Pontagionby YADAMANChaptersPrologue Angel's EffectThe Doctor's SecretPrologue Prologue Date 00:00:09 – 05:45; Canterlot Castle The room was dark, with the exception of a lone candle in the corner. The curtains were pulled together – preventing even the slightest crack of dawn to seep in. Within its chamber, lied a small desk with an analog clock on top, a bed and scattered paper all across the floor. Along its walls, was a closet, a door, a mirror and even more detailed paper hastily taped to its surface. Its contents contained all sorts of information. Most of which were pictures of what appeared to be dead bodies – a lot of them. To just anypony, this looked like some sort of crime scene investigation, and in a way, it is. The sheets of the bed rustled and a figure slowly awoke from its slumber, kind of like a zombie rising from its grave. “It’s that time again…” the tan-colored pony woke up, looking at his clock on the desk with his back aching. He was newly drafted after the outbreak of an unknown virus and thus was sent to live in this dorm, with a very uncomfortable bed to sleep on. His role was simple – patrol the halls of his post, the capital of Equestria, and gather intel from supposedly infected towns. For what purpose? In order to find some sort of cure for this new biological threat. To his expectation, his job took countless hours of his time and nothing particularly eventful happened for the past week. However, today was different. He appeared in front of his dingy mirror and stared at his reflection for a solid ten seconds then slowly trotted to his right, avoiding the scattered paper on the floor. The creaking sound of the rolling closet door filled his room. It wasn’t loud, just irritating. After raggedly putting on his uniform, he walked to his dorm’s entranceway. The door was reinforced with heavy steel and it wasn’t pretty to look at. Yet, this was the only way to ensure security… and of course along with the spread of the new disease. “Disease,” the tan-colored pony thought to himself. The new virus was still at large, and along with its mysterious-ity, came its numbers of causalities. It was able to kill off over 3000 ponies within the first week, but this ‘week’ was subjective. Nopony knows exactly when it started, with the exceptions of a few pony scientists, including this light brown-ish pony, with approximate dates in mind. Hypotheses if you will. With that out of the way, the halls of the castle were immensely huge, however it was a standstill. Decorated with intricate wallpaper, it was a sight to see. Small glistening sorts of light scattered in neat, yet sophisticated sections through the stained glass – another marvel of Canterlot Castle. Even though it was rather beautiful, nopony cared much for it after the virus outbreak. The tan-colored pony trotted to his daily post, ready for another day in this whole ordeal. He was paired up with another officer – a blue-haired colored stallion that worked at Canterlot for years now. He was a lady’s man, even though he doesn’t go off and flirt with any mare he sees, he wasn’t that kind of pony. He was in fact a very nice guy. Besides, he was interested in this one mare… Their relationship was not the best, however, yet still professional. They did their day job which was…patrolling the halls. As easy as that sounds, the new recruit was actually promoted to a higher rank than most other newbies – a general. Rather odd for patrolling a simple route. Perhaps due to his aid in cases prior to the outbreak. He saved probably hundreds of ponies’ lives, despite his modest disposition. It was this reason that he was working at a private facility as well as the capital of Equestria. Undeterred by their not-so-great companionship, these two ponies had interesting conversations. In fact, today, both of them will break their silence… Date 00:00:09 – 06:08 “Any word on the residents of Ponyville?” the tan-colored pony asked, his words echoing in the castle halls. “Not yet, sir,” the blue-haired pony replied. “It seems that those that attended don’t have the desire to cooperate.” With a slight snicker, the tan–colored pony asked, “Are you proposing that Princess Twilight might have something to do with this?” “What!? N-NO! Not at all! I’m just s-stating the facts here.” The blue-haired pony quickly snapped back. “Allright, allright. Just messing with ya, Flash. Everypony knows that you got this thing with the princess. Anyway, what did your so-called facts say?” Offended for bringing up his crush, Flash raised an eyebrow, but continued on, “For starters, the scouts came back detailing all those whom were present during the Crystal Empire’s 4th Re-annual Crystal Faire. They said all of the Princesses have attended, along with their friends and close relatives, not to mention the guests. Almost all of Ponyville came to the event, actually. And look, Whooves, I’m just… trying to cover all of our bases here, even if they seem rather far ‘fetched. I’m not saying anything here like that.” Whooves rolled his eyes. “I suppose. Yet something still troubles me, how could had Shining Armor succumb so easily to the disease? Reports indicated that the suspected town that the virus originated from was Ponyille. He was infected just hours after the proceedings.” “Not sure. Perhaps there must be a connection of some kind.” “What do you mean?” Whooves raised his voice slightly, perhaps due to a sudden arousal of interest. “Well, it’s simple. What if the disease came from somewhere BESIDES Ponyville? Maybe from here, the capital of Equestria. Many ponies travel from here to there, including Princess Twilight. The only logical explanation is that Canterlot was the primary center of the spread of the disease. That would explain how the virus spread quite rapidly from many different locations, not just Ponyville. I mean, not to like you know, frighten everypony but we may need to evacuate if that’s the case.” “I see your point. But what is still at large is the exact identification of this disease, not necessarily how it started.” Shaking his head, Flash asked, “Really? Not one pony figured out what possible symptoms relate from one infected to the next?” Flash was quite surprised with Doctor Whooves’s comment, he worked with top scientists all over Equestria for pony’s sake! It didn’t make sense that they still have no idea what they are working with. “That’s the problem. The disease is apparently ancient, yet still new – it acts differently than it did from what it was supposed to do when it first came to existence. Not only that, many physicians come to the same conclusion that the virus affects ponies in different ways. So they are saying that not one will exhibit the same symptoms from the next,” Whooves’s mouth twitched with that last statement. “Essentially, we have nothing at this point as it stands.” Flash quickly responded, “We obtained all the bodies that were presumably infected with the disease, and ponies that are infected with an unknown virus presently, surely the autopsies must be ab-“ “Have you even considered that we could potentially be facing more than one epidemic?” Whooves quickly ejected. Flashed looked through his mind to come up with some kind of answer, none came up, “I uh... no I have not.” “That is what I thought.” “So what are we looking for then, hmm?” Flash’s mood was becoming annoyed. “Clues,” Whooves said bluntly. “Clues? For what? The ponies that have the virus? Where it started? What the disease is? If there is a cure?” obviously this conversation was getting to Flash. Out of all of all the ponies in Equestria, he had to be paired up with a new recruit that not only exceeded his rank, but was a scientist and part investigator. Not really the best combination for what you would call a normal conversationalist pony. Then again Whooves was older than Flash, so he still needed to give respect to the stallion despite his protest. Who knows? He might learn a thing or two from him. “None of the above. Clues to find out who started this disease.” Confused, Flash stopped in the hallway, “Wait, let me get this straight. You think that somepony artificially made this virus?” Whooves followed suit, “It is only a theory, but if ponies were infected at Canterlot, Ponyville and the Crystal Empire at the same time, don’t you think that it is more than a coincidence? Perhaps it was done maliciously?” “But there is no solid evidence that the disease occurred in multiple areas at the same time. Wait, hold on. If somepony did release this virus, isn’t that a form of chemical warfare? I thought Starwhirl the Bearded banned that ever since the end of the Chronicle Battles! ” “Doesn’t mean somepony is going to follow ‘rules’ that were made generations ago, huh?” “…” Flash swallowed. “To be honest, Twilight could be a suspect at this point,” Flash gasped with that remark. To reassure