Continued from Part 4: https://pastebin.com/c7MkyAhd


> No, Shining Armor shouldn't have to make that choice.
> Shouldn't be caught in the middle.
> But there was someone else here could step in, now that Corona seemed to have pushed past the worst of her terror.
> And perhaps finally take responsibility for what he had done, too.
> You look to Anonymous, but his he is already rising - a hand settling on your shoulder.
> "That's enough of that, Corona."
> Five words is all it takes.
> She recoils with a fearful whine, anger again receding in the face of pure and unadulterated fear of that voice.
> "Hey! Get out of there or cut it off, can't you see you're terrifying her?"
> Anonymous looks straight at the camera from his spot beside you.
> Ignoring the other man's protest, he continues speaking:
> "You've every right to be angry. To be furious. But you will not hold Cadance responsible for what I did."
> Even though Corona has buried her eyes in her master's chest again, one ear is still pointed at the computer screen to hear with.
> "N-No. She - she c-chose-"
> Unable to form a coherent sentence, she cannot keep herself from being interrupted again.
> "She chose because I forced her to. Do not forget that Cadance is mine - and I gave her the same choice I did you."
> "G-Give up a-another p-pony-"
> "-or face something worse. She made that choice... but do not act like it was her idea alone."
> A fresh sob tears its way from her throat.
> "Y-You complete - complete - aaaaugh!"
> She'd tried to look up, to look at him, but barely a fraction of a second had passed before fear had driven her eyes back down.
> Anonymous, meanwhile, is still talking - his hand still comfortingly on the back of your neck.
> "What I did was wrong; I will not deny that. It went well beyond punishment and into just venting anger. But Cadance did not - could not - know what was going to happen."
> More softly, he adds:
> "And given how she fought me so much on even that much, doing everything she could to spare as many ponies punishment as she could, I know that if she had forseen what would happen to you she would never have accepted it."
> "S-She didn't f-fight for me-"
"Forgive me, Corona. I couldn't fight anymore. I had to pick somepony-"
> "I had insisted one had to be punished for an escape that brazen."
"-and you... you were strong. You weren't sick, or had been mistreated by the slave-catchers already, or were just too weak from exhaustion or lack of water to fight. You were strong, so I thought you could bear it."
> "Well, you were wrong!"
> The tormented cry draws another round of shushing from Corona's master.
> "Everything hurt too much and I couldn't even think anymore and then he shocked me and shocked me and shocked me and there wasn't anything I could do - oh Master please, please don't send me back the-e-ere!"
> Her owner finally manages to quiet Corona erratic sobs, but the damage is already done.
> Your head falls despite the defense, and that in turn becomes a bow.
"Forgive me, Corona. I..."
> Voice hitching, you swallow.
"...I didn't know. I would have..."
> What?
> What could you have done?
> Again Anonymous speaks up:
> "Remember, Corona. That is what I did to you. Not what Cadance did. I didn't even give her the choice to substitute herself in your place."
> You are thankful for his defense, but it seems to do little.
> That voice, that face, simply has too great a pull on her terror.
> She can do little more than whimper.
> Overrun with fear.
> Helpless.
> Anonymous grunts, rubbing his forehead.
> "I'll... see myself out."
> He only takes one look at you before departing the study.
> Clearly he understood this was not the time for him.
> You had been wrong.
> Absent the terrifying force, Corona manages to stabilize herself enough to speak.
> "She - you - you should have saved us, Cadance! You should have done whatever you had to! Isn't that what you alicorns are for? For protecting us, not - not taking everything away?!"
> On some level, you know these are the words of a mare driven nearly mad by her experiences.
> That she is speaking from a heart filled with tumultuous emotions, not rationally.
> By the same merit, though...
> You cannot deny your own emotions.
"Forgive me, Corona. I wish I had. Somehow, someway - it shouldn't have happened to you."
> "No."
> The answer comes so quickly, so sharply, that you are actually surprised.
> "I have to live every day like this. The nightmares, the scares, the losing myself every time I hear a buzz because I can still remember that rutting prod burning my teats, my marks being - gone! Forever!"
> Shining's master, meanwhile, has finally coaxed Corona to her hooves and is trying to lead her from the room.
> Your eyes fall to her flank.
> A sick twist forms in your stomach at seeing the hairless, white line of a scar when her cutie mark ought to be.
> Pausing only to shoot a long look back - one part remaining deep-seated fear, two parts furious hatred - she snarls out:
> "Why should you get a settled mind when I can't? Forgive you - you can go to Tartarus, 'princess'! I believed in you!"
> Once she is gone her returns only briefly, reaching beneath the camera for the computer.
> "I'll call back later."
"That.. sounds like a good idea, yes."
> Corona's scars were still raw and unhealed; there was also a dangerous glint in Shining's eyes when he looked the door Anonymous had vanished through.
> As the screen goes black, though, he moves to your side and leans against you.
> It takes a moment longer than it ought to have for the normally level-headed stallion to truly calm, but eventually manages leans back - crossing his head over yours and nickering gently in comfort.
"I'm sorry, Shining. I didn't mean to put you in the middle of all that."
> "She would have found out when I got back."
> Even so, you spread a wing over his withers and nuzzle into the crook of his neck.
"You should go back to our quarters. Get some rest."
> "You need me here."
> A smile grows on your lips.
> Rich with sadness, but a smile nonetheless.
"That's my Shining. Always looking out for me."
> "Do you need to go to see to Anonymous?"
"I should."
> "If you don't mind, for that I will stay here."
"That's fine."
> Brushing noses with him one more time, you head for Anonymous' bedroom.
> He is in his normal spot there - the chair facing the large window overlooking the camp.
> Completely still, even when you close the door and come to the seat's side.
"Anonymous?"
> Nothing.
"Master?"
> Stirring, but little more.
> Dropping to your haunches beside the chair, you lift a hoof to rest on his leg.
"You're doing better, Anonymous. Everything Corona said was true... but you aren't that person anymore."
> "Regret doesn't change who someone is, Cadance."
"But actions do. Your actions have. All that's happened with Shining Armor - would that man have done that?"
> He snorts softly, but after a moment his hand comes to rest over your hoof.
> "You don't have to flatter me with meaningless platitudes; it's not your thing. What do you want from me?"
> Eyes rolling, you lash your tail against the chair with a snort.
"Fine. I don't want you moping around, not in the least because Shining's owner is going to call back soon and if you're not in shape to speak to him I don't know what will happen. Are you satisfied?"
> "Well, thank you for being honest at last-"
"Good. Now I can say that I am also genuinely worried about you."
> Finally he gives a genuine reaction, looking down at you.
> A wing extends up, touching his arm.
"That was... hard. And you do bear blame for what you did to her. But this place would not be so much better if you had given up back then either."
> After a moment he lift his hand to cup the side of your head, thumb rubbing at the spot just beneath your ear.
> "You know, I think I find myself mildly jealous of Shining Armor."
"Master?"
> "He is very, very lucky to have found someone like you."
"I..."
> Your cheeks flush and Anonymous grins.
> "Despite our rough moments, I don't think taking you into my confidence will be something I regret. Go back to Shining now, Cadance. I think he could use your company too."
> That, it seems, was enough.
> When the phone rings again Anonymous arrives stone-faced but sober and calm.
> Shining's owner appears on the screen again, a tired expression stamped on his face.
> "I've put her to bed again, so I think we should be clear for now."
"I'm glad to hear."
> Rather than answer you, he points toward Shining.
> "Shining, I want you home as soon as possible."
> Instantly your heart freezes.
> Shining, too, jerks up in horror with his ears laid perfectly flat.
> "But Master, you said-"
> "I know. I changed my mind. You're coming home, Shining. I'll put in the transport order tomorrow, so you'll probably be on the road either then or the day after. And these calls-"
> His attention switches to Anonymous.
> "-you're out of them, or they aren't happening. Understand?"
> Anonymous frowns deeply.
> "You're asking a lot. I wouldn't have any way to know what they're saying at all."
> You resist the urge to roll your eyes at that.
> As he had so recently demonstrated, Anonymous was not whatsoever above surreptitiously listening in.
> "That's the point. I don't want you looming over Cadance's shoulder while my Shining is talking to her. And while I can appreciate that you took responsibility for what you did, I'm not dealing with another shock to Corona like that."
"I..."
> A glance to Shining reveals that he looks just as you feel:
> Ears laid down, tail flat against his haunches.
> Eyes filled with shock.
"Pardon me, sir, but... will I ever get to see him again? I... he is my husband. My love. I cannot go on without ever seeing him again... please."
> The face on the screen regards you with a mixture of concern and sadness.
> "He really has beaten you down, hasn't he...? We'll talk about the possibility of visits another time. Right now, I just want my Shiny safe and home, with no more problems."
> Talk about it.
> You've had just about enough of waiting for 'talking about it'.
> But what can you do?
> "Master - I can't just... leave her behind either!"
> "That's enough, Shiny. You're coming home, and then we can see about all this."
> Before the argument can grow worse, Anonymous steps in and raises a hand to halt both of you.
> "That's fine. Contact me when you have the information for transporting him. Glad to be able to work with you."
> He shoots Anonymous a dark look, but nods in agreement.
> "I will."
> Hesitating a moment, he looks back to your husband:
> "Shiny... I'm not trying to be cruel. I just want you back home, everyone safe and sound again. Okay?"
> "Yes, Master."
> Sighing at the stallion's muttered acknowledgement, he lets the screen go blank - leaving the three of you alone in the room.
> Immediately you are at Shining's side.
> Leaning into his neck, nickering softly, letting him know you were there.
> You hold that a few moments before finally letting him go with a sigh.
"Shining... can you go back to our quarters? I'll be along soon."
> This time, he doesn't argue.
> You ponder if it was wise, sending him to make the trip back alone - but he was no Mocha Cream.
> Shining Armor could stand up for himself, especially with his magic back.
> When he is gone your strength gives out:
> Everything you had been holding back to avoid letting him see, boiling up and rushing over you.
> Now it is Anonymous' turn to be there for you; kneeling at your side, he lifts a hand to put on your neck.
> "Cadance?"
"Will it ever end?"
> He doesn't answer, so you go on.
"Will there ever be a time, when - when this can't happen? When he can't just be taken away by someone else just - saying so!"
> You're shaking.
> That's... different.
> It's been a while.
> "Cadance... you knew he was going to have to go back."
"I thought there would be more time! I thought I would have more than a few days before I might never see him again!"
> Opening your eyes, you look at Anonymous to let him see the anguish residing in them.
"Tell me, Anonymous - when does this change? When do we get to be a family again, not at someone else's leisure? How many years do we lose?"
> "He won't keep you apart. Haven't you been listening to them? He's angry now, but even with Shining running off, there's so much respect there-"
"Stop dodging the question and tell me: Will this ever end?!"
> Your owner - your Master - looks away.
> "I don't know."
> That is what you had been afraid of.
> No answer - not even a prediction of eventual freedom years or decades down the line.
> Just... limbo.
> Eternally wondering if you will ever get a chance to just live with your Shining Armor before either of you passes on.
[Choice]

"Master?"
> Pulling from under his touch, you rear back enough to look him head-on.
"If you could free me right now... would you?"
> "There'd have to be recognition of Special Circumstances, or-"
"Forget that. Forget the laws, the rules, the expectations. If it was just your decision, would you free me? Would you let me choose my own path, go to see my family?"
> "I..."
> The words catch in his throat, indecisiveness sticking them there.
> His hand trembles with uncertainty.
> Like a window into his mind, his eyes show the thoughts churning and processing within.
> You suppose there ought to have been some comfort in that:
> Mere months ago he would have answered that you were to serve him, without question.
> Now, seeing your pain and your love has softened him.
> But right now, it does not feel like comfort.
> It feels like an affirmation:
> Despite all of that softening, he could not accept the idea of seeing you out of his grip.
> In the end, you were still a slave to him first and foremost.
"...I see. Thank you, Master, for answering honestly."
> He recoils, having realized too late the blow his non-answer had struck.
> "Cadance, wait-"
"No. I understand, Master. What was it you once told me? I am too important to this place for you to lose."
> Your eyes fall to the floor.
"Nonetheless, I would ask that I be allowed to take tomorrow off from work. To be with my Shining Armor, before he must go."
> "Of course, Cadance."
> He knows it won't make up for what he has just told you.
> But it is all the apology he can give.
> Turning for the door, you mope (or stumble) back into the camp.
> For a moment, almost by instinct, you draw your head up into something approximating your standard walk.
> Regal.
> Leader-like.
> But only for a moment.
> What was it Shining Armor had said?
> 'You're allowed to be a mare?'
> Well, that's all you are now:
> Not a princess, just a mare.
> Grieving for the looming loss of the family she had only just rediscovered.
> You trudge through the camp on heavy hooves.
> At this late hour of the night there are few ponies about to see you; those who do watch with expressions of concern and worry.
> No doubt tomorrow your condition would be fodder for the camp's rumor mill.
> Let them worry.
> You were fed up with having to put masks on over your emotions.
> This time - this one time - you could let them see the grief-stricken pony beneath.
> Shining Armor is already waiting for you in the quarters when you get there; avoiding a gallop straight into his embrace is all you can do.
> Instead you climb up beside Shining and settle against him.
> He nuzzles into your neck, breath puffing on your mane and whickering softly, while you lay your head across his hooves.
> A gesture of simple comfort:
> 'I am here.'
> That knowledge is something you throw yourself into:
> Relishing in the simple awareness of his closeness, bathing in it as if the feeling was something that could be harvested before he vanished again.
> "Cady?"
> Soft lips touch a spot behind your ear, drawing a flick from it.
"I'm tired of it, Shining. Every time I think we're finally getting somewhere - finally taking steps towards setting everything right - something else is taken."
> Rolling over, you peer up at his concerned eyes.
"Don't I ever get... ‘us’ again? Is that too much to ask for, to even get to pretend for a little while?"
> Leaning down, his lips softly meet yours.
> Not with desire, but as a tender touch of love.
> "Yes. We will, Cady. One day, we will - all three of us."
> On any other day you would have found this reassuring.
> Not today.
> Shining can tell, too.
"I... asked Anonymous. If he would free me, if he could - to let me be with you."
> You don't need to say what the answer was.
> It's plenty clear already.
> Cradling your head in his hooves, Shining frowns.
> "That's why... I understand why you've made the choices you have about this place. I saw that well enough when he admitted what he'd done to Corona. But someone like him, he'll never be able to let go of seeing you as 'his'."
"I wish I could say you're wrong."
> "But Cadance: There are others. There are humans who don't see us like that. Gracie-"
> And here he winces.
> "-who I will have to explain myself to for leaving a friend behind. Megan. You are right about her - they will see how wrong this is."
"But will it be soon enough?"
> He doesn't have an answer.
> Neither do you.
> Eventually you find sleep in each others' hooves, but it is a fitful and turbulent sleep.
> A night loomed over by the specter of soon being torn from his side.
> By morning, you can tell Shining has had the same reaction.
> And you?
> You have had enough.
> If the end of this servitude is not in sight, then you refuse to let yourself be tossed about by it as a helpless victim.
"Shining, when does your Master go to work?"
> "Uh, not for another hour or so. Why?"
> Even with the timezone difference, there may still be time.
"By afternoon it might be too late; he might have put in the transport order for you. Come with me."
> Not until you slip through the front door of Anonymous' manor does he catch on to what you intend.
> Or maybe that is when he finally feels compelled to bring it up.
> "Cadance, what are you doing?! I think we'll run out of his good will very quickly if he catches us-"
"Anonymous will take a while to be dressed and have his breakfast. He won't be up in his study for a while."
> There's an edge to your voice.
> One that gives Shining pause; he hangs back at your flank.
> "What about Megan?"
"Not up for another half an hour."
> "The other house ponies?"
> Looking back, you brush your muzzle against his.
"They will not say anything. I know your nature is to guard, but please, Shining - trust me."
> "I'm just worried about you. He did threaten to beat you if you went behind his back!"
"I would take a hundred lashes if it meant you could stay longer. A few slaps to the rump will be nothing."
> "Don't say that, Cady. Please. I don’t want to see you lashed."
> But he doesn't argue further either.
> As you'd expected, the office was empty.
> The computer, however, was locked.
> "Use the phone. I know his number."
> Ring, ring, rin-
> "Hello?"
> Shining draws a breath.
> "...h-hey, Master."
> "Shiny? Why're you - do you know what time it is?"
> "I -"
> He struggles with the question, and chokes.
> "Is Corona okay?"
> "...kinda. She didn't sleep well last night, but I think she's doing better now that you're coming home again."
> You can't help but give a despondent huff.
> "Shiny? Who was that? Who's there with you?"
"Myself, sir. Cadance. No one else?"
> "He let you two call me?"
"We, ah..."
> Hesitation drags the moment on, and Shining's owner leaps into the silence:
> "Seriously, Shining? You're going around behind his back now too?"
> "I had to, Master, I - I can't come home yet."
"I cannot let him go either."
> This time it is his turn to stall in silence.
"Please, I am begging you. If not for my sake, then for his. This is destroying him; neither of us could sleep at all last night!"
> "That true, Shiny?"
> "Yeah. I can't just let myself be taken away from her right after I found her. Please master, I'm-"
> His voice shakes.
> "-I'm begging you too, don't take me away from her just yet!"
> "And I begged you, don't break my trust again. But here we are."
> Ouch.
> You can see Shining flinch from that.
> Leaning over against him, you briefly nuzzle his mane.
> "Master... I'm sorry. I - I had to see my family. And now, I can't imagine going back without..."
> A gentle sniffle is a tell-tale for the tears beginning to dampen his cheeks.
> "I've barely even spoken to my daughter, Master!"
"Just the few days, like you originally said you were going to let him stay. Just a few days more!"
> "I said I was thinking about it, Cadance. Not said I would."
> Oh.
> "What do I have to do, Master? What is it you want me to say just to get a few more days with my family?!"
> His plaintive pleading is becoming indistinguishable from actual cries.
> It doesn't sound faked either.
> Had he genuinely thought his owner would be more accommodating than this?
> "I..."
> "Is this what you really want to do to me? Pull my family apart, like Gracie's was? Leave my little Flurry having barely seen her father."
> A hiss of rushing static on the line - or a tired sigh.
> "That was a very low blow, Shiny..."
> "It's how it feels, Master."
> “And speaking of Gracie, what do I tell her anyway? Sorry, we found Shining Armor, he doesn’t want to come home?”
> Shining flinches back, and you snarl angrily.
“Excuse me! But for someone who was just speaking of low blows, that is a very low one. Surely simply knowing he will be coming back should lighten her spirits?”
> “...yeah. Okay, yeah. That was. I’m sorry, Shiny. Shouldn’t have - tossed that at you.”
> “No. I’m sorry, Master. I started aiming low.”
> You smile a touch at their reconciliation.
> That relationship was hard to break, and quick to mend.
"If I can say - Shining came here looking to make sure his daughter was safe. Even if he does think she is safe now-"
> "And I... guess I do."
"-can you really force him to come back before he's really had a chance to spend time with her?"
> Still no answer comes, but that still feels like an improvement over a blind 'no'.
"I... I understand you are upset about what happened. But I am asking you - do not take that anger out on Shining Armor!"
> The longer a lack of any response comes, the more it seems less reassuring and more worrying.
> Where the two of you having any effect at all?
> "Shiny... I have to go to work."
> "Master!"
"Sir!"
> "Okay, okay! I - I won't send the transport order in today. I'll - have to talk to your Master, Cadance-"
> You wince; that was going to be a fun discussion.
> "-but... you get your few days. And then we can talk about more visits... somehow. If you don't give me any more problems."
> "Yes, Master!"
> Elation lifts Shining's voice; he whinnies happily and does a little trot-in-place dance.
> "Thank you! Thank you so much, Master!"
> "...yeah, yeah. Love you, you big goofball. Even if you are a pain in my ass sometimes."
> You can't help but giggle at that description.
"Needless to say, thank you as well from the bottom of my heart."
> "Yeah. Look, I'll talk later - maybe call back once I'm at work, set this up for certain."
> The line clicks dead, and you sag against Shining Armor in utter relief.
"Thank you too, love. I know that cannot have been easy for you."
> In response Shining nuzzles you back, whickering as his teeth nibble at the back of your neck.

"So, I take it the call went well?"
> Both ponies jump, Cadance giving a half-squelched whinny as they rapidly untangle from their embrace.
> Leaning against the study doorframe, you allow yourself a smirk.
> "M-Master, you heard-"
"The funny thing about a phone, Cadance, is that the display tells you when the line is in use. And when I noticed that particular number had been dialed out to..."
> They have the decency to look ashamed, at least.
> Shining is also shooting little worried looks at his wife.
> You've a fair guess why.
"You know, Cadance, I seem to distinctly remember telling you there'd be some very specific consequences for going behind my back."
> To your surprise, she does not seem particularly upset about this.
> If anything, her previously-ashamed expression hardens.
> "Yes, Master. You did."
"Was making the call worth it, at least?"
> Ducking his head, Shining looks back to Cadance and swishes his tail nervously.
> Though not a direct answer to your question, obvious excitement boils just beneath his skin.
> Keeping himself from leaping and bucking in joy is all the stallion can do.
> "If you allow it, I am permitted to stay for a few days more."
> You turn the question over in your head.
> It had been something you had considered before - at that point, there seemed to be no downside.
> And, if you were honest with yourself, you held some sympathy for the plight of a broken family.
> After this...
> Well, you couldn't punish Flurry for what he had done and-
> Oh, who are you kidding.
> You're a sucker for this.
"Accepted... if you don't cause me any more problems. If you do, you're on the first ride home I can get you. Understood?"
Now he does buck and leap for joy - whinnying happily with each bound.
> Keeping a bit of laughter out of your voice is hard too!
"Easy there! You'll go right through a wall like that."
> Calming down just a touch, Shining Armor tosses his head and snorts.
> "Can't help if I'm happy about this!"
"No, I suppose you can't. Still, be careful."
> "Master?"
> By far the more nervous of the pair, Cadance shuffles uncertainly with her head still hung.
> "Am I to be punished for this? I... did go back around behind your back, and you did say.."
> That you did.
> A warning - a promise of retribution, swift and stern, should she do this.
> Yet...
> There was no malice or rebellion in this - at least not in your eyes.
> Could you deliver a punishment for merely seeking to gain time with her loved ones?
> What would you have done to avoid Megan being taken from you?
"I..."
> Pushing off from the wall, you approach Cadance until you can drop to a knee and hold a hand out to her.
"Just - tell me why this couldn't have happened with my knowledge?"
> "It was... after what you told me, about not knowing exactly when it would ever end."
> She swallows, though from the emotions that raises in her mind or from the sense that this would not appeal to your mercies you aren't sure.
> "For once, I wanted - we wanted - to have something of our own. Not given to us, but something we sought out ourselves. So we would not take this lying down."
> That doesn't entirely make sense.
> They'd still have had to ask Shining's owner for him to stay, and then had asked you...
> But who said emotion - strong emotion - was logical?
> What this did say, is that stubborn rebellious streak was not quite suppressed in her.
> Likely never would be, especially if there weren’t repercussions for it.
> Or would punishing her now only reinforce that?
[Choice]

> In the end, you could understand what she had done.
> But this had struck at something deeper than merely rebelling against authority.
> She'd betrayed your trust.
> She had decided that this was not something she wanted you part of, no matter the importance.
> That was...
> Not acceptable.
> What had gotten into her head, thinking it "had" to be this way?
> Certainly nothing you said; merely because she ambushed you with a rough question - a question you couldn't answer so easily - didn't mean you would hold her back from the chance to ask for what she had needed!
> There was absolutely no good reason for this to have been brought to this point.
> Had she merely chosen to reject the cards that fate had dealt her and ask for a call, you'd have granted it without a second thought.
> And the end result would still have been the same.
> ...at the same time, though...
> Your eyes fall to Shining, who watches you with a critical eye.
> And you know:
> This punishment will not be delivered right now.
> Not just because he would judge you for a laying a hand on his wife, but also because it would be a dark cloud over whatever time they did have left together.
> Was it dishonest to hide this from him?
> Perhaps.
> But still you would not inflict this on them nonetheless.
"Cadance? Go enjoy your time together. We can talk about this later... and about what I said before. For now, there's someone who needs you very much-"
> You nod to Shining Armor.
"-and you shouldn't waste the time you've just won. He's here for you, as is your daughter."
> "He's allowed to stay, then?"
> The hope in her voice is reflected by the hopeful lean-forward in her body.
"Yes. This... disagreement? This matter? It's not anywhere near enough to make me do something as harsh as take the two of you apart. He can stay, and you still have the day off today. I'll coordinate with Mayor Mare."
> You are not a monster, after all!
> Something about the way Cadance holds herself softens, a subtle relaxation of her muscles.
> "Thank you, Master."
> She clearly still knows some punishment is coming.
> So does Shining.
> But both of them understand that you are giving them something - something neither of them asked for, even.
> And that's enough.
> Ruffling her mane a bit, you give Cadance a grin and point towards Shining Armor.
"Go. Enjoy. And just so it doesn't trouble you - as long as there isn't any more trouble, I won't deny you the chance to see each other in the future as well. Assuming something can be worked out."
> Now Shining brightens as well, tail swishing happily once more as he gives a little happy snort.
"Now, c'mon-"
> Standing aside the door, you motion both of them out.
"-go out. Enjoy yourself. For that matter, I'll free Flurry from her minor duties once her lessons are done today; that should give both of you plenty of time with her."
> They do.
> Cadance pauses behind him, looking up at you with a wondering eye.
> You pat her on the withers and shake your head.
"Later."
> Whether you mean your talk or a punishment, she doesn't ask.
> Just nods and goes.
> ...well.
> You'll just have to wait for the call from Shining Armor's owner.
> In the meantime...
> Padding from the library door, you turn for your bedroom.
> There you find the mare you'd been expecting, dawdling at the side of your bed.
> Mocha Cream spent so many hours in the camp these days that it felt rare to actually have long periods alone with her.
> That, you suppose, could be seen as a good thing.
> The filly needed a goal beyond - well, yourself.
> Still, you somehow missed her thoughtful and attentive presence.
"Hello, Mocha."
> Squeaking softly - a noise sort of like a muted, choked whinny - is drawn forth as she spins around into a nervous, deep bow.
> "H-Hello, Master."
"Listening to all of that, I suppose?"
> Her eyes fall, a blush creeping across her cream-coated muzzle.
> "Forgive m-me, Master. I c-couldn't help but hear-"
"Pssh. Don't worry about it."
> Wandering over, you give her an affectionate little rub between the ears.
> A risk, with how attached she had been, but no more or less than what you had often done for your other ponies.
"Though, as long as you are here..."
> You seat yourself on the side of your bed.
> Mocha moves to stand attentively before you.
> She looked...
> You wanted to say 'better'.
> Her maid's uniform was crisper, mane neatly done, and she seemed calm enough. 
> Perhaps the bite of your rejection had begun to fade a bit?
> But there was still a hopeful, expectant, needful look in her eyes at the promise of your attention.
"So, Mocha. You've been out and about with Cadance and some of the others a lot more now. Tell me, what's the word in the camp?"
> "Ponies are... not sure what to think about Shining Armor being here."
> Her head cocks, one ear flicking thoughtfully as she ponders the answer.
> "Some are glad for them. A few are angry that he was... b-broken, Master. Some others are worried that C-Cadance is being h-hurt by this..."
"Hurt?"
> "Yes, M-Master. She was - she was seen last night, looking very - upset."
> You have a fair guess as to why.
> Well, her delight at what she had fought for - and won - today ought to counteract that.
> "M-Master... if it's not too forward of me, what did you tell her?"
"Tell her?"
> "She said something. In the other room, just earlier. Something you said made her break your trust. What is it? Was it something about the dress?"
> You nearly splutter in shock.
“The dress?”
> “Y-Yes, Master. I h-heard one of the other p-ponies say that Cadance had taken ‘the dress’. I remember she h-hated wearing it f-for that one p-party-”
> An image that springs into your head - of Mocha bearing that particular dress instead, the bridle fitted snugly over her mane and saddle around her slender barrel, gauzy ‘reins’ laying over her back - 
> Nope.
> Not thinking about that.
> You crush that image ruthlessly, putting it entirely out of your mind.
> Somehow, answering Mocha’s actual question seems almost easy to face in comparison.
"N-No! Nothing about that at all. She asked if I could free her - all laws and rules aside - would I, this very moment? And you know... that's not an easy question for me to answer. Everypony here is very important to me and to Megan's future."
> Mocha's eyes fall again, her forehooves shuffling and tail swishing along the carpeted floor.
> "She still w-wants to go, after everything you've given her."
> Huh.
> You hadn't noticed it until now, but was Mocha stumbling on words less than she used to?
"Yes, she does. Mostly right now, I think, because Shining Armor will have to go soon. That was the other part of last night - she thought he would be leaving today."
> Gaze being locked even more forcefully onto the floor, Mocha mutters something.
"Hmm? What was that?"
> Cheeks showing crimson, she whimpers out:
> "I-I'd be okay b-because I know y-you're never g-going away."
> Almost immediately she adds on, with eyes squeezed shut and in a plaintive voice:
> "F-forgive me, M-Master. I know you s-said y-you cannot be with me, b-but my heart says I... I envy the love they have."
"I know, Mocha Cream. I know."
> Running a hand through a twisted, spiralling lock of her mane, you sigh.
"I suppose I do too. But you know, that's not the kind of love you can find with me. I've told you this before. You need to go find some pony who can love you as they love each other."
> "Y-Yes, Master."
> God damn this little mare and her miserable voice.
> You're completely defenseless to it.
> Leaning over, you clasp the mare in your arms and lift her forelegs up over your shoulders with a grunt.
"Seeing you happy is the thing I want the most. And strange as it may seem, hard as it may seem, this is the better way."
> "Yes, M-Master."
> Is that the only answer she can give?
> A simple acknowledgement of your word?
> Part of you almost wishes she would dare to reject your position - dare to utter 'No, Master.'
> Then again, that would probably come as part of her refusing to give up this blind hope.
> Your arms wrap around her midsection hug her hard.
> At this point you can truly feel how thin she is.
> Mocha had always been a slender filly as far as you remember, but was she eating well?
"Hey. It's going to be okay in the end, alright? There'll be a colt in your life soon enough, trust me."
> Resting her head against yours, she nickers gently.
> It is, you suppose, the best answer you will get.
"Have you spoken to Cadance about all of this?"
> "Not y-yet, M-Master. I couldn't; it f-felt too embarrassing."
"Perhaps you should. I understand she's something of a specialist in these things."
> "Yes, Master."
"Oh, Mocha. I wish you could be happy - I wish that deeply. That's why I'm trying to do this - give you a real future."
> "I know, Master."
> She pulls back, smiling but with a dampness around her eyes.
> "But that doesn't mean it doesn't still hurt."
> ...
> That night found you wandering amid the camp.
> It had been a cooler day, as summers went, with a breeze sweeping down the camp's streets that almost turned chilly as the night went on.
> Randall had opted to join you, Posey trotting along in her guide-harness before him.
> "Any particular reason you've chosen to go out on this particular night?"
"Aside from it being the first one in a while that hasn't left me wanting to seek out an ice bath?"
> You chuckle.
"I am trying to keep more direct tabs on the situation of things down here."
> "Regarding Shining Armor, you mean."
"Yes. Mocha gave me a glimpse, but I need a full view of how ponies are reacting to him."
> Turning to look at you with unnerving accuracy, considering his sightless eyes, Randall raises an eyebrow.
> "Concerned he might introduce some instability into your operations here?"
"If I were that concerned, I wouldn't have let him stay. I'm mostly curious if it's our regular adversaries - Bon Bon, Crescent Moon, and the like - or others."
> You try to meet his gaze before remembering the meaninglessness of that gesture.
"Why, are my investors getting spooked?"
> "Not in particular, although I have deflected a few questions."
> Rubbing his chin, Randall makes a wavering gesture with his free hand.
> "If anything, I think they're confident in your success. It's their other investments they're worried about, though, so they want more from you."
"Other investments?"
> Randall pauses, Posey twisting around to look up at him questioningly.
> "I don't know how much of this you follow, Anonymous, but a lot of the other big pony work camps are starting to look shaky."
"I'm not surprised. Those places chew through ponies like fuel. It's foolish... and monstrous."
> "Yes. There's the rare-earth and uranium works, the Chittagong shipbreakers, a few other places - they're still growing, but that's about it. There simply aren't enough ponies for that to be profitable for long. Not to mention the political pressure."
> You allow a wry grin.
"I have not forgotten about that, yes."
> "But when they're gone, then what? The quick profits are done with. So they're looking to your model: Cut overhead by letting the ponies watch themselves."
"Delightful. More pressure."
> Chuckling, Randall shakes his head.
> "Sorry to lay that on you while you're trying for a nice, relaxing walk."
"It's fine."
> You resume walking, and Randall soon follows behind.
> Destination:
> The dining hall nearest the center of camp, where Cadance often went for dinner.
> Just as you had expected - not only is she here, but her husband is as well.
> Almost as if by the instinct of a herd to recognize the dominant individual in it, a small court of attentive ponies had formed around them.
> Whatever discussion was passing between them was far too distant for you to hear, but you could still read their expressive faces at a distance.
> Most were focusing on him with a mix of sadness and horror; you rather suspected he was telling the story of his experiences.
> Barely have you set foot into the hall when you are met by an eager stallion offering you a ready-made plate of food.
> He is dismissed with a wave, but the damage is already done:
> Your arrival has been noticed, before you could find a quiet spot in a corner to observe from.
> Instead you dive straight in.
> As you grow near the impromptu circle, you discover how you'd missed the third member of their little family.
> Flurry Heart sat nestled in between her father's forelegs.
> Her head was tilted over and back so that she almost rested it against his chest while she looked up and listened to him.
> "...my real advice. I've seen them at their worst-"
> Shining Armor tosses his head, gesturing to his back with its almost map-like crosswork of lash scars.
> "-but also at their best. I've seen a little girl who couldn't even think of hurting a pony. And, I guess, now I've seen that they can change too. So, mark my words, this will all change one day."
> "Does that mean we'll be free soon?"
> "I..."
> Hesitating, Shining pauses.
> "I can't honestly say that. Some day… some day we will. Because there are humans who care; we need to remember who they are and work with them. Despite everything they’ve done to me... They aren’t all evil.”
> Was he implying you were one of those people?
> Or that they needed to ‘work with’ those protesters and others like them?
> One of the ponies in the group steps forward.
> You’ve seen the type before:
> A young stallion, barely out of colthood, eyes still bright and glimmering with a youthful hope.
> Almost reminded you of Rumble, if Rumble were less angry.
> “But what about you? You… you escaped your master. You’ll keep fighting for us, won’t you?”
> Shining freezes, choking on his words.
> “I…”
> “Y-You’ll be back for all of us one day, right?”
> There’s an edge of desperation in the colt’s voice.
> You’ve heard it before.
> A need for someone to look up to, for some hope to grasp on to.
[Choice]

> No, you'll not interfere in this.
> Shining Armor's response should be a telling insight into how the stallion saw things.
> If he answers at all.
> Right now he seems to be choking on any coherent reply, utterly failing to start speaking at all.
> With each moment that passes the tension in the air thickens.
> Shining's head, once held high and proud, sinks ever lower and the young stallion who'd approached him looks ever more despondent.
> "I - you -"
> Swallowing hard, Shining sighs.
> "Going back. I am going to be going back soon - you understand that, right?"
> "Going back?"
> The poor stallion barely seems to believe it.
> "Yes. Going back to my own master. I ran away, but I didn't escape him entirely. After this... I'm lucky he's willing to take me back."
> "But... I thought..."
> Grimacing as though he were in mortal pain, Shining tries to reach out with one hoof:
> "Please understand - I wish I could take you. I wish... but my Master can't take all of you."
> "What does he matter?! Then - if you can't take us now you'll come back, right? Another time! You did it once, you can do it again-"
> "I don't know. I really don't. Maybe. But... I'm not your hero."
> The coltish stallion begins to pull away, but Shining rises - stirring Flurry Heart who abruptly finds her pillow gone.
> "Don't you dare give up, okay? Don't you dare. I'm not your hero, but that's not how this works. You stand up for each other, understood? You keep each other strong, so that when it does happen you are strong and ready to go."
> Edging a little close to discussing rebellion there, but Shining cuts himself off before going any further.
> "I'm just... a foolish stallion who ran off with delusions that I could be a hero again. Run away with my daughter, and raise her to save everypony."
> "How can you tell me not to give up when you are-"
> "Nopony is giving up. Freedom will come. Keep on believing that - I do."
> The stallion doesn't look convinced, but raises a hoof to tap against Shining's in a gesture of tentative acknowledgement.

