Zompony Apocalypseby GingerMelodyChaptersPrologueParty FeverThe Fever RisesInfection is InevitableThe Host Cells Are WeakenedPrologueIf you were to leave Ponyville and travel West, you would eventually come across a small farm on the outskirts of Checker County (a tiny town outside of Ponyville). This farm belonged to Papa Blue and his family. Papa Blue had married young and had purchased a bit of land in hopes of creating a well-profiting farm. He and his wife, Mama Blue, had only been working the farmland for a year when they were blessed with two beautiful fillies, which they named Marry Mae and Mable Marie. The Blue family lived a very humble life and made just enough to get by but they were happy, and that was all that mattered to them. When the little fillies were finally old enough to help their parents on the farm, things got a little better. With more helping hooves the Blues were able to make a little extra money. Things finally seemed to be looking up for the family...at least until the drought. The worst drought in all of Equestria left the Blues without any type of income and things went downhill. Being so young, Mary and Mable were very susceptible viruses and were constantly ill. They refused to leave all of the work for their parents, as they were sweet and caring young ponies. It was an ordinary day when fate kicked the family that was already down. Mable had been helping Papa fix a broken plow and was asked to fetch a hammer from the tool shed. She was still very ill, as was her twin sister, so she was not very steady on her hooves. When Mable climbed up on the work bench to reach the hammer her hoof slipped, and she fell. On the way down her left leg was sliced open by a rusty nail that was protruding from the side of the work bench. Mable screamed in agony as she hit the ground and landed on top of the same leg that was now oozing blood. Her family would later find that her leg was broken and infected with tetanus from the rusty nail that left a huge gash in her leg. Mama, Papa, and Mary rushed to the shed when they her the blood curdling screams and carried Mable back to the house. Mama cleaned the wound and bandaged it with torn sheets before Papa carried their daughter up to her bed. Because the Blues were so poor, they knew they would not be able to pay the hospital bills that would come with such a sever wound...and so Mable suffered at the cruel hand of fate. Day after day she lay in bed, unable to move without experiencing pain throughout her entire body. Though Mama cleaned and re-bandaged Mable's wound daily, infection was inevitable. After weeks and weeks of suffering, Mable could not hold on any longer. The infection had spread throughout her entire body. The tetanus was pulsing through her veins, turning her into a hollow shell of who she used to be. Various parts of her face and body were swelled and bulging due to the massive amount of puss and liquid-infection that was compressed beneath her fragile skin. She had gone blind in her right eye and was now completely deaf. A terrifying rash had spread over her skin and her beautiful mane had been coming out in clumps for the past few days. Neither Papa, Mama, nor Mary could recognize their beloved Mable anymore... A few days after Mable had gone deaf her condition was even more unstable. Her breathing was jagged and slow, her heart was barely audible, and her eyes were an eerie shade of red. Every few minutes she would moan and cry out in agony, a heart-wrenching sound that made you want to die. Mama and Papa had scraped up enough money to buy a light sedative which was meant to ease Mable's pain. They had been waiting to administer the medicine because there wasn't much and they were hoping to use it to make things more comfortable for Mable when she passed on. Papa believed that tonight would be the night that one of their precious daughters would be leaving them for good...he was right. They all gathered around Mable's bed when Mama gave her the medicine and waited until her breathing slowed to a stop...her heart was no longer beating...Mable was gone. Papa had already dug her grave and had built a small pine box, just big enough for the little filly. They wrapped her in blankets and placed her in the makeshift coffin with a few her her favorite toys and a single red rose. Papa nailed the box shut and the family said a prayer before lowering their loved one into the ground. That night, while everypony lay asleep, something stirred under the loosely packed earth. Something was still "alive" in that little pony. Mable's eyes opened slowly, almost cautiously, though she was not aware of her new state of being. The only feeling that Mable was aware of was her want...her need...her lust for food. For the flesh of other ponies. The mouth watering taste of pony flesh. This craving was what drove her to rip through the sheets that concealed her...to bust through the weak wood that held her back...to tunnel through the dirt that imprisoned her. She had made her way to the surface as a new pony and limped away from her grave, determined. There came a terrible scream as Mary awoke to a horrifying sensation that encompassed her right leg. She screamed again and again in agony as the pony who used to be her twin sister devoured her. Mable ripped and tore at the leg of her sister as the infection set in. By the time she had consumed everything but the bone, Mary had become just like her. It was too late when Mama arrived and Papa was doomed by the time he reached the bedroom. In a matter of minutes the entire Blue family had devoured each other and had set out in search of more food...this was the fate of Checker County...of Ponyville...of Canterlot...this was the fate that all of Equestria would face. Everypony in Equestria...was doomed. Party FeverThe news of the outbreak had not yet reached Ponyville...nopony saw it coming... "Wow wow WOW!" Pinkie Pie exclaimed excitedly. "This is the best surprise ever!!" She was bouncing up and down with no intention of trying to contain her emotions. Twilight smiled nervously and was pondering whether or not to reconsider who she was taking to Canterlot with her. She loved Pinkie Pie but that pony was just so...energetic. "I'm glad you're so excited Pinkie. Everypony else seems to be busy this weekend so none of them could come with me." She may be a big ball of exploding energy, but she's one of the best friends anypony could ask for. I'm sure this weekend will be fun! Twilight levitated a scroll from her saddlebag and gave it to Pinkie Pie. "Here. This list contains everything that you will need for the ball in Canterlot. If you need help getting anything, just ask. " Pinkie was still bouncing up and down when Twilight gave her the list and didn't stop bouncing until her friend was long gone. She couldn't help it, she was just too excited! "This weekend is going to be Super-Duper-Wonderful! The best part is that I get to spend it with one of my bestie best friends, Twilight Sparkle! Yipee!" She trotted through the kitchen of the bakery and plopped down on the floor to read the list that Twilight had given her. -- Rarity was looking for fabric in the back room when Ginger Melody wandered into the Boutique. She had only been in town for a few hours and had already been befriended by the very...ecstatic Pinkie Pie and trampled by a Pegasus named Rainbow Dash who was practicing a new trick. Although she was a bit sore, Ginger definitely felt welcome in Ponyville. "Helloooooo? Anyone here? I was interested in purchasing a dress?" She took a few more steps into the shop and something sparkly caught her eye. She trotted over to the manikin that was wearing the most magnificent dress she had ever seen. Wow...what a beautiful dress! Whoever made this dress is a pony with style and a perfect eye for fashion... As Ginger finished this thought, she was startled by somepony trotting up behind her. "Oh! Hello! You must be that new pony in town that everyone is talking about. Twilight Sparkle told me about you earlier when she stopped by. And I must say, I absolutely love your mane! What a magnificent color, my dear." Rarity admired Ginger's silky red mane with awe. She had never seen a pony with such a lovely shade of red before and was almost jealous. Ginger Melody blushed a little at this pony's compliment. To get a compliment from a pony with such a well-kept mane was something that made her heart feel warm and happy. "T-thank you very much! But if