his younger fellow comrade in arms, Whooves went on, “Just like any other pony.” They both sighed, then resumed making their rounds, their day has only just begun after all. As they turned for the next hallway, Whooves broke the silence once again, “Let’s face reality: a new era has been born. Things are changing. It is everypony for themselves now. Food is becoming scarce. Outside countries are refusing to aid in the efforts to put an end to whatever … this is. As of today, Equestria is a bio-hazard zone. Nopony goes in, nopony comes out. We are all on our own. The only one that seems to be pulling everypony’s weight together in this time of need, is Celestia.” “But...” Flash stared at the floor as they slowly trotted by, his tongue became numb, having trouble asking the next terrifying words that he didn’t want to believe was true, “but isn’t she infected too?” Whooves felt tension rise in the air in the castle, as if somepony was watching them, listening to their conversation, “Yes,” the feeling was gone, “she is.” Author's Note In case you are wondering, the date is read from Year:Month:Day. So if it is 01:09:03 it is the first year, ninth month and third day from the initial start of the virus outbreak, not necessarily the actual year's month and date that we use as a calendar. I probably should change that but at least I made it a bit clearer, as my proof-reader told me to do. Anyway, the next chapter will be released on December 4th, a week when I post this. (Future chapters will actually include the Main Six characters, not just be mentioned) Angel's EffectDate 00:00:12 – 14:23; Southern Outskirts, Ponyville The wind was blowing. Outside of Ponyville were two mares, having some sort of conversation at least, with another mare approaching them from Apple Acres. “I still don’t think that griffons had something to do with it. I mean, I been to Griffonstone, and it’s not the place that a pony would say is a paradise. I see absolutely, POSITIVELY no reason that they would attack us!” the rainbow-manned mare assured, while her voice cracked. “Okay then, Rainbow, got any better ideas?” the winged-unicorn asked with a fidgety look all the while holding a map with her magical grasp. Clearly drawn on with arrows and sketches and whatnot. “Well, no. Look, it’s obvious that I’m not getting through to you and no matter what I say you are still going, so when you get to Griffonstone, just … just don’t make assumptions, all right?” Rainbow Dash’s face was enveloped with mixed emotions. Emotions of concern, anger and sadness, all at the same time. Rolling her eyes, “Fiiiine Rainbow, I hear you. I’m pretty sure that all you want to do is protect Gilda, but at this point, we need this situation sorted out, as soon as possible. Get rid of all the possible suspects in order to pinpoint the culprit, you know?” “But you’re missing the point, Twilight! Uggghhh!” Rainbow glanced left and right in a state of panic and then kicked the ground with both her rear hoofs. After a few moments of awkward silence and random eye contact between the two ponies, Rainbow couldn’t take it anymore, she jetted through the sky – leaving a trail of a perfect rainbow. Kind of lightens the mood. The approaching mare finally trotted nearby Twilight’s side, then spoke with her signature country accent, “Do ya think that she will be okay?” “She just needs some time Applejack.” Not surprised by the mare’s sudden presence, it actually comforted her, Twilight shifted her attention to the mare, “I mean, try to imagine being in her situation, it’s not easy to face the possibility that one of your best friends might have caused the virus that could lead to the entire pony race to extinction.” “Right, well, if ya put it that way, it seems pretty ugh, harsh. But I agree.” “Besides, we have to keep on our mission…” Twilight’s voice faded, due to the lack of enthusiasm. “Oh of course! We have to follow Doctor Whooves’ orders, otherwise, we could be in more trouble than a snake caught in a rat trap.” “Indeed.” Twilight gave out a small smile. As both ponies turned to face the fork in the road, they were confronted with yet another mare, in fact another pegasus. “Hey everypony, oh I hope I didn’t scare you.” speaking with a very light voice, the caretaker of animals, Fluttershy, greeted the pair of ponies. “Not at all sugarcube! I haven’t seen ya in a good mood since, well, er…” Applejack’s words were escaping her mind as she saw Fluttershy’s eyes starting to water, “Ugh sorry, I didn’t mean to…” Fluttershy’s eyes blinked away at the excess liquid. “It’s okay AJ, I know that you are just looking out for me. Thanks.” Twilight noticed something was… off. “Umm, Fluttershy, are you okay? Your mane seems a bit-” Without any hesitation, Fluttershy spoke with a stern voice, “Messy? I know, I just never got the chance to wash or take care of it, with all the commotion of the virus affecting all the woodland creatures.” “I was going to say shorter. But in fact, how is that going? Are all the unaffected animals safe? Oh, speaking of which, how many animals die- I mean, daaanced the night away, you know yesterday at that party? Hehe…” Twilight tried so hard. Both the country mare and alicorn gave each other a distressing gaze. The fact that Fluttershy was sensitive to such topics, it didn’t help that she was in charge of maintaining the count of alive and, for that matter, dead animals around Ponyville. Fluttershy gave both AJ and Twilight an assertive look, her hair being shorter oddly seemed to make her point across even clearer. “Twilight, I know that you and AJ are both worried about me. But I am a strong pony and I can deal with these things myself. So if you ask how many animals did not make it, fine. I will tell you.” “Allrighty then, sugarcube. How many animals died in them there woods?” AJ! Twilight called out to the farm pony by telepathy. It almost made the farm pony jump. Applejack I know that you are blunt at times. But it still doesn’t change the fact that this is Fluttershy that we are talking to! Well, goshdarnit don’t ya think I know that? And give me a warning, a sign or somethin’ next time ya decide to use that fancy new alicorn powers of yers. Flutters asked me to be straight with her, so I did. “Umm,” Twilight and Applejack stared at the fragile pegasus. Fluttershy shut her eyes, bracing herself to not let the tears come. “About 30 of them,” her mouth was trembling, without a doubt – that must have been heartbreaking. “Oh my, that’s quite the number! Well in that case, ya just sit tight with Twilight and the crew and I will pick those corpses up, okay?" “NO! I DON’T WANT YOU TO HURT THEM!” Fluttershy raised her voice unlike she ever done before. Sure she had her moments of being assertive, but this was on a whole other level of… well, Fluttershy. Just like Rainbow Dash just minutes prior, Fluttershy shot herself into the sky and set her course into Everfree Forest. Twilight and Applejack both gave each other a mutual nod, no telepathy needed, and decided to put their order by the Doctor on hold. They were going to find Fluttershy and comfort her in any way they can. Date 00:00:12 – 18:49; Everfree Forest Trail “Fluttershy!” “Fluttershy! We want to help!” that was Twilight’s voice, accompanied by Applejack. They have been searching for their dear friend for hours now, and their worst fears were steadily crawling to their focus. AJ caught a glimpse of Twilight with her peripheral vision, and snapped her head to see what the alicorn was doing. It looked like she was trying to… relieve herself. With her forehooves outstretched like a cat, her flank rising to the air, and her wings moving ever so slowly up and down, it was a weird position to look at. “Twilight what are ya doin’? “Concentrating…” “Oh yer usin’ that tepathity thing, right? To talk to Flutters?” “It’s telepathy, and it’s no use.” Twlight sat up, her back in an arch, “I just recently became an alicorn, and I’m still developing my powers. I need the pony in sight to properly use it.” “Well that sure is a problem. But pony feathers, I’m not gonna stop until we see our friend in good spirits, ya hear?” “I hear you loud and clear, AJ. I’m so glad that you are with me.” “Yea, me t- wait. What’s that supposed tah mean?” Applejack’s intuition kicked in, or was it her curiosity? Either way, something rattled in her head. “Oh nothing Applejack, I didn’t mean anything by it…” Twilight’s voice was a tad bit nervous, actually a bit too nervous than she should be with talking with her friend. Applejack’s sarcasm kicked in, “Allrighty then.” “No I didn’t mean anything by it, honest!” Twilight’s cheeks became a light reddish color. “I already heard from Rarity, Twi.” Twilight stood in her tracks, and Applejack seemed to notice, since there wasn’t any sound coming from behind her. “Can we, just, um…” Twilight let out a faint