Fallout Equestria: Our Will (rewrite)

Chapters

Chapter 2: Not What it Used to Be
Chapter 3: New Perspective
Chapter 4: Trust
Chapter 5: Building Bridges
Chapter 6: Hope
Chapter 7: Seeing Redd
Chapter 8: A Fight to Remember
Chapter 9: Fascism
Chapter 9.5: A Guide to Grieving
Chapter 10: Mental State
Chapter 11: Wartime
Chapter 12: In a Flash!
Chapter 14: Reunion
Chapter 15: Ruthless Misfortune
Chapter 16: Ideals
Chapter 17: Until We Meet, Again
Chapter 18: Just a Memory
Chapter 19: Panoramic View
Chapter 19.5: A Guide to Anger Management
Chapter 20: Outskirts Boutique
Chapter 21: Of Silk and Satin
Chapter 22: Rainbow Pearls
Chapter 23: Roundabout
Chapter 23.5: A Guide to Remembering
Chapter 24: The Last to Leave
Chapter 25: Undivided
Chapter 26: United, We Stand
Chapter 26.5: A Guide to Relationships
Chapter 27: Back to Life
Chapter 29: Weary
Chapter 31: Emergency
Chapter 31.5: A Guide to the Future
Chapter 32: Face Off
Chapter 33: The Other Side
Prologue
Chapter 1: Head in the Clouds
Chapter 13: The Good, the Bad, and the Worst
Chapter 28: One Generation to the Next
Chapter 30: Contention

Chapter 2: Not What it Used to Be

"War. War never changes."

What is courage? Is it something we're born with? Something we gain? Don't ask me. I couldn't tell you what it was if it slapped me in the face. Some ponies have it. The ones like me, well... don't. I have heard so many stories from before the war. Mostly about the ministry mares. Each of them faced many trials and tribulations, going way out of their comfort zones to face their own obstacles. Heck, even Fluttershy faced a dragon. A dragon. Just the thought of a giant reptile with sharp teeth and claws scares me to death. I guess that's why Princess Luna gave them their ministries. I knew Violet was brave. It's almost like she fears nothing. I just wasn't blessed with bravery. No matter how much I try, it comes back to bite me in the flank. Not much of a soldier, huh? Oh well. I knew when that mission was over, I was going home to climb under the covers and playing sick for a whole week!

Wick and I walked to take-off. I was starting to wonder if a hole had formed on my uniform where I had rubbed my chest so much. Bolt Chaser greeted us with a wave. He already wore his armor.

"Come on, gals! Haven't got all day!"

"Hold your horses, Bolt. You can't rush a lady." Wick nudged me, jokingly.

I tried my best to smile as Chaser rolled a wide table towards us. "Suit up. The sooner we get back, the sooner I can get to a bar."

Wick scoffed, but followed orders. I looked with resentment at the armor lying on the table. It was pretty intimidating. The armor itself was black metal, made to move along with a pegasus' maneuvering. The wings were also protected by flexible covers with protruding blades at each feather tip. They were sharp enough to cut through small trees. The helmet was also black with the exception of the orange visor that had an insectoid appearance. It contained a program which allowed us to view stats, communicate with others, and even help aim our weapons. Did I mention the scorpion tail?

I let out a breath I didn't know I was holding. Orders are orders. With the help of a technician, I took off my usual uniform and wiggled my way into the heavy gear. As soon as it was on, it activated the system that made the entire suit lighter and easier to wear. It was barely noticeable, but I still felt like a robot.

"Your helmet, miss." The tech passed the abomination to me. I clicked it into place and latched it tight. My vision filled with words and numbers, booting up the systems. No injuries so far, apparently. The E.F.S picked up the green bars of my friends and fellow crew.

"Alright, soldiers. Fall in!" Chaser barked. He was a good friend, but a hell of a commanding officer. Of course, it was his job.

Wick and I stood next to each other and quickly went to attention. Chaser stood straight and in front. I suppose it was an act for the crew.

"At my order, we take flight." He said as the large wall beside us began to rise, slowly revealing the grim sky. "I just received word that the Typhoon has been spotted and will be recovered, but for now, our job is to safely retrieve the surviving crew. We will be directly over the crash site, shortly. Lieutenant Sienna, I want you to go to the upper levels and begin your search for any survivors or intact armor. You'll take these healing potions and distribute them to any injured."

He gave me three bottles of the purple liquid. "Yes, sir." I nodded.

"Scouter Lantern Wick, you take the lower levels. If either of you find survivors, we will radio Raptor 27 so they can send transport. I will scout the immediate area, outside. If you come across an enemy, take them out. No mercy. Luna, be with us." Chaser saluted and we returned it.

"Wings, ready!" We spread our wings at his order and crouched, ready to dive. The wind from the moving ship almost knocked me back. After the techs checked over everything once more, they gave the "okay" signal.

"Fly!"

The three of us dove, simultaneously. We stayed in the "V" formation as we rocketed out of the sky and into the dusty landscape. I felt nauseated. I wasn't afraid of heights, but I was afraid of what was beneath me. The muddy ground seemed to come at me at a fast pace. Like I had practiced a million times before, I flapped my wings to slow down the air drop to a flutter. The others soon joined me as we landed on the dead earth. Mud splashed up on my armored boots. The air just looked toxic. At this point, I was glad to have a rebreather.

To my right, I spotted it. The Typhoon lay on its side. Frail, broken logs surrounded it where the ship had struck them as it landed. Upon further inspection, I noticed the dents in the turrets. Somepony or something attacked them.

"Something's not right, Bolt." Wick said in hushed tones.

"Just watch your back. Whatever had the firepower to do this is likely not far. Let's go."

My coworkers tiptoed along as I fell behind. It took everything I had to not turn back and fly up to 27. If there was something here that could take down a Raptor, I imagined what it could do to a soft, squishy pony. My hearing and sight suddenly escalated as I heard a gunshot in the distance. It was a gunshot very different from the common zap of an energy weapon.

"Ch-Chaser..." I squeaked.

"It was far away. Just stick to the orders, Sia." He reassured me.

I gulped down the lump in my throat and walked with my head down. Arriving closer to the entrance, I could make out piles of ash scattered about. There had been a battle here. You didn't have to be an expert to know the ashes were remains after the energy weapons vaporized them. The dirt below each pile was charred. I became a lot queasier. I picked out a few pieces of Enclave armor. Hopefully, the body parts weren't still in them. The armor was useless, now. Between two rocks, I thought I saw something. I squinted my eyes and cautiously approached the...

"B-Body..."

I sat down hard. Just beyond this pony were corpses of a few more dead ponies. At least half a dozen. My mouth watered as I tasted the bile starting to come up my esophagus. I grew paler than I already was. Scraps of metal and debris hid several more bodies. A mare, it seemed, was sprawled out on the ground with an axe through her head. She was one of ours. The crushed flesh of what used to be wings gave that away. Another body lay a few feet from her. He was a unicorn with his throat slit. Old shredded barding barely covered him. I couldn't breathe.

"Sia!" Wick caught me as I swayed back and forth. She gasped when she saw the gruesome scene.

"C-come one. Let's just get this over with." She said as she tugged on my hoof.

I wearily followed, trying not to look at the slaughter around me. We stopped and she turned to me with determination.

"Listen, I know you weren't expecting that. Well, any of this actually, but we need to focus. We have to help the survivors, if there are any." She didn't sound too sure there were. "Go on and search the upper levels. I will be right down here waiting for you, okay? Think of our spa trip and nothing else!" She lifted my chin. I could tell she was smiling under the helmet. I nodded, not sharing the grin.

Why didn't I go into accounting?

I forced myself into the ship, leading Wick. Chaser stayed on guard outside, scanning the area. No bodies here, it seemed. I trudged past the fried control panels to the stairwell. Something disabled the electronic components of the ship. I groaned and began to hover up the steps. I didn't want to make anymore noise than I had to. My ears swiveled back and forth to listen for any sudden noises. The only bars on the E.F.S were my friends. I sighed, knowing there weren't any live ponies on board. I began to scavenge for other things, instead. Mostly Med-X to calm my nerves. My heart was pretty much pounding then.

A loud bang sent me flying for cover, ready to fire the rifles at my sides. I braved a glance. Just a piece of the ceiling. I chuckled nervously at myself. "See? You're just overreacting." I told myself, rubbing the hard metal plate on my chest.

Taking a few deep breaths, I continued on. The hall was pretty cramped. Maybe three ponies wide and two high. Just enough room to hover off the floor. Damage was unbelievably scarce up here, with the exception of the ceiling panel. It just seemed messy. Like ponies were in a hurry. The glorious red cross at the end of the hall caught my eye. I thought it odd that it was the only door even ajar. I carefully sat my hooves on the metal floor with a soft clank. I walked towards the door and shoved it open. It was difficult since the power was disabled, but the suit helped. I expected a mess, of course, but this wasn't just simple disorganization. It was chaos.

The gurney that should have been in the center of the room was flipped and warped, leaning against what was left of a cabinet. Papers were scattered and boxes ripped apart, spilling their contents. Bullet holes riddled the entire room. Shelves had been forcefully torn from the walls and threw on the opposite side of the medical room. Somepony was searching for something. By the looks of it, they were searching for drugs.

No Med-X for me, then.

I sighed, ready to give up, until I saw the narrow locker behind a bookshelf. Immediately, my mood improved ever so slightly. One more place to check before I go.

My wings flapped again as I fluttered over the cluttered floor. I raised a hoof to look at the remains of a lock on the handle. The mechanism fell apart as if it, too had given up. I was aware of the increased strength this armor gave us, but I had no idea it was that impressive! I dropped the lock on the floor and opened the closet to peek inside.

THUD!

I yelped as a corpse landed at my shaking hooves with a meaty thud. I froze for a few moments before I pulled myself together and inspected the body closer. A pegasus stallion. His coat was silver and his mane was buzz cut, off white. His ear looked as though it had been pierced at one time. From the looks of the white jumpsuit, he was the ships medic. Looking behind him, I saw nothing but a lab coat and some books. Still no Med-X.

Forgetting about the toxic air, I slowly took off my helmet to get a better look at this poor soul. After no dangerous chemicals were detected, I relaxed. Our race was so peaceful before the war. This was just proof of the drastic change that had become of us. Tears formed as I slowly placed my armored hoof on his shoulder and bowed my head. "Celestia and Luna be with you, my friend. May you, along with the others here, find peace and happiness beyond this world." I prayed.

A long moment passed before I opened my eyes. I stared at him until I spotted a small rectangular object in his pocket under his feathers. I surveyed it before picking it up. A recorder. All medics carried one for memos and documentation. A red light on the front flashed. Curious, I pressed play. Static.

Maybe I need to rewind it?

Trying to back up the recording, I pressed rewind, only to have it stop as soon as I pushed the button. I tapped the device, then softly banged it on the floor.

I jumped at the recorded voice.

"Is this thing on? Damn it.." The doctor. "Okay, erm, this is Doctor Coats in Medical on the Raptor, Typhoon." He sounded terrified. I swallowed my own fear and continued listening. "I'm recording this to let the rescue team know what happened here. I know damned well nopony is going to survive this." Suddenly, I heard yelling in the background. I couldn't tell if it was the recording or coming from outside. "After a fault in one of our engines, we thought it best to land for a couple of hours while the techs evaluated the damage. The council instructed a team of scientists and a few scouters to research the plant mutations on ground level. They thought they could domesticate the mutation gene to gain better vaccinations for us. What is happening right now is beyond a wild animal attack." The sound of shuffling and clinking could be heard as he went on. I brought my hoof to my breast. "We... We thought it was just a couple of savages here to rob us. It turned out... They had this... thing. It looked like a giant clump of spark grenades. Those monsters catapulted it into the ship and the increased power of the electromagnetic field disabled the entire ship and the scouts' armor. Contact with S.P.P was lost. The fried controls caused the front entrance to open. Dozens of those... I don't even know if you would call them ponies. They had wild, yellow eyes! What's worse, they showed no mercy or-" Gunfire interrupted him along with maniacal laughter. "Fuck. Celestia, help us. Luna, help us! Whoever finds this, run. Do not return here. You should NOT have came here to begin with! Abort any business you have in the wasteland and just GO HOME! I have this empty syringe. The air in my bloodstream will kill me before those... fiends do." He hissed in pain. "They won't have the satisfaction of doing so. T-tell my wife... Tell her I'm sorry and that... I'll see her. I... love you. Juniper..."

The recording ended with a loud clang and then it clicked off. I sat on my haunches, motionless, as I thought of Doctor Coats. He had a wife! Possibly foals! My tears fell to the floor like a faucet dripping. I wanted to go home and spend every second with my grandparents! I wanted Violet to come back! I wanted-

BOOM!!

My breathing stopped and I jerked my head towards the explosion. I could hear gunfire similar to the recording. Scrambling for my helmet, I darted out of the room, down the hall, and down the stairwell. Stopping at the entrance, I saw them. Savages. Earth ponies and unicorns with yellow, crazed eyes and pupils the size of pinpricks. The same ones Doctor Coats described. They were attacking Wick and Chaser!

"Wick! We need to retreat!" Chaser bellowed.

"I'm unable to fly! My wing... I think a bullet got through my armor! Where is Sia?!"

The zaps of the energy rifles were like fireworks. I couldn't do anything but watch in terror as my friends were bombarded with gunshots. One unicorn held a huge sledge hammer in her magic. Just as she was about to swing at Chaser, he sliced her side with his wing blades. Another pony grabbed his leg before he could fly away and slammed him back to the ground. Chaser punched his nose, making the earth pony fall back. The savage unloaded his old revolver into chasers visor. It didn't get through, but it was cracked, severely.

Wick was no better off. She was being swamped by three ponies shooting at her with beat up shotguns. The more she fired her rifles, the more they dodged. She managed to get one, turning the mare into a pile of ash. Finally, she threw herself behind a large boulder, only peeking around to fire more. Her rifle barrel was glowing red from all the shooting.

I started shaking so badly I could barely move. I gasped for air. Panic attack.

"Sia! Get behind here!" Wick yelled.

I stumbled at the sound of my name. The savages had took notice of a third pegasus and were heading my way. I flapped my wings, zooming towards Wick. I barely made it before a saw blade buzzed past my ear. I joined her, firing my own rifles to give hers time to cool off. My aim sucked. I was not used to these large guns.

ZAP! ZAP! ZAP!

I chanced a look over the boulder. There were more coming!

"Wick, they've called reinforcements!" I yelled.

"Get down!" She dragged me to a crouch next to her. "Chaser, you need to take cover! There are more coming! Sia is with me, now!"

I grunted as an axe lodged into the dirt next to us. I heard Chaser's rifles fire in rapid bursts. He managed to get another one, from the sound of the sizzling. I was praying to the goddesses we would make it out alive.

"Where did they come from?!" I screamed over the zaps.

Wick pulled out one of the healing potions and opened her visor to drink it. "I don't know, but I think we need to contact 27 if we're gonna get out of here! You see if you can get through and I will keep firing!" She ordered. I nodded quickly and raised a hoof to push the button on my helmet.

Chaser screamed.

"Bolt!" Wick screamed as she slammed her visor down, jumping from our cover and galloping to help him. The metal protection on his wing was smashed in by the giant hammer. He had gotten pinned.

I snatched my hoof away to reach out to them. "No!"

"Sia, call 27, now!" Chaser bellowed.

"Get ole' Sparky! These birds are gonna get cooked!" A stallion commanded through mad giggling.

I quickly did as Chaser said and tapped the communicator. "Raptor 27, this is Lieutenant Sienna. Do you copy?" I tried my best to scream through my shallow breaths.

It seemed like hours before they replied. "Lieutenant, this is 27. What is your position?" The sweet sounding voice of 27's control room replied.

"We need to abort! We are being attacked and we are grounded. I repeat: We need-"

ZAAAAPPPP!!!!

A huge ball of electricity fell from above. The shock wave enveloped my armor, making it spark and sting my hide a little. I gasped and snatched my eyes to my comrades. They were jolting and twitching about as their suits also failed. Suddenly, I felt as if I were carrying a ton of weight. My vision darkened and I couldn't move. The suit had immobilized me!

"Wick! Chaser!" I screamed their names until my throat became raw. My voice was so muffled I wondered if they heard me.

"-enna! -it us-spark-nade!-ut down the-" I couldn't hear Chaser. I started sobbing.

My lungs felt like they were being squeezed between the severe panic and the suit being disabled, smothering me.

"Hey, Blood! C'mere and check out these suits!" I heard a stallion giggling madly as he and another unicorn stallion trotted into my field of vision. The former tapped on my visor. "Hellooo? Are you dead? I'm getting hungry!"

I sobbed loudly.

"Sounds like a little filly, Smokey! She's alive, too!" The unicorn clopped his hooves in delight.

These ugly bastards are monsters! All of them!

"P-please! Don't do this! Let us go!" I pleaded.

"Let me think... No. I'm bored and I'm starving. Blood! Help me get this stupid metal off!" He ordered through a sick grin.

Both stallions went to work on my armor. They tugged, hit, and even tried to bite the heavy suit off. Fortunately, they were as dumb as they were violent. They couldn't get it off. Eventually, the brownish yellow unicorn impatiently grabbed a poorly cared for shotgun and aimed it at my chest plate. I whimpered more as they grinned again.

"This ought to do it." He grumbled.

As soon as he pulled the trigger, the shot ricocheted off the hard metal and blasted most of his face off. I screamed, staring at his lifeless body gurgling as it still stood. The one called Smokey chuckled as the faceless body fell to the dirt. I coughed, trying to get some air.

"Sorry about that. Hard to find good help, these days. Raiders can be pretty fucking stupid." They were all mad!

"Fuck it, Smokey. Let's just kill them. The others aren't coming out of these damned suits, either. The other mare is already dead." She snorted a laugh. "The shock must've been too much for the bitch."

My eyes went wide. "No... W-Wick!" I screamed as loud as I could. I never wanted to fight. I never liked violence, but I wanted to kill these sickos. I wanted them dead and buried.

"Ugh. Fine. Wish we had a can opener." Smokey said as he grabbed another sledge hammer. This one had nails protruding from it. He stood up on his hind legs and gripped the handle with both front hooves. With great effort, he slung the homemade weapon over his head. "Nighty night!" He smiled in delight as he swung as hard as he could. The impact knocked me over and took away my breath. The armor that covered my side was dented inwards, crushing my side. But he wasn't finished.

He pounded the hammer against every part of my body, denting it enough to make it squeeze my ribs. I felt a sheer terror when he pulled my wing out and laid it across the ground. Once he started pulverizing it, I'm sure it shattered. My screams turned into croaks. I could only lay there with my mouth open and eyes wide, silently sobbing.

"I think this one's mincemeat. Next!" He yelled.

No...

I was going to die. I was going to die alone and scared, beaten and broken. They had already killed Wick. They were going after Chaser. I wanted to scream, again. I wanted to fill the wasteland with a never ending shriek, but my lungs struggled to take in air. The last thing I remember was the sickening, haunting sound of bone crunching under a hammer. Then, everything went black.

I opened my eyes to see the same wasteland I had wanted to leave. Weirdly, I was not wearing any armor. I was in no pain. I looked around to see if the raiders were still there. Nothing.

What the hell?

I stood. I was about to shake the dirt off, when I noticed that I was clean. No marks, no bruises. Not even a feather out of place. It occurred to me that I had to be dreaming, because when I was knocked out, I was lying in shambles and stuck inside my armor. That's when I spotted it. A body lying not four feet from where I had just awoken.

"Oh, no. Wick..." I whispered as I knelt down next to her.

As I went to place my hoof on her side, I stopped. Wick had a blush pink colored coat and feathers. The feathers sticking out of the wing blades were white. I snatched my hoof back.

Who is this?

No other pegasi in armor came with us. It was only me, Chaser, and Wick. And this body wasn't from the Typhoon. This one is newly dead. I could see a small pool of blood next to her wing. The same wing that raider had crushed when he was pummeling me.

"That's impossible!"

I hurriedly opened the visor, only to be met with my reflection. Except the reflection was clearly dead. Her eyes were swollen and red. Bruises covered what I could see of her face. I stared in shock. I felt faint, but my body wouldn't react. I expected to panic, but... nothing. I could feel nothing.

"That's you. Trust me, it was scary for me too." I heard Chaser behind me.

I turned and ran to him, hugging him. "Chaser! Y-You're alive!"

He pushed away. "Not exactly, Sia." His gaze turned to where two more suits of armor lay. My eyes were like saucers. He turned back and gave a sad smile. "I guess this is how the afterlife works. We have to look at our bodies until it's time to go." He shrugged.

"Not exactly." I turned, again, startled by the second voice.

Wick!

I threw my hooves around her and sobbed. "What is going on?"

"I don't know how to explain it. We were killed by those raiders. This is just a temporary form for us, I guess." Chaser spoke up.

"S-so we're dead? We're... ghosts?" I hugged myself.

Wick stepped next to him. "I guess that's true for Chaser and I." She placed a hoof on mine. "You're still alive, Sia. Just... barely." She said, painfully. I could tell she wanted to cry, but I guess these weird spectral bodies can't do anything except exist.

I looked down at the ground below me. Something about this just didn't seem right. We never went on this mission. I am at home, in my bed. I am sleeping and this is a dream. There is no other explanation for this.

A hoof touched my shoulder. It felt warm.

"It's time for us to go." Wick said, calmly. "You need to wake up."

"N-no... No! I won't leave you! This is my fault. I-I should have been faster!" I croaked. "I shouldn't have been so hesitant!" I buried my muzzle in her fur. It didn't even feel like hair, just warmth.

Chaser held my hoof. "We love you, sis. You gotta keep going and fight." They began to fade.

"No! I won't let you go! Please! You're all I have!" I suddenly felt tired. My body began to inch toward the crushed corpse next to me. "I can't!"

They gave me one last sad smile before they completely disappeared. I tried to run towards them, but I could only move toward the armor. My eyes began to close as I felt myself lie down and merge with the body. Everything stilled.

"Be brave, Sia."

Level Up!
S- 2 (+1)
P- 3
E- 2
C- 1
I- 3
A- 3
L- 0

New Perk!
Stress Advantage - When you start to panic, you temporarily gain +2 Perception.

Chapter 3: New Perspective

"My friends are gone, and it's all my fault."

Home. I desperately yearned for it. My comfort zone. My safe place. Cozy, calm, warm. This wasteland was not a home for anypony. Not even temporarily. It was cold, dangerous, dark and terrifying. That morning I was having a nice breakfast, but at that moment I was lying with half my helmet submerged in muddy water. I was broken, fallen at death's door. My only friends had met their fate, leaving me to fend for myself. I had hesitated. All because I just wanted to go home...

Pain shot through every limb, every nerve in my body as I gasped to life. I couldn't see anything but darkness and a blinking red light on my visor. My suit had somehow been running off the reserve power. It was enough to start up the stats. According to the data, I was critical. My eyes wouldn't focus, so I couldn't read the warnings. I was in so much pain, I thought I was going to pass out again. The suit had to come off!

"Activate... Em-emergency latch... Code red..." I struggled with each word.

I was met with a soft beep and the hiss of broken mechanics. The suit finally became loose enough to where I could shove it off. I winced as I did, though. It was heavy. Every one of my muscles hurt. Finally managing to push it off, I tried to stand. My legs and sides were bleeding, my wing was in agonizing pain, my head swam, and I was alone with no protection from this harsh environment. Rain poured from the dark sky as I got to my shaky hooves. With every heartbeat, it felt like a hammer pounding against my head. I could smell the stale air. Scents of blood, soot, and death were all around me. Vomiting would make the pain in my ribs more unbearable, so I did the best I could at holding it down.

I must have been dea- knocked out for quite a while. Nopony was around that I could see. Trust me, I did keep my eyes and ears open for those... monsters. What am I going to do? I shook my head and started limping away from the battlefield. I stopped and turned to glance back at the still forms of my friends. They were almost unseen by the mist, but I knew in my heart it was them. Tears returned to my eyes as I straightened my gaze to face the opposite direction. I wanted to get as far away from this as possible. Each step made me want to lie down and never get up, but I trudged on. For Wick and Chaser. They didn't want me to die.

But how am I supposed to avoid that? I... I'm so useless...

I had no weapons, no armor, no food or water. It became apparent that I was done for. Stopping for a moment, I looked up at the cloud curtain. Raptor 27 must have returned to S.P.P. Assholes! Sighing, I continued with my head down. They couldn't have known. Communication with them was cut thanks to that giant spark grenade. They probably had to assume the worst.

I stopped to check my surrounding. I had no idea where to go. I took a step right, then changed my mind to go left. Pausing, I set my hoof down to scan the vista. All around me were infinite horizons of dead Equestria. Nothing but a soulless outlook. Dirt, mud and hate. Right then, I didn't care where I was going. It wouldn't make a difference. That feeling in my chest started creeping up. I wanted to rub it, but I would be immobilized if I did.

After limping for half an hour, I came across a small, broken down house. It was made of centuries-old wood. The rotted exterior looked to be on its last stand. The roof would surely cave in over the next couple of years. I noticed the walkway leading to the door. Well, what was left of the door.

This will just have to do. Maybe some sleep will help.

Sleep probably would only help if I was in a hospital getting treatment.

I barely got over the threshold before I collapsed onto the floor. Water dripped from the ceiling onto my nose. Reluctantly, I moved slightly to get out from under the leak. The rug beneath me was tattered and rotted. Better than dirt. It's not like there was any furniture. It was almost the size of the bottom floor of my house, except there were no rooms. Just four walls, a broken window, and the rug. I assumed the pile of wood in the corner used to be a bookshelf.

My breathing became rugged. A distant gunshot echoed through my ears. Surprisingly, I didn't even jump. Being so injured and exhausted, I didn't even think I could cry anymore. My brain just kept replaying those last few hours. That gunshot was just a reminder, sending me into a deep entrapment of self-loathing and guilt.

Chilly wind blew through my mane. I shivered. I wished this place at least had a blanket. I tried to pick up a corner of the rug to throw over me, if only to keep the wind off. Unfortunately, it fell apart in my hoof. I curled up as tight as my broken ribs would let me, covering my hind legs with my tail. Every time I shivered, it made my body ache.

This is it. I'm not built for survival. Mama and Daddy... I'll see you soon... Violet, I wonder if you suffered the same way I am.

At last, I would see them again. Even if it meant leaving my grandparents behind, but they were safe above the clouds. I bet they were worried sick.

Oh, how I needed Med-X.

I lay there on the damp floor until daylight. At least, I think it was daylight. It was a little brighter than it was minutes earlier. Or had it been hours? Sleep never came. Every time I closed my eyes to doze off, my wing would throb. Not to mention, the lack of food and water was starting to take its toll on my ruined body.

"Have to... get up..." I grunted. I couldn't sleep, so I might as well travel some more.

My ligaments, muscles, and bones all worked as hard as they could manage to get my torso off the ground. Lamely, my wing hung at my side. I let out a small cry of pain as it swayed. Shambling to the door, I stopped and picked my head up to the sky. Still gray. Still drizzling rain. I couldn't even tell if it was rain or tears running down my dirt-stained face.

In no particular direction, I began to to limp some more. At least another hour of traveling brought me to a dead shrub. I'd lie down there. Traveling was hopeless. Looking for help was hopeless. There was nothing I could do, any longer. I had to sleep. I dragged myself closer to the bush.

It shuffled. The dead twigs moved about as something awakened inside it. I backed away.

"Wh-who's there?" I asked, breathlessly. I listened and heard the sound of small wing beats over the shuffling. "I have a gun!" I lied.

It popped out from the shrub. The ugliest thing I have ever seen. They looked similar to something I had seen in a textbook. Some kind of insect. Except... These were bloated and had lumps on them. Another followed after.

Mutated parasprites!

One floated towards me, making me scream the rest of my breath away. It hurt, terribly, but I ran/hobbled as fast as I could.

What else does this place have to offer? What else could possibly go wrong?!

I wasn't sure how far I'd gotten or where I was, but I was utterly drained. Eventually, I slowed to a trot. Then, a walk. Finally, my legs gave out and I ended up with my face in the mud. This time, though, I couldn't move. My brain tried to command my legs to move but they just wouldn't. While I lay there, staring into the blurry wasteland, I prayed to Luna. I begged her to take me home. My exhales became wheezes as I struggled to even live. There was nothing else for me to do. I survived as long as I could and got no where. I closed my eyes and waited for death, letting my conscious slip away from me. I let my friends down, again.

Just as I was about to let out my last breath, I heard the muffled hoof steps of a galloping pony. My brain kept screaming to run.

"Hello? Are you okay?" A stallion's voice. I bet it's raiders, again.

"Please..." I groaned. "Don't... hurt me..." I whispered.

I blacked out. Whether it was from fear, exhaustion or my injuries, I'll never know. I was halfway awakened by movement. I couldn't open my eyes, as I felt my body being lifted, carefully. I carelessly thought of what they were going to do to me. Yes, I was afraid. My mind was searching for a way out, but physically, I could do nothing but accept what was happening. I still wanted to scream for them to leave me alone. I wanted to fight! But nothing came from my throat. It hurt, so bad.

Drifting in and out of slumber, I kept seeing the shadows above me. The final time I awoke, I was no longer being carried. I wasn't hurting anymore, though.

Is this medicine? I thought, as the pain dulled. I wanted to cry tears of relief.

A sudden, sharp pain flared through my wing. I cried out, sleepily.

My wing! Ouch! What are they doing? Cutting them off? No, Luna, please no! Just let me sleep! Please!

"I need her to be asleep. Wings are extremely sensitive and she will feel this." A scratchy voice said. Raider.

"You mean, she's still awake? I already gave her the sedative you told me to inject." The stallion from before.

"She's slipping in and out of consciousness." The scratchy voice.

I opened my eyes to see who these psychos were. I couldn't see! My forehooves started thrashing and trying to fight.

"Hold her!" Scratchy commanded.

I felt a pair of hooves grab my legs and hold them down. I managed to get one free and punch whoever had a grip on me.

"Ouch! What the hell? We are trying to help you!" The stallion hissed.

I will not go down without a fight to the likes of you!

That familiar tightness in my chest began to form.

My hoof was, once again, pinned down. I felt a small prick. I just knew they were drugging me so they could torture me. There was no telling what kind of sick things they wanted to do! Suddenly, my fears dulled in the back of my mind as the taste of chemicals settled on my tongue. Now relaxed, I felt a tug on my mane as something was removed from my face.

Squinting from the blinding lights, my eyes finally managed to flutter open. Shapes formed in front of me, still blurring pretty badly. I noticed a mask over my muzzle. My pale hoof came into view as I tried to bat it away, but I guess whatever they gave me was stronger than my hoof-eye coordination. No matter how much I tried to move, I was just too weak. I turned my gaze to the right and saw the shape of a pony. I strained my eyes enough to make out the blurry, tan, unicorn stallion. I swallowed. I was so dead.

Again, I tried to punch him. This time, he dodged my slow-moving appendage.

"How is she not knocked out?" He asked.

Scratchy spoke, again. "It seems as though she's grown an immunity to low doses of tranquilizers. We can just up the dosage a little more. Lucky you found her when you did. Her wounds look like they are at least twenty-four hours old."

No! I need to get out of here!

"Chaazur... Wiiccck..." I murmured, sloppily, as they stuck me, again.

"Is that your family?" Scratchy asked me.

I didn't answer. Sleep hit me like a sky carriage hit a crow. The drugs were taking effect. They were probably going to have their way with me. I had come to accept that I was probably going to be a victim of sexual assault or... cannibalism. Too bad the Enclave wasn't coming back. They had already lost one crew, and couldn't risk another.

At least I'll die without physical pain.

Several hours had passed since I had been lying in the muddy terrain. I knew this because it was dark when I finally opened my eyes, again. Nopony was around, anymore. Whatever I was lying on was soft. Despite the old smell, it was comfortable. An aged wool blanket lay over me. I could only move centimeters at a time. The soreness in all my body parts kept me from moving too much. Besides, I was so comfortable.

"So warm." I mumbled.

Sleep almost pulled me back in, until I realized something: I was alive. My eyes popped open and I sat up. The sudden jolt made me wince in more pain. It was mostly in my wing. Moving the blanket, I inspected myself. The injured wing was bandaged and set with a splint so it wouldn't move. I also had bandages on my flank, ribs, and one of my front hooves. I stroked my breastbone. It was sore, too.

Careful not to bump my wing, I slowly got to my hooves on the wood floor. This was a bedroom. The walls were aged, but not crumbling. Paintings hung everywhere. Beautiful paintings. A dresser sat in the corner. The bed even had an old frame under it. The window was cracked a little and stained, but they were otherwise intact. Whoever lived here put every ounce of care into this place.

Somepony had rescued me from those savages! Thank Celestia!

The door was slightly ajar, so I hobbled out into the hall. Dusty shelves hung on the walls, lined with prewar books and knickknacks. If someone touched one of the knickknacks it would probably fall apart. Black and white photos hung on the walls, left to watch over the home for eternity. I stopped at a photo hanging in the middle of the opposite wall. Princess Luna stood beside an elderly stallion. He was an earth pony. No crazed expression like those raiders. All the ponies in the photos looked happy. Genuinely happy. I even noticed a couple of pegasi in one photo. I ran a hoof softly across the cracked frame. Dust clung to my hoof, leaving a clear streak on the glass. Maybe things could return to this one day.

Seconds went by as I brought my hoof back and decided to explore further. I had to be careful, though. I didn't know who lived here or even why I was here in the first place. Still, that homey feeling seemed to settle throughout the house. A set of stairs descended into a living area. I stepped, lightly, to the bottom step, peeking around the railing. Nopony. Lanterns hung from the rafters. One of them lit up a good bit up of the living room. What caught my attention, was the fire crackling in the chipped fireplace. Somepony had been here recently. My ears folded back as I kept on alert.

A stained couch sat facing the fireplace. It was far enough where it wouldn't catch on fire, though. More paintings hung on the walls. Different sizes. They looked out of place, like they were painted within the last few years. A small closet was situated under the stairs. A cupboard was next to that. An easel sat in the middle of the living room. On it, an unfinished painting. Getting closer, I recognized a small cottage. The rest of the scene had yet to be finished. In front of the yellowed canvas was a cracked jar of paintbrushes. The wear and tear told me they were used pretty frequently.

This place was about as well taken care of as any house in Thunderhead, despite its age. No moldy smell lingered in the air. No dead bodies or blood stains. I came to the conclusion that a pegasus must have lived here. Why they would be in the wasteland was beyond me, but I couldn't see a unicorn or earth pony taking me in.

"-should help with the pain." Scratchy?

I backed up, slowly.

"Thank you, Fleece. Maybe she will come around soon."

It was them. The unicorn and whoever else had taken me. I started trembling. This was no pegasus home. It was raider territory! My chest started hurting as I hyperventilated. I searched frantically for a way out. The windows were boarded up, save for the one above the front door. I backed further into the corner of the living room, trapping myself. I tucked my tail and prepared for the worst.

The door opened, and in walked the unicorn stallion. His tan coat wasn't as dirty as the other raiders. His mane was disheveled, but otherwise kept up. He paused in confusion when he looked up and saw me cowering against the wall. I clenched my teeth and threw my ears back.

"Hey, are you alright?" He asked, floating a syringe from is bag. He stepped towards me.

"Get back!" I screamed. "Y-You savage! Leave me alone!" I tried not to let him see my tears.

"I'm not going to hurt you." He assured.

"Liar! You k-killed my friends! I know what you want to do to me! I-I will... I will..." I sobbed.

His eyes narrowed. "So that's what happened to you?" He looked away. "Oh, goddesses. Those bastards."

I lowered my body to the floor. "G-get away from me with that poison."

"This is-"

I didn't let him finish. In a desperate attempt to escape, I pounced on him. Sinking my teeth into his ear, he bucked and swore, trying to throw me off.

"Ow! Stop, you crazy mare!"

I wrapped my hooves around his neck. "No! You ah gonnah kihh me teh seconh Ih lehh go!" I muffled through the mouthful of horse hair. Just when I let go to get a better grip, his magic enveloped me and floated me in front of him. I swung my hooves and punched the air in front of his muzzle, my eyes watering.

"Put me down, raider! Help! Somepony!" I screamed. He changed his expression from anger to sympathy.

"Listen, I'm not a raider. I'm trying to help you." He pressed.

"Then what's in the syringe? A drug to knock me unconscious so you can have your way with me? Disgusting!" I countered.

"Don't flatter yourself. This is Med-X. I'm sure you've heard of it."

I quit thrashing and glared, dumbfounded.

He sighed. "If I put you down, will you let me explain everything?"

I looked to him suspiciously, but nodded slowly.

"Thank you. Now here. Please, refrain from attacking me, again." He set me on the couch and set the syringe next to me. "If you need it, use it. Since you don't trust me, I'll let you hold onto it. You're welcome to leave anytime, but you must know it's dangerous out there on your own with no supplies. The next town is about a half a day's walk. You won't be flying for a while." He gestured to my wing.

"Y-you're a savage, though. A raider!" I swallowed.

He turned to his canvas and started painting. "Is that so? If I was a raider, why are you still alive and well? Why are you bandaged and not in a cage?"

I shrunk into the couch. "B-but you don't know me. Why help me? This is the wasteland, is it not?"

"That is true. I don't know you and this is the wasteland. It's probably hard to believe, but not everyone here is a raider. I found you close to death, so I helped you. I thought everyone with any morality would do the same. Especially if they find someone passed out near a bloatsprite nest. You are obviously not from here, are you?"

"Bloat...sprite?" I shuddered.

He nodded. "They're quite adorable compared to the rest of the wildlife."

Silence.

"I-I want to go home." I hiccuped.

The buck stood up and opened the cupboard, floating a blanket to me. I jumped as he covered me with it. He paused then cleared his throat. "You live up there, don't you?" He pointed towards the clouds.

I gave a small nod. "So... what happened to me? How did you find me?"

He rubbed his neck. "I heard an explosion yesterday. I thought it best to wait until today to check it out and see what was going on. On my way, I saw you unconscious in the mud. I thought you were dead at first, then I heard you breathing. You didn't reply when I asked if you were okay, so I picked you up and carried you to my friend, Fleece who runs a clinic in town. She told me you had a concussion, two broken ribs, minor internal bleeding, and your wing is shattered. She helped nurse you back to health and told me I could bring you here to keep an eye on you. You're going to be alright, though. Like I said, you're welcome to go stay in her clinic. I just figured this was more comfortable than a hospital room. Looks like I'll have to sleep with one eye open, though, if you stay here." He smirked.

I blushed. "S-sorry. I-I'm not able to repay you for saving my life right now, but thank you."

"Don't worry about it. Just pay it forward."

Awkward silence.

"So... you live alone?" I asked, rubbing my chest, again.

"Afraid so. I found this place after my dad passed away a few years ago." He looked down. "Been here ever since."

"I-I'm sorry."

"Shit happens." He waved it off. "Nothing I could have done."

I gazed at the fire. I kind of felt a little sorry for him. I knew how lonely it could be with no roommates. I, at least, had my grandparents. It didn't seem like he had any family left.

"So..." I jumped at his voice. "Sorry. I mean, what about you? You have family back home?"

What's it to you?

"Just my grandparents. My parents disappeared when I was a filly." I dug into the couch with a hoof, still keeping my eye on him. "I'm actually not so sure, anymore. It's what I was always told, but I never saw their graves or any memorials."

He tilted his head. "Is it possible they're Dashites?"

I peered up at him, nervously. "Why would you ask that?"

"I know a Dashite. He runs the tavern I go to."

"A pegasus?" I perked up.

He nodded. "Yes, but not like you. He's been here for a while. Probably most of his life."

I drooped.

"It's not all bad. Here in the wasteland, I mean."

I glared.

"What I mean is, you were probably taught your whole life, the entire wasteland is a pit of lava that will kill you as soon as you set hoof here. That is far from the truth. There are good ponies out here. Just gotta be careful who you trust." He went on. "We have towns. We trade goods. We even have currency. It's bottle caps, but at least it's closer to civilization than animals."

I peeked behind him at his painting. He was definitely talented. "I-I'm guessing you have hobbies, as well."

"Oh, this?" He gestured to it. "It's nothing special. I have them all around the house. It's a good escape for me." He looked down, again.

A loud growl sent me hopping to my hooves. "What was that?!" I darted my eyes around the room.

My host facehoofed. "Pretty sure that was your stomach."

I turned the brightest shade of red. "I, erm... I haven't eaten since yesterday morning."

"Follow me." He motioned to the kitchen.

I hesitated, but followed. I expected to see chopped up body parts and gore everywhere, but no. The dining room had none of that. Instead, there were two chairs and a table. It was worn down and missing a leg, but the set was nice. The kitchen was separated from the dining area with a low counter that could use some TLC.

The kind stranger pulled a chair out for me to sit while he went into the kitchen. I watched him prepare a meal. I don't know why, but I figured there would be no food down here. Just goes to show how much I really didn't know. He gathered two bowls and turned on a rusted burner. He took out a saucepan with the handle missing and placed it on the burner, lighting the small flame with a spark of his horn. I watched him take out a knife and open a large can. I couldn't see the label, but I saw a picture of a tomato on the side. He poured a red liquid into the pan. I made sure he didn't poison it.

He yawned, waiting for it to heat up. His hoof ran through his midnight blue mane. Eventually, he took off his outer barding and set it on the low counter. He noticed me staring and smiled. I half-smiled back, trying not to be rude. He turned back to the soup and stirred. I saw his cutie mark: A paintbrush. Why was I surprised that it wasn't a severed head or an axe? It was just a paintbrush.

The silence was bugging me, so I decided to make small talk with the enemy. "I never caught your name."

"Oh, I'm Nico. What about you?"

I didn't tell him right away. I wanted to think of an alias, but figured there was no use. "S-Sienna."

"Like the color."

"What?"

"Nevermind." He poured the liquid into the bowls and brought one to me, setting it on the table.

I glanced at him then the bowl. My mouth watered as the scent of roasted tomatoes and spices filled my nostrils. My stare turned into a longing to indulge myself. I was so, so hungry. I heard Nico chuckle.

"It's not poisoned, I promise. If you want, I can taste it for you." He looked amused.

I thought about that for a moment. "N-no, it's okay." It didn't seem poisonous. Besides, why waste bandages on somepony if you're just going to kill them?

I picked the bowl up with my hooves and took a ladylike sip. Warm tomato soup flowed down my sore throat, immediately dulling the ache. Oh, Luna, it was fantastic! I looked at him.

He sipped from his own bowl, then nodded towards mine. "You know, you don't really have to worry about manners. I won't tell the princesses if you don't." He winked.

With a nervous chuckle, I looked down at the food and took a breath. I didn't even care about what he thought, anyway. Grasping the soup with both hooves, I gulped down the rest of it. It definitely didn't take long for the calming effect of warm soup to fill my aching soul.

What I didn't expect was a stallion-like belch to escape my muzzle. I quickly covered my mouth and blushed. "Excuse me." I squeaked.

He stifled a laugh. "It didn't bother me. I'm more surprised you didn't eat the bowl, too."

I grinned a little. He was... nice. Not nice enough for me to get a good night's sleep, but nice. I frowned. I just wished my friends were there. They would know what to do. They had better judgement than I did. Celestia knows why they were dead and I wasn't. I'm sure they would appreciate what Nico has done for me, though. Maybe.

"Something wrong?" He asked, taking the bowls into the kitchen.

I shied away, avoiding the question.

He motioned back to the living room. I followed him back there, keeping my tail close to me. He decided to paint. Watching the strokes on the canvas, I started to see the trees near the cottage forming.

"I'm sorry about everything that's happened you. I wish there was something I could have done." He broke the silence.

I shook my head and sighed. "Like you said, shit happens in the wasteland. My friends... They died and I-I couldn't..." I wouldn't dare finish that sentence.

"It's not your fault. This is such an unforgiving place, at times."

To avoid another awkward silence, he spoke up, again. "So, I saw the airship from a distance. You came from that?"

I nodded.

"You were a medic or something?" He asked.

"First Lieutenant." I said, quickly.

He scoffed. "Really?"

I blushed. "Yes. I am First Lieutenant."

"So that's why that punch kind of hurt." He mumbled. "I assume you went through lot's of training?"

"Why do you sound so surprised?" I glared.

"Well, I found you half dead. You didn't learn survival tactics, being that high of a rank?"

I blushed again. "M-my friend, Bolt Chaser. He helped me skip some of those classes."

He smirked. "Buckfriend, you mean?"

I frowned. "Never! He was more like an older brother!" I waved him off. "I never had time for such nonsense like 'romance'."

"Seriously?" He glanced back. I saw that glance!

"Y-Yes. Why?" I rubbed my chest.

"Oh, psh. Y-you know. I just thought... Somepony like you would... You know what? Nevermind." He turned his face, but I saw the blush. I squinted my eyes at him.

There goes that awkward silence, again.

I quickly changed the subject to something that avoided my private life.

As time passed, we made small talk while he painted more. We mostly talked about our interests. He taught me a little about the wasteland and what I should expect. He even showed me a few more paintings. They were some of the most beautiful creations I had ever seen. Nico was more than I expected of a wastelander. I thought he would be a monster, but he's just like me. Maybe a little less anxious, but we had some common ground. His hospitality made me feel more comfortable than I expected. I hoped this wasn't too good to be true.

I yawned, rubbing my eyes.

"The bedroom's all yours. If you want to stay, of course." He rubbed his neck.

"I-I don't think I have a choice if I want to live. I don't want to intrude, though." I looked away.

"You aren't intruding. I sleep on the couch most nights, anyway. The mattress isn't firm enough for me." He insisted.

Being too tired to object, I quickly grabbed the Med-X syringe and stuffed it under my wing, hopping off the couch. Before walking up the stairs, I turned and caught him staring.

"G-good night." He said, nervously.

"Good night." I smiled, nervously. "Thank you, Nico."

"Eh." He playfully waved it off.

I glanced back, once again, before walking back upstairs and into the bedroom. I didn't like that stare. Locking the door, I tiptoed to the bed and fell into the mattress. I felt kind of bad, since he did save my life. Unfortunately, this is New Equestria, not Old Equestria. My eyes kept glancing back at the door to make sure he didn't come in. He never did try, though, so that was a plus. I was finally able to let go of the horrors of the day and get some much needed rest. As soon as I was able, I'd fly back home. Until then...

I'd watch my back.

:::ERROR:::
NO STATS TO DISPLAY!

Nico has joined your group!

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

Chapter 4: Trust

"I don't need anypony to foalsit me!"

Light poured through the window. It wasn't as bright as it usually is, though. I still pulled the blanket over my head, like I did every morning. It took me a moment to realize I wasn't at home, but at the home of a wastelander. I curled up and stared at the old wall. My mind filled with doubt. I didn't even know if I was going to get home.

At least I don't have to go to work.

Soft thunder clapped in the distance. I sat up, slowly and stared at the window for a while longer. I started to smell something. I sniffed the unpleasant odor and immediately my mind went to the worst case scenario.

Please, don't be a rotting corpse.

I looked around, searching for the source of the stench. I got out of bed, twisting my face from the soreness. My search came up empty. Finally, I sat on my haunches and thought for a moment. My good wing raised and I immediately knew where the smell came from. "Sweet apple cider, I need a shower." I said, gagging. I've never went more than a day without bathing, so my nostrils were sensitive to the sweat, blood and grime. I decided to go look for a shower.

I tiptoed out of the bedroom and looked down the hall. There was one other door that I assumed was the bathroom. Walking toward it, I could hear snoring down stairs. I figured it was Nico, so I continued to the shut door. The knob was rusty. I tried to turn it with a hoof but it was jammed. I tried both hooves, and finally wiggled it open. It creaked, loudly. I waited to make sure I didn't wake Nico before I went into the dark room. Inside was nothing but canvases and supplies. It obviously was a bathroom before the war, but that was no longer the case. The old shower was so dirty and piled with junk I didn't think it was possible to even stand in there. I sighed and walked back out, closing the door shut. Not like there would be running water, anyway.

Walking silently downstairs, I saw Nico splayed on the couch, still sleeping. I guess it was still early. That or wastelanders slept late. I wasn't sure. I thought about waking him, but I didn't want to make him angry. I stopped next to him and observed him. He was sprawled on his back, a blanket half-covering his body. It was still chilly, so I pulled it up to his neck.

That's for the soup.

Quietly, I went and unlocked the front door. Cracking it open, I looked around outside. Thankfully, it wasn't raining. I took a step outside and scanned the area. No raiders in sight. Actually, there was nothing in sight. This place was in the middle of nowhere. I did see a few spots where concrete had sunk into the ground. I assumed houses used to be there, but had long been torn down. There were no other signs of life around.

So nopony could hear the screams of his victims.

I shook that thought from my head. If I had to stay here, I had to keep my anxiety from making me even more miserable. As much as I hated to admit, my survival depended on this wastelander.

A gentle breeze lifted my bangs slightly off my forehead. It felt refreshing! Not too hot, not too cold. I snuck the rest of the way out of the house and came to a stop a few yards away from the front door. The house was made of brick. Nico made a good choice in housing. This one looked pretty sturdy. I looked ahead at the open sky. No sunshine. It was a little depressing, but at least I wouldn't get wet, again. The thunder from earlier was still pretty far away.

I stretched and flapped my good wing. It would have been amazing to fly out there. It was so open! If it weren't for the danger, this would be the perfect place to practice stunts. I wasn't into that sort of thing, though. That was more Violet's style.

My ears perked at the sound of a stone rolling. It came from behind the house. My hooves stayed glued to the ground. I stood still as stone, focusing on the corner. I could hear the whispering.

No.

An earth pony stallion and a mare trotted from behind the west wall and chuckled.

"Lookie here, Tulip. More caps!" The stallion grinned, evilly.

"And a pegasus, too! She should bring us a great profit." The mare said. She had her mane in an updo and she had no tail.

I took a step back, my chest tightening. "Y-you're just some stupid raiders!" I clenched my jaw. "I knew he was no good..." I whispered that last part.

The stallion growled. "Raiders? No, my little money maker. We are not those yellow eyed freaks. I think the term you're looking for is 'slavers'. There's a difference, dumbass."

"What's the difference?" I asked, tucking my tail.

The mare, known as Tulip, circled around me. I kept my eyes on her. "The difference is... We sell slaves to buyers for caps. Amount depends on age, race, and fitness. You are a pegasus and in..." She spotted my bandaged wing. "Decent shape. If that wing heals, we will bring in a shitload of caps."

"And you get to work for free." The buck added.

I gasped."Y-you sell ponies? That's terrible! You're no better than those raider scum!" I took a few steps back.

I felt something clasp around my neck. Bucking and shaking my head, I tried to get the heavy, metal collar off. It had a blinking red light on the front. A third pony showed her face in front of me. She looked a few years younger than me. I tugged at the contraption as they laughed.

"Nu uh. I wouldn't do that, if I were you. See, this here's a bomb collar. If you try to get out of it, I push this detonator and off comes your head. Understand?" The mare held up a small device with a switch. I swallowed. I had the worst bucking luck.

"Now, don't run, and do as we say. If you behave, you get to keep that pretty head of hair." The male of the group broadened his grin.

As they surrounded me, I heard a loud gunshot. The stallion jumped out of the way as the mare, Tulip, dropped dead. I darted my eyes back and forth. I started to tremble. Something else was out there.

"Fuck!" He shouted. "One more shot and I blow her brains to the clouds!" He screamed at the open land. "Grab her and let's get out of here!" He yelled to the mare with the detonator. My chest wasn't letting me do anything, though. I couldn't catch my breath. Sitting on my haunches, I gasped for air, wondering what else was coming for me.

"Get up or you die!" The mare hooked a chain to the collar and began pulling. "What's your problem?!"

A pony shaped blur tackled her and kicked the detonator away. I fell over and covered my head. The collar was choking me. I couldn't see who had snapped her neck, I only heard it along with her gurgling. My stomach twisted in knots at the sickening sound.

"G-Get away!" The last slaver barked. My neck stretched around enough for me to see my savior.

Nico!

He stood between me and the slaver. "Get out of here." He said, coolly.

"No! That's my slave you're taking from me! I'll kill you!" The slaver pulled out a shotgun and aimed it at Nico. Right when the shotgun exploded, Nico rolled out of the way and charged the other stallion. He slammed into him, knocking the slaver into the ground. He skidded across the mud. I watched the tan unicorn dig his hooves into the other buck's throat. I thought he was going to kill him, but the slaver kicked up with his back legs and rolled Nico off him.

The darker brown stallion charged him and rammed his head into Nico's skull. He fell to the ground and growled. The other pony just smirked and lowered his head, ready to charge, again. This time, Nico jumped out of his path and bucked, his hooves coming into contact with his side. I'm sure the slaver's ribs cracked.

"Bastard!" Yelled the fiend.

Nico didn't give him a chance to get up before he rammed his horn into his shoulder and scrunched his face as he activated his magic. The slaver was thrown back, screaming as blood trickled down his chest. It also poured down Nico's forehead, forcing him to wipe his eyes.

No! Keep your focus on him! He's going to-

Just as he could see again, it was too late. The slaver put him in a headlock. I tried to yell for him, but I couldn't do anything but watch as my only accomplice fell to his knees, coughing. My veins turned to ice as the slaver stood and spit on Nico's lifeless body.

"N-Nico! Get up! Please..." I squeaked, holding my neck.

"Shut up!" The slaver said, walking towards me. "I should blow you up for this shit. You better be lucky I need those caps even more now." He said, gesturing to the blood coming from his wounds.

I cried. For me or Nico, I wasn't sure.

The slaver picked the detonator up in his teeth and put it in his barding. He then snatched the chain, forcing me to stand up. He swore as I swayed on my hooves. "Worthless. I hate these fucking do-gooders." He complained.

An ear splitting crack made me fall to my belly and cover my head, again. I felt hot liquid splatter all over my coat and mane. Peeking through my hooves, I saw it was blood and brain matter. Screaming and stumbling back, the slaver's body fell with a thump, missing its head. I vomited.

When I could gain my composure, I looked up and saw Nico panting, the rifle levitating next to him. Relief flooded my chest. I rushed over to him, throwing my hooves around him. I couldn't stop myself.

"I thought you were dead!" I buried my face in his fur, then quickly let go. "S-sorry. I'm just so glad you're okay!"

"You didn't know? I'm indestructible." He joked, then winced and grabbed his neck. It was bruised pretty badly. There were also cuts on his forehead and torso. "Are you okay?" He asked, looking me over.

I stared. "You're the one who looks like hell."

"No, I'll be fine." He said.

I brought my hoof up to the collar, tugging at it.

"Don't! I'll take care of it, just don't touch it." Nico warned. He threw his large rifle on the ground and stepped closer to me. I could feel his breath on my neck as he examined the contraption. I swallowed. Him being this close made me nervous.

He galloped inside for a few seconds and came back out with a bobby pin hovering next to him. "Hold still."

I whimpered.

"Please, trust me. I've done this before." He looked me in the eyes. I felt oddly comforted, so I nodded. He got to work. It only took a few seconds of muffled clinking and finally the collar popped off and landed on the ground. I kept my eyes shut, afraid it could still blow. Then, I heard a short grunt and a loud explosion. I ran backwards, straight into Nico as I saw the smoke and dust a quarter mile away. Moments later, the dust cleared and I let out a breath. Feeling fur on my back, I slowly turned my head and looked up at the unicorn, whose eyebrows were raised.

Quickly, I shuffled away from him and hid my face. "Thank you for saving me... again."

"You enjoy danger, don't you?" He chuckled as he picked up his rifle and started back towards the house.

My cheeks flushed and I ran after him. "W-wait for me!"

He stopped and held the door open as I ran inside.

Once he shut the door, I fell back on the couch and gave an exasperated sigh. He shook his head, propping the heavy looking gun against the door frame. I shivered. If it wasn't for him, I hated to imagine what would have happened to me.

"D-do you want me to look at your wounds?" I asked.

"I'm fine." He didn't look my way.

"You look terrible. Let me help you."

"I said, I'm fine." He snapped.

I narrowed my eyes. "You don't have to be an asshole. I'm just trying to help."

"I've been here this long and am still able to take care of myself. Don't worry about me." He finally looked me up and down. "Besides, you don't look like a doctor to me."

I kind of wanted to punch him in the face.

I guess he saw my look. He sighed. "I'm sorry. It's just I've been alone all this time. I'm not used to having guests. I can clean this up." An old rag wrapped in his blue aura as it wiped away the blood.

"You shouldn't be so stubborn. You've done a lot for me, so the least I can do is help you tend to your scuffs and scratches. I kind of see why you live alone."

He said nothing after I mentioned that last part. I remembered what he had said about his father. Damn, I felt like a real asshole. I sighed, standing and walking next to him. "Listen, I'm sorry about that. I've just hated these last couple of days. I should be grateful to you. I know I can never repay you." I shuffled my hooves and looked down at the plank floor.

He straightened his mouth and sighed. "It's okay. You have been through a lot."

"Where did you learn to fight like that, anyway?" I asked, avoiding the awkward silence.

"For most, out here it's a necessity. It's the only way we can survive." He said, matter-of-factly. "Good thing I was here, though. You are basically my responsibility after I promised Fleece I would look after you."

I humphed. "Look after me? I don't need you to 'foalsit' me." I stomped. "I was working my way up to Captain! I boss around stallions bigger than you!" I was nose to nose with him by the time I finished fussing. I was satisfied...

Until he laughed. He laughed at me! I turned even redder. "Ugh! Stallions are so insensitive!"

"I'm sorry! I just couldn't help it! A little, defenseless mare like you? Giving order to stallions bigger than me? That's rich!" He wiped a tear.

"How dare you speak to me that way! I may be a 'little mare' but I'll have you know, I did take some combat training! Given the right circumstances and if my health wasn't low at the moment, I could take you down! You... you... groundwalker! In fact, I'll show you as soon as my wing heals! Then, after I take you down, I'm going home! At least then you won't have to 'foalsit' me anymore!" I roared. My wing flared.

"I-I'm sorry?"

It was then, I realized my mistake. I had him backed against the wall, chest to chest with him. I could feel him breathing as he looked down at me with his ears pinned back. Nico gave me the most shit-eating grin he could muster. "You know, some stallions like this sort of thing."

I gawked at him for a minute. Then, I took a few steps back. "I-I need a shower. Where is the nearest b-bath?" I stammered.

His chuckle infuriated me. "There is no running water here, princess. If you haven't noticed, this is a post-apocalyptic era. The closest to a shower you're gonna get is if you go to Fleece's clinic. I go at least once a week. She has a water talisman."

Princess? The nerve of this guy!

"Fine." I stormed over to the front door and stopped. "I-is she nice?"

"The nicest pony you'll ever meet. I swear. Now, we can't go out without protection. Unless you want to be foalnapped."

"What do you suggest we do, then, Mr. Know-it-all?" I countered, crossing my hooves.

Tapping his chin, he looked over me. "You need barding. Protection from bullets and the like in case we come across more psychos." Then, he threw that shit-eating grin towards me, again. "But don't worry. I'll protect you... princess."

I growled, ready to hit him with the biggest baton I could find. However, he did have a point and I didn't have a baton. So, I let out a huff and followed him to the closet under the stairs. He scanned over the cluttered space and moved a few things. At last, a brown vest appeared, levitating menacingly in his magic. It was horrifying! It literally looked like crap!

"I'm NOT wearing that." I turned up my nose.

"Say goodbye to your shower, then. I found this in the attic. It's not like I pulled it off some dead guy." His hoof tapped on the floor.

I groaned. That shower would be great. "Fine."

The unicorn floated the ugly thing over to me. I snatched it out of the air and regretfully slipped it on. The fabric was itchy and falling apart, but it did have a protective layer of hardened leather. It was going to have to do. I needed that clean water! No radiated liquid was coming near me.

"Don't you look swell?" He chimed.

My glare promised him a slow and painful death. "Just come on."

That asshole rolled his eyes and walked to the door, holding it open for me. As I passed by him, I threw up my nose and slapped him with my tail. Looking back, I saw him rubbing his cheek and grumbling. With an "oops", I trotted outside and waited for him. I gave him a sly grin as he continued on.

More walking. The half a day's walk was no exaggeration. I hated using my legs, but thankfully we came across nothing exciting. The occasional skittering 'radroach', as they call them, ran by. We passed a few piles of debris. He made sure to tell me every old building we passed was already looted by him or other scavengers. Eventually, we were close by the town. I could see the buildings in the distance. Other than being worn down, it looked just like a small town. I stopped to look at a wooden sign that had hoofpainted white lettering.

Floater

2 miles

"Floater?" I repeated out loud.

"Yep. That's the town I was talking about. Just about everypony there is friendly. Except, one of the shopkeepers. She can be a pain in the flank to trade with." Nico said.

I swallowed. It had to be too good to be true. I'd keep my guard up.

As he walked onward, I followed, closely. It was short lived, though. A few minutes later, he stopped walking. Since my head was low, I bumped into him.

"Fleece! What's up?" He exclaimed.

Curious to see who this 'Fleece' was, I peeked from behind him.

Nope. I'm done with this place.

"Z-Zom-Zombie!!" I screamed. Chaser was right!

This was no pony of any kind. Its dark, maroon hide was patchy and rotted, especially on the front hooves. It flaked off around its fetlocks, too. Where its mane and tail were supposed to be, was nothing but a few hairs, dried out and hanging down. It had a unicorn horn, but it was cracked. One of the eyes were missing. The other was milky with a faded iris. Half of its lips were missing, as well.

I turned to gallop back to the house. Forget the shower! My hooves were moving, but I went nowhere. I noticed the blue glow around me. Nico caught me in his magic, embarrassed by my outburst. "She's... still adjusting."

I dared turn around. The monstrosity was staring right at me. It seemed to be smiling, but I couldn't tell. I screamed, again, covering my eyes. Before he could say anything else, I jumped in his hooves and held on for dear life. "Run!" I yelled.

"Gosh, I'm so sorry, hon." It said with a familiar scratchy voice.

Wait, this is... Scratchy?

"S-Sienna, this is Fleece. She's a good friend of mine. She helped me fix you up." Nico said.

Chancing a look, I slowly pulled away from Nico's neck. She smiled a sad smile. I stared at her for a while before I could find the words to say. What else did Nico fail to mention about this awful place?

"Y-You're Fleece? But you're a-a... z-zombie!" I squeaked.

She let out a terrible sounding chuckle. "I guess I do look like a feral." She looked down at herself. "But, I'm a ghoul pony, not a zombie."

"W-what's the difference?" I held onto Nico tighter.

"Well, a ghoul, like me, is dead. However, we still have our wits and personality. We are basically the same as we were before we died, we just look...well, dead. A zombie, or feral ghoul, looks like me, but they are not as civilized. They just wander around, killing anything they get their hooves on. Some weren't always feral, though. Ghouls can turn feral when they have no... spark left. No will to stay sane. They lose their minds, to put it simply." She explained.

I took in that information little by little. It still did not comfort me enough to feel safe. "S-so you aren't going to eat my brains?"

She laughed, again. "Goodness, no! I eat the same foods as you! Actually, I don't have to eat or drink anything. I don't even have to sleep. I just do it to stay as normal as possible. My favorite food is sauteed tomatoes with parsley garnish." She licked what was left of her lips and smiled. "Delicious!"

I couldn't believe it. This pony, er... ghoul, had a hoof in my rescue. I needed a 'Wasteland Surprise Count' scoreboard.

Nico cleared his throat. I realized I was still in his forelegs. We both turned pink in the face. Scampering onto my own hooves, I kept my eyes to the ground. Mostly, so I wouldn't have to look at Scra- I mean, Fleece. I cautiously stepped closer to Nico.

She bowed her head. "I'm deeply sorry for the fright. I know you aren't from here, but I promise I'd rather help ponies than hurt them."

"Fleece wouldn't hurt a soul. Just don't become a thief or murderer." Nico added.

She chuckled. "A thief or murderer would probably have to worry about you more than me."

He smiled, trying to stay humble.

I lowered my head. If she had feelings, I probably offended her with my outburst. She seemed even friendlier than some of the pegasi I knew, back home. "I-I'm sorry." I tried not to stare. "I just... I don't want to be in this place. I don't even like a change of scenery in my house, much less having to stay... here." I gestured around me. "I'm sorry if I offended you."

"Oh, no! It's okay! Really! You're probably one of the best reactions besides indifference I've ever gotten. I've been shot at on multiple occasions." She shook her head and sighed, then shrugged it off. "It's no big deal. It sounds to me like you have a case of chronic panic disorder and anxiety." The ghoul stroked her chin. "Let's see... I bet you have anxiety attacks, shortness of breath, tension headaches. Chest tightness? That's a big one."

I nodded, unsure of where she was going. "Yeeeahh... How did you know all that?"

"Nico didn't tell you? I'm a doctor. Have been since before the war. I actually worked with Fluttershy on a few tough medical cases." She smiled, lost in thought. "She was a saint. I stood by her one-hundred percent. She thought the war was pointless and so did I." She sighed. "Look what became of it." Her eye scanned the horizon with more disappointment than anger.

My hoof reached for my chest. "I didn't know that much about her, just that she was the ministry mare of the Ministry of Peace."

"Nopony knows what happened to her. If I could, I would plant a giant tree in memory of her. Unfortunately, that wouldn't be possible in this infertile version of Tartarus. Anyway, what brings you guys out this way? I was actually on my way to check on you."

"Her highness needs a bath. She kind of reeks." Nico fanned the air in front of him, playfully.

My coat went from white to red with embarrassment. "D-do not!"

He laughed. "Relax. I'm yankin' your tail."

I tried to stab him with my glare.

"Well, Sia, can I call you that? You're welcome to my clinic anytime! I have a room in the back for ponies to bathe and take care of their hygiene, so they don't have to use radiated water. I don't use the room, myself, as radiation has the opposite effect on me." She said.

I nodded, folding my ears back. I didn't mind being called "Sia". It just made me think of my friends.

"Did... did I say something?" Fleece placed a hoof over her chest.

"N-no! It's just... my friends called me Sia. I don't mind, I just miss them so terribly."

"I understand." She calmly stated. I had to listen, but I swore there was a gentle, loving tone there. "I have gained and lost countless good friends and loved ones in my one-hundred and eighty years. Everyone goes through grief at their own pace."

I drooped my ears. That sounded depressing. "How have you been able to cope? I've lost my friends, but I can only imagine how many you have lost. I would probably go ballistic!"

"Really, I never thought about it like that. We come and go. I can rest easy, knowing that even though they left me behind, they are in a better place than this. A paradise with no fighting, no death, and fresh green grass. Like old Equestria. It really doesn't bother me that I'm here. It helps my conscious that I've devoted my years to helping others in need." She gave a sad smile.

"It's good to know you're here, Fleece. I bet you have made life better for so many." I assured her. She smiled, genuinely.

"We'd better head into town. I'm kind of hungry." Nico spoke up.

I rolled my eyes. "Okay, then. I need that shower, anyway."

I walked with the others towards the town, Nico positioned between me and Fleece. I guess it was more for my favor. She seemed friendly. Kind, even. Like her dead heart was made of gold.

On the edge of town, I stopped to look around. The houses and buildings were decently constructed. Wood planks were clearly used for the construction of the entire town. Every building looked the same. Except for one that caught my eye. The enormous structure stood at the opposite end of Floater, looming over the smaller buildings like it was their king. The odd shape was that of a pair of cards. Even though it was the middle of the day (at least, I think it was), the bright lights beamed, producing a soft glow on its surroundings.

"Amazing, isn't it? That something like this would survive the test of time." Nico stepped beside me and shared my gaze at the building.

"What is it? Do ponies live there?" I asked, curiously.

"Depends how bad your gambling addiction is." He joked.

My blank stare made him clear his throat and continue. "It used to be called the Pony Up Hotel and Casino. Even before the town was built, it was here. Fleece said before the war there was a small reservation here, but it was all torn down except for this building. Now, we call it The Beacon, for obvious reasons. It still functions the same. Casino and bar on the bottom floor, and hotels on the rest of the levels. I go once in a blue moon to unwind."

"Oh. Cool." I said, in awe.

"Wanna go?" He nudged my shoulder.

"I... Is it safe? How many ponies go there? Should I have armor?" The questions kept coming from my muzzle.

"It is perfectly safe. Well, I guess there have been a few fights and arguments, but it's to be expected of the old-timers getting drunk and losing a poker game. I doubt you'll need armor" His hoof ran through his mane. "There's usually a small crowd. Especially, once a year at the Wild Formal."

The sound of hoofsteps came up behind us. "Are you guys talking about the Wild Formal? That's tomorrow night." Fleece pointed out.

"Wild... Formal?" I flicked my tail.

"That's tomorrow? Oh, dang. Time flies." Nico whistled, walking into the nearest building. I cantered after him so I wasn't left outside.

"Hey, I have a fun idea! Let's all go together!" She galloped in front of us, blocking us from going through the front door.

I huffed. "Can someone explain this Wild Formal, please?"

"It's an event held every year at The Beacon. Ponies from all over come to gamble, mingle, and have fun. They dress up in pretty dresses and tuxedos. They wear fancy clothes, but you don't have to actually act all uppity. That's why it's called the Wild Formal." She explained, unlocking the door.

Fancy, huh? Wasteland Surprise Count has just increased.

"So...?" She beamed at us. "It'll be fun! I have spare formal wear in storage that I rent out. I could let Nico borrow a tux and Sienna could have a dress! You guys would be so adorable!"

Red flag! Red flag!

"Hold on, Fleece. We really shouldn't-"

"Pleeeeaaaasseeee????" She cut Nico off and put on a pouty face. I tried to hide a giggle.

He puffed his cheeks, sweating. Finally, he let it out with a huge sigh. "As long as Sienna says it's okay."

They looked at me at the same time. Fleece was about to give me the undead pouty face, next.

I gulped. "I... I..."

She took in air, about to release it with the longest "please" I will ever hear, I'm sure. Could she even inhale that much air, anymore?

"Yes! Okay, yes. But, only for a little while and only if I can stay next to Nico the whole time. I... don't know anypony else." I rubbed my chest. He blushed, slightly. This was probably going to be a bad idea.

Fleece's eye grew wide and she bounced with glee. "Woo-hoo! Oh, you are going to love it! If you think the exterior is impressive, you should see the inside of The Beacon! We are gonna dance, and drink, and-"

"I... have never drank." I said, ashamed.

She finally opened the door to her clinic. "First time for everything!"

Discovered Floater

Level Up!
S- 2
P- 3
E- 3(+1)
C- 1
I- 3
A- 3
L- 0

New Perk!
Marathon Novice - Your stamina has a permanent 10% increase.

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

Chapter 5: Building Bridges

"Maybe we got off on the wrong start."

Is there a right and wrong way to meet somepony? So far, I've been pretty unfavorable towards the ponies I've met in the wasteland. Can you blame me? I didn't exactly have a warm welcome when I arrived here. I guess I can't just judge somepony by where they're from or how they look. All I've ever known was if it didn't have wings, don't trust it.

When the clinic door opened, I immediately felt cozy. The waiting room was pretty small. A few chairs scattered here and there, a few paintings on the wall. I knew they were Nico's because I saw his signature on the bottom. A large makeshift desk sat on the opposite end of the waiting area. Stepping inside, I saw the hallway. It was longer than I expected. About five doors were situated throughout the hall. There was also a door at the end of the hall.

"Want to come with me to get food? Or are you just wanting to stay and get your bath, now?" Nico asked, checking his saddle bags.

I looked to Fleece, who had disappeared in one of the back rooms.

He sighed and whispered, "I promise, she is not going to hurt you."

"I guess..."

"And, she will not let any harm come to you, either. She likes you." He added.

I relaxed a little. "I guess I'll stay. I'm still kind of sore." I rotated my shoulder.

"Alright. I'll go find us something good." He nodded and walked back outside, closing the door behind him.

Spotting a dusty mirror on the desk, I tiptoed over to it and peeked at my reflection. My mane and tail were a mess. I was covered from head to hoof in dirt and muck. There were a few spots of dried blood. My bandages were filthy, too. I sighed. I looked like an absolute mess. That bath was going to be great!

"Enjoying Floater, so far?" Fleece said, behind me, making me jump.

Inhaling, slowly, I replied, "It's a nice town. It seems quiet."

Exactly how I like it.

Her pride showed through. "It is such a lovely town. I traveled for years, until I finally decided to settle here."

She told me about some of her travels. About her life before the war. Right when a megaspell hit, she had hid in a closet in one of Fluttershy's clinics outside of Manehatten. We talked about my career, my anxiety, and even about my friends and family. We gossiped about her hobbies and mine. As it turned out, her mother worked with Rarity. I was always a huge fan of the ministry mare. I wanted, more than anything, to have a closet full of her designs!

We lost track of time, so just as I was about to ask where the tub was, Nico walked in, his saddle bags a little wider than usual. "You still haven't taken a bath?"

"Oh, leave her be. We were chatting." Fleece came to my defense.

He rolled his eyes and levitated out a clear container of a sandwich, a clam shell box with a picture of a tiny pink pony eating cake, and finally, paper folded around something. "Okay, so I got a sandwich, their last slice of cake, and a 'veggie' skewer." He said. "You both pick."

I scrunched my muzzle at the cake.

"What? You don't like cake?"

"Not when it's almost two-hundred years old."

He sighed. "Pinkie Pie created this special kind of cake for the soldiers. She made sure to enchant the recipe so it would last while they were in battle. It's fine."

I looked to Fleece, skeptically. She smiled, picking up the sandwich.

I narrowed my eyes and opened it. The smell wafting out was the most amazing combination of confectioneries and vanilla.

I finally took a small bite and carefully chewed. It was great! No, it was the best piece of cake I have ever eaten! The fragrant, strawberry frosting complimented the vanilla sponge cake, so well. I swallowed and dug in, some more, splattering a majority of frosting on my cheeks. I could not get enough of it. I was sad to have bit into the last of it. When I picked my head up, Nico tried to hide his laughter behind his hooves.

"Whah?" I muffled through the mouth full.

"N-nothing." He snorted.

"Just... remember to clean behind your ears. Come, on. I will go start your bath." Fleece spoke up.

I followed her, peeking in the mirror and seeing my face had turned into a strawberry frosting monster. I facehooved, running to catch up with her. We passed the examination rooms and got to the end of the hall. She had to use little force, as the door was so used to opening, it practically opened itself. Upon walking in, I spotted the sink on the wall and a large square bathtub, complete with a shower head. This part of the clinic was cleaner than the rest. It almost looked new!

She turned a nob on the tub and ignited her horn. I didn't think a cracked horn could even work, but there was the soft, red glow of the aura of her magic. Some of the clear water coming from the faucet filtered through the flat, translucent aura. It was coming out of the other side, soapy. "Unfortunately, I don't have any bubble bath, but lucky for you, all unicorn doctors and nurses had to learn a spell which changes water into antibacterial soap." The water definitely had the familiar smell of a medical room.

"I don't mind." I smiled. "I'm just happy soaking in the tub."

She smiled back and finished filling the large bathtub with hot water. I could hear the water heater below us humming. "Okay, let's remove these bandages. The ones covering the worst wounds are enchanted so those injuries should be almost healed. You won't have any scarring, really. Your wing will stay in the splint while you're bathing because it really shouldn't be moved." Her magic activated, again, and the bandages slowly unwrapped. I was asked to remove the disgusting barding, as well so she could get those. I obliged. Once she removed them, I was happy to see she was telling the truth. They were almost completely gone! I didn't even need bandages, anymore. It was nothing but pink marks.

She looked over them. "These will heal up nicely. No more wrappings needed! I'll dispose of these and go grab you a towel. I'll set it on the sink for you. When you're done, let me know and I will take care of the cleaning."

Nodding, I watched her leave and close the door behind her. I stuck a hoof in the tub and felt the amazing sensation of a spa. Careful not to splash and make a mess, I tiptoed in. I let out a sigh as my body sunk under the water. I scrubbed my mane and face, then leaned back on the rubber pillow. My sore wing went numb as the warmth calmed my aching muscles and bones. It was so therapeutic!

Too bad I was alone with my thoughts.

My mind wandered as I stared at the ceiling. The first thought was of my grandparents. I couldn't wait to see them, again. I'd have to tell them everything, for sure. Grandma would press me to tell her the truth. I think she always worried about my psyche. She's the one who pressed me to go to a psychiatrist. PopPop was different. He said I didn't need any "quacks" and that I was mentally strong enough to get through it. I thought I disappointed him for the longest time, but he always told me I could never disappoint him. I still remember their smiling faces at the Enclave boot camp graduation ceremony. They cheered the loudest in the crowd.

"Hush now, quiet now..."

I began singing the lullaby she sang to me as a foal. Or was it my mother? I couldn't remember. I barely remembered my parents. It was all a blur. Part of me wondered if they were here. Another part wondered if they were just... gone. A tear escaped my eye. Unknowingly, I dozed off. I had probably been in the water almost an hour. As it cooled, I decided it was time to get out. Grudgingly, I stood up and let the water run off my wings. I took the towel from the sink (when had that got there?) and patted my fur dry, being gentle around the tender scars. Lastly, I wrapped the towel in my mane. I could see my cutie mark, at least!

After ruffling my mane with the towel, I threw it into a hamper next to the door. The splint on my bad wing was water-logged, so I went to ask Fleece if she could change it. I emerged from the corridor and back into the waiting room. Nopony was here tonight, it seemed. Fleece waited at her desk, reading a book. Nico napped on the larger chair next to her. I guess he fell asleep waiting for me.

"Sorry I took so long." I said, sheepishly.

Fleece looked up and smiled. "That's okay! You're all squeaky clean, now! Let's change the splint on your wing." She closed her book and grabbed the supplies from her desk drawer. Using magic, she took off the splint and bandage. My wing was definitely still sore when it was moved. I winced.

"You are going to look beautiful in a dress! I'll try to wrap the appendage as neat as possible." I winced again as she set the splint and began wrapping. "Sorry, love. The ligaments are still healing. It will be at least a few more days. I've fixed as much as I could with magic, now it's up to your body to do the rest. The process is has been sped up, thanks to these bandages."

"I thought unicorns could learn mending spells that instantly healed?" I asked, curiously.

"Well, It depends on the body part and what type of break. I could mend a broken leg in no time. I mended your ribs, too. They're probably still tender, but they are completely healed. I know this anatomy. However, I've hardly ever worked with a pegasus' wings. They are mostly made of ligaments and joints. Don't worry, you will definitely be able to fly, again." She informed me.

"Phew." I wiped my brow in exaggeration.

She finished the wrap. "All set! Just take care of those precious wings."

I nodded and yawned. "Thank you, Fleece. I guess I'll wake up that oaf. I'm getting tired."

"It's getting late. You can stay here, if you want. A couple of rooms are available, if you don't mind the doctor decor." She chuckled.

It couldn't hurt. I really didn't want to spend half the night walking. I also would hate to ruin my nice, clean coat. Danger probably flourished at night, too. "That sounds good. The Wild... Formal.... is tomorrow, anyway and I doubt I could handle another walk. My hooves are killing me!" I shook a hoof in front of me.

"Great! Just pick any room and enjoy your stay! Let me know if you need anything. I'll be in here reading or fixing up patients. It has been pretty quiet today. I figured the ponies of Floater are waiting until after hours to begin their... dangerous shenanigans." She shook her head with that smile.

"Okay. Good night. Thank you, so much, for everything. I-I don't know how I'll ever pay you back for all that you've done." I drooped.

She laughed. "That's the first time I've ever heard somepony try to pay me back. Normally they avoid that conversation like the plague. Don't worry about it, hon. Sleep well." With that, she went back to her desk and opened her book, again.

I found the room and locked the door. Just in case! I ignored the equipment, pulling the white blanket over my head. Yawning, I tried to fluff the flat hospital pillow. This bed wasn't as comfortable as Nico's, but I couldn't complain. I did sleep in the mud my first night here, after all. Sleep was really the only thing I cared about, right now. That, and getting home.

I didn't dream, thankfully. I was, however, awakened by voices in the next room.

"Well, you shouldn't be playing with fire, ya crybaby." Fleece scowled. I wondered if she was talking to Nico. I stretched and hopped down off the bed. Unlocking the door, I peeked out before opening it completely. Nico stood in the doorway of the room next to mine. He wore a grin on his face.

"What's going on?" I asked.

"Weights, here, burned his flank last night and waited until this morning to come get the burns treated." He snickered.

I lowered my head and hid myself as I looked inside. I had to kind of hold back a grin, myself. A buff, blue stallion lay on his belly as Fleece applied an ointment. The body builder's tail had scorch marks where it should have been longer. His face was twisted in pain, holding back a cry.

Fleece saw me. "Good morning, Sia. Sorry if we woke you." She said, unrolling some gauze.

"I-it's fine." I said. "It sounded like somepony was in pain, so I came to see if you need my help."

"I have everything under control. It's just a minor burn, nothing too serious." She replied, focusing on her work. The gauze was halfway on before Weights noticed me standing there and turned his flank away from me.

"Pain?" He guffawed. "I am the reason pain hurts! Pain is how I relax! Pain is-" He let out a mare-like scream when Fleece patted the wrapping down. I hid my grin.

When Fleece finished, he got up and sauntered over to me, tears still in his eyes. I gulped. This guy was massive. His confidence oozed as he looked down and smiled at me. I gulped, rubbing my chest. I almost ran, until he grabbed my hoof and brought it to his lips. "M'lady. My name is Tonno Weights. Yes, my parents had a terrible sense of humor." I looked on, dumbfounded.

"I don't think she's into you, dummy." Fleece laughed.

He glared at her, letting me pry my hoof out of his. "Aw, Doc, you don't have to ruin these things." He turned back to me. "So, do you have a date to the Wild Formal, tonight?"

Before I could speak, Fleece stepped next to him. "This fine gentlecolt has already claimed her." She gestured to Nico, whose eyes were wide and his face was red.

"But, I thought-"

She cut me off that time. "Therefore....She's taken, already."

Weights slumped. "Damn it, you lucky bastard, Nicky Boy." He whispered in my ear. "Let me know if this guy drops you. I'll be there to pick you up." He winked and trotted out.

The three of us went into the waiting room. I sat next to Fleece's desk while she wrote down a payment reminder. Nico leaned on the desk, face still red. "So..." He cleared his throat. "You could have told him the three of us were going instead of... that." He sighed and shook off the embarrassed demeanor.

"Technically, I'm not wrong. I just didn't mention that I'm part of the date." She winked at us. "Besides, Sia looked uncomfortable. I had to get rid of him."

My red cheeks puffed out. "I have never and never will go on a date. Especially, not with him." I pointed to Nico.

He rolled his eyes. "Like I would date a mare like you, anyway."

I turned my nose up. "Hmph. At least I'm decent enough to catch somepony's eye."

"So?" He said, sipping water from a canteen.

I stayed silent. Fleece shook her head, facehoofing. I wasn't considered a model, by any means. A small part of me liked the attention. Nopony ever flirted with me back home. I was just... there.

"What? I just figured it happened often for you. So, you got a compliment. You probably do all the time." He shrugged.

I grinned, slyly. "Ah, you assume I get compliments because you think I'm attractive?"

Nico's eyes bulged as he choked on the water. His whole face turned redder. "I... I-uh..."

Gotcha!

"Hey, Nico, could you go to Ma's place and pick me up some more syringe needles?" Fleece saved him. "Sienna can go with you"

He sighed, in relief. "Of course."

We didn't speak on the way there. Mostly to avoid any confrontation.

She gave him a bag of bottle caps (weird) and we were on our way. I didn't even bother to put that stupid barding on. It's not like we were going far, anyway. We strolled down the dusty street, passing a few other ponies. All of them gave the friendliest smiles and greetings. How they could be so cheerful down here was beyond me. It didn't take but a few minutes to reach the center of town. Right between two buildings, sat a shack. I had missed this building at first, it was hidden so well. It was run down, having been repaired over and over.

"Here we go. Ma's." He spoke up. "It's not much but Ma has almost anything you need. She gets a lot of it from a ghoul down in New Apploosa."

"Why do they call her 'Ma'?" I asked.

"She gave birth twenty-eight times."

"Whoah! Where are her children? Shouldn't there be a lot of them running around out here?" I looked around.

He thought a moment. "I supposed they'd all be grown, by now. This was before I was even born when she had her first set of twins. They all just went their separate ways, I guess. "Let's go in."

I followed him onto the porch, then through the door. As it swung open, a loud bell dinged. The shop wasn't big at all. Probably half the size of the clinic. Shelves stocked dusty old books, clothes, and different things. A sign read, "Ask about my ammo!" Behind the counter, an old mare who looked about a hundred napped in a rocking chair. Her white mane and tail were braided. Her magenta coat was thinning. A pair of glasses rested on her nose. Her snoring could have woke a dragon.

Nico tapped the counter. "Hey, Ma. How are you?"

She jumped up with a loud snort. "Huh?! Wha-?!" Fixing her glasses, she squinted and looked at Nico. "Nico, ye little bastard. How are ye?"

"I'm great, Ma. How are you?"

Ma coughed and grunted as she, very slowly, stood. "Good. Fackin' great. We're livin' in a dusty old bowl o' shit. How do ya think I am?" She looked over at me. "Well, well. Ya got yerself a yung'un. She's one o' them cloud hoppers. What are ya tryin' t'do with her?"

He furrowed his brow. "Ma, this is Sienna. She is a new friend."

"Friend. Yeah, I c'n see that from the way yer blushin'. If you were one o' mah bastards I'da whipped yer ass 'til ya got some sense. T'ain't right ye gotta go an' break all these lil' fillies' hearts."

He quickly shushed her. "Fleece sent me for some syringe needles!"

The old mare licked her lips and grumbled. "Damn, old hag. If I had a cap every time she came in here.... Well, I'll be." She cackled. "I reckon I do get caps when she comes in here. I can't remember nothin', no more. That's like the time I went to the restroom and forgot to wipe my-"

"Please! Ma! I just need those syringes." I laughed at Nico's torment.

"Oh, yeah. Alright. Go on back and grab'em. They're in tha usual place. Just leave the caps in mah safe." With that, she nodded off back to sleep.

He groaned and walked behind her chair and opened the door. It didn't take long for him to emerge with a medical box. "Ready?" When he saw me trying to hide a laugh, he straightened his mouth and walked ahead. Outside, I let out my giggles. He facehoofed. "Ma is something else."

I wiped a tear. "That, she is. She seems sweet though."

"I guess. At least she remembered my name, this time." He chuckled.

Once we dropped the syringes off at Fleece's, we walked around town to pass the time. We visited more shops, Nico bought more ammo, and we even got some food from a little stand. I didn't know what "mystery stew" was, but it was pretty good. It turns out, Floater didn't really have a mayor. When important decisions were made, the shopkeepers and Fleece came together and agreed on what needed to be done. I guess they had no interest in politics. Strange, but I imagine it kept the peace.

Late afternoon, we decided to head back and get ready for the Wild Formal. Nico's saddlebags were filled with various trade goods. As soon as we opened the door to the clinic, Fleece stood tapping her hoof. "Finally! The Formal is in a couple of hours! We've no time to waste! Nico, the blazers I have for you are in the second to last closet."

"Yes, Mother." He said, sarcastically.

She ignored him and grabbed my hoof, pulling me to the back of the clinic. There was a room next to where I took my bath. This room had clothing, trinkets, and all sorts of antiques. Kind of like a storage room. There was a small bed in the corner. I assume it was where Fleece rested. She scurried to the rack full of clothes and pulled out a purple and black dress, setting it on the coffee table. The dress had a purple undercoat and black lace covering the rest of it.

"That's lovely!" I admired it.

"Thank you! It's the dress I wear every year. It was given to me long ago by a dear friend." She paused to look over it, then went back to rummaging. "But, I have a few here that you may just adore."

She floated three more dresses between us. "Time to play dress up!" She grinned.

The first dress I tried on was red and black. Red sequins lined the chest area while black fabric trailed down the back. I turned once and smiled. Fleece pondered a moment then shook her head. "Nah." She helped me take it off and hoofed me the second. This one was a brilliant pink. It was a little poofy. Instantly, she shook her head.

The last dress was absolutely beautiful! It was creamy white with a soft, green trim that flowed, barely reaching the floor. It wasn't poofy, but snug. A sash was placed over my left shoulder and chest, the same color as the trim. Small, elegant designs were embroidered into the sash. It even had holes for my wings!

Fleece stomped her hoof in approval. "Perfect! Absolutely stunning! You're gonna knock'em dead, for sure!"

I blushed. "I-I don't know..."

"You're going to have fun! Everypony needs to let loose once in a while." She said as she went to work on my mane and tail, curling them. "Nico will love it!"

"You know he isn't my... type. Actually, I'm not interested in any sort of romance..." I trailed off.

She finished up my mane, setting the style with bobby pins and an emerald encrusted clip. "Well, I don't blame you. Given your unfortunate situation... But I do think we need friends, though. Especially, Nico." Her ears drooped.

"Why is he so..."

"Mysterious?" She finished my question. "That's Nico for you. Since he lost his dad, he's had this idea that nopony knows Nico except Nico. He really is a great guy, just tends to hide his feelings. I've known him for years and not once had he refused to help somepony else."

Wow. He has feelings?

Fleece touched up my face with some of the makeup she had stored. She gave me a smokey eye look, complete with the tiniest hint of blush. The shadow went great with my eye shape. I almost wondered if she had priceless artifacts buried in all her junk, though. There was no telling how much any of it was worth.

"Gorgeous! Now, for the cherry on top! I want you to have something. I found it in an old ministry building last year, along with these dresses and the makeup. I think it was a MoI office. Lucky for me, it was so radiated, no normal pony could get in to loot around." She floated a small, wooden box to me.

"No, Fleece. I can't possibly take anything else from you. Really, I...." I tried to shove the box back to her, but she pushed back.

"I insist! It's never been worn, and you seem to take these things to heart. Think of it as a symbol to our new friendship." She smiled, warmly, opening the box and floating out the most wondrous piece of jewelry I have ever seen. A glimmering emerald hung loosely at the end of a polished, silver chain. I stared in awe. She fastened it around my neck. I could have sworn I saw it glow a little bit and dim back down.

Fleece sighed, staring at me. "You are ready! And you are so beautiful."

I smiled, feeling a tear form. Without thinking, I wrapped my hooves around her. "Thank you so much, Fleece. You're such a great friend. I wish you could have met my other friends."

She squeezed me with her squishy body and sniffed. "I know, love. Just know, they are watching over you. Now, let's go have some fun and forget about the dangers of the wasteland!"

She threw her dress on and walked with me into the waiting room. Nico sat on his haunches, looking out of the window. He wore a black tuxedo and had combed down his mane. He cleaned up quite nicely, actually. Fleece nudged me forward. "Ahem. What do you think, Nico? Our friend makes quite a catch, don't you think?"

"Finally!" He stood. "What's up with mares and... a-and..." He stopped talking when he saw me and stared wide-eyed.

"It's my mane, isn't it?" I asked, looking down. I always thought I looked silly when I tried to dress formally.

"N-no! It's fine!I mean, y-you're fine! Er..." He stammered, trying to loosen his bow tie.

I rubbed my chest, clearing my throat. "Y-you look quite handsome, yourself."

He mimicked my shade of red. "Th-thank you."

"Well? Isn't she... pretty?" Fleece nonchalantly scooted him closer to me.

I saw sweat forming on his mane line as he scratched the back of his neck. "Pretty is... an understatement."

I, unknowingly, batted my eyelashes. What the hell, Sienna?

"I'm so excited! Let's go!" Fleece bounded out the front door. I chuckled and trotted after her. I noticed Nico wasn't with us, so I turned. He was still standing in the same spot, staring at me.

"Nico? Are... are you coming?" I said.

"Oh! Yes! I am on my way!" He shambled over, and held the door open. "After you."

Walking along the broken sidewalk, I kept my head low. It was mostly out of habit, but I was also feeling embarrassed. I wasn't used to dressing up. I was also feeling guilty. This wasteland takes lives everyday, yet I'm vacationing in Floater. This was just all too good to be true. I half expected the building to catch fire or something.

Looking up at Nico, I saw he quickly cast his gaze away. He shouldn't have made fun of me! Now, it's pay back time!

"So, what do you really think?" I asked.

He glanced back at me. "Well, I would say beautiful, but I don't want you to think I'm making a move or anything, princess." He smirked, but I still saw the sweat.

I rolled my eyes. "Please, don't call me that. And thank you."

He laughed a little. "What about me? Smashing, don't you think?"

"Oh, yes. Why aren't the mares flocking over here?"

We shared a laugh as we continued on. Fleece met us at the large awning above the double doors. I gestured for her to go on without us. I wanted to speak to Nico and let him know what was on my mind. I faced him. "Nico, I wanted to tell you that, all jokes aside, I really do appreciate what you guys have done for me. I owe you my life." I looked down. "I-I'm still not sure if I can fully trust you, but I do want to try. You and Fleece are all I have, now. Thank you. For everything, I mean. It means a lot to me. I hope I can find a way to see you once in a while when I go back home."

For a few seconds, he stayed silent. Then, he spoke. "It's not a problem. I'm glad I found you and was able to help. I-I hope you can come visit, as well."

I smiled up at him and finally gave him a peck on his cheek. It was the least I could do.

He rubbed the cheek, turning red. "I thought you didn't like us, 'ground-walkers'."

"Well, you're kind of growing on me." I winked. "Now, come on!" I started walking towards the open doors.

Through the golden, decorated doors, was an amazing sight to behold. Seemingly couth ponies were all over the place. Though, they didn't act very polished. They played card games at tables, drank, and even danced. In the middle of the huge bottom floor, was a bar. The marble counter was almost as long as a small house is, wide. Black stools lined it and the neon signs hung above it read, "Glimmer Lounge". The rest of the floor was covered in machines (I now know as "slots") and poker tables. The walls were covered in lights. The floor, surprisingly, clean. To the right of the bar was a large dance floor, lit up by the color-changing tiles underneath the dancing ponies. The DJ booth and stage were also brightly lit. Everything in the building was in remarkable shape, despite its age. I had never seen anything like this. Not even in books!

I heard Nico, behind me. "So, what do you want to do first?"

I scanned the floor. "I-I guess I could try that card game." I pointed to the tables.

"Poker? Do you know how to play?"

I shook my head. "Can you teach me?"

"Sure. Follow me. I'll explain while we get the chips." He nodded his head towards a desk. He explained the rules of the game while we received our multicolored, round tokens. While I played, he was going to watch me. Gambling wasn't really something I did. I don't even think I had ever played anything besides Go Fish. Chaser was the gambler. He would invite me to races where he would bet most of his money on one pony. He mostly lost.

"Alright, sit here." Nico pulled out a small stool for me to sit. Besides me, there were three other ponies at the green table. Two were middle aged stallions with cigars and the other was a young mare. The dealer passed out five cards to each of us. I placed a chip in the area called the "pot". Sneaking a glance at the other players, I watched them put cards down and get more. My good eye for detail allowed me to study them and learn their "poker faces". A few rounds in, I turned and smirked at Nico, who looked on with concern. I had this in the bag!

"Bets." The dealer ordered.

I raised the ante, getting a few glares from the mare and one of the stallions.

"Fold."

The last stallion grinned as he matched the ante. He threw his cards down. "Flush!"

Just as he reached for the chips, I held my hoof up. Everything went still as I stared at the old buck. Finally, I threw my cards and blurted, "Four aces!" Everypony gasped, or stared with dinner plate eyes. I cackled as I scooped up my winnings. "Nico, my guy, put those in a bag, would you?"

He quickly grabbed them and stuffed them in a pouch. As I trotted off, he caught me. I turned and spotted the cocky stallion stomping on his hat and swearing. The others simply glared. I gulped and chuckled, nervously. Nico grabbed my hoof and speed-walked in the direction towards the desk where we got our chips. "Er... Let's cash these and get something to drink."

I had won seven thousand caps (which, honestly, I had no idea what the worth was). It was actually... fun! As we side-winded through the crowd, I noticed I was seemingly the only pegasus. I got a few stares, but mostly out of curiosity. I even got complimented on my wings by a mare in an extremely tall hat. Half of the ponies here were acting like wild animals on the dance floor. A part of me wondered if any were raiders. So, I kept close to Nico.

"Hey! I saved you guys a seat!" I heard Fleece yell above the ambience. She waved at us from the middle of the bar. A bartender stood in front of her, wearing a black and white blazer.

"Fleece!" I called, galloping towards her.

We sat down at the bar with me in the middle of them. You know, for protection. I told her about my poker game as she sipped on a colorful drink with a tiny umbrella. Nico ordered a type of whiskey called "Wild Pegasus" and two shot glasses. The barpony brought the bottle over and the glasses. Nico filled them with the amber liquid and set one in front of me. I stared at it.

"What's wrong? Never had whiskey, before?" He asked, smugly. He downed his shot in one gulp.

"I-I don't drink. I never have and I doubt it's a good idea." I left out the part where I didn't want to be in a cloudy state in this place.

"Really? Wow, I thought you liked fun." He jeered.

"Hush, Nico. There's a first time for everything! You'll be fine! I'm a doctor, remember?" She chuckled. "It wouldn't hurt to try it." Fleece said, smiling.

I gulped and gazed at the menacing liquid. Picking it up with my hooves, I sniffed it. The strong smell made me cover my nostrils with my good wing. It didn't smell bad, it was just surprising, is all. Looking back at Nico, he snickered and nodded to the whiskey. Finally, I took a deep breath and quickly threw it back. The warmth in my gut was immediate. It felt good. It felt... great!

"What do you think?" Fleece asked.

I put the glass down and tapped the counter. "I think one more couldn't hurt."

She laughed. "Looks like we have dragged you from your comfort zone."

An hour and a half later, I felt a little tipsy. As Nico kept pouring, I kept drinking. We laughed and talked until I could barely get my words right. Oh, I felt amazing! I had so much confidence, I felt like I was on top of the world! I wasn't afraid of anything in that moment. Needless to say, I had the time of my life. I found myself flirting with the barpony at one time. I guess he was used to that, because he only stayed silent as I made a fool of myself. It was okay, though. I was having fun!

"Mares and gentlecolts!" I heard a mare's voice at the DJ turn table. I twisted my neck to get a glimpse of what was going on. A neon green mare stood on the stage wearing piercings and sunglasses. "Boom, here! It's time to enjoy this hit music all the way from Jamaicolt! You know him, you love him: Rhythm Song!"

Cheers erupted from the dance floor as a dark brown unicorn stallion emerged onto the stage as rhythmic music began to play. His gray mane was almost silver, but he didn't look old. He looked about Nico's age. His beard matched his mane in style, seemingly just awakening. I couldn't see his eyes behind the dark sunglasses. What was up with these ponies wearing sunglasses with no sun?

I hopped off the stool and stumbled towards the dance floor. I felt like dancing!

"Hey! Wait for me!" Fleece called after me.

I didn't wait. I fought through the crowd as I heard Rhythm start to sing.

"Yeah, come on, ladies!
I see you on the dance floor!
Please, don't walk out that door!
Don't understand why you're here with that buck.
That look in your eyes, ambitious.
I promise I'm not scandalous!"

I finally got to the front of the stage. Fleece caught up and was saying something, but I couldn't hear her. My body started moving to the beat and I couldn't stop. I grabbed Fleece and forced her to dance with me. Eventually, she gave in and joined me. We danced, clumsily and laughed until we could barely stand.

"Looks like we got a fly, young filly on the dance floor!" Rhythm Song pointed to me.

I giggled, stupidly.

"Let's see how you get down, baby!" He yelled into the microphone, pulling his sunglasses up and winking at me.

After a while, the hip singer was finished with his performance. With another wink to me, he disappeared behind the curtain. Sweat fell form my forehead as I panted and giggled some more. Fleece laughed at my messy mane. "Well, your mane was perfect!" She pulled me away from the stage. "That was so much fun! I think I need to get back to the clinic, though. I don't like to be away for too long." She said.

I nodded. "Okay. I want to- hic- dance for a little longer."

She smiled and walked towards the bar, I guess to let Nico know she was leaving.

I tapped my hoof, waiting for another fast paced song. The DJ booth had slow jams playing, now. I hated slow songs.

"What's wrong, princess?" I turned and saw Nico standing behind me. I guess we went from the "Terrific Trio" to the "Dynamic Duo". When he saw my messy mane, he stifled a small laugh. "You look like you're having a good time."

I nodded. "I was, until they started playing these stupid slow songs."

"Well, some ponies like to slow dance."

"Do you?"

He flattened his ears. "I don't consider it a favorite activity of mine."

I took a shot from a nearby tray and downed it. It wasn't whiskey, but I didn't care. I wasn't letting this buzz go!

"You are going to have a nasty hangover in the morning." He pointed out.

I rolled my eyes. "After what I- hic- went through recently, a little headache isn't going to be much. So, are you going to ask me to dance?"

He blushed. "I think you've had too many."

"Non-hic-sense!" I swayed and carefully placed my hoof on his face.

After an awkward moment, he sighed. "Fine. Just one song, then we are getting you to bed. I got us a room so we don't have to walk far."

I grinned as he stood on his hind legs and held a hoof to me. I took it and he pulled me into him, holding my waist. I followed his lead, trying not to stumble. We waltzed around the floor with the other couples. The song playing had a bit of a romantic vibe. I lay my head on his chest, sleepily. "So... warm." I slurred.

"Are... you sure you want to finish the song?" He asked, quietly.

"Yes." I jerked my head up and saw him turn red again.

"S-so, I guess you are still having fun, right?" He said, nervously.

I nodded. "I'm so glad we got to come tonight. Even though Fleece had to leave. Still, I don't think I've ever had this much fun."

One. Two. Three. He could really dance!

He smiled, gazing into my eyes. "I... didn't notice you had green eyes."

"I always wished they were blue." I said, matter-of-factly.

Shaking his head, he pulled me even closer to where I could feel his breath on my muzzle. "They're... like pools of emeralds. More beautiful than even your necklace."

I did not expect that. How cheesy! Man, those pick up lines do work!

"Y-you don't mean that." I shied away.

"I do, actually. I don't see a lot of green eyes. They suit you." He said. His own dark blue iris' gleamed in the spotlights. They were so...

Keep. It. Together. Lieutenant!

I couldn't speak, just listen to the rest of the song as we twirled and stepped. The whiskey was amazing, but I didn't like this... extra closeness it made me want. This was the closest I had ever been to a stallion and I, honestly, was okay with it. Considering all things, the romantic compliments were almost enough to make my heart flutter. I had to hold back as my head spun more than my body. There was no telling what he was really up to. The possibility of him trying to get under my dress was just about to make me say something, until he twirled me and held my back as I leaned backwards to end the dance. There went that anger.

I giggled. "Does the song have to be over?"

"Unfortun- I mean, yes. We better get out of here. It's getting late. We can get our things from Fleece tomorrow." He hurriedly urged me towards an elevator.

I stumbled and fell over my hooves. He rolled his eyes, helping me to walk the rest of the way. The journey to the room was a blur. I know the elevator was a little rickety, and that there were about three others in the elevator staring at me as I laughed. We finally made it to the room. Once the door was open, I noticed the sweet, clean smell. There were a couple of noticeable stains, but whoever cleaned tried to hide it the best they could. There were two beds, a closet, a desk, and another door to a small bathroom.

"Tonight was awesome!" I trotted to the middle of the room, clopping my hooves.