anypony's mane is beautiful, it is certainly yours. May I ask your name?" Rarity was used to compliments on her beautiful mane, so her response to the kind pony may have sounded a bit arrogant. "Oh, isn't it? I simply love my mane! I take extra care to make sure that it is always absolutely gorgeous. My name is Rarity and this is my boutique. I make custom dresses for ponies all over Equestria." She smiled and trotted over to the dress that Ginger had been admiring. "Your name is Ginger...Ginger something or other, yes?" "Umm, Yes. Ginger Melody. It's a pleasure to meet you. So..." Rarity cut her off before she could finish. "Oh yes. The pleasure is yours darling." She fluffed her mane and waited for Ginger to resume. "Yes, well...anyway. I was looking to buy a dress for the party that Pinkie Pie is having next week. Haha. I hadn't even known her for 30 minutes when she invited me! She's such a nice pony." Rarity, being a close friend of Pinkie Pie's, had been invited to this party as well and had been looking for a fashionable fabric for her party dress when Ginger Melody had entered the shop. "Well, you have certainly come to the right place for a dress, my dear. As I told you before, I make dresses and clothing for everypony around!" She smiled and fluffed her mane again. "I see you were admiring this one in particular? I made it last week with some gems I had leftover from my winter fashion show. These gems wouldn't work well with any of my spring designs, so I just made a simple dress with them." Ginger was practically stunned. Leftover gems? Simple dress? This dress was fancier than anything you would find in her hometown, Checker County. Back home, a pony would have to make their own dresses or pay out their rear to have another pony make it. A dress this fancy would probably cost her life savings! She had come to Ponyville to be somepony...not to end up in a poor house...Her dream was smashed to pieces, so she apologized to Rarity. "It really is a beautiful dress...but I don't think I would be able to afford something with so many gems...I'm sorry to have wasted your time." She was turning around to leave when Rarity caught her hoof. "Nonsense!! That is absolutely nonsense, my dear pony! For one, my dresses are much more fairly priced than any of those dreadful manufactured dresses that they sell in Canterlot. Not to mention, much more original. No two of my dresses are alike, unless requested, which makes each and every dress special." She led Ginger Melody around her boutique to prove her point. No two manikins were wearing the same dress. Each one had it's own individual flare. Ginger stared at each dress in awe. She had never seen so many gems in one place before! And each of the dresses were beautiful! She wondered how one pony could have so many wonderful ideas. They ended up back in front of the same dress that she had been admiring earlier. "I would be hurt if a pony as kind and lovely as you was not wearing my fashion." Ginger blushed again at the compliment. She really wasn't used to it. "I insist that you have this dress! It would look stunning on you!" "You are too kind Rarity but I...I still don't think I'll be able to afford something so nice. Thank you though..." Rarity chuckled. "No, darling. I am giving you this dress and I won't let you walk out of here without it!" She took the dress off of the manikin, shoved Ginger into a dressing room, and tossed the dress over the door. "If it doesn't fit, don't worry, I can make alterations!" she sang happily as she went to fetch her sewing kit. -- "Spike!" Twilight Sparkle had just returned from inviting Pinkie Pie to the Canterlot Ball this weekend. Her worries of the disastrous party-related crimes that Pinkie could commit had almost vanished while she was walking back to the library. That's funny...I wonder why Spike hasn't replied yet? "Spiiiiiiiike? Are you here?" There was a loud CRASH upstairs and then the pitter-patter of dragon's feet hurrying down the stairs. Spike was out of breath when he reached Twilight and collapsed at her hooves. "Spike! What's wrong? Are you hurt? Do you..." He silenced her by raising one claw, signaling that he needed a moment to learn how to breathe again. Once he had composed himself he stood up. "Sorry I didn't answer Twilight. I was drawing at my desk and I was really into it, so I didn't hear you the first time. The second time you called it scared my so much that I fell off of my stool" He chuckled and twiddled his claws. "Oh...that's fine, I guess. I was just a little worried, is all. Any word from the Princess?" She tossed her saddlebags into the corner and levitated a few books from the shelf as she and Spike conversed. "Not since Tuesday when she sent us the invitation. I'm sure there's no need to worry Twilight. She's probably just busy preparing for the ball." "I guess you're right Spike...today is Friday, right? So it's only been 3 days. It's not like the Princess writes to me everyday anyhow." "See? No need to worry! Everything is fine!" Or so they thought... The Fever Rises"Spiiiiiiiiiiiike! Hurry up or we're going to miss the train!" Twilight Sparkle and Pinkie Pie were waiting at the entrance of the library for a certain dragon who had refused to pack his belongings the night before. "Yeah Spike! Hurry! We don't wanna be later and miss that awesome party!" Pinkie had been looking forward to this trip all week and couldn't sit still as they waited. After a few minutes they heard a suitcase slam shut and Spike grunting as he tried to lug it down the stairs. Twilight trotted up the stairs and levitated the suitcase down to the ground floor. "Yay! We're all ready to go!" Pinkie Pie dashed out the door with her suitcase in tow before Spike even reached the bottom of the stairs. "Pinkie, wait! Ugh...that pony sometimes...I guess we had better get going then. Haha. Let's go Spike!" Twilight hurried Spike out the door and locked the door to the library before dashing off to catch up with Pinkie Pie. At least she wants to be on time. I love a punctual pony. The group reached the train station with a few minutes to spare and, before they knew it, they were on their way to Canterlot...unaware of the strange things that awaited them at their destination... -- "Thank you so much for showing me around town Fluttershy! Everypony has made me feel so welcome and I haven't even been here that long." Ginger Melody and Fluttershy had stopped for lunch at SugarCube Corner after a long day of meeting new ponies. "Oh, it was no problem at all. I really enjoyed introducing you to everypony and I hope that you'll like it here." She smiled and continued to eat as Ginger told her all about Checker County and her family back home. -- Can't believe I actually agreed to spend a day at the spa with Rarity. I must have been half outta my mind when she asked me...At least I get to be pampered and waited on. Awh, it won't be that bad! Apple Jack was thinking to herself as she walked over to the boutique to meet Rarity. It was was nice of her though. Invitin' me, of all ponies. She chuckled silently and imagined how horrified her friend would be to see her in this state. She had been bucking apples and moving dirt all day. Her mane was a mess and her hooves were an even worse sight. "Oh dear Celestia!" Rarity put one hoof to her heart and threw the other over her brow, acting as though she might have a heart attack after seeing A.J's state of being. "What in Equestria have you been doing?" "Ummm...workin'! Same thing I do everyday. Buckin' apples and helpin' everypony. You should try it sometime...ya know...manual labor?" She chuckled gave Rarity a pat on the back. Rarity swatted the dirty hoof away immediately and locked the boutique door behind her. "Well, it's a good thing we're going to the spa, my friend. You are in most definitely in need of a makeover." Apple Jack chuckled again. "Sure thing Rarity." -- "Thanks again for letting me stay with you until I find a place of my own. But, I feel like saying 'thank you' just isn't enough everything that you've done for me since I arrived in Ponyville. You've been so generous and kind, Fluttershy, I'm going to make it up to you as soon as I have the money! I promise!" "It's really not a problem at all Ginger Melody. I'm always so busy helping the animals, that I rarely get to go into town or invite anypony over. It's my pleasure to have you here, for as long as you want." She placed a tray on the table and gave Ginger