In Loco Parentis (Part 7)

>You looked down at the newspaper, then back up to these pegasi. Were these Scootaloo’s actual parents?
>The male Pegasus had a cutie mark that showed a pair of die, no doubt a gambler. The female Pegasus had a coin slot for a cutie mark.
>The mare stuck her head through the door, “Pumpkin, where are you? Mommy’s here!”
>Scootaloo turns to the door, and the look on her face was both of horror and shock. The mother barges her way in, “There’s my little angel, mommy missed you so much!”
Hey, you can’t just-
>The step-father pushes you to the side and walks into your house.
>Scootaloo sat on the floor frozen in fear as the mother picked her up and pecks her over the face with kisses, “My precious little Scootaloo, I thought we would never see you!”
>Scootaloo squirms to get out of her grasp. As the step-father approached he added, “Yeah, the little kid’s all grown up. And apparently a big star!”
>Scootaloo started to whine and cry as he approached her. You quickly stepped in and snatched her away from them, “Who do you think you are taking our baby away?” the mother snaps.
>You put Scootaloo down on the floor; she cowers behind your leg.
First off, get the hell off my property. Second, if you’re really her parents why are you here now?
>The male Pegasus steps forward, “The name’s Lucky Shot, and you are in a heap of trouble, pal.”
For what?
>The mare looked up at you, “For taking away our precious Scootaloo.”
Look lady, I don’t know where you get off doing this but you don’t barge into my house.
>”Mah name is Joy Ride, and you have my little Scooter Derby award winning Scootaloo!” the words she spoke came out with a somewhat southern-ish accent.
Get out of my house before I contact the authorities.
>Lucky Shot frowned at you, “Listen here buddy, that’s out child and you have no right to take her.” He storms his way out of the door.
>Joy Ride storms out after him, but turns to look back at you with an angry scowl, “You’re gonna regret this.” She leans over to look back at Scootaloo who is shaking from fear, “Don’tchu worry pumpkin, mommy and daddy will be back for you.”
>You could hear them bickering as they walked away from your house and took off into the sky.
>Slamming the door shut, you lock it and pick up Scootaloo who begins to cry in your shoulder.
Shhhh, shhhh... it’s OK. They’re gone now...
>You spoke softly to her and gently rocked back and forth.
Were those your parents?
>Through her tears she says it was her mom, but that was the mean step dad that beat her up.
>You remember Scootaloo telling you how her mother yelled, blamed her why she got hit and abandoned her at a store.
>But why are they here?
>The newspaper they dropped at your feet.
>Holding Scootaloo with one arm you pick up the newspaper and sure enough, it was the same edition that was printed here in Ponyville.
>They obviously saw Scootaloo in the paper and wanted her back. No doubt because of the cash prize she won.
>”I don’t want to go!” she cried out with tears streaming down her face.
>You never seen her this upset over anything. She was still shaking in your arms.
It’s OK; I won’t let them take you. Go play in your room and I’ll make sure everything is alright.
>You put her on the floor and she grabs her toys and heads up the stairs. Something tells you that they would be back soon.
>It wasn’t long until your prediction came true.
>A loud knock on the door is heard, “This is police! Open up!”
>They brought the fucking cops?
>You immediately open the door and two officers greet you, behind them stood Lucky Shot and Joy Ride. Joy was crying her crocodile tears.
What’s the problem, officers?
>”Step aside. You are charged with foalnapping, anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law.”
What proof do you have?
>”Don’t get smart with me. These folks gave us a picture and a birth certificate of their daughter and said she’s been missing for years. Unless you have paper to show you adopted the kid, she’s not yours.”
No, you can’t believe their lies-
>You step forward and that was your first mistake. The first officer tackles you to the ground with surprising strength as the other officer rushes inside and searches your house.
Get the hell off me!
>”Sir, if you continue to struggle I will cuff you and take you in.” You feel the officer place something around your right ankle. It looked like a tracking device.
>The mother and step-father step into your house, “Oh please, find mah baby!” Joy cries out with her fake tears. The officer gets off of you, “That’s a tracking device; tomorrow you will be picked up and brought to Canterlot where you will be brought to court. So don’t try to run away.”
No offense but this is horseshit!
>The officer runs upstairs to search for Scootaloo. Lucky Shot walks up to you and smirks, “I told you we’d be back.”
Listen, if it’s the prize money that you want then take it. I can give you all the money you want, just leave us alone and drop the charges.
>”Oh we’ll just settle things the good old fashion way and sue you for everything you own. Even the clothes off your back will belong to us.”
>It took every ounce of strength and willpower to not smoke him on the spot. You clenched your fist tightly.
>Joy scoffs at you, “And now that we have our little racing prodigy back with us, it’s time to race off and be one big rich happy family.”
>You could hear struggling upstairs. They found her.
>”Alright, let’s get these folks to the centre.” The officer called out to the other as he held Scootaloo.
>She was squirming, but she cries out to you in this gut-wrenching cry, “Daddy!” she reaches out to you with tears pouring down her cheeks.
>Joy puts on her show again, “Oh, mah poor baby’s been brainwashed into thinking she is that ‘things’ daughter!”
>You rush to Scootaloo to comfort her, but you’re tackled to the ground by the other officer. “Stop hurting my dad!” she screams out.
>”Don’t push your luck, son. You’re in deep enough trouble as it is.” The officer growled. You watched helplessly as Scootaloo tries to reach out to you and call out for you.
>The officer gets off your back, “An escort will be here first thing in the morning. Once you’re in court you will be addressed an attorney.”
>You get up and watch from the door as Scootaloo and her parents are escorted by a fleet of police pegasus off to Canterlot.
>Scootaloo’s screaming and crying faded off into the distance as they flew out of sight towards Canterlot.
>In your rage you slam your fists into the door frame, cursing under your breath.
>As the sun set, your mind raced with thoughts and emotions. You would run all the way to Canterlot right now if it meant getting Scootaloo back.
>You had to get help.
>First place you ran to was Fluttershy’s place.
>You knocked on the door furiously. The door opens and you’re greeted by the timid yellow pony, “Oh, why hello Anon. What brings you here?”
