Diaries of a Wasteland Sex Maniac

Chapters

Chapter 1: The Awakening
Chapter 2: Sexual Wiles of the Science Wing
Chapter 3: The Overmare
Chapter 4: The Great Escape
Chapter 5: New World Troubles
Chapter 6: Junction Town
Chapter 7: Is the Grass Greener?
Chapter 8: What Just Happened?
Chapter 9: What Now?
Chapter 10: Systems Recalibrated
Chapter 11: A New Beginning

Chapter 1: The Awakening

Chapter 1

The Awakening

The first sense anypony ever has is when they wake up for the first time with their eyes opening to what lies before them. In my case...What I woke up to see was three Stable-Tec scientists watching me from a few consoles in the room. I blinked a few times in response to the light, this in turn let them know I was activated as one smiled slightly.

“Good morning P1000-V1.” One of the scientists said, chuckling a bit as I looked to him with a cute tilt of my head.

“Are you fully functional and prepared to perform your services to the Stable?” Another, I think a mare, asked me.

Stepping outside of the stasis-pod that had been my home down here, I was looking around before staring straight ahead as my A.I. was registering the programming they’d injected into it previously before my activation.

In response, as my mind finished loading my expected duties and services; as well as my personality, I gave the few scientists an alluring smile with my eyes half-lidded.

“Yes. Mistress Violet is ready for service.” My voice was sweet, soft, and irresistible as I saw all three of the scientists blush. “Would you like me to relieve your stresses from such a hard day of work?” I asked in a breathy voice as I approached one of the stallion scientists.

My advanced senses could feel his arousal levels rising rapidly in response as he took a step back. He seemed nervous, as was his coworkers as they watched my eyes switching between them.

“N...No...That’s not necessary Violet.” He managed at last to say, although judging by the tent that was beginning to form in his trousers this was a lie as I gave another cute tilt of my head.

“Are you sure? I don’t want to leave anypony dissatisfied in the Stable...It violates my protocols.” I replied in a hushed whisper as I gestured to his pants.

His eyes widened somewhat as he realized just what I meant, and he blushed crimson through his black fur as he looked to his coworkers in distress; only to find that they as well were staring at me with a slight lust glinting in their eyes. Not to mention that he knew I could not violate my protocols, and as such he gulped and was looking back to me as I watched him; waiting to see if he’d allow me to perform my assigned duties. Or if necessary execute them by force.

At last, I sensed the relent as he sighed before trying to smile. My sensors detecting that his rational thoughts were disrupted, and now his desires were taking over; such a tell-tale sign would be like that of his fellow scientists with their slightly glazed eyes as I gave another smile.

“Just relax. Let your Mistress wash away all your stresses.” I whispered, my breath hot against his lips before I closed the gap and kissed him intensely.

I felt surprise for a moment, his lips hesitating for a moment before he closed his eyes and leaned further into the kiss. Our tongues dueling for control, a passionate battle of which I already knew he must be the victor as I discerned from his personal database in the Stable that he was a stallion that preferred being the dominant. As a result, I was able to adjust and become more submissive to his whims as he explored my mouth and dominated my tongue.

At last, he finally drew back. A string of his saliva connecting us as he looked my body over before beginning to work off his clothes. My eyes looking up and down in admiration of his well built body as more of it was revealed. Finally, only his trousers remained now. I couldn’t help but grin, especially when my sensors detected that the mare and other stallion were making out against a console.

Moving to his side, I paused and resumed our passionate liplock while I smoothly guided his pants and undergarments to the ground. My eye drifted immediately to my prize, his stallionhood.

He was definitely pent up. His thick, long member pulsating out of its sheath almost painfully with every second it was unattended. I brought a single hoof down and began to stroke it softly. He moaned into my mouth, vibrating my body slightly and telling me he desired more as my hoof caressed his shaft from base to tip just a little faster. When we broke from the kiss, he was looking at me with a hunger in his eyes for more; silently speaking to me to go further as I gave him an innocent, angelic look.

“Would you like me to suck on your lollipop sir?” I asked, still stroking his length to keep him excited.

“Yessss.” He groaned, “Please, I need your lips so badly Mistress Violet.”

“Since you asked so nicely…” I whispered in his ear before stealing another kiss and then turning my attention to his throbbing cock.

Already his tip was oozing precum, which I took a dab of in my hoof before tasting it. ‘Sweet like Apple Cider.’ I thought.

“Mmm…” I hummed, “So delicious…”

Leaning down, I tentatively licked his tip; sending a jolt through his body and making him whimper quietly before he growled in slight agitation. Before he could get too fed up, I did as he’d desired and took his head into my mouth. With an ease, I worked my tongue around his throbbing shaft; swirling it especially around his tip when I came back from the base of his cock. For a few minutes, I bobbed my head back and forth down his length, taking him even down my throat when my mouth couldn’t fit his immense length.

I could sense he was close, although my sensors weren’t needed for he was bucking his hips forward to meet my muzzle and his hoof was held to my ruffled mane to keep me deepthroating him. After a minute or so, he finally released himself into my mouth. His cries of ecstasy matching that of the other Stallion and mare as they filled the stasis chambers and rebounded off the walls. Spurt after spurt of hot, thick semen filled my stomach and coated my muzzle. After about thirty seconds, he was finished.

He was panting hard, but he still stole a smooch from my lips. Despite his fatigue, my sensors knew he was still ready for more as he gave me that same look of hunger.

“Oh my Mr Bright...Still erect even after so much…” I whispered seductively. “Seems like you still require service...And I still want more of that delicious cream inside me.”

Stepping away slightly, I watched with amusement as he gave me a confused look. But that didn’t last long as I turned around and lowered myself to the ground, my flank still in the air as I looked at him from between my legs. He understood immediately, a smirk on his face as he moved to close the gap. Pausing, he lined himself up and mounted me before slowly beginning to press his tip inside my waiting pussy.

Again, his groans filled the chambers as I purposefully made my vaginal actuators tighten around his length as he penetrated further into me. I couldn’t help but enjoy the overload of pleasure my sensors were conceiving, and I actually began to moan myself when his head slammed into the edge of my artificial womb. His thrusts into me were smooth, strong, and constant as he worked me like the whorse I am; his grunts and wails coinciding with the other scientists and my own.

As before, I could feel the edge of his endurance approaching as he bucked me harder and faster than before; seeming desperate to relieve himself once more as I laid there and took every moment of it with a smile. When he came, I wasn’t disappointed as my womb was filled to the point of leaking out with his cum. The warmth of that sticky, gooeyness was lasting within me as he pulled out and let hot strings of it coat my back and mane. A little even splashing across my face, which I licked up happily as I glanced back at him.

This time, he collapsed to the floor after I licked away the remnants of cum on his length and was snoring immediately. Going to the others, I did the same for the sleeping Stallion and cleaned the mare’s delicates; both elicited small moans from my tentative work and I could tell they were all satisfied as I laid down among them and rested from the experience.

About an hour later, I was rising from the heap of those that had awoken me from my slumber. My mechanical joints creaking in response, and my flank felt a little dented from how hard they’d worked themselves on me; but I felt good in knowing that they were left satisfied as they all were cuddling with one another in sleep. My white fur was stained by their juices, and my muzzle coated by that of the mare’s as I watched her eyeing me tiredly.

I gave a cute look before returning and gently kissing her lips, which she returned happily with a quiet moan before drawing back after licking off her own fluids. She laid back against the chest of the black stallion and drifted into sleep.

“So adorable.” I thought to myself as I leisurely made for the door.

Yet I paused and glanced at my reflection in the shining surface of the door, and remembering that I was still covered in the liquids of my duties I shook my head before retrieving one of the scientist’s lab-coats and wiping the remainder off my body and flanks. I knew they wouldn’t be needing their clothes for a while as I returned to the door and exited without another word. My protocols dictating to see if other Stable-Dwellers required my services.

Author's Note

So this is my first story that I have written for fimfiction. However, this is not my first fic that I have written. I hope you enjoy what you read and that you'll continue to read as I make more chapters. As always, I give thanks to my special proofreader, whom has asked to not be named but is a good friend nonetheless.

This is author Derpyness Maximus, signing off for now.

Chapter 2: Sexual Wiles of the Science Wing

Chapter 2

Sexual Wiles of the Science Wing

I've been moving through the halls for several minutes now, walking rather leisurely from where I'd previously been activated in the Science Wing. So far, I had detected none of the other scientists nor any Stable Dwellers that were in the area; which meant to me that likely the maintenance workers and other scientists were sleeping in today. I couldn't help a smile as I rounded a bend, for I knew that the quarters for the Science Wing was just ahead. Even if I hadn't been a ponytron that was fully equipped with the layout of my assigned Stable, the lit signs that hung over specific doorways would've told me. I paused before it, taking in the security access protocols that the door was designed with before accessing and adding my credentials into its database. the door gave a hiss in response as the bulkhead unlocked and opened. "Access Granted Mistress Violet." It said.

Entering in quietly, I schooled my features to have an innocent, almost angelic quality as I tip-hoofed down the corridor. There were several doors, the first of which was on my right and contained within a young Maintenance Mare by the name of Serenity Shieldmaiden. Her ID flickering in one of my eyes, I couldn't help but bite my lip in anticipation of the fantastic time to come. The recordings lodged deep in her personal files told of her many sexual escapades with the other technicians, including many of her fellow mare coworkers. The door slid open effortlessly, and nearly without a single sound. Stepping inside, I watched it close behind me before returning my attention to the sleeping mare before me.

Serenity was beautiful, from head to hoof. Her body toned just right from years of laboring to keep the Stable's systems here in the Science Wing running. She lay sprawled out before me on a bed, her utility suit cast off beside her, leaving her delicious body and all its glory open for my eyes to devour. Her grayish-white fur reflecting the gentle light from the safety light above her bed. Her mane and tail laid out respectively around her body as she slept deeply.

Finally, having enjoyed looking enough for now; I proceeded with my plan and moved quietly to her side. Close enough to hear her soft breathing, I began with a gentle caressing of the inside of her hind legs. My hoof's touch sensual, inching slowly closer with every rub to her marehood. Already, I could sense her increased arousal as her expression contorted into one of faint pleasure and her breath was catching every few seconds. Leaning up some, I began to nuzzle into her neck, placing light love-bites into her soft flesh and enjoying the breathless moans that I elicited as a result. Just as I finally touched the folds of her marehood, she shivered and let out a deep groan and I drew back just int time to watch her eyes flutter open. Serenity was looking at me through a haze of sleep and arousal as she mumbled softly to me. "Who...Wha....What's going on?"

Leaning in close again, I paused at her ear and nibbled on it lovingly before whispering hotly, "I'm here to satisfy your deepest desires Serenity...I know just how much you've been craving for another mare to make love to these past few weeks...And now I'm here to do whatever your lust desires."

Her magenta eyes rose up, meeting my gaze as she gave a lustful grin. "Bring it on then mystery mare...I want you right now." Suddenly, she seized me in her hooves and hauled me all the way up onto her bed. Holding me over her, she leaned up and locked lips. Feeling her tongue swirl and dance with my own in my mouth, I pressed back just as fiercely. I desired to taste her, both her sweet lips and the delicious juices of her marehood as her scent wafted up to me. My free hoof rubbing her marehood up and down and making her moan down my throat as our duel turned more vicious in her mouth.

When we both finally drew away, she was breathing heavy as I adjusted my hoof and began to gingerly run around the rim of her exposed clitoris Her cries were instant, and she bit down on her lip to stop herself from potentially waking her fellow coworkers as I continued to work it over with a soft, sensual touch. "Sweet Celestia this is divine." She managed to whimper out. "But I want more."

I nodded, smiling faintly as I lowered myself so my muzzle was just before her pussy lips. "Then your wish is my command Serenity." I whispered.

