“How are you doing?” I asked SteelHooves as I plugged my PipBuck up to his magically powered armor using tools from my utility barding.

“Shouldn’t you be the one everypony is asking that?” SteelHooves deep voice questioned.

“I’ve been… out of it for a long time,” I admitted.  “I’ve missed things.  Obvious things.  Or, at least, been too slow in coming to them.”  I swallowed.  “For example, you told me that the Ministry of Technology funded Four Stars.  And then you discovered what they did.  I can’t imagine how that must have hit you…”

“I’ve been… dealing with it,” SteelHooves cut me off.

“But you shouldn’t have had to deal with it alone.”  I shook my head.  “I’d focused on Velvet Remedy and Calamity, and I didn’t even see that all my friends were hurting.  Not just the loud ones.”

SteelHooves nickered.  “Thank you, Littlepip.  But like I said, I’m handling it.”

I nodded, respecting his determination.  My PipBuck beeped, demanding my attention.  “Okay.  But I am here for you.  Really here, now,” I added.  “If I can help at all.  If you just need somepony to talk to.”

“I’d rather not.”

I shut up.  For the next half of an hour, I focused on getting my PipBuck working again.  By the time I was done, the little leg-worn device was operating more smoothly and efficiently than it had in months.

Fallout: Equestria Chapter 19