Sure, high school is lame and becoming a freshman was a lot to take in but it’s like I rule this place now. I’m a shoe-in for the Fall Formal crown. I’ll look so good with my boyfriend at my side. Everything is working out according to my plan. But what happens if there is ANOTHER Sunset Shimmer from a strange otherworldly place with designs on living MY life, someone even more vicious than I?

Yeah so I'm Scootaloo. Everypony knows me, one of the Cutie Mark Crusaders? Kinda silly keeping that title. We've all found our marks now and have settled into what I guess adult life is suppose to be. I've learned how to fly for the most part and I've got a good job though it means dealing with the family of my least favorite mare in town. And Rainbow Dash still hangs out with me doing the big sister thing when she has the time. I've achieved pretty much everything I dreamed of as a filly... so why do I feel so discontent?

Martin Swallowtail has not been making decisions in his best interest. Not that he lacks a moral compass or common sense, he's just too kind and generous (and callow?) for his own good. But now he has a little filly to raise and her estranged mother whom is in no hurry to move out on her own. What's a stallion to do? Shall he suffer quietly wallowing in his own insecure delusions or truly live the life he wants for his daughter and himself? What will it take for him to find his voice and use it to his advantage?

For fellow Scootaloo fans I'll warn you that this is the story of her dad, not that she isn't a major character or lacking in agency and autonomy. This story focuses mostly on her dad and the environment that shaped her development.

All respect to Mr. Williams for cribbing the title but you did the same to Bowie so we're even?
Chronologically this story begins before the events of Season One.

Once again Princess Celestia's private scribe is immersed withers-deep in intrigue as an hidden threat plots to destroy Canterlot and perhaps strike down her beloved ruler. Can an old soldier match wits with masters of deception?

Dear Princess Twilight,

Nopony need remind you of the morning-that-was-delayed upon which you earned your crown, reclaiming the Elements of Harmony for Equestria. Or at least it seems so. The years have passed and I have performed faithful service to you as had been the case with your great mentor. Few ponies know of Celestia's actions that morning. I assume that you, princess, thought she was subdued by her sister in line with public opinion on the matter. I am one of the few attending her that morning and now I feel it can be told. The story I humbly relate to you now is true.