sigh. “Let’s just focus on the task at hoof, shall we?” Her cheeks were blooming with a deep scarlet overcoat. “Hehe, I’m teasin’ is all, Twi!” As she gave a hug to the concerned alicorn. In all honesty, Applejack knew for a quite some time that Twilight had a crush on her, but the feelings were unrequited. Regardless, that hug made Twilight’s heart melt, and it convinced her that AJ didn’t know or at the very least, had no idea of her true feelings. “Okay, let’s check right over this hill!” Twilight said with glee, with a spark of newfound enthusiasm. AJ let out a small chuckle with that announcement. Date 00:00:12 – 19:11; Everfree Forest Clearing The two mares continued in their search, but were fruitless for the most part. All they found were trees, roots, trees, flowers, and even more trees. No sign of their friend. Until they spotted a matte of pink hair lying on the middle of the trail. Applejack picked it up. It felt very smooth, fine yet stale. Like it was once alive, but now a shell of its former, hair? It had to be from Fluttershy. They spotted some more of the pink strands along the trail and it led to a base of a tree… they started to run. Fluttershy lay still, with a few squirrels and birds by her side. They all looked as if they were in a deep sleep, but Fluttershy was the exception. Her face was pale, her hoofs were shaking, veins bulging, and her mane was gradually losing all of what was left of each follicle. Twilight rushed in and picked her up, with Applejack, right be her side. “Fluttershy! What did you do!? Never mind that! W-what happened!?” Fluttershy rose her left hoof and raised it next to Twilight’s face, but before making contact, her hoof fell to the mossy ground, her last ounces of strength were slowly depleting. “I’m sorry… I…I couldn’t leave - ” the pegasus let out a dastardly chilling cough, just one measly cough. “I couldn’t leave them…” She made a pointing gesture with her eyes to the animals around her. Some appeared to be in good condition, while others were covered in a permeable state of a dark purple roots. Twilight understood what she meant. Fluttershy infected those animals, she just wanted to be with them, to comfort them when it was her time to leave. And now, they are all doomed with the same fate as the infected who gave them the virus in the first place. “I’m sorry…” with her dying words, more of her once-glorious mane was slowly falling, almost leaving the pegasus entirely bald. Her face showed signs of suffocation, with a purple hue on her cheeks and neck. “No Fluttershy! NO! Stay with me! You’re going to be okay! FLUTTERSHYYY!” Twilight’s scream reverberated through the forest, even causing a flock of birds to soar into the open air. The mere thought that Fluttershy appeared perfectly healthy, with the exception of a terribly trimmed haircut, just hours earlier, tore at the Princess of Friendship’s heart. Applejack could only stare, as she witnessed not only the death of one of her closest friends, but one of the Elements of Harmony at that. Not to mention Twilight’s anxiety of losing somepony she cared for. Seconds passed, then minutes. Twilight was still clutching the dead pegasus when Applejack knew that enough was enough. She leaned next to Twilight and tapped her shoulder, indicating that their friend was gone. Twilight finally let go. It looked as if she would be okay but then quickly buried her face onto AJ’s chest. She needed her now more than ever. AJ embraced her, she lost somepony too and a second hug seemed to be the best medicine. While the alicorn was sobbing, the wind of the forest pushed the pegasus onto Twilight’s back. For a second, Twilight thought that Fluttershy still was alive – trying to get into a group hug – but that quickly changed with yet another glance. The alicorn pushed away Fluttershy’s body and rose onto her hooves. She looked away and gave a signal to AJ. All she could do is nod. Applejack set off a flare into the air, then placed a yellow tag right on her old friend’s wing, being very careful of not touching her. Twilight was immune to the virus, or so the Doctor says, but as for the farm mare, that is uncertain. He strongly suggested for Applejack to not touch any infected without the proper procedures. Then again, this was her friend, she didn’t care at that point if she caught it, even though that meant she would have to leave her siblings behind – she didn’t want that. Both feeling slightly guilty for their friend, they slowly trotted their way back. Twilight left drops of tears on the path, while AJ was trying to cover a somber expression on her face with her hat, apparently she did cry on the inside after all. But Twilight could had sworn that she saw something trickling down the country mare’s cheeck as the road to Ponyville beckoned for their leave… Author's Note Okay sorry for the late update to this, I had some issues due to school :P . Anyway, I realize that this story does have some romance involved, but by no means the focus of the story – that is why there is no romance tag on it. There will be more instances of ‘romantic’ scenes, but the story itself is based around the events of the virus, nothing more, no less. So don’t worry about it being a fanfic that has pony parings and the such; even though there will be, just not a romantic novel at the surface. The next story chapter will be released… whenever. But I may post 2 or maybe 3 chapters the same day for the lack of my actual updates to the story. My original plan was once every week, but with finals coming up for my college courses, that may not be the case for the first 2 weeks of this month. That will change when everything finally settles down and then I can focus on what I like to do. The Doctor's SecretDate 00:03:11 – 02:36; Canterlot Castle Princess Celestia leaves her quarters and prowls the halls of Canterlot Castle. She decides to pass by the medical facility before she travels to Baltimare – where she received a distress signal. “Might as well check up on the progress of Doctor Whooves and his team,” she thought. Its been precisely 60 days since the death of the Element of Kindess, Fluttershy and 56 days since Rainbow Dash was infected, still going strong. She heads into a certain hall of the library. All dusty and left to rot, not even Twilight visited here for months. Teetering to her right, she dislodges a book from a shelf with her magic. Immediately, it revealed a passageway in between 2 shelves. It was small, yet clever. Not many ponies would notice it, even if it was left open for some reason. When she walked the narrow myriad of stairs leading downward, she approached the entrance of a metallic door. It was thick, no crevice in sight. After all, this was the medical facility. Nothing dangerous should escape its premises. In this case, the testing of the virus. After placing her hoof on the side, it scanned it with a green beacon. Then the door clicked open. Two guards were stationed to provide with the necessary equipment. Both wearing plastic wrapped suits that were girded with tubes to the ceiling, for oxygen of course. Celestia was given one and magically put it on, instantaneously. The guards placed the tube for air flow onto her suit. She looked around. The facility, instead of regular walls, was covered in bullet proof glass all around. Made it easy to tell how much work was going on. However, the staff was quite low on numbers today. With the exception of a few ponies here and there, it was a standstill. Until, she breached the last door of the facility at the hallway’s end. She entered. Date 00:03:11 – 03:21; Main Service floor, Doctor Whooves’s Private Treatment room. “Not many ponies today, Doctor?” the sound of automatic glass doors opened and closed behind her. “No, it is a holiday, there still are ponies out there who want to enjoy life, your Highness.” “Was that sass that befell my ears?” “Of course not, it’s just my way of speaking. I meant no disrespect, Princess.” “Ah that’s fine, that’s fine.” She gazed around Doctor Whooves belongings. The whole time, the Doctor didn’t even turn to face Celestia. He was so inclined in his work, he didn’t care to greet her with all his profound attention. She fangled with a few pieces of equipment then finally broke the silence. “I heard that your research has recently gone through a breakthrough?" That caught the Doctor’s attention, he turned to face her. “Is that so? Where have you obtained this information? “Nowhere. Just a hunch.” “T-that, that is some good intuition, that hunch was more-or-less correct. We recently discovered a rather common crystal from the Crystal Empire’s underground mines that seems to counter-act the virus’ effects,” His hoof showcased the crystal and its glory, “However temporarily.” Whooves smile turned into a concerned frown. “It’s certainly a start, and we performed trials with