all day. Nothing good to do here besides Scootaloo has two ponies who she adores to share everything with and all I have is just meditation and since Luna is just passed out I cant really do much."
"Huh.... Well... Maybe we can try to work something out. What say you cmon over to Sweet Apple Acres and maybe cmon with us. We're catching the train in case you were wonderin'. Aint nothing wrong with that now is it?" I thought for a moment.
"Well... I guess a trip to Appleoosa is something new. Lately I've just been doing stuff in Ponyville and with the weather coming soon it's not gonna be fun if i have a frightened filly because someone miscalculated the thunder clouds in this storm like the last one!"
"Alright then! I guess we'll be expecting you! Give me a call when you're here and... please pack something you wont burn up in or get dirty. I dont really wanna have your fancy duds filthy with dust from the roads!"
"Well from what I have in my closet I'm pretty much set. I can probably get a few things for Scootaloo to change into and for Soarin... I'll see what he has. I'll call you when I get to the front gate with my transport trucks!"
"Alrighty then! Just make sure after you grab us you get us to that train station! Last time I said I was gonna meet Brae at the train station I accidentally got off at the wrong station and had to get a ride from one of Rarity's friends in the area. Wasnt fun getting to Appleoosa just to see my own cousin freaking out at the station waiting for me!"
"Alright I'll see you soon!" She hung up on me without saying another word and the same with me. I put my phone into my pocket and walked in to the dining room just to see Scootaloo, Sparkplug and Soarin sharing a plate of nachos. I sat between Soarin and Sparkplug just having Scootaloo just on the other side of Soarin. "Alright I have good news for what we're doing soon!" I looked to Scootaloo as I grabbed a chip just covered in cheese. "Scootaloo what I want you to do is after breakfast you're going to take Soarin and pack things for a trip to Appleoosa with Applejack and the rest of her family." I looked to Soarin who had a smile on his face. "Perhaps by the time we get back you might have your armor. I sure hope you have swimming trunks packed. We're visiting Appleoosa with access to a pool!"
I got a surprised reaction from Scootaloo and Soarin but nothing from Sparkplug. She just looked a bit down as she just scooped more cheese onto an already cheesy chip. "....I guess that means I've gotta get going huh....?" She asked. I sighed looking to Scootaloo just seeing a smile turn into down right sad.
"....Unfortunately yes...." I looked to the saddened bat pony mare. "...You're welcome back at any time between show days or on off time. Before we leave I'll give you my number and maybe Scootaloo's number just so you can stay in contact with us. If I'm busy with something and cant answer you Scootaloo can answer and tell a guard and he might be able to let me know if you want to visit with us." Sparkplug gave a slight smile as the chef brought out a small bowl of jalapeno peppers.
"Yeah.... Sounds cool." She looked to Scootaloo. "Any maybe when I come back I might have some band merch for you and your big brother who I'm actually wanting to meet face to face when he returns." She looked to me. "That is... If I can only meet him during a dinner in his honor. I just want to thank him for his service to Equestria!" She gave me a huge smile just having tears in her eyes. I smiled as I took a few chips and shoved them into my mouth. Sooooo gooood!
"Well... Alright. When he returns I'll contact you, we meet in Canterlot for a dinner for him and... Bring the band. He's gonna want to meet each of you to thank you for all you guys are doing for his special little filly here." I gestured to Scootaloo who had just taken Soarin's hand and cuddle up to him. "Perhaps I could bring Soarin and The Wonderbolts just so you can spend more time with your cousin. I'll even think on the next Summer Sun Celebration to have both of you perform. Would that sound alright?" I could see Sparkplug look to Soarin who was just content with Scootaloo and vice versa. She looked back at me.
"I'll talk with Gash and Jax about it. Now.... Can we order? The kid had us order this so we could wait for you." I gave a smile and nodded just as I gave my fingers a quick snap. Almost immediately the waiter appeared from inside the kitchen.