They took Scootaloo! HerparentstookscootalooandIhavetogotocourtIneedhelp!
>Fluttershy blinked at you, not sure if you spoke any coherent language.
Scootaloo’s parents came and took Scootaloo away, and they’re suing me. I need your help.
>”Oh my, that’s awful! Of course I’ll help.” She replies.
Thank you... Can you go tell Rainbow Dash for me? I need to go.
>You turn and break into a jog, “Where are you going Anon?”
I have to tell the others. I can’t let them take Scootaloo away from me.
>You ran to Rarity’s place and knocked on the front door, “Good evening darling. What bring you-“ she’s cut off by your wild bantering.
>You didn’t mean to be so emotional, but you were. “Anon, please calm down and tell me what’s wrong.”
>Explaining to her what happened, she gasps in shock. “Anon, as a true friend you can count on me being there.”
>Pinkie Pie was next, as she happily agreed to help.
>As you visited Twilight’s house she looked at the clock on the wall, “Anon, don’t you think it’s a little late for researching?”
Twilight, Scootaloo’s parents came and took her. I’m heading to Canterlot tomorrow to go to court. Can you send a letter to Princess Celestia?
>”I’m sorry to hear that! I’ll do that right now. Spike, take a letter!” The small dragon pops into view with a quill and a piece of parchment.
>She explained to Celestia what has happened and Spike sent the letter away. A few moments later a letter came back and Spike read the letter.
>”My dear faithful student Twilight, I am glad to see you are concerned for your human friend Anon. Unfortunately; we have to let our jurisdiction try Anon. Anon will have to talk to his attorney tomorrow at the hearing. I trust that the court and jury will see him through. You and your friends should be there for him and speak on his behalf if needed. I will be there to overhear the proceedings. Yours truthfully, Princess Celestia.
>Fucking hell...
>Twilight’s ears flatten in sorrow, “I’m sorry Anon, but we do have laws in place here. I just hope they go easy on you since you’re not familiar with them. But I’ll be there tomorrow, like how you were there for me when I needed you.” She blushed a little bit.
>Spike gives you both a confused look.
Thank you. I’ll see you both tomorrow.
>Spike looks to Twilight, “Do I really have to go and be at court all day?” Twilight frowns at him. “What?” he asks.
>The last place to go to was AJ’s place. The most dependable of ponies will surly help you. As you draw near the farm house, the sun was already setting and the night sky was getting darker.
>Knocking on the door, you wait patiently for an answer. Finally, it was little AppleBloom that showed up. She looked upset about something.
Hey AppleBloom, is your sister home?
>She just shook her head, “No, she’s probably in P0nyville. She’s been acting weird for a while now Anon. Like she’s sick.”
Why, what happened to her?
>Big Mac comes into view and he doesn’t look happy. He spoke rather harshly to you, “Well you certainly did something to upset her. We don’t want you around here right, so just go away!”
>He points his hoof back down the way you came. You weren’t the one to get into a fight with a stallion like Big Mac.
>It dawned on you that AppleBloom said AJ was in P0nyville. You headed back there with all haste.
>As the night grew darker, not many p0ny folk were out and about, but you went around asking if they’ve seen AJ.
>For a while your search came up empty, but finally one of the p0nies said they say AppleJack in the local tavern. That was quite unusual, even for someone like AJ.
>The tavern was a decent place that you went to on a few occasions, but as you entered the establishment you scanned the bar.
>Sure enough, there was AJ sitting at the counter. The dim light hanging nearby lit up her gloomy face.
>Walking up to the counter, you sat yourself down next to AJ. She didn’t even turn to look at you.
>You thought she was over you, but that wasn’t the case.
>(1 Month earlier)
>You decided it was time again to head out and spend a nice evening with Cheerilee. A night out to a nice restaurant to change things up.
>You and Cheerilee had this routine, where you would walk through town and complement each other. Both of you would make lovely-dovey talk, and Cheerilee found it rather amusing in a weird way.
>As you and Cheerilee rubbed noses in a loving manner, AppleJack happen to wander by and saw you.
>You could almost pinpoint the moment when AJ’s heart rips in half.
>But being the good sport that she is, she walks to you, “Well howdy, I didn’t reckon you two were together.”
>You told her how you’ve been together for a while now and how glad you are to have met her.
>”Well, I hope you two will have a... happy life together. So uh, I’ll be seeing you around I guess.” She trots off.
>What you didn’t see was AJ holding back her tears as she walked away.
>So here you are, sitting next to AJ while she stews in her own drunkenness and misery. There were more pressing matters than how AJ felt for you.
AppleJack, I need your help. Scootaloo’s parents found her and had the authorities take her away. I’m scheduled for a court meeting tomorrow.
>AJ took another sip from her drink and kept staring down at the countertop.
I could really use your help right now. I need you to be there for me.
>”Why didn’t y’all tell me? Why couldn’t you have just said you were seeing somep0ny instead of leading me on?”
AJ I didn’t lead you on. I was going through a tough time and...
>”Anon, I opened myself to ya. I... I wanted y’all to be there for me, but you weren’t! Instead you chose the pretty school teacher.”
She has nothing to do with this, Scootaloo is at risk to going back to living with her former abusive parents.
>”What do I care? At least she won’t be living with a dishonest fella like yerself.” She takes another wing from her drink.
>You didn’t want to get mad at her, but she was drunk and not thinking straight. But a part of you felt that she spoke honestly, even if she was intoxicated.
>”Besides, yer wasting time thinking the court will listen to ya. The law doesn’t care how you feel what you’ve dun. Scootaloo is gone for good.” She shakes her head in disappointment.
It’s not a waste. Scootaloo means something to me and I’ll face a thousand judges and juries if it means getting her back.
>But you were ready to take desperate measures to save Scootaloo.
>AppleJack was becoming teary eyed.
>”I thought y’all really meant those things about me not being plain. I prayed like crazy everyday that one day you be coming through my front door to be there for me. But I guess you humans like to play tricks, that’s how you get your fun I suppose...”
That’s crossing the line, AJ. Say what you want about me, but humans don’t play ‘tricks’ just to be cruel.
>OK, maybe some do.
