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    Three days had passed since the...unfortunate mishap with the spell, but fortunate uniting of the two as a new couple. In those few days, Pandie had slowly recovered from her induced trance, getting used to her sight once more and finally having the loud ringing in her ears cease. While she had insisted she would be fine, Wally made sure Pandie actually rested and fully recovered, making the excuse to the other workers that she had been on a medical leave for a while. Likewise, Walter himself also needed to recover from the throbbing chest pain inflicted by the memory, as well as the scramble of implanted and misaligned thoughts and images it had seeded. While the recovery period was a bit tough, they both seemed to come out of it with not much, if any, harm done.
    Now, the two were nested in Pandie’s apartment, planted comfortably on the couch. Her TV finally had use, playing a movie as they watched, giving commentary on the stupid or just plain weird parts of this psychedelic plot. Pandie was barely paying attention, just content to lay on her new coltfriend, and occasionally roll her eyes at the poor acting.
Wally: … Alright, let me guess… this is the part where the pompous, super rich ex-coltfriend comes back and… Yep! There it is! Geez, what is with all the stereotypical tropes?!
Pandie: I don’t know...But I can tell you how this probably ends. She ends up rescuing herself and the day is saved...yaaay.
Wally: Eeeeh.. *takes a handful of popcorn and munches on it* I mean.. She is the main protagonist so maybe? If the main protagonist was the stallion tho, a super common trope is the overprotective male figure swooping in and saving the seemingly “helpless” damsel in defense… when she probably could have taken care of it herself or settled it without any violence.
Pandie: But then...there would be no story...no unneeded and self-inflicted drama! Wally, think of the drama! *flops her head on his chest*
Wally: *groans* You sound like Maca… What I want to know is why didn’t the main protagonist just talk out her feelings like a civilized pony? Everything could have been settled in the first 5 minutes of the movie and then they could have moved on to a much more interesting storyline then……. This! *references to the tv screen*
Pandie: Well the stallion could have...you know, taken the advice of the friend that warned him about this repugnant ex-coltfriend. Some ponies fail to see the bad when it’s right in their faces. Or he could have just taken care of him the first time he showed up...You don’t let the villain get away the first time. But hey...at least it’s not about two-star crossed lovers that find each other after years apart, right?
??? (outside the apartment door) : I don’t appreciate you making fun of all your friends’ lives, ye bitch…!
Wally: *jumps, spilling some popcorn* E-eh?! Uh.. Pandie, were you expecting…… company?
Pandie: No...but he’s the type to drop in unannounced anyway.
Wally & the voice: Like you have any room to talk..!
    Pandie pouted, ear swivelling behind her head. She shoved her hand in Wally’s face, covering his mouth with one hand while lifting the other to cast a simple spell on the door. Huffing a bit, she settled back into her comfortable position.
Pandie: Door is open….jerk.
    Walking through the door was Mako, Pandie’s….. “Brother”. Whenever near her, Mako treated Pandie like she was the youngest sibling, well knowing how much older she was then him. He closed the door behind him, his face looking as if he hadn’t slept in days, a bandage on his head and wrapped around the base of his tail. Oh boy… what did he do this time?
Mako: Always good to hear your criticism, Pandie…
Pandie: I have no idea what you’re talking about, brother…
Wally: *looks up* Oh hey MakoooooOOO-OH my goddess, what happened to you? Why do you look like you got into a fight with a sledgehammer?
Mako: *ear twitch as he looks at Wally* Well, you two basically summed it up.. Total twat of a ex-coltfriend showed up to the Reef a week ago..
    The two sat there in silence as they stared at Mako… and then simultaneously turning their head to look at the television again at the movie they were just watching.
Wally:..... Wait, what?
Mako: *rubbing his eyes* I dunno if you’d remember, but does the name Sunstreak mean anything to ye..?
Wally: *cringes and groans* Ugh… Unfortunately yes. So you are saying he came back to the island after all these years? Why?!
Mako: Take a lucky guess.. Wanted to take Bubble back, even tried to bribe me so I’d leave…! We got into a fight, and that bloody prick beat my head over with a rock!
Wally: …. *lifts the remote and turns off the tv* …. I think that’s enough television for one day.
Pandie: We can’t take you anywhere, can we?
Mako: Oye, not my fault. I tried to approach the whole thing with a good attitude, but that ship sunk when I spoke to him face to face. And then after we fought, there was so much ugly business at the hotel, and Lady and Bubble were trapped and then-.... why are you cuddling….?
Wally: …. Who is Lady?
Mako: Answer mine first….
Pandie: She’s our sister…
Wally: …… Adopted?
Pandie: No, she is actually Father’s blood child.
Mako: OYE, DINGBATS!
Wally: *ear twitches* Uh huh.. How… interesting.. *doing his best to ignore Mako’s question*
Mako: Walter, I have a very big headache right now, I am in no mood for any bull right now…
Wally: *lets out a sigh* .. We were just watching some Netflix and ch--- and relaxing! On our day off! Nothing unusual here…
Mako: …… *raises an eyebrow, but shrugs* Okay.. *plops down in a chair and rubbing his head*
Wally: *glances from Mako to Pandie in awkward silence* …. Well.. um.. Pandie, if you want to spend some time with your… brother.. I can leave.
Pandie: But I asked to spend this day with you….Mako, what do you want?
Mako: *waves his hand* I was kinda hoping even you could help take off this load of stress like back in the past...like how we used to hang out, but nevermind… I was also gonna ask if you had seen Lady since you showed up again, but I guess you’re too busy..
Pandie: ….Ugh. All right, fine. Tell me your woes, Brother… though I’m not sure how much help I can be. This week has been...a blur.
Mako: *ears spring up* …… What happened now… You two have another fight again..? *looks to Wally*
Wally: *tense slightly* Erk! N-no, nothing like that. It’s just been a really.. Uh… quiet week.
Mako: …. Some things with Pandie being quiet isn’t usually good… *stares*
Pandie: Hm. Oh, it’s nothing too out of the ordinary. Lists, work, not being awake all week, it’s been a venture.
Mako: …. Pardon me?
Pandie: It’s nothing to worry about. I’m fine.
Mako: With you, it’s never “nothing”, Pandie… What happened..?
Pandie: *stares at him*
Mako: ….. Don’t make me scruff you like Dad does…
Wally: *glances awkwardly from Pandie to Mako* …….
Pandie: I may or may not have lost a….fight.
Mako: *walks closer til he’s looming over them* And..?
Pandie: I may have been unconscious this week.
Mako: Wha-?! Who did you fight with?!
Pandie: That’s not important. The fact is I’m awake and you’re interrupting.
Mako: …… *leans over and grabs onto the back of Pandie’s neck, lifting her away from Wally so her legs dangled in the air* Pandemonium Harbinger!
Pandie: See, Walter. He can say it right.
Wally: *sinks into the couch* ….. This is why I didn’t call your brother, Pandie…
Mako: *looks at Wally* What was that?
Wally: ….. Nothing. I just.. Uh……. buck.
Mako: You were here when she was passed out and didn’t call me?! The hell, what about Dad?!
Wally: *waves his hands* It was a few days after she passed out! And I thought about calling you.. Or Bubble but with her being… well.. Not one to eat or blink or have regular bodily functions I thought taking her to the hospital was a… bad… idea..
Mako: So then, not going to the only other ponies that actually KNOW of Pandie’s whole biology issues wasn’t an idea that creeped into your fat over-curled skull?!
Wally: *squeaks* !!! N-no it came to mind……. Right after the image of this.. You looming over me, and threatening to wrap your jaws around my throat--! *his voice getting higher and higher pitch*
Mako: Walter, I might have a temper on me, but you know it takes a special kind of arsehole to push me to my limit pretty damn quickly. *points at Pandie* Like this one. *points at Wally* You, I see as a sensible guy, I would’ve hoped that counted for something!
Wally: *ears slowly fold back before looking to the side* … I couldn’t.. Not when it was my fault that she ended up like that…
Mako: …… *holds Pandie up to his eye level* You wanna explain why you somehow did something to make this sweet cinnamon roll upset?
Pandie: I didn’t do anything! Why are you blaming me!?
Mako: Cuz Wally’s too sweet to do anything wrong, but you do a lot of shit that gets you or me in trouble! Or do I need to remind you of the Salem Witch hunts you and our dear sister caused?!
Pandie: First, That’s bullshit. Second, we didn’t start those on purpose. And Last, I’m the one that was out cold!
Mako: That does not excuse you!
Wally: *looks so confused* …. Huh? What’s that about the Salem Witch hunts?
Mako: *pats Wally’s head* Shush, the older ponies are talking.
Wally: …… But you are the same age as me…
Mako: ………….. *slowly turns his head to Wally* …… Fook….. *sighs* Ye know what, I don’t care.. Not like you’d say anything.
Wally: …. About what? *ears perk* Wait, are you one of the Four Horsemen too?! Uuuuh.. Wait wait, I got this……. Famine?
Mako: ….. Granted I am black, but I’m not Famine..
Pandie: What is with your obsession with Famine? What about me?
