A Second Life chapter 21

>”Morning Anon!”
“Gah what the-“
>You rolled out of bed, landing with a thud on your floor.
“Spitfire, how the…”
>”Your door was open, well, in the hallway, and I’m bored. You want to hang out?”
>She stood over you, happily looking down at you with a grin.
>You must have hit your head in the fall, because it felt as if you just fired off a 100 round belt of .50 caliber without hearing protection.
>Save for the fact that you could still hear.
“I don’t know, I’m not in a very ‘hang out’ kind of-“
>Spitfire leaned, placing a hoof on your chest and kissed you.
>Damn it, you’ve told this mare how many times?
>You placed a hand on her chest, but froze.
>Why, you didn’t know, every part of your brain said to shove her off, but you felt weak.
>The kiss parted, and you pushed her away as you got up.
“I’ve said no how many times Spitfire?”
>”You’ve said yes more times than you’ve said no if I remember correctly.”
“That doesn’t mean anything. Excuse me.”
>You pulled a fresh set of fatigues out of the closet and disappeared into the bathroom for a shower.
>You half expected Spitfire to come in after you, but you managed to shower in peace.
>When you came out, she was nowhere to be found, leaving only a note reading “see you tonight.”
>Damn that lusty mare…
>After a morning routine of breakfast, diaper change, a quick game of d’aw from above, you were called for yet another meeting.
>This time however, you were sure to drop Dusk off with Cadence, to avoid giving Luna more wood to burn you with.
>You walked into the throne room, only to be shoved back out  by Shining Armor.
>”About time you got here, come on!”
“I swear Shiny, if this turns out to be a waste of my time…”
>”It won’t, I’ve personally seen it change.”
>Shining Armor led you down into the dungeon you had been imprisoned in so long ago.
>Amazing how you had risen from the cell to the throne in only a few years.
>Shining Armor cast a light spell, shining it into one of the cells at a p0ny.
“Alright, now make it change.”
>Shining Armor formed a small purple barrier, and shoved it into the p0ny at light speed, dazing the p0ny and causing it to change.
>You kneeled, getting eye level with the creature.
“Well mister, or miss, changeling. I can’t tell the difference with you freaks. How many of you are there in the city?”
>It gave a screech, lunging at the cell bars, extending a hoof through the bars in an attempt to hit you.
>Before it could, Shining Armor shoved it back with another spell.
>”What should we do Anon? The guards still at 60% strength.”
“I don’t know. Spread your men out as best you can. Keep doing what you’re doing.”
>”The Queen is out there somewhere… She should be our most important target.”
“Can’t you do that one spell you did at the wedding?”
>”It would only be a temporary fix, and I can’t maintain that barrier very long.”
“Then we should tell the public.”
>”Wont that cause a panic?”
“Maybe at first. But we need all of the eyes we can get. Have them report any suspicious activity DISCREETLY to the guards.”
>You and shining Armor left the dungeon behind, silently walking through the castle as you both took in the gravity of the situation.
“I’ll go inform the princess, she should know after all.”
>”Don’t get thrown through another door. That could get expensive.”
“Buck you Shiny.”
>You made your way to the throne room where Luna was looking over a scroll, focusing her attention on it until you stood at the steps leading up to the throne.
>She peered over it, and sighed
>”Does thou ever give up?”
“I’m not here for pleasure Princess…”
>Luna lowered the scroll momentarily.
>”Excellent-“
“Though it always is a pleasure to see such a lovely lady like yourself.”
>She rubbed a hoof against her forehead, the guards doing their best to stifle their snickers.
“We have confirmed there are changelings mixed in with the general population. The guard is working on a solution now.”
>”Thank you for the report.”
>Before you could say anything else Luna brought the scroll back in front of her face, signaling you to leave.
>Probably best you did anyway, you complimented her and didn’t even get threatened.
>That was progress in your book.
>With nothing else to do for the day, you started towards Cadence’s room to pick Dusk up.
>Out of nowhere, a hand was placed over your mouth and you were drug into a nearby room.
>As you disappeared inside the room, you grabbed the assailants hand from your mouth, twisting it and spinning around to place it in an arm bar.
>”Anon! It’s ME!”
>You’d recognize that voice, and the short flaming hair anywhere.
>Except this time, it wasn’t attached to a cute yellow pony.
>It was attached to a human… with wings… wearing a set of fatigues.
“Spitfire?”
>”Yep! Still going to stab me with that big knife?”
>You slowly sheathed the knife you had instinctually drawn, letting this human Spitfire out of the arm bar.
>Wait… changelings…
>You drew you pistol, placing it squarely against “Spitfire’s” forehead once she stood up.
