Equestria's Death and Deadby Mr. McBlueChaptersDay 1MeetingsRunning LatePrologueDay 1Ponyville. You “D-Donut...? W-what... happened... to you?” You began to crawl backwards in a feeble attempt to get away from him. But that didn't stop Joe. He just kept limping towards you, dragging his machete with him. “No no no!! Stay away!” You tried to turn around to run, but you were too scared to do so, your mind was being eaten away by such a gruesome sight, causing your legs to feel like were filled with led. So there you lay, paralyzed and vulnerable. Is this how you’re life ends? By some twisted version of what was once a great donut baker? Joe raised his machete above his head, ready to bring to down for the killing blow, as you lay there with you hooves covering your head. But just before Joe had a chance to bring his bloody weapon down, a blur of dark red zipped right in front of Joe. A second later, his hoof from the ankle and his machete fell to the ground, leaving a very confused dumb folded zombie Donut Joe looking at his decapitated hoof. Joe looked at his still twitching hoof on the ground, to you, to where the red blur came from, then back to his recently chopped ankle. A few seconds later, the same red blur flashed by, from a different angle. This time, you was able to catch a quick glimpse of whatever was flying by. It was a crimson red pony, in dark blackish apparel with strange wings. The only other part you was able to make out was that this pony is male, due to the soft, but deep grunting noise he had made when passing by, and his distinct body form. Other than that, you couldn't make out his facial expression or features. The blur was gone in a flash, just as fast as before, but so was Donut Joes head. Which was on the ground making strange gurgling noises. His body on the other hand was having a spasm on the ground, twitching violently. You still lay frozen in place. Your mind is going beyond what it can handle. First, you return to a ghost town, your best friend isn’t around, no pony can be found for that matter, almost killed by a zompony Donut Joe, and now you were just saved by some strange red pony blur. But after a few moments of pulling yourself together, you finally get up and turn around. And as you turned to run away from the scene, you were stopped from yet again, another blood crazed pony. This pony didn't look familiar to you, but this pony did have similar traits to Joe. Pale coat, messy mane and tail with red patches, and gray eyes with the same black rings. Unlike last time, you had control of your legs, and decided to try them out by turning back around and making a run for where there wasn't any of those, things. Right when you started to run you heard a quick swoosh from behind you. When you looked back, the pony was no longer there. You turned back forward but nearly slammed into a red pony. The same pony that saved you. This time, you actually had the chance to study how he looks. His mane and tail was dark red, with a gray streak running though both. You couldn't tell if he had blood on his mane, tail, or coat, since he was overall naturally crimson red. His mane was messy, more like teased ruffled spikes, and his tail looked like a curved blade, actually having that metallic shine to it. His eyes were neon green but something was different, his eyes were odd. Normally, every other pony has round pupils, but his were lizard like, vertical pupils. That wasn't the only thing that was different. The tip of his left ear looks like it was ripped off. The black blur you saw when he flew by before was his thick leather over coat that was over what looked like chest, abdomen and shoulder armor. It couldn’t be leather, because cows do prefer to keep their skin. But the material that he was currently wearing was different. Upon closer look, there was small little outlines, almost as if the fabric wasn't even fabric, but maybe scales? To make him look more bizarre, he had four short but spiky horns on the sides of his head, sticking out of his mane, two on each side. His wings which poked out of his coats back slits, looked like they were made. The base of his wings, or his main part of his bone, was metallic like, with what looked like artificial feathers. “Uh.. Huh... H-hello?” You stuttered. There was a moment of silence between you two. He seemed to be doing the same thing you were to him, observing how you look. Then he turned tail and started to walk off “Wha.. Hey! Wait up for a second!” you called after him, he didn’t turn back so you trotted to his side. “Hey! Uh hello?” “What.” His voice was just as strange as he looked. It sounded airy, as if he whispered, but it was still loud in volume. Wow, a bit rude much? “I, just wanted to thank you, for saving me that is.” He kept staring forward down the street which led to the edge of town before replying “… You’re welcome.” You squint your eyes at him as you keep up with his pace “Can you at least tell me yo-” “The name is Exile.” “But.. How did you know I was-” “Because I have been in this situation before. You were not the only one.” “Really? So that means there are more p-” You were again interrupted, but instead of him saying anything, he turned slightly to you and placed a hoof on your lips, silencing you. "I'm exhausted, covered in dried blood, had to save you twice as well as a few others before you, and I didn't have my coffee. Look, I'm going back to safe place, where you can have all your questions answered. That way, you can stop talking to me." he stated with slight annoyance in his whisper like voice. First living pony I meet... total douche.. But you decided to keep it quite while you follow him to where ever this safe place may be. As long as this place doesn't have more of those... things... and more living ponies, then heck, why not. Author's Note Just a little shout out to my dear friends on Cloudsdale. Love ya guys! Snuggle me dammit! >:3 Meetings3 Hours Prior to You arriving in Ponyville. Somewhere in Equestria. “Get Exile in here, now!” a feminine voice commanded. “Again? It’s only been, three hours since he came back.” another responded while entering the room, but with a more baritone tune to it. His features were hard to make out due to the very dim lighting in the room, the windows drapes blocking out the early afternoon sunlight. Taking a few steps toward the desk to where his commander sat behind, she replied. “I know, I know he has been out a lot, but he's the best we got. But we have to save as many struggling ponies out there.” She said as she had her hooves massaging her temples. “Ugh. Alright. I’ll send one of my greens to fetch Ex’.” “Lazy as