her tea. They had spent the entire day together and Ginger Melody was sure that she had found a good friend in Fluttershy. As soon as I get a job, I've got to do something super special for her. Nopony has ever been this nice to me...especially none of the townsfolk back home. I think I'll stay here forever. Nothing bad could happen in a place with so many ponies who are so nice. -- Princess Celestia was waiting at the train station when they arrived. It was extremely unusual to see the Princess outside of the city, outside of the castle even. So one can imagine the shock and surprise that Pinkie Pie, Twilight Sparkle, and Spike experienced when they found out that she was waiting for them specifically. She approached them immediately with an expression of distress and confusion. She didn't even greet them, which was even more unusual. "Quickly! Seal off the train station and do not let any more trains stop here. Keep guards posted at every entrance. Escort every passenger to their destination, then return to your posts at once. Twilight Sparkle, come with me. I have urgent news." She lead the trio back to her castle, guards surrounding them on all sides. What in Equestira...? This thought went through all three of their heads as they followed the Princess back to the castle. As they made their way through the city they noticed how drastically it had changed. Most of the shops and buildings were boarded up and looked abandoned. There were even bars on some of the windows. The streets and sidewalks were completely empty. The once bustling Canterlot was now a ghost town. There wasn't a pony in sight. Though the sun was out and the skies cloudless and blue, the entire city seemed to be stuck under a dark cloud. "Princess! What happened here? Is everything okay?" Twilight tried to question the condition of the city but was silenced by a gentle "Shhh" from Celestia. She's never done that to me before...this must be serious if she won't even talk to us outside of the castle... I wonder where everypony is? It's a wonderful day out here in the sunshine but...nopony is out! OH! Maybe they're all just busy preparing for the ball! OR! Maybe they're all playing a city-wide game of Ghost Town! Yay! How exciting! Spike's thoughts were silent as he followed. His mind had gone blank the minute the Princess had ordered that no more trains were to stop at the station. Infection is InevitableTwilight Sparkle could not believe her eyes as they approached the castle. And I thought Canterlot looked bad... The entire castle was surrounded by guards. Each guard was sporting their own set of saddlebags and each saddlebag was bulging from it's contents. I wonder what could be be in their saddlebags that would make them that heavy? Twilight had been working on a new x-ray spell recently and decided that now would be a pretty good time to test it out. Is that...ammo? At closer inspection she realized that, not only was the castle surrounded by guards, but there were...machine guns stationed at almost every window. What the...? Before she had time to question the Princess about this extremely frightening new security system they had reached the castle's entrance and were rushed inside. "OH MY GOSH!" Pinkie Pie gasped in excitement as they entered the ball room. "A PARTY!!!! Everypony in Canterlot must be here! What a great surprise Princess! YIPEE!" She was right in assuming that everypony who lived in Canterlot was crowded into the ball room, but nopony else was cheering with Pinkie Pie as she bounced around the room. Everypony seemed completely exhausted and in no mood to party. They were huddled in groups on the floor of the ball room and looked like they had been there for several days. "Wow, you guys sure look gloomy! Is nopony excited about the ball this weekend? I know I am!" Princess Celestia looked at Pinkie Pie with remorse and said quietly, "Pinkie Pie...I'm afraid that the festivities for this weekend had to be canceled. We have had an...epidemic of sorts. Twilight Sparkle, will you come with me to the library please?" "Umm, of course Princess. But, can you please explain to me what in Equestria is going on here?" "I will explain everything to you if you will just accompany me to the library Twilight. Please." The Princess had a pleading look on her face. There were dark circles under her eyes and her brow looked as if it was permanently was furrowed with worry. "I guess Spike and me will just wait here and try to cheer everypony up!" Pinkie had only been momentarily bummed out from the Princess' news. Even if the ball was canceled, that doesn't mean everypony here can't have a little fun! "Come on Spike! Let's get happy!" -- "So the guns...and the saddlebags full of ammo are for...protection?" Princess Celestia nodded sadly and continued to gaze out the window. She seemed to be searching for an answer that she knew she would never find. Twilight walked over to stand by the Celestia's side. "But...how could this happen? What could cause something so...so absolutely horrifying?" "I wish I knew Twilight, but I don't. We only know how to get rid of them and even after we take down one, three more pop up in a new location. It's like...It's like an infection spreading through a body. At first the infection seems harmless, but then it starts to spread. As it spreads it gets stronger and begins to take over the host cells with ease. It devours anything healthy and turns it into a copy of the infected DNA. Infection is almost always inevitable and usually ends up killing the host unless a cure, such as an antibiotic, is introduced..." Twilight Sparkle nodded. The Princess was completely correct in her comparison of the current situation to an infection in the body. However, there was no antibiotic to cure this infection... -- "I guess that was kinda relaxin'. I'm sorry I was so rude about the whole spa thing before I had even tried it Rarity. Thanks." Apple Jack had actually enjoyed being waited on for the first time in her life. It had felt nice to let somepony else take care of her messy mane and to have an "exfoliating facial," in Rarity's words. "Oh, it was my pleasure Apple Jack. It feels especially nice to be pampered after a long day of manual labor, right?" A.J nodded and thanked Rarity again before heading up the narrow path that lead to Sweet Apple Acres. I guess it wasn't so bad after all. Haha. Maybe I should spend time with Rarity more often...? "I'll see you later Apple Jack! Don't ruin your new mane-do too quickly now!" Rarity giggled. "Ahh. I feel much better now. A day at the spa always relaxes me and clears my mind before I have to start a new commission." -- Ginger Melody awoke the next morning with a bit of a back ache. She had been sleeping on a cot at Fluttershy's house since she had arrived in Ponyville and it was starting to take a toll on her body. I seriously need to find a job so I can afford an actual bed. My back hasn't hurt this much since I fell out of that tree back home. Ugh "Oh, good morning Ginger. I hope you slept well. I'm having everyone over for tea today, I hope yo don't mind." Geez Fluttershy is so timid! She's asking my permission to have ponies over to her house. "I'm doing great, thanks! But, this is your house Fluttershy. Haha. I'm pretty sure you can have anypony over for tea whenever you want." Ginger smiled and gave Fluttershy a pat on the back. "Heh. Yes, I guess so. You're so funny Ginger Melody. I'm sure you'll get along with everypony just fine. They should be here any minute..." As she finished her sentence, Fluttershy was startled by a loud banging on her front door. "Fluttershy! Open up, it's Rainbow Dash!" But before she even made it to the door Rainbow had burst into the tiny cottage and had made herself comfortable on the couch. Fluttershy whispered, "Come in...make yourself comfortable." before silently making her way into the kitchen to prepare tea. "Hey! You look really familiar!" Rainbow squinted her eyes and tried to remember where she had seen this ginger mare before today. "Have I seen you around here before?" Ginger had taken a seat on the opposite end of the couch from Rainbow Dash and smiled nervously when the Pegasus suddenly addressed her. "Ummm, yeah. You kind, of crashed into me at high speed a few days ago just after I had gotten off the train." She smiled again. "You said something along the lines of, 'Hey, watch where you're going! I'm flying up here!' which was funny because I was walking on the ground