AJ, why the hell are you so into me? I’m not even a pony for fucks sakes. Do you think I’m some cheap sex because I can’t get you knocked up and leave you?
>”Anon, you know that ain’t true...”
Is that what it’ll take? If you want me to rut you in good, I’ll fucking do it.
>AJ clenched her teeth and you could hear her choking through her sobs she was trying to hold back. AppleJack was hurt of the accusation that you were nothing more than just sex to her.
>”Just leave...”
AJ, I really need y-
>You reached over to pat her on the shoulder but she swiftly swats your hand away. “LEAVE ME ALONE!” she screams at you, almost shrieking.
>The patrons of the bar stopped talking and looked to the both of you.
AJ, don’t do this.
>”I don’t ever want to see your face again...” she looked up to you one last time.
>As aggravating as it was, her words finally hit their mark and you felt a sting in your chest. You got up and without saying another word, you left the tavern and went to see Cheerilee.
>it was getting late, but thankfully Cheerilee was there for you. Explaining to her what happened, she agreed to come and help. She could tell something else was upsetting you.
>”Is there something wrong, anon?”
It’s AJ. Remember a month ago when we saw her on our ‘date’? Well she took it really hard, and now she’s not going to show up tomorrow. I screwed up royally, Cheerilee.
>She pats you on the back, “Anon, do you love her?”
As a friend, yes. But she can’t get over me.
>”I know that where you’re from, humans see horses only as beasts of burden. But we here don’t see you as another animal. You’re something special to us and you showed us this when you took in Scootaloo as if she was your own. There has to be more to us then what you think.” She smiles warmly at you.
>The only thought on your mind was how scared Scootaloo must be. You couldn’t imagine what they might be doing to her.
Can we talk about this some other time? I just want to get some sleep and be ready for tomorrow.
>Cheerilee complies and sees you off, but not before you told her that the others will be coming and that they should go together.
>The evening sky was calm and clear on your way home.
>You could still remember how scared Scootaloo looked when she was being taken away.
>No matter what it takes, you’ll get her back. You made a promise to her that nothing bad will ever happen.
>As you lay in bed, it wasn’t only Scootaloo that worried you, but AppleJack as well. It was a safe bet that she wasn’t going to be there, and you weren’t welcome back on her farm anytime.
>You hardly got any sleep that night.
>As the morning sun crept through your window, you heard a knock at your door. Putting on your house coat you look through and peep hole and see that it was Twilight surprisingly.
>She was carrying satchels filled with books and scrolls and she herself look exhausted.
>You open the door and Twilight looks flustered, “Anon, I’ve been up all night looking through my studies of you. I hope I’ve brought enough evidence to show the court and jury how harmless you are.”
Do you think that will really sway the ruling?
>”Well... I don’t know. But we got to try. The others and I will speak on your behalf if your attorney allows it.” She seemed hopeful.
>From the sky a chariot being pulled by two Canterlot pegasi guards swoop down and land in front of your house. “Are you Anon?”
Yes.
>”You are summoned to attend a court hearing at Canterlot. Gather what you need so we may leave promptly.”
Can she come?
>You pointed down to Twilight Sparkle.
>”Sorry, but this escort for you only. She will have to find her own way.” The guard replied in a military fashion.
>You were about to protest, but Twilight stopped you, “It’s OK, me and the others will take the train. We’ll meet you there as soon as we can.”
Did you talk to AppleJack?
>She shakes her head, “I’m sorry, but AppleJack doesn’t want to talk to any of us. She’s probably going to sit this one out.”
OK, I’ll see you there.
>With a nod, she takes her leave to go get the others and grab a train to Canterlot.
>Putting on some decent clothes, you quickly washed your face and had a light snack to keep you tied over. Your stomach didn’t feel like eating much.
>The flying escort waited outside, and all you brought was yourself and nothing else. Stepping onto the chariot, the escort takes off into the air.
>You held on tight as the escort flies higher and higher, soon you were above the clouds and could see Canterlot in the distance.
>It wasn’t long before you arrived. As the chariot landed in the middle of the bustling city, the upper crust of Canterlot society gawked and talked among themselves.
>They never seen a creature like you before, and apparently they heard of why you’re here.
>Comments ranging from “I heard it foalnaps little fillies and brainwashes them” to “It thinks it was able to raise a young filly Pegasus” filled the air.
>It looked like a mob was forming.
>Guards swarmed out of a nearby building you assumed was the courthouse. They formed two parallel rows to grant you safe passage to the building while the crowd of ponies grew more agitated at your presence.
>”Send that freak to jail!”
>”He’s a menace to our children!”
>They started to pelt you with items, including food, cups and even small rocks. The guards shout warnings as you made your way into the building while being lead by two other guards.
>Once inside your hands are cuffed behind your back and you’re led into a small waiting room with one table and two chairs. You take your seat and wait.
>After waiting for a short while, the door opens and a male unicorn pony with glasses, a suit and briefcase stumble in. A guard stands watch near the door to make sure you don’t try anything.
>”Ah, hello! You must uh, be...” he pops open his briefcase on the table and looks through his paper. “...Anon!”
What’s your name?
>”Oh, where are my manners?” he fumbles to put the papers back into the briefcase, “The name... is uh... Law de Nova, just call me Mr. De Nova. And I’ve been uh... assigned to represent you.”
Where’s Scootaloo?
>He scrambles through his papers, “Uh, who is that?... I didn’t catch that....”
Scootaloo. The filly pegasus that was taken from me.
>”Correction. Scootaloo is not your child. At least um... not yet...” this pony was tripping over his own words. He’s like the Jeff Goldblum of this world.
 So what are my options?
>”Well um... we could plead insanity... um, make them think you were not in the uh.... right mindset.” He keeps fumbling through his papers.
How can I get Scootaloo back?
>He looks up to you as if you were serious, “I’m sorry, but uh... she’s not your kid. Unless you got the paperwork to prove it, we’re out of luck.”
So that’s it? I pretend that I’m insane for what reason?
>”Then maybe the uh, parents won’ take you for everything you um... own. These cases can be uh, fickle at the best of times.”
>Perhaps AJ was right.
>But you had to try and appeal to the jury and judge.