“You have about ten seconds to make me believe you aren’t a changeling before I paint the walls with your brain.”
>She quickly grabbed a book from the nearby table and held it up for you to read.
“All you need to know about transformation potions and how to make them.”
>You looked up at Spitfire, who squeed and nervously looked at the gun.
“Why would you do this Spitfire?”
>”I want you to be happy…”
>Spitfire gently laid her hand on the pistol, pushing it down toward its holster as she drew closer.
“I am happy.”
>”No you aren’t Anon. You can’t lie to me.”
>Her arms wrapped around you in an embrace, and she nipped your ear with her teeth.
“Spitfire. Stop it.”
>”No. You can’t hide your love from me.”
>She kissed along your neck, gently pushing you toward the bed.
>Spitfire quit teasing your neck and ears, locking lips with you and pushed you back on the bed.
>You did your best to shove her off, but your muscles wouldn’t cooperate.
>You felt yourself being drained almost… almost…
>”Shhh. Relax. Let me love you the way you deserve…”
>Spitfire bit softly at your neck, giving a similar sensation to a be sting.
>Your vision blurred so much you couldn’t even distinguish her face.
>Hell, you felt drunk off your ass, had you been drinking?
>No, you had some orange juice this morning… that was it.
>Your clothes seemed to melt away as the two of you continued, and you felt a sensation inside your stomach.
>Pleasure, love, but with a mingled guilt.
>And as the two of you copulated once more, Spitfire’s larger wings flaring throughout the entire time, you felt hollow inside.
>And when the two of you finished, you passed out without a sound.
>You woke with a start, fully dressed, and in your own room, your forehead plastered to the table.
>Was it all a dream?
>It felt too real to be a dream.
>You rubbed your aching head and looked over at Dusk who sat on the floor, playing with a rattle.
>It was dark outside, Luna would no doubt bring Dawn by to play with Dusk soon.
>Speak of the devil, there was a knock at your door.
>You slowly made your way to the door, welcoming Luna and Dawn inside.
>As she stepped in, her magnificent blue eyes paused to look you over.
>”You look terrible.”
“I feel terrible.”
>”Don’t touch me and I’ll be nice.”
>She trotted inside and out to the balcony where she looked up at the stars, as you put aside anything you didn’t want the kids to get a hold of.
>Nothing was really safe from them, but if they couldn’t see it, they probably wouldn’t find it.
>You stepped out on the balcony, the fresh air doing wonders for your body.
>”Shouldn’t you be watching the children?”
“I’ll keep an eye on them from here.”
>Luna shifted her attention towards you, while you peered inside the room where Dusk and Dawn were playing.
>”Why do you insist on being near me, and continually trying to court me, when it always comes to the same end?”
“Well… That’s a good question.”
>”I’m waiting for a good answer.”
>You leaned against the wall quietly, staring up at the stars while you thought.
“I guess I’m curious about the mare I fell in love with. I mean, on Earth I don’t even remember dating that much. And in less than two years here I have a family with a p0ny.”
>”You say p0ny like it’s bad thing.”
“Not a bad thing, just different. Here, there’s griffons, cows, p0nies, changelings. Where I came from, humans were the only intelligent species. You would probably be seen as an unusual looking horse if you showed up there.”
>Luna looked a bit offended at the word horse, but curious.
>”You have p0nies on your planet?”
“Not like you. Most of them are taller than Celestia, and none of them have horns or wings. We used to use them on farms to pull heavy equipment.”
>”You enslaved them.”
“They weren’t like you p0nies. They were just simple animals. I know it probably seems barbaric, unrealistic to you, but that’s where I come from.”
>”You sound proud of it.”
“I’m proud of my heritage, like anyone should be. That doesn’t mean I don’t have regrets.”
>Something clicked inside your brain, a small part of Equestrian history the changelings hadn’t erased.
>”I’m sure you would understand regret. After all, you did become Nightmare Moon.”
>The next thing you knew, you were on the ground, clutching the side of your head.
>Too far brain, we went too far.
>Damn, we were doing so well too.
>”Do not speak of that name again…”
“I’ve made my point. I apologize for bringing it up.”
>Damn these ponies for hitting so hard.
>You stumbled to your feet, bracing yourself against the wall.
>”Please Anonymous, I didn’t hit you that hard…”
>In the distance, a light spell shot up from one of the city limits, signaling the QRF.
>Then another, and another.
>It was as if every Unicorn on duty was trying to signal for back up.
>”What is going on? Why are there so many lights?”
“Take the kids to Cadence, if I had to guess, the changelings have returned with another army.”