and you were the one who crashed into me." Rainbow was taken aback by Ginger's answer and chuckled nervously. "It's okay though! I figured it would be no good to start off in a whole new place by holding a grudge against somepony for a simple accident." A sigh of relief escaped from Rainbow as she realized that this earth pony liked to joke just as much as she did. "Haha. I like you, you're pretty funny! What did you say your name was again?" "Ginger Melody. It's a pleasure to meet you Rainbow Dash." "I'm hereeeeeee." Rarity entered the cottage with style, as always. She was sporting a new sunhat and a pair of giant sunglasses. "Yes, the guest of honor has arrived." Apple Jack rolled her eyes but chuckled as Rarity made her entrance. She trotted over to Ginger and introduced Apple Jack. When Fluttershy came about with the tea, everypony eagerly questioned Ginger about Checker County and answered all of her questions about Ponyville and Canterlot. "You simply must accompany me to Canterlot next time I visit. You would love it, being a small town pony like yourself. The city is always bustling and brimming with excitement." Oh how wrong she was... The Host Cells Are Weakened"See ya later Ginger!" Rainbow Dash shouted from the cloud where she was perched, waiting for Fluttershy to join her. "Are you sure it's okay? I know I promised that you could stay with me until you could get a place of your own, but, I know that Rarity is happy to let you stay with her." Fluttershy was getting the rest of her things together for her visit to Cloudsdale with Rainbow Dash as she apologized to Ginger. "Fluttershy, I'll only be staying with Rarity for like, 2 days. Haha. Besides, I don't want to be a burden and prevent you from going places. I'll be fine down here with Rarity and Apple Jack to look after me while you're gone." Ginger hugged the yellow Pegasus. "Go have fun up in the clouds!" Fluttershy nodded and flew up into the clouds to join Rainbow. "Fluttershy said to remind you to lock the front door before you leave! See ya!" and they were off to Cloudsdale without a second thought. At least Rarity was nice enough to offer me a bed at her place for the time being. Ginger Melody made positive that she locked the door to the little cottage before heading over to the boutique. I just hope she doesn't try to give me a makeover like Rainbow Dash warned. Haha -- "Everypony, we need to take action!" Twilight Sparkle burst through the doors to the ball room and immediately began to reveal her plan. The residents of Canterlot seemed eager to listen and take action, as they had been locked up in the palace for almost 3 whole days. Many ponies nodded and some even made suggestions toward the new plan. They were ready to get out of the crowded ball room and back to their normal lives. However, as Twilight finishing revealing her plan, the citizens realized what they would be doing... "...just aim and fire. It's best to hit the head and take it out in one shot. Kill the brain, kill the zombie. If it's still twitching...shoot it again...Any questions?" At this time, several ponies raised their hooves in protest and began to yell. "Are you saying we have to kill our loved ones!?" "How dare you suggest such a thing!" "No, you don't understand! They're already dead! You're not killing your loved ones...you're ...destroying the virus that has infected their bodies...you're saving them and everypony else." Twilight walked through the crowd, trying to calm the citizens and convince them that they were doing the right thing. When she had reached the other side of the ball room, Princess Celestia entered and began to make her own speech. "Twilight Sparkle is telling the truth. The only way to be rid of this horrible plague is to destroy the infected ponies. They make look like the ponies that you once knew and loved, but they are not anymore. They have been infected and will stop at nothing to get what they want." Everypony was silent until Celestia had finished. The royal guards began handing out guns and ammo to the able-bodied stallions mares. Those who were either physically or mentally incapable of venturing out into the abandoned city were made comfortable in the ball room. -- Princess Celestia had no idea that Cloudsdale was the first city to become completely infected. "Holy...What happened here!?" Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy had just made their way up to Cloudsdale and were shocked to see the state of ruin that it was in. There was nopony in sight when they had first arrived; the city seemed abandoned. They made their way over to Rainbow's favorite corner store to try and get some information but it was closed. "That's weird...this place is almost never closed. And what's with all the broken windows? I know their hasn't been a storm up here in a while." She pressed her face against the front window and tried to see inside but gave up after a few minutes. Fluttershy had been following her friend cautiously. "Maybe there was a fire or...maybe somepony went on a rampage...or maybe everypony just decided to leave...? I think we should leave too..." She whispered to Rainbow and tried to stay as low to the surface of the clouds as she could. "Well whatever happened up here sure is weird. Hey! I see somepony!" In the distance, about 4 blocks away, Rainbow had spotted somepony headed for the stadium. "Hey! Come back here and tell us what all of this is about!" She grabbed Fluttershy and dashed up into the sky to try and catch u to the mysterious pony. They were flying high above the city and got a pretty good view of the damage. A few buildings had been burned down and most of them were boarded up tightly. When they caught up with the pony they noticed that something about him wasn't quite right. The stallion's short mane looked like it had been ripped and had a few red splotches in it. His mouth was hanging wide open, his fur was patchy and filthy, and his eyes...his eyes were completely blank. He was limping slightly and seemed to be extremely determined to get to his destination. Woah! That pony has got some serious issues...I wonder what's up with his eyes? Maybe he just hasn't slept in a while. "Hey! I've been trying to talk to you! Can you please tell us..." Before Rainbow could finish her sentence, Fluttershy snatch her up and bolted behind a tall building. When the stallion heard Rainbow Dash shouting, he immediately turned around with a crazed look in his eyes. He had gone from mindless to possessed in a matter of seconds. His mouth began to foam as he looked for the pony that had shouted. He walked slowly but with a purpose. When he could not identify the source of the sound after a few minutes of searching, he returned to his original task. "What the..." Rainbow was astonished. "That pony was crazed! He must be sick or something." She waited until he had traveled another block, which seemed like an eternity. before slowly reappearing from behind the building. Fluttershy had protested about leaving their hiding spot, but quickly followed when she realized she would be left alone. "I gotta find out where he's going. I've never seen anypony look so determined to get somewhere. Come on Fluttershy, we're gonna follow him!" "Oh...I don't think that's such a good idea Rainbow Dash...you saw how he reacted when he heard your voice. Maybe we should just go back to Ponyville and try to find a doctor?" "No! We don't have time for that! We've got to follow him!" Rainbow dragged Fluttershy along with her as they follow the determined stallion. They would hide behind a building every couple of minutes, just to make sure that he didn't go crazed again. After about an hour he finally reached his destination...the stadium. Rainbow and Fluttershy flew up higher into the sky to try and get an overhead view. "Dear Celestia...what are they doing!?" -- "The spa? That sounds ummm...great! I mean...it would be great if I knew what a spa was. Haha" Ginger Melody had just arrived at the boutique when Rarity was leaving. "You don't know what a spa is!? Oh, Ginger Melody, you are lucky to have me as a friend then! The spa is one of my favorite places in all of Equestria. I'm sure you'll love it. Even though I just went with Apple Jack recently, there is nothing wrong with being pampered. Haha " "Well, thank you for inviting me. I'm sure I'll love it too. I have a feeling that you and I are gonna become great friends Rarity." By this time, they had reached the spa. By this time...the infection was beginning to take over Canterlot....