Blowing gently, she shivered again; both out of anticipation and the slight gratifying feeling she received. That was when she pressed her hoof to the back of my head, and forced me down into her depths as she bit this time into her pillow to muffle her screams of ecstasy. My lips caressing her sensitive clit, while I was snaking my tongue through her tight walls. Sampling her unique flavor, and inhaling the sweet aroma her body offered as I worked her over hard. Any attempt to muffle her screams were becoming null now, as she had bitten through the pillow. Her eyes were watching me, before she arched her back and let out a ragged cry as she came. Her marehood clamping down hard on my tongue, trapping it within her depths as her juices gushed forth unto my face and into my mouth. 'She tastes like maple syrup.' I thought to myself, thoroughly enjoying every drop that splashed down my throat or that I had to lick off my muzzle as she released me from her iron grip

Huffing, she laid there in the throes of her pleasure as she barely managed to glance at me through the corner of her eyes. "W...Wow...You're....better than anypony else I've ever had." She moaned.

"That's not all I have planned for us my dear Serenity." I whispered back, watching as she propped herself up weakly and gave me a worn out look.

"I...I love it so much....But my body can't take another round..." She said.

I gave her a pouty, sad look as she shook her head slowly. Eventually, I did relent with as sigh as my sensors did indeed indicate she was satisfied for now. "Alright Serenity dear...Alright." I said, leaning forward and kissing her deeply.

Before I left her bed, I scanned the entire Wing for more workers. My sensors indicated nopony else was still in the immediate vicinity besides us, which told me that either they'd gone to work for the morning or were giving Serenity and I space for our moment together. I do suspect the latter, to which I smiled at her and nuzzled her lovingly before rising and stepping back to the floor. Heading to the door, I paused when she called out to me softly. "Please...don't leave me alone. I...I want to go with you Miss...."

Glancing back, I could see she was blushing as she didn't even know my name. "Violet Shadow. My name is Violet Shadow Miss Serenity."

Going back to her bedside, I was surprised when she forced herself to her hooves and stood beside me. Although she was a little tipsy she stayed upright as she leaned against me. "Alright then...my...my job is at the Overmare's office today Violet. Can you get me there? I need to fix her main terminal, some mechanical issues I need to resolve."

"Of course Serenity...I owe you that much for tiring you out like this." I whispered, placing a hoof around her midsection and helping her as she moaned softly.

"Oh...How much I enjoyed this....But I think later today I'm going to regret it." She chuckled at her own fate as I helped her out the door after she put on her utility suit and her tool belt at her waist.

Exiting the Science Wing quarters, we turned down a corridor to our right, on our way together to the Overmare's office; whom I'm sure was up and if my sensors were correct may be also in need of my unique services.

Author's Note

Hello once again audience, this is author Derpyness Maximus here. I'm just checking in with you all to see how you feel about both chapter two and the story thus far. Did you enjoy it? Did you dislike it? Are you somewhat in the middle? Either way, would you kindly leave me a comment or even P.M. me about your thoughts if you'd like; and remember to thumbs up or down the story. Also, I'd be interested to hear from those who do dislike the story especially, more so for their reasons of dislike and to see if I can change to become better at what I do.

As always, I give thanks to my unnamed proofreader friend whom catches most of my errors before publishing.

This is author Derpyness Maximus, signing off for now.

Chapter 3: The Overmare

Chapter 3

The Overmare

It took us a decent bit of time to navigate the Science Wing. Walking down long, twisting corridors that would leave any newcomer stranded and lost. But not us. Serenity had lived here for her whole life, and I had access to complete maps of the entire Stable's layout as we turned another corridor to our left. Coming to some flights of stairs, I helped her up them; since she still was recuperating from our time together the going was slow though. But I couldn't complain. It, after all, did give me time to admire her beauty even more so as she ascended each step. Every now and again, she'd catch my eyes wandering over her and smirk before brushing her tail across my face just to tease me. I admit now, that I do enjoy it; although it came to an end as we reached the last step and were at what my maps registers as the Commons areas.

Opening the door, Serenity gave me a small smile as she nodded gratefully. "I...I think I can walk on my own now Violet." She said, "But thank you, for helping me I mean. Most of the stallions and mares who do that sort of thing with me don't stick around afterwards."

"It is my pleasure Serenity." I answered, returning her smile before beginning to turn and head back down into the Science Wing below.

"Wait." Serenity called out to me, catching my attention. "I...I still would like it if you would um....well assist me in the Overmare's office."

In response, I joined her back at the door and cocked an eyebrow in confusion. "It's...It's just I enjoy your company so much...I don't want you to leave just yet."

Since my sensors were still indicating that the Overmare and her husband were in need of my services, and that I knew I could not disobey a request by a Stable Dweller; I nodded faintly in response.

"Alright then." Serenity replied, "I suppose we shouldn't keep them waiting."

Entering the commons, I glanced around the large open hall. Presently, it was filled with many other Stable Dwellers going about their daily business. Some chatting idly, others playing games; even a few fillies and colts that were heading off to their classes for the day. Above us, on the walkways connecting the dining area and entertainment lounge several older stallions who were dressed similarly as Serenity were walking towards what I knew was the server room. However, since both mine and Serenity's objectives were in the Overmare's office I ignored anything else as we wove through the small groups in the hall. Although, I did cast a glance at the window from her officer; overlooking the entire hall, she was watching us all. A hint of a smile, I could notice.

The next few minutes, we again were climbing another flight of stairs; crossing that same walkway of Serenity's coworkers, and finally we ended up walking down a corridor to our left. We paused before the bulkhead door when we reached it, the sign's glow above it illuminating us in its sickly green light as Serenity tapped on it gently and waited. A moment passed, enough time for me to begin accessing the Overmare's files to read more in depth on what she was like before the door opened in response. To say I was unprepared for the mare that greeted me may in fact be what I classify as an understatement; for as I am looking over her delicate, beautifully curvaceous body I feel as though a circuit might short at any second. Even in the drab jumpsuit of the Stable, her body couldn't be denied as she brushed her styled red mane out of her purple eyes. "Good morning Overmare Ginger." Serenity greeted.

She smiled back, returning the greeting. "A good morning to you as well Serenity and....well who might your friend here be?"

My sensors indicated that she already knew the answer as Serenity answered her question. "Ginger, this is my friend Violet Shadow. She's the one who, well, woke me up this morning."

The Overmare's faint blush shone through her light pink coat as she realized what Serenity meant, but she kept her professionalism as she gestured us inside. "I thank you for coming this morning Serenity." She glanced at her computer terminal behind her desk as she continued, "My main computer has been on the fritz for the past few days and I haven't been able to fulfill my daily duties. I'm hoping you can fix it."

Serenity gave Ginger a nod as she spoke confidently, "I should be able to have it repaired and operational within an hour Overmare. Don't worry about a thing."

I watched as she moved to the computer, setting down her tool belt and beginning to tinker with it; while Ginger moved to a door that I knew led to her private room. she beckoned me to follow her, and in her eyes I caught a hint of a devious glint before they returned to normal as she spoke up. "I shall leave it in your hooves then Serenity, however while we wait I desire to speak with your friend alone with my husband."

Only getting a grunt as acknowledgement, I knew that Serenity was too preoccupied with the problem at hoof as I followed Ginger to her room.

As soon as the bulkhead door closed behind me, she tossed her professionalism out the window and pressed me against its cold surface. Her lips to mine, she closed her eyes and let out a low purr of satisfaction as she enjoyed every second of our passionate lip-lock. Long minutes passed, and I savored her unique flavor as we dueled tongues furiously. When she finally withdrew, she was already panting; but she was also smiling deviously as she caressed my cheek with a hoof as the other released me from the door. With a quick glance, she was eyeing her husband on their bed. My eyes followed hers, and I couldn't help but smile genuinely as well as I looked over him. He was through and through a stud, from his muscled body to his chiseled features; not to mention his pure blue coat and deep green eyes that were meeting mine. His short mane spiked slightly, and his tail draped across the bed as he laid waiting in a provocative pose; this only served to flex his rippling muscles, and yet again a circuit could've fried at any second as my eyes drifted to the muscle I cared most for. By now, my base programming was overriding my cognitive thoughts, and all I could think about was how painful his long, throbbing cock must feel as it was on perfect display for both myself and Ginger.

"So I see you are awake at last Violet." He said, smiling slightly as his heavenly voice resounded in my mind. "That's good...My wife and I were just looking for somepony to...help us with a little problem."

Ginger guided me over to their bed, pausing at its side for a moment before she hopped up onto it and laid down just before his erect statue. She gestured for me to join her, and I complied without comment as we both laid side by side before this temple; this holy object of our desires that we worshiped intensely. First, we shared another kiss; deciding to give him a little show before appeasing his desires and our own. When we separated, a string of saliva was between us that kept us connected as we both brought a hoof down to the other's nethers. Our free hooves, we placed at the base of his cock on either side; and just as we began to pleasure ourselves we were softly gripping and rubbing his shaft. He let out a sigh, and Ginger was softly moaning at the stimulation of her pussy. I grinned as I picked up the pace on her, making her moan louder and longer as she closed her eyes and threw her head back.

In retaliation, Ginger let out a playful growl and returned my affection, although she brought a bit more as she pressed her lips once more to mine. She managed to get a small moan out of me this time, and she had indeed succeeded in getting my artificial womb working and wet; but that was when she so maliciously withdrew completely. Her hoof coated in a thin layer of my juices, she sniffed it tentatively before taking a small lick and grinning back. Taking her hoof, I understood what she was going to do as she began to smear it across the entire length of her husband's cock. I knew our time together was over for the moment as she shifted her attention to the object of our worship. Her hooves worked its sides, the speed increased significantly as a result as I continued to gently stimulate her.

Ginger started out slow, her tongue tracing the base of his cock; running along his length until she reached his tip and swirled around it gently. My free hoof was occupied with cradling his balls, which seemed just as swollen and in need of attention as I whispered enticing things in her ears and enjoyed a passionate kiss with him as he leaned closer to us. He actually was groaning now, with both of us working him over he didn't stand a chance as he let out a quiet whimper at his wife finally going down on his dick. Inch by inch, she took his length into her warm and waiting mouth; her tongue swirling up and down his length, massaging it and making him moan louder. Every time she came back up; she'd take a quick breath and be down on him again; her nose diving into his sack and inhaling deeply of the musky scent that was driving her wild. After a minute solid of this, I pushed her away just slightly and leaned down to his tip. My tongue gently caressing it, making him twitch and groan before I bit down playfully on him. He threw his head back and his back arched in a way that told me he wanted to scream; but he bit his tongue as I went down on him much faster and harder than Ginger. All the while, he was actually tearing up at the intense pleasure as Ginger shared a kiss with him before giving him a devious look and forcing him down on the bed. She placed her dripping wet lips before his muzzle and ordered sharply, "Lick."

Her moans moments later spoke that he had obeyed her directive as I continued to bob my head furiously on his length; my hooves working his balls as I wanted him to cum now into my mouth. It was at last that he finally relented, his endurance drained as he bucked up into my muzzle and blew his load. His cum was sweet, pouring into my mouth and down my throat in great spurts as he screamed into his wife's lips which made her moan even louder. I withdrew from his dick, but I paused at his tip as Ginger climbed off of him. He looked tired, but the looks we shared were still devious as we both knew we weren't satisfied yet. One of my teeth transformed into an injector fang, and before he could object I bit into his tip and made him scream again. Adrenaline pumped right into the source, and his already sagging dick shot up again as erect as before; only this time it pulsated so painfully I could tell he was hurting as I smiled. "You're not done yet Mr. White. Your wife and I are not satisfied, and until we are your cock is going to get hard and stay hard until we are done." I commanded, watching as Ginger gave me an approving nod and he whimpered again.

"Celestia help me." He managed to whisper before I began to lower myself onto his dick.