even bigger specimens, but that is when luck ceases with such research. The more of the infected surface area exists, the less effective the crystal becomes." “Does that mean that by increasing the dosage, it would have no significant effect? “Like I said prior, the more the virus is present, the more volatile it becomes. The crystal merely treats the outside layer - its cosmetic - while treating the host’s symptoms. So this could, in theory, cure the virus, as soon as introduction of the virus becomes preeminent.” “Even for those whose virus spread is rapid? “…that I cannot say. Once the symptoms start, this should immediately be used. If not, this would only treat for a short span of time, perhaps just for a few minutes at best." “Then I suppose that you should continue your research then.” She turned around, getting ready to leave it appears. “Also, any new confirmations upon the spread of the disease?” Her hoofs stopped in her tracks – her rear facing Whooves’ desk. “None, direct contact is still the confirmed primary form of the spread.” Whooves responded with a lack of poise. “Ah, then if things come to it-" “But…" Celestia raised an eyebrow even though the Doctor couldn’t see, “Buuuut?” “Nothing, just piecing thoughts." She turned around, her curiosity somewhat interested, “About what?” “Nothing in particular, just the possible benefits of the crystal.” Again, the Doctor had a hint of ‘sass’ when he spoke. “Ah well ugh, okay then. I do ask for your opinion about a certain other matter if you don’t mind,” She wasn’t leaving after all, if anything, she wanted to change the subject. “What could it be, your Majesty?" “There have been times where I seem to miss Princess Twilight in her established quarters,” Celestia walked around, as if she was instigating the Doctor in an interrogation room. Doctor Whooves had no reaction, in fact, he seemed too calm – as if he already prepared himself for this exact scenario. “Word has it she has been meeting up with an alleged scientist. One of my own it seems.” Princess Celestia looked up and gave a glare to the Doctor – to whom he still appears calm about. “The point is, I’m assuming that you have something to do with it?" Doctor Whooves already had an answer, “Well Princess, think of it this way. Why would I disobey a direct order from you? I have no reason to put the princess in any danger and frankly I get no added benefits from doing so. I honestly do not know what you are talking about. If I were to find any ponies that I see whom seem suspicious, I will go to you, straight away." She smiled, “That would be very much appreciated, thank you. Oh and before I take my leave, there is just oooone more thing that I would like to mention.” Her behavior being slightly more casual, yet oddly suspicious. “Whatever it may be, I hope it’s good news.” “In some ways, yes. It could be interpreted like that. I would like you and your fellow scientists to release the latest results of your findings.” “Of the crystal? Well it is a bit premature to-“ “No, about the virus itself.” Whooves quickly jerked up. He couldn’t believe what he just heard. “What? Y-you are ordering me to tell everypony that this virus is incurable? I told you princess, this is just one of many test trials. If we said that, then that would be, in itself, false. There has to be a cure.” He looked down on the floor in defeat, “There has to be. And there will be more experiments. We will try anything to find a cure with all our resources. Please reconsider! We can’t announce that it is officially incurable!” “Well you said that this crystal could potentially cure, so why not sent it out? Release to the press. Advertise. Stock on local medical stores and hospitals. Let ponies try it!!!” Doctor Whooves made a mental note of that, “Sooo…you are suggesting a placebo effect?” “Exactly.” “Okay so to what purpose then, would be releasing our latest experiment that details the virus being incurable? This is just one of many tests. We could just send it out without this... revelation.” “Chaos.” Whooves stumbled, “Ehrm, Chaos, your Grace?" “Yes, my servant. Chaos will spread, word of the virus will litter the streets, all would seem lost, and who would come to save them?" “You, I’m guessing.” “Guessing?” “Not to be rude, but this is an awfully bad idea. Did you truly think this through? I’m asking you not as a scientist, but as a commoner Equestria – a citizen. What would you think if you were in their shoes?” “Shoes?” “Just an expres-” “I would say that if there was no cure – no hope – then everything that I have known, would be meaningless. I would freak out. Go crazy!” she did seem crazy, this was not the princess that the pony public knew and loved. Her eyes were still visible within the suit. They were bloodshot, dim, and filled with a mysterious anger. “Granted I WOULD go crazy if there wasn’t a ruler like an established princess, in fact, 2 of them. Celestia and Luna. If my rulers did everything in their power to do something, then it would be senseless to go berserk. I would calm down with the soothing voice of the 2 sisters, I would rejoice when they announce a cure for all ponies alike!” “Princess…” the Doctor’s voice fizzled out. “I would be absolutely thrilled to see and hear the salvation in which I thought was so far from my grasp, I would SCREAM on the top of my lungs, and praise her and her team for their efforts!” “PRINCESS!” She snapped out of it. She was flying across the laboratory. Using random magic here and there within her maniacal speech. “Oh, I’m sorry.” She casually glided down in front of Doctor Whooves, as if this little scene didn’t happen. “I understand, Princess. But that would be in violation of your previous orders, and you did say, and I quote, ‘By no means should you discuss anything that occurs within the facility, not even to any other workers.’ End quote.’” Whooves seemed to be satisfied with this reason, Celestia herself did made it clear that nopony should know anything regarding the progress of the virus and any ‘potential’ cures. “If that is your justification I should relinquish your previous orders – release the results.” “Princess Celestia, I TOLD you. There is no cure at this time.” “Then why is there none yet? Word goes out that ponies are not only immune to the virus, but also being cured of this epidemic. Does this detail attempted black-market placebo, or did somepony discover the cure and is keeping it low-key? Away from the public’s knowledge?” “I…I don’t know.” “Then do as I say, unless you think that you are FAR more capable in dealing with this type of situation than ANY of the princesses.” “No, I do not. I will release them immediately. Of course, the question now being, how long are you going to allow your subjects to remain in a panic?” “In due time, Doctor, in due time.” She exits the building, with her suit barely intact due to her scurry in the lab. Doctor Whooves payed no direct heed to her new order – a direct contradiction to her last. He trotted to his desk, picking up the loose materials scattered by the Princess’ flight. “She seems strong enough…” He then operated some buttons on an ominous-looking machine, then spoke once again, “Video log year zero; month three; day eleven. Test subject 00C-17 shows no further progression of the virus, with the exception of the new appearance of extended pupil dilation and increased redness around her cornea. Physical behavior is degrading in formal as well as casual conversations being replaced with exhilaration and or fierce responses toward self-praising questions or prosthesis. Change of perception and thought clearly present. Possible brain damage? To be confirmed at a later date. Magic therapy still recommended, yet not analyzed. She appears in moderate health otherwise. I will return with a few medical unicorns to subjugate the next phase of implantation, upon her return from her visit of Baltimare. End Log.” Author's Note Hehe, what is the Doctor's true motives? What does he mean by 'implantation'? How did he know about Princess Celestia's visit to Baltimare? All those questions will be answered in the NEXT... few chapters of the story! lol Since I wrote a bunch of chapters beforehand, I may just release them chapter by chapter. But I am tempted to get it all over with and finish the last few remaining chapters, and release it all at once. I'll make the decision soon enough. This chapter is an odd one, I can tell yall that. It supposed to be. The rest of the chapters should flow with the rest of the story's original flow. Next update? Hell, I'm going to be honest to myself, I don't really know. Drawing has been consuming more of my life than writing, and that tends to take more time than writing. Whenever I feel like it, I will write up my stories, but egh. Since I got a few chapters saved anyway, I might as well release them if I don't feel like writing for that week.