> When you sit down next to Shining Armor, the look he shoots you is a bit more skeptical than you'd expected.
> It softens in a moment, though, so you suspect it was a bit more than he'd meant it to be.
"Bad time?"
> "No, just... sorry. Some impressions are hard to shake, and they still creep up a bit even when I don't mean them to."
"Ah."
> You don't have to ask which one.
> The raw anger he had skewered you with when you'd been up on that stage, whip clutched in your jaws and a pony slumped against the post before you...
> Shining can see that you know, too.
> He sighs, shaking his head.
> "You've proven yourself, Thunderlane. Don't worry. I see that... especially how you discreetly handled Lattice's problem."
> That had turned out well.
> The stallion still wasn't showing off his heirloom necklace to anypony else, but from what you heard the crystal-growing project was making actual headway now.
"Well, don't thank me yet. There's still something else I want to ask you to do."
> "Another favor for a pony?"
"Only for me."
> "Name it."
"Just follow me down a dark alley at night to meet with some ponies who just want to get to know you."
> This time a much, much flatter look is shot at you.
> Unlike then, this one you meet easily with a grin.
> "Don't push it, colt. I was being inducted into the Royal Guard when you had just found your cutie mark."
"Yeah, yeah. Hey, look at it this way - I'm putting a fair bit of trust in you as well."
> A gesture with your wing indicates his horn.
> Or, the lack of a restrictor fixed on it.
"You tossed me around pretty good once. I bet you could do it again."
> "Hmm. Sorry about-"
"Don't be. It's all behind us now."
> Shining Armor nods, actually sounding more convinced than you feel yourself.
> "Right. Well, as long as it doesn't take too long. I want to spend most of my time..."
> He leans over to brush his nose through the mane of the slumbering alicorn filly resting between his hooves.
"Sure. Not that long at all."
> "Who, though? Not your marefriend?"
"Vapor? No... though it might have been good for her to be there. She's a bit busy tending to Sunbreak, though."
> "Ah, yeah. Young foals. I remember. At least Vapor's doesn't nearly demolish palaces with her sneezes."
"Thank Celestia, no."
> "I guess I'll meet them when they get there."

> Later, once Shining had been able to deposit a still-sleepy Flurry Heart onto Cadance’s back, he wandered out into the night with you.
> Something was eating at him.
> Instead of his ears forward or turning about if he were calm or searching for threats, Shining keep them locked back and his tail swishing.
> It might be your imagination, but his hoof-falls feel heavier too.
"What's on your mind?"
> "It's what that one stallion asked me before. I don't think I gave him the answer he wanted."
"You did the best you could. He kind of ambushed you with that."
> "Certainly felt like it. How do I answer that?"
> The two of you walk in quiet for a moment more.
"In any case, I don't even think it's the right question to ask."
> "What do you mean?"
"When we'll be free isn't the question. It's... 'what then'?"
> Catching Shining Armor's questioning expression, you add:
"There was a stallion here, when the new part of the camp was being built. Transom, his name was."
> "What happened to him?"
"He left. He was a free pony - a hired worker."
> Shining actually stops in place, eyes wide with shock.
> "And he decided to work here, of all places?"
"Yep. Because he needed the money to survive. And... I think that's the question I have."
> Pausing yourself, you look back.
"So we're free - then what? The way Transom put it, a lot of the world out there isn't ready for free ponies. Do we stay here? Go home? Is there a home left in Equestria?"
> "We can. We did, once - when the tribes united. We built Equestria from nothing, and we can do it again."
> You shoot him a real, honest smile.
"It's good to hear that confidence. Even if I'm not sure, I'm glad you are. Tells me I made the right decision asking you to do this."
> "Yeah. I'm still wondering about that..."
"Just about there."
> The place you meet him was the same lobby of the living quarters you'd followed Flurry Heart and Megan to that one time.
> A choice made as much for the others involved as for anyone else.
> Shining looks around with some degree of familiarity.
> You think he might be getting an idea of who is to be met here as you call out:
"It's just us two. Nopony else. No one else either."
> They appear in ones or twos.
> Drifting out of corners and shadows, in through darkened doorways.
> Bon Bon and Sunburst.
> Nurse Mellowheart and Derpy, her remaining daughter clutched close to her side.
> Cheerilee and Crescent Moon.
> Rumble.
> Vapor Trail.
> "...who are they all?"
"The resisters."
> Shining gives you a look of confusion and surprise.
"They're the ponies who can't just live day to day. Who feel the need to look forward to something - to have hope of a free tomorrow to go towards."
> "And you want me to what - talk to them?"
"Yes. Give them that hope."
> Confusion begins to morph into annoyance.
> "You're putting me a bit on the spot, Thunderlane."
"I know. And I'm sorry - but when I asked them for this, we didn't even know if you'd still be here tomorrow."
> "What am I supposed to say? If I encourage them-"
> You extend out a wing to tap his side.
"Look. I brought you here because - honestly - I'm worried about them. Even though I'm security, I don't see threats. I see mothers worried for their fillies-"
> Your wing turns to point to Derpy and then Vapor.
"-who feel a need driven by their very being to make sure knowledge of who we are doesn't fade-"
> To Cheerilee.
"-and who can't forget the injustices done, or who we've lost to them."
> To Nurse Mellowheart.
"And I worry about all of them, because I don't want any to suffer the way you have. Some of them have suffered enough already. If they do something to push rebellion again..."
> You swallow.
"I want to protect them. So please - whatever it is that you've found that settled your mind, pass it on to them. Help them understand you can be obedient without submitting to them entirely. If you want me to stay back here in case you have to say anything seditious, that's fine."
> After a moment Shining proceeds forward with hesitant, temporary hoofsteps.
> Amid the cool summer night, each one seems a thunderous impact.
> Perhaps thirty paces ahead, though, he looks back at you with a cocked eyebrow.
> "Well? I didn't say not to come."
> You grin, marching forward alongside him.
> Most of the faces here you recognize.
> Some you do not, and they shrink back when they realize who you are.
> More, however, are merely interested in greeting Shining.
> He walks among them - his carriage strong and proud, the kind of posture you had always seen the guard take up in public.
> Even if you were invited, you still restrict yourself to hanging around the edges.
> 'Invited' and 'welcome' are two very different things.
> So it's something of a surprise when Bon Bon and Crescent Moon both sit down beside you.
"Something up?"
> "Just..."
> Bon Bon's often-sour expression has reached new levels of acidity in the dim light filtering in from outside.
> "...wanted to say 'thank you', okay? For - setting this up. You didn't have to."
"You trusted me enough to come."
> "It occurred to me that despite being his attack-dog, you've never trapped us into doing anything just to get us punished."
> That, you think, is the highest praise you're likely to hear from Bon Bon in a long, long time.
> An admission, however tacit, that you never turned on them.
"I'm glad. Frankly, Bon Bon, I think you needed to speak with him the most."
> "What? Why?"
"He was drawn here out of love for his family. Your love is already here. You've got everything to lose if you did do something."
> Bon Bon snorts.
> "All that means is I get reminded every day of what this does to Lyra."
> Her tone, however, implies a point grudgingly accepted.
> Crescent Moon reaches out and taps your side.
> "Well, I'll just say thanks."
"You're welcome."
> Eventually the meeting breaks up, the hour becoming late.
> Shining trots back to your side.
> "Time to head back?"
"Yeah. I need some sleep."
> Just when you are turning to go, however, an anxious voice calls out from behind you:
> "Wait!"
> Looking back, you find a trembling Mellowheart - one hoof clutched to her chest.
> "I - I'm sorry; I heard - I heard that Corona is with you now, Shining Armor."
> Turning fully back around, Shining Armor nods.
> "Were you the one who treated her?"
> "Yes."
> The single word is uttered breathily, accompanied by her ears pinning back and nostrils flaring.
> "Is she-"
> "Corona is not unscathed. But... whatever you did, I know you must have done the best you could. Her remaining scars... they are in her head, and it will take years for those to fade no matter how hard you tried."
> "There weren't any major wounds to even treat."
> A shuddering in her voice mirrors the shaking in her body and prickling of her coat.
> "Sprains, a minor burn... it had all been done so coldly, to make sure she wasn't-"
> Whinnying, Shining reaches out to nuzzle her neck.
> Your wing settles across her withers a second later.
> "...forgive me. I'm sure you didn't come here wanting to listen to that."
> Rubbing her nose, Mellowheart looks up at Shining and smiles sadly.
> "...forgive me. I'm sure you didn't come here wanting to listen to that."
> Rubbing her nose, Mellowheart looks up at Shining and smiles sadly.
> "I just wanted to say, thank you for doing what we couldn't. For healing her."
> "Wasn't me alone... but I'll pass that one along to him as well."
> Later, as you walk among the quiet streets, Shining Armor seems pensive.
"Still thinking about what the Nurse said back there?"
> "A bit. Can I ask something about you, though? Call it a return favor for what you asked me to do."
> You chuckle.
"Hit me."
> "You said those were the rebellious ponies. But you're not half the lapdog I thought you were. That back there? Not exactly ordered, what with all the secrecy."
"I know about a lot, yes. I’ll still act against anypony who might turn things over here, but that doesn’t mean I blow the whistle on everything."
> “Like?”
> You swallow.
> This would be a considerable risk, but…
“Before you broke into Anonymous’ home, I knew somepony was going to try and escape the camp. Not who, but I knew it would happen and I knew how you would do it.”
> Shining Armor had gone very still, watching you with focused eyes.
> “Is that why you were in there, that night? To catch me?”
“No. That was pure coincidence… and in any case, I didn’t know it was you or that you were trying to take Flurry until later on.”
> “But Anonymous does not know.”
“If he did, do you think either of us would be having this conversation?”
> "A good point… But you still think of yourself as his lackey."
> You stop, looking at the stallion critically.
"Shining... you saw me up on that stage, taking a whip to another pony. And I know it’s getting to you. The truth is, I am his lackey. No matter what secrets I keep.”
> He grunts, which you take as an admission of your point.
> “That’s not why you became a guard, though. Not for the benefits or the power-”
“Power? What power? I hate it. Hate it so deeply you can’t even imagine. I agreed to this to protect ponies, not to hurt them - no matter the reason.”
> A shudder runs through you from nose to tail, wings fluffing as it runs to their tips.
“But… it’s what I have to do. I don’t have your kind of strength inside, Shining. If this keeps Rumble relatively safe in this camp, I’ll be Anonymous’ lackey.”
> “Do you want that kind of strength?”
“How? Cadance once said you were the source of her strength, and she’s right. It’s not something I have.”
> “It’s something you could have. But it would mean taking a stand. No more straddling in two places at once.”
> There’s a kind of light in Shining’s eyes, a spark of determination that all at once alarms you and fills you with interest.
“What are you talking about?”
> “I… I could induct you into the Guard. The EUP Guard. Technically I never resigned my commission; it would be in name only now, but…”
> Raising his eyes, Shining looks around.
> “...sometimes, a cause is what you need to stop giving up. Something to stand for.”
“What would it mean?”
> “I still have the oath memorized. I would teach you, have you take it… I can’t offer anything more, but then you said it yourself: You’re in this to help ponies. To guard them.”
> He had a point there.
> But at the same time... 
> What if there did come another time when you had to speak up?
> When you had to sell out a pony to Anonymous?
> Or maybe you’re thinking about this the wrong way.
> If you took that oath, ‘selling out’ ponies wouldn’t be a question anymore.
> They would come first.
> All of them.
[Choice]

"Shining, tell me..."
> You look down, stirring a hoof on the pavement.
"...I got into this to protect my brother. Now Vapor Trail and Sunbreak too. Would it be wrong to take this oath with them first in my mind?"
> Shining drops to his haunches, tail swishing across the road.
> "There was this one time that a pony came onto our land. Back with my master. I don't think he was really looking for a fight, but he wasn't afraid either... Something went wrong. Master tried to warn him off, but he attacked instead."
> Tilting his head back up, Shining stares up at the night sky.
> Illuminated as the camp was, relatively few stars shown through - but enough.
> "I went after him. Pinned him down until the cops got there and took him away. I thought about him a lot later on. Was that right, what I did? Turning him over to their mercies?"
> His story, you think, is uncomfortably close to what happened to Merribelle.
> A pony sneaking about, coming on a house and approaching it not realizing what was about to happen...
> "I saw what happened to him later on. They weren't kind. And I set him up to go through that..."
"That's not the same at all. He attacked someone without being provoked. It's not like your master had him trapped there, was it?"
> "No. But it's not like Sparky was looking for blood either. My owner would have been fine eventually no matter what I did. Chasing Sparky was my call."
> Snorting, Shining tosses his mane back.
> "And they weren't kind with him, either... a pony attacking a human? He got it pretty rough. At least in the end we could..."
> He shakes his head, a suddenly perturbed expression flickering across his face.
> "...nevermind."
"Still a lot more than what I'm worried about. Hell, the night you were in the house, you think I'd have hesitated for a second to come after you? Chase you as long as I could?"
> "That's true."
"But you still think I'm wrong."
> "I think you're underselling yourself, Thunderlane. Whatever you've done, I think the fact that you stood up to protect anyone tells me there's more strength here-"
> His hoof taps your chest.
> "-than you're willing to admit. You just have to draw on it."
> You swallow.
> Hard.
> This... was more than you'd ever expected.
> Seeing that, Shining Armor gives a somewhat apologetic smile.
> "You don't have to answer right this very moment. Heh, I shouldn't have dropped this on you right after telling you off for putting me on the spot-"
"I'll do it."
> He blinks.
> "You're - certain? If you want to wait-"
"No. You're right... I need to grow a pair. Stand up and stop being a traitor. Stop pretending that doing this makes them any less his property than they would be without. And..."
> Now it is your turn to look up at the stars above.
"...I couldn't take this if I didn't mean it. I'd be dragging the reputation of the Guard through the dirt if I took it lightly. And I wouldn't do that to them or you."
> Smile turning from tentatively sorry to something more firm, Shining Armor nods.
> "Knew I didn't have your measure wrong."
"But, before you do... there's another pony here. Granite Cleave. He used to be in the Guard too. I think you should speak to him as well."
> "I will. I'm... surprised he didn't talk to me already."
"He's a kind of quiet pony."
> "Meet me tomorrow, then, and we'll see about the oath - or, if not, then talk it over with him."
"Right. And Shining? Thank you. Not many ponies would give me another chance after what you saw."
> ...
> You mention the offer to Cadance the next day.
> It didn't seem like a violation of her trust - if he had not told her yet, you were certain he would soon enough.
> Perhaps some part of you even wished for that.
> Hoped Cadance would expressly forbid it, admonish you for hanging on to archaic symbols of old Equestria.
> Urge you to let it go in the same way she had suggested her own royal status had died back in the snows of the Frozen North.
> But instead she only smiles sadly.
> "Shining Armor must think well of you to offer that, Thunderlane. His guards meant the world to him. They were like his children, until Flurry Heart came along."
> Her reinforcement, conversely, only deepens the deep unease growing in your stomach.
> A sense that even taking this oath with the full intention of following through on it would be a falsehood.
> How could you, after selling out ponies to Anonymous like that?
> Foolhardy it may have been, but that did not make you any less responsible for the fate those punished had suffered.
> Some part of you feels like this is papering over long-festering sins.
> More, however, feels that it is a chance to further your repentance for those mistake.
> So when you do show up it is little surprise that Shining Armor looks somewhat skeptical.
> "Are you really certain about this, Thunderlane? You're looking a little bit shaky."
> He had, indeed, found Granite Cleave - the other former guardstallion you'd mentioned.
"I am. It's not been an easy decision, but I am."
> "Good. Granite agrees with me - it'll be worth it to offer you this."
> You bow your head in thanks to him.
"Much appreciated. Though - how will this work? Because I am pretty certain he'll outrank me-"
> "I'll teach you the standing orders. But that will be it - besides, if we're being sticklers for the rules you won't even be under my command."
> You can't help another sigh of relief, earning yourself another questioning look from Shining Armor.
"It's fine. I admit, I'm a little nervous about this - even if it is effectively in name only."
> "That's good. You're not taking it flippantly." 
> Nodding, you glance back to Shining Armor.
"Is it okay if Vapor Trail watches in on this?"
> "...I don't see why not.
> A wave of your wing brings the mare in; Sunbreak's napping form emerges from beneath his mother's wing in a foal-saddle.
> Without a word Vapor goes to sit by the side of the room.
> There she seats herself, shooting you a reassuring smile.
> You need it.
> "Ready, Thunderlane?"
"About as ready as I'll ever be."
> "Good stallion. Now, repeat after me..."
> Fitting your hooves side-by-side and locking your legs, you puff out your chest and wings while keeping your head up and straight ahead.
> A best approximation of what you remember an 'attention' stance looking like.
> Probably a bad approximation, given the subtle smile playing around Granite Cleave's muzzle, but damn it you are going to try anyhow!
> "Repeat after me: I do solemnly swear..."
"I do solemnly swear..."
> "Having been granted this rank by the right of their Highnesses Celestia and Luna, to defend Equestria and her ponies..."
"Having been granted this rank by the right of their Highnesses Celestia and Luna, to defend Equestria and her ponies..."
"...by hoof, by wing or by horn, against any foes which may threaten them..."
"...and to stand by my comrades in discharging their duty in wartime or peace, faithfully upholding the Harmony which binds us all together."
> Shining Armor pauses as the oath comes to an end, and you realize you were probably supposed to salute him.
> It's most likely a sloppy salute as well, but still draws approving looks from both stallions.
> Each returns the salute; from across the room, even baby Sunbreak has woken up and is watching the exchange with wide eyes.
> "Not half bad, actually."
"I was a Wonderbolts' trainee. They never got around to having us take the oath - it was supposed to happen when we finished training - but they did start hammering the basics into us."
> "And it must have stuck as well. Though, remember - you have to call me Prince-Captain now."
> The look you gave must have been fantastic, because it sent both stallions laughing again.
"...hah, hah. Was it this nerve-wracking when you took the oath?"
> "First time, absolutely. Everypony there was about ready to shit bricks."
> "It's a good thing I didn't know Cady was there watching. We barely knew each other at that point, but even so... and you don't tell her that, okay."
"Yes Sir, Captain lovercolt Sir!"
> Amid a fresh round of guffaws, Shining Armor unexpectedly turns serious - clapping a hoof to your shoulder.
> "Thunderlane... do that oath proud. We might not have Equestria anymore, but that bit about upholding Harmony? It's still important."
"I know. And I will."
> All as one together, you wander on back - talking softly, Vapor Trail brushing your flank with her own and Sunbreak riding happily on your back.
> She seems to realize the mood has lifted and giggles happily all through the walk.
> Dinner is well underway by the time you arrive in the dining hall, but Cadance is still there.
> Shining wastes no time going to her, while you find a seat for both Vapor Trail and yourself.
> Not a few minutes later she taps you with a wing and points to the royal couple's table.
> "Your brother's here."
> So he was - speaking to Shining Armor.
> About what you can't imagine; hopefully not anything regarding the little rebels' gathering the prior night.
> ...probably not, considering how amused Shining looks.
"I'll be right back, okay?"
> "Of course."
> You're quite close before Rumble notices you and waves shyly to you.
"Hey there, little bro. Something up?"
> "Y-Yeah. I just needed to talk to Mister Shining for a couple minutes."
> That draws a laugh from you; 'Mister Shining'?
"Can I ask what, or is that a big secret?"
> Rumble looks down, ears flattening and a touch of red coloring his light-grey muzzle.
> Shining Armor leans over and mutters something into one ear.
> It draws a furious shake of Rumble's head.
> "B-But I can't just tell him! He's my brother!"
"Aww, don't worry. I'll only tease you about it for the rest of your life."
> Drawing back his lips, Rumble actually snarls at you.
> "Easy, easy!"
> Lighting his horn, Shining Armor actually holds both of you back.
> This time when he whispers into Rumble's ear it draws a soft sigh from the colt.
> "Alright. I guess I gotta... look, big bro, can you not tease me if I tell you?"
"If it's that serious, I can, yes."
> "I'm... asking him how to tell a filly I really like her when I'm afraid it's all going to go really wrong, okay?"
> His blush deepens as your eyebrows rise.
> "And I thought - because he must have asked Her Highness Cadance out-"
> "Please, Rumble. It's still okay to call me Cadance."
> "-he's got to have some advice, right?"
"I'll admit, I never thought of how it must have gone with you asking her out the first time."
> "Good."
> Cadance giggles, eyeing Shining mischievously.
> "Because trust me, he was such a - a doofus the first time. But that was part of why I liked him, I think. I'd seen the determined guardstallion and the colt inside."
> You grin at that image too - much to Shining Armor's chagrin.
"See, Rumble? You don't have to worry about talking to some filly. Besides, didn't you have a fillyfriend here before?"
> "Yeah, but she was like... I dunno. But now, this one..."
"Well don't leave us hanging, little bro. Who is it?"
> "Now, Thunderlane!"
> Cadance slips a wing over Rumble's back.
> "Don't hound the poor colt. He's obviously nervous enough already-"
> "It's Mocha Cream, okay?"
> Shuddering lightly, Rumble tucks his head away beneath his own wing for further shelter.
> "I... she's nice. A lot nicer than I thought she was at first. And I kinda wanna tell her that, but..."
> He goes quiet.
> Cadance leans over to give him a worried nuzzle, then a whispered question of her own.
> Sighing, Rumble extracts his head and looks up at you.
> "I think something's wrong with her again. We've still both been handling the messages ponies send to Anonymous, y'know? But lately she seems more... I dunno. She doesn't talk as much, and not as happily."
> Cadance shares a knowing look with you.
"And you thought telling her this would cheer Mocha Cream up?"
> "I... dunno what I thought. Maybe get her mind off of whatever is the matter. She's got to be hurting - she's like a pegasus with a broken wing."
> "We need to bring this to Anonymous. I know he is trying to be 'hands off' with her, but if he knew she was still tearing herself apart he could sit down with her and talk."
> "No!"
> Rumble actually seems to surprise Cadance with the vehemence of his answer.
> But vehement he is, standing up beneath her wing and half-shrugging it off.
> "Mocha Cream doesn't need him. She doesn't need a Master. She needs ponies - other ponies - letting her know that we - we care!"
> He does have a point there.
> Not to mention that the troubled young mare might see any attention from Anonymous as a victory.
> On the other hoof, merely telling her to stop thinking about Anonymous - while he remained passively out of reach - might not be enough.
[Choice]

"...Anonymous should know. In his way, he does care for her."
> Rumble growls at you, but you don't back down.
"I'm not saying he should intervene. In fact, I think he should stay well away from her. That kind of attention wouldn't be good. It'd tell Mocha that what she's doing will get her what she wants."
> "Then why-"
"Because like I said: He does care for her. He'd want to know, even if we have to tell him not to get involved."
> Still looking extremely unhappy with the concept, Rumble growls beneath his breath.
> Cadance settles her wing back over him, smiling gently.
> "We are not taking her away from you, Rumble. I do think it will be good for her to see another pony cares for her like that."
"Yeah. Don't get me wrong, bro - go for her."
> "I... I wanted it to be us who fixed her. So Anonymous would see, we're better off without him. Even the ones he 'cares about'."
> You frown, and so does Cadance.
> It is Shining Armor who speaks up first, though:
> "The way I'm understanding things, he will still be a bystander. We will still 'fix' her. But remember, Rumble. She's a mare-"
> He taps a hoof on the colt's chest.
> "-not a weapon against Anonymous. You're not winning a battle by winning her away from him; you're winning her heart. Remember that."
> Cadance laughs, a beautiful and musical sound.
> "Shining is right. That's a part of how he won my heart: Coming for me not as a princess or an alicorn, but as a pony."
"Yeah. But don't worry, Rumble. We're going to set you up on a real good date with her."
> "Bro!"
> Ignoring his indignant protests, you give him a grin utterly devoid of mercy.
"Uh-uh. We're going to do right by you for this."
> Rumble looks between yourself and an equally eager-looking Cadance sporting an equally enthusiastic smile.
> "C'mon, what can you do? It's not like there's a ton of hot dating spots here-"
> "Don't worry, Rumble. We'll figure something out to make both of you happy."
> Hanging his head at her assertive tone, your brother sighs.
> "...oh, alright. But if either of you mess it up, it's your fault."
"Always has been!"

> By the time Rumble and Thunderlane depart that night, the plan is already mostly formed.
> And the independent colt had just about given in to having your hoofprints all over this.
> Which might have something to do with the distinctly amused look Shining Armor is giving you.
> "You enjoyed that, didn't you?"
"I cannot help it if my talent is the opening of hearts to each other."
> You probably could have tried to sound a little less smug about that.
> But you truly cannot help it:
> There have been so few moments to truly express your talent since being enslaved, and now you were determined to see both of them find happiness.
> Though...
> "Will they really fit together?"
> Shining gives voice to your one worry, and you look towards the door where the two pegasi brothers are heading out.
"I don't know. There is a bond there, but it is not full yet. I won't push him into it if it is not, though."
> Even as you watch, Rumble says something inaudible that earns him bat over the head from Thunderlane's wing.
> Emerging full of laughter, he runs out into the nighttime streets beyond - pursued closely by his elder brother.
> "Ah, siblings..."
> Shining sighs softly.
"Shiny? Do you ever... think about her?"
> "Huh?"
> A better pony would have noticed the off tone in his voice.
> Have bowed out with a 'nevermind' or given another answer.
> You, still lost in your thoughts, miss it.
"Twilight. Do you ever think about her?"
> It takes only a second for you to realize your mistake.
> Shining's mask of strength lasts barely a moment before crumpling into sadness.
> Your heart follows.
> "All the time, Cady. All the time. After you, she... she was the closest. The one I should have protected the most."
"Shh."
> Your own wing slips over his withers, and your love leans into your side.
> Both of you stay like that for a minute, until you finally speak up.
"Shiny? There's something else I'd like to do tonight. I need to show you, in my office..."
> He had reared back in surprise when you pulled out the painting - his own visage greeting him alongside your own.
"It kept me going through a lot of hard moments. Just, having something from - before to focus on."
> "It's... not original, is it?"
"No. A reproduction, by an extremely talented pony here."
> "Ah. I thought I recognized the similarity, but... wasn't this taken at a ball?"
> With a hoof, he reaches out to brush it.
"Yes. I remember the photograph. When this was repainted from it, I think they wanted it to just be focused on just us."
> "Ah."
"I'd... like to have a new one made."
> "Why? Seems a bit early to be comissioning new Royal Portraits."
> Snorting, you nudge him in the ribs with your wing.
> Jokes could diminish pain - one of Twilight's friends had been a walking demonstration of the strength of a smile - but now didn't seem to be the time.
"Something looking forward to the future, not just back to the past. Not just mourning over what we don't have anymore, but a reminder that we have each other - and Flurry Heart - again."
> Then, you add with a grin:
"Also, when we are free again, I will be ensure it hangs on the palace walls for all of history."
> Rather than scoff Shining Armor hums thoughtfully.
> "That would be nice a testament to the strength of ponykind in their darkest hour... will Flurry sit still?"
"It can't be any worse than her first royal portrait. You remember, when she was still just a foal-"
> "Oh, yes. Turned her into a wriggly little bundle right off the start."
"And she wouldn't even look at the painter half the time-"
> "-she kept running around trying to get a good look at Flurry's muzzle because she was too nervous to dare ask us to help-"
"-not that Flurry Heart's crawling away constantly helped-"
> "-tried to take a nap on all those rolls of spare canvas-"
> Both of you are too far gone into giggles to continue this any further.
> This time, the laughter is honest and cleansing.
> Even when they subside, you are thankful for the brief moment of merriment.
> "...but yeah. A new painting... I could go for that."
> ...
> You lay sprawled happily on the bed, wings spread to either side and mind submerged in total bliss.
> Shining Armor was crouched over you - hooves planted in the midst of your back and neck curled down to bring his mouth down to your wings.
> There it was hard at work:
> Nudging each feather in turn, sorting and testing, nudging those misplaced ones back into proper order.
> A happy sigh escapes your lips and one of your hind legs does a little kick as a loose feather is drawn free of the wing.
"You have no idea how unimaginably good this feels."
> "Don't tell me you haven't been preening yourself, love."
"Of course I have."
> Another little tremor runs down your back as he deals with a particularly itchy misplaced feather.
"But it is really, really not the same."
> Too soon he reaches the last tip-feather of your second wing, bringing the whole thing to an end.
> Getting up again almost seems wasteful, and so you have no objections when his hooves take over - pressing and kneading at the muscles of your back.
"I've never understood how you did it, Shining. All that standing in place at perfect attention for hours and hours..."
> "Very carefully, dear. That's how. Besides, don't you do the same? Princessly duties and all that."
"At least when I was left listening to some vapid presentation, I could move around a bit. Enough to stretch and - oooh!"
> Shining had pressed down with his body weight atop both hooves, and your spine had produced an impressive series of pops in response.
> All at once it felt as if the pressure that had built inside of you just... drained out.
> Giggling softly, you finally tuck your wings in and roll onto your back.
> A quick peck on Shining's lips turns into something longer as he follows you down.
> Legs intertwining with yours while he sinks to rest belly-to-belly with you.
> For a time the two of you simply remain resting there, grooming each others' cheeks, manes, and ears with magic and tooth alike.
> Relishing in each others' presence.
> "It's coming too fast, Cadance."
"What is?"
> "Going back."
"If your Master is half the man you say he is, it won't be that long before we see each other again."
> "I know. But even so, it feels so wrong to go-"
> He whimpers - actually whimpers! - and you tighten your grip on him.
"...and here I thought you are supposed to be the strong one."
> "Strong doesn't mean it doesn't hurt. You away here, Twilight... gone..."
> Is that what had brought this on...?
> You remain silent for a long time, periodically kissing his muzzle.
"Tomorrow, I'm going to ask Megan if she would let Flurry Heart stay with us for a couple nights."
> "In here?"
"Yes. All together, as a family."
> "Aww. But then we won't be able to-"
> His hips grind gently against yours, drawing a twitch from one hindleg and bringing a mild blush to your face.
"Shining Armor! Honestly - is that all your stallions think about?"
> "All day, every day."
> Your huff draws even more snickering from a tone already filled with amusement.
> Soon, however, he turns somber again.
> "I'd love that, Cadance. Really. Just to spend a little while together as a family again."
"You might have to bribe her with another pony ride."
> "A price I will pay with honest pleasure. Megan's a good kid, too. I don't think she'll protest."
"Decided, then. A day all together... we'll have to "
> Now it is he who places a kiss to your nose.
> "Though, if you wanted to... make up for any missed time together now -"
> Again his hips grind against yours - this time, with the addition of something rather more solid pinned between your bellies.
> Smirking you nip lightly at his cheek.
"See? Just like I said. Dirty stallions."
> It isn't a refusal, though.
> Being filled up with him is more than a physical sensation - although that is most welcome too, a physical stretching that leaves you aware of every inch of him inside of you.
> There is a psychological sense to it too:
> The union of two souls together in a most intimate moment, doing their best to give each other utmost pleasure.
> You'd bet there are a lot of ponies who'd dismiss that as tripe, especially in this era.
> But right now, like this...
> You believe in it wholeheartedly.
> There are barely any words between the two of you - grunts, sighs, and soft moans, but nothing more is needed.
> And when he is finally spent, your belly full and warm with the heat of his seed, you lay with him a while longer simply relishing in that closeness long over the act is full..
> ...
>"Okay, let me see... Thaaat's good. Just stay right there, Your Highnesses."
> Resisting the urge to sigh after being put back into the 'right' position for what feels like the fiftieth time is a true chore.
> Without moving your head too much, you murmur to Shining Armor:
"I think after we're done with this, I'm going to need another preening and massage from you."
> "I'll be happy to... when we're done."
> "Is that going to be soon, momma?"
> Set between the two of you, Flurry Heart had already begun to fidget.
"Very soon, dear."
> You have no idea how soon.
> Fortunately, the painter does - peering up from his canvas, the pony spits the brush out just long enough answer:
> "Very soon, Your Highnesses. I just need to finish the initial work; the rest, I can continue tomorrow."
> Thank Celestia!
> Aches had long since crept up your back and radiated out into your wings.
> Decades since gaining your horn had not reduced that basic pegasus urge to not be fixed rigidly, and now your muscles protested vociferously at just that.
> By the time the painter finally releases you standing up is forgone entirely in favor of simply collapsing onto side with a happy moan.
> Moments later, Flurry Heart joins you - sprawling across your side with a grateful sigh.
> Shining Armor rears up-
"If you jump on us, I will embarrass you in front of everypony."
> The smirk in your tone draws a laugh from him, and instead of a pounce he embraces the both of you instead.
> Flurry nickers softly as the both of you sandwich her in a reverse hug.
> That the painter is still watching you with a mix of amusement and uncertainty if he should be seeing this moment is completely un-mentioned.
> Untangling yourself, you rise and nod your thanks to him.
"Will you be needing anything more from us?"
> "Not until tomorrow. Thank you, Your Highnesses."
"Of course."
> Dropping his voice while Shining is helping Flurry up, he asks:
> "Actually, Your Highness... there is one thing I am not certain of?"
"Go on?"
> "I... I could paint you with your proper regalia. If you wished. There are... sufficient references I could use."
> Your mind drifts up to Anonymous' study - and your regalia, locked behind glass doors.
> Would he consider this a reasonable need to take them out?
"I would not want to leave Shining Armor out of it."
> "I believe I could reproduce his uniform as well, if you wished."
> It is...
> Tempting.
> A chance, again, to reclaim what you had lost.
> But is reclaiming what you want to do?
> Or was this - as you had suggested before - a chance to look forward instead?
> Would keeping the trappings of your past authority detract from that?
[Choice]