PrologueIf you were to leave Ponyville and travel West, you would eventually come across a small farm on the outskirts of Checker County (a tiny town outside of Ponyville). This farm belonged to Papa Blue and his family. Papa Blue had married young and had purchased a bit of land in hopes of creating a well-profiting farm. He and his wife, Mama Blue, had only been working the farmland for a year when they were blessed with two beautiful fillies, which they named Marry Mae and Mable Marie. The Blue family lived a very humble life and made just enough to get by but they were happy, and that was all that mattered to them. When the little fillies were finally old enough to help their parents on the farm, things got a little better. With more helping hooves the Blues were able to make a little extra money. Things finally seemed to be looking up for the family...at least until the drought. The worst drought in all of Equestria left the Blues without any type of income and things went downhill. Being so young, Mary and Mable were very susceptible viruses and were constantly ill. They refused to leave all of the work for their parents, as they were sweet and caring young ponies. It was an ordinary day when fate kicked the family that was already down. Mable had been helping Papa fix a broken plow and was asked to fetch a hammer from the tool shed. She was still very ill, as was her twin sister, so she was not very steady on her hooves. When Mable climbed up on the work bench to reach the hammer her hoof slipped, and she fell. On the way down her left leg was sliced open by a rusty nail that was protruding from the side of the work bench. Mable screamed in agony as she hit the ground and landed on top of the same leg that was now oozing blood. Her family would later find that her leg was broken and infected with tetanus from the rusty nail that left a huge gash in her leg. Mama, Papa, and Mary rushed to the shed when they her the blood curdling screams and carried Mable back to the house. Mama cleaned the wound and bandaged it with torn sheets before Papa carried their daughter up to her bed. Because the Blues were so poor, they knew they would not be able to pay the hospital bills that would come with such a sever wound...and so Mable suffered at the cruel hand of fate. Day after day she lay in bed, unable to move without experiencing pain throughout her entire body. Though Mama cleaned and re-bandaged Mable's wound daily, infection was inevitable. After weeks and weeks of suffering, Mable could not hold on any longer. The infection had spread throughout her entire body. The tetanus was pulsing through her veins, turning her into a hollow shell of who she used to be. Various parts of her face and body were swelled and bulging due to the massive amount of puss and liquid-infection that was compressed beneath her fragile skin. She had gone blind in her right eye and was now completely deaf. A terrifying rash had spread over her skin and her beautiful mane had been coming out in clumps for the past few days. Neither Papa, Mama, nor Mary could recognize their beloved Mable anymore... A few days after Mable had gone deaf her condition was even more unstable. Her breathing was jagged and slow, her heart was barely audible, and her eyes were an eerie shade of red. Every few minutes she would moan and cry out in agony, a heart-wrenching sound that made you want to die. Mama and Papa had scraped up enough money to buy a light sedative which was meant to ease Mable's pain. They had been waiting to administer the medicine because there wasn't much and they were hoping to use it to make things more comfortable for Mable when she passed on. Papa believed that tonight would be the night that one of their precious daughters would be leaving them for good...he was right. They all gathered around Mable's bed when Mama gave her the medicine and waited until her breathing slowed to a stop...her heart was no longer beating...Mable was gone. Papa had already dug her grave and had built a small pine box, just big enough for the little filly. They wrapped her in blankets and placed her in the makeshift coffin with a few her her favorite toys and a single red rose. Papa nailed the box shut and the family said a prayer before lowering their loved one into the ground. That night, while everypony lay asleep, something stirred under the loosely packed earth. Something was still "alive" in that little pony. Mable's eyes opened slowly, almost cautiously, though she was not aware of her new state of being. The only feeling that Mable was aware of was her want...her need...her lust for food. For the flesh of other ponies. The mouth watering taste of pony flesh. This craving was what drove her to rip through the sheets that concealed her...to bust through the weak wood that held her back...to tunnel through the dirt that imprisoned her. She had made her way to the surface as a new pony and limped away from her grave, determined. There came a terrible scream as Mary awoke to a horrifying sensation that encompassed her right leg. She screamed again and again in agony as the pony who used to be her twin sister devoured her. Mable ripped and tore at the leg of her sister as the infection set in. By the time she had consumed everything but the bone, Mary had become just like her. It was too late when Mama arrived and Papa was doomed by the time he reached the bedroom. In a matter of minutes the entire Blue family had devoured each other and had set out in search of more food...this was the fate of Checker County...of Ponyville...of Canterlot...this was the fate that all of Equestria would face. Everypony in Equestria...was doomed.
Party FeverThe news of the outbreak had not yet reached Ponyville...nopony saw it coming... "Wow wow WOW!" Pinkie Pie exclaimed excitedly. "This is the best surprise ever!!" She was bouncing up and down with no intention of trying to contain her emotions. Twilight smiled nervously and was pondering whether or not to reconsider who she was taking to Canterlot with her. She loved Pinkie Pie but that pony was just so...energetic. "I'm glad you're so excited Pinkie. Everypony else seems to be busy this weekend so none of them could come with me." She may be a big ball of exploding energy, but she's one of the best friends anypony could ask for. I'm sure this weekend will be fun! Twilight levitated a scroll from her saddlebag and gave it to Pinkie Pie. "Here. This list contains everything that you will need for the ball in Canterlot. If you need help getting anything, just ask. " Pinkie was still bouncing up and down when Twilight gave her the list and didn't stop bouncing until her friend was long gone. She couldn't help it, she was just too excited! "This weekend is going to be Super-Duper-Wonderful! The best part is that I get to spend it with one of my bestie best friends, Twilight Sparkle! Yipee!" She trotted through the kitchen of the bakery and plopped down on the floor to read the list that Twilight had given her. -- Rarity was looking for fabric in the back room when Ginger Melody wandered into the Boutique. She had only been in town for a few hours and had already been befriended by the very...ecstatic Pinkie Pie and trampled by a Pegasus named Rainbow Dash who was practicing a new trick. Although she was a bit sore, Ginger definitely felt welcome in Ponyville. "Helloooooo? Anyone here? I was interested in purchasing a dress?" She took a few more steps into the shop and something sparkly caught her eye. She trotted over to the manikin that was wearing the most magnificent dress she had ever seen. Wow...what a beautiful dress! Whoever made this dress is a pony with style and a perfect eye for fashion... As Ginger finished this thought, she was startled by somepony trotting up behind her. "Oh! Hello! You must be that new pony in town that everyone is talking about. Twilight Sparkle told me about you earlier when she stopped by. And I must say, I absolutely love your mane! What a magnificent color, my dear." Rarity admired Ginger's silky red mane with awe. She had never seen a pony with such a lovely shade of red before and was almost jealous. Ginger Melody blushed a little at this pony's compliment. To get a compliment from a pony with such a well-kept mane was something that made her heart feel warm and happy. "T-thank you very much! But if anypony's mane is beautiful, it is certainly yours. May I ask