>”The throne room is the safest, I’ll take them there.”
“Whatever, just go!”
>Luna rushed out the door as you quickly stumbled over to your gear, putting it on as quickly as you could.
>Your vision blurred a moment as you made your way out the door, forcing you to pause and prop yourself up against the door frame
>That sucker punch Luna gave you might have given you a concussion.
>You’d see a doctor later if you lived through this.
>First thing first, you went to each barracks and loudly kicked the door in, firing a shot in the air to wake all the guards up at once.
“Get up! These changelings want another fight! I say we give them one! One they can’t forget! Get your armor, get your spears, and get set to defend your home once more!”
>You made your way out of the final breakfast, watching as each guard filed out and awaited their respective companies to form up.
>Good, they knew better than to rush off into battle without the rest of their company.
>Shining Armor rushed down from the castle and took control of the situation, launching each company to a specific location of the city.
>You grabbed a handful of Unicorns from the companies that remained, forming a squad of your own
>”Whoa, Anon hold up. You don’t look so good. I think you should stay at the castle.”
“No can do Shiney. Squad! Move out!”
>You began jogging into the city as changelings swarmed around in the skies above.
>Bolts of magic crisscrossed through the air, triggering a flashback of a scene all too similar.
>You were in charge of a squad, raiding the small town near Kandahar, Afghanistan.
>Tracer fire had lit up the night sky as Blackhawks provided close air support, the occasional HMG retorting between the buzzing of the miniguns.
>You took cover behind a cart and leveled your rifle down the street as several changelings landed down the road.
>In your head, you envisioned that old battlefield, taking cover by a burned out truck, setting a knee on an Afghani corpse.
>You lined up, a delivered a single headshot to the biggest changeling, the unicorns at your side firing off several volleys of magical attacks.
>Firing off a few more rounds yourself, you quickly took out the enemy and moved on, being sure to step on each changeling you passed.
>You didn’t care for the dead, you missed the first battle and innocents died.
>This was payback.
>Your squad burned through city block after city block, taking out changelings from afar, some before they even knew you were there.
>The ground underneath you shook, and as you looked down the main road, several silhouettes became visible, charging straight at you.
“Hold the line, wait for my signal to fire.”
>You peered down your sight at the approaching stampede, your finger gently resting on the trigger.
>A glint caught your eye, a shimmer of light reflecting off a guard’s armor.
“Hold fire! Friendlies coming through!”
>”Retreat!”
>Oh hell no.
>You grabbed the collar of the Lieutenant leading the retreat, hoisting him up to your eye level.
“We do not retreat! Fight for every inch of ground!”
>You dropped the Lieutenant and waded through the cluster of p0nies, shouldering your rifle as another cluster came into view, much larger than the p0nies.
>Sure enough, this one was of changelings, and you wasted no time lining up the first of many headshots.
>It wasn’t particularly difficult, their heads accounted for most of their mass.
>Each shot, a kill shot.
>Each one with a potential for a collateral kill, the .308 bullets piercing the soft flesh of the changelings and powering through unchallenged.
>It was like shooting fish in a barrel, almost too easy.
>A slaughter.
>And when the unicorns stood beside you, it was as if there was a wall between the two forces.
>But just as things seemed to go in your favor, the changelings took to the air, tangling with the pegasi above.
>Too quick for you to engage with your clunky, semi-auto rifle.
>You would focus on the changelings that stuck to the ground, while the faster firing unicorns focused on the skies.
>Just as things seemed to go smoothly for you once again, the changelings above dove in to the midst of the company, tearing apart the formation from the inside.
>The fire shifted, allowing the changelings at your front to charge in as well, overwhelming the front line.
>You drove your rifle’s buttstock into the first changeling, then drew your knife in your right hand, your pistol in your left, for a last stand.
“Stallions, prepare to defend yourselves!”
>Downward stab, sever spinal cord: KIA.
>Cross arms, headshot on leaping changeling: KIA.
>Changeling attacking from your left, mid-air pistol whip to side of face: KO
>Front kick at charging changeling, follow up with curb stomp: KO
>A changeling managed to get close enough to sink its fangs into your leg, chances are pumping a venom inside you.
>Uppercut with knife to changeling’s chin, lifting its fangs out of your leg: KIA.
>You slowly began walking backwards, careful not to trip over any bodies that lay behind you.
>A unicorn took your place, firing off magical lasers at the approaching enemies as you turned your attention to the changelings in the midst of the p0nies.
>They didn’t even notice you turn your attention to them until you gunned down five of them in quick succession.
>That little nudge swayed the battle in the p0nies favor, and the remaining changelings were soon taken care of.