Prologue Prologue Date 00:00:09 – 05:45; Canterlot Castle The room was dark, with the exception of a lone candle in the corner. The curtains were pulled together – preventing even the slightest crack of dawn to seep in. Within its chamber, lied a small desk with an analog clock on top, a bed and scattered paper all across the floor. Along its walls, was a closet, a door, a mirror and even more detailed paper hastily taped to its surface. Its contents contained all sorts of information. Most of which were pictures of what appeared to be dead bodies – a lot of them. To just anypony, this looked like some sort of crime scene investigation, and in a way, it is. The sheets of the bed rustled and a figure slowly awoke from its slumber, kind of like a zombie rising from its grave. “It’s that time again…” the tan-colored pony woke up, looking at his clock on the desk with his back aching. He was newly drafted after the outbreak of an unknown virus and thus was sent to live in this dorm, with a very uncomfortable bed to sleep on. His role was simple – patrol the halls of his post, the capital of Equestria, and gather intel from supposedly infected towns. For what purpose? In order to find some sort of cure for this new biological threat. To his expectation, his job took countless hours of his time and nothing particularly eventful happened for the past week. However, today was different. He appeared in front of his dingy mirror and stared at his reflection for a solid ten seconds then slowly trotted to his right, avoiding the scattered paper on the floor. The creaking sound of the rolling closet door filled his room. It wasn’t loud, just irritating. After raggedly putting on his uniform, he walked to his dorm’s entranceway. The door was reinforced with heavy steel and it wasn’t pretty to look at. Yet, this was the only way to ensure security… and of course along with the spread of the new disease. “Disease,” the tan-colored pony thought to himself. The new virus was still at large, and along with its mysterious-ity, came its numbers of causalities. It was able to kill off over 3000 ponies within the first week, but this ‘week’ was subjective. Nopony knows exactly when it started, with the exceptions of a few pony scientists, including this light brown-ish pony, with approximate dates in mind. Hypotheses if you will. With that out of the way, the halls of the castle were immensely huge, however it was a standstill. Decorated with intricate wallpaper, it was a sight to see. Small glistening sorts of light scattered in neat, yet sophisticated sections through the stained glass – another marvel of Canterlot Castle. Even though it was rather beautiful, nopony cared much for it after the virus outbreak. The tan-colored pony trotted to his daily post, ready for another day in this whole ordeal. He was paired up with another officer – a blue-haired colored stallion that worked at Canterlot for years now. He was a lady’s man, even though he doesn’t go off and flirt with any mare he sees, he wasn’t that kind of pony. He was in fact a very nice guy. Besides, he was interested in this one mare… Their relationship was not the best, however, yet still professional. They did their day job which was…patrolling the halls. As easy as that sounds, the new recruit was actually promoted to a higher rank than most other newbies – a general. Rather odd for patrolling a simple route. Perhaps due to his aid in cases prior to the outbreak. He saved probably hundreds of ponies’ lives, despite his modest disposition. It was this reason that he was working at a private facility as well as the capital of Equestria. Undeterred by their not-so-great companionship, these two ponies had interesting conversations. In fact, today, both of them will break their silence… Date 00:00:09 – 06:08 “Any word on the residents of Ponyville?” the tan-colored pony asked, his words echoing in the castle halls. “Not yet, sir,” the blue-haired pony replied. “It seems that those that attended don’t have the desire to cooperate.” With a slight snicker, the tan–colored pony asked, “Are you proposing that Princess Twilight might have something to do with this?” “What!? N-NO! Not at all! I’m just s-stating the facts here.” The blue-haired pony quickly snapped back. “Allright, allright. Just messing with ya, Flash. Everypony knows that you got this thing with the princess. Anyway, what did your so-called facts say?” Offended for bringing up his crush, Flash raised an eyebrow, but continued on, “For starters, the scouts came back detailing all those whom were present during the Crystal Empire’s 4th Re-annual Crystal Faire. They said all of the Princesses have attended, along with their friends and close relatives, not to mention the guests. Almost all of Ponyville came to the event, actually. And look, Whooves, I’m just… trying to cover all of our bases here, even if they seem rather far ‘fetched. I’m not saying anything here like that.” Whooves rolled his eyes. “I suppose. Yet something still troubles me, how could had Shining Armor succumb so easily to the disease? Reports indicated that the suspected town that the virus originated from was Ponyille. He was infected just hours after the proceedings.” “Not sure. Perhaps there must be a connection of some kind.” “What do you mean?” Whooves raised his voice slightly, perhaps due to a sudden arousal of interest. “Well, it’s simple. What if the disease came from somewhere BESIDES Ponyville? Maybe from here, the capital of Equestria. Many ponies travel from here to there, including Princess Twilight. The only logical explanation is that Canterlot was the primary center of the spread of the disease. That would explain how the virus spread quite rapidly from many different locations, not just Ponyville. I mean, not to like you know, frighten everypony but we may need to evacuate if that’s the case.” “I see your point. But what is still at large is the exact identification of this disease, not necessarily how it started.” Shaking his head, Flash asked, “Really? Not one pony figured out what possible symptoms relate from one infected to the next?” Flash was quite surprised with Doctor Whooves’s comment, he worked with top scientists all over Equestria for pony’s sake! It didn’t make sense that they still have no idea what they are working with. “That’s the problem. The disease is apparently ancient, yet still new – it acts differently than it did from what it was supposed to do when it first came to existence. Not only that, many physicians come to the same conclusion that the virus affects ponies in different ways. So they are saying that not one will exhibit the same symptoms from the next,” Whooves’s mouth twitched with that last statement. “Essentially, we have nothing at this point as it stands.” Flash quickly responded, “We obtained all the bodies that were presumably infected with the disease, and ponies that are infected with an unknown virus presently, surely the autopsies must be ab-“ “Have you even considered that we could potentially be facing more than one epidemic?” Whooves quickly ejected. Flashed looked through his mind to come up with some kind of answer, none came up, “I uh... no I have not.” “That is what I thought.” “So what are we looking for then, hmm?” Flash’s mood was becoming annoyed. “Clues,” Whooves said bluntly. “Clues? For what? The ponies that have the virus? Where it started? What the disease is? If there is a cure?” obviously this conversation was getting to Flash. Out of all of all the ponies in Equestria, he had to be paired up with a new recruit that not only exceeded his rank, but was a scientist and part investigator. Not really the best combination for what you would call a normal conversationalist pony. Then again Whooves was older than Flash, so he still needed to give respect to the stallion despite his protest. Who knows? He might learn a thing or two from him. “None of the above. Clues to find out who started this disease.” Confused, Flash stopped in the hallway, “Wait, let me get this straight. You think that somepony artificially made this virus?” Whooves followed suit, “It is only a theory, but if ponies were infected at Canterlot, Ponyville and the Crystal Empire at the same time, don’t you think that it is more than a coincidence? Perhaps it was done maliciously?” “But there is no solid evidence that the disease occurred in multiple areas at the same time. Wait, hold on. If somepony did release this virus, isn’t that a form of chemical warfare? I thought Starwhirl the Bearded banned that ever since the end of the Chronicle Battles! ” “Doesn’t mean somepony is going to follow ‘rules’ that were made generations ago, huh?” “…” Flash swallowed. “To be honest, Twilight could be a suspect at this point,” Flash gasped with that remark. To reassure his younger fellow comrade in