He groaned, both in pain and pleasure as his throbbing shaft was enveloped by the squeezing vises of my walls; and before he could even get used to me I began to bounce harshly on him rapidly. He was actually sobbing now, although Ginger didn't allow that for a second as she forced him to again pleasure her with his tongue. Even though he was enjoying it, I knew this reaction would happen as he began to buck back with equal force every time I descended. Again and again, for long minutes on end; I rode his cock like it was the last I'd ever have. Several times, I think I came; although I didn't notice it much or care as my sensors were again overloaded with the pleasure coming in. The sheets were covered, as twice more he came and filled my womb. Our bodies slapping together, so much into this the world was forgotten due to my desire for more and his forced arousal thanks to the massive amounts of adrenaline in his blood. I heard faintly, although it was next to me; Ginger was screaming in ecstasy as she came hard on her husband's face. He licked it up eagerly, and continued to work her over as I bounced harder now and with renewed vigor. I wanted one last climax, one last release to fill me and end it all as Ginger laid tiredly beside him. She was kissing him intensely, sharing her own juices in their passionate smooching as I felt his dick beginning to swell within my tightening walls again. Holding onto him for fear of blasting off like a rocket, I finally let my own cries become voiced as I clamped down on him and arched my back. His cock released like a cannon inside me, blasting my walls and filling my womb with his sweet semen as I came onto his length again and again.

Finally, I fell forward into his muscled chest; and I stayed there as I rubbed a hoof lovingly against him. His dick was still hard, buried deep inside me and keeping us connected as one as I shared one last kiss with Ginger. Quietly, although my ears surely were damaged from the beautiful noises of our love-making; I could hear Serenity outside. She was trying to tell us something frantically. "Overmare! We've got a serious problem! The Stable door's been compromised!"

All our minds were so fuzzy from the intense sex we'd just had, that we weren't able to comprehend what she was saying as I looked to the door with confusion. However, an explosion occurring from what sounded like a far off place on this level seemed to confirm what she said and brought me out of my stupor. I did my best to rise, but found my body wouldn't exactly cooperate as I and the Overmare did our best to reach the door together. We managed it, using one another for support as she opened the door and revealed our sex-ravaged bodies to Serenity. Her eyes were wide, both in alarm from what had happened earlier and in surprise at seeing us covered with sweat and cum.

She shook her head, pointing to the terminal which showed a security camera's footage of the Stable's main door control room. What I saw awaiting us was heavily armored ponies, with rifles and machine guns mounted on their flanks. About ten of them, which frightened me and sent the Overmare into action. She immediately activated the emergency alarm and was calling for all Security Officers to report to the breach in full riot gear. Her expression was grave as she glanced between us and now to her husband whom was standing tiredly in the doorway with a worried look. "The Steel Rangers are here." Seeing the reaction of her husband, I knew this was serious as gunfire could be heard closer now. "May Celestia help us all." She whispered, going to the office window and staring out into the open hall below where both wounded Security Officers and their comrades were retreating into under a hail of fire from a doorway.

Author's Note

Hello once again audience, this is author Derpyness Maximus here. I'm just checking in with you all to see how you feel about both chapter three and the story thus far. Did you enjoy it? Did you dislike it? Are you somewhat in the middle? Either way, would you kindly leave me a comment or even P.M. me about your thoughts if you'd like; and remember to thumbs up or down the story. Also, I'd be interested to hear from those who do dislike the story especially, more so for their reasons of dislike and to see if I can change to become better at what I do.

As always, I give thanks to my unnamed proofreader friend whom catches most of my errors before publishing.

This is author Derpyness Maximus, signing off for now.

Chapter 4: The Great Escape

Chapter 4

The Great Escape

The initial shock of knowing that our Stable was being invaded finally began to run its course. The gunfire spewing into the main hall was mostly what shook everypony present out of it, and as we watched the Security forces that were not injured diving for cover I could feel every fiber of my being tensing. Within me, my defense protocols were beginning to activate; although I didn't have any weapons at my disposal. All I had was my hooves, and extensive programmed knowledge on close quarters fighting as I turned and looked to Ginger. "Overmare, it is of the utmost importance I get you to safety alive and unharmed. We must escape this place, using the secret route beneath your desk."

Both the Overmare and her husband nodded, although the former still gazed sadly at the Security forces as they lost lives and ground. I knew her friends, maybe even family were fighting and dying down there, but her safety was my top priority and I wasn't going to fail my protocols as I ushered her to her computer. "Activate it Overmare, so that we may flee to the main door and escape to safety while these 'Steel Rangers' as you call them are distracted."

A few console commands later, and the large metallic desk that had once seemed built into the very flooring was sliding back and up; the floor in front of it parting to accommodate stairs that were covered in thick dust. Hearing the gunfire beginning to fade out, I stepped into its depths to ensure it was safe to enter before gesturing the others to follow. A few more clicks came from the computer I heard before Ginger joined the rest of us. "I had to ensure all the Stable's files were deleted, just in case the Rangers were after our classified data." She said.

When we were all down in the tunnel, Ginger accessed another smaller console and reverted the previous commands. The desk had solidly returned to its previous position by the time I began to walk among the tunnels, knowing my way thanks to virtual maps that typically only the Overmare had access to. Almost immediately, Serenity remarked, "This place isn't on any of my maintenance schematics, and none of my colleagues ever told me of this area before."

"That's because this was a secret exit to the main door only, and its existence is only privy to the Overmare and her husband. A form of escape, to protect Stable secrets in case of invasions such as this." I replied, turning down a corridor to our left as White nodded faintly.

The dimness of the lights suggested the grime of untold years built up on them as we passed under their yellowed glow, and dust was kicking up with every step as we paused to listen to the gunfire. Silence. That was all there was to greet us now. "I think we're just too far in to hear it anymore." Ginger said, optimistically hoping that the Security forces were still fighting back the Rangers.

"Let's keep moving, while they're still distracted then." I said, catching sight of a bulkhead door up ahead.

Upon reaching the door, we paused yet again. There were voices, faint, but there. They weren't in the next room, but rather in the main control room for the door likely. The passage into the entrance of the stable was hidden, a door resembling a wall; so I don't think that these ponies knew of the room between us. Opening the door, as quickly as we dared, we managed to get it open enough to slip inside one by one before closing it behind us and locking it in place. The room that was before us was simple, a few desks with old consoles that hadn't seen use since the Megaspells fell; chairs idly waiting and never utilized. Dust motes spinning in the air, this place was as abandoned as it could get as we made our way to the entrance into the control room. The door's access panel was still powered, and the button was waiting as I pressed an ear to the door. The conversation I could hear was louder now, and seemed pointed towards what I had referred to earlier in the tunnel.

"So why did we come to this hole in the ground anyways?" One asked, a mare I could tell.

"Because Command believes that there's some sort of technology to be gleaned beyond what the other Stables we've searched had." The other, an older, more mature mare replied.

"What was it even again that we're looking for?" The younger mare asked.

"Some sort of advanced ponytron technology I heard. The Elder was blabbering on about how old records from the ruins of a Stable-Tec facility spoke of a prototype ponytron being developed and housed here." The older mare replied.

"Any idea what it was for?" The younger one questioned.

"Negative Knight Cross, but our orders are to recover it at all costs; even if the Stable Dwellers must be sacrificed."

As I turned back, I knew the others had heard this as well; and as such I felt guilty for bringing this upon my masters. Ginger and White seemed to sense this, and he shook his head as Ginger spoke softly, "It's not your fault that this is happening Violet, no matter what please believe that. The Rangers would have come sooner or later, especially since my Security had investigated the area outside before and had a run-in with their Contingent previously."

If I had the capacity to cry, i'd have been moved to tears as the gunfire started again; only this time there were screams in return instead of the grunts and return fire from the Security personnel. It was in this, that the odd feelings of sadness that was so uncommon in my programming matrix gave way to what I recognized as fury. "Wait in here, I'll dispatch of these two."

As I moved to press the button, I caught a glimpse of Serenity's face and saw how worried she was; although I alleviated her concerns with a wave of my hoof before pressing the button. The door slid open, almost silently; as though perfectly greased and simply waiting for this to have happened as I slipped out and into the large control room. The area was dominated mostly by the large mechanisms used to operate the blast door sealing the Stable shut, with a few consoles controlling said mechanisms nearby. Standing guard before these consoles were the two mares, each clad in a suit of power armor and toting on their battle-saddles auto-cannons. They weren't facing me, so I had the perfect opportunity to get the drop on them as I crept silently towards their position. They had ceased talking, merely watching the main door where gunfire and screams echoed back; their posture suggesting boredom as they stood vigil.

Not vigilant enough, as I stood behind what I guessed was the older of the two. It was so simple, so effortless and quiet; all but the sound of her neck being broken as my hooves slid around that precious length before ending her. The choking, gurgling sounds alerted her comrade; but she was as easily felled by a few, quick strikes in exposed weaknesses in her armor. She was on the floor, unconscious; laying in the small pool of blood from her friend's mouthpiece as I gestured for the others to join me. Looking to the blast door's opening to the small cave entrance, I could see the faint slits of light coming from an old mine-shaft door that heralded the world above. The others saw it too, after seeing the two bodies that had been so mercilessly left on the thick concrete floor. Knowing this was the only way to preserve the lives of the three with me; I walked towards the light shining through the door's cracks and hesitantly, I knew they followed behind me. When I reached the door, I paused before it; knowing the significance of what lay beyond but not exactly what it was that was that awaited us.

Eventually, I pushed the door open slowly. The light that rushed in to greet us overrode my visuals and blinded me for a moment, as it did the rest who were shielding themselves with their hooves. When my sight did return to me; and I had emerged from the cave, I was greeted to a sight that surprised and confused me. As far as we could all see, there was just endless wastes. The same, reddish brown and grey. An unending, unbroken landscape with cracked roads and a few crumbling ruins that once likely were houses for the ponies here before the war.

"The surface." Serenity whispered, "I never...never thought I'd see it...Or expect it to be so...desolate."

"Neither did I." I added softly, still taking in the immense loss of the small world I had only briefly known to this newer, bleaker place as Ginger and White joined me at my side with the door shutting behind them.

Author's Note

Hello once again audience, this is author Derpyness Maximus here. I'm just checking in with you all to see how you feel about both chapter four and the story thus far. Did you enjoy it? Did you dislike it? Are you somewhat in the middle? Either way, would you kindly leave me a comment or even P.M. me about your thoughts if you'd like; and remember to thumbs up or down the story. Also, I'd be interested to hear from those who do dislike the story especially, more so for their reasons of dislike and to see if I can change to become better at what I do.

As always, I give thanks to my unnamed proofreader friend whom catches most of my errors before publishing.

This is author Derpyness Maximus, signing off for now.

Chapter 5: New World Troubles

Chapter Five

New World Troubles

The new world was an overwhelming sight to take in, for all of us. Despite the possibility of the Steel Rangers coming to hunt us, we simply couldn't uproot ourselves from this present moment. This. This dark, unbroken, crumbling place was to be our future. A future, that I know is still uncertain as I too am enraptured by the mere gaze at this wasteland. Thankfully, Serenity finally snapped out of it. She came to my side, nudging me at first; and when that didn't work she slapped me. "Violet!" She nearly shouted, "Overmare! Mr. White! We have to get out of here before those Rangers come looking!"

The faint echo of pain I had felt brought me to reality, as I gently rubbed my cheek and nodded in response. White and Ginger understood immediately, knowing that at any moment we could be facing scores more of Rangers out for revenge for their comrades. "I remember my husband and I studied some tactical mappings the Security forces brought back on their pip-bucks from the initial scouting of this area."

"Yes indeed," White added softly, "It turned out we were near what they reported was a place called Junction Town."

"Was anypony alive there? Should we head to that place?" Serenity asked.

I personally was unsure if anypony could survive up here, being the conditions as they were from what I could see. However, Ginger's word quickly overrode such thoughts, "The Security forces investigated about three years ago...They said that it was a prospering settlement with plenty enough power coming from some old train engines they converted into generators."

Knowing of the prospects of such a safe haven; and that we could wait no longer around here, I spoke up, "I say we do it then." The three looked at me, "It's much better than staying here...Although I will differ to your command and wishes Overmare."

The Overmare pondered but a moment more before nodding in agreement, "Alright, we go."

As we set off, heading in the direction Ginger indicated was towards this 'Junction Town' White added softly, "I just hope this is worth it."