"Yeah, but I think it's time for you to sleep it off. You are more diverse than usual." He started to take off his tux, exposing his torso.

"You know, you're-hic- kinda hot."

He facehooved. "Thus, proving my point. You really need to sleep." He said, lying back on the bed closest to the door.

I carefully pulled my dress off, lying it on the desk.

Once I climbed in the other bed, sleep pulled me in. I would probably regret drinking the next morning, but that was deepest sleep I had ever had. It only took a second for me to open my eyes to day light. A few seconds after I woke, I felt the crashing, pounding pain of a headache. I buried my face deeper into my pillow and groaned.

This hotel has some warm pillows. The fur on them is... Wait, fur?!

My eyes flew open and I jumped up. There, with his foreleg around me, was Nico. I was no longer in my bed, but his. I screamed and staggered backwards, falling to the floor. He jolted awake. "What?! What happened?!"

"Why am I in bed with you?!" I said, instinctively covering myself.

He relaxed. "Shit, you almost gave me a heart attack! I figured this would happen."

"Y-you violated me in my blackout!" I accentuated the word "blackout".

He rolled his eyes. "No, I didn't. You got up in the middle of the night and climbed in bed with me. I tried to put you back in yours but you kept coming back. I tried to sleep on the far side of the bed, too, but you weren't having that, either."

"Liar!"

"I swear, Sia. Even if I wanted to, I would never disrespect a mare when she's out of it. And believe me, you were out of it." He opposed.

I squinted my eyes. "I'm watching you."

"I know. You think I'm hot, so you gotta keep your eyes on me, huh?" That dumb smirk!

I scoffed. "Whatever!" I grabbed my pounding head, trying not to throw up. "Ugh. Is this the dreaded hangover?"

He stood and stretched. "How about you wait here while I go find us a bite to eat. Maybe it'll help with that."

I wasn't hungry, but I nodded as he grabbed our bag of caps and walked out. As soon as the door shut, I put the pillow over my face and screamed. He better not have touched me! I threw the pillow off my face and turned away from the extremely bright window. I just had to trust what he said. It would drive me crazy if I didn't.

Suddenly, a shadow flew across the room. I twisted my ears to the soft clop of hoofsteps. A hooded figure stood at the edge of the bed. I couldn't see their face, only the dark colored cloak over them. I tried to scoot further away, but my back hit the headboard. "Wh-who are you?"

The figure didn't answer. It simply walked towards me, menacingly. I had no choice but to try to fight. Ignoring the pressure in my chest, I staggered off the bed. They stepped even closer at a slow pace. I got into an attack stance, ready to throw as many punches as I could, but whoever was under the cloak just stopped in front of me, unfazed. I glared, trying to listen for breathing. I couldn't even hear it breathe! Finally, the figure quickly pushed me down, catching me off guard. The high pitched grunt sounded female. I tried to stand back up, but she placed a hoof on my bad wing. I hissed in pain. Then, she pulled out a rag and held it to my nose. It smelled like a strong chemical.

"Why... are you..." I suddenly became dizzy. Struggling to stay awake, I heard the pony snicker.

Then, everything went black.

Discovered The Beacon

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world! As always, constructive criticism is always welcome! Any mistakes you may find, please let me know!

Chapter 6: Hope

"Sometimes, all we can do is wait and hope for the best."

Fear. Everypony has it at some time or another. Some may show it, others refuse to acknowledge it. It doesn't matter if you're a filly hiding from the monster under your bed, or if you're a full grown stallion about to fight a battle. Fear is fear. It can be a daily struggle for ponies like me. Being scared of your own shadow sounds farfetched, but it is something I have to live with. Can it make you? Yes. Can it break you? Absolutely. That's why the strongest of ponies can fail. Bravery may be important, but even if you don't have it, it makes you no less of a pony. Besides, didn't Pinkie Pie teach us to laugh at what frightens us?

I slowly regained consciousness. I don't know how long I was out. It felt like only minutes, though. Dreariness settled in my mind as I rolled my head to my shoulder. I realized I was sitting up. I also noticed something was covering my eyes. My stomach turned and my head still hurt.

Where am I? That cloaked pony! She must have kidnapped me! Oh, Celestia, she was a raider or slaver, or... or just plain evil!

Panicking, my stomach couldn't take anymore. I leaned over and vomited. I started shivering as the bile left a horrible taste in my mouth.

"Welcome, Sienna." A mare's voice came from somewhere in the room. She sounded like she was middle aged.

"Wh-who are you? How do you know my name?" I asked through gritted teeth.

"You may call me Hope. I can assure you, I'm no enemy. As for how I know you? Well, I've known you for years." She was calm and... oddly soothing?

I coughed. My chest was really hurting. "Y-you will regret holding hostage an officer of the Enclave! I-I will..."

"Yes. First Lieutenant, correct? Your parents must be so proud." Her voice echoed in the room, through my ears.

I stayed silent for a second, before I dropped my head down. "My parents are dead." I said quietly.

"Are they?" I could hear her hoofsteps. She was circling the chair I was restrained in. The straps were on too tight. "Is that what those liars told you?" Her voice was full of venom, now

"Do not insult my place of order!" I barked. I could feel my anger rising.

She chuckled. "You poor, poor dear. You really have been there your entire life." Her laugh suddenly stopped. "They do nothing but tell lies. Their selfishness has gotten them targeted by almost everyone. Their behavior will not go unpunished. That's why you're here." If she was waiting for a response, she didn't get it. Whatever she needed me for, I wasn't about to take part in it. "The necklace your... ghoul friend gave you. Do you know what it is?"

I stayed silent.

"It contains an emerald that will show us the way to a very powerful magic." She informed.

Before she continued, I blurted, "She's my friend! You won't get your hooves on it!"

She tisked. "As much as I'd love to take it, it would be of no use to me, anymore." She jammed her hoof in my chest. "Because you put it on, you are now the only one who can use it. Therefore, I need you to find the rainbow pearls and bring them to me."

"R-rainbow...pearls?" I questioned.

"Indeed. A very powerful magic lies in them. No one knows much about them or where they came from. Only that the Princess had them locked away somewhere. The jewel is the only way to locate them. Something inside of it knows where they are."

"Why am I the only one who can use it?" I asked.

Her hoof slammed on wood. "Because the jewel is now connected to your soul!" She calmed. "Thanks to your friend, it was taken from its hiding place before I was ready for my plans." Everything went still. The only sound came from my rugged breathing.

I didn't like this at all. "I'm not doing anything for you."

I knew she was smiling from the tone of her voice. "You will. Tell me, how many raiders would it take to destroy the quaint, little town of Floater? How many more would it take to destroy your little coltfriend's cozy home?"

What?! She couldn't do this! I-I couldn't live with myself if something happened to them all! My lungs began to burn, again. Whatever was wrong with me, it wasn't good.

"Y-You better not hurt them! I'll... I'll kill you!" I coughed.

"Do we have a deal?" She purred.

I quit struggling and hung my head. My sobbing grew uncontrollable. What else could I do? She had my new friends above my head. Their fate was in my hooves. What if I failed, though? I was only one pony! I probably wouldn't even survive. But I couldn't just let them die. I decided I had no choice.

With tears streaming down my face, I nodded in defeat. "You get them, and you don't harm anyone."

Hope snickered. "Excellent." She then clamped something metal around my left foreleg. "Using this Pipbuck, contact me once you find them. I will send a location to the map on the device. We will be waiting, patiently, for your response. I've also set a timer. For my convenience, of course. If you fail to deliver before time is up, your friends will be vanquished." Her hoofsteps began walking away from me. "Oh! One more thing. If you try to evacuate the town, I will know. And you don't want to do that. I'll be watching you, my dear Sienna."

"Wait!" I coughed, again. "Where should... I start looking?"

"I'm sure the necklace will let you know." She said, coldly. I tried to get away as a cloth was tied around my face. The chemical was so overbearing. It filled my lungs, making me gasp for air and immediately pass out. She was a savage! A monster! Why was she doing this?

My dreams were haunted by screams and explosions as Wick, Chaser, Nico, Fleece, and so many other ponies were buried by rubble. I tried to yell to them, but I couldn't speak. I was lying down, chained to the dirt, useless. Just as I was about to close my eyes, a blinding light appeared above me. A beam of blue magic shot towards the frightening scene before me, making it disappear. I gasped. My friends were okay! They were standing around, confused, but unharmed. I shed more tears of relief. I looked up to the light and smiled, thanking the mysterious aura. The light then became brighter and brighter. I had to close my eyes, it was so blinding. Before it became unbearable, I fell into darkness, then, I was on my back.

I didn't know how long I was out, but when I came to, my nervous system sent waves of pain throughout my body. It hurt to breathe, my head was pounding, and I ached everywhere else. My eyes fluttered open, weakly. Gaining focus, I noticed the sterile environment of a hospital room. A curtain hung over the window, so I couldn't tell if it was day or night. Some equipment stood next to the bed, beeping and monitoring my vitals.

One hundred and sixty years and it still worked? Wow.

I suddenly remembered Hope. Checking to make sure it wasn't all a dream, I lifted my hoof to see if the Pipbuck was really there. There it was. A frowning pony with it's upper torso highlighted, showing damage. I began to panic. My chest burned horribly as I gasped for air and coughed uncontrollably. I heard hoofsteps galloping through the hall and into my room. My ghoul friend rushed to the bedside. I was extremely happy to see her!

"Sienna! Are you okay?" Her horn ignited as she scanned my torso.

"N-no...Lungs burning!" I breathed, feeling the congestion. I was so hoarse I could barely get those words out.

"Hold on! It sounds like you have fluid build-up throughout your entire respiratory system. Stay with me!" She hurried to a tray and floated a healing potion and a pill broken in half. "This is a fluid pill. It'll get rid of the fluid in your lungs. It's all I had left until I can find more. This healing potion will hurry along the healing process." I choked down the pill and the potion all at once. After she helped me sit up, the burning finally dulled.

I put a hoof to my forehead. "How did I end up back here?"

Fleece rubbed my other hoof with her own, worriedly glancing at the Pipbuck. "I found you in front of the clinic almost ten hours ago. Somepony tied a rag to your face, drenched in chloroform. You had been breathing it in for quite some time, so you inhaled lethal doses. I had to magically purge your system several times. I-I thought... Nevermind. That doesn't matter, now. What matters is that you are safe. You're going to be okay. You may have a few coughing fits every now and then, but they shouldn't last longer than a minute."

"H-how long was I gone?" I dreaded the answer.

She paused. "Four days. Sia, do you remember anything at all? Where you were taken? What did they look like?"

I looked away from her. I couldn't tell her anything without risking her safety. "I... I don't remember anything. I was at the hotel, then... I woke up here."

She furrowed her brow. "That's so strange. They didn't take anything that belonged to you. In fact, this Pipbuck seems like it came from them." She sighed. "At least you're back here, safe and sound."

I wiped the tears forming in my eyes. "Where's Nico?"

"He was pretty worried about you. As soon as I told him you were here, he galloped to his house to get some of his things. He should be back in an hour at the least." She said. "Tomorrow, you should be well enough to go back hom- well, back to Nico's. For now, please rest. I'll be checking in. Just call if you need anything." She smiled as I nodded and laid back down. I felt the blanket pulling over me as she magically adjusted it. After she pulled off the monitors, she trotted out of the room.

I rubbed my chest, almost bruising it. I glanced at the stupid technology on my leg, then looked away from it, not wanting to think about it. I forced my eyes closed. I just needed rest, that's all. I could think more clearly when I got some actual sleep that wasn't chemically induced. A few minutes passed, and my eyes popped open. This time, I wasn't in the clinic. I was in my own bedroom back home. I frantically looked around, only to find everything was just how I left it. My uniform even sat on my dresser, neatly. I scrambled over to my window to see the beautiful stars. They twinkled above me.

What the hell? Did I dream about the wasteland? Fleece... Nico... They weren't even real?!

"I'm afraid that was not the dream. Sadly, this is." A soft, motherly voice came from the opposite side of the room. A midnight blue alicorn stepped out of thin air. Her starry mane flowed around her crown. That was a dead giveaway.

"P-Princess... Luna?" My eyes squeezed shut and opened again to make sure they were seeing right. When I figured out it was really her, I shambled off the bed and bowed before her.

"Rise, my little pony. Please." She sounded uncomfortable. Even still, her voice could lull the toughest of stallions to sleep.

"Your highness, what's going on?" I asked, getting to my hooves.

Her concern showed through. "I know there is somepony who wants the rainbow pearls. It's of the utmost importance that they are destroyed before they get their hooves on them. I understand you have in possession a pendant that is connected to the pearls." She informed me.

I swallowed. I didn't know how she knew all that, but it was making me nervous. "The necklace? I-I was told it had some kind of connection."

She nodded. "That is because the emerald imprisons a part of my soul."

I stepped back, baffled. "Y-your... soul?"

"Yes. I extracted a small piece of me to be contained in the gem. I then enchanted the necklace, allowing only the first wearer to connect with me. I did this at first, hoping I could bring some kind of harmony back to Equestria with the power the pearls hold." Her pride faded. "Over the years, though, I came to the conclusion that it was a mistake. The pearls, they should not be allowed to exist any longer, lest the entire planet becomes worse than it already is."

I contemplated a moment to make sense of it all. I had so many questions. "But... why me? I'm sorry to ask, your majesty, but can't you do it personally? Alicorns... They are immortal, right? You... you should be able to fix all this? Are you imprisoned somewhere, physically? Asleep? Where are you?!" I stepped, nervously, towards her.

The princess winced and dipped her head, saddened. "Alas, when the zebra set off the megaspell in Canterlot..." She turned her back to me. "When the megaspell hit, my flesh slowly wasted away, trying to protect my subjects. There is nothing left of me but brittle bones somewhere in the castle, and a ghost in the gem around your neck."

I flattened my ears, guilt hitting me with the weight of ten mountains. "F-forgive me, Princess. Please, forgive me. I... I didn't know."

Luna faced me, again. "My dear, Sienna, you mustn't feel sympathy for me. I only ask that you help me with this soul's final task. If those pearls fall into the wrong hooves, Equestria will never be able to heal. There is no telling what would become of it." She placed a hoof on my shoulder. I thought of Hope and how she wanted them for herself.

I finally nodded. "Where would I even start?"

"I am sure there is something in Nico's attic. Call it a hunch." She smiled. "Sorry to make this visit short, but you will awaken soon. I will continue to visit as you need me. Most likely, in your dreams." She gestured to her elongated horn and winked.

Everything suddenly darkened around me as she faded from view.

"P-Princess! Wait!" I cried out to her disintegrating form. I had so many more questions, but I was only thrown into the black void, once more.

I let out a breath I must have been holding in my sleep. I slowly came back to reality (at least I think it was reality) as Fleece's clinic came into view around me. I spotted Nico, sleeping soundly on a small cot. Fleece must have brought it for him. I sighed in relief, happy to see the familiar buck. He turned over, his eyes flickering open. He yawned then saw I was awake. Jumping off the cot, he cantered to me.

"Sia? His eyes were tired.

I half-grinned. "At least you didn't call me 'princess'."

He returned the smile. "Are you okay? I thought..." He snorted, now angry. "Who did this?"

I prevented my hoof from going to my collarbone. "I... don't know. I'm sorry." I lied.

"Fucking raiders, I bet."

"I didn't know you cared." I said, trying to be funny.

"You've been gone for days! I feel like I failed to protect you. It's like I just... let you go." Shame crossed his features as he sat next to the bed. "Though, I'm not gonna lie. When I got back to the hotel room, I saw you were gone. I was a little mad because your things were gone, there was no sign of a struggle or break-in, and I saw nothing suspicious. I thought you just... left. I-I thought I at least deserved a goodbye." He looked me in the eyes. "I came here to talk to Fleece a few hours ago. I was shocked when she told me you were here and that... that you might not make it. I wasn't angry with you anymore, but at myself. I should have known something wasn't right. I should have known you wouldn't just leave." He paused. "Right?"

I smiled, shaking my head. "I wouldn't have left without saying goodbye. You didn't fail, though, Nico. I should have fought harder. I should have been aware of my surroundings. If anything, I failed as an Enclave officer. It... It upsets me that you have to go out of your way for me. I feel so useless." I wiped a tear from my eye and looked away. "I'm sorry."

He grabbed my hoof. "Don't apologize for things that aren't your fault!"

I didn't say anything.

He let out a frustrated sigh. "I'm just glad you're okay."

I sat up, more. "Why does it matter? Obviously, I can't take care of myself here. I'm better off dead. At least, I wouldn't be a burden to you or Fleece, anymore."

"Stop." He looked at the floor. "This situation is just all too familiar with me. Except, the first time, I got too close to her."

"What do you mean, 'first time'?"

He never looked at me. "Pepper. About two years ago, I saved her from a pack of feral ghouls. She decided to stick with me as she didn't really have anywhere else to go. After a few months, I... I started to develop feelings for her. She was so sweet and caring. It didn't matter how distant I acted, she always knew how to make me feel better." A coldness grew in his voice. "Some love that was."

I waited a few seconds before I spoke. "What happened to her?"

No answer.

"Nico?"

"She's with a pegasus, now. I kept wondering if I wasn't enough. What had I done to let her down? I let her go. There was a note and everything." He shook his head. "But, that doesn't matter. I'm over it. My mistake was thinking I could control who she loved." He forced a smile. "Sorry, I just... I don't know."

I avoided his gaze. It was probably best I kept my muzzle shut. At least that explains why he's an asshole towards me. Maybe, he just hated to be alone...

Like me.

After he sighed, again, he stood. "I managed to radio the nearest S.P.P tower."

My heart jumped. What?

"Somepony will be coming for you, soon." He looked at me.

"Why?" I hissed.

Confusion made him stammer. "Did you not... Didn't you want to go home? They can take care of you. Better than I can."

I began breathing heavily. He doesn't know... He couldn't know. I have to do something!

"Sienna?" He stepped closer.

I stopped him from coming any closer by pushing him back. Before he could object to my outburst, I jumped off the bed and galloped towards the exit. I passed Fleece on the way out, ignoring her calls. My vision was darkening around the edges and my chest felt as though it would collapse. I didn't care though. I was angry. I was upset. Hurt. Betrayed. He could have asked me, first. From then on, I decided I didn't need any help. I grit my teeth and ran as fast as I could past the sign. I had to slow down to a canter a few times so I wouldn't pass out, but I continued the rest of the way to Nico's house. There were a few ponies I passed who stopped to stare. The muscles in my legs began to lock up. Through tears, I could finally see the house getting closer. I ran faster.

I burst through the door, barely making it to the stairs before my legs gave out. I knelt on the floor, gasping. With each strenuous breath, my chest rattled. My hoof tried to get under me, but it was like trying to stand with a Raptor on my back. I gave in and just rested my head on the floor. The attic would have to wait. I swore under my breath. I wished I could fly. It doesn't take as much energy to fly as it does to run. I coughed several times before I finally forced myself to take slow deep breaths. The panic attack was building, for sure.

The front door suddenly flew open and Nico galloped inside, stopping next to me. "What the hell were you thinking?!" He held my head off the ground, checking me over. "Are you okay?"

I sat up, trying to stand, again. He helped me to my hooves, only to catch me as I stumbled.

"Sia, what are you doing? Tell me why you did that!" He demanded.

I ignored him.

"Tell me!" He stepped in front of me. "Please."

I stopped moving and glared at him with tears in my eyes. He softened his voice. "I'm begging you, tell me what's going on."

"I'm trying to protect you!" I finally exclaimed.

Nico stared at me. "Protect me?"

"Hope. She... she said if I didn't get the pearls she would destroy Floater and Fleece a-and... you! But Princess Luna told me they needed to be destroyed but I-I don't... I don't know what to do!" When I started hyperventilating, I began to cry.

"Wait, it's okay. Just take a deep breath and get it together. What is going on?" He held my shoulders, waiting for me to regain my composure.

I eventually managed to get it right, explaining the situation and every detail. He listened, intently.

"I-I don't know what to say. We have to evacuate the town." He turned to walk out the door, but I blocked him.

"No! You don't understand! She will know! She's watching everything! Please, don't tell anypony!" I cried, covering my face with a foreleg. "Please... I can't lose you guys, too."

"You can't possibly do this, alone." He said. I thought he was going to push me out of the way.

"I have to try!"

"You just can't, Sia! I'm not saying you are weak, but even for me, this is a dangerous game." He thought a moment. "I'm going to help you."

"No. This is my responsibility. I won't drag you into it." I argued.

Nico grabbed my shoulders, again. "I'm going with you. You don't have a choice."

For a while, we stared at each other, until I fell into him, sobbing. I didn't know what else to do, really. Truthfully, I didn't really care at this point. They were all I had. I really wanted to cry to Fleece. Nico was comforting enough, but Fleece would know exactly what to say. No matter. My heart was aching for them. I could finally at least try to pay them back for saving my life. I wrapped my hooves around his neck. "I'm so sorry." I wept. "I'm sorry."

I felt his forelegs around me as he held me. "I'm sorry, too."

For a while, we held each other. It felt nice. I promised myself to protect them. I swore I wouldn't let the wasteland take away anymore of my friends. I pulled away, my hooves still around him. He looked at me with soft, determined eyes. Everything was going to be okay. I was no longer alone. I smiled as a handkerchief floated over and wiped my eyes.

"Better?" He asked.

I nodded, letting go of him. It probably would have been awkward. "How did you get in touch with Thunderhead, anyway? I couldn't imagine they were very friendly about that conversation."

"The casino has a radio in the security room. I talked the owner into letting me use it. It did take me a while to convince them I was one of the good guys, but they mentioned sending one of their best." He said.

I sighed. "That means they will show up locked and loaded. It doesn't matter. I have no choice but to stay. I absolutely cannot let Hope..." I sniffed, unable to finish that sentence.

"It'll be alright. We will figure something out." He assured. "Do you want to go back to the clinic? You don't look so good."

I felt my collar with a hoof. "I'll be okay. Fleece said I just needed rest. I need to get to the attic."

He cocked his head. "The attic? Why in Equestria would you need to go in my attic?"

"The princess said there would be something up there to tell me where to start looking for the pearls." I blushed, realizing how crazy I sounded.

He looked at me flatly. "Oookayyy... Well, we can look in the morning. For now, your health comes first." He stood in front of me and crouched, examining me. "You look pale."

I rolled my eyes, shaking my head. "Yes, my coat is white. I was pale to begin with."

He smirked. "Anyway, I don't see any injuries. You just had to run, didn't you? I can hear you breathing heavily. Your lungs are probably under a lot of stress from that."

"You sound like my grandmother."

"I'm just trying to keep you from hurting yourself." He poked my shoulder.

I shot him a glare. He poked me again and jumped back, swishing his tail. He motioned for me to chase him, but I refused. Just as I turned to go upstairs, he poked my flank. I covered it with my tail and blushed, furiously. "S-stop that! You are being childish!" I turned red.

"You are being boring." He countered. The nerve!

Playing along, I charged after him. The buck jumped again as I was about to catch him. Turning, I bounded after him again, but he dodged that, too. Facing the door, I sat on my haunches and stuck my nose up. I heard him cautiously step closer. When he was near, I twisted and tackled him. We rolled to a stop with me pinning him to the floor. I tried to hide the fact that I was out of breath.

"Gotcha!" I gloated.

After we shared a laugh, he stopped and stared up at me. I gazed down, still panting. His smile was sweet as he reached up and moved a strand of mane from my eyes. He was... handsome. I blushed, fiercely. I felt like we were about to break every rule I ever believed in. My lips curved into a grin, though. My heart pounded as I realized we were inching closer to each other. I stopped, though, and backed off of him. "S-sorry. I..." The heat on my cheeks burned.

He sat up, blushing, too."I, er... I'm also sorry. I shouldn't..."

"No! I-it was my fault..."

We chuckled at our attempt to speak at the same time. Finally, I broke the tension. "I don't know what just happened."

"I think I do." He mumbled, rubbing the back of his neck.

I suddenly felt lightheaded. My vision became blurry as I swayed on my hooves. Warmth quickly covered me as Nico sat in front of me, letting me lean on his chest. The beating of his heart filled my ears. It beat a little faster after I relaxed and closed my eyes, letting out a sigh. I felt so strange, having his fur on my cheek. I felt like I was flying. He smelled... so good.

"Are you okay?" He whispered. A shiver went down my spine at his voice.

Whew. I am going to need a stiff drink after this awkward setting.

"Yes." I exhaled. "Thank you." I didn't mention the fact that I wanted to stay there for a few more hours. His chin rested on my forehead, gently. The dizziness went away, but he didn't have to know!

A few minutes later, he picked his head up and cleared his throat. "We'd better get to bed. It's starting to get dark and we should probably get an early start.

"Hmm." I groaned.

"Are you able to walk?" He asked.

I nodded, dragging my hooves under me and standing. I yawned. "I guess I'll see you in the morning."

"Good night, princess." He smirked.

I smiled back and turned to walk up the stairs. Being a little too relaxed, I stumbled a little.

Nico caught me, placing my good wing around him. "Whoa! I thought you said you could walk?"

I grinned, sheepishly. "I'm just tired."

He shook his head. "Come on, I'll help you to bed."

We walked up the stairs and into the bedroom. He helped me climb onto the mattress and lie down. I felt his eyes on me, so I looked up to see him staring. "I'm sorry about all that. Can... can we just forget that happened? I don't know what to think..." I hid my face.

"I'm the one who overstepped my boundaries. For that, I apologize. I don't know what I was thinking. Not knowing how to have a roommate and all." He quickly backed towards the door. "I'm sorry, Sia. I'm gonna get some sleep. You should do the same."

"You don't have to be sorry!" I yelled as he closed the door. I facehoofed. "I am an idiot." My chest, yet again, began to tighten. Why was I like this? Why? One of my only friends in this hell, and I didn't know how to act. I couldn't help it, though. I felt so safe next to him. A mix of shame and comfort came to me whenever I thought about those few minutes. The embrace of a stallion was unfamiliar territory. Stallions never interested me in that way. Not even Chaser. He was also good looking, but I was more his wingpony than anything when we had outings.

I shook my head. "I'm just losing it. I've been down here too long and now I can't get my head together." Falling back onto the pillow, I threw the blanket over my head in embarrassment. "No more nonsense." I snorted. Trying to go to sleep was more difficult than I thought. Every time I closed my eyes, I would think about my awkward experience.

After a while of tossing and turning, I finally fell asleep. Princess Luna never came back to me in my sleep, so I assumed she had nothing important to say. I wondered how crazy Nico thought I was when I told him I was wearing jewelry that had part of her soul and that she spoke to me in my dreams. The worst part was that I couldn't prove it. Yep. Crazy.

The next morning, a soft knock sounded from the bedroom door. "Sia? Are you awake?"

"I am now." I groaned.

He twisted the knob and peeked his head in. "Good. We need to get a move on. I'll pack a few basic supplies."

"Lovely." I barely got the word out before a loud bang sent me catapulting out of bed. "What was that?!"

"I don't know, but they are about to break down my door." Nico headed towards the stairs with me closely following behind.

Swallowing a lump in my throat, I wondered if it was Hope, again. Or raiders. Also, slavers. I had been making more enemies than friends, lately. We reached the living room and he opened the door. I stayed hidden behind him, just in case it was somepony looking for a fight. He stepped back, defensively. "Who the hell are you?"

Did my ears deceive me? That sounded like the hum of energy rifles powering up. Curious, I peeked from behind Nico.

My eyes widened. "Oh, ponyfeathers."

Systems Online
Checking... Subject Identified
Stats Online
Welcome, Sienna!

Level up!
S- 2
P- 3
E- 3
C- 2 (+1)
I- 4 (+1[perk])
A- 3
L- 0

New Perk!
Smartass - After befriending Nico, your Intelligence permanently gets +1.

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this awesome universe!

Guys, I know it seems like I'm flying through these first few chapters. It is because I had already written them. I'm actually further along than what I've just uploaded. I'm just writing and editing and editing some more. Then proofreading before I publish each chapter. Yes, I am a loner this go round. :moustache:

Anyway, I hope you're all enjoying the new rewrite, so far! As always, constructive criticism is welcome!

-AP

Chapter 7: Seeing Redd

"This afternoon? As in this afternoon, this afternoon?"

Choices. There can be right and wrong ones, or two right ones. Even two wrong ones. Unfortunately, unfavorable decisions lurked behind my every move. I could destroy the pearls and risk an entire town, including my friends, get destroyed. On the other hoof, I give them to Hope and have her destroy everything else. I know I'm not the only one with difficult choices. The princesses had to make a hard decision when the Pink Cloud smothered Canterlot. The war, itself, was a catastrophic result of poor choices. Now, I didn't say they were easy to make. Ponies do make mistakes, even the princesses. Speaking on behalf of an entire nation is a big difference from choosing what you want for lunch. If I had chosen to just abort my mission before it started, what would have became of it? I wouldn't have met Nico or Fleece. But, would it have been the right choice?

Standing in the doorway, was a pegasus stallion, slightly taller than Nico. His coat was white, like mine, and his slicked back mane was fire red with a single white stripe trailing through it. His tail matched that. He wore a demeanor that matched only the most confident of athletes. The aquamarine barding and the huge energy rifles at the pony's sides gave it away. He was an Enclave soldier! That's not all, I knew this stallion. It would take a minute to remember. I couldn't see his eyes behind his aviator sunglasses.

"Lieutenant, get behind me. How long has this savage been holding you hostage?" The stallion trained his rifles on Nico, who growled, not backing down.

"Savage?" Nico repeated, unamused.

My memory instantly collided with my common sense as I clumsily hurried between them.

"Sergeant Redd! How nice of you to join us. Now, put those weapons away, immediately!" I ordered.

"Ma'am, I have orders to escort you back to base." He saluted. "You'll be quarantined for a few hours, but you'll be good as new."

His attention went to my wing and he suddenly edged for the trigger. "Your wing! This is an outrage!"

Nico snickered. I turned and slowly promised a slow death to him. He had to call them.

"Stand down, Redd. He's not the enemy. He rescued me, actually. Raiders did this." I gestured to the splint.

"B-but..."

"That's an order!" I barked. "Please, return to your post. I have unfinished business here." I could sense the grin on Nico's face.

"No can do, ma'am. I have to return in your company or not at all." He cautiously kicked off the rifles, glaring at Nico.

I sighed. At least they didn't send an entire team. Rounding on Nico, I hissed, "Of all the things... Ugh. You realize he won't leave without me, right?"

"I guess you weren't kidding about the whole 'commanding grown ass stallions' thing." He jeered.

"You are not going to insult my sergeant!" I poked his chest. He refused to back down, though.

"Or what?" He stood over me, smirking.

Redd stepped between us, putting his nose against Nico's. "Get away from her, heathen."

"Or what?" Nico repeated, pushing forward.

Redd pushed back. "You'd better watch your mouth, unicorn."

"Yeah, because you're a tough little pretty boy, right?" Nico countered.

"Just kiss, already." I mumbled as I squeezed between them. Nico may not have been scared of me, but Redd knew better than to test me. "Redd, this is Nico. He's my new friend." I pushed them apart. "Nico, this is Redd. He's one of my finest officers. We grew up together, too."

Both of them stared at me. "He's a jackass!" They yelled, simultaneously.

My hoof instinctively rubbed my chest. "Nico, go up there and open that attic door. Redd, behave yourself. Let's talk."

Nico rolled his eyes, but did as I said.

I noticed Redd staring at my wing, so I interrupted. "I promise, he didn't do it. I was injured during the rescue mission." Looking away, I mumbled, "Everyone else is dead."

"How?" He raised his sunglasses to reveal his red, fiery eyes.

I swallowed. What is up with these hot stallions, now?

"Raiders." I mentioned. "But, it's okay. Ignore everything we were taught about the surface. Not everything is bad. In fact there is a ghoul who-"

"Ghoul? As in, a zombie? Oh, you can forget your business here. You are coming back with me. I can't bring back a dead body or they will have my flank!" He picked me up and set me on his back, walking towards the door.

I tried to hit him, but my hits did nothing to faze him. "Put me down, you big dummy!"

"Hey! Leave her alone!" Nico rushed down the stairs and grabbed my hoof in his magic.

Redd grabbed my opposite forehoof. "Unhoof her! She'll be a lot safer back home, where she belongs!"

I was now the object of a tug-of-war. My face was burning with anger.

"Didn't you hear her say she doesn't want to go?" Nico yelled.

"I heard her, I just think she needs to go home and get her thoughts straight!" Redd countered.

Finally, I decided to interfere before they tore my legs off. "Stop!"

They paused, still holding my hooves. I snatched my legs away and stomped. "Stop this foalish behavior! I don't need either of you, as a matter of fact! I am a grown mare! I think I know what's best for myself! You're both ridiculous!" With a roll of my eyes, I stormed upstairs. The attic door was open and the ladder, extended down. I took a deep breath and climbed up. It was dark. Too dark to see anything. I slumped, my eyes turning to the Pipbuck. If they were anything like power armor, they would have lamps. There were a couple of switches that stood out. It took me a couple of times before I finally found the right one, but I was finally met with the soft green glow of illumination.

With the Pipbuck light leading my way, I ventured through the clutter mess of boxes and old furniture. Whatever I was supposed to be looking for was beyond me. I began my search in the boxes, first. I spent a few minutes digging, but only coming up with prewar documents and newspapers. None of them gave any sort of clue. I looked around at the mess and sighed. This was going to be a while.

"Sia?" I heard Nico call for me.

"Over here." I replied. As he trotted to where I was, I rubbed my temples. "I don't understand what I'm supposed to be looking for."

"I'll help you. We can work faster that way." He offered.

"Thanks. I already looked in this box. Nothing but useless junk. Have you not sorted through all of this?"

"Well, this place is just shelter to m- Ouch!" I saw him shaking his hoof in pain. "What the hell is this?" He pointed to a covered object.

I recognized it, immediately. "It's just an old sewing machine. I have one back home."

He removed the cover to reveal a violet colored machine with three diamonds decorating the sides. No doubt, it was the cutie mark of the Ministry of Image, herself.

I gasped. "Oh, my goddesses! It's... It's beautiful! Come to mama!" I wrapped my hooves around the new contraption. It seemed untouched by time.

He shook his head. "It's just junk."

"Its not just junk! It's a Weaver 300, complete with a two sided embroidery attachment." I rubbed the machine. Mine didn't have an embroidery attachment.

"Er, I don't know much about that." He shrugged.

I grinned. "It's a hobby. Oh, I wish I had this set up in my sewing space!" Touching the foot, I daydreamed about how it would look sitting on my desk.

"Well, I don't have any use for it. I would have just sold it for scrap." He said, picking up a card that was attached to the dust cover.

My face brightened. "You mean it?" A twinkle flashed through my eyes as he nodded. I tackled him and squeezed him. "Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you!" My face started to turn a little pink as I felt his jaw line on my forehead, again.

He blushed, trying to get out of my death grip. "You're welcome. Here, I think you should see this." The card, wrapped in his blue aura, hovered towards me. It was a birthday card.

For my dearest cousin, Rarity.
I'm sorry, I'm late getting your birthday present. I had this custom made for you. Isn't it fabulous? Anyway, send my regards to your friends. I wasn't able to make it to the party Pinkie threw for you because Auntie Gift Wrap has come down with a serious illness. I will keep you updated on her condition.
Silky.
P.S: The shipment of rainbow pearls you wanted are in my vault. In case I'm not there, the vault is in the basement of my boutique, south of Shattered Hoof. You know the one.

My heart leapt. I now had a possible location of the pearls and a brand new sewing machine! "This was for the Rarity?! This has got to be the best day of my life!" I squealed.

Nico held back a laugh. "You must be a fan."

"Are you kidding? She was the top fashion designer in her time! I have almost all of her catalogs with her amazing seasonal lines! I'd do anything to go back in time and meet her, just once." I hugged the card close to my heart.

We sat for a few moments, before Nico spoke up. "So, I guess we should get going."

I sighed, looking sadly to my new treasure. "Yeah."

"It'll be fine until we get back." He picked up a saddle bag. "Here. This was sitting by the attic entrance. It's empty, but it might come in handy on our trip."

I set it on my back and followed him out. Redd stood by the front door. "So, what, pray tell, is going on?"

"I have to find something before I can go home." I told him.

"Okay. Where are we going?" He asked.

"We? No, no, no." Nico objected.

I stood between them, again. "Stop. Maybe he can help us."

Nico snorted. "Just keep him away from me."

Redd agreed with obvious disdain. "I plan to do just that."

This was going to be a long trip. Before anything else started, I spoke up. "First things first, I need a weapon and decent barding. Not that ugly thing you made me wear." I said the last part to Nico.

He shrugged. "Well, we could buy it from Floater or we can check the crash site. There's got to be something that fits a pegasus. Maybe even a gun, too."

I cringed, but he had a point. I really didn't want to go back there, though.

"I-I..." I folded my ears back, looking at the floor. "Okay. I'll suck it up."

Nico opened the front door to the beginning of our journey. Redd took to the air, flying overhead. I supposed it was to keep an eye on everything, including Nico. I walked beside the unicorn as close as I could since I didn't have anything protecting my hide. He walked with confidence, almost expressionless.

"About last night..." I said, quietly.

"What happened last night?" He replied with a wink.

I was confused at first, then I figured out he was playing along. Smiling, I continued on. At least he didn't mind forgetting it. The thought that we almost... I grit my teeth, trying not to think about it. What would my grandparents think? What would anypony else think? Well, anypony above the clouds. That was my problem though. The Enclave pretty much controlled everything I did. Even some of my personality was molded by them. Without any guidelines here, I was pretty much at a loss with no direction. Here, I was truly on my own. Hopefully, I would grow as an individual.

About a mile away from Nico's house, I began hearing some unpleasant noises. Squealing and growling came from the side of us. Nico stopped me and motioned for me to get behind him. His ears perked towards the sounds as he readied his rifle. He aimed it at something I couldn't see.

"What is it?" I whispered.

He didn't answer right away, instead, he pulled the trigger. I jumped at the loud shot.

Redd landed beside him. "Are you crazy? You'll give away our location."

"I'm shooting a radhog." Nico said, not looking our way.

The ugly creature fell through the bushes landing at our hooves. I've seen pigs in books, but this was no pig. It was horribly mutated into a larger creature with sharp tusks. I stood back, unsure of what to think. Nico was right. The bloatsprites were cute compared to this thing!

Before Nico could secure his gun, another one of the beasts came from nowhere, snorting and growling. It went straight for Redd. The radhog pinned him under its deformed feet, snapping its jaws and trying to claw him with its hooves. Redd held the animal away from his face with his back legs so it couldn't reach him. We didn't even have time to react. Two more angry hogs ran, wildly, for Nico and me. I ran backwards, unable to do anything as one of them knocked Nico off his hooves. The other one dug its tusks into his hind leg, making him yell in pain.

Redd was able to buck off the one pinning him, but it stood right back up. He managed to hover just above the creature, aiming his energy rifles at it. With two zaps, it vaporized, damp ashes falling to the ground. "I have so many questions!" He flew towards me, helping me up and trying to aim at the other two.

I stared in horror at Nico's leg. The wound stretched from his hip, all the way to his fetlock. Blood poured out of it, but as painful as it seemed, he ignored the pain. His horn lit up and a blast of magic threw back the hogs onto their backs. He picked up his weapon and swiveled around, blasting the first radhog's nose off its face. Another shot broke through its skull, killing it.

Rubbing my chest, I witnessed this buck fight like his life depended on it. It did, but you know what I mean. He swung his gun back towards the other one, but it bit down on the barrel, attempting to snatch it away. The trigger pulled back, splattering blood all over his face and coat. The last radhog fell to the ground with a thud. Redd and I stood there staring as he panted and watched the thing twitch until it finally went still. Then, he collapsed onto the ground, breathing heavily.

"Nico!" I galloped to him as fast as I could.

His eyes looked to me as I placed my hoof on his neck. Weak pulse.

"He's losing blood." Redd stated.

The wound caught my eye. His hide was ripped, exposing the muscle, underneath.

"Redd, pick him up! We have to get him to Fleece!" I nudged Nico with my muzzle.

"I'm not-"

"Do it now, or I swear on my parents' graves I will geld you!" I screamed at him.

He stared in shock for a moment, but finally obeyed me. I helped put Nico on his back and galloped towards Floater with tears in my eyes. Redd ran beside me as not to risk Nico falling off his back. "Please, hold on, Nico." I said, more to myself. I slowed down a little to get next to the unicorn. He would open his eyes every once in a while, but didn't keep them open. Getting a better look at his leg, I saw it was already clotting and drying on his and Redd's coats.

Seeing the sign, I gave one more burst of energy, beating Redd to the clinic. "Fleece!" I screamed, still running to the building. I burst through the door, almost knocking the door off its hinges. "Fleece! Please, help Nico! He's badly hurt!"

A huge relief crossed over me when I saw her emerge from the hall. She walked beside a mare who looked to have a broken foreleg. "What's happened?" She rushed to me.

Redd ran in behind me, pausing when he saw Fleece. "What the-"

"Take him to the first room!" I boomed.

Redd hurriedly took him into the room on our right. Fleece picked him up with her magic and set him on the bed. She quickly lay him on the bed, getting to work. Her horn flared and she cast an aura around the large gash, instantly stopping the bleeding. "He's already lost too much blood. I'm going to fix the leg up, but I don't know how he will do without a transfusion." She turned to me and Redd. "You can both wait in the room next door, if you want." She floated over her tools. Redd obliged, but I stayed in the room. I was not leaving until I knew he would be okay.

"Take my blood!" I held my hoof out. "Just save him!"

She looked at me with uncertainty. "Let me see if you're the same blood type." Gently, she touched her horn to my foreleg as it lit up, again. It felt like a small burn, but I didn't care. She then did the same to Nico. "It's a match, but first I have to close the wound. Give me a few minutes to close the gash and find something to take your blood. Might want to go calm down your other friend. I don't think he's from here, either."

I nodded, sadly walking into the room where Redd sat, massaging his temples. He stood when he saw me.

I sobbed into my hooves. "This is my fault! All because of those stupid pearls."

Redd sat next to me. "Lieutenant, I don't have any clue what the hell that thing is or what the hell is going on, but are you okay?"

I picked my head up and looked at him. "He's been taking care of me since I've been here and this is what he's got to show for it. I couldn't do anything. I'm so useless... I was a fool to think I could keep Hope from destroying everything."

"Hope?" He asked.

I explained everything. I left out the "Princess Luna" part, but everything else flew from my muzzle in an attempt to hurry along. Redd sat for a few minutes, contemplating what to say. Finally, he sighed. "Lieutenant, these ponies aren't like us. The world isn't your responsibility. I'm sorry about... Nico... but you have to think of your safety, too."

I glared at him. "How can you say that, Redd? Our whole life we were taught there is nothing here but savages. Yet, here we are being proven wrong over and over. You can turn tail and run, if you want, but I am going to do what I can. I'm going to save lives or..." I swallowed. "Die trying."

He bit his lip, concerned. "Lieutenant-"

"Do not call me that, anymore. I'm not your C.O, here. Please, just call me Sia."

With a sigh, he put a hoof on my shoulder. "You're a good pony, Sia. I wish Thunderhead had more leaders like you." I looked away as he continued. "I always thought you were special. Even when we were foals." He paused. "That's why I'm going to help you."

I perked up. "Really?"

He nodded. "Yes. I don't know how well I can get used to things here, but I'll do my best."

With tears in my eyes, I embraced him. "Thank you, Redd. You were always such a good friend."

As he hugged me back, Fleece came in, holding a needle and some tubing in her red aura. "This ought to do it. Hold out your arm, hon." She tied a strap around the upper part of my leg. Then, with a small sting, she stuck the needle in. I looked away. My stomach was pretty weak when it came to medical procedures. I also didn't like needles. Brave, right?

With my head turned, I tensed. "H-how is he?"

"The surgery went well, but there is still a forty-five percent chance he will suffer organ failure from the lack of blood levels pumping oxygen to his brain. Right now, all we can do is distribute this blood and wait." She said, tying a torn piece of cloth where she stuck my arm.

I sniffed. "Can I go in with him?"

"Of course."

"I'll stay in here and rest. I've been flying all night." Redd spoke as he rotated his wing joints.

I nodded and followed the ghoul doctor into Nico's room. He slept, peacefully, with a mask over his face. The hose connected to a small tank beside the medical equipment. I watched her hook up an IV and put it in his foreleg as quickly and carefully as she could. Taping it down, she made sure everything was in working order before she turned on the machine. Blood flowed from the tubes and into his leg.

"Okay, now, we wait." She put her hoof around me and pulled me into a hug. "It'll be okay. Just come get me if anything changes."

I nodded, still watching my friend sleep.

She exited the room, leaving me with the soft sound of beeping. I rested my head on the bed beside him and prayed. "Luna, Celestia. Please, help him. Don't let him die." Opening my eyes, I saw he hadn't moved. I would stay by him until he woke up. No matter what.

Hours passed and I couldn't do anything but think about what had happened. Fleece had taken away the empty blood tubes. There was nothing else to do. A couple of times I asked if there was. Nothing. So I just fluffed his pillow. It made me feel a little needed. She brought me food, but I couldn't eat. I wondered if this was how Nico felt when I was in this room. He probably didn't feel as sad as I did. I tried to sleep on the cot, but that was out of the question.

Finally, I threw my hooves around him. I was giving up hope. "Please, wake up. I need you. I can't do this without you. Please, just... wake up."

When he didn't reply, I let go and stroked his cheek. If he wasn't going to wake up, I was staying with him until he left this retched world. So, I sat on the cot and closed my eyes, waiting for sleep. It finally came, dragging me into an abyss that wasn't comforting in the slightest. I could hear whispers. A stallion stood over me. I backed away until I could see who it was. Nico! Just as I was about to hug him, he stepped back, glaring at me with hate I had never seen on another pony. I stopped approaching him and frowned. "N-Nico?"

He snorted and walked off, leaving me surrounded by dust. The sky became dark and I became more frantic. I darted back and forth, trying to find him so I could apologize, but every time I found an escape, the dust only got thicker. Then, a light beamed from the sky, making the dust around me retreat. I ducked, covering my head in fright.

"Hush, now..." A voice sang
"Quiet, now..."

"Hello?" I squeaked.

The light began to fade, receding back into the cloudy night. I cried out for it, but my throat was clenched shut. I tried to loosen the invisible grip around my neck. Choking and gasping, I couldn't do anything but struggle. There was nothing to fight back! Finally, I gave up and let death take me. The environment around me turned to water. I kicked my hind legs, trying to find tread. There was no bottom. I screamed, only to have bubbles replace my voice. I couldn't swim!

I couldn't tell, but it felt like I was sinking. The water became darker and darker until it was finally pitch black. With a final kick, a light, similar to the first, exploded above me, forcing me to squeeze my eyes shut. Several minutes passed. I was unable to think or speak for those long minutes.

"It's time to lay your sleepy head..."

My eyes shot open as I gulped in air. Sweat drenched my coat and the cot below me. I surveyed the room. I was back. He wasn't in the same position he had been earlier, but on his side. Had he moved? Slowly getting to my hooves, I noticed I was shaking. I couldn't remember the last time I ate. Water, itself, isn't enough nourishment. Ignoring my growling stomach, I tiptoed to the bedside to check on him. I couldn't see his face. The only thing I heard was snoring. I moved my eyes down to his heavily bandaged leg. It was definitely going to be sore. My hoof gently grabbed his. Suddenly, he turned around, his eyes open. After I jumped back, a huge smile spread across my face. "Nico! You're okay!" I went to hug him, but stopped, remembering my dream.

He smiled. "Yeah, I guess I am."

"Fleece spoke like you wouldn't..." I avoided his gaze.

He spread his hooves. "Well, I'm here and alive. Princess."

I rolled my eyes. "You are impossible. How long have you been awake?"

"About an hour." He shrugged.

"You could have woke me up!"

"I know. Fleece said you've been by my side since I've been here. I figured you needed the rest. Especially after the blood transfusion." He blushed. "Thanks, by the way. Nopony has ever done anything like that for me. I really don't know what to say."

I hugged him, ignoring the thoughts of my dream. "I'm just glad you're okay."

"So, you missed me?"

I let go and sighed, shaking my head. "Yes, I missed your snarky comments."

"Good. My princess." He winked.

"Stop calling me that!" I commanded.

I turned to go back to bed. I heard grunting, so I spun back to see Nico standing with his back leg off the floor. I quickly ran to him.

"You need to get back into bed." I scolded.

"I have to take a leak." He murmured, trying to walk.

"At least let me help you." I let him lean into my side. I wrapped my unbandaged wing around him to keep him balanced. We made our way, slowly, outside. The sky had grown dark, signifying nightfall. We stopped behind the clinic where a tall plank was embedded in the ground. I figured it was where ponies did their business.

"Are you going to watch?" He asked, sarcastically.

"N-no!" I turned, stumbling.

Foalishly, I giggled when I heard the sound of fluid hitting the dirt. Luckily, he didn't hear me. Waiting for him to finish, I decided to see how my wing was healing. Carefully, I held it out with a hoof and slowly waved it up and down. It was a little stiff from being in the splint, but it didn't hurt. "Huh."

"What?" Nico asked, limping up behind me.

"My wing doesn't hurt, anymore." I said, showing him what I had been doing.

He tapped his chin and lit his horn so I could see. "Can you move it without using your hoof?"

I stared at the splint and bandage. Fleece would probably be angry if I try without her supervision. I didn't want to hurt it, again, either.

"Come on. You can't keep it wrapped forever. If Fleece asks, blame me." He said, carefully unwrapping it.

I got ready to cringe in case it hurt, but it never did.

"There. Now, flap." He threw the wrapping aside.

I looked at him with hope in my eyes. He nodded to my wing. Taking a big gulp, I flapped it slowly once, then twice, then three times. No pain! And it felt so good to stretch it! I beamed, ear to ear.

"Okay. Hover." He kept watching the joints as they worked.

I stared. "What if I fall?"

"You won't. If you do, you won't fall far." He assured.

It took a moment, but I flapped harder, closing my eyes. A few seconds later, I couldn't feel the ground anymore.

"You did it!" He said, cheerfully.

I opened my eyes and looked down. I was lifted about six inches off the ground. Giggling, madly, I looked back at my beautiful feathers. They were good as new! No longer able to wait, I took off into the air. I went slow at first, then picked up speed. Soaring through the air felt so good! The maneuvering and twisting made me feel like I was in a ballet. There was nothing like feeling the wind through my mane. My first time flying wasn't even this exciting!

Gaining altitude, I headed straight for the thick clouds. Then, before I went through them, I straightened my wingspan and leaned so my feathertips brushed the delicate, cool clouds. It was both thrilling and comforting to be in the air, again.

My stomach started growling again and I was getting weaker. Unwilling to land, I fought the urge to stay airborne. If I lost consciousness, it would be the end of me. I glided downwards towards where Nico leaned against a broken crate. Fluttering my wings, I landed next to him. "I'm so excited! I can fly, again!" I hopped around him, happily.

He chuckled. "That's great, but you'd better eat something. After all, I'm the one who is supposed to be looking after you, not the other way around."

I helped him back into the clinic. "Y-you still want to help me? Even though this was... my fault?"

"Your fault? This was not your fault. If anything, you saved me. Sia, that is such a rarity down here. You are trying your best to make a difference in this blasted place." He stopped walking and stood beside his bed, facing me. "I'm actually lucky to have you." After realizing what he said, he cleared his throat and turned towards his bed to get up.

I helped him, my face red. "Lucky to have me, huh?"

He sighed. "You know what? Yes. I am damn lucky to have you, Sia. Friends like you are precious." Then, he frowned. "But, I guess even the most precious of friends have to go back home, sooner or later."

I half-smiled. "I'll still be here for a while, though."

He returned it. "And I'm still helping you."

"No, you're too injured. You'll get even more hurt. It's best if you just stay and recover. Redd and I will-"

"I am going with you." He pressed.

I sighed. This stubborn fool. "Fine, but you are going to listen to me."

He smirked. "Deal."

Redd trotted in, still covered in blood. His barding was stained with both that and dirt. He watched Fleece pass by with a look of disgust on his face. I glared at him.

"Thanks for ruining my coat." Redd told Nico, oozing with sarcasm.

Nico rolled his eyes. "You'll live. It's not like I have a disease."

Redd scoffed. "How would I know that? This place is probably riddled with all kinds of pathogens." When he looked my way, he smiled at my wing. "I see you're able to fly, again. Excellent. The sooner we get this done, the sooner we can get away from these..."

I dared him to finish that sentence. He quickly shut up when he noticed the look I was giving him. I couldn't really blame him. My perspective was no different when I first arrived. Hopefully, he would actually start to believe the Enclave was corrupted. Really, I just wanted to believe that they didn't know any better.

"I think your handsome friend, here, needs a bath." Fleece walked in, carrying a towel. "How are you feeling, Nico?"

"Fine."

Redd backed away. "I need more than a bath. I need clarification." He mumbled.

"Fleece is one of the best ponies you will ever meet. Whatever you are thinking, you can keep it to yourself or I will personally kick your flank back to the clouds from which you came." I scolded him.

She gave a throaty chuckle. "It's okay, sweetie." She floated the towel to him. "Just follow me. I will see to it that you are taken care of. I'll even wash your barding for you." She trotted out into the hall.

Redd looked at me for help. I smiled and nodded towards the door.

He whispered, "How do I know she won't eat my-"

I cut him off with a growl. He sighed and followed her. When he disappeared, I grinned, proud of myself.

"Impressive. I almost believed the lieutenant thing to be a mistaken identity." Nico jeered.

"If you were in my squad, I would have you do one hundred wing-ups for that." I teased back.

I picked up a canteen and took a huge gulp of water. I had just realized how thirsty I was. After drinking almost half, I brought it to Nico. "Thanks." He said, grasping it in his magic. I watched the light blue aura around the canteen as he sipped. It was such a beautiful color. I wished I had fabric that color. I would have to try my hoof at fashion, and I knew what color my first attempt at a dress would be.

"What?"

Snapping out of my daze, I shrugged. "Just wondering what it's like to be a unicorn. There are a few unicorns who work in the towers, but they aren't really considered a part of the Enclave. I never really speak to them or even see. Truth be told, you're the only one I've ever really... observed."

"Observed? I'm not a biology specimen, princess. However, if you must know, we are just like everypony else. With the exception of a horn. Also, the various abilities that we are able to learn." He waved his hoof. "Okay, maybe we aren't just like everypony else."

I laughed. "Well, you sure know how to use your horn."

An awkward silence made me regret my choice of words. Nico covered his mouth as he tried to hide his laughter. I turned every shade of red on the color palette. His laughter grew until I tapped his sore leg. "Ouch!" He glared, then chuckled, again. "I'm sorry, I knew what you meant. You are just not very gifted with speech."

Asshole.

"Anyway, Shattered Hoof is a good distance from here. We should probably get a good start in the morning, since our start, today, was delayed. We should sleep." He said.

My stomach growled.

"And eat something, please." He added.

I stuck my tongue out at him and grabbed the jar of preserved peaches that Fleece had brought in. I scarfed it down in seconds, ignoring the fact that they had been expired for the past one hundred or so years. Nico raised his brow. I disregarded his expression and stretched out on the cot. After today, I was ready for a good night's sleep. The next morning I would hopefully be able to get my own barding and gun. I prayed the ship wouldn't be looted. That still meant I had to be at ground zero where my friends still lay... decomposing.

I sniffed at the thought. "I'm trying, guys. I'm really trying."

Unidentified Energy Detected
Unidentified Energy Undetected

Redd is now your companion

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world! Constructive criticism is always welcome! Also, if you see any errors feel free to let me know!

Thank you SOOO much for reading!
-AP

Chapter 8: A Fight to Remember

"What you are doesn't reflect who you are."

I yawned. Redd had woken us up so that we could get an early start on our journey. Oh, how I wished I could sleep in. It didn't help that I was trotting at a slow pace to help Nico when he needed it. I wished he wouldn't be so stubborn. As he limped along, I kept asking if he wanted a syringe of Med-X. The annoyance in his voice when he said "no" the last time, was a sign I needed to shut up. I had grown pretty tired after walking for half the day. I occasionally bumped into Nico. Finally, he decided it was time to stop and rest. We were already several miles from Floater.

"Alright, let's stop and rest. You need a nap." He said, looking for a safe place to stop.

"Yeah.. Sleepy time..." I murmured through snores.

Closing my eyes for a moment, I had to catch myself from falling on my face. Well, I didn't catch myself. Redd did. I smiled and dozed off while laying across his back. "You smell nice." I mumbled.

"Thanks... I guess?" He said.

It was a peaceful nap. No nightmares or worry. I felt safe with Redd and Nico with me. They were like my own, personal bodyguards. Hopefully, they wouldn't start an all out brawl while I was asleep. They would just have to learn to get along for the rest of the trip. The moment Redd showed up at my door, I felt safe. He was a part of my small group of friends, growing up. Mostly, because Violet was his cousin. Sometimes, all of us would go to the cafe and buy smoothies. Wick and Chaser would come, too. I missed those days, terribly. At least, I had one old friend with me.

"-believe you told them that." I awoke to Redd's hushed tone.

Blinking, I noticed I was lying on some torn cushions. It looked like we were in a furniture store. Light showing through the busted windows helped me to see the old stuff scattered around. Some pieces of furniture were broken and torn, most of it had been burned. Trash littered the floor in the small store. The years had not been good to this place.

I still heard the two stallions talking, but it was pretty muffled. Getting to my hooves, I followed the sound of their voices. Before I reached the exit, I spotted a metal box hidden under an armoire. Upon closer inspection, I saw my name scribbled on the side. It had to be another pony named Sienna. I inspected the lock. It was shut tight.

"Oh, you found a medical box." The stallions appeared next to me. Nico tilted his head.

"It has Sia's name on it, too." Redd picked it up, turning it over.

"It's probably just a coincidence." I shrugged.

Nico rolled his eyes. "How many 'Siennas' do you know?"

"Well, who would write my name on a medical box?" I crossed my hooves.

Redd shook it, making a loud clanking noise. He banged it against the wall, but it wouldn't open.

"Give me that, before you hurt yourself." Nico snatched it away in his magic. Redd huffed as Nico dug in his bag and pulled out a bobby pin and a small screwdriver. He squinted as he jiggled the two around in the mechanism. With a click, it fell to the ground. Nico smirked, proud of his work. "Jackpot."

I rolled my eyes, taking the box from him. "Thank you, my hero." As I opened it, I heard him snicker. Inside the box was two healing potions, a syringe of Med-x, and a strange, glowing orb. I stared at it. It was pale yellow in color with magic swirling inside of it. "Wow. What is this?"

"It's a memory orb. Only unicorns can view it. Well, unless you have one of those helmets that lets non-unicorns look at them. You should take it." Nico informed me.

I hesitated, but picked it up and put it in my saddlebag. I guess I'd have to find a way to look at it, later. Nico put the other findings in my bag, too. Redd shook his head and strolled outside, stretching his wings. I caught myself staring at him. His physique was so-

"See something you like?" Nico whispered.

I shook my head, blushing. "I-I was just... No."

He trotted off, not saying another word.

Ignoring that little fiasco, I journeyed on. Nico pointed us to the direction of the crash site. I flapped my wings, ascending towards the sky to get a better view. There it was. The huge, black ship sat where it was several days ago. I purposefully kept my eyes off the bodies littering the ground around it. I flew back down, landing next to Nico. My head dropped. He put his hoof on my shoulder. Redd landed on this other side of me and nudged me. I sighed, putting on my best smile for them. The three of us stayed close together as we walked through the havoc. After the first few decaying bodies passed, I hid my face behind Redd's rifles.

"Who could possibly take down a Raptor?" Redd said in awe.

"Raiders. Th-they had a huge spark grenade. The power to the ship fried." I sniffed, unable to continue.

"It's okay. You can wait here for us, if you want." Nico reassured me.

"No. I... I need to do this." I wiped my face.

He nodded. They kept me between them in case more raiders showed up. We continued through the bodies, getting to the front of the ship. Nico looked up and whistled at the size.

"What do I need to look for?" He asked.

"There may be barding like mine, but fitted for mares." Redd pointed out.

They continued talking, but I didn't hear the rest of the conversation. I spotted the unmistakable outline of two suits of power armor where my friends had perished. There was no doubt it was them. Tearing away from the guys, I galloped to my friends. Tears streamed down my face as I skidded to a stop between them. One was pummeled, severely. I knew that was Chaser. I placed my shaky hoof on his side, resisting the urge to hug the broken form. He was in too bad of shape to move the armor.

I turned to Wick. She wasn't pummeled, but I knew she would be severely burnt. I broke down sobbing, feeling for the latch in her armor. A voice in my head screamed for me to stop, but it was too late. The helmet flew off, revealing her face. Her partially decayed, scorched face. Her peachy mane no longer had the volume I remembered. Even after death, though, she was still beautiful.

I screamed, collapsing onto her body. "Wick! Please, I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to hesitate... I-I'm such a coward..." I hiccuped. "You have to come back to me! W-we're supposed to go to the spa, remember? You can't... You can't leave me..." I sobbed, my mind on the edge of breaking. I curled up beside her. The sweet aroma of her perfume no longer lingered around her. Only the smell of blood and burnt hair.

A hoof touched my shoulder. I looked up to see Nico sadly gazing down at me. I sobbed, burying my face in his chest and covering my eyes. He held me close with a forehoof. "Tell me I'm asleep... Please, just wake me up, Nico." I wept. He held on tighter. I doubted he had the words for this situation. This wasn't a dream, after all.

Redd stepped up, putting his hoof on mine. For a few minutes, I cried on Nico. He finally decided to speak up. "They're in a much better place than here, Sia. That isn't them, remember. It was only their temporary vessel. Their souls are with the princesses, protected."

I looked up at him. What he said had hit home. It brought me such comfort. He smiled down at me. "Come on. Let's go." He nodded to Redd, who looked back and shook his head before following us.

We stopped at the entrance to the ship. "Redd, you and Sia look in the ship. You guys know it better than I do. I'm going to stay out here and keep watch."

I only kept my eyes down as I trudged into the ship. I felt so broken. It made me realize how weak I really was. Wick and Chaser were so much stronger than me. Seeing them lying there made me think about the severity of my conundrum. With each step, my tears fell to the dirt. It just wasn't fair!

Why did I get to live, but not them?

Redd flew up beside me. "Wait up! You shouldn't be alone!"

I rounded on him. "Why? Because I might fall? Poor, defenseless Sia. She can't do anything but cry!" Liquid anger fell from my eyes. I galloped away from him, ignoring his attempts to stop me. Taking to the air, I zoomed up the stairs and into the second floor storage closet of the Raptor. Armor and uniforms were cluttered on the floor. I sifted through the pile and picked up and all-black Captain's uniform. It was lightweight, but had a sturdy layer of protection underneath. There was an energy pistol sitting under the pile of armor, much like the one I had. I threw on the holster and jammed it in place. I just wanted to get out of there.

"Lieuten- I mean, Sia!" Redd called, landing in the doorway.

I didn't bother to look at him. The shame was overbearing.

"I'm sorry for what happened, but you can't let it destroy you. You have to keep going, no matter what."

"I am." I stopped and met his gaze. "I have to protect my new friends and the town. They are innocent and don't deserve to just die."

"Well, you are not alone. You never will be." He put on a determined look. "We've got your back. Well, mostly me. I don't really trust that unicorn."

I sighed.

He spoke, again, after a few minutes of silent plundering. "Remember that time at the cafe? When Wick made us all dress up and I ripped the sleeve of my blazer?" A chuckle escaped him. "I told you if you'd sew it up, I'd take you to your favorite spot next to the old race track?"

A smile curved on my lips. "I remember. When I finished your blazer, Violet insisted on going with us, so you cancelled our plans."

We started walking back to the stairs. "That's because I wanted just the two of us to go."

"Why?" I asked.

"I don't know if you knew, but... I was so madly in love with you."

I looked away. "I... I guess I never really thought about us like that. So, all those times you asked me on a date... You were serious?"

He playfully nudged me. "Come on. Your rejections were serious, weren't they? I was so devastated because nopony ever turned me down until you. I was the most popular guy in high school." Redd puffed out his chest.

With a giggle, I shook my head. "You were so full of yourself."

There was a long pause before he glanced my way. "You look stunning."

I blushed. "I... Thank you."

"Maybe one day, you'll honor me with a date?" He wore his best smile.

"I'll think about it. Until then, I just want to get this over with." I shied away.

He nodded, planting a kiss on my cheek. My eyes widened at the sudden peck, but I didn't say anything else. A grin formed on my face.

The rest of the walk to the exit wasn't as awkward as I thought it would be. Except for the kiss, I was used to Redd flirting and playing around. That is, until I learned he was in love with me. What a crazy world. He was certainly handsome. Sweet, funny, charming. I groaned to myself. I have a town to save, I can't think about my love life, now.

"We should probably get going. I don't want to stick around here for too long." Nico met us at the door, throwing his rifle over his shoulder. He then looked me up and down. "That looks nice on you."

The heat returned to my cheeks. "Thank you."

Redd wrapped his wing around me. "Want to fly with me?" He winked.

"I'm going to stay down here with Nico in case he needs me." I rubbed my chest.

He nodded, then flew ahead.

Nico looked between him and me and back to him. "Seriously? I thought romance wasn't on your agenda?"

We followed after Redd. "It's not! He just... I... nevermind." I facehoofed.

"Sure." He looked forward.

My eyes drilled into him. "You're jealous." I hovered next to his face.

"I do not get jealous. A mare loves who she loves. I cannot and will not change it." I saw a tiny bead of sweat under his horn.

"So, would you go on a date with me?" I batted my lashes at him.

"I-If you asked me, certainly. But, you wouldn't. I doubt I'm your type. Besides, if I was lucky enough- Wait, I am not falling for this."

"So, you're saying-"

BOOM!

An explosion nearby sent me backpedaling, zooming behind Nico for cover. He quickly aimed his rifle, looking through the scope. I could hear gunshots and a scream. Sounded like a mare. My unicorn companion began running (if you call "limping very fast", running) towards the commotion. "Someone's in trouble!" He threw his head back and yelled.

I whistled to Redd, gesturing him to follow us. He and I flew quickly to catch up to Nico. I could hear the latter grunting with each hoof fall. Try as he might, he couldn't ignore the pain. While flying next to his hind leg, I grabbed the Med-X out of my bag and stuck his flank with it. First, he quickly sucked in air, but relief washed over his face, afterwards.

"You're welcome." I mock-saluted.

He rolled his eyes as we continued.

We stopped as we came upon a hill. On the highest point, a familiar stallion hid behind a toppled silo, holding a small pistol in his mouth. Blood trickled from a wound in his bicep. By the way he stayed down behind the huge, rusted container, I guessed he was either out of ammo or his gun wasn't working. The terror on his face got more intense as bullets hit the silo with loud pangs. I finally remembered where I knew him from. It was Tonno Weights. I could have sworn there was a mare, since I had heard the scream, though.

Avoiding the gunshots, Redd and I grounded ourselves and the three of us crouched to go meet Weights in his hiding spot. When he saw us, he quickly gestured for remain unseen. "What are you doing here, Nicky?"

Ignoring the dumb nickname, Nico whispered, "We were passing through. How do you always get in these situations?"

Weights sucked air through his teeth as he flexed his wounded leg. "I came through here to loot the old barn. These cannibalistic shitwads found me before I made it there, though." He peeked over the ledge and was met with a spray of buckshot. The speed at which he ducked was surprising for his size. "Six. There are six of them."

"Who?"

"Raiders."

My heart dropped. It was them. I knew it was. I flattened my ears and peeked, myself. Sure enough, I saw the yellow eyes. Rage filled my chest. I wasn't even scared. The fact that they murdered my friends was enough to blind me from every emotion but anger. Immediately, the stallion who tried to pry my armor off came into view, yelling at a mare. Red filled my vision. Blood. Chaser screamed somewhere in the back of my mind.

I snapped.

"Sia! Come back!"

Redd yelled behind me. I flapped my wings hard, zooming towards the group of monsters at high speed. These bastards were going to pay. I slammed into the nearest raider. He recovered from the blow, quickly getting up. "Bitch!" He screamed. A hammer swung over his head. He held onto it, ready to make contact with my head. I dodged, left. Growling, I flew upwards, then folded my wings, dive-bombing towards him. I threw my hind leg out, aiming for his forehead. Upon impact, I heard a crack. I thought about nothing while the blood sprayed from his nose. He fell, twitching. The kick hurt, but I ignored the pain in my leg.

Two mares came at me with shotguns. The smaller one pulled the trigger. Buckshot tore into my flank as it grazed by. It just pissed me off even more. I snatched my pistol and sent several beams her way, zapping her to ashes, then I barrelled over the other. I held her head in my hooves, headbutting her. She laughed, madly. My lungs started to burn, making me want to cough. I grit my teeth and swore at them. Pain exploded in an unprotected part of my neck as she bit down. I didn't know if she tore it or not. I just hoped their... disease didn't spread like in those zombie stories. My hoof threw itself back, punching her in the muzzle. She spit out a tooth and looked up. It was too late. I was already on her, grasping her windpipe in both of my hooves. Her gasps and gurgles took a while to stop, but I wasn't letting go until she was dead.

More gunshots echoed through the smoky air. Nico and Redd took out two more of them. A heavy hoof hit my face like a sky carriage. My neck almost broke as it twisted. Spitting blood, I turned. It was the leader. The one who ordered the spark grenade to be thrown. The one who looked me in the eyes as he pummeled me. He grinned, his teeth disgustingly stained. My pupils shrunk to the size of needle points. The scream that came from my throat was so intense, it hurt my own ears. Time stopped.

I beat my wings as hard as I could to knock into the large stallion. He braced for my attack, his hooves sliding when my body contacted his. I used his weight to kick my legs, bouncing off of him like a ball would bounce off a wall. My pistol was out, aiming at him. He held the body of one of his peers in front of him, protecting himself from the beams. Just as he threw the half-disintegrated corpse down, I kicked him in his jaw, forcing him to stumble back, holding his mouth. A mix of blood and saliva dribbled from his lips. He lowered his head, ready to stab me with his horn as I charged, again.

You're going to die.

I flipped onto my back, sliding under him. He didn't even have time to react. With all my might, I slammed my back hoof into his stomach. He howled, clutching his abdomen. I quickly rolled back over, ready to throw more punches. This time, he was ready. A shotgun floated in front of him. The trigger rapidly clicked as the gun unloaded buckshot into my chest. It was going to probably leave a bruise at that range, but the armor kept the weak ammo from piercing my hide. He threw the gun, quickly catching me in his magic. He held me down. My fur stood on end.

Hell no!

I screamed until my throat was raw. I pinned my ears back, snarling as he cackled, maniacally. I kicked him in his groin. He went down, that time, screaming and snapping at me. Spit flew from his mouth. I picked up a rusty knife that one of them had dropped With both of my front hooves, I plunged it into his chest. He let out a loud shriek. Blood spattered my legs. Since he wasn't dead, I took the butt of my gun and threw it into his horn, cracking it. He flailed his arms, trying to knock me away.

Finally, I bolted into the sky. I hated him. I was so pissed off at him. He ruined my life. These stupid raiders ruined my life. They took my friends. They took my parents. They took my dignity. And without the pearls, they'd take my new friends. Wait, not them. That would be Hope. The wind whistled. It almost seemed to slow me down. I stopped. Looking down, I saw the raider, lying still. He was probably already dead. I honestly, didn't care. My full body weight launched out of the sky like a missile. The ground quickly rushed at me as heat enveloped my forehoof.

I hate myself.

My eyes widened. I suddenly hated myself for this. Of course, it was too late to stop. My hoof impacted his skull. I saw pieces of bone and brain splatter around me. It was the most gory thing I had ever seen. Reality crashed through my mind. The fury melted away. I blinked, looking at my hoof as it seemed to fuse with what was left of the raider. Everything stilled. I couldn't tell if the pounding was from my heart or approaching thunder.

Breathing fast, I slowly picked up my shaking hooves. My white coat wasn't even visible anymore. Even the Pipbuck was covered. My violent tremors made the blood drip into puddles underneath me. I slowly turned my teary eyes to Nico, Redd, and Weights. They stood, unmoving, staring in absolute horror. My wings fell to my sides, limply. Did I do this? Did I... do this? I ran a few yards opposite from them. I just wanted to get away from this war zone. I stopped, keeping my head down. I didn't feel sad. I didn't feel angry, anymore. Happiness. Relief. That's what I should have felt. After all, they killed my friends. They killed Wick and Chaser. The ponies on the Typhoon. They killed them, so I should have been proud of my revenge.

But I felt shame.

I couldn't breathe. Kneeling, my hooves and chest started to go numb. I hit the ground, shivering. I heard hooves pounding and wings flapping as I tried to keep my eyes open. Everything was getting blurry. Tan hooves wrapped around me, propping me up. Nopony said anything. They just stared, horror twisted their faces.

"I..." I tried to speak, but my throat clenched.

"Are you okay?" Nico said, shaking me, gently.

"Panic... attack." I said, my jaw tightening.

Redd pulled a healing potion out of my saddle bag. I didn't realize I had dropped it. I felt the cool, glass bottle touch my lips. I coughed and sputtered as it poured down my throat. I slowly, began to feel better. The gunshots in my flank were healing. After a few minutes, I managed to sit up and catch my breath. When my eyes focused, I looked around at the three stallions.

Weights broke the crushing silence, finally. "Holy golden horseshit of the sun goddess."

My face turned red. He could have kept that to himself, at least.

"You single?" He added.

I flattened my ears and looked away. He received some dirty looks from Redd and Nico.

"What? It's not like you two dumbbells are going to make a move." He smirked. "She should have been there when those cloaked ponies were sneakin' around back in Floater."

I perked my ears. "Cloaked ponies?"

He looked at me, strangely. "Yeah. I saw them sneaking around The Beacon a few days ago. Never seen them before. I thought they might have been these raiders."

"Raiders don't sneak into towns. They raid and pillage." Nico said, flatly.

"Well, they still looked off, to me. They had a giant sack with them. I was gonna confront them, but... I-I had to use the bathroom. Yeah, I had to use the bathroom. They better be lucky ole Weights had ate something that didn't sit right with his stomach." He flexed, admiring himself.

I was in that sack.

"Groundwalkers." Redd mumbled under his breath.

Nico rolled his eyes and set his attention back to me. "Better?"

I nodded.

"Anyway, thanks for coming to my rescue, sweetcheeks." Weights wiggled his eyebrows at me. "I could have took them out if not for Nelly, here, jamming." He held up his old pistol.

"Nelly?" I looked at him.

He nodded. "Some folks name their guns. Brings good luck, I hear." He said, proudly.

I glanced down at my pistol. Naming guns? Weird.

"What do you call that weird gun?" He pointed to my pistol.

"Energy pistol." I replied.

He chuckled. "No, I meant what's its name?"

"Uh..." I stared. A name. Name, name name. "Bob."

The group looked at me. I sucked at names.

"Bob? Oohh... so it stands for something, right?" Weights asked.

I turned red, again. "No. Just Bob."

He blinked. "Ah. Well, anyway, I'd better get to Fleece. I gotta get patched up before it gets infected. Gonna make a wicked scar, though." He smiled at the injury on his bicep. "Here's a little something to express my gratitude." He dug around his own bag and pulled out a small pocket knife. "I found this thing a few years ago. It was dull, so I sharpened it, and had it enchanted by an old witch. It will never get dull, again." He dropped it in my hooves.

I studied it, closely. It was folded, so he flipped it to show the blade. It looked brand new. The handle was scratched, but the blade itself was flawless. I shook my head. "I couldn't possibly-"

"Nope. I insist. I have several more at home, anyway." He grinned. "I'll see you guys, later." With that, he headed back towards Floater.

I sighed and clipped the knife next to my pistol inside the harness. I gazed back to the energy pistol. "Bob." I whispered. With a smile, I nodded. "Bob."

I threw my gaze back to the scene behind us. The nightmarish sight took away my smile, instantly. My fighting skills were shit, yet I took down these raiders like I was as powerful as Celestia, herself. "I... I did this." I said, softly, sitting on my haunches.

"Yeah, you did." Nico said, concerned.

"This is some next level shit." Redd hovered next to me.

I winced. "It's like... all I saw was red. I just wanted them... dead." The word was bitter in my mouth. It felt wrong to say it.

Nico put a hoof on my shoulder. "You saved Weights. I think you did a good thing."

"But I didn't do it for him. I just wanted revenge." I hid my face.

"You still saved him." He smiled.

I looked at my hooves. They were still bloody. "I was so mad. That raider... He was the one who led them to attack us and the Typhoon." I moved my eyes to him.

"The guy you beat to a pulp?" Redd asked.

I winced, yet again. "If you want to put it that way... Yes."

"Well, it may be overkill, but he deserved it, nonetheless." He crossed his hooves, clicking his tongue.

"We'd better head out. I don't want to find out if they had friends." Nico stood, limping away.

After I rinsed my hooves in a barrel of rainwater next to the silo, I unfolded my wings and flew next to Nico. My legs were sore from the kicks and punches I was handing out. If any other pony did that, I would have thought it was badass. Coming from me, though? It screamed "no way this is possible". Something happened to me, during that fight. I tried to think of reasonable explanations for my sudden ability to end lives. I concluded that the wasteland was just a place of change.

While my mind rambled, I noticed we were passing a pretty large field. The pony made rows in the soil seemed to go on for miles. Dead plants lined each row, neatly. Whatever grew there before had not been able to flourish, now. I saw a billboard in the distance. The smile of the yellow mare with orange an orange mane was as faded as the words next to her. "Carrot Top Farms" it proudly stated. A soft ticking suddenly made my perk my ears.

Nico must have saw me trying to find the source of the sound. "It's the radmeter on that Pipbuck."

I looked at the screen. A needle wavered on the green section of the meter. It was almost to yellow. I would have hated to see what happens if it got to red. I'd probably start sprouting extra limbs.

Redd stopped to look at it. "We're going to get radiation poisoning!"

"Calm down, Redd. The levels aren't high enough to make us sick as long as we keep moving." Nico informed.

A loud gunshot made us stop in our tracks. I saw the dirt in front of us kick up. Nico threw his rifle up, followed by the sound of Redd's energy weapons warming up. I ducked.

The unicorn rolled his eyes. "You just took out those raiders with no mercy and you're scared of one gunshot." He said flatly.

I caught my hoof stroking my chest. "I-It sounds like a big gun."

"What was that?" Redd whispered.

"Whoever carries a gun like that is not your every day raider or thug. We'd better be careful." Nico cautioned.

Just as they started to scan the sky, a shadow flew over us. I could hear Redd's growls. Then, it landed in front of us. The unmistakable figure of one of Equestria's toughest creatures. A griffon. She stood easily twice the height of Redd. A scar twisted around her sharp beak, following the curve of her neck. I noticed her black feathers puffed out as she stared at us. The fur on her feline back-half was a very dark brown. I slowly brought my gaze down. Her talons were missing a few nails, but the remaining ones definitely made up for them. They looked like they could slice through aluminum like it was paper! She whipped her lion-like tail.

"You'd better back off!" Redd barked.

Nico covered his mouth. "They won't attack if we don't." He hissed to him. He looked back to the griffon and dipped his head. "We're just passing through. We don't want any trouble."

The creature glared at them.

I really do not feel like being bird food.

"You, two." A razor of a talon pointed to me and Redd. "Follow me."

"We don't take orders from-" Nico shoved his whole hoof in Redd's mouth before he said anything stupid.

"Why them?" Nico asked.

"This doesn't concern you, chump." She towered over him. He furrowed his brow.

I gently put my hoof on his shoulder. "W-we'll go. Just, please... Let my other friend come with us. Ma'am." I squeaked.

She looked down at me, making me shrink back. Her grin curved the scar even more. "Smart girl." Giant, dark wings unfolded from her back. "Fine. Just keep your pets under control before I tear their throats out and eat them." She flapped once, and took off. The breeze form her wings hit me in the face, softly.

My chest felt so tight, I didn't see how my lungs had room to expand. I absentmindedly kept rubbing it. "C-come on, you two. This is a fight I do not want to be a part of."

We started trotting after her. Redd kicked the dirt like an agitated colt. "I fucking hate griffons."

"Yeah, well I like my body parts to stay inside of my body." The unicorn said, softly.

"Please, shut up. I don't want her to hear you." I hissed at them.

I knew the Enclave's relationship with griffons weren't a peaceful one, but we weren't in Thunderhead, this wasn't the Enclave, and we were three idiots trying to save a town. Personally, I had nothing against them. They are graceful creatures. I also know they are perfectly capable of ripping my entire being apart without much effort. So, yeah. Griffons are awesome. Nothing against them, here.

We followed her away from the radiated field. An old barn sat on the far side of the field where she landed. It must have been the one Weights thought was unoccupied. The ticking had stopped, so thankfully there was no radiation there. She was greeted by two more griffons, who stood on either side of the barn doors like those lion statues you see in castles. She pointed to us and whispered something to them. They nodded and let her through. Walking past, I attempted a friendly smile to one of them. He glared at me and I was awarded with a terrifying shriek. I yelped and threw myself through the door, running into the back of Nico, who had stopped in the middle of the barn. The big griffon turned to face us, but sat to the side as if waiting for something.

"Welcome!" A voice came from the loft, above.

I peeked around Nico to see yet another griffon, hopping from the the loft and landing with poise in front of us. This one wasn't nearly as intimidating as the one that retrieved us. Her feathers were white with a few pink tufts atop her head. She had a few black tips on her wings. Her feline half was also white with black stripes. I had never seen a griffon with stripes. She was a lot smaller than the others, as well.

"Name's Gladys." She said, holding out a talon to Nico. He hesitated, but took it, warily. "Sorry about those three. They don't really know how to treat guests." She said, warmly. Odd.

Wasteland Surprise Count: plus one.

"May I have your names? I'd assume you don't want to be called 'Pony One, Two, and Three'." She said, kindly.

"I'm Nico. That's Redd, and this is..." He sighed at the sight of me peeking through my feathers. "Sienna."

Gladys chuckled. "Say, you wouldn't happen to be related to that mare who tore through those raiders earlier, would you?"

My eyes went wide. "Y-you saw that?"

"Are you kidding me? I wished I would have had popcorn. That was the best show I've seen in a while!" She gestured with her claws.

"Y-yeah..." I blushed.

"Anyway, I bet you guys are wondering why Blast brought you here." She clasped her talons together. "When I saw that fight, I saw how fast you could fly. I was hoping you could do me a small favor." She grinned.

"What sort of favor?" Nico asked, curiously.

"It's not much. I just need you to retrieve something that was stolen from me. A pegasus calling herself 'Flashbang' took it from under our beaks while we were off on a job. She wears all black so we don't know who she actually is in order to track her down."

"No offense Gladys, but why Redd and Sienna? Surely, not just because they have wings. I mean, you all have wings, too." Nico spoke up.

Redd scoffed. "You heard her. She saw our speed and agility."

She shrugged. "Partly true. You guys are fast, I'll give you that. But while we are fast, too, we need ponies. Flashbang won't come near a griffon. Every time we get close, she disappears. We've even tried diplomacy, but she won't listen to us."

I folded my wings. "What did she take from you?"

"She took a weapon from us."

"It must be a pretty important weapon." Redd crossed his hooves.

Gladys walked over to a crate that had a large roll of paper. She unrolled it, gesturing for us to look at it. "This is not just any weapon. It's a rocket launcher. I'll spare you the details, but this beauty has enough power to take out a small town." I cringed, looking at the prewar drawing. The design was unlike any gun I had ever seen. A long barrel protruded from a special chamber. According to the design, it could fit two rockets at a time and could shoot them simultaneously. The box shaped thing on the side of it contained a motor that would propel the warheads. I stared in awe.

"It could take out a small town, you say?" I asked, still staring at the thing.

"Yep! That's exactly why we need it back"

My heart dropped. Was she the one Hope was going to use to destroy Floater?

"W-what do you mean?" I glanced at Redd and Nico who were obviously not thinking the same thing as me.

"Our base, Sorry, was stolen from us by some slave drivers. They wanted to use it as a 'pony zoo'." She raged.

"What are you sorry for?" Redd asked.

"What? Oh, our base is called Fort Sorry." Gladys cackled. "I named it just so someone would ask that."

"That's a good reason to have a weapon like that. They should be blown to smithereens." I huffed.

"My thoughts, exactly, but Flashbang seems to think these slavers are 'innocent civilians'. She doesn't know about the slaves." She clicked her nails on the floor.

"So, what's in it for us?" Redd glared at her, suspiciously.

Gladys scratched her head. "Ten-thousand caps?"

"Th-that's a lot of caps." Nico said.

"I don't plan on being here long enough to use them, so..."

"We'll do it." I cut Redd off.

"You're serious?" Nico raised an eyebrow.

I nodded. "Flashbang might be working with Hope or at least know more about her."

"Then it's settled?" Gladys held a talon to me.

I shook it, hiding a wince as they almost pierced my hoof. "It's settled."

The two griffons at the door escorted us out, shutting the barn door behind us.

"So, Flashbang, find Hope, save Floater? My agenda is getting pretty busy." Nico sighed.

"Look, she probably won't be too far away from where we're going." I said.

"How are we supposed to know where to find her?" Redd looked over his rifles. "She could be halfway to the Zebralands, by now."

I sighed. "Just keep your eyes and ears open."

Unidentified Energy Detected

Level Up!
S- 3(+1)
P- 3
E- 3
C- 2
I- 4
A- 3
L- 0

New Perk!
One Hit Wonder - You now give 20% more melee damage, permanently.

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this awesome universe!
Happy Hearth's Warming, everyone! :pinkiehappy:
As always, constructive criticism is always welcome! Thank you for reading!
-AP

Chapter 9: Fascism

"Don't you think that's a teeny bit racist?"

There was a time long ago, before Celestia and Luna's rule, where Equestria was not Equestria. Unicorns raised the sun and moon. The pegasi controlled the weather as it was needed. Earth ponies grew food for all of them. Sounds like harmony, right? Well, I like to think of it as tolerance. They tolerated one another, simply because they needed each other. Without real harmony, each race was soon divided completely over finding a new land (what is now Equestria). I remember reading about the origin of Hearth's Warming. A snow storm came, strengthened by the wicked Windigo. All living beings would soon suffer because of the selfish ways of each leader. However, thanks to the power of friendship and all that jazz, their right-hoof ponies found each other, sharing laughs and spreading joy amongst themselves. It was because of this small peace-making, that the Windigos were weakened. Thus, ending the lengthy dispute. I don't mean to bore you with a history lesson, but my point is this: In a way, I believe society had fell back into these ways. The war tore apart friends, families, and even entire towns.

A gust of wind flowed through my feathers as I glided. I was trying to keep my senses on alert for this "Flashbang". If she was dangerous, I'd have to approach with caution. Well, more than usual. But, the more I thought about her attacking us, the more Gladys' words etched in the back of my mind. She only took away the launcher because she thought the griffons were going to use it against an innocent town. Would that not make her a good pony? My head swam with questions.

Dusk approached as we came upon a village. It didn't seem as kept up as Floater, but just over the hill, I could see buildings with lanterns and makeshift lighting. I had to squint my eyes, but the buildings looked like old shipping containers welded together. The barrier encircling the town was just several layers of barbed wire and tin.

"Get down." Nico grabbed Redd and me with his magic and pulled us out of the air.

"What is the meaning of this?" Redd shouted.

"I've passed through here with my folks when I was a colt. I remember them talking about how pegasi aren't welcome here." Nico glanced around to make sure nopony saw us.

I dusted myself off and folded my wings. "Are you sure it wasn't just your foalish imagination? Or maybe they just don't like the Enclave."

He shook his head, lowering his voice. "They don't like anything with wings. And no it wasn't my 'foalish imagination'. I saw with my own eyes how they threatened a trader caravan just because one of the merchants was a pegasus." He scanned the horizon and sighed. "Looks like we have no choice, though. It's getting dark and these parts are known for violent scavengers."

I sat down, rubbing the barding that covered my chest. "So, we get shot by the town, or get shot by scavengers."

"Gee, which would you prefer?" Redd glared at Nico.

The unicorn looked us over and scratched his chin. "We need to hide your wings."

"No." Redd said. "If I'm going to die, I'd rather die a pegasus. I won't be humiliated by a bunch of racists."

"Well, you're going to have to find your own shelter, then." Nico rolled his eyes.

"Fine with me."

I placed a hoof on Redd's shoulder. "Please, Redd. He knows what he's talking about. Or, I hope he does. He at least knows the wasteland better than we do and I don't want anything to happen to any of us. Let's just be safe."

He groaned. "You can't seriously be agreeing with him."

I shrugged. "I understand where you're coming from, but this is our best bet. We aren't in Thunderhead anymore." I silently pleaded.

He looked from me to the smirking Nico. Finally, he exhaled, loudly. "Fine. But," He held up a hoof. "I'm following your orders. Not his." He gestured to Nico.

I grinned. "Thanks, Redd. I promise it's just for a night."

He blushed, slightly. "Well, if you trust him, I guess I have no choice."

"Alright, enough of your hugs and kisses. Let's get going before we come across anymore surprises." He gestured to his bandaged leg.

Redd was first. As Nico circled him, Redd stepped away. "I'm able, thanks." The lean pegasus stallion unhitched his rifles, carefully setting them on the ground. I watched as he took off his barding. His body was sleek, like most pegasi. I could see his despair as he folded his wings as tightly as he could. He went to work, pulling a piece of thread that surrounded each wing hole. With a tug, the hole was closed enough where no one could see under the clothing.

My eyes found his cutie mark. A red and gray shield with a white lightening bolt through the middle sat like a tattoo where it should be.

Just inspecting.

"You have a wingboner." Nico elbowed me.

I tore my eyes away from Redd and turned red as a beet. "I-" I shook my head and scowled. "J-just help me!"

Snickering, he waited until I pulled off my own armor behind a fallen sign. "Try our new-" was all it read. I guess the mystery of what I needed to "try" was never going to be solved. I attempted to pull the thread, myself, but it was better woven than Redd's. I didn't have a sewing kit, either. I really needed to invest in one of those. I sighed, frustrated, and hoofed the armor to Nico. He carefully untied the tiny thread and pulled the holes closed. I did as Redd had done, and folded my wings. My injury had just healed and I already had to avoid using my wings. Again.

"Like you told him, it's just for a night, Princess." Nico levitated the black clothing over the sign to me.

I snatched it out of the air and threw it on, walking back out of my "dressing room".

"I can still see the outline on your sides." He pointed out.

"Well, it's not like I can detach them whenever I need to do so." I scoffed.

"Just put something over them. Redd has his rifles," He looked over to him. "Which he also needs to disguise. I'm sure somepony in there knows what Enclave weaponry looks like."

"How am I supposed to do that, dickwad?" Redd mumbled.

Nico clicked his tongue and scooped up a clump of mud with his magic. With a satisfactory grin, he smeared it all over the barrels and straps of the rifles. Redd stumbled back. "Do you know how hard it is to clean these things?! What in Celestia's name is wrong with you?!"

"Oh, shut up. Scared of dirt, now?" Nico chimed, pissing him off even more. I facehoofed. Idiots.

My unicorn companion saw my suffering and walked over to me, inspecting me. I tried to hide my pink cheeks. I also tried to not think of him checking me out. He took off his saddlebags and set them on my back next to my smaller ones. Then, for added measure, he tore the Enclave colors and patches off the uniform. I almost winced. So much for looking sharp. "There. Now you're just wearing a sweater."

After checking over both of us, pegasi, Nico nodded. "Alright, let's get going."

He led the way while Redd and I flanked him. I tried to keep my head down, avoiding the gazes of the two guard ponies at the entrance. I slowly looked to Redd, who shared my concern. He wasn't as worried as I was, but there was a hint of doubt in his red eyes. The guards drilled us with their glares, blocking the small opening in the fence.

"Race and business here." One of them ordered. A gray unicorn.

Nico was, thankfully, our spokespony. "Two earth ponies and one unicorn. We just want to rest for the night."

How he kept calm was a wonder to me.

The other guard, a burly earth pony, left his post and circled us. I squeezed my wings so tight, I could hardly breathe. I prayed they wouldn't see past our disguises. He stopped at me. "You look familiar." The guard spoke, craning his neck to get eye level with me. I swallowed, hard.

"I-I do?" I squeaked.

"Yeah. I've seen you, before." He squinted, rubbing his chin in thought.

Oh, Luna's moon cakes, he knows something's up!

With what seemed like hours of intense staring, he lit up. "Do you know Buckshot O'Reiley?"

With as much confusion as I had fear, I said, "I-I've heard the name." It was obviously a lie, but I didn't know what else to do.

"You're his old marefriend! Well, one of them. I knew I've seen you somewhere! You and him came through here a few months back. I remember you running out, threatening to kill him because he slept with another mare." He paused, blushing. "S-sorry about that. Didn't mean to open up old wounds. But, at least you've moved on."

"No w-worries." I rubbed my chest.

The guard returned to his spot. "I don't blame you. I'd be in denial, too." He shook his head. "Haven't met a mare who doesn't regret being a page in ol' Buckshot's book. Go on through."

I almost fainted.

When we were in the town, I relaxed a little.

"Seriously?" Nico raised his brow as we walked through the muddy streets.

"I was just trying to go along with it! Would you rather me have said 'Oh, no I'm not that mare. I'm actually a-'" He shoved his hoof in my mouth, shushing me.

Redd shook his head. "This is ridiculous. We shouldn't have to hide our identity." He hissed.

We managed not to rile anyone up. Other than a few stares, we were pretty much inconspicuous. I walked as close as I could to Nico, when he stopped, I bumped into him, making him lose his balance. He shot me a glare, rubbing his leg. "Will you relax? You're going to make somepony hurt themselves."

"Sorry. I'll-"

Could it be? The sweet, strong, bitter, toxic smell that faintly made it's way into my nostrils. That familiar scent that made my mouth and eyes water, simultaneously. It was. It definitely was...

Alcohol.

After these past few days, I could go for a drink.

I tried to sneak away from the rest of our trio, no longer worrying about getting found out. A few steps away, and I was caught.

Nico stepped in to block me. "Hold on, there. You will definitely give us away, for sure, if you're drunk."

I groaned. "Come on! I neeeeed it!" I pouted, giving him the ol' puppy dog eyes. "Pleeeaase?"

He laughed. "You think that works on me?"

I forced my eyes to grow larger.

His grin twitched as he stared at me.

I tilted my head and folded one of my ears to resemble a pleading filly.

He frowned. "Fine! Stop!"

"Yes!" I hoof pumped, trotting to the doors.

He grabbed my tail in his magic, making me yelp. "You are not drinking in public. I will go buy the bottles. You and Redd can go ahead and get us a room. Please, for the love of all that is holy, don't do anything stupid." He shook his head.

I mock saluted and hoofed him the pouch of caps I won from those poker games.

I laughed, evilly as he walked off. "Tonight, we drink!"

"I didn't take you as a drinker." Redd smirked as we started towards the only building in town that was structurally correct. The word "Inn" was written on the side.

I rolled my eyes. "Have you seen this place? I wouldn't be surprised if everyone here drank on a daily basis."

The second we walked through the open door, I felt off. The vibes were bad enough for me to shiver a little. Then, I saw it. The horrifying decorations. An entire wall was covered in prewar Wonderbolt posters. Only, they weren't promoting anything. Red paint smeared over each one, mocking the uniformed fliers. In the center of the room was one desk. No other furniture. Above the desk, was a plaque, displaying what appeared to be a mummified wing. A pegasus wing. I gulped down my nausea.

"Sia, I know you see that." Redd growled next to me.

I nudged him. "Keep your voice down."

"Welcome! How may I help you?" Came a cheery voice. A pink earth pony mare with a forest green mane waved from behind the counter. She was too cheerful. Her attitude didn't fit in with the rest of the town.

"We just need somewhere to rest for the night. We'd like a room, p-please." My angst showed through my friendliness.

"Of course. Let me find a key." She rummaged through the box behind the desk. "New in town?"

"Yeah." I replied, swallowing.

"Lovely! I think you'll grow to like Walkerton." She mentioned, setting a rusty key on the desk in front of us. "You seem like a sweet couple!"

"We're not-"

"Is that a real pegasus wing?" Redd cut me off, pointing to the plaque with a trembling hoof.

She looked up at the thing. A hint of cringe flashed through her eyes. "Oh, yes! It belonged to an Enclave general. Our mayor, Clockwork, took him down and personally... dismembered the wings. It's his greatest achievement. The other wing hangs in his office on the edge of town." She sounded almost robotic when she said it. Like she had to say it a several times a day. She didn't look happy about it, though. Which was both strange and a relief.

"Th-that's great."

Redd nudged me.

"You'll be in room two. Enjoy your stay!" She forced a smile.

I returned it, grabbing the key and quickly walking through the hall and up a set of stairs. Something didn't seem right with that mare. She was cheerful, but didn't exactly seem very proud of their mayor's accomplishment. More posters hung on the wall, ruined by the paint. A door with a number two painted in red on the frame came into view inside the narrow hall. It was hard to see in the dim lighting, but we managed. Redd took the key from my shaky hooves and unlocked the door, hurrying me inside.

The room wasn't much more than the rest of the inn, not surprisingly. A broken dresser, an old CozyColt chair, and a thick mattress was scattered through the small room. The bed at least had a sheet covering the obvious stains. I closed the door and sat down next to it. I breathed in and out several times, trying to calm my nerves.

"How could they do this? This is outrageous! This town is an abomination!" Redd stormed over to the window, snorting when he saw it was covered in newspaper. This motel was... different. "Aargh! I need to stretch my wings! I feel claustrophobic." He locked the door and threw off his armor and rifles. He unfolded his wings and flapped a few times, sending a breeze my way.

I put mine and Nico's saddlebags on the floor next to Redd's things. I left my armor on, though. Can't be too careful.

"Maybe we should take the rocket launcher and blow this place to smithereens." Redd crossed his hooves.

I made my way to the CozyColt, mentally calling "dibs". "You know we can't do that. There are too many innocent ponies here. Even if they are... racist." I mumbled the last part.

Silence followed for a few seconds.

"Are you sure we can't-"

"No, Redd. We are not blowing up a town." I said, flatly.

He sighed. "Fine."

More silence.

"Sia, back at the Typhoon..." Redd began. "I want to apologize for making things awkward between us."

I straightened my mouth. "It's fine."

"No, it's not." He sighed, running a hoof through his mane. A tiny part of me wanted to touch it. "I was out of line asking you for a date, right now. Though, I really still want that date, I'm willing to put it off until you're ready." He grinned. "I mean, come on. Look at me." He gestured to his flexing bicep. "I've seen you staring."

My white face turned red. "W-was not! I d-don't stare! I... observe. That's part of what pegasi are known for, you know."

He chuckled. "I'm joking! Really! I know I'm a looker." He winked, then waved it off. "I'm trying not to be as full of myself as I was in school. I was... eh, I was okay, but showing off doesn't help much in boot camp."

I cleared my throat, trying to hide a grin. "Boot camp sure changed us."

He smirked, back. "I miss your glasses. You were pretty cute with them and your messy bun in your mane."

I blushed, again. "Oh, stop it. Was not! I-I was a nerd." My eyes fixed on him. "And I seem to recall you calling me 'four-eyes' in grade school. You know, to impress your... ahem... future cheerleader posse."

Redd frowned. "I did?" He stammered. "I-I didn't mean it... I swear if I did, I must not have been paying attention. I'm really sorry."

"It's okay! I know you only called me that because you had a crush on me." I jeered back.

Sweat dampened his forehead. "How did... Nevermind. I'm glad I can be forgiven." He scooted closer to me. "So, what are you planning to do when this is all over?"

I flattened my ears. "I'm going home, of course."

He winced, enough for me to notice.

"What?" I frowned.

"It's nothing." He avoided my stare.

"Just tell me." I ordered.

"Honest! It's nothing! I just... I-I..." He started sweating.

"Redd what is it?"

"Don't make me tell you, please. At least not right now."

I watched him shift, uncomfortably. Whatever it was, he really didn't want to say it. Even though I wanted to prod him more, I let it go. For now. I didn't want to interrogate any of my friends.

"Okay. Fine. But promise me you will tell me when you can." I eyed him.

He paused, then nodded. "I will. Now is just not the time." Relief covered his features.

"Well, what do you plan to do when this is over?" I asked.

"Probably travel. Back in training, the guys would tell stories in the locker room. Storm Front told a story that really stuck with me. It was more of a 'he said, she said' type of thing, but I like to think it's a real thing. He said there was a civilization of pegasi up north, somewhere. According to him, they went right back to prewar life right after D-day. They were so far away that the megaspells didn't have any impact." He shook his head, grinning. "It may not be true, but I'd like to try to find it."

"But... why? You don't want to get back to Thunderhead?"

"I... have my reasons."

Something wasn't right. Redd would never abandon the Enclave for some pony-tale. I drilled him with my glare, but he ignored me, keeping his eyes on his hooves, instead. He was not telling me something. It probably had to do with what he refused to tell me a few minutes prior. Just as I was about to pry the answer from him, a knock on the door caught our attention.

"Who is it?" I yelled.

"Room service. Who do you think it is?" Nico answered.

Redd rolled his eyes and put his barding over his back to hide his wings without actually putting it on. He opened the door and Nico stood with three bottles of pure ecstasy. "You don't have to be an asshole to her." Redd told him.

Nico shut the door as he came in, handing one of the bottles to the pegasus buck. "Says the one who sucks his own-"

I sighed, waiting patiently for the bickering to be over. Propping my head in my hoof, I noticed a bottle floating next to me. Nico smiled and winked as he set it in my lap. The pale yellow fluid looked exactly like what you'd expect pale yellow fluid to look like. A white and yellow label was slapped around it, but it was unreadable. It was in a different language.

"It's tequila." Nico pointed out. "Not as good as Wild Pegasus, but it'll give you the desired result. In Equestrian, it translates to Lime Flame."

I rolled the liquid around before pulling the cork out with my teeth. The scent of alcohol was enough for me! I took a small sip, smacking my lips. There was a hint of bitter citrus. He was right. Wild Pegasus was better, but tequila wasn't bad. I took a longer pull, that time. My gut burned like fire. It was magnificent!

"You remember your last hangover." Nico warned as he poured his tequila in a shot glass.

I rolled my eyes. "I'll burn that bridge when I come to it."

He stopped to stare at me, puzzled. "Don't you mean, 'cross that bridge when you come to it'?"

"No."

Silence. There was no sound except the occasional liquid sloshing around in the bottles as we drank.

"Well, this is boring." I said.

Nico rolled his eyes. He did that so much, it was amazing that they didn't get stuck like that. "Play some music, then."

With a sigh, he got up, cantered over to where I was sitting and fiddled with the Pipbuck. After a moment, he pushed a button, causing soft music to play over the small speaker. Oh, yeah. I do have one of these. An ancient song played, sung by a mare with a beautiful voice. I felt a mixture of sadness, hope, and anger. Jeez, you'd think this mare had more problems than I did.

"There are radio towers down here?" Redd asked.

"Yeah, but not many. This station barely picks up because it's from Tenpony Tower." Nico said.

The song ended, followed by the cheerful voice of a stallion.

"Gooood evening, folks! DJ Pon3, here! And that was a nice little tune by Sweetie Belle! Let's see what's going on in the wasteland, shall we?