Wally: *ears perk* U-uh I don’t have an obsession with Famine! I like food! … and.. I would think it’s obvious that the fourth horseman is my favorite.. *looks to the side, cheeks pink*
Pandie: ...Hmmm… *cheeks turn pink, tail slowly wagging*
Mako: *groans slightly* As much as I wanna say that’s cute, I’m too pissed at Pandie right now.. *shakes her a bit* So what did you do this time, ey?
Pandie: OW! S-stop it and put me down! Maybe then I’ll talk!
Mako: *rolls his eyes and sets her down carefully* Well then?
Pandie: I...You remember Life, right?
Mako: *growls loudly, his teeth showing* Yes…
Pandie: She...did something...and I had to interfere to stop it, which goes against my rules…
Wally: *ears perks* Wait….. What do you mean by that? *hand gripping the armrest of the couch*
Mako: *ears perk, looking a bit more relaxed that it wasn’t Pandie’s doing* What did she do…?
Pandie: *sighs* Life set up the tree branch and your sister’s...planned death, but I noticed the weird shift in their clocks and...after short mulling on my part, I saved her. She was probably counting on me letting things be as they were. When I didn't and foiled her plot, she attacked me.
Wally: *stares at Pandie, a mixture of emotions on his face but settling to disgust and anger* …. Is this just some kind of game to her?! Those are my sister’s lives..! Why… what…. *grits his teeth* And the miserable, narcissistic, wench! H-how dare she accuse me of meddling when she turns around and dug her nails into MY domain?! *having a relapse of phantom memories and pains*
Mako: ……………………… *eyes shift between Wally and Pandie, trying to take in what just happened* …… *inhale* I’d very much like an explanation as to what kind of freaky, paranormal, voodoo went down here when my brain isn’t fuzzy… *points at Wally* Because you look like you got possessed, and it was Pandie’s fault, as I suspect.. But this is confusing enough already- WHY would she set it up?!
    Pandie sighed and placed a hand on Wally’s chest, right where the bolt would have touched down in their time during the memory. She tried to instruct him to calm, simply by breathing in….and then breathing out, trying to coax him to follow her lead. Once Wally followed her example and calmed, Pandie continued.
Pandie: I am off task according to her. This was a way to...pull me back into line, but it failed. That is as much about it I wish to get into.
Mako: Hrmm… Seems like a bit much, to go after Wally’s sisters…. *ear twitches* Although… You both seem to have gotten very close since I last saw… As scary as it sounds, that’s probably reason enough for her to do that… She’s a bitch like that…
Wally: *taking deep breaths, his head in his hands* Mmhmmm… But like Pandie said, it didn’t work… Ever since then, we’ve been closer than ever. I sometimes fear what might come of it…
Pandie: We’ll work through it as the time goes. It will be alright. *kisses his nose*
Mako: And, you haven’t heard anything from her since, right…?
Pandie: No.
Mako: *ear twitches before folding back* …. Just be careful, okay…? The comfier you get, the more she might decide to be the- *looks to the ceiling* -Controlling murderous twat that she is!
Pandie: Mind yourself as well, brother. Calm. *petting Wally’s hair*
Mako: Tch, it’s not like that bitch can do anything else to me.. She’s already taken so much from me, I figure she’s done tormenting me by now..
Wally: *silently just reaches out and knocks on the wooden coffee table* …. Knock on wood..
Mako: ………… *leans over to knock on the table* Hrmm…
Pandie: Nevertheless, it’s done and over. I would like to forget this happened for now, if you boys would be so kind…
Mako: Do you really think that’s a good idea..? This sounds pretty serious, especially if she went so far as to target the relative of someone that was close to you. Who’s to say she won’t again..? *ears twitch as he thinks it over* …… I think you should tell Lady about this…
Pandie: Is that necessary at the moment? It sound like from earlier, she dealt with your dramatic happenings already. We don’t need to introduce mine. I just want to relax with my somepony...please?
Mako: It’s only fair she gets a warning, Pandie.. Besides, you can just pop in, tell her, then pop back here. It only takes seconds, doesn’t it? And I think she would like seeing you again…. *scrunches his brow* After all, it’s only been a few years after the birth of your godchildren that you last saw her. And a couple, oh I dunno, a good hundred since you saw ME!
Wally: *lifts his head from his hands* Wait, what?!
Pandie: You’re guilt-tripping me again, aren’t you?
Mako: *turns up his muzzle and crosses his arms, pouting*
Wally: *squints and stares at Mako* …….. *looks at Pandie* He’s not War, is he?
Pandie: No, Wally. Even he’s not as stupid as War is…
Mako: Hmph! Just because your family cares about what happens to you.. If I didn’t give two rats asses about this situation I wouldn’t suggest it. I hate when Life has the balls to hurt you!
Wally: ……… Ah! *ears perk* Of course, I should have guessed sooner. Conquest! Using everything in your power to win the argument or any situation you are put in, even resorting to guilt trips! The black threw me off.
Mako: ……. *eye twitches* Wally….. I think you’re nice…. And you’re a sweet guy, I really mean that….. But when is it gonna sink in that I’m NOT A HORSEMAN!?!?
Wally: ….. Oh. Darn, I thought I had it that time… Okay, so what are you? A Kelpie or a selkie maybe?
Mako: ….. *inhales* In short, No, Kelpies are bad. Selkies are seals. I’m a Orca Hippocamp that was lucky enough to be born with legs. Any other questions, Coffee Breath?
Wally: I know plenty of other hippocamps, but… the way you and Pandie were talking, you made it seem like you were……… older. Possibly supernaturally so. I mean, the Salem Witch hunts happened… what? 400 years ago?
Mako: Now for THIS to be short… Dragon blood was given to me so I’d live so now I can live as long as they do. Our sister? She’s over five hundred years old, and so am I.
Wally: ……. Oh. That’s boring…*looking disappointed*
Mako: *fist starts trembling* You wanna get thumped over the head like Singe, Mister Shampoo Model?
Pandie: Please don’t hit my coltfriend, Mako. I just got him.
Mako: I don’t bloody care, I am gettin’ sick of- …………. Repeat that last part, sister dear?
Pandie: I just got him?
Mako: No, before that…..
Pandie: ….Please?
Mako: The middle part!!!!
Pandie: ….Don’t hit.
Mako: PANDIE!!!
Pandie: COLTFRIEND!
Mako: ………. *slowly turns his eyes on Wally*
Wally: …… Eheh… hehehe…. heh…. I… should get going! Wow, look… at that freckle on my arm because I don’t wear of watch.. It looks like it’s getting late, so if you don’t mind, I’ll… just…….. Let myself out?
Mako: *firmly wraps an arm around Wally* Well now, this just became a whole new reason to see Lady! I’m sure she’d just LOVE to hear that you got yourself a coltfriend, don’t you think so Walter? *claws hold onto Wally’s shoulder, a big scary grin on his face*
Wally: *whimpers* Mmmmmmmmmmmmmm…
Pandie: And where is Lady?
Mako: Ponyville.
Wally: That’s almost a full day of travel by train. Oh well, I guess we’ll just have to rain-check until later.. So.. uh… if you don’t mind… letting me go, I’ll just…
Mako: *holds Wally tighter* I know a way we can get there in just seconds, no worries! Besides, you didn’t think you’d go through dating my sister without meeting her family, did you…? *grin gets wider*
Pandie: ...I am not doing that to him. He’s not been in that realm before.
Mako: Well, no time like the present, am I right? One little trip can’t hurt him. I know he’s soft like a marshmallow, but surely he can take this much? *pokes Wally’s belly*
Wally: *grimaces and looks between the two of them* W-what realm? Where am I being taken? Do I not get a say in this?
Mako: Whaaaat, don’t you wanna meet our sister? Or are you scared of her too?
Pandie: Ugh, ENOUGH! *flares out her wings*
Wally: *swallows nervously* … Well, I mean.. Pandie had to meet my family, so it would.. only be fair…. She isn’t going to threaten me with fire and brimstone like she did Bubble… right?
Mako: *snickers* She was a huge softy with Singe when she met him. I’m sure with you she’ll be nothing but sweet. She’s all loopy from the hormones anyway, comes with the baby.
Wally: …. Yeah but Singe isn’t in relations with one of Lady’s immediate family members…
Mako: Oh come oooon, Lady might have a violent streak from hundreds of years ago, but she’s simmered down since then. Pandie tell em, Lady’s not gonna hurt him.
Pandie: ….She’s pregnant again?
Mako: Yeah! Only a few months away from her due date too.
Pandie: She’s like a baby factory…
Mako: I know, right…? But hey, that’s one more godchild for you.
Pandie: You know this means you’re next right?
Mako: *SQUEAK!* Aaahahahaha! No need to start with that, hehehe...heh…
Pandie: Well...it must be you. It can’t be me.
Mako: *coughs into his fist* So we going or not?! *holds Wally even tighter to not let him escape*
Wally: Erk..!
Pandie: Fine. You know the drill...hold on, and do not let go.
Wally: Wait, what drill? You aren’t going to cast another creepy spell on me, are you?
Mako: Spell…? No, no just hold her hand. *releases Wally to hold onto Pandie*
Wally: *cheeks turn a little pink before taking Pandie’s hand* … Okay…?