Thankfully, my sensors were detecting no signs of hostile life as we traveled. The road was lonesome, and I could tell the grief was setting in for the others of the loss of their world and lives. Their tears, though silent, prompted me to comfort them. Serenity was the worse of them, since she had nopony and had many friends in the Science Wing where the rangers were heading for. The least that I could do to help ease her pain, a loving nuzzle at her side, and a kiss on her cheek. Her tears were salty, but I gently licked them away as she glanced to me with the hint of an appreciative smile. "Thank you." She mouthed.

"Don't mention it." I answered silently.

White and Ginger it seemed, had consoled themselves together as I scanned over them before looking to the horizon. What I saw, forced us all to stop dead in our tracks. "The town is bigger than we thought." Ginger breathed.

"Yeah," Serenity added, seeing the immense walls made of old boxcars, "But it's also under attack."

Her words, I could tell, were true. Even from this distance, we could hear the gunfire and screams. It seemed like both sides were suffering, whoever they were. Bodies were dropping on the walls and before the ramparts outside. "Must be Raiders." Ginger said bitterly.

Feeling something within; akin perhaps to my programming to service and protect the Stable Dwellers that manufactured me, I started trotting towards the conflict ahead. I knew that I could help these ponies under attack, but Serenity stopped be with a hoof on my shoulder. "Are you sure you want to try and fight these Raiders?"

"Of course." I answered, "They stand between us and safety for you all...And that is what matters most to me is your safety."

Serenity still held to my shoulder, making me glance at her again to see a stubborn mirror looking back. I knew that she'd never have let me go again alone, and so I admitted defeat with a faint smile as I saw the same determination in Ginger and White's eyes. "Let's go get rid of that rabble around Junction Town."

Drawing a wrench from her tool belt, Serenity followed beside me as Ginger brought out a small Laser Pistol she'd kept at her waist. White, as I recalled, had previously been Security Chief and so had extensive un-hoofed training as he followed beside his wife. All of us knew we were heading for trouble as we neared the walls that were under attack.

Reaching the walls, and seeing the battle that would lay before us was far different than when we had been watching from afar. My sensors could pick up even the slightest smells, sounds, and sights; and the incredible stench of unwashed bodies and death made me want to recoil. There was so many dead already, their bodies stacked around and in fact shielding the other Raider ponies that were still fighting. Curses came from both sides as one sought an advantage over the other, and bullets met anypony who dared poke out from their cover. Despite this, I detected the faint words of a mare. She sounded as though she were still trying to plead for both sides to stop fighting.

As much as I desired such a peaceful solution, I simply knew it wasn't possible as I sighted the first group of Raiders that were pinned down. "We split up." I ordered, "Ginger, you and White need to handle the groups over to the west." Looking to Serenity, I gestured to the three closer groups, "We'll deal with them."

Serenity smiled somewhat, although through the cracks I could see she was conflicted about potentially killing another pony. She didn't let that get to her though, and as I saw White and Ginger making off for the west side we sprang to action. Moving swiftly, we landed just before the first of the Raider groups. One, who was covered in blood and draped in soiled clothes with a few bits of metal strapped on as a form of rickety armor turned to face us. "Now what in tha name O'..."

He didn't get any further, for Serenity smashed his jaw with her wrench and sent him over the cover. His body was peppered with bullets just as the rest faced us with guns drawn. Grizzled, crazy smiles adorning their features. I flashed a seductive smile of my own, making them hesitate for just a moment before flooring them with only a few powerful blows to pressure points. Waving to the wall gunners, they seemed to understand that we were taking the Raiders out and so stopped firing wherever we went unless we were kicking or forcing the Raiders out of their cover. The gunshots towards the west were lessening, and fire was shifting over to aid us now. I knew now that Ginger and White had finished them off as they joined us in the cover of a few concrete slabs.

White had a serious-looking wound on his shoulder, but he shrugged it off when he took notice of my concerned gaze. "I'll be alright Violet. We need to get rid of those last few over there."

With a hoof, he pointed to the ponies just a few dozen feet from us. They were taking cover within the ruins of some old storehouses, of which I could tell the weapons of the Junction Townies couldn't penetrate. These Raiders knew we were here as well, and they were well armed as a few score of rifle shots whizzed over our heads. "Violet, what do we do?" Ginger asked.

"Not what we do..." I echoed, "What I'll do."

Stepping out, I could feel every one of their weapons training on me. The instant they pulled the trigger, I was feeling the pings of their bullets bouncing off of me the whole way across to them. As I reached their position, they all drew knives and blades. I am unable to account for what I did next, for my memory banks did not record it until the point that I was standing alone. Blood slathered my fur, and pooled at my hooves as I stared blankly at the dismembered corpses that had been the Raiders. Serenity had joined my side, although she was a bit reluctant to touch me yet as I retracted my fur and allowed the blood to effortlessly glide off my sleek form. Ginger and White remained where they were, the former treating his shoulder wound and calling for help from the Junction Townies on the wall. "Oh please, I'm alright love...Really, I am..." He spluttered, getting a stern look in return from his wife.

Serenity finally laid a hoof on my shoulder as my fur returned to its previous state, clean and perfectly groomed. "Violet...What was...What was that?" She whispered softly, making me glance back at her oddly.

"I am programmed to protect you all...and Mr. White had suffered an injury...I could not endanger you any longer to these...fiendish wild-ponies." I answered quietly, knowing my actions perhaps had been a bit overkill but alas deemed necessary as she gently leaned on my side.

Her eyes were still showing the cracks in her psyche of how brutally they'd been murdered before glancing at the now open gates to Junction Town. "Well...Now we've got more trouble to deal with." Serenity murmured, nuzzling into my mane as I looked to the armored ponies approaching.

"More troubles..." I echoed softly.

Author's Note

Hello once again audience, this is author Derpyness Maximus here. I'm just checking in with you all to see how you feel about both chapter five and the story thus far. Did you enjoy it? Did you dislike it? Are you somewhat in the middle? Either way, would you kindly leave me a comment or even P.M. me about your thoughts if you'd like; and remember to thumbs up or down the story. Also, I'd be interested to hear from those who do dislike the story especially, more so for their reasons of dislike and to see if I can change to become better at what I do.

As always, I give thanks to my unnamed proofreader friend whom catches most of my errors before publishing.

This is author Derpyness Maximus, signing off for now.

Chapter 6: Junction Town

Chapter 6

Junction Town

I first could make out the feminine form of what appeared to be a Griffon among the group that approached us from the gates. My eyes scanned her, examining her very closely as assessing any potential threat that might be had towards the others. She stood, heavily armored, and higher in stature among her companions. Middle aged, I could tell, and with an easily noticeable scar running across her face. None of that mattered though, as I finished my assessment and concluded she was no threat to any of us. "Overmare." I said, "We can holster our weapons for now."

Ginger shot me a confused look, although she quickly nodded as she knew just how horribly we were outgunned. Putting her pistol away, I watched her look the group over as they neared. Her expression grew stern, and calm, as she stepped forth and waited with White beside her.

"Now don't move an inch, or we'll use force." The Griffon said, approaching with an equally stern look. She paused before White and Ginger, and gave them both an intense gaze before looking myself and Serenity over. "Saved by the Stable Dwellers again, it seems."

There was a sigh, perhaps in annoyance, to which Ginger answered, "Well, we couldn't very well just let those filthy Raiders keep harassing the town, could we?"

There was a hint of a smile, which made things instantly seem less tense as the Griffon nodded faintly. "Agreed I suppose." She paused but a moment, "My name is Gawd Grimfeathers."

She raised a talon to shake, of which first Ginger and then White took earnestly. "I'm Ginger. Ginger White. This is my husband, Harkness White."

"And who are the others there, that helped save my town?" She asked, glancing to us.

"I'm Serenity Shieldmaiden, ma'am." The Maintenance Mare replied aptly, still leaning against my side before looking to me. "This is my...friend...Violet Shadow."

I gave Gawd a faint, almost seductive smile as I felt my normal programming being restored. Her eyes I could tell, reflected a very buried hint of lust in them as she shook her head and focused back on Ginger.

"I heard you are the Overmare of your Stable, 116 is it?" She asked, "What brings the four of you out here exactly? Not that I'm not grateful you arrived when you did, but..."

That in itself was a lie, which I didn't need my sensors to tell me about as Ginger answered calmly, "My Stable was attacked by a group of Steel Rangers, and the Security forces we had were unable to repel them."

"I had to get the Overmare and all those I could away from danger." I said suddenly, "So I used whatever methods at our disposal to escape."

The three clearly remembered how coldly I had disposed of the two Rangers guarding the door, and now at the brutality of how I dealt with the Raiders as Gawd smiled a little more. "You must have some serious combat skills, then. To take on Steel Rangers when your Security couldn't, and then these bands of Raiders."

I didn't feel proud of the things I had in fact done, but my matrix understood they'd been the best calls at the time to carry out my objectives as I nodded faintly. "You all seem alright, and I owe you for what you've done for us here." She griped the last bit, as though regretting needing us before she turned and rejoined her group armed ponies and Griffons. "Might as well come on in. It's the least I can do." Her voice echoed slightly as they entered the gates, "Oh yeah, welcome to Junction Town."

We quickly followed behind Gawd, listening to the massive gates close behind us on creaking mechanisms as we entered the town we'd come to for safety. The place seemed fairly lively, beyond what seemed like soldiers keeping order on the streets there were many groups of ponies and griffons alike. Even though I'd never been alive during the times before the war, I just felt as if the place were like those places. It was apparent my friend and masters were thinking the same, as Gawd dismissed her soldiers back to the walls on watch. Buildings were of decent size; like made as well out of the remaining boxcars that were gathered up. A few shops stood around these areas, one of which piqued my curiosity a bit as we passed it.

Serenity took notice, of which she smiled slightly and bumped my flank slightly to get my attention before whispering in my ear, "We'll go there later, if you like."

I couldn't help a smile in return, as I whispered back, "I think I know just how to thank you later then."

The blush she had was worth it, and I was truthful in what I said as we stopped with Gawd still ahead of us. "This is my house. For helping us, you are welcome here as long as you like." She wasn't smiling now, but still had a bit of a grouch in her look as though knowing this still wasn't enough to repay the debt for saving her town.

"Thank you, Gawd." White said, "But this really isn't necessary."

"Well, I think it is." She answered back, "You all don't exactly have homes here, and we don't have much space at the moment for many others."

"We're very grateful, Gawd." I responded, "but perhaps you should show us around your home before settle in any for the day."

She didn't say a word in response, and instead approached and entered her house before gesturing us to follow suit. Entering behind her, I wasn't surprised in how clean and neat things were. The room we entered was spartan, with only the necessities in terms of furniture to decorate it. A few rooms cut from this one, into other train cars, and showed several bedrooms with one in particular having bunk beds.

"Not like home, but a great place to bunk down nonetheless." Serenity said, admiring the simplicity of the place as well as the electrical systems that powered the lighting and other appliances in the house.

"I trust you can figure your rooms in the back." Gawd said, "I have to go and oversee the repairs to the wall and the treatment of my soldiers, as well as my two kids running about. If you don't mind, I'll take my leave."

"Go ahead, we'll be alright I think." White answered, hearing only the door reply in sound as it opened and shut.

I couldn't help but smile as I took in the safety of this place, although it quickly vanished as White grunted and sat on a small couch. Ginger went to him, checking his injury and seeing that it was bleeding again. She changed the bandaging, tightening it as best as she could to prevent any further blood loss as she kissed his cheek. "I'll be alright love. I just need some rest is all." He tiredly replied, making her smile and shake her head at him.

"Let's go lay down together then love, " She said, "Serenity, Violet. I'll see you in a little while."

Helping him up, I watched the two disappear around the corner and into the back of the house. I could hear them settling together on the bed, and soft whispering that I couldn't quite make out as well as loving kisses shared. I didn't worry about them, though, as I turned to face Serenity and saw a faint hunger reflected in her eyes.