First and foremost, there seems to be an increase in raider activity to the east of Shattered Hoof. I'm not certain if there are raider settlements being built there, but please stay away from that area. There have been sightings of... wait, seriously? Ha! Hilarious!.... Y-you're not joking?....Oh, uh...Well, there have been sightings of... alicorns around Maripony. Whether or not those are real sightings or just old-timer stories, I have no clue. Nevertheless, it's best to keep an eye out. Alicorn or not, there are plenty of real dangers to look out for. In other news-"

I switched it off. Alicorns? Nope. Staying far away from that drama. I'm barely equipped to handle my task at hoof much less that crap.

"No more radio, then?" Nico chuckled, taking another swig.

"I'm done with everything, today. Luna and Celestia are the only alicorns I know of. My brain can't handle anything else." I took about two more gulps. I wanted to forget I had heard that.

"Increased raider activity to the east of Shattered Hoof. That's where we are, right?" Redd asked.

Nico nodded. "Pretty far off out of the way, but Shattered Hoof isn't that hard to get to. Besides, we aren't going to Shattered Hoof. We are going just south of it."

I sighed. "Great."

It didn't take long for the tequila to take effect. My mind had become a clouded mess of emotion. I looked at both of my companions and smiled. They are such great guys. I'm so lucky to have them with me. Sure, they argue a lot. Sure, they can be dumb, but they are awesome! Besides, I think they are kind of jealous of each other. Silly, silly ponies. Silly un-y-corn. Silly pegasusus. Pegasis. Pegasauce? He does look kind of yummy. Like spaghetti squash in sauce. Yeah, I'd like to smear them both in-

"-tomato sauce and... and..." I stopped when I realized Nico and Redd were both staring at me in confusion, awe, and amusement.

And they burst out laughing.

"W-what?!"

"Why does he get to be 'yummy' and I only get to be called a 'un-y-corn'?" Nico said through laughs.

"Can you blame her?" Redd wiggled his eyebrows at me.

It dawned on me that I had said every bit of that, not in my head, but out loud. I covered my glowing, red face with my forehooves.

"It's fine, Sia." Nico wiped a tear. "You won't remember this in the morning."

"Aw." Redd slumped.

An hour and three-fourths of a bottle later, Redd had passed out on the mattress. My vision was blurring pretty quickly. I decided that was enough, so I corked my bottle and put it in my bag, saving it for later. Nico swished his bottle, lost in thought. Redd snored loudly as he slept.. Nico glared at him. "I should break this bottle over his head." He grumbled.

"Don't -hic- do that. Let the guy sleep. It's been a long day." I smiled over at the sleeping stallion.

I heard, yes, I heard Nico roll his eyes. "Oh, please. You just have a hard-on for him."

"No I don't. You're both attractive in your own way. If we don't get another mare in our group soon-" I stopped myself. "I mean, I need somepony to talk to about girl stuff. You know, shopping, getting hooficures..."

"Boys? Oh, my, Celestia that sound super fun!" Nico put on his best girly voice.

I giggled, uncontrollably. "Nu-uh!"

"Yeah-huh." He grinned.

I sighed, happily. "You know, I'm really glad I get to 'save the world or die trying' with you by my side. Redd, too."

He smiled, genuinely. "You aren't so bad, yourself, Princess. I almost hate to see you go when it's over."

I blushed, afraid of what might come out of my drunken mouth.

Too bad I was drunk.

"If I didn't go home, I could stay with you, right?" I stood up stretching my legs.

"Of course."

I stepped closer. "And... we could... go on adventures, too, right?"

"Ye- wait what?" He blushed.

I got even closer, batting my eyelashes. "Aaannnd... You only have... one bedroom..."

Sigh. I need to quit drinking.

He backed into the wall. "I uh..."

My nose was a hair away from his as I grinned. "Sooo, you know what that means, right?" I slurred.

"Oh, do I? I-I guess I do. We'd have to be caref-"

"Boop." I touched his nose, then grabbed him in a headlock, holding him close to my chest. "I love payback."

"Y-you're a bigger asshole than I am." He stammered.

"Shhh." I pet his mane.

"This day just gets more stupid by the minute." He said, trying to pry himself from me. "You're freaking me out, Sia."

"Just end the chapter already..." Redd grumbled through snores.

"I rest my case." Nico said.

A soft knock on the door caught us by surprise. Nico gently pushed me off of him and threw Redd's barding over his torso to cover him. I swayed, watching the unicorn tip-toe to the door. "Who is it?" He asked.

"It's me. The desk pony, Green Leaf. You've got to let me in." She whispered.

Nico swallowed and opened the door. She rushed past him. "Close it, hurry!"

He obeyed and eyed her, warily. "What's going on?"

"I don't have a lot of time to explain. Clockwork knows your secret. Someone saw a feather fall from one of you and they warned him. He's about to bring his guards to investigate." She looked behind her and lowered her voice. "We have to go."

"Why should we trust you? You know they are pegasi. How do we know you won't bring us right to him?" Nico asked her.

"Please, understand I have no ill will against anypony. Clockwork... I have no choice but to follow his ideas. But, today... I will not be doing that. There's a tunnel under this motel. It leads out of town into a warehouse just over the hill. If we hurry, you can make it out." She helped Nico grab our things.

"This is... very, very suspicious." I hiccuped.

"Great. We have to carry these two chuckleheads." Nico levitated Redd and set him on his back, grunting under his weight. "How does he manage to fly? He weighs more than me!"

Leaf offered her hoof and helped me climb onto her back. She was much bigger than me, so it probably wasn't a problem for her. Earth ponies were just naturally stronger, it seemed. Leaf opened the door and cantered down the hallway into a another set of stairs that climbed down to the basement.

"Leaf, Is this safe? I do not want this tunnel to fall. We would be -hic- like, really, really dead." I slurred.

"It's safe as far as I know." She chuckled. "Though, I wouldn't mess with any of the support beams."

"Roger that." I groaned. My buzz was starting to go away, being replaced by a headache.

We approached a pickle barrel off to the side of the basement. With a buck, she removed it. Under the barrel was a trap door. We heard hoofsteps above us.

"They're here!" She hissed.

Nico opened the door and held it so Leaf and I could get inside. He soon followed, closing the door. I craned my neck to get a better view of the tunnel. Dirt. Dirt walls, dirt floor, dirt ceiling. That was it. It was dimly lit, but we still could barely see the beams and rafters holding the tunnel up. Nico pushed the button on my Pipbuck and the green light illuminated the darkness.

I barely avoided hitting my head on a rafter as we ran further down. We stopped at a fork in the tunnel.

"Which way?" Nico asked.

Leaf gulped. "I-I don't know! I didn't know there was a fork here! I only glanced at the map for a brief time!"

I hopped off her back and held my head with a hoof.

"Great. Just great!" Nico yelled.

"Don't blame her." I said.

"Do you know what is going to happen to us?" He growled at me.

I poked his chest. "No, but this was your idea to begin with!"

"Please stop yelling. Head. Hurts." Redd mumbled. He stood, dazed and looking around. "What the hell is going on?"

"Long story." Leaf said, sheepishly.

"Wait, that means... You took us!" Redd threw on his rifles with practiced ease and aimed them at her. I rushed in front of him.

"Don't you dare!" I snapped.

"We need to get you out of here." Leaf said, searching the tunnel for any clue.

"You four aren't going anywhere." A deep voice echoed behind us.

The four of us snatched our heads to look behind us. A a gray earth pony stallion stepped out of the tunnel we had just emerged from. Two guards with pistols flanked each side of him. The badge on his vest reflected the light of my Pipbuck.

Leaf's face twisted in horror. "F-Father."

Father?!

"Green Leaf, I see you have been hiding these... ruffians. Get over here, this instant!" He shouted. "I knew something was off about those two!" He pointed to Redd and me.

"No." Leaf countered.

"What?" He backpedaled. "Young lady! I will-"

"No, Father! This weird vendetta you have against pegasi... It's not right!"

He stayed silent for a few seconds. Then, "I'll deal with you, later." He narrowed his eyes at Redd's rifles. "You pegasi have done nothing but corrupt and deceive our kind. Now, you'll pay for corrupting my daughter!" He nodded for the guards to take us.

"Wait! Clockwork, y-you need to know something." I stumbled closer to him. He was about the same height as Weights. "Redd and I understand where you're coming from."

"Yeah, ri-"

"But," I interrupted my red-headed companion. "You can't judge someone by their race... or even their species. Especially not anymore. I learned that the hard way." I sent a smile to Nico, who returned it. "Please, just-"

Clockwork stomped. "You think I have poor judgement? No. I have reasons. And my reasons go beyond what you or even the citizens of this town know! I have a special place in my office for your wings, dear girl."

My blood ran cold.

"You are the most insane pony I have ever met!" Nico spat.

Just then, the loudest, ear piercing screech ripped through the tunnels. Even Clockwork jolted his head towards the sound. When the echo ceased, everything became quiet. I slowly backed up next to Nico. His face was pale and he breathed heavy. I swallowed. If Nico was scared, I had every single right to be, too. The tequila had quickly worn off.

"Ferals." Nico whispered so low I could barely hear him.

Shit.

Dozens of monsters with glowing eyes flooded the cavern, coming from the tunnels that were in front of us. They snapped and growled, falling over each other. Redd started zapping the ones who were running for us. I flew towards the ceiling, unloading Bob into a couple of them. Gunshots came from every direction.

"Leaf!" Clcokwork boomed. He bit down on his revolver, making holes in a zombie that was biting at his daughter. She grunted as she bucked it off. My heart thundered in my chest, making me grab at my barding nearest to it. I swallowed back my fear, beginning to hyperventilate. I shook my head. No! I won't... hesitate! Not again! I zapped a couple more, turning them to ash.

"Redd! Help the guards!" Nico barked, frantically shooting at the ghouls surrounding him.

"I don't need help from a pegasus!" One of them shouted. He swung his baton, bashing the skull of a zombie. Just as he spun around, though, two ghouls overpowered him, tearing into his flesh. He screamed as they ripped open his torso, exposing more than I could bear to see. I became nauseated as one of the monsters bit down on his intestines. The guard died, instantly.

Redd snapped out of his daze and rushed to the other guard, who watched his friend be mauled. "Any objections from you?" Redd asked. The other guard shook his head, vigorously, bucking two more ghouls out of the way. Redd fired several more beams of energy before his guns started smoking.

"Shitshitshit! My barrels are fried!" He shouted.

"Time to use your legs!" The guard shouted up at him.

Redd growled, diving for a group of ghouls who had cornered Clockwork. The earth stallion nodded, thanking him, and went back to shooting.

"Sia! Behind you!" Nico yelled, reaching for me.

I twirled around, not before I was knocked out of the air by a unicorn ghoul. It shambled atop of me and screeched. I screamed, struggling to kick the thing off of me. Another joined in the fighting, aiding the other ghoul that had just snapped at my muzzle. It took all my strength to keep the zombies from biting me. Black liquid suddenly splattered on my face. The stench was that of rotted meat. I stretched my neck away from the other ghoul, spotting Bob nearby. I reached for it, but it was kicked away by the commotion of the fight.

It suddenly felt like my shoulder was being ripped off my body. Pain erupted as the zombie bit a chunk of hide. I screamed in agony, fighting to stay conscious. Its head exploded, gore covering the rest of my body. Nico sent a wave of magic, throwing off any ghoul near me. He rushed to my side, eyes widening at the wound. I couldn't see it but I could tell it was bad. I felt my blood pouring from it. He grabbed a healing potion from his bag and quickly lifted me enough to drink it. Tears streamed down my face as I gulped it down. I felt the wound close as I heard the crack of his rifle above me. He stayed over me until I was able to move, again. He hoofed over Bob, waiting until I switched cartridges. A zombie ran towards Nico but he ducked, sending the feral rolling over him and into another group of monsters. They stumbled back. Aiming my pistol, I shot at two ghouls that were running for Leaf. They each turned to ash.

Back to the hell from whence you came!

The remaining guard threw a grenade into a crowd, causing gore to fly everywhere. A few, however, survived. Well, not survived, per se, but they still moved, even if they were missing half of their bodies. I had never seen anything so terrifying in my life. Yet, I was still going to fight. I would not let harm come to my friends!

Another feral slammed into Clockwork. Yet, another tore into his vest. I stared in terror at his bare sides. Deep scars stood out on each side where wings would be if he were a pegasus. I shook the daze away and bit down on Bob's trigger, turning the two ghouls to ash. Clockwork's wounds were weakening him, so I pushed Nico out of the way and zoomed over to help him to his hooves.

"I don't... need... you!" He snatched his hoof away from me.

Ignoring him, I pushed him out of the path of a zombie. Instead of it knocking into him, it hit me, slamming me into the dirt wall. Rubbing my head, I dodged the bites from it. More ghouls were running out of the tunnels. It was an endless wave!

"Nico! We need... to get out of... here..." I tried to yell, but my vision was getting blurry. I was weak from the blood loss.

Nico flashed me a concerned glance before rushing to me. "Redd! Grab Clockwork! We're getting out of here!" He yelled, helping me to my hooves. "Everyone, move!"

Leaf and the guard galloped towards us.

"Put me down! I will not be humiliated! Clockwork yelled, trying to fight Redd's grasp as he flew him out of the cavern.

"Been there, done that! Your hoof is broken you crazy bastard!" Redd argued.

Nico put my wing over his back to help me run beside him. "Come on, don't pass out."

We were the last two out of the cavern. Redd and Clockwork were already almost out, with Leaf and the guard trailing them. I chanced a look behind us. The ghouls were still far behind, but gaining on us. A few yards up the tunnel, Nico called for Redd.

He flapped his wings, zooming through to us. "The others are getting to the trap door, now. You need to hurry!"

Nico stopped running, my wing falling from him. "Go. I'll catch up." He looked to Redd. "Get her to safety."

Redd nodded, understanding.

"What are you doing?" My chest started crawling.

A grenade hovered next to him. "Making sure they don't leave the tunnels. Go!"

I shook my head, turning to grab him. "No! I won't leave you! You stupid idiot!"

He smiled. "Don't worry about me, Princess. I'll be fine." The ghouls were falling over each other, groaning behind us.

"No!"

Redd grabbed me. "Come on, Sia!"

He pulled me from Nico, holding me in his forelegs as he flew away. I reached my hoof out to Nico, fighting Redd's grip. He winked at me before turning around and heading towards the horde. The last thing I saw before we disappeared through the trap door was him pulling the pin and throwing the explosive. Leaf slammed the door as soon as we got through. The explosion shook the ground not a second after the door closed. My eyes went wide.

No!

The dust lingered in the air for a while. I dropped to the floor, wailing. I was so angry. No, I was devastated. I felt a hoof on my shoulder, so I looked up to see Redd looking down at me, sadly. I buried my face in his chest, letting him rub my back as I sobbed. Half the ponies who befriended me ended up dead. I thought about leaving. Just spreading my wings and taking off, alone. I blamed the wasteland. I blamed those nuts before the war. The bastards! They didn't have to start a war! Things shouldn't have been this way.

I clutched onto Redd's barding for dear life, trying to catch my breath.

"I want to thank you both. For saving us, I mean." Clockwork spoke up. "I know this may not be the best time, but if there's anything you need... Please, don't hesitate to ask."

I stopped sobbing, but I started shaking to replace the crying. "You're a pegasus." I mumbled into Redd's armor.

He didn't reply.

I rounded on him, not bothered by Redd holding me back. "You. Are. A. Fucking. Pegasus!" I screamed. "You're one of us! You wanted us dead, anyway! Well, the only one of us that's not a pegasus is dead! Do you hear me, Clockwork?! Dead!!"

He shamefully looked away, lowering his head. "I-I am so sorry..."

"Father?" Leaf stepped up beside me. "Is she telling the truth?"

"Look at his sides! Look at his scars and tell me you never put it together!" I pointed to Clockwork.

"Y-you said they were from a battle." She breathed.

Redd narrowed his eyes. "I'm guessing you didn't."

The pegasus-turned-earth pony sighed. "I cut off my wings."

I couldn't believe it. It should have been obvious, but my anger died in my throat. Wings were a very sensitive body part. I couldn't imagine that amount of pain.

"Why?" Leaf whispered.

"I was ashamed. The pain and hatred that was brought by the Enclave. I escaped, unbranded, as a young buck." He said, holding his broken hoof.

"I am the Enclave! He is the Enclave!" I pointed to myself and Redd respectively. "We haven't hurt anyone! We are not bad ponies!"

He rubbed his mane. "But, have you found love?"

I paused.

"Right after I got to the wasteland, I found a mare who I'd call mine. We had a beautiful filly," He gestured to Leaf with a smile. Then, he frowned. "But the bastards. They followed me. Said I had 'sensitive information'. They destroyed everything I had built! My life was good until they came back to haunt me!" He shook with anger. "My friends, my neighbors." He looked to Leaf. "Your mother. They... They took everything from me."

"But, why am I an earth pony?" A tear fell from her face.

"Your mother was an earth pony, sweetheart. When you were born, I saw you didn't have any wings. I had prayed to the goddesses that you wouldn't. So, When I realized I could hide your roots from you, I... I went through... agonizing pain to make sure you'd never know. I truthfully didn't want you to hate anypony. Truthfully. But, when I founded this town, I saw a new hope. 'Get rid of anything with wings.' I had told my guards. I just never wanted you to know... I didn't mean for you to hate me. I should have never forced you to hate any race just because of my mistakes." He wiped his own tears away.

Leaf galloped to him, throwing her hooves around his neck. "I couldn't hate you! I-I never even hated anyone. I just wish you would have told me the truth."

He hugged her back. "I love you so much, my little filly. I'm glad my hateful ways didn't rub off on you."

"I love you, too, Dad."

Ignoring the reunion, I glanced back at the trap door. A huge part of my wanted to open it. I flinched to open it, but I had to beat back the thoughts. What would I find if I opened it? Would there even be anything down there? There were just too many questions that I didn't want the answer to. My eyes watered, again. Nico was gone. Without him, I doubted I could do anything. I doubted myself so much, that I just wanted to beat myself down. I wanted to be the one to throw the grenade. I would have been the better sacrifice. He had much more to offer the wasteland. More than I ever could.

Nico, I'm so sorry...

Level Up!
S- 3
P- 3
E- 3
C- 2
I- 4
A- 3
L- 1(+1)

New Perk!
Zombie Gunner - You are 50% more resistant to ghoul attacks while flying.

Nico is no longer your companion.

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

Wishing everypony a happy New Year! :pinkiehappy: 🎊🎉

Thank you for reading, and as always, constructive criticism is always welcome!

-AP

Chapter 9.5: A Guide to Grieving

"Sadness can make you do crazy things."

Tears. They just wouldn't stop that night. I sat in the saloon off in a dark corner, drinking. Clockwork allowed us to stay as long as we wanted. I appreciated the change of heart, but nothing would bring Nico back. I was too upset to be happy about anything. I sat on the stool, slumping over the bar. There was one other pony in there. A mare. She was passed out in one of the booths. The bartender swept at the opposite end of the saloon. I could hear the rain beating down on the metal roof like someone had turned on thousands of faucets. I wearily glanced over at my Pipbuck. Midnight. According to the stats, I had taken a small amount of damage during the fight just hours ago. The physical pain was nowhere near as bad as my mental anguish.

I lay my head on the bar. "Nico, why? Why couldn't you just stay with me? You didn't have to..."

I just wanted to drink. Being numb was better than remembering everything, clearly. Life wasn't fair. It wasn't fair to any of us. It wasn't fair that I had anxiety. It wasn't fair that I had to be sent on that stupid rescue mission. It couldn't be sunshine and rainbows. It couldn't be giggles of fillies and colts. I hated it. I hated it all. I wanted to blame Hope. I wanted to blame those ghouls. Even myself. But, what good would it have done?

"Are you alright?"

I turned my head, groggily. Clockwork approached me, taking a seat at the stool next to me. He nodded to the bartender, who went to work pouring a drink and sliding it to him. His leg was bandaged. Like Nico's had been. He also wore another vest, but his badge wasn't attached. He was the last pony I expected to see, but I wasn't surprised. Too bad, Wasteland Surprise Count.

He looked out the window into the dreary night. "It's a shame." He took a sip. "The wasteland wouldn't be so bad if we could get a little sunlight."

My head landed back on the bar with a thud. "The Enclave doesn't -hic- think there's anything to... shed light for." I slurred.

"You don't agree?"

I sighed, picking up my drink and downing the rest. "At first. I was a lot like you, only... towards ponies in the wasteland. Raiders did take out my team. I was the only survivor." I shoved my face in my hooves. "Nico saved me. He helped nurse me back to health. He even helped me fly again."

Clockwork looked at his hooves. I forgot he wouldn't be able to fly, ever again. "S-sorry." I hiccuped.

"I deserve that. Not all of our kind are malevolent. I should have thought more about it. Leaf's mother never would have let me mutilate my own body. That's where Green Leaf gets it from. She saw the good in everypony." He smiled. "It's what I loved most about her."

"She seemed like a good pony."

"She was. Oh, Celestia, she was too good for this goddess-forsaken place. When that general killed her, I..." He banged his hoof on the bar, waking the sleeping mare. "How are you not infuriated? Those ghouls took your friend!"

I tapped the counter for another round. When it was served, I downed half of it and shook my head. "I guess I could be mad. I could go right back down to those tunnels and -hic- kick every last one of those monsters." I blinked away my dizziness and looked at him. "Oh, wait. They're dead." I shook my head. "Clockwork, I've had revenge, before. Those raiders who killed my team? I took them out. Wick and Chaser are still dead, though." I sniffed. "I guess all we can do is try harder next time. After all, if I would have done more in the first place, they'd still be here. If only I wasn't such a coward."

"Even if it isn't really your fault."

I nodded with a hiccup. "Yup."

"My grandfather used to tell me bravery doesn't necessarily mean you have to take on an army. Violence should barely be the definition of courage. A little help here and there, going out of your comfort zone to make somepony's life better. That's courage. You saved my daughter." He put a hoof on my shoulder.

"I didn't do anything, Clockwork." I shook my head.

"You did more than you know. I should get back to my office. I have some... redecorating to do. If you need anything, please come to me or Leaf." He smiled.

I half-heartedly returned the gesture as he stood and shuffled out into the rain. There was some wisdom to that stallion, despite his poor judgement. Everypony made mistakes, though. I couldn't hold him accountable.

I wanted to go find Nico's body. I wanted to hug him one last time and tell him I was sorry. I didn't want him to be down there with those monsters. He was probably cold, hurt.... lonely. I sighed and drank the last of that drink, too. I stood, the room spinning. I barely managed to catch myself from falling.

"Ma'am, do you need help?" The barpony asked.

"I'm -hic- fine." I snapped, stumbling out of the bar. Outside, rain poured from the sky. It was all a blur, but I swear I saw lightening close by. I dragged my hooves, one by one. Muddy water splashed onto my legs as I drunkenly made my way back to the inn. The buildings danced around me as the static-y rain fell.

I began to sing in my head. Or, I think it was in my head.

"Row, row, -hic- row your ship.
Gently, down the... ditch?"

I nickered. "Songs are hard."

I stopped at a an poster of a sad, yellow pegasus. Under the red paint, it read, "We must do better."

I scoffed. "No, you!"

I was miles from where I was supposed to go. Was I even going to the inn? I hoped so. I was probably lost. At least I wasn't hurting. At least I didn't have to feel the guilt. At least the ground was soft. I was suddenly face down in mud. Again. Tears formed as I thought back to my first night in the wasteland. I was in this same situation. Pouring rain, mud on my face, loss of friends. I laughed. I actually laughed. "So, you got me again, huh?" I rolled onto my side yelling into the night.

"You got me! You can say it, ya stupid wasteland." I choked out.

Thunder.

"Sike, right?"

Rain.

"Say sike right now!" I cried.

"Sia?" I heard wings flapping above me.

I looked up to see an angelic figure. "Luna, you've come to take me hooome!"

Nope. Redd. He landed next to me and helped me up. "You look terrible, Sia. I've given you your alone time long enough. Let's go."

He shielded me from the rain with his wing as we walked the short way back. Like it mattered. My mane and tail were soaked. My feathers were even drenched. A loud clap of thunder made me jump. I watched the mud wash off of my coat. I guess the forecast called for flooding. Practically crawling through the motel door, Redd stopped us at the desk. "Leaf, can we get a couple of towels? Maybe a blanket?"

She nodded, solemnly, digging behind the desk and pulling out the towels and blanket. "Is she okay?"

Redd nodded. "As okay as she's going to be, I guess."

The rest of the trip to the room was a blur. All I remember is Redd helping me take off my barding and giving me the towel. I ruffled my mane, tail, coat, and feathers. It felt nice to be dry, but I was still cold. I watched him dry himself off. I wanted to make a dirty remark and hear a snarky comment about how I'm a pervert or something. I shivered, moving my gaze to the floor and pulling my limbs closer to me. Nopony would be calling me a pervert, tonight.

"Are you hungry?" He asked.

I shook my head.

"Is there anything I can do?"

"Stop pitying me. Please, Redd. Just stop."

"I'm not-"

"Yes you are! Since that... unicorn went and left us, I'm being treated like a... like a widow or something! We all lost a friend, Redd! You lost a -hic- friend, I lost a friend! Fleece lost a friend! He was everypony's friend!" I shouted poking his chest with each name.

"I know, but-"

"No! He's dead! Stop pitying me! It won't bring him back!" I hit him.

"He won't come back!" I hit him, again.

"He... he..." I fell into Redd, weeping. His forelegs and wings wrapped around me, holding me tight as I cried. I dared him to let go.

"I'm sorry, Redd. Ah'm sorry! I'm sorry!" I wailed.

"Don't. You have no reason to be sorry." He rubbed my back.

It took forever for me to calm down. When I finally did, I pulled away, snot and tears staining his armor. I flattened my ears. "Sorry."

He chuckled. "Nah, it's just barding. It's not like it hasn't been through worse." He looked back to me. "Are you sure you aren't hungry?"

I nodded. "Idon'twannaeatanything." My words were jumbled together.

He went over to the mattress and fixed the sheet. "Well, you should probably sleep off that alcohol." He sniffed. "What did you drink anyway? That is strong."

I blushed. "Little bit o' gin. Some rum. Coconut rum. More tequila." I slinked back.

He stared, eyes like saucers. "S-seriously?"

I nodded.

"Oh. Okay, well, anyway, here. You sleep on the bed. It's more comfortable than it seems. I'll take the chair." He came back to me, helping me to the bed. I sat on the edge, hanging my back legs off.

"Uh. Want me to tuck you in?"

I stared.

"I don't know what to do in this situation." He rubbed his neck. "I guess I'll just-"

I kissed him. For the first time in my life I kissed a stallion. I was drunk. I was hurting. I didn't care. Anything to take my mind off of this wreck of a life. With as much force as my anger gave, I knocked him back onto the floor, still locked onto his face. Redd was too stunned to return it, all the way. Oh, well. I'd suck his face off before I let my grief make me wallow in the mud, again. He propped up on his elbows, pushing me away.

"Wh-what the hell?! Sia, what are you doing?" He looked at me with confused eyes. Beautiful, red, shiny, confused eyes.

"I dunno. I don't wanna hurt anymore. Do you... not wanna to kiss me?" I shuffled my hooves.

"Hell yes I do! But, I only want that if you are sure you do, too. I don't really think you should be drunk and kissing me, you know? I'm sure you'd regret it tomorrow." He murmured the last part.

"Why would you think I'd regret it?"

He sighed. "You're a good mare, Sia. I know you liked Nico. It wouldn't feel right to kiss you knowing you wished I was somepony else."

I pinned him to the floor, glaring at him with all the fire I could manage. "I. Did. Not. Like. Him. Not in that way, do you understand?"

He gulped and nodded.

"Good." I walked over to my bag, taking out the third of tequila. I pulled the cork out. With a deep breath, I swallowed three times and wiped my mouth. Redd sat still. He watched me in confusion. Like he was staring at a stranger. My eyes found my hooves. They blurred and danced around my vision. I held back tears. "Redd... Please, forgive me. I don't want to force you to do anything you don't want to do." I covered my face with my wings. "I just... I want to take my mind off things."

He chewed his lip before he walked towards me and embraced me, gently. "It's okay. To lose somepony... It sucks. The worst part is the emotions afterwards. We all cope in different ways. To be honest, you deserve to cope any way you see fit." He pulled away, smiling. After an awkward pause, he cleared his throat. "Uh, well... Sia, whatever you want to do to help you feel better..." He swallowed, then quickly added, "No sex! I won't go that far. Not... now, anyway." He grinned, sheepishly.

My double hoof reached up and moved his mane from his forehead. "Redd..." I breathed. "You're right. I shouldn't be doing this. I just want..."

"To forget for one night." He finished.

I nodded. "Yeah."

We slowly got closer. I felt his breath on my muzzle. My eyes closed. Finally, we crashed into each other. His smell was so intoxicating. I had to keep reminding myself that nothing more would come from it. I don't even know how my hoof found his jawline. His wingtips stroked my spine, making me gasp. Goosebumps rolled over my body. He kissed my neck, my shoulder. Once he climbed back up, he stopped at my ear. "Tell me you want me to stop even a little and I will stop."

I couldn't speak. Instead, I grinned, evilly.

His muzzle rubbed below my ear, making me shiver.

"Redd..." I groaned.

"Sia..."

I was butter in his hooves. "Take me."

"Sia, come on." He chuckled.

"I mean it, Redd."

"Wake up..."

My eyes shot open. I was still in the motel. It was still dark outside. Redd was staring at me from the old chair, his face red as his mane. I shot up, the headache then hitting me. I put my hoof over my head. I half expected my pegasus friend to say something. From the way he stared at me with pinprick pupils and wide-open mouth, I guessed he wasn't going to do anything.

"W-why are you staring at me like that?" I asked him.

He looked away. "I'm not! I mean, nothing! It's nothing! You were not talking in your sleep. Nope. Not at all!"

I suddenly remembered the dream I was having. "Oh. OH! Oh Luna, did you..."

He shook his head, almost making me dizzy. "No! No! I heard nothing!" He rolled over. "Good night!"

His fake snores did not help the matter. The longer I sat there, hungover and nauseated, the more I thought about...

Not thinking. Not thinking. Not thinking.

I lifted the Pipbuck to check the time. It was still a few hours until dawn. Letting my forehoof fall, I sighed, loudly. I wanted to talk to somepony, but I also wanted to lay there. I rubbed my sore chest. The panic attack from that night had made my muscles ache. My hoof touched the necklace. I thought about the night I got it. Fleece said it was a token of our friendship. I liked to think it was a symbol of all our friendships. That had been the most fun I had had in a long time...

Wait. I still have tequila!

I sat up, slowly, ignoring the pounding in my head. As soon as I got to my hooves, my stomach flopped. It was like my body was keeping me from that sweet, sweet memory eraser. I shuffled to my bag, trying not to "wake" Redd. I dug around, finally pulling out the bottle. Luckily those giant gulps were in my dream, too. I could kick my own ass.

It took a few swallows and some deep breaths, but I finished it off. It wasn't enough to get wasted, but it was enough. I sighed in relief as I felt the wonderful light headedness. Bed time! As I started to pass Redd, I stopped next to him. With a smile, I clumsily kissed his forehead. "Thank you." I whispered. What I thanked him for, I didn't know. He deserved a thank you, anyway.

Next thing I know, I'm falling onto the mattress, face first. I think I was asleep before my head even hit the nonexistent pillow. The headache faded along with my other aches and pains.

Dreams. Do they have to be so weird?

No Data.

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

Yes, short chapter. But, I wanted to practice writing from a drunken character's point of view. I want to let it be known that I mean no disrespect to anyone with substance abuse. Thank you for reading! As always, constructive criticism is always welcome!

-AP

Chapter 10: Mental State

"The mind is such a terrible thing to lose..."

Dreams. Do they have to be so weird? Again, I opened my eyes in confusion...

The mattress was oddly soft. Too soft. No, it wasn't the bed. It was a cloud. I looked around to see nothing but blue sky. I sat on the cloud curtain, except this one wasn't gray and lifeless. It was white and fluffy. The brightness around me was almost blinding. I guess I had already gotten used to the dullness of the wasteland. I slowly stood on all fours, using my wings to balance myself. I didn't see the sun, anywhere. Strange.

I sighed. "Great. Another dream. Can't I just stay in reality?"

"Sia."

I turned so fast, I almost fell. Nico stood a few yards away, smiling at me. My breath escaped me. He was there! Who cared if it was a dream? I broke into a run towards him. Unfortunately, he faded into nothing and was replaced by the princess of the night. I slid to a stop in front of her. I was secretly angry, but I wouldn't dare let her know that.

She smiled, sadly. "I'm sorry, Sienna. I figured you wanted to see his face one last time. I didn't mean to cause more pain."

I looked down. "It's fine. I don't really know what I was expecting."

She said nothing, but simply shared my remorse.

"Your highness, is he really..." I didn't finish that sentence. I figured she knew, anyway.

"I'm sorry. I truly don't know." She answered.

I saw it. The uncomfortable shift in her posture. She swallowed, nervously. Something wasn't right, here. I was going to find out.

Luna, forgive me if I'm wrong.

"You're the princess of dreams. If you're able to be in my dreams, wouldn't you know if he was still able to dream?"

She flattened her ears. "I..."

"If a piece of your soul is still alive, you should still be able to see dreams. Even if you are physically... not able." I accused.

She started backing away.

"You'd know if he's alive!" I pointed, menacingly. "Unless, you aren't really Princess Luna!"

A wince. Seems I've struck a nerve.

I glared daggers at the phony. "Who are you? Why are you in my head?!" I shook my head, trying to end the dream.

"Sienna! Darling, please!" Her voice changed. It became higher pitched with a posh accent. "I'm so sorry. I truly am. I was just so afraid that if I had shown who I was... you might not trust me." She closed her eyes. "Nopony else did."

I narrowed my eyes.

"I swear, everything I've said about the pearls is the truth. Silky didn't know about the power they held. Not a lot of ponies did." Her voice cracked a little, as she fought back memories. "I had made so many mistakes. The pearls. My ministry. That cursed black book... I wanted to make life better for us! I did, but I was... The pink cloud. The sacrifice I had to make for my best friend... I'm still haunted. Wondering what happened to her." She shook her head. "None of that matters, right now. I want to make things right!"

"Who are you, really?" I asked.

She let out a breath, then the breeze picked up as her mane flowed around her. Luna's tall form shrunk into a smaller pony. Her wings disappeared and her horn shrunk, as well. The beautiful blue coat changed to brilliant white and her deep purple mane curled, delicately around her face. I gasped when the crescent moon cutie mark was replaced with three diamonds.

"R-Rarity?" I almost fainted.

She dusted herself off and flipped her mane. "Of course, darling. It is really me, this time, I promise. After I learned that soul jar spell, I decided to put a part of me in the necklace you have. None of that was a lie. The only lie was my identity." She coughed. "Of course, that wasn't a very good lie. I hope I made Applejack proud. The dreaming, the shapeshifting, though. I had to use... other dark magic to weave into the soul jar spell, but I succeeded." She smiled. "Thank you, by the way. I heard you were my biggest fan."

I couldn't speak. Rarity was talking to me.

She stepped closer, concerned about my silence. "Er, Sia?"

I blinked. "I-I'm sorry, I just need a moment to process this." I had to calm myself. "I would have much rather spoken to you than Princess Luna. I mean... She is- was our leader, but you? You have given me so much inspiration throughout my life. Oh! I have your sewing machine from Silky!" I squeed, putting my hooves on my cheeks. "I can't believe this!"

She chuckled. So ladylike! "It is beautiful, isn't it? My auntie had it in her attic for the longest time. You keep it, now. Obviously I have no use for it, anymore."

"Wait. Nico lives in your aunt's house?!" I slumped. "Lived..."

She nodded. "I noticed it when you put the necklace on. I can see what you see, so long as the gem faces forward."

I paused. "Can you see my dreams?"

She cleared her throat, flushing. "Um. No." Another lie, obviously.

Oh, goddesses kill me. Rarity saw... that?!

"Anyway, you've learned the pearls are in Silky's boutique. Now, all you've got to do is find them and leave me next to them. I'll do the rest." She instructed.

I thought for a few seconds. "You said you were going to use them to save Equestria. Why can't we just do that? The wasteland... It would be cured!"

The ministry mare held my hoof. "I'm afraid that isn't possible. The dark magic would mix with the taint and radiation and other things. It would create an even bigger mess." Her eyes fell. "It's amazing what you can learn after death."

I groaned. "Is there anything? Anything that can... make it better?"

"I'm not sure. The only thing you can do is your best. One pony can make a difference." She reassured me, then let go of my hoof. "You'll be waking soon."

"Wait. And Nico?" I teared up. "You must know something. Please."

Rarity stood and backed up, dipping her head. "I don't know everything, but here, I can give you a little closure. It's my gift, for trusting me."

Just as I was about to ask what she meant, her horn glowed white. Nico reappeared next to her. He opened his eyes, confused at first, but smiled when he saw me. I couldn't hold the dam anymore. Water poured from my eyes as I ran and hugged him. He didn't feel as warm as he was supposed to be, but it was close enough. "Please, come back. Can you? Please?"

"He can't speak to you, darling. He's just a... personified figure of your memory. It's the closest I could give you." Rarity said, behind him. "I'm sorry."

I pulled away and looked at his face. "Nico? Are you alive? Are you coming back?"

He just continued to stare, his smile falling.

I sighed. "Of course."

He grabbed my hoof and held it for a while, giving me that smirk. I half-smiled. "I know, I know. You want to say something sarcastic, don't you?"

He nodded.

Rarity chuckled and looked up. The sky was dimming. "You're waking up, Sia. I wish you the best, truly. I shall return, soon."

She and Nico began to fade. I held on to him for dear life, but it was no use. They disappeared, and left me on the clouds. No, I take that back. I wasn't on the clouds. I was falling!

This is getting old.

I flapped my wings, but they wouldn't catch any draft. Before I hit the ground though, I awoke with a startle.

Back to the room. A little bit of light trickled through the paper-covered windows. Redd was still asleep on the chair. I jumped to my hooves, ignoring the gnawing pain in my chest. My saddle bag was crumpled on the floor next to the door. I found Bob and a gem cartridge and slammed it home. It was my last, so I had to use it sparingly. I started to walk towards Redd but stopped next to Nico's saddlebags. Slowly picking them up, I stared, not letting any tears fall. It still smelled like him. I held it close to me for a second before throwing it over my own, smaller bags. Taking a deep breath, I hovered over to Redd.

"Hey, Redd." I poked him.

He didn't move.

"Redd!" I shoved him.

"Not now, Mom." He snored.

I rolled my eyes and grabbed his wing, twisting it slightly.

"AH!" He hopped up, looking around, frantically. He rested his look on me. "Why'd you do that? That hurt!"

"You wouldn't wake up!" I bellowed. "Now, come on! We've got work to do."

"Now? I thought-"

"I can't wait any longer! If I keep sitting here moping I'll kill hundreds!" I yelled

He blinked, then threw on his gear with no objection.

You're such a bitch, Sia.

I shook the thought. We left the Inn, said our goodbyes, and flew towards the sky. When we were at a steady speed, I approached the quiet stallion. "Redd. I'm sorry for acting like that. I have no excuse. You don't deserve that."

He refused to look at me. "It's okay."

"Why won't you look at me?"

No answer. Just the sound of wind rushing past us.

"Redd?"

He finally caved and grabbed my shoulders. "What did you dream about last night? It's been bothering me, but I couldn't ask because I figured it wasn't the right time. Ifyoudon'twannasayitIunderstand!"

We had stopped flying just so I could get a grip on his words. When it finally dawned on me, my cheeks lit up like a Hearth's Warming tree. "I-I..."

He blushed, too. "I need to know."

"Why?"

"You've never heard that dreams, sometimes, tell your future?"

I took off, him following me.

"I don't want to make you uncomfortable, but you were saying my name. So technically... It's my business, too." He grinned, wide. Almost pleading.

I puffed out my cheeks in frustration. "It was a... good dream. Let's put it that way."

"Sooo... we had..." He gestured for me to finish.

"No. No sex." I smirked. "That's what you told me in my dream."

He hit himself the head. "Stupid, stupid, stupid."

Trying to hide my giggles, I put a hoof by my muzzle.

"It's nice to see you laugh." He smiled. "So... we kissed?"

"Yes."

"Made out?"

I rolled my eyes, ready to disappoint him. "We were so close to doing it, but then you woke me up."

I'm sure the entire country heard his angry yell.

For a while, I shut down my brain and thought of absolutely nothing. My thoughts only held me back. I couldn't let that happen. The morning air blew my bangs back. In the distance, I could make out the outline of a mountain. It was barely visible, but if you looked closely you could see a pink smog circling around one side of it. According to the Pipbuck, Canterlot Ruins was located there. I didn't even want to think of what secrets were there. I remember DJ Pon3 mentioned alicorns. Would they have come from there? It was kind of scary to wonder if something with that kind of power was just lurking around. If it wasn't the princesses, anyway.

Thunder exploded right above us, followed by another sudden downpour. I hate the rain.

"We should find shelter until the storm passes." Redd's voice was loud enough to hear over the storm.

"Later!" I had to yell.

"We can't fly in this! Besides, I need to fix my guns!"

"Time is ticking, Redd! I can't lose any more of it!" Truthfully, I didn't even know what the timer said. I was too afraid to look at it.

He zoomed past me and blocked my flight path. "We can barely see! We are going to take shelter until the rain slacks up whether you like it or not!"

I glared at him for a moment, but I couldn't argue, so I snorted and crossed my hooves, looking for somewhere to take shelter. Situated next to a wooded area, was a small building with three large, metal awnings surrounding it. From the center, rose a giant billboard that read, "Far-er's Ma-k-t". The missing letters didn't make it difficult to know it was actually a farmer's market. I motioned for Redd to fly down to the marketplace. I ducked under the biggest awnings and shook off the excess water. I was freezing.

"Check it out." Redd pointed to a line of half destroyed fruit and vegetable stands. "Let's look for supplies while we're here."

"Just f-fix your r-r-rifles. I-I'm gonna try to build-d a f-fire, first." I shivered.

He shook his head and dug out his portable energy weapon repair kit. All energy rifle-wielding ponies had to carry one and learn to use it. I started collecting old, dry wood and paper next to the stands. The wood had come from some smashed crates. I piled the junk in an open space on the concrete slab. Now, to start the fire.

Somehow.

I dug around in my bag. Nothing. I looked at Nico's bag, hesitantly. I didn't want to go through his things, but If I didn't, I'd never get a fire started. I let out a shaky breath and opened his bag, feeling for anything. My hoof felt around, finally finding a small book of matches. He really does come prepared. Using my feathered appendage, I grasped a match and lit it. The tiny flame danced around for a second before I threw the whole thing into the pile. Thanks to the paper, it caught quickly. I sat as close as I could without burning myself. Redd joined me, still holing his rifles and repair kit.

"I hadn't noticed how cold it can be here. Until I did notice, anyway." He nickered.

I looked at him, flatly. "No sunlight."

He cleared his throat. "I know. I'm just trying to make conversation." Awkward pause. "Try not to give anypony else a hard time if we come across them."

That command tugged at my guilt, some more. I wanted to apologize, but I apologized so much in the past day, I didn't know if there would even be meaning, anymore.

"I don't mean to be this way." I looked back at him, holding myself to warm up. "I just... I don't know how to feel. Since I've been here, my psyche has gone awry. Please, bear with me. I promise, I'll try to control my bitterness."

"Let's just get this out of the way: I am not blaming you for anything. With everything going on, I see how that can affect someone." His tone dropped to a whisper. "Especially, if they're drunk."

Either the fire or embarrassment was making my face hot.

He continued, still tinkering in his guns. "The only thing you need to promise is that when you start shooting, you'll keep the barrel away from your friends and yourself."

That earned a grin from me. "I promise." I was warm enough to move around, so I wanted to investigate the place. "I'm gonna have a look around."

"Keep your eyes open." Then, he added, "Lietenant."

I glared at him before I walked over to the few intact shelves and stands. The loss of Nico kept my mind scattered, so I'd try to focus on something else. I flipped over boxes, finding nothing but a few flyers. Reading them only kept my thoughts clear for a short while. Broken glass lay on the concrete like a mine field. Upon further inspection, I saw they used to be preserves. I only knew this because the labels were visible among the shards. Luckily, I managed to find four intact jars. They were dusty, but otherwise seemed edible. They are called preserves, after all.

Stopping at a rather large pile of junk, I moved a few pallets to reveal a hidden fridge. When I opened the rusty door, I saw an entire crate of unopened bottles. To my amazement, they looked brand new. They weren't even dusty! Picking up one of them, I read the label. "Sparkle Cola". The bottle turned in my hooves as I examined it. I had heard the name and saw advertisements everywhere, but I'd never actually tried one. It didn't seem radiated. Of course, I was going by whether or not it was glowing. I was a little thirsty. I picked up a rusty nail and popped off the cap. I stored the cap in the bag with the rest of them. Free currency. Closing one eye, I looked in the neck of the bottle. Tiny bubbles floated to the surface. That meant it was still fizzy. I sniffed, then took a tiny sip.

Luna, thank you for the many preserves that keeps food and drinks fresh after almost two-hundred years.

The carroty taste was so delicious! I drank half, watching my Pipbuck, closely. No ticking. Excitedly, I drank the rest. Licking my lips, I belched.

"Good one." Redd laughed. "What's that?"

Hiding my blush, I shoved a bottle of the stuff in his hooves. "Sparkle Cola. Try it!"

He gave me a "you don't really think I'm about to drink this stuff, do you?" look.

I rolled my eyes. "It's bottled, and plus my radmeter didn't warn me. It's fine."

"I'll take my chances with clean water." With that amount of disgust, he could be a food critic.

To be honest, I was kind of glad he didn't take one. More for me.

I took the Sparkle Cola away from him and popped the cap off. After a few sips, I sat it next to me. The rain still came down, though not as bad. We had been there for an hour. I actually considered counting the raindrops to pass the time. When I finished that soda, I curled my hooves under me and sat in silence, watching the storm. The image of Nico smiling in that tunnel broke my heart every time it replayed in my head. It was almost like he accepted his fate. He knew if he hadn't collapsed the passageway, the horde would have eventually gotten to the town. He sacrificed himself for the town. That is a sacrifice, I'm ashamed to say, I would have been too afraid to make.

Redd finally finished repairing his guns and plopped down next to me. "I know you're beating yourself up."

"Am not." I lied.

I saw his look and sighed. "Okay, okay. I'll stop."

"Good."

As we conversed about the rain, I heard shuffling behind us. Redd quickly threw his rifles over him, stepping between me and the sound. I swallowed as the possibilities ran through my head. Raider? Ghoul? Some mutated creature that was cute a hundred years ago but became vicious and deadly? The pegasus stallion carefully stepped towards the commotion. I could barely make out the silhouette behind a box.

"Who's there?" Redd yelled.

The shadow backed away.

"Talk or I'll shoot!"

A high pitched yelp was followed by a tiny voice. "P-please. I need... help."

A small, pink unicorn filly emerged from behind her hiding spot. Her mane hid her eyes, but I could tell she had been crying. She was scared. I trotted over to her, nudging Redd to put his guns away. When I got closer, I noticed a cut on her foreleg.

"Are you okay, sweetheart?" I cooed.

"M-my family was attacked by s-slavers. I g-got aw-away, but they were captured. C-can you please help me?" She stammered through sobs. She couldn't have been older than a pre-schooler.

"Do you know where they are?" I asked, getting a bandage from my supplies.

She nodded.

After gently nursing her cut, the filly hugged my leg. "Mommy and D-Daddy are that way." She pointed towards the way Redd and I had come from. "There are three bad ponies. They... they have bomb collars." She wept into my fur. I picked her up and held her. I wasn't good with foals, but I still tried to comfort her. She was so small! I didn't know how she had managed to come all this way by herself.

I looked over at Redd, sadly.

"You want to save them, don't you?" He asked.

I stared. "You don't?"

He facehoofed, then walked off. "Let's go."

"What's your name?" I asked.

"Peanut." She whimpered.

"Okay, Peanut, hop on and show us the way, okay?"

She nodded and climbed, carefully onto my back as I crouched. When she was between my wings, she wrapped her small hooves around my neck and held on. I flapped my wings, making sure she was holding on. When I was sure, I joined Redd just above the roof. Rain still came down, but it was more like a shower, now. The dead trees gave us little to no cover. We followed her direction, flying slowly. Not too far from where we were, we spotted the camp. A tent and a cage was situated behind the dead brush. A stallion and mare were locked in the cage. Three ponies in crude armor sat around a fire under a large log. I set down a good distance away from the camp.

"Peanut, you stay here, okay? We can't have you getting hurt." I helped her down and set her inside a thicket of vines and branches. She flattened her ears, but did I said.

I turned to Redd. "We need to get that detonator away from them. If they push that button," I looked back at Peanut's hiding place and lowered my voice at a volume she wouldn't hear. "They'll be decapitated."

"How are we supposed to do that?"

I rubbed my chin in thought. "You are a lot faster than I am. You can be the distraction. Just lead the slavers away and I'll help the slaves."

He nodded without complaint. I had to hoof it to him, he never doubted my command, once. Now, was no different.

I positioned myself, hiding behind a few dead branches. The slavers laughed and conversed. I cringed at their gruesome topics. The memory of me almost becoming a slave didn't make it any better. Nico would have had a better plan than mine, I'm sure. Of course, he was smarter than I was, too. All of the Enclave's training, and they never taught us how to rescue slaves without getting them blown up.

"You're all ugly!" I heard Redd yell from somewhere. Then, he blew a raspberry.

"Dummy." I mouthed.

The plan worked, though, because the slavers were getting to their hooves and grabbing their weapons. "Get the chains!" A buck ordered.

I had to wait until they were lead away before I could sneak towards the cage. The mare and stallion were watching the slavers and didn't see me.

"Excuse me." I whispered.

I startled them. "Get away!" The mare cried.

"Please, leave us alone!" The stallion snorted.

"I'm here to help!" I hurriedly got my words out.

They looked at each other, unconvinced.

I unholstered my gun and aimed at the strange lock on the bars. "Shan bahck." I spoke through the bit.

They backed to the farthest corner and covered their faces.

ZAP!

The lock dripped onto the dirt in a magma-type movement. Once I bucked the door open, they ran out. Other than being shaken by their ordeal, they were, otherwise, unharmed.

Perspiration formed on my forehead when my eyes locked onto the collars. "I-I don't know how to get the collars off!"

The mare examined her stallion's collar. "Do you have a bobby pin or anything?"

I sat on my haunches, digging through Nico's bag. I felt more guilty, but he did have a single pin stuffed in one of the small pockets. Grabbing it, I hoofed it to her.

I kept watch as she dug around in the lock of her collar. It popped off, landing near my hooves. On instinct, I covered my head in case it blew up. When it didn't, I assumed this mare knew how to disarm them. When Nico got mine off, it still exploded. Before she could move to the second one, I heard hoofsteps galloping towards us.

"Hey! Get away from there!" The slaver buck shouted.

I gulped, turning to the mare. "Hurry!"

"The lock...It's stuck! I need a minute." She frantically dug around the collar. The stallion was visibly worried, but I could tell he trusted her.

"I'll distract him!" I told her.

Grabbing my pistol, again, I flew towards the detonator. He almost got there first, but I managed to beat him and kick it away. He looked up and growled. I really didn't want to get into a fight, but I had no other options. The slaver tackled me, sending me rolling through the dead weeds. Rubbing my head, I moved just in time before his legs impacted where I had just been. As I dodged his punches and kicks, I thought about shooting him and getting it over with. I didn't want to waste a cartridge, though. I swung my hoof, missing him.

"Seriously? You think you can fight me, bitch?" He punched me in my jaw. I felt one of my teeth loosen from the blow. I didn't have any time to recover, before he slammed the side of my head into a tree. Blood poured from my nose. I ducked, barely dodging his next hit, but he hit me with the next. I threw my forehooves up to block my face. With a mighty buck, I went soaring across the camp. My vision started to swim as I hit the ground. I started to cough, the fit keeping me from standing.

Where the hell is that anger? It helped me tear those raiders to shreds!

As the coughing fit receded, I got to my hooves. Even though I threw all of my weight into him, he still threw me off. Either he was very strong or I had lost weight.

He smirked. "Is that all you-"

The rock I threw hit him square in the forehead. Hopefully, it at least left a bump. The slaver rubbed his head, glaring at me. "You'll pay for that!" His hooves pounded the dirt as he ran for me, again. I flapped my wings, dodging that attack. The buck spun, using his momentum to launch himself at me. I went left, but his hoof caught my torso, making me spiral out of control. When I hit the ground, he was already standing over me with a curved knife.

"You shouldn't have thrown a fucking rock at me." He growled.

I struggled to get up. My head pounded and my nose felt like it was broken. He raised his hoof with the knife, but it was turned to glowing ash by Redd's energy beams. He zoomed over to me, helping me to my hooves. The slaves galloped over to us.

"Thank you so much for saving us!" The mare exclaimed.

"Don't thank us, yet." I told her, my head spinning. "I have something for you."

I flew, lopsided, over to where Peanut was still hidden. Her little hooves covered her face as she trembled when she saw me. "It's okay, Peanut. Let's take you to your parents." The filly perked up, climbing onto my back, again. We flew (close to the ground, I might add) back to where everypony stood.

"Mommy! Daddy!" Peanut jumped off my back and bolted to them.

"Peanut!" The mare yelled, tears falling down her cheeks. She scooped the foal up and squeezed her, tight. "My precious baby.

The stallion nuzzled her, then looked at us and dipped his head. "We owe you our lives. Please, take this. It's all we managed to keep from those monsters." He hoofed us a small bag. Inside was a healing potion, a roll of bandages, and a few caps.

"But, won't you need this?" I tried to shove it back to him.

"No! It's yours! Our home is not far from here." He took Redd's hoof, shaking it vigorously. "Thank you, again!"

I smiled and waved as they trotted off. Peanut rode on her father's back, waving back at us with a huge, adorable grin on her face. It felt so good. I had helped this family and now, they had another chance to watch their filly grow. "I never thought I'd play a vigilante."

Redd sighed. "That certainly was one good deed for the day." He looked over at me and frowned. "You look like you need this potion."

"No. But, I do feel a nap coming on."

"What?"

When I lifted a hoof to speak, I collapsed. Drifting in and out of consciousness, I could tell I was being carried. Probably by Redd. Pony rides were fun and all, but this was getting ridiculous. I finally slipped into unconsciousness, letting the cool rain hit my face. I still didn't want to dream, again. I didn't know if I wanted to face Rarity, yet.

I awoke to something warming my side. The flickering of a fire caught my eye as I turned, slightly. We were back at the farmer's market. Redd sat next to me, eating from one of the jars of preserves. I believe they were strawberry and apple. He must have noticed me, because he set the jar down. "Feeling better?"

"My head is killing me." I complained.

"I wish I could have killed him with my bare hooves." He grumbled.

I smiled the best I could. My jaw was sore, too. "You saved me, though. Thank you." My tooth had apparently settled back into place.

His head turned towards the darkening sky. The clouds looked like a still, upside down ocean. "You've been out for a while" He said.

I tried to put my hooves under me to stand. As I fell, Redd caught me. "Don't do this, please."

"We should be able to... cover a little more ground." I replied.

"What would Nico say?"

I stopped, giving him my best glare. How dare he bring him up!

"I'm sorry, but you should be careful."

"I'm not as fragile as you think I am." I flattened my ears.

He sat back down. "I know, but just relax. You're hurt."

I sighed, but sat down anyway. Things just kept getting in my way. I had one main task to do!

"How long are we supposed to wait?" I tapped my hoof.

"Let's see how you feel in the morning." He yawned.

Rolling onto my back, I decided to just watch the sky. The remainder of light fled at a snail's pace, turning the sky from grim, to black. The clouds didn't budge. Clockwork was right about one thing, sunlight really would do the wasteland a world of good. It, at least, wouldn't look so depressing.

"Redd?" I whispered.

No answer.

I flipped over to see him sleeping against a pile of papers.

Crossing my hooves, I closed my eyes, trying to doze off. The soft rain shower on the tin roof was the perfect white noise, despite the difficulty I've had with rain. Soon, I was able to fall asleep, listening to the crackling of the fire and the patter of raindrops.

And praying for everypony. Luna knows, they need all the prayers they can get.

Level Up!
S- 3
P- 3
E- 4 (+1)
C- 2
I- 4
A- 3
L- 1

New Perk!
Wind Beneath My Wings - Your stamina decreases at a 25% slower rate while flying.

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

I'm sorry my chapter uploading times vary between two seconds and one century! We are moving this month, so I probably won't be able to work on the chapters I'm currently writing as much, but I will definitely try to do some editing/revising on the ones I've already written. Thank you, again, for reading! As always, constructive criticism is always welcome!

-AP

Chapter 11: Wartime

"The times have changed, just accept it."

Time. Does it really heal all wounds? Do things really get better with it? Maybe if enough of it has passed. Sometimes, though, ponies just don't have enough time to see a change. I'd like to meet the pony who invented the clock. How did they know what time it was? I'm pretty sure the concept of time has raised more questions than it has answered. My grandfather told me a story about the ministry mare, Twilight Sparkle. How she managed to time travel, once, before the war was even thought about. Could we time travel, now? If we did, would we be able to change anything? I believe our fate is set in stone. I don't believe we'd be able to change anything. Besides, if time travel did exist, somepony surely would have went back to try to change the fate of this land. One hundred and sixty years after the war, the wasteland has not seen anymore change than I have seen a two-headed cow.

Sometime during the night, I awoke to the sound of crying and murmuring. I jolted upright, looking to Redd. He was still sleeping, oblivious to the sounds. Rotating my ears, I listened for the sound. The fire had burnt out, leaving barely any light except what was coming from the coals.

It's just your imagination. Just, relax.

I slowly laid back down, shutting my eyes. I nearly dozed off again, before I heard the same weeping as before. This time, it was louder, like it was closer to me. I stayed on my belly, inching backwards towards Redd. I shook him. "R-Redd. Wake up."

He batted my hoof away.

"There's something here!" I hissed.

"It's probably just a nightmare." He mumbled, still half asleep. "If you want, you can sleep here." He patted the space next to him, wearing a sly grin.

"-elp me, please."

I started trembling, "Redd, there is something here!" I hissed, louder.

He ignored me.

A shadow passed behind one of the stands. I hid behind Redd, covering my eyes. Chancing a peek, I looked just over his side, seeing the shadow pace. It was walking like it was hurt, but I didn't see pony. The only thing visible was a shadow. Suddenly, it let out a horrible scream that echoed through my ears. Redd jumped to his hooves, not noticing I was under him until a few seconds later.

"What is it? Why'd you scream?" He looked back and forth.

I didn't answer right away, only stared in terror at the, still pacing, shadow. "It wasn't me. D-do you see it?" I pointed to the blackness behind him.

He turned, scanning the stands. "See what?"

The silhouette was gone before he looked. I backed up, tripping over a brick and falling onto my back. I couldn't breathe! When I closed my eyes to fight the panic, I only saw the scary apparition, so I opened them again. The stallion bent down next to me.

"What's wrong?"

"G-gho... Ghost." I squeaked.

For a second, I saw the doubt and pity in Redd's eyes. That is, until he looked behind him just as the shadow flew by. He jumped back, throwing his guns over him. I hid behind him. The figure came to a stop between two piles of what used to be kiosks. Two white, glowing eyes peered at us.

"Who's there?" Redd yelled.

Inaudible whispering echoed through the darkness.

"Shine your Pipbuck light." He instructed.

I, shakily, pushed the button on the side of the cuff. It lit most of the market. To our horror, the shadow disappeared, only to be replaced by a translucent mare. She moaned, as if in pain. Her head lolled around.

Redd became paler than he already was. "Holy shit."

"They killed me." She whispered. Her lips didn't even move as she spoke.

"Who?" He asked, stepping closer to the phantom.

He is brave, I'll give him that. That, or just really stupid.

I grabbed his hoof. "Don't be an idiot! I'm not losing you, too!"

He stopped, looking towards the mare. She didn't move, just kept whispering.

"Let's get out of here, Redd..."

He cautiously narrowed his eyes. "She isn't attacking or anything."

"It. Is. A. Ghost." I hissed with so much frustration, I probably could have melted him with my voice.

"A translucent figure can't hurt you. It would go right through you." He said, flatly.

I rolled my eyes. "Have you heard of possession?"

His turn to roll his eyes. "You believe in all that?"

I waved my hooves around. "You're looking at a ghost and asking me that?!"

Suddenly, the apparition let out a bone chilling screech. Her body turned to white fog that seemed to teleport right in front of my face. The sheer terror I felt was unreal. I think Redd called for me, but I wasn't sure. For a split second, I thought I could feel what she had felt. She regenerated in front of me, again, her dead face watching me. I felt... sad. Alone. Oddly, my fear had long gone away. I longed to be at peace. My hoof slowly rose to touch her face. I tried to stop, but it's like I wasn't controlling my body.

"Stop!" Redd shouted.

A gust of wind blew the stallion backwards. He landed against the wall, putting a hoof to his head. Mist obscured my view, the milky haze smothering me. My surroundings disappeared and darkness overcame me. I gasped for air, but couldn't catch my breath. My hooves flailed, trying to catch something solid. Unfortunately, wherever I was, there was nothing to grab.

oooOOOoooOOOooo

As quick as it came, the darkness receded. I opened my eyes to see the market. Well, the nicer version of the market. There were no piles of rubble or wood. All the kiosks stood, neatly, in rows. That isn't what got my attention, though. Ponies. Healthy, happy ponies walked around, browsing the goods like nothing had ever happened. The delicious-looking fruits and vegetables were piled onto each table. My mouth watered as the scent of food entered my nostrils. I continued to hold my breath as I turned to look outside. Lush, green trees and grass grew around the market. Beautiful birds fluttered about, waiting for crumbs to fall from a filly eating a freshly baked muffin. Non-mutated butterflies stopped at the colorful flowers growing along the walkways. The beauty of it brought a tear to my eye. Whatever this place was, I wanted to stay forever.

"Thank you! Please, come again!" A mare's voice dragged me out of my day dream.

I followed the cheerful voice through the crowd. A stand at the far left of the decorated awning held several, beautiful jars of preserves. I stopped, dead in my tracks. It was her. The ghostly mare that haunted the market. Except, she wasn't ghostly, anymore. She was alive! Her cool, blue coat stood out from the rest. Her mane was a paler blue, almost white. I stared at her cutie mark. A jar with a ribbon around it stood out on her flank. She smiled, sweetly, taking the prewar bits from an elderly mare.

"This is the best peach jam you'll ever put in your mouth!" She claimed, proudly.

"Thank you, dear. I can't wait tah eat this with mah toast." The elder smiled back at her.

I watched the exchange from a distance. What is going on? Am I trapped in a memory? I stepped back, only to realize I was walking through a nearby unicorn.

"Sorry!" I told her.

She ignored me.

"Hello?" I waved my hoof in front of her.

The mare kept chatting away with a group of traders. It was like I wasn't even there! I backed away, puzzled. When I turned back to the ghost mare, again, she was gone. She left a sign on her table that read, "Back in five." My eyes darted around, searching for her. I galloped to the stand, searching around.

"Please! I don't have your bits! I can only make so much from the farmer's market!" I heard her voice. Her whimpers were elevated over the crowd, like she raised the volume for only me to hear. I assumed this, because nopony else bothered to acknowledge it. Like they were deaf.

I followed her voice to the back of the marketplace. Nopony else was around except for a group of formally dressed ponies. They had her cornered.

"Sky, let's be real for a second." A unicorn mare grinned, maliciously, at the pony I now knew as Sky. "You took out a loan to start your peach orchard. Do you know what a loan is?"

Sky fearfully nodded.

"Good. Then you know you need to pay us back."

"The orchard is only now starting to catch up on business. Please, I just need a couple more weeks. I have more than half-"

"There's a shipment going out, right at this moment. That ministry mare ordered for something valuable to be delivered." She hooked a forehoof around Sky, pulling her close and gesturing with her other hoof. "It's so valuable, the princess let her borrow a couple of guards to transport it. Do you know what that means?" The pearls. Deep down, I knew that's what they were after.

Before Sky could answer, the unicorn interrupted her. "It means that I will be rich if I can get whatever it is. Now, I know one of the guards. He's willing to help me out, for a piece of this wealth. Unfortunately, he needs a little... down payment. That's where you come in."

She pushed Sky to the ground and poked her. "Your loan money was supposed to be that down payment."

Sky's eyes widened. "I-I..."

"Save it."

"I have two foals! Please..." She cried.

"Leave her alone!" I rushed over, trying to knock into the mob boss. I went right through her, falling to my face.

The mare gestured to her henchbucks. The two stallions in fancy attire proceeded to slam Sky's head into the dirt. I could only watch, helpless, as they kicked her. Tears streamed down her face.

Scream! Call for help! Do something, Sky! You can save yourself!

One of the stallions head butted her. The terrible sound of her skull cracking almost made me vomit. Blood poured from her nose as her body fell to the ground. I closed my eyes, praying for the nightmare to end. The mare nudged the unmoving earth pony with her hoof. "I'm disappointed in you, Sky. Your peach orchard was going to be the talk of the town." She shook her head. "But let me tell you something: Don't get in the way of my bits."

The mare grinned. "Let's go."

"You monsters!" I screamed through tears. I knew they couldn't hear me, but I still wanted to hurt them.

The blood curdling yell of an air raid siren echoed through the land, shutting me up. The eerie silence between each blare sent shivers up my spine. Ponies, including the mob, looked up to the sky. Fear. I knew that look. Every one of them wore the same look of absolute horror. I followed their gaze upwards. The sky had suddenly darkened, much like the wasteland would be in the future. A huge explosion shook the ground, rattling the glassware in the market. When they realized what was happening, the population started screaming and running for their lives. I grabbed my chest, trying to focus on breathing.

"Stop! Please, take me back!" I yelled over the chaos.

Another explosion boomed. I looked up to see a catastrophically large fireball erupting. The shock wave blew back the flora around the market. I could see small fires, raining down in the woods. The trees burned. The grass burned. Everything burned around me. The flames soon spread to the decorations and stands inside the awnings. More screams and glass breaking almost made my ears bleed. I chanced a look where the megaspell had went off. The glows were blinding.

"Run!" A buck screamed.

Somewhere, gunfire filled the air. I flapped my wings, hovering above the crowd. Squinting my eyes, I could see a wave of camouflaged ponies galloping towards a muddy field. I blinked, only opening my eyes to see that I was right next to the battle, watching. The soldiers yelled as they bombarded the war zone. I looked to the direction they were headed. Zebra. An army of the striped terrors clashed into the ponies. Many of them fell as soon as they made contact. The zebra had these lances that tore apart the, already bloody, armor of the pony soldiers.

"Shit!"

I looked next to me at whoever had said that. A mare and stallion sat in a trench, loading guns. They were out of breath and frantically trying to survive.

"Why didn't that megaspell kill anyone? What the hell is goin' on?" The stallion screamed.

The earth pony mare yelled something into her radio, then paused. I heard the garbled sound over the frequency, but couldn't understand it. She dropped the black communicator in shock. "It wasn't a destructive spell."

"What do you mean? Petunia, what the hell are you talkin' about?!" He shook her.

She backed away. "It was a healin' megaspell! Fuck! Everyone who was killed is back! The zebra we eliminated..." She stared at the buck, eyes wide. "We'll have to fight all over again."

Confused, I scanned the battlefield. Sure enough, ponies and zebra, alike, were awakening from death. I gasped. I had never seen anything like this. Worse yet, I didn't even know who would do this. Bullets zoomed past as I watched the encore of the fight. As soon as they were being healed, they would just die all over again. Some screamed in agony as they were torn apart with bullets. The mare and stallion that were next to me were ran out of their hiding spot, now fighting hoof to hoof with three zebra.

I closed my eyes, tight, but when I opened them, I was back at the market. The situation was no better here. A mare knelt over the body of a burned stallion. She wept, desperately trying to wake him. The stallion was lost, though. His blackened hide looked more like a large piece of coal than a pony. I looked away from the appalling scene, only to find a worse one. Across the burnt stallion, was a mare and her young foal lying dead under the weight of a large storage shelf. The foal was just a baby. She looked like she was still nursing. My heart tore to pieces. I covered my ears at an attempt to block out the screams of the ponies and sirens. Wails muffled through, begging for mercy. I began to shake, furiously.

My blood turned to ice as I tore my eyes open at the sound of a mare screaming bloody murder. A beam from the awning collapsed onto a group of ponies. Blood sprayed the dirt as their bodies were crushed. I had to force myself to run back to Sky. She lay, lifeless, in a pool of her blood. I kept my eyes on her so I wouldn't have to look at the havoc behind me. She was still alive, but barely. I threw my hooves around her. They didn't go through her!

"Sky!" I blubbered. "Get up!"

Her haunting stare stayed on the disarray around us. She was basically paralyzed, being forced to watch as her home and the ponies she loved were destroyed. She was struggling to breathe. My shoulders shook, some more.

"Sky? Can you hear me?" I asked.

No response. Gurgling came from her throat as she choked, blood spurting from her muzzle with each horrid cough. She was drowning in her own fluids and there was nothing I could do. When her final breath escaped, I gently touched her. Her eyes glazed over as she died. What a horrible way to die. A terrible, horrible, awful way to die. I collapsed beside her, squeezing her hoof in mine. She didn't have to die alone. I was only an audience for a memory, but I wanted to think she had me with her.

"I'm sorry. I'm so sorry." I sniffed. "Please... Take me back."

oooOOOoooOOOooo

I suddenly felt this weird pulling sensation. It was like my very soul was lifting into oblivion. The memory of the past faded into black as I went. The same market slowly crept back into my vision, except it was post-war this time. Dazed, I looked around. No rain. Redd was standing over something. I recognized the spot where Sky had expired. I started to float downward.

"Redd!" My voice echoed.

He didn't look at me. Like he couldn't hear me. Then, my heart stopped. He was standing over me.

My body lay over a pile of bones, sobbing. My eyes were lifeless, having no color. Redd just watched in bafflement. A rush of wind dragged me towards my body. My eyes closed, but when they opened, again, I gasped. I fell onto my back and sucked in air. My torso flew upright, startling Redd. I quickly lifted my hooves and looked over them. I was back in my body!

"Sia?" Redd said, quietly. Fearfully.

"I'm back!" I said, panting. "I'm back!"

"Uh... So, where were you?"

I clasped my chest. "I was in a memory or something. Sky..." I sniffed, looking over to the pile of stained bones. "I saw her death."

From the corner of my eye, I saw the alley behind the awnings. A pair of glowing, white eyes watched me through the shadows, sadly. I stood, took a breath, and walked over to the silhouette.

"I... saw what happened, Sky." I said, softly.

She kept still. The ghostly aura around her swirled.

"Nopony should have to go through what you did. Those monsters..." I looked at my hooves. "All because of those stupid pearls."

"Their hunger for power caused suffering for so many. It didn't only start with the ones who did this to me." She spoke telepathically.

I let that sink in. She was talking about all the corrupted ponies before the war.

Wait, she had foals!

I jerked my head up. "Your foals..."

"They grew up without a mother. Though, the generations did not stop with them."

I brightened. "You have living descendants?"

Her gaze moved towards the clouds.

I shared her gaze. Then, it hit me. "The Enclave.... Your grandchildren were-" When I looked back down she was gone. "Pegasi."

In her place, an envelope sat. I looked back at Redd, who only stared, still shocked. For once, I wasn't the one who was scared. Trotting over, I picked up the note and opened it. The paper was worn around the edges, but I could clearly read each word.

Mom,

How have you been? It's been years since we spoke. Where do I start? I guess I can start by saying this: You're going to be a grandma! Exciting right? Piper and I are happy as can be. She'll have to go home for a while, but she should be back before our little colt or filly is born. I'm hoping he or she will be a pegasus like their mother. Unfortunately, Pop won't be around to see his grandfoal. He died last week, Mom. Ginger was so upset. I just had to remind her that you both raised us to be strong. We miss you guys, so much. Even as I'm writing, I'm tearing up. I know you're out there, somewhere. I hope that, somewhere along the way, you find this letter. Ginger always says you're really gone. I don't believe her, though. When that megaspell hit, it was supposed to heal everyone. I like to think you were one of the ones who were healed. I know you had problems with your knee. I still visit the marketplace, sometimes. That place is abandoned. I'll probably leave this note on your kiosk. Or, what's left of that old stand. They never found your body, so that is good news to me.

I'm in Luna's army, now. Even though there's so much going on, I still try to find ways to be happy. You taught us to always be positive. Besides, I'm going to be a father! How can I not be happy? I'll be on duty in Canterlot, soon. Hopefully, I'll be back before she goes into labor. Oh, I have to be in Canterlot because there are rumors of some kind of Zebra weapon being developed. Something about a deadly gas. It doesn't sound too deadly. They say it's pink. Pink. Sounds more like laughing gas. Lemon Lime said it would be a shame if something as simple as a cloud destroyed Equestria. Oh, yeah! You don't know Lemon Lime. That's Ginger's husband! She got married a few months ago! She settled down with a Steel Ranger. Pop cried enough for the both of you at the wedding. He said he didn't cry as much for me, because he wants his only son to be strong. I'm rambling, again. Anyway, Lemon Lime is gone all the time, but Ginger doesn't mind. She says it gives her extra time with her quilts. I never understood that hobby.

Anyway, I guess I should be going. I can hear Piper coming through the door. Mom, wherever you are, I think about you every day. I'll never forget you or Pop. I love you.

Peach Grove

P.S: Piper just told me we are having a filly! Her name is going to be Sky Breeze, after you.

I wiped tears from my cheek. It was probably the last letter he ever wrote. Surely Sky wanted her great, great, great (or something) grandchildren to have this. I'd just have to add that to my list of things to do.

"Wow." I jumped at Redd's voice right by my ear. "I wonder if we know her descendants. Sorry to read over your shoulder."

I shrugged. "Maybe. I'd put my money on Major Fruit Salad."

He chuckled. "Or, you or I could be her descendant."

I shook my head. "Doubt it. My family tree was all Enclave officers. Well, except my grandpa."

"In any case, we have barely gotten any sleep. And we probably have only a couple hours until daylight. Let's try to get some rest." He said, heading back towards his "nest".

I neatly folded the letter and put it back inside the envelope. On the outside, was a tiny, drawn heart next to the words, "World's best mom". Carrying it under my wing, close to my heart, I went over to my bag and gingerly put it inside. In that moment, I made up my mind. My hoof found the necklace under my barding and held it. Those pearls had to be destroyed. They only brought pain and torment to everyone. Hope would be no better than those mob ponies. Her foolishness would probably take out the rest of the wasteland. They were hurting ponies for hundreds of years.

I shook my head. I'd think about it when the time came. Exhaling slowly, I lay my head over my crossed hooves. I definitely was not going to be able to sleep. So, I waited until Redd started snoring before I flew up to the roof, sitting to let my hooves hang over the edge. It felt kind of nice to have a perch. To be able to think clearly. I didn't feel tired. I didn't feel anything, really. There was some kind of desire that nagged at the back of my mind. For what, I don't know. Probably a desire to have my friends back. To leave the wasteland. I thought I just wanted my life back.

The more I thought about it, though, the less it seemed true. I wasn't really going to go anywhere with my life back home. I'd be a part of the Enclave for the rest of my life. Probably wouldn't even get married until old age. There was no chance in Equus I would even have foals. I was too... nervous. Sky had lived a good life before her tragedy. Peach Grove said she had taught them to stay positive. That meant she had to have been an optimistic mare.

I scoffed to myself. "Stay positive. That's next to impossible in this place."

"Well, it certainly could use a few rainbows."

My heart dropped to my stomach, then climbed back up my chest and dropped, again. It can't be. It just can't.

I laughed, nervously. "Very funny, Rarity. You can pull me out of the dream, now."

I heard hoofsteps behind me on the tin roof. "So, you're saying I'm dreamy?"

I almost fell off the roof jumping up to face him. "Nico?"

He smiled. "I make quick comebacks, Princess."

My eyes filled with tears that I didn't think could even be formed again. He was there! He was really and truly there! I galloped to him, throwing my hooves around him. "You're alive! Oh, my goddesses, you're okay!"

He cringed, but hugged me back. "A little bruised and battered, but I guess I can say I'm okay." He returned the embrace.

I forgot to breath, so I dramatically inhaled. "How? What happened?!" I looked him over. He had scratches and bruises and the bandage was no longer on his leg, revealing the prominent scar. It would probably be permanent.

"I managed to run through the horde before I actually threw the grenade. When it exploded, a lot of the ceiling came down, crushing every single one. Leaf was right about the tunnel. I found the way out through an underground warehouse not far from Walkerton. I went back to the town to look for you guys, but Leaf had said everyone thought I died, so you and Redd kept going. I walked for a while, before I finally saw Redd flying in the distance. I didn't see you with him, though. I thought... I thought something happened to you. Thankfully, I followed the direction he was flying, anyway. It took me a while to get here because I had stopped to rest and take those bandages off. I was planning to stop here, for the night. Looks like you guys beat me to it." He smirked. "I kind of missed you, Princess."

I was so relieved to have him back, I didn't even mind the stupid nickname.

He frowned, looking over my face. "What happened?"

I touched my cheek. The cut stung a little. I'm sure I had bruises, too. "It's nothing. Everything is under control."

He straightened his mouth. "Why didn't I see you with Redd?"

I sighed. "I was with Redd. He had to carry me back here because we helped some ponies get away from a few slavers and I fainted after the fight. Like I said, everything is okay. We got them away, just... got a little roughed up in the process."

His expression softened. "I'm glad you're okay."

I blushed a little. "I'm glad you're okay, too. Should we wake Redd?"

"Nah. Let him sleep. I'm sure doing my job for me is exhausting."

"What's your job, exactly?" I furrowed my brow.

"Coming to your rescue." He winked.

I rolled my eyes. "I seem to recall coming to your rescue, once." I lowered my voice, dramatically. "You have some of me inside you."

He coughed, awkwardly. "Touche."

I heard the flapping of wings. Redd landed next to us. "Welcome back."

"Thanks. Miss me?" He grinned.

"Not entirely. Though, I guess it's nice to have more firepower on our side."

"Maybe we should get going." I looked at the slightly brighter clouds. "It's early morning, now."

"Couldn't hurt." Nico said. "But you need to get your things."

I perked up. "Oh, I have your bag, too."

He brightened. "Thanks for grabbing it."

"I may have used a bobby pin and a match, but nothing else is missing."

"I'll put it on your tab." He chuckled, heading back down towards the marketplace. I watched as he hopped down stacked boxes and junk. Redd and I followed, gathering our things and getting ready for the rest of our trip as the sky gradually became a lighter shade of gray.

This had been an eventful night, to say in the least. I was now content, though. Even if the strange desire buried itself in my thoughts, I was just happy to have something given back to me.

Level Up!
S- 3
P- 3
E- 4
C- 2
I- 4
A- 3
L- 2 (+1)

New Perk!
Hoarder - Finding supplies/loot is now 25% easier when you are with your companions.

Nico is now your companion.

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

Thank you for reading and as always, constructive criticism/error spotting is always welcome!

-AP

Chapter 12: In a Flash!

"I've dreamed of becoming the fastest flier in all of Equestria!"

By that afternoon, I was utterly exhausted. The bags under my eyes would probably even make Fleece jump. We only really came across a few radroaches or bloatsprites, but I let the stallions handle it. Nico had gotten his rifle back from Clockwork, who had planned to frame it in his memory. I just hoped he had taken down the mummified wings. I cringed when I thought about it. We stopped so Nico could scavenge a few times. He didn't find anything interesting except for some containers of purified water. Whenever we stopped, I'd read the letter to Sky. It was heartbreaking, but it also brought some comfort. I kept the poor stallion in my thoughts. Well, unless Redd and Nico argued like two old stallions bickering about the weather forecast.

I sighed as I walked in front of them.

"Pegasi are the superior race, when it comes to speed." Redd said, proudly.

"Not if you can teleport." Nico leered at him.

"Can you?"

"Not yet, but I am able to learn."

"Exactly. You have to learn. Pegasi are naturally fast."

"It's pretty easy when you have feather dusters attached to your sides."

The pegasus rounded on Nico. "Coming from someone with a dick on his forehead."

"Newsflash, airhead: It's bigger than yours." He smirked.

We had long stopped to let them finish their argument. While they quarreled, I went through my Pipbuck's inventory list out of boredom. I almost didn't notice when Redd shoved Nico, making him stumble a leg's distance away. Nico hurled several stones at him, hitting his flank and eye.

"Okay, that's enough." I backed out of my inventory list, putting my hoof down.

Both of their saddlebags went flying. Nico's rifle landed on the ground next to me. They kicked, punched, and headbutted each other.

I yelled a little louder. "Stop!"

Several hits later, I picked up the heavy rifle and pointed it at them. It was extremely difficult to hold it in my hooves, but it sent the right message. "I said, stop!" I screamed as loud as I could.

The brawlers paused, holding their hooves in the air.

"Watch it! That thing's loaded!" Nico warned.

"S-Sia..."

"Shut up! My goddesses, it's like traveling with wild animals!" I stomped up to them.

"I am not this prick." Nico pointed to Redd. "You aren't going to boss me around like I'm some kind of-"

CRACK!

Lucky for him, the bullet zoomed over his head instead of through it. Thankfully, it shut him up.

I looked between them. "You done?"

They nodded, both at once.

"Good. I'd do something about your wittle scwatches and boo-boos, but think of it as punishment. Besides, I'd like to save that stuff for real emergencies." I said, throwing Nico his gun.

"You should have looted those slavers' bodies. They probably had some medical supplies." Nico said, trotting up next to me as I walked off.

I glanced at him in disgust. "Good to see how respectful you are of the dead."

"Gotta do what you gotta do to survive." He said, flatly.

I rolled my eyes. No surprise, there.

"You know, I feel bad for your future offspring." He said, poking my shoulder.

"Why?"

"If you're going to point guns at them for bickering, that is considered abuse." He smirked.

I forced a laugh. "Good thing I don't plan to have any."

"Why am I not surprised?" He shook his head, then sighed, wishfully. "I plan to have a couple of kids. Maybe. If I find the right mare."

I coughed, awkwardly. "That's good. I mean, I like foals, I just wouldn't be that good of a mother, I think."

"Maybe you should try." Redd gave a toothy grin.

I blushed. "Not on your life!"

He chuckled, putting a wing around me. Did it just get hotter? Damn it, why'd he have to smell so masculine? "So, are we still looking for Flashbang? We aren't far from Shattered Hoof, according to your Pipbuck."

I glanced down, ignoring the burning in my cheeks. Sure enough, the blip of Shattered Hoof was getting closer to us as we walked.

"I guess if we don't find her, we just don't find her. There are more important things at stake, after all." Nico said.

"If she's as slick as Gladys says, we probably won't find her." I swallowed. "I kind of hope we don't."

"She can't be that dangerous."

"You'd better not get too cocky. Remember, you were almost killed by a weird... pig thing." I remarked, earning a snicker from Redd.

He groaned and kept walking, sullenly.

Sometime later, we came across a run down shack that was hidden by a pile of dead brush. Redd had spotted it from the air. Nico, of course, wanted to stop and investigate. The door was locked, but my unicorn companion managed to pick it open. Inside, was just a few small piles of junk. Nothing new. The floor had long rotted, leaving just a dirt floor. A fireplace sat in the corner, but it was filled with junk. I noticed a magazine sitting on an old refrigerator, so I went over to look at it while Nico and Redd dug around. "A Guide to the Scientific Aspects of Flight", read the title. Under that were the words, "Paid for by the Wonderbolt Academy". Once I picked it up and read through the first few pages, I instantly felt slightly lighter and faster. Strange.

"Hey, we could probably spend the night here. There's still daylight, but by the time we look through all this it will probably be late." I heard Nico call over.

I sighed, putting the book in my bag, my Pipbuck lighting up to let me know it was added to my inventory. I stood and walked over to him. "So, what have you found?"

He gestured to a very small pile in the middle of the floor. "Just a few trinkets to trade, mostly. Some fifty caliber bullets for my rifle. Oh, I also found a box of cookies."

My stomach growled. How long had I went without eating?

"Let's take a snack break. I found a whole crate of Sparkle Cola, yesterday." I said, digging out three bottles of the soda. Amazing how they all fit in my bag. Of course, I didn't exactly question the logic of a place that was destroyed by magical fire and glittery bombs.

Nico sat down, taking one of the bottles and opening it with his magic. I took out my trusty, rusty nail and opened another two. One for me and one for Redd. It took some persuasion, but I finally got him to try it. He drank it with no complaints. I opened the box of cookies and hesitantly sniffed one. It had no smell which was odd. I took a bite, chewing slowly. It wasn't bad. It wasn't good, but it wasn't bad. It was more or less just a stale, bland shortbread cookie.

"I wish I had cake." I mumbled.

"I wish I had my bed." Redd slumped. "My back has been killing me."

I looked at Nico. "So, what do you want?"

He shrugged. "Nothing. Well, nothing small. My life-long desires are pretty significant compared to a bed." He looked at Redd and smirked.

Redd crossed his hooves. "It's the small things that count."

"Sure it is."

Taking a bite of another stale cookie, I noticed movement behind Nico. I almost choked on my food as my eyes went wide. When my vision focused, the black, masked figure became clearer.

Nico saw me staring right past him. "What's wrong?"

"Don't move." I reached for my pistol.

He swallowed, then turned slowly, jumping back when he saw the figure.

Just what we need. Another ghost.

"Who are you?" Redd asked, getting ready to fire.

She stepped forward. I couldn't see through her, so I guessed she wasn't a phantom.

I twitched when she started to reach behind her head. She was reaching for a weapon! "Stop! I'll shoot!" My hoof stayed on my holster.

"Wait... I think that's... Flashbang?" Nico asked, eyeing the pony.

She nodded, once again, reaching up to her mask and finally peeling it off. Flashbang's violet mane sat in a messy bun atop her head. Her pale, green coat wrinkled around her eyes as she narrowed them, particularly at me.

"Sienna?" She stepped closer.

I planted my hoof on the ground. "Who..."

When she stepped into the light of the window, I gasped. I couldn't believe it. "Violet?"

She nodded and galloped to me, tears falling as she ran. I was suddenly tackled to the ground in a death grip. "Sia! Oh, my stars! I've missed you so much!"

I stared at the pegasus in shock. "Violet... It's you! It's really you!" After my stunned expression melted away, it turned into relief. I squeezed her.

"Violet Horizon." Redd spoke up. "I can't believe this."

Violet jumped up. "Redd? My favorite cousin!" She flew to him, wrapping her hooves around his neck. He didn't return the hug, but I think he was in so much shock he couldn't move.

I stood, wiping tears from my own eyes. "I can't believe this! Where have you been, Violet? I thought you were dead!"

She beamed. "I am more alive, now, than I've ever been! I got so sick of the Enclave. Their fucked up sense of 'loyalty and duty' had me gritting my teeth just to get through the day. I finally snapped when an officer started going off on me when I made a joke. I said, 'The only difference between you assholes and chickens is that you can fly.'" She laughed, but stopped and huffed when she saw nopony else sharing the giggles. "I thought it was funny."

I facehoofed. "Violet, you know-"

"Yeah, yeah. But I couldn't take it anymore, Sia. I just packed my little bag and dove through the clouds. I didn't even have to be branded!" She pointed to her covered flank. I knew there would be an image of a mountain and skyline sitting where she pointed.

She frowned. "Why are you here? I didn't think this would be your... style."

I avoided her gaze. "Recovery mission gone wrong. I was supposed to be with Wick and Chaser. They... didn't make it."

She looked at her hooves, sadly. "Those poor fools. I always figured something like this would happen." Violet put her hoof on mine. "But, you're okay. You're alive! I'm so happy to see my best friend, again!"

Redd cleared his throat. "I guess family doesn't get the same reunion."

Violet smiled and rolled her eyes. "You know I am happy to see you, too!" She put him in a head lock and ruffled his mane.

"Okay, okay. You all know each other. How did you get to be Flashbang? Do you know who's looking for you, right now?" Nico interrupted.

Violet put a hoof to her chin, inspecting the unicorn. "And, you are?"

"Violet, this is Nico." I gestured to him. "He's actually the one who found me half dead after I got to the wasteland. He helped save my life."

She took his hoof, enthusiastically shaking it. "Thank you for that! If something were to happen to Sia, I wouldn't know what to do!"

"How did you get to be... this?" I pointed to her all-black suit. She looked like a ninja!

"This old thing? I found it in some bunker and put it on. I wore it when I helped out a caravan being attacked by a hydra. A few locals heard about it and started calling me 'Flashbang'." She shrugged. "The name just stuck. I kind of like it, though. I'm like a superhero or something!"

I giggled as she flew around, punching and kicking the air. I missed her energy.

Nico rolled his eyes. "You didn't take out a hydra."

Violet stopped and stared at him.

"Oh, boy. I'm gonna go get some firewood, since it's getting late. This is not a fight I want to watch." Redd looked at me. "Good luck." With that, he walked out.

I sighed. Great.

"Do you act like that because you think it impresses all the mares?" She smirked, making sure Redd was out. "Or just Sia?"

Nico swallowed, his face turning pink. "What are you talking about?"

"You have a little crush on my girl, here." She nudged me.

I scoffed. "Come on, Vi. Don't joke like that. It's awkward enough when we do it."

"I'm not joking! Look at him. I mean, you have such an eye for detail and you can't see this?" She pointed to his face.

He fidgeted, nervously. "Y-you don't know me."

"No, but I know ponies. I waitressed in a cafe, for Celestia's sake. I've seen all kinds."

Violet broke him. He had finally met his match.

"Well, Sia is pretty difficult to read, right now. She's never even had a buckfriend." She snickered.

I blushed, that time. "Hey!"

"Anyway, what brings you around here?" She asked.

I looked to Nico, who didn't seem to want to look me in the eyes. I sighed and started explaining the situation with Hope, yet again.

"Wait, wait. You mean the Hope Coven?" She asked.

I perked my ears. "You know them?"

"I haven't met them face to face, but going by hearsay, they seem pretty dangerous. If they get those pearls you mentioned, there's no telling what might happen."

"I still don't even have a real plan. I'm basically just winging it as I go." My chest began to crawl, a little bit.

"At least you're doing something." She reassured me.

I smiled. "Thanks, Vi."

Silence.

She put her muzzle by my ear. "He is so into you."

I shook my head, seeing Nico watching us, intently. "S-Stop that!"

She snickered, again. "Would you look at the time?" She glanced at an imaginary watch. "It's getting dark, so I'm gonna go help Redd collect firewood. Why don't you two get the kindling started?"

I widened my eyes. "Wait! What about-"

"Toodle-oo!" She zoomed out the door.

The longest, most awkward silence in the history of Equestria came after the door shut. I kept my eyes in that direction, not wanting to look at the only other pony in the shack. Finally, I heard the crumpling of paper and removal of the nonflammable junk that was in the fireplace. I peeked over at Nico, who had his back to me, setting the junk next to it. When he was finished, he closed his eyes and waited for a spark from his horn to ignite the paper. A small flame appeared, then slowly grew to a reasonable size.

I gave a fake chuckle. "I'm sorry about Violet. She's always been like that."

He didn't answer, just watched the fire.

I moved to sit next to him, but not too close. "I'm sorry."

"Stop apologizing, Sia." He sighed.

I didn't reply.

"I'm..." He shook his head. "I feel- No, it's..." Nico breathed, frustrated. "I can't believe I'm saying this."

I cocked my head, curiously.

He turned to me. "I like you, Sia."

Relief flooded through me. "Oh, I like you, too." I smiled.

"No. I like you." He rubbed his temples.

"Oh. OH! Uh, I-I... You- You like me, huh?" So much for relief.

"I'm the one who is sorry. This is so wrong. I shouldn't be developing these feelings. Especially, for somepony like you." He held his hoof up, before I could be offended. "And I don't mean it like that. I mean, you are from a real society. In a lot of ways, you are too good for me. Goddesses, I hate myself. I just met you." He nodded towards the door. "Redd deserves you more than I do. And I hate that guy. But... But I hate him, not because of how he is, but because... I envy him."

I know my entire body was blushing. "W-why?"

"What do you mean, 'why'? Look at him. Not his looks, but... everything else." His dark blue eyes set on mine. There was a genuine look in them.

I shared his look, except I was trying not to be awkward. Too bad the whole conversation had been awkward. "I-"

"Please, do not say anything that is going to 'make me feel better'. I know the situation. I know what a mess this is. If you try to sugar coat it, it just makes it worse."

I hugged myself with my wings. "I wish you didn't feel that way about me. I... I think I'm the one who would hold you back."

He looked puzzled.

"When I thought you died in those tunnels. I had wished it was me. You have more to offer than I do. Just because the 'society' I come from is more put together, doesn't mean I am, as a pony."

He grabbed my shoulders. "You are, though! How many times must I tell you, you are trying help a lot of ponies. That speaks volumes. You're a kind, smart, determined..." He relaxed his grip. "Beautiful..." He shook his head, regaining focus. "You get it. I just want you to know that a little bit of fear or hesitation doesn't make you any less of a pony."

Nope. Not gonna cry.

I set my jaw, trying not to let any tears fall. "I have so many lives resting on my shoulders, Nico. I don't... know what to do."

Yep. I'm crying.

He grabbed me in a hug, squeezing me. "You're not alone. You won't be alone. We can do it."

I took a deep breath, letting it out, slowly. "I-I'll be okay." I pulled away, unwillingly. "I'm really trying not to lose it. I've been trying not to be a... cry baby." I flattened my ears.

"It's okay to cry."

"Don't tell me that, or I will cry and be inconsolable." I chuckled, lightly.

"If that's what it takes to make you feel better." He half-smiled.

I sniffed. "What, now?"

His smile dissipated. "You already know how I feel about you."

"I think-"

"No, no. It's okay. You don't have to tell me how you feel about me. Truthfully, I don't want to know. I just-"

I grabbed his face in my hooves and kissed him. For real, this time, I actually kissed a stallion for the first time. It was exactly how I imagined it would be: Miscalculated and unplanned. Because I was just that awkward.

I let go, quickly. His eyes were like plates as he stared at me.

I cleared my throat. "I'm sorry, I-"

These interruptions need to stop.

He smashed his lips against mine. I was shocked at first, but then I relaxed and let it happen. Shivers went down my spine. I felt his hooves wrap around my waist, gently. It wasn't steamy or anything, just loving and soft. After a few seconds, we pulled away. I felt his breath on my muzzle. Nico held my hoof in his as he put his nose to mine, closing his eyes. His scent entered my nostrils and I had to hold myself back.

Luna, I'm going to die.

"I'm sorry." He whispered.

"For what?"

"I know you feel something for me, but it's not as strong as what I feel for you. I can tell." He opened his eyes, pulling me closer.

"You're wrong." I said.

"No, Sia. You may not think so, but you would know if it was true. Maybe, in time we can figure this out. Right now, let's stay focused, okay?" He gave me a peck on my nose, then nuzzled me. "If you ever need anything, I don't care what it is or when you need it, just ask me."

I didn't know what else to say, so I just nodded, sadly.

A twig snapped just outside the window of the shack. Both Nico and I turned our heads. He quickly put a hoof's distance between us. I was slightly disappointed, but not surprised.

"Who's there?" He yelled to the window.

More twigs snapped as Violet peeked her head over the edge. "Sorry."

Nico huffed. "Seriously?"

"What? I'm nosy." She said matter-of-factly as she hopped through the opening.

I facehoofed. "Well, anyway. Where is Redd?"

Violet coughed. "I may have sent him for a 'special' kind of wood that burns forever."

I stared at her. "You're going to get him-"

The door burst open. "I. Hate. Everything!" Redd stumbled in, covered in large, brown bugs. They looked like ticks, except... huge. He was scratched and dirty, too. "Violet, I know you like to prank innocent ponies, but this is not the time for your foalish behavior!" He said through gritted teeth.

Violet laughed, nervously. "Sorry, cousin. It won't happen, again. Here, let me help you get the stump ticks off."

"Stump ticks?" I asked, kind of disgusted.

Violet pulled one of the nasty insects his rump, making him hiss in pain. The mark left behind was a small, raised bump with a flat top. "Yep. They are pretty common in this little stretch of woods. The bump they leave behind is harmless, but it looks like a stump. Hence, the name." She threw the thing on the ground. It landed on it's back, struggling to get up. It had six functional legs, but the other dozen legs that grew seemed to be more decorative than anything. It snapped its tiny jaws, searching for its next meal. I shuddered. Violet kicked it into the fireplace. A tiny screech could be heard as it burned.

Wasteland Surprise Count... I don't even know anymore. Twenty-five?

Dozens of stump ticks later, I finally snatched off the last of them and flung it into the fire. The chorus of small screams made me severely uncomfortable. Redd looked like his coat was painted with polka-dots. He scratched his skin, non-stop. "When does the itching stop?" He complained.

"Usually in a few hours. You'll sleep it off." She dismissed his groans.

"It's a good look for you, Redd." Nico snickered.

"If I wasn't... busy- augh- scratching myself... I would wipe that... smirk... off your... faaaace." Redd scratched, violently, leaving welts in some places.

"Try not to scratch so much." I said. "You'll make it worse."

He huffed, flopping down onto his side. "Good night." He looked back at Violet. "I will get my revenge!"

"In your dreams." Violet leaned back onto a pile of papers.

I folded my legs under me next to the fire. I watched Nico get as far away from the group as possible. He curled up on an old newspaper. The past couple of hours were awkward. Of course, I had been feeling a strange tension between us for a while. Same with Redd and me. I guess that's the con of traveling with stallions. All the testosterone and weird stuff that stallions do. I shook my head, then rested it on my hooves. The fire was warm. Too warm. I loved to be warm, but the shack was too small to be a comfortable temperature with a fire blazing. I had to turn away from the flames to even try sleep.

A minute (hour?) later, I felt tapping on my shoulder. "Sia."

I groaned, covering my head with my hooves. "Five more minutes, Grandma."

"Come on. I need to show you something."

I rubbed my eyes, realizing I wasn't being woken up for school. Violet stood over me. "W-whahh?"

She grabbed my hoof, before I was completely awake, and dragged me outside. I looked back at the stallions, who slept soundly. Redd moved a little, scratching his side.

As we flew in the night, I yawned, multiple times. The chilly air was doing nothing to wake me up. I was following behind my best friend, not listening to anything she was saying. I only responded between each of her pauses with an "uh-huh" or "yeah". She slowed down to fly next to me and crossed her hooves.

"Sia!"

I jerked up, fumbling in the air. "What?! I-I'm awake! Just... blinking." I yawned, again.

"Really? So, no sexy dream about Nico?"

I perked up, then. "N-no!"

She rolled her eyes, playfully. "I'm your best friend, you know. You can tell me these things."

"I-I..."

"Ah, so you do like him?"

"Wait-"

"You're traveling with two stallions, girl. Surely, you must..." She trailed off when she seen my panicked look.

"Love triangle. It's a damn love triangle, isn't it?" She grinned, evilly.

My faced burned. "Violet, it's not like that!"

"What's it like, then?" She interrogated.

"I... I don't know." I looked away.

She sighed, putting a foreleg around my shoulders. "Look, I'm not saying this because I'm nosy... Well, maybe a little, but it will help to say it out loud. It will help get your thoughts straight. I love you." She hugged me.

I smiled. "I know, I know. I just... It's all confusing." Then, I added, "You haven't changed a bit."

"I never will!" She chuckled. "Sometimes, I wanted to sneak back up there and drag you down here with me." A frown replaced the reminiscent smile. "I know you wouldn't have left, willingly, though."

"I'm going back when this is all over." I watched the ground pass below us as we flew.

"You don't sound too ecstatic about it."

I sighed. "I need to go back. It's my home. My grandparents are probably worried to death about me."

A pause. "Well, I'm not going back."

I turned, quickly setting my gaze on her. "Why not? You couldn't possibly choose this empty, dangerous place over our home!"

Her turn to let out a breath. "I'm sorry, but even if I had a choice, I wouldn't go back. Old Equestria may not seem like much, but it feels more like home than that 'society' ever did. There's freedom, here! No more assholes breathing down my neck about strict laws. No more dead-end job. Here, I can choose who I want to be or where I want to go." Violet drooped. "You were all I had up there, really. It's not like my family was happy to have me around. I disappointed them with every shitty choice I made." She shook her head. "I was only happy when I was hanging with the Shake Squad."

I smiled. The "Shake Squad" was our group. We called it that, because of how often we would go down to the cafe and buy shakes. Violet, Redd, Chaser, Wick and I would always stay there until closing, on the weekends.

"I forgot about that name. We had so much fun." I reminisced.

We laughed, but grew silent over time. Finally, Violet cleared her throat. "It was fun while it lasted. Of course, we all got to where we couldn't hang out as much. You four joined the Enclave and had different hours. I had to stay at my shitty job because Mom wouldn't let me join the military."

I looked at her, sadly.

She waved it off. "It doesn't matter. The past is the past. I respect your decision if you want to go home." She forced a smile. "It won't be the end of the world."

I nodded. I chose not to say anything else. The choices I already had to make were life changing, but lifesaving.

We landed between two dead trees. Violet made sure nopony was around before she kicked her back leg into the skeletal remains of a bush. Her hoof made contact with something, but I couldn't tell what it was. I started to think she had lost her mind, until I heard a click and the grinding of gears. I twisted my ears to the location of the sound. An opening had appeared in the ground next to us. Wearily, I followed her down the dozens of stairs. I felt bad for anyone who had to walk up all those steps. The bunker wasn't complex, just a large room with steel walls. You could tell someone had tried to divide the one large room into smaller rooms. The farthest corner looked to be a sleeping area, complete with an old mattress and a blanket. Another corner had pots and pans hanging over a burner. I assumed that was the "kitchen". The rest of the underground warehouse had junk everywhere. Gun parts, trinkets, and prewar tech were scattered on tables and shelves. Other than the clutter, it was pretty nice.

"Welcome to House of Violet!" She bowed, playfully. "We should have a sleepover like when we were fillies." She chuckled.

I tiptoed around, trying not to trip over anything. "How did you find this place?" I asked, turning a pistol over in my hooves. The barrel had been bent.

"Just exploring, really. I was taking a leak by that bush when I saw the lever. Before I sold most of the good stuff, it was a place where they stored materials and weapons. Mostly ammo, but I don't have much of that, now. Go look in those ammo boxes by my bed. I'm sure you guys need it. I think there is even some gem cartridges and explosives. Take anything you need! Mi casa es su casa." She trotted over to a gated area with a terminal. She began typing away as I walked over to her "bedroom".

My vision immediately landed on a magazine. "Playmare." On the cover was a mare in lingerie, wearing cat ears. She was posed in a sensual way. I cleared my throat, holding the magazine up and looking at Violet, flatly. She looked back, doing a double take.

"I-I... That is not mine!" She stammered.

I laughed, shaking my head and throwing the book on her bed. The ammo boxes were right next to it. Thankfully, they were unlocked. I ended up finding six gem cartridges. I decided to keep half for me and half for Redd. There was ammo for Nico's rifle, too. Oh, and a few grenades. I didn't mess with those, so I would give them to the unicorn, as well.