arms, Whooves went on, “Just like any other pony.” They both sighed, then resumed making their rounds, their day has only just begun after all. As they turned for the next hallway, Whooves broke the silence once again, “Let’s face reality: a new era has been born. Things are changing. It is everypony for themselves now. Food is becoming scarce. Outside countries are refusing to aid in the efforts to put an end to whatever … this is. As of today, Equestria is a bio-hazard zone. Nopony goes in, nopony comes out. We are all on our own. The only one that seems to be pulling everypony’s weight together in this time of need, is Celestia.” “But...” Flash stared at the floor as they slowly trotted by, his tongue became numb, having trouble asking the next terrifying words that he didn’t want to believe was true, “but isn’t she infected too?” Whooves felt tension rise in the air in the castle, as if somepony was watching them, listening to their conversation, “Yes,” the feeling was gone, “she is.” Author's Note In case you are wondering, the date is read from Year:Month:Day. So if it is 01:09:03 it is the first year, ninth month and third day from the initial start of the virus outbreak, not necessarily the actual year's month and date that we use as a calendar. I probably should change that but at least I made it a bit clearer, as my proof-reader told me to do. Anyway, the next chapter will be released on December 4th, a week when I post this. (Future chapters will actually include the Main Six characters, not just be mentioned)
Angel's EffectDate 00:00:12 – 14:23; Southern Outskirts, Ponyville The wind was blowing. Outside of Ponyville were two mares, having some sort of conversation at least, with another mare approaching them from Apple Acres. “I still don’t think that griffons had something to do with it. I mean, I been to Griffonstone, and it’s not the place that a pony would say is a paradise. I see absolutely, POSITIVELY no reason that they would attack us!” the rainbow-manned mare assured, while her voice cracked. “Okay then, Rainbow, got any better ideas?” the winged-unicorn asked with a fidgety look all the while holding a map with her magical grasp. Clearly drawn on with arrows and sketches and whatnot. “Well, no. Look, it’s obvious that I’m not getting through to you and no matter what I say you are still going, so when you get to Griffonstone, just … just don’t make assumptions, all right?” Rainbow Dash’s face was enveloped with mixed emotions. Emotions of concern, anger and sadness, all at the same time. Rolling her eyes, “Fiiiine Rainbow, I hear you. I’m pretty sure that all you want to do is protect Gilda, but at this point, we need this situation sorted out, as soon as possible. Get rid of all the possible suspects in order to pinpoint the culprit, you know?” “But you’re missing the point, Twilight! Uggghhh!” Rainbow glanced left and right in a state of panic and then kicked the ground with both her rear hoofs. After a few moments of awkward silence and random eye contact between the two ponies, Rainbow couldn’t take it anymore, she jetted through the sky – leaving a trail of a perfect rainbow. Kind of lightens the mood. The approaching mare finally trotted nearby Twilight’s side, then spoke with her signature country accent, “Do ya think that she will be okay?” “She just needs some time Applejack.” Not surprised by the mare’s sudden presence, it actually comforted her, Twilight shifted her attention to the mare, “I mean, try to imagine being in her situation, it’s not easy to face the possibility that one of your best friends might have caused the virus that could lead to the entire pony race to extinction.” “Right, well, if ya put it that way, it seems pretty ugh, harsh. But I agree.” “Besides, we have to keep on our mission…” Twilight’s voice faded, due to the lack of enthusiasm. “Oh of course! We have to follow Doctor Whooves’ orders, otherwise, we could be in more trouble than a snake caught in a rat trap.” “Indeed.” Twilight gave out a small smile. As both ponies turned to face the fork in the road, they were confronted with yet another mare, in fact another pegasus. “Hey everypony, oh I hope I didn’t scare you.” speaking with a very light voice, the caretaker of animals, Fluttershy, greeted the pair of ponies. “Not at all sugarcube! I haven’t seen ya in a good mood since, well, er…” Applejack’s words were escaping her mind as she saw Fluttershy’s eyes starting to water, “Ugh sorry, I didn’t mean to…” Fluttershy’s eyes blinked away at the excess liquid. “It’s okay AJ, I know that you are just looking out for me. Thanks.” Twilight noticed something was… off. “Umm, Fluttershy, are you okay? Your mane seems a bit-” Without any hesitation, Fluttershy spoke with a stern voice, “Messy? I know, I just never got the chance to wash or take care of it, with all the commotion of the virus affecting all the woodland creatures.” “I was going to say shorter. But in fact, how is that going? Are all the unaffected animals safe? Oh, speaking of which, how many animals die- I mean, daaanced the night away, you know yesterday at that party? Hehe…” Twilight tried so hard. Both the country mare and alicorn gave each other a distressing gaze. The fact that Fluttershy was sensitive to such topics, it didn’t help that she was in charge of maintaining the count of alive and, for that matter, dead animals around Ponyville. Fluttershy gave both AJ and Twilight an assertive look, her hair being shorter oddly seemed to make her point across even clearer. “Twilight, I know that you and AJ are both worried about me. But I am a strong pony and I can deal with these things myself. So if you ask how many animals did not make it, fine. I will tell you.” “Allrighty then, sugarcube. How many animals died in them there woods?” AJ! Twilight called out to the farm pony by telepathy. It almost made the farm pony jump. Applejack I know that you are blunt at times. But it still doesn’t change the fact that this is Fluttershy that we are talking to! Well, goshdarnit don’t ya think I know that? And give me a warning, a sign or somethin’ next time ya decide to use that fancy new alicorn powers of yers. Flutters asked me to be straight with her, so I did. “Umm,” Twilight and Applejack stared at the fragile pegasus. Fluttershy shut her eyes, bracing herself to not let the tears come. “About 30 of them,” her mouth was trembling, without a doubt – that must have been heartbreaking. “Oh my, that’s quite the number! Well in that case, ya just sit tight with Twilight and the crew and I will pick those corpses up, okay?" “NO! I DON’T WANT YOU TO HURT THEM!” Fluttershy raised her voice unlike she ever done before. Sure she had her moments of being assertive, but this was on a whole other level of… well, Fluttershy. Just like Rainbow Dash just minutes prior, Fluttershy shot herself into the sky and set her course into Everfree Forest. Twilight and Applejack both gave each other a mutual nod, no telepathy needed, and decided to put their order by the Doctor on hold. They were going to find Fluttershy and comfort her in any way they can. Date 00:00:12 – 18:49; Everfree Forest Trail “Fluttershy!” “Fluttershy! We want to help!” that was Twilight’s voice, accompanied by Applejack. They have been searching for their dear friend for hours now, and their worst fears were steadily crawling to their focus. AJ caught a glimpse of Twilight with her peripheral vision, and snapped her head to see what the alicorn was doing. It looked like she was trying to… relieve herself. With her forehooves outstretched like a cat, her flank rising to the air, and her wings moving ever so slowly up and down, it was a weird position to look at. “Twilight what are ya doin’? “Concentrating…” “Oh yer usin’ that tepathity thing, right? To talk to Flutters?” “It’s telepathy, and it’s no use.” Twlight sat up, her back in an arch, “I just recently became an alicorn, and I’m still developing my powers. I need the pony in sight to properly use it.” “Well that sure is a problem. But pony feathers, I’m not gonna stop until we see our friend in good spirits, ya hear?” “I hear you loud and clear, AJ. I’m so glad that you are with me.” “Yea, me t- wait. What’s that supposed tah mean?” Applejack’s intuition kicked in, or was it her curiosity? Either way, something rattled in her head. “Oh nothing Applejack, I didn’t mean anything by it…” Twilight’s voice was a tad bit nervous, actually a bit too nervous than she should be with talking with her friend. Applejack’s sarcasm kicked in, “Allrighty then.” “No I didn’t mean anything by it, honest!” Twilight’s cheeks became a light reddish color. “I already heard from Rarity, Twi.” Twilight stood in her tracks, and Applejack seemed to notice, since there wasn’t any sound coming from behind her. “Can we, just, um…” Twilight let out a faint sigh. “Let’s just focus on the task