For breakfast Soarin and Scootaloo shared a plate of fries each having their own hayburger. One of these days I'll restrict her to just breakfast items. Most likely before she starts with school. Sparkplug had herself a simple bowl of cereal and orange juice while I had a quesadilla with mango bits cooked right into it. Delicious. After we were done there Soarin had to go off to his room to grab his things and get fitted with his armor. This light armor was basically a bullet proof vest. He got into black jeans and a pair of running shoes. I let his uniform slide because of the wing. He wore just a long sleeve tee under the vest. Not long later we were all in the truck after getting our bags packed with a second truck following us for The Apple Family. As we rode Scootaloo sat on my lap having Sparkplug right next to us giving Soarin his own seat. Scootaloo gave a sigh leaning against me as she looked to her bass playing idol. "...Do you really have to leave Sparkplug...?" She asked. "...Why cant you come with us to Appleoosa?" Sparkplug sighed giving the little filly a smile.
"...My band needs me. I cant provide another sound the song's gonna sound just like your screams when you woke up.... Not good... Its like.... Lets just say its like someone playing an instrument for the first time... it sounds terrible." She hugged Scootaloo. "I promise you'll see me again and if you're with the princess at one of our concerts you can come see us back stage after the show and we can hang out. I promise." Scootaloo hugged her idol tighter than she hugs me when she's sad or scared.
I moved Scootaloo onto Sparkplugs lap to hug her more. "Go ahead and swap phone numbers you two. I need to speak with Soarin." I said. Scootaloo nodded and went for an overnight bag she and Soarin packed. Clothes, PJ's, phone and phone charger and I even had her pack a few diapers for her and a fresh change of pants and underwear just in case. Anyways I sighed looking to Soarin who was being weary of his injured wing. "Things going alright? You arent hurting?"
Soarin shook his head. "Nah. Our medic is giving me a pain pill that negates the pain unless it's forced into a different position. If I'm laying on it I'm not really affected." He said. I'm not saying he's an idiot but Ryder when he's drunk has more of a mind than Soarin here. Wanna know why? Soarin decided to kick back on the seat to lie down but once he hit the seat he shot back up giving a pained grunt. I snickered a bit just as we started into the gate of Sweet Apple Acres. "...Alright.... Maybe I was wrong about my meds.... Gotta stay off that for a while...."
"Well you just be careful I want you to get up to that door and help them in to the other truck. You carry at least one of the bags they have and carry the lightest one. I don't want you hurting yourself even more." He gave a hesitant nod just looking nervously at the house as we came around. "Would you like me to come with you so they don't freak out over meeting you?" He gave a more sure nod as he took a deep breath trying to shrug off the pain. I smiled and looked back to Scootaloo and Sparkplug as they started to play the same game on their phones. "Are you two going to be alright being here by yourselves? I need to stretch my legs a bit. I'm actually a little cramped." I can honestly say I was. Sparkplug had stretched her legs out and Soarin took up the other part of the leg room. I actually might send Scootaloo to the truck with Applebloom. Eh... why not? Just as the trucks came to a stop I looked to the driver just as Soarin opened the door. "Make sure these two are content. Play some music for them if they wish to have some but no turning it up to where you cant hear anything."
The guard gave a nod and I stepped outside of the truck. Soarin couldn't help but take my hand nervous as anything because he's just known as a Wonderbolt to many and one of the best. He doesn't know how Applejack and her siblings would react. I gripped his hand and felt him shake a bit as we walked to the door I stopped a few feet from the door and nudged him along. He quickly knocked on the door and came back to my side. Almost instantly the door opened and out came The Apple Family. Applejack wore her hat, with her mane in pig tails. She wore a jean vest and skirt and a white tank top under the vest and her cowgirl boots. Big Mac wore a white Gems n Tulips tee with the sleeves cut off and camo pants with sneakers. Little Applebloom had her mane tied into a tight ponytail with her bow tying it together. She wore a plain white tee just under a pair of overalls. She wore a pair of canvas shoes just all dirty with the dust of this apple orchard. Applebloom and Big Mac rushed past us with Big Mac carrying everything. Each of them gave a quick bow in respect to me but Applejack approached us. "Well hey there Princess! Soarin!" She said. "Thank ya for helpin' us out with this Princess. Big Mac aint willin' to leave his truck neither here nor near the station for ponies to just scrap for parts at a chop shop. I did say he could try putting his truck in the parking garage at Twilight's castle but he thinks she's gonna keep saying no." I sighed.