After closing the lid, a mechanical squeal filled the room as a door swung open. Violet had gotten the barred door open and motioned for me to come over. She ushered me to a large crate that was inside the space. Her hoof slapped the top of it like a salesman would hit the top of a carriage. "Here it is! The UF Missle Launcher 3.0, or as I like to call it: 'The Fucker'."

My hoof had long been on my face from the facehoof. "The Fucker." I deadpanned.

"Yep." She said, proudly. "It was a prototype before Gladys upgraded it. A weapon like this doesn't belong in the claws of someone like her."

I facehoofed, again. I'm sure there was a horseshoe print on my forehead, by now.

"What?"

"Violet, you know that 'town' they were going to attack?"

She nodded.

"Well, it's not a town. It's full of slavers. They took her base, so she needs the gun to take out the slavers and free the slaves so she has her base back!" I threw my hooves up.

Violet's eyes drifted from me to the weapon, back to me, then finally settling on the missile launcher. "Well, fuck."

"We have to get it back to her!" I shook her shoulders.

"She will kill me!"

"No, she has never seen your face. She only knows you by Flashbang." I pointed out.

She bit her bottom lip. "I... Fine. Let's get this thing back, right now. It's cluttering my bunker, anyway."

I propped my hooves on the side of the box. The barrel was as long as a stallion's torso. Anypony with eyes could tell this thing weighed a ton. I gulped as I looked from the hunk of metal to the opening of the bunker.

"How are we going to get it up those stairs?" I asked.

I immediately regretted asking when I saw her grinning, holding two industrial strength harnesses. "Time to hitch up."

The whole bunker echoed as I banged my head on the wall.

I need a vacation.

Level Up!
S- 3
P- 3
E- 4
C- 3 (+1)
I- 4
A- 4 (+1, item)
L- 2

New Perk!
Smooth - You're chances of positive conversations with strangers increases by 10%.

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

Quick note: I've been able to get a few chapters out over the past couple of days. The COVID-19 virus is impacting almost everyone, so I'm hoping to lift some spirits out there by giving you guys more reading material. :raritywink:
Anyway, stay safe, everyone! Prayers, all around!

Thank you for reading! As always, constructive criticism/error spotting is always welcome!
-AP

Chapter 14: Reunion

"Until we meet, again."

Family. I'm pretty sure the term can be used loosely. I've always thought of the Shake Squad as family. Since being in the wasteland, I now think of Nico and Fleece as family, too. It's cheesy, but it is true. However, I want to talk "biological". The stories of the Apple family have been around for hundreds of years. That is probably the biggest family I have ever heard of. They protected each other, were there for each other, and had plenty of problems that were overcome. It wouldn't surprise me if they had family members just fall off the map. "Disappear", if you will. You probably know by now that I have. My parents were taken from me at a young age. I guess the main question is this: Would all those years apart matter, as long as you're family? I guess I was about to find out.

"Daddy?" My eyes welled up.

"Daddy?!" Redd and Violet exclaimed.

Nico blinked several times. "Wh-what?"

Mixer nodded. I burst into more tears as I zoomed into him. Years of wonder and sadness ended right there as I closed my eyes. He wrapped his giant hooves and wings around me. He sniffed, rocking me as I was the foal he never got to see grow up. The whispers in the bar continued, but I didn't even care. I was in so much shock, I barely noticed anything at that moment. I had so many questions for him, so many stories to tell him, but I kept them in the back of my mind until I could stop weeping.

"I'm so happy! I'm so damn happy to finally see you, again, my baby!" He rubbed my mane, pulling away from the hug. He cupped my face and gently turned my head left and right. "Look how much you've grown! Celestia, I cannot believe this!" He squeezed me, again.

"Why... why did you leave?" I asked through sobs. "You and Mom... I was so young, but I remember you leaving!"

This time when he pulled away, he looked down in shame. "It broke my heart. So many years I've lived, regretting that I left my only filly behind. I wanted to go back home, so bad, but I would have just put you in danger. You were safer with your grandparents. Your mother and I... we fought with the Grand Pegasus Enclave and they had had enough. I didn't know we would be banished for treason. They... they were going to force us to bring you. I begged and pleaded for them to let you stay there." He looked sadly at the brand on his flank.

"Mom?" I searched his face. I didn't like the expression. "What happened to her?"

He sighed. "A few days after we got here, she left me. I woke up one morning and she was just... gone. Not a note left behind or anything. She took her belongings, too." My father shook his head. "I searched everywhere for her, but no luck. She didn't want to be found."

My heart sank. I wanted to see her, too. I was angry, though. How could she just leave him? After what they went through, how could she abandon him? I looked around, remembering my friends there. Redd and Violet wore sympathetic frowns. I couldn't read Nico's expression. He had sank into the bar stool, drinking another shot. I turned towards the floor. Dad wrapped his hooves around me, again. "It doesn't matter, now. I'm here! You're here! We are together!" He teared up, again.

I smiled, pushing the questions about my mother away. "I missed you! I can't believe this, either. My C.O. told me... They all told me you were..." My voice cracked.

"They lied, sweetheart. Goddess, they lied. I'm more alive now, than ever!" He chuckled. "You're in the military?"

I winced. Should I have been proud, still? "I'm first lieutenant."

He wiped a tear, not caring about my occupation. "I'm so proud. Grandma and Grandpa raised you right, I see!" His smile faded and the look of realization replaced it. "Why are you here?"

I sighed. "Long story, short: We were supposed to rescue a crew that was grounded, but our mission failed. Miserably." I left out the details. "I'm okay, though, thanks to Nico." I smiled towards Nico.

His eye twitched as he grinned, stupidly.

Dad picked him up (yes, picked him up) and hugged him. "I don't want to know anymore about a 'rescue mission gone wrong', but I'm gonna assume you saved my daughter's life. Thank you, Nico! I always knew you were a good buck!" He set him down. "I don't know if I can ever really pay you back."

"It was nothing, really." Nico timidly said.

"No, no. I insist! Any tab you have here is now closed permanently. You will never be charged for anything from me, again." Dad turned to Specs. "Anything Nico wants, he gets, ya hear?"

Specs nodded. "Oooh, boy."

"Mixer, really, that's not necessary. I-"

"In fact," Mixer stood up. "Free rounds for everyone here, tonight! It's time to celebrate this reunion!"

The building erupted with cheers. I smiled at my father. "Sweet. I'll take one of those." I pointed to a dark red drink that Violet had in front of her."

"A Bloody Berry?" He worriedly looked me over. "You're..."

"I'm an adult, come on." I said, flatly.

He sighed. "You're right, you're right. It's just that time gap was so long. The last time I saw you, you were barely able to fly. Now, you're just a beautiful grown mare, and I don't know how to react." He did a magnificent job of holding back his whimpers. "Okay, one BB over here, Specs!"

"You got it, Mix." The barpony got to work, mixing berry juice, tomato juice, and rum in a pitcher. He whisked the ingredients together and poured the drink into a glass. He then sprinkled some kind of red powder on top. It smelled spicy! My mouth watered when he slid the drink over to me. The colorful liquid smelled amazing! Dad watched me pick it up and take a sip. I smacked my lips, immediately tasting the berry flavor, followed by the hint of tomato. The rum, of course, was my favorite part.

"This is the best thing I have ever tasted! Besides cake." I gulped more down.

Dad chuckled. "Don't over do it, sweetheart." He turned to Nico. "Thank you, again. I assume Sienna has been with you for a while?"

The unicorn coughed and sputtered, choking on his shot. "W-with me? No, no, Mixer, I swear to Luna above I-"

Mixer chuckled, slapping Nico's back. "No, son, I meant you've been looking after my little filly."

"Oh! Yes, yes of course. Well, Redd and I-"

"We've been taking good care of her, sir." Redd trotted up, saluting.

Dad tapped his chin. "I know you. Your mother is that racing champion, Lightning Flare, right?"

Redd brightened. His mother was famous where we were from. She held the championship title five years in a row before Redd was born. "That's me."

"Huh. So, this is cousin you told me about?" He nudged Violet.

She nodded. "The cocky sonuvabitch himself." She winked.

I nearly spit out my BB. Redd glared daggers at her.

Dad threw a hoof around him. "I remember Lightning's last year in the races. I was almost a racer, myself, you know."

Violet led them to a table. "Oh! I gotta hear this!"

"So, I was sitting at the gate..."

I turned back to my drink, finishing it. I tapped the counter for another.

"You're gonna regret that." Nico said. He was starting to look a little tipsy.

I laughed. "Nah. I'll be alright." The drink slid right to my hoof. "I can't believe I found my dad, again."

He turned pale. "Mixer is your father. You are the daughter of a stallion who could break my neck with no trouble."

I shifted, uncomfortably. "I don't understand. I thought you said you were friends?"

He slammed another shot back. "Sienna, I will never look at him the same knowing I'm... Nevermind."

I perked up. "What?"

He turned red. "Nothing. Forget I -hic- said anything."

We said nothing for several seconds. I downed that Bloody Berry and went straight to Wild Pegasus.

"Boy, this stuff sure does the trick." Nico said, now drinking some kind of beer.

I nodded, getting buzzed, myself. "That, it does."

"Listen, I-"

"It's time to dance! Mixer, put some good music on, will you?" Violet shouted.

"Give me a second. I may have something more... modern." Dad stood and walked to the back. "Nico, could you give me a hoof with these boxes?"

Nico nodded and trotted after him.

I sighed, fidgeting with my drink. The crowd had gotten significantly larger since we got there. I wondered how in Equestria the building held up with all the commotion.

Redd took Nico's place next to me. "You'd better not be sad." He said, playfully.

I half-grinned. "I'm not sad, in the least. I found my dad! These drinks are just strong."

He sipped from a beer mug. "This was definitely unexpected."

"You aren't kidding." I chuckled.

I don't know if it was the alcohol or the happiness but I wanted to do something crazy. My frustrations were up there, too. It was like my endorphins were messing with me. The lack of anxiety and worry at the time really made me feel great. I looked over at the pegasus. My vision was a little wobbly, but I noticed him. I mean, really, noticed him. The muscles that covered him caught my eyes. The way he carried himself? I would have loved to be back in a room alone with him. Every time he stretched out his graceful wings, I got goosebumps. My gaze slowly moved up to his eyes. So fiery.

Eventually, he caught me staring. "Sia? Are you okay?"

The heat in my cheeks was immense. I took the rest of my shot and gave him a sultry look. I couldn't take it, anymore. "Redd... Can I talk to you, for a minute?"

He nodded. "Of course." He smiled. Damn it, he's tempting me.

I climbed off the stool and led him through the crowd. I didn't want to sway, so I made it seem like I was just avoiding ponies. To him, I was not that drunk, just buzzed. Definitely couldn't have him thinking this was just a lack of impulse control from being under the influence. Finally, we made it out the door. Ponies were still hanging outside in groups, so I directed our path towards the back of the building. He was going to get it.

"Erm... So, what is it you wanted to talk about?" He leaned against the wall, crossing his hooves. There was nopony around.

I started trembling, a little, as I stepped closer to him. Goddess, I could smell him. I bit my lip as I slowly stepped closer to him.

"Are you cold? Here, take this." He unsnapped the outer part of his barding and I lost it.

I quickly pressed myself against him, pinning him to the wall. "Redd, I think you know what's going on."

He swallowed at the sudden change, pausing to sniff the air. "O-oh my g- You're in he-"

Without warning, I tore off the rest of his clothes. My hoof ran over his torso, making me shiver even more. I quickly took off mine, too. He pinned his ears back, cursing under his breath. "Y-you're drunk and your... urges are stronger because of it." I stopped for a moment and looked him straight in the eyes. I smiled the sweetest, most deadly smile I could manage. He crossed his back legs. "Mixer will kill me."

"He won't know. We both knew it was a matter of time. Like you said, you've seen me staring." I batted my lashes.

Boy, that last shot was a mistake.

"Maybe." He relaxed a little and hugged my waist with a forehoof. "I don't want to... you know... take advantage of you."

"I am not as drunk as you think I am." It actually took everything I had not to slur my words. "I've been thinking about this all day."

Redd cleared his throat and grinned. "Sia, you know I've been in love with you for a while. I don't want you to think this is a... mistake."

I moved my muzzle closer to his. "I don't make mistakes." I whispered.

I leaned in until the kiss happened. It was almost like the dream I had back in Walkerton. He was tense, at first, but I made sure he was... comfortable. The kiss turned into gentle pecks down my neck. He was driving me crazy, making me more intoxicated witch each touch. I nuzzled his mane. I finally got to touch it. It was rough, coarse, but I couldn't stop. The smells. Oh, sweet Celestia the smell of him made me crazy. Before I completely blacked out, I remember uttering two words that would keep me in limbo the rest of the night:

"Don't stop..."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Sia?" Violet called over the bar. She spotted her best friend with Redd fifteen minutes ago. At the time, she shrugged it off, but she was getting worried. Mixer had put on some better music.

Finally, something besides that ancient grave music. She thought.

She looked around the rest of the bar, but didn't see them. Her sobriety was compromised, but she had enough sense to know they shouldn't be out in the wasteland without their things. Sure, Redd was good protection. Sure, Sia could handle herself, but she still thought of Nico's words from their argument that day. Violet Horizon finally felt like she was proven wrong by a stallion. She had seen Nico sitting at the bar, conversing with Specs. He was so wasted, she didn't even think he would be able to leave the saloon. At least he wasn't so timid. She rolled her eyes at the laughing buck and continued her search.

"Hey, Violet!" Gladys squawked.

"Gladys! Holdin' up, okay?" Violet chuckled.

The griffon grinned. "You bet, hot stuff."

"Hmm. You are a naughty, naughty bird." Violet winked at her.

"You know it."

"You wouldn't happen to have seen Sienna and Redd around, would you?" Violet pushed all her dirty thoughts to the side. That would be for the after party.

Gladys shrugged. "I saw them heading around the building earlier while I was drainin' my kidneys. She had that look in her eye. I know that look." She wiggled her brows.

Violet facehoofed. "Thanks Gladys."

With a slap on her flank and a flirty laugh from Gladys, Violet headed out the door. She silently prayed her cousin wasn't as stupid as he seems. She knew Redd wouldn't take advantage of her, but Sia can sweet talk anypony into anything if she really wanted to. Violet had noticed, when they left the shack, the smell that followed her best friend. She knew Nico noticed too, the way he stared at her. She kept a close eye on them, but Nico seemed to be more watching out for her than anything. He was a little controlling, but also protective.

Violet sighed. "Sia, learn to control yourself, too, girl."

Violet heard the moaning from the side of the building. The rustling of the leaves, too. She knew it was a sight that would permanently scar her, but she peeked around the corner, anyway.

Yep. They're doin' it.

The unmistakable colors of red, white, and orange were tangled together, moving at a rhythmic pace. Violet quickly tore her gaze away from them and stood around the corner, face red from embarrassment. She wanted to laugh, but she also wanted to cry. No amount of bleach would clean away the image of those freaks in her mind.

"Oh, Redd!"

That did it. Violet's face turned even redder when she heard that. She turned and tiptoed away. She would support Sienna no matter what (or who) she chose to do, but she really didn't want to witness it, first hoof. The farther away she got, the faster she trotted. Finally, rounding the corner, by the swinging doors, she almost ran into their unicorn friend.

"Violet! I was just looking for you. I need to talk to you." Nico said. He could barely stand.

She shot her eyes back and forth. "Uh, sure, sure. Let's talk... waaay over here." She led him to the far side of the property. Away from the moaning.

He stopped and looked at her curiously. "Ookay. Anyway, look. I just want to apologize. I probably do come off as bossy or -hic- controlling to Sienna, but I swear I don't mean it. I just... I want to protect her." He rubbed his forehoof. "I think I love her, Vi."

She facehoofed, again. "Oh, man. Um, well, does she know?"

"I think so. I mean, I told her I like her. I haven't said the 'big L' yet."

She sighed. "Well, tomorrow, when you sober up, you need to have a nice, long talk." Violet began to push him back to the shack. "You'd better get back to our temporary abode and get some sleep. I'll bring Sia and Redd-"

"No. I won't let her out of my sight. Not again." He protested.

Violet pushed harder. "She will be fine, Romeo."

"Shes in heat, Violet! She has been since yesterday." He stomped.

Violet paused. "So... you know. I didn't notice until today."

He shook his head. "I have been keeping a close eye on her. I don't want any weird stallions trying to..." He snorted.

Oh, this ain't good.

Violet rubbed her temples. "So, you aren't just trying to... hit that?" She made a crude gesture.

He glared at her. "No! I'm not -hic- some teenage buck, Violet. I know what respect is. What part of 'love' do you not understand?"

"Do you realize Redd is..." She shuddered. "In love with her, too? I just want you to know because I will not play referee in a love triangle."

He drunkenly swayed back and forth. "I know. I already told her she would be better off with him. I hate it so fucking much, but I don't stand a chance. I'm a selfish stallion, Vi. I want her all to myself. I'm just not what she needs."

Violet sighed. "Nico, I'm sorry I misjudged you. I thought you were just another... stallion. It's obvious I was wrong. I won't lie, Sia can be a little... She has no bucking idea what to do in a relationship." Time to lie. "She doesn't even know what a penis is... uh... probably."

He blushed.

"My point is, I don't know what advice to give you because my love life is more of a... I just don't give a shit about romance. You just need to figure out what you want. She does, too, but she will need a kick in the flank to realize it. I do know one thing..." She grabbed a hoof full of his barding and brought his face to hers. "If you or Redd or any stallion ever, and I mean ever, hurt her, I will make your lives hell."

He rolled his eyes. "I can only imagine."

"Go back to the shack. I will grab those two and meet you there." She let go of him.

He grumbled, but made his way in the right direction. He tripped a few times, earning a grin from Violet.

She waited until he was out of earshot before she began her cursing. "Holy shit this adventure turned into a soap opera, fast."

After that weird conversation, the green pegasus made her way around the building, again.

Please, be done. Please, be done. Please, be done.

She stopped to listen, sighing in relief when she didn't hear anything but snores. Then, she rounded the corner to see Redd, fast asleep. Sia was gone. Violet's blood ran cold. Her eyes darted back and forth, trying to find her. Checking behind the dead foliage, she moved quickly. No Sia. Behind some logs. Nope. Under Redd. Nothing.

"Redd!" Violet shook him.

"Huh?" He jumped up, holding his head.

"Where is Sia?"

He looked at Violet, then looked around. "She said she had to use the little filly's room." He paused. "A while ago..."

"She's not here, Redd! Help me find her!" Violet flapped her wings and zoomed back inside the bar.

Please, be okay...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Sienna..." A voice echoed through my head.

Stop yelling, please.

"Darling, you must get up. You're in trouble!" It was Rarity.

My conscious came crashing back to me. The moment I awoke, I felt the pounding in my brain. Like a thunderous boom every second. I, groggily, reached my hoof up to cover my eyes as they fluttered open. "Rar... ity?"

"Please, get up! I can't stay in this connection much longer, but you have to get up! They captured you and your friend!" Her lovely voice began to fade.

"H-how? What..." My vision finally focused enough to see I was in unfamiliar territory. The building looked like a giant warehouse, filled with industrial equipment and machinery. It was dimly lit, but I could tell it was a factory. Then, I saw them. Quickly lying back down, I peeked through my lids so I could get a better view. A stallion and two mares wore the same, disgusting armor. They had the same yellow eyes. They were the same as the rest of those monsters.

"Just tie the unicorn up. I want him to myself!" One of the mares giggled, madly.

They were all standing in front of something, blocking my view. I couldn't see what it was they were focused on, but I had a terrible feeling.

"You'll have the fucker. You two do what you want with him, but only after we get the fire started and sharpen the axe." The stallion went to turn, so I closed my eyes shut. "This one's mine." His deep, throaty chuckle was like a siren in my ears.

I didn't dare open my eyes until their hoofsteps were further away. When I finally did, I noticed the cage I was lying in was caked in dried blood and small chunks of meat. I wanted to vomit. My hooves tried to get under me, but every time I tried, my head would explode. Whatever happened the night before was a blur. I must have been hit in the head and knocked out. That and the hangover was not a good mix.

The blue mane of a stallion caught my attention. No!

"N-NIco... Wake up... " I breathed. "Raiders..."

His face was bloody, but I didn't see any major injuries. He was passed out, chained to a support beam.

"Rarity... What d-do I do?"

No reply.

I forced my head up, squinting as I tried to block out the dizziness. "Nico, please, don't be dead..."

I frantically looked around. Yet again, I was in the clutches of these fiends. Again, they had somepony I cared about. And again, I was powerless. Useless! My eyes watered as I hopelessly looked around. The only thing I managed to do was cry. How can one pony save the world? Especially if that pony is me? I failed. I can't even take on three brainless thugs, much less the leader of an entire cult. Even if I did somehow manage to defeat her, then what? What would I possibly be able to do with the rest of my miserable life? Fight for me life every day? My lungs started burning, slightly. I began to cough and that grew into a full blown fit. I tried to silence it, but it forced its way out of my lungs.

"S-Sia?" I heard Nico groan.

I snapped my head towards him. "N-Nico?" The name barely left my throat.

"What happened?" His eyes were half open.

"Raiders... Th-they..." I took a deep breath and slowed my hyperventilation. "They took us."

"How? What happened last night?" He bowed his head, in pain.

"I don't remember... I-I was at the bar waiting for you and then... Then I wasn't!"

My memory was so clouded, I barely even remembered when we had started drinking. The harder I tried, the more it hurt. A flash of a red and white mane went through my head a couple of times, but I knew Redd was there, already. There was Nico, we talked a few minutes, and then... He went to the back with my... Dad! Yeah, my dad was there! He's finally in my life! After that, I don't remember. The hangover and the concussion are screwing with my memories. Goddess damn it if I'm alive tomorrow the memories will probably flood back to me.

Nico examined the chains on his torso. "Fucking raiders!" He pushed his torso further up, but the restraints were too thick. They only rattled, louder.

I looked over at the hall to make sure they didn't hear. I was thankful they didn't.

"Where are Violet and Redd?" He perked his ears.

I covered my nose to cry. My chest ached so bad. "I-I don't... know..."

Nico gave me a sad glance. "It's okay. We will figure this out. I promise... I won't let anything happen to you."

I sniffed, closing my eyes to go ahead and get the crying out.

Please, keep that promise...

No New Data

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

Thank you for reading! As always, constructive criticism/error spotting is always welcome!
Stay safe, everyone!

-AP

Chapter 15: Ruthless Misfortune

***TRIGGER WARNING: SEXUAL ASSAULT IN THIS CHAPTER***

"How many must suffer before we can finally have peace?"

It took a while for my tears to stop flowing long enough for me to get a grip on my reality. The ache in my chest was almost as bad as the pain in my head. I came to the conclusion that they had to have knocked us out while we were drunk. I figured I was probably out of it and got separated from the crowd. It didn't matter. I just wanted to go to sleep. I wanted, so badly, to go to sleep and wake up in a different place. It was hard for me to focus. I dared not lay my head down all the way for fear of dying. I held back the sickness that kept edging its way up my digestive tract. If I were to throw up, it would have added to the gore around me.

"We have to find a way out." Nico urgently whispered. He tried to use his magic, but his horn popped and died. "Damn it. The blow to my head must have screwed with my horn. I can't use magic!"

I forced myself to look around, again. The cage bars were tightly closed by some kind of industrial wire. It was twist-tied from the outside. I put my hooves under me to stand. The ringing in my ears almost made me fall back. I grit my teeth and crawled towards the door of my small prison. The latch was warped so it would no longer function correctly. The wire that kept the door shut was out of my reach. My hooves wouldn't fit through the holes. I rubbed my chest. hard.

No. I can't panic right. I've got to get this door open!

Shaking, I took several deep breaths and backed as far away from that side as I could. It was going to be the best plan I could come up with. With every bit of strength I could gather, I reared up and galloped into the cage. My body slammed into the bars. Fortunately, one of the ties popped off, almost hitting Nico. He looked at the wire then back to me, swallowing nervously. I shook the pain away and backed up, again. My head was beginning to spin in circles.

CLANG!

Another twisted wire flew off. I didn't bother to get any distance anymore, I just started ramming my shoulder into the cage with all my might.

"I hear them. They're coming this way!" Nico hissed, struggling some more.

With the help from my adrenaline, I gave it one last shove. The door flew open and I tumbled out, landing on my side. The pain in my body was shooting through, at that point. I wasn't sure if I would be able to stand. The fuzziness grew and the ringing got louder. I forced my body to obey me and get up, even though the room was spinning.

"They're trying to escape!" I heard the faint yell of the mare from earlier. The hoofsteps were making their way back towards the factory.

I stumbled over to Nico. The chains were held together with the same twisted wires that were on the cage. I tried to use my hooves but I couldn't get a grip on them. I tried again, this time using my wing tips, but my feathers were too flimsy.

Damn, these hooves! Damn, these weak feathers!

"Can't get them... Off..." I grit my teeth.

"Save yourself. I can take these bastards." He whispered.

I shook my head. "I'm not leaving you, again."

"Just go, Sia!" He growled.

"No!" I rounded on him. The echo filled the building.

The raiders were getting closer. I quickly hid behind some of the heavy machinery. The old door startled me as it burst open and slammed against the aluminum wall. Heavy steps filled the room, making my head pound. I took deep, quiet breaths to try to slow my thundering heart. I dared to peek under the conveyor belt to see their legs galloping around.

"The bitch escaped!" The stallion yelled, slamming his hoof into the concrete, cracking it.

The red mare walked up beside him. "We still got the stallion, Nail Bit."

Nail Bit slapped her. "I do not want this fucker. I want her!"

The other mare caressed Nico's face. "More for me." She giggled.

Nico spat at her feet. "Fuck you."

She laughed and hit his chest, making him cry out.

Nail Bit grabbed him by the neck."Where is the mare, cunt?"

Nico chuckled, weakly. "She's gone. You didn't see her fly out the window?"

The bigger stallion eyed him, twitching every so often. "Lying piece of shit!"

I covered my mouth as I watched the brute squeeze his neck tighter. My rage was slowly building, but there was nothing I could do in my condition besides get us both killed. I was barely able to focus. With tears dampening my eyes, again, I frantically searched around for something to distract them. I lit up when I saw a broken piece of a wrench. I picked it up in my teeth, tasting the metallic rust. Aiming for the hall, I hurled it across the room. Shit, I missed. The loud clang let me know I had missed by several inches. Thankfully, it was enough to get that asshole away from my friend.

"Our filly is still here." The red mare said.

The clopping of hooves surrounded me as they scattered about, searching for the source of the noise. I pressed my body against the floor in the darkest shadow I could find. Curse this bright hide! The mare that was infatuated with Nico trotted by my hiding place. She sniffed the air, dramatically.

"I can smell the fear! Over here, dipshits!"

I gulped.

"Sia, run!" Nico suddenly yelled.

The raiders jerked their heads to him.

"Keep running! Don't come back!" He yelled louder, looking in the direction of the exit. I barely spotted his hoof tapping the floor next to him, making a clopping sound out of their sight. Smart.

"Let's go!" Nail Bit motioned for the other two and galloped down the hall.

When I couldn't hear them, I tiptoed around the corner back to where Nico was tied up. I looked over my shoulder to make sure they were really gone. When I was sure, I turned my attention back to his restraints. A large bruise covered his neck. I moved my eyes to his face. The small scrape on the end of his muzzle made me angrier. I shook my head and gave him my best smile.

"You always know what to do." I whispered.

"Get out, while they're distracted."

"Shut up." I glared at him. "I lost you once, I won't lose you, again."

I flapped my wings and flew around the factory, searching for something to cut the wires or the chains. I knocked over some shelves, emptying the contents of the boxes that were stacked there. Unfortunately, it made a lot of racket. It was mostly obsolete supplies and handbooks. Pain suddenly shot through my chest, stopping me in my tracks. It made my fight or flight response kick in and I began to hyperventilate. My lungs felt like they were being crushed by a radhog. The trembling came, next. My legs stiffened as I clutched my heart.

"Sia, what's wrong?" The urgency in Nico's voice did not help.

"Full blown... p-panic... attack." I whimpered. "It feels like the end, Nico. I-I'm scared."

"Youl'll be okay. I promise, we will get out of here. Together!" Then, he added, "You are not dying, today!"

The reassurance helped, but I was still crippled. Every time my body wanted to black out, my conscious jolted back to the real world. It was like every symptom of panic disorder and anxiety collided with my body in that very moment. I turned to look at him, to get a look at his face. The attack calmed ever so slightly when he smiled. Everything was going to be okay. It was, because he was there with me.

I took a shaky step. Then, another. I won't give up. I won't... hesitate!

"Keep... going." I breathed.

Miraculously, a large, red tool box caught my eye. It was my last hope. My limbs refused to cooperate without force, so each step I took was a fight for control. The weight on my chest lightened as I made it to the tool box. Thankfully, the drawers were already open. I scanned the old contents. Just about everything was rusted or severely damaged. I did manage to find a pair of wire cutters. Testing them on the latch of the box, I sighed in relief when the latch snapped in two and not the cutters.

"I-I found something to get the chains off." I said, gripping them in my teeth. The taste of rust was not something I could get used to.

Walking as fast as my stiff joints would let me, I kept my eyes on Nico. It felt like forever before I reached him, but I finally got there. "Hold still." I instructed. I clamped the pliers on one of the wires and squeezed. Like a twig, the metal snapped, falling to the floor. One down, several to go. I grunted as the next wire fell to the ground. I managed to cut nearly half of them, before a loud bang jerked me from my concentration. Nico and I twisted around to see Nail Bit and all his muscle standing in the doorway with a terrifying amount of anger etched in his features.

"Fuck."

I dropped the pliers and stumbled back. The terror rose from the pit of my stomach like a monster awakening from its slumber. He stomped towards me, every step seemingly shaking the building. My back hit a machine. He growled as he stepped on the pliers, breaking them completely. I was going to die. Death knew where I lived, from the few times it had knocked on my door.

"You will pay for wasting my time!" He shouted, rancid saliva raining on my face.

My pupils shrunk as he grabbed me and slammed me on the ground. The breath was knocked from my lungs. Nico screamed and swore at the raider. I could hear the chains violently shaking. "Leave her alone! I'll kill you! I swear I will fucking kill you!"

Nail Bit laughed, hysterically. "This is your piece of meat? Don't worry, I'll take real good care of her."

I groaned. I didn't even try to get up and run. I probably could have attempted to fly away, but he was a unicorn so he could have caught me in his magic. The shadow of the large stallion covered me. Just as I looked up, he roughly rolled me onto my back and held my hooves out. His awful stench filled my nose, making me cringe. When he lowered his head closer to mine, his smile showed off his putrid teeth. I struggled under him, but it was like trying to move a Raptor without power.

"You found her!" The mares trotted in. The red one giggled in delight. "Go ahead and do what you gotta do!"

The other one trotted over to Nico and grabbed his face. "You just keep your eye on them. It'll set the mood for us!"

I screamed, tears streaming down my temples and into my mane. The bastard stuffed a rag in my mouth, silencing me. His yellow eyes widened in joy as he spread my hind legs apart. I sobbed through the rag as I felt... it. It was touching me. I shook, violently. Words could not describe the horror that tore my heart into pieces. He was going to violate me. I couldn't do anything about it.

"Y-you son of a bitch! I swear to the goddesses, I will cut your balls off and shove them down your throat!" Nico screamed, earning a slap from the mare.

That was the beginning of a torture that I will never be able to erase from my mind. Every part of me shut down as agony tore through my nethers. I began to spasm, my lungs burning so bad I just knew I was going to stop breathing any second. My leg spasmed, but since he was holding it down, it pulled out of place. He was killing me! I wept, uncontrollably, trying to scream through the nasty fabric. I could hear Nico screaming. At least the pain in my shoulder took away some of the pain in my hind end. I squeezed my eyes shut, praying for death. I prayed Luna would send the moon down to crush me. I wanted to die. I wanted to get away.

I was brought back, with a headbutt from that awful monster. "Open your fucking eyes! I want you to feel it!" He laughed.

My mind was shutting down, anyway. I couldn't even struggle anymore. I couldn't get away. I couldn't even avoid his murderous eyes. I wanted to look at Nico, but he wouldn't let me. The only thing I could do was lay there and have my dignity torn from me like the colors from my uniform. The humiliation smothered me. Embarrassment. I was a foal to believe this place held any hope. Every time he grunted, I wanted to bang my skull against the concrete floor. If his head wasn't against mine, I would have. I hoarsely whimpered, some more.

"Yeah, keep whining. It makes it feel better!" Nail growled, throwing my legs further apart.

My muffled screams were just adding to it, but I couldn't stop. It hurt too much.

"You know a mare has more than one hole, dumbass." The red mare cackled.

Nail paused. Then, grinned. A grin that will forever haunt me. Every shred of my being was being torn, burned, and disposed of before my very eyes.

"Hold her down and open her mouth." He instructed his small gang.

"No! You mother fucker!" Nico screamed more profanities until he could barely speak.

The red unicorn trotted over and snatched me up, holding my forelegs behind my back. I felt the cold, sharp blade of a knife at my side. "I will kill your friend and then, I will kill you if you don't do it, right now!" She pulled the rag from my muzzle and threw it to the side. I wept, my tongue dry. That... that beast stood on his hind legs, using my head to balance himself. I struggled for a breath of something that wasn't coming from his body. It was a hair away from my muzzle.

ZAP!!

The stallion burst into ashes. The mare let go of my legs, making me fall to the floor. I curled into a ball. I could hear the sweet, sweet sound of wings flapping through the factory's high windows.

The Enclave. They came back for me...

I heard Redd's voice, then I heard the crunch of bones as somepony took out the red mare. The sound of blood curdling shrieks, followed by gurgling came from the other one. My friends were yelling. I only stared at the wall, my back to them. I couldn't let them see me. I couldn't bare to let them look at what I was reduced to. I was nothing. A nobody. Just a toy.

I felt a hoof on my back, making me tense, again. I wanted to close my eyes. I was tired. Sleep is what I needed.

No! He will kill me if I close my eyes! I have to watch! I have to keep my eyes open!

"Oh, my goddesses! Sienna!" Daddy?

Somewhere, chains hit the ground, followed by the pounding of hoofsteps galloping towards me. Nico slid to a stop, nearly falling in front of me. I couldn't look him in his eyes. I had to keep my focus on the wall. He, gently, held my head. I noticed the shine coming from his cheeks. I knew all too well what tears looked like. He pulled me into an embrace. Behind me, I could hear roars and the sound of metal breaking. I couldn't tell who it was.

"I'm so sorry... I-I couldn't save you from... I'm s-so sorry." Nico clung to me. So warm. Warm enough to sleep.

"N-no... I c-can't... close my eyes. H-he will kill me! I have to watch!" I pushed away, resulting in my body convulsing.

"S-Sia?"

If I close my eyes he will kill me! I can't close them!

"She's going into shock!" Violet? My best friend! "We need to get her to Zangth, right now!"

I forced my mind to shut down. I was so embarrassed. Scarred. I would never forget. I couldn't. Truthfully, I didn't know what to feel. What I wanted to feel. This is what I got? For trying to do the right thing? I was trying to help these ponies, to save them from Hope. Their safety was a priority. Because that's what brave ponies do. They put their fear behind them for others. They risk everything for the good of ponykind. Did I do something wrong? Was I too scared? My fear. That had to be it. If I had more courage, it wouldn't have been this way.

I hesitated.

I felt myself being laid on a table. I was in a hospital room. Surgery room, it looked like. A mare stood to my right. She wore thick glasses and had a straight, brown and gray mane. The white coat over her pink fur had a name tag with the name "Cherish Rose" written on it. I stared at her for a while as she inspected some medical supplies. I slowly turned my head to see a stallion in a similar lab coat. He spoke in hushed tones with Violet. No, he wasn't a normal stallion. I squinted my eyes. Stripes...

"Z-Zebra! Zebra!" I flailed and struggled, knocking over a surgical tray with my tail. I was strapped to the table!

The two ponies and zebra rushed over and held me for added restraint.

"It's okay! It's okay! Zangth is one of us! He won't hurt you!" Violet rubbed my cheek.

I opened my mouth to say something, but all I could do was groan in pain.

"Sedate her." The zebra told Cherish.

"No! I can't close my eyes! I can't close my fucking eyes!!!!" I cried.

The needle stuck my rump before I could say anything else. As if Luna, herself, cast a spell upon me, my body relaxed. My thoughts receded into the dark pit of my mentality. There were little, tiny Lunas, hopping around the room. They were so calm. So soothing. I lay on the table as Violet stroked my mane, humming like a mother would for her foal. I pierced her eyes with mine, wondering if she was going to leave my side, again.

She tried to smile. "You're going to be okay, bestie." She looked over at the zebra. "What has to be done, exactly?"

"First, we need to stop the blood. She has some bleeding in her nether region. It is common in sexual assault." He snorted. "A crime that should be punishable by death." I hear rubber gloves snapping and the tinkling of metal tools. I was surprised the zebra didn't even have an accent.

"S-sexual assault?" Violet repeated. Her eye twitched. "As in..."

"Yes, Violet. That is what happened, is it not?"

She looked back at me, a tear in her eye. It is not hard to tell when someone is mad. They may make a face, or gesture. Violet? I could feel the temperature of the room rise as she shielded her rapidly growing rage.

"It... okay, Vi." I slurred.

She broke out of her trance and nuzzled me. "Sia, I'm so sorry..."

"Bastards!!! All of them!!!" I heard my dad's roar down the hall.

I didn't know if I was moving slowly or if time was moving quickly. Before I knew it, My hind legs were in stirrups. I felt my legs want to spasm as I was being prodded in my, already burning, marehood. I cried. Not only for me, but for those who had to live in the wasteland. They were raped, beaten and murdered every single day. Most probably didn't even have medical attention. Nopony to hold them and tell them everything is okay. I was lucky to have both and it made me feel guilty. I felt Violet gently wipe my tears away. I kept my gaze on her, again. I loved her, so much.

"I-I want to go home..." I whispered. I felt like a foal, but I didn't care.

Violet sighed. "I know, I know. Shh."

"Don't leave me, again, Vi." I teared up.

"I promise I won't leave you, again." She brought her hoof to my forehead, moving my bangs from my eyes.

I flinched at the needle down there. It must have been pretty bad if I had to be sewed up. Zangth finally came into view as Nurse Cherish finished up.

"Okay, Violet. I will need your help for this. I have to take the restraints off her foreleg, and I need you to hold her still while I set it back into place. Thankfully, it is not broken, but it is out of its socket. I would wait so as not to overwhelm her with any other medical treatments, but the tranquilizer doesn't last as long as we really need it too." He fixed his thin-rimmed glasses and nodded to me.

"O-okay." Violet murmured, walking around to my sore appendage. She grabbed my shoulder and held it down as Zangth unstrapped the restraint and placed his hooves around the joint and the bone that was supposed to be connected to it.

"Ready? One, two..."

On three, I felt my leg twist and pop, sending an unsurpassed amount of pain through my nervous system. Even with the sedative, I let out a cry. Just as it came, though, it went. It was a little sore, but nothing like it was before he set it. I groaned, again, when he put pressure on the joint to make sure it was in the right place.

"There." He nodded, satisfied. "You can walk with this hoof, but do not try to use it as much as you normally would for a few days. I really wish I could have used a healing potion for the internal tear, but we had to use our last two yesterday. The stitches will do, for now. They will dissolve once they've done their job." He trotted to the other side of the room, setting the gloves in the sink. The sink was, surprisingly, shiny. "Thank you for the bag of caps that was hurled at me, but you did not have to pay right away." He smiled.

Violet shrugged. "Sorry about that. Just keep the change. It should be a little more than what you normally charge."

He nodded. "I want to keep her over night. In the morning, I will distribute some mild Med-X." He eyed Violet over his glasses. "She needs rest. And for the love of the ancestors, limit her alcohol intake. Intoxication makes anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder worse! If you need me or Nurse Cherish, we will be down the hall. We will be back after the sedative wears off to move her into a suite."

With a shake of his head, he trotted out of the room. Cherish rolled her eyes and smiled. "He's an asshole." She mouthed. I heard the door close and hoofsteps walking down the hall. Violet sighed and continued to stroke my mane. I was so glad she was there. I wanted to ask her about the strange physician, but I figured I had better wait until my attention wasn't so clouded. That, and I felt guilty for the outburst, earlier.

The door opened and in walked Nico and Redd, the latter red-faced.

Redd snorted, pacing around the room. "This place is nothing but a desert of destruction! Rotten, no-good-"

Violet sighed, cutting him off with a glare.

Nico rounded the table and rested his head next to mine. I tried to nuzzle him, but I didn't know if I could move, anymore.

"I-I know what happened to her..." Violet said, quietly.

Nico swallowed. "I-I couldn't... do anything..." He stared. I reached for him, putting my hoof on his unscratched cheek. His eyes were glassy.

Redd growled. "I hate this bucking place."

"Where is Mixer?" Violet asked.

"He had to go back to the bar. He said he would be back when she was rested up." Redd sighed. "He also said if we leave her side we will all be turned into a cocktail."

"Oookaaayy..." Violet said.

I made an attempt to laugh, but it came out as a weird throaty noise. They looked at me.

"I hope that was a laugh." Redd smiled, coming to the other side of me.

I nodded, weakly, turning to him. He rubbed my foreleg with the Pipbuck.

I tried so hard not to close my eyes, but they forced themselves shut. At least my friends were there. They wouldn't let anything else happen to me. I expected nightmares to begin. For a while, they didn't. I just seemed to float around a void. I wasn't concerned, though. It was soothing. That is, until my eyes opened to the same factory setting I was in, just hours before. It didn't even feel like a dream! The scenery was the exact same, except the chains that held Nico were on the floor. He wasn't in them. I galloped forward, only to have the cage appear out of nowhere. I screamed and slammed into the cage door, like I did the first time I escaped. It wasn't budging, this time!

"Somepony! Help me!" I cried. My voice was warbled, barely audible.

"Nopony is coming."

My chest crawled. It was him. He was coming for me! I didn't dare turn my head.

"I-it's just a nightmare. You c-can't really hurt me. You're dead." I whispered.

"Maybe, but at least I'll get to haunt your dreams, again. And again. And, again!"

Laughter exploded around me. First, just his, then the mares joined in. I covered my face, trying to wake myself up. I whimpered as the laughter grew. The cackling was instantly replaced by one quiet chuckle. A voice I hadn't heard since that night after the Wild Formal. Opening my eyes, I saw her dark, cloaked silhouette behind the raiders.

Hope.

"You're running out of time." For her to be so far away, her tone was loud and clear.

I screamed her way. "You will not screw everything up!"

She smiled under her hood.

Nail Bit stepped into view, blocking her. I looked up at him, terrified. He was a skyscraper compared to the real version of him. The cage door opened on its own. I bolted past him, towards the hallway. Tears of joy fell from my face. I was going to escape!

The door suddenly stopped growing. I had stopped moving even though my hooves were pounding this floor. I began to rotate on my own, turning back towards that wicked grin. He smiled, wide. I blinked, then I was on my back, again. My breath quickened.

"This is gonna be fun!" He laughed.

"No! Get off! Leave me alone!" I screamed.

He laughed louder. "Don't be so stupid!"

His hooves pinned me down.

As I screamed, a white light almost blinded me. It was the same light that always saved me from my nightmares. It flared as Nail Bit disappeared from my view, disintegrating into nothing. I retracted me limbs, rubbing my chest. I couldn't see anything but that light. It got brighter and brighter until, finally, I had to shut my eyes.

"I-I'm so sorry what happened to you, darling. I'll try to keep him at bay."

Rarity.

My eyes flew open. I was drenched in sweat. My eyes darted from wall to wall. I was back at the hospital, in a different room. It was pretty cozy, compared to the surgical room. Old generic paintings of flowers and birds hung on the walls. They weren't near as beautiful as Nico's, but they were still pretty to look at. Next to my bed was an I.V. tube, snaking down into my leg. It looked like it was only fluids. I checked my Pipbuck. Early morning. I took a slow, shaky breath. Something warm lay next to me. I turned to see Redd, asleep. There was a disturbed cot at the foot of the bed.

"R-Redd?" I whispered.

He raised his head, yawning. "Are you alright?"

"No..." I said, quietly. "The nightmares."

He sat up. "I know. I was going to sleep in that cot, but when I heard you crying... I knew why. I must have fell asleep trying to keep you company so you weren't scared." He rubbed his mane. "I'm sorry."

I shook my head. "I'd rather you be here than be by myself, right now."

He smiled. "Nico and Violet went to check on Mixer. He... was a little pissed off."

I flattened my ears. "I should have-"

"Don't you dare." He eyed me.

I sighed, with a small smile. "I just wish I remembered how we got there."

He frowned, his face turning red.

I looked at him, puzzled. "What is it?"

"I-it's nothing."

"No, tell me." I narrowed my gaze. "You know what happened."

Redd look at me, uncertain. Finally, he sighed. "I don't want to bring it up right now, but Violet knew. Last night, after you were moved to this room, I spoke with Violet. She said you, Nico, and I all were pretty wasted. At some point during the night, Nico had went to help Mixer with something and you asked me to come outside with you. I swear I don't remember anything. I-I don't know what came over me, I just-"

"What happened?"

He bit his lip, face redder, now. "We... You and I... did the thing." He quickly added, "I swear I don't remember! Violet caught us around the building!"

I stared at him, instantly knowing what he meant.

He winced. "You have every right to be mad. I should not have taken advantage of you, like that. I wish I hadn't even drank anything. I-"

"It's okay." I said.

And just like that, the memories of that night came flooding back to me. I remembered dragging him outside. I remembered seducing him. We made love, then I got up to use the restroom, but I was hit in the head before I could make my way back to the tavern. I remembered it all, just then. It was a little fuzzy for small details, but it was enough to put together.

I got down and dirty with Redd. One of my best friends.

"Sia? Please, say something." Redd uttered.

I didn't know what to say. My face turned fire red. "Th-that was my fault..."

Why did I have to wake up, today?

He scratched his neck. "It was my fault, too, Sia. I should have made you go back inside. I knew you'd regret it."

I shied away. "I... I don't regret it."

He looked at me like I suddenly turned into an alicorn.

I cleared my throat. "I don't, honest. I-I'm kind of embarrassed that I exposed myself like that, but I do remember enjoying it."

Redd grabbed me in a hug. "I'm just so sorry."

I returned the embrace, burying my nose in his chest. I wasn't sure what I should have said. I did enjoy my... time with Redd, it was just everything that happened after that. In a way, I was super relieved to hear my virginity wasn't taken by that thing. I cared about Redd. He did more for me than he knew. I could have cried tears of joy, but I was too tired to cry, again.

"Thank you, Redd." I said, softly.

He pulled away. Guilt covered his face. "What, on Equus, for?"

I half-smiled. "For making me feel better."

He relaxed. "Anytime you need me, just let me know."

Silence.

"Let's get this out of the way." I said. "What does this mean for... us?"

He tilted his head. "What do you mean?"

I rubbed my forehoof. "Where do we stand?"

"Oh." He twisted his ears. "What do you... want it to mean? I mean, obviously not right now, but..."

I blushed. "After all this is over, of course... We will figure something out. Until then, we can... be friends, still?"

He nodded. "Of course."

I kissed his cheek. "You're the best, Redd."

He grinned. "Well, I try."

Time passed as we waited for the others. Cherish brought us a little food and water. She took out my I.V, which was a relief. I couldn't help but feel better with Redd there. I thought it would be awkward, but I admit it was nice to be closer to him. I had feelings for Nico, too. Can you love two ponies at once? Did monogamous relationships exist, anymore? These emotions confused me. I had never experienced this type of problem before. It shouldn't have even been a problem, seeing as though I just arrived in an arena of death. I had been violated the day before. That should have put me in a dark place. For some reason, I just felt numb to it. I was upset, sure, but not like I should have been. That scared me more than the depression.

You're losing your mind.

I shook the thought from my head. I couldn't have been. Could I?

A knock at the door interrupted my thoughts. Violet and Dad walked in, carrying my saddlebags.

Dad rushed over and grabbed me in a hug. "My baby!"

I curled up in his hooves like a foal. I needed to be a foal in my parent's embrace, at that moment. I sighed, closing my eyes.

"When I heard what happened, I..." I heard the grinding of his teeth. "I wished I could have did to that buck what I did to that mare."

I gulped. He broke her neck, I'm sure.

"It's alright, Dad. They're gone, now."

He rubbed my back. "I should have never let you leave the bar to look for stones. Your rock collection is not as important as your life."

Stones? Rock collection?

I looked over his shoulder to Violet, who winked. Of course.

"I-I know. I'm sorry." I squeezed him.

Nico hadn't come in, yet. He probably didn't want to look at me. I flattened my ears.

"Where is Nico?" I asked.

Violet stepped up next to me. "He went to grab a bite to eat. I don't think he's eaten anything since we left the shack."

"Oh." I hoped he was okay.

"Do you want me to stay with you, sweetheart?" Dad rubbed my mane.

I smiled. "No, it's okay. You probably need to be there to keep the place running. I think I'm gonna take a nap, anyway."

"Are you sure?" He made me look at him.

I forced a laugh. "Yes, I'm sure. I'll be getting out of here today, anyway. I'll come by."

He sighed, then kissed my forehead a couple of times. "Alright. I love you. Do not forget to come by!"

We said our goodbyes, and off he went. I was left in the room with Redd and Violet. The latter, I had a bone to pick with.

"Violet." I felt my temple with my hoof. "A... rock collection?"

She stifled a laughed. "I'm sorry, okay? I know you don't remember what happened, I just-"

My face burned. Glancing at Redd, I saw he was already blushing. Violet saw, too. She gasped "You do remember!"

"Vi, please..." Redd began.

"Can it, mister. Auntie Lightning raised you better than that." She scolded.

He puffed his cheeks. "I-I-"

"And you!" She pointed to me.

I sighed. "Ma'am?"

"No more drinking while you're in heat!" She shook her head, but hugged me. "I'm just glad you're alright."

This is a confusing day.

The three of us were chatting for a while. I almost dozed off until I heard another knock.The door opened, yet again, as the tan-coated unicorn walked in. I was expecting his usual, cool self. Today, he barely looked up from the floor. He trotted up to me and hugged me. "How are you feeling, today?"

I cautiously wrapped my hooves around his neck. "I'm okay, Nico." Then, I looked in his tired eyes. "I promise."

His smile was forced. "Red, Violet, could I talk to Sia, alone, for a minute?"

The two pegasi shared a look before heading out the door.

When it closed, Nico stared at me for a second. Then, he broke down. This stallion, who was a hardass, was crying in my lap. His tears stained the thin blanket that covered my bottom half. I didn't know what to do, at first. I shrunk down, unable to even comprehend what was going on.

"Nico? Hey, it's okay." I hesitantly placed a hoof between his shoulder blades. "What's wrong?"

He lifted his face, the saddest face I had ever seen on him. "I wish I would have taken it instead of you."

I clenched my jaw. "Nico, no. Please don't say that." I finally felt tears in my eyes. Finally, I was feeling something.

He sat next to me in my bed and held me. "I felt so useless. I couldn't imagine what you went through. I-I couldn't do anything."

I held him and cried with him. "Nico, no. No, no, no. I'm okay! You promised we would get out and we did!"

He nuzzled my mane. "Please, just hate me. Just break my heart so it will be easier." He slumped. "Please."

This was not normal for him. There was something else, I sensed. I pulled away and focused on his face. The bags under his eyes were a sure sign he hadn't slept. His mane was more out of place than usual. His barding wasn't even straight. Something else was going on and I was going to find out.

"Nico... There's something else, isn't there?"

He perked his ears for a second before he looked away.

"What is it?"

No reply.

"Tell me!" I grabbed his hoof.

"I did not expect it to hurt this bad, again. Except, you didn't leave me. You were taken from me, Sia. I can see the emptiness you're feeling. You're in a place, right now, where you think shutting everything down is going to make it go away. You were starting to come out of your shell and find out what a pony should be in this fucking place. You still are, but now..." He put a hoof on my face. "You feel broken and not yourself." He drooped. "And it's my fault. What he did... That- that absolute bastard did to you, was what I was so afraid of happening. I'm so damn scared of losing you."

A couple of tears fell from me, but nothing more. "What do you mean? Where is this coming from? You're scaring me."

Nico hugged me, again. "I can sense the difference in you. You're not... yourself. When you looked at me, last night, it was like the color was draining from your eyes. I know you're still there, but you just have to fight back."

I pushed him away. "Nico, are you alright?"

He held his head with a hoof, taking a deep breath. "I'm sorry for this."

"What-"

He pulled out his rifle and aimed it at me. I couldn't fathom what had gotten into him, but this wasn't my Nico.

"Sia, you are not yourself. I have to get you back!"

"Nico! Stop! It's me! I swear it's me!" I cried.

He shook his head, screaming profanities. The shock and fear encircled me, again. It was like last night. No, it was worse. My friend has turned into just another raider. For a second, his eyes flashed yellow. His pupils were pinpricks. He had lost his mind!

"No. No!"

"Yes! I have to do it!" He slammed a round into the chamber.

"Please, Nico!"

"Sienna! You're gonna be okay!"

My breath left me.

"I'm here with you!" He cried. His sobs were echoing through my head.

What the hell is happening?!

"Enough of this rubbish!" A voice boomed.

Rarity?!

Nico disappeared from the room. Rarity's voice came back. "Sienna, darling, there is something going on, here. Something is trying to mess up your head. I'm trying to hold these nightmares at bay, but it's getting more difficult by the hour."

"What- This is a nightmare? Rarity-"

"You're waking up. I'll try to get to the bottom of this. Just, try to keep yourself together!"

"Wait!"

I woke up. My eyes flew open, again. Nico held me in his hooves. I backed away from him, on instinct. His face wore a look of confusion and hurt. He didn't look as bad as he did in my dream, but he still looked exhausted. I searched for his rifle. That intimidating thing would never look the same, either.

"Sia? What's wrong?" He tried to come closer, but I flinched.

Tears poured from my eyes. "W-where's your gun?!"

His hoof retracted. "My... gun?"

"Where is it?!" I yelled, covering my face.

"My gun is in the security box in the lobby." He looked at me funny.

I peeked through my hooves. "Y-you aren't trying to kill me?"

He pinned his ears back. "Why the hell would I do that?"

For a second, I sat there. Unsure. "N-Nico, is this a dream?"

"No." He narrowed his eyes. "If this is a joke, it's not funny."

There he is.

I paused before I threw myself into him. "Nico, I'm sorry!"

He slowly hooked his hooves around me. "Sia, what happened?"

"A fucking nightmare! They won't stop! First, it was him. Then, you tried to kill me. You said I wasn't myself! I am myself! I am!" I bawled.

After lots more hugging (seriously, I love hugs) and crying, Nico finally lifted his head off mine. "Sia I would never...I can't believe-" He sighed. "I'll never hurt you."

I hiccuped. "Y-you were saying these weird things in my dream. How it was your fault I was violated, how I wasn't myself. Y-you pulled out your gun a-and want to 'bring me back'."

I felt his body tense. "Stop. Please, I-I don't want to hear anymore."

I wanted to stay in silence for a while. His heartbeat and steady breathing was enough to calm me down. Through everything, I just wanted my friends beside me. Power, wealth, even going back home was not as important to me anymore as having them. Whatever was causing these nightmares, was not something I wanted to deal with. If it wasn't for Rarity, there's no telling the shape I would be in. She was a friend, too.

"Better?" He whispered.

I nodded, sitting up. "This has been a shitty couple of days."

He hung his head. "I know. I wish you didn't have to go through this. You don't deserve it."

I cringed at those words. "D-don't talk like dream Nico."

He tried to hide his smile. "Sorry."

"Where are Violet and Redd?"

"You fell asleep, so they went to grab a few supplies. They asked me if I would sit with you."

"Where were you, earlier?" I flattened my ears. "I-I was looking for you."

The shame was there, no matter how much he tried to hide it. I felt guilty for saying that, right then. "I-I don't want to sound like dream Nico, but I am kind of beating myself up."

"Kind of?" I raised a brow.

"Okay, I am completely dead to myself. I'm useless." He sighed.

"I'm getting tired of everypony blaming themselves." I put a my hoof on his. "Please, don't."

I felt him squeeze my hoof. He nodded. "Okay." Pause. "One more thing, though."

"What?"

"How... did you get captured? I wasn't with you. They knocked me out when I was on my way back to the shack." Nico glanced up.

I gulped. What the hay am I supposed to tell him? I don't want to tell him what happened! But...I also don't want to lie to him.

"Violet told Mixer you were..." He snickered. "Collecting rocks. That is the worst lie I have ever heard."

I blushed. "I uh..."

Can I go one hour without something taking the rug from under my hooves?

*ERROR*: UNKNOWN USER!
CANNOT REGISTER VITALS

SYSTEM RESTART
ONE MOMENT...
......
......
USER IDENTIFIED
FEMALE/PEGASUS

WELCOME BACK!

Level Up!
S- 3
P- 3
E- 4
C- 3
I- 5 (+1)
A- 4
L- 3

New Perk!
Not Gonna Take it! - When your health is low, your accuracy goes up 10%.

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

Thank you for reading! As always, constructive criticism/error spotting is always welcome!
Stay safe!!

-AP

Chapter 16: Ideals

"Alright, here's the plan..."

Scars. Tissue that has been healed after an injury in such a way that it leaves a permanent mark. There are ways you can prevent scarring, or rather make it less noticeable. Most of the time, your hair will not grow back in the spot. So, why do we have mental scarring? By exact definition, it doesn't make sense. Our cognition is intangible, therefore, it cannot be physically wounded. However, it doesn't mean our mental health cannot sustain injury. A broader explanation would be trauma that we have underwent. That can wound us, mentally. I was coming to terms with a lot of my mental scars, until that happened to me. It was a pretty noticeable mark on my psyche. Our immediate state may heal in time, but it will always be there. The memory. The pain. The experience. It's okay to feel that way. It's okay to have those marks. They're just reminders of what we are capable of getting through. Time heals, after all.

Before I could get my words out, Violet and Redd trotted into my room. The former held a canteen. She hoofed it to me. "Here, I got some water for you." She dug in her bag and pulled out a familiar clam shell container. "I also found-"

"Is that cake?" I perked my ears, thankful for both the interruption and the sweet, sweet delicacy.

She chuckled, setting it next to me. "Yes. You know I always come through for my B.F.F."

I rubbed my hooves together, greedily. The dessert to end all desserts. The staple of every celebration. The crown jewel of my life. Cake. I took a large bite, chewing slowly to savor the strawberry and vanilla flavors. The horrors of the last day were suddenly a little more bearable.

Oh, Luna, I love this stuff!

"I'll have to take some of this back home." I took another bite.

I saw the sudden drop of Redd's content expression. He dropped his ears and eyes, swallowing.

I paused to look at him. "What's wrong?"

He sighed, dragging his hoof down his face. "Remember that thing I had to tell you a few days ago?"

I nodded, chewing a little slower.

"Well, I know you might take it pretty hard, but it's probably something you need to know..." He tensed. "We, uh... We can't go back."

I swallowed the mouth full, staring at him. Can't go back?

Violet and Nico shared concern.

"We're considered AWOL. They only gave me twenty-four hours to bring you back, so..." He watched my reaction. "I'm sorry, Sia."

My attention slowly diverted to the partially eaten piece of confectionery. We couldn't go back. My old life was gone, in only seconds. Grandma and Grandpa would never see me, again. My position in the Enclave. My house and all my other belongings. I tried to think of what else I would be leaving behind. Besides my grandparents, everything I had going for me was pretty trivial. My foalhood was the best years of my life. After bootcamp, it all just became repetitive. But I liked repetitive. At least, I thought I did. I wanted to be upset that I couldn't return. The day before, I probably would have been. That moment, though, I felt... nothing. A little disappointed, but it wasn't overwhelming. Having to spend the rest of my life in this wasteland should have scared me to death. I was just... numb.

"S-Sia, we'll figure something out." Nico assured.

I picked my head up. They all wore the same expression.

They're expecting me to cry. To them, I'm supposed to break down. Because, I'm fragile.

I tightened my jaw. No, they're my friends. They care how I feel, that's all.

Whatever you have to tell yourself.

While my internal monologue argued with itself, I didn't even notice Violet trying to get my attention. "Sia? Are you... okay?"

I snapped out of my daze. "Oh, yeah, I'm fine." I took another small bite of cake.

Nico looked at Violet, flattening his ears.

"You're taking this pretty well." He said, trying to tread lightly.

I shrugged. "I guess I'm just used to being here. I really shouldn't have expected to go back. Besides," I gave him a smile. "I'm here with you guys."

I finished the cake in silence. Nopony wanted to say anything, so I set the empty container to the side and let go of a breath. "Look, I know it's probably weird that I'm not freaking out or anything, but I'm telling you the truth. I feel fine. I'm a little disappointed, but fine."

They all shared another look. I ignored it. The silence was starting to annoy me.

"So..." Violet spoke. "What's our next move? I mean, when you get out of here?"

I looked down at my Pipbuck. It was hard to concentrate on a real plan. I knew two things for certain: Hope wanted the pearls and she was watching me. I assumed she knew where I was because there was a tracker in the Pipbuck. There was no doubt in my mind she had been following us.

"Hope can't get those pearls." I finally said.

"What about Floater?" Nico asked.

"I have to stop her, Nico. If she gets them, all of Equestria could be in danger. I have to find a way to stop her before she can do anything."

Violet scoffed, getting all of our attention. "I hope you mean 'we'. You are not getting into any trouble without us." She gestured to herself, Redd, and Nico.

I smiled. What else could I say?

"What about the Pipbuck?" Redd pointed out, inspecting the contraption. "She had it at one time, right? Surely, that location is still there."

I stared at the pony on the screen before I tapped a button, bringing up the map. All the locations I had been were there. I didn't see any unfamiliar markers, though. Even the farmer's market was there.

"There's nothing here." I said, quietly.

"She had to have wiped it clean before she gave it to you." Nico said.

I nodded in defeat.

"Can't you restore everything, though? All you'd need is a-"

"A terminal!" Violet stomped, interrupting Redd. "Not just any terminal, though. You'd need a special one that can hack into the Pipbuck's mainframe and get back all the data. Technically, it may not even be lost. She could have have just hidden away the information deep inside the software."

I sat up. "Where can we find one of those?"

She inhaled, then stopped. Finally, she deflated. "I don't know."

"Thunderhead." Violet and I turned to Redd. That had to be a joke.

He pinned his ears back, defensively. "What? That's the only terminal I know of that's capable of that sort of thing."

Violet rolled her eyes. "Great idea. We should totally just waltz up there and kindly ask them to let us borrow it. While we're at it, let's say, 'Hey! Sorry we flew the coop! Please, take us back!'"

"Okay, smart ass. I don't see you pulling a terminal from your-"

"Knock it off, guys! We need to work together, remember?" I scolded. "Redd does have a point, however rudely he may have put it. I haven't seen many operational terminals just lying around, besides the one back at your bunker."

I gasped in realization, but was stopped by Violet holding a hoof up. "That terminal is just a basic system. I had to rig it just to open that security door down there."

I drooped. So much for that.

"What about this hospital? We could ask Zangth." I told her." I... probably need to apologize, anyway."

"I doubt it. Hospitals don't really have a use for those types of computers. Not anymore, anyway." Nico added.

I squeezed my eyes shut in frustration. Finding a functioning, super computer in a two-hundred year post-apocalyptic wasteland was not going to be easy. Even if we managed to find one, I was sure it would be claimed by somepony. I also doubted they would be willing to share. I really wished I could wire my brain to the damn thing.

A thought suddenly popped into my head. "The orb."

Violet threw a questioning glance.

"The memory orb." I repeated. "Maybe there's something there that can help us. I just have to figure out how I can look at it." I scanned the room. "Where is my bag?"

Nico pulled my bag from under the bed. I thanked him and took it, digging inside. My hoof finally tapped the cool, glass orb and pulled it out. The off white orb swirled with magic, casting a soft glow around it. It was pretty, but no telling what it would do to the mind of a pegasus. If what Nico said was true, only unicorns were originally supposed to be able to use them.

"How the hay are you supposed to use that?" Violet tapped her chin.

I shrugged, then look at Nico.

As if reading my mind, he shook his head. "No way. It was intended for you. As far as I'm concerned, it's none of my business."

I frowned. "I don't have a horn. You d-"

"Hey, look!" Redd pointed to the chain around my neck. The jewel pulsed with a soft glow that matched the memory orb's rhythm.

I was so entranced, I didn't notice Nico grabbing it from me. "Hold on. We don't know what will happen if you play around with that sort of thing. Let's just wait until we figure that necklace out a little more, okay?" He almost begged.

I sighed as the necklace went back to normal. "You don't think..."

He shrugged. "I don't know. There's a connection, somehow. When a unicorn views a memory orb, the arcane energy from our horn has to connect with the magic that's contained inside the orb." He lowered his gaze to my necklace. "You said Rarity told you that since you put it on, you're the only one who can use it, right?"

I nodded.

He thought some more. "So, that must mean some of your energy had to be transferred to the jewelry for the enchantment to work. It had to be able to read you, after all."

"I'm still having a hard time believing a dead ministry mare is living inside your necklace." Violet said, raising a brow. "She's got to be, what? Very wrinkly and old?"

I grinned, sheepishly. "She can actually... hear and see you."

Violet flattened her ears. "Oh... Sorry, Miss Rarity."

Just as I was about to laugh, the sound of hooves running through the hall filled the air. A bell started ringing from somewhere. All of us quickly looked to the door, alerted. Zangth burst through, out of breath. His glasses were crooked and he looked like he had been in a state of panic.

"I need all patients to lock their doors! Any visitors, stay in the room, as well!" He yelled.

"What happened?" Redd asked.

The zebra gestured to a a couple of nurses galloping by. "A unicorn foal has been taken from the nursery. The hospital is on lock down and security is searching, but I am doubting the fiends are still here."

"A foal? L-like a newborn foal?" Violet gasped.

He nodded. "Indeed. It is top priority because the colt is premature."

"Who would do such a thing?" Redd stood.

I swallowed, timidly. I wasn't exactly sure, but I had a hunch. This didn't seem like something a raider would do. Slaver, maybe, but if they couldn't find them, they had to be slick. Organized, even.

The lights suddenly flickered out, leaving the four of us in the dim glow of the yellow emergency lights. I quickly jumped out of my bed and galloped into the hall. I was sore. Extremely sore, but I couldn't sit there. The others followed suit. Nurses and staff ran, frantically, back and forth. My head darted from pony to pony to zebra in the midst of the hysteria. A unicorn mare was being consoled by two nurses as she screamed and wept. She must have been the mother. I squeezed my eyes shut, trying not to think of the farmer's market memory.

"They took the incubator, too!" Cherish slid to a stop in front of us. "That is the only incubator that works, here! What do we do?!"

I have to do something. It's an innocent foal!

I inhaled. "We're going to find that colt. Violet, you come with me." She hesitated, but nodded. I looked to Redd and Nico. You help Zangth and Cherish check the more public areas."

Redd saluted. Just like old times. "Yes, Lieutenant."

"What if they have already gotten out? I think they are the ones who have disabled our generators!" Zangth asked.

I snorted. He had a point. "We don't know for sure, right? First, we need to cover the hospital. You four make sure to go to the entrances and keep an eye on them. Get security to check main halls. How many floors is this hospital?"

"Just one." Redd said.

"That's good. It'll be easier."

"One very, big floor." Nico added.

Thanks for the information.

"Still, we have to try. Let's go!"

Zangth lead them down the hall. Violet and I flapped our wings and flew the opposite way. The hospital was extremely well kept. It looked like a brand new establishment. I guessed there was no nonsense when it came to sanitation in medical buildings. Rooms lined the never ending passage. The eerie, yellow glow was unsettling since most of the ponies had retreated into rooms or hid. Violet checked each room on the right, while I checked the left. Each one was empty, save for a few patients cowering or sleeping. I don't know how they slept through our constant hoofsteps clicking around the rooms. After each suite, I became more anxious. We were getting nowhere and were probably wasting precious time! I tore through a closet in one room. Still nothing. I raced to the next. It was just a reoccurring process of nothing.

Closet. Nothing. Curtains. Nada. Under the bed. Not here!

I grunted in frustration as I destroyed the room I was in. I stomped my hoof, trying to figure out a better plan. Anything that would be faster. I heard wing beats behind me.

I wracked my brain, desperate for a solution. "It's no use, Vi. They must be gone by now. We'll never find them like this!"

CLICK.

My blood ran cold at the sound of a gun hammer cocking back.

"V-Violet?" I slowly turned.

I began to shake when I saw my suspicions were right. The cloaked pony in the doorway had a revolver pointed at me. I cautiously raised my hooves above my head.

"Violet!" I called.

"She's knocked out. You may not be able to reach her." Hope snickered.

I stared at her. If Violet is hurt...

"You're running out of time, you know." She purred.

I blinked. "I-I'm close to them, Hope. If you would just-"

"I will not wait longer than I have to! Your preoccupation with other things has become too frequent." I couldn't see her between being under the cloak and the darkness. I could only see her outline from the emergency light. I knew, then, she was a pegasus.

I wanted to keep her talking. I hoped someone would find us. "Why take the foal? Why not just take me? Isn't that what you're doing? Taunting me?"

I could hear that motherly tone. "That doesn't concern you, dear. However, I guess I should tell you that the colt will be safe. I wanted a filly, but he will do. As long as they are in good health, right?"

"But he isn't, Hope! He's premature! He could die!"

"Where I am taking him, he will be cared for and loved. Trust me, we have everything he needs and then some." She said, less warmly.

I choked back a cry. "H-his mother is upset. Why can't you see how badly she's hurting? Please... Don't do this..."

The gun raised to my head. "It will hurt for a while. It hurts to have your foal taken away from you. The pain eventually is replaced by other things." I heard her voice quiver, ever so slightly. "I would know."

Everything stilled. The only sound was my heart thundering in my chest.

"Hope..."

"It doesn't matter. You are not a threat to me. My followers have already taken the little darling and escaped. I am here merely to wish you luck with your task. Which, by the way, you'd better get to continuing." She paused. "I am sorry. What happened to you was unfortunate, but it won't change your time limit."

Wait, what? Was that a slight empathetic tone?

My mouth opened, but nothing came out. I stared at her in disbelief. She didn't sound like the heartless, vile pony I thought she was. I eventually found myself staring at the semi-clean floor, despite the fact there was a gun pointed at me. I was more confident she wouldn't kill me, outright. Right away, anyway. Still, I was more dumbfounded by that small gesture than anything.

"I will be on my way." She spoke up, colder than ever. "Remember your task and what is at stake. It is still at stake, so don't let me down. I am still watching you."

I didn't bother to look up as she flapped away. The thick energy in the room left with her. Now, it was just an empty space. The silence was deafening. I could see the reflection of the yellow glow on the tiles below me. My eyes were still locked on the cold floor, with new questions filling my head. They swam around, barreling through my conscious. She had a foal taken from her? I was no threat to her? But the biggest question of all was: Why the compassion, even if it was a small amount?

It felt like ages had passed before I finally snapped out of my daze. I shook the thoughts from my head and flapped my wings, remembering my best friend was knocked out, somewhere. I zoomed out of the room, looking both ways. It was empty. Nopony in sight. I tried to beat down the negative feelings so I could focus. I built a mental wall around the growing guilt to keep it at bay. I had to find Violet.

You could have stopped her, right then.

I stopped in my tracks, almost hitting an open door. Where the hell did that thought come from?

"No, she had a gun on me! It wasn't my fault she got away." I whispered to myself.

Liar. You knew she wasn't going to kill you, anyway. You still stood there and did nothing.

"Y-you're the liar! You're just insane!"

I'm insane? You're the one arguing with yourself.

"I..." I looked around. Nopony was there but me. I shook my head, again, as I realized I was losing touch with reality. "What the hell is wrong with me?" I mumbled.

From the corner of my eye, I spotted Violet lying on the floor in one of the rooms. "Violet!"

I rushed to her, coming to a screeching halt next to her face. I put my ear to her chest. Heartbeat, check. I watched her side rise and fall. Breathing, check. Inspecting the floor around her, I relaxed. No blood, check. I sat on my haunches, biting my hoof tips. I really hoped it wasn't a severe head injury. I knew she wasn't dead, but that didn't mean she was in stable condition.

"V-Violet?" I whimpered, tapping her side.

No response.

"Violet! Get up!" I shook her, that time.

Desperate times calls for desperate measures. "Violet, Gladys is here and she is... naked."

She jumped up and looked around. "Where?!"

I hugged her. "You're okay!"

"Of course, I am! Do you think somepony like her could- Wait... Where is she? Where is that bitch that knocked me out?! We can't let her get away!" She stood, swaying on all fours and grabbing her head.

I folded my ears back and supported her. "Be careful, Vi. You probably have a concussion. Besides, she's already gone."

She gawked at me, confused. "What do you mean? You saw her get away?"

I swallowed. What could I tell her? 'Hey, Violet, I practically let her walk out.'

"Sia?"

"I-I couldn't do anything. She had a gun pointed at me. She said... She said she would kill me and all of my friends if I followed her." I lied.

"What?! Oh, that does it! Nopony threatens my girl! She didn't hurt you, did she?" She looked over me.

I sighed. "No, I'm fine. Physically, anyway." I mumbled that last part.

"What was that?"

"N-nothing."

She gave me a sad smile. "Come on. Let's go find Zangth and let him know."

I nodded, letting her lead the way. Great. Lying to my best friend in the whole world. Let's add that to the list of selfish things I've done, today.

*ERROR*: UNKNOWN USER!
CANNOT REGISTER VITALS

SYSTEM RESTART
ONE MOMENT...
......
......
USER IDENTIFIED
FEMALE/PEGASUS

WELCOME BACK!

Level Up!
S- 3
P- 3
E- 4
C- 4 (+1)
I- 5
A- 4
L- 3

New Perk!
Animal Lover - There is now a small (10%) chance that radiated creatures won't attack you.

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

Thank you for reading and as always, constructive criticism/error spotting is always welcome! Stay safe!

-AP

Chapter 17: Until We Meet, Again

"Now, that's just crazy talk!"

Honesty. I know, another rant from Sia. Sucks, right? Well, I've got a few things to say about honesty. While honesty is an important trait to have, let's face it: Everyone lies. I wish I could say I was an honest mare, but the truth is, I even lie to myself. If you say you have never lied, you are lying. Don't tell me you've never told a little white lie. We can't all be like Applejack. Heck, even Applejack couldn't be Applejack, a time or two. I'm not saying there is dishonesty at every turn, but the truth does not always make itself known. Especially in a land where deceit was one of the main foundations for the war. Ironically, though, the wasteland can be a hurtful truth if you think about it. It's not all sunshine and rainbows, anymore. The reality is there, now. What could happen, what did happen. I'm almost certain the ponies of old lied when they said Equestria would be alright.

Violet flew in front of me. I didn't even have the energy to keep up. My shoulder and rear end were pretty sore, still. Every time it throbbed, I would think back to what happened. Luckily, I was able to distract myself with all the questions flying around my brain. Violet was dead set on catching the foes, but I already knew she would be disappointed in me. I let Hope get away too easily. The blame forced its way through my chest, making it hard to breathe. I put lives at stake. I put a foal's life at stake. I grit my teeth to hold back the impending tears.

"So, what did she-" Violet set down next to me. "Sia? What's the matter?"

I quickly wiped the moisture from my eyes. "It's nothing, really. I'm just..."

She grabbed me in a hug before I could say anything else. "I know you're not okay, right now. Whatever happened... That bastard is gone, hon. He's dead and he will never, ever hurt you, again. You got your friends with you and we won't leave your side, again. I promise."

I returned the hug. I guess I technically wouldn't be lying if I blamed my stress on that. I could just leave out the whole 'I'm deceiving my friends' thing.

"I-"

"No, no. You don't have to say anything, Sia. You're probably so overwhelmed by it and it's hard to come to terms with it. Anytime you want to talk or vent or cry, you can come to me, okay?" She held my shoulders.

I sighed. "O-okay, Vi. Thank you. I don't deserve you as a friend."

She smiled. "You do and I would beat anyone's ass who says otherwise!"

We walked, quietly, the rest of the way to the lobby. At least I didn't have to tell her the truth. It bothered me to no end, but I don't think I could have told her I let Hope go.

"Sia, Violet. Any luck?" Redd met us near the lobby's entrance.

Violet stomped. "The bitch knocked me out and held a gun to Sia. She got away!"

I winced.

A nurse that was standing beside Zangth stepped up. "I saw a wagon, earlier. The ponies wore cloaks and didn't want to be recognized. It was before the foal was taken, so I didn't think it was anything other than a supply shipment. It wasn't until after the alarm sounded, I realized what had happened."

I perked up. "Did you see which way they went?"

She shook her head, sadly. "I'm sorry, I only saw them while I was walking inside the lobby. I didn't see them leave."

I slumped. "We have to go after them. We can't let her get away with this!"

"That infant will not survive past twenty-four hours." Zangth looked at his hooves in defeat. "I will have to think of what to tell the mother."

I paced around the lobby. I kept quiet about the fact that Hope possibly had the means to care for the foal. They would probably try to kill me if I followed them, but I had to get that poor baby from them. Hope was deranged. There was no telling what she planned to do. We couldn't go one direction at a time, so I came to the conclusion that we had to split up. I hated it, but my years in the military had taught me a thing or two.

"That's it!" I turned towards them. "We'll have to split up and search each direction. It'd be best to go in pairs, just in case." I checked the time on my Pipbuck. Still pretty early. "In a few hours, we will meet back here. Do not approach them. If you spot them or find any clues to where they were headed, get back here, immediately. We will come up with a plan that won't get anypony hurt or killed."

"But, there's only four of us." Redd told me. "How are we supposed to go four directions if we are in pairs?"

Tapping my chin, I came up with a solution, quickly. "Zangth, how many security guards do you have here?"

"F-five, but two are off duty."

"I'll go." Cherish said from behind me. "Doctor Zangth needs to be with his patients. I'll go with one of the guards."

It was comforting to know there were more ponies who cared. Another point for pony-kind.

I nodded. "Zangth, go grab two of your guards and repeat the plan. Tell them to go north a few miles. Cherish, you and the third guard will go south of here." I pointed to each direction on the Pipbuck map.

"I'll go with you." Redd said to me.

I shook my head. "Violet and Nico are good with tracking. We should distribute those skills evenly."

"Aw, can't I travel with you, then?" Violet spoke.

"I... don't think it's a good idea to let Redd and Nico be left alone. I'll go with Nico." I said, flatly.

I saw the protest in Redd's eyes. I didn't want to make anyone unhappy, but this was our best option. He was probably going to be angry with me.

"Fine. I trust you. Lieutenant." He whinnied.

So, it was settled. We parted ways outside the door. I checked the map on my Pipbuck and started walking towards the west. Nico walked close to me, gazing over every so often. The pain in my nethers was just going to have to be there, because I wasn't going to stop. I would not hesitate, again.

"Are you okay? Do you need anything?" Nico saw my face twisted in pain.

"No, I-I'm okay. Honest." Another lie.

He narrowed his eyes. "You're hurting."

I didn't say anything. The breeze was moistened with precipitation. You could tell it either had been raining, or it was going to rain. Gray clouds still covered the sky, like dull frosting on an upside down cake. The smell of mud and wet fur lingered around. I tried to hide my scrunched up face. It wasn't a smell I could get used to living around. Of course, now that I had no choice, I'd have to deal with it. I dropped my head as we walked.

"I have a syringe of Med-X. I'll carry you. Are you sure-"

"Nico! Please, stop. I promise I'm okay!"

He bit his lip. "Sia, I'm sorry. I'm just trying to look after you. If you need anything let me know."

"I know you probably think I'm a little fragile after all that... craziness. It wasn't your fault. You couldn't do anything about it and it's not your fault." I looked up at him.

His jaw was clenched. It looked like he was about to cry. "I-I know... Or at least, I'm trying to accept that. It keeps replaying in my head, Sia." He kicked a rock. "I wish I could have bashed that bastard's skull in." He sighed. "I'm afraid of a couple of things."

"Like what?"

He bowed his head. "For one, the more I'm around you, the more I want to..."

I tilted my head.

He groaned, frustrated. "Remember when we were talking about foals? When I said I want to find the right mare?"

I nodded.

"I'm afraid that you might be the only mare I'd ever want." He looked at me, sadly. "But, you will not want the same with me. I'm afraid of my feelings for you."

I blushed. "Why?"

"I know you're supposed to say 'uncertainty is the beauty of life' or some crap like that, but I hate not being sure about something. What would happen between us is so uncertain." He shrugged. "Maybe that's why I come off as controlling. If I can be in control, I would know what's to come. I don't want to control you."

I kept my focus on the dirt ahead of us. The words died on my tongue. "I... I don't even know what I can say. The future scares me. Like you said, uncertainty is terrifying. To me, anyway."

He exhaled, smirking. "We are supposed to be waiting until all this is over before we start making decisions, but I don't know how much longer I can hold back."

"Hold back?"

He quickly nuzzled my cheek. "I don't know how much longer I can keep myself from being a bleeding heart for you." Just as quickly as he nuzzled me, he moved away. "I'm in love and I don't want to be. Not because of you, but because of all the uncertainty."

Pretty sure that's called mixed signals.

I cleared my throat, still red. "Er..."

He looked at his hooves. "Do you feel exactly the same way you did back at the shack? You were so sure of your feelings for me, but have they changed?"

I didn't know. I honestly didn't know. I knew nothing about love or romance. I felt love for him, but I couldn't be sure what it really meant. I felt the same about Redd, but the feelings I had for him brought comfort to me. He felt like home to me. Maybe, it was because he is a foalhood friend. We've known each other forever. Nico, was more of a... thrill. I loved him, but because, deep down I was tired of the consistency back home. There was a part of me who wanted him to myself, forever. The other part of me knew it was probably just a temporary excitement.

Love is freaking hard.

"I-I don't know, anymore." I sniffed.

He stammered. "I-I'm sorry, I did not mean to put you in this position, right now. Damn it, I am an idiot."

"You know it doesn't bother me, right? It's a good distraction from... this." I waved my hoof around.

He sighed. "My brain has been all over the place for the past few days."

I chuckled. "I can see that."

The topic of our conversation was quickly changed. It was for the best. I almost wanted to believe this was a weird dream, but since Rarity never showed up, I had to accept that it wasn't. He probably had more he wanted to say to me, but I wasn't sure if I'd be ready to hear it. I tried to think about it more, but I just kept coming up as a blank page. It even felt like my love was fake.

You don't love anyone, do you? Come on, that is pathetic. They certainly don't love you. You know what happened between you and Redd was strictly for his benefit.

I tried to ignore the stupid voice in my head. It seemed to get louder each day. Stupid conscious. Stupid mental issues.

Stop trying to let your emotions control you. You wouldn't even have any mental problems if you would take control.

I shook my head. "That's enough." I whispered.

"Hmm?" Nico said.

"N-nothing. I was just wondering if we have enough supplies. Seems we do." I laughed, nervously.

"Um... okay." His head slowly turned back towards our direction.

I slowed to let him walk a little bit ahead. Great. Now he thinks I'm crazy, too. I picked my head up, looking around the landscape. Emptiness. Same as always. Canyons and hills lay ahead of us in the distance. I hated to know what sort of danger hid behind them. I'd leave that territory for future ponies to worry about. I did see the distant mountain, a little closer than it was when Redd and I were traveling towards the market. The tip stretched its way into the cloud curtain. It was hard to see because of the fog, but I saw the faint pink tint lazily floating around one area of the mountain. Canterlot Ruins. I wished I was brave enough to explore the place. Too bad the toxic air probably would have killed me the moment I stepped on the grounds.

I looked back at my wings, tired of walking. "Hey, why don't I fly up and see if I can see anythi-"

"Shh." He stopped walking, putting a hoof out for me to stop, too.

I paused, watching his ears swivel around. I didn't hear anything, until the rustling of bushes made us turn.

"Nico!" A shriek made me jump. Out of the dead shrubbery next to us, a pink blur pounced and tackled Nico. They rolled a couple of times, before they stopped. The magenta mare started squeezing him. She was sickly in appearance. Her long, brown and white mane was matted and dirty. Her tail was tied into a bun. I couldn't tell what her cute mark was. Three gray dots? Three dead leaves? She kept squeezing him. The pure astonishment on his face was enough to scare any ghoul.

"I'm not dead and you're not dead!" She let go, circled a few times, and giggled. She seemed to have the mindset of a school-aged filly.

I was about to ask her name until Nico answered for me. "Pepper."

My flank hit the dirt as I stared in utter shock. I could barely blink back the tears from the surge of pain in my behind.

"H-how? Where did... Why are you here?!" He stumbled over the questions as he got to his hooves.

Her eye twitched (creepy). "I'm just here! What's the big deal?"

"Y-you went with that pegasus. You left, Pepper." He said.

Her back hoof reached up to scratch her ear. "They tried to kill me. Well, he tried.. They can't kill me, though! Heh. I was too much for the bastard!"

I hated to speak badly of anyone, but this was Pepper? She was nuts!

He examined her. "Experiments? Where have you been? Why are you in Shattered Hoof, now?"

"Yes, I was looking for you, of course!" She smiled. It wasn't a normal, friendly smile, either. It was terrifying! When her gaze finally fixed on me, I wanted to fly away as fast as I possibly could. Her smile faded into a scary frown. "Who is she?"

He looked at me and swallowed. "This is Sienna. I'm helping her take care of a few things." He looked back to her. "Sia, this is Pepper."

"It's nice to meet you, Pepper. I've heard a lot about you." I dipped my head with the weirdest smile I've ever worn.

She trotted over to me, circling me. She stopped at my flank and put her ear to it. I yelped, not appreciating her touching that very sensitive area. Pepper stretched out one of my wings and stroked the feathers.

"New here. Feather brain. Enclave. No, ex-Enclave. Hmph." She walked back in front of me. "Military bastards. If I find out you've been messing with the good ponies of the wasteland, I'll murder you with one hoof." Her eyeballs almost touched mine. I gulped and shook my head, furiously.

"Wait, Pepper, she's one of the good guys." He gently tugged her hoof away from me.

I held my breath until she finally took her glare off of me. Her disturbing smile returned as she started nuzzling Nico, again. "I missed you so much, darling."

"I-I missed you, too." He hugged her.

Hello, right here! See? I told you he would forget you.

I held back a growl. Not at them, but at the voice in my head. Honest! Despite the concern that I probably clearly showed, I was happy they were united. I wanted to believe he was happy to see her, again. I noticed the smile on his face forming after several seconds of confusion. It was contagious enough to make me smile, too. Until she looked at me over his shoulder and gave me the biggest death glare I have ever received. My smile went away, fast.

"You've changed, though. You're more... energetic." He let go of her.

Her attention went back to him. "Yes, yes. A side effect of the experimental drugs, I'm sure. Those pegasi were dead set on making me miserable. The last one they gave me made me comatose for a while." She giggled, sending ice up my spine. "I guess they thought it killed me because they 'disposed' of me, pretty quickly. Some elderly mare found me and kept me in her home for months while I was in a coma! She told me it ruined my mentality. Psh. I actually feel pretty good!" She cracked her neck in an unholy way. "Oh! I found these, too!" She took a pouch from somewhere in her mane and poured what appeared to be small, indigo pills into her hoof. She popped one into her mouth and swallowed.

"What are those?" He questioned.

"Luna stone. It makes me feel invincible! And, it works fast!" She shivered one time. "It is goooood..."

He shot me a worried glance. I shrunk, knowing exactly what he was thinking. Something along the lines of, "you damned pegasi". He shook his head and took her hoof. "You'll be alright. You're perfectly fine."

Now, that is some blatant denial.

"I know." She scoffed. "You look like hell, though. Did she do this to you? Is she making you do all her errands?" She pointed a hoof menacingly at me. I swear, her fur stood like an angry cat's would. "If she did, I'll rip her ugly mane off her head!"

That did it. I flapped my wings, hovering high enough in the air, before she reached me. She bared her teeth, growling as she tried to jump for me.

"No! Pepper, wait! She isn't doing anything wrong! What's going on around here is just stressing us all out. Her, mostly." He pulled her down.

She gave me one more creepy glance before settling down, again. "Whatever. You wanna be used and threw away by some pegasus, don't say I didn't warn ya." She smirked.

"I promise, she's a friend. Her, Violet and Redd are all good pegasi." He reassured her.

She quickly jumped up and looked left to right, several times. "There are more of them?! You must be fucking mad! They are all out to get us and do experiments on us! Don't you see? you're the only unicorn with them! They'll wait a-and seduce you and then when no one is around, they'll jump you!" She took his hoof and tried to pull him away.

"N-no. They wouldn't do that." His heart was breaking right before me. "What have they done..." He whispered.

She stopped and glared at him. "I told you, I am perfectly fine! You even said it, yourself!" She huffed and hugged him, again. "So, where are we going? You can't travel with these... fuckers, alone."

I rubbed my neck. Geez. This is going to be a longer trip than I thought. Somewhere in the back of my head, I heard laughter.

Whoever had done this to Pepper needed to be thrown in a dungeon. The way Nico spoke of her, she was kind and quiet. This Pepper was a jack-in-the-box rigged with explosives! She did say she was put into a coma. That was probably what messed up her brain, not the drug, itself. I wasn't, in any way, justifying the pegasi's actions, but there had to be a good reason they'd do something so horrible. I wondered what medications they were giving her. I, myself, had never heard of the Enclave experimenting on other ponies, even if they were from the wasteland. I couldn't see a fellow officer torturing a wastelander for no reason. Especially one as kind as Pepper was.

I took a deep breath, trying to process it all. The smell of something burning filled my nostrils. I exhaled to sniff the air. Burning wood. Must have been a camp, somewhere. My head turned, lazily, seeing a tower of black smoke. It was too big to be a camp fire. I flew upwards, more, to get a better view of where the smoke was coming from.

Right where the tavern was.

My eyes widened. "Nico, the tavern! It's on fire!" I yelled down at him.

"Shit, we have to go! Fly ahead!" He yelled back up to me before he took off towards the fire.

I zoomed in the same direction, easily outpacing the two unicorns. My chest started to grow heavy with each breath. I grit my teeth and forced my body to move faster. The cold wind stung my face as I picked up speed. Hopefully, no one would be hurt.

BOOM!

The smoke turned into a wall of fire, climbing an invisible ladder. As I got closer, I saw the smoke was getting thicker. "Dad!" I screamed, shooting forward. The entire time, I prayed to the goddesses he would be okay. The screams and cries of the patrons made my chest hurt.

I finally cut through the tree tops to get there. The building was up in flames, battling the rain showers that had started. I stopped to watch ponies running or limping away. I searched the crowd for my dad, but I couldn't see him. Frantically zigzagging through ponies, I finally saw Specs leaning against a stump, coughing and hacking. His mane was singed and he had soot spots all over him.

"Specs!" I called, running to him.

He looked up. "Sienna! What're ya doin' here?"

"Where's my dad?"

"In there." He pointed to the building. "He went back to help the rest of tha patrons."

"No!" I panicked. "I've got to help him! He's gonna be killed!" I began flapping my wings.

"Wait!" He stopped me. "That fire is gonna reach them boxes o' liquor! It could explode any minute!"

I frantically searched over the front of the building. "I have to help him, Specs! I can't lose my father, again! Nico is on his way, tell him to help anypony who is wounded!"

Specs opened his mouth a few times, finally snorting. "Damn it, just be careful!"

I shot through the crowd and through the swinging door. Smoke escaped through every opening in the building, after rolling through most of the room. My eyes began to burn as ashes flew into my face. Flames licked at me as I landed and ran the rest of the way. The heat was smothering. It became harder and harder to breathe. Damn, I forgot about the permanent damage to my lungs. The panic attack overwhelmed me along with the coughing fit. I dropped to my belly and crawled, like we did in training. There was less smoke near the floor, but it was still suffocating.

Fuck.

The only thing that wasn't on fire was the bar, itself. Unfortunately, the liquor was behind the counter and the fire was quickly getting closer to it. I dodged falling planks, searching through the haze. Numbness began to spread form my chest to my forelimbs. I felt dizzy. I couldn't stop coughing, either.

"Not... now! Damn it! Dad! Where... are you?!" I called between coughs.

I couldn't hear over the loud crackling, but it sounded like muffled yelling. My ears turned towards the voices. They were in the back room. I crawled faster, until I got to a place where the smoke was thinnest. Still coughing, I galloped towards them. It was the only room behind the wall and it had a metal door. I assumed it was the cold room.

I wheezed and coughed some more. My eyes watered so much, I couldn't see anything. Using my hooves, I felt in front of me as I tried to make my way closer. Finally, I felt the metal on the wall. It was extremely hot, so I had to snatch my hoof away. It was probably going to leave a mark.

"Daddy?" I called, putting my ear as close to the door as I could. I could still feel my fur scorching.

"I'm here! I'm okay! You need to get out of here!" He yelled from the room.

"No! How many are in there with you?"

I didn't hear a reply.

"Dad?!"

"Th-there's five others, alive. Two... are gone." He finally replied.

I wasted no time. "Do you have a way out?"

"This door is the only way out! No fire can come through, but the smoke is getting thick! A mare in here is beginning to have a heat stroke!"

My thoughts raced, along with my heart. "Are you able to open the door from the inside? There is a clear path to escape if you can get it open!"

"There is no way to open it from the inside and we have nothing to ram it!"

I hissed. My tail had been burning! I cried out as I stomped the flame. When it was finally out, I frowned at the blackened ends. It was now the same length as my mane. It hurt, too!

"Hold on! I'm gonna get you all out!" I yelled, frantically looking around for something to open the door. I could already hear bottles breaking next to me.

There was nothing I could use to ram the door. Everything was either too small, or already burning. I gulped as I stared at the steaming door. The only thing I could do was force it open with my body. Taking a deep breath, I squeezed my eyes shut and stepped back. I charged the door, pushing with all my might. Even wearing my armor, the door was heating it up, fast.

"Sienna? Are you okay?" I heard Dad call to me.

I didn't answer. I just stepped back and tried again, grunting as my hooves lost their traction. The door wasn't budging! I galloped backwards, reared up, and charged, shoulder first. The whole side of my body crashed into the thick steel. It finally moved, just a little. I slammed my shoulder into it repeatedly. The searing door burned through my barding and was now eating at my skin. The pain was intense, but I had to ignore it.

I. Will. Not. Hesitate!

"The door is moving, but the ceiling is about to fall in!" Dad yelled.

"Please, hurry!" A mare yelled.

Running back, again, I screamed as I lunged forward. The hot air stung the whole left side of my body. Upon impact, I felt the entrance move a bit more. I figured one last push would do the job. One final time, I backed up and charged. This time, I continued to push, inching the door open. I felt the blisters forming on my hide. My legs and wing weren't fairing too well, for sure. Through tears and sobs, I slammed my weight into it.

BANG!

The hinges went flying. The door tumbled down, barely missing my father's head. I rain in, hugging him. The others gathered at the door, staying behind him. He let go of me, his hoof smeared with blood. "Oh my Goddesses, Sienna! You're hurt!" He scanned my side.

Pieces of wood were falling next to us.

"No time! Come on!" I turned, holding my uncooked wing to my nose.

I belly crawled towards the main room, hearing the others following my lead. Looking over, the flame was inches away from the boxes. I looked back to see if everypony was okay. As each of the five passed, I counted. Dad wasn't one of them.

"Dad!" I called. The others stopped. "No, keep going! Through there! The front is open!" I pointed towards the large opening.

They nodded, galloping out to safety. I, painfully, slid along the floor, looking for the large stallion. I backtracked into the room. Spotting him, I saw what was keeping him: His hoof was caught between the fallen door and the floor. Breaking into a gallop, I slid to a stop beside him. "Hold on, Daddy!"

"No, you go! I can get out, just run! Now!" He nudged me forward.

"But-"

"Go!" He screamed.

I stomped, my hoof throbbing. "Hell no! We've lost too many, already!" I jumped over his leg and the, now glowing, metal. It had started sizzling where his hoof was touching it. I screamed, turning and rearing my back legs. With all my might, I bucked. The chunk of almost molten steel slid off of him, tearing his hide a little. It was bad, but better than letting him die. I breathed, heavily, about to pass out from the smoke. More bottles were breaking as the liquid started hissing.

"Let's go!" He yelled over the noise.

He leaned on my good side, as we hobbled back where the bar was. Just as we cleared the room, the ceiling fell with a crash. I turned to see the crate fall into the flame. It all happened so fast. First, the explosion that shook the building. Then, my dad staring at me in horror. Last, the long piece of a bar stool that had impaled my abdomen near my back bone. I fell to my knees, mostly out of shock. I didn't even feel when it happened. The agony I felt when I noticed was enough to knock out anypony. I refused to pass out, though. I had to fight! I had to make sure everypony was safe!

"Come on, Sienna! You have to get up! Come on! You're gonna be okay!" He yelled, desperately trying to get me to my hooves.

I noticed another shelf starting to fall. This time, the explosion would surely bring the place down. I tried to warn him, but nothing came from my muzzle but a soft groan. I did manage to point to the boxes. He gasped, picking me up and flapping his wings. I lay across his back, crying from my wounds. The injury in my nethers were dull compared to those burns. He hovered in the air, waiting for an opening between the flames.

"Hold on, baby. Please, hold on!" He said, hurriedly.

I made a weird noise with my throat. It was a mix of pain, fear, and haste.

Like a bullet, he shot forward. Right when the crates impacted the lake of fire, too. My eyes widened as the ball of fire chased us through the entrance. The rest of my tail had burned completely off. Before we knew it, I realized we were outside. The rain was coming down, harder, each drop dissolving into the fires. I didn't know how long it would take for the weather to fight the fire.

"Sia!" I heard a familiar stallion.

I gulped down the fresh air, coughing and sputtering. Dad set me down, but I could barely stand. My hooves were blackened and burnt. I looked back to see my left side was hairless, save for a few spots. My cutie mark was missing, too. The blisters were bubbling and stinging. My wing was featherless. Oh, and I was pretty much skewered. I tried to move, but my limbs felt paralyzed. I couldn't lay on my good side, since the debris was sticking out of both sides. I felt dizzy, again, as I watched blood seep from the wound. If it were removed, I would surely bleed to death. The hurt was unimaginable.

"Fuck!" That familiar voice, again.

I slowly moved my gaze towards the source. Nico stood gaping at the wood sticking out of me.

"That... might kill me..." I slurred.

"What do we do?" He looked to my dad, who was tearing up.

Nico checked in his bags, then mine. "Our medical supplies are in Redd's bag!" He looked around. "Is there a doctor here? Or a healing potion? Something?!" He yelled at the bystanders. They put their heads down, unable to help.

The echoing in my ears worried me.

"I-I'll be okay." I whispered, trying to put my forehoof in front of me.

"No! Don't you dare move, Sia!" Nico screamed.

I stared up at him, trying my best to stay sitting up.

Specs limped forward, a bag in his teeth. He dropped it in front of Nico. "Two healing potions, and some bandages. It's all I could find."

Dad poured the contents of the bag on the ground next to me. He quickly grabbed a bottle and opened it.

"Stop! Don't give it to her, yet!" A pony in a white coat galloped from the crowd. She panted as she stopped in front of me. Cherish. She snatched the potion from him. "If you give it to her, the tissue will heal around the foreign object. We have to remove it, now."

"She'll bleed out!" Nico screamed at her.

I bet it would make a badass scar if it stayed in there. Hehe.

"Not if we work quickly. I have to check and make sure her spine isn't severed." She told him. She was pretty calm despite Nico's yelling. Her horn glowed as she went over my back with the pretty, yellow light. She stopped and narrowed her eyes at my abdomen.

"What is it? Is something wrong?" Dad asked.

"N-nothing is wrong. There are no broken bones and her spinal cord is still intact. It barely missed any major body parts. I'm going to need you to hold her still, Mixer." She said.

Huh, she must have been to the tavern, before.

Dad grabbed my side, gently.

"Be firm, but gentle." She instructed. "Nico, I'm sorry, but you'll have to do the dirty work. You have to pull it out."

"What?! Why?"

"I have to keep my focus on the wound, itself, and keep my X-ray spell going. I'll also be distributing the potion. Just pull straight out with your magic. If you use hooves, we'll risk infection." She said. "When you're ready." The supplies hovered next to her as she kept her horn glowing, brightly.

Nico looked at me, sadly. "I-I don't want to hurt you."

I shook my head, trying to smile. "I-I promise I... won't be mad."

"I don't know if I can do this. You'll be in so much pain, Sia. What if I mess this up?"

"Come on! On the count of five!" Cherish rushed.

I brushed his hoof. "You won't. I'll be alright. Cherish is h-here. I trust her and I trust y-you."

"Five."

He stared at me.

"Four."

"Don't hesitate, like I did..." I closed my eyes and let out a breath.

"Three."

"I'm so sorry if I hurt you." He whispered.

"Two."

"Me, too..."

"One."

A split second passed before I heard the haunting sound of wood scrape against my bone. I fell over, pain shooting through my back and sides. I twitched, watching the blood spurt from the hole. Quickly, Cherish poured the bottle into the wound. I gasped for air as my eyes went wide.

"What's happening?" Dad held my shoulders.

"An anxiety attack. She will be fine." She opened the other healing potion. "Drink this." I snapped my gaze to the bottle and nodded. She levitated it to me and put it to my lips. I let it pour down my sore throat. Stopping to breathe would have been nice, but I was ready to get past this pain.

"Alright, the potions will heal most of her injuries, but these burns look pretty bad. I'm going to wrap her side and wing." Cherish unwrapped the bandages and did exactly as she said she would.

"I think... I think I'm gonna be s-sick." I whimpered, laying my head in the mud.

"Don't do that. You need to keep the potion down." She said as she finished up.

I finally managed to sit up, receiving sighs of relief from Specs, Nico, and my dad. The bystanders stomped their hooves and cheered.

I looked at the crowd. "What are they cheering for?"

"I reckon ye saved lives, today. Ya got friends in low places, now." Specs said as he winked.

I watched the crowd light up with cheers and stomps as I grinned, sheepishly.

"How did you manage to get to us?" Nico asked Cherish.

"Well, I saw the smoke from the distance. I knew Nico and Sienna were headed this way, so I rushed over, thinking something had happened." She said as she wrapped Dad's hoof. It looked like it was partially melted.

While they discussed the wound, I spotted Pepper in the crowd. She narrowed her eyes at me, almost like she was upset that I was still alive. I swallowed, moving my gaze down to my hooves. I felt hooves around me as my father nuzzled my forehead. He was trying not to touch my burns. "You saved your old man. And the others, too. I could not be more proud."

I rested my head on his shoulder. It felt nice to be held by a parent after all that. "I told you I wouldn't leave you." I smiled.

He pulled away and looked back towards the tavern. It was almost burnt to the ground. "I guess I'll have to find a new place. Specs, too."

"What about Floater?" I said. "You could build a new tavern, maybe."

He grinned. "That's true. Is that where you'll be once your... mission is done?"

I nodded. "Of course." I lied, again. I didn't actually know where I'd be.

"You both should get back to Zangth and let him check you over." Cherish said to us. "I need to get back to the security guard. I told him to wait for me"

"Thank you, so much, Cherish." I said, wholeheartedly.