>”There’s uh, something you need to know...” Mr. De Nova spoke up. “If you choose to uh, go up against Lucky Shot and Joy Ride and you fail to prove your case, you’ll um... have to pay both sides.”
>It occurred to you that you have very little money aside from the 300 bits that Scootaloo won.
I have 300 bits and not much else.
>Mr. De Nova didn’t make you feel any more at ease when he broke the bad news to you, “I’m sorry sir, but uh, whatever Scootaloo owns is now forfeit and belongs to her biological parents. That would be uh...” He looks to the papers, “Mrs. Joy Ride.”
>This couldn’t be happening. You felt your stomach writhe.
>”If you had paper work showing that you uh, adopted the kid then we might have a chance.”
No offense Mr. De Nova, but this is bullshit. The only reason her parents came back is because of Scootaloo’s prize money. They just want her because they’ll use her to win scooter derby races.
>”I know you’re upset Anon, but I’m here to help. We just need to um.... play our cards right and we might get you a less severe sentence for foalnapping.”
I never abducted her! She was living on the streets because her mother abandoned her. I let her live with me of her own volition!
>De Nova adjusts his glasses, “I’m sorry, but if we can’t prove it, then we have no chance.”
>Outside you heard talking. “We’re here for Anon.... What do you mean we need to wait?... Yes, I’m a student of Princess Celestia..... OK... thank you.”
>The door opens and there crowding the doorway was Twilight, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Pinkie, Fluttershy and Miss Cheerlilee.
>Oh thank God.
>“Sorry we’re late, Anon.” Twilight gave a look of confidence.
>Twilight and the others walk into the room and stood around the table, “Oh my... They cuffed you Anon?” Fluttershy asked.
Yeah, as soon as I got in they did.
>Mr. De Nova looked at all the mares in the room, “I assume you’re here to be uh... supporting Anon?”
>Twilight placed her satchels on the table, “That we are. Anon didn’t foalnap Scootaloo. He told us what Scootaloo did and you’re all making a big mistake.”
>Mr. De Nova shook his head, “Look, we have no proof that Anon didn’t abduct Scootaloo and no proof that Joy Ride left her daughter. Our best bet is to plead guilty or insane and hope for a less harsh sentence.”
I don’t bargain Mr. De Nova. They’re trying to steal Scootaloo away from me for the wrong reasons. The court has to know.
>”Anon if you go down that road, I guarantee you won’t like the outcome.” Mr. De Nova warned.
Twilight, what do you think?
>”I can’t be the one to decide. It’s your call.”
>You thought about it, and you knew it might have been for nothing. But you had to try.
I’m sorry Mr. De Nova, but I’m going to do it my way.
>He takes off his glasses and rubs his forehead, “Then I cannot represent you in this case. Good luck.” He packs up his papers into his briefcase and leaves.
This is a messed up legal system you have here Twilight.
>”I’m sorry Anon, but we’ll all do our part to give you a good name. Right girls?” The other ponies give a reassuring nod in agreement.
Thank you, but there’s another problem. If I lose, I have to pay both sides and I don’t have the money for that.
>You hear a voice coming from the doorway, “Maybe I can help you, Anon.”
>It was Filthy Rich.
>Everyone in the room was surprised by this, especially you and Miss Cheerilee.
You want to help me? Don’t get me wrong, I’m so grateful, but why? We didn’t exactly meet eye to eye.
>”Son, you taught me something important that day. What it meant to be a father. I started paying my bills less and started paying more attention to my little girl.”
>And here you thought he was going to stew in his own anger after the way you told him off.
>He pats you supportively on the shoulder, “I learned so much about my little girl and she’s been showing improvement in her behaviour. Isn’t that right, Miss Cheerilee?”
>Cheerilee thinks back and does remember a change in Diamond Tiara’s attitude.
Thank you Mr. Rich. If there’s any way I can pay you back...
>”Now now, Anon. I know you don’t have a bit to your name. I’ll be more than glad to pay whatever costs may be involved. It’s the least this old stallion can do.”
>The other ponies thank Mr. Filthy Rich for his generosity.
>A huge guard pony walks through the door and tells you it’s time to go. The others leave and head to court as you’re taken in handcuffs.
>As you’re escorted into the court room, the crowd of p0nies look and stare as you walk down the aisle. There you saw Lucky Shot and Joy Ride sitting on their side and you’re led to sit on the other side.
>Scootaloo was sitting in a row behind them and as soon as you walked in she smiles at you, “Dad!”
>The crowd erupted into whispers and murmurs at her calling you that.
>You wanted to be with her, but you had to respect the court and its law for now.” You smile and nod to her as you take your seat.
>”All rise for The Honourable Madame Justice Gavel” a voice calls out.
>Everyp0ny in the court room stands up and so do you. Twilight and her friends quietly enter and take a seat in a row behind you.
>A female unicorn in black robes walks out and takes her place in the judge’s seat.
>Everyone takes their seat and the court session proceeds as normal. Madame Gavel looks down to you, “What’s your name sir?”
Anon, your honour.
>”You stand accused of foalnapping Scootaloo, how do you plead?”
Not guilty.
>”Is this your first offence Anon?”
No.
>””What other crimes are on your record?”
None.
>Gavel looks to the Court Officer, “Pass me his files please.” The officer hands them over and she looks through the documents.
>”A human being. Homo Sapien... Sentient....” she mumbles on about other stuff as she reads the few papers in the folder.
>”I’ll ask again, is this your first offence?” she asked more impatiently this time.
No.
>”Then what other offences have you been charged for?”
Nothing, your honor. I’m not guilty of anything. The charges brought up against me are baseless.
>”You willfully chose not to have an attorney represent you. Why is that?”
Because I came here to save Scootaloo. He would have me plead insane for a less harsh sentence.
>”I see. And here representing Lucky Shot and Joy Ride is Mr. Slick their attorney. According to the files, they have a birth certificate authenticating that Joy Ride is the biological mother of Scootaloo, and Lucky Shot was the step-father at the time. Is that correct, Mrs. Joy Ride?”
>”It is your honour. I’m just so glad that we found mah poor baby girl.” She sniffles and wipes her eye.
>Oh please...