at hoof, shall we?” Her cheeks were blooming with a deep scarlet overcoat. “Hehe, I’m teasin’ is all, Twi!” As she gave a hug to the concerned alicorn. In all honesty, Applejack knew for a quite some time that Twilight had a crush on her, but the feelings were unrequited. Regardless, that hug made Twilight’s heart melt, and it convinced her that AJ didn’t know or at the very least, had no idea of her true feelings. “Okay, let’s check right over this hill!” Twilight said with glee, with a spark of newfound enthusiasm. AJ let out a small chuckle with that announcement. Date 00:00:12 – 19:11; Everfree Forest Clearing The two mares continued in their search, but were fruitless for the most part. All they found were trees, roots, trees, flowers, and even more trees. No sign of their friend. Until they spotted a matte of pink hair lying on the middle of the trail. Applejack picked it up. It felt very smooth, fine yet stale. Like it was once alive, but now a shell of its former, hair? It had to be from Fluttershy. They spotted some more of the pink strands along the trail and it led to a base of a tree… they started to run. Fluttershy lay still, with a few squirrels and birds by her side. They all looked as if they were in a deep sleep, but Fluttershy was the exception. Her face was pale, her hoofs were shaking, veins bulging, and her mane was gradually losing all of what was left of each follicle. Twilight rushed in and picked her up, with Applejack, right be her side. “Fluttershy! What did you do!? Never mind that! W-what happened!?” Fluttershy rose her left hoof and raised it next to Twilight’s face, but before making contact, her hoof fell to the mossy ground, her last ounces of strength were slowly depleting. “I’m sorry… I…I couldn’t leave - ” the pegasus let out a dastardly chilling cough, just one measly cough. “I couldn’t leave them…” She made a pointing gesture with her eyes to the animals around her. Some appeared to be in good condition, while others were covered in a permeable state of a dark purple roots. Twilight understood what she meant. Fluttershy infected those animals, she just wanted to be with them, to comfort them when it was her time to leave. And now, they are all doomed with the same fate as the infected who gave them the virus in the first place. “I’m sorry…” with her dying words, more of her once-glorious mane was slowly falling, almost leaving the pegasus entirely bald. Her face showed signs of suffocation, with a purple hue on her cheeks and neck. “No Fluttershy! NO! Stay with me! You’re going to be okay! FLUTTERSHYYY!” Twilight’s scream reverberated through the forest, even causing a flock of birds to soar into the open air. The mere thought that Fluttershy appeared perfectly healthy, with the exception of a terribly trimmed haircut, just hours earlier, tore at the Princess of Friendship’s heart. Applejack could only stare, as she witnessed not only the death of one of her closest friends, but one of the Elements of Harmony at that. Not to mention Twilight’s anxiety of losing somepony she cared for. Seconds passed, then minutes. Twilight was still clutching the dead pegasus when Applejack knew that enough was enough. She leaned next to Twilight and tapped her shoulder, indicating that their friend was gone. Twilight finally let go. It looked as if she would be okay but then quickly buried her face onto AJ’s chest. She needed her now more than ever. AJ embraced her, she lost somepony too and a second hug seemed to be the best medicine. While the alicorn was sobbing, the wind of the forest pushed the pegasus onto Twilight’s back. For a second, Twilight thought that Fluttershy still was alive – trying to get into a group hug – but that quickly changed with yet another glance. The alicorn pushed away Fluttershy’s body and rose onto her hooves. She looked away and gave a signal to AJ. All she could do is nod. Applejack set off a flare into the air, then placed a yellow tag right on her old friend’s wing, being very careful of not touching her. Twilight was immune to the virus, or so the Doctor says, but as for the farm mare, that is uncertain. He strongly suggested for Applejack to not touch any infected without the proper procedures. Then again, this was her friend, she didn’t care at that point if she caught it, even though that meant she would have to leave her siblings behind – she didn’t want that. Both feeling slightly guilty for their friend, they slowly trotted their way back. Twilight left drops of tears on the path, while AJ was trying to cover a somber expression on her face with her hat, apparently she did cry on the inside after all. But Twilight could had sworn that she saw something trickling down the country mare’s cheeck as the road to Ponyville beckoned for their leave… Author's Note Okay sorry for the late update to this, I had some issues due to school :P . Anyway, I realize that this story does have some romance involved, but by no means the focus of the story – that is why there is no romance tag on it. There will be more instances of ‘romantic’ scenes, but the story itself is based around the events of the virus, nothing more, no less. So don’t worry about it being a fanfic that has pony parings and the such; even though there will be, just not a romantic novel at the surface. The next story chapter will be released… whenever. But I may post 2 or maybe 3 chapters the same day for the lack of my actual updates to the story. My original plan was once every week, but with finals coming up for my college courses, that may not be the case for the first 2 weeks of this month. That will change when everything finally settles down and then I can focus on what I like to do.
The Doctor's SecretDate 00:03:11 – 02:36; Canterlot Castle Princess Celestia leaves her quarters and prowls the halls of Canterlot Castle. She decides to pass by the medical facility before she travels to Baltimare – where she received a distress signal. “Might as well check up on the progress of Doctor Whooves and his team,” she thought. Its been precisely 60 days since the death of the Element of Kindess, Fluttershy and 56 days since Rainbow Dash was infected, still going strong. She heads into a certain hall of the library. All dusty and left to rot, not even Twilight visited here for months. Teetering to her right, she dislodges a book from a shelf with her magic. Immediately, it revealed a passageway in between 2 shelves. It was small, yet clever. Not many ponies would notice it, even if it was left open for some reason. When she walked the narrow myriad of stairs leading downward, she approached the entrance of a metallic door. It was thick, no crevice in sight. After all, this was the medical facility. Nothing dangerous should escape its premises. In this case, the testing of the virus. After placing her hoof on the side, it scanned it with a green beacon. Then the door clicked open. Two guards were stationed to provide with the necessary equipment. Both wearing plastic wrapped suits that were girded with tubes to the ceiling, for oxygen of course. Celestia was given one and magically put it on, instantaneously. The guards placed the tube for air flow onto her suit. She looked around. The facility, instead of regular walls, was covered in bullet proof glass all around. Made it easy to tell how much work was going on. However, the staff was quite low on numbers today. With the exception of a few ponies here and there, it was a standstill. Until, she breached the last door of the facility at the hallway’s end. She entered. Date 00:03:11 – 03:21; Main Service floor, Doctor Whooves’s Private Treatment room. “Not many ponies today, Doctor?” the sound of automatic glass doors opened and closed behind her. “No, it is a holiday, there still are ponies out there who want to enjoy life, your Highness.” “Was that sass that befell my ears?” “Of course not, it’s just my way of speaking. I meant no disrespect, Princess.” “Ah that’s fine, that’s fine.” She gazed around Doctor Whooves belongings. The whole time, the Doctor didn’t even turn to face Celestia. He was so inclined in his work, he didn’t care to greet her with all his profound attention. She fangled with a few pieces of equipment then finally broke the silence. “I heard that your research has recently gone through a breakthrough?" That caught the Doctor’s attention, he turned to face her. “Is that so? Where have you obtained this information? “Nowhere. Just a hunch.” “T-that, that is some good intuition, that hunch was more-or-less correct. We recently discovered a rather common crystal from the Crystal Empire’s underground mines that seems to counter-act the virus’ effects,” His hoof showcased the crystal and its glory, “However temporarily.” Whooves smile turned into a concerned frown. “It’s certainly a start, and we performed trials with even bigger specimens, but that is