always, aren’t you Colonel Hawkeye.” “Commanding others isn’t being lazy! Besides, Chase always knows where to find him.” With a roll of her eyes, the mare nodded her head, signaling that the stallion should carry on his orders. She stayed seated on her chair, thinking. Thinking about what now, how things came to be. It’s been only 5 days and 7 hours since the mass spread mystery infection. Spread from one pony to another, to five, to dozens, to hundreds in the matter of a two days. The ponies that were infected became cannibals, became monsters. Equestria wasn’t prepared for such heavy large number losses, and it would only keep growing with each passing day. But there was some hope to look at, in a world where death is constantly around and walking about. On the third day of infection, an Anonymous group of elite trained Commanders, kept secret for only the darkest of times in Equestria, received orders from the Royal Sisters. Their plans were simple. Each member was assigned a major town, city or community throughout the lands. They had to round up and organize with any living ponies there. Form some sort of standing ground for them to wait it out. But supplies can only last for so long for so many ponies. So within each hold, stands either a Company of guards, or a small squadron of another Anonymous group. Again, this group was kept secret to avoid any political judgment and conspiracies rumors for the other nations to form against them. “Ugh!” The mare slammed her hooves on her desk. But she had a feeling that there was another pony in the room. She looked up from her desk to see Exile staring at no one in particular. “Exile. Don’t you ever knock?” “Door was open. So I simply walked in.” “But it is considered good manners to knock.” “Yeah well, I didn’t have coffee this morning. And I already had to go out there,” He sighed “Who’s this oh so lucky pony now.” “Ponyville. Cloud Note spotted her at the outskirts of town. Look for a purple coat and dark blue mane” “Heard from another mare… sounds the same as she described her.” “Maybe. So it’s best you... hurry...” Before she even finished her sentence, Exile was already out the door and headed for the exit of their hideout to carry out his mission. “May my distant stars keep thy safe.” she sighed. Two Hours Later. Exile. Exile soared high, passing clouds, appearing as a red and black speck in the blue sky. He was in a state of, meditation. But instead of inner peace he sought, it was 210% focus. To focus on his goal that was given to him. Find and bring back another survivor. Every life we save counts for a better Equestria… His bosses words echoed in his mind. Ponyville was a fairly large town. The actual town covering over thirty square miles. And another ten by adding the outskirts and the apple farm. It was a good day to Exile. The sun was out, it was nice and quiet. Only, to quite. And dead. The only thing moving, was either the crows picking on rotting corpses, or actual walking corpses that only crave bloodshed and blood. “No no no!! Stay away!” came the distant cry. It has to be her. Exile thought. It came from the center of town, Town Hall. With that in mind, he immediately changed his course downward towards the distress call. At a very, very fast rate. Whoever cried out was in view now, but something was bad. There seemed to be another pony limping towards her. A pale brown, bloody pony with what seemed to be a long blade being dragged by him. Exile tucked his wings to his body, and positioned his hoofs to his sides for more speed. Faster. The pale pony raised his weapon. Faster! As soon as Exile was close enough, he twisted his body so his blade like tail swooped down and flashed passed the brown pale pony's raised hoof, completely slicing it off. The pale pony's hoof and its weapon to fell to the ground, while at the same time seeing the mare he was supposed to rescue. Exile then proceeded to shift for another swipe, turning in a large arch, and aligning his course for his target. It was a straight shot, too easy for Exile. He was going yet again at fast pace, this time, aiming for that pony's neck. The next few seconds passed by in a flash. One moment, Exile is a few twenty good yards away from his target, the next he was twenty yards passed. His target remained standing for a good two seconds, before having his head slide off, and his body fall limp to the ground. Exile began to slow down and head back to where his target stood to find that purple mare he caught a glimpse of. But when he returned, she wasn't in the area. Instead, she was running from what looked like to be another pale pony in the distance. Exile growled at this, knowing he would have to take out that one too. With a quick swoop downwards upon the pale pony, he pointed down his weapon, flew right above the pony, and sliced right through it, as well as sending it flying to a building window with his momentum. Exile flew above the rooftops and towards the general direction of where the mare was headed, and soon found her, quite easily because of her purple coat. He flew ahead, and landed in front of her, but she was looking back when he did, so when she looked forward again, she nearly crashed into him. “Uh.. Huh... H-hello?” The mare stuttered as Exile observed her. Exile turned and walked away from her, knowing all to well that of course she would follow him. He smirked as he heard her call out to him, but he didn't even bother on looking back. Though his smile did fade away as she walked to his side and started asking questions, to which be bitterly answered some of them. I really need a coffee after this... He thought as he told her his plans, and about a safe place to fall back to. After walking down to the street, finally reaching the edge of town and the tree line of the Everfree forest, he spread out his wings and was about to take off into the skies, but stopped in crouching position as he noticed a dark figure in the corner of his eye. Author's Note I would of got this done yesterday, but my oh so great advice giving friends on Cloudsdale said not to. "BUT THE CONCH SAID NO" ....okay........ ;~; Running LatePresent - Outskirts of Town – You Around ten hours ago, give or take, you were visiting your family way down in Appleloosa. Relaxing, enjoying being with your family again, had food to eat, a place to rest… a shower… But now, here you are walking through the streets of the once thriving town of Ponyville. Ignoring the occasional blood stain on the cobble road and on the walls of destroyed homes and buildings, and the shattered remains of a wagon or a stall, you begin to finally realize the whole scale of how bad this situation Equestria is going through. It’s been a couple of thousands of years since there has been so much death and chaos. My friends… My parents! Are they okay?! What happened to my roommate… Where is everypony Celestia dammit! All these thoughts began to flood into your mind. Your eyes became pinpricks, a few beads of sweat began to dribble down your forehead. You were beginning to panic, until Exile stopped moving. He stood still, ready to take flight, but he wasn't moving. Instead, his head was turned slightly to his left, staring at something that you haven’t yet seen, and then you looked to where he was looking, to see what he saw. Whatever it was, it was stood tall, about six feet tall, had dark blue torn robes covering most of its body, hiding its identity, facial expression, and what it even was. If you leaned your head back, you would be able to spot a white tail popping out from behind the bi-pedal creature. It look downright menacing, just standing there in the open, but what was even more hostile looking than the being itself, was its nodachi strapped to its back. A nodachi is similar to a katana, but much longer, requiring great strength and normally two hands to wield and use properly. You had no idea what even think about what to do. All you knew was, was that whatever that thing is, it doesn't look friendly. Your thoughts are interrupted as you hear the sound of flapping wings getting louder and closer. Looking to your right you see a similarly dark torn robed figure land a few yards away. This one for sure you can tell is a pony, its wings and tail, the only parts that wasn't covered by cloth betrayed its coat color which was a cloud white, and her tail, a stunning turquoise. You are utterly confused. You look back to Exile to become even more so. He's smiling? You think as you catch a glance of his smirk across his red muzzle. Looking back to the figures, you noticed they've been advancing towards you both, you also hear the sound of metal softly clanking coming from the tall robed one... You're about to call to Exile, but you don't get the chance to as the robed pony yells out, her voice a bit muffled from her cloth mask. "Exile, you're losing your touch!" It was a mare's voice, she seemed to be mocking him? "Took you what, three, four hours? And you're not even back at HQ yet? You're losing it." Exile turned to face the mare while you continued to look at the taller robed figure, who pulled back its hood to reveal a white fur colored Diamond Dog. It looked similar to a wolf, giving him that feral look. Now that you know what it was, it didn't help with the thought that whoever this is may be friendly or not. Not at all. It's not that you had a grudge against Diamond Dogs, you just didn't like how this one had a grin played across its face as he approached you and Exile, and then it spoke up. "Now now, Cloud. Quit the stubborn tough mare act and accept the fact that Exile is faster than you in Rescue Flights." His voice was sounded irritated, pretty gruff and somewhat high, like the voice of a goblin, except maybe a few notches deeper. "Shut your trap, Croaker!" The mare yelled back as she pulled back her hood, and down on her mask to reveal her face and mane. Still the white and turquoise mix, but her eyes were a deep violet. "Sides, we need to hurry, you were taking to long than usual Exile, so boss back in HQ' apparently assumed the worst." To that, Exile only smirked even more before saying "She's worried about me? That's a surprise. Decided to take my time, take a stroll through town, you know?" Cloud opened her mouth to reply but was shut off as the Diamond Dog named Croaker made a quick whistling noise, getting everyone's attention, his grin was no longer present, instead was a frown as he looked down the empty street, his ears perked up facing forward as if he was listening to something that you couldn't quite hear. "We need to move. I hear Yelpers out there." "Yelpers?" You asked, becoming curious as to what he meant, after a few more seconds of silence, you heard it. Your ears turned back naturally as they picked up on a soft distant sound. You turned your head back to focus upon that sound, which got louder and louder, but only slightly. Every few seconds you would hear it, a quick cry, a yelp. You, and the rest of your companions were staring down the long and empty street, trying to spot whatever was making such a strange sound. "If we don't start moving, you'll know soon enough. But it's best if we not stick around, right?" Cloud suggested as she began to flap her wings again, hovering above the ground. You turned to Exile to see him nod his head as he started to flap his own wings. Thankfully you were a pegasus as well, following their lead, you began to hover above the ground, ready to take flight at any given moment. Cloud flew near the Diamond Dog "Croaker, go get Chase, we'll meet you back in HQ', you two, we gata fly, now" Croaker nodded, pulling his hood back over his head as he turned and began to sprint off towards an alley to disappear into to carry out his order, while you and Exile had to follow Cloud back to where ever this HQ may be. As the three of you began to fly up, Exile called out to Cloud "Chase was separated from you two? He's still fresh, you sure he can handle by himself?" "He's fast and he's determined to prove himself apparently. As long as he's faster than what's out here, then he'll be fine." Exile shook his head at this, but kept silent, and so did you. You wanted to ask Exile if he knew all these people, but it's probably obvious he does. You wanted to know what these Yelpers are, but by the way they are acting to hearing one out there, it's nothing but even more unwanted trouble. You also wanted to know what this HQ was, and where it was it, but you'd know soon enough. You sighed out as you continued to keep up with your two guides, you still had second thoughts about them, but if they have a safe place to bunker at, you'd rather be there than be stuck in Ponyville, which is probably filled with many more ponies that are similar to what became of Donut Joe. You find yourself wanting answers, and if Exile stays true to his word, you'll get all of them answered. Well, hopefully most of them... Author's Note I am not dead ._. Procrastinating + Life stuff. The Stuffy Stuff Stuff that is so Stuffy PrologueYou’re tired, exhausted, frustrated, and even angry. Why? Because the train back to Ponyville never arrived to your station at Appleloosa. And the only way back was to fly back yourself, carrying your single personal saddle bag filled with only your necessary traveling utensils: a mane and tooth