>Another changeling leapt onto your back, sinking its teeth into your shoulder.
>Quickly you placed your pistol against its head and fired, throwing it off of you, but also temporarily deafening you in one ear.
>You looked behind you at the sound of approaching clopping as another wave of changelings rushed towards your scattered forces.
>You armed a grenade and hurled it at the changeling advance, counting the seconds until it would explode.
>The changelings passed right over it, the olive drab object nothing more than a ball to them.
>It detonated in their midst, throwing changelings everywhere, dead and alive.
>The ones that weren’t injured severely slid to a halt and went into a retreat as you unslung your rifle and continued picking them off even as they retreated.
>A few chariots landed in the street, a sergeant leaped out, and rushed to you.
>”Several changelings have made it to the castle, the princess sent me to get you sir.”
“Lieutenant! I better not hear you retreating again! Let’s ride sergeant.”
>You stepped onto the chariot next to the sergeant, and held on as it took off into the sky, soaring over the city.
>A few buildings burned, their fires lighting up parts of the city.
>The castle was protected by one of Shining Armor’s barrier spells, but it was already weakening.
>You took the opportunity to pick off a few changelings as you approached the massive pink sphere, ensuring that when it opened for you they wouldn’t be given access.
>Just before the pegasi up front were about to hit it, it opened, allowed you passage and sealed before a lone changeling could make it through.
>As soon as the chariot landed you were off, and you rushed into the castle and to the throne room.
>”Good to see you made it Anon. I don’t know how much longer I can keep this barrier up.”
“Don’t worry, when they come, I’ll be ready.
>Several Unicorns took positions on the edges of the room near the white pillars, while earth p0ny guards formed a barrier with their heavier armor.
>Pegasi filled in any spots they could, and you took a firing position behind the Earth p0nies.
“This is going to get loud stallions.”
>You looked back at the royal family, who had gathered around the throne.
>Celestia looked weak, no doubt from something the changelings did.
>Luna stood in front of them all, most of her bandages gone, no doubt preparing a huge spell in her mind.
>Shining Armor looked tired as well, even with Cadence doing her best to comfort him.
>Dawn and Dusk were tucked under Celestia’s wing.
>Spitfire had made it in here as well, her wings extended, ready to take off to kick some changeling flank.
“I thought your wing was broke.”
>”Healing magic. Enough said.”
>”BUCK! I LOST IT! The barrier’s down, get ready!”
 >You raised you rifle, aiming at the massive door.
>Of course now would be the time for your vision to blur, and mild dizziness to set in, causing your reticule to sway.
>Your shoulder squished from the rifle stock pressing against the bloody fabric, your leg no doubt in worse shape.
>But you didn’t have time to bleed, because already the horde was at the main door, pounding away at it.
>How long did it take them to get there? An hour? Less?
>No matter, this was where they were stopped.
>The door swung open, and the changelings charged in, immediately halted by Unicorn fire.
>You fired three shots before being hit from the side and pinned to the ground.
“Spitfire! Get off!”
>Spitfire looked down at you with a grin and struck you in the side of the head, and leaning down while you were stunned, whispering.
>”Thanks for that power boost last night.”
>Before you very eyes, “Spitfire” changed into the Queen herself, looking over towards Luna.
>Brain, damage report.
>Nujmnflafuah…
>That’s what I was afraid of.
>There was a flash of light as Luna and the Queen exchanged spells, meeting half way like a Dragon Ball fight scene.
>Luna’s was no match, and was easily pushed back and defeated in flash of light.
>”This was easier than last time…”
>She turned just in time as you fired a shot from your pistol, stopping the bullet mid-air with a glow from her horn.
>”Don’t insult me by even trying. It’s time for Equestria to come under new rule.”
>Slowly, you stood up, and for some reason, you looked up to the ceiling.
>Heh, Dusk was doing his Spidercolt routine in the middle of a battle.
>What a badass little colt.
>You took a step towards the queen, almost immediately collapsing to a knee.
>”Give up Anonymous, and I may let you live to be my dinner. After all, why settle for a p0ny? When I can be anything you want.”
“Only a mad man would refuse that offer Queen Chrysalis. But there is one thing you failed to consider in this invasion.”
>She laughed, stepping closer as the guards were overwhelmed, and took control of the room, the royal family surrounded.
>”And what could possibly be more dangerous than you?”
>You looked up at the queen, a smirk coming across your face as you confirmed your thoughts.
“D’aw from above.”
>She looked up just in time to get a face full of baby p0ny, stunning her just long enough for you to reach up with your knife, and jam it into her throat.
>You twisted the knife, causing her blood to squirt over your body and face, and her body collapsed.