>”Mr. Slick if you’ll please.” Madame Justice Gavel called to him.
>”Thank you your honour.” Mr. Slick sported a heavy bonafide southern accent. “I would like to call Mrs. Joy Ride to the stand.”
>Joy Ride walks over to the stand; a pony holding a book walks up to her. “Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole and nothing but the truth?”
>She replies, “I do.” She was beginning to tear up again.
>Mr. Slick walks up and asks, “Now Mrs. Joy Ride, would you be so kind as to tell us what happened on that day your daughter went missing?”
>She sniffs and uses a tissue to wipe away her tears, “I’m sorry, it’s just that I’m so happy to see mah little girl again. It all happened one day a few years ago. I was done donating to charity and I took Scootaloo to go shoe shopping. We get to the shopping store, but when I turn my back for a second she was gone! I searched everywhere for her but my little precious angel was gone. Other ponies said they saw a monkey creature take her!”
>Joy Ride begins to break down, and the jury was eating it up.
>Mr. Slick walks over to her, “There there, Mrs. Joy. It’s OK. I would like to call up Lucky Shot to the stand.”
>Joy Ride heads back to her seat as Lucky Shot takes the stand. They do the whole oath thing and he gives his testimony.
>”I wasn’t with my wife and her daughter at the time, but when she came home telling me what happened, I was distraught, needless to say. I helped search for days, but I couldn’t find her. I love Scootaloo with all my heart and I’m just happy that we found.”
>His words were like ash in your mouth. You wanted to smoke this abusive piece of shit right across the jaw.
>Mr. Slick smiles and seems cool as a cucumber, “Thank you sir. Your honour, I’m not some big time city lawyer, but what I do know is that Joy and Lucky are the rightful parents of the young’yun here. They have the documents proving so and we don’t want to waste a minute of your time.”
>It was your turn to take the stand.
>As you walked up, you could feel the juries’ eyes piercing your soul with hate and disgust. A pony comes up to you with a book, “Place your left hoo- um hand here and raise your right. Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth?”
I do.
>You looked to your friends who showed up. All except AppleJack.
>Madame Justice Gavel spoke to you, “Now Anon, would you please tell us what happened?”
Yes, your honour. My name is Anon, and I’m the only one of my kind here. I was living in P0nyville for a short time, approximately less than half a year. I found Scootaloo living on the streets.
>There was muttering among the crowd.
>There you retold them everything that happened. How you found Scootaloo living in the streets, giving her a hot meal and earning her trust until she came to live with you of her own choice. She told you what her parents did.
Scootaloo confessed to me that her step-father hit her. He would come home late drunk and beat her. The mother was in denial and blamed Scootaloo, saying it was her fault. Then she took her to a shopping centre and abandoned her there. When Scootaloo tried to find them, they were already gone.
>”Your honour, that is not true!” Joy Ride shot up from her chair.
>”Wait your turn, Mrs. Joy Ride!” Madame Gavel barked at her.
>You told them of the time you saved Scootaloo and her friends from drowning in a river during a storm. How you volunteered at her school to read and tutor the young ones.
>Then when Scootaloo was starting to call you dad. You told them how you and RD helped train Scootaloo for the Scooter Derby race and she won.
>You told the court that you believe the parents only showed up because they saw an opportunity to exploit Scootaloo and use her to win bigger races and win the cash prizes.
My attorney said that saying all this to you was stupid, that you’d throw the book at me. I’m here under false accusations of a crime I didn’t commit. I just want Scootaloo back in my life.
>Mr. Slick walks up, “Your honour, I would like to cross examine Anon.”
>Madame Gavel gives him the OK.
>”Those are some mighty fine stories you’re selling to the jury. But what makes you think you’re qualified to be a parent when you’re not even of the same species.”
It doesn’t take a genius to be a parent. Just because you gave birth to it doesn’t mean you’re the parental figure in that child’s life. I know what Scootaloo likes, her favourite food and the oath to be sworn in as a member of her CMC club. Ask the parents when she was born without them looking at the birth certificate.
>Joy and Lucky looked a little hot under the collar.
>”Your honour, that is irrelevant to this case.” Mr. Slick pointed out.
>Madame Gavel replied, “Overruled.”
>Fucking hell.
>Mr. Slick was trying to make you look like a fool, “Now Anon, if you are the adopting parent of said child will you please produce the paper work to show when and where you adopted Scootaloo from?”
I don’t have any of that.
>”Mr. Anon, what was stopping you from doing so? The only reason I see is because you abducted the poor little filly.”
>This is going far enough.
Your honour, can we get a testimony from Scootaloo?
>Mr. Slick looked like he was about to panic, “Your honour, might I remind you that Scootaloo is too young to be trusted to speak truthfully. For all we know, Anon could have easily brainwashed the poor creature. We don’t even know what a human is capable of doing, for all we know humans can hypnotize innocent foals.”
What proof do you have?
>”We had a doctor examine the little filly and he concluded that she is suffering from Stockholm syndrome. The papers are right here if you want to look at them.”
>This wasn’t looking good.
>You had one last chance to try and find a hole in their story. Then it came to you like a streak of lightning.
Where’s the police report?
>”What are you jabbering about, son?”
If Joy Ride and Lucky Shot had a missing foal, then they would’ve reported her missing to the authorities. So where’s the report?
>The court room exploded into a roar of ponies talking all at once. Joy Ride looked more nervous. Madame Gavel slammed her gavel.
>Mr. Slick looked flustered, “Your honour, this has... no bearing on the case whatsoever! Anon is just trying to stir up the court.”
>”Overruled.”
>God damn it.
>Mr. Slick was still in the game, “The matter of the fact is; Scootaloo is not yours. You’re not a pegasus or even a pony, therefore you couldn’t possibly raise a filly. You don’t have any paper work to indicate that you adopted the child, therefore I make it a point that this creature standing before us abducted the poor child and weaved these great tales to fool the court and corrupt the mind of an innocent foal.”
>Madame Gravel spoke to you, “Anon, do you have anything left to say in your defense?”
I... I’m not leaving without Scootaloo, your honour. If she gets sent back with those two, then the jury is making a huge mistake.
>You could see Scootaloo smiling at you; she knew you wouldn’t give up.