"No, thank you."
> You smile softly to the stallion.
> Looking back at your husband and daughter, now working through a series of stretches together after sitting still for so long.
"I don't want this to be about station or role. It would suggest nothing has changed, and that would be a lie. We've gone through much - everypony has."
> "Very well, Your Highness."
"If you could, make this... just about family. Us, together again, as one... that is what I am hoping for."
> A smile touches his lips as he nods.
> "I understand entirely. I'll get right on that, Your Highness."
"Thank you. For now, I have another matter to attend to."
> A kiss on your husband's forehead and you leave him to spend some time on his own with Flurry Heart; your objective is now Anonymous' manor.
> First to go see your owner himself; you find him stretched out languidly on a couch, a show playing on the television even as he scrolls absentmindedly on his phone.
"Anonymous, if now is not a bad time?"
> "Huh? Oh, of course Cadance. Please, go ahead."
> He sits up to face you more directly, resting his elbows on his knees.
"It is about Mocha Cream. Rumble mentioned to me that he thinks she is still not doing well. In particular, she seemed to be quiet and withdrawn while working on the camp's suggestions-box. I'm sure you know that was always one of the things that made her happiest."
> "Yes, since trying to bring ponies' spirits up was a big part of her talent."
> Grimacing, Anonymous scratches his hair.
> "I noticed she felt a little thin lately was well, but didn't think much of it - she's always been a somewhat slender mare, you know?"
"But in this case, it is not merely 'how it is'."
> You can't help but frown a touch yourself; had she not been eating right either?
> If so, that could account for her low spirits.
> It was a dark spiral you had seen before in depressed slaves:
> Their malaise lead them to abandon meals, which in turn left them only feeling worse...
> "I could go talk to her again-"
"No. We are..."
> Looking away, you feel your cheeks flushing softly.
"...I believe she has someone in the camp who likes her very much, and-"
> "Rumble, you mean."
"You knew?"
> "I had an inkling. He came in to see her when she was attacked, and looked more than just... normally worried."
> Anonymous smiles, if perhaps a bit sadly.
> "It should be good for her. I think it's certainly been good for him."
> Well, that's pretty much permission from him - you aren't going to ask for more.
"That is my hope. I will nudge them as much as I dare, and it will brighten her days."
> "Good. But Cadance? Be careful with her heart; I don't want to see it even more broken."
> You incline your head, eyes half-closed in acknowledgement.
"It is my talent, Anonymous. I will not defy you."
> "Good."
> You turn to go, then look back.
> In a softer voice, you ask:
"Shining Armor's departure - is it still set for the day after tomorrow?"
> "Yes, I'm afraid."
> Reaching out, he places a hand on your shoulder.
> "I know it isn't that much longer-"
"I asked for a few more days together, and it was given. It was all I could have expected, Anonymous."
> "Still... I will see about arranging some time for you to see him again soon."
> Your head sinks a touch further, turning the gesture into something akin to a thankful bow.
> Perhaps that would make it easier on Shining when it was time to go...
> Before you leave the house, you have one final thing to do.
> Meghan is quite busy with her homework.
> But still looks up with a smile as you enter.
> "Hi, Cadance."
"Good afternoon, Megan."
> Dropping to your belly beside her, you offer a soft, tentative smile.
"I need to ask you for a very big favor."
> "Shining's going to have to go soon, isn't he?"
> Children and foals alike, it seems, liked to dive to the heart of the matter.
> You bow your head in acknowledgement.
"The day after tomorrow, I am afraid. And, I was wondering - would it be acceptable if Flurry Heart stayed with us these last two nights? I know we are already taking so much of her time, and-"
> Cutting off with a grunt, you snap out your wings - first to steady yourself, then to encircle the girl who had suddenly lunged into a hug against your chest.
> "I could tell. You looked very sad. Take her for as long as you want, Miss Cadance."
> With a warm smile you lift a hoof to finish the embrace.
> Tucking her head beneath your chin, you nicker deeply - a heavy, throaty noise that she undoubtedly feels as much as hears.
"I cannot thank you enough, Megan. Before he goes, I am sure Shining Armor would love to give you another pony-back ride."
> "Yes!"
> Megan bounces in place, but then re-tightens her hug around you.
> "S'not just because of that, though. I... I know how much her dad being here means to Flurry. I can't say no; she's a good pony. A good friend."
> A good pony.
> From another mouth it could have been a statement of derision, or perhaps patronising affirmation.
> Not from this girl, however.
> Not from that innocent, thoughtful voice.
> You squeeze her so hard she squeaks; tears, too, are squeezed from your eyes.
> That night, you sit with Flurry Heart and Shining Armor atop the roof of the museum-and-rec-hall.
> While it was certainly not private, any late-flying pegasi visiting the rec hall below were giving you a wide berth.
> Recognizing, perhaps, the need for privacy in this moment.
> Tonight you had been lucky; a cool evening allowed you to huddle close together beneath the star-strewn sky.
> Shining Armor rested on his back, his head nestled into your flank.
> In turn Flurry Heart was nestled between his upturned hooves, her expansive wings draped to either side of him.
> This far into the evening, the camp's lights were dimming towards lights-out and curfew beginning.
> Off in the far east, this planet's moon was rising from the horizon.
> It hung there, fatly ovoid and white like a great egg, immobile yet subtly higher each time you looked back.
> Flurry Heart stirs:
> "Daddy? Can you ask your Master for just a little more time? I don't want you to go yet."
> "I know, Little Gem."
> Kissing her brow just below the horn, he resumes grooming her - nibbling about her mane and ears.
> "I don't want to go either."
> Slipping a hoof beneath her chin, he lifts his daughter's muzzle to face him.
> "You've been through so much. Things I should have been there to protect you from... or at least support you through them. Will you forgive me, Flurry Heart?"
> Responding with a muted whinny that devolves into a whimper, she buries her muzzle back into his chest:
> Nostrils flaring and sides heaving as she tries to drag in his scent.
> "Then don't go away again, Daddy!"
"I'm afraid that's not a choice he has to make, Little Gem."
> "Yeah. Even if I wasn't owned by him, there's a pony there who needs my help still."
> "Then - then we'll bring them here and they can live with us-"
> You flinch, but thankfully she doesn't seem to have noticed.

"That would... not work very well, I'm afraid."
> Going to cry out again, Flurry is instead caught by Shining's hoof.
> It guides her head over towards the east, where the moon still hangs like a spotlight beneath the clouds.
> "Look at that moon, Flurry Heart. I know it's not Auntie Luna's moon, but it's still the only one this planet has."
> "Y-Yeah?"
> "Yeah. And that means, if you ever feel like you miss me, that night you go and look at the moon. And I promise, I'll take a few minutes every night to look at it and think about you here too."
> That has to be the cheesiest, silliest thing you've ever heard.
> And yet it still rings a chord.
> Despite how plainly foalish it was, this was so much a part of why you'd fallen for this big goofball of a stallion:
> The happy colt inside the tough guard exterior.
"And believe me, Little Gem - before you know it, we'll all be coming together to see each other again."
> Flurry clearly is not happy with this answer.
> But acceptance does not require happiness, and she does not protest further - only nuzzling down into her father's coat.
> Though lights-out is coming soon you can't help but wish to never move from this spot:
> Curled up with your family, the cool summer night warded off by your shared body heat.
> Actually...
> Why couldn't you?
> The roof was not the most comfortable place to sleep, of course, but you'd had far less pleasant beds in the past.
> With a few blankets and pillows spread out...
"Love?"
> "Mrrrrph?"
"Would you just like to stay up here tonight?"
> "That sounds lovely."
> A quick flight to your quarters, and you are soon returning back with several pillows and sheets floating in a field of magic behind you.
> Flurry is fast asleep by the time you return and Shining doesn't look like he'll be long to follow.
> But he still wakes up enough to sweep a spot clean on the roof and lay out the impromptu bedding.
"I'm sorry it isn't exactly a comfortable spot out under the stars."
> "Cady, any bed you are in is plenty good a bed for me."
> Giggling, you kiss him on the nose before settling down:
> Legs intertwined with each other, and Flurry Heart dozing contentedly between your bellies.
> "Do you remember, Cady, how we used to sit on one of the Crystal Palace's balconies and just watch the stars?"
"I do. I was always hopeless at spotting the constellations."
> Shining gives an amused snort.
> "Yes, you were."
> It was, you suspect, more that Shining had grown up with that bookworm of a sister lecturing him about anything and everything.
> Not even your foalsitting experiences with Twilight could rival that!
"They're so different here. The stars, I mean."
> "But they're still stars. And this is still watching them with you."
"I know."
> Shining gives a low, content whicker which you eagerly return - turning your head aside and pressing your cheek to his.
> Even Flurry Heart joins in, making a sleepy and higher, foalish nicker from her spot between the two of you.
"What you said before, about looking up at the sky and thinking about you looking at it too?"
> "Yeah?"
> Only the slightest twist of your head is needed to kiss his cheek.
"I think I needed to hear that too."
> "So did I, Cady. So did I."
> ...
> "Giddyap! Go, go, giddyap!"
> Heeding Megan's urging, Shining Armor puts himself in an all-out sprint down the street.
> At its end they strike loose earth; dirt and pebbles go flying.
> With a tug from the reins she signals him to dig his hooves in hard - leaning into the hard turn.
> For a second it seems that he could take it, but then Shining Armor overcompensates.
> Rolling into a tumble, he goes sprawling into the dirt with a wild neigh; Megan cartwheels from his back only to hang mid-air in a cloud of magic.
> From your spot perhaps only ten paces behind you are close enough to gasp in horror, then give a little cheer when his magic sets her back to the ground unharmed.
"Megan!"
> "OhmyGod! Shining, are you okay?"
> Groaning softly, he rises and shakes himself off.
> "I'm... I'm 'onna be fine. 'ventually. Ow."
> Flurry Heart darts between her father and mistress with concern etched on her face.
> Marching up to Shining with folded arms, Megan pouts furiously.
> "Well, you didn't have to catch me! I'm wearing a helmet, just like Daddy tells me to."
"Which doesn't mean he didn't do the right thing. That looked very risky to my eyes; please be more careful, Megan."
> "But he got hurt!"
> Grabbing Shining's bridle earns another groan from the bruised stallion.
> "I'm sorry! Where does it hurt?"
> "M'mouth. Th'bit. Pulled hard when y'went 'own."
> "Let me see!"
> He rolls his eyes as she pries up his lip to examine the bare gum the bit rested on.
> But he doesn't protest, and even draws it back a bit more to help her.
> "I... don't see any blood?"
> "No. S'not blee'ing. I'd tashte it."
> Ducking under his head to check the other side, Megan then rubs his nose - tears beading in her eyes.
> "M'sorry... didn't mean to hurt you. Just wanted to try doing a fast turn."
> Pushing his head down into her arms and allowing a rub of his mane, Shining puffs out a soft, wordless breath of acceptance.
> You can't blame Megan either:
> After posing for a few more hours to let the painter finish his outlines, Shining had seemed a bound-up ball of energy:
> Ready to take off like a rocket.
> Little surprise she'd been able to goad him into doing something risky then.
> Meanwhile, you look aside at Anonymous.
> Finally having caught up on one of the little motorized carts, he was now snapping pictures as he had been all day:
> More candid - and lively - portrayals of your family than a painting.
> You were relieved to have both.
"I'm honestly amazed they've bonded so well, so quickly."
> "It's like you said: Shining Armor has a weakness for children, and Megan has a good heart."
> Up ahead Megan had - after some coaxing - clambered back onto Shining's back.
> Rather than take the reins again, however, she leans over to whisper something into his ear before waving to you.
> "Shining and I are going to back to get him unsaddled, okay?"
"Of course, dear."
> "Sure, sweetheart! Care to follow, Cadance?"
"Right behind you."

> Once they reach what had been designated as the 'saddling spot', Megan slips back off his back again and clambers down.
> First to go is the hated bridle:
> Shining is all too happy to spit the taste of it from his mouth when the bit is pulled from it.
> The saddle falls to the ground next.
> It is soon followed by the blanket beneath it.
> Megan steps back with a squeak-turned-giggle as Shining shakes himself out, mane fanning out in a wild spray.
> "Ohhh, that feels good!"
> "C'mere. I'll give you a wash-down too!"
> A hose is adjusted and directed at Shining; the sweat-soaked stallion luxuriates in the spray.
> Actually scrubbing him down forces him to crouch so Megan can reach all of him.
> She is all too happy to wield the soap-laden sponge with gusto, however, and Shining absolutely willing to enjoy.
> There's something almost ironic about it as well:
> A reversal of her earlier total command of him.
> Now it is the girl who serves the slave, scrubbing out the aches and strains her ride had caused him as well.
> Indeed, he almost looks disappointed when she drops it and goes for the hose again.
"Dear, try not to enjoy yourself too much. You're practically purring over there."
> Too late you catch the fiendish gleam in Megan's eyes.
> By the time your shield forms, it is far too late:
> The hose's frigid spray has thoroughly drenched you!
"Augh!"
> "Mistress Megan!"
"That is - augh! My mane is soaked!"
> Your indignity is only further exacerbated by not only Megan, but Shining and Anonymous cracking up as well!
> Even Flurry is giggling, the little traitor!
> "Careful, Megan."
> Shining nudges her side.
> "She turns into a terrible monster when her mane is ruined. Trust me."
> "Eeeek!"
> Tossing up the hose, Megan flees.
> The nozzle lands at Flurry Heart's hooves.
> Scooping it in her magic, the filly looks between yourself and Anonymous.
> A subtle nod from both of you seals Megan's fate:
> Counter-betrayal!
> "Fluuurrry, you're supposed to be on my side!"
> "Not anymore!"
> Her soaking duty done, Flurry Leaps up to roost on a nearby rooftop and stick out her tongue in defiance.
> Unfortunately, she had forgotten that both mother and father have horns too:
> Twin balls of water are scooped up to burst over her and render the filly a whinnying, dripping mess.
> Everyone bursts out another round of laughter.
> Anonymous, the only one remaining un-drenched, raises his hands in mock pleading.
> "I surrender."
> ...
> Your final night together is spent in private - away from the rest of the camp and its ponies.
> This was not a night for community, but for family.
> Stories are shared, swapped, retold.
> Many of Flurry, when she was yet too young to remember.
> Others of ponies yourself or Shining had known.
> He relates a few of Gracie, the girl who had helped mend his scarred heart, too.
> You tell a few of more tender moments in the camp.
> When the camp's lights go out, moonlight illuminates the tellings instead.
> Sleep is a foe long staved off.
> Eventually it comes nonetheless, claiming you in a tumbled pile, and soon after the unwanted dawn.
> Somepony had thoughtfully left breakfast at your door.
> You take it in even though you know nopony will feel like eating.
> Eventually Shining sighs and pushes his plate away.
> "Maybe it's better. I'll be traveling for a long time without any breaks."
> Wordlessly you embrace him.
> Even that seems insufficient, and when the knock comes on your door it feels all too soon.
> Nonetheless you answer it.
> Anonymous himself stands there, a somber expression on his face.
> "It's time. They'll be here to pick him up any minute now."
> The trip back to the manor is made in a morose silence.
> Once there Anonymous retreats to the his study for a moment before emerging with a packet he hands to Shining.
> "What is this?"
> "Corona's documents of ownership. I said I would send it with you, and I'm damn well going to keep my promise. There's also a letter there for her..."
> "I don't know if she'll want to read it."
> "Neither do I. But it's worth a try, at least. Oh, there's also some pictures of you, your family, and Megan there. She insisted. Wanted you to always have something to remember by."
> A touch of a smile, however wan, develops on Shining's face.
> "I'll keep her in mind. The horn ring has to go back on, I guess?"
> Anonymous grimaces.
> "Worse than that. For a runaway, you're supposed to be bridled and hobbled."
"Anonymous! There's no reason to put him in chains; he wants to go!"
> "Not my choice, Cadance. That's how runaways are transported."
> "Cady..."
> Shining leans over, nuzzling your chin.
> "I'll be fine, Cady. I've survived so much already, I can live through a few hours of this."
"I don't like it. They shouldn't do this to you. You're not some mindless brute!"
> Lips brushing your cheeks, Shining nods.
> "But this is what slavery is. Anonymous, do it."
> The shackles come first - closing around his fetlocks, a short length of hobbling chain linking each of them.
> A bridle is next:
> Not a lightly-resting thing like he had used with Megan or you had worn for him.
> This is heavy and thick, with a strong steel bit and muzzling straps to keep him from lunging or biting.
> Loosening the straps so they do not bite so cruelly into him is all Anonymous can do.
> As if this were not enough, an equally strict collar is locked around his throat - chain leads running from it and the bridle alike.
> At one point you turn to tell Flurry Heart to go back to Megan's room.
> She should not have to see her father like this.
> But one look at her expression tells you just how little chance of her fleeing would be.
> Lastly, the horn ring.
> A fierce shivering racks Shining's body as it is fitted into place, his pupils dropping to pinpricks as the ring severs his connection to magic.
> When he is done, Anonymous drops to one knee and holds a hand out to Shining Armor.
> "I'm sorry about this, Shining. I honestly am. You've proven to be a good husband and father, and I'm glad I got to see that side of you."
> Unable to speak, he just nods and lifts a hoof as far as the chains allow in return.
> Flurry goes next.
> Embracing him fiercely, she lifts herself up to whisper in her father's ear.
> Whatever is said makes Shining Armor begin to tear up at last, embracing her in return.
> Your turn is last.
> By now you have no words; you simply step forward and kiss him head-on.
> It is awkward due to the bridle, yes.
> But no less passionate.
> Nor does Shining hesitate for a moment to return it just as deeply.
> Then takes the package in his lips, lifts his head, and nods to Anonymous.
> Time to go.
> Your owner looks at the chain lead in his hand, then hands it to you.
> "I think you should walk with him, Cadance."
> Once you would have been enraged to hear him force you to carry out such a painful task.
> Now, you understand what he is giving you - a chance to spare Shining the humiliation of being walked out alone.
> On stepping out the door a new problem presents itself:
> Far from being alone, while you had been inside ponies had gathered around the manor.
> Shining's ears pin back at the sight of so many staring faces - and yet more arriving by the minute!
> He rallies, though:
> Lifting his head proudly, and marching forth as cleanly as the chains allow.
> You try to do the same and keep at his side.
> It is not easy; each step is another one closer to his departing again.
> Another hole ripped in your heart.
> Still you force your hooves to carry you on.
> Even as he crosses the open square with you to the front gate the crowd continues to swell.
> They watch in utter silence.
> Among the faces there you can see respect, anger, horror, and so much more.
> Thunderlane stands next to Granite Cleave - one hoof raised in stiff salute.
> Bon Bon's eyes are cold and hard, while Nurse Mellowheart's calm face seems to be actually genuine rather than a practiced mask.
> Sunburst, trying to keep himself under control.
> The colt who'd approached him that one night in the rec hall, who seems only to be able to stand for the support of the two ponies on either side.
> His face a portrait of utter horror and despair at seeing Shining shackled and lead.
> Just as Shining reaches the gate, a voice begins to carry from somewhere behind.
> “Equestria, the land I love. A land of harmony…”
> “Our flag does wave from high above,”
> “For ponykind to see…”
> Despite himself, Shining Armor begins to tear up.
> You're fairly close to completely breaking down yourself, as even more voices join the chorus.
> The crowd has swelled to tremendous size; nearly the entire camp must be here!
> “Equestria, a land of friends,”
> “Where ponykind do roam.”
> “They say true friendship never ends,”
> “Equestria, my home!”
> Every line seems louder, a swelling and roaring chorus of pony voices.
> The attendants waiting by the truck are gesturing and yelling, but they cannot be hear over so many voices singing in unison.
> Anonymous watches from his door with an unhappy look.
> He still makes no move to stop the display.
> The last lines are sung again; this time as the song comes to an end ponies begin dropping into bows:
> A few at first, then all more, until a visible wave is moving through the crowd as sheer herd instinct takes over.
> Shining has failed to keep his composure entirely; tears easily run down his cheeks.
> Arriving at the truck, he looks back at the camp one last time.
> Dropping the package on the ground, he - despite the chains - settles back on his haunches.
> It takes a few tries to avoid unbalancing himself.
> But eventually Shining Armor manages to hunch himself over enough to raise one hoof in a returned salute.
> Flurry Heart is embraced one last time against his side, and he delivers one final heartfelt kiss to you.
> And then he is gone:
> Taking the package again and hobbling up the ramp into the truck.
> You and Flurry remain there watching until it disappears down the road.

> To your considerable surprise, Cadance does not take the rest of the day off.
> You'd barely begun to ask the question when she dismissed it with a firm shake of her head.
> "I don't need to be dwelling on it right now. I need to think."
> That this had been said by a face framed by a sorrowful expression and deeply-bagged eyes obviously showing a lack of good sleep kind of diminished her point.
> Nonetheless you allow her to do as she wishes.
> Her waiting punishment is not brought up either; that too could be handled once her pain was a little less raw.
> Initially Flurry Heart had departed with her mother, but soon you caught her peeking around the corner of your study door.
"Lonely, little one?"
> "Yes, Master."
> Her downcast voice is accompanied by overtones of nervousness.
> As if she half expected you to jump on her.
> "Momma said I could stay with her, but she's working too hard trying to pretend."
> Always the workaholic when she was in a sour mood...
> As if she could somehow redeem whatever misdeed had brought this one her.
> Especially foolish now - this was no punishment.
> Shining Armor was simply owned by another person.
"And Sunburst too?"
> "I'unno where he is."
"Well, c'mere then Flurry."
> Your beckons summons an eager blur of pink and purple, the filly happily clambering up into your lap.
> The chair groans as she settles down - inadvertently giving you a face-full of feathery wing - and you grunt as her weight comes to rest across your thighs.
"You're getting pretty big now, girl. I think you might be in line to get as big as your mother."
> If not larger, on account of those grossly oversized wings.
> "You and Mistress Megan have been treating me very kindly, Master."
"And you've been keeping fit, too. Especially now that you can fly."
> Leaning over, you place a soft kiss on the top of her forehead.
> Flurry lifts her head to nuzzle your cheek.
> Soft little breaths puff against your skin.
> This close, however, you can also tell she is also just barely keeping it together.
"Don't worry, sweetheart. I'll make sure you see him again."
> "I-I'd like that a lot, Master."
> A tremble enters her voice, and you again set down the mouse to lift Flurry Heart into a hug.
> She takes it with gusto:
> Burying her head into your shirt and trembling against your chest.
> Just as she had done all those months ago when you had first wiped away her fears on arriving.
"Shhh. It's okay. You're allowed to be sad."
> "M-Mistress Megan will be sad too. I think she liked him."
"She will. But Megan will be a strong girl. So will you - be a strong filly."
> "Yes, Master."
> You need to change the topic now.
"Say, Flurry, as long as you're here... maybe you can give me some advice. But, you have to promise me that you won't tell anyone without asking first."
> With a little gasp she tears her face from your chest and stares up at you with eager eyes.
> "I promise, Master!"
"What would you do if you knew that two ponies kind of liked each other, and you thought it would be really nice if they ended up together. But, you didn't want to push them too hard?"
> "I, um..."
> Chuckling, you scratch the filly between her wings and earn a delighted coo.
> "-m-might not be able to answer if you keep doing that, Master."
"Sorry. Go on? I know it's a very big question and you haven't even found your talent yet, but you are your mother's daughter. Maybe you will have some of her talent.
> Drying her eyes with a wing, Flurry puts a pondering face.
> "So, like, they're in love but not sure they want to be?"
"Well, I don't know if I would say they're that far. Let's say they're friends, but might be more."
> "Weeeell. Maybe, what if you got one pony to say they loved the other, but they didnt know other pony was listening?"
> You can't help but chuckle softly.
"Sounds like it came out of a book or something."
> Flurry squirms around onto her back and tucks her forelegs up against her chest.
> Worried eyes look up at you.
> "It was a story I heard. Is that a bad idea?"
> God, you're helpless against that look!
"No, not at all."
> Your hand descends to rub absentmindedly over her belly, palm running over the velveteen coat covering it.
"In fact, it might just be worthwhile trying... since you and Megan aren't back in your room yet, I imagine you've seen Mocha Cream downstairs?"
> "Yeah. Why? She seems sad-"
> A little foalish gasp and she cranes her neck to look up at you.
> "Master! Does Mocha love somepony?"
"Actually, Flurry, Mocha... well, she thinks she loves me."
> "But..."
> Big eyes screw up in confusion, muzzle wrinkling in a scrunch.
> "...you're her master, and she's your pony."
"Yes, I know."
> Though that hardly seemed to matter for some people...
"But, there's someone else I think she might care for. Someone who might make her happy again."
> Cadance had urged you to leave it to her...
> But it wasn't really interfering just to give a chance for things to be set in motion, was it?
> Do a little more 'direct management' of your herd.
> Not like you would be really pushing them to date or locking them in a room together.
> ...or maybe the Princess of Love herself would be better off handling this.
[Choice]

"I think, maybe, that you had better tell your mother about this."
> "Awww."
"Something wrong?"
> "No, just... Momma's really sad right now, and I dunno if she'll feel like it-"
"Maybe not. But, you know this sort of thing is her talent, right?"
> "Uh-huh."
"Well, maybe your mother would like to have a bit of something to keep her mind off of this, you know? I know it feels good when you're able to work at something you're good at."
> "That's why you gave Mocha Cream her job, right?"
"Exactly."
> Giving her belly one last rub, you flip Flurry Heart back over and start in on her back - digging your thumb in between her wings.
> God, you need this sometimes.
> It was almost therapeutic.
> Fuzz therapy.
> She probably did too, considering what she's just been through.
"I'm sorry it hasn't worked to heal her heart, but it has helped some. Maybe this will help your mother, until we can arrange for all of you to see your father again."
> "Uh-huh."
"And then Mocha can be happier as well, I hope."
> "Uh-huh."
> Yeah, you kind of doubt she's listening to you at this point.
> Maybe too caught up in the massage, or maybe just too deep down in her own concerns.
> Either way-
> Slipping your hands beneath Flurry Heart's forelegs, you lift her up in front of you with a grunt.
"Hey. Listen, it's going to be okay in the end. Understand?"
> "Yeah."
> Reaching out, she taps you on the nose with a hoof.
> "Don't you be sad either, Master. Okay?"
> Laughing softly, you bring her in to rest your forehead against hers.
"Okay, Flurry. I'll keep that in mind. Now, why don't you go back to your mother and tell her what I just suggested, okay?"
> "Could I stay here with you, Master? At least until Mistress Megan comes home. I won't bother you, I promise!"
> You almost give in to those pleading eyes.
> Almost.
"No, Flurry. I think right now your mother needs you. And I'm sure if you go to see her, she'll make some time for you."
> "Awww..."
"Hey. There will be plenty of time later."
> You plant a kiss on her forehead, just beneath her horn.
"Plus, Megan will need your time then as well."
> ...
> The phone's insistent ringing cuts through the soporific late afternoon.
> Tapping the speaker on, you speak up even as fingers continue tip-tapping away on the keyboard before you:
"Hello, Anonymous here."
> "Hey. It's me. I, uh - just wanted to say, Shiny got home safe and sound."
> Ah!
> You'd been expecting this call - it'd been a couple of days since you'd seen him off already, after all.
"Good to hear. I'm sorry they had to deliver him like that, all chained up-"
> "I kind of expected it. Running away and all... anyway, the letter. I... thank you for that."
"Did Corona read it?"
> "Only after I did first."
> 'And?', you want to ask.
> Maybe that came through without even being said, because a crackly sigh comes across the phone.
> "Corona's been quiet. Staring off into the distance a lot. I think the fear you'd find her was always looming over her even out here, and now she's still coming to terms with it being gone."
"That's - better than before though, right?"
> "Yes. No nightmares so far, at least."
> Sounds like an improvement to you.
"Well, I'm just happy it's off her back now. What about Gracie?"
> “He told you about that, huh?”
> A soft, but bitter-sounding chuckle.
> "That’s going to take a while longer. It’ll happen, though. Shiny's already been asking me when he can go see his wife and kid again."
"I don't blame him. About that, though..."
> "Yeah, look. I think some sort of middle ground would be best."
"Agreed. More drivable for both of us, and will keep Corona's mind settled. Rent a hotel room for them or something."
> "Will places there rent to just a couple ponies alone?"
"I don't know. Maybe an AirBnB. Look, worst comes to worst we get another room for one of my guys to babysit them for a day or two."
> "Guess so, yeah."
> Although, you'll have to make sure it's a place with thick walls.
> Otherwise they'd get the thudding and whinnies of those two going at it every night...
"Anyway... I think it'll be a few weeks out."
> "Besides, Shiny is still grounded for a long time."
"Heh, sounds about right. I'll reach out to you about letting them talk over Skype safely."
> "Sure thing."
> The phone clicks to silence, and you return to your typing.
> Only for it to ring again perhaps a minute later.
> Without even looking you tap the speaker button.
"Hello again. You forget something, or is Shiny looking to talk?"
> "I'm looking to talk alright, Mr Anonymous, but I don't think I am who you think I am."
> Anger - and a bit of horror - surges into your veins.
> You fumble to pick the handset up and cut the speaker.
“Arlene Donovan.”
> "I see you remember me."
"How could I forget? You gave my ponies quite the fright - drove one to tears with your “investigations”, and then riling up that crowd of hooligans outside my facilities."
> "I did no such thing. I was merely observing in case an incident occurred."
"Well, one didn't - only barely. No thanks to you."
> Your force your teeth to unclench for fear of grinding them down to nubs.
> It would do good to contain your anger here.
> If she really was determined to pin something, an angry outburst would do no good.
"So then, Miss Donovan, what can I do for you."
> "I'd like to talk to some of your staff and ponies. In private. The staff we can simply request, but the ponies I have to go through you for."
> Damn right she does.
> And you aren't budging.
"And can I ask the nature of your inquiry?"
> "That is something to be discussed in private."
> The hell it was!
> Your ponies, your business!
"I'm afraid-"
> You swallow, trying to put your anger down a notch again.
"-I'm afraid having to put them in for another interrogation would be seriously disruptive to my business. If you could inform me-"
> "Or I could get an order for questioning."
> Your stomach clenches.
> There's no way.
> If someone had squealed on you already, it would be you they were looking to question.
> Not to poke around with your ponies.
> A slave's testimony wasn't even admissible in court, otherwise there'd be Masters always worrying that a few ponies they had disciplined would gang up on them!
> It's a bluff.
"Then in that case, you'll have to convince your superiors of your grounds. Or you could start talking to me."
> Amusement is heavy in her voice.
> "You think you're calling my bluff, Mr Anonymous. I am not bluffing."
"Is there anything else, Miss Donovan?"
> "I'll be in touch."
> You have to exert every ounce of willpower to avoid slamming the handset down.
> Damn her!
> Fingers grip the chair's arms claw-like, digging deep into the leather veneer.
> Eventually the anger wanes and leaves cold logic in its place.
> You'd deal with her in time; she clearly had no basis for a full investigation or your office would be full of agents right now.
> But at the moment you had bigger issues.
> Like a bit of discipline to enforce.