Mako: Okay, ready…. Wait! I got a question. *looks at Wally* …… What’s Netflix…?
Wally: Uh……….
    Pandie rolled her eyes and walked with them over to the light switch, before turning it off. The room now shrouded in inky black, the two stallions felt their paws and hooves tickled by what felt like thin tendrils, before they engulfed them fully, making the darkness impossibly more dark.
    They were surrounded by nothingness, the only thing they could see within the terrifying void being each other. Pandie spoke once, keeping her grip on their hands firm. Her voice echoing, as though there were several of her talking one right after the other.
Pandie: Follow me. Stay close…
    With that, she walked forward, leading them through the voided realm for a few moments. Step by step, they walked for what seemed like hours until she stopped, and pulled them closer, her wings wrapping around them as the darkness was pierced by bright lights. Shielding their eyes, they stepped out of the realm of dark shadows and into a dark room.
Mako: *sighs, rubbing his eyes* See? That wasn’t so- *cheeks puff up before he looks to the side and kneels next to a trash can* BLAAAAAAAGH!!!
Wally: *wobbles and shakes, putting his hands on his knees for support* OOoh…. I… I need to go.. lay down.. *as he makes his way through the darkness before sitting down on what seems like a bed*
??? (female voice): *SQUEALING* WHY ARE YOU IN MY ROOM?!
Wally: OH! I am so sorry!! *jumps up to his hooves again, fearing he may have sat on someone*
Pandie: *turning on the lights* What have I told you about reading in the dark, young lady?
???: *whimpers* I see better in the dark…
    Looking to the bed in the room, a small light blue mare with a curved horn rubbed her eyes. As she looked at them, her eyes were pink but the whites of them were pitch black. She reached to the nightstand for a pair of glasses and put them on before blinking a few times, her eyes shifting so they looked normal.
???: O-oh! Hi Uncle Mako! Hi Godmother! *looks over at Wally…… her neck puffs* Who’s he..?
Wally: *leans against a wall for support* I’m…… sick… just give me a few moments… *as he slowly slides down the wall and sits on the floor with a groan*
Pandie: I will explain shortly. Can you take us to your mother, Annie?
Annie: Mom? Oh yeah, she’s in the living room. *gets out of bed, wearing pajamas* Lemme just-
*clip clop clip clop clip CLIP CLOP*
    The door swung open hard, hitting Mako in his side.
Mako: *SQUEAK!!! ….sliiiiiding down the wall*
???: Sister..?! What’s wrong, why did you scream..?!
Annie: Eep! D-danny! You hit--
Daniel: *looks at Walter…… wings start to flare up and he puffs up twice his size* Who are you and why are you in my sister’s room…?
Wally: I promise, it was not my choice…
Pandie: You should learn to control yourself, little Robin.
Daniel: *sees Pandie* Godmother… Excuse my boldness, but it is rather alarming to see an unfamiliar older stallion in my twin sister’s bedroom… *limps in front of Annie, holding his ribs*
Pandie: I can assure you...this one is taken. *wraps her tail around Wally*
Annie: Aaaw…. *ears droop*
Daniel: *puts his hand on Annie’s muzzle* He’s too old for you….
Annie: He doesn’t look that old.
Daniel: This isn’t one of your weird comics or shows where the love interest just magically appears into the main protagonists’ life and suddenly everything becomes a magical adventure that protagonist gets dragged through…!
Wally: *raises a hand* Once again, another horrible trope…
Mako: And you’re living it…
Wally: *raise his head* Wait……... What?
Pandie: FOCUS! *neck fluff poofs*
Twins: *SQUEAK!*
Daniel: *jumps from that, then winces, kneeling a bit* Ow…
Mako: *cringes* Sorry Pandie..
Wally: ….. Can we go home now?
Annie: I thought you were here for mom?
Pandie: We are. You dragged me into this visit, Mako. Stay on task…
Mako: Right right… *stands up, holding his head* Where is your mother again..?
???: I WAS taking a nap, but I guess that’s over with..
Wally: *squeaks* oh great… another one?!
???: Well that’s a very snappy tone I didn’t expect from a new visitor in my house…
    Waddling into the room and walking out from behind Mako was a small mare about the same height as Pandie. Her fur pattern was strikingly similar to the horseman’s, but in the shade of red markings. Her wings were webbed and draconic and her belly swollen with a foal inside.
???: Oh sweet Luna, are you alright, Dear..? You look like you just came from Hell and back..
Wally: That’s about accurate actually…
Pandie: Please, allow him to rest, my sister. He is unwell from the shadow-walking.
Lady: *ears perk up* And who’s bloody bright idea was it to take this poor boy shadow-walking..?
Wally and Pandie: *points at Mako*
Mako: *SQUEAK!* Bastarts!
Lady: *glares at Mako* Seriously..?! You remember how sick we got when we first did it? What’s wrong with you?
Daniel: Quite a lot, it seems… It’s one issue after another with Uncle Mako..
Mako: Hey…
Lady: *sighs and leans forward a little, putting a hand to Wally’s forehead* You poor Dear.. Come, let’s get you in a chair and a glass of water. No use sitting on the hardwood floor.
Wally: *nods as he hoists himself up to his hooves, easily towering over the other three hippodrakes in the room* I’d… appreciate that very much, Miss.
Lady: *looks up* Oh goodness, you’re a big fellow, aren’t you?
Pandie: Indeed. Shall we retreat downstairs? Come along, children.
Twins: Yes, Godmother.
Lady: *shakes her head* Daniel, I want you back to your room and in bed again. Doctor’s orders, you need rest after what happened.. *lifts up his shirt slightly, a few bruises covering his body*
Daniel: Mm…. Yes, Mother…
Pandie: Surely, he can sit with us for at least a while, Lady. I haven’t seen my godchildren in so long. Besides… I wish to introduce my coltfriend...properly.
Lady: *ears swivel towards Pandie and Wally* ….. Coltfriend you say? … *nods* Alright.. That sounds like a good idea. *turns around and has a smile on her face* Can I offer you anything to eat as well?
Wally: *ears perk* Oh, no thank you. My stomach is still churning from the shadow-walking…
    Wasting no time, Lady lead the small party downstairs, having Wally settle down on the couch with Pandie and the twins. Mako slumped in a chair, while Lady made her way to the kitchen and brought Wally a glass of water as promised, giving a gentle pet on his head.
Lady: There you go, dear.
Wally: *gently takes the glass* Thank you, Miss… Lady I presume? My name is Walter Nutt, but can call me Wally if you want. Everyone else does. *with a pleasant smile before sipping the water*
Lady: Heheh, okay Wally. *waddles to sit in another chair* Now…. does anyone want to explain why you poofed into my house? I don’t mind visitors, but a call ahead would have been nice, heheh.~
Pandie: Mako thought it was an urgent matter to attend to right now...I suppose in hindsight, he is correct.
Lady: *ears perk* Urgent..? Why, what happened? *looks at Mako* Who did you almost drown this time?!
Mako: *SQUEAK!* N-no pony!
Pandie: He has done nothing. SHE is up to her plotting again…
Lady: ….. *pupils shrink to tiny slits, claws gripping the chair* I see… What did she do..?
Pandie: Attempted murder. Nothing short of what I expect of her…
Lady: Grrrr…. Who was the target.?
Mako: Wally’s sisters.. She staged it, making a tree branch almost hit them.
Lady: W-what?!
Wally: *grips the glass in his hands, his ears folding back flat to his head* ….
Pandie: It did not come to pass. I stopped it.
Lady: *sighs* And they are well, yes? Both are unharmed..?
Wally: *nods before taking a deep breath* Hmm.. Yes, they are fine. A little scrapped up but still alive, thanks to Pandie. Even if I tried, I.. probably wouldn’t have made it in time.
Pandie: ...Or you would have…. And then you… *flinches* It matters not anymore. The point is she is making her presence known again. That cannot be a good sign.
Lady: *puts a hand over her stomach* Now..? She’s had years and years to do so, why now?
Mako: *ears fold back* I dunno.. But it looks like the target she put on Pandie’s back way before just got bigger. You know how she is..
Lady: *nods, leaning back in her chair*
Pandie: I have deviated from my task… She is unhappy that her exile is not effective anymore. She’s trying to force me into her game again…
Lady: That doesn’t make sense.. Does she think you are not taking on your role as Death? Surely you are doing your normal job, what more does she want from you..?
Twins: …………. *slowly turn their heads to look at Wally, as if asking for context*
Wally: *slowly shakes his head* Don’t ask me, I just found out Mako is over 500 years old about ….. 13 minutes ago…?
Twins: …….. *turn their heads back*
Daniel: Uncle is quite old….
Mako: *snorts* Oye, respect your elders, ye little shit.
Daniel: *sticks his tongue at Mako* Nya….
Wally: *snickers as he sips his water*
Pandie: Regardless, stay on watch. I am not the only one with a bullseye on my flank.
Lady: *ears perk up* Wait… You think she might… come after us too..?
Mako: She has reason to try. If she chose to go after Wally’s siblings, then…
Annie: *fluffs up* Wh-what..?! What did we do?!