“Dusk! Go to mommy!”
>He happily squealed and poofed away as several larger changelings rushed over to you, rearing up to finish you off.
>Drawing your pistol you shot each one as they raised up their hooves, just before they came down on your head for the kill.
>Once the magazine was empty, you resorted to deflecting the incoming hooves with your hands, moving just enough for the attacks to miss, if only by an inch or two.
>A pair of hooves impacted your armor, knocking the wind out of you long enough for a smaller channeling to score a hit.
>Just as you began to black out, the sound of thunder filled your ears, and you felt a weight across your chest as a changeling fell across you.
>The smell of barbequed flesh filled your nostrils, and your vision faded.
>Your vision temporarily came back, though every sound seemed to echo around you.
>”Get those bodies off of him! Get him to the infirmary!”
>Was that Luna?
>Fade out, and back in as you were being carried to down the hallways.
>”Hang on buddy, you’ll make it.”
>Shining Armor, definitely.
>You faded out again, and faded back once more, this time on a bed, a light shining in your eyes
>”Severe concussions I need a-“
>You faded out before the doctor finished, and the p0nies around you quickly got to work, doing their best to keep you alive.
>When you woke up, there was no one around you, just a white light staring down at you, blinding you.
>The ever annoying beep of the nearby EKG was already chipping away at your sanity.
>You pulled the wires from your chest and head, causing the EKG to flat line and the doctor to look up from his desk.
>”Whoa easy now Anonymous, you’ve been through a lot.”
>He gently put a hoof against your chest, pushing you back down.
“Get me out of this damn hospital doc.”
>”I have some tests to run. First, how do you feel?”
“Like I want to get something to eat, how long have I been out?”
>”Over a month. We’ve done our best to keep you fed  but, nop0ny really knows what to feed you.”
“Next time, feed me more. I’m starving…”
>”Uh… right… Do you remember what happened?”
“I’m pretty sure I got my ass kicked.”
>”Do you remember getting your um… ass… kicked?”
“No not really.”
>”Do you remember the battle?”
“Bits and pieces of it.”
>”Does the name Luna mean anything to you?”
“No.”
>”I see… Minor amnesia, your memories will return over time, they did with Luna. You should go see the Princess, provided you can get out of the infirmary on your own two feet.”
“Glad you know not to keep me in here.”
>You slowly got out of bed and rubbed your face, trying to fully wake up before attempting to walk.
>Apparently shaving hadn’t been a priority to the p0nies taking care of you, because it felt as if the Amazon rainforest was on your face and neck.
>You walked out of the infirmary, and looked at the empty hallways, save for a lone guard that patrolled nearby.
>When he saw you however, he rushed off in another direction.
>Probably reporting that you were up.
>You remembered you had a room of your own, and you had a good idea where
>You started walking along the halls, looking around at the elegant gold pottery and tapestries that hung from the walls.
>Stained glass windows occasionally decorated the walls, each portraying a different story.
>Hey, there was one depicting you, a knife in hand about to drive it into a changeling’s skull.
>Guess you kicked ass before getting your own kicked into a coma.
>You finally found a familiar looking door, the wall around the hinges had a fresh coat of paint.
>A sign of recent construction, and you did recall being thrown through a door, so this must be it.
>The door was unlocked, as was most of the doors in the castle, save for a restricted area that only Celestia could open.
>Weird how you remembered the most random things.
>It was definitely your room alright.
>Fatigues in the closet, a pistol on the night stand and a shaving kit in the bathroom.
>It was still a mystery how p0nies grew facial hair, but you were glad they did.
>You carefully shaved the jungle from your face, as to not make any nicks or cuts.
>While you were at it, might as well take care of that shaggy mop on your head, you couldn’t stand long hair.
>”Always with the short mane. I never understood why.”
>You looked over at a dark blue alicorn with two little foals on her back.
“Princess?”
>”Does thou- Do you… remember me?”
“I think I recall you throwing me through a door, but not much after that. Sorry Princess.”
>”I see… I was unpleasant back then, wasn’t I?”
”Unpleasant is a word, yes. I don’t really recall the nature of those arguments, but everything is a bit fuzzy right now.”
>”Perhaps you will gain those memories back in time. Do you recall what happened?”
“Something about changelings, I got my… Well, I needed a trip to the infirmary.”
>”What you did was heroic.”
>As you finished putting your razor away, you felt a fluffy, warm mass sit on your head, and another on your shoulder.
>Looking in the mirror, you saw Dusk sitting on your head, and Dawn on your shoulder, each squealing happily.
>”They missed you…”
>You tussled their manes, a big smile spreading across your face.