>”I’m afraid that your outlook is looking grim, do you have anyp0ny that’s willing to speak on your behalf?”
I do your honour. My friends who are here can speak for me.
>The judge called them up one by one starting with Twilight Sparkle. Twilight Sparkle took out drawings and notes she’s made when she researched you.
>”I’ve studied Anons anatomy with great detail” she almost blushed for a moment there, “And humans lack the magic we possess, therefore it’s not possible for a human to ‘hypnotize’ anyp0ny. Anon always looked out for Scootaloo first. He is the most selfless being I know.”
>Mr. Slick was anxious to shoot holes through her testimony, “Your honour, we don’t know enough about humans. We need a team of scientists and doctors to do it, not some wannabe med student.”
>Madame Gavel slammed her gavel, “Mr. Slick, you need to wait your turn before running your mouth off.”
>”Yes, your honour...” Mr. Slick sits back into his chair.
>Rarity was up next. She spoke of the time you saved not only Scootaloo, but also her little sister Sweetie Belle and AJ’s AppleBloom. “Anon is a gentlemen and a wonderful parental figure to Scootaloo. The children adore him and he is not capable of foalnapping.”
>The jury still didn’t look convinced.
>Pinkie Pie bounced her way to the stand and gave her honest feelings about Anon and the relationship she saw between Scootaloo and him.
>Next up was Rainbow Dash, “Anon and I trained with the kid before the Scooter Derby. He showed many great father type qualities. Yeah he doesn’t have wings and he’s kind of slow, but he’s the best thing to happen to Scootaloo.”
>You knew Rainbow Dash wouldn’t let you down. Fluttershy was up to take the stand.
>”Well um... Anon is a great person. But I don’t know much about what went on between him and Scootaloo...”
>The judge asked if there was nothing more that she would like to elaborate on.
>Fluttershy shakes her head, “I’m really sorry, but I don’t know much else.” She meekly makes her way off the stand.
>You were certain Fluttershy would’ve given more than that. And you were starting to think that the jury was starting to change their tune.
>Finally, Cheerilee would be next. As she took the stand and the oath you both looked at each other with a reassuring look in your eyes. “My name is Cheerilee and I’m a school teacher from p0nyville.”
>”What’s your relation to Anon?” the judge asked.
>”I’m the teacher of Scootaloo and...” she looks up to you with hesitation. You had a good idea of what was going on in her mind.
>Cheerilee wasn’t the kind to lie, but you didn’t see how the relationship was something to be ashamed of. “... I am also ‘seeing’ Anon.” She looks down at the ground of her feet.
>The court breaks into more talking and whispering.
>”For how long, Ms. Cheerilee?” the judge asked her.
>”A few months now, your honour.” Cheerilee replied. The judge gave her the OK to go. “I knew of Anon’s existence here in p0nyville, even before he met Scootaloo. She’s a student of mine.”
>Cheerilee goes on to say how you told her about how you found Scootaloo and how you’ve been the taking care of her. “He’s not even a p0ny, but he’s been taking care of her as if she was his own flesh and blood.”
>Cheerilee looks to you, “I don’t see a monster... I see a father.” You knew Cheerilee would come through to you.
>Lucky Shot and Joy Ride were feeling the heat and they whispered to their lawyer, “We thought you had this under control!”
>Mr. Slick scowls at them, “Sentiments are running high. We might not get to rake him for everything he’s worth.”
>But Lucky Shot wasn’t having any of that, “Look here. I paid you a handsome sum of bits to do your job and I paid off some of the folks in the jury to make sure we get everything from this monkey!”
>Mr. Slick sighs, “As you wish...”
>Again you were called up to the stand by Mr. Slick. He wasn’t done putting holes in your sail. “Such strong words your friends have said about you. But words don’t cut it I’m afraid. I make it a point for the jury that these are close friends of Anon, therefore we are relying on unreliable sources of information. They could be in on this as much as he is.”
>This bastard was asking to get smoked as well.
>”So Anon, do you have anything else you want to add to your... heartfelt story?” Mr. Slick smirks at you.
>You just sat there realizing that you’re going to lose Scootaloo. It didn’t matter if you lost your house and whatever possessions. You couldn’t let this injustice be done.
>Mr. Slick grins at your lack of a response and turns away in triumph.
I do.
>The court is dead silent.
Yes, I offered Scootaloo a chance to be happy. I made her forget about the pain and misery her step-father and mother caused. I may not be one of your kind, but I love Scootaloo with all my heart. And... the friends that I’ve lived with have shown me love and kindness.
>In your heart and mind, you started to think more clearly know than you ever have before.
I don’t see them as just ponies. We both feel, cause pain, laugh, grow and develop. We both love.
>This was a longshot, but you had to make some sort of appeal.
When you go away and considered what I’ve done. I’m asking you not to reach a verdict based, not on law, but on something that Scootaloo’s been longing for. Something that she deserves, and never got. Something that I am sure doesn’t exist... Justice. I’m asking you to give her justice.
>The court was dead silent still as you stood there, but you sat yourself down in your chair and waited for the judge’s final words.
>You are now AppleJack.
>It’s the morning of Anons trial. And you wake up at home with a mean hangover.
>The thoughts are still fresh in your mind of what happened last night. You yelled at Anon and he felt it was alright to accuse you of taking him for granted.
>You loved him with all your heart. Even now you do.
>As you stumbled out of bed, your memory of telling Anon it was pointless to take on the law came back. He was so stubborn for thinking he could... he almost reminded you of yourself.
>You were still pissed that Anon lied to you, making you think he wasn’t interested in anyp0ny only to go fooling around with Cheerilee.
>Making your way to the bathroom, you washed your face and looked at yourself in the mirror. All these nights of drinking have ravaged your looks. Whatever was left of them.
>”How you feelin’ sis?” AppleBloom was standing in the bathroom door way. She looked up to you with the look of utter despair and hopelessness.
>Even though she’s young, she knew what you were doing to yourself wasn’t good.
I’m fine. I’m just tired is all...
>The truth was, you weren’t. Being dishonest made you feel even worse. AppleBloom just stood there but finally spoke up, “Ah heard that Scootaloo got taken away. Anon is going to be in trouble, sis.”