Pandie: To put it bluntly, you exist. To explain further, you’re close to me…
Annie: *whimpers and her tail curls around herself*
Daniel: *neck ruffles, a small growl coming from him* ……..
Mako: Just try not to panic okay? She’s not going to strike one right after the other, there are rules even that cu- …. Witch has to abide by, I’d think. Just keep a look out for each other, it’ll be okay..
Daniel: *wraps a wing around Annie* That’ll be easy for me then…
Pandie: And why is that?
Daniel: *ears fold back, twitching* I-I have decided to… join the Royal Guard.
    Almost immediately, Mako, Lady and Annie sat bolt upright in their seats, staring at Daniel.
Annie: Wha- you?!
Mako: Danny, you can’t-
Lady: Be serious..!
Daniel: *nods, puffing out his feathers* I am.. I was already thinking about it before we left the island, now I’m more serious than ever..
Pandie: ...I let you choose your own paths in life, but...even I ask you take a moment to reconsider…
Daniel: *looks at Pandie* There’s nothing to reconsider, Godmother.. If danger is stirring more, I need to be able to protect my family.. I already failed once, I don’t want to fail again and possibly lose my sister, or anypony else…
Lady: …. Daniel… What happened in the hotel wasn’t your fault, you didn’t fail..
Daniel: *fluffs up* I did…! I couldn’t protect Bubble, and that- …. *trembles* That FUCKTARD almost hurt you, and my unborn sibling..! And I couldn’t do anything..!
Mako: Oye, language!
Daniel: Sunstreak almost took you and Uncle Mako out on his own, I was too weak to stop him when you needed help… I want to get stronger now, I want to keep you all safe…!
Pandie: That is not your job, Daniel. She is my opponent. This is my fight. I will deal with her, even if we both go out doing so.
Wally: *ears perk* Hey, wait a minute here… I can’t say for the rest of your family, but once that…. *takes a deep breath* ..sadistic self-righteous harpy got my sisters involved, she was no longer just your problem..
Pandie: She’s only doing this because of me! If I had stayed away… you would be safe. This is my fault to rectify.
Wally: Well it’s a little too late to be dealing with what could have beens.. I’m glad I met you and I’m happy we are closer now... And I told you before, that you are not alone anymore… I promise I’ll stand by your side and help you through this.
Pandie: …. *her cheeks go pink… before POOF! Her entire coat going that bubblegum pink colour* Hmmm….
Wally: *blinks a few times* …. Was it.. something I said?
Pandie: ….Thank you. I...forget I don’t have to survive in this world alone...I’m still getting used to depending on others…
Wally: *tilts his head slightly* I guess I don’t understand why… You are surrounded by lots of ponies who love and care for you... *referencing to everypony else in the room* … Not just me.
Pandie: I know they do, I appreciate them as well. Please...understand that. I suppose when it comes down to it, family is still a very strange concept to me...full of ponies of being supportive regardless. It feels different coming from a pony you choose to let in. *places a hand on his arm* Though...all things considered… I suppose I got to choose my family as well, didn’t I? Hmhmhmhm~
Daniel: *puffs out his plumage so it came out of the collar of his shirt, turning his head away* I’d hope so…. Never let me do anything when I try to help… *blank pouting*
Annie: Wow… way to crush it, Danny….
Pandie: *sigh* What am I going to do with you…?
Daniel: Hmph…! *turns his head away to pout, fluffing up more*
Pandie: Brat...still...I appreciate the concern… I don’t want you in the guard...but I will not stop you…
Daniel: *ears perk up* Really…?
Lady: Sister…!
Mako: ……. *looks to the side* He… is old enough to make that choice, Lady… He needs your permission now, but it’s not like you can stop him once he’s 18..
Lady: … *sighs, rubbing her face with her hands*
Daniel: *ears fold back slightly, but looks to Pandie* Thank you….
Pandie: Even you must learn to yield, sister… at least on this.
Lady: *claws dig into her chair, peeking over her hand* ….. I suppose…. *stands up* I uhm… It was a pleasure meeting you Walter, but I must excuse myself for a moment.. *eyes are watery and she goes upstairs hastily*
Daniel: *ears and wings droop* Mmm….
Pandie: I will talk to her once she has calmed. Please still.. Think on your choice…
Daniel: ….. I will do that much at least.. I promise… *bowing his head*
Pandie: *presses her head against his own*
Daniel: *lets out small purrs and coils his tail around hers tightly*
Pandie: We shall head back...using the train this time….
Wally: Praise Luna…
Mako: Good idea… *gags*
Pandie: Take care of yourself. Come… let us go, boys.
Mako: Right behind ye.. *stands up and stretches*
Annie: *perks up her ears, putting on her best smile* It was nice to see you again, Godmother..! And to meet you too, Wally! *hugs Pandie*
Pandie: Likewise, Annie. Please do not blow up the house again.
Annie: Nooooo promises!
Daniel: Like always… *turns his eyes on Wally* It was also nice to make your acquaintance, Walter..
Wally: *sets the glass on the coffee table before standing* It was nice meeting you both as well.. Sorry for dropping by unannounced, hehe~ *giving Annie an apologetic smile*
Annie: It’s okay, heheh! Godmother does that a lot. *neck floofs up* Just uhm, please learn to look before you sit, heheh… You got my tail.. *raises her tail to show the ruffled hair tuft*
Wally: *fluffs up* Oh! I’m sorry, I hope I didn’t hurt you… *reach and checking to see if the tail was damaged at all*
Annie: No, luckily you just got the hair, heheh! Don’t worry, I’m a little clumsy too at times. This is nothing compared to the times I’ve burnt off my eyebrows!
Wally: ….. *slooowly pulls his hand back* Hehe.. r-right..
Daniel: *pats Annie’s head* She does that very often… *turns to give Pandie a hug* Do visit again some time… I will do the same, next time I am on the island..
Pandie: I will make sure to set aside a day I am not working.
Daniel: *looks over Pandie’s shoulder at Wally…… gestures “I’m watching you” with his fingers*
Wally: !!! *ears perk before doing the “I’m watching you” gesture back*
Daniel: …… Godmother, perhaps at least tell Mother you are leaving…?
Pandie: Of course. I shall return. *walks off*
Daniel: *waits until Pandie is out of ear shot, staring at Wally* ….. So you really are my Godmother’s coltfriend, yes…? *not blinking*
Wally: Uh… y-yes, for the last three days.
Daniel: ……… *eyebrows twitch until his pupils shrink to slits, but his gaze is soft* Take care of my Godmother…. I don’t know everything about what happened before me and my sister were born… But I know it wasn’t good, or easy on her…. She deserves a better life than the one she was given…..
Wally: *ears perk* ….. I will. I promise I’ll try my best to make her happy..
Daniel: … *nods* I am glad.. *pupils turn round again, reaching out to shake his hand*
Wally: *extends and gives Daniel a firm handshake* Feel free to come to the cafe sometime next time you are at Capricorn Reef.
Daniel: I plan to.. *lets go of his hand before sitting down again*
Pandie: *returns* Alright, I am back. Let us go.
Mako: *gives Annie and Daniel a quick hug* I’ll see you two another time, kay?
Twins: Yes, Uncle Mako.
Mako: *chuckles and goes to open the front door*
-----
    The train ride back to get to the ferry was long, and mostly in silence. It was a lot to take in for everypony. Everypony save the small Death pony. Pandie was mulling over everything that had happened. Life was back and it seemed, they were just as cruel as ever. Wally was unfortunately pulled into this fiasco once his sisters were involved and now Daniel wanted to join the guard. It felt like things were spiraling into a odd mix of bad and worse until it formed an impossible wave that she just couldn’t control anymore. Try as she might, this was getting out of hand. The last thing the small pegasus wanted was others to get hurt. However, as terrifying as it all seemed, she didn’t think Life had it really in her to do anything immensely damaging or stupid, not without repercussions anyway. It also helped she never like dirtying her own hands, hence using natural occurrences to try and tip balances in her favor.
    Sighing softly, Pandie looked at the other two stallions. Mako seemed...okay. Tired, confused, probably inwardly scared, but dealing well. He was a good guy like that. For all the shit they gave each other, she was happy he was here to help her deal with this, even if she couldn’t say or do to much about it. Wally...he seemed ok too, for what it was worth anyway. He had gone through so much because of her, and seemed to endure it all in stride...well… with a side of panic but well enough. Stretching her wings out, Pandie curled them around both stallions at her side. There wasn’t much she could say or do. There was a lot even Pandie didn’t fully understand, but the one thing she did know was they needed to stick this through together. Division could mean….well she didn’t want to think about. And while this visit was a serious one for the most part, it renewed old bonds and forged and strengthened new ones. Those bonds would get her family, both old and new, through this ordeal. Pulling both of them closer, she just repeated to herself the same thing mentally.
It’ll be alright...
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That was pretty chaotic but it seemed like Wally made it out relatively unscathed. But yeah! The last MakoLee and Death by Coffee arcs happened at the exact same time! After this, the timelines are different, but be sure to catch up on your favorite ships by using the the handy dandy !!