Now that we had privacy, I could tell she was desiring to alleviate the tension of all that had happened. I couldn't help a lustful grin, as I approached her and gently pushed her back onto the couch that previously held White. She settled onto it, locking lips with me in an intense, passionate duel as I wrapped my hooves around her. She moaned softly into the kiss, pulling me close until I settled on top of her. Drawing away slowly, I pushed her down so she laid against the back of the couch and whispered softly in her ear, "Sorry...But not yet lovely Serenity."

Licking her cheek, I heard her groan in disappointment before she claimed my lips for a final time and smiled somewhat lustily. "Fine," She whispered, "But after we rest and visit that shop I want you all to myself."

"That's a date." I replied softly, resting my body against her chest and snuggling under her chin. She sighed, blissful as I listened to her heart beat and watched her eyes close. My own eyes drooped soon after, and my body's internal battery reserves began to recharge as I settled into a semi-conscious state with my hooves wrapped around my close friend in a loving embrace.

Author's Note

Hello once again audience, this is author Derpyness Maximus here. I'm just checking in with you all to see how you feel about both chapter six and the story thus far. Did you enjoy it? Did you dislike it? Are you somewhat in the middle? Either way, would you kindly leave me a comment or even P.M. me about your thoughts if you'd like; and remember to thumbs up or down the story. Also, I'd be interested to hear from those who do dislike the story especially, more so for their reasons of dislike and to see if I can change to become better at what I do.

As always, I give thanks to my unnamed proofreader friend whom catches most of my errors before publishing.

This is author Derpyness Maximus, signing off for now.

Chapter 7: Is the Grass Greener?

Chapter 7

Is the Grass Greener?

It had been at most eight hours since Serenity and I had bunked down in the comfort of Gawd’s home. Eight hours of reflection, among the quiet murmurs of her as she dreamed, and the soft whispers of Ginger and her husband in the other room adjacent to ours. I thought myself incapable of personal thoughts, beyond those required by my typical duties to the Stable I was built by and for; but it seemed that in these faint hours, I was beginning to change in my programming somewhat. As I looked on, at the peaceful, beautiful, young face of the one I had come to call friend, and to her it seemed, love. I couldn’t help but ponder on the matters of which had brought us to the current moment.

If it weren’t for me, you wouldn’t be here. I think. You’d still be safe and happy in Stable one-one-six, or would she have been? These thoughts plagued me, as I tried to make sense of it all. No, those, things, would have still come for her, for the Stable. Being there, I saved them. This was the rationalization that, while somewhat depressing, was acceptable to my A.I.’s logic engines.

In the final moments of her slumber, I did my best to cover such musings and put on a smile as she yawned and stretched against me. She mumbled something as she opened her eyes and looked groggily at me with a half-smile. “Violet?”

“Did you sleep well Serenity?” I asked, as she nuzzled my neck slightly while sitting up.

“Yes, It was one of the best rests I’ve had in years. A full eight hours, without interruption.” She said, again making me wonder briefly if, in fact, us having to flee the Stable was a better alternative to living within its confines. “But that was because I had somepony to lay down with this time.”

Surprisingly, despite my programming, and what I was meant to be used for, I found myself blushing faintly at those words she’d so truly spoken from her heart. She took notice, and gave a slightly teasing look as she leaned in close. “Now, did I strike a sensor?” When I leaned forward, she didn’t withdraw; quite the opposite, she pressed her lips to mine. There we sat, sharing an intimate moment, as the first shafts of the early morning light played into the room.

“You two lovebirds need to get a room.” The voice of Harkness said, breaking the silence and the moment as we both blushed foolishly and turned to face him. He stood, with his shoulder still bandaged from the gunshot wound earlier. It seemed to have stopped bleeding, so that was good. “Ginger’s still sleeping, but I can’t rest anymore.”

“You feeling any better Harkness?” Serenity asked, softly, still blushing faintly at being caught.

“Still hurts,” He stated, “But I’ve had worse, dealing with those damn delinquent Stable Stalkers of Grey’s.” He laughed, lightly, obviously having memories of his previous occupation as Security Chief of the Stable.

“We should probably find something to fix that, Mr. White.” I said, finally, observing the injury closely and seeing that, while the bleeding had been stopped, the wound was still grossly inflamed. He scoffed at the idea a moment, but Serenity agreed with me as she nodded to him as well.

“Violet and I were planning on heading out anyways,” She said, “You should go let Ginger know that we’ll be out for a bit, exploring the town. You should tag along with us Harkness, I’m sure there’s a doctor who can help get that inflammation under control.”

Harkness seemed to consider this a moment, weighing his options. Eventually, as my logic engines predicted, he decided it was not worth the fuss as he replied, “I do not need to go crying to a doctor every time I get a cut or a scrape. You two go on ahead, I’ll stay here with Ginger and keep her company.”

“Alright Harkness,” Serenity said, with a tone of acceptance. “But if you start getting worse, you and Ginger come find us immediately. We won’t be far.”

“Fair enough,” He replied, ignoring the stern look our friend gave him. “You two stay safe.” That phrase, I could tell, held a double meaning. He winked at me as he turned and headed for their room, which made Serenity sigh in exasperation before getting up and stretching one final time.

“You ready to go Vi?” She asked.

“Yeah,” I said, joining her at her side as I stood up. “Shall we go and visit that shop we passed on the way in?” I inquired.

“Sounds good to me.” The Maintenance Mare replied softly, smiling slightly. “I wonder just what they have here exactly?”

“Guess we’ll find out when we get there.” I said, returning her smile as we made for the front door.

Opening it, I was surprised slightly and heard Serenity give a slight eep in shock as a small, young colt stood before us. Garbed in stitched hide of possibly a dozen different creatures, he seemed almost a patchwork monster instead of a pony at all as he lowered his hood. Smiling at us, his greyish fur flowed gently in the breeze as he shook loose a short, rainbow mane and shifted his tail slightly. “Um…” Serenity managed at last, as she stared at him and watched his blood-colored pupils look to her.

“My friends and I wanted to thank the saviors of our little town,” He said, in a surprisingly deep, gravelly tone, as he glanced back and indicated several, smaller, frailer ponies that stood at the end of the street. “Here. It’s not much, but It’s what we could scrape up together.” He stated, passing a small pouch that clinked together as it landed before my forehooves. I could just barely make out the fact that what was present in the bag was what appeared to be many bottlecaps, before I looked up again and the strange colt was gone.

“Why’d he give us these?” Serenity asked, reading my mind.

“Because that’s the currency we use out here,” A familiar voice, that of Gawd’s, replied. She caught our attention, and we both looked up to see her now standing at the gate which led to the small dusty lawn in front of her house. “That was Mortem Lamina’s son, Mors Gladi. One of the few kids we have around here, courtesy of one of my best soldiers.” Gawd had a laugh, which confused Serenity a moment and made me naturally more curious.

“Who’s Mortem Lamina? Why would his son present such a gift to us?" I asked, after a moment.

“The guy’s one of the best ghouls I’ve ever met in battle.” She replied, “Saved my life a time or two, and taught me to be a bit nicer to strangers like you four. Although he’s a strange one, probably from before the war. Just the way he talks and acts is a bit off, compared to the others.” She shook her head, indicating the bag of caps with one of her talons. “That’s one of the things he taught Mors and the other foals, to express your gratitude to others for their actions.”

"We just did what was right," Serenity said, looking at the small bag before picking it up and tying it to her belt. "And we didn't expect any reward. Really, we only did what we'd want anypony else to do for us."

"That attitude is quite a rare sight these days, although not an unwelcome one in this town." Gawd replied, her tone very subtly hinting to me that there might well be more goodwill that could be done.

"Help a friend and they'll be loyal until the end." I said, earning an agreeing nod from the Maintenance Mare beside me as we bade a short farewell for now with the Griffon who had opened her home to us.

It was only a short walk up to the store we had seen previously, and left us nothing more to notice than before save those foals we'd seen earlier. The group of them, five, counting Mortem's boy, seemed busy reenacting the battle which had so recently taken place between us and the Raiders. Though comical, managing to make me smile a little, the way they went about it as I watched made the stored data on the event flash once more before my eyes.

All the blood, the guts, the pleading, horrified look in the eyes of the very ponies I'd personally murdered. Beating them to death with my own hooves, their own weapons, or the various bits and pieces of rubble that was so plentiful around us at that time. It all scrambled my systems and made me choke out a static-filled gasp as I paused in my tracks. This powerful wave of what I could only describe as guilt and horror at what I had done was overwhelming my entire matrix that for a moment my body was inducing a full shutdown of all my functions.

When I came back online, my visual sensors were producing blurred images of my surroundings and I couldn't grasp why. That was when I realized it was because my lenses were producing excess amounts of coolant which trailed down my cheeks. My hearing returned soon afterward, as did my sense of feeling, because both were being tested by Serenity.

"What's wrong Vi? You suffering from a glitch? Something bothering you?" She was giving me a worried gaze, looking me over extensively and testing me with gentle taps of her hoof to see if I responded to movement.

When I did, and finally managed to look at her, she saw the thin lines running down my face and seemed to realize something and immediately hugged me tightly and whispered soothingly in my ear. "It's alright...It's okay...I know what you're going through...I saw it in my dreams."

This news couldn't be more of a shock, and in my mind, it hurt me more than the memory I'd just relived. I made you have nightmares about the horrible things that I did. What more can I do to hurt you or the others? Did they have these same dreams as well?

I didn't get to ask any of that aloud or speak further on the matter, as my close friend pressed her lips to mine and patted my cheek softly, her expression bearing a false smile as she wiped a single tear away. "Let's go to the store,"

"Okay," I said, nodding numbly as she and I detached from one another and made our way slowly along.

Everypony who had been nearby was staring, including the colts and fillies, although Mors didn't seem to be paying too much attention and had actually disappeared entirely. We ignored them, and, after a moment, they began to ignore us as well. By the time we were at the shop, which appeared nice enough by the new standards I was beginning to develop, I gave slight pause outside and read the sign which read 'Selena's General Store' before entering inside with Serenity still at my side.

The interior of the place was occupied mostly by odds and ends, shelves of items and row upon row which filled the multiple boxcars that this shop was built out of. A few interesting pieces were around, but the most intriguing things were that of the store owner who was behind the counter to our right and the massive covered pile of rusted metal which was hunkered down behind that same counter.

"Welcome friends to my store, come on in and have a look around, see what fits your fancy." The mare, I could tell by the tone of her voice, said cheerfully, as she looked at us with a smile.

The two of us split up, and searched around, looking over the different aisles and items that were on display. A few seemed to interest Serenity, as she picked them from the shelves and examined them a moment before setting them back down again.

"Find anything you like?" The mare asked, seeing my close friend find an old thirty-eight caliber pistol with a small box of ammo before she brought it up to the counter after finding me.

"Yes, I believe this will be fine, thank you."

"Well, this old thing will only be twelve caps for ya, Miss. Ammo's included in that price." She said, looking the old revolver over a brief moment before waiting patiently as Serenity fished out the required amount and passed it over to her.

In all this time, I was able to tear my eyes away and look to the covered metal again. Up close, I could tell in more detail that it wasn't just pieces of metal, it appeared to be all one piece. Whatever it was, my systems were able to detect that it was much higher grade metal than normal, Stable-Tec level, possibly military grade.

"What's that Miss Selena? If I may ask?" I pointed to the very thing I'd been staring at for some time now, as Serenity retrieved her pistol and ammo and placed it in her tool satchel for the time being.

"Oh this old pile of scrap?" Selena contemplated, turning to look at the large rusted item she had behind her counter. "Well it's-"

"It's not of our world, if that's what you've been wondering." The same deep, gravelly voice of Mors spoke from behind us, although when we jumped and looked he wasn't there. After a few seconds passed, his eyes opened, and he lowered his hood again and was standing mere steps from us where he looked up at the three of us. "Father and I dragged it out of the wreckage of an old military base a few years ago. It was all that was still salvageable from the wreck of some strange pod that it had come with."