"Well Twilight would have even if I had ordered it. Now if you would like you can take Scootaloo into your truck for Applebloom's sake or put Applebloom and Scootaloo in the front truck along with Soarin and the... other guest Sparkplug. She came in the middle of the night the other night and I swore she was Dash. Apparently she couldn't beat the late night munchies and when we moved in yesterday morning she had to run off. You know what happened?" Applejack gave a nod as we walked back to the trucks.
"Yeah she called me earlier seeing if I could pick up some ginger ale for Gilda after that snack run... Somehow got food poisoning from some bad lettuce in a tofu burger. If you're plannin' on visiting McHoovians on the way home I'd say avoid it for a week or so.... Aint willin to hear you just lose everything from Scoot who's in our place as a safe zone just so she dont get sick."
"Noted. Now would you like Scootaloo in your truck or are you fine?" She looked to my truck and we both heard Scootaloo and Sparkplug laughing and having some fun.
"Maybe I could send Applebloom into that truck and trade off for you. That sound good?" I nodded.
"As long as I can stretch out a bit. My legs were cramped up on the way over." I looked to Soarin. "You get their sister and get into the truck with Scootaloo and your cousin. Make sure the guard driving follows us closely alright?" Soarin gave a quick salute and hurried as fast as he could without running towards Big Mac and Applebloom as they were trying to push everything into the back storage area. Applejack followed after him and just as Applebloom smiled from what he said she ran right to the truck Scootaloo was in.
Skipping to the train ride. The farewell to Sparkplug was a bit emotional. Big Mac had to swap trucks just to keep Scootaloo from crying too hard as Sparkplug gave her one last hug just at Twilight's castle. Sparkplug looked actually hurt to even leave but not hurt enough to cry. I basically sat alone with Applejack for the rest of the ride until the we got to the train station. The train could be seen just waiting for us at the more eastern part of the station with smoke billowing from the engine. Just as I stepped out into the parking lot I was approached by Soarin' who was carrying Scootaloo's bags. He even had Scootaloo in his arms. She was holding on to a bottle of water from the hidden cooler with her eyes just red and droopy from crying. "She was having too much fun with Sparkplug but I told her to call once she got to Manehattan." Soarin said. "She almost got sick but the driver had a bag just in case. I kinda feel the same way she does." I sighed taking the filly from his arms and hugging her.
"...There there... you're alright.... even if i have to I'll call Sparkplug within the hour. You can just nap when we get in the train if you'd like..." She rubbed her eyes and rested her head on my shoulder giving a slight nod. "...Alright sweetie.... You just get a head start. I'll get our tickets and get us somewhere I can lay you down.... Alright....?" She nodded again and I shushed her stroking her wings. I looked to Soarin. "Make sure you grab her bags and make sure everything she needs is out of the truck. I would even keep that sickness bag nearby as well just in case.... Another guard will get my bags and get our tickets so you can rest once we get on board alright?"
"Yes princess..." He said giving a slight nod. He hurried over to the truck ducking into the back seat. My attention went back to Scootaloo who just passed out still gripping the bottle of water. She actually liked the motherly aura I had. She slept soundly as we boarded the train not long later and got a bed car.