>Adorable little foals.
“So, could the hero of Equestria get a date with the lovely princess of the night?”
>Luna gently pressed a hoof against her forehead and sighed.
“So that’s why you threw me through the door…”
>”It was part of the reason, your attempts at courting were… bad at times.”
“I apologize.”
>”No, it’s ok… We- I would love to have dinner with you tonight, dearest husband.”
>Wat.
>You forgot to process the h in that one.
>You we’re married to a p0ny?
>You were married to a princess?
>Which one was honestly surprised you more?
“Husband?”
>”We’ll discuss it all tonight. Would you like to watch your children for a while?”
“Children?”
>You looked up at the black one on your head, who giggled and made a “pbpbpbpbffffffft” noise, spitting over you.
“Come on little guy, that’s gross.”
>You wiped the spit off your forehead and looked over at the princess.
“Luna… right?”
>Luna nuzzled against your cheek, placing a soft kiss on it before pulling away and meeting your eyes.
>”Don’t stress too much. The silver one is Dawn, the black one is Dusk.”
>She leaned in close to whisper in your ear.
>”Keep an eye on Dusk, he’s an adventurous little guy.”
“I’ll keep that in mind. So… Dinner at 5?”
>”Make it six. And drop these two off with Cadence.”
>Luna walked out of your room, and you looked up at Dusk.
“So you two came from my balls?”
>”Ah!”
“Well I didn’t pass biology, who am I to ask questions?”
>You walked into your living/bedroom and sat down on the bed, watching the two foals leap down toward a pile of toys.
>So, what did you do as a dad?
>Play with them?
>Watch them play and do your own thing?
>Did you have anything to do?
>The answer was a clear and resounding “no” as you looked around the room, finding only books and paper lying around.
>So you were left to watch the two foals play with an assortment of blocks, balls, and a train.
>Dusk took it to the next level, casting a spell  on himself and driving his train up the walls and onto the ceiling.
“Well that’s impressive. I guess I have spider balls.”
>”Anon! You’re up!”
>You looked down from the ceiling at Shining Armor, who walked in with a bit of a limp.
“You look terrible Shiney.”
>”So do you, but I didn’t get a month long nap.”
>You extended a fist, and the brohoof was completed quickly.
>”How you feeling?”
“Tired, believe it or not.”
>”I do believe it, those changelings were tough.”
>You turned your attention back the Dawn and Dusk on the ground/ ceiling.
“Did we have a lot of casualties?”
>Shining Armor was quiet for a bit before answering that.
>”Not too many, but there were some. The Changelings prefer to knock out their enemies so they can feed, so they have to hold back a bit. Especially against civilians. Still, combat is chaos…”
“We did our best, and we won. Honestly, you can’t ask for a better outcome.”
>”If you say so.”
>You rubbed your head as pain lanced through it, a small chunk of the battle surfacing in your memory.
>”You alright Anon? You look like you need to go back to the doctor.”
“I’m fine. I think parts of my memory are coming back… Was Spitfire at that final stand? That doesn’t seem right.”
>”That was the changeling queen trying to get close to you. She almost succeeded in taking over Canterlot, but you and Dusk stopped her.”
>You looked up at the black colt playing with a train on your ceiling, wondering how this little colt had played a hand in such a tough battle.
“How…”
>”Ah… What was that thing you called out… D’aw from above?”
>Dusk looked down at the two of you and dropped his train, then detaching himself and plummeted towards the two of you, latching onto your face.
>”Yep. I think it’s a game you two play.”
>You pulled a squealing and writhing Dusk off of your face, and spat out the bits of hair that found their way in your mouth.
“I just got attacked by adorableness.”
>”Any ways, I need to get back to work Anon. Good to see you out of bed.”
“Before you go Shiny. What day is it?”
>”Friday. But I don’t think you should go out drinking the day you wake up from a coma.”
“I have dinner plans, but I’d like to go let everyone know I’m ok.”
>”That sounds like a good idea. Just don’t stand up Luna. Doors are expensive.”
“Buck you Shiny, get out of here. I have to get ready.”
>Shining Armor left you alone with your kids, and you began putting on your dress uniform for dinner.
>Although come to think of it, you probably shouldn’t say buck around the kids.
>Ah Equestrian, the language where buck can mean a fighting move, to have intercourse…
>You know what it was just the equestrian equivalent to fuck, so yeah, you shouldn’t use that around them.
>You placed the finishing touches on your uniform and checked the clock.
>1730, time sure did fly in Equestria.
>Of course, you couldn’t really recall when you woke up either, but the point was you had 30 minutes to drop these two off and get to the dining hall with Luna.