My desire for knowledge about this mystery item was almost insatiable now, as I looked it over extensively while still listening as Selena spoke up.

"We've been trying to fix it for years, but haven't had much luck. None of us are any good at tinkering with machines. So it's just been here, gathering dust."

"I could probably fix it. I worked in the Science Wing of my Stable as a Maintenance Mare." Serenity offered, getting a surprised look from the shop owner before she nodded.

"If you can figure out how to get this thing working, I'll pay you handsomely for it." Both of us were already preparing to refuse such an idea, but Mors spoke up and interrupted us.

"The Lamina family believes in paying all of its debts." With that, he suddenly vanished into the shadows of the aisles, as Serenity nodded in understanding and began to talk about examining the strange machine.

To my own surprise, I wasn't entirely interested in whatever this machine was. I was somewhat fixated on those words the young colt had spoken before his stealthy departure. Leaving the two at the counter, I found myself heading for the door as I thought on those few, powerful words.

Debts...So far everypony in town supposedly owes us a debt for saving them...Is that the reason we're so welcome here? Because they owe us and nothing more? Is that the life we're looking for, holding something over everypony else in order to have a place among them? These musings had taken root in my mind, as I sat down by the door and looked skyward to the clouds above. Is the grass greener here than anywhere else? Is it worth it to settle here, especially when my first memories of this place are so tainted by my own actions?

Author's Note

Hello once again audience, this is author Derpyness Maximus here. I'm just checking in with you all to see how you feel about both chapter seven and the story thus far. Did you enjoy it? Did you dislike it? Are you somewhat in the middle? Either way, would you kindly leave me a comment or even P.M. me about your thoughts if you'd like; and remember to thumbs up or down the story. Also, I'd be interested to hear from those who do dislike the story especially, more so for their reasons of dislike and to see if I can change to become better at what I do.

As always, I give thanks to my unnamed proofreader friend whom catches most of my errors before publishing.

This is author Derpyness Maximus, signing off for now.

Chapter 8: What Just Happened?

Chapter 8

What Just Happened?

The high-pitched sound of a squeal of surprise was what finally shook me from my silent contemplation outside the store. The noise resounded deeply in my audio units, playing back to me several times to get it into my A.I. matrix so that I could formulate a proper response. As to what that response became, well, turning my head and staring at the inside of the building seemed like the best plan that my mind could come up with. My eyes became wide, as I heard another shriek, this one much more recognizable than the original sound. This one was that of my close friend, which had just moments before promised to take a look at the machine Selena had inside.The next sound that came, was that of a gunshot.

The initial registration errors of what was going on immediately became apparent, and in the freight train of information slamming my matrix, I could finally hasten myself to action. Getting to my hooves, I began to move towards the door; however I came to a startled halt as I watched Selena and Serenity together running from the store. Mors was nowhere to be seen, and both of the two crashed into me and nearly knocked me over as they scrambled to get away.

"T...Th....The Ma-" Serenity began, before the sound of thunderous steps began to echo and reach my audio units and caused her to stutter into silence.

"Tampering with military property is an offense punishable by Death." A powerful, static-filled voice barked from the inside of the darkened store. "System analysis indicates heavy damage. Damage appears to be caused by possible Chinese Communist Aggressors. Communism will NOT be tolerated. Use of lethal force is authorized."

After the voice concluded the strange speech, I watched as a bright light, resembling the shape of a visor, flash on and cut back the shadows of the inside. The light was a bright blue hue, and it seemed focused intensely on us as it started walking towards us again. Serenity I heard was fumbling around in her tool bag, and within moments my logic engines determined that she was reaching for her newly bought gun.

"Your puny weapons are ineffective against the Armor that is Democracy, filthy Communists." The machine spoke, as it emerged into the light, spewing it's visor upon us and revealing to me for the first time its true appearance.

As it basked in the light of day, I looked on and observed what might well be as Mors had described it. Not of this world. The heavily rusted monstrosity which stared us down was twice our height, standing up on two legs only that were armored. It bore a mostly flat chest and body, also armored in a similar fashion, but the paint which remained was a deep green with white accents at its centre which resembled remnants of a star. The forelegs which it had bore thick pauldrons; and all along its forelegs it was incredibly thickly covered. The forelegs ended in what I could only describe as talons without claws. Where the visor was, I saw a distorted, sparking visage which seemed to fizzle and crackle as if damaged. Tubes ran around the base of what appeared to be its helmet, and a circular mouthpiece was in between these tubes at the front of the helmet.

Serenity began to raise her pistol by now, shaking like a leaf, but I intervened and stood up. "I'll try and stop him. You two need to get out of here.

I...I' not lea-"

"THIS IS NOT FOR DISCUSSION!" I yelled, making her and Selena jump. "GET OUT OF HERE, NOW!"

"Come on Miss, we need to go." Selena said, placing a hoof on my friend's shoulder and starting to drag her away.

As the two tried to leave, the machine raised one of its talons, revealing that it carried some strange piece of metal which my sensor array identified as a ranged weapon. The caliber was a forty-five, and it resembled a pistol in shape. "Communism will not escape the righteous wrath of Democracy."

Without a thought to any other course of action, I charged forward, seeking to distract this crazy, assuredly alien machine from trying to kill my friends. It was initially caught by surprise, as I rammed straight into its stomach and sent it keeling over somewhat, knocking off its aim just as it had pulled the trigger. The round went haywire, bouncing around after pinging off a nearby building before hitting an old streetlamp and smashing the light to bits.

The machine though, seemed to react much faster than even I could, rolling with the shock of my attack, and landing on the ground, its free talon locking around my throat and holding me tightly to its chest. I could feel the damage already occurring, it continued to tighten its grip; the metal plating around my throat began to buckle and groan, and innumerable parts inside crumpled and cracked under the stress. My visual units began to go blurry once more, and spots formed on the edges of my eyes that encroached by the second, as more and more of my systems were damaged by his horrifyingly powerful grip. I felt his pistol grip slam against my forehead, causing immense internal damage to my A.I. and other systems.

As my audio units began to sever, I heard the sounds of thunderous footsteps ahead of us, followed by several gunshots aimed at the noise's direction. Before my body initiated a force-shutdown, and my vision left me completely, I watched a flash of grey leap over me before hearing a loud clang.

Then, there was silence. I could feel the ever so strong grip on my throat withdraw, and this freedom left me gasping for 'breath' before I rolled off the machine's chest and vomited enough part lubrication fluids to make a small puddle around me.

"Son, get her, thine mother, and her friend inside now. We shalt attend to this machine." The voice, I barely could recognize, sounded just like Mors; but deeper, more ancient, more powerful and commanding.

My audio units were mostly producing static at this point, and my visual sensors seemed to nearly be broken entirely; but I still heard Serenity's voice as she raced to my side. My body's sense of touch was still functional, although every part of me screamed of damage which made even her most gently of touches agonizingly painful as she tried to help me up and to the building. The only sounds I seemed to produce now were low whines and static-filled moans; and all I could hear was her choking back her sobs.

"Allow me to aid ye, young Miss." Mors said, appearing suddenly beside me.

Using his shoulder as a prop up, he alone, surprisingly, lifted me up higher than even Serenity could, and marched me inside the building without so much as a grunt or complaint of weight. By now, I was slipping in and out of full-shutdown and consciousness. I had the vaguest sense of being taken through some sort of back door, into a room that had a few lights on which only blurred my visual units even more.

The sensation of being set down on what felt like a plush chair was the only thing that didn't make me feel immediate agony through my scrambled sensors, and I did my best to hold on to that feeling before the reality of how damaged I had become returned and slapped me in the face with only a few words register in my A.I. matrix itself.

System analysis indicates all sensor arrays too heavily damaged. Initiating shutdown procedures until repairs have been made. As much as I tried to fight this from happening, I knew it was inevitable. My A.I. had been designed for such contingencies, should I suffer enough wear and tear, my systems, to save themselves from total destruction due to continued usage in their damaged state would simply shut down.

"S...Serenity...I'm sorr-" Was all I could say, before my body slumped, and I felt the impending darkness begin to creep over my mind as I laid there in the chair, completely gone to the world around me.

Author's Note

Hello once again audience, this is author Derpyness Maximus here. I'm just checking in with you all to see how you feel about both chapter eight and the story thus far. Did you enjoy it? Did you dislike it? Are you somewhat in the middle? Either way, would you kindly leave me a comment or even P.M. me about your thoughts if you'd like; and remember to thumbs up or down the story. Also, I'd be interested to hear from those who do dislike the story especially, more so for their reasons of dislike and to see if I can change to become better at what I do.

As always, I give thanks to my unnamed proofreader friend whom catches most of my errors before publishing.

This is author Derpyness Maximus, signing off for now.

Chapter 9: What Now?

Chapter 9

What Now?

The last words that I heard coming from Violet were echoing loudly in my ears. Over and over, replaying like an old entertainment holotape from the Stable. Serenity, I'm sorry. The stab of agony which lurked within each of those three words was still as sharp as when they were just spoken. I could not help but sob, and scream, burying my head in the cushion of the chair which we sat on.

Time was irrelevant. It could've been easily an hour, two, or more. I had no heed or sense of the passing of time, sitting there, on that chair. Somewhere, in the depths of my heart, I could feel a rift opening. A divide, as wide as a thousand miles and as deep as to the planet's core itself.

The pain, which so violently gripped me initially, now was beginning to lurch in a different direction entirely. What was once a stabbing agony, was becoming dull, and numb.

The world around me was changing, my body becoming equally as desensitized to what was happening. What once seemed brighter, became drab and muted. The chair of which I sat, which I could barely take notice of save my body's contact with it, was once a brilliant shade of red. Now it was graying, darkening, becoming a shadow of its former self. All but Violet now, seemed to personify this new world; this, this dark, despairing world, which my mind was creating.

The shouts and hollers and low words being had were slowly fading farther and farther from me. It didn't matter, I was trying to shut them out anyways. My ears lowering to my head, I began snuggling closer to what was left of my close friend. My brilliant, lovely, witty, intelligent, caring, protective, friend.

I could still hear her voice, even when I was shutting out the world. It was those three words, and nothing more; as I laid gently against her side, my head resting next to hers. Here, I could still look into her eyes, trying to hard to see life where there was lifelessness. Where once brilliant pupils, ringed by pink irises were, only a dank gloom remained now that stared so blankly back at me.

I must've fallen asleep like this, looking into her eyes; because it was the soft, dainty light of the night itself that greeted my puffy eyes when I opened them. A small yawn, which I barely recognized as my own, came from my lips. Raising my head slowly, as to not set the world spinning, I slowly looked around with a slight cough coming from my hoarse throat.

Apparently, I was not alone, though I felt still so far from everypony else. Ginger and Harkness were sitting across from me, sharing a small couch which they had seemingly been on for some time. They were the only others in the room, but I could hear voices coming from the main store itself, just beyond the confines of this small back room.

I was choosing not to focus on what they were saying too much, and instead, I found myself looking at the two others who shared the room with me. Ginger was leaning against her husband, sleeping. Her eyes looked as mine felt, and her cheeks were stained with tears. Harkness wasn't even pretending to rest though, as he was looking back at me and by extension, violet. His expression was tired, mired in thought; at least, until he saw I was awake.

"Ginger." He whispered, nudging his wife softly. "Ginger, she's awake."

My friend mumbled something, before her eyes opened and she too yawned quietly. Her droopy eyes looked up at her husband a moment, before slowly drifting her gaze to me. Her eyes widened a little, before she jumped down from the couch and made her way over to us.

"I'm sorry Serenity." Ginger whispered, as her hooves extended out and wrapped around me.

Those three words, again spoken, sent a fresh wave of pain into my dulled, numb heart; but I didn't say so. I only barely returned her hug, but there was no feeling in it to me. I didn't get any sensation, aside from the contact of our fur and skin to one another. For minutes, it was like this, and silence was all that reigned between the three of us.