your name?" Rarity was used to compliments on her beautiful mane, so her response to the kind pony may have sounded a bit arrogant. "Oh, isn't it? I simply love my mane! I take extra care to make sure that it is always absolutely gorgeous. My name is Rarity and this is my boutique. I make custom dresses for ponies all over Equestria." She smiled and trotted over to the dress that Ginger had been admiring. "Your name is Ginger...Ginger something or other, yes?" "Umm, Yes. Ginger Melody. It's a pleasure to meet you. So..." Rarity cut her off before she could finish. "Oh yes. The pleasure is yours darling." She fluffed her mane and waited for Ginger to resume. "Yes, well...anyway. I was looking to buy a dress for the party that Pinkie Pie is having next week. Haha. I hadn't even known her for 30 minutes when she invited me! She's such a nice pony." Rarity, being a close friend of Pinkie Pie's, had been invited to this party as well and had been looking for a fashionable fabric for her party dress when Ginger Melody had entered the shop. "Well, you have certainly come to the right place for a dress, my dear. As I told you before, I make dresses and clothing for everypony around!" She smiled and fluffed her mane again. "I see you were admiring this one in particular? I made it last week with some gems I had leftover from my winter fashion show. These gems wouldn't work well with any of my spring designs, so I just made a simple dress with them." Ginger was practically stunned. Leftover gems? Simple dress? This dress was fancier than anything you would find in her hometown, Checker County. Back home, a pony would have to make their own dresses or pay out their rear to have another pony make it. A dress this fancy would probably cost her life savings! She had come to Ponyville to be somepony...not to end up in a poor house...Her dream was smashed to pieces, so she apologized to Rarity. "It really is a beautiful dress...but I don't think I would be able to afford something with so many gems...I'm sorry to have wasted your time." She was turning around to leave when Rarity caught her hoof. "Nonsense!! That is absolutely nonsense, my dear pony! For one, my dresses are much more fairly priced than any of those dreadful manufactured dresses that they sell in Canterlot. Not to mention, much more original. No two of my dresses are alike, unless requested, which makes each and every dress special." She led Ginger Melody around her boutique to prove her point. No two manikins were wearing the same dress. Each one had it's own individual flare. Ginger stared at each dress in awe. She had never seen so many gems in one place before! And each of the dresses were beautiful! She wondered how one pony could have so many wonderful ideas. They ended up back in front of the same dress that she had been admiring earlier. "I would be hurt if a pony as kind and lovely as you was not wearing my fashion." Ginger blushed again at the compliment. She really wasn't used to it. "I insist that you have this dress! It would look stunning on you!" "You are too kind Rarity but I...I still don't think I'll be able to afford something so nice. Thank you though..." Rarity chuckled. "No, darling. I am giving you this dress and I won't let you walk out of here without it!" She took the dress off of the manikin, shoved Ginger into a dressing room, and tossed the dress over the door. "If it doesn't fit, don't worry, I can make alterations!" she sang happily as she went to fetch her sewing kit. -- "Spike!" Twilight Sparkle had just returned from inviting Pinkie Pie to the Canterlot Ball this weekend. Her worries of the disastrous party-related crimes that Pinkie could commit had almost vanished while she was walking back to the library. That's funny...I wonder why Spike hasn't replied yet? "Spiiiiiiiike? Are you here?" There was a loud CRASH upstairs and then the pitter-patter of dragon's feet hurrying down the stairs. Spike was out of breath when he reached Twilight and collapsed at her hooves. "Spike! What's wrong? Are you hurt? Do you..." He silenced her by raising one claw, signaling that he needed a moment to learn how to breathe again. Once he had composed himself he stood up. "Sorry I didn't answer Twilight. I was drawing at my desk and I was really into it, so I didn't hear you the first time. The second time you called it scared my so much that I fell off of my stool" He chuckled and twiddled his claws. "Oh...that's fine, I guess. I was just a little worried, is all. Any word from the Princess?" She tossed her saddlebags into the corner and levitated a few books from the shelf as she and Spike conversed. "Not since Tuesday when she sent us the invitation. I'm sure there's no need to worry Twilight. She's probably just busy preparing for the ball." "I guess you're right Spike...today is Friday, right? So it's only been 3 days. It's not like the Princess writes to me everyday anyhow." "See? No need to worry! Everything is fine!" Or so they thought...
The Fever Rises"Spiiiiiiiiiiiike! Hurry up or we're going to miss the train!" Twilight Sparkle and Pinkie Pie were waiting at the entrance of the library for a certain dragon who had refused to pack his belongings the night before. "Yeah Spike! Hurry! We don't wanna be later and miss that awesome party!" Pinkie had been looking forward to this trip all week and couldn't sit still as they waited. After a few minutes they heard a suitcase slam shut and Spike grunting as he tried to lug it down the stairs. Twilight trotted up the stairs and levitated the suitcase down to the ground floor. "Yay! We're all ready to go!" Pinkie Pie dashed out the door with her suitcase in tow before Spike even reached the bottom of the stairs. "Pinkie, wait! Ugh...that pony sometimes...I guess we had better get going then. Haha. Let's go Spike!" Twilight hurried Spike out the door and locked the door to the library before dashing off to catch up with Pinkie Pie. At least she wants to be on time. I love a punctual pony. The group reached the train station with a few minutes to spare and, before they knew it, they were on their way to Canterlot...unaware of the strange things that awaited them at their destination... -- "Thank you so much for showing me around town Fluttershy! Everypony has made me feel so welcome and I haven't even been here that long." Ginger Melody and Fluttershy had stopped for lunch at SugarCube Corner after a long day of meeting new ponies. "Oh, it was no problem at all. I really enjoyed introducing you to everypony and I hope that you'll like it here." She smiled and continued to eat as Ginger told her all about Checker County and her family back home. -- Can't believe I actually agreed to spend a day at the spa with Rarity. I must have been half outta my mind when she asked me...At least I get to be pampered and waited on. Awh, it won't be that bad! Apple Jack was thinking to herself as she walked over to the boutique to meet Rarity. It was was nice of her though. Invitin' me, of all ponies. She chuckled silently and imagined how horrified her friend would be to see her in this state. She had been bucking apples and moving dirt all day. Her mane was a mess and her hooves were an even worse sight. "Oh dear Celestia!" Rarity put one hoof to her heart and threw the other over her brow, acting as though she might have a heart attack after seeing A.J's state of being. "What in Equestria have you been doing?" "Ummm...workin'! Same thing I do everyday. Buckin' apples and helpin' everypony. You should try it sometime...ya know...manual labor?" She chuckled gave Rarity a pat on the back. Rarity swatted the dirty hoof away immediately and locked the boutique door behind her. "Well, it's a good thing we're going to the spa, my friend. You are in most definitely in need of a makeover." Apple Jack chuckled again. "Sure thing Rarity." -- "Thanks again for letting me stay with you until I find a place of my own. But, I feel like saying 'thank you' just isn't enough everything that you've done for me since I arrived in Ponyville. You've been so generous and kind, Fluttershy, I'm going to make it up to you as soon as I have the money! I promise!" "It's really not a problem at all Ginger Melody. I'm always so busy helping the animals, that I rarely get to go into town or invite anypony over. It's my pleasure to have you here, for as long as you want." She placed a tray on the table and gave Ginger her tea. They had spent the entire day together and Ginger Melody