> You had a reasonable guess why Anonymous would call you back to your quarters early.
> Even so you avoid skulking in like a nervous filly coming home to an angry parent.
> Instead you enter with head held high.
> Knowing full well what you were going to.
"Master?"
> "Here, Cadance."
> Seated on the side of your bed, Anonymous pats the spot beside him.
> You hop up obligingly, falling prone beside him.
> "I... decided to do this out here, because it's the least-likely place anyone will hear. Flurry is off with Megan, so it's just us."
> What do you say to that?
> A 'thank you' is probably warranted, for not adding humiliation to punishment.
> It still feels wrong to say, though.
> Anonymous sees your hesitation and puts a hand on your withers.
> "I guess, I also want you to understand 'why'."
"I called Shining's master to plead for him to stay. Not just misusing your phones, Master, but also going against what you had decided."
> "Not... really."
> Another hefty sigh as he considers his next words carefully.
> "It's more than that, Cadance. You broke my trust by going behind my back. If you'd asked, I would have said to be wary - but yes, you could have. Instead, I find you sneaking into my house."
> Your eyes half close in understanding.
"Have you ever been so - so crushed by everything life has taken from you, that you just want one thing back from it above all else?"
> "Yes. But you could have gotten it after asking me permission."
"No. I would have been given permission by you to try it, not aimed for and seized it myself."
> Your head falls to rest atop crossed forelegs.
"Is your trust for me so fragile I cannot make phone calls?"
> "Do you think you don't deserve this?"
"I went behind your back, as you warned me against doing."
> "That's not an answer."
> No, it wasn't, was it?
> Hands slip beneath your chin, lifting your head up to his.
> "Cadance, I'm not doing this because you disobeyed me as a friend. I'm doing it because our trust was broken. By you."
> He truly doesn't see why those things cannot be separated, can he?
"...let us please get this over with."
> "Alright. Lay across my lap - here, like this..."
> Sweet Celestia, this is really happening, wasn't it?
> Somehow it hadn't seemed real until now.
> Outrage rekindles itself within you.
"Now, Anonymous, I don't think that's really necessary..."
> A few smacks around the rump was one thing, but being put over his knee like he'd done with Megan...
> No.
> Just, no.
> It'd be almost as humiliating as when he'd paraded you around in the tack-and-chains outfit!
> "Well, Cadance? I'm waiting."
> Hesitantly you crawl forward until your belly rests over his knees.
> Going prone to balance on Anonymous' legs proves to be a tricky business, forcing you to both keep yourself upright on your forehooves and stretch your hindlegs out behind you.
> Awkward, but not impossible.
> And leaving you uniquely vulnerable, unable to easily lift yourself back upright.
> Your wingtips are already twitching nervously.
> "Good girl. Now, tuck your tail down?"
"A-Anonymous, please. I don't think it's necessary to take it this far-"
> You're quite unable to keep the nervous tremble out of your voice, but he seems totally unphased.
> "Master. Punished ponies don't get to use first names. You should know that by now, Cadance."
> Really?
"Master, then. I get the point; you don't need to - Eeeep!"
> A most un-princessly noise is dragged from your lips as your tail is dragged down between your haunches.
> Okay, it is far better than being - exposed by having your tail pulled aside.
> But still!
> It takes all your will to keep your wings from snapping out in instinct and bowling him back.
> "Now, Cadance. Keep calm, and let's get this over with."
> When the first slap comes down across your haunches, your mind goes completely and totally blank.
> He didn't just-
> He couldn't have just-
> There wasn't any way he would have-
> "I warned you. Protesting just makes it worse. Now, are you going to be silent and let me finish? Because I can assure you, fighting it is just going to make it all that much worse."
> You can only splutter wordlessly.
> Finish?!
> He meant to do more?!
> Yes, he did - a point driven home as his palm drives home on each of your cheeks, delivering a pair of resounding slaps.
"Ah! Anonymous, it's enough!"
> "Not if you're still not paying attention, it isn't. Focus, Cadance - see how it doesn't actually hurt that much? As long as you don't hit too hard, it only builds up over time. And you've got plenty of padding there."
> You really don't.
> You weren’t lucky enough to be gifted with an abundance of rump.
> Not like your aunt, or even Twilight for her size.
> What is important, is that Anonymous had actually dared to take you over his knee like a child!
> Your cheeks must be cherry-red with the way they're burning right now, and a worried little voice says that your hind cheeks will be in a similar state if he keeps this up.
> Which he is.
> Very effectively - his open palm beating a regular drumbeat on your rear.
> Already you can feel the pain beginning to settle in deeper, a dull and pulsing throb.
> Enough is enough!
> You try to stand, only for his free hand to push very firmly down on your withers.
"An-Master, this isn't funny anymore! Please, stop it!"
> "I wanted this to be fast and simple, Cadance - over and done with. But if you keep fighting I will make it harsher. Do I need to get a bridle for you?"
> He's absolutely serious about this.
> The prospect of being bridled as he lay a beating against your croup.
> Instead you are reduced to resting your head against the bed as flat as your horn will allow.
> Barely enough to hide the tears beginning to leak from your eyes.
> Not from pain.
> As he had said, this was still far less than if he had used a belt or - Celestia forbid - a whip.
> But tears of humiliation.
> You had gone behind his back to regain some control over your life, a need to hold some choice of your own driving you to take that risk.
> And here he was, tearing that pride right back down with this debasing and foalish treatment.
> A fresh reminder of how little choice you actually had.
> Whimpering softly, you try to keep your tail from instinctually flicking that punishing hand away - lest the abject humiliation of exposing yourself to him be added on top!
> How many blows has it even been?
> You didn't think to count!
> Now you understand why he had wanted this done out of view from the rest of the camp.
> In some ways this hurt even more than what he'd done when you begged him to punish you, and that had been pure agony.
> This, though, was a pain of the soul.
> Mortification combines with the growing haze of pain around your hindquarters to grow into something darker:
> Anger.
> Fury at how he seemed determined to tear down what little self-determination you had claimed.
> And bitterness at-
> "Cadance?"
"M-Master?"
> Your voice is weak and shaky.
> "Let me go, Cadance."
> Let him-
> Oh.
> Oh no.
> Belatedly you realize your horn had unconsciously lit.
> A magical field gripped his hand to keep it from striking another blow.
> No, not just his hand.
> Both hands, and his chest too - pinning him back against the bed.
> In a panic you snuff your magic, horn going dark, and clamber from his lap to sink into a deep bow on the floor.
> Both wings spread wide and low in supplication..
"Forgive me, Master! I-I didn't mean to do that, I let myself slip away-"
> With a raised hand he stops you.
> "Come back up here, Cadance."
> Legs trembling, you do so - carefully climbing onto the bed.
> Using magic against him, to restrain him no less!
> That was no small thing!
> When you sink down to stretch across his lap again, it is with utter certainty that your punishment just became far worse.
> You even forget to tuck your tail down between your legs.
> Instead his arms slip around your neck and bring your head in against his chest.
> "I think that's enough for you. The points been made; there's no need for anything more."
"Master?"
> "You're forgiven for the magic. You obviously didn't mean to, and this a trying moment."
> One hand strokes down your neck, through your mane.
> "It's over now. You took a punishment, and it's over."
[Choice]

> It feels strange.
> Laying there and letting the hands which were just beating a humiliating lesson into your rump caressing your mane.
> Like he had a switch, turning him from cold Master to actual man with a heart.
> At the same time you are hardly keen to pull away.
> Resting in his like this with in his embrace, you are abundantly aware of just how close you just came to total disaster.
> If Anonymous had reacted poorly to your lashing out with magic like that...
> A shudder runs through you nose-to-tail.
> Visions of horn rings or being locked away in a cell to await a more serious flogging dance in your mind.
> "Hey. Shhhh. It's okay, Cadance. It wasn't really all that bad of a punishment, was it?"
"N-No, Master."
> You force - or try to force - the shaking to stop.
> "Then what is it? The magic? You didn't hurt me. I'm more surprised than angry."
"I could have-"
> "I know you could have, Cadance. I remember when you damn near put that guard through the wall."
> You were going to say you could be in line for something far worse.
> But that seems out of place to say now.
"Lashed out... I just lashed out at you, I..."
> "Yeah, well... sometimes we lash out. Trust me, I would know. You stopped yourself and didn't hurt me, so that's what counts."
> The analogy is utterly false.
> Wanting him to stop beating you is nothing like when he had snapped and lashed out!
> At you, or at Corona.
> Even so you are glad to hear the equivalency in his words.
> It was reassurance nothing more would suddenly fall on your head later.
"Forgive me, Master. It was..."
> "No, I should have realized. That time I whipped you - it was the first time you'd been whipped, wasn't it? Should have realized this should bring back bad memories-"
"Not that, Master. Not that at all."
> You allow yourself to slip further into his grasp, resting your head on his chest.
> Whether there's some actual comfort taken in the touch, however bizarre that may seem.
> Or it is, as your more cynical side says, nothing but a ploy to gain his sympathy.
> Either way, it still feels like something you should do when on such rocky topics - especially after nearly losing control of your own magic.
> The specter of a restrictor ring coming down on your horn just when you thought it was safe is one that still haunts you.
> Best to show him there was no need to fear.
"I was... angry. Not because of the pain, but because I felt like..."
> No, no!
> This still wasn't the right way to go around doing it.
> Sighing, you let your head hang forward until your mane falls over your face.
"When I went to make that call, I did it because I wanted to prove - to myself - that I wasn't totally reliant on your handouts. That I could still make my own decisions. That I wasn't - wasn't -"
> "Broken?"
"Broken. I didn't want to be broken."
> Even a flick of your tail sends another wave of subtle throbbing through your haunches.
"And then you chose - chose the most humiliating way of punishing me I could imagine. As if - if you wanted to attack the pride I'd been trying to take back with that call..."
> You can hear the rush of air moving in his lungs when he sighs.
> "I didn't want to use a whip. Or a belt, or a paddle, or anything like that. Because that all felt like too much."
"Too much for what? For having a little pride in myself? That's too much, but holding you back with magic isn't? I-"
> Cutting off your snapped-out reply, you hiss softly.
"I'm sorry. That's - that's what happened back there. It felt like you were trying to hurt my heart, if not my body, and I got angry."
> "And you stopped yourself."
> His hand settles beneath your chin, lifting your head back up.
> "You stopped when I told you, and that's what counts. Still... I'm sorry it had to come to this."
> An awkward silence falls between the two of you, each desperately searching for a change of topic.
> He gets there first.
> "Has Flurry had a chance to tell you her 'big idea' yet?"
"For helping Mocha and Rumble? Yes, she did."
> Despite yourself, you manage a small but heartfelt smile.
> If only just for having something else to talk about.
"Very foalish, but very sweet. I do not know if I will follow through with it in particular, but perhaps something similar... Let one of Rumble's friends be the one to overhear it, maybe...."
> "Sounds like playing chess with ponies' hearts."
"You don't need to tell me to be wary, Master."
> You drag your hoof across the bed, drawing interconnected creases in the sheet.
"When your talent leaves you as open to the hearts of others as I am, you feel the true pain of every break."
> "If only everyone could feel that."
> If only, indeed.
> Maybe then he could feel the pain that slavery causes everypony here.
> "Still.. I'll be glad if it does work. For both of them."
"Rumble as well?"
> "Absolutely. I think he's been happier since he found something else to be focused on. Something to grow. This, I think would do him good as well."
> Even as he says that, though, his eyes are distant - pondering.
> This is not the only thing on his mind.
"Is something else worrying you, Master?
> "Yeah... There is something else you should know. I got a call today from Arlene Donovan. Remember her?"
"Her?"
> You cast your mind back - back to the agent who had first tried to pry into Thunderlane's mind.
> When that had failed, she'd turned up with the protestors outside.
"What did she want now?"
> "To talk to you, and some of my employees. I told her she'd have to go through me first; I don't need her taking you apart the way she did Thunderlane."
> Or, you wonder - as a shifting of your hindlegs sends a fresh snap of pain through your recently-beaten haunches - was it something else?
> "She threatened to get an official order to force the issue."
"She wants something. What?"
> "My head on a platter, I presume. And it's got to be something about the eyes on me..."
"Eyes?"
> "Something Randall told me..."
> You listen quietly, tail swishing, as he lays out what Randall had told him.
> The news that the worst of the facilities - the 'glue camps' - were dying out already is welcome to you.
> But something still doesn't add up.
"Then, why does she want you so badly?"
> "That's what I don't get. Despite everything that's happened, this is one of the safest large facilities for ponies. And that's what her agency is supposed to enforce anyhow - safety. Mistreatment."
> The irony of their deciding that mistreatment begins somewhere above the level of holding another free pony in bondage never ceases to painful.
> Still, you suppose you should be happy that such an agency exists at all.
"Perhaps I should speak to her, even if just to determine what this is about."
> "I'm hesitant, Cadance. Really, really hesitant."
"I can hold my own, Master."
> "Yes-"
> A touch of a grin passes over his face.
> "-you've stood your ground against me often enough that I know that to be the case. Trust me. But still..."
> He ponders a moment longer before shaking his head.
> "No. You focus on ensuring Rumble and Mocha have a good time together. I'll deal with Arlene."
"Yes, Master."

> If there was one thing to be said for escorting Megan and Flurry around the camp, it was that at least now they did actually pay attention when you told them to stay with you.
> That one attempt at running off had driven in the lesson not to deep enough.
> And so you can follow alongside at an ambling pace, letting them occasionally scurry on a little ways ahead but always knowing both girl and filly will wait up for you.
> Beside you, Seismic Shift an even more comfortable stroll, given his size.
> "...so, you took the oath of the Royal Guard? What does that mean?"
"A lot of things, though I'm still learning. Granite Cleave is teaching me some things - what he remembers from his time as a guard."
> "But I mean, what does it mean about us guards?"
"I'm not going to abandon you, if that's what you're meaning."
> "Good. Because, honestly Thunderlane? You're doing better as our sergeant than anypony else could. Without you, I don't know if we'd have a leader. And we'd have to deal with them."
> He subtly nods his head up towards the roof of one building, where a griffon sits perched sweeping the streets with golden, piercing eyes.
"They haven't been giving you any trouble, have they?"
> "No. But they respect you, so they respect us."
"Well, I'm not quitting. Not just yet."
> You put on a little speed, to where Flurry is now fluttering around the upper floor of a building acquiring a new roof and coat of paint.
> Tongue stuck out one side of her mouth, she lights her horn and sprays a thin stream of paint straight from the can to splatter against the side of building.
> Megan explodes into giggles as some of the paint splatters back - catching both other pony workers and the alicorn filly in its path.
> A smile plays about your lips as you shake your head.
> Foals.
> You hoped Sunbreak wouldn't be that much of a hellion growing up...
> At least you wouldn't have to worry about unicorn magic too!
> Still, for now you could put up with this madness.
> Especially if it meant Flurry and Megan were happier; both had taken Shining Armor's departure hard.
> Flurry for obvious reasons; Megan, you suspected, was merely upset she had not been excused from school to be there for Flurry through what was obviously a very difficult time for her.
> Not to mention-
> Your gaze snaps aside.
> A pony had just trotted around a corner, out of sight - something tucked beneath one wing.
> It takes a moment for you to recognize him - the one colt who'd approached Shining Armor that one night at the rec hall.
> He'd been pretty torn up at Shining's sendoff too.
> Noticeable, certainly, but not something to be concerned about...
> So why was that warning-tingle at the back of your head whispering that something was wrong here?
> Something about how he'd been moving?
> A furtive glance over his shoulder?
> You don't know, but-
"Seismic? Keep an eye on those two for a moment. I gotta see something."
> "What? Hey, Thunderlane-"
> You're already off, picking up your pace to a fast canter to catch up.
> He's got the lead, but you're moving fast - fast enough to catch him disappear into one of the residential blocks.
> But not which door.
> Shit, shit!
> Now you warning sense was on full-bore, insisting that something bad was about to happen.
> Breaking into a fully gallop, you pause at each door - listening through for any sign of activity.
> It feels like when you were looking for Cotton Cloudy.
> Trying to find the filly too terrified to appear before the guards.
> But now you are the guards, and you won't hurt-
> There!
> Movement, and soft cursing.
> You go to tap the door open, but it slides open easily under your hoof.
> This close, you can get a better look at the colt - no, the young stallion - too:
> Tan coat fading into white around his legs and muzzle, coppery-red mane.
> And a classic caught-in-the-act look - eyes wide, one hoof raised, clearly paused mid-motion.
> But you couldn't be happier to have caught him.
> There might have been a little time yet, but the shelving shoved to the middle of the room - just beneath the light fixture - and the rope already binding his wings tells you enough of what he had planned.
> What is left of the rope was pooled around his hooves; clearly tying the last knot hadn't been as easy as he'd hoped.
> Taking another cautious step forward, you raise a hoof defensively.
"Easy, there. It's okay. I'm not going to punish you."
> "N-No. Go away, I don't want you here-"
"I'm staying though."
> You drop to your haunches, though - making yourself seem less threatening.
> Still more than enough leverage to leap if you needed to.
"Trust me... whatever's hurting you, it's not bad enough to make this worth it."
> "Shut up! You don't understand."
> The young stallion has begun to tremble, his hoof jabbing accusingly.
> "You're a guard. You can't understand."
"I am a guard. But I'm here to protect you, so - try me. Please. Just tell me."
> While you talk your mind is whirling.
> There's no doubt you can stop him if need be.
> Fighting him is not what you want, though.
> But neither do you want a repeat of Chrysocolla's death at her own hoof.
"I promise you're not going to be punished just for talking to me. And if this is about something you did-"
> "Did? I can't do anything! I never will, 'cause we're never going to be free! Shining Armor was stronger than any of us, and they dragged him away in chains like an animal!"
> Tears leak from his eyes as the young stallion slumps in place.
> "He got away. He found his family. And they still took him away again. He can’t come back for us now. Nopony will come for us.”
"You can't know that. One day-"
> "No! It's - it's never going to happen. We're all going to die slaves and I can't take it anymore!"
> "What's going on?"
> Both of you jump up in shock at the light, innocent voice.
> Oh, no.
> You did not need Megan or Flurry to see this.
> In the doorway, Seismic Shift gives an apologetic frown from behind the two young ones.
> "Sorry, Thunderlane. On my own I couldn't stop them from getting around me..."
[Choice]

"Flurry, Megan - can you just step outside for a little while?"
> "But Thunderlane-"
"But nothing. Remember how you're supposed to listen to us when we're walking you around out here? I'll come out in a little while, but for now you wait. If you give Seismic Shift any trouble, he'll let me know."
> "Aaaaalriiiight."
> You wait until the door is closed before turning back around to face the colt.
> To his credit, he doesn't try to flee when you approach.
> Maybe being this far immersed in despair has already made him too dulled to try fighting back.
"What's your name, then?"
> "Barnstormer."
"Barnstormer, huh?"
> You lean over and take the knot binding his wings in your teeth.
> A few tugs and pulls, and it falls loose around his barrel.
"Listen... I know it seems rough. But you're wrong."
> "How?"
> He might not be fighting, but Barnstormer was trembling.
> Pale legs shaking softly as he tried to support himself.
> "You tell me, huh? What's going to change about this? Who's going to free us-"
"They will. One day, they will - because there are good people out there. People like Megan. And if we keep our spirit alive, then that day will come."
> "Keep our spirit alive? How do we even do that, huh? Who's looking out for us-"
"I do solemnly swear, having been granted this rank by the right of their Highnesses Celestia and Luna, to defend Equestria and her ponies by hoof, by wing, or by horn against any foes which may threaten them and to stand by my comrades in discharging their duty in wartime or peace, faithfully upholding the Harmony which binds us all together."
> Listening in quiet awe, his mouth half open in a small 'o', as you carry through the lines.
> "Who - what's that-"
"It's the oath of a Royal Guard. Do you know who taught me that? Shining Armor did. Because no matter what happened to him, he wanted someone else to uphold that spirit."
> You stretch out a wing across Barnstormer's back.
"He understood that you can't win every fight now. But you can fight back by ensuring we don't die."
> "We are going to die, though. In slavery."
"No."
> Pulling the young stallion against your side, you embrace him with one free hoof.
"We stand for each other. We look out for each other. We support each other, because that's how we survive. That's how we fight back, and they can't stop us. I do it because that's my duty as a Royal Guard, but everypony here has a reason."
> He melds into the embrace, listening to you talk.
> It seems to be a good sign, you think.
> Being overwhelmed by the sense of loneliness, he wouldn't be willing to accept your comfort if it wasn't getting through.
"Barnstormer, I want you to listen to me. Fact is, we're kind of isolated here. We get some news, yeah, but we can't really see what it's like outside."
> "What's that matter?"
"What it matters is, things are changing out there. Think about what Shining said at the rec hall that night: There are humans out there who will fight for us. Were you even listening to him?"
> "Yeah! But then..."
> He looks back down again towards the floor.
> "...but then they took him away anyway. It didn't help in the end."
"Maybe not now. Maybe not right here. But tell me this, Barnstormer: Did you see Shining Armor wearing a horn ring when you spoke to him?"
> "N-No..."
> You lean in and ask:
"Do you think they could have forced him to go back that quietly if he didn't really want to?"
> Squirming, Barnstormer struggles for an answer.
> "...maybe they put it on him while he was sleeping?"
> You give him a very flat look and his squirming only deepens.
"And he'd still just walk away like that? Shining Armor was speaking up against slavery. Against the humans that keep us here. He's not a broken pony. And he wouldn't want to pass on the legacy of the Royal Guard if there wasn't hope?"
> Sitting and thinking on that for a very long time, Barnstormer eventually huffs softly.
> "I dunno. It feels like that's just something they'd tell us to keep us working..."
"Y'know, my little brother felt a lot the same way."
> "That's... Rumble, right?"
> You grin; it seems having a somewhat higher profile today had its side effects.
"Yeah. Rumble. He got angry instead of just sad, but in the end he found that there are better ways to fight back - ways that are still helping all of us. And I bet you can find something better to do than this."
> He doesn't look too confident in that 
> "Are you gonna have to tell Anonymous about this?"
"Yes, I will. But - I swear to you, as a Royal Guard, I will stand between you and him if he tries to punish you at all."
> The barest touch of a smile crosses his face.
> "You really going to stand up to him?"
"Of course. I'm a Royal Guard. That's what we do: We protect ponies."
> You open the door again to find two expectant faces waiting just outside.
> Half of you was hoping Megan and Flurry would have gotten bored and moved along, but somehow they're still here - sweating in the summer heat and waiting to hear the results of your efforts.
"Hey there, you two. Barnstormer, have you met each other before?"
> "No..."
> All of a sudden he is surprisingly shy, trying to tuck himself in behind your wing again.
"Well. I'm sure you know of them. Megan, Flurry, this is Barnstormer. He was, uh... he was feeling pretty sad, so I had to talk to him a bit-"
> "Why?"
> Megan pauses, then adds:
> "Why was he feeling sad?"
> "It's - 'cause - 'cause I felt like I was going to live the rest of my life in here. Just... working for you, or your father, with no one really caring what happened to me-"
> "That's wrong!"
> Stamping one foot onto the concrete, she shakes her fists in a classic pout.
> "It's - not like that! We are supposed to look after ponies. That's what daddy told me when he gave Flurry to me. I have to look after her too!"
> Concluding that by wrapping a protective arm around the filly's neck, Megan glares at him.
> Belatedly, Barnstormer seems to realize that maybe attacking her father wasn't the best idea.
> His eyes fall, and he mumbles out:
> "Sorry... I didn't.. wasn't trying to..."
> So, too, does Megan soften her expression.
> "M'sorry you were sad, but... it's not like that. It shouldn't be like that."
"Hey... why don't we all head back to the house, and you two can talk more there."
> ...
> Anonymous listens, then calls Cadance and has you repeat the story.
"...honestly, Master, you need to take a bit more consideration when you do things like sending off Shining like that. I'm not surprised somepony had this reaction, and it could have been a lot worse."
> "Well, I didn't exactly expect all of you to show up! I thought we'd just quietly walk him out the gate, that would be it. That's why I brought him in here before putting all that shit on him."
"Why wouldn't we, after how important he was?"
> You glance to Cadance for support.
> "...he's right, Master. I didn't plan for that to happen, but I can't say I am surprised."
> "I am. Especially someone like Barnstormer. I looked his file up; he's been here for years with no trouble. No fighting, no discipline record, no warning signs at all. But if you hadn't followed your instincts, Thunderlane..."
> Massaging his forehead, Anonymous grimaces sharply.
> "I have to thank you for that, by the way. Another death right now would have been bad."
"What do we do with him, though?"
> "Put him under supervision, for starters-"
"Master. Anonymous."
> He looks up, perhaps surprised you would use his name.
> Maybe he was used to it from Cadance, but not from you.
> Subtly widening your stance, you shake your head.
"I can't let you punish him for this. It wouldn't be right."
> "Easy, Thunderlane. I'm not looking to punish, but given what he did... hell, I think even Barnstormer will understand if we put him under observation for a few days. That okay with you?"
"Yeah. That'll be fine."
> "Where is he now?"
> "Downstairs, with my daughter and Megan. We left one of the house staff watching him."
> After you step out with Cadance, she pulls you aside for a quiet talk.
> Your eyebrows continue to rise as she explains her plan to you.
"You're joking."
> Cadance smiles softly, although you cannot help but notice how awkwardly she walks.
> "I am not. I have even convinced the cooks to make a special dinner for them."
"Don't you think you might be pushing this a little hard?"
> "No. The cooks seemed to think it was very sweet. Especially Vapor Trail."
> You groan.
> Of course she would think that; Rumble was practically a little brother to her now too.
> And since she hadn't been put back on proper duty until Sunbreak was a little older...
> "I'm not going to force it on them, Thunderlane. But they will both be out to look over the messages dropped in the camp's mailbox tonight. I will simply remove part of the stack to be done, and then show up a bit later with food for them - pretend I thought they might be working late and would not want to pause to eat..."
"...when they'll actually be finishing early. Coming from you that's still a little obvious, Princess of Love."
> "Sometimes, we must be blunt. Unless you would prefer to do it?"
> A smirk crosses your lips.
> "No, Vapor Trail apparently decided this was a good idea, so she can do it."
> Cadance laughs softly, then winces when she tries to sit.
"Are you hurting?"
> "Nothing deeply. Just - a bit of an ache."
> Your own smile fades too.
"Your Highness-"
> "It is nothing I cannot handle. Yes, Anonymous struck me if that is what you were going to ask. But it was only his hand, and I am a grown mare. I can handle a few swats to the rear just as well as you or Lattice could."
> There is something she is not saying, but you sense it is a private matter - not something to push on.
"If you say so, Your Highness..."
> "Besides, I want to see these two made happy. Yes, I was punished by Anonymous - but between that and the incident you brought to me this afternoon, I feel it is best to not let it overwhelm us."
"Just keep pushing forward."
> "And spreading love, yes."
> Cadance sighs, shifting a touch so her rump rests differently on the cushion.
"...perhaps I am being selfish, but seeing this to its end will be its own reward for me."
"Do you want me to deal with Barnstormer, then?"
> "After tonight I think I can handle his situation."
> She hesitates and lowers her voice.
> "And... Thunderlane, I cannot be deeper in your debt. If there had been another pony lost-"
"Don't be. What I told him is honestly true. Being a guard means I protect ponies. I look after them. It's my duty, just like it was Shining Armor's."
> That earns a soft smile from her.
> "Why don't you head downstairs, check on them. I'd like to talk to Anonymous about one other thing."
> You do, albeit with a soft laugh.
> The last time you'd left her back there to talk to him, you had blundered into Shining Armor.
> What would it be this time?
> Nothing so dramatic, it seems, as you find both ponies and girl seated in a circle in the family room.
> Barnstormer's eyes are wide, wings half-extended.
> "He - a-actually let you ride him?"
> "Uh-huh!"
> Megan giggles wildly.
> "And it felt really weird, because, like - I knew he was letting me, right? He had his horn, he could have thrown me right off if he didn't want it. He was strong enough to catch me when I fell off!"
> "So then... why didn't he?"
> "Because, like... it wasn't me making him do something. I - I don't know how to say it!"
> Flurry lifts a hoof to touch her Mistress' side.
> "Can I?"
> "Sure. If you can."
> "It's... before he let her on, he showed her how to take care of him. So she wouldn't hurt him. There was a bunch of stuff she had to do so he'd be comfortable first."
> Barnstormer ponders the filly's words, looking thoughtful.
> “So it was like… she had to show him she’d be kinder first?”
> “Uh-huh.”
> “Yeah. There was-”
> Flurry pauses, a melancholy look passing over her face.
> “-there was some other girl who he talked about a lot. She was the one who showed him things like that first. He really, really seemed to like her..”
> "Besides-"
> Megan chirps a moment later.
> "-besides, your dad's going to be coming back soon, right?"
> "No, not coming. Master says we'll get to go see him soon, though."
> "Wait, really?"
> "Uh-huh! He promised we'd get to."
"And when Anonymous promises, he does follow through. I'll give him that much."
> You drop onto your haunches next to Barnstormer, settling a wing across his shoulders.
> "R-Really?"
"Really. Like I told you before, I don't think they could have moved him easily if he didn't have that kind of assurance."
> It doesn't take long for Anonymous to come downstairs with Cadance.
> Barnstormer shifts back into your side at the sight of him.
> It does feel a bit odd, having a near full-grown stallion clinging to your side like a foal.
> Even so you do not move an inch.
> Anonymous seems to sense what is going on, and squats down a few feet away from you.
> "Hey there, Barnstormer."
> "M-Master..."
> "Thunderlane told me what happened. We all talked, and - well, we're all still pretty worried about you. So, we'd like to keep you under observation for a little while."
> Barnstormer's ears fall back, his tail pinning down.
> "B-But your said-"
> "Not in a cell. It's not a punishment; you'll just be in the clinic for a little while so the nurses there can keep an eye on you."
"That's not too bad. Heck, I've been in there for a few days. They're nice there."'
> Tapping him on the side, you stand.
"Come on. Let's get you on over there, okay?"
> You're almost out of the room when Megan's voice rings out:
> "Why does he have to go to the clinic, though. Is he sick?"
> Everyone tries to hide their grimaces at her question.
> How do you explain that to a child?
> You lead him into the next room and get the door closed before Anonymous can answer.
> Barnstormer goes off to the far side of the room, while you remain at the door with one ear cocked to it.
> "Megan, sweetheart... sometimes when ponies - and people too - get very, very sad, they do things they don't really mean to. They're hurting so badly that sometimes they do things to try to make that hurt stop, but those end up making everything worse."
> Cadance joins in as well.
> "Indeed. We just want to make sure Barnstormer is okay, and is gonna keep being okay. He's not in trouble."
> After a moment, Megan mournfully asks:
> "Can... we go visit him there?"
> "If... the nurses think he's doing better, I don't see why not-"
> "Yes!"
> The little pitter-patter of feet on the floor is the only warning you get before the door bursts open and Megan comes charging through with Flurry hot on her heels.
"Woah, hold up a moment-"
> "Hey! Hey, daddy says we can visit you there too!"
> Barnstormer grunts softly as they both plow into him and hug him tightly.
> The moment he realizes not only is his master's daughter embracing him but an alicorn filly as well, the dun coat about his cheeks reddens considerably.
> "I-I don't-"
> "We will come visit you, both of us! I promise."
> A tentative, cautious smile spreads to Barnstormer's face.
> "Y-You sure?"
> "Uh-huh. If the nurses say you're okay, so you get better fast!"
> Barnstormer eventually extends a wing to wrap around Megan cautiously, as if he feared being punished for daring to touch her.
> Eventually he lets go, looking to you.
> "You're going to walk me over?"
"Yeah. Let's go?"
> The walk is made in near total silence.
> When you arrive, Barnstormer is left seated in the waiting room while you speak quietly with one of the nurses.
> Soon enough a room has been made ready - that is, all rope, sharp objects, or anything else a pony might misuse removed - and you lead him into it.
> Barnstormer takes a look around and hops up onto the bed, flopping to his side.
> You put a hoof next to him, extending a wing in what you hope is a comforting manner.
"Hey... it's not a cell, and you aren't being punished."
> "Going to be locked in here, aren't I? Kind of feels like it."
> Before you can speak again, he shrugs his wings dismissively.
> "I know, I know... it isn't. I know."
"Look. There will be a nurse by soon to take a look at you, and before you know it you'll be out of here."
> You lift your hoof to offer it to him.
"And remember: Just because we're isolated in here, doesn't mean we're going to be like this forever. One day, we'll be out of here."
> ...
> That evening finds you standing just outside Cadance's office, waiting for a particular pony to emerge from within.
> Vapor Trail appears in due time with a soft smile on her face.
"How are they?"
> Your whispered question only produces a widening of her grin.
> "They're great. I think they'll be here for a while."
> Nudging the bundle of fur and feathers curled in a saddlebag at her side, Vapor adds:
> "I made a show of fussing over Sunbreak so I could stick around while they got started. They're already doing great."
"Do you think it will actually end up being anything?"
> "Do you not? Cadance seems to think there is hope."
"I don't know. It's not that I don't trust her judgement, but pushing them together like this..."
> Vapor places a small kiss on your cheek."
> "Hey, it worked well for us didn't it?"
"Yeah, it did. It just feels like a relationship isn't something that should be rushed. Like, ever."
> "Bah. They'll be fine. We're just letting them have dinner together."
> Pulling back, Vapor Trail spreads her wing and looks back at you.
> "Coming?"
> Then she is off, although you have little trouble keeping up; one mare carrying a foal to boot is no match for a fit stallion.
> When she settles on a nearby rooftop, your jaw drops.
"You're going to spy on them?!"
> "Are you not?"
> Well..
> It isn't right...
> With a grimace you throw yourself down next to her.
> Vapor shoots a smirk in your direction before withdrawing Sunbreak from her saddlebags and nudging her into her belly to nurse.
"...maybe I'm the one fussing over them, honestly."
> "You're just trying to be a good big brother. Mocha Cream's the one I'm more fearful for, though."
> Sighing softly, she rests her chin on the edge of the roof - still warm from the summer's baking sun - and sighs.
> "Taken from her family at such a young age... she really hasn't had anypony to look out for her. And, that's important, you know? Being - part of the herd. A herd."
"Oh, so now you're open to being part of a herd, hrmm? Should I start looking around for another-"
> "Finish those words, Thunderlane, and I'll buck you off this rooftop."
> There's laughter in her voice, though, and you only grin back.
> "...you know what I meant, though. She doesn't have anypony, which I think is why she fell so hard for Anonymous. Even though it wasn't healthy."
"I'm not disagreeing. I just - don't feel like I know much about love."
> "You know plenty enough for me-"
> Across the way, one of the town hall's doors opens.
> Both Rumble and Mocha Cream steps out; there's some quiet gesturing discussion between them and gesturing from Rumble, although about what you cannot tell.
> That only becomes clear a moment later, when Rumble slips his hooves around Mocha's barrel and - with some effort - manages to lift her up to the rooftop.
> A couple more trips brings the trays of dinner up as well.
> "...well, looks like someone thinks alike to his big brother."
"Let's be fair, an office isn't exactly the most romantic spot to have a date."
> "Then it's good that they're dedicated enough to try for another, isn't it?"