brush, a bag filled with a good amount of bits, and a picture of you and your old folks. It was an old picture, but you cherished it. Your mother was a Pegasus, having a long, styled light blue mane with a white, vibrant streak running through, as well as her tail. Her coat was a really light purple, almost a pale pink, with her eyes being the same color as her mane, making her eyes seem electrifying. She also had that warm, motherly smile. Your father was an Earth pony, a head taller than your mother, and nearly twice as taller than you, but only because you were still a filly when this picture was taken. He had a short kept ash grey mane and tail, with a khaki tan coat, with dull, fading red colored eyes. His eyes were naturally dull, but it does give him that look of knowledge and wisdom. He also had a very calm, relaxed look to him, the one to be stable and focused in any situation. And then there is… you… You’re a strange combination of your parents. You’re a Pegasus mare just like your mother, with her bright cyan eyes and brilliant smile. You have an unkempt mane unlike your parents, which is a dark royal blue with a dark grey streak running though, and so is your similar unkempt tail, and your coat is a deep purple. So now here you are, standing at the top of a hill overlooking Ponyville. You were at Appleloosa to visits your aging old folks for a week, but you had to return here to finish your senior education year. But since you had to fly back yourself, it took you another two days just to see Ponyville in the distance. But now that you are here though… something seemed off. Even though you were still pretty far off to Ponyville, but you were on the main road which lead straight toward Town Hall, from this far, surely you can see at least a few ponies. But no matter how much you squinted, you couldn't spot a single one. You began your trek down the top of the hill towards Ponyville, and the closer you got, the slower your steps became, the more hesitant, the more fearful you were. You stopped at the outskirts of the town, and you were speechless. The buildings in front of you were an absolute mess. The windows were shattered with the glass littered all over the floor, doors either busted open or broken off its hinges. Some even had large gaping holes in the walls. You slowly trudge your way through Ponyville, only to find the same, strange emptiness, and destruction. The streets barren of life, but littered with overturned carts and stalls, possessions of said carts and stalls scattered about, and even bags filled with some valuables, as if whoever was their wearer, dropped everything and ran. The buildings just seemed to be getting worse and worse the deeper you go into town. Even a few scorch marks from either fire or some sort of magic residue. That’s until, you saw it. You saw a wall splattered with dried, brownish faded blood. Another patch of blood there, on the cobblestone, glass, carts. Oh no. oh no oh no oh no. Where are the bodies?! This is beyond bad... you think to yourself. “HELLO!!” You called, starting to panic in desperation to find some kind of answer to why Ponyville is in its current state of silence. “HELLO!!!!” You yelled again, but to only be answered by your own echo. You turn on an intersection, following the same route you always took to go home. Ignoring your surroundings, you find yourself at the front door of your house. Your house was just like every other building. Broken window here, cracks there, and even a burnt patch of wood. You rummage through your saddle bag to find your keys, but to your sweet luck, you don’t have them, probably lost them on your flight back to Ponyville. You walk to the side of the house to one of your broken windows. There are still a few shards of glass attached to the frame, which you knock off with your hoof. Once it’s clear enough for you to climb through and not be cut, you hop through and land to find yourself in your wreck of a living room. The couch was ripped apart, the small little table in the middle smashed in half, the ceiling light busted, and blood stains on the carpet… You begin to scan each room, looking for any signs of your roommate you shared your house with. She was your best friend since you two were just a fillies. Where else.. where else can I look for somepony.. anypony!!... Town Square! There has to be something at least... Now, headed for the center of Ponyville, Town Hall, in hopes of finding some kind of clue to and answer for your questions. Setting a brisk trotting pace, you make it there in no time, even though you are still devastated by the sight of what once use to be a beautiful building meant for gatherings for speeches, businesses, and simple get-togethers. Town Hall, out of the rest of Ponyville, was just about in the worst condition overall. It's windows were either small jagged pieces, or not even there, and on the ground, in even smaller pieces. The pillars that supported the roof where shattered, leaving the roof completely unstable, which caused it to collapse in and down onto the building. And the front double doors had a large gaping hole in the middle of the two. You simply stared at the building. You dont know what to do anymore. There was no pony around, the town was in a mess, and are alone. Or so you thought, until you heard the faint sound of something metallic being dragged across the cobblestone ground. It was coming from around a corner behind a building. From an alley. You didn't even consider the possibilities of who or what it might have been, you were just glad that somepony, or something was at least still around. You ran to the corner, but stopped short when you started hearing the heavy hooffalls as well. It was the suspense that made your heart beat faster, your eyes to grow wide in anticipation that was filled with hope. But that hope was soon destroyed, much like the town, when you saw what was coming from the darkness of the alley. Your eyes shrank to the size of dimes, your jaw dropped in total shock of unexpected fear. Your knees buckled from under you, and you found yourself cowering from this, pony, if you can even call it that. The being was large, but limping, dragging along a long, bloody red machete. Its coat was a sickly pale brown, a dirty cooking apron with red splatters to accommodate it. His mane and tail is covered in patches of red, dried blood, and its face. It was only half there. His jaw was completely gone, leaving a part of his tongue hanging out, and the top ridge of his teeth remained. And his eyes were pure orbs of gray, with black rings around it. This, pony, was more or less alive. This thing, even looked familiar to you. It was Donut Joe.