She smiled. "Just doing my job."

I waved at her as she cantered away. As I put my hoof down, my head started swimming. I put a hoof to my head, groaning.

"I'll travel with you guys, if it's alright. You're headed back to the hospital?" Dad asked, resting a hoof on my back.

I nodded. "I'd like that. We can catch up."

He smiled. "I guess I need to go tell Specs my plans. I'll be right back."

He walked over to where Specs stood, gazing sadly at what was left of the tavern.

I sighed.

"Are you feeling better?" Nico asked.

"This has been the wildest time of my life." I chuckled, raspily.

He didn't laugh.

"It's dark humor... I-I guess... nevermind." I rubbed my aching chest.

He grabbed my hoof. "I'm sorry about our conversation earlier. When we left the hospital. I don't want to put you in any situation that's gonna put more stress on your mind." He looked away.

"No, it's okay. I'm just... not good with romance and love and all of that." I looked over at Pepper, who had been talking with a couple of mares. "You are good that kind of stuff. I think it's time we... stopped trying."

Nico dropped my hoof, following my gaze to Pepper. "She's not the same Pepper I knew. I'm not sure if we can ever be the same." He looked back to me. "I want her to still be a part of my life, but..."

"She needs you." I looked down. "Don't worry about me."

Picking my chin up, he gave me a small smile. "When this is over, I hope you know I'd still do anything for you."

I removed my head from him, trying to hide the burnt side of my face. "Please, don't look at me." My eyes were getting misty, again.

He wrapped me in a hug. "Sia, I don't care what happens to your body. You are still beautiful to me."

My whole body turned blood red, for sure. "S-so... I still get my sewing machine?"

He finally managed to laugh. "Of course."

I grinned. At least I had something to look forward to, even if it was just a small machine.

I managed to get on all fours. My hide was still red and scarred where the bandages weren't covering. The potion had healed the blisters, thankfully. Rest in peace, tail. My barding was finished. The cloth part was completely gone, leaving the hardened layer exposed. It would have to do until I could find something else. Maybe, I could make something. I had never made anything other than blankets and pillows. A stuffed toy or two. Hopefully, my needle and thread cutie mark being gone on one side wouldn't mean my talent would be, too.

Level Up!
S- 3
P- 3
E- 5 (+1)
C- 4
I- 5
A- 4
L- 3

New Perk!
Fight Fire with Fire - You are now 15% more resistant to flame and energy weapons.

Mixer is now your companion!

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

Thank you all for reading! As always, constructive criticism/ error spotting is always welcome!
Stay safe!

-AP

Chapter 18: Just a Memory

"I've tried and failed many times, before I finally got the recipe right."

"Ugh." I groaned.

"Tired?"

"My wing is hurting."

Dad and I had talked a little bit after we left the remains of the tavern. We kept going west, despite Nico's pleas to return to Zangth. He was probably right. We had been walking for a while and still came up empty-hoofed. I faced forward, seeing Pepper and Nico walking side by side in front of us. He'd sneak glances back at me when she wasn't looking, but I would just avoid his glances. I'd hate to be the target of her anger more than I already was. I forced myself to be happy for them. She was just... off. I wasn't even sure if her affection for Nico was real. It seemed genuine until you got to watching her mannerisms. She'd frown and glare at him when he turned his attention elsewhere, or avoid touching him when she thought I wasn't paying attention.

I rubbed my head.

You're just jealous. You envy their relationship and you want to find every flaw you can.

I flattened my ears. Stupid voice.

"So," Dad paused. "When should we be heading back to the hospital?"

I stopped walking and looked out into the wasteland. Same thing as always: dirt and sadness.

I sighed. "Probably, now. I don't see anything this way, not even a hoofprint. We need to meet back with the others and rethink our plan." I sat down, breathing heavily. I missed flying, again.

"We need to rest for the night. The others can wait." Nico added.

I nodded in defeat. I'd let him have his way. This time.

I reached up and rubbed my chest, brushing against the necklace. It was still spotless. No scratches, no scorch marks. Nothing. It was just as pristine as the day Fleece gave it to me. I realized I missed her. The fun we had at the Wild Formal would forever be one of my best memories. Memories...

The memory orb!

"Nico, can you check my bag for the memory orb?" I asked.

He dug around, pulling it out, carefully with his hoof. "It's here, still. Why?"

"I'm going to try to watch it. Maybe, there's something there that can help us." I limped over to him and took the orb in my hooves.

Pepper scoffed. "How are you supposed to watch it? You're not a unicorn."

"My necklace." I said, a little embarrassed at how crazy it must have sounded to her and Dad. She rolled her eyes.

"Are you sure? Sia, we don't know what can happen..." Nico rubbed his neck.

"I have to try." I said.

The beautiful sphere still swirled with magic. The emerald had started pulsating, too. I swallowed. "Here we go." Slowly, I raised the strange, magical device to the green gem. As soon as it made contact, the burst of light from the jewel almost blinded me. I peeked over my foreleg to see the orb floating from my hoof and up to my forehead. The jewel levitated between my head and the orb. I stepped back, on instinct, only to have the two objects follow my movement. My peripheral vision started to blacken. My companions evaporated before my very eyes. I felt my knees bend as I lost mobility.

Then, the void came.

oooooooooooooOOOOOooooooooooooo

Everything was still dark until my eyes began to focus, finally. I was staring at a floor. I could see and feel my hooves moving, but I wasn't in control. The clacking of horseshoes next to me were only slightly louder than the whispers around me. I had all my senses (I think). The only problem was that I couldn't control them. The smell of a clean building, the taste of a cloud-grown apple on still on my tongue, even the sensation of cool air on my face made me feel like I was physically there.

My fascination with what memory orbs were capable of almost made me forget I was in another pony's body. A mare. Judging by the feeling of wings, she was definitely a pegasus. From the corner of my (her?) eye, I noticed a strand of mahogany and yellow mane. Looking at her hooves, I noticed her coat was dandelion yellow. Something about the mare was anxious. I felt the all-too-familiar panic growing in her chest. Of course, it could have been me, but what do I know?

"State your case." A booming mare's voice echoed through the chamber.

The mare, whose body I was in, looked up. The large room was clean and organized. White and gray walls connected to a very high ceiling. Around me, pegasi stood at attention in recognizable power armor. I recalled the setting. This was the Grand Pegasus Enclave council! The row of chairs at the lengthy desk sat the elder mares and stallions of the cabinet. They didn't look too happy, either. I felt the pegasus swallow, but she kept her cool.

"Your honors, I'm here to inform you of what I have witnessed. I'll get right to it." I knew that voice. It was so different, though. "I have seen the surface." Whispering. "I-I don't know if you're aware, but there are ponies down there who really need our help."

An elder pegasus in the middle desk wore a name tag that read "Commander Stratus". He frowned. "Explain how you discovered this." He nodded towards a mare at the end who took out a pen and notepad.

"I s-stumbled upon an opening in the clouds while flying. I went to investigate the reason for the gap, but when I looked through, I could make out the ponies below. They were gathering in the sunlight. Most looked extremely ill. There were families. Foals and seniors called up to me for help, but I didn't want to just abandon my post." She cleared her throat. "The land is not as radiated as we originally thought. If we could get a relief supply down there with, we could save lives." She spoke loud and clear. If it were me, I wouldn't have been as confident.

A long, deafening silence filled the court as the elders shared glances.

"Is there anything important you need to report, Gale?" An elder mare asked. Her name was Colonel Wind Chime.

The pony, I now knew as Gale, stared, flabbergasted. "I-I thought this would have been important. We'd be saving children, ma'am."

Wind Chime sighed. "Gale, I'm sorry, but we cannot waste precious resources on a lost cause. It is much too dangerous to risk the type of operation you're proposing. It would take unnecessary time and effort to do so. We will, however, require the error in the curtain to be corrected, immediately." The councilmare declared, nodding to the pony with the notepad.

"B-but, your honor-"

"Is there anything else, Gale?"

"What if we gain allies? They could be important. We would have earth ponies to help grow food, or unicorns to help develop new medicines for incurable diseases. We can't just let that go to waste!" Gale stomped.

"They are not to be trusted! Answer this: What if they kill our teams and take the supplies without cooperation?" Commander Stratus waited for a response.

Gale searched for an answer. "I-I..."

Wind Chime spoke. "As expected. You cannot just go looking for justice when there may not even be injustice. We have rules for a reason. Common sense. I do not want to hear or speak of this, again." The wrinkles on her face intensified as she glared sternly at Gale.

"We have to help them! You didn't see what I did! There are ponies! Just like us!" Gale continued.

"I'm warning you, Gale." The eldermare stood. "We will not concern ourselves with this and that is final."

"That isn't fair! How can you be so... so cruel? I thought the Enclave was supposed to stand for something! We are supposed to protect!" We took a step closer.

"Leave this court, at once! We have had too many of our own betray us-"

"No! I'm going to tell everypony what terrible, heartless beings you all are! How... how vile you are!" We pointed at them with a wingtip. "I thought you could change, but you won't. Those ponies deserve a second chance at life and you don't even want to provide the smallest of comforts to those poor souls. You lie to your own kind and tell them there is nothing left to save, but you're wrong. You're knowingly wrong!"

"We only have our kind's best interest in mind! The safety of Thunderhead will not be risked-"

"Safety of Thunderhead? Everypony down there knows we are here! If they could bring us any harm, they probably would have, already! If we helped them, they'd see us differently than what they probably think we are, and that is a bunch of cowards! I will expose this horrid place!" Her wings flapped and she began to race towards the exit.

"Guards!"

Several Enclave officers grabbed at her before she could get away. I felt the cuffs around her hooves and wings. "Let me go!" She screamed, struggling to get through the restraints.

Another eldermare sighed. "I am truly sorry to do this to one of our finest captains, but you leave us no choice. Gale Winds, we hereby order you to be branded and exiled from Thunderhead and any territory associated with the Grand Pegasus Enclave. You are found guilty of the following crimes: Treason, slander, and false accusations. Your ruling has already been set for exile." The middle-aged pegasus paused. "You are not allowed to return or have any contact with Enclave personnel, citizens, or property. If you fail to comply, you will be considered a threat and eliminated. You may not contact your family or associates. Your immediate family will be informed of this unfortunate event. The Dashite brand will be issued to differentiate you from the loyal pegasi. Again, I am sorry, Gale. I wished it could have been different. This meeting is adjourned." A gavel slammed on the desk. "Get her out of here." She adjusted her glasses and waved the guards off.

"Stop! You can't do this! Wait!" Gale punched and kicked the guards, but was overthrown. They drug her out of the large room and into the hall.

Once out of site, one of the guards punched her in the stomach. I felt the blow, too. It wasn't gentle. "You filthy traitor! How could you possibly think we would help those savages?"

Gale looked up at him, breathing heavily and in pain. It didn't stop her from spitting in his face. He growled and raised a hoof to punch her, again.

"Stop at once! If you continue this behavior, you will be no better than those wastelanders." The other guard interrupted.

The more violent of the two, glared at Gale. His piercing glare seemed to stare straight in my soul. He snorted, then began dragging her to the next room over. The large metal door was locked and shut tight. A few keys were entered into the terminal next to it. With a loud scrape, the hinges squealed open. Fluorescent bulbs hummed to life, one by one, allowing me to see what was happening.

We were greeted by the bland, white of a seldom-used room. A hot breeze flowed from the space once the door was open. Yet, it felt cold; unwelcoming. The only thing there was a table with straps. Oh yeah, and a giant furnace decorated with multiple tools that were obviously supposed to be used by blacksmiths. I couldn't forget the anvil next to it, either. A mare wearing protective gear walked in, after us.

"Get the rod ready." A guard told the iron smith.

She nodded as the guards, forcefully, strapped Gale onto the table. The metal slab was cool. despite the heated environment. Pained grunts escaped her mouth when the straps pulled tight on her hooves. I felt it, too. It was painful to be a part of, but I could do nothing about it. I wanted to close my eyes and cry, but I just wasn't in control. Gale tried, though. She struggled to get free. The straps were already beginning to cut off the circulation to her hooves, making them go numb.

The only thing that seemed to only take seconds was the amount of time it took for the lightening bolt-shaped rod to start glowing.

"Raise the table." The guard that stopped her from being punched barked orders.

"Please, don't do this!" Gale begged. "You know we can help the surface! It doesn't have to be this way!"

The angry guard growled. "You are exactly like that traitor, Rainbow Dash. You belong with those savages."

The rod was pulled from the fire by the blacksmith, wearing her protective mask and gear. I couldn't tell if she was smiling or not behind her creepy mask. She did hesitate, but I wasn't sure if it was from guilt, confusion, or just to build the tension, a little. Surely, she wasn't that cruel.

"Ready, Lieutenant." She nodded.

He was a lieutenant, like me. I've never had to be a part of something like this, though.

The calmer guard returned the gesture. "Proceed."

I felt Gale's muscles tense as the blazing iron closed in on her cutie mark. She looked at the mark, one last time before its indefinite end. A heart shaped cloud sat atop her flank. I wasn't sure what it meant. Probably something about love. Sweat and tears poured down her face. I felt the warm perspiration as it beaded. The heat from the rod burned even before it touched hide. She closed her eyes, so I didn't actually see what happened.

But I felt it, for sure.

The sweltering pain stung her leg as she cried out, screaming for the torture to stop. Her eyes squeezed so tight, it caused a headache to form. I wanted to scream, too, but of course I couldn't. I was trapped in her head. That smell, though. I would never forget the smell of burning flesh and fur that wafted around the room. They weren't finished. Before the brand could finish, another was jabbed into the other side. Her howls were almost enough to tear my heart out. The burning ousted the soreness in her throat, though. I mentally begged for some sort of pain relief. Med-X, pain killers, anything. Gales continued to shriek as the blisters under the tool appeared and burst under the pressure of the iron. That pain was worse than the burns I had gotten back at the tavern. They were scarring her hide so that the cutie mark would never be seen, again.

It felt like hours instead of seconds. The never-ending torture continued. The only sounds were the crackling fire in the furnace, the hissing of burning hide, and the screams and wails of the mare who only wanted to help others. Through the mental strife, I wondered only one thing: Would that happen to me if I were seen around Thunderhead, again? I knew the answer, but I wanted to pretend I didn't. It was all I could do to take my attention off the spine-chilling cries of this innocent pony.

Finally, the iron rods cooled enough to dim the glow. Just as I thought the pain would be over, the bars were slowly pulled away, tearing away the flesh with them. She breathed, quickly, still sobbing. The cruel act was beginning to wear her down. I think they were intending for it to be slow, like the long, slow pull of an adhesive bandage.

When the metal was finally free of her skin, she opened her swollen eyes to look back at her destroyed flank. There, where the very symbol of her being once was, was the mock cutie mark of the element of loyalty. I found it ironic that they used that exact symbol for the brand. It wasn't clear right then, being covered in solidified blood. Blisters came back over the previous ones that had burst. The cause of the continued agony, I guessed.

Gale's eyes widened at the sight. I could feel her heart pounding.

"Do you have any last words before you are removed from civilization?" The guard asked, dismissing the blacksmith with a nod. He was clearly unmoved by the emotional ordeal. There was no telling how many times he had seen this happen.

Gale laid her head on the cold, hard table. Her brow furrowed as she looked back at the guards. I had no idea what was going on in her mind. I couldn't think what she was thinking, but a part of me believed it was rage just by the tensity of her body. I believed it was an unimaginable fury.

After a moment, her voice returned. It was hoarse and dangerously cold, like the Hope I knew. "You will pay. All of you." She coughed. "I will see my family, again. You're foolish not to just kill me, right here." She bared her teeth. "I hope you're happy with taking away a pony's very livelihood. Remember this face, Feather Flow. You'll see it again, too."

"Watch it, Gale." He narrowed his eyes.

She let the silence drop to eerie levels before she chuckled under her breath. "Gale is dead." Yep. She had snapped. "If I'm going to be banished to a new world, I might as well start a new life. a new... Hope."

oooooOOOOOooooo

The world quickly faded out, but back again. This time, I was back in my burnt body. My eyeballs almost popped out of their sockets, they flew open so fast. The first thing I noticed was that I was shaking and covered in sweat. That memory would be set in stone in my head for the rest of my life. It wasn't even my memory! I couldn't believe how quickly her personality changed. I could hardly process it.

Her reasoning for wanting the pearls was clear, but still extremely immoral. Sure, the Enclave had a few bad apples, but there are some good ones, too. She would be murdering her own family!

I felt so horribly, for her, though. My father, too. Losing your cutie mark is like losing yourself. Not to mention, the extreme torture one must go through for that to happen. I cringed, looking back at my own cutie mark. The deep purple thread flowed through the eye of the needle, perfectly. It was so simple, yet it was clear: I had a talent for sewing. If it meant anything else, I wouldn't know. I was aware of the fact that some cutie marks extend their simplicity into more complex traits.

I'm pretty sure mine just means exactly what everyone thinks it means.

I remember the day I had found it on my flank. As a foal, I was bullied by some of the colts (Redd included, sometimes) for being scared of the taller playground equipment. Violet had my back, of course, but I was still laughed at. Anyway, the day I'm referring to was show and tell. I made a quilt that I was sure to impress my classmates. I worked so hard on it, and I was proud of my work. It wasn't perfect, but to me, it was everything. Especially since our teacher had told us a member of the council would be visiting the class and watching us present our little trinkets.

On my way to school with said quilt in my bag, I noticed a pair of fillies arguing over a scarf. They were the twins (a rare exception to the Enclave's rule) who lived down the street. One of them snatched the scarf and stuck her nose up. Being a naive foal, I rushed over to ask what was happening.

"My sister stole my scarf and won't give it back." The other had said.

The previous one rolled her eyes. "It's actually mine."

They started yelling, again. I didn't like it when ponies fought, so I wanted to help resolve it. "But, you're sisters. You're supposed to be the best of friends!"

They stopped to look at me.

"Please, don't fight." I put on my biggest smile. "What if, one day, you lose each other? Maybe, you should talk it out. When I'm mad at my best friend, Violet, we usually talk it over and solve it. I usually ask myself, 'Sienna, how would you feel if that was the last thing you ever said to her?' I wouldn't like that, very much. A silly fight over a scarf shouldn't make you hate each other."

After a moment, the twin with the scarf smiled. "You're right." She proceeded to give the piece of clothing back to her sister. "Here, Cookie. You need it more than I do." I giggled with joy as they apologized and hugged it out. I ended up giving my quilt to the first sister, since it was a chilly day and she was shivering. I was disappointed, at first. I wouldn't have anything for show and tell, but the filly was grateful. I didn't notice the brand new cutie mark until I had got to school and Violet pointed it out. I still don't know the exact time it appeared, only that I knew I then had something for show and tell. I added my encounter with the fillies for a little bit of drama.

The councilmare was more impressed with my act of kindness than my cutie mark, though. She rewarded the entire class with sweets because of it. After that, I was bullied a lot less. I guess the other foals thought I persuaded the councilmare to reward everypony. I wasn't sure if my cutie mark appeared because of the quilt or some other sentimental crap. Even if it was the latter, I'm sure that stuff doesn't mean squat in the wasteland, anyway.

I met with reality, again, as I realized I was in a huge building. The others must have carried me here while I was inside the memory orb. I looked around the place. It was dark outside, so I must have been out for a while. The glow of a fire was enough to light up the nearest area. It was a factory of some sort. A very big factory. Geez, the industrial era must have boomed before the megaspells dropped. All of these empty factories and barely any civilization. Machinery lay in shambles. Shards of glass scattered all over the dirty floor. The cans. There were empty, aluminum cans everywhere. Before they were even filled with food, it seemed, because they were missing their labels. It didn't look like anypony had been there for decades. I could see a set of stairs standing above the ruins, leading to a short cat walk. That lead to a room in the corner. It must have been a control room.

I looked around at my companions. Nico and Pepper curled up on the other side of the fire. Pepper faced away from me so I couldn't see her face. Nico stretched out next to her. They weren't too close, but I knew she was close enough to smell him, probably.

Lucky. I thought.

Dad was situated in front of me. I guess he had fallen asleep watching over me. I smiled, gently putting my hoof on his, much bigger one. I barely knew him, but it was still such a relief to have at least one of my parents alive and safe. I just needed to know my mother and grandparents were okay. Then, I would be happy. I missed my grandparents, terribly. I missed my grandmother's awesome cooking. I missed my grandfather's strange life lessons. I missed my mother, too. I didn't remember her well, just the song she sang to me.

She doesn't want to see you.

I exhaled. That is not true.

Trying to ignore the voice, my eyes wandered back to the stairs leading to the room. Perfect distraction. Hopefully, there would be supplies in there, too. I made sure everyone was asleep before I stood, shakily. My legs were weak and sore. The back ones, especially. My burned side had become irritated. I took a deep breath and carried on, though. They weren't nearly as painful compared to the ones in the memory orb. I cringed, again. No wonder Hope had lost it.

The steps were rusted and falling apart. I squinted my eyes at the room. There was a faint, blinking light reflecting through the dusty windows. I wanted to get up there and see what it was. Maybe if I stepped lightly, the stairs would hold. It's not like I could fly. I sighed, holding out my wing. Featherless. Bare. Ugly. I hoped my feathers would grow back.

I also hoped the stairs wouldn't fall apart. It wasn't like I was heavy or anything. My time in the wasteland proved to be a perfect diet and exercise regimen. My lack of muscles helped, too.

It's just stairs, Sia. Come on. After everything you've already been through?

I gulped, lightly putting the tip of my hoof on the first step. I slowly put pressure on the step to see if it would bend. It didn't, so I put my upper body weight on it.

Still strong.

I managed to relax a little as I did this with each step. The creaking groans were unnerving, but the building was old. I hoped I it wouldn't wake my friends. I really hoped it wouldn't wake any dangerous wildlife. I kept my eyes on the top. Looking down would just make me more nervous. I know I said I wasn't afraid of heights, but when you can't fly, it's a different story.

A triumphant smile crept across my muzzle as I approached the top. I sighed in relief. That is, until I saw the lock on the door. My grin melted. My flank fell to the metal cat walk as I groaned. "Why is my luck so awful?" I mumbled. This could have been a good time for me to catch just a teeny tiny break. It both worried and annoyed me that I would have to make the painstaking trip back down to the ground floor. I rubbed the un-burned side of my face.

Luna, why? It's just one lock. Just one.

I don't even know why I was upset over it. My wit was about to expire, probably.

As I spun around to return to my sleeping spot, I came face to face with two large, crazed eyes with freakishly small pupils. Gasping and tripping over my back legs, I felt my back hit the rusty door with a bang. Ouch.

"Whatcha doin'?" Pepper stood over me, wearing a grin similar to a psychopath's. When my heart finally started beating, again, I picked myself up. "I-I was just going to investigate this room." I flattened my ears. "Too bad there's a lock. So, I was just heading back to try and sleep."

She kept the smile, but looked over at the door. "So? What's the problem?"

I stared. "The... lock. I can't get in to look around."

Her smile faded and she looked at me like I was ignorant. I probably was. "Really? You can't pick a lock? I thought everypony knew how to do that."

I narrowed my eyes. "Apparently not."

She glared. "Keep that tone up and you won't know how to do a lot of things, anymore."

Realizing my smart mouth was about to get me seriously injured, I gulped and looked at my hooves. There was no way I could get into a brawl with her in my condition. "S-Sorry. I didn't mean that in a bad way. I-I just meant that I haven't been here long."

The crazy mare didn't blink for a few seconds. I thought she was going to attack me, until she finally burst into laughter. "You are such a wuss! How anyone could be around you much less bang you is beyond me! And recently, too!" She snickered as she walked towards the door, whipping the tip of my nose with her matted tail. It stung, bringing tears to my eyes.

I rubbed it. "I am not a wuss! I just have severe an- WHAT?!" I almost broke my back turning around.

How the hell did she know that?!

"'What' what?" She fished in her mane, pulling out a bobby pin. A few strands fell in her face.

I swallowed. "H-how did you know that?"

"The author told me."

What the f-

"No, I'm kidding. You just told me, dumb ass. So, you and Nico finally-"

I cleared my throat, turning red. "Not that it is any of your business, but it wasn't Nico."

"I bet you wished it was, though, right?" She said, sticking the pin in the lock with her ear to the door. "I almost feel sorry for you. You're jealous of me, now. It's okay. We can still be friends." She made a mock pouty face.

I knew my face had turned even redder. "I am not jealous! I-I had feelings for him at first, but you don't have to worry about that, anymore! Another stallion has my heart! The one I... had relations with." I sunk. It was partially true. I did have feelings for Redd. The only problem was this blasted triangle. I had hoped Pepper would change that. I couldn't let her know that, though. To her, Redd and I were together. Maybe. If he would have me with these burns.

My heart is stupid.

Her eyes rolled as the door clicked. She pushed it open with her rump. It squealed open. "You're welcome. Oh, and congrats on the stallion. We will have to gossip about how he is in bed, one day. Ya know, 'girl talk'." She said, sarcastically, as she disappeared into the room. I grit my teeth, unwillingly following her.

I stopped as soon as I stepped in. The room smelled of dust and mold, making me cover my nose. It wasn't a huge space, but it wasn't small, either. I could see the entire factory from the windows. Control panels covered the space under the windows. They were clearly not operational. Across from those, sat shelves and boxes. A large chest was next to that with a medical box on the wall behind it.

I caught a glimpse of a dusty pile of clothes behind the shelves. A step closer revealed they weren't just clothes, but a skeleton of a pony. Further behind that, another skeleton lay. I rubbed my chest, in angst. I didn't even know why I was surprised. "I-I wonder what happened to them."

Pepper was already rummaging through the chest, pulling out ammo and countless junk. "Who knows? Maybe they killed each other." She replied, unfazed by the sight. She examined a dusty light bulb.

I sighed, not wanting to say anything to her. If it didn't bother her, I couldn't and wouldn't change her mind.

Silently, I prayed for the remains, asking Luna to guide their souls to eternal happiness. Truthfully, I was beginning to question my faith, more. Is there really anything after death? If the goddesses were real, would they have let this happen? The questions stood out against all others.

A few steps away, I noticed a terminal that wasn't broken. The screen flickered, but it was, otherwise, functional. It was the source of light I had seen earlier. A small object lay next to it. A tape. "Terminal Password" was written on the front. I slowly inserted the tape into the slot. Text immediately appeared on the screen. I pressed "Enter" to log in. More text. It read:

Door Controls

Conveyor Status

Machine Controls

Machine Maintenance Logs

Onion Ring's Personal Logs

I selected the last command, uninterested in the machinery. A soft buzz emanated from the terminal as it loaded the files. I still couldn't believe there were working electronics. Stable-Tec made sure to build technology that lasted. Another screen finally came on.

First day on the job

My coworker is nuts

He was right

This is it

I rubbed my chest, again, as I read through the list, but selected the first one, anyway.

Well, I finally got the job. It shouldn't be too hard. Foalsit machinery and pretend to bang on things with a hammer: Got it. My boss said I could use this terminal for personal reasons, if I wanted, since I'd spend most of my time up here. As long as I moved it to a holotape, of course. Couldn't leave it here for the next poor saps to see. I guess it's not a bad idea if I ever need to vent. I mean, it's not like I have family, anymore. They kicked me out after I refused to be a farmer. I didn't know being their personal slave mare was 'work'. Oh, well. I can't complain. This is a perfectly good career and I don't plan to leave anytime, soon. Making packaged food is better than growing it. Not much else to say. Goodbye, I guess?

I smiled. I was glad she was able to make something of herself. At least, she found some happiness. I went to the next log.

I've been here for two months and my coworker, Match Stick, has really begun to bug me. I know he's old and close to retiring, but seriously? Is he senile, too? All I hear is the end of the world. I know there's a war going on, but I doubt it's that serious. We've been fighting since the beginning of time. Besides, nopony else seems to be bothered by it. Gotta go find my cigarettes.

I went back and selected He was right. The uneasiness began to creep up on me.

Ol' Match was right. That bastard was right. He predicted the battle of Shattered Hoof. He predicted the Littlehorn massacre. He predicted the fucking megaspells. Sirens are going off right now. Everypony who had access to a Stable is running to them. Of course, I thought it was a waste of time. Lucky bastards. No matter. I'll just have to wait for my demise. I just bought a whole carton of cigarettes, last night. I'm not afraid of death. Bring your worst.

I chewed my hooftips, both dreading and wanting to read This is it. Before I selected it, I looked back to check on Pepper; only to see her creepily reading over my shoulder. I quickly looked back at the screen, ignoring the breath down my neck. Boy, was she creepy. I selected the file.

It's been almost a month since the megaspells hit. I haven't been able to leave the control room. I told the last mare that left to lock me in here, that way I wouldn't leave and evaporate from the radiation. Match stayed with me, despite my objections. That crazy bastard refused to leave, saying it was close to his time anyway and that he wanted to keep me company. I appreciated it. He died a week ago. I put his body behind the bookshelf. It was the most peaceful place I could find in this room. Before he died, we talked a lot about the outside and whether or not anypony was still alive. We decided there isn't. Anyway, I ran out of food and water days ago. I'm so hungry, I can barely type this. Weird, since this is a food packaging factory. Too bad the food is outside these damn walls. Fuck, why couldn't I get more supplies before we got locked in? I managed to make my cigarettes last longer than the food. Amazing. I'm sure this will be my last log. I'm just so tired and hungry. Thirsty, too. My head hurts. I've been seeing things. Terrible things. Every time I try to sleep, I see the dead walking around. I'm sure it's these cigarettes. I've been inhaling them like oxygen since the night before last. Why am I even typing this? It's not like it matters, anymore. We'll be forgotten after we die. The world is now just shit. I heard screeches outside. Whatever's out there, it isn't a pony. I'll lie down behind the stinking corpse of Match Stick. That way, if I die in my sleep, my body won't be in the middle of the floor like some drama queen. If by some miracle somepony finds this, just know I died with a little bit of integrity. I don't know if you future creatures will be ponies, but hopefully you'll know what happened to our world. It was our fault. Sorry, on behalf of us ignorant Equestrians. Good night.

The atmosphere suddenly felt chilly. Onion Ring had to die alone and miserable. I looked down at the floor, saddened by the last log. She couldn't even say goodbye to her friends and family.

Pepper scoffed. "She should have went into a Stable like a normal pony would have. It was her fault she died."

I didn't even have time to think of something reasonable to say to her. So, I said the first thing that came to my mind. Onion Ring didn't deserve that. "You know, it's ponies like you who make the wasteland such a terrible place. You have no compassion, whatsoever!" I faced her. "Nico spoke so highly of you, before. He said you were so kind and caring. Obviously, he was nuts, too." I growled. "You're nothing but a bitch to me, and you're probably just using Nico. You don't care about anything but yourself!"

Without so much as a flinch, she turned her head. "Ponies like me, huh? Well, let me tell ya something bitch: You, pegasi, made me this way. You are right about one thing, I don't care about anything, anymore. It's how it's supposed to be here. It's your fault this stupid place hasn't changed. I saw what was in that memory orb. You would betray and exile one of your own for just trying to help these poor bastards. That, my friend, is fucked up. I suppose I should thank you, though. You stupid chumps helped me open my eyes and see the world for what it really is." She casually went back to digging in the medical box. "As for Nico, I'm not using him. We 'belong together'. One fucked up head with another. He let that pegasus take me. He thinks I don't know that. I'm careless, he's careless. Perfect match. I hate him as much as I love him."

My mouth was open and my eyes were wide. "Y-You're lying! He would never do that! How can you say something like that, you... you... hussy!" I stomped. "He took care of you! He protected you!" I bowed a little. "Like he did for me."

She paused, but stayed silent.

"Pepper, this has to be a misunderstanding. I'm sorry for whatever the Enclave has done. Some things they do are... messed up, but as a whole, they do try to stand for something. Not every pegasus is bad. I had friends who would never do that to anyone. You know what happened to them? I lost them. The wasteland took them. Maybe it's what I get for not seeing some things, but I'm waking up, now. My best friend left the safety of Thunderhead to help the wasteland. She knew the consequences. You saw the orb, right? Hope wanted to help, too. It's not all of us. Now, I'm trying my hardest to stop her from destroying everything. Her reasoning is understandable, but still wrong." I told her.

"How do you know it wasn't one of your 'friends' who did this to me? You think you can save the world, but look at you. Barely able to save your friends from the wasteland. So, what if Hope blows up the world? Maybe it needs to be destroyed, once and for all." She started walking out the door, carrying a bag of junk.

"None of my friends would do anything like that. I grew up with them. They couldn't do that to any living being. There are still good ponies out there, Pepper. Nico, Fleece... You."

She stopped and hid her face.

"I know there's some good in you, still. You say you don't care, Pepper, but you do. I don't want to be your enemy." I walked until I was directly behind her. "At first, I guess I was a little jealous of you and Nico, but now I realize something: Everypony deserves a chance at happiness. It wouldn't kill me to move on. I shouldn't be upset with something that wasn't meant to be, to begin with. You're one of us, Pepper. You want the wasteland to be a better place, just like the rest of us."

She shook her head. "I'm not one of you. I trusted Nico and he turned his back on me." She sighed. "I don't think you're evil like the rest, though. For that, I am sorry about what you've been through. But, I still wouldn't trust you or any other pegasus with a sack of horse shit. The old me is dead, Sienna. There's no hope for me, so stop trying to be a hero. You're just one pony."

I stared. "Nico didn't let them take you. He... he said you left to be with a pegasus."

She rounded on me. "I did not fall in love with that asshole! He foalnapped me!" Her eyes fell. "Nico was asleep while I went to investigate a noise. I was barely out the door when this... jackass... He grabbed me and knocked me out. They experimented on me. Gave me drugs. I lived on that fucking ship for weeks! Constantly in and out of some induced high from those injections. When they thought I was dead, they dumped me out somewhere north. I came to, living with some crazy witch. Where was Nico? Last I heard, he was fucking around with a new mare. Trying to help her 'save the world'. He didn't even try to find me." A tear fell from her eye.

I looked down. "H-He couldn't have known-"

"He forgot about me! He wasn't looking for me! I was kidnapped and he wasn't there!" Digging in her mane, she pulled out a holotape and threw it straight at me. "Listen to that log! I snatched it when they weren't looking as proof. Listen to it!" She cried.

I watched the tape land in front of me.

"Just play it in your Pipbuck." She wiped her eyes. "You'll see."

Long seconds passed as I stared at the tape. I dreaded to listen to it, but I would do it for Pepper. She deserved that much. I slowly picked up the tape and inserted it into the slot. First, there was mumbling and static. A few jumbled words later, I heard a familiar voice. One of my best friends. He was like my brother. My heart broke into a million pieces for the millionth time. Those five words were all it took for me to give away any care I had left for the safety of the world.

"This is Captain Bolt Chaser..."

*ERROR*: UNKNOWN USER!
CANNOT REGISTER VITALS

SYSTEM RESTART
ONE MOMENT...
......
......
*ERROR**ERROR*
CANNOT REGISTER NEW USER

Level Up!
S- 3
P- 3
E- 4
C- 4
I- 5
A- 4
L- 4 (+1)

New Perk!
Almost a Clinic - You now find 1.5x as many medical supplies in containers.

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

Thank you for reading and as always, constructive criticism/error spotting is always welcome!
Stay safe!

-AP

Chapter 19: Panoramic View

"It's been a thousand years since I've seen you like this."

Betrayal. It digs deep. It strikes when you aren't looking. The very ponies you think you can trust, sometimes, serve up some of the worst. I think I've been betrayed. I have betrayed myself, before. It wouldn't surprise me if everypony else was only pretending to be my friend or ally. Can you be stabbed in the back even if both of you are on the same side? I couldn't imagine two beings with the same goals going at each other's throats. Why go behind the other when you could work together? I guess that doesn't matter if you have different ways of achieving that same goal. What some think is immoral, it might be the only way for the other.

I wouldn't let the rest of that tape play. It flew from my Pipbuck back towards Pepper. It bounced off her hooves before I realized that I was the one who had thrown it. The confusion etched across her face slowly began to combine with anger. It wasn't enough to break the tension. I stared at the Pipbuck, wondering how it had managed to fool me. I wanted to forget about the situation the recording was presenting me. This was a cruel joke that drilled deep into what was left of my heart. Bolt Chaser would have never done this to another pony. He wouldn't have even stood for the notion.

The proof is there. Don't be stupid.

I finally managed to ease my glance towards the mare in front of me. The glare on her face hid a mix of emotions. After a few seconds, though, even that melted together. Our stares locked onto each other, remaining incessant and without blinking. My denial and heartbreak crumpled under her unforgiving eyes. I was hurting, but I also felt terribly guilty.

"You don't believe it, do you?" She finally said, softly.

I hung my head, squeezing my eyes shut.

"It was one of your friends, wasn't it?" She said, through a strained voice. "One of your friends would never do this, right? But it doesn't matter to you. You only believe what you want." The tape slid back towards me. "Listen to it when you get the guts. Keep the damn thing for all I care. When I find that bastard, I'll find something else to shove down his throat. I'm sorry to say it, but I don't care if he's your friend or not. I just hope he isn't the stallion you are interested in."

Rage quickly smothered my sadness like a thick tarp. No, it wasn't Bolt. She was doing this to torture me. It wasn't real. It was just another experiment on a plant or technology. I bet they didn't even mention a living organism in the logs. I felt tears well up in my eyes, but they were nothing compared to the anger escaping my soul. She was lying to me. That's what the wasteland did; it tortured ponies with lies and deceit.

"I'll get my hooves on him, somehow. When I do, I'll make sure he dies a slow and painful-"

Before she could finish, my body had moved at lightning speed towards her. I tackled her, sending us both rolling down the stairs. Each step we hit echoed with creaks and bangs. I didn't care if my burns were agonizing. With all my strength, I fought to keep her in my grasp on the way down. She dodged my stomps and shoves, pushing me off of her. Finally, we neared the bottom step. I found an opening and took it. My good hoof caught her throat as she landed on her back. I kept her legs down with my back hooves. I pinned her to the aluminum floor as her neck muscles struggled under my hoof. I could feel her choking.

"You're a liar!" I screamed in her face, spittle flying from my muzzle. The heat in my own face was like fire licking away at my cheeks. "You've done nothing but lie! This hellish place keeps me at al all-time low, and you're no different! You're a part of the wasteland! You're like a parasite that continually sucks the happiness from me!" I pushed my hoof further. A tiny voice in my head kept telling me to stop before I killed her. It was silenced by another wave of anger. "It wasn't enough that I had to pathetically fear for my life! No, you brought my friends down, too! Bolt Chaser is dead! He's fucking dead, Pepper! You'll never get your filthy hooves on him because those raiders did the job for you! Are you happy?! The wasteland prevails!" I could have sworn my voice started to become deeper, almost demonic. "I'll make sure you never win! I'll make sure Equestria never wins!"

Okay, wait. Where did that come from?

She choked and gagged, squirming under me. I saw her horn spark a few times, but I pressed harder against her throat, keeping her from focusing on her magic. I screamed, shaking my head. A burst of pain shot through the back of my eyes. I was suddenly blind to everything. All I could do was feel Pepper losing her battle to stay conscious. It felt... good. I wanted to see her die. She took everything from me and now she would pay.

No! This is not right! She did nothing to me!

"Sia! Stop!" I heard Nico's voice over the thunder in my head. I tried to look around, but I still couldn't see anything but maroon.

How long have I been here?

I tried to move my hoof, but it didn't budge.

Why can't I move? What's happening?!

For a brief moment, I caught a glimpse of Pepper staring up at me in horror as she strangled. I tried to scream for help, but nothing came from my muzzle. Then, I saw my reflection in her watery eyes. I could make out the murderous smirk I wore. You know those horror stories where the monsters have evil, glowing, red eyes? This was worse.

My eyes were red, but then they turned orange. Then, orange to yellow. Yellow to green. Green to blue. Blue to violet. Finally, back to red. I had never seen anything like this. My irises were changing the colors of the rainbow. It was pretty, but terrifying. The smirk was what I couldn't ignore.

Stop smiling! No! Stop!

"Stop it!" I heard myself say in a mocking tone. Pepper's movement slowed.

Pepper! Fight back! Knock me out or something!

I laughed. The chuckle bounced off every wall in the building, turning my blood to ice. The small laugh grew into a maniacal howl.

Suddenly, a body slammed into me, sending me rolling until I hit a wall. Pain erupted into my side. I gasped for air. I could finally see in color, although a little blurry. Weakness spread fast through my body as I crumpled into a ball.

Oh no... Pepper!

Shakily, I looked over to see her still lying in the same spot, unconscious. Nico stood over her, worried. He put an ear to her chest. I saw Dad look at me, worriedly, then back to Nico. The unicorn said something, but I couldn't hear anything but ringing. My senses were fading. I closed my eyes as Dad performed CPR.

This is it. Nico would never forgive me. Pepper would forever hate me. My father would be ashamed of me, as with everypony else. I had tried to kill an innocent pony. Maybe, I am a part of the wasteland.

My head was pounding. Somehow, I had lost control of my body. I thought back to when I tore through that group of raiders. I thought I was in control, then, but the more I thought about it, the similarities kept adding up. I wasn't really in control.

No different. You killed them in cold blood just like you did with her. You're finally gaining some sense.

"N-no... They deserved it... Pepper didn't deserve... this." I whispered.

It's all the same, is it not? You are weak.

"I-It's not true. Not true!" I whimpered.

Did you really think you could save the world? Make a difference? You're nothing but a coward, Sienna. A nuisance. Now, look at what's happened. Look! You can't go back home, you're losing your only friends, and you'll die alone. Pathetic.

I could have sworn the laughter I heard was right in front of me.

Sienna is a cry-baby! The voice sang.

"Please, stop..." I covered my ears and dug my chin into the floor.

Sienna is a scaredy-cat! The school yard bullies kept singing.

"No. S-Stop!"

Sienna is a-

"I said, STOP!" My hooves slammed on the floor, making everyone jump and look at me.

More anger welled up in my chest. Something similar to a shock wave moved through me. For a moment, I saw the same maroon tint, but I quickly shook my head and pushed it away. Once I opened my eyes, again, I noticed the two stallions had gotten closer to me. Confusion and worry covered their features. Another thing joined those emotions: Fear. It wasn't immediately noticeable, but I could see the way their body language reacted to me.

I looked away from them in disgust and hurt, staring at the small dents under my hooves. The aluminum had been engraved in the shape of horseshoes, under them. The resentment was quickly taken over by that insufferable despair. Tears streamed down my burning face.

What is happening to me?

"Sia..." The tan unicorn cautiously approached me like I was a wild animal.

I snatched my gaze away.

"I-" He began to say. His voice was so soft. "I just want to know what happened." He spoke in a condescending way. I hated that. More than anything, I hated it when I was spoken to like a foal.

You deserve it, though.

"She... wouldn't stop. Kept saying... horrible things. Bolt Chaser didn't do anything! I know he didn't!" I hiccuped.

"What did she say?" There it went, again. I was getting annoyed.

"She said it was Bolt Chaser who took her. She's lying! Th-that tape..." I pointed towards the top of the stairs. "It had a recording on it. Experiments they were conducting..."

He spotted the tape on one of the steps and floated it towards us with his magic. He went on to inspect it, turning it over a few times. This time, he was silent. I didn't know what he was thinking. I probably didn't want to know.

I sniffed. "I-I'm so sorry..."

"I'm not angry at you." He said.

"Look what I did!" I pointed to Pepper's body. "I-I'm a... monster..."

"It's okay, Sia. You didn't mean it... right?" He stepped closer, but not trying to get too close.

He was acting like I was a mental patient who just had an episode. I hated it. I would have much rather him be angry. I wanted him to yell at me and tell me it was not okay. I wanted for him to hit me with the reality of what just happened. That way, I could hear it from another pony. I should have been punished for what I did.

"I did mean it. I did!" I cried.

"Don't say that! You're a good pony, you just... have a lot riding on you. We'll talk about it when Pepper-"

"I am not good!" I yelled. "She is not going to speak to me! She's the only one who doesn't see me as some problem foal!" I looked down.

"That's not true. Nopony-"

"Stop patronizing me!" I boomed. It was coming back. The anger was swelling into a giant lump in my chest. "I have some mental issues! I'm unstable, Nico! Just say it! Say I'm an unstable mare! I was a coward! Afraid of my own shadow, before I got here! Now, I try to pretend to be a hero and look what it cost me!" I pointed to Pepper. Her breathing was back to normal, but she was still out. "I did this... I killed, before. What if it goes too far next time? What if I kill an innocent pony?"

"It was an accident!" He stepped forward.

"Shut up! Just, shut up! You know, damn well, it wasn't an accident!" I heard the whispers. I repeated everything they said. They were right. "I did mean it!" My tone changed, again. "She lied to me! Bolt Chaser did not foalnap her! She insulted him! She insulted all of my friends! She hates me! I've felt unsafe since I've known her in this short time!"

"That is not true, either! She just doesn't... know you!" Nico yelled back. "Why are you saying these things?"

I looked at him. I felt a brazen smile forming on my muzzle. "Look at you. What happened to 'poor Sienna' or 'it's not your fault, Sienna'? Do you finally see me for what I am? You're wrong, anyway! She doesn't want me around you! She wants you all to herself and she doesn't even love you like I do!"

Stop. Talking. Sienna!!! It's not even true!

Nico threw his ears back and glanced down. "Sia, we talked about this..."

"Oh, so now you get to decide how I live my life? Why? Because you know the wasteland? You're an expert at these things, yes?" I laughed. I knew what I was saying, but I couldn't control any of it. "You know what's best for everyone, right?" I laughed, again. The red filled my vision, again. I tried to fight it, but my brain wouldn't take control of my mouth.

I turned in the direction Dad was standing. He watched in shock as I lost my mind. I felt guilt and shame. I wanted to die. I wanted somepony to shoot me so I'd never hurt anyone, again. Terror clenched my heart as I felt the evil smile on my lips.

No! Leave my father out of this!

"You!" I heard myself say. "You left me! You left when I was only a foal! Fleeing to this place, and for what?! To run a stupid bar? It's no wonder you both are such good friends. You're exactly the same! Only caring about what you want with no concern how others are affected!"

He bowed his head, not wanted to show his eyes. I was sure he was starting to cry.

I don't mean that, Dad! Please, stop this, right now!

I fought as hard as I could. Something had taken my body from me. It was clear, then. I felt like I was watching a memory orb, again. I had to get out!

"You are all worthless!" My mouth screamed.

Enough!

I closed my eyes and willed myself to pull through. It was like being suffocated by thick, black smoke. I don't mean wispy smoke you get from cigarettes. I'm talking about the kind of smoke you get that fills the skies when you burn piles and piles of rubber. The other entity fought back, too. It was a battle that no one could see. A war that was only felt. I was losing my body. The familiarity of a panic attack would have been welcome, at that point. I could barely even feel myself breathing, anymore. For a brief moment, the wine-colored goggles vanished. Only for a second did I see Nico and Dad staring at me in sheer terror. Something was wrong about the sight, though. The usually taller stallions were far below me. I had to look down on them! The red came back into view. I should not have been hovering above them. My wing was featherless!

"What's ...-ppening?" I barely heard Dad yell over the commotion in my head. The ringing was only getting louder.

Nico looked around. The light illuminating from me was definitely new. "Her eyes... changing... !" He replied.

That was all I heard. The ringing changed into a loud buzz. Like the annoying buzz of a faulty fluorescent light. It would have given me a headache, if I could feel it. A loud rumble suddenly thundered. It wasn't outside, though. The thunder came from inside my head, but it sounded distant. That's when it happened. A pain, unlike anything I could imagine, rolled through my torso. It was enough to reconnect me back into my body, but only long enough to let out a gut-wrenching scream.

"Sia!" Nico called to me. I heard the clanging of hooves to metal. The closer they came, the worse the pain got.

No! Don't come near me!

My very soul was being sucked out of my body. It's the only way I could describe it. Everything burned. My heart felt like it would stop any moment. I was so cold. The numbing chill slowly migrated down my spine. I hoped my backbone wouldn't shatter. Next, the feeling of being literally torn in two overcame me. Pulling. Ripping. I was being taken apart by some giant pair of scissors. I couldn't even scream, I was in such shock. I was falling, then. The windows that were my eyes stayed aloft as I fell, descending into a dark place. All I could hear was the faint buzzing that would have driven me insane.

Suddenly, the pain stopped. I couldn't hear anything but a deadly silence. I thought I felt myself looking around, but I was pretty much disembodied. This must have been death. Actual death. I knew it wasn't a dream, because I was all too aware. I tried to take a deep breath, but I wasn't even breathing. I just... thought I was. I felt nothing. Absolutely, nothing. Not even my emotions could be sensed. It was just black, all around. It felt like I was a part of the blackness. I was here, but I wasn't.

Where the hell am I? What happened to me? Why can't I do anything?

My voice was heard all around me. Impossible, since I didn't have a freaking mouth.

Nico? Dad? Pepper...

The louder I "yelled", the louder the echo sounded.

Where are you guys? Hello?

Again, nothing but an echo.

I have to get out of here!

Somehow, I managed to move forward. Well, I wouldn't say move. More like I imagined it. Whichever direction I wanted to go, that's the direction I figured I was going. I still felt nothing. No breeze, no floor, no need to breathe. If I could feel anything, it probably would have been panic. I was beginning to believe I really was dead.

I traveled forward for a few more minutes. Or maybe it was hours. Days? Was time a thing after death? Soon, I had started to doubt I was moving at all. Finally, I felt a small light in front of me. You heard that right: I felt it. The warmth was subtle, at first. I moved towards it. It's not like I had any other choice, really.

Hello?

No answer.

It was just there. Gravity seemed to pull me towards it. Wait. The light was moving towards me. No, that can't be right. I had no idea what was happening, only that I could feel the heat growing. Slowly, but surely.

Are you... alive?

It was a stupid question, but I didn't think anyone would be around for me to be embarrassed by it.

Green. I can see green! The blackness around me began to brighten. It still seemed to be a void, though. As the color changed to white around me, I surged forward, unwillingly. Warmth turned to cold. Whatever I had been, began to morph into something else. The strangest part was my eyes forming, again. It was easier to see color. Like, I wasn't imagining anything, anymore, but seeing it.

Hel-

"-lo?" I felt my mouth move. I grabbed at my face, feeling for my nose. Then, my mane. Everything was back! Except, I wasn't burned. I didn't have any injuries or scars. My clothes were gone, too!

I breathed a sigh of relief. I could breathe! "Now that I can speak, properly... Where the hell am i?!"

"Sienna?" A voice came from in front of me. I focused my attention on the silhouette. I barely made out who it was. "What are you doing here, darling?"

I perked up. "R-Rarity?"

She finally solidified a couple of yards away. Her smile was so welcoming, though confused. I couldn't help but run to her.

"Thank Celestia, you're here!" I cried.

She wrapped her forelegs around me. "It's good to see you too, dear. What on Equus happened to you? One minute, I was watching you yell at everypony, and the next thing I knew, my view is disrupted. I was afraid something bad had happened!" She held my hoof. "Are you alright?"

I thought for a moment. "I... I don't know what happened. The last thing I can recall is yelling at Nico and... and..." I trailed off.

Oh, no.

"Rarity, I think something else has control over my body! I got so angry with Pepper and I lost control of myself! I said awful things to everyone... M-my vision turned red a-and I just don't know! I remember pain and feeling like I was being torn in half-"

"What did you say?" She planted her hooves on the floor. Or... whatever was below us.

I pulled my ears back. "Like I was being torn in half..."

She bit her lip, worried. That wasn't good.

"It felt like my soul was being..."

"...ripped from you." She finished for me.

I nodded.

"What else happened?" She asked.

"I-I think my eyes changed colors a couple of times."

Rarity looked away, in thought. "The spell should not have worked that way." She paced. "It should not have affected anypony."

"W-What do you mean? What spell?" I watched her.

Her bottom lip quivered, slightly. "This may be a long shot, but I will try to explain what may have happened."

"Huh?"

"It must have been the spell. Remember when I said you are the only one who can use the necklace? In order to do that, I had to enchant the stone to also connect to a small part of the wearer's soul. However, you were not supposed to be affected by it. It was only supposed to be a small spark to bond you to the magic." She tapped her chin. "I don't think the spell itself has done this. I believe something has polluted the magical connection between you and the necklace. It has found a way to use the jewelry to keep your body and mind separate." She gulped. "I think it may have control over your body, now."

I asked, "Someone or something has my body?!"

There was silence, followed by her sudden realization. "Those nightmares you keep having, I think whatever was causing them may have been doing so to try and take control. Assuming it thought you could be weakened, emotionally, it would be easier to overtake you."

My brain put together the pieces. "That makes sense and all, but you're still telling me I'm stuck like this?!"

"Well, you see, your soul is connected to it, but once the necklace is removed, you were supposed to stay in your body. In my case, I severed a piece of my soul to place in the gem. Yours is only connected like a wire would be connected to a terminal. Once it's unplugged, it just shuts off the connection. The terminal's data doesn't go with the wire." She added. "That's how it's supposed to be, anyway."

"But I'm not in my body!" I whimpered. I gripped her shoulders and shook them. "You gotta help me! I-I can't stay like this!" Could I not feel panic attacks? I normally would have been crippled by one. I was scared, but no physical signs were there.

She stared at me, sympathetically. "I-I'm not sure what I can do, but I'll try my best to help, darling. First, we have to figure out what's going on out there. Let's see if we can take a peek outside, shall we?"

The beautiful unicorn flashed a comforting smile before she lit her horn. The green glow did little to stand out against our similarly-tinted void. It didn't take much effort for her to form a large sphere with her magic. It hovered between us, slowly gaining its form. The glow warmed my face. At least, I could feel temperatures. The magic around her horn faded away, leaving the sphere. I felt like I was about to stare into a crystal ball.

*ERROR* *ERROR* *ERROR*

Level Up!
S- 3
P- 4(+1)
E- 4
C- 4
I- 5
A- 4
L- 4

New Perk!
Right Between the Eyes - For every headshot you make with a small firearm, you deal 2x more damage to an enemy.

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

I have FINALLY been able to get back to writing after getting settled into our new home! :pinkiehappy: My family and I love it here and I'm so thankful for you guys for being patient! Thank you all for reading! As always, constructive criticism/ error spotting is always welcome!

-AP

Chapter 19.5: A Guide to Anger Management

"I was imprisoned in the moon for so long..."

Black. The orb of levitating magic was simply empty. No picture came into view. The sound of faint yelling was audible, but it was too muffled. I put my ear to the "crystal ball" and listened. Rarity pursed her lips. As my ear got closer, I started to fall through the orb. My face smacked into the floor.

Note to self: The orb is not a real, solid object.

"Are you alright, darling?" Rarity helped me up.

I'm an idiot.

"Y-yes. Sorry, I just can't make out what they're saying." I furrowed my brow. "Why can't I see anything?"

She examined the window to the outside. With all the grace of a high-society unicorn, she tip-toed around it, concentrating. With a frown, she gave a disappointed sigh. "The necklace is lying, gem-side down. Whatever has your body really has taken it off."

I groaned. "Great. Now, I can't even see what's going on." My ears perked at the muffled voices. I strained them, again. I managed to pick out my voice over the others. It was my voice, but it wasn't my voice. What I was saying was still unclear. My rump hit the floor. "What the hell am I going to do? There must be a way out, right?" I looked to her for a glimmer of hope. "Right?"

I could almost see the wheels turning in her brain. "Maybe..." She trailed off. I waited, impatiently, for her to finish that statement. "If somepony were to get the necklace around your neck, your soul could reunite with your body." She thought some more, then shook her head. "But we have to find a way to communicate with the outside." She pointed to the ball of magic.

I sighed. "That sounds like an impossible feat." I wanted to cry. Who would have thought I'd be imprisoned in a gem stone for the rest of eternity? I wondered if Onion Ring felt the similar hopelessness I was feeling. It was safer in there, probably, but I still couldn't imagine what forever must feel like.

The ex-fashionista sat next to me and placed a hoof on my shoulder. "Not all is lost. There must be a way. You still have your friends, after all. We just have to get their attention."

"How? We are ghosts inside of a rock!" I threw my hooves up, frustrated.

She looked away, wincing at my stupid remark. I instantly regretted my words. "Rarity, I'm so sorry. I didn't mean that, I'm just so... scared..."

She held her composure, but I still saw that hurt behind that elegant mask. "No, you're absolutely right. I am a ghost. My skeleton is probably still rotting the MoP building in Canterlot, forgotten." She sighed. "I helped create this blasted wasteland. I deserve to be nothing more than a ghost. My dear friends are gone. I let them down." She looked at me, half smiling. "But, I will not let you down. I am a changed mare. Whatever it takes, we will get you through this, Sienna."

I hugged her. "No, you are not a ghost, Rarity. You don't deserve this. Nopony deserves to be alone for so long. I promise, after all this is over, I'm going to see if I can set you free from this curse."

She smiled, sadly. "Thank you, my friend." It was all she said before her horn ignited and an extremely bright glow illuminated around us. It was so blinding, I had to close my eyes.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Nico's hooves pounded on the floor as he tried to reach Sienna. She hovered over them, screaming in pain as her eyes shot open. His pupils shrank when he noticed her irises were changing color in the pattern of a rainbow. A breeze flowed around the factory, almost knocking him off balance. He grit his teeth, stopping just under her. Mixer followed him.

"What the hell is going on?!" Mixer yelled.

The unicorn ignored him, focusing on his horn. Sweat beaded his forehead as he tried to reach to her. As soon as his magic went near, it sent a shock wave back to him, making him rear back in pain. He didn't care, though. He tried, again, but his horn popped and died.

Damn it! It's a fucking force field! He thought.

"Look!" Mixer pointed a wing to the necklace.

Nico always thought the jewelry looked beautiful on her. This time, though it was a terrifying sight. Where the glistening gem used to be, was a small black hole. It levitated off of her chest, forcing her to still. The thin, wispy aura made its way into her heart. She had stopped screaming, but she now just stared. The world was dead to her. Her eyes switched back to their green color, but quickly seeped into the gem, leaving only a dull gray in its place.

The transformation happened so fast. The pegasus' once bright mane and tail were duller, too. Her white coat, was less white. The burns she had were completely healed. Her fur and feathers had suddenly grown back, as well. She flapped her wings once, twice. Hovering on her own accord, she finally glanced down.

"S-Sienna?" Mixer called to her.

She smiled, grabbed the necklace, and threw it. It clinked as it landed, sliding to a stop near Pepper's unconscious body. Both Nico and Mixer simultaneously stared back up at her. Something wasn't right. She would have never tossed Fleece's gift like trash. They watched as she cracked her neck and admired herself. She eyed the Pipbuck before nodding, satisfied. The chuckle she gave didn't sound normal. She had a sweet, shy laugh. This one was cold.

"That's better." She purred, grinning down at the two stallions. "Nico! Dad! What shall we do ne-"

"You're not her." Nico growled.

Mixer drilled him. "What do you mean? She's right there!" He pointed up at his daughter.

Nico lowered his head, dangerously. "Whatever that is, it's not Sia, anymore, Mixer. The necklace took her. The real Sia." He knew something wasn't right with that necklace.

The entity first acted surprised, but then she laughed. "Fine, fine. You caught me. But, you must admit I am a better version, right? The gemstone helped me more than it helped her, for sure." She held her hooves in front of her face, her grin growing wider. "I can feel the power of the pearls. I'll get to them so much faster, now."

"You must be working with Hope." Nico glared.

Her smile faded, a deadly stare digging into the unicorn. Like a lightning bolt, she zoomed towards him. "How dare you insult me! I would never allow myself to be equal to one of these wretched creatures! I am above you all!"

"What are you, then? Some crazy witch trying to be the new 'queen'?" The unicorn stood his ground.

She smirked. "You know me, sweetheart. I am inside all of you. Even the princesses held a part of me. Raiders, slavers, gun-wielding thugs. I am all of them. Your rage, hate, greed and everything else you pathetic ponies find 'immoral'. What you fail to understand, is that without all of that, you are nothing." She poked his chest, hard. "Of course, your poor friend held a lot of resentment. With the help of the ministry mare's dark magic, it was quite easy to take her body. I'm just a pony, now, but I will reign over the universe once I have the pearls in my possession! The darkness inside all living things will finally be free!"

"You're wrong! Equestria never lost its true virtues! There are good ponies who show true compassion towards each other. Evil can't rule over all of it!" He argued.

She waved a hoof behind her towards the empty wasteland beyond the broken window. The rain poured down, again. "And yet..." She grinned. "Look at what you all have accomplished for me, already." She cackled.

Nico charged at her. He planned to restrain her until he could figure out how to get Sienna back. His Sia. As he galloped, a slurry of emotions hit him. The feelings were so overwhelming he could hardly focus on his path.

I let her down.

She easily dodged, sending him skidding into a large conveyor belt. "You did, unicorn. You caused her strife. I see your guilt. I see it all!"

A wave of magic rippled from her forehead. Though she had no horn, she managed to harness energy as if she did. The flow of energy swept the factory floor like flood waters. Nico held his head, grunting at the pressure. Sadness, anger, and overwhelming guilt clouded his thoughts. He couldn't think straight. He just wanted to die. He wanted to kill himself for being so worthless. He let Pepper down. He suddenly knew everything she had said about him. She hated him. He made others hate him. He was an alcoholic, worthless, lonely excuse for a stallion.

His mother never even wanted him. She abandoned him. His father always reminded him to be strong for the both of them. It was his fault his father died. He always worried him, being the rebellious colt he was. Nico had worried his father to death. He wasn't even there when he died. He tightened his jaw at the memory. A night of drinking, only to come back to find his sickly father, dead at their camp. There were two spots at their makeshift table, made up. He let his father down.

"I'm so sorry, Pops..." He whispered

He never told anyone about that. He didn't want their pity. After Pepper, he had planned to just leave. Until he found Sia. She kept him in one place.

I hurt her.

The only other pony besides his dad who truly believed in him. He played with her feelings. Lead her on. She resented him for it, he knew. Nico pushed her to the side through all of this. When Pepper came back, he took his attention away in an instant, only to be hurt, again. Now, she was gone. He couldn't do anything about it, just like when that raider hurt her. He could only watch, useless. He'd never forget the look in her eyes. She was so scared. He couldn't protect her from that fear. Couldn't save her. His feelings were usually well hidden, but this time, his tears streamed down his face. The cold floor met his stare as the drops stained the dirty metal. Nico hardly ever cried. The dam had broken.

I'm nothing...

Chuckles broke through to him. He slowly glanced over to see that awful entity in Sia's body. Without the pearls, she was weakened, but still crippled them by overwhelming them with emotions. Her power could undoubtedly control an average pony. Nico's ear swiveled to soft sobbing. Mixer.

"M-my family... I... I left them. They're gone. I couldn't stop anything. I ruined everything! I'm fucking stupid!" He was lying a few hooves away from Pepper, who also whimpered, even in unconsciousness.

"As much as I'd love to watch you writhe in your poignant wreckage of a life, I have too much to do." She sang.

"Y-you... bitch..." Nico spat, his throat sore.

Her hoof tapped the wall as she stared at the horizon. "Nah. That name is too primitive. I think... Blight would be fitting. At least until I have my title as queen." She craned her neck with a smile. "Yes, I like that name." She giggled like a madmare as she zoomed out the window into the distance.

Turning his head back towards the floor, he squeezed his eyes shut. His heart was breaking and he deserved it. All the broken hearts he left in his wake at the bars. They were paying him back. Guilt. Guilt hurts. Suicide, he thought, was the only answer. The thoughts in his head were foggy. Happiness, joy. It had all disappeared.

But, why?

Mixer still wept. Nico looked back, studying him. The more he tried to think, the worse the depression became. He stood, but was shaking through sobs. The way his brain jumbled his thoughts, magnifying his heart ache, was almost enough to make him lie back down. An invisible force tried to pull him back to the cold floor.

"Mixer..." He called, voice breaking. "Blight is doing this..." He grunted. "Her magic is manipulating our emotions, to control us."

A glow caught his attention. Dim at first, but it brightened. Nico and Mixer turned to the light. The necklace. Its gemstone beamed even though its face was against the floor. It was still enough to light the murky interior.

I don't deserve the light!

Nico's thoughts forced him to look back down. He couldn't bear to look back.

Suddenly, the feelings were swept away. He opened his eyes as the necklace glowed. It drew him in like a moth to light. Mixer looked up, too, wiping his eyes. Their emotions were dulled down enough to get it together. Nico stepped towards the glow.

Finally, Mixer spoke up. "I know I ask a lot of questions, but... What the fuck is going on? Why did I change my mind about killing myself? Why is that necklace glowing?"

Nico wiped his own face, inching towards the light. "I... don't know."

"Careful." The large pegasus told him. "We probably shouldn't touch it."

The unicorn stopped, keeping a little distance between him and the gem. His eyes were glued to it. Strange as it seemed, it was like it was calling to him. He realized his hoof was reaching for it, without knowing. Snatching it back, he continued his attempt to decipher what was happening. The longer he stared, the more it whispered to him.

"I'm here..."

"What?"

"Nico, help! It's me!"

"Sia..."

Mixer jumped. "What did you say?"

"It's her! She's trapped in there!" Nico threw himself at the ground next to the necklace. Fighting back the urge to pick it up, he scooted as close as he could to it.

"Can you hear me?" He asked, trying to be as clear as possible.

No answer.

"Sia, I know you're in there!" He called, louder.

Quiet.

"Sweetheart?!" Mixer yelled.

Next to them, Pepper stirred. She looked around, then rubbed her throat. "I feel like horse shit." Her eyes widened and she frantically looked left and right. "Where is she?! That bitch almost killed me!"

"Do not call my daughter that!" Mixer stomped. He shrunk back. "She was just..."

Nico finished for him. "It wasn't her, Pepper." He gazed back at the jewelry. "Something else has control of her."

Pepper scoffed. "Right. Like some god-like entity just so happened to snatch her soul and her zombified body just attacked me." She snorted at that last part.

Nico flattened his ears as his jaw tightened.

Pepper's eyes grew. "You can't be serious."

"We think she's inside that..." He pointed to the necklace, that still glowed.

She looked at the pulsating gem. Her laughter echoed off the walls.

Mixer and Nico jumped at her snorts. She rolled onto her side before going into a coughing fit and grabbing at her throat. When she was done, she grimaced. "There is no fucking way she was sucked into that thing. It's probably not even a real gem."

"And a fake gem would glow like that?" Mixer crossed his hooves.

She shook her head and picked it up, despite Nico's attempt to stop her. "It's a reflection, obviously. Look at it! It's not hot to the touch or anything."

"Put it down." Nico commanded.

Pepper narrowed her gaze at him. "Why? Don't want your marefriend's jewels to get dirty? You think I'm destructive?" Her demeanor changed, again. "My sweet Nico. I would never do such a thing. Don't you still love me?"

He folded his ears, remembering his previous thoughts while he was under Blight's spell. "Y-yes, but we don't know how it works. It's probably best to not mess with it until-"

"Oh, shush." She waved him off. "It's fine. It's pretty, actually. Maybe I can borrow it until she comes back. Or her 'body' comes back." She snorted a laugh, again.

Nico worriedly bit his bottom lip as he watched her clasp the chain around her neck with her magic. She smiled. He waited a moment to see if she reacted any different. Her lips curved wider as she admired the piece. The gift from Fleece hadn't been scuffed or anything despite being thrown onto the concrete. Pepper touched the gem, gently. "See? Nothing to worry ab-"

A sudden flash of light from her chest sent the stallions moving. They scurried over to her, but was blown back. Her eyes were glowing, but they weren't rainbow colors. They were only green. Nico tried to use his magic, again, but it was useless. The magical barrier around her was too strong. The glow from the necklace had gotten even brighter than before as it lit up her chest. Pepper twitched and grunted, making Nico worry even more.

Why does this always happen?! He thought.

This time, the stone wasn't a black hole. It was almost white as the magic poured from it and into her heart. It happened fast, though. With a final pulse of illumination, the glow died down back to its normal state. Pepper fell to the floor, unconscious again. Nico rushed back to her, picking her head up in his hooves.

"Pepper." He shook her, gently. She groaned, slowly lifting a hoof to her chest and rubbed it. He sighed in relief. "Thank Celestia. I told you not to touch it."

"Nico?" She whispered, hoarsely. He stiffened. Her voice had changed. It could have been from the earlier trauma, but he swore it was different. When her lashes fluttered open, he swallowed hard. Pepper had two almost cyan eyes, and it was still that way. For one of them. A green iris replaced the blue on her left eye. He focused on it. Something was familiar about it. The Wild Formal flashed through his mind as he thought about where he's seen that color.

"Pepper?"

She looked around, then at him, confused.

His suspicions were correct. "S-Sia..."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The light had blinded me, making me wonder how I could even see, anymore. It was like being asleep, then waking up from a lucid dream. My throat was hurting, too. There was no telling what that thing had done to me. I picked my hoof up, feeling for the necklace. Nico must have gotten it back to me. I exhaled, trying not to move too quickly.

"-you not to touch it." I heard his voice. Relief replaced all my worry.

"Nico?" I said, weakly. I opened my eyes to see him staring at me.

There was a mix of worry and bewilderment on his face. "Pepper?"

Oh, no.

I twisted to see if I could see her. My stomach turned at the thought. I hoped I hadn't...

"S-Sia." I felt his hooves tighten.

Putting aside my worries, I smiled and wrapped my hooves around his neck. "N-Nico... I-I thought I was going to be stuck in there forever! Rarity... She helped me get your attention." I dug my muzzle into his neck. "I-I'm sorry! I'm so, so sorry for hurting Pepper. For hurting you... I don't... I don't know what happened! I couldn't stop it! It wasn't me! Something else took over me!" I cried. "B-But I'm back! I'm back and I'm sorry! Please, don't hate me..."

Quickly letting go, I fell back onto my haunches. I let the tears go, then.

He's upset. He's so angry at all the things I said. Oh, goddesses, why am I so ignorant?

He didn't say a word, just stared at me. It didn't look like anger. More like bafflement. I spotted my dad slowly stepping next to me. I sobbed loudly, throwing myself around him, too. "Dad, please forgive me! I didn't mean anything I said, I swear! None of what I said was true! I know I let you down... I-I'm..." He didn't say anything, either.

I stepped back, shooting looks between them. "W-why are you looking at me that way?" I looked around. "Where's Pepper?" My heart stopped. "I-I... Did I...?" My legs trembled.

I did...

I sobbed some more, not noticing Nico cautiously lifting a hoof to me. "Pe-Sia. Do you realize... uhm..."

"Realize what?" I wiped my eyes.

"Sweetheart, you're not... you." Dad spoke up.

I looked down, wincing. "I-I know... I don't know what's gotten into me, lately." The tears, again.

"No, Sia. What he means is... Pepper is alive, she's just... you." Nico rubbed the back of his neck.

I wiped my eyes, again. Now, I was confused. "What are you talking about?"

Nico looked around. He trotted to a dusty, broken piece of glass and waved me over. I slowly followed, afraid of what I might see. He rubbed the grime off the glass with his elbow. With one more reassuring glance, I hung my head over the reflective surface. My hide was not white. It was magenta. My mane and tail were not orange with yellow streaks. They were brown and white. I had one green eye and one bright blue eye. I had also gained a new appendage. There, on my forehead sat a horn. I raised my hoof to touch it. It more I focused on it, the more it began to glow. I shook my head.

No. Way.

A realization made me twist my neck. My wings!

"M-my wings are gone... I have a horn! I'm... I'm Pepper!" I began to hyperventilate. "Where. Is. ME?!"

My grammar was the last thing on my mind. Mostly, because that's all I had besides one of my eyes. That, and a boatload of questions. "How? When? Why? What the fuck?" Were just a few. I finally felt a panic attack coming on. I managed to fight it off, though. Either Pepper's body was stronger than mine or I was just getting used to them.

Nico sighed. "I told her not to touch that necklace."

I looked at my chest where it sat. "She put it on?!"

Mixer swallowed. "Well, it was glowing. Did... you do that?"

"No! I mean, I didn't. Rarity must have. She must have figured out a way to get your attention."

"Rarity, as in... the dead ministry mare?" My father said, worried. He definitely thinks I'm insane.

"It's a long story, but yes. A part of her soul is in this gem." I gestured to it. "I'll tell it, later, but for now I have to figure out where my body is."

"Well we know some 'embodiment of rage and sadness' took over you." Nico mentioned. "She named herself 'Blight'."

I rubbed the horn on my head. It was freaking weird.

"Sienna, are you listening?" He scowled.

I snapped my attention back to him. "Yes, sorry. This horn... It's hard to concentrate."

He sighed, gesturing to his forehead. "They're not uncommon, you know. Now, can you tell me how you think this happened?"

I thought for a moment. "Rarity said the entity, or Blight, weakened my emotional state and then used the necklace to trap my soul so she could take over my body. It was a terrifying experience, for sure." I shivered.

"Blight mentioned the pearls, too." He said. "She needs them to gain her power. Even if she is already pretty powerful." He folded his ears.

"The necklace is connected to the pearls, somehow. Rarity said so. She must have somehow gained some sort of magic from the pearls indirectly." I touched the gem. "I've got to destroy those damned things. Now we have to stop Hope and whatever that thing was."

"Nice plan. How are we gonna do that?" Nico said, sarcastically.

Asshole.

"I need to talk to Rarity, again." I said.

"So, do it. You've done it several times, right?" He asked.

"Yeah, but not by choice. It just sort of... happens. When I'm asleep or knocked out."

He looked at Pepper's horn. "I really hate to suggest this, but maybe you should try magic. Not much, because you might be stuck in there, again, but maybe just a spark will be enough."

I stared. "Are you crazy? I can barely keep my sanity in check, much less use magic."

"It's not hard. Just focus on the gem. Imagine you're picking it up." He made it sound so easy.

With another "are you kidding me" glance, I finally decided to try it. I closed my eyes, focusing my thoughts on the emerald. What it looked like, how it felt. I imagined my hoof touching the smooth surface and lifting it up. When nothing happened, I tried harder. Sweat started to form as I bit my tongue. It felt like pushing a boulder from my forehead.

"Why isn't it working?" Mixer whispered to Nico.

I was getting frustrated. The strain was giving me another headache. I forced my concentration on my horn. Finally, a tiny spark came from it. I stopped, breathing heavily. All that effort for barely a spark? I shook it off and closed my eyes, again. This time, I focused on both the necklace and my horn. I felt another spark, followed by another.

"I'm doing it!"

"Like hell you are!"

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Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

Thank you all for reading! As always, constructive criticism/ error spotting is welcome.
Stay safe!

-AP

Chapter 20: Outskirts Boutique

"But, which one is the real Pinkie Pie?"

"Like hell you are!"

The voice came from my muzzle, but I didn't say it. I immediately thought back to when I had lost control a couple of hours before. An invisible force pushed me backwards, making me hit my head on the floor. Before I could get back up, my hoof contacted my face. Then, again. And again. Pepper's body was attacking itself! It might have been her body, but I was still feeling the pain.

"What the hell are you doing?!" Nico held the hoof back. "You're hurting yourself!"

My half of the eyes had swollen shut. "It wasn't... me." I breathed.

He struggled to hold the limb. "What are you talking about?"

My mouth opened on its own, but it sounded different from my voice. "It was me, you idiot! Get her out of my fucking body!"

Pepper.

I tried to stand, but was met with another punch from the other hoof. "First, you tried to kill me," Punch. "Now, you're trying to take over my body?!" Hit. "I'll kill you!"

Mixer took the other hoof and held it.

"Pepper, stop! You're injuring your body!" Nico yelled.

"I don't care! Get her out!" She squirmed. I could feel her in my mind, trying to force me out. It was similar to Blight taking over, except I could see and think clearly.

"Please, Pepper! I'm sorry! It really wasn't me that tried to kill you! I mean, at first I was really mad and I wanted to yell at you, but I swear attacking you was not me! I didn't want you to die just because of what happened..." I forced my own words through. She calmed her thrashing, slightly. "I'm sorry, Pepper. I swear, I'm so sorry..."

"You think you can just come down here and take anything you want, don't you? You come up with all these excuses to cover the fact that you got us all into this mess and then give a half-assed apology!" She argued.

"I didn't mean for any of this to happen. I wanted to just go back home the minute they sent me down here. Hope came from nowhere. Then, all of this was thrown at me. I even tried to do this all myself. I don't want anyone to die because of me..."

Not another word came from her. I couldn't tell what she was thinking. We shared physical control, but our emotions and thoughts were separate. It was kind of scary, actually. I wondered if she would do something to hurt us both when her legs were free. I felt breathless as I thought about it.

"I don't trust you." She finally said. "Or anypony for that matter." She looked at Nico when she said that.

I watched him slump. "I..."

"Don't play dumb, Nico. You were probably conspiring with these assholes to get rid of me." She narrowed her gaze at everypony. Including her own reflection. You didn't mind the Enclave taking me away. You just completely forgot about that, I'm sure."

"I didn't! I swear, I didn't Pepper... I thought y-you left me. There was a note and everything! You left..." He held her hoof.

She snatched it away. "I don't believe you."

He stayed quiet, keeping his gaze to the floor. I felt bad for both of them. There was so many things we could have straightened out if only I wasn't too stubborn to listen to that holotape while I still had a Pipbuck. "I'm sorry." I said. "If I would have just listened to that stupid tape... Pepper, please believe him. He truly thought you left, willingly."

"Just stop. The sooner we get you back in your body, the sooner I can get away from you all."

I didn't say anything else. If I was honest, I didn't want her to leave. My first impression was bad, but she deserved another chance. The guilt just kept gnawing at the back of my mind. "Maybe, we should head back to the hospital." I took control of her mouth. She didn't resist, staying dormant.

We had already grabbed our stuff and headed out. Mixer and Nico walked ahead of Pepper and me. The trip was silent, save for the occasional distant gunshot or rolling thunder. It was extremely difficult to keep my mind off of what had just transpired. After all, I was stuck in the same body as the mare I tried to murder with my bare hooves. Even if it wasn't really me. Like she had said, it was just an excuse. I was still responsible. It was my inability to control my anger. I was in charge of my actions that led up to it.

In an attempt to think of something else, I tried to figure out how this "sharing one body" thing would work. It seemed as though we shared equal control of her body. If I wasn't focused on moving a specific limb, Pepper was, and vice versa. Walking for a long distance was tolling, though. A couple of times, we nearly ended up on our face as we got confused. I finally gave up, letting her do the walking. It was her body, after all.

I tried to think about my family again, too. My grandparents. I wish I could have told them I had finally found my dad. I would have probably avoided telling them about the possibility that their daughter (my mother) was dead. Dad had said she left him. I didn't figure he would lie about something like that. She must have had a reason. Maybe it was a similar situation as Nico and Pepper. I wanted to believe anything that didn't include her leaving him out of spite.

Zangth's hospital came up in the distance. It had taken us a couple of hours to get there. We were late meeting the others, anyway, because of the... unforeseen circumstances. I hadn't noticed before, but the hospital was in fairly good shape on the outside. The one-story building showed off a cracked Ministry of Peace symbol on the face of the front wall. It would be nothing for them to worry about, though. The building would probably last a hundred more years or so if taken care of, properly. The walk-way was lined with claw-like, extinct hedges. I would never forget the poster of the yellow pegasus as we walked through the main entrance. Her eyes pleaded, "We must do better." It gave me chills.

Violet, Redd, Zangth, and Cherish were already waiting in the lobby when we dragged ourselves in. Violet, of course, was the first to speak up after she looked at each of us. "What the hell happened to you guys? Where is Sia?" She panicked.

"Here." I squeaked from the back of the group. The entire room stared at me.

"Who are you?" Redd stepped up, narrowing his eyes.

I had to explain the entire situation to everyone. And I had to explain it, again, after almost everyone didn't believe me.

"But, who is Pepper?" Violet asked. At least she believed me, now.

I swallowed, not wanting to say it.

Thankfully, I didn't have to. My lips were moving before I could think. "I'm Pepper. An acquaintance of Nico. Like it's any of your business."

My bestie backpedaled at the change of voice. That, or the attitude she was getting.

Redd rolled his eyes. "This is a joke. It's a joke, right?" He looked at Mixer, who sadly shook his head.

Realizing the seriousness, Redd's eyes widened. "What?!" He stepped in front of me/Pepper and examined us. "This is terrible! W-why did... What... How do we get you back?!"

Pepper narrowed our eyes, then smirked. "This is the one." She mouthed.

"What?" I asked, in a whisper.

"The one you had some fun with." She grinned, wider, checking him over. "He is pretty handsome. For a feather brain."

Our cheeks blushed. Because of me, of course. "Pepper, please shush."

"As much as I would love answers, as well, I also need to know if you managed to find any leads on the foal? It is quite urgent." Zangth tapped his hoof, sweating.

"No, we didn't." Nico said, looking away. "We didn't see them, but I think they may have caused the fire at Bean's Tavern."

"The tavern burned down?!" Violet exclaimed. "Oh, shit, I'm so sorry to hear that, Mixer."

Dad waved it off. "I'll survive. But, why would somepony want to destroy the tavern? I've never hurt anyone!"

"To distract you all, of course." Pepper said. She rolled our eyes. "I wasn't here and even I know how a villain thinks. You are a stupid bunch, aren't you?"

Violet huffed, red in the face. "Why don't you say that when you aren't sharing a body with my BFF?"

Pepper snickered. "Why don't you do something about it, now? Feather brain."

"You know, damn well, why I can't do that." Violet growled.

"Enough! We have more important matters at hoof!" Zangth stomped, echoing through the lobby.

I mentally breathed a sigh of relief. I didn't feel like getting my face pummeled, again.

"They're probably back at their hideout, by now." Redd sat down and crossed his hooves.

I listened to the bickering of my friends, trying to think of another plan. Out of the commotion, I heard my father mumbling something to himself. "-all that work on my hat collection. I even had to sneak past Ol' Silky to get my favorite hat..."

I forced our attention on him. "Did you say Silky?"

He looked at us, puzzled. "Yes. Do you know about her?"

I thought back to the card I found with the sewing machine. "Silky is Rarity's cousin. The pearls were supposed to be in the basement of her boutique."

Dad scratched the back of his neck. "Well, Ol' Silky is still there, but..."

My heart skipped a beat. I knew bad news was coming up.

He sighed. "During the battle of Shattered Hoof, a battalion of zebra wanted to use the boutique as a place to rest. Silky wouldn't let them, though. She told them to get out or they would 'hear from her lawyers'. The zebra just so happened to have some kind of grenade that blew the building up."

"I, too, have heard this story from my grandmother." Zangth said. "My great ancestors were developing a grenade-type explosive that was laced with necromancy magic and radiation. What better way to test it than to throw it in a building away from Luna's army and on one of their enemies? Only one was finished, but the zebra saw what it did to the mare who owned the boutique, so they abandoned the idea." His face soured. "The war tainted them, making them all yearn for blood."

"It wasn't your fault, Zangth, nor anyone's." Cherish said, softly. "It was before our time."

Zangth gave her a half smile. I felt terrible for my outburst towards him.

"Wouldn't the blast have attracted Celestia or Luna's attention?" I asked, curious.

Dad cleared his throat. "The shop was far enough away from Shattered Hoof that no one noticed. The blast that took the building down wasn't even megaspell-tier. It was more like a... a quiet implosion of the structure."

"How do you know that?" Violet asked.

Dad shrugged. "Old folks. Old ghouls. I hear all kinds of stories while bartending." He drooped. "Or rather... I used to."

I put a hoof on his shoulder. "It's alright, Dad. Maybe when this is over, we can rebuild the tavern."

He smiled.

I returned the smile. "Right now, we need you to show us where the boutique is."

And he frowned, again. "No. Absolutely not! Ol' Silky is not a normal ghoul. She's bigger. She spits acid balls the size of Redd's head-"

"Hey!"

"-and you can't kill her. She doesn't die! You can blast her to ashes and she would still regenerate!" He gnawed on his hooves.

I noticed my mouth was wide open, listening to his horrendous description. Pepper didn't try to close it, either. Shaking the look from my face, I gulped.

"That would be the necromantic magic. It makes her almost indestructible." Zangth added. "It's far too dangerous to attempt such a thing."

"You don't have to do this, Sia." Nico said. "There's got to be another way."

I tried to look away from him, but I couldn't. Pepper kept her gaze on him. If I couldn't get to those pearls, would Hope be able to get them? Could I afford to ignore the possibility of somepony getting to them in the future? I probably couldn't. Even Silky wouldn't be able to guard her shop, forever. I could have sworn I felt an anxiety attack.

"Can you stop panicking? You're making my heart race." I felt my mouth move.

"Sorry." I replied, sheepishly. "Some things are hard to control."

She rolled our eyes. "No wonder your body was so easily taken. You must be an emotional train wreck. It's not that hard to force your body out of panic. Just don't worry."

I felt that jab at a pretty deep level. Telling someone with anxiety to just "not worry" is like telling the sky not to be blue. I stayed quiet. I really didn't want to speak to her, after that. Even if I she probably didn't understand.

"I'm still going." I said to whoever would listen.

"You can't be serious." Redd said.

I wanted to cover my face, but Pepper stood, immobile.

I forced the words out. "I need to do this. There are lives at stake. Now, there is a foal's life on the line, too."

Then silence. I was, once again, in the spotlight. I hated it.

"I'll... do it myself." I said. "I don't mind. I know I'm weak. I know I'm just... a big chicken about everything. It's gotten in the way too many times, but I want to change that. I want to actually do some good. We are supposed to stand for what's right. To be there in times of need. It's what it's supposed to be." I trailed off. Then, I continued. "I've been so afraid of death that I hadn't realized it's all around me. I can't escape it, anyway. If I were to die, I don't want to die hiding in the corner. I would rather die trying to make the wasteland a better place." I choked up. "Even if I have to be alone to keep you all out of danger."

Nopony spoke. They just watched me with mixed emotions. Cherish wiped away a tear.

"No, you won't." Dad broke the silence. I was about to object, until he held his hoof up. "You won't be alone. I'll be with you."

"Me, too." Nico stood.

Violet grabbed Redd's shoulder. "Psh, you can't leave us behind!"

Redd saluted. "I'm here at your command." He winked.

I smiled. My friends had my back. I was starting to learn that friendship was actually important. Of course, back home I wouldn't have known. When you're thrown into the unknown, you quickly learn.

"I admire your nobility, however foolish." Zangth sighed. "But, I suppose I can give you a few more supplies for your journey. You will certainly need it." He rubbed his temple.

"Thank you, Zangth. We will get that foal back, I promise." I said.

He nickered as he walked towards the hall. "Promises are hard to keep if you are dead, Fear Fighter."

I backpedaled. "Fear Fighter?"

He ignored me. A few passerbys began whispered about the new nickname. They were probably laughing under their breath.

Nico snickered.

That is extremely weird. Pretty lame, too.

When he was out of sight, Cherish gave a sly grin. "Asshole." She joked, following him.

I sighed. This was going to be a long day.

Dad led us northwest of the hospital. It wasn't too far from where the Tavern stood. I could smell moisture with a hint of burnt wood in the air. I scanned over our group. A better term would probably be "herd". The six of us were definitely a misfit bunch. A bartender, a pegasus who looked like he just finished bootcamp, "Flashbang", a hardass wasteland expert, and a coward sharing a body with a semi-psycho. If Silky had any wits to her, she would probably laugh at us.

Two things I noticed once we stopped on the hill overlooking the location: For one, there was no sign of any ghoul on the premises. For two, the boutique was completely obliterated. The only thing we saw was large pile of brick and pieces of wood, surrounded by dead trees. Silky definitely had this place in the middle of nowhere. Good for hiding out; bad for business. I stepped forward, squinting my eyes. My pegasus eyes were better, but I still spotted the back wall that was still standing about half a pony's height. The floor was still intact, too. That basement had to be somewhere.

"Okay, nothing here. Let's try somewhere else." Redd began.

"Wait." I said. I tip-toed, slowly and quietly, towards the destruction. As I came closer, I saw that the large pile had a bright, pink, pulsating glow to it.

Shit.

Pepper's heart dropped to her stomach. I turned tail and trotted back just as silently as I came. I stopped in front of my father, who watched in fear.

"Dad... Tell me that's not Ol' Silky." I whispered.

He nodded. "I'm afraid so."

"That thing is as big as Redd's ego!" Violet hissed.

"Really getting tired of you making fun of-"

"How the hell are we supposed to beat that?! Especially, if it doesn't die!" She interrupted the red maned stallion.

I caught myself biting Pepper's hoof. It suddenly snatched it away. "Will you stop doing that? Ugh!" She shook the appendage, removing the saliva.

"Sorry! I-I'm a little nervous." I replied.

"For good reason." Dad stepped up next to us. "You shouldn't do this. I know you want to save everypony, but... you can't if you die before getting anything done." He put a wing on our shoulder. I felt Pepper tense. I forgot she hated pegasi.

I stepped away, so she would feel better.

"He's right." Redd spoke, eyeing the glowing pile. "Sia, think about it. What if the pearls aren't even here?"

I took a deep breath, calming our tightening chest. "I know they're here. They have to be."

"B-but what if something happens to you?" Violet gnawed on her wing tips.

I gave a moment of silence. Mostly for myself. "Something is going to happen to me, anyway, if I let Hope or... Blight take control of Equestria." I looked around our herd. Their faces all worried.

Except Nico. He watched the soft light under the rubble, lost in thought.

I moved next to him, sharing his gave.

"This is a terrible idea." He said, unmoving.

Hardass mode: Activated.

"I know, but I can't back down." I said.

"I'm not stopping you." He sighed. "As much as I want to, it's not my place." He finally looked at me. Well, my eye. "So, what do we do?"

I paused. I really had no idea. "I-I'm open to suggestions."

The only other sound I heard was his breathing. I flattened mine and Pepper's ears, waiting for a response. Any response.

Finally, he stood, taking his rifle off his back. I swallowed, flinching at the sight of it. He must not have noticed, because he shoved it to me. "Look through the scope, just behind that twisted clothes rack."

I tried to hold it in our hooves, but it was too heavy. It kept slipping from me. Our eyes rolled, again. Pepper's horn lit up, levitating the gun in her aura. The magic felt strange, even though I wasn't controlling it. It was like a small tingling in our forehead.

Through the scope, I could see parts of Silky under the debris. What was left of her hide was pale violet. I wasn't entirely focused on her, though. There, on the other side of a mangled rack, was a cellar door. I could clearly see a terminal next to it. It would probably be the only way to open it.

I faced the rest of the gang. "I see it! The basement is right on the other side!" I instantly deflated. "But I don't know how to hack into a terminal."

My mouth began to move, again. "You can't pick locks, you can't hack terminals. What can you do?"

I swallowed, wanting to stare at my hooves. I suppose I deserved that.

"I can hack terminals." Violet said. "I taught myself a lot, down here."

I cheered up, a little bit. "I can't possibly ask you to go down there, Vi."

"Why do you think they call me 'Flashbang'? I can be gone in a flash!"

I saw Redd wince. "That was painful."

I had to hide a giggle.

She rolled her eyes. "Remind me to get back to my catchphrase after we defeat our deadly enemies and save ponykind."

"I think I may have a plan, but only if you're sure you want to-"

"I told you already, silly: You are not going in alone. We're your friends. Your family! We will not abandon you!" Violet saluted, playfully.

"I would." Pepper spoke. "I'm not her friend or family. I'm barely an acquaintance. If you ask me, you're all dumb for following this nitwit." She scratched her ear with her hind hoof.

Nico interrupted before Violet could get her argument started. "Pepper, I've argued with Violet, before. It does not work out like you want."

Pepper scoffed. "Please. If I was going to argue with an oversized bird, I'd talk to a vulture. I'm just giving my opinion." She turned our head towards the pile of glowing ghoul. "And that will be easy. Look at her. She's covered in rocks. Odds are there is also dirt and gravel in her ears. She won't hear you unless you're stomping and singing next to her. Seriously, feather brains. Simple. Stuff."

Seconds passed. I couldn't believe what I'd heard. Pepper was helping me? I mean, she was as smart as she was crazy, but she was helping me? Violet huffed, crossing her hooves.

"What? Would you like me to prove it to you?" Pepper said. Yep. Crazy.

"No, no, no! We believe you!" I halted her first step towards the destroyed building, making us falter.

After gaining composure, I began with our half-assed plan, praying it would work. "So, I think Violet, Pepper and I could sneak down there and unlock the terminal. Meanwhile, the rest of you could stay up here and watch out for silky. If she starts to wake up, whistle or something. Maybe, we can get away before she really notices. Once we get in the basement, I'll signal for the rest of you to sneak past. I doubt she can fit through the basement door, so we'd be safer down there."

"What are we gonna do when we get to the basement?" Violet asked.

"I-I don't know. I'll have the pearls, so maybe I can keep them until I figure out how to get my body back." I told her.

"This plan sucks." Pepper said, flatly. "Boring."

"Only because you have to come with us." Violet snarked. "It's not like Sia can leave you on this hill."

Pepper squished Violet's snout with her own. "The only reason I'm allowing her to drag my body into this is so she can get the fuck out of it."

"Girls! Calm down, please!" Redd pushed himself between them. "Stay on track."

"He's right." I said, forcing Pepper's hooves backwards. It only took a little resistance. "Like I said, we get into the basement, and we can go from there."

I turned, taking several, long, deep breaths. That earned another eye roll from Pepper. She was honestly tiring my half of the eyes out. "Okay. Violet, let's get this over with. The sooner we get it done, the better." I motioned.

She saluted, again, flapping her wings.

I really wish I had my wings.

"Flying is so much quieter than walking." I sighed.

"I can be quiet, too. How do you think I got my cutie mark?" Pepper turned to gesture to her flank. The dots were not so obvious.

"I- uh..."

"It's pepper flakes."

I stayed quiet. I still didn't understand what pepper flakes had to do with silence.

She scoffed. "Have you ever heard pepper flakes make noise?"

It took me a few seconds, but I decided to just go with the absurd explanation. "Ahh, that makes sense." I lied. "So, you can get us down there?"

She nodded. I felt the strange tingle in our forehead, again, as her horn lit up. She forced the magic to move to the bottom of her hooves. Suddenly, I felt a familiar and comforting sensation. It was like I was standing on a cloud. A smile crept across our face. I couldn't tell if it was me or her. I stomped a hoof, but it made no sound. I jumped, skipped, and galloped around. It was incredible!

"This is awesome!" I squealed. I immediately covered our muzzle. Looking back, thankfully, Silky wasn't disturbed.

"Alright, let's go before you get too excited." Violet giggled.

I nodded and led the way to the terminal.

We inched closer to the cellar door. The piece of wall that was still standing had the computer hooked right up to the lock. I glanced towards Silky, occasionally making sure she was still sleeping. A rotting stench reached my nose. Instinctively, I covered our nose. The way Pepper's stomach turned told me I wasn't the only one who was suffering.

Violet glided down to the screen of the terminal. She went to work, typing and breaking through the security. I sat, impatiently waiting. I desperately hoped the clicking of the keys wouldn't be loud enough to wake the behemoth. Pepper dragged our attention over Violet's shoulder. I watched as several characters flashed across the screen as she typed away. Sweat formed on her brow.

"Violet, how long do you think this will take?" I hissed.

"I have to bypass the security wall. It's... kind of difficult, but I can do it. Just give me a few minutes." She licked her lips.

I swallowed. I could feel bile starting to creep its way up Pepper's esophagus. I really wanted to get out of there. Not only because of the ghastly odor, but because my anxiety was sending its symptoms through Pepper's body. I could tell it was making her uncomfortable. The clicking of the keys grew louder as the background silence dragged on.

A sudden tremor sent us scrambling to our hooves. Followed by a loud whistle.

Fuckshitdamnit!

The massive pile of brick and wood started crumble away, revealing the shifting body underneath. As she slowly stood, Silky groaned and growled. She was easily the size of a large shed. Her flesh was bloated in places, tearing her once-purple hide. The cysts were filled with pink, radiated fluid that I did not care to imagine the origins. Her mane only held a few strands of pink and gray hairs. Her tail was completely gone. She turned her neck, making the stiff joint literally creak. When she looked at us, we froze. Obviously, her eyes were blue at one point. I say this, because it looked like her iris was leaking. Like her Iris held a bucket of paint that was spilling over.

I know I was in full control of Pepper's body, because we were frozen in fear. My breath was lost. The way Silky looked directly at us made it even more terrifying. Pepper tried to pull us away.

"Move it!" Pepper shouted. I finally came to and let her take the reins.

The giant zombie lifted her lumpy hoof and brought it down with such force, it shook the ground. Radiated liquid splashed from wherever she had been laying. Pepper dodged the drops. We would have to drink a RadAway if we were hit by that gunk.

"If you could work a little faster on that thing, it would be nice!" Pepper faked a sing-song voice.

"I'm working as fast as I can! I think I've almost got it. I just need a couple of minutes." Violet said, as she swiftly tapped the keys. The others were already running towards us.

Silky let out a scream unlike anything I have ever heard. Pepper covered her ears as the gurgling shriek pierced the ozone. Celestia, herself, probably wouldn't be able to calm this thing. When the long scream finally ended, Ol' Silky did something I didn't think a feral ghoul could possibly do.

"S-S-Staaaaayyyyy... A-A...WWAAA-AAAAYYYYY!!!!"

*ERROR*
USER UNKNOWN!!

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

Thank you all so much for reading! As always, constructive criticism/ error spotting is welcome!
Stay safe, guys!

-AP

Chapter 21: Of Silk and Satin

"Remember the 'want it, need it' spell?"

"STAY AWAYYY!!!"

An extremely deep, thundering voice echoed around us. Nico, Redd, and Dad stopped, dead in their tracks.

"I thought ferals didn't speak?!" I yelled.

"They don't!" Dad yelled back, running up next to us.

Silky reared up, letting out another inequine shriek. Everypony covered their ears, again. The monstrous pony picked up a giant chunk of concrete and threw it at Pepper and me. Thankfully, she dodged. I made a mental note to compliment her on her speed. I heard the familiar crack of Nico's rifle as the bullet tore through Silky's neck. For a moment, I felt relieved as she didn't move, until a pink, slimy, glow enveloped the wound. The color drained from mine and Pepper's cheeks as the hole magically closed up. The flesh grew back like she had drank a super healing potion.

"Violet?" I squeaked.

"The security keeps blocking me. I'm going to try and decode the password, again." She said, a little too calmly.

Unfortunately, the ghoul must have had some of her sanity. Violet's statement only made her more angry. She growled as she charged towards Pepper and I. The ground shook as as each of her giant hooves impacted the ground. Pepper let out a curse as she bolted away from Violet, towards the wooded area nearby. I was about to object to her fleeing, until she lifted a head-sized stone and hurled it towards the ghoul. The rock hit her shoulder, sinking into her flesh. I felt nauseated, again. Silky stumbled. Then, she threw her head back and launched the same stone out of her throat. Pepper dodged that, too. Only barely. We jumped behind some dead trees, panting.

"This ghoul is definitely not a normal ghoul." Pepper said, peeking over her hiding spot. "If I knew nothing bad would happen with us sharing my body, I would take a few Luna Stone."

"I don't want to find out what happens if drugs are mixed with this magic." I said, flatly.

Redd zoomed overhead, trying to get the ghoul's attention away from us. His rifles buzzed to life as he let loose a steady stream of energy beams into Silky's side. It looked like slow motion as she fell. Mud splashed around us when she hit a few puddles. Her abdomen gaped open, melting away. It took her several seconds to regenerate her hide. It was gruesome, to say in the least.

"There's no way we can beat her!" I flattened our ears.

Redd cursed as he watched the dead tissue knit back together. "This is going to be a long day."

Before she could get back up, he rushed over to us, hurriedly digging in his bag. He pulled out my beloved Bob and hoofed it to me and Pepper. "Here. I figured you would need this." He said.

I nodded, thanking him.

Without replying, he turned and unloaded more into the ghoul before she could get back up. I forced our eyes to my energy pistol. Redd must have cleaned it.

Pepper dropped the, still holstered, gun. "Fuck you."

I forced a hoof to reach for it. "Pepper, this is my gun. We may need it."

Our hoof didn't move. I felt like something was pulling it back. "I said, no! I don't need your fucking weird weapons. The Enclave probably has some kind of listening device inside of it."

Damn it, Pepper.

"It's just... a weapon." I struggled to move the hoof forward, only barely getting closer.

Redd turned back around. "Pick it up!"

"No! I wouldn't dare use your feather brained technology!" Pepper screamed at him.

He stared in shock. "What? It's a gun! For protection!"

"It's a long story, Redd." I said through my gritted teeth.

He watched us for a moment before he turned back to the fight. Silky was already back on her hooves, throwing parts of her store at Nico and Redd. Dad stood next to Violet, holding a piece of wall up to protect them from flying, pink slime. The ghoul leaked the stuff. It was in puddles all over the ground. Luckily, the others managed to avoid the nasty liquid. Redd had to fly in a zig-zag pattern to keep from getting splashed. I watched as he slammed a gem cartridge in the energy rifles.

Pepper still resisted my control of the hoof, causing the limb to shake.

A wide piece of wood flew towards us, making us duck back behind the trees. Bob still sat in the dirt.

The two stallions fighting were barely holding up. Silky kept charging them, despite being filled with ammo, over and over. Every shot they took, no matter how large, would simply absorb into her. She would then regenerate, unfazed. Even shots into her brain weren't enough. That would kill any ghoul. It would kill any pony.

I whimpered. "We can't keep this up. It's just a waste of ammo!"

"Any more ideas, genius?" Pepper replied.

I bit my lip, looking for an answer. All my years of training never really prepared me for this. Think, Sienna, think!

I frantically looked between Nico and Redd. They'd take turns reloading and and shooting the monster. I did notice that they managed to slow her down with each larger shot. I looked back at my gun. That's it!

"We need to give her all we got at once! It won't kill her, but it will slow her down enough to buy Violet some time." I stomped. "But, we need my gun to help them out!"

Pepper tensed. "If it's not going to kill her, why would you bother trying?"

"Because, as long as we get in the basement, she can't fit down there. We will be able to run once we get what we need." Then, I added. "She's invincible, so trying to fight won't do anything but waste our time and energy."

She stayed silent.

"Pepper, please. I just need to use Bob to fire off some extra shots into her. After that, I'll give it back to Redd so you won't have to touch it, again." I begged.

"Bob?"

"My gun's name. No, it doesn't stand for anything." I said.

She hesitated. "You'll give it back to that other feather brain?"

"I promise."

Finally, she sighed. "Fine. But I don't want anything else to do with that tech, after this is over."

I smiled, her control being replaced by mine.

I jumped out from behind the trees, sliding over to the pistol. Whistling for the others' attention, I waved our hooves. "Nico! Redd!"

They looked at us, briefly, before going back to their original synchronization.

"Listen! We need to give her all we got! You keep taking turns shooting, but we need to all be shooting at once! It won't kill her, but it will take longer for her to regenerate!" I yelled.

They nodded, willing to try anything at that point.

"Explosives would probably help!" Nico levitated the grenades we found at Violet's bunker out of his bag.

Nice.

I picked my gun up in my teeth, but it was immediately pulled out of my mouth by Pepper's aura. "If you have to use it, do not use my mouth. I'd be pretty fucking pissed if it blew up in my face."

I nodded. "That's fair." Then, I paused. "I can't use your magic."