when luck ceases with such research. The more of the infected surface area exists, the less effective the crystal becomes." “Does that mean that by increasing the dosage, it would have no significant effect? “Like I said prior, the more the virus is present, the more volatile it becomes. The crystal merely treats the outside layer - its cosmetic - while treating the host’s symptoms. So this could, in theory, cure the virus, as soon as introduction of the virus becomes preeminent.” “Even for those whose virus spread is rapid? “…that I cannot say. Once the symptoms start, this should immediately be used. If not, this would only treat for a short span of time, perhaps just for a few minutes at best." “Then I suppose that you should continue your research then.” She turned around, getting ready to leave it appears. “Also, any new confirmations upon the spread of the disease?” Her hoofs stopped in her tracks – her rear facing Whooves’ desk. “None, direct contact is still the confirmed primary form of the spread.” Whooves responded with a lack of poise. “Ah, then if things come to it-" “But…" Celestia raised an eyebrow even though the Doctor couldn’t see, “Buuuut?” “Nothing, just piecing thoughts." She turned around, her curiosity somewhat interested, “About what?” “Nothing in particular, just the possible benefits of the crystal.” Again, the Doctor had a hint of ‘sass’ when he spoke. “Ah well ugh, okay then. I do ask for your opinion about a certain other matter if you don’t mind,” She wasn’t leaving after all, if anything, she wanted to change the subject. “What could it be, your Majesty?" “There have been times where I seem to miss Princess Twilight in her established quarters,” Celestia walked around, as if she was instigating the Doctor in an interrogation room. Doctor Whooves had no reaction, in fact, he seemed too calm – as if he already prepared himself for this exact scenario. “Word has it she has been meeting up with an alleged scientist. One of my own it seems.” Princess Celestia looked up and gave a glare to the Doctor – to whom he still appears calm about. “The point is, I’m assuming that you have something to do with it?" Doctor Whooves already had an answer, “Well Princess, think of it this way. Why would I disobey a direct order from you? I have no reason to put the princess in any danger and frankly I get no added benefits from doing so. I honestly do not know what you are talking about. If I were to find any ponies that I see whom seem suspicious, I will go to you, straight away." She smiled, “That would be very much appreciated, thank you. Oh and before I take my leave, there is just oooone more thing that I would like to mention.” Her behavior being slightly more casual, yet oddly suspicious. “Whatever it may be, I hope it’s good news.” “In some ways, yes. It could be interpreted like that. I would like you and your fellow scientists to release the latest results of your findings.” “Of the crystal? Well it is a bit premature to-“ “No, about the virus itself.” Whooves quickly jerked up. He couldn’t believe what he just heard. “What? Y-you are ordering me to tell everypony that this virus is incurable? I told you princess, this is just one of many test trials. If we said that, then that would be, in itself, false. There has to be a cure.” He looked down on the floor in defeat, “There has to be. And there will be more experiments. We will try anything to find a cure with all our resources. Please reconsider! We can’t announce that it is officially incurable!” “Well you said that this crystal could potentially cure, so why not sent it out? Release to the press. Advertise. Stock on local medical stores and hospitals. Let ponies try it!!!” Doctor Whooves made a mental note of that, “Sooo…you are suggesting a placebo effect?” “Exactly.” “Okay so to what purpose then, would be releasing our latest experiment that details the virus being incurable? This is just one of many tests. We could just send it out without this... revelation.” “Chaos.” Whooves stumbled, “Ehrm, Chaos, your Grace?" “Yes, my servant. Chaos will spread, word of the virus will litter the streets, all would seem lost, and who would come to save them?" “You, I’m guessing.” “Guessing?” “Not to be rude, but this is an awfully bad idea. Did you truly think this through? I’m asking you not as a scientist, but as a commoner Equestria – a citizen. What would you think if you were in their shoes?” “Shoes?” “Just an expres-” “I would say that if there was no cure – no hope – then everything that I have known, would be meaningless. I would freak out. Go crazy!” she did seem crazy, this was not the princess that the pony public knew and loved. Her eyes were still visible within the suit. They were bloodshot, dim, and filled with a mysterious anger. “Granted I WOULD go crazy if there wasn’t a ruler like an established princess, in fact, 2 of them. Celestia and Luna. If my rulers did everything in their power to do something, then it would be senseless to go berserk. I would calm down with the soothing voice of the 2 sisters, I would rejoice when they announce a cure for all ponies alike!” “Princess…” the Doctor’s voice fizzled out. “I would be absolutely thrilled to see and hear the salvation in which I thought was so far from my grasp, I would SCREAM on the top of my lungs, and praise her and her team for their efforts!” “PRINCESS!” She snapped out of it. She was flying across the laboratory. Using random magic here and there within her maniacal speech. “Oh, I’m sorry.” She casually glided down in front of Doctor Whooves, as if this little scene didn’t happen. “I understand, Princess. But that would be in violation of your previous orders, and you did say, and I quote, ‘By no means should you discuss anything that occurs within the facility, not even to any other workers.’ End quote.’” Whooves seemed to be satisfied with this reason, Celestia herself did made it clear that nopony should know anything regarding the progress of the virus and any ‘potential’ cures. “If that is your justification I should relinquish your previous orders – release the results.” “Princess Celestia, I TOLD you. There is no cure at this time.” “Then why is there none yet? Word goes out that ponies are not only immune to the virus, but also being cured of this epidemic. Does this detail attempted black-market placebo, or did somepony discover the cure and is keeping it low-key? Away from the public’s knowledge?” “I…I don’t know.” “Then do as I say, unless you think that you are FAR more capable in dealing with this type of situation than ANY of the princesses.” “No, I do not. I will release them immediately. Of course, the question now being, how long are you going to allow your subjects to remain in a panic?” “In due time, Doctor, in due time.” She exits the building, with her suit barely intact due to her scurry in the lab. Doctor Whooves payed no direct heed to her new order – a direct contradiction to her last. He trotted to his desk, picking up the loose materials scattered by the Princess’ flight. “She seems strong enough…” He then operated some buttons on an ominous-looking machine, then spoke once again, “Video log year zero; month three; day eleven. Test subject 00C-17 shows no further progression of the virus, with the exception of the new appearance of extended pupil dilation and increased redness around her cornea. Physical behavior is degrading in formal as well as casual conversations being replaced with exhilaration and or fierce responses toward self-praising questions or prosthesis. Change of perception and thought clearly present. Possible brain damage? To be confirmed at a later date. Magic therapy still recommended, yet not analyzed. She appears in moderate health otherwise. I will return with a few medical unicorns to subjugate the next phase of implantation, upon her return from her visit of Baltimare. End Log.” Author's Note Hehe, what is the Doctor's true motives? What does he mean by 'implantation'? How did he know about Princess Celestia's visit to Baltimare? All those questions will be answered in the NEXT... few chapters of the story! lol Since I wrote a bunch of chapters beforehand, I may just release them chapter by chapter. But I am tempted to get it all over with and finish the last few remaining chapters, and release it all at once. I'll make the decision soon enough. This chapter is an odd one, I can tell yall that. It supposed to be. The rest of the chapters should flow with the rest of the story's original flow. Next update? Hell, I'm going to be honest to myself, I don't really know. Drawing has been consuming more of my life than writing, and that tends to take more time than writing. Whenever I feel like it, I will write up my stories, but egh. Since I got a few chapters saved anyway, I might as well release them if I don't feel like writing for that week.