Day 1Ponyville. You “D-Donut...? W-what... happened... to you?” You began to crawl backwards in a feeble attempt to get away from him. But that didn't stop Joe. He just kept limping towards you, dragging his machete with him. “No no no!! Stay away!” You tried to turn around to run, but you were too scared to do so, your mind was being eaten away by such a gruesome sight, causing your legs to feel like were filled with led. So there you lay, paralyzed and vulnerable. Is this how you’re life ends? By some twisted version of what was once a great donut baker? Joe raised his machete above his head, ready to bring to down for the killing blow, as you lay there with you hooves covering your head. But just before Joe had a chance to bring his bloody weapon down, a blur of dark red zipped right in front of Joe. A second later, his hoof from the ankle and his machete fell to the ground, leaving a very confused dumb folded zombie Donut Joe looking at his decapitated hoof. Joe looked at his still twitching hoof on the ground, to you, to where the red blur came from, then back to his recently chopped ankle. A few seconds later, the same red blur flashed by, from a different angle. This time, you was able to catch a quick glimpse of whatever was flying by. It was a crimson red pony, in dark blackish apparel with strange wings. The only other part you was able to make out was that this pony is male, due to the soft, but deep grunting noise he had made when passing by, and his distinct body form. Other than that, you couldn't make out his facial expression or features. The blur was gone in a flash, just as fast as before, but so was Donut Joes head. Which was on the ground making strange gurgling noises. His body on the other hand was having a spasm on the ground, twitching violently. You still lay frozen in place. Your mind is going beyond what it can handle. First, you return to a ghost town, your best friend isn’t around, no pony can be found for that matter, almost killed by a zompony Donut Joe, and now you were just saved by some strange red pony blur. But after a few moments of pulling yourself together, you finally get up and turn around. And as you turned to run away from the scene, you were stopped from yet again, another blood crazed pony. This pony didn't look familiar to you, but this pony did have similar traits to Joe. Pale coat, messy mane and tail with red patches, and gray eyes with the same black rings. Unlike last time, you had control of your legs, and decided to try them out by turning back around and making a run for where there wasn't any of those, things. Right when you started to run you heard a quick swoosh from behind you. When you looked back, the pony was no longer there. You turned back forward but nearly slammed into a red pony. The same pony that saved you. This time, you actually had the chance to study how he looks. His mane and tail was dark red, with a gray streak running though both. You couldn't tell if he had blood on his mane, tail, or coat, since he was overall naturally crimson red. His mane was messy, more like teased ruffled spikes, and his tail looked like a curved blade, actually having that metallic shine to it. His eyes were neon green but something was different, his eyes were odd. Normally, every other pony has round pupils, but his were lizard like, vertical pupils. That wasn't the only thing that was different. The tip of his left ear looks like it was ripped off. The black blur you saw when he flew by before was his thick leather over coat that was over what looked like chest, abdomen and shoulder armor. It couldn’t be leather, because cows do prefer to keep their skin. But the material that he was currently wearing was different. Upon closer look, there was small little outlines, almost as if the fabric wasn't even fabric, but maybe scales? To make him look more bizarre, he had four short but spiky horns on the sides of his head, sticking out of his mane, two on each side. His wings which poked out of his coats back slits, looked like they were made. The base of his wings, or his main part of his bone, was metallic like, with what looked like artificial feathers. “Uh.. Huh... H-hello?” You stuttered. There was a moment of silence between you two. He seemed to be doing the same thing you were to him, observing how you look. Then he turned tail and started to walk off “Wha.. Hey! Wait up for a second!” you called after him, he didn’t turn back so you trotted to his side. “Hey! Uh hello?” “What.” His voice was just as strange as he looked. It sounded airy, as if he whispered, but it was still loud in volume. Wow, a bit rude much? “I, just wanted to thank you, for saving me that is.” He kept staring forward down the street which led to the edge of town before replying “… You’re welcome.” You squint your eyes at him as you keep up with his pace “Can you at least tell me yo-” “The name is Exile.” “But.. How did you know I was-” “Because I have been in this situation before. You were not the only one.” “Really? So that means there are more p-” You were again interrupted, but instead of him saying anything, he turned slightly to you and placed a hoof on your lips, silencing you. "I'm exhausted, covered in dried blood, had to save you twice as well as a few others before you, and I didn't have my coffee. Look, I'm going back to safe place, where you can have all your questions answered. That way, you can stop talking to me." he stated with slight annoyance in his whisper like voice. First living pony I meet... total douche.. But you decided to keep it quite while you follow him to where ever this safe place may be. As long as this place doesn't have more of those... things... and more living ponies, then heck, why not. Author's Note Just a little shout out to my dear friends on Cloudsdale. Love ya guys! Snuggle me dammit! >:3