Also, check out the Capricorn Reef server --> discord.gg/8rdWMyX

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Description

    Three days had passed since the...unfortunate mishap with the spell, but fortunate uniting of the two as a new couple. In those few days, Pandie had slowly recovered from her induced trance, getting used to her sight once more and finally having the loud ringing in her ears cease. While she had insisted she would be fine, Wally made sure Pandie actually rested and fully recovered, making the excuse to the other workers that she had been on a medical leave for a while. Likewise, Walter himself also needed to recover from the throbbing chest pain inflicted by the memory, as well as the scramble of implanted and misaligned thoughts and images it had seeded. While the recovery period was a bit tough, they both seemed to come out of it with not much, if any, harm done.
    Now, the two were nested in Pandie’s apartment, planted comfortably on the couch. Her TV finally had use, playing a movie as they watched, giving commentary on the stupid or just plain weird parts of this psychedelic plot. Pandie was barely paying attention, just content to lay on her new coltfriend, and occasionally roll her eyes at the poor acting.
Wally: … Alright, let me guess… this is the part where the pompous, super rich ex-coltfriend comes back and… Yep! There it is! Geez, what is with all the stereotypical tropes?!
Pandie: I don’t know...But I can tell you how this probably ends. She ends up rescuing herself and the day is saved...yaaay.
Wally: Eeeeh.. *takes a handful of popcorn and munches on it* I mean.. She is the main protagonist so maybe? If the main protagonist was the stallion tho, a super common trope is the overprotective male figure swooping in and saving the seemingly “helpless” damsel in defense… when she probably could have taken care of it herself or settled it without any violence.
Pandie: But then...there would be no story...no unneeded and self-inflicted drama! Wally, think of the drama! *flops her head on his chest*
Wally: *groans* You sound like Maca… What I want to know is why didn’t the main protagonist just talk out her feelings like a civilized pony? Everything could have been settled in the first 5 minutes of the movie and then they could have moved on to a much more interesting storyline then……. This! *references to the tv screen*
Pandie: Well the stallion could have...you know, taken the advice of the friend that warned him about this repugnant ex-coltfriend. Some ponies fail to see the bad when it’s right in their faces. Or he could have just taken care of him the first time he showed up...You don’t let the villain get away the first time. But hey...at least it’s not about two-star crossed lovers that find each other after years apart, right?
??? (outside the apartment door) : I don’t appreciate you making fun of all your friends’ lives, ye bitch…!
Wally: *jumps, spilling some popcorn* E-eh?! Uh.. Pandie, were you expecting…… company?
Pandie: No...but he’s the type to drop in unannounced anyway.
Wally & the voice: Like you have any room to talk..!
    Pandie pouted, ear swivelling behind her head. She shoved her hand in Wally’s face, covering his mouth with one hand while lifting the other to cast a simple spell on the door. Huffing a bit, she settled back into her comfortable position.
Pandie: Door is open….jerk.
    Walking through the door was Mako, Pandie’s….. “Brother”. Whenever near her, Mako treated Pandie like she was the youngest sibling, well knowing how much older she was then him. He closed the door behind him, his face looking as if he hadn’t slept in days, a bandage on his head and wrapped around the base of his tail. Oh boy… what did he do this time?
Mako: Always good to hear your criticism, Pandie…
Pandie: I have no idea what you’re talking about, brother…
Wally: *looks up* Oh hey MakoooooOOO-OH my goddess, what happened to you? Why do you look like you got into a fight with a sledgehammer?
Mako: *ear twitch as he looks at Wally* Well, you two basically summed it up.. Total twat of a ex-coltfriend showed up to the Reef a week ago..
    The two sat there in silence as they stared at Mako… and then simultaneously turning their head to look at the television again at the movie they were just watching.
Wally:..... Wait, what?
Mako: *rubbing his eyes* I dunno if you’d remember, but does the name Sunstreak mean anything to ye..?
Wally: *cringes and groans* Ugh… Unfortunately yes. So you are saying he came back to the island after all these years? Why?!
Mako: Take a lucky guess.. Wanted to take Bubble back, even tried to bribe me so I’d leave…! We got into a fight, and that bloody prick beat my head over with a rock!
Wally: …. *lifts the remote and turns off the tv* …. I think that’s enough television for one day.
Pandie: We can’t take you anywhere, can we?
Mako: Oye, not my fault. I tried to approach the whole thing with a good attitude, but that ship sunk when I spoke to him face to face. And then after we fought, there was so much ugly business at the hotel, and Lady and Bubble were trapped and then-.... why are you cuddling….?
Wally: …. Who is Lady?
Mako: Answer mine first….
Pandie: She’s our sister…
Wally: …… Adopted?
Pandie: No, she is actually Father’s blood child.
Mako: OYE, DINGBATS!
Wally: *ear twitches* Uh huh.. How… interesting.. *doing his best to ignore Mako’s question*
Mako: Walter, I have a very big headache right now, I am in no mood for any bull right now…
Wally: *lets out a sigh* .. We were just watching some Netflix and ch--- and relaxing! On our day off! Nothing unusual here…
Mako: …… *raises an eyebrow, but shrugs* Okay.. *plops down in a chair and rubbing his head*
Wally: *glances from Mako to Pandie in awkward silence* …. Well.. um.. Pandie, if you want to spend some time with your… brother.. I can leave.
Pandie: But I asked to spend this day with you….Mako, what do you want?
Mako: *waves his hand* I was kinda hoping even you could help take off this load of stress like back in the past...like how we used to hang out, but nevermind… I was also gonna ask if you had seen Lady since you showed up again, but I guess you’re too busy..
Pandie: ….Ugh. All right, fine. Tell me your woes, Brother… though I’m not sure how much help I can be. This week has been...a blur.
Mako: *ears spring up* …… What happened now… You two have another fight again..? *looks to Wally*
Wally: *tense slightly* Erk! N-no, nothing like that. It’s just been a really.. Uh… quiet week.
Mako: …. Some things with Pandie being quiet isn’t usually good… *stares*
Pandie: Hm. Oh, it’s nothing too out of the ordinary. Lists, work, not being awake all week, it’s been a venture.
Mako: …. Pardon me?
Pandie: It’s nothing to worry about. I’m fine.
Mako: With you, it’s never “nothing”, Pandie… What happened..?
Pandie: *stares at him*
Mako: ….. Don’t make me scruff you like Dad does…
Wally: *glances awkwardly from Pandie to Mako* …….
Pandie: I may or may not have lost a….fight.
Mako: *walks closer til he’s looming over them* And..?
Pandie: I may have been unconscious this week.
Mako: Wha-?! Who did you fight with?!
Pandie: That’s not important. The fact is I’m awake and you’re interrupting.
Mako: …… *leans over and grabs onto the back of Pandie’s neck, lifting her away from Wally so her legs dangled in the air* Pandemonium Harbinger!
Pandie: See, Walter. He can say it right.
Wally: *sinks into the couch* ….. This is why I didn’t call your brother, Pandie…
Mako: *looks at Wally* What was that?
Wally: ….. Nothing. I just.. Uh……. buck.
Mako: You were here when she was passed out and didn’t call me?! The hell, what about Dad?!
Wally: *waves his hands* It was a few days after she passed out! And I thought about calling you.. Or Bubble but with her being… well.. Not one to eat or blink or have regular bodily functions I thought taking her to the hospital was a… bad… idea..
Mako: So then, not going to the only other ponies that actually KNOW of Pandie’s whole biology issues wasn’t an idea that creeped into your fat over-curled skull?!
Wally: *squeaks* !!! N-no it came to mind……. Right after the image of this.. You looming over me, and threatening to wrap your jaws around my throat--! *his voice getting higher and higher pitch*
Mako: Walter, I might have a temper on me, but you know it takes a special kind of arsehole to push me to my limit pretty damn quickly. *points at Pandie* Like this one. *points at Wally* You, I see as a sensible guy, I would’ve hoped that counted for something!
Wally: *ears slowly fold back before looking to the side* … I couldn’t.. Not when it was my fault that she ended up like that…
Mako: …… *holds Pandie up to his eye level* You wanna explain why you somehow did something to make this sweet cinnamon roll upset?
Pandie: I didn’t do anything! Why are you blaming me!?
Mako: Cuz Wally’s too sweet to do anything wrong, but you do a lot of shit that gets you or me in trouble! Or do I need to remind you of the Salem Witch hunts you and our dear sister caused?!
Pandie: First, That’s bullshit. Second, we didn’t start those on purpose. And Last, I’m the one that was out cold!
Mako: That does not excuse you!
Wally: *looks so confused* …. Huh? What’s that about the Salem Witch hunts?
Mako: *pats Wally’s head* Shush, the older ponies are talking.
Wally: …… But you are the same age as me…
Mako: ………….. *slowly turns his head to Wally* …… Fook….. *sighs* Ye know what, I don’t care.. Not like you’d say anything.
Wally: …. About what? *ears perk* Wait, are you one of the Four Horsemen too?! Uuuuh.. Wait wait, I got this……. Famine?
Mako: ….. Granted I am black, but I’m not Famine..
Pandie: What is with your obsession with Famine? What about me?