As I lied Scootaloo down in a bed I covered her up with the little blankets they had ready for those tired travelers. She couldnt help but curl up. I guess Big Mac wanted Applebloom to take a nap because he came in with her over his shoulder. "I dont care if you dont want to nap you gotta be there for Scootaloo!" Big Mac snapped. He set Applebloom down next to the bed with Scootaloo in it. "Now you just crawl in and get right to sleep! I know you stayed up past two last night and AJ was saying you've been short with her yesterday as well! I'd just nap before you're just grounded without seeing either Scootaloo or Sweetie Belle! Understand?" The filly he set down stamped her foot a bit in complete defiance as she crossed her arms.
I huffed picking Applebloom up and putting her in the bed with her friend. "You do not go stamping your foot with your brother around!" I snapped. "You must stay here with your friend and be close to her! Did you not see her crying on the way over?"
Applebloom blushed a bit and sighed. "...Fine... I'll stay with her but... I at least want someone in here to watch us...." She said. "....If my big brother and big sis aint gonna be in the car with us I aint gonna feel comfortable..." I sighed.
"If I get Soarin in here to watch you two THEN will you nap? I dont want to bar you from seeing Scootaloo for a week even if you arent grounded. Understood?" Applebloom gave a nod not even meeting my gaze. I stood up and looked to Big Mac. "You think you can go get Soarin while I watch her? I dont trust her if we leave her alone." Big Mac gave a nod looking to his sister before hurrying out of the car and into the next. I looked back to Applebloom who just let a few tears escape from her eyes sobbing slightly. "Come on. Lie down before your brother gets back. I dont want to repeat myself and I'm sure he doesnt either. And stop with those crocodile tears! You arent fooling me with those!" She sniffled a bit and looked up at me.
"...th-these aint fake princess... I just... I really am cryin...." She looked back at Scootaloo as a sob escaped. "...I'm just.... I'm hurt.... On the way over Scoot wanted nothin' to do with me.... all she wanted was to play games with Sparkplug and she didnt even say anythin when I hopped in the truck.... She's just a lucky filly... livin' with you, meetin' all these cool ponies... makes me think I dont even exist to her no more...." I knelt down and sighed.
"...Look... I know she has been getting a lot of things lately but what Luna tells me you and Scootaloo are the best of friends.... I might treat her well at times but its to help her keep her mind away from her older brother and not long ago he was shot in the leg leaving him bed ridden for a while... she had an accident this morning and I was about to call for you if you wanted to see her and make sure she felt better.... I think this might be a bit of a change of pace... new area for a while, same friend to spend time with... she'll appreciate anything you do for her even if she doesnt want it to be done... perhaps once we come back to Ponyville I can arrange a day full of fun for you, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle... Would that sound alright?" I saw her think for a moment wiping the tears away.
"...I guess but... Any chance I can get my cousin Babs in on it? I talked with her after the sleep over in Canterlot and she got really jealous of me like I was of Scoot...." I smiled.
"That sounds like a great idea. I'll have Applejack or Big Mac contact your cousin and see if she would like to and... is she okay with heights?" Applebloom gave me a nod with a slight smile. "Well that's great then... easy transport from uh... Where is your cousin from?"
"Manehattan... She lives in a penthouse with my Uncle Orange... She aint never been afraid of heights."
"Ah. I can pull a few strings and get a thing or two for everyone. But nothing bigger than a small puppy toy. We'll discuss the limits later but for now please lie down and get some rest... If you're still asleep by the time we get to Appleoosa I'll be sure to keep you both together. Soarin has my number if anything happens he can call me and I can be here within a minute with either your brother or sister. Alright?" She yawned as she gave a nod and just climbed under the covers without any word. She cuddled up to Scootaloo who turned over and cuddled up to her as well. It was adorable. I had just a quick second to grab my phone and take a picture of them. I was planning on sending that to Ryder once I had a chance.