Meetings3 Hours Prior to You arriving in Ponyville. Somewhere in Equestria. “Get Exile in here, now!” a feminine voice commanded. “Again? It’s only been, three hours since he came back.” another responded while entering the room, but with a more baritone tune to it. His features were hard to make out due to the very dim lighting in the room, the windows drapes blocking out the early afternoon sunlight. Taking a few steps toward the desk to where his commander sat behind, she replied. “I know, I know he has been out a lot, but he's the best we got. But we have to save as many struggling ponies out there.” She said as she had her hooves massaging her temples. “Ugh. Alright. I’ll send one of my greens to fetch Ex’.” “Lazy as always, aren’t you Colonel Hawkeye.” “Commanding others isn’t being lazy! Besides, Chase always knows where to find him.” With a roll of her eyes, the mare nodded her head, signaling that the stallion should carry on his orders. She stayed seated on her chair, thinking. Thinking about what now, how things came to be. It’s been only 5 days and 7 hours since the mass spread mystery infection. Spread from one pony to another, to five, to dozens, to hundreds in the matter of a two days. The ponies that were infected became cannibals, became monsters. Equestria wasn’t prepared for such heavy large number losses, and it would only keep growing with each passing day. But there was some hope to look at, in a world where death is constantly around and walking about. On the third day of infection, an Anonymous group of elite trained Commanders, kept secret for only the darkest of times in Equestria, received orders from the Royal Sisters. Their plans were simple. Each member was assigned a major town, city or community throughout the lands. They had to round up and organize with any living ponies there. Form some sort of standing ground for them to wait it out. But supplies can only last for so long for so many ponies. So within each hold, stands either a Company of guards, or a small squadron of another Anonymous group. Again, this group was kept secret to avoid any political judgment and conspiracies rumors for the other nations to form against them. “Ugh!” The mare slammed her hooves on her desk. But she had a feeling that there was another pony in the room. She looked up from her desk to see Exile staring at no one in particular. “Exile. Don’t you ever knock?” “Door was open. So I simply walked in.” “But it is considered good manners to knock.” “Yeah well, I didn’t have coffee this morning. And I already had to go out there,” He sighed “Who’s this oh so lucky pony now.” “Ponyville. Cloud Note spotted her at the outskirts of town. Look for a purple coat and dark blue mane” “Heard from another mare… sounds the same as she described her.” “Maybe. So it’s best you... hurry...” Before she even finished her sentence, Exile was already out the door and headed for the exit of their hideout to carry out his mission. “May my distant stars keep thy safe.” she sighed. Two Hours Later. Exile. Exile soared high, passing clouds, appearing as a red and black speck in the blue sky. He was in a state of, meditation. But instead of inner peace he sought, it was 210% focus. To focus on his goal that was given to him. Find and bring back another survivor. Every life we save counts for a better Equestria… His bosses words echoed in his mind. Ponyville was a fairly large town. The actual town covering over thirty square miles. And another ten by adding the outskirts and the apple farm. It was a good day to Exile. The sun was out, it was nice and quiet. Only, to quite. And dead. The only thing moving, was either the crows picking on rotting corpses, or actual walking corpses that only crave bloodshed and blood. “No no no!! Stay away!” came the distant cry. It has to be her. Exile thought. It came from the center of town, Town Hall. With that in mind, he immediately changed his course downward towards the distress call. At a very, very fast rate. Whoever cried out was in view now, but something was bad. There seemed to be another pony limping towards her. A pale brown, bloody pony with what seemed to be a long blade being dragged by him. Exile tucked his wings to his body, and positioned his hoofs to his sides for more speed. Faster. The pale pony raised his weapon. Faster! As soon as Exile was close enough, he twisted his body so his blade like tail swooped down and flashed passed the brown pale pony's raised hoof, completely slicing it off. The pale pony's hoof and its weapon to fell to the ground, while at the same time seeing the mare he was supposed to rescue. Exile then proceeded to shift for another swipe, turning in a large arch, and aligning his course for his target. It was a straight shot, too easy for Exile. He was going yet again at fast pace, this time, aiming for that pony's neck. The next few seconds passed by in a flash. One moment, Exile is a few twenty good yards away from his target, the next he was twenty yards passed. His target remained standing for a good two seconds, before having his head slide off, and his body fall limp to the ground. Exile began to slow down and head back to where his target stood to find that purple mare he caught a glimpse of. But when he returned, she wasn't in the area. Instead, she was running from what looked like to be another pale pony in the distance. Exile growled at this, knowing he would have to take out that one too. With a quick swoop downwards upon the pale pony, he pointed down his weapon, flew right above the pony, and sliced right through it, as well as sending it flying to a building window with his momentum. Exile flew above the rooftops and towards the general direction of where the mare was headed, and soon found her, quite easily because of her purple coat. He flew ahead, and landed in front of her, but she was looking back when he did, so when she looked forward again, she nearly crashed into him. “Uh.. Huh... H-hello?” The mare stuttered as Exile observed her. Exile turned and walked away from her, knowing all to well that of course she would follow him. He smirked as he heard her call out to him, but he didn't even bother on looking back. Though his smile did fade away as she walked to his side and started asking questions, to which be bitterly answered some of them. I really need a coffee after this... He thought as he told her his plans, and about a safe place to fall back to. After walking down to the street, finally reaching the edge of town and the tree line of the Everfree forest, he spread out his wings and was about to take off into the skies, but stopped in crouching position as he noticed a dark figure in the corner of his eye. Author's Note I would of got this done yesterday, but my oh so great advice giving friends on Cloudsdale said not to. "BUT THE CONCH SAID NO" ....okay........ ;~;