Wally: *ears perk* U-uh I don’t have an obsession with Famine! I like food! … and.. I would think it’s obvious that the fourth horseman is my favorite.. *looks to the side, cheeks pink*
Pandie: ...Hmmm… *cheeks turn pink, tail slowly wagging*
Mako: *groans slightly* As much as I wanna say that’s cute, I’m too pissed at Pandie right now.. *shakes her a bit* So what did you do this time, ey?
Pandie: OW! S-stop it and put me down! Maybe then I’ll talk!
Mako: *rolls his eyes and sets her down carefully* Well then?
Pandie: I...You remember Life, right?
Mako: *growls loudly, his teeth showing* Yes…
Pandie: She...did something...and I had to interfere to stop it, which goes against my rules…
Wally: *ears perks* Wait….. What do you mean by that? *hand gripping the armrest of the couch*
Mako: *ears perk, looking a bit more relaxed that it wasn’t Pandie’s doing* What did she do…?
Pandie: *sighs* Life set up the tree branch and your sister’s...planned death, but I noticed the weird shift in their clocks and...after short mulling on my part, I saved her. She was probably counting on me letting things be as they were. When I didn't and foiled her plot, she attacked me.
Wally: *stares at Pandie, a mixture of emotions on his face but settling to disgust and anger* …. Is this just some kind of game to her?! Those are my sister’s lives..! Why… what…. *grits his teeth* And the miserable, narcissistic, wench! H-how dare she accuse me of meddling when she turns around and dug her nails into MY domain?! *having a relapse of phantom memories and pains*
Mako: ……………………… *eyes shift between Wally and Pandie, trying to take in what just happened* …… *inhale* I’d very much like an explanation as to what kind of freaky, paranormal, voodoo went down here when my brain isn’t fuzzy… *points at Wally* Because you look like you got possessed, and it was Pandie’s fault, as I suspect.. But this is confusing enough already- WHY would she set it up?!
    Pandie sighed and placed a hand on Wally’s chest, right where the bolt would have touched down in their time during the memory. She tried to instruct him to calm, simply by breathing in….and then breathing out, trying to coax him to follow her lead. Once Wally followed her example and calmed, Pandie continued.
Pandie: I am off task according to her. This was a way to...pull me back into line, but it failed. That is as much about it I wish to get into.
Mako: Hrmm… Seems like a bit much, to go after Wally’s sisters…. *ear twitches* Although… You both seem to have gotten very close since I last saw… As scary as it sounds, that’s probably reason enough for her to do that… She’s a bitch like that…
Wally: *taking deep breaths, his head in his hands* Mmhmmm… But like Pandie said, it didn’t work… Ever since then, we’ve been closer than ever. I sometimes fear what might come of it…
Pandie: We’ll work through it as the time goes. It will be alright. *kisses his nose*
Mako: And, you haven’t heard anything from her since, right…?
Pandie: No.
Mako: *ear twitches before folding back* …. Just be careful, okay…? The comfier you get, the more she might decide to be the- *looks to the ceiling* -Controlling murderous twat that she is!
Pandie: Mind yourself as well, brother. Calm. *petting Wally’s hair*
Mako: Tch, it’s not like that bitch can do anything else to me.. She’s already taken so much from me, I figure she’s done tormenting me by now..
Wally: *silently just reaches out and knocks on the wooden coffee table* …. Knock on wood..
Mako: ………… *leans over to knock on the table* Hrmm…
Pandie: Nevertheless, it’s done and over. I would like to forget this happened for now, if you boys would be so kind…
Mako: Do you really think that’s a good idea..? This sounds pretty serious, especially if she went so far as to target the relative of someone that was close to you. Who’s to say she won’t again..? *ears twitch as he thinks it over* …… I think you should tell Lady about this…
Pandie: Is that necessary at the moment? It sound like from earlier, she dealt with your dramatic happenings already. We don’t need to introduce mine. I just want to relax with my somepony...please?
Mako: It’s only fair she gets a warning, Pandie.. Besides, you can just pop in, tell her, then pop back here. It only takes seconds, doesn’t it? And I think she would like seeing you again…. *scrunches his brow* After all, it’s only been a few years after the birth of your godchildren that you last saw her. And a couple, oh I dunno, a good hundred since you saw ME!
Wally: *lifts his head from his hands* Wait, what?!
Pandie: You’re guilt-tripping me again, aren’t you?
Mako: *turns up his muzzle and crosses his arms, pouting*
Wally: *squints and stares at Mako* …….. *looks at Pandie* He’s not War, is he?
Pandie: No, Wally. Even he’s not as stupid as War is…
Mako: Hmph! Just because your family cares about what happens to you.. If I didn’t give two rats asses about this situation I wouldn’t suggest it. I hate when Life has the balls to hurt you!
Wally: ……… Ah! *ears perk* Of course, I should have guessed sooner. Conquest! Using everything in your power to win the argument or any situation you are put in, even resorting to guilt trips! The black threw me off.
Mako: ……. *eye twitches* Wally….. I think you’re nice…. And you’re a sweet guy, I really mean that….. But when is it gonna sink in that I’m NOT A HORSEMAN!?!?
Wally: ….. Oh. Darn, I thought I had it that time… Okay, so what are you? A Kelpie or a selkie maybe?
Mako: ….. *inhales* In short, No, Kelpies are bad. Selkies are seals. I’m a Orca Hippocamp that was lucky enough to be born with legs. Any other questions, Coffee Breath?
Wally: I know plenty of other hippocamps, but… the way you and Pandie were talking, you made it seem like you were……… older. Possibly supernaturally so. I mean, the Salem Witch hunts happened… what? 400 years ago?
Mako: Now for THIS to be short… Dragon blood was given to me so I’d live so now I can live as long as they do. Our sister? She’s over five hundred years old, and so am I.
Wally: ……. Oh. That’s boring…*looking disappointed*
Mako: *fist starts trembling* You wanna get thumped over the head like Singe, Mister Shampoo Model?
Pandie: Please don’t hit my coltfriend, Mako. I just got him.
Mako: I don’t bloody care, I am gettin’ sick of- …………. Repeat that last part, sister dear?
Pandie: I just got him?
Mako: No, before that…..
Pandie: ….Please?
Mako: The middle part!!!!
Pandie: ….Don’t hit.
Mako: PANDIE!!!
Pandie: COLTFRIEND!
Mako: ………. *slowly turns his eyes on Wally*
Wally: …… Eheh… hehehe…. heh…. I… should get going! Wow, look… at that freckle on my arm because I don’t wear of watch.. It looks like it’s getting late, so if you don’t mind, I’ll… just…….. Let myself out?
Mako: *firmly wraps an arm around Wally* Well now, this just became a whole new reason to see Lady! I’m sure she’d just LOVE to hear that you got yourself a coltfriend, don’t you think so Walter? *claws hold onto Wally’s shoulder, a big scary grin on his face*
Wally: *whimpers* Mmmmmmmmmmmmmm…
Pandie: And where is Lady?
Mako: Ponyville.
Wally: That’s almost a full day of travel by train. Oh well, I guess we’ll just have to rain-check until later.. So.. uh… if you don’t mind… letting me go, I’ll just…
Mako: *holds Wally tighter* I know a way we can get there in just seconds, no worries! Besides, you didn’t think you’d go through dating my sister without meeting her family, did you…? *grin gets wider*
Pandie: ...I am not doing that to him. He’s not been in that realm before.
Mako: Well, no time like the present, am I right? One little trip can’t hurt him. I know he’s soft like a marshmallow, but surely he can take this much? *pokes Wally’s belly*
Wally: *grimaces and looks between the two of them* W-what realm? Where am I being taken? Do I not get a say in this?
Mako: Whaaaat, don’t you wanna meet our sister? Or are you scared of her too?
Pandie: Ugh, ENOUGH! *flares out her wings*
Wally: *swallows nervously* … Well, I mean.. Pandie had to meet my family, so it would.. only be fair…. She isn’t going to threaten me with fire and brimstone like she did Bubble… right?
Mako: *snickers* She was a huge softy with Singe when she met him. I’m sure with you she’ll be nothing but sweet. She’s all loopy from the hormones anyway, comes with the baby.
Wally: …. Yeah but Singe isn’t in relations with one of Lady’s immediate family members…
Mako: Oh come oooon, Lady might have a violent streak from hundreds of years ago, but she’s simmered down since then. Pandie tell em, Lady’s not gonna hurt him.
Pandie: ….She’s pregnant again?
Mako: Yeah! Only a few months away from her due date too.
Pandie: She’s like a baby factory…
Mako: I know, right…? But hey, that’s one more godchild for you.
Pandie: You know this means you’re next right?
Mako: *SQUEAK!* Aaahahahaha! No need to start with that, hehehe...heh…
Pandie: Well...it must be you. It can’t be me.
Mako: *coughs into his fist* So we going or not?! *holds Wally even tighter to not let him escape*
Wally: Erk..!
Pandie: Fine. You know the drill...hold on, and do not let go.
Wally: Wait, what drill? You aren’t going to cast another creepy spell on me, are you?
Mako: Spell…? No, no just hold her hand. *releases Wally to hold onto Pandie*
Wally: *cheeks turn a little pink before taking Pandie’s hand* … Okay…?