was sure that she had found a good friend in Fluttershy. As soon as I get a job, I've got to do something super special for her. Nopony has ever been this nice to me...especially none of the townsfolk back home. I think I'll stay here forever. Nothing bad could happen in a place with so many ponies who are so nice. -- Princess Celestia was waiting at the train station when they arrived. It was extremely unusual to see the Princess outside of the city, outside of the castle even. So one can imagine the shock and surprise that Pinkie Pie, Twilight Sparkle, and Spike experienced when they found out that she was waiting for them specifically. She approached them immediately with an expression of distress and confusion. She didn't even greet them, which was even more unusual. "Quickly! Seal off the train station and do not let any more trains stop here. Keep guards posted at every entrance. Escort every passenger to their destination, then return to your posts at once. Twilight Sparkle, come with me. I have urgent news." She lead the trio back to her castle, guards surrounding them on all sides. What in Equestira...? This thought went through all three of their heads as they followed the Princess back to the castle. As they made their way through the city they noticed how drastically it had changed. Most of the shops and buildings were boarded up and looked abandoned. There were even bars on some of the windows. The streets and sidewalks were completely empty. The once bustling Canterlot was now a ghost town. There wasn't a pony in sight. Though the sun was out and the skies cloudless and blue, the entire city seemed to be stuck under a dark cloud. "Princess! What happened here? Is everything okay?" Twilight tried to question the condition of the city but was silenced by a gentle "Shhh" from Celestia. She's never done that to me before...this must be serious if she won't even talk to us outside of the castle... I wonder where everypony is? It's a wonderful day out here in the sunshine but...nopony is out! OH! Maybe they're all just busy preparing for the ball! OR! Maybe they're all playing a city-wide game of Ghost Town! Yay! How exciting! Spike's thoughts were silent as he followed. His mind had gone blank the minute the Princess had ordered that no more trains were to stop at the station.
Infection is InevitableTwilight Sparkle could not believe her eyes as they approached the castle. And I thought Canterlot looked bad... The entire castle was surrounded by guards. Each guard was sporting their own set of saddlebags and each saddlebag was bulging from it's contents. I wonder what could be be in their saddlebags that would make them that heavy? Twilight had been working on a new x-ray spell recently and decided that now would be a pretty good time to test it out. Is that...ammo? At closer inspection she realized that, not only was the castle surrounded by guards, but there were...machine guns stationed at almost every window. What the...? Before she had time to question the Princess about this extremely frightening new security system they had reached the castle's entrance and were rushed inside. "OH MY GOSH!" Pinkie Pie gasped in excitement as they entered the ball room. "A PARTY!!!! Everypony in Canterlot must be here! What a great surprise Princess! YIPEE!" She was right in assuming that everypony who lived in Canterlot was crowded into the ball room, but nopony else was cheering with Pinkie Pie as she bounced around the room. Everypony seemed completely exhausted and in no mood to party. They were huddled in groups on the floor of the ball room and looked like they had been there for several days. "Wow, you guys sure look gloomy! Is nopony excited about the ball this weekend? I know I am!" Princess Celestia looked at Pinkie Pie with remorse and said quietly, "Pinkie Pie...I'm afraid that the festivities for this weekend had to be canceled. We have had an...epidemic of sorts. Twilight Sparkle, will you come with me to the library please?" "Umm, of course Princess. But, can you please explain to me what in Equestria is going on here?" "I will explain everything to you if you will just accompany me to the library Twilight. Please." The Princess had a pleading look on her face. There were dark circles under her eyes and her brow looked as if it was permanently was furrowed with worry. "I guess Spike and me will just wait here and try to cheer everypony up!" Pinkie had only been momentarily bummed out from the Princess' news. Even if the ball was canceled, that doesn't mean everypony here can't have a little fun! "Come on Spike! Let's get happy!" -- "So the guns...and the saddlebags full of ammo are for...protection?" Princess Celestia nodded sadly and continued to gaze out the window. She seemed to be searching for an answer that she knew she would never find. Twilight walked over to stand by the Celestia's side. "But...how could this happen? What could cause something so...so absolutely horrifying?" "I wish I knew Twilight, but I don't. We only know how to get rid of them and even after we take down one, three more pop up in a new location. It's like...It's like an infection spreading through a body. At first the infection seems harmless, but then it starts to spread. As it spreads it gets stronger and begins to take over the host cells with ease. It devours anything healthy and turns it into a copy of the infected DNA. Infection is almost always inevitable and usually ends up killing the host unless a cure, such as an antibiotic, is introduced..." Twilight Sparkle nodded. The Princess was completely correct in her comparison of the current situation to an infection in the body. However, there was no antibiotic to cure this infection... -- "I guess that was kinda relaxin'. I'm sorry I was so rude about the whole spa thing before I had even tried it Rarity. Thanks." Apple Jack had actually enjoyed being waited on for the first time in her life. It had felt nice to let somepony else take care of her messy mane and to have an "exfoliating facial," in Rarity's words. "Oh, it was my pleasure Apple Jack. It feels especially nice to be pampered after a long day of manual labor, right?" A.J nodded and thanked Rarity again before heading up the narrow path that lead to Sweet Apple Acres. I guess it wasn't so bad after all. Haha. Maybe I should spend time with Rarity more often...? "I'll see you later Apple Jack! Don't ruin your new mane-do too quickly now!" Rarity giggled. "Ahh. I feel much better now. A day at the spa always relaxes me and clears my mind before I have to start a new commission." -- Ginger Melody awoke the next morning with a bit of a back ache. She had been sleeping on a cot at Fluttershy's house since she had arrived in Ponyville and it was starting to take a toll on her body. I seriously need to find a job so I can afford an actual bed. My back hasn't hurt this much since I fell out of that tree back home. Ugh "Oh, good morning Ginger. I hope you slept well. I'm having everyone over for tea today, I hope yo don't mind." Geez Fluttershy is so timid! She's asking my permission to have ponies over to her house. "I'm doing great, thanks! But, this is your house Fluttershy. Haha. I'm pretty sure you can have anypony over for tea whenever you want." Ginger smiled and gave Fluttershy a pat on the back. "Heh. Yes, I guess so. You're so funny Ginger Melody. I'm sure you'll get along with everypony just fine. They should be here any minute..." As she finished her sentence, Fluttershy was startled by a loud banging on her front door. "Fluttershy! Open up, it's Rainbow Dash!" But before she even made it to the door Rainbow had burst into the tiny cottage and had made herself comfortable on the couch. Fluttershy whispered, "Come in...make yourself comfortable." before silently making her way into the kitchen to prepare tea. "Hey! You look really familiar!" Rainbow squinted her eyes and tried to remember where she had seen this ginger mare before today. "Have I seen you around here before?" Ginger had taken a seat on the opposite end of the couch from Rainbow Dash and smiled nervously when the Pegasus suddenly addressed her. "Ummm, yeah. You kind, of crashed into me at high speed a few days ago just after I had gotten off the train." She smiled again. "You said something along the lines of, 'Hey, watch where you're going! I'm flying up here!' which was funny because I was walking on the ground and you were the one who crashed into me." Rainbow was taken aback by Ginger's answer and chuckled nervously. "It's okay though! I figured it would be no good to start off in a whole new place by holding a grudge against somepony for a simple accident." A sigh of relief escaped from Rainbow as she realized that this earth pony liked to joke just as much as she did. "Haha. I like you, you're pretty funny! What did you say your name was again?" "Ginger Melody. It's a pleasure to meet you Rainbow Dash." "I'm hereeeeeee." Rarity entered the cottage with style, as always. She was sporting a new sunhat and a pair of giant sunglasses. "Yes, the guest of honor has arrived." Apple Jack rolled her eyes but chuckled as Rarity made her entrance. She trotted over to Ginger and introduced Apple Jack. When Fluttershy came about with the tea, everypony eagerly questioned Ginger about Checker County and answered all of her questions about Ponyville and Canterlot. "You simply must accompany me to Canterlot next time I visit. You would love it, being a small town pony like yourself. The city is always bustling and brimming with excitement." Oh how wrong she was...