Our eyes rolled. "Let me handle that. You just aim and tell me when to shoot."

Before I could agree, Silky began to gurgle louder than usual. Her mouth opened as she reared back. A pink light began seeping from her throat. I watched in horror as she hacked up a glowing ball of slime, flinging it towards Nico. He rolled to the side, it missing him by an inch. It landed behind him, splashing into a group of bushes. They started sizzling

"Don't let them hit you!" My dad warned. "If that stuff touches you, it'll melt your skin away!"

I really wanted to throw up.

The twigs under the slime melted away, leaving a bare spot of dirt next to Nico, who was getting to his hooves. He watched the shrubbery disappear in horror. I could only imagine what that could do to a pony. Whatever magic caused Silky to be... that, had to be dark in nature. I looked back to my gun, getting it out of its holster.

"Watch out!"

It was all I heard before Pepper and I went rolling towards the trees. When we finally stopped, I heard the explosion. I looked up, dizzily, to see rotten gore and pink slime all over the place. Nico dropped the grenade pins and ran towards us, yelling something. I couldn't hear from the ringing in our ears. Pepper put a hoof to our head. The smell was awful.

"Redd!!" Violet called, zooming to where Nico had stopped. Her voice barely audible over the ringing.

A pile of slime covered half of a piece of concrete slab. Redd was leaned against the slab, unconscious. Thankfully, the slime hadn't hit him. Pepper and I tried to control our hooves at the same time, making us stumble. I forced our direction over to where they were standing. Violet dragged Redd away from the slime with my dad's help. It was then, I knew why they were freaking out.

The slime had, indeed, hit the white stallion. His wing was covered in the gunk, along with some of his armor. Thankfully, it didn't go through all the way to his side, but the wing was an absolute mess. It sizzled, the feathers eroding away. I galloped over to him, sliding to a stop.

"R-Redd..." Tears formed in my eyes.

He winced, turning his head to his side. His eyes widened. "O-Oh... shit..."

"What do we do?!" Violet asked, urgently.

I could already feel the ground trembling as something bubbled behind us. Silky. It would take a minute for her to regenerate completely, but I knew she'd be back with a vengeance. I tore my gaze away from my friend's melting appendage to see a pile of flesh pulling together.

Redd groaned.

"We have to get it off of him, first." Nico said.

Violet didn't waste any time. She snatched the canteen off her shoulders and unscrewed the top. Nico held the wing out with his magic as she poured the water on it. The water mixed with the sludge as it trickled onto the dirt. He hissed at the sting, taking his eyes off the wing. He looked at me.

"Redd... I-I'm so sorry... I..." I whined.

"Sia, n-no." He forced a smile, a vein making itself known on his forehead.

I shut up, gazing at him, sadly. The last of the pink stuff hit the dirt, but the bloody, bare wing was still cooking in the acid. It was slowly snaking towards his torso.

"The slime is off, but it's still making its way down the base of your wing." Nico said, trying to keep calm.

"What do we do?" I asked.

He flattened his ears, closing his eyes.

"What do we do?!" I repeated, louder.

"I-I don't know."

"Washing it off won't work." Dad said. "I knew a pony who's mother got hit with one of these slime balls. They tried to rinse it off, but it spread all over her body, practically melting her away." He bowed his head.

Redd's face paled.

No. No!

"There is one thing." Pepper's words forced themselves out of our mouth. "You won't like it, though." She focused on the pegasus.

Everypony looked at us, expectantly.

"I don't know if it will work, but..."

"What? Tell us!" Violet pleaded.

Pepper swallowed. "You could try to... amputate the wing."

Everyone stayed silent, except for Redd groaning.

There was nothing to say. I wanted to object, but she was right. He wouldn't be able to fly, but he would be alive. I knew how prideful he was. It would just have to be up to him.

"Pepper, pegasi are... sensitive, there." Nico said.

"I know. I'm not forcing you guys to do anything, it's just a suggestion." She said, clenching our jaw.

A tear fell from my green eye. I did not want to imagine that pain. It reminded me of Clockwork.

"Do we have time to get to Zangth?" I questioned.

"I'm afraid not." Dad said.

Violet stomped in frustration.

"You guys d-do it."

Every one of us looked at Redd, shocked.

He glanced around. "I-I don't want to die. Just..." He gulped. "Do it."

Goddesses, I felt so bad for him.

The gurgling quickly turned into shrieking as Silky came back. I gulped. We would have to distract her even longer.

"Dad, are you sure a healing potion won't work?" I asked, quickly.

He shook his head. "It's the magic in the slime. It wouldn't do anything."

Shit. "Okay, do we have the right supplies? Redd, do you still have the sewing kit?"

He nodded, shakily pushing his bag forward. "Y-yes... scissors, included." He was losing strength.

To my surprise, Pepper levitated a syringe of Med-X and set it next to the bag. "I have this."

"Thank you." I said.

Another shriek from Silky made us tense.

"Nico, I need you to do the surgery. It's probably best if we have a unicorn, so you don't touch that slime. Dad, help Nico. I'll distract Silky while Violet gets us into the basement. We'll be safer in there." I said.

Everyone nodded. Pepper didn't argue. I figured it was because she didn't want to watch Redd be mutilated.

Our chest tightened, forcing me to rub it. Pepper groaned at the sensation. I didn't mean to make her uncomfortable, but I couldn't control it. I snatched my gun up, checking it over. New cartridge. Redd really did think of everything. He had saved me. Pepper, too. He sacrificed his flight for us. I immediately felt guilty from the thought. If it weren't for me, we wouldn't have even gotten into this mess. Pepper took a deep breath, calming me down.

"Pepper, I'm sorry you have to be a part of this." I said, walking towards the half-formed ghoul.

She didn't reply.

I kept my distance from the goo. We came to a halt several yards away from Silky as she stood, headless. I could hear Redd yelling in pain. I had wished I was there, instead of him. Bob levitated in front of me, pointing at her. We were ready for battle, preparing for a hard fight. When her head finally formed from the slime, I noticed her eyes were wet with tears. I faltered. She could speak and she could cry. She was crying. Was she in pain? Did the regeneration hurt her? Maybe, she wasn't a monster, after all. We did kind of invade her boutique. Or, what was left of it. I should have kept up with the Wasteland Surprise Count.

I can't kill an innocent pony.

"What are you doing?! Blast it!" Pepper said.

"Wait. Do you see that? She's crying." I said, quietly.

"I doubt those are tears. It did just get reborn from slime."

Silky growled as she stood before us, ready to charge.

"Pepper, lower the gun. Drop it." I said

"You're insane! You begged me to pick it up, now you want me to drop it?"

"I know, I know. Please? I don't think she will attack if we don't have any weapons."

With an angry sigh, she did as I said. The pistol set down on the ground in front of us. Silky stomped, but didn't attack.

"S-Silky... We didn't mean to intrude..." I called to the ghoul.

She gurgled, opening her mouth to form another slime ball.

"Nice work, feather brain. Any other great ideas?!"

I swallowed, again. This is it. Nothing could stop Silky. She was pissed and we had done it. Our hooves shuffled, getting ready to dodge the aforementioned ball of acidic mucus. Just as we got ready to book it, Silky stopped. Her mouth closed, leaving the glowing ball to die in her throat. She swallowed it. Gross.

"What is she doing?" Pepper hissed.

Pepper's heart raced. I thought my anxiety would cause her to have a heart attack.

"R-Raaarrr....iiittyyyyy..." Silky's low raspy voice was like thousands of hooves scraping a chalkboard.

I didn't dare take my eyes off of her, but she wasn't looking at us. She had spotted the necklace around our neck.

"Y-Yeah. It was a gift from a friend. I know it s-sounds crazy, but Rarity actually is a part of the necklace. She's my friend, too." I said, trying to hide the timidness.

Silky lowered her head, getting a closer look at the gem. I felt Pepper's muscles lock up. I was ready to run, too. The gem in the necklace began to glow, slightly. It reflected off of Silky's eyes. I could see the tears forming in her eyes, again. One giant tear rolled down her cheek, falling to the ground with a splash.

"I'm sorry this happened to you, Silky." I said, sincerely. "There are some bad ponies who want to get the rainbow pearls. They need to be stopped. So, I'm wondering if it's okay that we get into your basement. I promise, we only want to get the pearls. Nothing else will be touched."

Silky said nothing. Her milky eyes lingered on us, for a moment. I expected a nod or shake of her head. Instead, she turned and limped back to her sleeping spot. With a loud thud, she lay down onto the mound of rubble, covering herself with some of it. The glowing pile returned to the way it was before.

I gave a sigh of relief. Death, avoided. Again.

"That was... fucking weird." Pepper said. "This whole thing? Insane!"

"Yeah. I-it is. But, I don't think Silky is a bad pony." I said, quietly. "Maybe, she's just tired everyone attacking her for being what she is."

"Let me guess... Feeling guilty?"

I cleared our throat. "M-maybe."

Pepper sighed. "Let's just get out of here before she changes her mind."

I took control of Pepper's hooves, moving us back to where Nico, Redd, and my dad were. Thankfully, they were finishing up the operation as we walked up. My breath left me when I saw Nico cutting the thread. There were stitches where Redd's wing should have been. It didn't look like it had been as crudely done as Clockwork's scars, but any doctor definitely would have done better. Redd had passed out, probably from the pain. I wanted to hug him. I wanted to just grab him up and smother him with my love, but I knew Pepper would draw the line. If I had to be in her body, we weren't going to be hugging any stallion she didn't know.

"Is he... okay?" I looked at Nico.

He nodded. "Yes. He just couldn't handle the pain." The sewing kit sat next to him. Blood covered some of it.

A flutter of feathers behind us caught our attention. Violet landed next to me, cringing at the sight of Redd's stitches. "I got it. The basement door is open, now."

"Thank you, Vi." I smiled at her.

"So... How the hell did you beat Silky?" Dad asked with narrowed eyes.

I grinned, sheepishly. "Well, I didn't. She just kind of... gave up."

He stared with wide eyes. "You're kidding!"

I shook my head. Pepper spoke. "It said something about Rarity, then it cried, then Sienna asked if we could destroy her pearls, then she went back to sleep. It was easy."

"Not easy." I corrected her. "It was... unforeseen."

"Understatement of the century." Nico mumbled.

Redd groaned as he lifted a forehoof to his head. "I-is it over? Can I look, now?"

"You can, but the stitches are not professional, by any means." Nico said, levitating the sewing kit back into Redd's bag. "I already gave you the shot of Med-X. You should drink the potion. That way, we can take the stitches out, sooner."

Redd looked over at his wingless side. He folded his ears back. "I guess... No flying for me." He sighed. "Nah. I don't need the potion. We should probably save it for a real emergency."

"I'm sorry, Redd." I looked down. "I took it away from you. I-I should not have-"

"I'm gonna stop you there, Sia. I don't regret coming with you and I damn sure don't regret saving your life." He held Pepper's hoof, making her tense. "I'd do it, again."

We stared at each other for a second.

Pepper snatched her hoof back. "Okay, that's enough. Wait until you get back in your own body before you start your wild love making."

I felt our cheeks blush. Redd turned pink, too.

Nico cleared his throat. "We should get to the basement."

"Right." I said. "Do you need help?" I looked back to the pegasus.

He shook his head. "It's okay. I got it."

He slowly got up, stumbling from the lack of balance a couple of times. Eventually, he got it right, throwing a salute with his remaining wing.

I nodded, turning to head towards the basement. The others followed behind.

"He really is the one, huh? Like, not only the sex stuff." Pepper whispered.

"I-I..."

"Relax, I won't tease you, this time. He's... alright, I guess. Just... be careful with that love stuff."

I smiled, again. Now, that was weird. Pepper actually became sentimental instead of insulting him. If I didn't know any better, I'd say she was warming up to us.

The basement door was wide open, leading down a steep set of stairs. They weren't as numerous as the ones leading to Violet's bunker, but there were still a lot. I hated stairs. We descended down the dark steps. The only light was from Nico's horn. The cracked walls had definitely seen better days. We closed in on the vault door. Luckily, I didn't see a key pad or another terminal. I did, however, see a key hole.

I slumped. "Great. We're going to have to go on another looong journey to find that-"

"Found it." Violet said, picking up a key from under a mat. She grinned as she slid it into the hole, twisting it. "You'd think all those great, prewar minds would find better hiding places than under a mat."

That was way, too easy.

The creak probably would have woken Silky up, if she wasn't already aware we were down there. The rusty hinges barely moved. It took Dad, Nico and Violet to push it open so we could fit through. Redd sighed. He probably wanted to help, but given he just had literal surgery, it probably wasn't a good idea.

"Oh, boy. Pepper, prepare your body. Sia is about to get you hot and heavy for her hobby." Violet chuckled.

The lights were already on, despite being over a century, old. When I stepped inside, I almost fainted. It was like Luna picked me up and took me to my own, personal heaven. Fabric and thread lined the shelves. Beautiful thread. Beautiful fabric. All the colors of the rainbow and some metallics. Solids, floral patterns, chevron patterns, geo-patterns. All the patterns! There were rolls of leather. Silk. Furs. High quality stuff! Jars of gemstones sat under the spools of string. All of them were organized by color and size. They shined in the light, making the room look like a disco ball had been hung up. Across from the shelves were baskets of accessories. Pony shaped mannequins wore fancy dresses and casual wear. I walked over to the dresses, running my hoof over the satin fabric of one. This dress in particular was an orange dress with beautiful, yellow sunflowers. It matched my mane! I daydreamed how I might look in some of those outfits. A greedy, selfish part of me wanted to claim this basement as my own.

But nothing there belonged to me.

I slumped a little, but was still happy I got to see the magnificent collection. "It's so... beautiful."

"Right? Better than that rock collection, eh?" Violet nudged me.

I coughed. "Er..."

Pepper sputtered as she stifled a laugh. "Rock collection? Who the hell collects rocks? Nerd."

Violet snickered as she wandered around the vault, gazing at the clothing like it were a museum exhibit.

"I feel kinda dizzy." Redd said, sitting on his haunches and putting a hoof to his head.

Dad pat his back. "You'll be fine. You did lose more blood than what's probably considered safe."

Redd groaned. "So... I'll be feeling like crap for the next couple of hours?"

Dad nodded, earning a sigh from Redd. "I hope we don't come across anything else until then. I doubt I could even aim, correctly."

I was about to apologize for the hundredth time, until Nico spoke up.

"I think I found them." He said, off to the side.

Pepper and I trotted over to where we had heard his voice. He stood in front of a glass case behind some nude mannequins. When he stepped to the side, I definitely knew I had found what I had been searching for. There were only three of them. The most beautiful pearls I had ever seen. They gleamed in the light, letting off a soft, rainbow aura. The pearls' outer shells were a pearly white. The inside reminded me of a memory orb, but prettier. Rainbow colors swirled around, slowly. I couldn't stop staring at them. For one hundred and sixty years, the famous rainbow pearls sat in that basement, untouched.

Power. The power they held. If anypony could harness that energy and control it, they'd be able to do almost anything. I could-

"-do anything..."

ERROR: NO STATS TO DISPLAY
SUBJECT CANNOT BE DETERMINED

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Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

Thank you so much for reading! I hope you enjoy, and as always, constructive criticism/ error spotting are welcome!
Stay safe, everyone!

-AP

Chapter 22: Rainbow Pearls

"Don't get any ideas about my gem! I know where you live."

"-do anything."

As soon as the words left our mouth, I covered it. Pepper and I had said it at the same time, making everyone stare at us. That was strange. We looked back at the pearls. They were glowing a little brighter than before. I kept our eyes on them. The magic swirled in a circular motion, the colors never mixing together. Each color snaked around the other, keeping us hypnotized. How could Rarity destroy such beauty? Why would she want to?

The whispers. They're calling for me. They can help me. I hear them. I need them!

"Stop. Your eyes are changing color, again." Nico placed a hoof on our shoulder.

I shook our head. "Y-yeah. No looking directly at them. Got it."

I felt Pepper reluctantly look away, too. She had been just as mesmerized. I wondered if she heard the sweet whispers, too.

"What now?" She asked.

I paused. If I left the necklace there while still in Pepper's body, I doubted I'd be able to get my own back.

"I... don't know." I said, defeated.

A tense pause.

"You don't know?" Nico said.

I shifted our weight to the right side. "If I leave the necklace here, how will I get back in my body? I don't think Pepper wants to be stuck with me for the rest of her life."

Pepper shook her head so furiously, it made me dizzy.

I put a hoof up to our head to stop the room from spinning. "O-okay... See? I think we need to take them with us and find Blight."

"Great." Pepper said. "Another side-mission."

"Sia, I don't know if we can do this." Dad timidly spoke up. "Blight. She's..." He looked to Nico for a better description.

I saw the unicorn stallion tremor. "I don't know how we would beat her."

Everything quieted. I was, once again, lost. If even Nico was scared of Blight, I didn't know what was to happen if we faced her. I swallowed, the nausea finally dying down to a bothersome queasiness.

Violet stomped. "Come on!" Everyone looked at her. "We have come so far! Well, Sia has, anyway. She's come this far and we have followed her. What we've been through hasn't stopped us, so far!" She jabbed a hoof towards the basement entrance. "Sia defeated a giant, glowing, acid-spitting, ghoul, for Luna's sake! I'm pretty fucking sure she can take back her own body! We are going to get through this!"

"Pretty sure 'defeated' is an overstatement." Pepper smirked.

"My point is," Violet leered at us. "We've been in hopeless situations before. Now, stop sulking and grab those pearls!"

I grinned from ear to ear. "You always know what to say, Vi."

She puffed out her chest, flaring her wings. "I can't have my B.F.F giving up, already!"

Nico rolled his eyes, picking up the purple, cashmere bag that lay under the pedestal.

I started to remind him to not use magic, until I heard a loud clang and a hiss behind me. All of us turned around to see a gas canister spewing out a foggy substance around us. It smelled like a strong chemical. I tried to cover my nose, but it was too overpowering. Violet fanned the smog back the best she could with the help of my dad. Unfortunately, it did little to help.

"What the hell?!" Pepper coughed.

Four shadows stretched into the basement. The tightness in Pepper's chest let me know something bad was about to happen. She swallowed, trying to get rid of the feeling. That, mixed with the chemical had begun to make me dizzy.

The ponies that belonged to the shadows, finally cantered into view. They all wore cloaks and prewar gas masks. The leader of the group stepped past us, as though we didn't even exist and stood between us and the pearls.

The pony chuckled behind the mask. The voice was unmistakable.

"Hope..." I said, breathing heavily.

"Sienna. I didn't recognize you." She said. "New mane cut?" I could hear the smirk on her face.

I growled.

She sighed. "No sense of humor, I presume. In any case, I extend my thanks to you for finding my rainbow pearls."

I flattened our ears, when I remembered the hot iron on Hope's flank. "Gale..."

She threw her head in my direction, all the amusement fleeting. "You have some nerve saying that name. I'm guessing you saw the orb, then."

I nodded, trying to resist the urge to rub our watery eyes. Nico, Redd, and Violet had already passed out from the gas.

"I had hoped you would watch it, if only to get a better understanding of my grand renovation of the world."

I pleaded, "It doesn't have to... be this way, Gale... You can give the foal back to his mother... You c-could fix the wasteland another way. Please, it doesn't... have to be like this..."

"It does. It will always be this way. There will always be war and disharmony. You cannot simply take a weapon away from somepony and expect it to stop there. You win one battle, but then what happens? Another pony with 'ideas' will rise." She turned back to the pearls. "With these, we will never have to worry about that, again. The Enclave will finally be burned to the very ground that they fear. We will have no more enemies."

I knelt, coughing, trying to stay conscious. Between her speech and the memory orb, I didn't even know if she was just bad or good with bad intentions, anymore. She wanted to be one of the good guys, but was misguided.

"You could still join me, you know. We could stop all the evil that the wasteland brings. The Grand Pegasus Enclave betrayed and abandoned you, too. We could prevent them from ever hurting another pony, again." Ho- Gale never turned around. She just waited for my reply.

A part of me wanted to say yes. After all, if those rainbow colored orbs were as powerful as they said, it probably could bring peace to Equestria. The land would return to what it was before the war. It sounded too good to be true.

I never fall for anything that is too good to be true.

"N-no... It's not... right..." I whispered.

She didn't flinch, as if the response was expected. "You're a fool." I could hear her picking up something.

"Gale..." Dad said, wearily. I assumed it took a lot more of the gas to knock him out. "Why? I can't believe it's you..."

I fell onto my side. It was hard to stay awake. What did he mean? He knew her?

"I'm afraid I have no time to chat, Thunder Cloud." Glass shattered, raining onto the floor next to me. I opened my eyes, one last time to see Gale sweep the pearls in their purple, velvet sack.

"Why..." I heard my father ask before I lost consciousness.

Everything was dark. Again. You'd think I would get used to awakening in the dark, but the feeling was still uncomfortable. I lifted a hoof to my chest. The white hide brought me to attention, fast. I looked over the rest of me. I was back in my body! I flapped my wings a couple of times, savoring the breeze between my feathers. It felt so nice, but I was also deeply disappointed. She had them. Gale took one of the most dangerous weapons in the wasteland. I exhaled from my nostrils as I began to plan for a future where everything was destroyed.

"How are you holding up?" Rarity appeared in front of me.

I folded my wings back, lazily. "Well, Hope just knocked us out and took the pearls. I'm sure she will take over, now." I sat down, not even bothering to ask if I was dreaming.

"You can't give up that easily!" She said, flustered.

I sighed. "Rarity, she's probably already got them locked and loaded. By the time I wake up, she will be some kind of robo-alicorn-princess who thinks she is the reincarnate of Luna, herself, or something." I shook my head at the blasphemous thought. "I don't want to give up, but what choice would I have? What if I'm too late?"

She gave me a look. "How many pep talks must you need, dear? You are not too late. 'Too late', is not realizing what a mistake you've made until you're watching your entire world go up in balefire flames. 'Too late' is wanting to apologize to your friends after they've died or disappeared." She sniffed. I felt so awful, then.

I looked at my hooves in shame. "I-I'm sorry. I just... I don't have the authority or the weaponry or the skills to do this. I thought I could, but she took the pearls so easily." I stomped. "I practically hoofed them over to her on a silver platter. I'm not a hero like you, Twilight, Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and even Rainbow Dash. You were the heroes that Equestria needed. I'm just a mare on a wild goose chase. That's all I've been doing: Chasing her."

She gazed up into the void and smiled, genuinely. "We didn't always see eye to eye, you know. Things weren't always sunshine and rainbows with us. I remember a lot of times, Twilight would doubt herself just like you do. She always questioned whether she was the right pony for the job. In the end, she always chose her love for her friends over her fears and doubts. Our time is long over, though. Equestria may have needed us a hundred years ago, but right now, it needs new friendships. Ponies like you and your friends." She looked back to me. "It's okay to ask questions. You just have to figure out the right answers."

I looked on into the distance. Was friendship really that important? I mean, I know it's important for social growth and the like, but for the sake of the world? Maybe in the sense that without friends, ponies would be in a constant state of anger and depression, causing some economic stunts in growth, but even that was a stretch. I guess I wouldn't know if I didn't try. I rubbed my foreleg. "You're right. I should at least try. I just hope my friends aren't hurt in the process." I hugged myself with my wings.

Rarity chuckled. "That means you are on the right track."

The void started to shrink as I felt myself waking up. I let the void close in as I smiled at the fading unicorn.

When I came to, I was lying on the basement floor. Nico, Violet, and my dad were already awake. Redd was still out. I'm guessing the blood loss mixed with the gas took a greater toll on him. Violet looked like she had just woken up as she felt her head. I stood, wobbling. "Whoa... Not so... fast." Pepper grunted.

"Sorry." I replied.

"She got away." Nico said, examining the broken case. The pillow where the pearls had once sat was now empty, replaced with shards of glass.

"Damn it." Violet snorted. "Cheap shot with that gas."

I grit my teeth as I looked back at the entrance. "We've got to find her."

"First, we need to get Redd to a doctor. And we need water and food." Nico mentioned.

I didn't argue. "Well, how far are we from Zangth?"

"Almost the same distance as Floater, surprisingly." Violet replied.

I perked our ears. "Floater is that close?"

"Well, sure. You guys didn't travel that far. You had to go around the thicker part of the Dead Woods to get to this side of Shattered Hoof. And if you go through the woods, it's a straight shot to Floater."

"That may be true, but it could be dangerous that way. There's no telling what we will come across." The tan unicorn countered. "Redd is in no condition to travel that wa-"

"I'm -nngh- fine." Everyone glanced in the direction of the stallion getting up. He held out his remaining wing for balance. "I will be fine. The sooner we get this mission over with, the sooner I can retire."

"Nico's right. You wouldn't be able to get away from any danger in that state." I said.

He furrowed his brow, avoiding eye contact. "I said, I'll be fine. Let's go." With that, he made his way back up the stairs, trying not to stumble every few steps.

I felt like I had been slapped in the face. Violet mimicked my reaction and shrugged when I gave her a questioning glance. Redd never acted hostile for no reason. Immediately, my mind went to, "He hates you because you made him lose his wing!" I shrunk back, feeling guilty as ever. Pepper's jaw clenched without me doing so, myself.

Suddenly, Pepper jolted forward. Her hooves stomping with each step. "Come on. We are going through those woods. If he thinks he can handle it, let him."

"Wait!" I heard the hoofsteps behind us. "We don't know how bad it is in there!"

"Oh, Nico, you sweet, sexy idiot. If anybody can protect us, it's you." Pepper said. I couldn't tell if she was being sarcastic or not. At the time, I just wanted to keep to myself, so I let her take full control of her body. I felt bad enough. Getting in the way was all I did, anyway.

Nico swallowed, and stopped talking. I think he was confused, too.

"Not stopping us, huh?" She said, speaking at a hushed tone. It was directed towards me.

"Why would I? I trust you guys." I said, half right. I did trust them, but I was going to be useless in a thicket of dead trees with no wings. I guess I deserved that, too. I took Redd's flight. I deserved to be grounded.

Redd waited for us at the top, refusing to look at any of us. Violet flew above, leading the way up the hill and into the woods. Nopony said anything for a good few minutes. I occasionally glanced back at my dad. He was awfully quiet, too. Almost distracted. I wanted, so badly to ask what was wrong. I figured it was about Gale. It was probably an old wound he didn't want to open back up.

Probably one of his wasteland flings. Every stallion has needs, after all.

I wanted to throw up at that thought. Gross. But, still. He knew something. I'd let it wait until we got to Floater. Dad probably needed time to process it all. The shock was all too genuine. It seemed like our herd was slowly falling apart, and it was all my doing.

The Dead Woods definitely lived up to its name. It felt so devoid of life, it was like a graveyard. Bare logs littered the ground, peppered with twigs and branches. I expected to see fallen leaves, but forgot there was no healthy vegetation and hadn't been for decades. The cloud curtain made it a little eerie and hard to see, especially with the light fog hanging in the air. If there was any sun, it would be a beautiful place. This definitely wasn't the Everfree Forest I had read about. They say that place was something out of a garish horror story, even blocking sunlight. This? It was just lifeless. Nothing, except the occasional "zom-bird", as I called them. The patchy, feathered creatures looked like they had soaked up enough radiation that would kill any normal animals. You could tell the wildlife had adapted to the environment. Fortunately, though, we hadn't come across any dangerous creatures like Nico had warned. He did say that they were probably waiting until nightfall. We only had a couple more hours of daylight, though. I constantly prayed to Celestia to keep the day going until we made it out.

The scenery did little to ease my anxiety. I tried to keep the physical symptoms at bay for Pepper's sake, but the occasional heart rate increase made it difficult. Thankfully, she didn't say anything about it. I wanted to hurry and get to Gale and her "Hope Coven", but Nico was right. We had to get it together, first. To top it off, I had no idea where she was. So far, my only plan was to get my body back, defeat Blight, and defeat Hope. Simple, simple, simple.

I need alcohol.

Pepper and Nico walked side by side. Redd was behind us and in front of Dad. It was better for him to be in the middle in case something jumped out at us. I was worried about his stumbling, but he was getting better at walking without the wing. The trees and thick, dead bushes made it difficult for him to navigate. Every once in a while, we'd hit a patch of briars. Very painful briars. At some point, we had stopped to untangle Nico's rifle from a few of them. As Pepper used her magic to break the vines, a rustle of twigs brought me out of my hazy thoughts.

"What was that?" Violet said, flapping slowly.

We perked our ears to listen, again. Nothing ever happened.

"It was probably just a breeze." Nico said, moving the last of the thorns from his shoulder strap.

"O-or that." Redd finally spoke.

I turned to where he was pointing to see the strangest animal I had ever seen. If it wasn't for Pepper tensing up, I would have screamed. The grayish-brown blob stuck out of the briars, staring at us. Well I say us, because its two, bulbous eyes were looking in opposite directions. Its body was bumpy, round, and probably could be mistaken for a muddy rock. I could barely see its stumpy, bloated legs under the flab hanging at its sides. Both of its tails were crooked and covered in the same, hard plating that covered its back and top of its head. The difference was that the plating on its back had overlapped, making it deformed and rugged. Two, long, deformed ears stuck out of the top of its head. I could tell its nose was the most normal looking. Long and slender, allowing for the animal to eat insects or smaller foods.

-hurk- -brrrrrrrrp-

The sound it made was horrid.

"W-Will it attack?" I asked.

"No. I believe it was called an 'armadillo' before the war. We call them 'jagged-backs', now. I've seen a few pass by the tavern." Dad spoke for the first time in a while. Unenthusiastic, but it was better than nothing. "It's harmless."

"Why does it look like that?" Violet said. She snorted a laugh. "It's so ugly!"

-huuuurk-

"Years of radiation, I guess. They aren't just ugly, they're pretty stupid, too."

I inspected the thing, careful not to get too close. It blinked one eye, slowly, then the other.

-hrk-

I grinned. "It doesn't seem that... bad."

The blob turned to Redd, blinked, and hobbled over to where he was standing. It was almost half as tall as Redd's forehoof. The poor thing rubbed against his hoof, affectionately.

"Ew, what the hell?! Get away!" The pegasus pushed the jagged-back away,

When it rolled to a stop, the animal blinked, looked back at Redd, and went to rub against him, again.

"Aw, he likes you!" Violet cooed.

Redd rolled his eyes. "Well, I don't like disgusting, radiated rodents."

"Actually, they aren't rodents."

"Whatever they are!" He snapped.

-hurrrk-

Nico, Violet, and Pepper snickered as the jagged-back kept trying to get Redd's attention, wagging both of its tails. The grumpy stallion stuck his nose up and continued onward through the trees. The little blob happily followed behind him, wobbling like an overweight puppy. Redd tried to get the mutated armadillo to stop following him, but it was determined to go with him. After several more attempts, my red-maned friend gave up and just let the thing be.

~~~~~~~~

It was already dark by the time we made it to the edge of the woods. Rocky (as dubbed by Violet) didn't want to stop there. I half expected him to go back to his jagged-back home, but he wouldn't leave Redd. Every time he fell behind, he would run as fast as his little legs would carry him, grunting and snorting. If Redd could fly, I'm sure Rocky would have been left behind some time ago.

When we were out in the open, I breathed a sigh of relief. We still had a few miles before we got to Floater, so we looked for a place to camp out. The only buildings near us were destroyed or about to fall in. Nico abhorred the idea of staying somewhere that could kill us while we slept. With some searching, though, we finally came upon a crashed sky carriage big enough to sleep in. It was a public transport from before the war. "SpeedTrav" was cleverly painted on the side of the old thing. We cleared out the old luggage, checking each one for something we could use on our journey.

The ponies of prewar times sure knew how to pack. Our little pile of treasure ended up containing a couple of small blankets, a box of bobby pins, a tin of crackers, a can of beans, a hat, some bandages, and a foal's rattle. Nico said the hat and rattle could be sold for a couple of caps since they were in good condition. I eyed the blankets, wearily. Specifically, the pink one. I thought back to the foals in Sky's memory, and the foal that was taken from the hospital. I didn't want to talk about the latter, right then, though.

"Don't like pink?" Pepper whispered.

"No, it's not that. I just..." I sighed. "You know, when the bombs dropped, everything was just destroyed or killed. Including foals." I swallowed back tears. "That blanket... It belonged to a foal that had no idea what was going to happen while she was traveling. She died w-without her blanket."

Pepper said nothing. Instead, she breathed and took the blanket, setting it in her saddle bag. "I'll keep it safe. I like pink."

I felt a smile come to our lips. It was a shared one.

I spotted Redd sitting behind the carriage while the others finished clearing out a spot to rest. Rocky sat next to him, eyes wandering in different directions. It was time to check on him.

I willed Pepper's hooves to move toward him. She tried to stop me at first, but I persisted.

"I hope you know what you're doing." She snarked.

I came to a stop next to him and sat down. He didn't look up.

Please, forgive me.

"Redd."

He didn't say anything.

"Redd, please. I-"

"Don't." He said, coldly. "I... want to be alone."

I winced. "O-okay. I'm sorry."

When I tried to move, Pepper's body stayed where it was. I tried, again, but no use. "Pepper, what are you doing?"

Redd glanced back, perturbed. "If you don't mind..."

I barely got a forehoof off the ground, before I felt our lips move and her voice escape. "Oh, I don't mind."

He rolled his eyes. "Of course. I forgot my friend is stuck in your body." The disgust in his voice was too obvious.

Pepper kept her cool, thankfully. "Act like you're above me if you want, but if you hadn't been balls deep in your 'friend' first, I'm sure you would want me." I felt the smirk. I let myself stay dormant. I would have had her blushing if I hadn't.

His pupils shrunk to the size of a pin prick as he stared in surprise.

"Now that I have your attention, tell me something, jackass. Why are you so pissed off at her? Is it because you lost your wing?" She stood directly in front of him so he would look at her. "Are you crying because you chose to save our lives?"

"I..."

"Nopony asked you to save us. We didn't make you fly in front of that killer spit ball, Casanova. You made that choice yourself. You probably love her, you probably love me-"

"Her."

"-BUT!!" She poked him. "That was still your choice. This entire time since you've been walking around wingless, Sienna has been wishing it were her. You wanna know how I know? Because she's in my body. You know why she's in my body? Because she's risking her flank saving this Goddess-forsaken wasteland. If it were me, I would say screw all of you and just let you sorry shit-heads die. Fortunately for you and aaalll these other losers, she's pushing you all from the direct line of a giant fucking acid ball."

Silence. His face was scarlet with anger and embarrassment. I felt bad for him. I wished I could have stopped her, but I couldn't. I was appalled. Too shocked to try to stop her, really.

"I-I'm not mad that I lost my wing." He avoided my half of the eyes, but drilled into hers. "I know the risks to save lives. I signed up for the Enclave because that's what I thought I'd be doing: Saving lives." He snorted, the air rushing out of his nostrils. "I'm frustrated because I hear you all trying to treat me like I'm helpless. Like I'm a cripple. That bastard, Nico, has already chastised me once about my new imbalance. He didn't even think I could get through that lame forest."

Pepper laughed, sarcastically. "Cripple? I don't see a cripple. I see a crybaby with an injury. If you don't want to be treated like a 'cripple' then don't fucking act like one. So you're missing a wing, big deal. At least you didn't lose your life. Would you rather be treated as a memory? I think I've mentioned already, Sienna lost her entire body. She's basically just a fucking shoulder angel with a little more control. You want to be angry at the ponies who are just trying to look after you. Why don't you stop being pissy and just tell them it bothers you that they give a shit? Be grateful you have friends who care about you. Some of us are not so lucky. Some of us would kill to have friends we care about enough to want to risk our lives for."

Harsh, Pepper.

Her tense muscles began to relax a little as she started to turn away. "And you know what else?" She stopped, facing him to let him have even more of her wrath. "I haven't known this bitch that long, but I'm starting to really wonder what she sees in you. She tried to kill me for talking about one of her friends. If she loves her friends that much..." She paused, frustrated. "Be. Fucking. Grateful."

Pepper retreated back, suddenly letting her body go limp, until I realized she was giving me the reins. I stumbled as I gained back the motor skills needed to stay upright. I shook my head, calming her racing heart. That was definitely her doing. I didn't say anything. I was so appalled that she stood up for me like that. I was thankful, but still shocked. If I was back in my body I would have hugged her.

"You're really something." He glared.

"I..." I quickly pinned our ears back and folded like a rusty card table.

He must have heard the change of voice. Redd quickly let his anger die and turn to remorse. "Sia... I'm sorry."

"No! You are not going to do that!" I hurriedly said.

He sighed, shaking a little from the dying anger. "Listen to me. She's right. That mare... She's right. I didn't have to act that way all day. I should have just talked to you guys about it. I'm sorry."

I wiped my eye. Tears were pouring from just that one side. "Redd, I didn't mean to cause you to lose your flight. I know how it feels to not be able to fly and I hate it. I could imagine how it feels for you. I-I would sacrifice anything of mine to give you that, back."

"Like she said, I made that choice. Not only because I... love you. I would have saved her, too. That's what we are supposed to do. It's our job. Our duty to Equestria."

I shivered. Hearing him speak like that would have probably made my body feel tingly. "Redd..."

"From now on, I'll talk to you if something is bothering me. Not Pepper. She kinda scares me." He smirked. "But I guess I should thank her for kicking my ass."

I giggled. "I'm glad." I kept a small, smile. "You know. Maybe, if it's okay with her, I could kiss-"

The sensation of suddenly changing voices almost made me choke on those words. "Hell. No. Wait until you get another body before you start fucking, again."

Redd blushed. "How did-"

"I knew it when we were back at that factory. Right before that demon princess took her over. I can tell when a mare has been happily had."

He cleared his throat. "Happily, huh?"

"Anyway, let's get some sleep." I quickly stood.

Redd followed after us, keeping a small grin on his face. Rocky followed closely behind him.

-huuuuurrrk-

The stallion rolled his eyes, again. "Please, go away."

I mentioned how difficult it was to get used to sharing a body. The real challenge was going to sleep without being gassed. I realized we hadn't actually slept since we left the factory. When I was about to doze off, Pepper would toss or turn, waking me up. When I was finally asleep, she would wake up. At one point, we must have woken Nico up from his spot on a passenger seat.

"Trouble sleeping?" He gave me a sympathetic smile.

I groaned. "Apparently, we can't be asleep at the same time unless it's chemically induced."

"Want me to stay up with you?" He yawned.

"No, no. I'm just gonna keep trying. Good night, Nico." I said, twisting our neck to pretend to doze off.

"Night, Sia." It didn't take him long to start snoring.

I exhaled, staring out of the carriage window. The cloud curtain was thick as ever.

Our ear swiveled to the ghastly snores of the jagged-back

-grrrrpppp- -hhhuuurrrkkkk- -grrrrpp-

This is going to be a long night...

ERROR: NO STATS TO DISPLAY
SUBJECT CANNOT BE DETERMINED

Level Up!

New Perk
Walk-a-thon - Your total stamina has a permanent 25% increase.

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

As always, constructive criticism/error spotting is always welcome! Thank you for reading!
Stay safe, everyone!

-AP

Chapter 23: Roundabout

"I was so focused on my studies, I never made time for any of my friends in Canterlot."

Forgotten. Is it possible for anything to be truly remembered? I don't think so. When we die, we are buried. The only things that remain are memories. What if all who carry our memories dies, eventually? You might could argue that stories could be told to their children and grandchildren. Of course, if those children and grandchildren die without telling those same stories, no one would remember. The most important of ponies in history probably have statues or tomes written about them. Those, too, degrade. It may take time (decades or centuries) but nothing truly, truly lasts an eternity. So, eventually, we are forgotten. I suppose that would be less disquieting than just being buried, then never even being brought up, again. What if you forget about somepony and come back, years later, in their life? They probably feel forgotten, but the definition of the word "forget" is "to cease to think of or consider". I would think "cease", in that sentence, means a complete stop. Whether I'm right or wrong is not what I'm trying to get at. Think of it as... the ramblings of a mare who has forgotten what a good, night's sleep feels like.

Okay, sharing a body sucks. Sharing a sleep-deprived body DOUBLE sucks.

On our way up the old path, I found it nearly impossible to walk without tripping over our hooves. We took turns controlling her tired body. It barely helped. I was glad we didn't get ambushed. There were, however, a lot of hostile scavengers around. Of course, between Redd and Nico's firepower, Dad's intimidating stature, and Violet's animosity towards everyone who looked our way with angry eyes, we weren't in any real danger.

A small comfort embraced me as we finally saw the Beacon a short distance away. I knew it was probably selfish to think, but the first thought that came to me was, "I wonder if it's possible get drunk in a body with dual minds". Would it take double the alcohol? Would one of us stay sober? I would have loved to take a chance with it, but decided it was probably one of the worst ideas. Also, I didn't even know if Pepper drank alcohol. Be a shame if she didn't.

"I never thought I'd be this happy to see the place where I lost all my caps, again." Violet said with a solemn breath.

"You've been there, before?" I asked.

"I'm sure everypony in a thousand-mile radius has been here at some point." She chuckled.

Nico shook his head. "Why am I not surprised you managed to lose all your caps."

She retorted. "I didn't really lose all of them. I just... I..." She grunted. "Well, I still had enough to buy a drink when I was done!"

I chuckled. Good ol' Violet. She wasn't as bad as Bolt Chaser was about gambling, but she definitely came in at a close second.

I bet Chaser would love the place.

My smile turned sour as I remembered him, again. I tried, so hard, to only think of pre-wasteland Chaser. The tape kept entering my mind. How could one tape impact a lifetime of friendly memories just like that? I mentally noted to listen to the tape once I had the Pipbuck, again. I still owed it to Pepper.

"Home, sweet home." Nico breathed as we came to the first building. Ponies walked up and down the street, some as if the wasteland were just a normal place. A few foals trotted, happily, next to their mother or father. Ma's store had quite a few patrons bustling about. I even saw Tonno Weights napping on a porch in front of one of the houses. It was just as quiet and dusty as I remembered. Except, the constant thought of this quaint little town blowing up because of me. That was definitely new.

The building that stood out the most, though, was Fleece's small, square clinic. I was ready to see my newfound sister! It didn't take us very long to reach her front door. I assumed everypony already knew the ghoul, with the exception of my father.

Once Nico opened the door, all of us piled in the waiting area.

"I'll be with you, shortly!" The familiar, scratchy voice yelled from the back. A few minutes after, she walked into the room, carrying an empty vial. "Just let me toss this and-" She perked her chipped ears, when she saw us. "Nico! What on Equus are you doing here?" She trotted up to him, looking over him. Then, she turned to the white stallion, eye widening at the sight of the scar on his side. "Redd, correct?"

He nodded.

"Fleece, I have more than enough to trade if you can fix up his injury a little better." Nico told her, his voice tired.

"Of course." The ghoul looked at the rest of us. "Where's Sia? Please, don't tell me she..."

I forced Pepper's body forward. "H-here."

Another retelling of the previous events later, I had caught Fleece up with what had happened while she worked on re-stitching Redd's side. Pepper and I had stayed with him while Nico and Violet went to trade for ammo, food, and water. Dad stayed in the waiting room to rest. I needed to have a talk with him, as well.

"Sooo... The necklace I gave you was enchanted and has a connection to something called the 'Rainbow Pearls', and it somehow caused you to lose your body to a magical, evil being who plans to find the pearls, along with another villainous being who wants them for a different reason, and now you're sharing a body with this young lady, here, until you can figure out a way to get yours back?" The undead pony recanted.

"I'd probably think it was a crock of shit, too." Pepper spoke up. "She even has a lame nickname: Fear Fighter."

Fleece didn't bat an eye at the change of voice, but snickered at the name. "Well, I must say, the one-hundred, seventy years I have been walking this planet, I have never seen anything like this." She shook her head. "But, I can't say things like this are impossible in Equestria. After all, magic (good or bad) has always been rampant, here."

"No surprises, then?" I chuckled, dryly.

She smiled. "I'm only surprised you haven't gone stir crazy. You've been in my thoughts, though, my friend."

-hurk-

The ghoul looked at Rocky sitting on the floor. He kept his wall-eyed gaze in Redd's general direction, wagging his tails.

She grinned. "I never thought the armadillo could get anymore adorable."

With practiced ease, she snipped the extra medical thread with a pair of sterile scissors. Redd didn't seem as timid around her as he was when he first arrived. The doctor finished up and levitated a vial of some sort over to him. The gray-white liquid inside did not look too appetizing. "This is a one-time antibiotic. You're developing a mild infection in your blood, but since it's still early, this will do the trick. It doesn't taste very good, so please try not to throw it up."

The tough buck grimaced, slightly. "I, uh... I'll try to keep it down."

"What about those crackers? Those should help." I said.

"Century old crackers will probably make me more nauseated." He flattened his ears.

Pepper rolled our eyes. "You got anything else in mind, cry baby?"

Redd glared at us, but knew better than to argue.

I shook our head as we turned to go to where our saddlebags were. "You don't have to be so mean to him." I whispered.

"Well, he shouldn't be so stubborn." Pepper said, out loud.

I was about to object, when I caught something, walking by Fleece's room. I remembered the room, since that was where she kept the dresses she stored. Something was different, though. She had cleared out some of her trinkets and left an empty space beside where her mattress lay. I spotted the corner of a basement door. It was a heavy, cement entrance. Stuff was still piled in front of most of it as if it were just an obsolete space, but my brain was telling me that it led somewhere, important.

"What is it?" Pepper asked, quietly. She must not have noticed.

"Do you see that door?" I asked.

"What about it?"

"I never noticed it." I said. "I wonder where it goes."

"Probably just some storage room." She dismissed it.

I squinted. "A simple storage room wouldn't have such a heavy door." I added that to the list of things to do. "I can ask Fleece about it, later. Let's get those crackers."

Upon stepping hoof in the waiting area, I noticed Dad was curled up next to our bags, his face contorted in thought. He was probably thinking about Gale. It only bothered me more, now that I knew he had known who she really was. If there was one thing my anxiety taught me, it was that some ponies probably didn't want to share their secrets. To argue with that, though, any knowledge of Gale would be extremely useful in saving the world.

"Dad?" I said, cautiously.

He didn't answer, so I had to repeat. "Daddy."

"Huh? Yes, sweetheart?"

"What's wrong?"

He forced a smile. "Nothing."

I felt the weird tingle in our forehead as Pepper levitated the box of crackers out.

"Come on, Dad. I know there's something on your mind." I said.

He shook his head. "I promise, there's nothing wrong. I'm just a little homesick for the tavern."

I gave him a few more seconds to tell me. When he never did, I exhaled. As bad as I wanted to push him for answers, it just wasn't the right time. He had lost his livelihood in that fire. "If you're sure. Promise you'll talk to me if something is bothering you, though."

"Of course. I don't mean to be closed off. It's not fair to you." He rubbed his neck. "With everything going on, I guess I'm mainly just worried about you. I just got you back in my life. I don't know what I would do if you were taken from me, again."

I wanted to hug him, but didn't. For Pepper's sake. "You won't. I'm gonna go get these to Redd. You get some rest, okay?"

He nodded with a yawn. I think it was fake, but didn't question it.

Redd sat up as we walked in. The crackers were set on the bedside table. Redd groaned when he saw the faded image of the crispy snack on the front. He finally relented and took out the packaging. They were never open, so maybe they wouldn't be so bad. After getting a few of them down, he pushed the box away, drinking the rest of the water Fleece had brought him.

"Thanks." He said, looking over at his side. "Well, it definitely looks and feels better." The stitches were fairing so much better. Thankfully the scars wouldn't be like Clockwork's. I cringed at the thought.

Nico trotted in, his saddlebags hanging over his back. "Okay, We have enough food and water to last a week." We were already good on most of the medical supplies. Ma managed to get a few cartridges for your energy weapons. I also bought a shotgun for Mixer. Can't always rely on brute strength."

"So we're all set?" I asked.

He nodded. "Sorry, no cake, though."

Damn. I needed a big slice, right now.

I grinned. "Well, as bad I hate missing out on the dessert of the Goddesses, I think we should get going as soon as Redd gets the okay from Fleece."

"Where are we going, now?" The unicorn stallion asked.

I shrugged, hopelessly. "I have no idea."

"Great. No plan. Again." Pepper mumbled.

I cleared our throat. "We need to find a way to track that Pipbuck."

"The only way you're gonna be able to do that, is if you have a computer mainframe that has some Stable-Tec software. That's the only way I know of, at least." Violet piped up as she walked through the door. She now wore a tarnished sword holder at her hip.

"Are you supposed to be a ninja, Vi?" Redd snickered.

She smiled, proudly. "It suits me. Sleek, stylish, quiet. Your energy rifles suit you, too. Big, loud, and needs to be cleaned frequently."

He rolled his eyes. "Ha-ha."

"Violet, how would we know what kind of computer to look for?" I asked.

She rubbed her chin. "Well, I guess to know for sure you'd look for the Stable-Tec logo. Of course, anypony who is tech-savvy can probably upload the programs onto a regular terminal. I'm not a computer genius, or anything, but I could probably figure it out if we need it."

Might as well be looking for a needle in a haystack. It'd be easier to find.

I sighed. "We will get to it when we get to it. Pepper and I will find Fleece and see if Redd is okay to travel."

We left the banter as we made our way down the hall. It only took a few steps before I spotted the doctor in her room, rummaging through her drawers. Junk had accumulated on the desk from her searching. It was also zooming over Pepper's head. "Whoa! Watch it!" She warned the ghoul.

Fleece turned for a brief moment before going back to the treasure hunt. "Sorry, hon. I'm trying to find the witch hazel salve. I've got a patient with a terrible rash on her backside."

I scrunched our nose. "Hope she feels better soon."

"Well, she would if she would stop messing with dirty, old stallions." She shook her head. "Prostitution has its downsides."

My face would have been pink if I was back in my body.

From the corner of my eye, I saw the concrete outline of the door. It piqued my interest to the point where I had to know more about it. "Hey, Fleece, where does that door lead?"

She looked up, now holding a half-used tube of paste. "Oh, that? I have not one clue. When I first got here, it was sealed pretty tight, but I managed to open it. Unfortunately, I couldn't get past the hallway. There are defense turrets that pack a bit of power. They shoot at anyone who goes through."

I swallowed. If there were turrets, there had to be something worth defending down there. Pepper swished her tail.

"You never asked anypony here if they knew what was in there? Surely, someone knows." I said.

"The topic did come up a few times, but nopony else knew, either. Ma did mention a giant, hidden lab." She waved it off. "But, I didn't really pay much attention. I did diagnose her with onset dementia, after all."

A hidden lab? Right under Floater?

I thought a moment. "Why would they build a lab here? I haven't seen any above-ground structures that look like an entrance to something like that."

Her head nodded towards the secret door. "That is the entrance. This clinic was build around it. Personally, I don't believe there ever was a government operation down there. The placement seems less... secure than it should be, other than the turrets."

I stared at the entrance, hoping it would spill its secrets.

"Actually," Fleece pointed out. "One of the bartenders at the casino let it slip that there is another underground entrance in the security room at the Beacon. They had the same problem with the turrets, though, so the manager of the place resealed it and deemed it hazardous."

"So, they put an entrance here and in the Beacon?" I contemplated the distance between the two. "That's about a hoofball field in length, give or take a few yards."

Fleece nodded. "It's a huge facility, if the rumors are true." She started towards the hall. "I'd better get this to Night Dancer."

A lab would have a computer.

"Wait." I interjected before she disappeared. "Would it be okay if we went down there to check it out? If it's a lab, there should be a terminal good enough to track a Pipbuck."

She looked as if I had just slapped her in the face. "You can't be serious."

"I-I am."

"That corridor is lined with those turrets. there are at least half a dozen. A few of them shoot lasers!" The salve almost fell from her levitation spell. "You could get seriously hurt, or worse!"

"But what if that's the only chance I have? There's a lot at stake, Fleece. Not just getting my body back, but there are lives on the line, too." I pleaded.

Her surprise faltered, turning into worry. "What if there isn't even a laboratory? If so, we don't even know if there's anything left. The security systems could just be faulty."

"I have to try." I put a hoof on hers. "There's a risk no matter what I do. At least, this way there's a better chance to make things right."

Her eye drilled into mine, as if begging me to take back my plans. Eventually, she drew a breath and stomped her hoof. "Damn it, I am going to regret this. Alright, but you had better be careful. Don't come back here riddled with bullet holes."

I gave her a half-hearted smile. "Thank you. I promise, if it's too much, we will abort."

She shook her head, holding up the tube. "Let me apply this, and I will come back to move the junk from the door."

With a nod, I headed the opposite direction back into the waiting area. Nico sat across from the sleeping form that was my father. He held a pencil in his magic, writing something in an old notepad. When he saw us, he quickly put it away. "So...?"

Oh, crap. I forgot to ask about Redd. He is probably in no state to go with us, anyway.

"Uh, well, Redd doesn't need to go where we are going." I said, timidly.

Nico raised a brow. "And, where are we going, exactly?"

For a few seconds, I couldn't figure out how to tell him we were going underground, risking getting saturated in bullet holes by overactive security turrets, and exploring a (possibly empty or dangerous) research facility. Shouldn't have been too hard, right?

"Well, apparently, there's an ancient lab under our hooves. Filled with guns. Like, sentinel turrets. There could be a computer there!" I just blurted it all out, getting ready for a negative response from him.

He blinked, then closed his eyes and breathed out. "Okay. That is crazy. You're gonna have to explain that one a little better."

Better reaction than I could have hoped for.

"There's some kind of basement door in Fleece's room that is rumored to be the 'undisclosed' entrance to a lab. There is also one in the security room in the Beacon, but that one is closed off. It's all under speculation, but there is one thing we know for sure."

"Which is?" He eyed me, carefully.

"A hall full of turrets. Those are real, as proven by Fleece when she attempted to check it out." I sighed.

There went that sour frown, again. "Can't say I'm surprised you'd find something like that."

"Are you in, or not?" Pepper demanded an answer.

He looked from my eye, to hers, then back to mine. "I trust you know what you're doing. We've been through almost everything else, it seems. I am, however, going to find you both some kind of protection. Barding, at least. To keep your important organs from turning into swiss cheese. At least it's just stationed turrets and not, oh, I don't know... an army of ultra sentinels."

I mentally hoofbumped myself. Mostly, for not getting scolded. "That's fair."

"I hate wearing clothes." Pepper took her vocal chords back. "Whoever came up with idea for clothes is a real whack-job."

I cleared our throat as I took control, again. "It's just until we get out of there. Or when we know it's safe."

She rolled our eyes. "Fine. I can't dodge while sharing my skills with you, anyway."

One ugly set of barding (seriously, he bought the same one he made me wear when I first got to Floater) and one game plan review with the team later, and we were all set. As expected, there were mixed reactions. I hadn't really thought about what supplies we could leave or bring since we were, literally, going to be right under the town. There was also the issue with Redd, still. My fault.

I looked at the room full of ponies, then behind me at the basement door. Fleece had just finished removing the last of the junk. The door was definitely bigger than it seemed.

"I bet there are robots or mutant animals or top secret weapons or-"

"Easy, Violet. Don't waste your energy fantasizing about a place that's probably empty." Redd told the green mare.

She folded her forelegs, landing on the ground next to him. "Don't be a stick in the mud."

Fleece checked Redd's wrapping to make sure everything was in order. She finally nodded. "You are okay to go, but when the going gets tough, you will not get going. You will sit and shoot from a distance, and only if you are up to it."

Violet snickered at the stallion as he groaned. "I am not a colt!"

Fleece chuckled. "Hon, I didn't say you were."

-hrk- -hrk-

"Sorry, Rocky. I'll be nice to your friend." She hid her laugh behind her flaked hoof.

As if satisfied with the answer, the animal plopped down next to Redd.

"You'd better stay behind, Rocky. Fleece will take care of you, don't worry." Violet said to the animal.

He blinked, then rolled over on his back and went to sleep. He didn't seem as dumb as Dad had said.

"Ugh. This stupid barding is itchy." Pepper completed her 10th doggy-ear-scratch since we had put on the clothing. Couldn't say I blamed her, there.

"Let's just... try to get this over, quickly." I said, "Let's get the door open."

Nico, Fleece, and Pepper all ignited their horns, engulfing the concrete slab in a trio of different colors. I wasn't expecting the door to be that heavy, but once they started lifting, I felt the immense pressure on Pepper's forehead just as much as she did. See, I had always thought a unicorns magic could levitate most anything, since they weren't physically picking it up. I was instantly reconditioned when I felt the headache growing. Thankfully, it didn't take long for all three of them to swing it open. With a loud bang and a cloud of concrete dust, we could finally see inside.

"It's dark." Dad said.

He wasn't lying. I could barely see anything beyond what was cast in light by Fleece's room. Lowering our head slowly, Pepper and I took the first peek inside. Thank Celestia we didn't get our head blown off. It was almost pitch black in the hall, save for a few distant, blinking, red lights. They weren't enough to light up anything around them. They looked like the stars in the sky.

I really wish I had my Pipbuck.

Nico rolled his eyes, and lit up his horn. The soft, blue glow was a little brighter than a lantern probably would have been, but still not as bright as a modern flashlight. We descended down the few steps, one by one. Couldn't risk them falling apart. They were the same type of steps you'd see in a factory cat walk. I guess you could imagine the rust that accumulated over time.

"I wish I could go with you." Fleece said, stopping on the second step.

I turned, giving her a reassuring smile. "I would feel better knowing you were here with your patients. Besides, we can handle it!"

She faked a smile, back. "I know."

As she turned to head back up, I faced the dark hallway with the same amount of fear I had since the previous day. I wasn't sure if it was the dark, the endless void, or just not knowing what to expect. We had been told about the turrets. The pre-war security system still managed to see everyone as a threat. They were, most likely, programmed to only let authorized personnel inside. Good for security, bad for us.

"Sweetheart, I-I'm not sure about this." Dad whispered.

If anxiety was genetic, then I have no doubt where it came from.

"I-It's alright, Dad." I swallowed back the fear in my voice. "We can do this."

I took some comfort in the familiar weight of Bob, holstered at my shoulder. It took a ton of convincing, but Pepper eventually accepted the weapon. I also had the knife, given to me by Weights. It had somehow ended up in Nico's inventory.

The hall, as it turned out, did not go in a straight line. Instead, some of the halls snaked their way under the town. Halls. As in, plural. Although it was tiresome to come across a cave-in at every turn. It seemed like every corner we turned, there was a giant mound of concrete and rebar. The only upside to this, was that the main hall was still fairly linear. It was easy enough to not go in circles.

I just wanted to get it over with. If I could just find Gale and get that foal away from her, I would at least feel some hope. The more I seemed to try, the worst things got. The paranoia kept nagging at the back of my mind. "I bet they think you led her to the pearls on purpose." I tightened Pepper's jaw. She probably assumed I was afraid of the dark. Better for her to think that than to know I'm responsible for all of Gale's misdeeds. Especially, since I put that colt's life in danger. I would not let myself forget that. I wouldn't hesitate, again.

Don't hesitate.

It wasn't that hard to realize we had made it to where we were going. When we turned the final corner, I saw the flashing, yellow light right above a steel door. I barely made out the letters painted on it.

Ministry of Arcane Sciences
Undisclosed Mini-Lab #4
Authorized Researchers Only

I whispered. "So, it's true... Not just any lab, either. It's a M.A.S facility."

"Whoa." Violet stared, in awe.

A sudden beep echoed off the walls. Then another. And two more. Before we knew it, a row of green lights appeared, changed to red, and buzzed as if warning us. "Get cover!" Nico yelled. Nico, Pepper and I jumped behind a huge slab of concrete. The others took cover behind a corner of the hall. The storm of bullets barely missed us. There were even two laser beams flying past.

The rounds exploded into the floor next to us, almost loud enough to deafen someone.

"Saw that coming!" Violet yelled from across the way. "What do we do, Fear Fighter?"

I had no time to scold her for the name. I kept Pepper's hooves over her head for cover. "Do we have grenades?"

"Bad idea!" Redd hollered. "We use explosives, we risk this place caving in!"

Shit. One shot at a time, then.

The bullets suddenly stopped, right before we heard the short buzzing, again.

I looked over at Dad, who had flattened himself to the floor. Next to him, a tiny crack in the concrete would let us see the positions of the turrets. "Dad."

"Hm?"

"Can you see through that crack?" I whispered.

The cream-colored pegasus eyed the crack, before he slowly got closer to it. He visibly struggled to get the right angle, but eventually did. "I see them. There are four on each side. It looks like two of them have laser technology."

"Okay, so no taking them head on." I clenched Pepper's jaw.

"I guess we will be fighting firepower with firepower." Redd grinned.

"From a distance." I added. "So it will be best to use a rifle with a scope."

Everyone looked Nico's way. His eyes shot from one of us to the next, then he flattened his ears. "Fine."

"All you have to do is levitate your gun out into the hall with your magic, and shoot each one a few times. Aim for the base." The base would contain the "brain" of the machine. It's also what attaches them to the wall.

He nodded, the rifle floating around the corner, carefully. No rain of bullets, yet.

"Okay, aim the best you can and shoot when I say shoot." I looked back to Mixer. "Dad, watch where the round hits and let him know where to aim."

He nodded, not taking his eyes off the crack.

"Okay, shoot!" I yell-whispered.

The first shot rang out, almost bursting our ear drum in the closed-in space. I heard the round impact the concrete on the opposite side of the hall.

"Aim left and up, slightly." Dad instructed

Another shot. This time, we were rewarded with the small blast of the turret coming apart.

"You got it!" Dad smiled. "Seven to go!"

Nico's aim had to be corrected a couple of times on the next one, but he still managed to destroy that one, too. He had gotten the hang of our targeting system, so the next couple of turrets were easier. Four left, and two of those were the laser turrets. It took a couple of shots for one of those to short out. The last two regular systems were down, in a hurry. I waited for Dad's instructions on the last of the laser turrets. I noticed the struggle when he began to sweat.

"Everything okay?" I asked.

"I, uh..." He paused, then looked up at me, defeated. "I can't get a good sight on the last one."

Shit, again.

"Shit." Pepper read my mind.

"Couldn't he just keep shooting and eventually get it?" Violet spoke up.

"There's no time. Plus, that would waste ammo." I said.

Redd shifted his weight. "I could always-"

"No! I won't have you get hurt, again!" I shouted.

He looked at me, surprised. "Okay, okay!"

Silence. I would have hated to go back just because of one turret.

"I could peek around the corner. I'm 'Flashbang', after all." Violet said, proudly.

It would have been great if a million other suggestions would have filled my head. Instead, all I thought about was Violet's getting shot off. "No, way!"

She snorted. "Come on, Sia. I'm fast. By the time one of those things beeps, I'll know to duck. And plus, I can aim Nico's gun for him, as long as he can hold it steady!"

I bit my lip, trying to think of the odds of her dying. It did take a full second and three-fourths for the turret to start shooting after it gave the warning buzz. I've seen Violet fly in our P.E. class in high school. It only took her ten and a half seconds to fly the entire, seven-part course.

"Come oooon!" She said. "Let me do this!"

I growled. "Fine! But don't get killed, please!"

She rolled her eyes, playfully. "I won't! Get your gun ready, Hotshot."

Nico flattened his ears, but obeyed. "Alright. Make it quick. The trigger is sensitive, so you won't have to slam it."

She nodded, crouching to get ready.

"Okay... Now!"

At lightening speed, Violet flew around the corner, aimed, and pulled the trigger. It was so fast, I barely had time to register what happened. When I looked back, she was already standing behind Nico, again, grinning. The bullet had struck home, causing a shower of sparks from the weapon. It would only take one more shot, before-

-BZZT-

A laser round went off as she went back for the second shot.

"Agh!" She yelped as the turret exploded.

"Violet!" I ran to her.

It had worked! All the turrets were now gone!

I went to congratulate her, but stopped when I saw her holding her ear. There was no blood or anything, but once she moved her hoof, I saw the turret had managed to get one hit. Half of her ear had been shot off. The blackened end had been cauterized. "Goddesses, Violet! I told you to be careful!"

She smiled, sheepishly, holding back tears. "I-It's fine! I've had worse..."

I shook my head. "Thankfully, it's not bleeding, but you'll still have to have it looked at to prevent infection."

"Y-yeah. I will." She hissed in pain as she reached for it, again. "I should probably not be so cocky."

"Ya think?" Redd spoke. "You dimwit!"

"At least we got them all. The door isn't locked, either, from what I can tell." Dad inspected the steel entrance.

I took a breath. "Let's just go in."

I twisted the handle, ready to run away from any danger than jumps out at us.

As it creaked open, the fluorescent lights almost blinded me. When our eyes focused, I was almost breathless at what I saw.

Almost...

ERROR: NO STATS TO DISPLAY
SUBJECT CANNOT BE DETERMINED

Level Up!

New Perk
Energy Sufficient - Your energy weapons now use 25% less charge with each shot.

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

Sorry (again) for the long wait! My blog has an actual explanation! :twilightblush:
Anyway, thank you guys so much for reading! As always, constructive criticism/error spotting is always welcome!
Stay safe!

-AP

Chapter 23.5: A Guide to Remembering

"I gave friendship a chance a long time ago! It didn't work out then, it isn't going to work out now!"

I've only ever stepped hoof in the labs back in Thunderhead a few times. I never had business with any of the scientists, there. Mostly, I'd just volunteer to give tours to new recruits. Still, the size of almost all of those facilities were no bigger than Fleece's clinic. This place? It was big enough to fit ten clinics, all comfortably spaced.

The first thing I noticed was the cleanliness. No speck of dirt on any surface. I expected the place to be in disarray. The shiny, tile floors looked like they had been cleaned recently. The gray-blue walls contrasted the white ceiling, immensely. To the far right, there was a designated area for shelves and tables. It was almost like a private library, complete with sofas and tables for reading. Some of the shelves on the far side held binders and notebooks. My guess, it was trial notes and research essays. The largest section was in the middle of the underground structure. Tables sat in rows, untouched. Some of them didn't look like normal tables, though. I immediately was reminded of the memory orb. A cold chill ran up our spine. The familiar straps on these tables were almost identical. Whatever experiments they conducted here were definitely done on living beings. Whether they were ponies or not, I had no idea.

Looking around, I was less surprised by the rest of the place. On the far side, I could see the usual glassware and labeled boxes filled with medical instruments. Storage lockers sat in rows next to that. The main thing that caught my eye was the large monitor sitting on the back wall. It gleamed in the light, no cracks or damage. I squinted, seeing the keyboard underneath. It was strange, seeing this old technology in perfect condition.

"Whoa." Violet mouthed.

When we were all over our admiration, we spread out to explore. Violet went straight to the computer. Nico and Dad went to the storage area. I guided Pepper straight to the library area. A rug lay, perfectly symmetrical, under the two tables, which were also spotless. There should have been books piled on the tables. Instead, they were put away, neatly and orderly, on the shelves. I scanned the titles. Textbooks and other types were put in alphabetical order.

"I know I'm not the only one who noticed how scary-clean this place is." Pepper mumbled.

"Yeah. It's like... It's like they just built this place and left without using it." I whispered. "But, why?"

She didn't reply. I guess she didn't have an answer.

Running a hoof over the titles, I spotted one book, open and sitting on the sofa. I curiously strode over, looking at the page. It was open to a diagram of a pony's body, the anatomy labeled. I flipped the page to see two more diagrams. A mare's head and a stallion's head. Did you know stallions have more teeth than mares? Because I didn't.

"Hey! Don't touch that! Who are you? Why are you here?" A voice came from our left, making us jump. Well, making me jump. The mare had a strange quality to her tone, though. It was almost... robotic. As if she were speaking over a radio. I perked up to see where she had come from. I was right about the robotic voice.

Well, almost.

A robotic mare slowly emerged from a hidden back room that we had missed. Her body just as slick and shiny as the rest of the place. The plates shifted and formed to naturally fit with her movement. The metallic shell was grayish-yellow with a pearlescent sheen. The normal, over-sized, black sweater she wore covered most of it. Odd. Her metal tail had been painted red with purple streaks. Her eyes were well built, strikingly similar to a real pony's, except they glowed purple. She even had a painted-on cutie mark: A crescent moon surrounded by stars. I saw the horn on her head was different than a normal unicorn. It was sharper and more defined.

There was no denying that she was built to look exactly like a pony. Except for the brain in a glass casing poking out of the top of her head. It was as if her creators tried to hide it, but they didn't have room for the brain inside the body. I wanted to throw up, again.

"Well, now I've seen everything." Pepper said, sarcastically.

The robopony glowered at us. "Yeah, yeah. Get out." She walked over to the book, turning the page back to where I had found it.

I was too much in shock to say anything.

She adjusted the wires, connected to the back of her neck. I had missed them before. There were several of the thick cables snaking their way into the hidden room where she came from. The metal mare stomped. "You need to get out of here! Leave me to my studies!"

I snapped out of my astonishment. "I-I'm sorry, we were just-"

The robot suddenly went wide-eyed. Her hoof reached out to us, opening our mouth. She looked down our throat. "H-how did you do that?"

"Do... whah?" I said, her hoof still holding out jaw open.

"I heard your voice a few seconds ago. It was different than it is, now." She finally let go and studied our face. "This can't be a simple trick. Your horn isn't giving off any arcane energy." She tapped her chin as she moved to our eyes, looking back and forth between them. A tiny lamp detached from behind her ear. I was almost blinded, again. "Complete heterochromia. Subject also appears to have slight anisocoria."

Pepper swatted the lamp away. "What the hell is heter-o-com-"

"There it is, again! Your voice changed!" She perked up, dusting off her sweater. "Heterochromia is a condition where the irises can be two different variants of pigmentation." When she saw our face, she rolled her eyes. "Your eyes are two different colors. Anisocoria (since I know you don't know) is when your pupils are different sizes."

"Oh..." I said, rubbing our chest.

"Your movement is also different than it was when you swatted away the lamp." She held up both her hooves. "Do as I do."

With a series of small, basic movements, she made us copy her. She finally scratched her chin. "Interesting..."

"What is this? I am not a damn science experiment!" Pepper growled.

I hurriedly took control. "She's just curious, Pepper. She doesn't know why we're like this." I looked at the floor, then when I looked back up, I saw the robot taking notes in a notebook, pulled from Celestia knows where.

"Amazing! This is the most peculiar case of disassociative identity disorder I have ever seen! May I hook you up to the brain wave reader?"

"No! Look, this is just a misunderstanding... It might sound crazy, but we are actually two separate souls sharing a body." I cleared my throat. "An... evil force took mine..." I cleared our throat, tired of explaining our unbelievable situation.

She stared, mouth agape. "You can't be serious."

Pepper rolled our eyes, but said nothing.

"You mean to tell me you somehow got put into a body together, because an 'evil' entity somehow took one of yours?" She deadpanned.

When we didn't answer, she burst into tinny laughter, her wires sparking a little bit.

Okay, she's kind of an asshole.

She wiped an imaginary tear from her eye. "You're pulling my leg. That sort of thing is not possible!"

"Says the psycho robot with a pickled brain on top of its head." Pepper crossed her hooves, smirking.

The robot's smile disappeared. Pepper had insulted her. "Okay, fun's over. I don't know how you got in here, but you need to leave." She started to walk away.

"Wait!" I went after her. "Please, I'm sorry, she didn't mean that. But, we are telling the truth. I know how insane that sounds, but it's true. The reason why our eyes are different colors is because my eyes are green. I'm actually a pegasus." She stopped, giving me a chance to speak. "I'm not from here. I was sent from the Enclave on a rescue mission, but... well, it went wrong. Needless to say, I guess I'm just as much a victim of the wasteland as anypony."

"The Enclave?" She blew steam from her nostrils. "I can't believe they're still a thing. Looks like the Wonderbolts managed to keep that facade up, even after a hundred and sixty years.

I didn't want to go into that territory. "S-so, what's your name?"

She didn't say anything at first. Finally, she turned away from us. "Moondancer."

"Moondancer, we need your help. You... do know what's going on outside this lab, right?" I asked, cautiously.

The unicorn robot looked like I had insulted her. "Indeed. I've been locked down here, but that doesn't mean I haven't seen the hellish landscape beyond this place. I've been here since-" She paused. "I know about the war, megaspells, the fall of ponykind."

I looked at our hooves. She made it sound so hopeless. Still, living in a laboratory for that long must have been hellish in itself.

"I know about everything." She said with a robotic sigh. "I can access security systems and other terminals in a ten mile radius. What goes on... I-I don't like to watch. They messed up everything."

"Who?" I stepped closer, wanting to put a hoof on her shoulder.

"Twilight." She spat the name. "She and her friends created those ministries and that's where it all went downhill."

Twilight?

I thought a moment. "Twilight... Sparkle?"

Moondancer looked at us. It was hard to read her uncanny expression. Sadness? Anger? Regret? She finally looked around, spotting the rest of the group. They hadn't seen Moondancer, yet. "I'm assuming your friends won't break anything."

I shook my head, then she motioned for us to follow her.

She led Pepper and I to the back room. When I entered, I noticed these lights were different from the fluorescent ones in the main lab. These looked like normal bulbs. The room was definitely smaller, too. About the size of a bedroom. I noticed her wires connected to a machine that looked big enough to hold the robot. It was probably keeping her alive. On one end, the wall was covered in Sparkle Cola memorabilia. There were posters, trinkets, empty bottles, still-full bottles, magazine clippings, and everything you could imagine. Even a stuffed pony wearing a Sparkle Cola t-shirt. "Fan of Sparkle-Cola?" I asked.

"It was one of the best products that came from the industrial era." She mused.

On the adjacent wall, there were more newspaper clippings of the ministry mares and of Princess Luna. My eye caught the Ministry of Image building in one of the articles. Rarity, and all her magnificence, stood in front of the wondrous building, proudly. There was one other photo, too. This one wasn't a news clipping. It was just an old picture. It looked yellow around the edges. In the photo, were six unicorn mares. I didn't know any of them, but the first two caught my eye. I recognized the first as Twilight Sparkle as she stared, intently, into a book. The second one bared a resemblance to Moondancer, but she wasn't a robot. They were all gathered around a table, eating cupcakes.

Moondancer stepped next to me, staring at the picture.

I looked at her, then back at the picture. The second mare had the same color coat and tail. Even the eyes were the same shade of purple. It took another look for me to see the cutiemark. The same cutiemark. They either modeled this robot after her, or...

I swallowed.

"Twilight and I grew up together." She walked over to a shelf and pulled a picture frame. The picture inside was of a filly Twilight and who I assumed was a filly Moondancer. She placed a hoof gently over the glass. "We were both students at Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns. Before the other ministry mares, we had our own little group of friends. Lemon Hearts, Minuette, Lyra, and Twinkleshine just kind of accepted her obsessive thirst for knowledge. I did, too. I guess that was my mistake."

"What happened?" I asked.

She put the photo back, adjusting the position. "She moved to Ponyville. Twinkleshine said, Celestia had sent her there to study..." She scoffed. "'Friendship'. How can you even study friendship?!" She growled. "It didn't really matter, though. Twilight blew off my invitation to my last party just because of her 'studies'." Moondancer turned to me, saddened. "It was my last attempt at friendship. I... I just wanted her to come to my party. I told myself I'd never fall for that stupid lie, again."

I looked away from her. Poor Moondancer. How could Twilight do something like that to one of her friends? Rarity had said Twilight loved her friends and would do anything for them. I hoped Moondancer had just misunderstood Twilight's actions.

She took a breath (do robots breathe?) and continued on. "After I found out Twilight left, I isolated myself in my home in Canterlot. Books were the only thing that kept me together. After all, a book can't leave me." She waved a hoof. "I digress. Word got around that Twilight had new friends. Better friends. Friends who brought out the best in her. I won't lie, I was jealous. They did everything together. Including, saving the world. They were Equestria's greatest heroes. Years went by. Then, one morning, my sister, Morning Roast, came to my door. She held the newspaper so that I could see the start of the war. She said I was one of the smartest ponies she knew. That if anyone could help with the cause, it was me." She gave the picture a bitter glare. "She had told me she sent a letter to Twilight's new ministry. That... that I would be a tremendous help in one of her labs and that it would be a new start for Twilight and me." She smiled to herself. "Morning Roast always knew what to say."

I put a hoof on her shoulder, but she removed it.

"Twilight responded to the letter. She sent me an invitation to a brunch. I rejected, but then she had personally come to my home. She wanted to... 'make amends'." The word was poison on her tongue. She looked at me and repeated, "Make. Amends."

"Did you accept?" I asked.

She nodded. "It had been years. So many years of loneliness and solitude. To think, I was actually willing to give her another chance."

Pepper spoke, this time. "I take it, things didn't go as planned."

Moondancer glanced at us, curiously. "Yeeahh... They didn't. We went to lunch, along with a couple of her body guards. I thought she would give a sincere apology, at least. Let me tell you, just because somepony says 'sorry', they don't always mean it. Anyway, she went on and on about her new ministry. About her new resources and the 'endless possibilities' in her research. I was trying to be happy for her, truly. When that thirty minute lunch was over, she talked me into working at this lab." She gestured around.

"If you don't mind me asking, what was this laboratory used for?" I asked.

"My department was magical spells. We were researching cures for magically based ailments and sicknesses. Stuff you wouldn't understand." She chuckled. "No offense. Anyway, I knew it was too good to be true. I had my friend back, I had my dream job, and all the books I could lose myself in." Her reminiscent smile faded. "As the war progressed, so did Twilight's insanity. I'd hear her going on about an army of alicorns and some kind of... Equestrian garden." Her voice cracked. "One day, she came to me and asked for a favor. She wanted me to... She wanted..." She composed herself. "She wanted to see if my brain would be compatible with this robot body. It would just be for a couple of hours, then they could put me back in my pony body. She never told me what these robots were going to be used for."

I looked her up and down. "Why didn't they put you back?"

"The megaspells had hit. When we got word that Canterlot had been hit and was activating their shield, I was in the middle of resting at my station. Somehow, something got mixed up. They thought my brain was back in my cadaver, so they wheeled the gurney away and into the clinic above. They were in for a surprise, I bet." She sighed. "When I woke up, all documents and major files were gone, along with every scientist. They locked this place up, tight, as per protocol. They didn't want any zebra getting any of their records. So, that's how I'm here. The end."

I shrunk. Moondancer stayed in this robotic body for the better part of two centuries. You might as well say it was a coffin. If we hadn't gotten past those turrets... "I'm... so sorry, Moondancer. I couldn't begin to-"

"Pepper? Sia?" Nico called from just outside the door. When our group of friends walked in, they stopped to stare at the robopony.

"Yes, take a picture. It'll last longer." Moondancer quipped. She didn't seem uncomfortable, though.

"Ahem..." Violet began. "I, uh... I think the computer should be able to locate a Pipbuck."

Moondancer narrowed her eyes at me. "So, you need the computer."

I quickly jumped in. "If it's okay with you! I mentioned how my body was taken. I have a Pipbuck on my forehoof. I was just hoping to track it. Then, we will go, leaving everything where it was before we got here."

She looked back at the photos on the shelf, then stared at the floor for a minute. "Fine."

"Thank you, so much." I breathed.

She gazed between all of us, cautiously. Her glowing eyes stopped on Redd, particularly his stitches. "What happened to you?"

~~~~~~~~~~

"A giant ghoul?" Moondancer said, as she clicked the keys with a pair of robotic limbs coming from her sides. Creepy.

"No. A giant, acid-spitting ghoul." Redd told her.

"I've seen zombie-like ponies on the security cameras. I would love to examine them and see how they are able to... exist."

"Well, very few would probably let you do that." Nico said. "Most are completely feral. Some, though, have their minds, still. Like Fleece in the clinic. She's a doctor."

"Interesting." She said, clicking the keys.

"You don't seem bothered by the fact that we are living amongst the undead." Violet said, flatly.

"My frontal lobe was damaged when it was put into this body." Moondancer tapped the glass surrounding her brain. "My inability to fear is a side-effect."

Violet cringed.

Moondancer finally agreed to let us borrow the computer. I watched the characters flash across the screen as she rebooted the system. She told us it had been decades since she last used it, so she had to completely restore the mainframe. Apparently, the software had to be updated. Thanks to that, she had to restore it to factory settings. Luckily, she still had her authentication I.D.

While the system ran through its files, she turned and eyed the red-maned, pegasus stallion. "May I examine you?"

He blushed. "Um... Sure?"

She checked over his features. First, she examined his mouth and throat. Then, she checked his eyes with her appendage light. She then made him do a few of the same tests that she had Pepper and I do. Finally, she brought him over to a table and had him lay with his stitches facing up. After tapping the side of her temple, I was shocked to see a small, levitating bot float over with a screen. It was almost translucent, the screen making up most of its body. I had no idea where it came from. I assumed it was stored away until called for. When the screen lit up, I managed to see over her shoulder. It was an X-ray.

"Hm. Vitals are normal. Blood pressure, normal. No obvious health conditions. Your muscle mass ratio is high. I assume you are military or something of the sort?" She asked, taking notes.

"Yes... How do you-"

"As I mentioned, I had to learn a lot about pony anatomy. Books are truly amazing."

The computer screen blinked off, then back on. The word 'complete' covered the corner of the monitor. She came over, instructing Redd to stay where he was. When the robopony clicked a few more keys, she gave a satisfied nod. "You. Green mare." She pointed to Violet. "You said you can work a computer, correct?" Violet nodded, her eyes narrowing at Moondancer. "Good. You won't be able to track the Pipbuck, individually, without its tag, so I'm going to activate the 'Ten Mile Tracker', as we so cleverly called it. Normally, I used this for the security systems and whatnot, but you can turn that off and activate the Pipbuck tracker. It will bring up every working Pipbuck within ten miles. Just tap each one until you find one that's user matches the description of your friend, here."

"Amazing." Violet said, as she rolled the desk chair over to the monitor.

"And please," Moondancer grabbed her shoulder. "Do. Not. Break. Anything."

Violet nodded, slowly. She probably felt insulted by the blunt robot.

I curiously watched Moondancer trot over to where Redd lay.

"So," She took out her notepad and pen. "Want a functional, prosthetic wing?"

Every one of us stopped what we were doing and turned to look at her, including Redd.

His excitement did take root, quickly. "Hell yes, I want one!"

"Hold on, you can do that?" Nico said, stepped towards her.

She glared at him. "Of course, I can. His injury is less than seventy-two hours old, the nerves should still be viable, and I am a literal robot genius."

"Humble, isn't she?" Violet whispered behind us.

Hope flooded our chest. "Moondancer, are you sure? I mean..."

She turned to me, and put on a small hint of a smile. "Well, you did listen to my boring life story. And I didn't even have to be preached to, about the 'magic of friendship'. Just take this as a small gesture of my appreciation." She turned back to Redd. "Besides, do you know how long it's been since I've been able to actually work?"

I smiled. "Thank you."

"So, It's gonna be like a real wing? I can actually fly, again?" Redd beamed.

She nodded. "Yes. However, you should not fly for a couple of days. Also, it won't be exactly like a real wing. You won't feel anything when it's touched, of course."

"But, will it look all... robotic?" He asked. "No offense..."

She pursed her robot lips. "No. It was a new technology being developed here, but was scrapped when the war progressed. It will look exactly like a normal wing. It has feathers that are designed to stay on, no matter what. You will have to preen more often because of the placement, but it shouldn't be an issue. Lucky for you, it won't need to be dyed since your pelt is close enough to the shade of white as the prosthetic. The only way anyone will be able to tell, is if they get a good look at the scarring around the base. It will be raised and I can't guarantee your feathers will grow back in that area. It won't affect your flight, though."

I wanted to hug her.

"How long will it take?" Violet said as she hit key after key. I looked up to see at least a hundred blips. Pipbucks. Every few minutes, one would wink out as Violet searched through.

Moondancer tapped the side of her temple, again. "I'll be done, when I'm done."

Several different types of small robots levitated over to where Moondancer stood. One of them was shaped like a canister. It placed a mask over Redd's face and rested itself on the small hook next to the table. "You'll be put to sleep through this. It's only because it would hurt if you were awake. Also, don't worry about blood. I know a spell that will prevent very little blood from leaking out while you're cut." As she explained the procedure, the little bots brought over tools and gloves for the unicorn robot. She carefully slid them on as she guided over one with a plastic casing.

"What's that?" I asked.

"It's the wing." She looked over at me, waving her hoof. "Shoo! I need the immediate area to be sterile."

I flattened our ears, but obeyed, walking over to where the others were at the computer. Each blip Violet tapped, came up as some random pony. No pegasus, yet.

"Bossy bitch." Pepper mumbled under her breath.

I shushed her. "She's helping us a lot. Even if she is kind of... Well, you get the point."

Violet cracked her neck as she worked. "The good news, is that I have managed to narrow down to a few dozen. A lot of these were from stables, and thankfully this computer somehow knows whether they've been opened or not. I'm gonna leave those alone. Best not to disturb those who are living a lie." She scoffed.

"I wonder if the Pipbuck will show any previous wearers. Gale had it before she blessed me with it." I said, with a little bit of bitterness.

She pointed to a random blip an tapped. "See this?"

I looked over the box that appeared next to it. Inside, the text spelled out a name, race, and age. Under that, were several tabs.

She continued, "These tabs have all sorts of data on them. Previous registries, files, recordings, even deleted stuff. I wouldn't be surprised if you could see more about Hope than you asked for."

I brought a hoof up to rub my chest, forgetting I was still in another pony's body. "More about Hope than I asked for." The statement echoed around in my mind for a while. Did I really want to know more about her? I knew some already, but the tiny voice in my head was shaking her head. That was her life.

"Maybe we shouldn't pry..." Dad put a hoof on our shoulder. His eyes almost pleaded not to read anything else.

"Why? She's evil. She has made your lives hell since you met her, right? You have to read them, anyway, to find her hideout. Idiots." Pepper rolled her eyes.

Damn, she was right.

I shook Pepper out of control, and looked to Dad, sadly. "I'm sorry. I think she has a point, Dad. There's no other way."

He bit his lip, timidly. "Then... I have to tell you myself, first. I was going to tell you, earlier, I swear!" He covered his eyes with his massive wings. "You have to understand, sweetheart.... She's just... not in a good place, right now..."

"Dad? What's wrong?" I placed my hooves on his shoulders, despite Pepper tensing up.

"I swear! It's n-not her fault! It's just the stress from being in the wasteland!" He blubbered.

"You're scaring me..."

Nico and Violet had stopped what they were doing to watch the stallion break down. The latter had the cursor stopped over a blip. A familiar description appeared to it. My description. I looked back to my father.

"Hope. No, Gale." He looked into my one green eye, tears streaming down his face. "She's... your mother."

You know, I really should have put it together. That's not really like me. I love puzzles. Well, I used to love puzzles. Jigsaw puzzles. Not these types of puzzles. No, who would have thought that the family that Hope had left behind was also mine? The thought that my mother and Hope should be around the same age. The fact that Dad knew her name. Hope knew me. She knew me for a while. She watched me. For how long? Hope was... sympathetic with me. She wanted me on her side. She refused to kill me, even though she knew I was useless to her after she had gotten the pearls. She never once threatened me, directly. In a way, she cared for me. Cared about what happened to me. It was all so obvious. Why didn't I put it together? Why? I really, really should have put it together.

The longer I stared at the floor, the more it all melted together. The white surrounded me. I was suffocated by the sickening white. My lungs burned, no Pepper's lungs burned. No, they didn't burn. I was just having a panic attack. A familiar panic attack. I didn't even feel Pepper's hoof grasping at her chest. She staggered back, quickly resting on her haunches with her other hoof holding a table for support. I felt her mouth moving, but nothing was coming out. Nico, Violet, and Dad came running towards me. They shook us, saying something. I couldn't hear them. Not surprising, since I can't put things together. Not even words, apparently. You know something? I wanted to faint. Actually faint and be unconscious for a little while. I just wanted time to process it all. When you share a body though, it's just not possible.

Violet yelled. "-you okay?!"

Nico yelled. "Sia!"

Dad yelled. "I'm so sorry!"

Pepper yelled. "Make her stop! I can't fucking breathe!"

They were all yelling.

Before I knew it, I was yelling, too. "Why?!"

They stopped.

"How?!" I yelled, tears streaming from my eye. I had to force my control out of Pepper's limbs or she would have been trembling.

Dad wrapped us in a hug, but Pepper pulled away. "Not in my body!"

He nodded, letting out a shaky breath. "I didn't know where she went when she left me, all those years ago. When I saw her, yesterday..." He turned away. "I didn't know she was the Hope you had been talking about. When I heard her voice, I knew. Your mother had an unforgettable, loving voice. How could I forget the mare I married?"

Well, Major Fruit Salad. I found my parents. I found my best friend. They were all alive. Not dead.

I pinned our ears back and stared at the floor, again. It brought me some comfort, so I wouldn't have to be lost to the huge lab. "She wants to destroy the Enclave. Grandma and Grandpa..."

"That's why you have to stop her." Nico put a hoof on Pepper's.

"As in... kill her?" Dad stood on all fours, looking between us.

I didn't bother to share his gaze. "There may be no other way."

"But, if there is?" He said, worriedly. "I-I understand if there isn't, but please, just try to find another way. I can't... lose her, again."

I wiped our cheek. "Okay."

I finally gathered the nerve to go back to the monitor. Violet hesitated before she tapped on the blip. When she did, the text box came up.

FEMALE
PEGASUS
YOUNG ADULT

REGISTERED NAME AS FIRST LIEUTENANT SIENNA UNDER THE *GRAND PEGASUS ENCLAVE* DATABASE

STATUS...
...
...
UNKNOWN SURVIVAL STATUS. WAITING FOR REBOOT.

"What does it mean, 'unknown survival status'?" Dad asked.

Violet shrugged. "Maybe Pipbucks read the magical energy of the wearer. Since Blight isn't technically a pony, herself, maybe it's just not picking it up as a living being. If your body was dead, it would say 'deceased'."

Thank Luna for that.

She tapped the Location tab.

BLOSSOM FARMS

"Huh." Nico rubbed his chin.

"What is Blossom Farms?" I asked.

"It's three miles south of my house. My dad and I passed through there a few times. It was a farming community, built right before the war started." The tan unicorn said, reading the blip, again. "The place is abandoned."

"Sia..." Violet said, cautiously. "There's one voice log. Made about eighteen years ago."

I gulped down a knot in our throat. "Does it say who made it?"

"Gale Winds." She read from the screen.

I took a deep breath. It was best to get it over with. Maybe I'd learn a little more about her. I gave her the okay to play it. When she selected the audio file, I heard the exhale of a breath, followed by Gale's voice. There was a slight breeze in the microphone, like she was flying.

"Let this be my final will. I, Gale Winds, hereby announce my death and rebirth as Hope. To my husband, Thunder Cloud, I leave only an apology. Mostly, because I have nothing to give you. I chose to leave, not because of you, but because of our will to do what we believe is right. Your decision was to make the wasteland a better place for our daughter to eventually be brought back. Key word: Eventually. I will not do such small tasks in the small hope that we can get her back. This land needs sunlight. Those treacherous Enclave councilmares and stallions are keeping the sunlight to themselves. I plan to bring back what rightfully belongs to the motherland, Equestria. I do still love you, and hope that you can forgive me."

"Mom and Dad. Please, take care of our filly until my return. One day, soon, I will figure out how we can all live together. We can be a family, again. I hope you remember what I told you: She cannot sleep without her special pillow. She takes a nap at noon, every day. Mushed bananas are her favorite food. When you give her a bath, remember to sing that lullaby to her. She's afraid of the water, so that calms her down. I hope you tell her favorite story to her every night, too. She loves 'Goodnight, Luna'. I'm sorry we had to leave. I'll miss you both."

"Sienna. My sweet angel." Gale's voice cracked. "You have no idea how much it hurt to look behind me and see you crying for your Mama and Papa. I would have fought the entire Enclave militia if it didn't put you in danger. I had to keep reminding myself that it was only temporary. Since we got to the wasteland, I felt my mind slipping away every time I thought about it, though. It wasn't enough to think it temporary, anymore. I don't know if you'll ever hear this from me, silly filly, but I love you. I miss you so much, Sia. When your dad and I brought you home from the hospital, I swore I'd do everything in my power to protect you. Ironic, seeing as though I left you in Thunderhead. But as the wasteland is, right now, you wouldn't survive. Remember, every day... remember how special you are and how great you will be. If, for some reason, we never meet again... No, we will meet, again. I love you, marshmallow."

With a click, the file ended.

"Wow. That was so-" Violet turned, but stopped. She noticed my catatonic stare and closed her muzzle.

I wanted to cry. That was it. I just wanted to release the doubt, realizations, sadness, anger. I couldn't cry, though. In a way, I managed to feel a small comfort in the fact that she felt she didn't leave by choice. I wasn't just... abandoned. I did wonder if she still thought back to that day. How hard was it for her to leave her only foal? Maybe, it was what drove her to such drastic solutions. It was like a hurricane in my head. Only one thought was louder than the rest, though. Hope was my mother. Shouldn't I, at least, be happy I have an answered question?

"Are you okay?" Dad had asked. I gave him a quick glance and nodded. To be honest, I probably should have shared my feelings. It would have at least been out there. Instead, I shut down and packed them deep in the closet of my mind. They would just have to die in there. I was already so deep in anxiety that I didn't know if I'd survive it. The persistent chest tightness was just a daily reminder of my failures. The bad things happening to us were beyond cataclysmic.

What am I supposed to be feeling?

I realized tears were streaming from my eye.

"I've finished attaching the prosthetic to your friend. He might be a little woozy, but the gas is laced with magic that will wear off, quickly. I've wrapped the tissue with magic, healing bandages as well. I know how important your mission is, so hopefully the recovery process will be to your satisfaction." Moondancer removed the, barely bloody, gloves and tossed them in a red trash bag. She stopped and stared at me. "Sorry, if I'm interrupting anything."

"No, no!" I wiped snot on Pepper's tail, much to her disgust. "Thank you, so much Moondancer. You have no idea how grateful I am-"

"I've heard that before." She said, monotoned.

I rubbed a foreleg. "Still, thank you."

"I've also decided something." She said, adjusting her wires. "I... I see how you want to help the wasteland. You all seem so genuine in your actions, despite the hopelessness. I want to help, too."

I perked up. "Really? That's... that's so great!"

"Marshmallow, you are of the very few who is willing to risk your life for others." She slumped. "You remind me of how Twilight had been when she found her new friends. Willing to protect Equestria. I respect that."

"My, uh... my name is actually Sienna. Pepper is the owner of this body." I said, sheepishly. She tilted her head, moving her gaze to the others.

"Mixer." Dad raised a hoof.

"Nico."

"Violet."

"I'm blue!" Redd slurred. He stumbled over, only to plop on the table next to us as the gas wore off. "I'm a flying pony, heh."

"He's actually Redd." Violet leered at him.

The robot deadpanned. "Oh. My apologies. Anyway, I'm willing to open this lab to the clinic, above. I'm assuming the doctor needs supplies and the medical equipment. The facility will be taken care of?"

I nodded, baffled by the sudden choice. "We will need good security to make sure nothing is stolen or vandalized. Fleece will make sure of it, but... what about you?"

She gestured to the wires. "I am only allowed to go so far. Thanks to the robot not having its own power supply, I'm stuck here. But, I can help with patients and maybe do a little more research on new diseases. Technically, I'm also a doctor. Just... not that kind of doctor."

I gave her a genuine smile. "So, you changed your mind about us?"

She replied with a half-smile, her mechanical voice becoming somber. "My sister is the one who really convinced me to get this job. Not for the money, but she told me how great I would be. How many ponies I could help. That's what she thought this lab was for, after all. Even after the projects switched to more 'war appropriate' tasks, she still always believed I would change the world for the better." She looked at me. "I'm doing this for Morning Roast. Not you. Not Twilight. For my sister."

"Did she ever know you became... a robot?" Violet asked.

"No." Moondancer sighed. "I lost contact with her. Last I heard, she was getting married."

"I'm sorry." I dipped our head.

She waved it off. "I moved on years ago." Her glowing eyes met mine. "Time marches on, so should you. You mentioned you have a mission to complete. I would hurry if I were you. I will, regretfully, hold off on running tests on this... shared body."

"You're right. We got what we came for. No need in disturbing your studies." I placed a hoof on Moondancer's metal one. "And... I'm going to try to find a way to get you out of this lab. Nopony deserves to be alone for so long."

She didn't disagree, instead she smiled to herself. "I think I would like that."

ERROR: SUBJECT NOT IDENTIFIED

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

I want to make a couple of quick notes here:
1. I have not seen a FOE fic with Moondancer yet, so I just wanted to include her, somehow.
2. Apparently, it is difficult to find her sister's name. Like anywhere. I had to do tedious research to find out that Morning Roast was probably her name.

As always, constructive criticism/error spotting is always welcome! Thank you so much for reading!
Stay safe!

-AP

Chapter 24: The Last to Leave

"In all things, the calm heart must prevail."

Tired. I was so tired. I found myself remaining dormant in Pepper's body more and more since we left Floater. I just wanted to barely exist at that point. I was so overwhelmed by the hand I had been dealt. Drowning in my own despair was not what I wanted to do by any means, but it was so hard to just move on with the mission. I had been chasing clues and ideas, hoping it would give me a small chance of winning against the wasteland. Could you even win against that? There was a part of my heart that longed to go home and forget everything. I was ashamed of it. Giving up would soak my hooves in blood. I would turn into the wasteland. I beat back the thought with all my might. I'd rather die than turn into that horrible place.

We never even got to sleep. We stopped by Fleece's clinic to tell her what we had discovered in the tunnels. She was pretty ecstatic about Moondancer's willingness to share the lab. I hoped they would get along. Moondancer seemed genuine in her decision to help. It was strange to not see any noticeable insanity from her being isolated for over a century. Luna knows, how my psyche would have been affected.

"I'm going to take these damn bandages off." Once Redd's anesthetic had completely worn off, he was so in awe of his new wing, that we had to force him to stay on the ground.

Violet swatted his hoof away from the wrapped appendage. "You know what will happen if you take them off too soon."

He rolled his eyes. "I know, I know. But I'm ready to fly, again."

"I can't believe she gave you a wing. Just like that. With no payment." Nico furrowed his brow. "I don't trust her."

"Maybe she's just a good pony." I said. "Not all ponies require payment for good deeds."

I saw his look from the corner of my eye. Though, for fear of opening up old wounds, we kept it subtle.

"I don't think she's untrustworthy, but I do think she's a little off-putting. She seems like a... perfectionist." Violet looked around. "Though, I doubt she will get the rest of the world as clean as her laboratory."

"Either way, I got a new wing and now I can go back to kicking ass." Redd smirked, unfurling his flesh-made wing.

"Oh, please. The only ass you could kick is Rocky's and even that is iffy." Nico jeered.

-hrrk-

The jagged back followed Redd, again. He didn't seem to mind the creature as much.

"I could kick your ass even without wings." The pegasus told him.

"You lost a fight to a slime ball." Nico retorted.

"You know why I had-"

"Fillies! You're both just absolutely gorgeous! Now, shut up." Violet hovered over Redd, patting his mane. He shook her off.

My attention went elsewhere while they continued their banter. As we were coming up on a small hill, I noticed a tiny cave. I hadn't noticed it before, but I wasn't surprised. The only reason I saw it then, was because it had a faint glow to it. It pulsated like a heartbeat.

"What is that?" I asked.

Everyone stopped and turned towards where I had pointed.

"I know that glow is from radiation. There might be some toxic waste or something down there." Dad said, stepping back. I did the same, in case he was right.

"Let's not get close to the entrance." Violet flattened her ears, flying higher above it to pass.

I thought I heard a hiss as Pepper and I began walking. It was so faint, I thought I imagined it.

I swear danger is attracted to me. I say that, because a radroach emerged from the small hole, flapping its disgusting wings. I had seen one rad roach before, but this one had glowing patches. The sickly green glow seemed to leak off of it. I assumed it was the radiation Dad had mentioned.

"Shoot it!" Nico shouted as it flew towards Redd.

As quick as it was a threat, it had stopped being one. Rocky had pounced on the insect, pinning it on its back. He curled into a ball, his rugged plates jutting out and stabbing into the creature. He rolled back and forth, becoming a living, breathing blender. The roach was a blended heap of glowing goo and viscera. To my disgust, the jagged back had unfolded like a used sleeping bag and began slurping the gore up. I would have lost my lunch had I eaten. When he was done, he waddled over to Redd, rubbed his forehoof, and plopped down next to him. We stared at him in horror as he gave a messy belch.

-HRRRRRRRRRRRRRRK- -hrk-

Everyone stared in awe at the creature. Everyone except my dad, of course. "Well. Nature at its finest." He chuckled.

"Nature?!" Redd shouted, not taking his eyes off Rocky.

Dad shrugged. "Well, yeah. Armadillos ate insects before the war. It only makes sense they would eat them, now."

Wasteland, please. I can't take anymore of your biology lessons.

Redd stared at the jagged back. "H-he saved me."

"It's not like a radroach could do much damage." Pepper said, flatly.

"It would have probably made me sick, though." He gruffly sighed. "Thank you, creature. I... I guess I owe you one."

I grinned. I needed to thank Rocky for more than just saving my companion from radiation sickness. Redd was beginning to open up a little more to this place. I'd add it to my "thank you" list.

It seemed like forever before we got to Nico's house. We made a stop so we could rest and have lunch. It had been a while since I had last eaten. Actually, it might have been a full twenty-four hours. Once we got through the door, Violet kicked back on the sofa.

"Nice place." She said.

I could feel Pepper tense as we walked in. For once, it wasn't me.

"Something wrong?" I whispered.

"I'm gonna take a mind nap." She replied, nervously. We decided to call it a "mind nap" when one of us gave complete control to the other. Since I wasn't that great with words, it would have been the best way to describe it.

"Are you okay?" I asked. I genuinely hoped she was.

She paused. "Yeah. I just... There's too many memories here."

"Wanna talk about it?"

She didn't respond, that time. I wanted to make sure she wasn't upset, but it wouldn't have been right for me to pry in her life. I felt her body go limp as she shut her mind off. We had gotten used to the on/off switch thing. It was almost like being back in my body, except it wasn't.

"Pepper..."

Nico walked into his kitchen and began pouring multiple, old cans of soup in a familiar saucepan. It was the same pan that warmed up the first meal I ate in the wasteland. I watched him take off the outer layer of his barding. I was starting to wonder if he always did that while cooking. The blue aura enveloped the handle while he stirred the contents of the pan. Tomato soup. I wished I had a milkshake from the cafe, back home. Nico's soup was not a bad dish by any means, but a chocolate shake would have hit the spot, for sure.

"What'cha thinkin' 'bout, Pep-enna?" Violet sang.

I gave her my most confused look. "Pep-enna?"

She rolled her eyes, playfully. "You know. Sia and Pepper combined?"

I cringed. "That is awful."

Redd snorted. "Even I know better than to joke about that."

Violet punched his shoulder. "That's about all you know!"

He rubbed his shoulder where the impact was. "Ow! You don't have to be such an ass!"

I chuckled as I sat at the kitchen table. Dad had situated himself across the table from me. Redd and Violet took a seat with us, too. I was about to offer my seat to Nico when he declined, unfolding a chair and setting a place for himself. You could tell the portable furniture hadn't been used in years by the amount of dust that came off of it when it was disturbed. Five bowls levitated through the air and sat in front of us. The soup smelled amazing.