But just as I stood up the train quickly rumbled and if you dont know already the train's brakes screech trying to stop possibly four tons of metal, ponies, cargo and other things and what ever is upright on the train is going to be thrown down and around. I was about to be one of those things but I grabbed on to a metal bar right above Scootaloo and Applebloom's bunk. As the train slowed and the screeching stopped I looked to the fillies in the bed and they were just holding each other tight but still asleep. I stood back up fixing myself but just as I got my bearings the car door opened and in hurried Big Mac dragging Soarin in, his busted wing going towards the other car. "You alright Princess? Didnt hurt anything did you?" Big Mac asked. I shook my head helping him with Soarin. "Well... Wish I could say the same for Soarin. He hit his wing when the train stopped and I guess the pain made him black out. I checked his head and there wasnt anything wrong with it. No bumps, no bruises not even a little splitting." I sighed.
"Good. Your sister told me she was jealous of Scootaloo for what I've been doing with her... all these important ponies, all these little gifts and luxuries... Most of this is just to keep her mind from wandering towards you-know-who but some of the other stuff is just as gifts for being just the sweetest little filly I've known since Twilight was her age...." I helped Soarin into a bunk just across from the fillies giving a little grunt lifting his lower half up to the edge. We rolled him onto his stomach just not wanting him to wake up screaming in pain. "....Her brother raised her quite well after what happened.... sure we get snags here and there but... she's just sensitive here and there.... that's something we cant change and I did say I would never change her what so ever. I may dress her slightly different at times but her personality stays." Big Mac carefully covered Soarin up with a blanket and sat at on a little fold out seat i somehow failed to see.
"Well Ry woudnt be too happy on it... he wants his sis to act the way she does within reason.... He knows his sister... she acts some way he doesnt like someone's gonna correct it whether it be him or you yet... no laying a hand on her. He cringes when I have to paddle Applebloom for somethin.... I guess he just doesnt wanna have his sister grow up the way he did..."
I found another seat and folded it out sitting down. Just as Big Mac was about to finish what he was saying the car door opened up. In came the conductor. Long maned but still professional looking. Wore a long sleeve red striped button up and overalls looking stained with coals and soot. He was an earth pony stallion. Deep blue mane and a lighter blue coat. He looked to me bowing for a moment. "I sure hope everyone is alright. That stop was sudden but for good reason. There's a car pile up at a crossing down the rails a bit and it might take a few hours to clear and might last into the night. The safety workers clearing it have to make sure all metal bits wont throw us off the tracks." He said. "Anypony hurt? Had a few bumps up front with some luggage hittin' some of em but nothing too bad." Big Mac looked to Soarin.
"Yeah one of us was injured before the ride and knocked his wing and blacked out with the pain. Stop caught us by surprise and I nailed my shoulder tryin' to stop myself but aint nothin to worry about there. Used to the injuries."
The conductor looked to me. "I was caught off guard but managed to catch myself." I said. "Can we still manage to use the food car even if the train isnt moving?"
The conductor smiled. "Yes ma'am!" He said. "Foods still being made and snacks can be handed out upon request."
"Ah well if its not too much trouble might I get a few bottles of cola? I need something for the fillies for when they wake up. I dont want them being thirsty and my only hired help that was supposed to watch them is passed out." I gestured to Soarin. "Perhaps if you have any smelling salts we can wake him up as well. You don't happen to have some lying around now do you?" He shook his head. "Ah well no worries. We shall wait for him to wake up. Hurry on now. Other passengers might need assistance." He gave a nod and hurried behind us where I think a food car was. I looked back at Big Mac. "This might be a long wait...."
He looked to his sister and her friend and gave a sigh. "Eeyup." He muttered. Not much happens from here on out but boring things. I didnt know what to do other than take a quick flight around the train for a while with a few stallions atop the train keeping watch out for anyone who intended to hurt me. Big Mac was one of them. He has a keen eye for things but I shouldnt keep this going on for much longer. Until next time.