Mako: Okay, ready…. Wait! I got a question. *looks at Wally* …… What’s Netflix…?
Wally: Uh……….
    Pandie rolled her eyes and walked with them over to the light switch, before turning it off. The room now shrouded in inky black, the two stallions felt their paws and hooves tickled by what felt like thin tendrils, before they engulfed them fully, making the darkness impossibly more dark.
    They were surrounded by nothingness, the only thing they could see within the terrifying void being each other. Pandie spoke once, keeping her grip on their hands firm. Her voice echoing, as though there were several of her talking one right after the other.
Pandie: Follow me. Stay close…
    With that, she walked forward, leading them through the voided realm for a few moments. Step by step, they walked for what seemed like hours until she stopped, and pulled them closer, her wings wrapping around them as the darkness was pierced by bright lights. Shielding their eyes, they stepped out of the realm of dark shadows and into a dark room.
Mako: *sighs, rubbing his eyes* See? That wasn’t so- *cheeks puff up before he looks to the side and kneels next to a trash can* BLAAAAAAAGH!!!
Wally: *wobbles and shakes, putting his hands on his knees for support* OOoh…. I… I need to go.. lay down.. *as he makes his way through the darkness before sitting down on what seems like a bed*
??? (female voice): *SQUEALING* WHY ARE YOU IN MY ROOM?!
Wally: OH! I am so sorry!! *jumps up to his hooves again, fearing he may have sat on someone*
Pandie: *turning on the lights* What have I told you about reading in the dark, young lady?
???: *whimpers* I see better in the dark…
    Looking to the bed in the room, a small light blue mare with a curved horn rubbed her eyes. As she looked at them, her eyes were pink but the whites of them were pitch black. She reached to the nightstand for a pair of glasses and put them on before blinking a few times, her eyes shifting so they looked normal.
???: O-oh! Hi Uncle Mako! Hi Godmother! *looks over at Wally…… her neck puffs* Who’s he..?
Wally: *leans against a wall for support* I’m…… sick… just give me a few moments… *as he slowly slides down the wall and sits on the floor with a groan*
Pandie: I will explain shortly. Can you take us to your mother, Annie?
Annie: Mom? Oh yeah, she’s in the living room. *gets out of bed, wearing pajamas* Lemme just-
*clip clop clip clop clip CLIP CLOP*
    The door swung open hard, hitting Mako in his side.
Mako: *SQUEAK!!! ….sliiiiiding down the wall*
???: Sister..?! What’s wrong, why did you scream..?!
Annie: Eep! D-danny! You hit--
Daniel: *looks at Walter…… wings start to flare up and he puffs up twice his size* Who are you and why are you in my sister’s room…?
Wally: I promise, it was not my choice…
Pandie: You should learn to control yourself, little Robin.
Daniel: *sees Pandie* Godmother… Excuse my boldness, but it is rather alarming to see an unfamiliar older stallion in my twin sister’s bedroom… *limps in front of Annie, holding his ribs*
Pandie: I can assure you...this one is taken. *wraps her tail around Wally*
Annie: Aaaw…. *ears droop*
Daniel: *puts his hand on Annie’s muzzle* He’s too old for you….
Annie: He doesn’t look that old.
Daniel: This isn’t one of your weird comics or shows where the love interest just magically appears into the main protagonists’ life and suddenly everything becomes a magical adventure that protagonist gets dragged through…!
Wally: *raises a hand* Once again, another horrible trope…
Mako: And you’re living it…
Wally: *raise his head* Wait……... What?
Pandie: FOCUS! *neck fluff poofs*
Twins: *SQUEAK!*
Daniel: *jumps from that, then winces, kneeling a bit* Ow…
Mako: *cringes* Sorry Pandie..
Wally: ….. Can we go home now?
Annie: I thought you were here for mom?
Pandie: We are. You dragged me into this visit, Mako. Stay on task…
Mako: Right right… *stands up, holding his head* Where is your mother again..?
???: I WAS taking a nap, but I guess that’s over with..
Wally: *squeaks* oh great… another one?!
???: Well that’s a very snappy tone I didn’t expect from a new visitor in my house…
    Waddling into the room and walking out from behind Mako was a small mare about the same height as Pandie. Her fur pattern was strikingly similar to the horseman’s, but in the shade of red markings. Her wings were webbed and draconic and her belly swollen with a foal inside.
???: Oh sweet Luna, are you alright, Dear..? You look like you just came from Hell and back..
Wally: That’s about accurate actually…
Pandie: Please, allow him to rest, my sister. He is unwell from the shadow-walking.
Lady: *ears perk up* And who’s bloody bright idea was it to take this poor boy shadow-walking..?
Wally and Pandie: *points at Mako*
Mako: *SQUEAK!* Bastarts!
Lady: *glares at Mako* Seriously..?! You remember how sick we got when we first did it? What’s wrong with you?
Daniel: Quite a lot, it seems… It’s one issue after another with Uncle Mako..
Mako: Hey…
Lady: *sighs and leans forward a little, putting a hand to Wally’s forehead* You poor Dear.. Come, let’s get you in a chair and a glass of water. No use sitting on the hardwood floor.
Wally: *nods as he hoists himself up to his hooves, easily towering over the other three hippodrakes in the room* I’d… appreciate that very much, Miss.
Lady: *looks up* Oh goodness, you’re a big fellow, aren’t you?
Pandie: Indeed. Shall we retreat downstairs? Come along, children.
Twins: Yes, Godmother.
Lady: *shakes her head* Daniel, I want you back to your room and in bed again. Doctor’s orders, you need rest after what happened.. *lifts up his shirt slightly, a few bruises covering his body*
Daniel: Mm…. Yes, Mother…
Pandie: Surely, he can sit with us for at least a while, Lady. I haven’t seen my godchildren in so long. Besides… I wish to introduce my coltfriend...properly.
Lady: *ears swivel towards Pandie and Wally* ….. Coltfriend you say? … *nods* Alright.. That sounds like a good idea. *turns around and has a smile on her face* Can I offer you anything to eat as well?
Wally: *ears perk* Oh, no thank you. My stomach is still churning from the shadow-walking…
    Wasting no time, Lady lead the small party downstairs, having Wally settle down on the couch with Pandie and the twins. Mako slumped in a chair, while Lady made her way to the kitchen and brought Wally a glass of water as promised, giving a gentle pet on his head.
Lady: There you go, dear.
Wally: *gently takes the glass* Thank you, Miss… Lady I presume? My name is Walter Nutt, but can call me Wally if you want. Everyone else does. *with a pleasant smile before sipping the water*
Lady: Heheh, okay Wally. *waddles to sit in another chair* Now…. does anyone want to explain why you poofed into my house? I don’t mind visitors, but a call ahead would have been nice, heheh.~
Pandie: Mako thought it was an urgent matter to attend to right now...I suppose in hindsight, he is correct.
Lady: *ears perk* Urgent..? Why, what happened? *looks at Mako* Who did you almost drown this time?!
Mako: *SQUEAK!* N-no pony!
Pandie: He has done nothing. SHE is up to her plotting again…
Lady: ….. *pupils shrink to tiny slits, claws gripping the chair* I see… What did she do..?
Pandie: Attempted murder. Nothing short of what I expect of her…
Lady: Grrrr…. Who was the target.?
Mako: Wally’s sisters.. She staged it, making a tree branch almost hit them.
Lady: W-what?!
Wally: *grips the glass in his hands, his ears folding back flat to his head* ….
Pandie: It did not come to pass. I stopped it.
Lady: *sighs* And they are well, yes? Both are unharmed..?
Wally: *nods before taking a deep breath* Hmm.. Yes, they are fine. A little scrapped up but still alive, thanks to Pandie. Even if I tried, I.. probably wouldn’t have made it in time.
Pandie: ...Or you would have…. And then you… *flinches* It matters not anymore. The point is she is making her presence known again. That cannot be a good sign.
Lady: *puts a hand over her stomach* Now..? She’s had years and years to do so, why now?
Mako: *ears fold back* I dunno.. But it looks like the target she put on Pandie’s back way before just got bigger. You know how she is..
Lady: *nods, leaning back in her chair*
Pandie: I have deviated from my task… She is unhappy that her exile is not effective anymore. She’s trying to force me into her game again…
Lady: That doesn’t make sense.. Does she think you are not taking on your role as Death? Surely you are doing your normal job, what more does she want from you..?
Twins: …………. *slowly turn their heads to look at Wally, as if asking for context*
Wally: *slowly shakes his head* Don’t ask me, I just found out Mako is over 500 years old about ….. 13 minutes ago…?
Twins: …….. *turn their heads back*
Daniel: Uncle is quite old….
Mako: *snorts* Oye, respect your elders, ye little shit.
Daniel: *sticks his tongue at Mako* Nya….
Wally: *snickers as he sips his water*
Pandie: Regardless, stay on watch. I am not the only one with a bullseye on my flank.
Lady: *ears perk up* Wait… You think she might… come after us too..?
Mako: She has reason to try. If she chose to go after Wally’s siblings, then…
Annie: *fluffs up* Wh-what..?! What did we do?!