>Somep0ny knocked at your door just as you were about to walk out, Dawn in your arms and Dusk perched on your head.
>The door swung open, and Cadence’s eyes wandered up to Dusk, a the ever present smile on her face.
>”That never gets old Anonymous. Luna aid you needed a foal sitter?
“Yeah, thanks. I’m sure you do this a lot.”
>”No worries! I can’t wait to have foals of my own. Though with as much as I take care of these two, its almost like I already do!”
“Well, you’re welcome to stay here, just don’t touch anything that doesn’t look like it was made here, though I do my best to keep the dangerous stuff locked away.
>”Thanks Anon, have fun.”
>You stepped aside to let her inside, then made your way out into the hall and toward the dining hall.
>Pausing at the entrance, you surveyed the tables, looking for Luna.
>”Early as always Anonymous?”
>You almost looked behind you, but Luna nudged past your arm, nuzzling against you.
“I always had a saying. If I’m early, I’m on time. If I’m on time, I’m late.”
>”And if you late?”
“Then I’m in trouble. Shall we?”
>The two of you walked to her favorite table towards the corner, away from most of the chatter of the other patrons.
>”I trust the foals haven’t given you too much trouble?”
“Not at all. I could get used to this.”
>”You welcome news like this much better than I did. Again, I’m sorry…”
“Already forgotten.”
>”Good- Clever Anon. Clever.”
>This was nice, life finally winding down after all you’ve been through, even f you couldn’t remember half of it.
>Hell, your brain was more scrambled than the eggs you were eating.
>But if you could remember anything, let it be this moment after you and Luna shared a small laugh.
>The distant sound of chatter from the other tables, the soft violin playing just loud enough to be heard.
>The dark blue alicorn sitting across from you, her eyes flickering from the candles that sat between you two.
>The warm smile that her lips formed as the two of you gazed at each other.
>Luna’s eyes shifted aside towards the wall, and she shifted in her seat.
>”Would thou join us tonight in our bedroom? These last few months have been lonely indeed.”
>Brain here, you need to tell you friends your alive.
>Brain, tomorrow the Wonderbolts will wake up, and go out drinking just like they are tonight. One more day will not hurt.
“I would love to Princess.”
>Leaving your empty plates behind, you walked along side Luna in the long white hallway toward her room, passing your own.
>As you did, you made your way toward your door, only to be pulled back by a magical field.
>”Cadence can handle them for the night, don’t you think?”
>She tugged your sleeve gently in her mouth, drawing you back along the path to her tower.
>In her room, you silently undressed, neatly placing your uniform on the nearby dresser.
>Luna stepped onto her balcony, looking up at the sky as she placed the moon in the sky, setting it just right above the distant mountains.
>She brushed against your side, her body soft and warm to the touch.
>You ran your fingers through her magical hair, the wisps tickling your hand gently.
>”We didn’t talk much over dinner… is there anything you wanted to know?”
“No. If it’s important, you would have told me already. I have Dusk, Dawn, and you. That’s all I need to know.”
>”Are thou always so romantic after a coma?”
>You gave a shrug, walking over to Luna’s bed and moving the covers aside.
>”Boop.”
>Two hooves pressed against your back, pushing you onto the bed.
>You rolled just as she leapt into the air, landing over top of you.
>Grabbing her around the neck, you pulled her down beside you.
>One of her large wings draped across you, embracing you gently.
>In turn, you brushed a hand along her cheek, tracing her jaw line gently before gripping behind her head and pulling it toward your own, meeting in a kiss.
>After only a moment she was back on top of you, eagerly pressing herself against you, her tounge driving deeper into your mouth.
>She pulled away a moment, a single strand of saliva bridging your lips.
“You seem eager Princess.”
>”A month is a long time to think and wait… Not to mention its… well. That time.”
“Seems I’m always on time.”
>You met with another soft kiss as the two of you made love, with only the stars that peeked through the window.
>The next morning, you woke up first due to the sun in your eyes.
>Luna remained beside you, her light blue mane had returned as the sun rose.
>Her starry mane was beautiful, but you preferred this version.
>It was cuter, despite being rustled and tussled from the night before.
>You quietly slipped out of bed, and closed the nearby curtains to help Luna stay asleep a bit longer.
>Actually, you could afford being lazy today.
>With the light in the room dimmed to a reasonable level, you crawled back in bed and snuggled up to the princess.
>”I don’t normally say this but…. good morning.”
“Good morning Princess.”
>”Call me Luna.”
>The two of you shared a small kiss and stared in each other’s eyes for a moment.
>”Plans for today?”
“Yes actually. I wanted to go into town, tell my friends I’m ok.”