That was when I heard the sound of hooves approaching from back in the store.. The form which stood in the doorway, revealing itself as it stepped into the light. The Pegasus which was before us looked just like the much younger, smaller colt we'd met earlier in the day. The only difference, was that where the little colt had a patchwork robe of skin, this much larger and imposing stallion was a literal patchwork quilt of different colors of skin. Grays, whites, even scorched black pieces. His eyes were the same though, a deep black pupil with red irises which stared intently.

Not at me, he wasn't interested in me at all. He was looking solely at Violet. His expression, frightening as it was in his indifference, shifted slightly to become an almost terrifying visage of seriousness. His brows furrowed, as if in deep thought, and, after a brief moment, he spoke. His thunderous voice was surprisingly quiet and respectable, as he looked between the three of us with a gaze that spoke volumes of knowing the pain that we all were suffering.

"We have been talking for the past few hours with thy friends and learning all we could about thy friend that lays in her forced sleep." He pointed with his hoof towards Violet, before pointing to me and then letting his hoof fall back to the ground. "We art not of a technical mind. We have little understanding of thy friend's inner workings. But thee knows how to work with those of the machine. Thy proved that well."

I sat up, my head tilting slightly downward, in both shame, and sadness. Tears already threatening to overcome me, at the mere mentioning of my own actions which had caused Violet's condition.

"In our conclusion, we haveth decided that if thee would aid us in coming on a quest of sorts, we would go to the military facility of which I discovered that combat robot so many years ago. We would ask thine help, perhaps in locating the tools and parts thee might need in the event of attempting to repair the damage done."

The words that this pony spoke made my eyes widen considerably. Within what he said, laid the answer, potentially, to what could save everything.

The darkness, which had come so stealthily and split my heart in two, now seemed to be receding somewhat. It wasn't entirely gone, but, it was a welcome change to the melancholy Hell that had become my world.

"Do thee wish to partake in this quest?" He asked.

I blinked, and the world had lightened somewhat. "Yes."

Author's Note

Hello once again audience, this is author Derpyness Maximus here. I'm just checking in with you all to see how you feel about both chapter nine and the story thus far. Did you enjoy it? Did you dislike it? Are you somewhat in the middle? Either way, would you kindly leave me a comment or even P.M. me about your thoughts if you'd like; and remember to thumbs up or down the story. Also, I'd be interested to hear from those who do dislike the story especially, more so for their reasons of dislike and to see if I can change to become better at what I do.

As always, I give thanks to my proofreader friend whom catches most of my errors before publishing and has decided to finally name himself.

My good friend and fellow author Tempest Knight is my proofreader for each and every chapter. Give him as much credit for my work as you do me, because he works just as hard.

This is author Derpyness Maximus, signing off for now.

Chapter 10: Systems Recalibrated

Chapter 10

Systems Recalibrated

With the lightening that which came within the confines of my own heart at the thought that I could revive and repair my close friend, the world was transformed, as was I. In mere moments after I uttered the single word which seemed to echo around the small store, I was made anew. No longer, did I suffer from the agonizing, stabbing pains of sorrow, of regret; now, my mind was dedicated wholeheartedly to the task of which had been put before me by the suggestion of the one who had saved us all.

The one who the town knew as a warrior, a protector, a friend. The one I knew as a savior, and now, above all else, my best chance at getting Violet back. After I had said yes, he had bade me to come with him from the small back room. Only me, he gestured the others to remain and spoke softly to Selena. I didn't make out most of it, aside a few words that said for her to make my friends feel welcome and at home.

After that, he turned to his left and made his way down the aisles, not pausing in the slightest for any cursory glances. His motions were deliberate, steady, sure, and the glimpses I caught of his expression showed nothing but that same seriousness that had seemed so coldly frightening when he'd talked of the quest moments ago.

Admittedly, there was an allure in that look, which seemed a bit enticing now that I observed my savior while we moved across the store. The way his eyes carried the weight of the task so easily, the faint curvature of his brow as it furrowed in concentration. His lips slightly parted as he ascended a small stairway that led to an upper level room, one that appeared to be a small all-in-one apartment of sorts.

A hoof-crafted bed sat in the center against the wall opposite our entrance, its sheets and pillows neatly made, almost to what I would suppose to be a military regulation. A flag, scorched, heavily damaged, was nailed and pinned up above, and cast down overhead. I only faintly recognized it as an Equestrian Army banner, but it was too badly burned to recognize which unit it once belonged to. beside the bed were two nightstands with small lamps on each that were dimly illuminating the space around them. Off to the left, a door led to what I could only presume was the master bath, since there wasn't one downstairs to my knowledge. A large wardrobe was to the side of this door, with a dufflebag lying against it in a very precise manner.

Mortem moved over to the wardrobe first, pausing before it before standing up on his hind legs and making use of his forelegs, which I happened to take notice of as being rather muscular underneath the patchwork of skin and mottled fur; he opened the doors slowly with a groan echoing in the room from the old wood.

Within the confines of the wardrobe were a few outfits of various states of completeness and styles. Some were old patchwork clothes, reminiscent of the stallion himself before me; but others were of a much classier nature. They were akin to dresses and uniforms of a time I could only identify with the era before the Great War long ago. Some seemed a bit worn or tattered, but for the most part they were in mint condition; they seemed almost as if they were never worn or exposed to the hell that was the current world today. The last thing I saw, which was what Mortem reached for, was a dark brown battle-dress uniform that was made of a long dark overcoat with a lighter brown undershirt and belted pants. Wrapped black combat boots, perfectly laced, were pulled out as well, along with a desert-colored scarf. Body armor, heavily used and riddled with old patches from many bullets, was drawn out as well.

Piece by piece, at a slow, methodical pace, I watched him don this uniform and armor. In a moment, I had a bit of a flashback to a memory of myself as a filly. I saw this very uniform in our history books when they taught us about our prewar military. If memory served, this was one of the uniforms worn by some of our oldest Army units, which meant that the one I observed, just finishing up with the lacing of his boots and putting on his shoulder pads for his body armor, that the stallion before me indeed was one of these prestigious soldiers of a bygone age.

"Ist there an issue, young Miss?" He asked, suddenly, giving me a start as his voice seemed to have become powerful again.

"N...No...Nothing." I couldn't help but blush a little, having been caught thinking as well as observing.

Admittedly, in the uniform, Mortem looked remarkably striking. His expression was still serious, but the faintest hint of a smile played on those lips as he crouched down and unzipped the dufflebag.

"We always keep our weapons close," He said, retrieving from the darkness of the bag several pouches which I could guess were for ammo and an ancient engraved revolver which he held in one hoof. In the other, he wielded a wicked serrated combat knife, which he sheathed at his belt before holstering the revolver as well in one fluid motion. "Thou art staring again,"

"Oh, sorry." I said, my face feeling hot as fire now at having been caught a second time watching him.

"We should head downstairs. Our love will haveth prepared provisions for the journey ahead."

"Yeah. Yeah alright." I said, happy we didn't dwell on the subject further as Mortem walked by me and headed for the stairwell. I caught a glimpse of a strange symbol displayed beneath an insignia of a Corporal on his sleeve as he passed, but I wasn't able to quite make out what it was as he was already at the bottom of the stairs before I could ask.

Following him back down, I was greeted to seeing Harkness standing stock-still. His expression suggested an intense, paralyzing fear beneath the barely calm visage that was his face. beside him was Selena and Ginger, who wore their emotions openly as they all were looking in the same direction. The doorway.

Within the doorway, I actually started to tremble slightly; but in rage, not fear. In that blasted entrance, I saw the very mechanical monstrosity standing once more. A heavy dent had caved half of its helmet in the side, but other than that, it seemed to have suffered no true damage as it seemed to study itself intently. Its visor was completely fizzed out and shattered, so I couldn't tell if it was looking at us or even actually functioning well enough to notice us.

Drawing my pistol, I already had half a mind to start shooting out of pure anger at this machine; but I felt the cold hoof of Mortem on my shoulder beside me. Looking over, he shook his head ever so slightly, indicating the pointlessness of the venture I had been about to undertake.

"There shalt only be more bloodshed if you raise thine weapon against 'It'." He said, his voice calming, assuring.

"But..." I was about to begin an argument, about to go off, when 'It' interrupted.

"Systems analysis indicates heavy damage to cranial armor unit. Extensive circuitry damage to all protocols. Data Corrupt. Data Corrupt. Data Corrupt." On and on this massive, hulking armored figure repeated the same phrase, as if stuck in a loop. For several minutes in fact, it spoke these words, until its helmeted head shook and a light from its fizzling visor flashed on briefly. "Initiating safeguard data system purge. Returning to Default A.I. matrix."

After the last word was spoken, the machine's body went slightly limp, and slumped forward as its visor deactivated one final time. For long minutes, it remained in this state, until I heard the familiar creaks and groans of the rusted metal beginning to grind and whir once more. Suddenly, the machine shot up to full height, its shattered visor sparking dangerously as it seized violently multiple times before going still. It took stock carefully of its environment, looked about, seemed to test its physical capacity in a small circle around itself. In a brief time, it slowly reached up with its talons, and removed very carefully its damaged helm. What laid underneath, admittedly was a truly frightening visage.

Its face was both a mix of machine and organic matter. The flesh was grey and dead, but still seemed to retain some features of life as it twitched and moved in a mechanical way that was unnerving. A very short, closely cropped mane centered around its skull, with two ears, one to each side of its head. A small nose, set like its stony, chiseled face, was visible in its center. Two eyes, one a glowering brown pupil with black irises, and the other a steady red glowing light that was wrapped in wires and cabling, were on either side of this nose. Its mouth chomped up and down slowly, as if tasting its environment and testing its motions for the first time. Teeth that were wicked sharp, teeth made for hunting and killing, sat in its twisted, scarred maw.

Those eyes finally noticed us, and they seemed perplexed for a moment, before the red one flashed a few times in our direction and the thing's expression settled into one that resembled complete seriousness as it looked over Mortem. Both of its armored legs clanked together as it stood stock-straight, feet at a forty-five degree angle, with its left foreleg along its side and the right rising into some sort of salute. The middle talon of its clawed appendage just barely touched the bit of fur which seemed to grace above its two eyes.

It stared, straight ahead, awaiting something. It awaited reply, perhaps, or recognition of its action.

"Liberator Mark One, awaiting instruction, Sir." It stated, addressing my new friend beside me, who I saw surprisingly understand and return the salute with his own right hoof.

"It must think we're its handlers now, since it went to default programming and we were the first it saw." I whispered to nopony save myself, although Mortem nodded ever so slightly as he lowered his salute and saw the machine do the same.

"Liberator," Mortem addressed, in a voice that was different. It was commanding, but reserved, almost like that of an officer that was well versed in his duties. "What is your prime objective as of the moment?"

"To await instruction from my current Commander, Sir. That would be you." The machine responded in a monotone, as its jaw worked furiously to produce the words in a coherent, natural manner while remaining at that posture it had struck. "What are your orders, Sir?"

"One moment," Mortem said, before turning to me slowly and staring into my eyes with the question burning in his own.

I wanted to say no. I wanted to scream Hell No. This was the very machine, the insane, unknown machine that had for all intents and purposes, killed Violet. But the question and thoughts which lurked behind those Crimson pupils which stared into mine spoke of something much higher than the, now, seemingly petty thoughts of revenge which I possessed. They spoke of a purpose, a use, something that could potentially make it all the more easier to bring Violet back.

With my heart heavy, I could only manage a quiet grumble and hope that I was making the right decision. "Alright..."

Author's Note

Hello once again audience, this is author Derpyness Maximus here. I'm just checking in with you all to see how you feel about both chapter ten and the story thus far. Did you enjoy it? Did you dislike it? Are you somewhat in the middle? Either way, would you kindly leave me a comment or even P.M. me about your thoughts if you'd like; and remember to thumbs up or down the story. Also, I'd be interested to hear from those who do dislike the story especially, more so for their reasons of dislike and to see if I can change to become better at what I do.

As always, I would like to personally thank my Proofreader friend Tempest Knight, for helping to catch my errors and for reading the content I produce before it even gets to you, my audience. Give him as much credit as you do me for this important job.