> The following day Anonymous calls you to a meeting with Thunderlane.
> "Cadance, have you had a chance to check with the nurses yet?"
"I have. They believe he was very genuine in his intentions. If Thunderlane had not stepped in..."
> A shudder sets the tips of your wings trembling.
> Rubbing his forehead, Anonymous grimaces.
> "That's what they told me as well. Again, Thunderlane, I... well, 'I owe you' doesn't even begin to cover it."
> The stallion shrugs.
> "I am just surprised you let him off so easily. No punishment, I mean."
> Lifting his head, Anonymous shoots him a strange look.
> "He was hurting enough already, Thunderlane. Yes, he took himself out of work doing this - but I'm not stupid enough to punish for being depressed. Honestly, I'm a little surprised you would even think I'd punish him for that."
"We're both glad to know that. As is, I am sure, Barnstormer."
> Thunderlane shuffles nervously.
> "I... guess I shouldn't have jumped to conclusions so quickly. Back before, when ponies were sick they sometimes got accused of malingering, trying to get out of work. I... panicked."
"Before, yes. Not anymore."
> You shoot a look to Anonymous who cocks his head.
> "In truth, it is something I'm worried about. I don't want to take him off work forever, and the thought did cross my mind he might have been acting out for attention."
> He pauses, and adds more softly:
> "But if that had been for attention, he wouldn't have tried in private. Sending him back to work now would just validate his fears. He needs some time to himself."
"I see..."
> "Hell, Megan was very upset the nurses didn't feel he was ready for her to visit. Point is, I'm not going to toss him back on the work crew just yet. I think he will be better, though."
"Good."
> When no more questions come, you glance aside to Thunderlane.
"...if I may address some much-needed lighter matters - how did it go last night?"
> The change of topic brings a grin to his face.
> "Magnificently. It was all Rumble could talk about this morning. I think those two will do just fine."
> "...can I ask, what the two of you are talking about?"
"Oh, nothing!"
> Your singsong tone betrays your lightened spirits.
"I may have set up a date between Mocha Cream and Rumble last night, and let Vapor Trail carry it out."
> "Did you now?"
> Anonymous manages a modest smile.
> "I'm more glad than ever I agreed to let you find a way for that mare to stay comfortably."
"Tell me, Master, did you see any change in Mocha this morning?"
> "It's... hard to say."
> He rubs his chin thoughtfully.
> "I didn't see any really massive changes, but I've been trying to limit my contact to more... professional sorts of things. She might have been a little bit more 'peppy', I suppose? But it's hard to tell after one day."
> Even that is enough to set your heart beating.
> It hadn't been in vain!
> There was hope to be had for her too!
> And now-
> Anonymous looks aside as his computer chimes, the sign of an incoming message.
> It does that a lot, but the way his face changes as he reads through it tells you this is no ordinary message:
> The smile fading, nose wrinkling and eyes narrowing.
> "I don't fucking believe it..."
"What is it, Master?"
> "She actually did it. That fucking bitch actually managed to get a court order forcing me to present you."
> Your stomach falls out as well.
> Thunderlane gives a startled whinny and rears back.
> "That - that woman? I have to go see her again-"
> "No, just Cadance. For now. Apparently I'll have to either present her or set a time for her to come here and interview with Cadance in a private space."
> Anonymous' hand slams down on the arm of his chair, accompanied by a bellowed swear:
> "FUCK!"
> Rising, you approach his chair.
> One hoof is placed on the seat to let you rise up and nuzzle his hand.
"Easy, Master. Please..."
> After a moment, his hand un-clenches to stroke your cheek.
> "Sorry, Cadance. This wasn't your fault... I just don't understand what her obsession with me is. With you, for that matter."
> You let him do that a moment before pulling back.
"What will you do?"
> "Well... in all honesty, I'll leave that one up do you. I could tell her you'll be available immediately, or put it off - I can't forever, of course, but a few days. If you wanted more time to prepare? Or maybe you'd prefer to just confront this now."
[Choice]

"I don't see the point in delaying it any longer than we must. Tell her I will be ready as soon as required - say, a day or so from now?"
> "Understood. I'll take that up with her."
> "I'll, uh..."
> Thunderlane glances between the two of you.
> "...I'll get back to work, then?"
"Yes... and again, Thunderlane, I'm so glad you spotted Barnstormer before he could-"
> He huffs softly, ears pinned back.
> "I know. And so am I - if I'd found him... after, I don't know what I would have done."
> You wait until he closes the door before speaking again.
"It's not going to be easy to solve this, Anonymous."
> "Yes."
> His hand comes to rest on top of your head again, rubbing between your ears.
"What Barnstormer feels is understandable. He is not sick, he really did mean to do it. You may not understand why, but - it is like when you... spanked me, Master."
> "What?"
"It felt..."
> Your head falls, staring at the floor as you try to conjure what emotions had flowed through you.
> The deep shame at being handled like a foal.
> The burgeoning anger that he could not even give you that much...
"...it felt like you were attacking my pride, Anonymous. Deliberately trying to humiliate me for having the little bit of self-determination that I could make the call myself."
> "That wasn't the point at all!"
> A hand slips beneath your head, tilting it up to look at him.
> To let you see the worried expression on his face.
> "That wasn't about your pride at all! Hell, that's not ever an issue; you've got more than enough of that. It's because you went behind my back. Even as a partner, that's not acceptable."
"Well, it felt like it!"
> Whirling about in place, you place both hooves on the chair and use them to lift yourself up so that you can look him straight in the eye.
"It felt like it, Master. It felt like you were telling me that we aren't partners, that I'm just a slave and I have to ask your permission before I do anything for myself!"
> Rather than angry, though, he just looks sad.
> Again a hand comes up to stroke your cheek.
> "An apology is owed, then. Because I didn't mean that at all."
"Whether or not you meant it, Master, that is how it felt. And Barnstormer is no different: You may not have meant to crush him with day in, day out work but that is what happened. And while I may trust that you only accidentally degraded me, he will be harder to convince."
> "I... Cadance..."
> His hand falters.
> "I've been thinking, and I..."
"Master?"
> "...nevermind. I don't know."
> Leaning in, you brush your muzzle to his cheek.
"You must try, master. You must keep trying."
> No answer comes, but he lifts a hand to rest on one of your shoulders.
> You lift one wing up just enough to touch his wrist with its crest.
"Please. Send the message to Arlene Donovan. I do not believe it should take long to figure out what she wants.
> ...
> Arlene Donovan's car is surprisingly nondescript.
> Somehow you had expected it to be a slick black thing with tinted windows, or one of the rough military monstrosities you had been hauled about in after your capture.
> Instead it is little more than an average vehicle, unrecognizable but for a small sticker on the door indicating the agency to which it belonged.
> She herself was much like you remembered:
> Stepping from the car and proceeding into the manor with a confident, fast pace.
> Her suit clean and professional, hair that might have been shoulder-length bound up behind her head in what you understood to be called (ironically) a pony-tail.
> Eyes regarding Anonymous coolly as she steps into the manor.
> "Thank you for agreeing to allow me to visit so quickly, Mr. Anonymous."
> There is absolutely no real thanks in that tone, and he can tell.
> "My sole goal here is to let this get to the bottom of the matter sooner rather than later. The faster we can get to the truth, the better."
> "...yes."
> Her eyes flick around the entrance room, taking in the wealth he lived in - and then landing on you, patiently seated at Anonymous' side.
> "I assume you have a room ready?"
"If you will follow me, I can take you there."
> "Good. For the purposes of this investigation, Mr. Anonymous, you will not be able to enter the room while I am interviewing your property-"
> "I remember what the email said, Miss Donovan. You will get your interview, trust me."
> She smiles thinly.
> "I am afraid that under the circumstances, that is one thing I cannot do."
> Managing to pull her away before the bitterness between them grows even greater, you lead her downstairs to one of the house-slave quarters.
"You will, I hope, forgive the tight quarters. My Master suspected you would want a room out of the way, where you would not be bothered."
> "That is true."
> You close the door behind her with a flick of your horn; within, a rough simple table had been set up along with a folding chair and pillow for you to sit on.
> Arlene sets her briefcase on the table; the first thing to come from it is a black box.
> When plugged into the wall it produces a low, hissing roar like a distant wind.
> "A white noise machine, to prevent anyone listening in on us. I will be recording what we say so I can review it later; is this acceptable?"
"You know nothing I say is admissible as testimony in court?"
> "I know, of course. But I can still review it myself and include it in my report."
"Then please do."
> "Good. Also I must apologize, Cadenza, for the way I behaved in our previous meeting. I placed a great amount of pressure on the pony in the guard - Thunderlane, yes? - and it was... hard on him. For that, I am sorry."
> Your eyes narrow; was this meant to be some tactic?
> She did sound genuinely apologetic, though.
> Another box is placed on the table and a button pressed.
> This, you presume, is the recording device.
> "Now, for the record, please let us verify: You are Mi Amore Cadenza, currently bonded in service to one Anonymous..."
"Yes."
> "Very good. I am here to make an offer to you regarding our ongoing investigation. We have received evidence that your owner, Anonymous, is directly responsible for the killing of at least one pony. He is also implicated in the unnecessary torture of others and possible killing of one."
> A computer is placed on the desk and opened as well as she speaks.
"I see. And my reason for cooperating in this would be...?"
> "Aside from the chance to bring him to justice?"
> When that fails to elicit an answer, she goes on:
> "In return for your cooperation, we are prepared to offer a writ of freedom to yourself and your daughter. Under the Special Circumstances code, for assistance in a legal investigation."
> Well, you aren't surprised she has to go over this again; after all, her last time telling you was through... highly unconventional means.
"While that is definitely appreciated, I believe you are missing the point."
> "Then explain it to me, please?"
"I have been placed at the head of this... community. However much I may hate it, these ponies are my responsibility. If what you say is true, and if he is imprisoned, they will be lost."
> "He uses you as an enforcer, Cadenza. There is no need to defend him."
"He does. But that much is not illegal."
> No matter how much you wished it would be.
> "And does the suffering of those ponies, the ones you are 'responsible for', not move you at all? Do you feel nothing at the prospect of gaining justice for their suffering?"
"I do. But not at the cost of every other pony here. I cannot let them be sent anywhere where they might suffer too."
> The mask of professionalism begins to crack, a frown crossing Arlene's face.
> Papers are withdrawn from her bag.
> "Perhaps I should remind you of what has occurred here."
> The first is placed on the table.
> Autumn Frost's face stares back at you - bitter, pained, and accusatory.
> "You know her, I am sure. Branded as punishment for damaging another pony. Punishment like that was not mandated. Nor was the fate she suffered after passing through the auction house."
> The second paper bears another familiar face.
> Comet Tail looks... empty.
> He truly never had recovered from having the implant cut off his magic...
> "I see you remember what happened to Comet Tail as well. Severing of magic by implant by no means mandated either; this was your owner's decision. What do you think happened to a magic-less unicorn?"
> It is not something you wish to ponder on.
> But Arlene gives you no reprieve, laying out another picture.
> This time, it is a photo from another familiar pony:
> Corona, from before she had caught Anonymous' unfortunate attention.
> "Your master stands accused of torturing this one until she 'vanished'. I think we both know no pony in her state could have escaped; her bones are buried here, aren't they?"
> More papers emerge from the briefcase.
> "The list goes on and on. Haute Glamour, beaten to within an inch of her life. Chrysocolla, driven to commit an agonizing suicide by the fear Anonymous would lay his hands on her-"
"That is quite enough."
> Eyes closing, you draw a deep breath to steady yourself.
"I am... abundantly aware of what you say has occurred here. But what you present as fact, you can't be certain of or there would be no need for this conversation."
> "We have been informed-"
"But apparently not well enough, or you would not need to bombard me with these - lurid baits"
> At last her hand falls, sliding the next papers back into the briefcase.
> Silence holds for a few moments as she considers you.
> "...in truth, Cadenza, I had thought that after discovering what your husband had endured and then seeing him taken away again, you would be more sympathetic to this."
"Miss Donovan!"
> You stand, dropping a hoof to the table with a solid thunk.
"That is - far, far beyond your purview. I see exactly what is happening here."
> Leaning forward in her seat, Arlene matches you - both hands gripping the edge of the table.
> "And what is that?"
"You want, for whatever reason, to pin my Master with some crime. I do not understand why. What is it you're seeking? Approval from your superiors? A promotion? Pride, in taking him down?"
> "What I want is to determine whether he is guilty of any crime-"
"You have already concluded he is guilty! Now you just dig around his foundations, trying to undermine him. And for whatever reason, you need my help."
> "I am carrying out a normal investigation through typical protocols-"
"By lurking on the edge of the property with the protesters? Was it you who incited them to try and rush the fence? You didn't have any problem using the - connections I made to speak to me!"
> In your anger, your voice has begun to rise - accompanying a furious lashing of your tail.
> Speaking those words in Anonymous' home was dangerous, yes.
> But so was this woman.
> "I did no such thing. I was ordered to mix with them and determine if they knew anything-"
"And all I have is your word on this. In the meantime, I see you try to tear him down again and again - and I remind you that he is our protection from far worse things here."
> "He is your captor!"
"He is my Master, yes, but we have lives here and you are trying to tear them apart! If you are so well-informed, then again: Why have you not charged him-"
> "Because our informant is a pony."
"What?! Who?!"
> "Haute Glamour."
> Instantly your lips are drawn back in a snarl, ears pinned as the beginnings of a scream build in your throat.
> That bitch!
> That complete and utter bitch!
> Someway - somehow - she had managed to talk her way into the ears of investigators, and set them about tearing this place down.
> Revenge, that is all this was!
"Whatever she has told you, I highly advise you to disregard it all. Haute Glamour holds a - a vendetta against me and this place and is seeking to mislead you. She is-"
> "A self-serving, conniving cunt who would sell out her own mother for her own benefit?"
> Arlene's description catches you off guard.
> Touches of a smile flicker around the edges of her lips.
> "I'm not a fool, Cadenza. I see exactly what she is doing. But everything she has said so far has checked out. I can only push this so far on her word, though. To truly crack this investigation open, I need your help."
"Carrying out her revenge plan will not help us, however."
> "That's exactly what I am trying to do, though!"
"What, help her get back at us for tearing her down when she was hurting ponies too? That's not-"
> "I am trying to help you!"
> Her shout is actually strong enough to give you pause.
> What?
> Help?
> Both of you eye each other, breathing hard as tempers subside.
"...explain yourself."
> "You asked me why I'm not focusing on far worse places. The answer is because things are changing outside already, Cadenza. People are starting to form groups, fighting back against these cruelties. You know what you said, about a slave's testimony not being admissible in court? That could change, too. The Supreme Court - the highest court in our country, which can make a judgement which would affect the every state and territory here, is considering hearing a challenge to it."
“Can they be overruled?”
> “Congress… can, but on such clearly legal matters it would not be likely. The Court’s word would probably be final.”
"I am glad to hear this."
> "Things are improving. The worst of the labor camps are closing in droves. "
> She hesitates, then lifts a hand to wave about - indicating the room.
> "And then there are places like this. This is what they're going to become next - where ponies 'police' themselves and are given meaningless 'freedoms' while you're kept locked behind walls and in chains."
"And you think tearing Anonymous down and sending him to prison will prevent this?"
> "Destroy the lie, and let people know that there is no such thing as 'kind' slavery. That even here, ponies have been tortured and died because of this cruelty."
> She leans in again, eyes intense and alight with some internal flame.
> "Refuse... and the ones reaping profits from you will keep you locked up for years, maybe decades longer. They will wield their wallets to force through legislation protecting their 'humane' slavery. Exploit loopholes to protect themselves as long as it is profitable. Stop that, and you could accelerate the end of slavery by generations, Cadenza!"
> The point is... difficult.
> You turn it over in your head, dropping back onto your haunches.
"Miss Donovan, I-"
> Unfortunately, you had not been watching how you sat.
> Coming down just a touch too roughly re-ignites lingering pains from his spanking; you are unable to avoid a hard wince as a fresh wave of soreness lances through your hindquarters.
> Just for a moment you seen Arlene's mask slip.
> Expression faltering from its severe and intent one to something softer and more caring.
> "Has he forced himself on you, Cadenza?"
"No!"
> Rearing back, you shake your head furiously.
"Of all - of all the things that I have suffered, that has not been one of them! It was merely a punishment."
> "A beating. He has been beating you, Cadenza; call it for what it is!"
> You hesitate, adjusting your seat to a more comfortable one.
"Miss Donovan, let me explain something else to you. When he went to look for other investors to expand this camp, he had to present me to them as a - a thing. A pretty pet, a broken and obedient princess."
> Leaning forward, you place both hooves on the table.
"Your point about accelerating things here is taken. But, can I send them all off into the hands of men and women like that?"
> "If you don't, men and women like that will end up owning more and more ponies anyhow."
> You bite the inside of your cheek, drawing on all your experience as a princess to avoid letting the torrent of emotions sip through.
> “Is this how you want to live? Being beaten? Having to watch loved ones being marched off in chains?”
"I - I cannot give you an answer now."
> "That is fine. There is time. I will have to demand an answer eventually, but you can take some time to consider it."
> She pauses, then asks more softly, barely loud enough to be heard over the hiss of the white noise machine:
> "Forgive me if this is too far again, Cadenza, but I wonder: How loyal are you really, if I was able to contact you through a group dedicated to helping ponies escape through to freedom?"
> You don't answer, and eventually she shakes her head.
> "I... apologize as well. When I see the potential to end this injustice early, I can become... very intent."
"You are forgiven for being driven by what you see... but not for anything else."
[Choice]

> You stand again, looking to the door.
"Is there anything else, Miss Donovan, or may I be excused?"
> "I..."
> She seems to struggle with her emotions again, any number of them passing over her face.
> "Cadenza, please... he holds your daughter's safety over you to ensure you are obedient! Can you really say he is your friend?"
> No, you cannot just say that.
> But neither can you tell her that Anonymous is your enemy.
> Seeing your struggle, Arlene casts her eyes down.
> "I thought about trying to buy a pony out of slavery once, you know. Give them a better home. One where they would be a slave in name only."
"It sounds as though you did not, though."
> "Even if I treated them like family, I would be paying a slaver. They would buy another pony in turn, and it would go on... eventually they would start looking for ways to - make more ponies, and I couldn't be part of that."
> There is an unspoken challenge there, just waiting to drop:
> Could you?
> Your mind automatically goes back to Barnstormer's deep, lingering depression.
> To Vapor Trail's fears for her own filly.
> And, of course, to your own family.
"...I will reach out to you with my answer. Or you may reach out to me."
> "I... understand."
> Good.
> In a moment her mask is back on, voice returning to its typical clipped tones.
> "When you go back up, please ask them to send down the next one I am supposed to speak to."
> Anonymous is found waiting in the living room, a laptop.
> "Well?"
"Tell Randall that Haute Glamour is more resourceful than any of us thought."
> "You're fucking joking."
"I am not. Somehow she got through to Arlene, and not only accused you of cruelty but suggested you had murdered Corona as well."
> "That I-"
> Actually throwing up his hands in frustration, Anonymous shakes his head.
> "How incredibly fucking ironic. Since I gave away her ownership papers, I couldn't drag her back into this if I wanted to."
"I am aware."
> "Yeah... not your fault, Cadance. I assume she wanted you to inform on me?"
"Indeed. Apologized for her treatment of Thunderlane, but got similarly - intense this time as well.
> "Why am I not surprised... alright, Cadance. Thanks. I'll get the word around to everyone else she's going to try and wring something out of today."
> That much felt good to say, but you are still troubled by what Anonymous had said.
> Trying to force through the more mindless tasks while turning the encounter over in your head.
> The more you think about it, the more you come to a simple conclusion:
> Anonymous had to know.
> Not about your own - lines of communication to the outside.
> But about Arlene?
> About her plan?
> Yes, he had to know.
> So, that evening - once Arlene's car was well and gone - you head back up to the manor again.
> Anonymous was found resting off to the side of the living room, watching Flurry Heart and Megan play amid the thick carpet that spans the room.
> He pats the sofa to signal you to join him.
> Settling on your side stretched across two cushions, you watch the two for a few moments before speaking:
> A brief respite of happiness amid the torrent of emotions.
"...there's more than what I told you before."
> Rather than answer, Anonymous tilts his head in your direction.
> Prompting you to continue.
"It's not just that she is investigating you. She offered me my freedom to assist her."
> "She what?!"
"And Flurry too, if I could bring about your conviction."
> Both of you had kept your tones low to avoid being overheard, but even so your daughter cocks an ear in your direction when her name was mentioned.
> "Special Circumstances, for deeds or talents uniquely rendered in the aid of another..."
> Anonymous bitterly mutters to himself, hands balling into fists in his lap.
"Yes."
> "But you are telling me."
"I am. You spoke to me about trust, Anonymous. And right now I am trusting you with a lot more than this."
> "Explain?"
> Your hoof stretches out, starting to trace shapes in the surface of the sofa.
"You told me that the worst of the labor camps are starting to close, and are looking to you instead. But Arlene pointed out many will be happy to continue exploiting ponies for profit."
> "So she wants you to what - take me down instead?"
"To make the concept of even a 'less restrictive' camp unappealing. To put me out there as a free pony, where I could begin pushing for even more rights for ponies."
> "But you told me first instead."
> Ceasing its tracing on the couch, your hoof stretches out to touch his leg.
"You berated me for not acting like I trust you, Anonymous. Well, I am showing more trust than part of me thinks I should right now. The offer is - tempting. Can you confirm something she said for me, Anonymous?"
> A test, to see if his trust stretches as far as yours does.
"Arlene said that your Supreme Court is going to consider taking on a case - potentially allowing a pony to testify in court. Is it true?"
> "Yes. It's rather contentious, for reasons I'm sure you can understand."
> Of course you can.
> Anonymous himself would be in danger in that case!
"She also said that if I did not do this, and people did start trying to replicate your work, they would also use their money and influence to prevent further laws from being passed."
> This, however, draws a powerful snort from him.
> "That's a massive over-simplification. I don't see how that is tied to your actions in particular, Cadance."
> Your eyes narrow.
"That makes it sound like they will do so regardless."
> "Some will, no doubt. And maybe it is true, they would have a harder time if you tore me down. But that's all dependent on social movements as well. There's only so much money can buy."
> Bluster is something you know when you are hearing it.
> Sighing, you drop your head the sofa.
> A moment later Anonymous' hand comes to rest on the back of your neck.
> Not to pet or stroke like you were an animal needing comforting, but in a simple gesture of reassurance.
> "Were you tempted to take the offer, Cadance?"
> This is a test, too.
> Just like the one you gave him.
"Of course I was. To not only be free again, but to be able to save yet more ponies from further slavery? This was sorely tempting, Anonymous."
> His hand gently rubs the back of your neck, and you know he understands.
> "Why didn't you?"
"For starters, trust. I have no way to know how much of what she told me is true, except for her word. I had to ask you."
> After a moment, you add more softly:
"I do not think of her as an enemy, Anonymous. She seems to genuinely want the best for us. But I do not think she is my friend, either."
> "I see."
> You roll your head to the side, peering up at him with one eye.
"Being enslaved for all my remaining days is not something I want to see. But, seeing the camp split up - seeing Megan sent off to who knows where?"
> "Where am I going?"
> Cursing softly, you lift your head to meet the questioning gazes of the girl - and your own daughter.
"...nowhere, Megan. I'm just speaking to your father about - something that happened."
> "Is it about that woman who was here earlier?"
> You frown.
"Weren't you at school then?"
> "Uh-huh. But Flurry wasn't."
> Of course those two would share everything...
"...well, it is about her, yes. She thinks your daddy did some truly terrible things, and offered to free Flurry Heart and I if I would tell her that he had."
> "Why would she want to take you away?!"
> Sweet Harmony - how do you explain this to a little girl?
"She... believes that if I do not, then more people will continue enslaving ponies."
> "Oh..."
> You can hear the next question coming even before Megan's lips open to speak it:
> "Is that - bad? Isn't daddy good to his ponies?"
"Yes. However - remember Barnstormer? He's saddened because he is a slave, even though there are other places where ponies are treated - worse. If more people enslave ponies, then more will be sad like he is."
> "Why?"
"Because - he is a slave. And sometimes, it feels really really bad to be a slave; you just want to be free. Even from a - better place like this."
> "Which is why-"
> Anonymous butts in, giving a guarded look from the corner of his eye.
> "-it is important that we look after him and make sure he is better. Have you had a chance to go down and see if the nurses will let you see him yet today?"
> "Uh-uh. Do you think they will?"
> "It can't hurt to ask. Why don't you take Flurry and go see, sweetheart?"
> Once they are gone, you cast your eyes down.
"My apologies, Master. I didn't mean to bring her on to that topic."
> "I'm not going to punish you, Cadance. But lecturing her like that... don't let me catch that again."
"Yes, Master."
> You won't give up, though.
> If you do stick with him - if you do refuse Arlene's offer, in the end - it will be because of the hope that Megan will grow up seeing slavery for what it is.
"May I go join them - seeing if everything is ready?"
> "Yes, go ahead. I'm going to wait back here."
> Today, apparently, the nurses had decided Barnstormer was well enough to see guests.
> By taking to wing you are able to catch up with the pair shortly after they enter his room.
> So quickly, in fact, that you can still hear Megan's excited greeting echoing down the hall as you touch down into it.
> When you peer around the doorway into his room, she is still hanging onto him:
> Arms wrapped in a tight hug around his neck.
> "I'm so happy they finally let me see you again!"
> "H-Hey there."
> Barnstormer flushes, especially when Flurry joins in on the hug.
> "Are they gonna let you out soon?"
> "I don't know. I think so. I've been - speaking to one of the nurses a lot. Talking things over with her."
> "Oh... and?"
> He lets go of the hug, looking out the window.
> "I don't know. It's - nothing is changing. It's - still the same as it was before."
> Megan hesitates a moment, then glances to the door.
> Your head pulls back just in time to avoid her spotting you.
> "Barnstormer? I - Cadance said something just now. That you were sad because you were a slave, even though this is a better place. Is it true?"
> "I - I can't- I mean, you and Flurry Heart-"
> You can only imagine him choking on the question.
> It is not the best one, after all.
> Delivered with all the bluntness of a child who did not realize what they were asking.
> "Please, Barnstormer?"
> He sighs.
> "Megan... you go to school, right?"
> "Uh-huh. They won't let me take Flurry..."
> "Imagine your whole life being like that. Day in, day out. Fourteen hours a day - keep doing the same thing, over and over."
> You hear a bed creak, and dare to risk a glance back in.
> Megan had hopped up onto the room's sole bed next to Barnstormer, and even as you watch Flurry Heart flutters up to settle beside him.
> Having dropped to his belly, he shifted aside to make room for them.
> "But I thought daddy lets ponies work on things that they're good at?"
> "He - he does. Kind of. But, think of your favorite thing to do at school - maybe, aside from playing. Would you be happy if you had to do that all day, every day, for years? No hope of changing?"
> After a moment, without a word she reaches out to pet his back.
> Barnstormer nickers gently at the touch, his ears raising from their drooped position a bit.
> "We don't even get to see who's made happier because of our work. Like, yeah, the supervisors are happy... but then it just gets shipped out, and there's even more."
> "But... what about the other rewards? The rec-re-uh - uh - the rec place?"
> That was from your daughter, and draws a soft laugh from Barnstormer - not of bitterness, but actual amusement.
> "Oh, they're... they're nice. Don't get me wrong. I like them. But... it's not the same."
> "Oh..."
> Silence holds a moment longer after that, during which Barnstormer starts to lean into her touch.
> "It's like we don't even exist to anyone. We're just a big blob of working 'things' - as long as we keep working, then everything's fine."
> Meeting his lean-over, Megan slips an arm about his withers.
> Again Barnstormer's russet cheeks coloring as Flurry Heart shifts closer to her Mistress and ends up resting against his leg as well.
> "Miss Megan? What did you think about - Shining Armor?"
> Her hand - which had been starting to rub his back slowly - pauses.
> "He... he really scared me at first. But when I saw him again, he wasn't mad and was much nicer. He, um... I think he really loves his family. Since he came all the way here for Flurry."
> Slowly Barnstormer nods.
> "Sounds like you really knew him well. Do you miss him?"
> "Yeah. And I know Flurry does a ton."
> As if in answer, she nuzzles her head into Megan's chest.
> "Do you miss him, Barnstormer?"
> "Greatly. It was like - like a new day, hearing that there was still hope out there."
> "Yeah... and I get missing family too, 'cause I know my daddy was real mad when I couldn't stay with him for a while."
> This actually gives Barnstormer pause; he looks down at her again - forcing you to once more retreat behind the doorframe.
> "But - I mean - it's not like..."
> He hesitates, clearly unsure of what exactly he can say to the daughter of his Master.
> "...Miss Megan, you know that pony families are - not often kept together, right?"
> "Yeah, but Shining Armor was... I dunno. Maybe 'cause I talked to him more? Or 'cause I knew Flurry? But I think he was my friend too."
> "Your friend?"
> "I... guess? Yeah."
> "O-Oh."
[Choice]

> You slip away for just long enough to keep it from being apparent that you were snooping on their conversation.
> Even though you were, well, a parent.
> To one of them, at least.
> And everypony used to say that Celestia was 'Equestria's mother'!
> But that still doesn't mean that you had a good excuse for snooping, so instead you turn around at the end of the hallway and walk back at a rather more audible pace - letting your hooves click on plastic tile.
> All eyes are already on the door by the time you enter it, offering the small group a warm smile.
> Immediately Barnstormer dips his head into a bow, but you cut him off:
"That's quite alright. Please, don’t trouble yourself for me."
> "Your Highness..."
> Barnstormer murmurs the title almost unconsciously, right before his eyes snap to Megan.
> She doesn't comment, though.
> Approaching, you lower your head and touch your nose to his.
> He accepts the gesture with some degree of trepidation, finally relenting with a puff of breath through his nostrils.
"I'm glad I can finally see you, Barnstormer."
> "Nurses wouldn't let you come either, huh?"
> You offer a sympathetic look.
"It seems even an alicorn is nothing compared to a nurse looking after her patient."
> An actual grin, if still an intensely bitter one, creeps onto his face.
> "Yeah. I don't suppose they've said when they're going to let me out?"
"I am afraid not, but I will ask them again when I go."
> "...you're too kind to me, Miss Cadance."
"Shhh."
> Again you brush noses with him, drawing a bit more color into his cheeks.
"But, what were you doing before I entered? I did not interrupt anything, did I?"
> "Nah... we were just talking about Dad..."
"Oh..."
> Fortunately there's no need to obfuscate your emotions here:
> The sadness in your voice was very real, but you only allow it to stay for a moment.
> "Momma? When we go to see Dad again, can we take a picture to bring back here?"
"Of course we can, little gem. Maybe even have him bring another picture for us from his home."
> "Oh... but then it wouldn't be of all of us being together."
"It doesn't have to be one or the other. We can take one there and have him bring one."
> "C-Could it be one of Gracie?"
> "Who's Gracie?"
"A girl my husband knew. She was very, very kind to him when he was hurting. The first human, I think, he was able to look at as someone other than a Master."
> "Other... than a Master?"
> He seems so utterly unfamiliar with the idea that Megan actually sighs in frustration.
> "It's what I was telling you before!"
"Well, it might not be the exact same thing for you, Megan-"
> After all, she was Anonymous daughter - and might someday be Mistress to more than just Flurry Heart.
"-but yes. She was the first one Shining allowed to ride him, in fact."
> "Shining said she was younger than me, so I bet he's huuuuuge compared to her!"
> Barnstormer nods, a thoughtful look on his face.
> "Miss Megan? What was that like? When he - let you ride him?"
"It was... strange. It wasn't like riding a bike. He was... big. And of course he can think. He had to show me how to do it so I wouldn't hurt him. Or hurt me; I nearly fell off him once, but he caught me!"
> "O-Oh."
> Soon their conversation drifts on again - Megan offering small stories from the world beyond, from school or places she had seen while she toyed with Barnstormer's feathers or mane.
> Some of the latter category came with a hint of sorrow.
> They, you suspected, had been places she had gone with her mother.
> Or before her parents even split.
> Soon, however, Barnstormer's head begins to droop: 
> Her fingers' gentle touch bringing him to a more comfortable state in which his eyes hang half-shut and ears drooping.
> Every few moments he would pop up again with a start, clearly struggling to stay awake.
> Finally Megan had given up, just stroking his head.
> "M... M'sorry, Miss Megan, y'can... go on. I jus'... didn' sleep real well-"
> "It's okay, Barnstormer. Do you want to sleep? I'll stay a little longer."
> He hesitates, but moments later his head is back down to the bed again - ears splayed as his eyes fall the rest of the way shut.
> Leaning in, you whisper softly:
"You two just don't be too late coming back, okay?"
> "Yes, Miss Cadance."
> With a smile you turn from the room.
> On the way out, you catch sight of Nurse Mellowheart and hurry to catch her; when questioned about Barnstormer's case, however, she shakes her head.
> "I don't know when we will be able to release him, Your Highness. We're none of us psychologists; the best we can do is guess."
"Please, try your hardest."
> "We are, trust me. In my opinion? He needs someone to connect with, badly. He's been worn down by seeing nothing for all his work."
> Pausing, she adds:
> "...not that we all haven't been, but it's hit him even harder than most."
"I will take that into consideration. If he did have something, could you let him out of the clinic?"
> Reassuring words or not, sooner or later Anonymous would want him back to work.
> "If.. he did?"
> Mellowheart cocks her head.
> "I would want somepony looking over him still, at least for a while. But... if he did have that, and it helped him pick his spirits back up again? Yes."
"Good. I think that would be right for him, if somepony could be found."
> Or someone...
"Getting out of here will definitely be better for him."