Running LatePresent - Outskirts of Town – You Around ten hours ago, give or take, you were visiting your family way down in Appleloosa. Relaxing, enjoying being with your family again, had food to eat, a place to rest… a shower… But now, here you are walking through the streets of the once thriving town of Ponyville. Ignoring the occasional blood stain on the cobble road and on the walls of destroyed homes and buildings, and the shattered remains of a wagon or a stall, you begin to finally realize the whole scale of how bad this situation Equestria is going through. It’s been a couple of thousands of years since there has been so much death and chaos. My friends… My parents! Are they okay?! What happened to my roommate… Where is everypony Celestia dammit! All these thoughts began to flood into your mind. Your eyes became pinpricks, a few beads of sweat began to dribble down your forehead. You were beginning to panic, until Exile stopped moving. He stood still, ready to take flight, but he wasn't moving. Instead, his head was turned slightly to his left, staring at something that you haven’t yet seen, and then you looked to where he was looking, to see what he saw. Whatever it was, it was stood tall, about six feet tall, had dark blue torn robes covering most of its body, hiding its identity, facial expression, and what it even was. If you leaned your head back, you would be able to spot a white tail popping out from behind the bi-pedal creature. It look downright menacing, just standing there in the open, but what was even more hostile looking than the being itself, was its nodachi strapped to its back. A nodachi is similar to a katana, but much longer, requiring great strength and normally two hands to wield and use properly. You had no idea what even think about what to do. All you knew was, was that whatever that thing is, it doesn't look friendly. Your thoughts are interrupted as you hear the sound of flapping wings getting louder and closer. Looking to your right you see a similarly dark torn robed figure land a few yards away. This one for sure you can tell is a pony, its wings and tail, the only parts that wasn't covered by cloth betrayed its coat color which was a cloud white, and her tail, a stunning turquoise. You are utterly confused. You look back to Exile to become even more so. He's smiling? You think as you catch a glance of his smirk across his red muzzle. Looking back to the figures, you noticed they've been advancing towards you both, you also hear the sound of metal softly clanking coming from the tall robed one... You're about to call to Exile, but you don't get the chance to as the robed pony yells out, her voice a bit muffled from her cloth mask. "Exile, you're losing your touch!" It was a mare's voice, she seemed to be mocking him? "Took you what, three, four hours? And you're not even back at HQ yet? You're losing it." Exile turned to face the mare while you continued to look at the taller robed figure, who pulled back its hood to reveal a white fur colored Diamond Dog. It looked similar to a wolf, giving him that feral look. Now that you know what it was, it didn't help with the thought that whoever this is may be friendly or not. Not at all. It's not that you had a grudge against Diamond Dogs, you just didn't like how this one had a grin played across its face as he approached you and Exile, and then it spoke up. "Now now, Cloud. Quit the stubborn tough mare act and accept the fact that Exile is faster than you in Rescue Flights." His voice was sounded irritated, pretty gruff and somewhat high, like the voice of a goblin, except maybe a few notches deeper. "Shut your trap, Croaker!" The mare yelled back as she pulled back her hood, and down on her mask to reveal her face and mane. Still the white and turquoise mix, but her eyes were a deep violet. "Sides, we need to hurry, you were taking to long than usual Exile, so boss back in HQ' apparently assumed the worst." To that, Exile only smirked even more before saying "She's worried about me? That's a surprise. Decided to take my time, take a stroll through town, you know?" Cloud opened her mouth to reply but was shut off as the Diamond Dog named Croaker made a quick whistling noise, getting everyone's attention, his grin was no longer present, instead was a frown as he looked down the empty street, his ears perked up facing forward as if he was listening to something that you couldn't quite hear. "We need to move. I hear Yelpers out there." "Yelpers?" You asked, becoming curious as to what he meant, after a few more seconds of silence, you heard it. Your ears turned back naturally as they picked up on a soft distant sound. You turned your head back to focus upon that sound, which got louder and louder, but only slightly. Every few seconds you would hear it, a quick cry, a yelp. You, and the rest of your companions were staring down the long and empty street, trying to spot whatever was making such a strange sound. "If we don't start moving, you'll know soon enough. But it's best if we not stick around, right?" Cloud suggested as she began to flap her wings again, hovering above the ground. You turned to Exile to see him nod his head as he started to flap his own wings. Thankfully you were a pegasus as well, following their lead, you began to hover above the ground, ready to take flight at any given moment. Cloud flew near the Diamond Dog "Croaker, go get Chase, we'll meet you back in HQ', you two, we gata fly, now" Croaker nodded, pulling his hood back over his head as he turned and began to sprint off towards an alley to disappear into to carry out his order, while you and Exile had to follow Cloud back to where ever this HQ may be. As the three of you began to fly up, Exile called out to Cloud "Chase was separated from you two? He's still fresh, you sure he can handle by himself?" "He's fast and he's determined to prove himself apparently. As long as he's faster than what's out here, then he'll be fine." Exile shook his head at this, but kept silent, and so did you. You wanted to ask Exile if he knew all these people, but it's probably obvious he does. You wanted to know what these Yelpers are, but by the way they are acting to hearing one out there, it's nothing but even more unwanted trouble. You also wanted to know what this HQ was, and where it was it, but you'd know soon enough. You sighed out as you continued to keep up with your two guides, you still had second thoughts about them, but if they have a safe place to bunker at, you'd rather be there than be stuck in Ponyville, which is probably filled with many more ponies that are similar to what became of Donut Joe. You find yourself wanting answers, and if Exile stays true to his word, you'll get all of them answered. Well, hopefully most of them... Author's Note I am not dead ._. Procrastinating + Life stuff. The Stuffy Stuff Stuff that is so Stuffy