I would also like to personally apologize for not having posted or updated this story in any way for so long. Both my college-level courses and personal life have been a little hectic, and have kept me from producing any true worthwhile content up until most recently. Though it is no excuse, and I ask for none in regards to forgiveness, I simply wished to apologize to my reading audience, because you guys really are awesome and I hate disappointing you by not keeping the stream of my chapters flowing smoothly.

This is author Derpyness Maximus, signing off for now.

Chapter 11: A New Beginning

Chapter 11

A New Beginning

My word hung like a thick fog, trampling over and permeating the very air with both emotional distress, and a heavy worry which threatened to register on my facial features. That singular word, which gave an admission of acceptance, allowance even, disheartened me to the depths of my soul and scarred me so horribly that I felt only a pang now of my former screams of denial. Only a shadow remained in my soul, watching over me, as my eyes found that of the machine.

The machine. The thing, the horrid creature who smelt of flesh, blood, oil, and metal all at once. The one who possessed the strength and resilience to withstand massive damaging attacks with only minor damages notable to its frame. The strange monstrosity of metal and flesh that was staring back at me from its formalized stance, its brown pupil narrowing slightly as it seemed to venture what resembled a breath.

A breath!? At this moment, now, a thousand questions were coming to my mind as I observed this, machine. How could this, thing, be capable of replicating something only organic, living beings could produce? If you're not a machine, or alive, what are you? I asked myself, somewhat baffled by the mystery that still stood before me, awaiting further words or instructions.

Looking further into the appearance of the creature, I could see something more than what originally had met my mind's eye. The machine, it seemed to occasionally make an extreme, deliberate effort to swallow. The mechanical actuators, which so closely resembled muscles, shifted vigorously beneath its pallid, dead skin, to convey what I could only surmise as lubricating fluids throughout its body. The facial tissue which surrounded that maw seemed to twist only faintly, forming the beginnings of what I could tell was supposed to be a sympathetic expression.

"Ma'am," The machine addressed, formally, its jaw moving tirelessly, stating, tasting, testing the word as if for the first time it was speaking normally. "My sensor array is indicating a steady increase in your hormonal levels, your cognitive activity has been growing consistently as well. Is something amiss, Ma'am?"

Any thoughts I could manage died in my throat before I could give voice to them. In only a brief moment, my mind was becoming more and more befuddled as I observed this monstrosity and, with a flickering that was starting to light up the gloom anew in my heart, I began to discover a new truth in my soul. This, thing, this machine; this cold, dead creature, it cared. In its own way, perhaps it didn't even realize it itself, it had expressed a modicum of warmth and heart that I could just not see it having until now.

Openly, however, I could observe that Liberator's face was slowly shifting, from a sort of concern to confusion, as it asked again, "Is something amiss, Ma'am?"

"No." I found my voice, and firmly, surely, said at last. My right hoof pressed the ground heavily, as for but a moment as I listened to its confusion, its concern, and saw the flash before my eyes. I saw this creature, how easily, horribly, carelessly, it dispatched of my close friend. The rage which had since become suppressed in my moment of thought was slamming my psyche full force, leaving me with a sharp stab of fresh grief and anger that tainted the air with its intensity. My own face, I could feel, was rigid with the cold, dank darkness which had overtaken the brief flickering candle that had illuminated my imprisoned heart. The eyes with which I used to observe the machine flitted about, as with any long-term exposure to the tall, bulky form now caused blurs to form in my vision. With ears flattening now slightly, and my teeth gritted behind slightly parted lips, I shook my head and slowly found my eyes settling on Mortem.

The stallion whom was still calmly observing me, with those big, steadfast, serious crimson pupils, was still at my side. He stood, dressed as he was in that full battle uniform, with his expression unmoved. Only the faintest twitch, which curved his right brow up ever so slightly, was able to be detected. Otherwise, he was as he had been when I had answered the question with which now I already was coming to regret. Actually, there was a difference to him. It wasn't direct, or noticeable really. He just, looked different. Something in the air that was between us was changed now. I couldn't put my hoof on it; but I did know that with every breath, every inhalation, there was a new scent among the others I was already familiar with. This scent, this smell; it was enticing, exotic, and encompassing.

My whole being took note of this, as I blinked and found myself staring once more into those eyes which calmed me. Yes, those eyes, lovely as they are, were steadying me. There was also a sense of shattering as well, as I felt my knees get a little weaker; and my body began to grow a newer, more intense ember to banish the darkness henceforth from my soul for a time.

"Young friend, thou shouldst surely remember it is most impolite to stare. We have warned ye multiple times as of the current moment." Mortem said, his voice ravishing to my ears.

"Yeah..." I said, still lost in some sort of daze I couldn't bear to drag myself out of. A daze that, I knew if broken too soon, would do well only to snuff out the fire starting in the depths of my being and leaving me only in my ever-present hatred and anger.

The air was sweet, almost intoxicating, as I took a step only a bit closer to the one who already was by my side. I could feel a stirring in my chest, a beat in my throat, as I looked up into those eyes, handsome as they were, and was surprised when I read in them perhaps the same emotions and feelings which were running through my own body. Surely, they were there; but I could sense a kind of restraint that was not present before, as he brought up a hoof as if to let it settle on my shoulder. I pressed that hoof to my cheek, feeling the heat, the steadiness, the intense blaze within me multiplied by the warmth of this soft furry appendage on my already burning face.

"Come now, young friend," Mortem's voice broke up my thoughts, and rattled me deeply, as I came to blink rapidly. The happy, perfect world, disjointed, and shattered. In its place, the stark, somewhat frightening concept of reality now remained once more to take up the area around us. Nothing but pure fear and shame rose up in my heart, and nearly extinguished my heart's flame yet again as I expected to see judgement in those beautiful pupils; but I was surprised to see no judgement. There was only calm, which was the same as the voice which addressed me. "We have still yet a mission to attend to, and provisions to secure."

"Yeah. Yeah, alright." I finally said, my face feeling like it was on fire as Mortem removed his hoof slowly and let it settle on the hard floor once more. particularly, I could still feel where his touch had been, and in my heart of hearts, I knew how much I already longed for that lovely feeling again.

"Selena love," Mortem spoke, his tone taking on something of a special, more reserved tone; one that I could easily differentiate from the way he had just talked moments before with me. "Have ye yet prepared for us what we've asked?"

Moments passed in an unwavering silence, for the air was still quite charged with the emotions of the preceding hour as well as the feelings yet to come. An uneasiness was still visible on the expression of the mare whom Mortem had called out to, and her eyes were focused intently on the large machine which still was waiting in the doorway. The stallion, who still stood by my side, took notice of this, and with a faint smile gracing his lips, he left me and made his way steadily towards her. His hoof graced her cheek, his lips met hers, and for but a moment, a pang of jealousy hit me. Jealousy was crazy at the moment; but it was still there, as I watched the startled mare who was now blushing as she smiled, secretly wished I could be her.

"Now love," Mortem said, his tone questioning again as he looked through the windows into her soul and she did the same to him. "Did ye make ready the provisions I requested of ye?"

"Oh," Selena seemed released now, from her fear, as she gave her love a single nod in answer. "Yes, I have. Let me go get the bag for you."

"Thank you dearest," Mortem smiled, as he sent off his beloved to another part of the store.

A few minutes passed by, as the stallion waited patiently. He and I listening intently to the sounds which pierced the silence in the still charged air. The scrambling, the shifting of objects, the groans and scraping of said objects across the floor or out of the way. Finally, the grunt of taking on weight that was most definitely an indication that the mare had acquired what she'd set out to secure for us. Her return was slow, careful, and she was loathe to admit the truth where it was most evident as I could see. The strength required for the duty she was performing was beyond her means, as she seemed to struggle beneath the weight of the bag she had shouldered. Though it were but only a small distance to cover, from whence she came to our area, she was short of breath and beads of sweat had since broken out on her brow as she let the bag drop by her side.

"There should be enough..." She took a moment to catch her breath. "Enough rations, and clean water, to last you both at least two weeks tops."

"I can't thank you enough my love," Mortem said, as he moved over and shouldered the bag. To him, it seemed, it was nothing, as he took it in hoof easily and had rolled it to his back without any effort.

"Oh, I know a way you can thank me when you get back," There was a glimmer, a glint really, in the eye of Selena as she seemed to look almost hungrily up and down her love.

To his credit, and a bit to my surprise, Mortem only laughed in response. His laugh was different than I'd expected. Having heard his voice, and knowing how intense and strong it could be; I had not thought his would be as delightful and jovial to my ears as it was now. The ringing it created, the joy it brought, the way it made me smile despite all that was in my stinging heart, that was something special there. by the end of his little tirade, he was smiling and shaking his head.

"Maybe," He finally said, chuckling a bit again, "Thee knows what happened last time I became...feral."

The singular word, the last which he had used to describe himself, sent an intense shiver up my spine and into my imagination. Feral? I thought. The word seemed to promise many things, the least of which was immense and lasting pleasure. The most of which promised unforgettable pain and suffering, as I saw there was a reflection of my thoughts on the face of the mare he had spoken to. However, she still nodded, laughed a little herself, and gave what I could take as a goodbye hug and kiss to her beloved.

"We'll be back before thee knows it love." Mortem whispered, placing a hoof on her cheek in a caring way, before he slowly departed from her and moved towards the door. "Say thy goodbyes for now young friend, for soon we march."

I could only nod to his words, before looking silently in the direction of the two friends I still possessed currently. Harkness stood there, his expression solemn, although he managed a smile as he gestured me to approach. Ginger still bore the look about her of her sadness from before, the puffy eyes, streaks where dried tears had once graced her cheeks. Her expression too became a small smile, as I slowly stepped closer and closer. Harkness greeted me first, with, surprisingly, a hug which was exceptionally strong despite his shoulder injury from earlier. His wife followed in this embrace, and we remained together like this for what felt like ages before I heard Harkness speak.

"You be safe out there," He said, "Because if I have to come in there to get you, you'll have a much worse time than all the wasteland can give you." His expression was stern, but I was biting my lip to keep from laughing. Ginger seemed much the same, as she eyed her husband and finally did break out into laughter.

I saw a smile curling the lips again of my friend, and he chuckled a bit before finally releasing me. Ginger, however, held on for a bit longer, and said, "Do be careful, I don't want to see another friend get hurt."

"I will be," I answered, giving her a faint nod and a reassuring squeeze before we parted our embrace.

There was but one last stop on my list of goodbyes. One that perhaps I shouldn't do, but yet I knew I must. One that would both haunt me until the nightmare was over, and give me the courage to press on in spite of the dangers to mount in the future. In that dark place, where the memories dwelt, I walked. In entrance, my eyes, which had been averted to the ground, now steadily settled on that piece of furniture which I had come to know so well. what i saw, brought a flood, a torrent of emotions; but above all, it brought a new sense of what I was doing this for. As the gloom settled upon me, from the shadows cast by that broken frame, that husk, the body that which once was my friend, I found myself moving without my consent. Coming to its side, I settled beside its damaged ear, stroking away a piece of its mane from closed eyes.

"I'll be back soon," I whispered, "And for us, it will be A New Beginning."

Author's Note

Hello once again audience, this is author Derpyness Maximus here. I'm just checking in with you all to see how you feel about both chapter eleven and the story thus far. Did you enjoy it? Did you dislike it? Are you somewhat in the middle? Either way, would you kindly leave me a comment or even P.M. me about your thoughts if you'd like; and remember to thumbs up or down the story. Also, I'd be interested to hear from those who do dislike the story especially, more so for their reasons of dislike and to see if I can change to become better at what I do.

Speaking of Tempest, he has made a suggestion that I found to be interesting. The idea he pitched was that I write longer, more detailed chapters, encompassing more of the story in each chapter. I thought I'd put this information out to you all before I wrote anything further from here on out, so I'd like to hear from you my good audience. Leave comments in the section provided and let me know both your thoughts on the chapter and this idea.

This is author Derpyness Maximus, signing off for now.