"Wow. You're a chef, too?" Redd snickered.

"Not entirely." The unicorn flattened his ears.

Violet was the first of us to dig in. By dig in, I meant she gulped it down in one swallow. Kind of like when I first got here. I followed suit, sipping a little more slowly. It was just as delicious as the first time. Rich, creamy texture. Pre-war ponies sure knew how to can and preserve food.

Once we finished, I helped Nico to clear the table and clean up. Everypony else had started cleaning weapons or sorting through their inventory. As I put the bowls back into the cupboard, I felt the awkward tension. It was just Nico and I in the kitchen. It seemed as though Pepper was aware, now. Every time I tried to turn our head to get something, she would turn away.

She doesn't want to look at him.

I've felt that, before. The immense awkwardness that often made me hide my own face. I didn't like that they had all of these negative emotions between them. There was a small, evil happiness in me that wanted it to stay that way, but I also wanted them to be happy. If I was going to sacrifice anything else for Nico, it would be my heart. I owed it to him to help him find his joy. It was time for me to let go of that short chapter in our relationship. Permanently.

Wasteland, you suck.

"So, there is a lot of tension between you, two." I said.

The loud clang of a dropped pan nearly sent me in panic mode.

"What did you say?" I casually looked up at the stallion. His wide-eyed leer was actually pretty funny.

"I just think you and Pepper should talk it out. I know how awkward things are since... all that happened."

"Sia, what the hell do you think you're doing?!" Pepper hissed.

"Think of it as a true gift of peace. I want you guys to be happy." I whispered back, loudly breathing the last word. I straightened up and forced our hooves towards him, stopping just shy of a wing's distance. "Please, listen. I know absolutely nothing about relationships. I know nothing about love or any of that stuff, you know that." I sighed, knowing I was going to botch the whole talk. "I can tell there is still something between you and Pepper. The only thing that is getting in the way is the giant misunderstanding you both experienced." I looked down, thinking about the holotape that was constantly haunting my subconscious. "It doesn't matter what happened in the past. If it does matter, then it's something that needs to be communicated, not left simmering in silence. Nico, Pepper didn't leave willingly. Pepper, Nico did not let you get taken."

"Sia..." I held our hoof up to stop him.

"No. I said what needed to be said. If you're going to worry about me, please don't." I smiled, half genuinely. "I will be able to find peace one day. I don't want to be a middle mare. Pepper needs you more than I do, now. Communicate. Pepper, it's my turn for a mind nap. I'm not sure when I'll wake up, but don't wait for me when we start traveling. Just, tell Redd to make sure Bob is clean and ready to go."

I wasted no time getting out of there. I took a deep breath, then exhaled. It's basically like how the ancient monks meditated. When I opened my eyes, I was floating in that familiar, empty sky. Infinite horizons of loneliness.

So, I kicked back and propped my head on my forehooves. It was more homey than scary, now.

"I wonder if Pepper sees this in her mind naps?"

"Probably not." I jumped. "I assume everypony's mind is different."

"Gah! You nearly gave me a heart attack!" I paused. "If I had a heart, here!"

The purple-maned unicorn smiled. "Sorry about that. I was curious as to how... relaxed you are in your subconscious, now."

I shrugged. "I guess I've gotten so used to this weird crap, it just doesn't bother me. It definitely helps that I haven't had as much anxiety since I've been in my body. I'm enjoying that little bit of good in all this."

"Well, I take it you'd rather stay in Pepper's body?" She chuckled.

I shook my head. "As much as I love having somepony else control my panic for me, I think I would rather get back to being me. Plus, Pepper does not enjoy it."

We shared a laugh. It was nice to talk like we were just good friends, instead of having a crisis talk or an emotional breakdown. I hoped Rarity really did see me as a friend.

"So, did you see the pearls?" She asked.

I sighed. "They were magnificent."

"But dangerous." She interjected. "They lure ponies in with their magic. It's almost like they're alive."

I gulped, mostly out of habit. "Are they? Alive, I mean?"

Rarity moved a curl of hair from her cheek. "I'm actually not sure. I don't think they contain any souls, but they definitely have a mind of their own."

I wished I could be surprised. "Oh."

She squinted. "You have changed. Drastically, I might add."

"I've been hearing that, a lot."

"Are you okay?" She asked.

Was I? I felt okay. I know my mental health was probably all over the place from the stress. "Yes. At least I think so. I don't feel like I'm on the verge of losing my mind if that's what you mean."

Her elegant figure sat across from me, almost like she was studying me. I could only imagine what she was thinking. It bothered me more that she saw me as a ticking time bomb than as hopeless. Hopelessness was at least predictable. The way my anxiety had seemed to drop to mild symptoms was something I never saw possible. I mean, come on. I was an absolute coward!

Cowardice doesn't make a pony.

I grit my teeth, trying to avoid her critique. Her face softened when she saw my discomfort. "I'm sorry, dear. I didn't mean to stare, I was just curious. I don't want my new friend to be hurt."

I shuffled my hooves, curling my ghostly tail around them. "I know. But you gotta believe me. I really don't know why my emotions are... milder."

"In any case, I'm glad your mental illness symptoms are at bay. I know how much you... despise them."

"Heh. No kidding."

Awkward silence.

"So..."

"What is there to do in this... dreamscape? World? Whatever this is." I looked around.

Rarity stared, again, dumbfounded. "Erm... Are you not... wanting to wake up?"

"Not really. I gave Pepper control of her body so she and Nico could make up and stop fighting."

"Ah. Well, they may be done by now."

I sighed. "Probably. We'll be traveling towards Blossom Farms by the time I'm awake."

"Blossom Farms? What on Equus for?"

"That's the last place my Pipbuck tag was last located. I just pray that Blight has not damaged my body."

"So they did it, then." She looked in the distance.

"What do you mean?"

"Blossom Farms was supposed to be a normal farming community. They were growing all sorts of crops. Except for apples, of course. Applejack would not have let another competitor that close to the capitol. She was much to proud." She cleared her throat. "Anyway, the owners of the farm agreed to let the Ministry of Technology stash away a few hidden projects. In exchange, they'd get dibs on some of the newer industrial farming equipment."

"Ministry of Technology? Isn't that Applejack's ministry? Why would she store anything in a farm she wanted nothing to do with?" I asked.

"She didn't know anything about it. You know the saying: There's always one bad apple. It turns out, there were a few ponies below her who were trying to make a few extra bits by partnering with Blossom Farms. If they had that new agricultural technology, they'd be able to harvest crops in quantities that Applejack could only dream of."

"I can't believe she didn't know about that." I bit my lip.

She shrugged. "The farm was still small scale when they got their hooves on the prototypes. By then, the megaspells had hit. They didn't get a chance to use anything. That's why Blight is there. She wants what's hidden there."

I couldn't believe it. They managed to keep that a secret from the most honest pony in Equestria. If I didn't know any better, I'd say there were more screwed up ponies than I thought back then. That didn't make a whole lot of sense to me, though. What would Blight do with a bunch of farm equipment? I asked Rarity that, exactly.

"I have no idea. Unless they were hiding superweapons down there, I can't think of a reason."

Superweapons. They wouldn't hide that kind of firepower under a farm. Right?

"Wait. What kind of machinery do you think they're storing?" I asked.

"I don't know every detail. Everything I know about the project is just hearsay. I do know that there were two specific machines designed for cropping and harvesting. They were supposed to be large, fuel-powered vehicles that were computerized to run without anypony driving them. Thanks to the stolen materials from Applejack's labs, they were nearly indestructible, as well. They were basically tanks. The only thing that could get through them is a mini-balefire bomb."

"Soo... killer plows?"

Rarity shook her head. "I think it's much worse. Those cretins who betrayed Applejack wanted a machine that could conform to any type of large machinery a farm would need."

"What if the farm needed something on the defensive? Did they include that in the blueprints?"

"I..." She pursed her lips. "It's a possibility. Though, unlikely. Unless you were to convert the whole thing into some kind of massive sentinel. I don't know how functional it would be, if at all."

Shit.

"I really don't want to take that chance." I stood. "If she has something in her grasp that has even a small chance of turning into a doom-tractor, she will probably find a way to make it more dangerous."

"That would not be good." The unicorn chewed her hoof tip.

"We wouldn't even be able to stop it without a megaspell if the metal they used is bullet and grenade-proof." I swallowed. "I have to warn the others."

She nodded. "Good luck."

Once my eyes were closed, I imagined myself waking up. Then, I actually was awake. Pepper stumbled as I gained feeling in her limbs. I must have caught her by surprise. True to our herd, we were already traveling. As we got right on our hooves, I saw Nico's house behind us. We had gotten about a mile and a half away. I must have been out for a while.

"Pepper? Are you alright?" Nico asked, holding out his hoof to steady us.

She shook her head. "Yeah, I'm fi-"

"Doom-tractors! Killer farm equipment... Blight is in the bunker with some pre-war tech that can possibly be made into a weapon!" I blurted it all out, not letting Pepper finish.

"Sia, what are you talking about?" Violet flew near us. "What's a... 'doom-tractor'?"

"There's a storage facility under Blossom Farms. It was meant to hold some kind of farm equipment, but the combines were made like... like war machines! If Blight is as powerful as she says, she might be able to rebuild them into big sentinel-type things!"

"What? How do you know that?" Redd extended his wings. You could hardly tell one of them was fake.

Rocky bumped into him as he stopped.

-hRrRrRkK-

"Rarity told me about the bunker under the farm. She said there were ponies who went behind Applejack's back to build the equipment for the owners. She says it's possible they can be converted into something offensive enough to kill." I breathed. I grasped at Pepper's chest. It was definitely tightening.

"There's no telling what progress she's already made." He said.

"We need to get a move on." I looked at the stallion's warm eyes. "Damn, I wish I had my wings."

"You need a flier, Sia?" Violet asked.

"Yes. I need someone to fly ahead and scout the area. I'd feel better if there were at least two of you, though." I looked around.

"I'll go, too." Dad fluttered his own wings. They were large enough to create a breeze.

"Thank you. Both of you. Please, for the love of Celestia, be careful." I pleaded.

"Psh." Violet waved me off. "C'mon, Pops."

As soon as I blinked, she was already yards away. Dad struggled to keep up with her, but I watched them fly out as the rest of us followed after them until we got to a mound. The entire place was close enough to see from the hill we stood on, but I wanted an aerial overview, as well. The many fields and halfway-built buildings were scattered pretty far out. I wondered how big Applejack's farm was in comparison.

Nico took out his rifle and looked through the scope, surveying the land. I noticed our eyes, lazily moving towards the stallion. Pepper was watching him. She didn't feel tense when she set her gaze on him, though. She actually seemed relaxed. They must have finally found peace with one another! I had to gently pry our eyes away to scan our side.

"OH CRAP!" I yelped as the gravestone caught me by surprise. It shouldn't have startled me, since it was only a stone. I couldn't help it, though. I didn't like anything associated with death.

"Really? You made my heart speed up for a tombstone?" Pepper said, instantly calming our breathing.

I chuckled, embarrassed. "I-uh... I don't like epitaphs."

Our eyes rolled as her body moved us towards it. The stone had eroded so much you could barely read the words. I only knew it was a gravestone from the shape.

Here Lies Zephyr Breeze
Beloved Brother and Son
"Though employment was never found,
With us thy spirit forever bound."

"What does that even mean?" Pepper asked.

"I think it means he had no job." I said, flatly.

"What a weird thing to say on a dead guy's headstone."

I shrugged as we went back to Redd and Nico.

"Guys!" Violet shot towards us, sliding to a stop in the dirt in front of us. "We saw the entrance! It's inside of an empty silo. It must have been used as cover."

Dad panted after her, almost crashing into the ground. "That's not all." He breathed. "There are dozens of cloaked ponies going in and out of the huge door."

"Cloaked ponies? So Hope is there, too? What is going on?" I clenched our teeth.

"I'm not sure. Whatever it is, there are a lot of muffled voices. There was some yelling. We managed to keep a safe distance and still hear a little of it." Violet said. "It sounded like a mare."

"What do we do, Lieutenant?" Redd saluted. I almost shivered at the sudden recollection that I was once a literal, military officer.

"She knows I'm not in my body, so I doubt Blight is trying to fool her. I don't think it's a good idea to go in guns a blazing. We may be able to sneak in if we find another entrance. But... I'm not sure a place like this would have another entrance. Hope would not hurt me. She has proven that she won't. I'm thinking I go alone and-"

"Absolutely not." Nico said. "You're not going anywhere alone."

"Technically, she's not alone. She's fused with Pepper." Violet said, earning a sneer from Nico.

I closed my eyes. "You're right. If anything were to happen, I'd get Pepper hurt." I looked away.

"You act like I'm gonna stop you from dragging us down there." Pepper said, next.

"This is my mess. I'm going to find another way." Her voice switched to mine.

"And what if you don't? What if there is no other way? Are you going to sit around and feel sorry for yourself until one of those cloakies finds us? Besides, I kind of want to see what a 'doom-tractor' looks like."

I didn't say anything else. I couldn't risk her life for my stupidity, but she wasn't going to give me choice.

"If Pepper volunteers then... I think you should do it." Violet said.

Nico's ears stood erect. "What? Are you serious? You support them stumbling inside of that place? They'll be killed!"

"Sia knows what she's doing." Violet argued. "There's a reason she has the name 'Fear Fighter', now."

Thankfully Pepper's hide was magenta, so the blush on our cheeks didn't show up as well.

"I agree. We are behind her one-hundred percent." Redd grinned.

Nico huffed and turned to my father. "Mixer, you can't be with them on this!"

The large pegasus sighed. "I am, Nicky boy. I trust that my daughter's decisions are the right ones. I'm worried, sure, but she's smart and strong. I also believe Pepper is a fighter, as well." He put his wing around our shoulders. Pepper didn't wince. She actually... smiled!

The tan unicorn groaned. "What if something happened to you both?!"

"Nico, we will be okay. You said you trusted me when we faced those turrets, right?" I told him.

"They were turrets! Not a dangerous cult of ponies with murderous farm equipment!"

"I promise we will be fine."

He looked in my eye and I saw the defeat. He wanted to trust me, but I'm guessing his experience with saving my tail wasn't the best support.

I smiled. "I only want to get in and find out what we're dealing with. You guys can stay here and watch our back."

"What about your gun?" Redd held up Bob.

I shook my head. "It's best if I don't take any firearms."

"Plus, I am a unicorn you know. I have some magical abilities." Pepper pointed to the forehead appendage.

"At least take your knife." He pointed to the blade on our shoulder strap.

Pepper levitated it with her magic and inspected it. "Not bad. I can hide it in my tail." She tucked it away inside the knotted horse hair. For safe-keeping, I also stuffed the necklace into her barding.

"Alright. Let's go."

ERROR: NO SUBJECT DETECTED

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Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

Thank you guys so much for reading!
As always, constructive criticism/error spotting are always welcome.
Stay safe!

-AP

Chapter 25: Undivided

"Whatever caused our fates to intertwine would never let them unravel."

I know there comes a time in every mare's life where she should probably figure out what she really wants in life. Personally, I had no clue what it was I really desired. The Equestrian dream was out of the question, for obvious reasons. If it was still an option, I wasn't sure if it was something I'd want. I used to like boring. I used to fear change. And while I wasn't exactly embracing change, it was still not the end of the world, yet. I always thought I had my future planned out. I guess everyone eventually has some idea of who or where they want to be. The military thing was in the past, now. I was in the damn wasteland. Any form of major government was gone. Maybe my goal in life was to just survive, now. It was a really bad time to think about all that. I was on my way into the lion's den, and I was still scared.

"Pepper, are you sure-"

"Yes, dummy. I volunteered to do this. You can't jump into anyone else's body and ask them to go." Pepper sighed. I guess my questions had gotten pretty predictable.

I felt so guilty, dragging her down there. "I know, I just don't want it to seem like you didn't have a choice. We could have found another way, if we really needed to."

Our hooves almost sunk into the muddy earth as we walked towards the silo. Fields spread out on either side of us. They were exactly like the ones we saw near the barn where Gladys and her griffons were holed up. I just wasn't sure if this place was radiated or not. The barns and farm houses were a little worse for wear. Some of them looked like they were still under construction. I guess the workers had a hundred and sixty year lunch break. The sun had gone down behind the cloud curtain, making it difficult to see the dreary property. A light fog had blanketed over the area. Just thin enough to make out the shapes of the buildings. I could see the soft glow of a couple of fires.

"Looks like Hope has gathered her goons here. Are we going to sneak past them or make a run for it?" My body-buddy asked.

I halted our steps and evaluated the scene. She was right about Hope's followers. There were at least a couple dozen situated around the silo and the nearest barn. I knew who they were because of the eerie cloaks. They were scattered about, pacing or just watching for intruders. I wanted to avoid as much attention as I could until we were face to face with Hope, herself. Blight had been here, too. My Pipbuck was last tracked, here.

Squinting through the mist, I could see there were plenty of places to hide. Thankfully, nopony bothered to clean the place up. Several, tall stacks of hay sat next to the silo. There were old carts and wagons scattered about in different stages of decay. Large storage crates were knocked over in the right places where we could sneak by. That had to be the best way to go.

"You see those stacks of hay next to the silo? If we can get there, we can sneak past the followers. We can use your magic to silence our hoofsteps. How long can you hold the spell?" I whispered.

I felt her tail flick. "Since I haven't been able to take any Luna stone, my magic lasts a lot longer." Her ears folded. "I guess... I guess that's one good thing about you sharing a body with me. I can... get clean." I held back a grin. Was that a "thank you"? She inhaled. "So I'll be able to hold it an hour, at least."

"That should be more than enough time to infiltrate." I told her.

We both attempted to take another step, but we faltered and almost ended up on our face.

"Okay." We sat on our haunches as she spoke. "How about you focus on the legs, while I focus on the horn."

"Sounds good to me." I said. I didn't care how interesting it would have been to control magic, I was not going to attempt to use it myself.

Once we were behind the closest wagon, Pepper ignited her horn, covering the aura with her mane. I stomped, softly, to make sure it was working before I brought us to the other side of the wagon. Once there, I noticed two cloaked ponies standing side by side about four yards away. They had their backs to us, thankfully. I crouched as low as I could and scurried along a steep bank. No sound came from our hooves. It was working! Ducking behind one of the steel crates, I looked out to see if there were any goons on that side.

Of course there were.

A group of them stood next to a fire barrel, speaking in hushed tones. One of them seemed nervous.

"They're saying that other mare is Hope's daughter."

"She doesn't address her as such. It's probably just a rumor. That pegasus showed up all but at the last minute. Besides, Hope's foal was killed years ago. It can't be her."

"Do you think they really came to an agreement, yet?"

"You saw the giant metal thing in there. If what that scary, gray mare says is true, nothing will stand a chance against them. I think Hope would be crazy not to side with her."

"But what if she's lying?"

"Hope is not going to base her choice on a lie, idiot. She's going to want proof that it's true and leverage in case that thing betrays her."

"What could Blight possibly have for leverage?"

"Everypony has a weakness. Don't you read?"

Oh shit.

They were talking about my mother and Blight teaming up. Would Hope go for that? No. Even she had her limits, I'm sure. She didn't want the same thing as Blight. Blight wanted to be evil for the sake of being evil. Hope had some reasoning. Even if that reason is reckless and misguided. If they joined forces, we would all be completely fucked.

I snapped out of it and looked around for a way to get passed them. A broken bottle caught my eye. Before I could do anything, Pepper had already picked it up in her magic and tossed it far away from us. Once the glass shattered, the cloaked ponies drew their guns and rushed towards the sound. I made sure they were all gone before I hurriedly cantered behind a fuel tank. I looked out, once again, to see where we were.

The silo was only about twenty yards away from the tank. The down side was that the henchponies were denser in that area.

"Great. I don't think we can sneak by them without being seen, even if we made no sound." Pepper whispered.

I moved our head to a cloaked pony walking to the back of the silo. He (or she) was alone.

"So, let's stop sneaking and hide out in the open. We can steal that pony's cloak and just walk through the door. Between the fog and the dramatic hood on those robes, nopony would recognize us. Then, we could get in and get our information with no problem." I said, way too enthusiastically.

It took a lot for Pepper to hold back a laugh. "That is the most cliche thing I have ever heard. The ol' disguise and blend in trick, huh?"

I made our cheeks blush with embarrassment. "Pepper, this whole 'good guys versus evil witch' thing is a cliche in itself. Besides, do you have a better idea?"

She rolled our eyes, but said nothing.

"Okay, so we are going to knock them unconscious, take the robes and cover up the body until they wake up." I instructed.

"What if they wake up while we are in there?"

"If we hit them hard enough, they won't wake up for a while."

She said nothing as we turned and snuck towards the back of the silo. I looked around to make sure nopony else was there before I crouched and got ready to-

Stab the guy in the stomach with my knife wrapped in a magical aura.

The stallion made no sound as Pepper clenched his mouth shut until he was lifeless. The horrible gurgling sound made me nauseous. The corpse hit the ground, blood pouring from the slash. I couldn't do anything while she took off the cloak and wrapped it around us. She also went through his pockets and found a few caps.

"P-Pepper, why did you do that?!" I hissed.

She scoffed. "You want to knock out a pony that could probably wake up. That might work for a smaller mare, but the only thing knocking this guy out is a damn execution."

I stared down at the salmon colored stallion while she picked up his gun and slung it over our shoulders. He was dead. Pepper didn't miss a beat while he was dying in our grasp. I didn't want to kill him! He was probably brain washed for all we knew. Ever since I had attacked Pepper, I was very adamant about taking another life. But Pepper did it, this time. She killed somepony!

"Are you done?"

I shook our head. "I-I didn't ask for this..."

She let out a low growl. "Don't turn this on me. Do you see this guy doing anything good? He was working for a couple of murderous hags, for crying out loud!"

She had a point. Odds are he knew what he was doing. I still felt extremely guilty. What if he had a family?

"Now, come on. Let's get this over with."

I let out a shaky breath and went back to where we were just hidden. Keeping our head low, I walked as casually as I could towards the door.

You are a follower. Be a follower. Do not fuck up and hesitate like you constantly do!

I repeated this in my head as we walked by several more of the minions. They didn't seem suspicious of us, but they didn't seem friendly, either. I nodded a greeting to a pony who I assumed was a mare. She did the same, but kept her eyes on me. I spotted three of them walking through the silo door, so I went to join them. It would make the cover even better. Through the first door, the interior of the storage unit was just a plain, round building. What I didn't see at first, was another bigger door that opened from the floor. It was huge. A war tank could definitely fit through it.

"Hope will not be lost." One of the cloaked ponies said to another one standing guard next to that entrance. The rest of them said the same as they went through. I swallowed before repeating those words to the guard, trying to stay calm. After he accepted, I was through the gate, descending into the bunker.

Holy road apples.

The bunker itself was basically just a giant square room, similar to Violet's home. The exception was that this one was ten times bigger. That was not what took my breath away. At the far end of the place stood two, humongous, red machines. They compared in size to Silky and probably weighed tons more. The silver and red outer shell didn't even have a scratch on them. If they were up and running, they would have been moving on tracks like an old war tank. That's not all: The utility extensions were terrifying even if they were just for farming. They stretched out like sharp claws, trying to grasp at the closest ear of corn. The huge wedge plow in the front almost looked like the front of an old train. I had to swallow back the knot forming in our throat. Even Pepper seemed taken aback.

That is definitely overkill if they were just harvesting cabbages.

The last thing I noticed was a pod-like chamber in the corner of the room. Inside, was a tiny foal. He looked like he had just come from the womb. The slumber he was in appeared almost peaceful, except for the fact that he was basically growing in a jar. Pepper noticed, too. She grit her teeth at the sight of the poor baby floating in the stasis fluids. There was a pony in a white coat monitoring him. At least Gale was true to her word about his care. He still needed his mother, though.

"Where is she?" A familiar voice called.

The group of ponies I was with directed their attention to the source. A yellow mare with a softer yellow and mahogany mane glared at us Her green, piercing eyes were barely aged enough to match the, very scarce, gray in her hair. My mother. The pony who gave birth to me stood only feet away. I wanted to run to her, embrace her and tell her there was a better way. But she wasn't my mother, anymore. Just a hardened criminal built by the wasteland. Our chest began to ache from my breaking heart. It took a while before I realized she was speaking to the mare next to me.

"Blight is close by. She wanted us to bring a message." The voice by my ear said.

"You may relay it, now." Gale nodded.

The mare began speaking. "She told us to let you know that you can return the body once she has fused with the machines."

I knew exactly what she was talking about. A wave of nausea made our mouth water. Gale kept her stance, eyeing the metallic monsters. "Blight drives a hard bargain. However, giving her the chance to take these combines will only put us all in danger, unless we have collateral on her."

"Come now, Hope. I would never betray those who help me conquer." My voice startled all of us, except Gale. Pepper threw her gaze towards the front of the shelter before I could even move.

I was there. Well, not me. It was Blight, with my identity. She had changed my appearance, though. My coat had darkened to gray and my mane was almost devoid of color and brightness. I also noticed that my cutie mark had disappeared. My eyes weren't green anymore, either. They were just... gray. She swooped in, flapping her (my) wings and coming to a stop on the other side of Gale's table.

"Blight." Gale addressed her. "You had no reason to send me a message if you were coming back, anyway."

Blight grinned, wickedly. "I wanted to be sure they would deliver the right message. Besides," She turned towards the equipment. "I couldn't wait for these beautiful wonders of pony-kind, any longer." She trotted towards them, placing my hoof on them. "At least one good thing came from you animals."

"Yes, they should still be functional. However, I want to make sure that once you... fuse with them, that you take into account my conditions." The cloaked, yellow pegasus walked around the table.

"Stupid pony. You are mistaking me for one of your followers. You think you have some sort of control over me? Even in this body, I could defeat you."

"I do not wish to control you, nor am I implying that I do. I simply do not want that body destroyed."

Blight's grin disappeared. "I don't care if you return this putrid body, as long as you stay out of my way. No one will be able to stop me, so do what you will."

"There's also one more thing I ask of you."

Blight turned to her. "Tell me, Gale: Why should I do you any sort of favors? I can take these mechanical beings whenever I want, you know."

"Not without the pearls." Gale narrowed her eyes. "The Enclave. All I ask is that you destroy them. They have technology that you may want to take, as well."

My body bared her teeth. "You think I don't know what revenge looks like? I am revenge! Do you know who I truly am?"

To her credit, Gale didn't bat an eye. Instead, she gave the smallest of smiles. "I know that they have ways to take you down, easily. The Enclave are not as primal as those who live down here. You'll need me."

For a moment, things were silent. Blight flapped her wings and hovered next to the tractors, thinking. Why would Gale think that Blight would ever keep her word?

"Do we have a deal? You give me that weak body back and destroy the Enclave. In return, you will have unlimited power and my followers will serve you, as long as no danger comes to us."

Why does Gale want my body, anyway? This is bad!

Blight landed in front of her, grabbing the cloak and ripping it off of the yellow mare. I saw it, then. The Dashite mark. I could feel a jeer of pain in Pepper's flank as the memory orb flooded into my brain. The burning pain was almost real. "This hunger for revenge, it starves you. I can see your darkness. You're tainted by the pearls and you are only just getting your hooves on them. No, you were tainted long before that. You were taken away from your family. Stripped of your identity because you wanted to help these poor creatures." Blight circled her. "Your hate runs too deep to even stop your plans and see that you could still have a family in this land. No, you'd rather kill those responsible for taking your... 'better' life from you. You're willing to give me more power, willingly." Blight cackled. The entire place echoed. "It's so beautiful! You are feeding the literal embodiment of hate!"

Pepper stomach rolled, again. I felt our chest tightening as Pepper began to shuffle.

Blight continued, "I will graciously accept your offer, but I want you know something, Gale."

"What is that?" Gale stood, still as stone.

"You do not have that motherly instinct that you think you possess."

As if she had teleported, Blight flashed in front of us, snatching our own cloak from Pepper's body. "Your daughter has been here the entire time." She gave a throaty laugh. "Even without her vessel, I can still taste her. She has a unique fear to her."

Gale's eyes went wide for a split second before she gained her composure and gestured for her followers to clamp Pepper's horn with some kind of metal device. I felt the tingle in her forehead but it instantly burned out, leaving us with a mild headache.

"She put a dampener on my horn!" Pepper growled.

They threw chains around us, crippling Pepper to make sure we wouldn't run.

"I don't know how you got in here, Sienna. You shouldn't have intruded." Gale's tone was bitter and cold.

"Don't do this! Blight is going to betray you!" I shouted.

The entity chuckled, again. "Did you tell her where we will soon move our temporary base of operation?"

Gale never said a word. She just turned and faced that evil witch. "It shouldn't concern her. She would only try to stop you if she knew. As soon as you fuse and get your adjustments, we will surprise them with our visit."

Blight's delighted expression switched back to sour when she looked back at the mare. "Be careful, mortal one. Your emotions might get you killed."

"Your threats don't scare me. I'm only sticking with our plan so it goes smoothly." Gale deadpanned.

Blight grinned, again. "Very well. You're lucky that I'm so eager to become whole. Give me the pearls so I can begin the transformation."

Gale didn't hesitate to take out the purple bag. I could feel the magic radiating off of them. Blight snatched them away, her eyes lighting up. Once she opened the bag, she started to glow. Her giggles started out quietly, but eventually grew into a crazed howl. I felt tears fall from our cheeks. Dread filled Pepper's lungs and throat. She was too shocked to speak.

The pearls levitated from the bag and hovered between Blight and one of the red and silver machines. She touched her hoof to the pearls, starting a series of fireworks. Her eyes glowed like the rainbow, just like they did when it was me. The machines rumbled to life, giving a dragon's roar a run for its money. Light poured from the pearls, making all of the followers back away. The chains fell from Pepper's body. They must not have secured them. We could have ran, but I was not about to run without that foal.

While everypony was distracted, I bolted behind the many tanks and utility boxes. "Pepper, the sneak spell!" The tingle in our forehead burned.

"This thing prevents me from using any magic! I can't conjure any spell!" She replied.

Damn it!

"Then we have no choice! Let's grab the foal and run out as fast as we can!"

She faltered. "What about your body?"

"It can wait! The foal is more important, right now!"

Gusts of air swirled around the bunker, behaving the way a rogue tornado would. I dodged flying papers, skidding to a stop in front of the pod, just out of sight. The lab coat mare was transfixed on Blight, so I quickly pushed the button on the side that said "eject". One hiss later, the pod drained the fluid, leaving the foal suspended on a gel-like pillow. I grabbed the baby and the pillow, making a run for it. I bolted past everyone, not paying attention to the large number of ponies in the entrance watching the whole thing go down. They didn't bother to come after us.

Up the ramp, I galloped past a few stragglers hurrying to watch the show. When we were outside, I could see the silhouettes of two pegasi. Redd and Violet flapped their wings, speeding towards us. I didn't stop running. They circled around, eventually leveling with me and flying at my pace.

"Sia! What the hell is going on?! It looks like they're making another sun in there!" Violet yelled.

"Blight is... using the pearls!" I panted.

"Oh Goddesses... Where is Hope?"

"She is still in there. I have the foal!" I told her.

She looked back as she flew. The area was already lit up like a Hearths Warming tree. "I saw your body! Except... it wasn't your body!"

I skidded to a stop, Violet and Redd following suit. "Yes, it's in there, still. Blight is fusing with one of those machines, so my empty vessel is just... there, now."

"We have to get it back before it's injured!" Redd started for the entrance.

"Wait!" Violet grabbed him. "Let me. I'm faster. I'll fly in, grab it, and get out of there."

"No! It's too-" I didn't get to finish before she flew at supersonic speed into the silo. "Violet!"

"Let's go before those henchponies catch us!" Pepper yelled.

Tears fell from my eye. True fear. Something that hadn't showed its face to me in a while. The post-traumatic stress from Nico in that cavern began to engulf me.

"Violet!" I called.

"Come on! She'll be alright!" Redd screamed.

Pepper moved for us. She forced her muscles to work and ran alongside the pegasus stallion. I should have scolded him for using his wing, but at the time, I was a nervous wreck. He led us over the fields and through the maze of dead crops. I could finally see the hill where the others were waiting. Pepper's tired legs pounded the mud with every gallop. Tears still fell from my eyes.

Luna, keep my best friend safe, please!

Nico and Dad met us halfway down the hill, next to Zephyr's grave.

"You got the foal!" Nico exclaimed.

"We did." I breathed.

I turned, watching the silo entrance as Redd filled them in on the bright glow. It wasn't as bright as it was, but it was still wrapped in a rainbow aura. Blight had completed her transformation. I could hear the low rumble of an engine. It was eerie, to say in the least. She was going to kill so many ponies. Guilt wrapped itself around Pepper's windpipe. So much guilt. What was I supposed to do about a giant, robotic, doom-tractor-tank? It felt like the end. Seconds passed as I watched for Violet. I waited for a sign of her.

I didn't even see a loose feather.

"No..." I whispered. Tears formed in my eye. She was dead. My best friend, again, was gone.

Redd put a hoof on my shoulder. "She will be here. Just give her a few more-"

Something landed behind us, making me jump. We spun and saw Violet, panting and sweating.

Thank you, Luna! Oh, thankyouthankyouthankyou!

"Hey... Sia! I got... you... back!" She gently laid my lifeless body on the ground. I gulped, remembering when I saw myself after those raiders had taken down Wick and Chaser. It felt the exact same. This time, though, my eyes were white and glazed over. I stared at myself like I was an alien. I saw a coward lying in the dirt. Same as back then. A hesitant pony who couldn't do anything. Color wouldn't even reside on her hide. She was just... boring. I snapped out of my self-hatred long enough to realize that I had changed and I was going to keep it that way. I would not hesitate. I would not let my emotions and fear control me anymore.

"How do we... put you back?" Dad said.

"The necklace. That must be it." Nico replied.

"What if she stays in my body when the necklace is taken off?" Pepper said.

"I don't know what else we could do." He told her.

I felt something nagging in the back of my mind. Rarity was giving me a clue. "I have to take a mind nap while you take the necklace off and move it to my body."

Nico rubbed his mane. "That... could work."

I nodded. "Give me a few seconds to go into that state, then take the necklace off and put it on me, okay? If I'm not back in five minutes, it... didn't work."

"O-okay." Violet said. She had finally caught her breath.

I took a deep breath, then let the empty, stale void take me. I expected to stay that way for a minute until they got the necklace around my neck. Then I thought I'd just open my eyes and be myself, again. That didn't happen, though. I did, however, feel the same immense pain that I felt when Blight took my body. The burning chill ran down my spine. I didn't feel like I was being ripped apart, but it was like glass was pressing against my body, forcing it back together. My eyes shot open, but I was still in so much pain. I let out a scream, probably loud enough for Gale to hear. I was cold. No, I was hot. Needles stuck under my hide, attempting to sew my soul back to it. I finally felt my heart. It beat once. It pounded twice. Air filled my lungs like an implosion. The thundering roar in my ears took forever to quiet enough to where I could hear my herd.

"-enna! It's okay! I got you!" A familiar stallion's voice. I couldn't tell who it was, yet. All I saw was white, like a flash grenade had went off.

My scream faded into a cry, then into a whimper. The glass finally pulled out of my hide and I felt warm hooves around me. All of my senses went back to normal, slowly. I blinked, shaking too bad to move. Eventually, I could see clear enough to see Redd holding my head up. Dad was holding the other side. Pepper, Violet and Nico surrounded me. My mind was so foggy. I was instantly exhausted to the point where I felt weak. At least my burns and other injuries were gone. The magic even repaired my black, Enclave armor. When I looked around, the haze had already settled.

So warm. Warm is good.

I did manage to get out one thought, though. "Redd... How is... the wing?"

The sound of relieved sighs filled the air.

"It flies perfectly." He said, softly.

"You got your cutie-mark back!" Violet cheered. "And your mane is orange, again. No more gray!"

"It worked, thank Celestia." Nico spoke. "Let's get her to Fleece to make sure there's no internal damage. Redd, Violet. Can you two return the foal to Zangth? You're the fastest and Sia is not able to travel."

"Aye aye, cap'n." Violet said. She already held the tiny colt in her hooves.

"Wait... Is he alive?" I tried to quickly ask.

"Yup! He's breathing, alright!" She said. She held the foal up so I could get a look at him. He was adorable. A beautiful, blue colt with a head full of black hair. He was no bigger than a cantaloupe. How he still slept, was beyond me.

I laid my head back as Nico levitated me onto my father's back. "Sia, get some sleep. You've been through an ordeal. We'll wake you up when we get to Fleece's clinic."

I let out a groan. Maybe it was an objection? I wasn't sure. All I knew was that I was going to sleep so hard, I wasn't even giving my brain a chance to dream.

REBOOTING......
SUBJECT IDENTIFIED
WELCOME BACK LIEUTENANT SIENNA!

Level up!

S- 3
P- 6
E- 6
C- 4 (+1)
I- 5
A- 4
L- 5

New Perk
Good advice - You now have a 25% chance of convincing enemies at a lower level to stand down.

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

Thank you all for reading! As always, constructive criticism/error spotting are always welcome!

Stay safe!

-AP

Chapter 26: United, We Stand

****Trigger Warning!!****
I wanted to give a heads up (just in case) because this chapter mentions (no actions taken) sexual assault.

"Friendship is the only true magic that can unite us all."

I hadn't slept that well in days. Between my body being exhausted and my mind not getting sleep in Pepper's body, it was nice to get some undisturbed rest. When I finally woke up, I was still groggy. I didn't even want to open my eyes, so I just laid there. I felt the Pipbuck on my leg, still. It was a blessing that Blight didn't take it. I also felt my bangs on my forehead. Instead of a horn, it was just my mane. I was so relieved to feel both of my wings on my back, too. The magic from the pearls had healed the feathers. I had already planned to preen them when I was awake and ready. There was something so refreshing about having my body back. Other than the impending doom and insufferable tiredness, I felt pretty good.

I finally opened my eyes. I was in one of Fleece's rooms. No IV's or tubes. Just me and the comfy bed. Fleece appeared at my bedside. She smiled, warmly. "Hey there, hon. Feeling okay? You've been out for a day and a half."

I sat up, slowly. The movement made me a little queasy. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just a little tired is all."

"That's good. I looked over everything and you have no injuries or underlying damages. After you get your strength back, you should be right as rain."

"Where is everyone?"

"Nico and Mixer are in the waiting room. Pepper is back at his house, resting. I don't know where Violet and Redd are." She told me. Her horn lit up as she looked over me.

They must have still been traveling back from Zangth's. I let out a calm breath. My chest was not tight for once. "I'm so glad to be back. One less worry, right?" I half chuckled.

Fleece sighed. Even through her scratchy voice, I could tell something wasn't right. "There's something we need to talk about. I do not want to bring it up right now, but seeing as though there is a lot riding on these next few days, I have to tell you."

A small wave crawled through my chest. "What is it, Fleece? Is it... is it bad?"

She shook her head. "No, no. It's not bad at all. It's... just timing."

"So... what is it?" I asked, lying back on the pillow.

She put a hoof on the bed rail. "Sweetie... Is birth control available in the Enclave?"

"Yeeess... Every mare has to have birth control before she is married and after she has one foal. We have implants every year." I informed her.

"When did you last have one inserted?"

I thought a moment. I had an aching feeling in my throat. "About a year ago... why?

Her jaw tensed as she swallowed. "I haven't told anyone yet." She took a deep breath, readying the bad news like a vaccine for a foal. "You're... uh, pregnant."

.....

"No, I'm not. I'm not, really. Psh." I laughed. "Stop messing with me, Fleece!"

She didn't flinch.

"I'm... not. I can't be." I was calm for a moment. Like the breeze you feel before a thunderstorm. That breeze feels so nice and cool.

Then, you hear the thunder.

An explosion in my chest sent me grabbing at my throat. It felt like a tidal wave of fear crashed into my heart, drowning it in grief. I could not be pregnant! This was not the right time! I was not the right mare for the job! Give me zombie ponies any day. I couldn't be a mother. I would surely get my foal killed. Hell, that's why I never wanted foals! The ringing in my ears grew louder. My limbs started to tense so much I could barely move them.

"Fleece, I can't. I can't breathe!" I grabbed her.

She held on to me. "Shh. You can get through this. You have gotten through so much already and this is just a panic attack. Take deep, slow breaths." She sat me up, holding my hooves. It helped a lot, having her there. I took a few deep breaths and let my tense muscles unfurl.

After a few more breaths, I looked at her and rubbed my chest. "I-I'm sorry. Thank you."

She smiled, sweetly.

"I... I can't believe this..." I said.

"Little ones are a blessing, Sia. Mares give birth in the wasteland, all the time. It's just part of life now. Besides, by the time the little one gets here, Hope will be defeated." Then she added, "If you want to open that chapter of your life, right now. If you don't want to continue the pregnancy, I will not judge you. That is also a part of life for some mares. A mother knows best, after all."

Her understanding smile made me feel worse, so I looked away. Two options. I had two options. Could I get rid of my baby? I gulped. I was not fit to be a parent, but what if I turned out to be? Even if we were in the wasteland, it's possible to be a parent out there, right? Nico was born and raised and he is just fine. Pepper was fine, before... her ordeal.

The ghoul doctor sat a canteen next to me. "Is it okay if I ask... when this happened?"

My stomach dropped like a hammer on concrete. My memory instantly went back to two specific days. Redd could be the father. But, then there was that... monster. If that raider was the father, I'd have to think about it every single day. I would have to remember what had happened to me. My foal would be a part of me, but also a part of him. There was no worse a nightmare. I felt sick to my stomach. I leaned over and grabbed a bucket and vomited until there was nothing left but bile.

I burst into tears, ignoring her question. "Fleece... I-Is there a way to tell if the foal is a full-blooded pegasus this early?"

"There... may be a way. I'd have to go look into my old medical spells in the back. I haven't had to perform a spell like that, yet."

My hooves grabbed her and shook her. "Please! Please tell me!" I sobbed. "There... there's two possibilities. It's either Redd or..." I shook, violently. The image of Nail Bit flashed in front of me as I jumped back, holding a pillow to my face and screaming. "A RAPIST!!"

I bawled into the pillow for a long minute. Fleece didn't say a word. She didn't have to, really. I could tell she was angry. Her wide eye looked over me. "I... I'm so sorry, Sienna. I didn't..." She shook her head. "Please, tell me the bastard is dead and buried in a cold, unforgiving place." She said, dangerously.

I sniffled a few times, moving the pillow. "Zapped t-to ashes."

She nodded, barely satisfied. "Today is slow. I'm going to go back there and see if I can find the spell."

I trembled, turning to my side and pulling the blanket over me. "Thank you, again, Fleece. I don't know what I'd do without you."

When her hoofsteps left the room, I let out more silent tears. I don't know why I expected things to just get better. They never did. And when the smallest of joys were to enter my life, five times as much misery replaced it. I tried so hard to just picture what my filly or colt would look like. My heart would sink further every time I thought about the possibility that that monster could be...

I guess there was nothing I could do until I knew for sure. I'd have to wait for Fleece. My tears soaked the pillow underneath my face. If Redd was the father, how bad could that be? He's a great guy! I knew he'd be overjoyed. It was a little unorthodox to picture Redd and I starting a family, but I wasn't completely against the idea. That was only if I even wanted to tell him.

Or even... keep it.

Again, the claw part of the hammer scraped down my chest and into my stomach as I thought about the other possibility. I swallowed, the saliva stinging my throat as it went down. How could I bring a foal into the world knowing it's a product of assault? What impact would that have on my psyche? I covered my eyes with my feathers, trying to calm myself. I felt so disgusting. No matter what I chose, I'd have all these "what-ifs".

I needed a distraction and I needed it, soon.

A plan for our battle with Blight would be nice to have. A platoon of armored Enclave soldiers would have been better. I looked at my Pipbuck, selecting the map. There were only a few places we had been. Floater and Walkerton were the only towns I had been. A few abandoned places, too. I didn't have an army at my beck and call. It wouldn't have been fair to them, anyway. It wasn't their responsibility. Hitting Blight head on would be dangerous, anyway. The way things looked, she could probably take out more than twenty ponies at once. I took a few more deep breaths and switched on the radio.

The song was more or less calming. Sweetie Belle sang a little bit about life and love. Her future. I wondered if she ever faced enemies like I am, now. I only knew that she was one of the founders of Stable-Tec. She also had an amazing voice. Her song was enough to keep me relaxed and not thinking about my problems. That's it, though. I was still trying to run from my problems. You'd think I would have learned that my problems will always catch up to me.

Did she have children? Did the thought of motherhood ever scare her?

"Heeeeelllooooo, wasteland creatures!" I tensed at the obnoxious sound of the radio host. "DJ Pon3, here! It looks like there are quite a few things to cover, so listen up! For starters, The small village of Walkerton has sent word that they now welcome all races. They have a brave, little mare to thank for that. Her name is Sheena. Sierra? Something like that. It was confirmed that the mayor of the town, Clockwork, has been exposed for being a pegasus. (Gee, didn't see that coming!) In other news, if you're in the immediate area around Floater, watch out! Those raiders, we thought were running around, are actually a fairly new faction called the Hope Coven. It isn't clear what their exact cause is, but they don't take too kindly to strangers questioning them. Believe me. I've tried to send someone. (Heh, my bad. Sorry, Cherry Swirl, your tail will grow back!) Also, in the same area, there's been some strange magical activity. A large part of the Blossom Farms area was seen lit up almost as bright as Celestia's sun, itself. I haven't been able to identify what exactly it was, but I'll keep you all updated! Let's throw in a little tear-jerker, shall we? A medical professional from around that same area has said that a newborn foal was rescued from the site and reunited with his mother. Sheena, again! AKA: Fear Fighter. Seems the wasteland isn't all bad, these days!

From the other side of the map, I've gotten word that there have definitely been raiders setting up shop in the Ponyville area. A few caravans have said the largest group hides in the library-"

As the DJ read off the rest of the news, I couldn't stop thinking about how quickly he had learned about Blossom Farms. It's like he had eyes everywhere.

Also, Sheena? Come on! I'm not that forgettable.

"You're awake!" Violet trotted in. I quickly switched off the news. "Feeling rested? You've been asleep for the better part of two days." She nudged me.

"I... Yeah. I feel pretty good. Like brand new!" I faked a toothy smile as my hooves hit the floor. I nonchalantly leaned against the bed to hide my dizziness.

Redd cantered in, after her. He held a small pouch in his teeth. Once he was in front of me, he took it in his wing and gave it to me. "Zangth was pretty relieved to get the little guy back. The mother wanted you have these, too."

Inside the pouch there were several caps. There's the guilt. I didn't want her caps. What if it were all she had? "I can't take this."

He shrugged. "Well, you did get her foal back. I think I would pay every bit to whoever saves my foal's life."

Wow, sweetie. Can you say 'irony'?

"Oh, I wish you could have seen it. She was so happy!" Violet said.

"I-I'm glad to hear that." My lips curled into a genuine smile, that time.

Fleece came in, next. Two old books levitated in front of her muzzle. "Okay, I think I found the spell. I just need DNA from-" She stopped.

My feathers flew up to my mouth, shushing her.

"Right. I need to speak to Sia, for a few seconds. Could you two wait outside?" She said. Violet nodded, flapping her wings and floating out the door. Redd started to leave, too, but Fleece stopped him. "Could I see your foreleg?"

He held it up, puzzled. There was a small scratch on the surface of his hide. It was so small, you could barely tell it was there. When he held it out to her, she ignited her horn and waved it over the wound. The skin quickly healed.

"Thanks. I guess I didn't even notice it was there." He dipped his head and disappeared into the hall, closing the door.

"Please tell me it's good news." I asked.

"Yep! I was going to tell you that I needed DNA from the father. That's why I took the opportunity to 'heal' Redd's cut." She winked, her horn still ignited.

I wanted to be relieved, but I was going to save that for the results. She turned a couple of pages in the book, then instructed me to lie on my back. "This is going to take a minute. You must be very still. This spell is supposed to be able to identify paternal DNA even days after conception. It'll feel a little strange, but won't hurt anything."

I wiped a nervous sweat from my forehead as her horn lit up. It didn't look normal, though. It was brighter and it pulsated as she lowered her head towards my abdomen. It started out as a warming sensation, then grew to a weird pressure. I wanted to fidget and get comfortable, but I knew better. If finding out the father of my baby meant dealing with a little discomfort, I was all for it. After all, I had been through much worse. The wait was the worst part, anyway. It was torture, actually. I wanted to have one... just one thing less to worry about.

"Strange." I heard her say.

I feel sick.

"What is it? Is something wrong? Is it okay?"

"Yes it's fine, it's just... When was the first time you had intercourse since you've been here?" She asked, still scanning my womb.

"Um... M-Maybe a week or two ago."

"That is extremely early, but... you're... almost two months along."

I started to sit up, but stopped myself. "That's impossible! Redd was my... first time!"

"There are traces of magic in the amniotic fluid. The development has slowed to normal rates, now, but the fetus had to have been exposed to something that contained dangerous amounts of magic."

It had to be the pearls.

"You said your body was taken over by some entity that possessed magic. How much magic are we talking?" She furrowed her brow.

"She claimed to be the literal embodiment of all the negative emotions in ponies. That's not all, she used the pearls to transfer herself into a machine. That's how I was able to get back in my body." My ears drooped.

"That's it, then. I've never seen this before, but that's the only explanation I can think of. Unless you had a sexual partner before you got here." She smirked.

I blushed. "N-no! I swear to Luna and Celestia I did not."

With a final tug, her horn dimmed. She put her hoof on mine and smiled.

Please, be good news.

"Well, I believe you. The blood type is the same as Redd's. He is the father. Thanks to the sped up development, it was easier."

It was like the clouds had parted. The sun had hit my skin and warmed me until I felt invincible. This was a relief unlike anything I had ever experienced. To know that bastard would never be able to leave a piece of himself with me. I sighed, the trembles leaving my aching muscles.

"So, that weight has obviously been lifted. Do you know what you're going to do?"

I rubbed my chest. Now, the same choice had to be made, except this time, it would be so much harder. "I... I have no idea. I thought it would be easier, but it's not. I'm such a mess of a pony. I-I don't know if I could have a family of my own. I at least wanted a plan, first. But... I-I just don't..." I grit my teeth to keep tears back, but the water under my lashes were too conspicuous.

"It's okay, dear." Fleece rubbed my back. "You don't have to make any sort of decisions, right now. Take this time to think things over and choose what you think is best. I'm always here if you need somepony to talk to."

I nodded. "It's just... I don't feel like it would be fair to make any sort of decision without Redd. He has a right to know."

She smiled. "Who knows? Maybe, things will come to light sooner. Do you want me to send him in?"

Did I? Could I talk to him right then? Was this too soon? I did want to give myself some time, too.

"Not yet. I think... I think I'll just lie down. I'm feeling a little lightheaded." I turned and climbed back into bed. "Please, can you send them to... find cake?"

She chuckled. "Of course."

As soon as the ghoul shut the door behind her, I flopped over to stare at the wall. What was wrong with me? Why was this so difficult? It should be easy, now. The hard part should have been over with. Redd was the father of my child. We both created something beautiful. He would be overjoyed!

But... would I be strong enough to birth a foal?

I closed my eyes and imagined myself back home. We had state of the art hospital equipment, safe environments, sterile tools, and a healthier lifestyle. Even if I was back home; even if I had all of that; even if Redd and I were committed, could I still have a foal? I have panic attacks at the smallest of symptoms and pregnancy would be something entirely different. Did I really think I could go through the excruciating pain of childbirth?!

Actually, I still wasn't sure.

Foals were never really on my mind, but I always wondered what a miniature version of myself would be like. And now, a mixture of myself and Redd. Would he or she have my green eyes? Redd's fiery ones? I couldn't help but give a microscopic grin at a little filly with Redd's fierceness.

D'aww!

A frown plastered itself on my lips. No thinking about anything like that! I wasn't even sure about keeping my... baby. That last word hit me pretty hard. What if this was my only chance to find out those "what ifs"? My cheeks stung from the tears. It seemed so hopeless. I let out a shaky breath. Redd was just going to have to be a part of the conversation. Nopony else had to know, but he definitely needed to be a part of my- our decision. It just wasn't my place to do that to him.

Hours passed while I went back and forth in my head. I know this, because I kept checking the time on the Pipbuck. When someone came in, I pretended to sleep. Eventually, I ended up sitting at the end of the bed. The blanket was half-way on the floor. I was thinking. And thinking. And thinking, some more. At one point, I noticed the familiar clam shell container. I wasn't even hungry, though. Surprisingly.

Night fell. I slept a couple of hours. I awoke in the very early hours of the next morning. Then, I thought for hours more. I had so much I had to do, but...

"Sia?" Redd peeked in, making me jump to my hooves.

"Y-yes?" I scrambled upright.

He narrowed his eyes, closing the door. "What's wrong?"

I sighed. Is this the right time?

He cantered towards me. "Are you alright?"

I inhaled. I exhaled. It was going to have to be the right time. I could do this. "I'm okay. I... I need to talk to you."

He came closer to me, frightened. "What is it?"

"I... We..." Words refused to leave my tongue. I put my hooves on my face. "This is such a damn mess."

His brow furrowed while he waited for a response.

Exhaling for the tenth time, I sat up straight. "Redd, this is such terrible, horrible, awful timing. I want you to know that you're one of the best friends a mare could have. These past weeks, I don't think I could have gotten through without you and..."

He stiffened. A tired, agitated gaze fixed on me. "Sia, are you just going to friend-zone me, again? I told you, I won't overstep my boundaries again. I already know all of this. I'm happy to be your friend, but I think-"

I shook my head, "No! No, that's not it! I just-"

"Good morning!" Violet chimed, as the door swung open.

Damn it, Violet!

"Sia! Feeling better?" She asked, looking at the cake. "You didn't touch your cake."

I faked a smile. "I promise, Vi, I'm okay. I just wasn't hungry. Planning and stress and all." I waved it off.

"Okay, well I thought you could use some help with the planning." She grinned at Redd. "I see you've had plenty of help, already."

I blushed.

"No, Violet. Nothing like that." Redd said, matter-of-factly. The usual sheepishness and playfulness had gone. He said that so... surely. I was a little taken aback. Hurt, even. Did he... no longer have feelings for me? I shrunk at his words.

Violet noticed the reaction and narrowed her eyes. "Oookay. Weird. Anyway, what have ya got? What's the plan for the 'tractor take-down'?"

"Tractor take-down?" I raised an eyebrow.

She shrugged. "Eh. It's a placeholder title. I'll think of something better."

I sighed. I really wished she would have waited for this. Redd had to know and he needed to know, soon.

Before he doesn't even want to know...

"W-well," I avoided Redd's stare. "I haven't thought of any solid plan. Honestly, I don't have any idea how we could beat a ten-ton monstrosity like that." My torso tensed.

The rest of the gang trotted into the room. It seemed like our favorite meeting place was any hospital or clinic room. Pepper's dampener had been taken off, presumably right after we returned from Blossom Farms.

Nico spoke first. "I overheard the potential plans to destroy Blight." He looked at Violet. "Nice title, by the way."

She smirked, proudly.

"I wouldn't call any of this a plan. Like I said, I have no idea what to do." I told him.

Dad pat my shoulder. "Do you know any weak points? She has to have something."

"If she does, she never gave any clues." I replied.

"Why don't we just fly in and unscrew all her bolts? That'll be a rude awakening." Violet snickered.

Redd rolled his eyes. "That's if we can find a way to do that without her noticing. Not to mention, she probably wouldn't even worry about a few loose screws."

I scratched my head. Despite everything, it would have been funny to see her physically fall apart. I internally chuckled at Violet's suggestion.

"Do you have any better ideas?" She shot back at the white pegasus.

Redd glanced over the group. "The only thing I can think of is an army of fully trained, fully armored, soldiers. Blight seems to have an army of her own now, thanks to Hope."

I winced. He had a point. Now, we had to worry about Blight, the monster-machine, and Hope's followers. The pearls were just the cherry on top.

"Ugh! This is so frustrating!" Violet dragged her hooves down her face. "Is there an off switch? An emergency shut off? Self-destruct button? Anything?!"

"That could possibly work, except for two problems: One, we would need some sort of diagram of the whole machine. Two, we don't know if the magic from the pearls affects the way they get power. A switch is obsolete if it's running on Blight, herself."

"Great. So, we've got a bullet proof shell that runs on magic. Anything else we should know?"

"Bullet proof." I repeated. My brain slowly grasped at a half-assed idea.

"Sia?" Dad touched my shoulder.

"Bullet proof." I told them. "She might be bullet proof, but what about rocket proof?"

The skeptical glances around the room settled on me.

"Our bullets may not be able to penetrate the outer armor, but what if we hit it with an explosive? Even better if we can find an opening to the inner workings of the vehicle. Maybe... just maybe, that will at least slow her down significantly."

"Where could we get something like that?" Pepper asked. Her questioning look drilled into me.

I looked at Violet. She was already smiling.

"The Fucker." We said, together.

"Excuse me, what?" Nico deadpanned.

"Remember that rocket launcher I took from Gladys?" Violet nudged him.

He sighed. "You really think Gladys is gonna loan that to us? Especially since you took it in the first place? I doubt her trust in you is very deep."

She winked. "Don't worry about our feathered friend. Pretty sure she and I can... work something out." Her wiggling eyebrows made him severely uncomfortable.

"Sorry I even asked."

I felt for my lower abdomen. Was it too early to feel movement? The nervous twinge was hard to identify. Probably just anxiety. I snuck a look at Redd. He sat, stone-faced. Maybe I unintentionally led him on too far. He was hurt, for sure. It didn't help that Violet interrupted before I could offer any sort of explanation.

Oh, Redd... I'm so sorry I did this to you. It isn't fair!

"Stomach ache?" Pepper whispered to me. She had sat closer to me while the others added to our catastrophic plan.

I shoved my hoof back to the cool floor. "Y-yeah. That obvious?"

She grinned. "I guess I just know you, by now. We'll be fine, feather brain."

I smiled at the insulting nick name. "Thank you, Pepper."

"So, that's it!" Violet clopped her hooves, taking the stance of a commanding officer. "Alright, maggots! We gather the troops (that's us) and get any firepower we can get our hooves on. Meet Blight before she can get to any town or settlement. Then, we load her down with enough rockets to launch her sorry ass into Luna's moon. Save the smaller ammo for any of Hope's Coven."

Very poor performance, Vi.

"Sounds way too easy to be a solid plan." Nico facehooved.

"At this point, we really are just winging this. Besides, we can come up with the details when we think of them. That's just the main objective." Violet jeered.

"I don't think we have a choice. It's better than sitting around and waiting to die." Dad said, rather depressingly.

I knew this would possibly end in disaster. I was not a very smart pony. 'First Lieutenant' was a title I never directly earned. I was only as skilled in combat and strategy as I could be. Truth be told, I relied heavily on my friends for any ideas. I felt so... helpless.

Fleece knocked on the, already open, door. "Hon, I think you might want to come out here. You have a few visitors."

I glanced back at the others, who gave mixed shrugs and questionable gazes.

I put on my old, black "sweater" and maneuvered down the hall and out the front door. At first, I thought the town may have been holding a festival. My astonishment met no bounds. There were tens, no dozens of ponies, ghouls, a couple of zebra, and a bunch of griffons. Clockwork, Leaf, and half of his town were there. Specs and a bunch of bar patrons I recognized stood off to the side. Cherish and a couple of security guards were there. I noticed Gladys and her squad of about eleven griffons standing next to a familiar crate. "The Fucker" was beautifully painted on the side. Most of Floater, including Tonno Weights gathered around, holding weapons. Even Rocky sat, wall-eyed, beside the door. There were so many I didn't recognize, too. They crowded around the front of the building.

All were staring at me.

I gulped, folding my ears back. As soon as they noticed me, everyone had gotten quiet. I wanted to take cover behind my Dad.

"Look. At. That! It's a good thing I have a big mouth! I may have already mentioned to everyone how we were about to go to war with a doom tractor and her cult followers." Violet chuckled. "Words gets around fast while you're dropping off a foal. And look! Gladys even brought The Fucker!"

Redd trotted up next to me. His faint grin was comforting. "You can't run from your duty, now, Lieutenant."

My teary eyes fell on everyone. "How? H-how did you all-"

"Toots, don't even worry about it. We've been waiting for someone with guts to take a stand for something good." Gladys spread her wide wings. "You got respect from my gang."

"Just tell us where you want us, sweetcheeks." Weights winked from the crowd.

I blushed, earning a sideways glance from Redd.

"Well, Princess. You've gone right back to commanding a platoon." Nico said, putting a hoof on my shoulder. "Still think you're out of ideas?"

As I looked out into the sea of creatures, I felt pride. The wasteland had done nothing but tear me down since I got there, and yet, here was my support system. My initial reaction was to break down and cry. Though convincing myself that I didn't deserve all of these friends was tempting, I just wanted to feel happy. For once in my entire life, I think I was whole. "Thank you all. Really, thank you. I don't want to be the Lieutenant I once was, though. I used to give commands because... well, it came with the job. Since I've been here, though, I've figured out that not everypony is a leader. I am not leader. Instead, I'd rather see myself as a friend. I want to see myself as a friend, a daughter, a sister. This time yesterday, I saw myself as a coward. I am still full of fear. I... I don't want to put any of you in danger, but recently I learned that my friends trust in me. (Well, most of the time.) They won't stop me from running into a burning building because they trust that I know what I'm doing. Taking risks is part of life. Especially in this life. I won't tell you to back down and let me do this. If you feel that aiding me is something you need to do, then I want to say... I appreciate it. I couldn't ask for better friends."

Violet stomped her hooves, sending the crowd into cheers.

"W-Wait... That wasn't a speech, guys! I was just..." I sighed. "Oh, forget it."

Nico nickered. "You're really changing, you know."

I nodded. "I know."

"No, I mean you've changed for the better."

My eyes fell on the many Equestrians in front of me. "I guess friendship will do that to you."

"So, when should we expect to lock and load?" Gladys asked.

"I'm... not actually sure. It could be couple days, it could be just hours. I don't even know what Blight and Hope are planning to do, next. They will be moving to a new base, but I don't know where or when." I informed her.

"I guess it's settled, then. We'll be here 'til ya give the go ahead!" Specs added. The crowd cheered in unison to that.

Floater is about to be booming.

Fleece stepped up. "The Beacon has more than enough rooms, I'm sure. And I have a couple of empty rooms that aren't needed for patients."

"Great idea! Whoever wants to throw Sia a presidential party meet at The Beacon, tonight!" Gladys squawked.

Violet whistled. "You read my mind, baby!"

"Wait... what?" I said.

"If you got extra liquor, bring it!"

"Party time!"

I deflated. But... I can't drink alcohol, anymore...

75% to next Level Up.

S- 3
P- 6
E- 6
C- 4
I- 5
A- 4
L- 5

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

Whew, that was a doozy of a chapter to write. It was probably the most difficult to plan and write, so far! I have the next part written, already, but I need to do some editing.

As always, thank you guys so much for reading! Any constructive criticism/error spotting is greatly appreciated!

Stay safe!

-AP

Chapter 26.5: A Guide to Relationships

"A party is still a party, even if there are only three guests."

You know what sucks? Being the only sober pony at a bar.

I blew air from my nose as I propped my head in my hooves at the counter. The Beacon was absolutely packed, thanks to everyone showing up at once. Violet was the main one taking advantage of the drinks. She threw them back, one after another. Gladys was pretty happy about it, too. The amount of flirting between the two was almost too dirty. Nico and Redd were pacing themselves much slower. I secretly ordered a virgin Bloody Berry. I mentioned to the bartender that I had an upset stomach. The others didn't seem to notice.

"Sweetheart, what's the matter? I thought you would be having fun." Dad said from behind the counter. He and Specs offered their skills to the casino while there were so many there. I'm sure the casino didn't mind since they were making a killing from the gambling.

I sighed. "Nothing's wrong. Still a little tired. I'm not really in the mood to drink much, anyway."

"Never heard o' that phrase." Specs chuckled.

I shrugged. "I guess there's always a first."

"Well, if you need to rest, you should." Dad said.

"I will."

He smiled, sadly, and went back to work.

I hated to sit there in the midst of celebration and think about defeating evil and saving the world. If I was the only one worried about, it would drive me nuts. So, I hopped off the bar stool and walked towards the exit. I needed to breathe. It was hard to get through the crowded place. When I finally reached the doors, a hoof grabbed my foreleg, making me jump back.

"Sorry, it's just me." Nico. "Where are you going?"

"I need some air. I can't breathe in here." I said, matter-of-factly.

"I'll come with you." He told me.

Not a good idea.

"No, that's okay. You go tell the others I went to the restroom or something." I smiled.

He narrowed his gaze. "Are you sure you're alright? You're acting strange."

Rolling my eyes, I removed my leg from his. "Yes. I swear. I am perfectly fine." My eyes wandered to Redd. He didn't seem very into the scene, either. My fault, probably. I quickly turned, before Nico noticed. I walked off, leaving him standing on the other side of the doors. It may have been a bitchy thing to do, but I needed the space. I still had a lot to think about.

Once I was outside, I propped against the corner of the building. The wind blew through my mane and feathers. I closed my eyes to take in the nicer weather. No rain, plenty of breeze, and no raiders. It was about as good as the weather was going to get. I stretched my wings, flapping a few times. Finally, I took off, staying over Floater. The Beacon was a beautiful sight to behold at night. Colorful lights beamed into the sky, giving meaning to its name. I maneuvered through the gusty winds, gliding lazily. I wanted to enjoy being a pegasus, again.

I looked up towards the thick clouds. "Wick. I wished you could be here to celebrate with everypony. I wish you could see how much I've changed. I think you'd be proud."

A tear fell from my eye as I let out a breath, circling back around to stay in the town limits. "Chaser. I'm going to listen to that holotape, one day. I don't want to believe you were doing those things. Just... promise me I won't be too heartbroken." I wiped my eyes. "I forgive you, either way."

Call it self-sabatoge, but I was especially hating myself that night. The voice in my head that was Blight was no longer there, but the blame was too real. It really was my fault that they were dead. I hated myself. It occurred to me that I had only changed to get away from myself. It was a good thing, but I had all the wrong reasons. I didn't change to become braver or stronger. It was just to run from my past. The faster I ran from it, the closer it was to biting me in the ass.

When will the guilt just leave?

After that five minute flight, I began to feel extremely fatigued. I dove towards the roof of The Beacon. The cloud curtain had been lit up by the beams of light. It was tragically beautiful. I sighed, lying down on the hard concrete. "Grandma, Grandpa. What do I do? This world is so broken. It's so... corrupted. How irresponsible would I be for bringing a foal into this place? I would only be able to do my best, but I can only do so much. I wouldn't even know how to prepare for that." Tears welled up, again. "I'm already leading a small army into a battle that is my fault to begin with. What if we lose everyone? What if we lose everything?"

I broke down, sobbing. My soft wails struggled to stay in the immediate vicinity. "I d-don't want to get rid of it. I-I still want to try, but I'm scared. I'm so scared. How do I even tell Redd? How do I tell him I'm carrying his foal, when he probably hates me?"

"How?"

Bitter cold stopped my blood in my veins. I swung my head around, facing the very stallion I should have been talking to, earlier.

"Redd! I-"

"How? How could I hate you?" He flapped his wings, landing right in front of me. "Y-youre... pregnant? I'm... I'm a father..." His face was indecipherable. I thought he would faint.

I shook, violently. Finally, my head fell in my hooves. I cried, loudly, not even caring who heard me. "I-I'm so sorry. I tried to tell you, earlier! I swear I wanted to tell you, but... Violet came in and I didn't want anyone else to know, right now! I-I was t-trying to tell you! You seemed so upset with me! Please, forgive me! Please, don't be mad!"

I didn't bother to look up. I just kept sobbing. It took way too long for him to say anything to me. I almost thought he had left, until I was suddenly wrapped in a warm embrace. His wings wrapped around me, stilling my shivers. I felt wetness on my forehead. "S-Sia, I... I don't know what to say. When did you find out?"

I melted into him, hiccuping. "Yesterday. Fleece told me and I thought... I was so scared, Redd. I was scared that... raider was the father! I had these thoughts in my head. I wanted to get rid of it, but then she-she did the DNA test and it turns out that it's you and not him, and now, I want to try. I want to try to be a mother. I want... I want to be with you!" I grabbed at his barding and sunk my face into it. "I want you to be there with me..."

He held me tighter, his tears falling into my mane. "Do you love me?"

I looked up at him. His usual fiery eyes were now glassy, full of both hope and fear. "What?"

"I would give anything to be with you. I would give my life for you. You're carrying my- our foal. But I only want to be a part of your life if you're going to be happy. I want to make you happy." He pleaded. "Do you love me?"

You know that weird feeling when you have a sudden burst of emotion in your chest? Like when you've been trying to contain a certain feeling inside of you but then it overflows and breaks out? Yeah, it's awesome.

"I-I do. I know I do! When you told me we couldn't go home, I now know why I wasn't upset." I rested my head on his chest. "It was you. You're home to me. You bring me comfort and you make me feel safe. I... I thought I was happier being friends, but... Redd, I don't want to just be friends. I have no idea how to love. How to truly love. I want to love you. I want to try! I can't get rid of our baby! Please, don't be mad."

"I can't be mad at you. I just can't. I mean, it would have hurt a little if you decided to go that route, but... I couldn't stand to force you to do something you didn't want to do." He gulped. "Are you sure you want to raise a foal with me? Here?"

I felt his muscles tense. He was afraid I'd change my mind. I wasn't going to, though. I was so sure about this. Redd had always been one of my best friends. He was an even better lover. I knew right then, my answer. "Yes. Yes! I do."

He kissed me, squeezing my body into his, being extra careful with my abdomen. When he pulled away, I went back for more. His wings shielded me from the chilly wind. I was finally able to let go and wipe the tears from my burning cheeks. I smiled up at the already grinning stallion.

His forehead rested on mine as he nuzzled me. "You have no idea how happy I am, right now."

I sighed, peacefully. "Redd, you're going to be a great father." My hoof placed his over my belly.

He gazed down, proudly. "I promise, I'll do everything I can to keep you both safe."

I wish I could say that gave me chills, but I was too calm. Too at peace.

As fast as this seemed to be moving, I hardly thought it mattered. We were either about to save the world, or be killed in the process. Either way, I didn't want to die not knowing if I could ever be happy. I was scared of motherhood. I was scared of love. I was scared of the future. But, what is the point of fear if you choose to protect the ones you love?

And the reward was pretty awesome, too.

I inhaled, deeply. Taking in his scent. Goddess, if I wasn't already pregnant, I would have ended up that way anyway. We sat like that for a few minutes until he finally broke the silence. "Do you ever wonder if you have a virtue?"

"A virtue?" I asked.

He nodded. "You know, something that makes you... you."

I shrugged. Virtue. That is something I never even once thought about. Mostly, because I didn't have one. I had quirks, sure, but a virtue seemed too... surreal. "Mine isn't as much a virtue as it is... whatever 'cowardice', is."

"Nah. You're not a coward." He squeezed me with the prosthetic wing. It felt too real. "You're brave-"

I glanced at him.

"-er. Brav-er than you were." He flashed a sheepish grin.

I sighed. "I don't really care about virtues. If I was meant to be one thing, I think that would be... boring." I liked the way I had said that, like boring was a bad thing!

"I guess that's true. Still, what do you think stands out for me?" He nudged, playfully.

I tapped my chin in thought. "Hmm. I think valor."

That ego was almost as big as his head, now, for sure. Redd puffed out his chest, resembling a memorial of a war pony. Real modest, Redd. I poked him, deflating his demeanor.

"I said 'valor', not vanity." I giggled.

I felt him nuzzle my cheek. "But... you do think I'm cute, right?"

I blushed. "Y-yes. I guess our relationship warrants that confession." I patted my belly. "I still can't believe this is happening." My smile faded. The crawling skin was uncomfortable, even under Redd's embrace. "What if I... what if I fail?"

He looked at me, worried. "Sia, don't do this to yourself."

I shook my head. "But this isn't just me, anymore. It's us. What if I failed you and the foal?"

"You won't."

"But-"

He put a hoof to my mouth, shutting me up. "You will be great. If I thought you were going to fail, I wouldn't believe in you as much as I do. We all believe in you. Redd Junior is gonna be the happiest colt or filly in the world. You and I are going to make sure of that. You won't be alone. And even if you fall, we will catch you. That goes for our friends, too." He snorted. "And Nico."

I let a smile through, as I wiped a tear away. "Redd Junior?"

"Yes."

"Not gonna happen."

"Even if it's a colt?"

I shoved him, gently. "Anything but Redd Junior."

"Uh..."

We both jolted upright at the voice behind us. Pepper stood in front of the rooftop exit door. Her eyes were wide. "Y-You guys are..."

"Shh!" I hissed. "Please, don't tell anyone!"

Redd facehooved. "Me and my big mouth."

"No, it's... my fault. I was looking for feath- I mean, Sia." Her pink coat slightly reddened. "I didn't mean to overhear."

I nodded. "It's okay. Redd, can you head back? Let everyone know we're alright."

He agreed, turning to leave and looking back every so often.

Once he was inside, Pepper chuckled. "So, when are you going to tell the others?"

I shrugged. "Maybe, after all this is over. I don't want to give everyone something else to worry about." I folded my ears back.

"I'm sorry I found out this way." She rubbed the back of her neck.

"Nah, it's fine. I trust you." I smiled.

She perked up. "Y-You do? I mean, after everything that's happened... I know I've said some things..."

I hugged her. She seemed uncomfortable at first, but she finally relaxed. "You are my friend, Pepper. What's in the past, it should stay in the past. We mess up, we learn, we grow from it." I let go.

Her jaw stiffened as she tried to hide the water in her eyes. "I... I-I'm glad to hear that." Her genuine smile was pretty. I wasn't sure why she didn't smile, often.

"I know you said before that you were going to leave when I was back in my body." I looked down, grimly. "I don't want you to go, though."

She wiped her eyes, again, before turning to me and sighing playfully. "Eh. Maybe I'll stick around." She wilted, slightly. "You know... you don't have to listen to the holotape. I-I'm sure there were reasons-"

"No, I'm going to listen to it." I assured her. "I owe it to you. It might be hard at first, but... I'll be giving birth in almost ten months. If I can get through that, I can listen to a recording."

She laughed. "I totally knew you'd get knocked up. It's always the shy ones."

I felt heat in my cheeks. Quick to change the subject about my sex life, I spoke. "I wonder how Moondancer is doing." I was legitimately curious. We hadn't seen her in a couple of days.

Pepper flicked her tail. "Let's go find out."

"You don't want to stay behind and party with everyone else?" I nudged her.

She snickered. "I don't think so. I'm... uh-I'm sober, now."

I beamed. "That's great to hear!"

"Yeah, yeah, sobriety and morals. Let's get going before they turn the party into and outdoor shin-dig."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The tunnels were still dark. It looked like Fleece had begun to hang a few lanterns up, but hadn't quite made it to the lab. I still had to turn my Pipbuck light on. Once we got to the scattered turret pieces, I picked up a few of the intact pieces to give to Moondancer. I didn't know what she would do with them, but maybe she could find something useful.

"Moondancer?" I called when Pepper opened the door. The facility was still the same as when we left.

The robopony emerged from her room and walked over to the reading tables. "Sienna. Come sit."

Pepper and I did as instructed and took a seat at the table she had chosen. I set the parts next to her as she nodded in thanks.

She gave her best robotic smile to me. "I see you've returned to your biological vessel."

I nodded. "So, you saw the camera feed from around Blossom Farms?"

"Yes. How are you feeling? Any brain damage?"

I faltered. "Uh, not that I'm aware of."

Pepper snickered.

Moondancer brightened. "That's wonderful. You look perfectly healthy. I can hardly tell you've been through a traumatic experience."

I chuckled. "Yeah, everything is fine, I guess. I'm just tired."

Moondancer perked up. "That would tire anyone out. Of course, a mare's body also has to spend a lot of energy to take care of the growing organism inside of them." She gave a weird wink.

"What?!"

"How did you know that?"

She pointed towards the computer. "I told you there were cameras in a lot of places around here. Including the rooftop of the Beacon. I keep that security footage on in case of any danger." Her usual monotone voice hadn't broken its pitch.

I nodded, slowly. "I... guess that's good."

"Don't worry, I won't say anything." She said.

Well, it won't matter if everyone finds out "accidentally".

"Congratulations, though." The robot stood. "Would you like to see the embryo?"

Pepper and I shared a confused look, then I turned back to Moondancer. "Y-you mean I can... see it?"

"Of course. You've never heard of an ultrasound?" She trotted to the tables and pushed the button on her temple, summoning a screen that looked like the x-ray machine, except a little bit smaller and shaped differently.

I hesitantly got up and walked towards the table. Pepper decided to join me.

"Remove your armor and lie on your back."

I obeyed, setting the black barding on the table next us. My chest began to crawl and I instantly knew why. My mother's memory orb had left that trauma deep in my conscious. The cold metal sent a chill through my body. I looked over at Pepper who watched the robopony tinker with the screen with an uncertain face.

"Okay. Hold still."

A gray remote-like thing came from the screen as Moondancer levitated it over my belly. When she pressed it into my stomach, the image of my womb came into view. I watched as she rolled the wand back and forth trying to get a good picture. I was starting to think Fleece had played a cruel prank on me, until I saw the small, bean-shaped life form. It wiggled around, as if trying to escape the camera. My heart melted, instantly. It was adorable. That was my baby. My very flesh and blood. I only wished I knew the gender.

"It's... cute? It's kind of shaped like a kidney." Pepper teased.

"This is strange." The pale, yellow robocorn said.

My heart dropped. "What's wrong?"

"The fetus is fine. It's the data that is a little hard to read." She adjusted her eyes. "It's saying the gestational time frame for the foal is six and a half weeks, but it says conception was only two weeks ago. I should have checked over the equipment before I performed this scan."

I sighed. "No, it's right. According to Fleece, the pregnancy was magically sped up thanks to the pearls coming in contact with my body while I was pregnant."

"Whoa. Does featherbrain know that?" Pepper asked, studying the screen.

"No. I don't know how to tell him that. I don't want him to think... I don't know. He might think it's a lie." I settled my gaze on the bean-baby. Its heartbeat on the speaker made me smile.

"Tell me what?" I darted my eyes to the door. Redd was already walking towards us. I take back what I had said. Redd's virtue was definitely poor timing. "Fleece said you guys came down here." He stopped and looked at the screen. "Is that...?" His eyes moistened.

Another smile crept up on my lips. "Yep. Say hello to our little one."

He nuzzled my cheek. "I can't wait to meet the little guy."

"Filly." I corrected.

"Colt."

I chuckled, rubbing his hoof.

Is this what wholeness feels like? Is it supposed to feel this good?

"Redd, I presume you are the father?" Moondancer interrupted. "The unborn foal was only recently conceived, but because of exposure to the large quantities of arcane energy, the development has slightly increased in less time than normal. I'm getting readings of magical residue in the amniotic fluids. While this is probably nothing to worry about, it may make pregnancy symptoms slightly worse. Hence, why you feel more tired than you should." She turned the screen off, sending it back to its station. "This is certainly an oddity that I will continue to research."

"Uh..."

She gave a tinny sigh. "The foal is a month along, already, because of exposure to powerful magic."

"Oh." Redd looked at me, concerned.

"So, you're sure that its not hurt?" Pepper asked.

Moondancer's eyes glowed as they rested on her. "I'm certain. The speed increase was only temporary. Sienna's body is adjusting to the correct hormone levels, now. In nine to ten months, you'll have the infant."

Redd noticeably relaxed.

I slipped my armor back on. Just as I did so, Moondancer's computer started beeping. All of us turned to see a blip marked on Blossom Farms blinking. Moondancer rushed over, tapping a few keys and selecting the blip. "I've been keeping an eye on this area. Since your last visit, I noticed a lot has happened, so I set this to give a warning every time there is a change in energy waves. It appears there's been an extreme drop in energy in the last few minutes."

I bit my lip. Blight had made her move. "I have to go back to Blossom Farms. There's gotta be something there that will tell us where she's going."

"I'll go with you." Pepper told me.

I faced her. "No. I need you to warn the others. Redd and I can fly there and straight back if we find anything. Once we're back, everyone will be ready to go."

The unicorn mare clenched her jaw, but didn't object.

I galloped for the door. "Redd, get your rifles."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

As Redd and I flew through the night air, I worried. This was sooner than I had anticipated. If Hope and Blight were on the move, I was certain they were looking for their next base. If I couldn't stop them before they went after the Enclave, we were all in trouble. I hadn't seen what she had done to the harvesters but if they were moving, they were functioning. I rubbed my chest.

"Don't worry. We got this." My pegasus companion reassured.

"I hope you're right." I looked over at him. I had never seen Redd so happy. Even with our impending doom, he glowed with contentment. For a moment, my worries were gone. Seeing his beaming smile brought comfort to my heart. "Redd, I'm so glad you're here." It took little effort for me to get close enough to hold his hoof.

He squeezed it, flipping upside down and flying under me. "I'm gonna be honest, Sia. I'm glad we didn't stay in Thunderhead."

My smile waned. "Why?"

"Then, we wouldn't have been where we are. Look how much we have grown. I always wanted you, but... since we got here, I watched you become a great mare. My love for you grew. I was terrified I'd lose you to Nico, but I don't think that would have changed how I felt. I would have incinerated him at first, but now I think if it had happened, I'd just break his leg." He laughed, then went back to serious conversation. "Maturing is probably the best thing that could have happened to me." He reached up, stroking my chin. "I never want to leave your side, again."

Whew, if we weren't in the middle of a war I think I'd ruin his mane style.

This was another side of Redd I had never known. I wondered if all of his past marefriends ever got to enjoy this.

"Don't talk like that." I grinned, slyly. "You know we're alone, right?"

He smirked. "As much as I would absolutely love that, I think we need to finish this task, first. Then, you can do whatever you want to me."

I giggled. We had a good bit of ground to cover, so I wanted to enjoy the trip without worrying for a few more minutes. I'd have plenty to panic over once we got there. I tilted as I rolled next to him and bit his ear, gently. "Hey!" He laughed, "You know what you're doing!" I giggled, again after he flew after me. I was a little slow since I was so tired, but I pushed through..

"Gotcha!" He grabbed my waist, pulling me to him. He snuck a kiss. I was a little relieved to not be flying by myself, for a few seconds.

"Oh, Luna. What did I do to deserve this?" He whispered.

I pecked his cheek. "Maybe it's the valor?" I winked.

We embraced one last time before he let go and I flew on my own, again.

"So, do you think Violet will babysit while we go on more flights like this?" I tapped my chin, playfully.

"She'll have no choice. I know some of her secrets." He gave an evil laugh.

"Yes, I think Gladys would like to hear them!" We hoofbumped.

"I still can't believe Vi is into griffons." He shook his head. "I have nothing against them anymore but, I just can't imagine."

"You love who you love, I guess. Violet is wild so I'd assume she likes them... wild." I shrugged.

The farm came into view as we approached the area. I really dreaded to land, but I had a job to do. We hovered just above the mist enough to make out any shapes. There were no followers anywhere, so we set down next to the hay bales. Once we were grounded, Redd stumbled. He grabbed his wing and winced.

"Redd? Are you okay?" I checked his wing. It was bleeding a little bit where the material connected to the skin.

"Yeah, I jus -ngh-... I shouldn't have pushed myself." He tried to smile, but he squeezed his eyes shut.

"You dummy! Why didn't you tell me?" I dug in my bag and pulled out some healing bandages. I began wrapping the joint so the bleeding would stop. It was only a small tear, so it would do.

"We were having fun. And you were happy. I didn't want to ruin it for you." He nuzzled my neck as I finished up.

I pushed him away. "No! You don't get to do that, right now! Your punishment is that you can not touch me for twenty-four hours!" I thought a moment. "Okay, one hour. Just don't do that, again! Promise me you'll let me know, next time."

He sighed. "Fine."

I put away the supplies and lead him to the door. Nopony was there, either. Inside the silo, the entrance to the bunker had been opened. I couldn't hear anything, so we walked downward into the place. The machines were gone, leaving a huge space on the back wall. I couldn't believe it. They got what they wanted.

"They... did it. Hope and Blight actually went through with it." I stared at the wall, misty-eyed.

"Uh, Sia. I don't think Hope got as far as Blight." Redd spoke from the other side of the table.

I trotted over to where he was inspecting. Lying on the ground, was an unconscious Hope. Her cloak had been torn and she was injured, pretty badly. Her hind leg had been chained to a home-made cage that held six followers. They stared at us, pleading. Hope's Dashite brand was showing. It stung my hide to see it. My own cutie mark began to burn as I winced. After I shook the memory from my thoughts, I took out a healing potion.

"What are you doing?" Redd asked, watching me cautiously.

"I'm saving my mother." I told him.

He gasped. "Your mother?! Wha-when did you learn this?!"

"Oh yeah. You were in surgery getting your wing when I found out. Sorry I didn't tell you." I grinned sheepishly.

One of the followers, a mare, came forward. "Blight betrayed us."

Ya don't say?

I searched her eyes. "Where are the others?"

"They follow her now. We are what's left of Hope's coven. We believed Hope wanted something better and we stuck with that." A stallion said. "Y-You're the one who Blight had possessed."

"Yyeaaah... I'd like to not think about it." I said, flatly.

"Hope was going to return your body. Is it... true? Are you really her daughter?" The mare asked.

I sighed, picking up Hope's torso and resting it on my lap. "Yes."

The mare pulled out a box. "Here. These are her memories."

I took the box and opened it. Eleven memory orbs sat inside, swirling with energy. I had to close the box to keep my necklace from glowing. "What memories are these?"

"All of them except for basic knowledge. Blight had them removed in case she decided to come back and use Hope for her new following. She used normal orbs, but stuffed them all to the point where if you used magic to view one, you'd be stuck in the memory for days." She told me. "We managed to swipe them from 'Blight's' followers before they left."

I gave the box to Redd. "Put them in your bag, then get the followers free."

"No offense, Sienna, but I think the hormones are getting to you." He said, sternly. "They might try to kill us."

"We follow Hope's orders and nothing else. She is unconscious so we would have nothing to do but pray that she is alright." The mare scoffed. "Besides, she would kill us if we were to hurt her child."

"Redd, please." I gave him the ole' sparkly eyes.

He pursed his lips. "Okay! Okay! I will do it. Only for you." He faced them, kicking on his rifles. "Stand as far back as you can." He instructed. With one zap, the bars had melted enough for the cloaked ponies to escape.

"Thank you. What will you need us to do?"

"Uh... I guess you could give me what information you can about Blight." I put the potion to Gale's mouth and poured, slowly. She swallowed small amounts at a time.

"We don't know anything other than she has gone on the other side of Shattered Hoof to collect more parts for her machine. It's hopeless to fight her."

"What sort of parts?"

"She mentioned heavy guns. Worst case scenario, she comes back with an undetonated megaspell." She said, gathering what was left of their things. She hoofed another potion to me. "Here. They missed this one."

I sighed, taking it from her hooves. "Thank you."

Hope gasped for air, coughing and sputtering. Her eyes fluttered open and she looked at me.

"You have her eyes." Redd whispered.

I blushed, focusing on the yellow pegasus, again. "Ho- Gale?"

She looked around, confused. "Where am I?" She gazed at me. "Who are you?"

Level Up!

S- 3
P- 6
E- 7 (+1)
C- 4
I- 5
A- 4
L- 5

New Perk
Comrade Coach - While in Redd's company, your stamina depletes 15% slower.

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

Thank you all for reading! As always, constructive criticism/error spotting are welcome!
Stay safe!

-AP

Chapter 27: Back to Life

"Good men fall to monsters every day."

Rebirth. Can you really be reborn? I don't mean reincarnation. I mean when you are alive and go through a life changing experience and want to completely turn your life around. What would it take, exactly? Hope, my mother, had claimed to be reborn when she entered the wasteland. Was she telling the truth? I thought being reborn meant a one-hundred percent change. She didn't seem like she had turned into a completely different pony. Maybe, about eighty-five percent. That really wasn't enough to explain the line that "change" had to cross to be considered "reborn". I had changed, but I didn't consider myself reborn. Were normal ponies reborn into alicorns? Is that how princessdom works? If I were to try and figure that out, my over-analysis would keep us here all day.

"Gale?" I said, hoping to stimulate her memory.

Her catatonic stare made me uneasy. I helped her to sit up.

"Is there a way to put her memories back?" I asked.

The mare nodded. "There is, but I'm afraid it would require one of those memory helmets."

"Where can I find one?"

"I suppose any major lab would have one." She tapped her chin.

Moondancer's lab. I didn't want to give away too much before I could trust these ponies, so I kept quiet about it for now. I looked up at Redd, who gave a half smile. "We have to take her to Moondancer." I kept the volume at a hushed tone.

He darted his eyes back and forth. "Are you sure? I don't think she would like us using her like that."

"I'm not using her, Redd. I just don't see any other way."

Gale grabbed my hoof. "Please, tell me where I am."

"Y-You're in... uh, New Equestria. We're gonna take you somewhere safe, okay?" I told her.

She was afraid, but she nodded. "O-okay."

"Redd, can you zap the chain off?" I asked. He obliged, melting the links with no trouble. I helped Gale to her hooves. "You six should get away from here and stay out of sight." I told the followers.

"But, what about-"

"Please, just go. I will take care of my mother. If Blight comes back, she may do more than just lock you all in a cage again." I said.

They looked at each other, then at me and agreed it was best to get out of there. When they were gone, I let the pegasus lean on me as we left behind them.

Outside, the night had began to turn to day. The three of us started our walk back to Floater. It would probably take a little more than half a day. Time I didn't want to waste, traveling.

"I don't want to doubt you, but was that a good idea? Just letting them go?" Redd watched them until they were a few yards out.

"What would you have me do? Execute them? Did they seem worthy of an execution to you?" I spat at him.

"You know I didn't mean that."

I gave him the stink eye for a moment, then breathed out my frustration. "I didn't mean to snap at you."

Damn hormones.

"It's okay, but I really wasn't talking about punishing them." He said, flatly.

"You both are... so kind. I-I don't know how I would have survived out here." Gale said. "Who are you?"

I clenched my jaw. "I'm Sienna. He's Redd."

"It's nice to meet you both. You make a lovely couple."

I snuck a peek at Redd, who wore a proud grin. "Why, thank you, ma'am."

I rolled my eyes, grinning as well. I guess I really couldn't protest to that.

"You should think about foals! I wish I had a little one of my own." She sighed.

I shot Redd a look. He winced at her words. "But, you d-"

"Don't have to worry about the responsibility, at least!" I interrupted, giving him a dirty look. I didn't want her to know anything, yet. It was better to wait and give her memories back to her than it was to try and explain her entire life.

She shrugged. "Oh, I wouldn't worry about that. Foals are such a joy to be around."

I sighed. Another, long trip.

Along the way, Gale talked, nonstop. She asked questions about my life. I left out was that she actually knew most everything about me. It was a relief to finally see the beautiful, card-shaped structure. Of course, Gale asked about that, too. I swear my throat was beginning to hurt from talking so much. I was also utterly exhausted. Hiding it from Redd was beginning to be a challenge. I have to admit, though, it was kind of nice to actually talk to my mother. I hadn't seen her since I was young, so I didn't mind the hundreds of questions as much. She genuinely took an interest. That meant a lot, despite the crushing realization that she could possibly just go back to being evil. It was selfish of me to almost wish we didn't have to give her memories back. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the small amount of time we had to bond.

"We're here." I announced as we stood at Fleece's door. Once inside, I noticed Nico, Violet, and Pepper waiting. Rocky fell onto his back in front of Redd. I guess he missed him. Gale took a step back from the ugly/cute creature.

"Sia! What the hell is going on?! Why is Hope with you?!" Violet asked, flying towards us.

I shook my head, vigorously, while Gale wasn't looking. "Violet, this is Gale. You know..." I gestured for her to play along.

Her suspicious glare stayed obvious.

Thank Celestia for Nico. He walked over and held out his hoof to Gale. "It's nice to meet you. I'm Nico."

Thank you, Nicky Boy!

The yellow mare studied his hoof before she slowly took it. "Likewise, young stallion."

"Gale, I'm gonna speak with these three, for a second. Sit tight. Redd will be with you, don't worry." I told her.

She seemed uncomfortable, but didn't reject.

I nodded towards a room for Pepper, Violet, and Nico to follow. We closed the door to make sure nopony was listening.

"Where's Dad? He cannot see her. I don't want to overwhelm her with all of this, and you know how he is." I began.

"He's helping out at The Beacon, still. I told him you and Redd went out to scout around the town limits."

Relieved, I nodded. "Where is Fleece?"

"She's is with Moondancer. They're talking about the plans to extend the clinic into the lab. Why do you have Hope, here?" Nico asked, in true Nico fashion.

I looked at him and sighed. "Blight took her memories. They're in memory orbs."

Pepper rolled her eyes. "Why would Blight just leave her memories with her. Some 'embodiment of evil'. She seems more like a dumb side-kick, if anything."

"A couple of loyal followers got them back and gave them to me. We're going to put them back in Gale's head."

They looked amongst each other. "Sia, is that really a good idea? I mean... Hope isn't exactly a saint." Nico finally said.

"I know. Don't think that it didn't cross my mind. Look, I just don't think it's right to do that to her. If Gale wants to be good, I think she needs to figure all of that out on her own. Even if it means losing that sweet mare in the waiting room." I frowned. "But, maybe she will be able to tell us more about Blight. Surely, the betrayal will make her want to talk."

"How do you plan to give her memories back?" Pepper spoke.

I rubbed my chest. "I'm, once again, going to ask Moondancer for her help. Her lab is advanced enough and has almost everything. If anyone can do it, she can."

"Do you think it will hurt her?" Nico asked.

"I-I'm not sure. I have to try, though. She's my mother. Even if we have our... differences. I don't want her to forget me, outright."

Violet hooked a wing around me. "Whatever happens, we'll be there for you"

I smiled, then grabbed her in a hug. "I don't know what I'd do without you, guys."

We went back into the waiting area, where Hope was fixing up Redd's mane. The poor stallion sat, frustrated, while she brushed the mane to the side, like an upper class stallion would have it fixed. He looked handsome. Of course, I think I was pretty biased. After a laugh and Redd slicking back his mane, again, we made our way into the tunnels and to the lab. There were two ponies repairing some of the turrets. Hopefully, they'd be set to shoot actual enemies this time.

I dipped my head to one of the repair ponies, only to be greeted with a mean glare.

"Jeez, what's eating him?"

Violet chuckled. "Some ponies just don't like pegasi. Can't change their minds, either."

That was pretty sad. I didn't take Floater ponies to be the racist types, but it would be foolish of me to think prejudice was confined to one town.

Inside, the robopony and the ghoul pony were talking next to the computer.

"Moondancer, Fleece." I called.

Both of them turned and gestured for us to join them. We trotted over, as I took the memory orbs from Redd.

"What can I do for you?" Moondancer asked.

My jaw tightened. I felt terrible asking her for so much. "I'm just gonna come out and say it: Gale's memories were taken from her and I have to find a way to put them back. Please, tell me you know how to do that."

She and Fleece stared at me, strangely, as Gale stepped forwards. Her eyes darted back and forth between the two strange-looking ponies while her feathers twitched. I could tell she was a little taken aback. I put a gentle hoof on her side.

"Well, memory magic isn't something I dwell too deeply in, unfortunately." Fleece said, almost embarrassed.

"Put the orbs on the table." Moondancer instructed. I did as she said.

She inspected them, avoiding using her magic. The soft light swirled inside of them, making me uneasy. I had only viewed one memory orb and I definitely did not want to do it, again.

Oh!

I hurriedly took out the cutie mark removal orb and set it with the rest. "I also already had this one before she lost the rest of her memories. It's different from the rest, though. She still remembered what had happened in this orb, even after giving it to me. Is there a difference?"

Moondancer took it in her hoof, but shook her head. "Some orbs can contain copies of memories. It appears this one is different in that manner." She waved over the ones on the table. "These are actual memories that were forcefully removed from the hippocampus." She hoofed the cutie mark orb back to me. "I don't think we will need it."

I put the orb back into my bag. "So, is there anything we can do?"

"No."

I bit my quivering lip.

"Unless we had a recollector." Moondancer finished.

I relaxed. She could have finished her sentence, first.

"Wait, you mean you can just put memories back? Just like that?" Nico asked, skeptical.

The brainbot glared at him. "The process is more complex, but I guess in layman's terms, yes. With a helmet designed specifically for that purpose, you can put memories back, just like that."

Nico snorted. I guess he didn't like a smartass.

Ironic.

Moondancer walked over to Gale gave her a once over. "Subject appears healthy. No obvious trauma. Normal vitals."

"What does that have to do with any of this? Is it dangerous?" I asked.

"Better to be safe than sorry." She said, matter of factly.

She led Gale to the same table I had laid on. She reluctantly did as Moondancer said. With a push of a button, a robot carrying a strange headpiece hovered over. Moondancer really did have everything. She opened a small compartment in the side of the helmet. Tiny tools came out of her hoof, tinkering in the headpiece. "First, I need to calibrate the talisman. One of the many functions of a recollector is to extract memories, as well as allow a viewing. I'm going to reverse the extraction so that it doesn't take weeks at a time to reestablish the memories. I'll have to observe the subject throughout the procedure." She smirked, a little. "I haven't had this much fun in decades. I should be thanking you, Sienna."

I swallowed. "Uh, you're welcome?"

"Gale, please relax while I strap the equipment onto your cranium. Pain will be minimal. Just imagine wearing a scooter helmet."

"A w-what... helmet?" She asked, frightened.

"A scooter." Seeing the confusion on Gale's face made Moondancer sigh. "Nevermind. Just imagine a hat."

Once the straps were clasped shut under Gale's chin, the ghastly helmet lit up in a few places. My mother's nervousness made me feel like I was looking in a mirror. I did look a lot like her. I shrunk a little bit, ashamed that I had to put her through that. "Gale, it'll be alright. This is just to give your memories back. Once it's finished, you'll remember everything, okay?" I felt like I was talking to a filly.

She nodded. "O-okay. I trust you."

Luna, please keep her safe.

"I will now insert the first orb. Watch for any signs of shock." Moondancer instructed. "Dr. Fleece, please keep your magic focused on her heart rate."

Fleece nodded and concentrated on her horn. A thin, glowing stream of magic snaked its way around Gale's foreleg.

Moondancer waited until Fleece was ready, then manually placed the sphere on the recollector. Almost instantly, the orb was sucked into the thing, making it glow more. Gale's eyes went wide as she stiffened. They began to glow white. The robot assured that this was normal, so I kept my concerns to myself.

"How long will this take?" Pepper asked. She seemed to watch everything with great interest.

"I'm not completely certain. It does depend how long the memory orbs are. Since these have a large amount of her memories in each, I would estimate the time to be around two hours to get all of them done. It has just begun, so I suggest leaving and coming back if you don't want to sit here that long." Moondancer said, without looking away from Gale. Her robo-eyes glowed as she scanned the mare.

"Heart rate is normal. Thirty-eight BPM." Fleece said.

I didn't really want to leave her, but I could hardly stand. My legs were getting weak from the fatigue. Wishing them well, I began to head for the door. I yawned, my eyes watering. A nap sounded soooo good. Pregnancy was... weird. The more I focused on it, the more I could feel the difference from before conception. The queasiness was awful.

"You should lie down." I heard Redd canter up next to me. "Maybe you shouldn't have made that journey."

I smiled, sleepily. "It's just part of the uh, foal bearing. I don't want to go too far away, in case they need me."

"If you're sure. Please, don't over do it. I don't want anything to happen to you." The stallion stretched his fake wing and moved it around, loosening the joint. "I... probably should have been more careful, too."

"I agree." I said, sternly. "You are more stubborn than I am."

He laughed, putting his other wing over me and bringing me closer.

"You have no idea how great it feels to finally be affectionate with you." He whispered. Chills ran through my body.

"Hmm. As soon as we take care of those pearls, maybe we could... take care of each other?" I pecked the spot right under his ear. "I do seem to recall how much fun we had, last time."

That big, toothy smile appeared. "You are going to make me carry you into Fleece's tub."

Whoa, buddy! I have got to know what happens, next!

"Oh?" I purred. "And what can we do in there?" We stopped walking through the tunnel. I caressed his chest.

Guess I have a dirty side, after all! And no alcohol is needed!

I miss alcohol.

I felt kisses down my neck. Damn, he got me. "We do have two hours. If you're sure you're not too tired."

"I like the sound of that." I whispered. "Let's go, stud."

Before getting caught up in my fantasy of making love on top on a giant piece of cake, we heard a loud gasp.

Again? Really? Do these ponies know privacy?

"I knew it!" Violet blurted. "You two are BANGING!" Thankfully she was alone.

"Damn it, Violet!" Both of us exclaimed.

"Don't put this on me!" She smiled, evilly. "After all, I know who likes to be on top."

I had traded my white hide for red. The stallion who held me rolled his eyes. "Don't you have to go preach about sexism to some poor buck?"

She ignored his witty insult. "When did this happen? Are you guys together or just friends with benefits?" She gasped. "Did this start when you were in Pepper's body?! How did that work?"

"Violet!" Redd interrupted. "We..."

"Yes, we are together. We decided yesterday." I told her.

From the corner of my eye, I saw Redd smile. The foal was going to have to be kept secret, for now, but I didn't see anything wrong with telling that part.

"Hmph. That's boring. I was hoping there would be some kind of drama." Violet crossed her hooves,

"Sorry to disappoint." He said, resting his head against mine.

"Blegh." She mock-gagged.

The echo of running hooves caught my attention. We threw our heads towards the sound. Pepper slid to a stop, panting. "Sia, you need to come back! It's Gale!"

"Oh, no..."

I galloped after her, leading Violet and Redd. I burst through the door and skidded to a stop in front of Moondancer's machine. My mother's eyes were still glowing, but she had stopped breathing. I watched her chest for any movement, but after a few minutes of no rising I felt tears come to my eyes.

Fleece had fixed an oxygen mask onto her face. "Heart rate is sixty-nine BPM and rising!"

Moondacer quickly touched the button on her temple. Two small robots rolled over, one holding a syringe. The robot jabbed the needle into Gale's arm, but it didn't seem to do any good.

"What happened?!" I asked.

"She was viewing the first orb, then the others gravitated towards the helmet. It was too much for her." She said.

My eyes widened. "Gale..." I propped my hooves next to her. "Mom! I'm sorry! Please, wake up!"

Nothing.

"Mom!"

"Eighty-three BPM!"

Pepper tried to pull me away, but I resisted. "No!"

The second I yelled, the necklace around my neck glowed, brightly. Everyone stared at the jewel as it floated towards my mother's heart. I gasped, feeling a strange pressure in my forehead. I suddenly tensed, unable to move. White slowly crept around my vision. I inhaled sharply as the
the pressure grew.

"Sienna!" Violet yelled.

Redd grabbed me, but he was knocked back by an invisible force. Everything faded away.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

White.

No, green. Everything was pale. I was back in the weird void of the jewel. I reached a hoof to feel for my forehead. It was different this time. I could actually feel my hoof. The usual transparency wasn't anywhere on my body. I could also feel an invisible floor beneath me. I looked around. "Hello?"

No answer.