Pandie: To put it bluntly, you exist. To explain further, you’re close to me…
Annie: *whimpers and her tail curls around herself*
Daniel: *neck ruffles, a small growl coming from him* ……..
Mako: Just try not to panic okay? She’s not going to strike one right after the other, there are rules even that cu- …. Witch has to abide by, I’d think. Just keep a look out for each other, it’ll be okay..
Daniel: *wraps a wing around Annie* That’ll be easy for me then…
Pandie: And why is that?
Daniel: *ears fold back, twitching* I-I have decided to… join the Royal Guard.
    Almost immediately, Mako, Lady and Annie sat bolt upright in their seats, staring at Daniel.
Annie: Wha- you?!
Mako: Danny, you can’t-
Lady: Be serious..!
Daniel: *nods, puffing out his feathers* I am.. I was already thinking about it before we left the island, now I’m more serious than ever..
Pandie: ...I let you choose your own paths in life, but...even I ask you take a moment to reconsider…
Daniel: *looks at Pandie* There’s nothing to reconsider, Godmother.. If danger is stirring more, I need to be able to protect my family.. I already failed once, I don’t want to fail again and possibly lose my sister, or anypony else…
Lady: …. Daniel… What happened in the hotel wasn’t your fault, you didn’t fail..
Daniel: *fluffs up* I did…! I couldn’t protect Bubble, and that- …. *trembles* That FUCKTARD almost hurt you, and my unborn sibling..! And I couldn’t do anything..!
Mako: Oye, language!
Daniel: Sunstreak almost took you and Uncle Mako out on his own, I was too weak to stop him when you needed help… I want to get stronger now, I want to keep you all safe…!
Pandie: That is not your job, Daniel. She is my opponent. This is my fight. I will deal with her, even if we both go out doing so.
Wally: *ears perk* Hey, wait a minute here… I can’t say for the rest of your family, but once that…. *takes a deep breath* ..sadistic self-righteous harpy got my sisters involved, she was no longer just your problem..
Pandie: She’s only doing this because of me! If I had stayed away… you would be safe. This is my fault to rectify.
Wally: Well it’s a little too late to be dealing with what could have beens.. I’m glad I met you and I’m happy we are closer now... And I told you before, that you are not alone anymore… I promise I’ll stand by your side and help you through this.
Pandie: …. *her cheeks go pink… before POOF! Her entire coat going that bubblegum pink colour* Hmmm….
Wally: *blinks a few times* …. Was it.. something I said?
Pandie: ….Thank you. I...forget I don’t have to survive in this world alone...I’m still getting used to depending on others…
Wally: *tilts his head slightly* I guess I don’t understand why… You are surrounded by lots of ponies who love and care for you... *referencing to everypony else in the room* … Not just me.
Pandie: I know they do, I appreciate them as well. Please...understand that. I suppose when it comes down to it, family is still a very strange concept to me...full of ponies of being supportive regardless. It feels different coming from a pony you choose to let in. *places a hand on his arm* Though...all things considered… I suppose I got to choose my family as well, didn’t I? Hmhmhmhm~
Daniel: *puffs out his plumage so it came out of the collar of his shirt, turning his head away* I’d hope so…. Never let me do anything when I try to help… *blank pouting*
Annie: Wow… way to crush it, Danny….
Pandie: *sigh* What am I going to do with you…?
Daniel: Hmph…! *turns his head away to pout, fluffing up more*
Pandie: Brat...still...I appreciate the concern… I don’t want you in the guard...but I will not stop you…
Daniel: *ears perk up* Really…?
Lady: Sister…!
Mako: ……. *looks to the side* He… is old enough to make that choice, Lady… He needs your permission now, but it’s not like you can stop him once he’s 18..
Lady: … *sighs, rubbing her face with her hands*
Daniel: *ears fold back slightly, but looks to Pandie* Thank you….
Pandie: Even you must learn to yield, sister… at least on this.
Lady: *claws dig into her chair, peeking over her hand* ….. I suppose…. *stands up* I uhm… It was a pleasure meeting you Walter, but I must excuse myself for a moment.. *eyes are watery and she goes upstairs hastily*
Daniel: *ears and wings droop* Mmm….
Pandie: I will talk to her once she has calmed. Please still.. Think on your choice…
Daniel: ….. I will do that much at least.. I promise… *bowing his head*
Pandie: *presses her head against his own*
Daniel: *lets out small purrs and coils his tail around hers tightly*
Pandie: We shall head back...using the train this time….
Wally: Praise Luna…
Mako: Good idea… *gags*
Pandie: Take care of yourself. Come… let us go, boys.
Mako: Right behind ye.. *stands up and stretches*
Annie: *perks up her ears, putting on her best smile* It was nice to see you again, Godmother..! And to meet you too, Wally! *hugs Pandie*
Pandie: Likewise, Annie. Please do not blow up the house again.
Annie: Nooooo promises!
Daniel: Like always… *turns his eyes on Wally* It was also nice to make your acquaintance, Walter..
Wally: *sets the glass on the coffee table before standing* It was nice meeting you both as well.. Sorry for dropping by unannounced, hehe~ *giving Annie an apologetic smile*
Annie: It’s okay, heheh! Godmother does that a lot. *neck floofs up* Just uhm, please learn to look before you sit, heheh… You got my tail.. *raises her tail to show the ruffled hair tuft*
Wally: *fluffs up* Oh! I’m sorry, I hope I didn’t hurt you… *reach and checking to see if the tail was damaged at all*
Annie: No, luckily you just got the hair, heheh! Don’t worry, I’m a little clumsy too at times. This is nothing compared to the times I’ve burnt off my eyebrows!
Wally: ….. *slooowly pulls his hand back* Hehe.. r-right..
Daniel: *pats Annie’s head* She does that very often… *turns to give Pandie a hug* Do visit again some time… I will do the same, next time I am on the island..
Pandie: I will make sure to set aside a day I am not working.
Daniel: *looks over Pandie’s shoulder at Wally…… gestures “I’m watching you” with his fingers*
Wally: !!! *ears perk before doing the “I’m watching you” gesture back*
Daniel: …… Godmother, perhaps at least tell Mother you are leaving…?
Pandie: Of course. I shall return. *walks off*
Daniel: *waits until Pandie is out of ear shot, staring at Wally* ….. So you really are my Godmother’s coltfriend, yes…? *not blinking*
Wally: Uh… y-yes, for the last three days.
Daniel: ……… *eyebrows twitch until his pupils shrink to slits, but his gaze is soft* Take care of my Godmother…. I don’t know everything about what happened before me and my sister were born… But I know it wasn’t good, or easy on her…. She deserves a better life than the one she was given…..
Wally: *ears perk* ….. I will. I promise I’ll try my best to make her happy..
Daniel: … *nods* I am glad.. *pupils turn round again, reaching out to shake his hand*
Wally: *extends and gives Daniel a firm handshake* Feel free to come to the cafe sometime next time you are at Capricorn Reef.
Daniel: I plan to.. *lets go of his hand before sitting down again*
Pandie: *returns* Alright, I am back. Let us go.
Mako: *gives Annie and Daniel a quick hug* I’ll see you two another time, kay?
Twins: Yes, Uncle Mako.
Mako: *chuckles and goes to open the front door*
-----
    The train ride back to get to the ferry was long, and mostly in silence. It was a lot to take in for everypony. Everypony save the small Death pony. Pandie was mulling over everything that had happened. Life was back and it seemed, they were just as cruel as ever. Wally was unfortunately pulled into this fiasco once his sisters were involved and now Daniel wanted to join the guard. It felt like things were spiraling into a odd mix of bad and worse until it formed an impossible wave that she just couldn’t control anymore. Try as she might, this was getting out of hand. The last thing the small pegasus wanted was others to get hurt. However, as terrifying as it all seemed, she didn’t think Life had it really in her to do anything immensely damaging or stupid, not without repercussions anyway. It also helped she never like dirtying her own hands, hence using natural occurrences to try and tip balances in her favor.
    Sighing softly, Pandie looked at the other two stallions. Mako seemed...okay. Tired, confused, probably inwardly scared, but dealing well. He was a good guy like that. For all the shit they gave each other, she was happy he was here to help her deal with this, even if she couldn’t say or do to much about it. Wally...he seemed ok too, for what it was worth anyway. He had gone through so much because of her, and seemed to endure it all in stride...well… with a side of panic but well enough. Stretching her wings out, Pandie curled them around both stallions at her side. There wasn’t much she could say or do. There was a lot even Pandie didn’t fully understand, but the one thing she did know was they needed to stick this through together. Division could mean….well she didn’t want to think about. And while this visit was a serious one for the most part, it renewed old bonds and forged and strengthened new ones. Those bonds would get her family, both old and new, through this ordeal. Pulling both of them closer, she just repeated to herself the same thing mentally.
It’ll be alright...
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That was pretty chaotic but it seemed like Wally made it out relatively unscathed. But yeah! The last MakoLee and Death by Coffee arcs happened at the exact same time! After this, the timelines are different, but be sure to catch up on your favorite ships by using the the handy dandy !!

Also, check out the Capricorn Reef server --> discord.gg/8rdWMyX

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