PrologueYou’re tired, exhausted, frustrated, and even angry. Why? Because the train back to Ponyville never arrived to your station at Appleloosa. And the only way back was to fly back yourself, carrying your single personal saddle bag filled with only your necessary traveling utensils: a mane and tooth brush, a bag filled with a good amount of bits, and a picture of you and your old folks. It was an old picture, but you cherished it. Your mother was a Pegasus, having a long, styled light blue mane with a white, vibrant streak running through, as well as her tail. Her coat was a really light purple, almost a pale pink, with her eyes being the same color as her mane, making her eyes seem electrifying. She also had that warm, motherly smile. Your father was an Earth pony, a head taller than your mother, and nearly twice as taller than you, but only because you were still a filly when this picture was taken. He had a short kept ash grey mane and tail, with a khaki tan coat, with dull, fading red colored eyes. His eyes were naturally dull, but it does give him that look of knowledge and wisdom. He also had a very calm, relaxed look to him, the one to be stable and focused in any situation. And then there is… you… You’re a strange combination of your parents. You’re a Pegasus mare just like your mother, with her bright cyan eyes and brilliant smile. You have an unkempt mane unlike your parents, which is a dark royal blue with a dark grey streak running though, and so is your similar unkempt tail, and your coat is a deep purple. So now here you are, standing at the top of a hill overlooking Ponyville. You were at Appleloosa to visits your aging old folks for a week, but you had to return here to finish your senior education year. But since you had to fly back yourself, it took you another two days just to see Ponyville in the distance. But now that you are here though… something seemed off. Even though you were still pretty far off to Ponyville, but you were on the main road which lead straight toward Town Hall, from this far, surely you can see at least a few ponies. But no matter how much you squinted, you couldn't spot a single one. You began your trek down the top of the hill towards Ponyville, and the closer you got, the slower your steps became, the more hesitant, the more fearful you were. You stopped at the outskirts of the town, and you were speechless. The buildings in front of you were an absolute mess. The windows were shattered with the glass littered all over the floor, doors either busted open or broken off its hinges. Some even had large gaping holes in the walls. You slowly trudge your way through Ponyville, only to find the same, strange emptiness, and destruction. The streets barren of life, but littered with overturned carts and stalls, possessions of said carts and stalls scattered about, and even bags filled with some valuables, as if whoever was their wearer, dropped everything and ran. The buildings just seemed to be getting worse and worse the deeper you go into town. Even a few scorch marks from either fire or some sort of magic residue. That’s until, you saw it. You saw a wall splattered with dried, brownish faded blood. Another patch of blood there, on the cobblestone, glass, carts. Oh no. oh no oh no oh no. Where are the bodies?! This is beyond bad... you think to yourself. “HELLO!!” You called, starting to panic in desperation to find some kind of answer to why Ponyville is in its current state of silence. “HELLO!!!!” You yelled again, but to only be answered by your own echo. You turn on an intersection, following the same route you always took to go home. Ignoring your surroundings, you find yourself at the front door of your house. Your house was just like every other building. Broken window here, cracks there, and even a burnt patch of wood. You rummage through your saddle bag to find your keys, but to your sweet luck, you don’t have them, probably lost them on your flight back to Ponyville. You walk to the side of the house to one of your broken windows. There are still a few shards of glass attached to the frame, which you knock off with your hoof. Once it’s clear enough for you to climb through and not be cut, you hop through and land to find yourself in your wreck of a living room. The couch was ripped apart, the small little table in the middle smashed in half, the ceiling light busted, and blood stains on the carpet… You begin to scan each room, looking for any signs of your roommate you shared your house with. She was your best friend since you two were just a fillies. Where else.. where else can I look for somepony.. anypony!!... Town Square! There has to be something at least... Now, headed for the center of Ponyville, Town Hall, in hopes of finding some kind of clue to and answer for your questions. Setting a brisk trotting pace, you make it there in no time, even though you are still devastated by the sight of what once use to be a beautiful building meant for gatherings for speeches, businesses, and simple get-togethers. Town Hall, out of the rest of Ponyville, was just about in the worst condition overall. It's windows were either small jagged pieces, or not even there, and on the ground, in even smaller pieces. The pillars that supported the roof where shattered, leaving the roof completely unstable, which caused it to collapse in and down onto the building. And the front double doors had a large gaping hole in the middle of the two. You simply stared at the building. You dont know what to do anymore. There was no pony around, the town was in a mess, and are alone. Or so you thought, until you heard the faint sound of something metallic being dragged across the cobblestone ground. It was coming from around a corner behind a building. From an alley. You didn't even consider the possibilities of who or what it might have been, you were just glad that somepony, or something was at least still around. You ran to the corner, but stopped short when you started hearing the heavy hooffalls as well. It was the suspense that made your heart beat faster, your eyes to grow wide in anticipation that was filled with hope. But that hope was soon destroyed, much like the town, when you saw what was coming from the darkness of the alley. Your eyes shrank to the size of dimes, your jaw dropped in total shock of unexpected fear. Your knees buckled from under you, and you found yourself cowering from this, pony, if you can even call it that. The being was large, but limping, dragging along a long, bloody red machete. Its coat was a sickly pale brown, a dirty cooking apron with red splatters to accommodate it. His mane and tail is covered in patches of red, dried blood, and its face. It was only half there. His jaw was completely gone, leaving a part of his tongue hanging out, and the top ridge of his teeth remained. And his eyes were pure orbs of gray, with black rings around it. This, pony, was more or less alive. This thing, even looked familiar to you. It was Donut Joe.