I know AppleBloom, but there’s nothing we can do.
>Tears formed in her eyes, “What are you saying?” she sniffles.
AppleBloom, sometimes it’s just not worth going up against the law. I feel bad for Scootaloo, but we can’t do much.
>AppleBloom starts to cry, “What if I was taken away? Would you just do nothing?”
Now you know that ain’t true. I would do anything for my little sister.
>”Then why won’t you help Anon? He needs you! I don’t want to lose either of them!” she takes off down the hall crying her little eyes out and slams her bedroom door behind her.
>You just stood there, not able to say anything. Thinking back, Anon did risk his life saving AppleBloom and the others. It was a stupid thing to do, but you’re glad he did it.
>If you would do anything to save AppleBloom, then Anon is courageous for what he was up against.
>Staring at yourself in the mirror, you smirked as you picked up some makeup and began to smear white makeup over your face.
>Hastily, you take red lipstick and apply it over and past your lips like a clumsy 3 year old.
>You are now Anon.
>You just finished stating the last thing that could be possibly said. But even you didn’t feel positive about the outcome. All because of some stupid paperwork and the crocodile tears of Joy Ride and Lucky Shot.
>As the court remained silent and you sat there, Madame Gavel gives her final statement, “However sympathetic you may feel, Anon stands accused of the very serious crime of foalnapping-“ her words are cut short but the sound of the courtroom doors opening.
>Everyone turns to look and see a rather colourful pony walk through the doors. It was a clown pony. Complete with white face makeup, a green wig, red nose and a colourful baggy suit.
>”What’s going on here?” the clown pony made its way up the aisle and stood nearby your friends. “Who are you?” the judge asked more impatiently.
>The clown pony stood tall and confident and spoke to the judge. “Mah name’s AppleJack, friend of the accused.”
>Your metaphorical jaw dropped to the floor. So did Twilight’s and the others.
>AJ continued, “Yes... this is to show MY contempt for this court! My contempt for any court. My contempt for anything to do with the law...”
>”Miss AppleJack...” the judge said calmly at first, trying to give AJ a chance to stop herself. But AJ kept going.
>”Anon said that he would do whatever it takes, and I argued not because I thought that he was wrong-“
>”Miss AppleJack.” The judge was growing impatient.
>But AJ interrupted the judge, “It’ because I didn’t have his courage!” she looked at you tenderly. You could only look on in a shocked awe at what she was doing.
>”If I had the guts that he has, then it be me on the stand...” You both looked at each other, but you knew this spelled trouble for her. “I’m sorry...” he quietly mutters to you.
>AppleJack not only pulled through for you, but she’s risking having herself thrown into jail for contempt of the court.
>The judge was calm in her voice, “AppleJack, are you finished?” AJ looks to the judge and nods in agreement.
>Madame Gavel signals for a court officer, “I’m going to call in an officer of the court and I’m going to deal with you when this is finished, you understand?”
>”Yes, your honour.”
>An officer pony storms over to AJ and escorts her out of the room. You and your friends look to her as she’ taken away, but AJ doesn’t show any fear.
>The time has come for the jury to go make their decision.
>You’re escorted to a holding cell while you wait. You never felt more nervous in your life. The wait was unbearable.
>But you could hear AJ singing in another holding cell that was across the hall from you. AJ had a really beautiful singing voice...
(http://www.infinitelooper.com/?v=CDAIpqo8oow&p=n#/17;63)
>AJ was singing to make you feel better. Even after what happened yesterday, AppleJack still cared for you.
>You couldn’t help but smile as AJ sang to you, despite how she could end up in a lot of trouble for disturbing the court.
>But just as she paused during her song, a guard comes up to your door and the AJ stops so she could see what was going on.
>The guard tells you to get to your feet and you’re taken out of your holding cell. As you walk down that lonely corridor, you could see AppleJack looking through the open bar window of the door.
>She puts her hoof through the bars as you walk by.
>In that moment, you don’t know why, but you saw her reach out to you. You reached out to her and held her hoof for that brief moment as you both looked at each other. She looked scared for you.
>The guard gives you a stern tug and you’re taken away.
>You waited for the final judgement.
>”Members of the jury. Have you agreed on a final verdict?”
>”We have.” One of the jury members stood up.
>”Do you find the defendant guilty or not guilty of foalnapping?”
>Twilight and her friends waited anxiously, as did you. You could hear a pin drop in that room.
>”Guilty.”
>The court room once again breaks out in mixed reactions, but mostly it seemed that they were relieved that an innocent foal is being given back to her rightful parents.
>Scootaloo begins to sob quietly as Joy Ride and Lucky Shot hugged each other excitedly. You could only hang your head in grief.
>Twilight and her friends sat there in shock at the verdict as well. But you looked up and saw Joy picking up Scootaloo.
>But Scootaloo was trying desperately to get out of her grasp as she looked to you to save her. That same look she had in her eyes when you saved her from the river.
>You had to get her back.
>As a court officer came to cuff you again, you leapt from stand and the court room begins to panic.
>Madame Gavel barks at you, “Anon, you will be in bigger trouble if you don’t stand down!”
>It didn’t matter to you.
>As you approached Scootaloo, court officers rushed you. One tries to tackle you, but you catch him and toss him back to the ground with the least force possible. You didn’t want to hurt any of them.
>You try to get closer to Scootaloo, but Joy holds on to her. More court officers rush in, and you feel a baton smash you behind the knee, sending you to the floor. More officers pile on top, trying to subdue you.
>”Dad!”
>Lucky Shot forcefully puts his hoof over her mouth and mutters angrily in her ear, “Shut your bucking mouth!”
>You look up to see Scootaloo being taken down the aisle by an escort of officers. Adrenaline coursed through your veins as you scrambled to get up, but you crawl across the floor with several officers holding you down.
>You finally break free and bolt to grab Scootaloo, but before they could get leave the courtroom doors fly open and a brilliant light shines through.
>Everyone in the court room shield their eyes, including you.
>As the light fade, there stood Princess Celestia standing tall with her wings wide open. The courtroom falls silent in reverence as they bow before her majesty.