> "Haute Glamour."
> Randall's grip on his cane is so tight, you can see his joints turning white.
> "I should have made sure she was sent to the darkest, farthest corner of the world, Anonymous. I should have-"
> "Master, please!"
> It takes him a moment, but eventually Randall lowers a hand to brush Posey's mane.
> Even that little gesture cannot hide the fury still showing on his face.
> Radiating from his blind eyes.
"...I realize it seems a little silly to say, but there's no need to beat yourself up over this. There's nothing that can be done about it now."
> "Yes, but I should have realized then-"
"And take it from me as well, Randall - from a man who knows about these things - vengeance is a tricky thing to be indulging in. Yes, maybe something could have been done to stop her - but Haute clearly has a golden tongue. It's not your fault."
> He grunts softly, hand still stroking through Posey's mane.
> "But now it is a problem for you."
"It is. But it could have been a lot worse, if Cadance had not come to me first."
> "Yes. That mare... you have a real treasure there, Anonymous."
"Don't I know it..."
> Your half-whispered admission was accompanied by a tapping of your fingers on the chair.
> Her admission had probably saved you from far worse, yes.
> Now, though, you had so much to think over yourself...
> Already you had come close to giving her the answer she had been seeking before - telling her whether you would free her.
> Before this had dumped a whole lot more in your lap.
> Before Cadance had placed the well-being of your ponies, of your daughter, before her freedom.
"...let's take this one step at a time."
> "Agreed. Can this Donovan woman pin anything on you?"
"Without Cadance? I don't know. She's been talking to my other employees as well, but they all know where they stand."
> "Thunderlane?"
"Is torn between hatred and fear. In either case, she hasn't interviewed him again."
> "Can she assemble enough to pin something on you anyways?"
"I... don't know."
> The regular tap-tap of fingers turns to a regular, repeating ripple.
"Or maybe it's more accurate to say, I know she can prove I did a lot of what she's asking about. But she can't hit me with any of the big crimes without evidence; maybe some small infractions?"
> "So, nothing that would send you to prison... or force you out of contact with ponies."
> Out of contact.
> That would be a change, even if you were still 'free'.
> They'd been a part of your life for - what?
> Four years now?
> Having a court order you to no longer be able to own one...
"I do not believe so. However, just in case - I've been considering some contingency plans. Just rough ideas for now, but just-in-cases should she manage to get something pinned."
> "Explain."
> You do, and Randall's eyebrows shoot up.
> "That would only barely work. It would get taken apart in any sensible court."
"But that would be enough time to set a more permanent solution in place. One that favors us - or Megan, at least. Or the ponies."
> "...yes, it could. Delay it with motions and misdirection. That much, at least, would actually work. Though, Cadance would not ever forgive you."
"She would live with it, though."
> "I think she would."
"That's all I would need. Okay, I think we know our path forward. If any of the investors give you any trouble, tell them I continue to soundly refute any accusations and her efforts are nothing but a rank-chaser looking for a big case to win."
> "Understood."
> Randall stands, and Posey quickly rushes to his side to provide guidance.
> He makes his way to your chair, placing a hand on your shoulder.
> "I think you'll do just fine, Anonymous."
> When Megan comes home that afternoon, you head downstairs to find her already sprawled out in her room - her room again, now that the damage which had been done to it had been repaired - with Flurry Heart.
"Hey there, sweetheart. How was school today?"
> "Boooring."
> With a roll of her eyes, Megan flops onto her back.
> "Super boring."
> You point to the tablet she had been playing around on.
"Uh-huh. Is that why you're already playing instead of doing your homework?"
> "I didn't have homework today!"
"Suuuure about that?"
> "Yes, Dad- eeeeeep!"
> Megan's protestations turn to shrieks as your hands descend on her sides, tickling furiously.
> "No homework! No homework, I promise!"
> Abruptly your assault is cut off by a ball of fur and feathers colliding with you.
> Flurry Heart's tackle sends you tumbling to the floor, if only for a moment.
"Oooof!"
> "I've got him, Mistress!"
"Oh, then I'll just have to interrogate you instead!"
> Deft fingers tease and tickle, and Flurry squirms wildly in your grasp - battering at you with her wings.
"Now, did Megan have homework to do or not? Speak!"
> "No, Master! Ahahahaha, s-she didn't, hehehhee!"
> Megan, in turn, jumps you as well, and soon you have a giggly girl and filly under each arm.
> Breathing hard, you flop back on the floor - just in time to catch one of the house-ponies watching through the doorway with an amused grin.
> You shoot them a smile back.
"Ooof... how am I getting too old for this already?"
> Lifting each hand, you ruffle Megan's hair and Flurry's mane.
"Okay. No homework today, so you've got some time. Maybe you want to go see Barnstormer again?"
> "Yeah."
> She pauses, though, squirming up and around to rest on top of your chest.
> "Daddy? Can I ask you something?"
"Of course, sweetheart. What is it."
> Both of Flurry Heart's ears prick attentively.
> That sets off a warning bell in your mind, but already it is too late.
> "Barnstormer said that he doesn't want to say here forever... so why does he have to?"
"I..."
> "It's... making him sad. Because he has to stay and work. So why can't he go somewhere else?"
> This - from your own daughter, no less.
> It's almost as bad as Arlene; the question was just as bad, and you could not rebuff Megan so easily!
"...it's not that simple, sweetheart."
> "Why not? Isn't there anyone else who would want a pony like him?"
"Well - yes, maybe... but-"
> "Then why not?"
[Choice]

"Megan, sweetheart, problems don't just go away because you move somewhere else."
> Pushing yourself upright, you scoot up against the wall and straighten your legs out.
> One of the children settles on each - Megan sitting on your left, Flurry sprawled out over your right - with their heads leaning on your chest.
"Life... life is hard wherever you are. Especially for ponies. If he went away, we don't have any idea if he'd be treated well."
> You hand traces up and down Megan's back, rubbing softly as she lays there.
"Tell me, what did he tell you?"
> She stalls, if only for a moment.
> Pondering whether to tell you?
> You hope not - and in any case, she's soon resumed.
> "He said it's like - like being forced to do schoolwork all day long. And even if you get to pick your favorite kind of classwork, it's still boring and hard."
"I imagine that's true, sweetheart. But remember, no other place is going to be that kind to him either. You know what I do here is much, much better than ponies have it in so many other places."
> "Y-Yeah..."
"So, if he's having this much trouble here, do you think he would do any better anywhere else? I'm afraid he would be just as miserable, and possibly be treated worse because of it."
> "O-Oh..."
"In the end, he still belongs to us. That means he has to work for us, the same way Flurry has to help you."
> "But I like helping Mistress Megan."
> The filly stretches out a wing to brush your daughter's shoulder.
> "She's my friend too."
> You switch your attentions, brushing your fingers through her mane - drawing a light flick from one of her ears.
"I know that's true. But, hasn't there ever been a time when you had work to do or lessons to go to with Sunburst, and you preferred to be doing something else?"
> "Well, yeah..."
"But you couldn't, because she's your mistress."
> Lifting filly and girl from your chest, you hold them up a bit so you can look each of them in their eyes.
"That's something you're going to have to learn about. Both of you, honestly. This business will be yours one day, Megan, and that means you will have to understand what they can - and can't - be allowed to do."
> "And me, Master?"
"You too, Flurry. You'll be advising Megan like your mother advises me, and you'll have to learn as well. Understand?"
> "Yes, Master."
"And you, Megan?"
> She gains a thoughtful look for a few moments, then lifts her head to look up at her.
> "W-What if he wasn't still be a slave? Could he be better somewhere else out there then?"
> You sigh.
> Putting her in close contact with a pony like Barnstormer... you'd been afraid this line of questioning would crop up.
"No, even if he wasn't a slave. Even free ponies don't have an easy time of it out there. Not even if he stayed free."
> "Oh..."
"He'd be out there alone, with no one to help him. No one to look after him. What would happen if he got sick, or got hurt? Where would he live? And, there are people out there who look at free ponies as just potentials to take back into slavery too."
> "I..."
> Her face screws up, nose wrinkled in thought.
> "...what about Shining Armor! Shining Armor could go help him! Or Barnstormer could go live with him!"
> Flurry's ears prick.
> She turns to look at you questioningly too.
"Shining is very, very far away, Megan. Even if I told Barnstormer where to go, he could get lost. Run out of food and end up who knows where, hungry, and if someone saw him running around alone..."
> Hesitating, you wonder whether this story is right to tell them.
> But there doesn't appear to be any other option.
"You know, there was a pony who ran away from me once. She went sneaking around someone's house, looking for food. They-"
> You hesitate again.
"-hurt her. Badly"
> Megan covers her mouth, while Flurry gives a little muted whinny as her tail clamps down on her haunches.
"That made me very, very angry, because if she'd stayed here then she wouldn't have gotten hurt. I won't subject Barnstormer to that; even if they don't hurt him that badly, they might just take that as an opportunity to make him a slave again."
> There's no need to say that they won't be so gentle as you had been; the point is abundantly clear already.
> Flurry Heart cringes, perhaps remembering her own experience with slavers like that.
> "I don't want him to be hurt..."
"I'm sorry, Flurry. I didn't mean to bring back those bad days."
> "It's okay, Master. I know you didn't mean to."
> And then both are clutched against your chest again, your head dipping down to let them nuzzle into your cheeks.
> On one side, a little arm clutch your shoulder.
> On the other, a feathered wing circles you.
"Oh, my sweethearts. Sometimes the things you have to do in this business aren't easy choices to make. Sometimes, things can get very, very hard."
> Both the children also extend a limb - arm and wing - out to hold each other too.
"No, the best thing we can do is try to find a way for him to be happy here. We do care about him, and we need to find a solution for him here."
> "It feels mean."
"It can, sweetheart, it can."
> Even as you remain there - your face filled with their hair, breath puffing across your neck - your remaining thought is that this isn't the last you've heard of this topic.

> You're camped in the front room of the town hall, waiting for Cadance to emerge from her private office.
> Exactly why she had called you wasn't something you were certain of yet, although you had a good guess.
> The visit she recently had with Arlene was no doubt a cause, if not the sole cause.
> That woman...
> When Cadance’s office finally does open, though, her expression is downcast.
> "Forgive me, Thunderlane. I have to be going out. There's something I must do before I can speak to you. It shouldn't be long, but if you need to go."
> You glance at the clock, then shake your head.
"I can wait here a while longer."
> "Thank you, Thunderlane. Mayor Mare, if you could follow me?"
> "Of course, Your Highness."
> You almost hadn't seen the Mayor coming out behind her, but you offer her a calm nod as she passes as well.
> Then the front door clicks shut, leaving you alone.
> Not that you mind; it's a chance to lean against the wall and doze in the late-summer heat.
> Let your thoughts wander.
> What had Arlene been up to?
> Cadance had been very concerned when she’d shown up on the protest-line, but this time she hadn’t said anything.
> So far.
> That, in some ways, makes you even more nervous.
> Cadance had secrets, of course, and you respected that
> But you couldn’t help your thoughts drifting to the secret fears she was holding back on something important-
> There is knocking on the door again.
> You actually jump as the rapping comes, struggling upright.
"Welcome back, Your H-"
> But it was not Cadance in the doorway when it opens.
> In retrospect, that should have been obvious - she would not have to knock - but you were half-asleep at that moment!
> Instead Mocha Cream is frozen with one hoof lifted to the door and eyes wide.
"O-Oh. I'm sorry, Mocha - why don't you come in? I'm sure it's incredibly hot out there."
> And she had her maid's uniform on too!
> Tentatively Mocha slips the rest of the way through the door, followed by another one of the guards.
> He has barely laid eyes on you before speaking:
> "Thunderlane, can you keep an eye on Mocha for a moment? I want to go get a drink before I escort her back up to the house."
"Sure thing."
> You knew from hard experience how sweltering the guard uniforms could be in the summer.
> After the door closes again, Mocha looks back to you.
> "S-So, Miss Cadance isn't here right now?"
"No. She just went out, but it shouldn't be too long if you want to wait."
> "That would be fine. I just have to pick up some papers from her."
> And with that, she takes a seat in the corner - head tilted down and eyes staring somewhere off into the distance.
> You, meanwhile, have found your tongue suddenly sticking to the roof of your mouth.
> What could you say to her?
> There was so much, but if you started it in the wrong way-
> "T-Thunderlane? Can, um, can I a-ask your something?"
> Lifting your head, you cock it slightly and put on a welcoming smile.
"You know you don't have to ask, Mocha."
> The little unicorn filly - it was still so hard to think of her as a mare, with how slender her frame was - smiles apologetically, her big brown eyes shimmering softly.
> "I-I'm sorry, I just didn't want to be to - um, too probing, and-"
> Sucking down a deep breath, she hisses softly in frustration.
> "Thunderlane, did you have somepony special... back home?"
"Yes, I did."
> You keep your voice even, devoid of any surprise to keep from shocking her.
> Mocha nods, her eyes still firmly pinned on the floor.
> "When you were... getting close to Vapor Trail, what did you do? Were you - afraid?"
"Of Cloudy? My, uh, marefriend from before?"
> "Uh-huh."
"I..."
> Your head tilts, thinking.
> How had you thought about her?
> Perhaps the truth was you hadn't thought of her that much:
> Vapor had been there when you needed her, when you were desperate for a pony to lean on.
> You couldn't exactly say that, however.
> Discussing this topic with Mocha at all was already a huge risk.
"I... I guess I thought, that Cloudchaser would have understood. That it'd been - years since I saw her-"
> No, you can't go too far on that.
> Mocha's problem was very immediate, after all.
"-and that she wouldn't be angry that I'd found - a way to be happy with somepony else. Even if it meant not being with her."
> "B-But you did still love her?"
> Love?
> Well, that's maybe a strong word for it.
"I really did care for her, yes. I still thought about her a lot after that too. After I was... taken."
> "O-Oh."
> Trotting around, you seat yourself next to Mocha Cream and slip a wing over her withers.
> She stiffens at the touch, and you almost retract it - but then she softens.
"It's okay, Mocha, to let go of someone you love. It's not always easy, but you shouldn't be afraid of it."
> "But... he's my M-Master."
> The way she says that, it comes as a simple statement of fact.
> Like that's all there is to say.
"Yes he is, Mocha. But you are the one who feels this way."
> She nods, deep in thought.
> "Thunderlane? Are - are you-"
> The words stick in her throat, twisting into a nervous little whinny as her ears fall.
> You tighten your wing around her, lightly nuzzling her mane through the maid's headdress she wears; a second whinny falls to a muted nicker instead.
"You can ask me, Mocha. I'm not going to be angry."
> "Are you trying to set me up with Rumble?"
> Your eyebrows shoot up; that was not the question you were expecting.
> "I'm sorry! I didn't mean to-"
"No, no. It's okay, Mocha. I'm just - surprised."
> "You're his brother, though..."
> This last bit is mumbled beneath her breath, as if she still expected you to be furious with her.
> "I t-thought you would be - trying to - make h-him happy with a-another pony. I h-heard some ponies do t-that sometimes. S-Set up others in relationships."
"Well, Cadance might. Maybe-"
> "She's a pri- an alicorn! Of love! That's different. It's her talent."
> And she had been the one who had suggested this whole scheme as well.
> Twisting your head to look down at her, you tilt it and allow one ear to flop over.
"I'm sorry, Mocha. Is this - am I - worrying you? Upsetting you?"
> "N-No. Not - not upset. Just - not sure. How I feel, I mean."
"Maybe you should talk to Cadance about this, then. Like you said, she is the Princess of Love."
> You rather hope Mocha isn't so loyal to Anonymous as to report those words.
> Somehow you doubt it, though.
> "I-I should. I will."
> She looks back up - determination lighting those brown eyes of hers.
> "But I w-want to know too. Did you try to make Rumble my c-colt friend?"
[Choice]

“I won’t deny I was trying to help him out a bit, Mocha. A ‘wingpony’, it’s called.”
> She slumps in place, and you quickly go on before she can fall too far:
“But, Mocha, this isn’t because I’m trying to force you into anything. Back in Equestria, when I was just a colt, other ponies sometimes did that too. They looked out for me in the same way I’m looking out for you.”
> “R-Really?” 
“Yeah. And - maybe I did it once or twice too. When you saw two ponies you thought would be happy together, you tried to help them… well, be together.”
> “You think I w-would be happy with Rumble?”
> Removing your wing from her back, you turn around to face her but drop to your belly in the hopes of rendering yourself less imposing.
“Yes, I do. I’m not trying to force anything. You don’t - have to love him. I won’t be angry at you if you don’t. If you do, I'll be happy for the both of you."
> "O-Oh..."
> She looks like she has something more she wants to say, and you give her a moment to work up the effort to say it.
> She does, though:
> "Then it's not - not b-because you feel sorry for me?"
"Not at all. Like I said, it's something we did when we saw two ponies who'd already be happy together. Rumble really does like you - he has since you started working together on the camp's mailbox."
> Mocha Cream's cheeks color a touch, which you take as a good sign.
> "He - really does like me then?"
"Mocha, ponies don't do those kinds of things for other ponies if they don't like them a little bit. It was how kind and spirited you were that he likes, and there wasn't any pushing needed for that."
> Tail swishing thoughtfully, she nods.
"If I can ask... do you like him?"
> "You - can't tell him, okay?"
> For a moment you're ready to accept that as a given answer - but that could still go either way.
"I won't. But I might encourage him. Would you mind that?"
> The flush in her cheeks deepens, and she seems to curl into herself.
> "I - I don't know how I feel about him. I think I kind of do, but then I worry too..."
"About Anonymous?"
> Mocha squeaks, as if remembering something.
> "Oh, please don't tell him either!"
"Relax, Mocha. I won't. But, I don't think you need to worry so much. That's why you were asking me about Cloudchaser, wasn't it?"
> "...Uh-huh."
"Here's my advice to you, then. If you feel like you think you might like him... keep trying it. I won't press you into anything, and neither will anypony else. But, see about it - isn't the chance at happiness worth it?"
> "I guess. But, you have to promise me: Don't - don't push me, okay? Please."
> There's an undercurrent of fear, of vulnerability in that plea.
> For you, of course, there isn't any choice but to nod in agreement.
"Of course, Mocha."
> Eventually, her assigned guard returns.
> Soon after, Cadance and Mayor Mare; when she spots Mocha Cream, Cadance shakes her head.
> "I had forgotten... I'll be along in one moment with the papers you're here for, Mocha. Thunderlane, would you mind doing one last favor for me? Go find Sunburst and remind him to come see me. In fact, just bring him back."
"Of course, Your Highness."
> Finding the bespectacled stallion isn't so easy as you would think; his office is empty but for the typically mountainous piles of tomes and paper he kept in there.
> You can't help but poking through a few of the books.
> Just on the off-chance one of them hid another animate pony, magically bound to its pages.
> But no, only dust and old notes, scratched in his indecipherable hornwriting, can be found here.
> Instead you wander back out again, heading for the schoolhouse.
> It was officially just the 'education building' - doing double duty in training new acquisitions to their roles in the camp.
> But mostly everypony called it the schoolhouse, since it was where the few colts and fillies in the camp spent their lesson-time.
> In fact you never actually reach it; instead you all but stumble over Sunburst outside the building.
> The stallion was stretched out in a small patch of grass behind it, Flurry Heart at his side.
> Before them lay an open book; exactly what it was for you weren't sure - the arcane diagrams within were well beyond your understanding - but it was clear that Flurry was paying them very close attention.
> "...okay, Little gem. You understand what you have to do?"
> "Uh-huh. Try and - and use both my unicorn and pegasus magic at once."
> "Exactly. Ready to give it a try?"
> "Ready!"
> Whatever was intended to happen, however, the bright yellow flash and burst of snowflakes fluttering down over the open book clearly wasn't it.
> With a yelp Sunburst pulls the book shut and out of the way.
> "Well, that - that wasn't exactly what was supposed to happen..."
> "Did... Did I do wrong, uncle Sunburst?"
> "No, no!"
> Leaning over, he nuzzles Flurry reassuringly.
> "Nothing wrong at all, just - unexpected."
> When he looks up, though, Sunburst finally catches a glimpse of you.
> "Thunderlane! Is something up? I was just doing a little bit of practice with Flurry."
"Yes, actually. Her Highness wants to see you. Immediately."
> "See me...?"
> Abruptly he clicks his tongue, stomping one hoof into the pavement.
> "Right! I was so caught up - I'll be right over. Her office, right?"
"Yes. Actually, I think she wants me there too. She called me for a meeting as well."
> Sunburst's eyebrows rise, the scruff of his beard flopping as his head cocks in the opposite direction.
> "Has it... I wonder why. Alright. Flurry, dear, you know where your guard is waiting?"
> "Uh-huh."
> "You go right back there and home, then. Our lesson has already run over-time."
> "Awwww!"
> But she does go; only when both she and the guard step out together does Sunburst look to you.
> "Lead the way."
> The trip is made in mostly silence, both of you too busy pondering what circumstances could have lead Cadance to call for you.
> When you return, she is alone in the town hall with Mayor Mare - but has, to your delight, acquired several bottles of cool water.
> Nodding to them, she motions you to pillows set out on the floor.
> "Please, all of you, sit down. There's something I have to explain to all of you, and I wanted a chance to do it in private..."
> What she lays out next is...
> Incredible.
> Almost unthinkable; an offer of total freedom!
> Only for the small prices of betraying the human - and leaving behind the ponies - she had worked with for so long.
> "...and even if I wanted to, I doubt Anonymous would allow me to remain in contact with you. At least, not if you were still forced to stay here."
> You risk a glance to the other ponies in the room:
> Mayor Mare bears a neutral, thoughtful expression - her eyes inscrutable behind her glasses, or perhaps simply so distant that they are empty of any emotion at all.
> Sunburst is...
> ...well, he's definitely showing emotion.
> His breaths are coming so hard that his chest is visibly pumping and nostrils flared out.
> You stretch out a hoof towards him.
"Easy there, Sunburst..."
> "S-Sorry. This is just... I don't know how to..."
> "Sunburst."
> Cadance reaches out too, albeit with a wing, and he calms at the touch.
> "I know this is - shocking. Terrifying, even. But you can calm yourself; I'm not making a decision yet. I want your opinions on this."
"Our - opinions?"
> "Yes. I have come to rely on you three more than any other ponies in this camp. However unofficially, you have become my cabinet, of sorts - my ministers here."
> You hadn't thought of yourself that way, but in a way it was true wasn't it?
"What do you want to know, Your Highness?"
> "Thunderlane. You have had the most - interaction with Arlene Donovan prior to this. How likely is it that her offer is genuine? Are her intentions as good as they sound?"
> You think back - back to what had seemed an eternity, stuck in that room with you.
> Hunched at the table, your wings pinned to your sides like shields, while she hammered you with one question after another.
> Could a woman like that really be looking out for ponies?
> One the one hand, you want to think it was only because she had seen you as a collaborator.
> That, like Shining Armor, she would come to understand the path you had taken.
> But another part, the ancient pegasus at the back of your head - all emotion and instinct - screamed a counter.
> No - there was no way she could be an ally.
> She hadn't tried to sympathize with you one bit, considered for a second how Chrysocolla's death had impacted you.
> Of how fresh and raw the memory of the flash and pop that had ended her life was.
> She was no friend.
> "Thunderlane?"
"I... can't say. I spoke to her the most, yeah. But it was all at once. Was she upset, or just being honest then?"
> You shake your head sharply, half to clear away the intruding thoughts.
"I'm sorry, Your Highness. It's possible she is honest, but it's possible she is not. I don't know."
> "I think I do."
> Everypony there looks aside at Sunburst.
> His eyes fall at the attention, one hoof rising to nervously play with the scruff of his beard.
> "Tell us, Sunburst."
> "I... asked some of our outside contacts about her when she showed up with the protesters. Apparently she's known as someone who fights for pony rights. Someone on our side."
"So you think she is trustworthy?"
> "Yes, but - Your Highness..."
> Sunburst chokes, swallows, and tries again.
> "I - I don't think you should. Take the offer, I mean."
> Calmly, Cadance drops prone on the floor - tucking her forelegs beneath her.
> "Go on, Sunburst."
> "She is right. We could be trapped here for longer. Much longer. But she doesn't understand what it feels like to cling to what little we have now."
> His head droops, looking at the floor.
> "Before you came - before Flurry Heart came - we were all alone. I was all alone. When you came, we had hope. When Flurry came, we had progress."
> "Some ponies would say that progress is poised to stop."
> "It won't forever. Anonymous isn't the same man he was before."
> Twisting around to look at his back, Sunburst murmurs out:
> "...he's not the same kind of person who would have forced you to whip all of us. He thinks differently now. But that's all because of you and Flurry Heart. If you went, I don't think he would stay the same."
> There's more than that to it.
> You can sense it, and so can everypony else in the room.
> It takes a moment, but eventually Sunburst sighs.
> "And... I don't know what I would do. Having both of you back has - has re-lit the light in my life."
> Cadance nods.
> "Very well. Mayor?"
> The older mare's hoof stirs, drawing little shapes on the floor.
> "I told Cadance what I'd been through once. What I'd - seen, when I was captured. What I'd done, and helped them do. Cruel things. Terrible things."
> Ah.
> Was that why her look was so distant..?
> "This place is - better. Not so cruel. But every day, I still wake up a servant to a slaver, helping him rip more profit out of ponies' lives. Every day, I miss just being mayor of a little village called Ponyville."
> You're actually taken aback.
> Mayor Mare had never, that you can remember, spoken with such strong emotion about being a slave.
> Of course, you missed Ponyville too.
> Yet now her hoof was taking her glasses from her muzzle with a small tremble.
> "Your Highness - Cadance - if there is any chance that this can shorten the years we have to live like this, I say you take it. We - we will survive. It isn't a knock against you, Your Highness, but we survived before you and I will make sure we survive if you go."
> "Even if I do go, Mayor, freedom may not come so quickly."
> "I understand. But if it shortens it at all... I will manage. It's not like I haven't managed before."
> There's iron in that voice, and she accompanies that last statement with a stomp of her hoof to the floor.
> "If there is hope, we have to leap at it. Before more ponies can be hurt. Before this can go on any longer."
> And now, of course, all eyes in the room fall on you.
[Choice]

> You think long and hard on this.
> The desire to be free sooner - before you're an old stallion, worn out by work and this life - is a strong one.
> A powerful on.
> But at the same time...
> Rumble.
> You've done all of this to look after him - becoming Anonymous' spy, becoming a guard, and yes - even taking the oath of the Royal Guard.
> To protect, and also to inspire.
> Not just Rumble in the end either, but Vapor Trail and everypony else here too.
> And - in a horrible, twisted way - it is more safe to remain in servitude than to gamble with hope.
> Maybe Arlene would win - or maybe it would be nothing, and Cadance would have betrayed Anonymous' trust without result.
> Maybe she would come through on her promises, or maybe not.
> And even if you were free, the world out there was not easy for ponies.
> Transom had testified to that.
> But in here... Anonymous was not perfect, not by a long shot.
> Cadance had a working relationship with him though, and maybe even something approximating an actual one too.
> She had been an undeniable calming factor, a pony who could challenge his positions and win.
> Mayor Mare was right - you all had survived before, and could do so again.
> But you were doing more than surviving here, you were building something.
> "Thunderlane?"
> Cadance's voice - insistent, questioning - draws you out of your thoughts.
"Honestly, Your Highness... I can't. Not in good faith."
> Both Mayor Mare and Sunburst actually look shocked, as though they hadn't expected you to swing in that direction.
> From Cadance, however, you simply receive a thoughtful nod.
> "Why?"
"Arlene offers hope. I don't dispute that, and Mayor - you do have a point. Anything which gets us a day closer to being free is good. But I think we already have hope here. I've seen the changes that have happened, and with Megan poised to take over I think we'll see even greater changes."
> You pause, shuffling your wings nervously.
"...I'll admit. We have family connections here, Cadance and I. And Sunburst, Flurry is so close to you that you may as well be her uncle or something. That... changes how we see things."
> "We're none of objective viewers here, Thunderlane. That's what I want all your views."
> Nodding at Cadance's comment, you shrug.
"I'm still trying to be objective... and even so, I can't say we should."
> Sunburst breaks in - 
> "We could always use the escape plan. If we needed to get out of here really."
> Cocking her head, Mayor Mare raises an eyebrow and mutters to herself.
> "So there was another plan..."
"There was, yes. And it's good that we still have it for emergencies. But do we want to make those emergencies?"
> Looking back at Cadance again, you sigh.
"Your Highness, I can't know everything that will happen. But I can say, our chances aren't terrible here either. I like a little hope that we can keep a solid grip on, more than a bigger hope with much turbulence on the way."
> "And your taking the oath of the Royal Guard has affected your thinking on this?"
> You nod.
"I would say so, yes. That made it more than my choice; now it's my duty to protect ponies. And..."
> Hesitating, you lower your head.
> Was this really the right thing to say...?
> Maybe not, but you didn't feel right not saying it.
"Your Highness, what if things didn't work out? What if Anonymous tried to sell us off, or he fell back to being like he used to, or - Celestia forbid - they find a way to trap you back into slavery. What would it do to our cause - to ponies' cause - then?"
> A long silence holds in the room after you say that.
> The air is still, hot and stuffy; it seems to weigh on everypony with an almost physical pressure.
> Through it only a few muted sounds reach from outside.
> Here and there an ear flicks or tail twitches, but nopony speaks until Cadance finally rises with a sigh.
> "Thank you, Thunderlane. Perhaps that sobering reminder is what we needed after all."
"You're welcome. I didn't mean to crush everypony's hopes-"
> "You didn't."
> Shooting you a sorrowful smile, she shakes her head.
> "No, perhaps I was overly-hopeful."
> You rise as well, looking around - and immediately realize that your apology had been sent to the wrong pony.
> It wasn't Cadance who had needed it, but Mayor Mare.
> Her head had fallen, ears folding down.
"...Mayor, I... I'm sorry."
> "No. I'm fine."
> The crack in her voice tells the lie.
> She lifts her head up, and you can see the sorrow in her eyes.
> "I suppose I wanted it to be true, even more than Her Highness. I wanted to be free, to go back home or look for my family again..."
> Leaning in, you nicker gently and brush your nose along her neck - not a truly intimate gesture, but one of close reassurance.
> Mayor Mare's smile widens a touch.
> "Now, don't you go doing that now, Thunderlane. What would Vapor Trail say?"
"That I'm a foal if I'm not there for a pony who needed it."
> "Oh, you are a silly foal. I will be fine. Like I said, I endured before and I can endure again."
> From behind you, Sunburst speaks up as well:
> "We all want that one some level, Mayor. I very much want to see Starlight Glimmer again someday. You're not alone."
"Yes. You're never alone."
> Mayor hesitates a moment, then leans against your neck and closes her eyes with a smile.

> You’re eating breakfast the next morning, when you first notice something is off about Mocha Cream.
> She sits calmly the side of the table, taking down any notes on tasks you want done during the day - scratching them down in messy writing with her mouth, or her horn if she was feeling good that day.
> Today, however, you repeatedly catch her watching you from the corner of your vision:
> Staring with those big, round, brown eyes.
> Her mouth half-open, as if she wanted to say something but couldn’t quite manage the words.
> At last you set the fork down one final time and twist in your chair to look down at her.
“Mocha, is something wrong?”
> “N-No, Master. Nothing’s w-wrong.”
> She’s lying.
> Strikingly well, considering - her ears are pinned and eyes furtive, but she's managed to keep herself more or less calm.
"Mocha..."
> Standing from the chair, you drop to one knee in front of her and reach out with a hand for her cheek.
"You know, Mocha, that you can tell me something. Especially if it's worrying you, I'll always try to at least listen."
> "I know, Master. But..."
> To your surprise, she doesn't go straight for your hand.
> "M-Master, I'm a-afraid. I think. I don't know."
"Well, why don't you start by telling me everything from the beginning again?"
> "I don't..."
> One hoof comes up to brush her mane aside, tug at her maid's headdress - and it's shaking.
> Shaking worse than she had ever been since she came back.
"Mocha?"
> "M-Master... I think - I think I-I m-might - I d-don't know, I think I might-"
> You silence her with one raised finger.
> No one who was repeating themselves that often was really ready to speak.
"Deep breaths, Mocha. Take a few deep breaths and tell me slowly. You can close your eyes if you need to, to help clear your mind."
> Immediately taking advantage of your offer, Mocha squeezes her eyes shut and begins to breath deeply.
> Eventually the breaths calm into something approximating a normal rate.
> Her hoof drops back down to the floor, and eyes un-scrunch into merely being closed.
"...very good. Now, Mocha, go ahead and tell me what you were going to say before?"
> "Master-"
> Her voice is a tiny whisper, almost difficult to hear even in the quiet of the house.
> "-w-what if I l-like somep-pony? H-Here?"
"Well, what if you do?"
> That seems to short-circuit her entire thought process.
> Whatever response she had been expecting, simply turning the question back around at her wasn't it.
> Mocha Cream cocks her head, lip trembling.
> "I... don't know. I can't - I don't - not s-sure if I even care-"
"Mocha, stop again. take another deep breath, and start again - from the beginning."
> This time, she does - telling you everything.
> Working with Rumble on the camp's message-box was something you'd been aware of, of course.
> And you knew the feelings Rumble had for her as well.
> After all, he had shown up in the hospital when Mocha Cream was attacked.
> ...and yes, you suppose you knew about the ideas some had for her as well - you'd told Flurry Heart to go bring her suggestions to Cadance, after all.
> But that they had actually carried out a plan...
> That was new.
> Especially that Thunderlane had some part in it; you hadn't expected it to be him, of all ponies.
> "...s-so, I d-don't know if I like h-him or if I d-don't, and I thought y-you would be mad-"
> At some point you'd transitioned from kneeling to sitting on the floor next to her as you listened.
> Now you reach out for her again; this time, you give her no choice about whether to touch your hand or not.
> It settles on her shoulder, squeezing reassuringly.
"First: I've told you before I wouldn't be angry, and I still hold to that. I'm not. In fact, I'm glad you told me."
> "W-Why?"
> She truly, honestly, doesn't seem to understand.
"Because even if your heart is for someone else, I can still care for you. I can still help you. I can still be there when you need an ear to talk to or someone to lean on."
> And she does just that:
> Leaning over in place to rest herself against your arm.
> "O-Oh, Master. You're t-the kindest p-person I've ever known."
"I doubt that. But I'm glad to help."
> Reeling her in with your arm, you bring Mocha next to you and drop her onto her haunches with a tap on her rump.
"Now, about how you feel."
> She gets ready to flinch again, but you head that off quickly:
"Mocha, for the last time - you don't have to be afraid of feeling like that about somepony. You are allowed. It's not forbidden to love someone."
> "B-but it feels... like I-I'm aband-doning you!"
"You aren't. The fact that you're telling me this says enough."
> Her eyes fall somewhat, but she still speaks:
> "T-Thunderlane said I should t-take a chance on happiness. T-That it would be worth it."
"I think that's fair, yes. And of course, you can want to be with him and still be close with me. In fact-"
> It's risky, but you still reach out to put an arm on her back again.
"-in fact, I would like that very much. Because no matter what happens, I will still be here for you. As a friend, if not as a lover. To care for you, because you belong to me."
> Rather than lean into it, Mocha outright collapses against you - burying her muzzle against your chest.
> "W-Why does this feel so wrong, M-Master?"
> You wrap her in your arms - not just a loving touch, but a protective and defensive one.
"Because it's new. It's scary. It's unknown. For a long time, I'm all you had to care about - and your owner, before that. Now, you're thinking about something new, and it means stepping out of your comfort zone."
> Slowly her breathing calms again as you let your hand run up and down her back.
"But that's okay, Mocha. That's okay. You're allowed."
> "T-Thank you, Master..."
[Choice]