>”That sounds like a good idea, I’m sure they have been worried.”
>You slipped out of bed once more and dressed back in your uniform, ensuring it was proper even for the short walk to your room,
“I’ll see you later Luna.”
>”Take care love.”
>You left Luna’s room behind and made your way to your room, finding it empty.
>Cadence must have taken the kids to her room so she could be with Shiny.
>Switching to your fatigues, you left the castle and made your way through Canterlot, heading to Spitfire’s house.
>You seemed to remember Canterlot better than the castle, your memory must be getting better.
>Yeah, this was it. Her house always seemed unique, though you didn’t know why.
>You knocked on the door and sat back against the railing as you waited for Spitfire to answer the door.
>The door swung open, but it wasn’t Spitfire that stood there.
>”Hey Anon! I haven’t seen you since the gala!”
“…Rainbow Dash? What are you doing in Spitfire’s house?”
>”I’m her replacement-“
“Replacement? Did her wing not heal?”
>”Right… I guess you just woke up. She’s… gone.”
“Where did she go?”
>”Come inside Anon, you may want to sit down…”
>You followed Dash inside, sitting down on the couch.
>Dash poured some cider in a glass, then held up a mug.
>”Want some?”
“No thanks.”
>Dash sat on the far end of the couch, taking a dink from her mug.
>”You know how changelings feed off love?”
“I guess so… why?”
>”Well, they got to Spitfire. Some say the changeling took your form. Spitfire got fed on too much, and… died.”
>So that’s why the queen chose Spitfire.
>Exhaust Spitfire as a resource, then work on you to weaken you and get an extra bit of power just as the invasion took place.
>”You ok Anon?”
“Can you take me to where she was buried? I’d like to pay my respects.”
>Rainbow Dash nodded, hopping off the couch and waiting by the door.
>You slowly followed, still taking in the new information in.
>Seems just yesterday you two went out to dinner, and you promised to see her next weekend for drinks.
>Pausing by a small store, you looked inside, looking at the liquor cabinet.
>Dash, who had walked a few paces ahead of you, turned and looked back, wondering a moment why you stopped.
>You held up a finger, signaling her to wait a moment and stepped inside, grabbing a bottle of apple whiskey and two shot glasses.
>30 bits was a kind of steep, but it was worth it.
>You walked back out to Dash, who looked at the bottle curiously.
“I’ll explain when we get there.”
>The cemetery wasn’t much farther, though it took a few minutes to find the right tombstone.
>But there it was.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UCmUhYSr-e4
>SPITFIRE. SECOND ERA. 1816-1839. WONDERBOLT AND FRIEND.
“Sorry I’m late buddy. Drinks are on me.”
>You unscrewed the top of the bottle, pouring the contents in the shot glasses and drank one.
>For the other, you dumped it out onto the ground in front of the tombstone.
“We did some stupid shit together, had some good times. You take care of yourself up there in Elysium. Maybe I’ll meet up with you there.”
>”You ok Anon?”
   “Yeah, I just need a moment. This is a lot to wake up to…”
>”I’m here if you need me Anon.”
>Dash set a hoof on your shoulder as you sat there a minute in silence, paying  your respects.
“I think I’m going back to the castle, tell the other Wonderbolts I’m alright will you?”
>”Sure thing Anon. Maybe you can come out with us Friday for some drinks?”
“Sure Dashie. Congrats on the Wonderbolt position. First drink is on me to celebrate.”
>You tussled her colorful mane and began the walk back to castle, parting with Rainbow half way at her house
>Back in the castle, you began packing your bags once more, slinging them over your shoulder and looking around at the room, ensuring you didn’t leave anything behind.
>Satisfied, you made your way into the hallway, and up to Luna’s room once more.
>Inside, she was lazily lying on her bed in the dark room, while Dusk and Dawn slept under her wing.
>You closed the door, and she raised her head, looking at you.
>”Shhh… they’re sleeping. Back so soon?”
“The reunion didn’t go as planned. Spitfire’s… gone.”
>”As in...?”
>You nodded, sitting on the bed next to your family.
>”Are you ok?”
“I’m just tired… tired of fighting, tired of death… tired of losing the ones closest to many.”
>Luna remained silent, nuzzling your shoulder to comfort you.
“I’m done. I just want to live a happy life. With you. The kids. And my friends.”
>”Then make it so. There are no more threats to Equestria, thou should enjoy the peace while it lasts.”
“I guess you’re right.”
>”I am right. Now come dear, lay with me. I’ve missed your touch…”
>You obliged your lady, laying behind her, pulling her close and sighing.
>Peace at last.
The End