>Joy and Lucky stood in front of her, frozen in fear.
>Celestia looks to them and to you, “Anon, please step forward.”
>Even though Celestia wasn’t in the court room during the case, she must’ve been listening from an undisclosed location. You complied and stepped towards Celestia.
>Joy and Lucky were standing next to you, but Celestia glares at them, “Please, put the young one down.”
>The two of them gave a look of defiance, “B-but the court ruled in our favour your highness!”
Celestia, I’ll do anything to have her back. They can’t be-
>The Princess lifts up one hoof to tell you to stop talking. “Put the child down.”
>They reluctantly put Scootaloo on the floor, and she instantly latches onto your leg. “Scootaloo, please step forward.”
>She looks up to you and sniffles, but you nod your head and gesture her to go. You know Princess Celestia will make the right call.
>With ears flat and tail tucked, Scootaloo stepped forth to Princess Celestia. “Seeing as how Anon still wants to be the guardian of Scootaloo, but the biological parents also wish to have custody of their young. I find it is only fair to give her to the both of you.”
>What?
>“You mean like a joint custody?” Joy Ride asks.
>Celestia shakes her head, “No, I’m afraid this calls for more extreme measures. I will use my powers to split Scootaloo into two beings.”
>She can’t be serious.
>”I must warn you, this is a painful process. Scootaloo won’t be like he former self.” Her horn starts to glow intensely.
Celestia, you can’t do this!
>You look to Joy Ride and Lucky Shot hoping that whatever sense of decency they have left would come through for their own daughter. Joy Ride scoffs, “Whatever half is better at riding a scooter, I’ll take it.”
 >Scootaloo is shaking in fear as Celestia points her horn at her. This has gone too far.
>You step in front of Scootaloo. Celestia looks up to see you standing in front of her.
This is wrong and you know it!
>”You have a choice to make Anon, abandon all delusion of control or give up what you hold most dear.” The long horn on her head begins to shine brightly again.
>As the light fills the room, you knew she wasn’t bluffing. You look down to Scootaloo who is cowering behind your leg. You felt your heart rip in two as you made that painful decision.
STOP!
>The light fades as Princess Celestia looks to you one more time. The whole court looks at you as you stand before her. You slowly turn around and pick up Scootaloo. She wraps her little arms around you, “I miss you dad.”
I miss you too... But I’m sorry. I don’t want to see you hurt sweetie... Please forgive me.
>Scootaloo knew what you were trying to say and begins to cry into your shoulder.
>You turn to Celestia with tears in your eyes. “Well...?” she asks.
I’m giving Scootaloo back to her real parents. I don’t want to see her suffer.
>Joy and Lucky snatch Scootaloo from your arms and grinned in triumph. Scootaloo tries to hold back her tears.
>”Is that your final choice Anon?” Celestia asks.
>You felt a tear escape your eye and roll down your cheek.
Yes. I don’t want to see her hurt.
>You fell to your knees and hands as Twilight and her friends surround you. As they try to offer you comfort, Twilight stood forth.
>”Celestia, you have to reconsider. Anon didn’t do anything wrong!” but Celestia called for everyone’s attention.
>”Anon has made his choice, Twilight. He made the right choice, therefore I grant Anon custody of Scootaloo.” Celestia announces.
>Your head shoots up in surprise, were you mishearing things?
>The court is in shock as are Twilight and the others. But Lucky Shot didn’t give up, “Anon gave her up, we have the birth certificate and the court ruled in our favour!”
>Celestia glared at him, “Anon has shown that he was willing to give up his rights as a parent in order to preserve Scootaloo as a whole unique pony. You on the other hand did not.”
>Her horn glows as Scootaloo is levitated by magic and is taken from Joy. Scootaloo is placed in front of you.
>She jumps up and tackles you in a hug, and your friends joined in and congratulated you. You have never been more relieved in your life.
>Mr. Slick tries one last time, “But he doesn’t have any paperwork, your majesty!”
>She just smiles, “He can fill out the paperwork. Won’t you Anon?” You look to her and nod your head.
>Celestia walks up to the judge, “Honourable Justice Madame Gavel, please drop the charges brought up against Anon. I also suspect somep0ny may have tampered with some members of the jury.” She glares back at Lucky Shot.
>”Oh, and please have an officer take Anon to have Miss AppleJack released and drop all of her charges as well.” She adds.
>Princess Celestia tells you and your friends to go on; she’ll take care of the rest. You couldn’t find the words to express your gratitude, but she assured you that she’s happy that Scootaloo is with the right parent.
>As an officer brought you back to the hold cells, you stood in front of the door as it unlocks. AJ still had her clown makeup on, but she ditched the wig and nose.
>She walks out, “How’d it go pardner?”
Not guilty. Celestia pardoned me and gave me custody of Scootaloo. You’ve been pardoned too.
>She looks relieved, “That’s a relief. Sorry for showing up late Anon.”
AppleJack...
>You got down on one knee and looked her straight in the yes.
That was really brave what you did. Reckless, but brave.
>”Well, I just realized what was truly important.” She smiles back at you.
>You and your friends left to go sign some paper work and before you knew it, you were officially the legal guardian of Scootaloo.
>Mr. Filthy Rich hosted a dinner celebration in P0nyville, and everyone was glad to know Scootaloo was with you once again.
>While everyone was having a good time, Fluttershy was awfully quiet during the evening.
>Later as everyp0ny heads home, you tuck Scootaloo into bed. She was now your child. Your daughter.
>Your little Scootaloo.
>You are now Fluttershy.
>Everyp0ny has gone home and so have you. As you walk back into your house, you were frustrated.
That didn’t go so well...
>”I didn’t think Princess Celestia would get involved.” The voice spoke out ot you.
And to think we travelled all that way to find them in Los Pegasus. But I still felt bad that we almost had Scootaloo sent back to live with them.
>”Do you want Anon or not?!” the voice snapped at you. You shake at the sudden anger.
I do, I really do! But I don’t want her to get hurt.
>”You’ll never get Anon with that attitude. Just go and get some sleep. I’ll be sure to think of something.”
>You look at yourself in the mirror and you could’ve sworn you saw yourself grinning menacingly.