> ...you know, you should probably have a few choice words with Rumble too.
> Just let him know that you'll be watching over his shoulder.
> Making sure nothing bad happens to Mocha Cream.
> That's like, a father's duty - right?
> And even if Mocha was no daughter of yours, she was damn close enough.
> Plus, you needed practice.
> For when Megan was that age; she wasn't too far off now.
"Mocha?"
> You lean over, placing another soft kiss in the middle of her forehead.
"Just know, that if you ever want to have Rumble come up here for a while - or go down into the camp to see him -"
> You can feel her tense up in your grip almost immediately.
"Hey, hey. It's okay, Mocha. Nobody will hurt you."
> "I-I'm afraid, Master. A-And..."
> She trails off awkwardly, tucking her head back in against your chest again.
"...I'm still here, Mocha."
> "...I don't want a-a guard to w-walk with me when I'm going - going to-"
> To see him.
> That's reasonable, you suppose.
> Who would want a guard watching over you on a date? 
"That's understandable, Mocha. And I don't want you feeling uncomfortable."
> Wrapping both your arms around her again, you pull her in tight and whisper:
> "I'm going to see that you're happy one day, Mocha. We'll figure something out, I swear. Trust me."
> This is answered with a small, comfortable nicker.
> "Of c-course I do, Master!"
> And, seeing her curled up against your chest - tail tucked around one of your legs and head resting with one ear to your heartbeat - you're sure she does.
> You wait until a little bit later before sending word for Rumble to be sent up to the manor.
> Time enough for Mocha Cream to get busy with other work.
> So she wouldn't be around to see this.
> In fact, you end up making him wait too:
> Half in a deliberate effort to let the colt sweat a little before facing you.
> Half out of accident as well, though - a sudden phone call adding to what you'd already planned for him to sit through.
> At last you open the study door, peering out into the hallway beyond.
"Come in, Rumble."
> You shut the door after him and turn, walking to the window.
> "...sir? What did you want me here for?"
> Huh.
> That's - unusually respectful of him.
> Must be feeling the heat for sure.
"Rumble. There's actually only one thing I wanted to talk to you about today, but it's very important to me."
> "Huh?"
> You can hear him pad up softly behind you.
"Mocha Cream, Rumble. I know you've been - interested in her affection for some time. And I know that it's recently started to come a little further."
> For a few long moments, he doesn't say anything at all.
> Then-
> "I won't stop seeing her. Not unless she wants me to stop. And I'll know if you just tell her to say that!"
"Rumble-"
> "Just because you're our 'master' doesn't mean you can run our private lives like that! And-"
"Rumble!"
> Your snap, accompanied by spinning in place to face him, finally shuts the colt down.
> He looks up, seeming to suddenly realize exactly what he had been doing - fear clouding his face.
"I'm not going to order you to stop seeing her. If anything..."
> Turning back to the window, you let your eyes roam out over the camp.
"I've been accused of playing favorites before, Rumble. Of doting over certain ponies, letting them get away with anything. I'll reject the latter, but can't deny I care very much for Mocha Cream in particular."
> Mouth opening and closing a few times, he finally seems to settle for an understanding that whatever you were going to say, it wasn't what he'd thought.
"Not as a - a lover. I have not forced her into that, Rumble... if anything, she almost feels like a child to me. I care for her, Rumble, and if anything now I'm glad to see that she's found someone to be happy with."
> "Even if it's me?"
> The challenge is met with a bit of a shrug.
"Yes, even you. You're rude, angry, and still manage to keep that mostly in check."
> "But you didn't order me up here just to tell me you care about her."
> Heh.
> Little guy wasn't a fool, that's for sure.
"Indeed. I wanted to talk about the flip side of caring, Rumble. She is - still learning. Still young, and in many ways still fragile. Including in her heart."
> Now you do turn around:
> Taking the last couple steps up to Rumble and leaning down to loom over him.
> Your voice drops a couple of octaves.
"I care very much about her, Rumble, and I'm willing to give you a chance. But I'm also warning you: Be very, very careful with her. Should you hurt her - should you hurt someone I care about a lot - I will hurt you right back."
> He actually backs up, retreating with wings half-spread as if he wasn't totally sure whether to fight or flee.
"Not a punishment, Rumble. Not as a Master. This goes much, much deeper than that. Your brother will not be able to protect you, nor will Cadance."
> At some point this had stopped being an act, as real emotions long since hidden away stirred to life and climbed up from deep within your heart.
> Stumbling on a back hoof, Rumble ends up on his haunches and looking up at you.
> And for once, real fear - naked and unmasked - on his face.
> All attempt at bravado done away with.
"Am I entirely understood, Rumble? You have my explicit support to be with Mocha Cream. But you also have my attention. Is that clear?"
> He swallows.
> Hard.
> "Y-Yes. Sir."
> Heh, his voice is barely a squeak.
> "I understand. No heartbreaking. Got it."
"Good."
> Standing back up again, you turn and walk back to the window.
> Channeling that had been...
> Odd.
> You hadn't felt like that since you had to deal with-
> With-
> Megan's mother.
> Protective?
> Defensive?
> Maybe.
> "You - You really do care about her. A lot, I mean."
"Absolutely."
> You sigh, the mask you'd put on starting to fall away as well.
"I can't say I was always the best for her. But she was always there for me nonetheless, and at some point - I started feeling for her as well."
> "Um, I, I kind of saw that. When you were in the clinic with her, after she was attacked."
"You came in looking to see her, but I was already there, yes."
> Now you pause:
> How much of what you knew did you want to reveal?
"...you might have also seen then, she was - attached to me. More than is right. I might be her Master, but I'm not her one true love. No matter what she thinks."
> "That's why you, uh, you're looking for, uh, someone to be with her?"
"I wouldn't say I was looking, but I was glad to see her take an interest in someone else."
> "And that's why you're worried for her too."
> Damn, it's proving hard to keep the mask of annoyance up in the face of this.
> Especially when he's sounding so worried too.
"That's exactly it, Rumble. So, for her sake as much as mine - don't. Mess. Up."
> "I won't. I promise!"
> He sits up a little more straight, puffing his chest out and half-spreading his wings in a classic pegasus-aggression stance.
> "I'll be the absolute best she could have. Just to show you I can!"
> ... 
> This particular evening, you opt to take a stroll through the camp rather than ask Cadance to come to you.
> ...the happy little ball of joy skipping along at your side may have something to do with it.
> Megan is giggling as she keeps pace, Flurry Heart just as easily keeping pace at her side. 
"Dear, do watch where you're going. You don't want to run into anyone!"
> "I'll be fine, Daddy - oof!"
> "Gotcha!"
> Flurry, who had taken advantage of Megan's momentary distraction, had tagged her.
> Now she flutters into the air, hovering, just outside of your daughter's reach.
> "No fair!"
> "Want me to come down? Oookaaaaay!"
> Another 'ooof' is heard as Flurry descends directly atop Megan, nearly knocking the two over.
"Be careful, you two!"
> "Yes, Master!"
> "Yes, Daddy..."
> Chuckling softly beneath your breath, you finally reach the rec hall.
> Here the crowd of ponies thickens - enjoying their brief respite between the dinner bell's signalling workday's end and the lights-out.
> Some acknowledge you with nods, small bows, or looks.
> Most seem to simply prefer to ignore you.
> Megan and Flurry, on the other hand, draw rather more attention.
> Slipping into the rec hall proper, you point them towards the rear where a space had been cleared out and some games marked into the floor.
"You want to go play with the others, you two?"
> "Yeah!"
"Go right ahead; I'll be right over here. And remember, Megan, you can't make them let you win. It's not nice."
> "I know, Daddy!"
> The eyeroll which accompanies this is enough to set your stomach churning.
> God, was your little daughter getting to that age already?
"Alright, go on then!"
> After they scamper up, a few other ponies take the opportunity to speak to you in quiet tones.
> Topics are this and that - news from around the camp, issues they thought you should know about, projects they considered important...
> A few pleas for some important request that they felt was too important for the suggestions box, or for personal assistance in recovering family members from the market.
> Those, you passed off with noncommittal words towards "doing something about it".
> Mostly you just enjoy the ambiance.
> It's - earthy, rustic, simplistic.
> The kind of thing you'd expect to find in some old lodge in the mountains somewhere.
> Actually pleasant.
> Eventually, however, the crowd parts for a far more welcome face.
> Cadance seats herself at your right, with Sunburst close behind.
"Good evening, Cadance."
> "Out with the children tonight, Master?"
"Yes; Megan wanted to go out."
> You gesture to where they were currently embroiled in a somewhat-foreign game of ball whose rules you weren't entirely sure of.
> Though too far to hear, it didn't appear to be going badly...
“They seem to be doing well - both of them.”
> “Trust me, I am glad to see it.”
“Well, I don’t think you need to worry. She seems to be bouncing back excellently. Speaking of which, Sunburst, how are Flurry’s magic lessons going?”
> The stallion cocks his head, tugging on his short scruff of beard.
> “Reasonably well, all things considered. She is a studious, if perhaps - over-enthusiastic - learner.”
“Over-enthusiastic?”
> “We have begun to practice outside with a reason. Especially now that I am beginning to try to instruct her on combining her tribal magics.”
> Cocking his head towards Cadance, Sunburst pauses.
> “I… don’t suppose you’ve thought of anything more that could help with her, have you Miss Cadance?”
> “I’m afraid not, Sunburst. I’ll keep instructing what I remember of Celestia teaching me, but she knew so much more…”
“Well, we will manage nonetheless.”
> Tearing her eyes away from her daughter, Cadance turns to you.
> “Master, if I could ask you about something else for a moment?”
“Of course, Cadance. What is it?”
> “Barnstormer, Master. I have spoken to the nurses, and we agree: At this point, we need to either bring in an outside specialist to see to him, or release him. But just keeping him cooped up in a room is doing him no good.”
> Your smile fades, a thoughtful frown replacing it.
“...I see. I can’t honestly say I know of any psychiatrists specializing in ponies - especially all the way out here. I’m sure you could find one in a big city, or some hack who knows the basics, but someone really equipped to treat him?”
> “It would be too far, Master?”
“Much. I’d have to fly them out here - if they even agreed to stay.”
> “I see…”
> Frowning as well, Cadance sighs with a shuffle of her wings.
> “It was too much to hope for, I suppose.”
“I can reassign him to lighter duty - for a while. But not indefinitely.”
> “We will have to have somepony look after him...”
> “Um, Daddy? What if - what if I were to ride him sometimes?”
> Everyone jumps; amid the rec hall’s hubbub and conversation, no one had heard Meghan and Flurry’s return.
> Not even the ponies, with their sensitive hearing.
> “Megan, dear, we went over this. What Shining Armor did with you was special. Not every pony will want that."
"Absolutely. You'd need to ask him first, and there's absolutely no guarantee he'd agree. Even if he did, it might not change what he wants-"
> "I did already."
> You blink.
"...what?"
> "Ask him. I did it already. When I went to see him again."
> Quickly you glance to Cadance; she returns an equally blank look.
> Apparently this was just as much a surprise to her as it was to you.
> "She - she did discuss it with him once, Master, but there was no asking about trying it with him-"
> "Duh."
> Megan rolls her eyes.
> "That was the next day. I thought he might want to - try it out. I mean, it helped Shining right? With, um, Gracie?"
"That was a touch different, Sweetheart. Shining Armor was angry; he needed to be shown kindness. Barnstormer is - sad."
> "But we had fun together! And I think Barnstormer might have fun with me too!"
> Urgh.
> You rub your forehead.
"Megan, you can't just expect that he will say yes-"
> "He did."
> You shoot another flat look at Megan; this time, she begins to squirm.
> "...okay, he said he'd be willing to try it out. But that's a yes, right?"
> Well, damn.
> You can’t really refuse that - she’s beat you at your own game.
[Choice]

"...Cadance, you've seen how Megan interacts with him, yes?"
> "Yes, Master. I've looked in on when she visited him in the clinic."
"Your thoughts?"
> Pondering for a moment, she tilts her head and speaks slowly.
> "She listens well, Master, and is open to him. I think that if we were to - try this, Megan would listen to him then too."
"But would he listen to Megan?"
> Hesitating, Cadance recognizes the difficult question you've laid for her.
> "I - I believe so, Master. He knows she is listening to him, and - for a pony like Barnstormer, I think that is what matters the most: That he is being heard."
"And if he doesn't?"
> You look back to Megan, one eyebrow raised.
"Will he follow her orders, not merely suggestions?"
> "...yes, Master. From her, he will."
> Hmm.
"Alright, sweetheart. You and Flurry, go back and play some more. I'll go talk to Barnstormer tomorrow, and we'll see about this."
> "Yaaaaay-"
"But!"
> Your interjection cuts through her celebratory whoop.
"But, Megan, in the future, I want you to ask me about these things before you go putting ideas in his head. Or anyone else’s."
> "You didn't say that before..."
"I know, and that's why you're not in trouble. These things aren't so easy, though, and there are reasons I would want answers to some questions first."
> "...alright. But we can still try it, right?"
"After - maybe - after I talk to Barnstormer."
> There's an affirmation in your tone, though, however unintentional it might be, and Megan runs off with another happy yell - Flurry at her heels.
> "...she is entering the age when they get rebellious, isn't she?"
"And Flurry isn't far behind. We're both going to have hell to pay; I can sense it."
> Cadance nods thoughtfully, shuffling her wings.
> "What did you want to talk to Barnstormer about?"
"Rules. Honestly, I'm still a little iffy about this. Shining Armor was one thing; he suggested it. Now we're talking about putting her on the back of a pegasus who just recently tried to..."
> You cut off, conscious of the many ears still potentially within hearing distance.
> "I recognize that, Master. But he wasn't violent, even when he was caught. I don't think he wants to be."
"That's why I'm giving it a chance. There are still some basic rules I want to set first, though. Like for instance..."
> ...
> The next day sees you heading down to the clinic.
> Alone.
> Megan is still at school, leaving you free to deal with this situation before she can return home.
> Barnstormer, sprawled on the bed, jumps when he sees you crack the door to his room open.
> For his sake, you knock on the doorframe before entering.
"Can I come in? I'd like to talk."
> "It's your building, Master."
> He does not add that he is your pony too, you notice.
> Slipping in, you shut the door behind you and move to sit on the edge of the bed.
"...so. Megan told me what she's been discussing with you."
> Even through his coat, you can see the blood drain from his face.
"Now, I'm not mad. In fact, if you really are agreeing with this... I might let it go through. But there's some things I want to talk about first."
> He doesn't even need to ask what you are speaking about.
> "I think I do want to try, Master. It - I don't know. Half of me thinks it will be the most humiliating thing I've ever felt."
> His eyes fall to his hooves.
> "But the way she talks about it, it sounds like she really did have a - a bond with him. And Shining Armor - Shining Armor was like..."
"He was important to you. I've heard."
> "Yeah..."
> Despite your reassurances, Barnstormer still occupies the farthest possible spot on the bed from you.
> You sense that no amount of empty platitudes would break the fear in his mind.
> Instead, you jump straight to the point:
"Barnstormer, I'm willing to let you try what you and Megan are looking to do. But, there are going to be a few rules about it."
> "Rules, Master?"
"Yes. For one - no flying with her. Not just because I don't want her to fall, but you're not quite full grown yet and I don't want you to hurt yourself getting over-confident."
> He curls up a touch, head twisting around to look back at his wings.
> "I know."
"Maybe eventually - once we see how long you can go without tiring yourself out - we can think about having you try flight. But not yet."
> Ticking off a second finger, you go on:
"Two, it'll be supervised. Probably Cadance. Again, until we see how well you are able to handle Megan's weight, I don't want to risk her falling off."
> "Is there really that much of a danger, Master?"
"She fell off Shining Armor once, but he was able to catch her. Once you prove yourself, I'll think about letting you out on your own."
> "U-Understood, Master."
"Three: Megan has her own work she has to do too. While you're free to try riding with her when she has free time, I don't want her running off for too long and things falling behind because she's distracted."
> Again he shies back from you, ears flicking nervously and tail thunking softly as it lashes against the bed.
> "Will I be punished if she doesn't-"
"Not severely, and if you make a good attempt to stop her then I'll just focus on her. I'm not going to let you be a victim to my daughter's whims if it comes to that; you can ask Thunderlane if you don't believe me."
> A slight grin creeps onto your lips as you say that.
> Oh, yes - Thunderlane would be all too happy to tell him about the time you had pointedly kept Megan from being a brat.
> And - surprisingly and delightfully - Barnstormer grins too.
> It's a tentative, nervous smile.
> Not yet fully expressing how much he clearly could smile.
> You rather hope you'll get to see that full smile someday, but for now this starter will do.
> The first real sign of connection.
"...no, I won't have her be responsible for getting you hurt. By the same measure, I expect you to look out for her as well."
> "I can't not do that!"
> Belatedly Barnstormer seems to realize he'd interrupted you and adds in a sheepish tone:
> "...sir."
"It's okay. Why not?"
> "She - came and looked out for me. When I was having a rough time of it, she seemed to really care. I can't hurt her..."
> But not you yourself?
> Ah, well.
> You will manage.
"That's good. That's another point in favor of trusting you. Another that suggests this is worth doing. So-"
> You tick off on your fingers:
"One, no flying. Two, it'll be with supervision to start. And three, don't let Megan skip her homework or chores. Stick to that, and I think we can actually do this. Understood?"
> Barnstormer nods.
> As you rise and turn for the door, however, you hear him speak up softly behind you:
> "Master? Why - why are you being so kind to me?"
"...I'll be honest. I don't like the idea of keeping you cooped up in here - you were promised somewhere to be looked after, not a cell. And I don't want to break that promise; it certainly won't help to ."
> Turning, you look back at him.
"And the other half of it - well, it's what you said. About wanting to be able to see something come of your work - see someone made happy by what you do."
> Turning around, you sit back down on the edge of the bed again.
> Barnstormer does not shy away this time.
"I work towards making sure my daughter can inherit something good, you know? That's what I wanted to see at the end of this. So if seeing her happy will be good for you... I'll be more than happy to do what I can."

"So, why did you actually agree to it?"
> Anonymous grunts softly, watching you from the corner of his eyes.
> "Talked to Barnstormer, did you?"
"Yes. 'You felt for him', Anonymous? Not to belittle your feelings, but if our worries were your first concern there is a better solution than this..."
> Looking back through the workshop's door - just within which Barnstormer is talking quietly with Megan - Anonymous grunts again.
> "Okay, Cadance. I'm a little desperate here. I still haven't found anyone willing to come out here to take a look at him, and there's only so much I can do over Skype."
"I see..."
> "That, and Megan needs to learn a bit as well. She's doing well with Flurry Heart, but Flurry's a filly. Some experience in working with adult ponies will do her some good, I think. Teach her how to handle them, how to react."
> Your brows knit, a touch of anger creeping into your voice.
"You are experimenting with the life of a pony, Anonymous?"
> "Experimenting? No, that implies I don't know what will happen. But I don't think she'll hurt him - really hurt him, physically or emotionally - and in the meantime, it will do both of them good."
"I am not happy with this, Anonymous. This is still betting on the outcome, with a pony's life hanging in the balance."
> "Nothing is 'hanging in the balance', Cadance. Barnstormer will still have ponies looking out for him."
> Folding his arms, he shakes his head.
> "If it doesn't work out... I'll see about more significant options. Maybe even sell him off?"
"Selling him?!"
> Your eyebrows shoot up.
> "Towards a major city, where someone can look after him. And to a smaller operation, where he can see better the results of what he's doing."
"Do you have a place in mind?"
> "No. If it comes to that, I will."
> Ears falling flat, you frown.
> It's good to know he's not gambling everything on this, but it doesn't feel like a real plan.
"I am still uncertain of this."
> "Don't get me wrong, Cadance. I'm not certain either, but I don't want him in the clinic forever. Sooner or later it'll be a cell to him, no matter what either of us say."'
"Fine."
> At least you will be there to help them try it out.
> Breaking from Anonymous' side, you step forward into the workshop.
> You can feel your tail swishing angrily as you walk; you force it down and a happier expression onto your face.
"I hope I'm not interrupting anything?"
> "Nu-uh. We were just talking about what we were going to try and do."
"Are you ready, then?"
> Barnstormer nods nervously, looking at the saddle and accompanying gear.
> "Will it fit me?"
"With some adjustments. If it does not, Anonymous may have to get another. Megan, why don't you start?"
> "O-kay. Shining showed me what to do to start..."
> To your surprise, Barnstormer jumps back when she picks up the brush.
> "I-Is that really - needed?"
> Megan frowns deeply and lowers her hand.
> "He said it's so his coat wouldn't get messed up... do you not want me to?"
> "N-No. It's just..."
> Barnstormer pauses, wings fidgeting.
> "...it's been a long time since anypony I didn't know brushed me. It just - feels kind of weird."
> "I'll go nice and slow, okay?"
> And she does:
> Slowly dragging the brush along his coat, seeming to smooth out his tensed-up muscles with its calming effect as much as it does the hair covering him.
> Leaning in, you nicker gently and brush your muzzle close to his.
"See, Barnstormer? It's okay. She really is kind."
> His wings slowly relax, settling back down from where they'd been packed against his sides.
> Soon his head has joined them in a relaxed droop.
> Finally Megan drops the brush and retrieves the saddle pad; Barnstormer barely reacts as it is laid across his back.
> The saddle presents a different problem:
> Even once laid across his back and tightened with the straps, it is still loose.
> Not tremendously, but more than you suspect is safe.
> Barnstormer is simply too young a stallion, not the equal of Shining Armor's well-built frame, for it to fit well.
> "Cadance? What do we do?"
"We could try another blanket. But if it is still not tight enough, I don't want to risk your safety, Megan."
> "Awwww-"
> You give her one hard look that shuts the girl right up.
"No. No 'aww'. Eagerness is not an excuse to risk yourself or Barnstormer's health."
> "Okay. Blanket, then?"
> You don't like the sound of that 'okay'.
> It was a drawn-out admittance - 'o-kaaaaaay' - and not one of understanding.
> Fortunately there was another blanket, and after folding and fitting it beneath the saddle it appears reasonably tight...
"Barnstormer, how does this feel?"
> "Tight."
> His wings twitch, feeling the straps beneath them.
> "Strange. Tight... a little restrictive to breath, but not too much."
"That is probably a good thing."
> The bridle is a whole different question.
> His ears prick the second the jingling of its straps and rings reach them.
> Megan frowns as he shies back from it.
> "It's okay, Barnstormer. It doesn't hurt or anything..."
> "I know. It's just - been a while."
> She doesn't ask 'since what', which is probably good.
> You can guess:
> Since he was tied down to anything like that.
> Megan is blind to the implication.
> Oh, she might understand - abstractly - that it doesn't feel good to be tied up.
> But she doesn't associate the bridle with that.
> She's only seen it used with friends.
> Never with lines of ponies - hobbled with chains, bridled, and linked one to the next.
> To keep them from even thinking of turning aside.
> Leaning in, you drop your voice to a whisper.
"Barnstormer, if this is too much..."
> "N-No. Just - please. Slowly."
> That last bit is as much to Megan; you look aside to make sure she's got the message.
"I got it, Miss Cadance. Slowly."
> She holds the bridle up to his nose, then his cheek; Barnstormer regards the tangled mass of metal and cloth cautiously and you raise an eyebrow.
"What are you doing, Megan?"
> "Something I saw on Youtube. They said it was, um, for 'haltering', you had to get them used to it first-"
"Oh, sweetheart."
> You can't help a slightly bitter smile coming to your lips.
"That's not why he doesn't like it. I'm sure it's plenty safe for him, but it's just... hard for us, sometimes."
> "I'm sorry..."
> Her hand falls down, bridle jingling where it falls to the floor.
> "I thought it might help a little bit-"
"You didn't do wrong, Megan, and Barnstormer might still want to try it. Will you?"
> "Y-Yes. I'll try it."
> "Yes!"
> Megan jumps and almost does a little clap, nearly forgetting she still holds the bridle in one hand.
> "Just say if it's scaring you, okay Barnstormer?"
> "I-I will."
> He doesn't, though you can clearly see the nervousness and fear filling every inch of him.
> Eventually Megan slips it on over his head - tightening the straps, adjusting the buckles to accommodate his smaller skull.
> "This isn't too tight, is it?"
> "No, Miss Megan... but, um..."
> Barnstormer shuffles in place, eyes sweeping back and forth as he struggles for the words.
> That internal fight is a hard one for him.
"Megan?"
> In the moment she turns away, Barnstormer seems to sink into himself:
> His eyes squeeze shut, and he wordlessly mouths something to himself - some repeated mantra, you think, although you aren't certain of the exact words.
"Maybe it would be best if we didn't-"
> "N-No. I'll - I'll be okay. Could we skip the bit this time, though? Maybe?"
> You hear the unspoken 'please' in his voice and dearly hope Megan does too.
> Fortunately, she does.
> "That's fine, Barnstormer. Just, walk slowly now, okay?"
> "Yes, I will!"
> The relief is so complete that he doesn't even bother hiding how obvious it is.
> "Okay. In that case, um... I'll just leave this here-"
> The bit falls, left hanging at the side of his head.
"I think that looks good. Megan, why don't you let me lift you up onto his back?"
> A quick glances shot at Barnstormer gives the silent command to remain still as you light your horn.
> Ironically, it is Megan who actually stays too still:
> Rigid and stuff until you finally settle her atop the stallion's back.
> Barnstormer wavers as her weight settles on him, shifting a back and forth on his hooves but not wavering too much.
> There a few problem is encountered:
> With Shining Armor, the stirrups for Megan’s legs had fit cleanly on his sides.
> Not so here; Barnstormer shifted awkwardly as their weight settled over his wings.
> Immediately he began the awkward side-shifting dance of a pegasus terribly nervous about having his wings pinned.
> Quickly you lift her legs back up with your magic.
“Don’t let them sit over his wings, Megan. It’s not comfortable for him at all.”
> “Oh. Sorry, Barnstormer!”
> “It’s okay, Miss Megan.”
> “But, um, where do I put my feet then?”
> Some experimentation proves that moving the stirrups forward - in front of his wings - only determines that left there, they rub awkwardly on the wing-root.
> In the end, you ask Barnstormer to stand with his wings fully spread as Megan settles her legs on his sides.
> Only then do you have him let them back down - over her legs.
> Megan doesn't seem to mind.
> Actually, she giggles and hugs his neck.
> "Is this good? It feels like you're hugging my legs."
> "I - I don't know, Miss Megan. It feels better, but still a little strange. They feel kind of like really light saddlebags."
> He twists his head to look back at her; in that moment some understanding passes between them:
> That they were both nervous, but by admitting that to each other could both face their own troubles.
"Just don't got too fast. That way, you can learn early if there's something wrong."
> "O-oof. Yeah, I don't think I'll be going too fast for now. This - this is going to take some getting used to."
"I'm not surprised."
> Megan reaches forward to ruffle the stallion's mane before grabbing the reins.
> "Okay, let's get ready to do this..."
> Her heels nudge his sides, but Barnstormer only gives her a curious look.
> Megan flushes beneath her helmet.
> "...that means 'walk'. Um, sorry."
> "You could always just say."
> "Okay, um, walk?"
> His first steps are nervous, shaky, as if he fears dropping the girl from his back and incurring some furious punishment at the hands of her father.
> When that doesn't come, however, he picks up to a more normal walking pace; on his back, Megan relaxes too when she realizes he'll be able to take her weight.
> Outside waits the final test:
> Anonymous still rests with folded arms against the side of the building.
> Barnstormer emerges first with Megan; you follow close behind in case he falters.
> But he does not, only looking up at his owner for reassurance 
> Anonymous studies the two for a few moments - walking in a slow circle around the girl and stallion, occasionally tugging on a strap or testing the fit of her helmet.
> Eventually, however, he nods his satisfaction and pats the stallion on his rump.
> “Cadance, keep a close eye on him. I’m a little iffy on that extra blanket, but it looks good.”
"Yes, Master."
> "And Megan... go easy on him. This is still new for him, remember."
> "Yes, Daddy."
> You can hear a touch of that petulant, annoyed tone in her voice - but only a touch.
> And then she nudges his sides with her heels again, calling out:
> "Let's go, Barnstormer!"
> Trotting off close behind, you keep a wary eye on the pair.
> Fortunately, Megan seems to have a good grasp on things - soon finding the most comfortable position to ride in.
> She is also keeping well away from the more hazardous fields she'd once shot through on Shining Armor, instead keeping to the well-worn paths.
> A few ponies look up from their work, heads tilting questioningly at the strange sight.
> But nopony seems to argue.
> Confusion is far more evident than anger.
> Perhaps in part because Megan is clearly leaving some things up to Barnstormer; every couple minutes she would lean forwards and whisper something into his ear, earning an affirmative nod or negative shake from him.
> Quickly you come to understand:
> She was checking in with him, finding out what worked and what did not.
> A smile graces your lips - why had you worried?
> She was clearly deeply caring for him, and-
> Megan nudges his sides again; if not for the fact that she had to lean forward and whisper an explanation of what that meant, you might have been taken off-guard.
> As is, you join them in picking up a faster trot.
> Barnstormer's sides are starting to pump, his nostrils flaring as he is forced to take in more air to compensate for the heavier load on his back.
> But still he doesn't stop.
> If anything you can see him growing more excited:
> Testosterone starting to flow, the high of a good run starting to rise.
> His wings twitch against his sides; if not for the firm admonishment not to fly, Barnstormer would surely have launched himself for into the sky by now.
> That he has not is surely a point in his favor.
> By the time Megan pulls him to a stop, his sides are well and lathered with sweat.
> "Do you feel like going on, Barnstormer?"
> "If - if it's all the same - the same with you, Miss Megan, I think I could use a rest."
> "It's fine!"
> Leaning forward, she wraps both her arms around his neck - earning a nervous shying back from him before he settles again.
> "Let me just get off-"
> Of course, once they had stopped you'd let your guard down.
> Too late to light your horn again and catch Megan as she stands in the saddle, swings one leg over, and tumbles to the ground.
"Megan!"
> "I'm okay! I'm fine!"
> She actually giggles as Barnstormer leans his head down to deliver a questioning nuzzle.
> Pushing herself back upright, Megan hugs him again.
> "C'mon. Let's go get some water."
> Much like Shining Armor, Barnstormer doesn't seem to care that the wash-down he receives comes from a hose.
> Instead he simply collapses on the warm tarmac and relishes the frigid water running down his coat - slumping down onto his belly in relief.
> "Ooooh, my hooves ache..."
> "Oh no! Are they hurt? I forgot to check for anything before I got on-"
> Nickering gently, he lifts his head to nuzzle Megan.
> "No, it's fine. I'm just not used to doing all that walking with a heavy load. Mostly it's my wings that are tired at the end of the day."
> Chuckling softly, you settle down prone yourself and smile at the two.
"A bit of exercise between will help with that, in time."
> "I know..."
> Pausing, Barnstormer looks up to Megan and tilts his head.
> "I-If it's okay, can you take the bridle off please?"
> She does it without hesitation, and he gives a little whinnying sigh of relief.
> That comes to an abrupt halt as Megan throws her arms around him in spite of his sopping wet coat.
> In fairness to her, amid the summer heat it must have felt delightful too.
> "Thank you, Barnstormer..."
> His wing extends to circle her, clearly unexpected to and unprepared for this degree of affection and thanks.
> "Y-You're welcome..."
> "Was it what you wanted?"
> "I... I'm not sure yet. It was different. Strange. Maybe yes. I'll have to think about it."
> The notion of serving - of being ridden by a captor - is still eating at him, you can tell.
> But there's also something growing in his eyes, something expectant and hopeful.
> Megan sees that much too, and nods with a fierce expression.
> "You're going to get stronger. Then we can do this even more, and then you'll see!"

"So, what did you do with him in the end?"
> "Sent him back to his quarters for the night. There is a guard watching from a distance, but I don't think Barnstormer will be any trouble."
"He's changed his mind, then? Bonded with her already?"
> You throw yourself back on the bed, tucking one arm behind your head to keep it propped up.
> Cadance follows, standing beside the bed with a pondering expression.
> "More that he's got a lot on his mind. I think he's still feeling out how it means to relate to someone like that."
"Thinking is good, though. Keeps his mind off the despair."
> "Exactly why I don't think he will be a risk to himself or others. I still put the guard there anyhow, though."
"Covering your bases is good."
> You pat the bed beside you.
> She accepts the invitation, sprawling out but keeping a fair distance from you.
"There's something else I need to talk to you about regarding Barnstormer, actually. I've been thinking - if this thing with Megan works out, I might transfer him to be fully under her authority."
> "Fully?"
"Yes. He'd become her responsibility entirely - with reasonable oversight. He'd still put in his work hours, but it'd go through her instead. And then, if she wants some time with him, that'd be her prerogative as well."
> Cadance cocks her head slightly, one ear tilting down.
> "I understand why, Anonymous, but why do you ask me about this?"
"Because when I mean it would be handing him over to Megan entirely, I mean entirely. Everything would be through her... including rewards, or punishments."
> "Oh."
> Her voice had grown unexpectedly small, and you nod as understanding settles.
"Now, there'd still be some reasonable oversight. I wouldn't let her do anything insane. But, I did give you responsibility for all the ponies here. I don't want to pull that from you without a talk first."
> Cadance's eyes fall, her hoof tracing lightly on the bed's surface.
> "I... appreciate that. Very much."
"At some point she's going to have to learn to manage ponies, and Barnstormer is a pony she cares about."
> "Flurry Heart is a pony."
> That is dismissed with a shake of your head.
"She's also a foal. And... well, you know her past."
> A prickle runs through Cadance's coat, down her back to the base of her tail.
> "I could never forget."
"She'll need practice with adults too. But I've also been thinking about what you said about gambling with Barnstormer's future too. If you want me to wait for a different pony, one who isn't in such a fragile place..."
[Choice]