The Host Cells Are Weakened"See ya later Ginger!" Rainbow Dash shouted from the cloud where she was perched, waiting for Fluttershy to join her. "Are you sure it's okay? I know I promised that you could stay with me until you could get a place of your own, but, I know that Rarity is happy to let you stay with her." Fluttershy was getting the rest of her things together for her visit to Cloudsdale with Rainbow Dash as she apologized to Ginger. "Fluttershy, I'll only be staying with Rarity for like, 2 days. Haha. Besides, I don't want to be a burden and prevent you from going places. I'll be fine down here with Rarity and Apple Jack to look after me while you're gone." Ginger hugged the yellow Pegasus. "Go have fun up in the clouds!" Fluttershy nodded and flew up into the clouds to join Rainbow. "Fluttershy said to remind you to lock the front door before you leave! See ya!" and they were off to Cloudsdale without a second thought. At least Rarity was nice enough to offer me a bed at her place for the time being. Ginger Melody made positive that she locked the door to the little cottage before heading over to the boutique. I just hope she doesn't try to give me a makeover like Rainbow Dash warned. Haha -- "Everypony, we need to take action!" Twilight Sparkle burst through the doors to the ball room and immediately began to reveal her plan. The residents of Canterlot seemed eager to listen and take action, as they had been locked up in the palace for almost 3 whole days. Many ponies nodded and some even made suggestions toward the new plan. They were ready to get out of the crowded ball room and back to their normal lives. However, as Twilight finishing revealing her plan, the citizens realized what they would be doing... "...just aim and fire. It's best to hit the head and take it out in one shot. Kill the brain, kill the zombie. If it's still twitching...shoot it again...Any questions?" At this time, several ponies raised their hooves in protest and began to yell. "Are you saying we have to kill our loved ones!?" "How dare you suggest such a thing!" "No, you don't understand! They're already dead! You're not killing your loved ones...you're ...destroying the virus that has infected their bodies...you're saving them and everypony else." Twilight walked through the crowd, trying to calm the citizens and convince them that they were doing the right thing. When she had reached the other side of the ball room, Princess Celestia entered and began to make her own speech. "Twilight Sparkle is telling the truth. The only way to be rid of this horrible plague is to destroy the infected ponies. They make look like the ponies that you once knew and loved, but they are not anymore. They have been infected and will stop at nothing to get what they want." Everypony was silent until Celestia had finished. The royal guards began handing out guns and ammo to the able-bodied stallions mares. Those who were either physically or mentally incapable of venturing out into the abandoned city were made comfortable in the ball room. -- Princess Celestia had no idea that Cloudsdale was the first city to become completely infected. "Holy...What happened here!?" Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy had just made their way up to Cloudsdale and were shocked to see the state of ruin that it was in. There was nopony in sight when they had first arrived; the city seemed abandoned. They made their way over to Rainbow's favorite corner store to try and get some information but it was closed. "That's weird...this place is almost never closed. And what's with all the broken windows? I know their hasn't been a storm up here in a while." She pressed her face against the front window and tried to see inside but gave up after a few minutes. Fluttershy had been following her friend cautiously. "Maybe there was a fire or...maybe somepony went on a rampage...or maybe everypony just decided to leave...? I think we should leave too..." She whispered to Rainbow and tried to stay as low to the surface of the clouds as she could. "Well whatever happened up here sure is weird. Hey! I see somepony!" In the distance, about 4 blocks away, Rainbow had spotted somepony headed for the stadium. "Hey! Come back here and tell us what all of this is about!" She grabbed Fluttershy and dashed up into the sky to try and catch u to the mysterious pony. They were flying high above the city and got a pretty good view of the damage. A few buildings had been burned down and most of them were boarded up tightly. When they caught up with the pony they noticed that something about him wasn't quite right. The stallion's short mane looked like it had been ripped and had a few red splotches in it. His mouth was hanging wide open, his fur was patchy and filthy, and his eyes...his eyes were completely blank. He was limping slightly and seemed to be extremely determined to get to his destination. Woah! That pony has got some serious issues...I wonder what's up with his eyes? Maybe he just hasn't slept in a while. "Hey! I've been trying to talk to you! Can you please tell us..." Before Rainbow could finish her sentence, Fluttershy snatch her up and bolted behind a tall building. When the stallion heard Rainbow Dash shouting, he immediately turned around with a crazed look in his eyes. He had gone from mindless to possessed in a matter of seconds. His mouth began to foam as he looked for the pony that had shouted. He walked slowly but with a purpose. When he could not identify the source of the sound after a few minutes of searching, he returned to his original task. "What the..." Rainbow was astonished. "That pony was crazed! He must be sick or something." She waited until he had traveled another block, which seemed like an eternity. before slowly reappearing from behind the building. Fluttershy had protested about leaving their hiding spot, but quickly followed when she realized she would be left alone. "I gotta find out where he's going. I've never seen anypony look so determined to get somewhere. Come on Fluttershy, we're gonna follow him!" "Oh...I don't think that's such a good idea Rainbow Dash...you saw how he reacted when he heard your voice. Maybe we should just go back to Ponyville and try to find a doctor?" "No! We don't have time for that! We've got to follow him!" Rainbow dragged Fluttershy along with her as they follow the determined stallion. They would hide behind a building every couple of minutes, just to make sure that he didn't go crazed again. After about an hour he finally reached his destination...the stadium. Rainbow and Fluttershy flew up higher into the sky to try and get an overhead view. "Dear Celestia...what are they doing!?" -- "The spa? That sounds ummm...great! I mean...it would be great if I knew what a spa was. Haha" Ginger Melody had just arrived at the boutique when Rarity was leaving. "You don't know what a spa is!? Oh, Ginger Melody, you are lucky to have me as a friend then! The spa is one of my favorite places in all of Equestria. I'm sure you'll love it. Even though I just went with Apple Jack recently, there is nothing wrong with being pampered. Haha " "Well, thank you for inviting me. I'm sure I'll love it too. I have a feeling that you and I are gonna become great friends Rarity." By this time, they had reached the spa. By this time...the infection was beginning to take over Canterlot....