> "Give him a while, Anonymous."
> One hoof stretches out to lightly touch your shoulder.
> "I know you are eager to see Megan begin to learn. But these things do not happen in an hour, or even a day. He still has much to overcome. Be patient."
"...yeah. Yeah, I suppose that is a good point. No good just pushing him into this."
> "And if something did happen, how terrible would it be for Megan's first experience aside from Flurry to be with a pony who..."
> She doesn't finish.
> There's no need to; you get the point:
> If Barnstormer did regress, another attempt on his own life might happen.
> Megan had only half understood what ailed Barnstormer to begin with.
> If it happened again...
"Point taken. Not just yet, then - give them a bit more time to bond first."
> "Also, let me speak to him first. You mentioned how important it was to get my consent, but it could be just as bad if Barnstormer thought he was going to be just 'thrown away'."
"It's exactly the opposite, though!"
> Cadance nods, watching you closely with those great, huge eyes of hers.
> Eyes which now half-close, as if thinking on something distant.
> "I know, Anonymous. I know. But Barnstormer does not, and the sense that you are being shoved around without any say in it at all could be very bad for him at this moment."
"...very well. Time it is, then."
> "And also-"
"Cadance!"
> You raise a hand defensively, easing her back.
"It's okay, really. I understand. Time will be given."
> "Sorry, Anonymous."
> A true apologetic smiles lifts the corners of her mouth; however, it does not reach her eyes.
> "Sometimes I suppose I get - protective of these ponies. Of my ponies."
"I know, Cadance."
> This time it is you who reaches out, taking her hoof in your hands:
> Rubbing it's hardened wall, feeling the softness concealed within that tough rim.
> A soft inside, guarded behind a toughened wall of protection.
> How very much like her.
> However, you know just how to break past that wall...
"On to... other topics, I've got some good news for you as well."
> Her head tilts, one ear lifted.
"I heard back from Shining's owner today too."
> "You did?!"
> Instantly she perks up, ears fixated forward as a wide and excited grin appears on her face.
> You can't help but mirror that smile.
"Yes. Shining is still grounded for a while on account of running away, but he's agreed to start thinking about letting you two have calls together - even set a date for seeing each other aga-"
> You don't even make it to the end of the sentence because Cadance all but leaps from her resting spot and tackles you into the mattress with a delighted whinny.
> "Ohhhh, yes! Oh, thank you Anonymous! Thank you so much."
"Easy, Cadance!"
> Breath driven from your lungs, you laugh (with some wheezing) and pat her on the withers.
"Ooof. And I thought having Megan bounce on me was bad!"
> She backs off and settles back down with an abashed, but not before you catch the shimmer of dampness in her eyes.
> "F-Forgive me. That wasn't proper of me-"
"Elation at being able to see him is perfectly normal. Just try not to sacrifice my ribs in the name of it, okay?"
> Patting her side, you chuckle:
"Remember, you have Earth Pony strength in you too."
> She seats herself again, but you can just see the nervous energy all but vibrating in her.
> It's only a temporary reprieve from her overjoyed outburst, at most.
"Now, don't get yourself too worked up. It'll be a while yet - we'll agree on a time, and it might be a while."
> "Of course, of course. But don't you see, Anonymous - oh, don't you see?"
> Cadance's hooves beat a little drum-like beat against the bed, her face still split by a wide smile.
> "It still going to happen. That's enough! Just - just knowing, not being completely in the dark - that's all I need."
"Well then take your joy in that much, at least."
> You lay back down on the bed, smiling still.
"Now, go tell your daughter. I imagine she'll be just as overjoyed to hear as you are."
> No 'thank you' is given as Cadance has leaps from the bed and scampers from the room.
> But none is needed.
> Some things speak for themselves.
> Unfortunately, you can't remain resting forever:
> While Cadance is busy passing the news to Flurry Heart, you go to seek out your own daughter. 
> Megan is found curled up on her own bed with a book, and eagerly jumps up when you enter.
"Hey there, sweetheart! Heard you had a good bit of fun with Barnstorme- oof!"
> Grabbing her in the tackled hug she'd hit you with, you spin around once before setting her back on the bed.
> Is everyone going to do this to you today?
> "A whole lotta fun. He's super, super nice! But he's kind of scared sometimes."
"Just remember, he's as new to this as you are. Barnstormer is learning too; you can't expect this to be like with Shining Armor, when he could do all the teaching."
> "Uh-huh. But he is learning."
> Megan pauses, then asks softly:
> "Daddy? What is the bit for?"
"Which bit of..?"
> "The one on the bridle."
> Ooooh.
> That bit.
"Well, mostly so that you can signal him without needing to talk. For him, you can just tell him where you want to go since he's an Equestrian pony - but it's faster if you just use the reins to signal through the bit. Especially when you’re going fast. Why do you ask?"
> "Barnstormer was afraid of it."
> You seat yourself on the bed beside her, holding out an arm to offer a hug.
"Is that why he wasn't wearing it when I saw you go past?"
> Megan is all too happy to take advantage of the hug, leaning in against your side.
> "Yeah. He really, really didn't like it there."
"Well. Sometimes, if you pull too hard on the bit it can hurt them. Imagine if you stuck something in your mouth and pulled too hard-"
> Of course, she actually does it with a finger.
> Right there.
> And then winces, because - well, ow.
"Yep. Just like that. Even worse, because it goes between their teeth."
> "But..."
> Megan frowns a little, attempting another tug on the corner of her mouth to test.
> "It wasn't like that. He was scared of just the sight of it..."
"If I had to guess, one of his previous owners might have used it to try and control him. If they used it the wrong way, it could really have hurt him already."
> "Will he ever be okay with it?"
> Megan's murmured question draws a shrug from you.
"I don't know. You'll have to ask him what exactly upsets him about it. If he wants to tell, then you can maybe do something to help him."
> "Okay, daddy."
> ...
> It's little surprise to you that Megan opts to have her next riding attempt with Barnstormer no more than a few days later.
> This time you decide you're going to come along with them.
> You hadn't seen her set up the saddle the first time, but she's clearly much more comfortable with it now - moving through the steps with care and precision.
> Each of Barnstormer's hooves is checked carefully, and the saddle fitted with the extra pad as it had been before.
> This time, however, you're there to see what she means about the bridle.
> From your perspective, it is clear:
> Clearly this pony had a lot of very bad experiences with it in the past.
> He still stiffens up when she tries to put it on, even though he must know she doesn't actually mean him harm.
> Once again the bit is left hanging unused at the side of the bridle.
> Eventually Megan is ready, looking up to you with wide eyes.
> "Can you put me on, Daddy?"
"Of course, sweetheart."
> Barnstormer grunts softly as you settle the girl onto his back, but both of them work together to quickly gets her stabilized.
“You know, I can find some recommendations if you want to work out and strengthen you back.”
> Too late you remember that it could be taken as an order rather than an offer.
> Fortunately Barnstormer shakes his head, the bridle jingling loosely.
> “I’ve already asked some of the others what I can do to help with that, Master.”
> ...well.
> That is a very encouraging thing to hear.
> If he’s already planning ahead…
“Alright, everything looks good to me. Off you go, then - and remember Megan, be easy on him.”
> “ ‘course, daddy!”
> You watch the two until they are far out of sight, then shake your head.
> What a strange outcome…
> “Something the matter, sir?”
> You glance aside, to where Thunderlane was waiting in a spot of shade.
> That actually looks rather tempting, and so you go over to join him.
“Good afternoon, Thunderlane. What brings you all the way out here?”
> “Just walking my rounds, Master. You?”
> You motion to the rapidly vanishing pair of girl and stallion.
> “...ah.”
“To your earlier question - I’m not certain about him. He was so close to the edge before and riding is… well, there is kind of an element of submission in it.”
> “You think he might fall again?”
“That the weight of what he is doing will eventually overwhelm whatever he gets out of it, yeah.”
> “It’s good you’re thinking about it, but I don’t think that’s as likely as you’re afraid of.”
> You cock a head, one eyebrow up.
“Explain?”
> “We’re - I don’t know how to say it. I’m not a book-head.”
“Try your best.”
> Thunderlane actually looks abashed, rubbing his head awkwardly.
> “Ponies kind of - need contact with someone. They need to be involved with someone, as friends at least.”
“And Barnstormer was isolated.”
> “Exactly.”
> Nodding sharply, Thunderlane extends a wing in the direction the two had ridden off in.
> “We never heard anything bad about him, but nothing good either. He was alone, and… Master, this life isn’t easy for any of us. But we support each other.”
“Like yourself and Vapor Trail.”
> “Yes! And without that, it all caught up to him.”
> You seat yourself down beside him - resting your back against the sun-heated wall.
“Okay, I see where you’re going with this. But how does what Megan’s doing help?”
> “The riding? It might not. I don’t even know if he really cares about it.”
“Wait, you’re saying this is all completely useless -”
> “No. Just, listen a sec.”
> His wing tucks back down and Thunderlane stares into the sky a moment or two as he thinks.
> “It’s - it’s not the riding. It’s that she cares for him when he does it. It’s that she tends to him every time before and after, with her whole heart. When he helps her back, she loves it. It wouldn’t work with a girl who wasn’t already devoted like-”
> He cuts off and shrugs .
“You sound pretty certain of this.”
> “I talked to Shining Armor a lot when he was here. I think he’d say the same thing about his first encounter.”
“...so, it’s that he is being cared for by someone.”
> “And has someone to care about. It’s a two-way thing. We’ll bend over backwards to help a friend. That’s how it was back in Equestria - everypony helping each other.”
“It didn’t have to be her?”
> “No. Although, who she is probably helps. But she was the one who went down to look after him, to speak with him when there wasn’t any need to be.”
“He isn’t afraid of her.”
> Stating the obvious lifts a weight from your shoulders - but also forces you to admit, silently, the opposite counterpart to that:
> Barnstormer is scared of you.
> Not quaking, but he certainly wasn’t comfortable around you.
“Can I ask you to do a favor for him, Thunderlane? Make sure he gets out and around. Make certain he has other ponies to talk to too.”
> “Already trying, when I can.”
“Good. He said he was asking some of them for exercises to help him strengthen himself up for Megan-”
> “Oooh, he wants exercises, does he?”
> One eyebrow rises at the excitement flooding into the stallion’s voice.
“...I take it you approve?”
> “Did I ever tell you I was an athlete, back in Equestria?”
> Sitting back on his haunches, Thunderlane does a little tip-tap stomping dance with his forehooves
> “Exercises? I’ve got exercises for him!”
“Alright, alright!”
> You can’t help but chuckle at his antics.
“Just - don't got overboard on the poor guy either, okay?"
> "Relax - I have a little brother too, remember?

> You appear before Anonymous the next morning, soon after breakfast.
"Master - there's something I want to do with you today, so if there's time...?"
> Setting the newspaper he'd been reading down, Anonymous raises an eyebrow in question.
> "Go on?"
"Arlene Donovan... I want to call her back. You should be there."
> "You're going to even bother with a response to her offer?"
"Yes - I think I am. Partly because I think she'll try to push her way in here again to get one otherwise. But also because I think it might actually change her perspective to get this. Maybe convince her to rethink her positions."
> Anonymous hisses through his teeth, chest deflating slowly.
> "Well, I can't say your logic is bad. I don't think it'll convince her if I'm there, though."
"It's not for her. You're right; maybe she shouldn't see you. But I think you should be there to see me."
> Because, perhaps, he would be more willing to let it happen if he was watching in.
> Rubbing his chin and shrugging, Anonymous pushes himself up from his seat.
> "Okay, Cadance. You've convinced me. Where do you want to do this?"
"With your computer? I would very much like to do it by video, if possible."
> "Over the internet? Sure."
> While the computer boots up, you think on what to say.
> Arlene meant well, yes.
> But her plans imperiled more than they would save - to you, at least.
[Choice]

> You should have thought about this before asking Anonymous to get started.
> Waiting for the computer to start up, and then sending a message to Arlene, waiting for her to reply and a call to begin...
> It's positively nerve-wracking!
> Of course, you'd made your choice long ago.
> Practically, it felt, the moment you had told Anonymous what she'd planned.
> But certainly after taking counsel with your three closest ponies.
> So then why did you feel so-
> "Hello?"
"Miss Donovan?"
> "Cadenza?"
"Yes. I've called you about your offer - could we use the, ah, video camera device?"
> "A video call? Yes, of course - one moment-"
> Fortunately, once she initiates it first you can figure out how to answer the call on your end.
> The sight that greets you is rather different than you'd expected.
> For how driven she was you'd expected her to occupy a pristine and organized office.
> Instead she is ensconced behind - really within the arms of - a table buried in enough books and piles of papers to rival Sunburst's quarters.
> More importantly, you can see the change in her too.
> There is a tiredness in her eyes, lines on her face you had not seen before.
> This is a woman whose task has taken something out of her, too.
> Yet she still brightens when she sees you, and for a moment you almost feel sorry for having to deliver the news you bear.
> "So! What I proposed. I assume you've thought deeply, and..."
> Arlene trails off, finally seeming to consider the room visible behind you.
> "...where exactly are you right now, Cadenza?"
> Drawing a deep breath, you gather your strength.
"I am afraid I must refuse your offer, Miss Donovan."
> A look of confusion passes over her face, trailed soon after by concern.
> "Cadenza, I could protect your daughter. He can't hold her over your head any longer-"
"No. This is not about fear, or threats. Miss Donovan, I want to make it totally clear: I am not taking the side of a slaver in this."
> "Then why-"
> You continue talking over her.
> This is not the time or place to get involved in an argument.
"In fact, honestly, I must thank you. I do not want to disparage your work or doubt your motives, and I am deeply relieved that there are some out there looking to end the tyrannical abuses ponies face. There is nothing that I wish for more than the end of slavery, an evil however it may be perpetrated. Nothing I wish for more than them to be treated as equals, not as property."
> In the face of your monologue Arlene has temporarily given up:
"However... what this is about is the danger to my ponies. Here. Now. Even if you did succeed in your prosecution, even if it did bring my owner down, what would happen to all of them? You cannot say for certain - they could be split up, sent anywhere. 'Acceptable losses' are something you may have, ponies are strongest together."
> Her head falls, hair sweeping forward to cloak over her face.
> "I am not going to be able to move you on this."
"No, Miss Donovan. I am afraid not."
> You cock your head.
"May I tell you something? About what once happened in the past?"
> "I... yes."
"Once before, I planned an escape from here. Managed to get nearly a hundred ponies out... and it was an utter failure. Most were returned; some were hurt or died alone in a world that would not be kind to them."
> As you speak you can feel the old emotions welling up:
> Regret, pain, anger at yourself for allowing them to come to harm.
"I leaped at what seemed like an opportunity - and failed as a leader then, because I forgot what being ponies meant. It means we support each other, in harmony - and it means I will not cast them to the chance of fate again."
> "You are right, Cadenza. I cannot give you assurances about what will happen to the other ponies there."
"It is my understanding that, in your legal system, the property of one convicted of a serious crime is often forfeit."
> "This is true, yes."
> There's an emptiness in her voice which suggests a sense that it was no longer worth it to hide such things from you.
"Then you understand why I cannot."
> You lean in towards the camera - and then back again, when you remember that approaching a camera does not work the same as leaning into a face-to-face meeting.
"Please, Miss Donovan. I do not want to see you give up this work. What you do is important. This was simply the wrong target; it is not the worst slave camp out there. Please - do keep fighting. Do not give up this struggle."
> Edges of her mouth curling up into the slightest smile, Arlene looks back up at you again.
> "I would warn you of how much this might delay freedom for all ponies, but I think I have already made that point thoroughly."
"It is a cost I will accept. Anonymous was not always the kindest master, but he is not guilty of what you accuse him. Now, this has become a shelter. A place where I would bring ponies, so that they could be safe."
> "Is any pony safe in slavery?"
> Now it is your turn for a slightly embittered smile to raise the corners of your mouth.
"Touche. But my point stands - the more ponies who come here, the more of us are united. The more united we are..."
> "...the stronger you become. Yes, I do see your point."
"Take one step at a time, Miss Donovan. Focus on the places where ponies are in danger. Do whatever you can. I will cheer each victory you have."
> "Then I'll have to give you plenty of them, Cadenza."
"And... please. Simply Cadance."
> "But - it is your name-"
"Cadance is simply fine. I feel as though Cadenza is - a name I can’t use now."
> Except, perhaps, from Shining Armor.
"Not until every pony is freed. Then I may finally be Mi Amore Cadenza again."
> "Cadence, then. I.. don't suppose your Master will allow us to talk again, so this might be the last time I can speak to you for a very long time."
"You will not try to pursue this further?"
> "I cannot push charges with just what I have, and I've already done what I can."
> Eyes falling again, she rests her elbows on the table as if needing to support herself.
> "That still gets to me. He won't ever face justice for what happened to Chrysocolla..."
"What you saw weighs on you."
> "It's hard not to, seeing a body laid out on a table like that. Especially with how she died. But I probably don't have to tell you that."
"No. You do not. But I can tell you this: Chrysocolla's death was only indirectly brought on by cruelty. There are so many places where death is directly brought - ponies too weak, too old, or too resistant to work. Let that anger fuel you."
> "It will. Believe me, it will."
"Then I will hope to see you again some day - when all ponies are free, and both our wars against slavery will be over."
> Once the connection closes, Anonymous stirs.
> "You spoke awfully strongly there."
"About slavery?"
> You turn to look at him.
"Would she have believed me if I had not?"
> Chuckling, he shakes his head.
> "I suppose not."
> You stand to move to his side 
"Besides - my heart is not going to change. I will always long for the day when I am no-one's property."
> His hand settles on your withers.
> "I gave up trying to change that long ago."
> No more words are spoken until you have departed the house, heading outside with Anonymous at your side.
"Anonymous? What would you have done if I said yes? If I had given her the information?"
> "What, do I have to be afraid that you secretly have? And this was all nothing more than a distraction?"
"I am serious, Anonymous!"
> He comes to a stop still some distance from the nearest buildings.
> A few ponies look to you in passing, but none approach.
> "There was... a backup plan if I was convicted. I talked it out with Randall, worked it out until it was fairly solid."
> Your eyebrows rise, prompting him to go on.
> "I would have transferred actual ownership of the camp to Megan, via a limited-liability corporation."
"But Megan is a child. She cannot run the business yet!"
> "But a child's property can become the responsibility of their legal ward."
> He turns to look down at you, his eyes hooded.
> "And ponies can be made legal guardians of children."
> It takes a moment for you to comprehend what he is implying.
"You - you would have made me-"
> "Effectively the owner, yes. Whether because Arlene had managed to get you freed, or because you would have remained Megan's property even as you were her guardian."
"That does not sound legal."
> "There is precedent. It's meant for ponies taking temporary responsibility of minors while parents are out, but there is precedent."
> But...
> That would have left you…
> Anonymous’ hand settles on your back again.
> “I suspected you wouldn’t ever forgive me for putting you in that position.”
“I… don’t know.”
> “It’s okay. It would have been cruel, in many ways. But it would have at least stalled them out while I worked through the sentence.”
> You huff gently; your ears twitch, but stay upright.
“Will it ever be set right, some day?”
> “Yes.”
> Eyebrows rising, you twist your head to look up at Anonymous.
> He shrugs.
> “It can’t last forever. The movements are gaining strength, laws are changing… this won’t be an eternity.”
“When?”
> Your voice is a whisper.
> “I couldn’t say. Long enough we still have to think about the future.”
> Of course.
> He wouldn’t be planning to install his daughter as manager if he thought it was coming that soon.
> Somehow you still feel disappointed, yet the mere fact that he acknowledges slavery must bend is still heartening.
“Someday, then.”
> …
> Fall isn’t here quite yet, but there’s already a subtle, shift in the air already.
> The first hint of the scent of turning leaves.
> You draw a deep breath, savoring that aroma - the sign of the season’s change again.
> Perhaps this year you would ask Anonymous to attempt a proper Running of the Leaves…
> Shaking your head to dispel the fantasy, you continue on behind Megan.
> Barnstormer was already waiting for her:
> The tack and saddle laid out at his hooves.
> While she sets about putting them on with Flurry Heart’s assistance, you pause next to him and murmur:
“You’re sure you feel ready for this?”
> “Absolutely. I stretched this morning, and I know it feels right.”
“I’ll still be alongside you. For however long it is, anyhow - until you touch down again.”
> “Not planning on flying for that long, so I think we should be good.”
“Okay. Megan, you’re ready?”
> “Uh-huh.”
> She’s finished tightening the saddle’s girth straps, and moves to his head to set the bridle on.
> This time, however, when she tightens it into place Barnstormer hesitates.
> “Megan, I… I think you should use the bit.”
> “What? But you hate it-”
> “You’re going to be relying on me to carry you. I have to know if you’re stable. If you’re slipping, you can use it to tell me quickly-”
> His voice is almost a whisper, and you can see the instincts screaming at him not to.
> Megan huffs softly, folding her arms.
> “It’s not - why are you so scared of them, even?!”
> Freezing with his wings half-open, Barnstormer chokes on the answer.
> “I…”
“Megan, sweetheart… it’s not something he may be ready to answer yet.”
> “No, it’s okay, I…”
> His head falls, ears pinned and tail slashing back and forth.
> “...when they were marching us out, they hooked us up in lines. One pony after another, bridle and bit. Couldn’t even look to one side to see our homes as we marched away. Just the next pony in front of us, marching, marching…”
> “Why?”
> Her question - the refrain of all young children everywhere, filly or girl, is now accompanied by a new note of emotion:
> Frustration, or perhaps even anger, as if not understanding how or why it would be done was something she should know.
“It is an easy method of controlling a pony, Megan. That is all it had to be. Keep your head forward, don't look to the side, and if you pull, it - hurts."
> "Hurts you?"
> "And the pony behind you."
> She thinks a moment before shaking her head.
> "I don't want to use it on you, Barnstormer!"
> Barnstormer leans over, nickering as he nuzzles her back.
> "But you - you need to, Mistress Megan. It's for your safety. For your father. You could be hurt."
> "So could you!"
> Stepping in, you light your horn and separate them.
"Megan. I know you don't want to make him feel bad, but there are some things you cannot get away from so easily."
> On her opposite side, Flurry Heart nuzzles Megan's leg.
> "It's okay, Mistress. Some things we trust you with."
> Tears bead in her eyes, but Megan reaches up to slip the bit into his open mouth.
> Barnstormer's jaw twitches and shifts about getting used to the old sensation again.
> His whole body is stiff, but you do not stop him:
> It's clear how hard he is trying to keep the old memories under control.
> To step in now would be tantamount to admitting you had not trust in him, and that you weren't going to do.
> This was his moment.
> Once she has clipped it in place, he apprehensively turns his head from side to side in an achingly slow creep - as if testing that he could do so without causing himself overwhelming pain.
"You're okay, Barnstormer?"
> Yet another shudder runs nose-to-tail through his coat, but he manages.
> "Yeth, mi' 'Adansh."
> Megan sniffles once then hugs him fiercely around the muzzle.
> In lieu of a proper, spoken answer through the bit he gives another soft nicker.
> "C-Can I climb on now, Barnstormer?"
> "Yesh, Mish'resh."
> She does, taking up the reins only with some hesitation.
> Although just the act of lifting them would be enough to harm him.
> Without prompting Barnstormer walks around in a slow circle, Flurry Heart hovering close at Megan's side with a worried expression.
> When he has made one circuit his head twists back around to look at her questioningly.
> No words are needed this time:
> Megan gives a fierce nod, starting to grip the reins more tightly.
> "Okay. I'm ready."
> You'd chosen the same field you'd once given Megan her first flying ride over for this.
> Half because it was simply a good location, and half so that (you hoped) it would keep her from panicking at the rather different experience of riding a saddled pegasus mid-air.
“Do you think you will to pick up speed before trying to fly?”
> “No - ‘fraid - fraid I’ll go ‘ead over hoof. Star’ ‘ere.”
> Barnstormer’s speech is slurred, but still clear enough for you to understand.
> Taking two paces back, you gesture Flurry Heart to your side.she gives her mistress once last nervous glance.
> Your horn lights as Barnstormer opens his wings - preparing to catch Megan if need be.
> She is gripping the reins with white knuckles, her eyes wide and fearful beneath the riding helmet.
> One, two, three beats of his wings - he rears up, and Megan leans forward with him.
> You can see the muscles bunching in his legs to leap, but when he does it isn’t quite enough to go airborne.
> When he comes back down, you are already taking a hoofstep forward and slowing Megan’s descent.
> Her coming down too hard could be terrible for both of them.
“Easy there!”
> Snorting unhappily, Barnstormer shakes his head.
> Megan, however, is far more worried for him than her own well-being:
> “Oh no! Did I pull too hard?”
> “No, Mi’ressh.”
> He snorts again, tossing his head angrily.
“Now, Barnstormer. I know you don’t normally have to take a running start, but maybe this time it would be a good idea?
> He grunts, but nods with a jingle of the bridle.
> “A’righ’.”
> At the end of the field, Megan nudges his sides with her heels and Barnstormer explodes into motion.
> From no motion on his first attempt to a flat-out gallop on his second; each step kicks up dirt while Megan hunkers down on his back.
> Even you, with your long and graceful stride, are forced to a gallop to keep up.
> Flurry Heart is hampered by her short, foal-sized stride and gives up entirely - quickly taking to the air to keep up.
> His first wingbeat again doesn’t quite bring him airborne.
> With the second and third, though, his hooves cease striking the ground.
> Each following beat is a labored, forceful sweep slamming air towards the ground; there is no grace or smoothness in how he flies.
> Fly he does, though:
> Megan whooping excitedly even as she is bounced with each stroke.
> Though your horn is lit, there isn’t yet any need to reach out grasp her with your magic.
> Heads below turn and ponies look up:
> Wondering at the sight passing overhead.
> Some smile, a few wave, even one briefly launches to join his unsteady flight.
> That flight does not last longer than thirty or forty seconds at most; soon Barnstormer is obviously straining to continue.
> Before you can even step in to warn him, he is gliding, then stumbling into a landing.
> Though rough for him, it is far smoother for Megan.
> She promptly leans forward and hugs him around the neck, heedless of the sweat he had built up during the short flight.
> "That was amazing! Do you still feel like going on? We can head back-"
> "I'll b'fine Mis'ressh."
> Though the bit, he actually gives a whinny and laugh.
> "I did i'! I really did i'!"
> You touch down on his once side; Flurry Heart joins him on the other, nuzzling her mistress.
"You did - and quite well, all things considered. If you're done flying for today, though, I might head off?"
> "I think we are. Thank you, Miss Cadance!"
> "Than' 'ou!"
> Laughing softly, you lean over and give Flurry Heart a motherly nuzzle before turning and spreading your wings again.
> Anonymous is right where you had left him:
> Seated just outside the manor, stretched out and enjoying a brief soak in the afternoon sun.
> You touch down next to him without a word; he offers you one of the two cushions he had brought out with him.
"So. What did you think?"
> "They're bonding well. He'll be fine, I think."
> You settle down, sprawling out on the cushion and folding your wings.
> In the distance Barnstormer walks back across the field:
> Megan still on his back, and Flurry hovering excitedly around her shoulders.
"He has someone who cares again. That's all we need."
> "He has a future."
"Yes."
> Anonymous' hand settles on your back, rubbing softly.
> Your eyes continue to rove; they fall on the large, open field near the edge of camp where the whipping posts had once been set up.
> Celestia above - how long had it been now, since you'd first condemned six ponies to those posts?
> Since you'd taken your place at the post in turn and suffered the same?
> The scars, though long since healed over, itch in sympathy with the memory.
> Ten months, no more.
> And yet, so much has changed.
"We all have a future now. A path forward."
> "Yes. You once told me, Cadance, that you were always afraid of what Celestia would think of what you did here."
"It was my guiding principle for a long time."
> "I think she'd be proud. You've been a good leader -"
> You start to turn towards him, and Anonymous quickly corrects:
> "-not just for me. I know that's what you were afraid of; I mean for them. You really have been, Cadance, and you should be proud."
"I could have done better."
> "Maybe. Maybe not."
> Anonymous shrugs lightly, resting his elbows on his knees and hands on his chin.
> "We don't know the impact of every choice we make, unless fortune-telling is something you can do too. Their results might not be immediate. But all things considered, the choices you've made - we've made - have been good ones."
> You aren't so sure.
> Even so, you extend a wing to lightly touch his shoulder in return for the gesture.
> That lasts for a minute before you slip away from his touch and take to the air again.
> Your destination this time, an empty rooftop of a taller building from which you could survey much of the rest of the camp.
> There you touch down, falling to your belly and lying there - staring into the distance in silent contemplation of what you have done.
> And the rewards it has reaped.
> Those are visible from this perch too, written in the actions of every pony living here now.
> In the distance, Rumble walks alongside Mocha Cream - both engaged in deep conversation, his wing stretched across her and pace slow to match her limp:
> A bristling, angry soul, now turned to heartfelt protection of a fearful one.
> Sunburst emerges from the town hall alongside Mayor Mare.
> The older mare pauses and stretches deeply in the late-afternoon warmth.
> Sunburst watches her with a small smile as she gathers herself up and returns to the documents they had been consulting.
> From the tumbling procession of the camp's foals who follow him out, you're certain it was something to do with them.
> The next generation, now under the careful tutelage and care of the last.
> Elsewhere, a distant dark-grey shape circles over the edge of the camp -
> Thunderlane, always vigilant for trouble.
> Except for the moment when he pops down to a rooftop, just as a door opens for Vapor Trail to emerge.
> New love, fresh and passionate, reborn like Aunt Celestia’s phoenix from the ashes of the old.
> They share a deep kiss - her leaned back and up, he dipping his head while still hovering midair - and she passes a package up to him.
> Dinner, no doubt, for his evening watch.
> He is not the only guard visible; elsewhere, you can see Seismic Shift's large profile lumbering through the streets, while one of the griffons converses quietly with a pony as two more perch like hawks on a roofline above.
> Dedicated, just, and fearless protectors, carrying on the traditions Shining Armor had embodied.
> It isn't quiet sundown yet, but already some distant smells of cooking are rising from the rec hall:
> Bon Bon trots from an alleyway, Crescent Moon at her side; they wait there - conversing softly - until Lyra appears at the far end of the street.
> She shares a brief nuzzle with her marefriend, and all three of them turn for the rec hall and trot off together, talking excitedly.
> They, like many other ponies, will gather there tonight to eat together.
> Surrounded by symbols of Equestria and a sense of community that just for a few moments will let them forget they are the property of another.
> That fact still looms over the whole situation:
> You are still property, still slaves.
> But that fact does not seem to be so immutable anymore, with the only recourse being a danger-filled dash for total freedom.
> Now there is a fresh, new path to follow.
> Not the fastest, nor necessarily the easiest.
> Certainly not the most dignified - but, you think, not a bad one either.
> Megan’s eyes are opening.
> Already her sympathies rise; in time she will come to understand the true cruelty of slavery.
> Abstract ‘sad things’ you had told her of coming into sharper focus when she matures.
> Arlene Donovan had feared keeping your trust with Anonymous would set back freedom by decades, but that didn't seem right to you.
> Twice you had been taught the lesson that ponies needed to watch out for each other above all else:
> Once when you had abandoned Flurry Heart in the hope that both she and you could slip away before slavery's jaws snapped shut around you.
> That mistake had cost Flurry her safety and doomed her to neglect.
> Yet somehow you still hadn't learned.
> You'd pushed ponies to flee individually, and cost yet more ponies their lives and well-being.
> No more.
> Ponies support each other.
> By accepting that freedom will not come soon - but not leaping for another distant hope - you have planted the seed of freedom, and at the roots of the very ‘humane slavery’ Arlene feared would form a foundation for the next generation.
> No - that seed would sprout, grow, and burst forth.
> A strong new tree of friendship for Flurry Heart and Megan to raise together.
> Perhaps you won't ever see freedom - or maybe not until you've grown old and your coat dulled by age.
> But you will see Flurry Heart - and every other colt and filly - have their freedom.


==========

EPILOGUE

> It takes you a few moments, after opening your eyes, to realize exactly what has changed in the hospital room.
> The shades lining the far side of the room have been drawn open, flooding the room with late-afternoon sun.
> It spills in to fill the room like liquid gold:
> Revealing details that had been lost when you had dozed off.
> Stirring, you manage to heave yourself upright.
> Though your eyesight was failing, it was still plenty good enough to spot a mottled pastel blob at the side of the bed.
> Especially when her horn ignites, magic surrounding your chest and laying you back down.
> “It’s okay. I'm here now; it’s okay.”
“My glasses - I need my glasses, please.”
> Your voice came out as a croak, and so first came a glass of water - drifting up to your lips to let you sip from it.
> Only once it has gone do your glasses settle across your nose - turning a blurry blob into a proper pony again.
> A pony who smiles at you, again gently lifting your body to re-fluff the pillows beneath you.
> “There, now - isn’t that much better?”
“Much, thank you.”
> She smiles, and so do you.
> One hand - skin brittle, thin, and pale - rises to brush her cheek; she, in turn, leans into it and nickers gently.
“Ah, you’re looking well. The years have been kinder to you than me, I think.”
> It’s true - her coat is faded, pink turned dull, and mane shot through with silver hair.
> Not that she’s grown homely.
> If anything, compared to your mottled skin and sparse hair aging has given her an appearance of grace and elegance.
> She only smiles, though, and climbs up onto the bed to nuzzle you.
> In response your hand slips around her neck.
> Though your fingers ache with arthritis, her mane s as soft as you ever remember it being.
“You didn’t have to come out for me, you know. I know how busy you are…”
> “Never too busy for you.”
“Are any of the others going to be here?”
> “I’m afraid not. Skyla’s at a conference somewhere in India, I think -”
> She rolls her eyes, a childish gesture she’d never quite grown out of.
> “Between you and me, I think she’s taking this whole ‘Princess’ business a bit too seriously. And Mom… Mom’s starting to feel her years too, I think.”
“I’d have liked to see her again, but in the end I’m just glad to see you here.”
> Dropping down the bed, she settles against your side; a wing extends out across your belly.
> Even through the thin dress you wear, you can still feel the warmth of her body against you - echoes and memories of passions whose fires have long since faded to embers.
> “It’s still good to see you again, Mistress.”
“You know you don’t have to call me that now, Flurry.”
> “I know, I know. ‘Free’.”
> Her muzzle brushes your cheek - a chaste and modest kiss, so very far different than those you’d shared in years past.
> But no less loving than those passionate touches.
> “But you have still earned it, love.”
> You brush aside her mane with one hand and kiss the tip of her snout.
“Flattery is beneath you, ‘Your Highness’.”
> Flurry giggles, nuzzling your forehead.
> “It’s true, though. You’ve done so much for us. We’re free because of you-”
“You are free because you never gave up.”
> Her eyes roll again.
> “Yes, yes. But you set all of that in motion. You marched at the head. You stood up to your father, asked him questions neither myself or my mother could-”
> Cutting her off with a finger to her muzzle, you shake your head.
“Flurry… do you ever still think about - before?”
> “Before?”
“Before my father - purchased you.”
> Pain flickers across her eyes - a distant, muted pain dulled by many long years but never totally healed.
> “Sometimes, yes.”
“The old dreams, still?”
> She nods, slowly.
> “Sometimes I’m back on display, chained to the post out in the rain. Sometimes I’m a foal, sometimes grown - always helpless.”
> Leaning in, she brushes her cheek to yours and goes on:
> “More often, though, I dream about being with you. Being happy. Being safe and warm and loved.”
> You don’t answer, and Flurry Heart whispers softly:
> “What is wrong, Mistress?”
“I… sometimes wonder. Did I do enough? Was it soon enough? You said I stood up to my father, but how many years did I not know how to ask? Could he have changed before that if I said-”
> “You did all a little girl could be expected to do.”
> Standing, Flurry climbs from the bed.
> A moment later magic surrounds it entirely, the room rearranging itself to allow the bed’s shifting over towards a window.
> Then she returns to sitting at your side, but this time having propped you the rest of the way up so you can look through the window.
> There extends rows and rows of rooftops - not a camp now so much as a proper town.
> The fences were long gone.
> A place to live now, rather than be imprisoned in.
> “Look at all of this, Megan. This would not have happened without you. You did all a filly - a child - could do.”
> Her head comes to rest on your shoulder, while you huff softly.
“Yes, and not one of you will let me forget it. Barnstormer visited last week, did you know?”
> “No! Did he bring his foals this time too?”
“Well, they’re hardly foals anymore - he did bring the grandfoals, though. And then insisted on sitting them down and telling them all about everything I had done to help ponies…”
> Now it is your turn to roll your eyes.
“I made sure not to leave you out, of course.”
> “I never doubted you.”
> You lift a finger to lightly tap her nose.
“This is serious, Flurry. Like I said, you did more than a little filly ever should.”
> “Hah, hah.”
“I mean it. You did so much for me… did you know I still have your collar?”
> “My last one? But I thought that’s the one I gave to the-”
“Your first one.”
> Her eyes mist up, mouth forming a small ‘o’.
> “Y-You still…”
“In the stand - the one that was beside my bed.”
> Flurry Heart cants her head, horn lit.
> Though you do not turn yours, you can hear the stand’s drawer scrape open.
> She sets the collar on the bed between the two of you - a short length of buckle-ended fabric.
> Light and short, only long enough to constrain a filly’s throat.
> “Why?”
> Her voice was shaky and eyes misted over.
“Because I wanted to remember - how good you were for me. You and your mother both. Even when you were bonded to me as my - my property.”
> “Oh, Megan…”
> Flurry lays the collar down on your chest, then rests her head on your side as well.
> "You never needed a collar to bind me to you. Your heart was always enough."
> There seems to be no good answer to this, and instead you slip a hand about her.
> One great wing - broad and voluminous as a blanket, her feathers now tipped with purple just as her mother's had been - stretches across you.
> You lay a kiss on her forehead, just beneath her horn.
> And for just the briefest moment, you feel as though you were a young girl again:
> Happy, content, curled up and dozing with the sleepy filly who meant the most to you in the whole world.
> With your friend.


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