"Rarity?"

She wasn't there.

I took a step forward and everything changed. Instead of a white void, hundreds of screens appeared out of thin air, floating all around me. I saw ponies on all of them, all different scenes. Most of the ponies were pegasi, flying around. I instantly began to miss that place. It wasn't the tall towers of the Enclave, it was the clouds around my childhood home. Sorrow hit my heart as I recognized the cream-white coat of my grandfather. Only, he was much younger. He hammered away at the fence around their house. I remembered flying face first into that fence as a filly. The board was bent inward from that, but here it was brand new.

"Grandpa?" I whispered as I walked closer.

From the side, I saw the sky-blue mare. The screen moved towards her. "Grandma..." I said. If I could cry, I would have. She carried a tray of apple juice on her back, giving it to the hard working stallion. Her mahogany mane was pinned in an up do, like it always was. I ran towards the screen. "Grandma! Grandpa! I-I'm here!" As I got closer, it began to move away. Stopping, I began to sob. I didn't know if there were any tears, but It was close enough. I whirled around, unable to watch any longer.

Another screen caught my attention. My eyes narrowed. "D-Dad?" There, skinny as a rail, was my adolescent father. He was... odd-looking. The Dad I knew was a large, scary pegasus. Here, he was just a scrawny, awkward, geeky pony. A grin crept on my face as he stared my way. He was saying something, but I couldn't hear anything. When he leaned towards me and puckered his lips, I quickly backed away.

Yet, another screen floated around me. I kept my attention on it. I was staring at the ceiling, the corners getting fuzzy. The screen flew up, bringing a doctor and a nurse into view. They were at the end of the bed. The "eyes" turned to my Dad, now slightly more buff. He was crying and smiling. The nurse gently hoofed over a tiny thing wrapped in a pink blanket. I could tell he was blubbering. The stallion lifted the blanket to show a tiny foal. Her white coat was tinted pink as she cried. Her orange mane was wet. I looked at her huge, green eyes.

"Wait... that's me." I said to myself.

My eyes wouldn't leave the screen as the filly finally calmed down. Yellow hooves came into view as they held the baby. The filly yawned and fell asleep with her small hoof in her mouth. It had dawned on me, then. This was a memory. The yellow hooves and my dad standing there gave it away, too. This wasn't just any memory. It was my mother's.

I tore my attention from the screen and stared at the floor. I was watching my mother's life. I was witnessing everything unfold right there in that void. I took a deep breath and let it go. Impossible. How was I doing that? I wasn't looking in any memory orb. At least, I thought I wasn't. "No." I said to myself. "This cannot be happening. I don't even... I can't..."

Finally, my peripheral vision picked up another memory. There were so many, but the orange and yellow mane of a foal caught my eye. She was barely old enough to walk. Faux tears fell from my eyes as she cried. Grandma held onto her, trying to calm her, but tears were falling from her eyes, too. This time, I could hear the memory in my head.

"Mama! Mama! Papa!" The filly cried.

The screen blurred, then a hoof wiped away the water. "M-Mama has to go. I'm so sorry, Marshmallow. I love you very, very much."

Mom turned to Dad, who was being held by the Enclave guards. "Please, don't hurt him!"

"Mama!" The shrill cries carried all the way to my heart. It broke as I put a hoof to my belly.

The foal's tears fell onto her grandmother's shirt. Mom began walking towards the guards, still blinking through tears. I could hear the hiccups and sobs coming from filly Sienna. I couldn't bear to hear her pleas, anymore, so I looked around at the dozens of other memories. Some were school memories, some were dates with Dad, some were of ponies I didn't recognize. I even saw a memory of Redd's mother. Mom and Dad were at the track, watching her win yet another race. Lightning Flare's red mane left a fire-like trail of color behind her as she flew.

"What is going on?" I said, walking through the labyrinth of evocations.

When I walked past one of the memories, I noticed a yellow pegasus sitting out of the way. She wasn't on any screen, she was in the void with me. I gulped, before I slowly crept towards her. "Gale?" Her back was to me and her head, down. She didn't look up. "What's going on?" She still didn't even move.

"Gale." I said, softly.

I thought something was wrong, until she finally exhaled. "I just... I wanted to help them." Her gaze slowly lifted towards a screen in front of her.

I watched intently while the pony, who's eyes I followed, hovered around the city limits. A large, gaping hole had torn into the clouds.

Casually, she picked up her radio and went to inspect it. "Home Front, this is Gale Winds. Do you copy?"

The static of the radio chirped. "Gale Winds, I read you. Report?"

"I'm on the eastern-most side of Thunderhead. Just north of the East Tower. I think I've found... a-a..." The words died on her tongue once she held up her binoculars. Through the hole, there were wasteland ponies. A family of earth ponies stood in the sun's rays that beamed through the hole. Two small children smiled up at the sky. They were so skinny. One of them was missing his back leg. My heart shattered at the pitiful scene.

"Gale?" The radio piped up. "What is your report?"

Her eyes stayed on the sight for a few seconds longer, before she put the binoculars down and breathed out. The radio came into view. "False alarm." She turned away, letting the family bask in the sun for a little while longer.

"That was the moment I figured out what we had been doing." The void Gale said, next to me. "Those children were starving and had to live their life in the shadows of those damned clouds. Why should the pegasi get to enjoy the very best of life while others suffer? The Enclave doesn't deserve the luxury they've taken. Especially, when they would turn on their own." She looked back at her Dashite mark.

I stayed silent. There wasn't really much I could say. She was... right. Mostly, anyway.

"They betrayed you, too, Sienna." She locked her green eyes on mine. "Where were they when you were left for dead in the mud? When their own captain was slain? They didn't bother to come back for you. The only thing they managed to do was send a single soldier down to look for you. Truth be told, he probably volunteered. Even then, they gave him twenty-four hours. Twenty-four. After that, you were to not return at all." Her eyes flickered with anger.

I finally spoke. "The Enclave are only ponies, they make mistakes. What they do is not moral by any means, but destroying them is not the answer. What about Grandma and Grandpa? What if they were to get killed in the process?"

She nickered. "It would be the only way to return the sun to all. They are cowards! If Equestria could see the sunlight, it could start the healing process." Then she looked down. "Your grandparents would have to flee."

"Healing, until Blight sends it into a worse nightmare than this one?" I said, firmly. "You do realize that now she has the pearls, right? You are aware that we are totally fucked if we can't do something before she does?"

"Maybe, that's for the best!" The void around us turned scarlet. "What good is the damned world, now?! Survival is a must! These ponies are living in fear that they may not get their next meal. Where is the justice? It's a stranger to them!" She growled. "What a path of life we must travel. Especially if we could all die there, anyway!" She stood on all fours, raising her head. "I tried and I failed to bring them to the light! What makes you so sure that you won't fail, too?"

"Because, I have help." I said, softly. "If we have to die trying, we will. We can all agree that the world would not be a better place if Blight took over. It would not flourish, and our future generations would not survive." I felt my chest. "I want to start a family, too. I want to try and live a normal life. My friends want a normal life."

She didn't reply. Instead, a shadow fell over her face. The void returned to its original hue.

"Please, don't do this." I gestured around us. "Look at all of this. You are not a bad pony. If anything, you're willing to blow up a militia just to guide the land back to the way things used to be." I sighed. "The only problem with that is things can never be the way they used to be. It's not as simple as just taking something away from one population and giving it to another. Now, it's more complicated. We have to be better ponies if we want to work towards a better future." I sat next to her.

"You sound so sure of everything. But you haven't been in the wasteland as long as I have. There are ponies who aren't even raiders who wouldn't change their terrible ways. That is why I started the coven. I aimed for civilization to rebuild into something better. The pearls would speed up that process, getting our sun back." Her composure began to crumble.

I shook my head. "You can still strive for a better way of life for others. Blowing Thunderhead to the moon isn't going to fix anything. It'll make things worse." I held out my hoof. "Work with us. Work with me. We can be a family, again."

She stared at my hoof. "Th-there is no hope for me, anymore. I... I wouldn't be accepted. I still stand by my beliefs."

"Dad misses you." I told her, hoping to change her mind,

The faintest smile crept onto her lips. "Your father is a wonderful stallion. I had to leave him because he would have never agreed with me. You're like him in that sense. I-I'm glad."

I wrapped my hooves around her, much to her surprise. "I forgive you. I love you, Mom."

I felt her tremble. "I..."

"Come home, with me." I said.

Please, don't push me away.

It took a few moments, but she slowly returned the hug. Her body shook with sobs, as did mine. "I-I missed you, so much." She said.

"I know, Mom."

The void slowly began to return to white. I could feel the floor disappearing under us as we kept the embrace. The last thing I felt was the huge smile on my face. I found my parents. Both of them.

The healing could finally begin.

Level Up!

S- 4 (+1)
P- 6
E- 7
C- 4
I- 5
A- 4
L- 5

New Perk
Pack Up - Your carry limit is now 15+ more.

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

Thank you all for reading! As always, constructive criticism/error spotting is always welcome.

Stay safe!

-AP

Chapter 29: Weary

"To the world that was, mankind shall never see its like again."

Death. It was a large part of life. It took away from us. It ended our suffering. Was it a good or bad thing? The few seconds I saw Gladys mourn over Blast should have been a bad thing. Copper Pot dying, though I barely knew him, should have been a bad thing. It should have made me hate the wasteland. I did hate it. Their families had to suffer from it. Death didn't think about how I would feel when it took Wick and Chaser. Even though I hated it, I still used it to defeat the raiders. Even the ones back near Gladys' barn. I took their lives. What did it solve, though? Was it even something they deserved? Nico tried to tell me it was their fault. It may have been true, but I had no right to take away their choice. If even one of them were contemplating their life, maybe they could have changed. It didn't matter, though. They were dead. I showed no mercy. I felt like a blood thirsty "hero" that used the guise of "just wanting the best for Equestria". I hated how that sounded. I wasn't a hero. Once a coward, always a coward.

The hotel room felt cold. Redd had gone to find cartridges for Bob, so I was alone. I didn't sleep. I couldn't seem to drift off. Probably because I didn't deserve to rest. Copper Pot and Blast were dead. They died in a battle that wasn't even close to the hell we were all about to face. If we were losing some, already, how were we going to fare when Blight showed up? I cried for them. For their families. Every tear that leaked down my cheeks were for the ones were probably going to lose.

I rubbed my belly, to bring myself a little bit of comfort. "At least you're okay."

Redd had insisted we stop by Fleece's clinic to check on the foal. Everything was okay, but I had lost a lot of blood. I was a few drops away from needing a transfusion. I doubted Nico would have helped me out, there. There was no way I could blame him, but I still stuck with the belief that I slaughtered ponies who didn't even get a chance in life. It was funny. I went from "revenge-driven" to "empathetic" towards raiders. Maybe I was bipolar, too.

The sleeping jagged back lay on the floor next to the bed. Redd had put Rocky in charge of watching me, I guess. He wasn't doing a very good job. He had been staying in Fleece's clinic, away from the large crowds. He finally decided to follow Redd into the Beacon. We got some looks, but nopony said anything. I sighed, gently patting the animal on his armored head. "Rocky, I'm glad you missed that fight. You should probably hide when it's time for the next one, too."

-hrrrrrrrkkkk- He snored. Heavy sleeper.

I finally just got up from the bed and limped to the yellowed window. Dusk had settled over the town. The cloud curtain had almost become smooth. Everything looked normal. They weren't panicking or crying over the loss of lives just outside of their peaceful town. A few were off burying the dead. From the corner of my eye, I noticed Gladys sitting outside of Ma's store. Her forlorn stare made my heart ache even more. The other griffons gathered around her, their heads bowed.

"Why, Luna? Celestia... Why?" I put my hoof on the glass. "I'm so sorry, Gladys."

"She knew the risks, you know." I heard Violet as she came into the room. She stopped to scratch Rocky behind the ears.

I sighed. "Blast is gone. Along with a security guard and forty raiders."

The green mare stepped next to me, sharing my view outside. "Nico is an asshole. He shouldn't have said it that way, but he is right. They had a choice." Her wing pulled me closer to her. "You said it yourself: There's always a better way. They don't have to choose the life of a raider, but they do."

"It still doesn't make it right. Look at what it cost." I glanced back down to Gladys. "I bet she's angry."

Violet shook her head. "I spoke with her before I came up here. She's hurting, but not angry. I think Gladys followed you into that fight because she wanted to believe there were more good folks out there. You're one of the good ones. A true-"

"If you say 'hero', I'm going to duct tape your mouth shut." I glared.

She chuckled. "I'm flattered, Babe. But you are my best friend and plus, you belong to Redd now. Sorry to turn you down." She winked.

I kept my smile hidden. That dirty joke didn't really help, that much.

"Gladys had Blast buried just outside of town. It was a quick funeral, but I think Gladys was glad that they were able to lay her to rest somewhere nicer than the rest of the wastes." Violet said.

"Good." I was somewhat comforted by that. "Copper Pot?"

"Same for him."

I nodded. I wanted to ask about his family, but it just wasn't my business.

I sighed. "Violet, do you think I should talk to Nico, now?"

She shrugged. "Who knows? If it were me, I would let him think about it for a while. At least let him cool off. He and Pepper went back to his place for the rest of the evening, anyway. Unless you want to make that trip, then just wait a while."

"I guess you're right." I groaned. "I need a drink."

Violet pulled a bottle of Wild Pegasus from somewhere. "Yes, we do!"

My mouth watered. I didn't know her pockets could hold something like that. I would have drank that entire bottle if I could. Some things might not have been frowned upon in the wasteland, but I was going to draw the line, there. I didn't want to risk any harm to my foal. I quickly took my eyes off the beautiful, amber drink. "I would absolutely love to get wasted with you, Vi, but Fleece told me not to drink. Injuries, you know." I pointed to my shoulder. The potion had healed it, but my fur hadn't grew back completely, yet. It still felt a little tender.

She mock-pouted. "Aw. No fun." She took several swigs from the bottle before she put it back in her bag. "Well, is there anything you need?"

I half smiled, pointing to the stale sandwich on the table. "Nah. Unless you have cake, I think I'm set for the night."

She ruffled my mane. "Sorry, kid. You got the last piece yesterday. They won't have anymore until their trading caravan comes back through."

I pushed her hoof away. "Hey!"

The pegasus stretched her wings and flapped a few times. "Well, I think I'd better hit the hay. If you need me, I'm in the room right next door." She hovered, lazily towards the door.

"Alright, Vi. Good night. And thank you."

She smiled. Just as she exited the room, I realized something. "Hold on! That's Gladys' room!" I called after her.

"Yep!" She called behind the door.

I facehooved. Maybe Gladys needs her, tonight.

I finally yawned, feeling better than I had for the past few hours. My hooves dragged back to the bed as I adjusted the flat pillow. Just as I was taking off my armor, the door gently opened. The red-maned stallion peaked in. "Sia? Shouldn't you be asleep?" He trotted in, putting four gem cartridges in my saddle bag.

I shrugged. "I was busy pitying myself, I guess. Violet had to give me a pep talk. I'm fine, now, though. I can finally sleep, I think."

He nodded. "Alright, well... These should last a while. I guess I'll see you in the morning."

As he was about to leave, I sighed. "Redd."

"Yes?" He quickly looked back in.

"Where are you going?"

"Er... I'm not really sure."

I laughed, patting the bed next to me. "Do you not want to keep me warm, tonight?"

His dumbfound expression almost had me rolling.

"Come on. I'm pregnant with your foal. We are mates, remember?"

He grinned, sheepishly. "I figured you would sleep better without me, here."

I shook my head. "I need some company."

The door closed behind him as he happily trotted over to me. He took is rifles off and placed them on the floor.

"Gonna sleep in your barding?" I asked, my intentions definitely turning evil.

If smiles could bring the sunlight back, his definitely would have. It was too cute! I watched (with interest) as he slipped out of his armor and the inner layers. Chills went down my spine when I saw his muscles.

Eh. Who needs sleep?

He climbed under the blanket, getting close to me. His warmth was intoxicating. I lay my head on his chest, listening to his steady heartbeat. The bitter cold that Equestria delivered, faded. I felt so safe. The strong foreleg around my waist made it even better. After a few seconds of that, I reached up and kissed him, slowly. He didn't object, returning the gesture.

"I love you." My mouth said.

He kissed my forehead. "Words couldn't describe how in love with you I am."

My cheeks warmed, slightly.

"Are you tired?" I purred, caressing the base of his wing.

He let out a little groan. "Not in the slightest."

"Maybe we should... make ourselves tired." I teased.

I didn't hear a reply, but the small kisses going down my neck and collar bone told all. My own wings flared as he started to nibble beneath my ear. The tangle of limbs in the small bed made for a good work of art. The kissing continued upwards back to my lips. I slowly made my way to his ear, taking in his aroma and gently biting it. My hoof traced his chest and stomach. I savored every muscle until-

Yep! Still there!

"Someone is happy..." I whispered.

Redd chuckled. Ugh, so sexy. "The company of my attractive marefriend helps."

I kissed him, again, using more passion.

He pulled away, suddenly changing the mood. "Sia, I don't want to hurt you."

I rolled my eyes. "Don't do that. I'm a big girl."

"But, the baby-"

"Will be fine." For added measure, I reached down and stroked him. He moaned.

That's what I thought!

I climbed on top of him, llifting my tail. "Come on, Seargent."

He bit his lip. "Just let me know if you need to stop."

"Oh, don't say- Oh, goddesses!"

Luna, if this is what heaven is like, just kill me now!

The great thing about that night, was that I could remember it. And remember, I did! Though, the back of my brain held a thick chain that surrounded my heart. I enjoyed it, (believe me!) but I was being antagonized by my own thoughts. I was sure that it was too soon. It didn't hurt, but there was still the twinge in my chest that made it uncomfortable for a few seconds, until it finally melted away. After Nail Bit, it was hard to want anything near me. For a while, I thought something might have been wrong with me. Was it weird that I didn't hesitate? Should I have even pulled him into it? After all, I wanted the sex, too. What if he thought I was "easy" or something? I should have been scared. I should have been hurting from the previous trauma. Instead, I felt numb to it. Not the sex with Redd, but... I could actually put what that raider did to me in the past. I was happy for it, but my reasoning also made me uncomfortable. Was I... damaged?

I had changed. No, my mental health had deteriorated. Maybe, Blight had put my psyche through so much strife I was desensitized. It occurred to me that my future would only be worse. Secretly, I worried that I would go down a self-destructive path. Would I eventually start to rely on alcohol just to extinguish the fear? What about drugs? Would I...? What I wouldn't give for my therapist to have been brought to the wasteland with me. I doubted she could even do anything about me, now.

Those questions and fears didn't come until after Redd and I fell onto the bed, sweating and huffing. The low blood count had my heart racing more than usual, but it was totally worth it! To be honest, that was the most amazing thirty minutes of my life! It was what I needed. Like Violet had hopefully did for Gladys, Redd had done for me. He took my mind off the horrors of the day.

I snuggled as closely to him as I could. The great thing about pegasi is that our wings add to our embraces. So basically: Double the hugs! My tail intertwined with his back leg. I yawned and closed my eyes. I hadn't felt this way in... well I had never felt that way. I grinned ear to ear as his fur tickled my nose.

I hope I dream about that, tonight.

I couldn't tell how long I had slept. It definitely wasn't more than a couple of hours. A bang on the door, almost made me fall off of the bed. Redd was already up and putting his armor and rifles on. I did the same, awkwardly tangling my hoof in my barding. The door flew open before I could even greet whoever was knocking.

"Sia, I have some bad news." Violet picked up my gun and threw it to me in a rush. She was visibly shaken. I could see the bags under her eyes. Did any of us get any sleep?

"What is it?" I asked, worried.

"One of the griffons, Glidia, was scouting around outside of town and she spotted a lot of commotion at Blossom Farms. She thinks it's the majority of Hope's coven that joined Blight. She didn't see any weird machines, but I don't doubt she's there. She said it looked like they were getting ready to head this way in a few hours at most." Violet spoke so fast, it took me a few seconds to process the information.

"How long have they been there?" Redd asked her.

"I don't know. Glidia told me they've been there long enough to settle in, but surely Blight wouldn't care enough to let them get a good night's sleep before making them fight." She told him.

"Shit..." I swallowed. Blossom Farms wasn't that far away from Floater. It was even closer to-

Oh, no!

"What if they've spotted Nico's house?!" Adrenaline shot through my veins, forcing my heart and wings to pump at the same speed. I barreled out the door, into the hall.

Violet was already flying after me. "Wait!"

I ignored her, zooming to an open window in the hall. I closed my wings to get through, barely fitting. Once I was out, though, I flew into the air as high as I could get. I kept trying to tell myself that my fears were irrational.

Blight hasn't left yet. She doesn't even know they're there. He's fine. Pepper's fine. They are fine.

But, what if she sent some of the Coven to look around nearby buildings?

"Please... Please, be okay..." Tears stung my, already swollen, eyes. They had to be okay...

I flew through the low hanging cirrus clouds for cover. I zoomed over the damp ground, the dead brush blurring as it passed under me. Was I really worrying for no reason? Glidia would have said something if they had taken over Nico's place. I grit my teeth. What if she didn't know? What if they snuck in and killed Pepper and Nico while they were sleeping?

No, no, no, no, no, no!

I grabbed my head in my hooves, trying to crush those images. I grunted. My shoulder was getting weaker, but I didn't care. I wouldn't forgive myself for slowing down. I must have been flying pretty fast, because before I knew it his house came into view. The old, two-story abode quickly grew as I got closer. No smoke or flames. It was a good sign. Still, knowing Blight, she wouldn't have made it so obvious. My heart barely calmed while I slowed to a glide. The front door wasn't even disturbed. It was the same white, chipped paint as always.

I slammed the door open. I looked around. It was dark, save for the fireplace. I was about to go upstairs, until I saw the silhouette of a pony. A unicorn. I didn't really think about whether it was Pepper or Nico. Instead, I galloped over and ran into them, wrapping my hooves around the body.

"I'm so glad you're okay!" I sobbed. That scent. I knew that scent. I hoped he wasn't still angry with me.

"S-Sia?" Nico was startled. "What are you doing here?"

I squeezed harder. "I thought Blight- I thought..."

His hooves covered my back. "Blight?"

"She's at Blossom Farms!" I told him, urgently. "I thought she had found out you were here. I-I was worried about you both!"

His eyes widened. "N-no, we're fine. We need to go, though. I'll go wake Pepper."

The door creaked open. My head swung around just in time to see Redd hovering in the doorway. I couldn't read his expression. I let go of Nico, realizing my mistake. He snorted, dropping his eyes. "We followed you to make sure you were okay." Redd turned to leave.

"Redd, wait!" I tried to catch him, but he was already gone.

My head fell in my hooves. I heard a second pair of wings at the door. It was Violet.

"What's with him?" She nodded her head towards Redd, who was already flying towards Floater.

"A misunderstanding." I said, quietly. Then, I turned towards Nico. "Get Pepper and come to Floater, the sooner the better. You need to leave within the next hour, though. I don't want to risk Blight finding out you live here. Stay hidden."

I trotted towards Violet, the adrenaline wearing off. The dizziness was coming back. I was tired, weak, hungry, and sore. She headed back out the door, waiting for me.

Right before I unfolded my wings, Nico spoke. "Are you alright? You don't look so good."

I nodded. "I'm fine. More or less."

He let out a breath. "I'm sorry for what I said. I still think you're wrong, but I really am sorry, SIa."

That was a small relief. I gave him a solemn grin before following Violet outside. She waited above, her hooves crossed. I joined her in the sky.

"Jeez, I hate to be you." She chuckled. "I knew Redd had some jealousy issues, but I didn't think it was that bad."

I facehooved. "Vi, it's not even like that. I love Redd. We... are closer than you think."

Aren't we?

"You should be. It was hard for Gladys and I to get any sleep last night." She nudged me. "I guess one time wasn't enough, eh?"

I blushed. "W-Well..."

"If you keep this up, we are gonna have a little Redd or Sia Junior running around." She laughed.

The color drained from my face. If only you knew, Vi.

I faked a laugh. "Yeah, wouldn't that be something?"

She maneuvered around to look at my face. "You don't look so good. Should we land?"

I shook my head. "Nah. I'm just exhausted. I don't think I've slept that well for two days."

"Are you sure? You look pale." She pointed out.

I deadpanned. "My coat is white."

The entire way back, I had to fight to stay aloft. The many things on my mind didn't help, either. I was stressed, tired, hurting, and pregnant with a foal who shouldn't have been aged this quickly. It was too much. I shouldn't have been able to get ready for an all out war. The distant town in my view seemed more distant the closer we got. Did they build more houses since we left? I'm not ready. I don't have the strength. The Beacon was moving. I can't do it. This is it. I failed before it even began. Stars began to swim in my vision. So many lives are at stake, and there's nothing I can do to protect them. My body had pretty much given up. Violet's conversations were muffled as I struggled to keep my attention. Were my wings even flapping in sync, anymore? I couldn't tell. The breeze blew stronger than it had been. I was beginning to feel cold.

"Hey, hey! Hold on!" I heard Violet yell above me.

She was getting smaller, too. Was I falling? I felt fine. I was fine.

Warmth. The sun beamed down on my hide. It was so comfortable. A soft breeze caressed my feathers. I sat with my legs folded under me in the backyard of my foalhood home. My three children played with their father as I watched. Redd was teaching our youngest how to fly. I beamed with pride. He always wanted our foals to be great fliers. Cold lemonade sat next to me. I took a sip. The refreshing drink was fresh and delicious! Just like my grandmother made for me, when I was a filly.

"Dad, look at me!" A foal's voice called. He was the second youngest. The oldest, a filly, laughed at the ridiculous face he made.

Redd chuckled. "You know, I'm trying to teach your brother some aerial moves. Don't be too distracting, alright?" He rubbed his mane.

I giggled. I was at peace. Finally, everything was okay.

"I see you're having a good dream, for once. I'm glad." A voice said, next to me.

I sighed happily. "Yeah. It's nice."

Rarity shared my gaze towards my family. "I envy you. I never had a family. Sure, I had Sweetie Belle and my friends, but it just wasn't the same. I always had the dream of meeting a stallion and settling down. Too bad the stallions I was interested in turned out to be... less than pleasant."

I chuckled. "I guess I'm lucky."

She smiled, drinking from her own glass of lemonade. I hadn't noticed she adorned a hat and sunglasses. "I miss these days. Back when Equestria was simpler. Before the ministries. Before the war. Before..." She stopped. I noticed the sadness in her voice.

"I'm sorry, Rarity." I looked down. "I don't know much about the days before the Great War. I assumed everything was amazing before you were burdened with the ministries."

"That is an understatement." She laughed.

We watched the foals buzz around for a few minutes more. The oldest tried to wrestle with her dad, who pretended to lose. "Gotcha!" She yelled in triumph. Redd faked his defeat with such drama, it made a soap opera look like a preschool play.

Rarity smiled. "Congratulations, by the way. I sense the heartbeat of your foal. You'll be a great mother."

"So you can feel my baby? Even though it's... inside me?" I looked at her.

"Yes. She's perfectly healthy."

"She? It's... Rarity, is it a filly?!" I sat up on my haunches.

She smiled. "I think so. A part of my soul has been around for so many years. You pick up on things."

I wiped my eyes. A filly? I was going to have a filly! "So my dream-"

"Don't think too much about it." The white unicorn put a hoof on my shoulder, lovingly. "You have a battle to win, after all."

I looked back at my family. The smile grew on my face. "Yeah, we do."

"Dad! No fair! You started the race too early!" The colt said.

Redd chuckled. "Alright, alright. One more and this time, I won't cheat. Ready? One... Two... Go!"

"You've got a while before you wake up. Moondancer is about to give you a blood transfusion." Rarity stood, about to walk away. "Enjoy this dream, Sia. You've earned it."

Before she walked away, I stopped her. "Why don't you stay? There's no reason you shouldn't enjoy the sunshine. Even if it is just a dream."

She grinned. "You know, that sounds pretty good."

25% to next Level Up

S- 5
P- 6
E- 7
C- 4
I- 5
A- 4
L- 5

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

Thank you all for reading! As always, error spotting/ constructive criticism is always welcome!

Stay safe!

-AP

P.S: Again, I want to apologize for the erratic times between chapter releases. I may post a couple over the span of a couple of days, and it may take a couple of months for the next. I like to write two or three chapters before I post, that way I can keep ahead and reread/edit when I need to. Your patience is GREATLY appreciated!

Chapter 31: Emergency

TRIGGER WARNING: SUICIDE/SUICIDE THOUGHTS/SELF HARM

"Surely, you saw this coming."

The wasteland awakened. With my own eyes, I saw what it could do. The scent of blood and soot filled the air. This was it. My jaw trembled. A wave of violence now overthrew Floater. The very thing I wanted to avoid. More death. It was everywhere. Floater would have to evacuate, anyway. If they kept this up, they would all die. I had to do something. But... what could I do? I needed a megaphone. There's no way everyone would hear me, all at once. I slung my head around, still heading towards the Beacon. A bronze blur went by my face, making me backpedal. The bullet almost got me!

"Watch out!" Violet shoved me, saving me from another bullet. She dove, her sword in front of her. Whoever had shot at me, wouldn't do it again.

"What are you doing out here?!" She yelled, blood spattered her suit.

"What was I supposed to do, to begin with?!" I replied. "We need to get everyone out of town! We'll figure out a way to take care of Blight, but we can't lose anyone else!"

I unholstered my gun and shot the horn off a unicorn who was charging towards my friend. The pony screamed, falling to the ground in pain.

"How?!" She bucked a stallion next to her. She was beginning to breathe heavily.

"We need a loudspeaker or something! I need to find something loud enough to get a message out!"

Violet thought for a quick moment. Her eyes gazed down at my Pipbuck. "Turn the radio on and listen for me!" With that, she disappeared into the crowd, heading towards the clinic. I didn't have time to wonder what she was up to.

I bucked at a mare who grabbed my back leg. She hit the ground hard enough to knock her out. My wings worked harder, carrying me to the roof in a hurry. Fatigue was beginning to set in. A shot rang out, closer than any others. My skin stung just above my Pipbuck. I hissed in pain. It wasn't a deep wound, but it grazed my hide enough to draw blood. I was lucky, that time. I had to dodge more bullets, but it was all I could do to not look at the battle below me. Just a few more yards. I twisted the knob on the contraption on my leg. I heard nothing but static, but I kept it on. The Beacon wasn't far. Dead radio was better than the cries of dying ponies around me. I could see Redd's mane. He stood with the griffons who were almost done putting the Fucker together. Gladys had joined the three of them. I was barely able to make it. I landed, ungracefully, letting my wings just hang at my sides. Redd looked up from the giant weapon and his eyes went wide. I did my best to smile, but it was hard to hide a panic attack.

He ran (or rather, stumbled) over to me, grabbing me in an embrace. "Oh, thank Luna, you're alright."

I buried my muzzle in him. "I'm so sorry, Redd. About what happened at Nico's, about leaving you all out here while I was asleep-"

"No! You do not need to apologize." He shielded me from the view of the battle. "In fact, I want you to go back."

I shoved him. "I won't!"

He exhaled, grabbing his side. I immediately fished out a potion. "We need to get the bullet out."

"I did." He said, taking the potion and chugging it. I grunted in frustration. He was healing, but my concern was still there.

I looked over to the griffons. "Where are we with the Fucker?"

"It's finished. They're loading it. We need to fire it, soon, before that spider... machine thing gets to the building."

We couldn't fire that thing with so many right next to her! "Violet went to see if there was a way to evacuate the town. I-I don't want any of the townsponies to get hurt..."

Bullets zipped over our heads. I ducked, Redd quickly standing over me and zapping the pegasi wearing robes. They didn't bother to wear the hoods, anymore. "Get to Gladys!" He yelled, guarding the roof with one of the griffons. His guns were starting to overheat.

I stayed crouched, crawling towards the griffons. They didn't bother to hide their progress with the weapon from the enemy. The rocket launcher was a wonder. It stood on a tripod, the boxy base bearing most of its weight. The barrel was almost as long as Blast, beak to tail. I could fit my head inside of it! I truly believed this would be our saving grace.

"Gladys!" I stood and began to gallop the rest of the way.

She turned, quickly ushering me behind the barrel. "Hey there, sweet cheeks. We brought a good amount of ammo for this thing, so if any of our little pony friends are near that monster, you need to get them out, now!"

"We're working on that!" I replied, throwing my head back to make sure Redd and the griffon were still okay. They were in the air, shooting at the ground-walking Coven, now. They worked pretty well, together.

My Pipbuck crackled. "-an you -bzzt-?"

I brought it up to my ear. "Hello? Hello? Violet?"

"Sia, it's Moondancer, can you hear me?"

"Yes! I hear you!"

Violet took over. "Moondancer managed to find the frequency your Pipbuck was giving off. She's working on connecting you to the speakers on the Beacon's rooftop. Is there anyway you can stay above the roof?"

"I'm already here! The rocket launcher is ready!"

"Excellent!"

The feed cut off.

"It's close!" Gladys pointed past me, towards Blight. She was already almost there.

"Fuck!" I picked up my leg, again. I didn't know if they could hear me. "Violet! Hurry! We don't have much time!"

"Got a lock on it, boss!" The griffon who was loading the rocket launcher, yelled.

My skin crawled. "Violet!"

A painful amount of silence flooded into my ears. I couldn't turn Floater into a graveyard. If Violet didn't answer me, soon-

The sweet sound of static flowed from the Pipbuck. "Got it! Now, Sia!"

I darted upwards, keeping my view of the entire battlefield. As soon as I heard the feedback over the speakers, I began to speak. "A-Attention!" Wow, that was extremely loud! Most of the fighting stopped, looking around for the source of the sound. I had to think of what to say. "I-I need every living being to evacuate, immediately! Drop everything you are doing! We have a megaspell-level threat in our town! Evacuate! Get out of here, NOW! Retreat to anywhere outside of this town! Blight is here, and she will not stop until every single one of you has been eliminated! I repeat: Get the hell out of here! NOW! If you plan to sacrifice yourself, you need to go, anyway!"

It took them a few seconds to process the warning. Half of the ponies below were already starting to scramble for cover. The mass panic was enough to send them running towards the town limits. Only the Coven remained, and even some of them were fleeing. It looked as though Blight's army was dwindling. I reluctantly glanced over at the monstrous being. She looked pissed. Steam rose from every crevice on her enormous body.

"HOW DARE YOU! YOU TRY TO CONTROL MY ARMY?!" She took a few spider-like steps, then her grimace turned into a wicked grin when she figured out who I was. "YOU!" She laughed. Her voice shook the ground. "WHY, IF IT ISN'T MY OLD SHELL!!"

I gulped. "Y-Yes. It's me. You might as well leave, Blight. You're going to lose!" My voice was still amplified. At least, she had heard me. I was thinking of every distraction I could. I watched a hoof-full of stragglers stumble behind the beacon. Almost...

"I SUPPOSE THAT'S WHAT EVERY CLICHE 'HERO' SAYS!" She laughed, again. "DON'T WORRY, IN THANKS FOR LETTING ME USE YOUR PITIFUL BODY, I'LL LET YOU HAVE A MOMENT OF SILENCE! THAT'S WHAT ANY GOOD RULER WOULD DO!"

It didn't matter what she said. I was only focused on getting the townsponies out of there. The last of the ones who would listen had disappeared. Now was our chance! "Gladys!" I called. "Anytime, now!"

It happened pretty fast. As soon as she gave the signal, loud whistles filled the air. I watched two, half-pony sized missiles cut through the smoke and dust. I was so mesmerized, I didn't even notice Redd had grabbed me out of the sky and pulled me with him towards the roof. We landed just behind a girder that supported the structure. I squeezed my eyes shut, bracing for the boom.

And when it came, I thought a megaspell had hit.

There was the first explosion, then the next in quick secession. The blast even had Gladys and the other griffons covering the sides of their heads. I felt a shock-wave almost knock me onto my side. I was lucky that my companion had been holding onto me.I heard grunts every time a piece of debris hit Redd. I felt the smaller debris hitting my hide. Hot air filled the atmosphere, burning my nostrils. Behind my closed eyes, I could tell that the light emanating from the missile's destruction would be a brighter beacon than the building we were sitting on. I could instantly smell large amounts of gunpowder and other toxic chemicals. I began to cough, uncontrollably. Damn it, Mom. You really messed up my lungs with that chloroform! I fanned the smoke away from my face with my wings, barely able to open my eyes. It was blurry, but I managed to see a smoke cloud and flame that would probably be good competition for the S.P.P towers back home, it was so tall. Strange thoughts stabbed at my heart.

My friends.... They're gone. It's hot. Will I live? Did the planet die? I'm going to die... I'm going to die!!

Was this how the war felt? The memory of those ponies at the farmer's market came to mind. The fear they must have felt... It was probably worse than this, but the emotion was probably the same. The ground shook with the blast. I squeezed Redd as tight as I could. To me, there was no coming back. I couldn't breathe. The feeling of imminent death took over my mind. To me, it felt like the end of the world. I knew it wasn't, but my heart was pounding too hard not to think about it. I barely noticed anything else. Sharp pain shot through my limbs. A panic attack. It was justifiable.

Did it work?

Out of curiosity, I chanced a glance. Sparks flew out of the cloud. I thought I even saw some magic aura glistening. My head pounded with pain and pressure. I wanted to lie down and cry. My limbs were so stiff, I didn't think they would be functional. Did it... destroy the pearls, too? I struggled to escape Redd's grasp. I kept my eyes focused on the burning mass. Even minutes after the impact, I couldn't see anything past the smoke. I began to wheeze, going into another coughing fit.

"Come on. We need to get you away from here." Redd told me.

I neglected his order, not moving my glare from the destroyed site. "Where is she?"

"She's gone." He spat towards the flames. "Good riddance."

"No, I don't see any metal..." I grabbed his barding. "I don't see anything!"

Gladys' massive wings appeared through the haze, fanning the smoke from her beak. "Whoo-hoo! With a blast like that, I wouldn't be surprised if she turned to dust particles!" She cheered.

No, something wasn't right. It felt... off, somehow.

"Something's wrong." I whispered

The gem around my neck glowed.

"Do you see this?" I gestured to my necklace.

"It's probably- -nngh-" Redd grabbed his head, falling to his knees.

"What's wrong?!" I held onto him. "Redd!"

Behind me, I heard the same groans from the griffons. They each held their heads, trying to bury them in the concrete. I panicked, picking up the stallion's face with my hooves. "What is it?!"

Tears poured from his eyes as he looked at me. "I-I..." He grabbed my shoulders. "I don't... I want to live! I c-can't d-do it...." His hooves forced themselves back. "I-I don't w-want... to be another d-disappointment..."

My heart stopped. "W-what?"

The sound of laughter rumbled under our hooves. I almost dropped dead from holding my breath so long. I looked back at the site where Blight stood. She was already halfway through the smoke, crawling towards us. She didn't have a scratch on her! I dropped to my haunches, in utter shock. I felt cold from the lack of blood in my face. It didn't matter that the air was hot enough to sting my eyes.

Blight survived the strongest weapon we had. We didn't even put a dent in her.

"DID YOU ENJOY YOUR MOMENT OF SILENCE?"

I looked at my hooves, defeated. "I..."

She cackled, madly. "ISN'T THIS AMAZING? I AM SO GRACIOUS! LOOK AT ME, GIVING YOU A FEW MOMENTS TO FEEL YOUR LOSS!"

Behind me, one of the griffons began to wail. "I...I can't... take this, anymore!" Right before my eyes, she took out a pistol and put it to her temple, pulling the trigger. Her body fell to the ground with a thud, blood quickly pooling under her.

"No!" I reached for her. Gladys and the others barely even noticed as they fought with their own strife. They heaved and cried, some even pulling the plumage from their heads. I wiped tears from my eyes. "What's happening?"

"TELL ME, PONY, HAVE YOU EVER EXPERIENCED SUICIDAL THOUGHTS?" I grit my teeth. "TAKE THAT AND MULTIPLY IT BY A THOUSAND AND YOU GET PURE, CRIPPLING MISERY! THE CREATURES OF THE WASTELAND ARE ALREADY SUFFERING, THIS JUST AMPLIFIES IT! YOU SEE, THIS IS WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO THOSE WHO DEFY ME. LET THIS BE A LESSON!" She frowned. "SEPARATING MYSELF FROM YOU HAS SEEMED TO MAKE YOU IMMUNE TO MY MAGIC. IT'S AN INCONVENIENCE, BUT NO MATTER! IT'S NOT LIKE YOU'RE MUCH OF A THREAT, NOW! YOU'VE USED YOUR ONLY DEFENSE AGAINST ME! AND LOST!" The sadistic nature of it all made me sick to my stomach. I could taste bile. Blight's laughter pierced my ears as she gestured towards the inside of the Beacon. "COVEN, THOSE OF YOU WHO STILL WISH TO SERVE ME, COME OUT OF HIDING AND PREPARE THE SECURITY ROOM! I'VE GOT AN ENTIRE FLOCK OF PEGASI TO PLAY WITH!"

Her spider/tractor body began to warp and reshape. It shrank until it resembled a small reptile-like shape. Her many legs turned into four and her tail grew long and slender. I saw pictures of dragons in books. This was exactly like a smaller version of them, complete with silver spines growing down her back. Her serpentine figure crawled towards the card-shaped building. I flapped my wings, slowly. Ponies just outside of the blast zone were in the same position on the ground. Cries filled the air. Mournful, angry, terrible cries that would haunt me for the rest of my life. I even saw a mare reach for her gun, just like the griffon did. I turned my head, trying to cover my ears before I heard the horrifying pop of the pistol. I didn't see Nico or Violet anywhere. Maybe, they made it to the lab. I prayed to Luna that they escaped the blast zone, at least.

Redd punched the concrete. "W-won't d-do it!!"

I grabbed him and hugged him, my own sobs breaking through. "You can't! You have to stay alive!" I held his face to look at me. "You can't leave me, okay?"

He stared, but slowly nodded. "I-I...What do I do?"

"Get to Moondancer's lab. I will be there, as soon as I see to Gladys."

He reared, startling me. "You're leaving me. I'm just a piece of shit... Y-you don't want me..." He screamed.

I had to catch him before he ran away. "I'm not leaving you! I love you!" I grabbed and kissed him. "Do you hear me?!" I kissed him, again. "I. Love. You!"

He stood still, hanging his head, again. Blight's spell was horrible. I prayed to Luna the spell would wear off, soon.

I sniffed. "Just, wait here. I will go check on Gladys and we will go to the lab, together."

He didn't say anything. He only shook with quiet sobs.

I turned my back on him and galloped over to Gladys. She wasn't crying, yet, but she was fighting way too hard. "Gladys?"

She looked up. "T-tell me why I..." She reached for her gun but stopped, her talon shaking. "I-I'm really wanting to murder someone, right now. Mostly myself. B-But... I can't. I won't. Damn, I've never h-had suicidal thoughts."

I pat her back. "It's Blight's spell. Hold strong, Gladys. Thank you all for your help. Why don't you take the rest of your griffons and get back home. Get far away from here. Hopefully, her magic will wear off once you get a good distance."

"I-I'm sorry the F-Fucker didn't work..." She dragged herself upright, wobbling as if gravity was fighting her.

I looked down. "It's not your fault, Gladys. I-I'm sorry..."

The feathered creature shook her head, hobbling to her friends. I turned to pick Redd up. Literally. He was back on the ground, digging his hooves in his temples. I removed his hooves and held onto him as I flapped my wings. "Let's go." His shaky body was barely able to stay airborne. I had to catch him a few times. We stopped in front of Fleece's Clinic and walked the rest of the way. The bodies outside were too much. I tried to keep his eyes on mine as we went. Then again, I was doing the same for my favor, too. I just wanted to be in denial, a little longer. In the hall of the clinic, Nico, Pepper, Mom, and Violet met us. No tears. No misery.

They looked... fine.

"Sia?" Pepper spoke.

I looked to her sadly, still supporting the shaking stallion. "It... It didn't work."

I didn't know it was possible to feel hope drain from a room. It clearly did. It was a terrible feeling. Dread replaced every ounce of positive vibes in the clinic. And we didn't even need Blight's spell to feel that way.

"What happened to him?" Violet asked.

"Blight's magic." Nico said. "Mixer and I had the misfortune of experiencing it."

"I..." I rested my head on Redd, hiding my tears. I don't even know if he noticed. "I saw one of the griffons... She killed herself because of it. Then... another..."

"Oh, goddesses." Violet said. "Where is Gladys?"

"I sent her and the rest of the griffons away. There's nothing else any of us can do. I just wanted to get them to safety." I said.

She nodded, still not happy about our loss.

I said, before, how it was a fairly long walk to get underground. This was probably the longest trek. I basically held Redd's weight almost half the walk. The Coven bodies were still on the ground. I doubted anything would be done about it, right now. I walked with my eyes on the mildewed floor. We failed. All the work and sacrifice to keep everyone safe was for moot. How could I face them? My friends, and even strangers believed in me.

Why? Why did you all put so much trust in me? I let you all down! I risked your lives, and now they'll be taken away!

The Beacon was hers. She got what she wanted. The Enclave, Equestria, all of it would be hers. My teeth clenched in my head. I thought they'd break, I squeezed my jaw so hard. The entire town, save for us, few, were under a powerful spell. Their emotions became their slaver. I knew all too well how that felt. Blight originated from my own emotions. I caused this because I couldn't control my self-pity. It wasn't fair to them. It wasn't-

"Get him a sedative." Fleece said.

I looked up, trying to hide the tears of failure in my eyes. We were in the middle of the lab. Redd was ushered away from me by Moondancer and Fleece. I barely paid attention. My muzzle pointed straight to the shiny, tile floor. I watched drops of water impact my blurry reflection. "You failed." It seemed to say.

I went over to the couch and sat with my back to the others. I laid my wing over my stomach. Was I not going to get to meet my foal? Blight was going to destroy everything. A tiny voice wished she would have just killed me. Then again, I couldn't bear the thought of my baby dying.

"When will the effects wear off?" I heard Violet speak softly.

"When the spell was cast on Mixer and me it gradually went away but only after she had left us." Nico told her.

"Why isn't Sia affected? She was out there, too."

"I have no idea."

My mind wanted me to explain why the magic didn't bother me, but my mouth wouldn't move. I just curled up, tighter.

"Should we-"

"No." Nico sighed. "Let her have some time to think."

My eyes closed. They burned and itched from crying, but I couldn't go to sleep. I refused to rest when I should have been fighting.

"What can I do? There's nothing that can take her on! Nothing..." I said to myself.

My shoulders shook with sobs. I needed to be there for Redd. He needed me. Again, my body just wouldn't move. I felt like just shutting down.

What good would that do?

I swallowed. My breath caught in my throat as those words repeated in my head. It was hard, but I managed to force myself up. The weight of everything was pretty intense. Cinder blocks might as well had been tied to my hooves. I trudged past Violet and Nico. The former tried to give me her most sincere smile. Nico looked more or less concerned for me. I didn't raise my head, just walked towards Redd.

"Do not grab my equipment." Moondancer demanded, wrapping him in her magic. "If you do, I will shove a pole so far up your ass, you will look like a flag." He went limp in her magic. "This paralysis spell is for your safety."

The pegasus moped. "Why can't you give me another sedative? Just give me enough to kill me!"

My stomach was in knots. "How are you feeling?" I said to him.

His glare turned solemn when he saw me. "I'm struggling."

"I suggest you stay near, Sienna. I hate to compare him to a child, but he is a danger to himself."

I nodded, sitting on my haunches.

I couldn't even get situated before the double doors slammed open and a group of ponies swarmed in. They weren't Coven, as they didn't have cloaks, but they didn't look happy. Citizens of Floater, most likely. Some of them held bats and knives. The leader was a tall mare. Her magic enveloped a revolver. She looked around the room, before finally resting her eyes on me. She snorted. "You brought that thing here!" Her cheeks were wet and her forehead was bloody.

My ears pinned back as I shrank. "I..."

"Because of you, four houses and the general store are destroyed! We have family to bury!" Her voice carried so much rage and hate for me. I couldn't blame her.

I bowed my head, not attempting to hide my tears. "I-I'm sorry..."

She laughed, sarcastically. "Sorry? That will never be enough!" The teal pony pointed her gun at me. "My brother is dead! He's gone!"

I closed my eyes, as I heard the cock of the gun. I deserved it. These ponies were just living their lives the best they could until I brought this destruction. Instinctively, I covered my belly.

When no shot came, I opened one eye. Nico, Redd, Violet, Pepper, Fleece, and my mother were in front of me.

"She had nothing to do with any of this. If you want to attack someone, attack Blight." Mom stepped forward. "If anyone else is at fault, it's me. It certainly isn't my daughter."

Vi raised her wings. "She tried to help you, idiots!"

The mare wiped her eyes. "So you're going to protect her? Then you're all just as bad as she is!"

Moondancer's horn flashed, creating a wave of magic throughout the room. Everything stopped. A glow covered everypony in the room as they stood, frozen. The robocorn strode over to the gun-wielding pony. A layer of overglow snatched the gun from the air and crushed it as if it were made of paper. Moondancer's eyes glowed a fierce red as she faced the scared mob. "I will not tolerate this asinine behavior. If you ever step hoof in here or towards Sienna again, I will not hesitate to extract your brain through your nostril while keeping you alive to see it. Get the hell out of my lab and make yourself useful. Try scheming against that monster up there. It'll be less dangerous than testing me."

As soon as her freeze spell wore off, the group high-tailed it out of there.

Everyone stared at the cyberpony as she turned to us. She ignored our open mouths as she went to her computer.

"Thank Celestia you're on our side. That was intense." Violet said.

My legs gave out from under me as I collapsed onto the floor in uncontrollable cries. I didn't know why. Relief? Fear? Sadness? Honestly, I didn't know anymore. "The town... They hate me."

"Why weren't they under her spell, too?" Nico asked.

"They were." I heard my mom say as she sat next to me with a hoof between my wings. "Intense grief affects everyone differently. They were angry enough to blame Sienna instead of... me."

Silence. Moondancer's typing at the computer was about to drive me over the edge. Everyone stared either at the floor or in any direction I didn't occupy. Redd whimpered a few times, but even he had nothing to really say. The sedation seemed to be helping.

My tears fell onto my chest where the necklace rested. Rarity. She told me to destroy the pearls for this reason. I couldn't even do that right. I didn't deserve the blasted necklace. Fleece should have given it to a real hero. Someone brave. I reached up with my Pipbuck hoof and held the gem up. I saw the multiple, tiny reflections of myself staring back at me. No glow. It was still beautiful, being worth more than anything I've ever owned I'm sure.

I sighed, wiping my eyes with my free hoof. "I guess we should prepare as best we can."

Nopony said anything. The weight of ponykind crushed my spirit. Knowing Blight was about to overtake it had me drowning in my own personal hell.

I heaved myself over to my sister from another century. Her one eye stared into mine, waiting for a sliver of hope. I hated to disappoint. "Fleece, I don't deserve this. Please, take it back. I can't even look at it without feeling guilty."

Just before I clutched it to rip it off, she held onto my Pipbuck, smiling. "No, you're more deserving than anypony I've ever met. Please, don't feel guilty. Just keep it and think of our friendship." She sadly chuckled. "And Rarity probably thinks the same, too."

I winced, looking back at the gem. She was right, but I felt wrong. The shimmering stone glistened in the lab's bright glow, making me smile. Yeah, maybe she was right. My time with my friends meant more to me than winning any war. If we were going to die at least we would die together.

"Guys..." I looked around, using my most sympathetic smile. "It's been an honor serving with all of you. We've won many fights, but most of all, having all of you as my friends has been the greatest part of my life that I will ever cherish. I got to experience so much more than I ever would have before leaving Thunderhead. Love, true friendship, compassion, fun, empathy. Even some of the pain I've been through will forever leave me a changed mare. It all made me realize I am a pony. I am a pony with strong emotions, and you know what? That's alright. I get to feel. I get to share it. For too long, I was in fear of being in danger. That prevented me from the full experience. But even before coming here, I had the Shake Squad." I laughed. "The Shake Squad kept me going, too. Here? My anxiety was constantly tested down here, but I haven't died yet. I haven't died from panic and I think that is because I had all of you with me. Now that death is imminent, I realized how much of my life was wasted." I took a shaky breath. "I won't ask you to fight anymore on my behalf, because I don't know if this battle can even be won. I just want you to know how much I love and appreciate each one of you."

I spread my hooves, inviting any who would join my cheesy end-of-the-world fellowship. Violet was the first to squeeze me in a death grip. Then, came Nico. Pepper. Even my mom joined. I knew Redd would if he wasn't paralyzed from the neck down. Instead, he nodded in agreement. I looked over at the robopony. "Come on Moon-"

"I don't do hugs."

"Okay." I straightened my emotional grin.

"But, I'm with you. Friend." She smiled at the computer screen.

I clung to them. With every ounce of love, I hung on to my friends. My family. I may have let them down a couple of times, but they'd never let me down. I was finally awake. I knew then, my heart was overflowing with memories, no matter how short my time with them may have been. They loved me, maybe even unconditionally. I swear, I saw two more outlines of ghostly ponies join us. Maybe it was my imagination. I didn't care. Tears fell from my eyes, but that time they were filled with joy and love. "I love you, guys." Maybe, the end of the world wouldn't be so bad, after all.

Level Up!
S- 6 (+1)
P- 6
E- 7
C- 4
I- 6
A- 4
L- 5

New Perk!
Everlasting friendship - Being with the ones who strengthen your mind have also impacted your physical body! +1 to any type of Strength.

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!
As always, error spotting/ constructive criticism is always welcome!

Sorry for the long wait, guys! LIFE got in the way :twilightblush: .

Real quick, I wanted to say a few words regarding the times we are living: I know we are going through a LOT of troubles right now. The coronavirus, worldly issues, and literally everything else is giving all of us trouble in some way or another. I just wanted to let everyone know that no matter how hard life may be getting, please do NOT give up hope. God may be testing us, but do not let any negativity get to you. I appreciate my readers soooooo much and I pray each and every one of you (no matter your stance/belief/sexual orientation/identy/race/ANYTHING) are safe. Thank you all so much for reading my fanfic (even if I suck at updating :facehoof: ) Please know, you guys along with my family keep me going. I wish my words could express how much you all mean to me, but unfortunately they just can't. All I can say is may love reach every single soul. Mental health, I've noticed, has dwindled a LOT in humanity and though my following may be small, my love for you all is not as small. PLEASE stay safe, guys! Times are hard, but even if a fanfic makes you smile, I'm happy! Guys, don't let anyone's negativity take away from your life. Take care of your mental health FIRST!!! I cannot stress this enough. May all of you (fan of me or not) be spiritually happy and joyful. :twilightsmile:

Also the Gen 5 movie is coming soon. Let's have something to be excited for!

I love ALL OF YOU!!

-AP

Chapter 31.5: A Guide to the Future

"I love to win, but if I ever gotta choose between winning and being loyal to my friends, I'm always gonna choose my friends."

7 years earlier...

Sweet Petal's Malts was one of the only places in Thunderhead to get a good milkshake. The diner-esque appearance of the building always seemed to welcome anypony into its doors. Signature red, gray, and white tile covered the floor. Old fashioned photos hung all over the colorful walls. The middle-aged mare at the counter kept her menu short and sweet. Literally. She sold nothing but malts, milkshakes, and whatever smoothie flavors were available. Sweet Petal took her recipes seriously, too. I never knew what she put in them, but her chocolate milkshakes were a work of art. She never failed to make ponies feel at home.

"Hey, sweetie!" She called to me as I walked through the door, bell ringing above my head.

I breathed in the smell of fruit as I smiled and waved to her. The Shake Squad would be there, like every weekend. Chaser had wanted to plan a trip to the race track. I was sure he wanted to gamble away more of his allowance. I looked around to find our usual table. Spotting Redd sitting on one of the cloud-cushioned stools, I made my over to him. We always turned up in the same manner. First, Redd would get there right before me. Then, I'd show up once I helped my grandmother with chores. Next, Bolt Chaser and Wick would arrive together as always. Violet was last, not surprisingly.

"How did it go on your exams?" I took my place across from the other white pegasus.

He whinnied, rubbing the side of his face. "I passed. That's good enough, I guess." We were in our last year of school before we'd choose our careers.

"Well, at least you passed." I pat his shoulder. "You'll still be able to join the military."

Redd's eyes fell on me. "True." He perked up. "Oh yeah, want to leave here together so we can stop at my place to pick up your notes?"

I nodded. "Sure, I need to let Violet know and-"

"No!" He braced himself on the table. "No Violet! Please. We never get to hang out, just me and you." He winked

I chuckled, playfully rolling my eyes. "Hmm. I guess you're right. We really don't ever hang out. Okay, I'll fly with you."

I looked up to see Chaser and Wick coming towards us as Redd let out a whispered "Yes!". They flew over to us, sitting to my left.

"Well, if it isn't my favorite panic attack!" Chaser laughed as he hoof bumped me.

"Heh. Never gets old, big bro." I returned the bump, not amused. I kept watch on the door. "Violet must be running late, as usual."

"Nope!" I yelped as the mare, herself, hopped onto the stool next to me. My heart almost stopped!

"Good!" Chaser clapped his hooves. "Now that we are all present, first on the agenda..." He swiveled the stool to face Sweet Petal. "Hey Sweet! We need the usual, please!"

The old mare smiled as she nodded. "Coming right up!"

As he turned back to us, Chaser began his master plan. "Okay. Track. Tomorrow at noon. Any objections?"

Wick rolled her eyes. "You really think you should go this time? I mean, Lemon Zap sprained his leg a couple of weeks ago."

Violet stretched. "What a rookie."

Chaser eyed Violet. "He may be a rookie, but I've won almost enough to buy a share of the track, myself. And it's all thanks to him."

"Dude, they only let racers buy the shares." Redd added as the shakes were set in front of us. His was vanilla.

Chaser hooked a leg around him. "Ah, you are correct! But, I have a plan." He spread his hooves and wings wide. "I've been training, so I'll be joining the racers after this school year. Then, after I have the share in my grasp, I'll take your place as Lightning's protege." He nudged the sullen pegasus in the side.

Redd propped his head on his hoof. "Excuse me for not being so enthusiastic."

I gave him a reassuring smile. "Chaser's just teasing you. The Enclave is good, too. You'll be set." I didn't lie. You'd be taken care of if you signed up for the military. The racers only got paid by performance.

He turned pink.

"Oh, just kiss already." Violet crossed her hooves. "The amount of flirting amongst our friend group is so cringey."

I hid my face. "There's no flirting, Vi."

Wick giggled. "Well, while we are talking careers, I think I'll study biology."

Violet whistled. "That's gonna be difficult. But, if anyone can do it, you can, egghead." She chuckled, then sighed. "My stupid parents won't let me sign up for the G.P.E. Said I'm liable to 'get myself killed'."

"They're just worried, you know." I told her.

She shrugged. "I know, but I don't want to spend my life in a boring ass place. What about you?"

I swallowed a sip of milkshake. "M-me? Well... I know what I want to do, but..." I shifted, uncomfortably.

"Then do what you want." Chaser said. "It's your life."

I bit my lip, thinking of the old fashion magazines at home. I would have loved to sew and create colorful outfits and quilts! Unfortunately, with the way things were, ponies weren't exactly prioritizing fashion. I sighed. "What I want doesn't necessarily mean I'll be able to take care of myself and my family."

"Ah, yes. The fashion designer." Violet mock flipped her half-shaven mane and chuckled. "Well, as Bolty said: 'It's your life.' Don't spend it unhappy." She drank her smoothie, content with her words.

I shook my head. "It's not like that, Vi. I need to think of my grandparents. They're gonna be too old to take care of themselves. I just want them to be financially stable, too." I looked at my hooves.

"Sia, I see what you mean, but-"

"The Enclave may have a position that you like. Uniform adjustment, maybe?" Wick tapped her chin.

"And if you don't like it, you could always resign after a year." Redd shrugged.

I thought a moment. I was torn, but my gut was telling me to sign up. "W-What about the combat? I can't f-fight." I chewed my hoof.

Chaser held my chin with his feather. "Hey, sis. It's training, not real fighting."

"What about-"

"You realize they have desk positions too, right? There's a chance a small mare like you wouldn't have to be on the field." Redd commented.

I shrank back. "I guess..."

"Well, I think no matter what we choose, we should always meet back here every weekend." Chaser held up his butterscotch milkshake.

"Best friends, forever!" Wick did the same with hers.

Once Redd and Violet also agreed, they looked to me. I couldn't help but grin. "Always..."

We had it all figured out. Our remaining goals were to reach the glass ceiling.

Too bad survival has to be the main priority.

Bolt didn't get to be a racer. Wick couldn't get a biologist position in the Enclave. Redd's career was forced upon him. Violet was held back from a future. None of their plans came through. I guess it's rare to be able to plan out a whole future. I think I had a dream at one time. I did want to be a seamstress. I also knew it was possibly obsolete. I was too busy worrying about my subsequent goals to even plan them. I think the worry and the fear kept me from trying to dream too big.

I scoured Moondancer's lab in the direction of my friends, new and old. Whatever plans they had now, I didn't want them to have to worry about changing their futures. However, Blight was currently in the way. I hated that I didn't know what to do. I refused to cry, again. I had them with me, in that moment. It was all that mattered to me. I'd have to have confidence in them and myself if we even had a chance to beat her. I strolled around, stopping to check on everyone. It was hard to hide my nervousness. When I got to the tables, Fleece and Moondancer were discussing possible cures for the misery spell. I frowned, when I saw Redd laying on the table in front of them. His cheeks were damp from the tears.

"Mind magic is a fickle thing. You can't just change the chemistry in the brain." Moondancer had told me.

I sighed, taking the few steps to be beside him, again. When I saw him holding his head, something in me broke. I was so scared of the future that I didn't even think of the moment I could have been in. I could've be happy, but I cost myself that privilege. What was the point of giving myself so much misery when I had something good going for me? Well, considering where we were. I had a lot to be thankful for. I couldn't let so much fear and doubt take that away from me when I still had even a small chance.

Damn it, I don't know what the future holds for me, but I do know what I want it to be.

I mused on the possibilities a little more, then rested my forehead against Redd's.

"Marry me?" I asked him.

If there was any way to silence a room, it would be that. There were no closed mouths. Except Moondancer, of course.

Redd sat up, eyes as large as saucers. "W-What?"

"Will you marry me?" I repeated.

"Holy shit." Vi whispered.

Redd slowly climbed off the table and stood in front of me. "You... You want to marry m-me?"

My smile grew. "Of course." I took his artificial wing in mine. "You know, I'm really glad we didn't stay in Thunderhead." He perked at the familiarity of the words. "I was able to grow more, here. We may defeat Blight. We may not. But now I know what I want my future to be. Even if we don't make it through, at least we know what we wanted. I want to wake up next to you tomorrow. I want our foal to meet their aunts, uncles and grandparents." I gestured to everyone. I took a deep breath and looked in his eyes. "I want to marry you, but only if you're sure you'll be happy with me. Until the very end, whenever it may be." I knew I was doing the right thing. I felt it in my heart. We would all be... okay.

I took a step towards him, gently leaning my head on his neck. "I love you, Redd. Always." I whispered.

"Am I seeing things? Did that emerald flash?"

"Probably a reflection."

I breathed slowly, keeping the smile on my face. It didn't matter what he said, really. My mind was peaceful. For a long few minutes, he remained silent. I almost looked up to see if he was okay, but then I heard him chuckle. He kissed my mane over and over while he laughed. My bangs dampened. When I pulled away, I saw he wore the biggest grin. Moondancer and Fleece were urgently whispering but I ignored them. Redd looked happier than he had been earlier. It was tears of joy, finally.

"So? What do you say?" I wiped his cheek with my feathers.

"I think you know the answer to that." Redd pulled me into an embrace. For a few seconds, we were not in any danger. I had forgotten about Blight.

The clanking of Moondancer's steps came nearer. "How are you feeling?"

He didn't pull away as he answered. "I've never been so ecstatic in my entire life."

"I meant spell-wise." She added, blatantly.

The pegasus stallion looked at her and thought a moment. "I... feel better. It's like the spell went away for the most part."

Moondancer's eyes glowed for a second. She turned and walked over to her computer and began typing. "Interesting."

When he turned back to me, he beamed. His red eyes glimmered. I went in for a kiss, but then was halted by Dad bursting into tears. "She's getting married!!" Mom consoled him, once again.

"Well," Pepper spoke up. "This is... unexpected?" She scratched the nape of her neck.

"I call mare of honor!" Violet raised her hoof. "We are gonna be cousins-in-law!" She squealed

My sheepish expression fell on Redd. "I was actually hoping we could go ahead and elope... now."

"Now? Sia, I hate to break it to you, but there's a monster above us, right now. It's kind of urgent." Nico inquired.

I let go of my new fiancée. "If there's a chance we can't beat her... I-I want..." I paused, let out a soft breath, and relaxed. "I just don't have any other plans." I smiled at my unicorn friend. He was dumbfounded.

"The mechanical being is currently gathering intel. I believe you have a few minutes to spare at the very least." Moondancer watched her monitors. I could see the dragon-like machine speaking with the Coven members. The robo-corn switched the screen to the camera footage in the security room in the Beacon and went to a nearby bookshelf. It amazed me how she knew exactly what book she was looking for. It was an ancient book, with a symbol resembling the sun.

She turned to me, expressionless. "I can officiate the ceremony, if you'd like." She held up a hoof, before I could question her. "Yes, I'm serious. Yes, I am authorized to do so. And no, you don't have to repay me."

I looked to Redd, who nodded eagerly.

"Very well." She took her place between us and opened the tome. "Dearly beloved friends and family, we are gathered toge-"

BANG!

Violet rushed to the computer, switching the feed back to Blight. That monster was attempting to break down the steel doors! "Better get to the important parts, Moony!"

"Right. Now, we join Sienna and Redd in this union." She looked to me. "Do you take Redd to be your husband?"

"I do." I said, hurriedly.

To Redd. "And do you take Sia to be your wife?"

BANG!

"I really do." The stallion gazed peacefully at me despite the noises above us.

Moondacer adjusted her glasses, unmoved. "You may now-"

We were already completing the union before she finished her sentence.

"Okay, I guess you could have done this yourselves." Moondancer trotted back to the computer, hitting a few keys. A window appeared, showing information. "It appears the security team has fled. If you exit through the back of the lab, you'll be in the security room in the Beacon." She was talking about the other tunnel entrance.

"Any useful tips or information?" Nico asked her.

Moondancer levitated a box to him. "Take these. I have no current record or knowledge for literally most of this, but I may have something that can help. They were created by the Ministry of Technology to disable any mechanical device, including armor. They may not be fully efficient, but they may help."

BANG! CREEEAAK

"So, spark grenades?" Violet took one out of the box to examine it. Sure enough, it looked exactly like the pieces in the giant clump of grenades made by the raiders. The silver casing was accented only by the small blue glow coming from the top. There were five of them.

Fleece hugged me, then hoofed over my saddle bag. "I put as many potions and Med-X in there I could find. Please, be careful."

I nodded, throwing the bag over my shoulder. "I will."

Behind me, everyone gathered. Violet readied her sword. Nico, Dad, and Redd had their guns locked and loaded. Even Pepper and my mother held pistols. I shivered, trying to shake off the last of the nervousness. I grabbed my pistol, checking over it. Bob might not do much, but the energy pistol had helped me out a few times. I holstered it and drew a deep breath as I forced a smile.

In the tunnel, my newly acquired husband caught up to me. "Sia, I'm glad you're determined, but I wish you would have stayed in the lab. If we lose, at least maybe you'd stay hidden and safe."

I swallowed. "I'm sorry. I can't let you guys go out there without me." I held my belly. "I'll try to be as careful as I can. Just remember to fight her spells. Don't let them take you back to that... place."

He nodded, still unsure of my words.

"Everyone," I looked back. "She will try to use her spell, again. Don't let it get to you. Please, keep the bad thoughts at bay. At least, until we figure out how to really beat them."

They nodded.

"Good. Let's go try to save this damned world."

Level Up!
S- 6
P- 6
E- 7
C- 4
I- 6
A- 5 (+1)
L- 5

New Perk!
Spouse's Embrace - While in battle with your partner, you gain +1 Luck.

Author's Note

Thank you, Kkat for this amazing universe!

TLDR: I lost someone after New Years of 2022 and it's had a weird impact. Will continue, though!

I want to truly thank all of you for your patience with me this year! From the bottom of my heart, I love you all! I've been a little... distracted for the entirety of 2022. I lost my mother at the beginning of the year. Our relationship was strained. Guilt ate me alive because I wasn't there in her last moments. I was in a pretty bad place to say in the least. At one point, I actually thought about canceling the story. Mainly, because of Sienna's relationship with her mother in the story. It was so hard to know my own fictional character was able to begin a legitimate relationship with her mother and I couldn't. It's still hard, but thankfully, I have a lot of support. I'm the type of person to keep my grief to myself and not talk about it. It's a lot of reason why even some of my own family thinks I'm a bad guy. But I hope I speak for all who are similar to me when I say that is far from the truth. Just because we don't show it, doesn't mean we don't feel intense hurt. I digress. I swallowed my pride, though. In the last couple of months, I started back on my story. It was my passion to write so, ironically to me, it has helped a lot. I don't think it was healthy for me to obsess over my writing, though. In such a short amount of time, I managed to finish the last few chapters (in rough draft form). But, once finished, I realized I need to really and truly reread, proof, and edit the drafts. So, the good news is that I am finished with the story, but I also need to make any edits that need to be done. I'm sorry for the explosion of emotion, but just know I never stopped thinking about my readers and how much I appreciated each and every one of you. I stopped every hobby except this one because with writing, I felt like I could actually feel the support. So, thank you guys. Thank you so much. I'll update as I go. Thank you for your patience! 💞

As always, constructive criticism/ error spotting is always welcome!

Thank you for reading!
-AP

Chapter 32: Face Off

"We've learned that friendship isn't always easy, but there's no doubt it's worth fighting for."

Virtues. What even are virtues? Does everyone have them? I guess looking at the wasteland, not everyone has them. I doubt you'd see a lot of humility in a raider. I had met ponies with virtues that were obvious. There were some who had them, but kept it hidden. What good is a virtue if you don't use it? My grandmother taught me to never doubt myself, but I strayed from that lesson many times. What stood out for me was a mystery. Charity? Patience? Hah. That last one is lost on me. I definitely wasn't about to try to prove to myself I could lead a virtuous life. After all, if you have to prove it over and over doesn't it lose any meaning? Like if you give food to someone only when others are around, does that make you charitable or just vain? I could be dwelling on these things too much. It already took everything I had to trust that my friends were doing the right thing by following me to an indestructible, killing machine. I would have faced her myself, but they'd never allow me to go alone. It's why I loved them. It's why I had much more faith in this battle than any others. I had all the virtue I needed.

We reached the end of the tunnel that ended under the security room. I put my ear to the door and listened. I could hear voices. Blight's loud, tinny yells were above them all. I assumed they had gotten in. My Pipbuck light illuminated the heavy doors. I scanned one side of the doors while Nico checked the other side, his horn ignited.

"Do you see any locks?" I whispered.

"It must be barred from the outside. I think we should turn the lights off to see if there's any light showing through. At least then, we'd know we weren't cemented in." The unicorn killed the light and I did the same.

Luckily, we were able to see light coming from one side. Now, the problem would be opening the door to sneak in.

I stared at Nico's horn. "I guess there's no way to pry this thing open?"

He examined the hinges. "I don't think so. It hasn't been opened in over a hundred years. We'd have to blow it open."

"Which would be impossible without catching attention."

"Aw, no surprise attack?" Violet wilted.

"And probably be disintegrated as soon as we yelled 'Surprise'." Redd rolled his eyes. "Doesn't that suck?"

I swallowed. Now what? Grenades weren't exactly quiet. Moondancer may have known how to keep the blast from making noise but-

"Pepper..." I whispered. "Pepper! Do you remember when we snuck around Silky?"

She thought a moment then smirked. "Let me guess. Need a silencing spell?"

"Do you think you can keep an explosion quiet? At least keep the noise confined to a small space?" I asked.

She ignited her horn, pursing her lips. "It... may be possible, but I'll need help with a barrier spell."

"That's my cue. Tell me what to do." Nico asked her.

Pepper removed the grenades from Nico's bag and studied them. "I need you to create a barrier around the hinges while I levitate these next to it. Try to keep it contained in as small an area as possible."

He nodded.

"Everyone get back!" I warned.

After everyone had moved far enough away, Pepper removed the pins and levitated the grenades next to the doors. She nodded to Nico, who quickly threw up a shield around the explosives and the rusted hinges. I prayed to Luna that he could contain the boom. Suddenly, a white flash caused us to shield our eyes. It was like lightening without the thunder. I peeked over at Nico, who jerked forward. I rushed over. "Are you alright?"

"It's -nngh- hard to keep. I'm not sure the shield can... hold the pressure." He grunted.

The barrier was doing its job, but I could see Nico's horn flickering. I quickly found Pepper, who kept her focus on the silencing spell. The explosion was over quickly. The pressure would probably create a small boom if he released the spell, though. I squinted, spotting the blasted hinges surrounded by smoke and dust.

"Pepper, if he lets his shield down, can you keep the spell going for a second longer?" I asked her.

She nodded, sweat furrowing her brow.

"Nico, go ahead and let it go. Don't overdo it for dust and smoke." I put a hoof on his shoulder.

With a heavy exhale, Nico's horn died, smoke trickling out of the point. The protective over-glow winked out, letting the debris flow out through the tunnel. The buck grabbed his head in pain. The pressure sent a wave, knocking us back.a step. Despite my best efforts to avoid the dust, it made its way into my lungs. I tried to hold back the cough, but it was no good.

"Sia, quick drink this." Violet hoofed over a water canteen. I grabbed it and took a few gulps. It helped tremendously.

"Thanks." I wiped my eyes. They were watering from the dust. I trotted over to the doors. They looked like they had moved a bit. They could be picked up by a strong pony. Tonno Weights probably could have lifted it himself.

"Dad, can you and Redd lift this enough for me to look through?" I asked the stallions.

They nodded and flapped their wings, landing just on the second step. As soon as they got a grip, they began pushing upward. It took a few seconds before the door scraped on its adjacent half. Light seeped in through the small opening. I lined my view along the crack. I could see Blight examining the old monitors. They looked too old to function. I couldn't imagine they were still working. A few cloakies were behind her, armed. I swore to myself. She still had at least a few at her disposal.

"These terminals are not functional." The machine hissed. She twirled around, towering over the cloaked ponies. "How am I supposed to use this garbage?!"

A stallion swallowed before he spoke. "I-It should have been working. They probably shut down the mainframe before we arrived."

Steam blew from Blight's back. "Blasted cretins! You're lucky I have just the thing." With a metal claw, she brought it to her chest and pulled open a compartment. Inside, were the pearls. My eyes widened at the orbs. She brought one out and held it next to the terminals. It began to glow and swirl, creating an aura around the equipment. It grew brighter, until the monitor was sparking.

"What's going on?" Mom asked behind me.

"She's using the pearls to activate the terminal. She may be able to reach the Enclave faster, now." I gulped down the tightness in my throat. This was going to be harder than I thought. There was no way to sneak up on her. Even if there was, a stealth attack wouldn't be any better than facing her head on. I looked at Mom, pulling my ears back. I wondered if Blight would be able to see through a lie.

"I think I have an idea. Half-assed, but it's better than nothing." I told the others. "You're not gonna like it, but it may be our best chance."

I had mixed reactions, most of them concerned.

"Mom, you and I can climb through here. You can pretend you are still on her side by 'turning me over to her'." I made air quotes. "That may buy us some time. The rest of you go back through the tunnel, through Fleece's clinic, and enter the Beacon through the front. She probably has more cloakies guarding the place. Take them out as quietly as possible. Spare any who surrender. Once you take them out, come to the security room. After that... I-I guess we will wing it from there. But don't show yourselves until I say."

"Absolutely not, Sia." Redd blocked me. "You won't have any protection from her if it's just you two."

I gave him a smile, reaching up to kiss his muzzle. "I know." I put my pistol in his hoof. "I'll be fine. We both will." I looked back at my stomach. "I won't do anything to anger her. If I don't have my gun, she will think Mom really is betraying me."

"B-but-"

"Remember what I said? Don't let her spell have any effect on you."

He flicked his tail in irritation. "Just... Please. I'm begging you... Don't die." Redd's wings wrapped around me, tightly.

The others gathered around. Violet huffed. "Why do you have to face her? Let me do it!"

"No, Vi. Her magic has no effect on me. I can distract her better." I said.

"This is stupid! There has to be another way." Nico stomped.

I chuckled. "You guys act like I'm going to die, for sure."

Violet grabbed my ear, stretching it to look inside. "Are you even my Sienna, anymore? Who are you?! My Sia is a walking panic attack! You are looking death in the face!"

I rubbed my sore ear and breathed. "I... I don't know. I am scared, but... It's something I have to do."

"Are you sure you want to do it like this, though? Blight may be able to see through the charade." Mom stepped up next to me.

"Let's just pray we can buy time for a better idea." I hugged her. "I trust you, Mom."

It took a long second before she returned the hug. I saw the glistening on her face.

Once we were set, I gave the healing supplies to Pepper and my cartridges to Redd. He gave me one last squeeze before he turned away and started walking with the rest of our friends. I held my chest. I saw him wipe his eyes, which almost had me in tears, but I had to keep my confidence on top of my mind. We could do this!

"It wasn't a big ceremony, but I'm proud of you, Marshmallow." Mom put her yellow feathers around me.

I sighed, lovingly. "Yeah. I'm lucky." Shaking my head, I faced the doors. Dad had made the opening big enough for us to squeeze through. "Try to be as convincing as possible. Point your pistol at me and hold it there."

Her eyes grew. "I couldn't-"

"Please? Take the bullets out if you want. Blight needs to believe I'm captive." I begged.

She clenched her jaw before unloading the round in the chamber and shakily pointing the gun at me.

"It's okay. Try to keep still."

She nodded and we headed for the exit.

As soon as I squeezed through, Blight let out a hiss of steam. "If it isn't the 'hero'!" She guffawed. "Here to unload more useless missiles into me?"

When Mom came next, the dragon-shaped machine lost her mocking smile. "Gale. Why, pray tell, are you here?" She narrowed her reptilian eyes at the gun pointed at me.

To her credit, my mother was an incredible actress. I almost couldn't tell the difference between her and the Hope she was, before. "My remaining followers gave me my memories back. I still would like to work with the winning side. I know, now, it'll be your side. My mistake was doubting your power. I see no other way I and the remnants of the coven can come out alive. We will serve you." She bowed. "For a peace offering, I brought this one." She poked my shoulder with the gun.

Blight stared at her. My chest began to ache, but I had to keep my focus. No negative emotions.

"And why do I need this creature? I could just kill you both, right now." Blight sneered.

Silence.

Mom, say something!

I had to do something, quick! "Blight, please listen to me. Is there any way we can call a truce?"

The robotic laugh echoed through the casino. "Are you serious? Must I remind you who I am?"

I somehow remained calm. "I-I just don't understand where you came from. If you really did originate from ponies' minds, shouldn't there be a good side to you? All ponies have some good in them or have had it at some point."

Blight let off more steam. "Fool! You mistake me for a mere organism. I believe I've told your little friends that I," She spread her mechanical arms. "am the real wasteland."

"Even the wasteland has some good-"

"Do not speak to me like I am your 'friend'!" She took the pearl from the monitor. "I oversaw the Great War. I made sure the population would succumb to their true nature. I was always there! You wretched ponies just know how to hide me when need be." Her forehead glowed, projecting a screen of different ponies from before the war. "The ministry mares stayed true to their elements." The mares were shown on the "screen", only they had gotten older. They looked tired and frustrated in the picture. "Until they didn't. You see, you can only pour so much into one's cup before it overflows." She laughed. "And once that cup starts overflowing, the world turns to balefire!" The screen winked out after it portrayed a green, fiery hell.

I gasped, unable to look away. "The princesses... If they were here, you wouldn't be!"

She showed an image of a dark alicorn. She looked like Princess Luna, only... evil. "Celestia and Luna held a part of me, as well! No one truly is without me. Even if I hadn't became this splendid being, this land's hatred, greed, pride, cruelty; it's all me! One hundred and sixty years ago, was my victory. Ever since, I have been triumphant over and over again!"

I stepped back, shivering. "You're wrong..." I said, barely audible.

"I'm wrong? So you think there is some way to completely get rid of all of this. If there is a way to defeat me, tell me how. I'll wait." She cackled, crossing her arms.

I had to get those pearls away from her somehow. "You're only tangible because of the pearls. You don't truly have any power of your own. You say you're in all of us, but the light always defeats that darkness if we let it. You lose those jewels, you couldn't do anything."

Blight narrowed her eyes, again. She nodded towards me, not speaking directly to me.

Before I could figure out what was going on, a movement caught my peripheral vision. I heard a gunshot. Immediately, a searing pain exploded in my chest. I cried out in pain. As I landed on the floor, I looked down at my breast. A bullet had gotten through my armor and pierced the right side of my chest. Blood began to ooze from the wound. It didn't hit my heart, but I couldn't tell if it had hit my lung. I put pressure and looked up, tears in my eyes. Air quickly left my lungs and I felt like I couldn't breathe. I couldn't take in oxygen quickly enough.

"Sia!" My mother dropped her gun and rushed to me.

Blight smiled wickedly. "Ahh. Looks like mother goose has finally chosen a side."

A sudden barrage of energy beams and bullets riddled the monster. I looked up to see the rest of the gang rushing the cloaked ponies in the room. The red and white blur zooming around the room was trying its hardest to destroy the entire building, it seemed. I hissed in pain, trying to get up.

Pepper skidded to a halt near me. "Gale, help me drag her to cover. I need to get the bullet out and give her this potion."

"We have to get her away from those -ack- pearls." I breathed.

Why do I always get shot at the worst times?

"Too bad! I'll be quick, now come on! They can only distract her for so long!"

Pepper and my mom dragged me over to a corner hidden by slot machines that looked to be out of commission. Pepper ignited her horn and stripped the damaged part of the barding off of my chest. I bit my lip in an attempt to stop from crying out, again. I managed to pick my head up long enough to see the deep hole in my chest. Oh, boy, that ain't good.

"I-I can't tell where the bullet is!" Pepper whispered. "It went past the outer muscle."

Mom whispered, urgently. "It has to be in the lung. Can't you do something? You've been learning from Moondancer!"

"I haven't gotten this far!" She whimpered, digging through her bag. "This might need major surgery and I don't have the tools, except for my magic and Med-X!"

"Pepper, p-please just hurry and... follow your instinct." I weakly touched her nearest hoof. "I won't give up this easily."

"Fuck." Pepper sniffed, gritting her teeth. "Fuck! Fine! Just... Just... I don't know! Try to sleep through it! I'm gonna go ahead and extract the thing. Hold on to something!"

I wanted to smile, but I'm sure my face was far too twisted in agony. The second her horn ignited again, I felt a sharp sting in my lung. The loud gunshots and yelling faded out quickly as I began to lose consciousness. I tried to stay awake. Pepper and Mom were speaking, but it sounded like I was under water. My mouth moved. I don't even know who I was trying to call for. I felt the floor under my head.

Minutes earlier...

Pepper and the rest of the herd rushed as fast as they could towards the tunnel's exit in Fleece's clinic. She glanced at the lead pony, Redd. His wing looked slightly torn at the base. The pain must have been intense. Moondancer had told him not to fly for a couple of days, but he only listened for half a day, if that.

"Hey, you shouldn't be flying with your wing like that!" Pepper scolded the pegasus.

He ignored her.

"It's tearing at the base!" She yelled louder.

"Thank you for your concern, but I'm fine. Sia needs us." He said, annoyance replacing gratitude.

She rolled her eyes. "You're not gonna be any use to her if you're badly injured, dummy!"

They made it up the stairs and flooded into the clinic. Nico volunteered to chance a peek from the clinic entrance. Violet tapped her hoof, impatiently. They didn't get along well, but Pepper did have an understanding for her love for her friend. She could tell she cared deeply for Sienna. It was amazing how that pegasus mare grew on Pepper's heart. She hated pegasi, but Sia was... different.

"There are about seven of those henchponies out there guarding the Beacon entrance." Nico whispered.

Violet drew her sword. "On it!"

"No wait, Vi-!"

Before Nico could get the word out, Violet had almost teleported out the door. Pepper couldn't even keep up with her. In a flash of red, blood spattered from the cloaked pony on the far left of the building. In a split second, the next one dropped. Then, another one. Before they knew it, Violet had mutilated every one of the guards. They didn't even see her until she slid through the clinic, stopping a few feet away. Blood spattered her jumpsuit and blade.

"Sia wouldn't have agreed, but we're in a hurry." She said, sheathing the weapon.

"Let's head in. I'm worried about them." Thunder Cloud (or as Pepper knew, Mixer) said.

They tiptoed until they got to the doors of the Beacon. This time, Redd cracked it open slightly, scanning the main area. He signaled for them to go on through. Upon entering, Pepper noticed the place was a wreck. Slot machines were thrown out of the way, poker tables were overturned, and even the bar stools were scattered. Pepper used her magic to close the door, quietly.

Nico stopped next to her. "If we don't keep that idiot off that wing, he's going to get seriously hurt."

"I know. I tried to warn him." She said.

"He's got it bad, huh?" He snickered.

Pepper didn't laugh. "Uh, yeah. I guess he does."

They suddenly heard voices. Redd dove behind a counter. Mixer, Nico, and Pepper ducked behind a machine that was on its side.

"-defeat me, tell me how. I'll wait!" Blight's laugh filled the room, chilling the unicorn mare to her core.

Pepper's ears perked as she heard Sienna begin to talk. Sienna's words made Pepper clench her jaw. " -light always defeats the darkness, if we let it."

"Oh, Sia..." Pepper said to herself. She felt awful for treating the pegasus mare like she did in the beginning. Even before their bodies merged, she tried to convince Pepper that she was still good. In truth, the unicorn wanted to be angry at her for lying. There was nothing inside of her worth saving, after those couple of years of being experimented on. She knew she was unstable, but Sia didn't see her that way. She didn't see her as a handicap. Pepper was happy to have met-

BANG!

Pepper's blood ran cold when she heard Sia scream.

"NO!" Redd sent a breeze throughout the room from launching off the floor. Tickets scattered everywhere.

The herd galloped into the security room in the back. Redd had already activated his energy rifles, giving Blight everything he had. Nico and Thunder Cloud had also started shooting. Violet was taking out the cloaked ponies in the room. Pepper lowered herself to the floor to avoid being seen. She frantically looked around for her friend. Orange and white caught her attention, lying in a pool of blood.

"Oh, no..." Pepper sped towards the injured mare. Her hooves almost slid passed her. Gale was trying to hold her daughter up. "Gale, help me drag her to cover. I need to get the bullet out and give her this potion."

As Gale grabbed her leg, Sienna shifted. "We have to get her away from those -ack- pearls."

Her breathing was rugged. Pepper had suspicions, but she secretly hoped it wasn't as bad as she thought.

Once behind cover, the unicorn quickly removed the barding that covered the wound. She swore under her breath when she saw how deep the bullet had went.

"It has to be in the lung. Can't you do something? You've been learning from Moondancer!" Gale cried.

Pepper could have removed the bullet if it was just in the muscle. But this was more serious. She began to dig around in her bag. Mostly to hide the tears coming to her eyes. She didn't know what to do! "I haven't gotten this far!" She whinnied. "This might need major surgery and I don't have the right tools, except my magic and Med-X!" Her eyes began to sting.

"Pepper," A hoof gently touched her back leg. "p-please just hurry and... follow your instinct. I won't give up this easily."

The unicorn looked in Sienna's eyes as she said those words. She wanted to scream. How could she trust me with something like that?!

"Fuck." She hissed. "Fuck! Fine! Just... Just... I don't know! Try and sleep through it!" She levitated the Med-X and adjusted the syringe. "I'm gonna go ahead and extract the thing. Hold on to something!"

Sienna fell in and out of sleep. Pepper commanded Gale to watch her pulse. The pink mare didn't want to do this, but there was no option. Behind her, The war cries of weapons and explosives were deafening. She tried to focus. Once the Med-X was injected, Sia whispered something

"Pearl..."

If it wasn't for the urgency she would have asked what she meant, but Pepper was now focusing her magic on the hole. She tried to remember the anatomy from Moondancer's books. Focus... Focus... I just need to reach in with my magic and find the bullet. With her eyes closed, she felt around. Sweat beaded her forehead. Pepper kept every ounce of her attention on that bullet. Where is it? It's penetrated deeper than the muscle, so it definitely entered the lung... It has to be... Wait, there it is!

"Found it! Gale get the potion ready to pour half inside the wound." She told the yellow mare.

"Her pulse is getting weaker!" She said as she snatched the bottle out of the bag.

No, no, no, no! Just gotta slowly pull it out... Steady...

"Oh goddesses... She stopped breathing!"

Tears were forming in Pepper's eyes. "I have to get this out. Almost... Almost..." The bullet finally loosened enough for her to quickly pull it out. Once out Gale quickly poured half of the potion into the wound. After a moment, the tissue slowly started to knit back together.

"Shit! She's still not breathing! Hold on! You won't die on me, you damn feather brain! You promised!" Pepper cried. She began C.P.R. It wasn't as professional as Moondancer may have been, but she did her best to follow the steps she saw in the book.

Press. Press. Press. "Come on!" She opened her mouth, blowing air into her freshly healed lungs. The hide was still pulling together. Press. Press. Press. "You have to take care of your baby! You have a husband! He will not... be... WIDOWED!" The last compression was rewarded with a deep gasp from the pegasus. Pepper beamed, wiping her eyes. Gale quickly sat her daughter up to drink the rest of the potion. Pepper wiped the sweat from her face. She now knew how Sia felt during a panic attack. She had hoped she didn't damage any tissue. Sia choked down the potion, taking a few breaths and slowly gaining consciousness. The unicorn would have cheered if it wasn't for the carnage behind her.

With a fast beating heart, Pepper turned to the new battlefield. Blight was neither scratched nor dented. She was unfazed by the weapons that were being unloaded into her.

She didn't want to lose hope, but it was definitely harder to see the bright side.

Level Up!

S- 6
P- 6
E- 8 (+1)
C- 4
I- 6
A- 5
L- 5

New Perk!
Death's Door - Enduring injuries has permanently increased your threshold! +1 to Endurance.

Author's Note

Thank you to Kkat for this amazing world!
As always, error spotting/ constructive criticism is always welcome! And thank you to my readers for your patience in these trying times! Much love!

-AP

PS: I'm still not sure why FIMfiction is not adding the indentions to paragraphs. I promise I am not omitting them on purpose!

Chapter 33: The Other Side

"Isn't there supposed to be a light?"

Sienna...

There it was again. The voice that was calling me. The last thing I remember was passing out. After that, I arrived in this place. There was nothing here. Even my body was gone. It was just... space. I floated for a few seconds. Voices whispered around me, but they had no source. Was I... dead? No I couldn't have been. I had been close to death when I saw my body that first night. I... couldn't have been. I wasn't dreaming either, though. It would have been peaceful. A soft roar grew around me. I did know that it sounded like a thunderstorm. That was the only real knowledge I had at that moment: It was similar to the sound of rain. I was forced to stare at nothingness, but even if I could have looked around, I probably wouldn't. I liked the sound. I felt like I was in a womb. Had I even been born? Did I reincarnate into someone else? Sweet. The sound was sweet. I just wanted to focus on that noise instead of the garbled voices.

Sienna...

The soft patter of the rain grew into terrifying clangs. The shutter made the nothingness turn black. I began to fly forward at lightening speed. The rumble became a resounding clang. It sounded like gunshots, but as though it were behind a concrete barrier. The voices were pushed together. I could barely tell them apart. Laughing. Crying. Screaming. It was a jumbled mess. I felt nothing, though. I had no emotion. Even my curiosity was lost. Light around me swirled, blurring colors. I willed myself to touch one of the odd shapes, but it was impossible without a body. I did manage to float closer to the shape. It didn't help as it was still fuzzy.

-ome on!

That was different. A different voice, too. It was too far away, but it sounded familiar. I couldn't put a name with it.

You - -by to take ca- of!

Strange. It was getting louder. More familiar. I knew this mare.

-not... be... "WIDOWED!"

Pressure filled my chest, followed by the feeling of being suffocated. The void quickly poured from my vision. Black replaced it. It only lasted a second as my eyes shot open. Pain and fear erupted in my head and breast. I gasped, pulling air into my aching lungs. Everything was swarming. Sounds of war filled my ears. Something touched my lips. A bottle. A potion, by the taste of it. I suddenly could remember the taste. Somepony was holding me. Fluttershy? No, Mom.

Wait... Pepper. She saved me!

I quickly sat up, much to the dismay of my mother. I grabbed the unicorn and hugged her quickly. "Thank... you." I rasped.

"You need to rest for a few seconds. You were dead for an entire minute, at least!" She yelled. I think her eyes were puffy, but I couldn't tell. My focus had deteriorated.

I ignored her demands, grappling any ground to get to my hooves. Once I was up, I stumbled. "Redd..." I whispered. I spotted the red and white blur a few yards away. "R-Redd! I'm coming..." I awkwardly limped towards him. His rifles were beginning to smoke. I grabbed my head trying to keep up with his maneuvering. My hooves slid out from under me, causing me to fall. I shook my head, trying to clear away the dizziness.

"Sia!" Nico stopped in front of me, panting. "You need to get back! We can try again when you're able!" He kept his aim at Blight, who kept her smile. She was doing nothing but toying with them. She knew we couldn't win.

"No..." I stomped. "No!" I flapped my wings, barely lifting myself off the ground.

"Don't be stupid!" He yelled, trying to pull me down with his magic.

"Let go!!" I yelled at him. "I need to do this!"

He stomped. "Damn it! You're an idiot! An idiot who doesn't need to die!"

I growled at him, shoving him away from me as I flew as fast as I could. The edges of my sight kept closing in, but I wasn't ready to pass out again. I unholstered my gun, aiming for Blight's chest cavity. My aim was too far off, though. I hit her appendage. She caught notice, turning towards me with a smile. "YOU CAME BACK FROM THE DEAD, I SEE!" She became a blur, until her claw grabbed me from the air. I tried to push her off my abdomen with my forelegs. I prayed the foal wouldn't be hurt.

"Sienna!!" Redd called. "Let her go you fucking tyrant!!!" He screamed until his voice broke.

Blight laughed, again. "IF YOU INSIST!"

I gasped for air in her tight grip. She reared back, then threw me as hard as she could. All I could think while the room zoomed by was how sorry I was for not being a better help to my friends. Tears sprayed from my eyes as I flew through the air. I tried to open my wings to slow myself but I was going too fast. I didn't think I'd survive this. Something big wrapped around my torso. A cream colored coat flashed from the corner of my eye. The wind seemed to slow, but only slightly. Large wings flared from either side of me. I turned my head just before we made impact against the wall.

Daddy...

With a thud, he took the majority of the blow against the hard concrete. His head threw back, knocking him unconscious. My eyes widened. He slid to the floor, unmoving. Pepper was already next to him, checking him over. I flew down as quick as I could. "Daddy!"

"He's still alive, but he has a pretty bad head injury." Pepper began wrapping an enchanted bandage around his head. "He may have swelling in his brain from that blow!"

Violet and my mother darted over. The former spoke quickly. "Take him to Moondancer. Blight means business, now! What do we do, Sia?!"

Everything is moving so fast...

I faced the direction of Redd's energy rifles, not before landing, clumsily on my hooves. Goddesses, I just wanted to cry. There was no telling how much longer they would last. Nico was aiming at any opening he could find. I grunted through the oncoming headache. "Mom, Pepper. Take Dad to the lab through the tunnel. Pepper, if you can, come back but stay out of Blight's line of sight. She may cast her spell."

There were no arguments from either of them. They carried my poor father towards the tunnel.

I blinked away the tears. "Violet, if we don't get those pearls soon, there's no telling what will happen. They're in a compartment inside of her torso."

She furrowed her brow, casting a sideways glance. "I... may be fast enough to get to them, but it depends how tightly it's shut."

"LET'S SEE HOW FAR WE CAN TAKE YOUR SANITY!" Blight began to grow in size, growing wings and horns. Right between the horns, I saw the rainbow colored aura. I grit my teeth, glancing between my friends. The three of them grabbed their heads.

"Vi! Fight it!" I yelled to the one closest to me.

"M-my parents... They hated me..."

I let out a grunt as I grabbed her shoulders. "No! They didn't hate you, Violet! Stop saying these..." I looked around. "things..." My husband caught my attention amongst them all. Redd's eyes were fixed on me. He still held his head, but his expression was softer. When he gave a hint of a smile, I sat with my mouth agape. He mouthed the words "I love you". When I gained my composure, I replied, "I love you, always". He stood a little taller, his shakes stilling a little more. He remained more composed than Violet or Nico.

Slowly, I returned my glance to Violet, who was in tears. Back in the lab, Redd managed to overcome the spell with something that made him happy. I couldn't just force them to be happy, they needed to be reminded of what brings them joy! I took a deep breath and loosened my grip on her. "Remember your favorite flavor smoothie at Sweet Petal's?" I gave her my best smile.

She looked up, thought a moment, then nodded. "Blueberry mint... What's this got to do with anything? We will never be able to go back there..."

I shook my head. "No, but now we can find another place to hang out. You're my best friend." I hugged her, softly. "Besides, you're going to be an aunt. I'll need you to take care of her once in a while."

Her sobs lessened. "M-me? W-What if... What if something happens? Nobody ever thought of me as... responsible."

I picked her chin up. "To me, you were always the bravest soul. You saved so many, already. How could you not be responsible? Hell, you've looked out for me many times." I chuckled. "Besides, I already have a name in mind for the foal if it's a girl."

She stopped crying. "R-Really? It's a girl?"

I sheepishly picked up my shoulders. "I'm not sure, but I have a feeling. Want to know the name?"

She nodded. I leaned in and whispered the name. I saw a flash in the corner of my eye, but I couldn't tell if it was my imagination. Her eyes went wide. "I love it... I-It's so... ironic." She chuckled. I knew she would like it!

"There's my Violet!"

She rubbed her eyes, looking around. "The guys!"

"I already know how to keep the spell from being overwhelming. Remember in the lab? Redd broke from it when I popped the question. I think we need to keep our mind on the things that bring us joy. That's what Blight's magic does. It takes away any joy and happiness we already have. No matter how small it may be."

She gasped. "That makes sense! So, Redd should have a handle on it. I'll go talk to him about the chest cavity. You should go snap Nicky boy out of it. I don't know if I could bring him any joy." She rolled her eyes.

I nodded and we went our separate ways. Blight was too busy typing on the terminal to notice any change in atmosphere. There was a screen booting up. As she tried to type the password, it gave her error messages. The security team probably made it as hard as possible to get into. I figured we had several minutes. I approached the tan unicorn fighting his tears. What could I say to help him? I didn't really know what made him happy. I caught myself frowning more. I really didn't know him like I thought I did. I didn't know his weaknesses or strengths. I didn't know what made him sad or what brought him joy. It almost made me sad to realize we may not have even been true friends. I couldn't show any sadness, though. All that mattered was that he needed to be better.

"Nico..." I said, softly.

He hid his face. "D-don't look at me..." He said through his teeth. "There's-There's nothing you can do."

I ran through my thoughts and what I did know about him. "No, there's not. But, maybe I can be here to listen?"

His eyes remained drilled into the tile floor. "Listen to what? I have... nothing to say."

I folded my hooves under me to rest. I sighed. "When I first started this mission, you were the main reason I wanted to fight."

Nico shot a look to me. "W-why?"

I shrugged. "At first I thought I might could pay you back for saving my life. It was probably guilt." I put my hoof on his shoulder. "Then, I got to know the real you. Underneath all that sarcastic attitude, was a stallion who needed to heal his broken heart."

Water splashed onto the floor below his face. "My heart? My... heart. What would you know about a broken heart? Sienna, I was in love with Pepper. Then, what I thought was abandonment, turned out to be a mistake. And when I was going to pack up and leave, you fell from the sky. The goddesses dropped you almost in my yard." He shook his head. "I started to fall for you, too. When we kissed, I had to hold myself back. I had to hold back. I couldn't do that to you, though. I couldn't let you wait for me to get my shit together. As soon as Pepper came back, I... I was so confused. My love for you never left, but I felt I could at least move on. I'm going to fail no matter what I do, Sia." He hiccuped, letting out more sobs. "Pops... My dad died. He fucking died and I wasn't there! I was off fucking around because I'm so stupid! He died cold and alone, waiting for me to come home and eat dinner with him. I-I deserve to die the same way!" His hoof pounded the floor. "Alone..."

The breath left my body for a second from his eerie comment. I wiped the tears forming in my eyes. I couldn't bear to see him this way. Finally, I grabbed his hoof. He looked up, his fur wet. "I'm so sorry for all of this. For what it's worth, I did love you in that way. It was hard when Pepper came around, but she really loves you. It's not fair to her, Nico." I pulled him into a hug. "Don't forget, you'll never lose me. Even if my heart belongs to someone else, I still want us to be able to talk and go to Ma's. I want to be able to hang out. All of us. I like to think I never really lost the bond I had with Wick and Chaser. I gained more. You'll never be alone. If you need someone to talk to, I'll always be here. You're one of the best friends I could ask for." I let go, smiling at him. "Your dad would be so proud of you, Nico. You never failed him. Please, believe that."

He grit his teeth for a second, searching my face.

"It's okay." I assured him. "Everything is going to be okay, no matter what happens."

I caught it that time. The necklace lifted slightly off my chest, glowing for a second or two. It was more intense, this time. I believe he had more pain and regret than any of us. I secretly felt shame for believing I had it so bad at first. I quickly looked back at my friend to see that his eyes also flashed for a second. I blinked, making sure I wasn't seeing things. Nico squeezed his eyes shut and rubbed them. When he opened them, he looked at me like he'd seen a ghost. "What the hell was that? I..." He scanned his hooves, perplexed. "think I feel..."

Before I could be happy, a loud scraping noise almost deafened us. "NO!! HOW?! HOW DID YOU BREAK MY SPELL?!" Blight's form grew even bigger, steam escaping every crevice. She telepathically picked up several machines and hurled them at us. Nico grabbed me and pulled me from the oncoming game machine. Redd and Violet zoomed towards us, dodging their own obstacles.

"Do you still have those spark grenades?" Violet asked, getting ready to dodge more attacks.

Nico quickly opened his bag with his magic. He levitated the stun devices in front of us. "Do you think they'll work?"

"I'd hope so. Maybe if you use all of them at once, but you need to make sure she's turned around." I felt for my necklace. "Focus and make sure she's turned before you activate them."

He nodded, giving me a sincere smile.

"Come on, Redd, Violet." I said, taking off towards the monstrosity.

Blight's eyes had turned even redder. The spines had grown larger along her back. She deployed the turrets from her shoulders, emptying rounds into us. Luckily we managed to scatter and avoid all of them. I rolled left and right, trying to move from the line of fire. Her focus was definitely mostly on me. I began to feel the dizziness come on, again. "No, not now!" I tried to take deep breaths, but it was difficult with the loss of blood. My heart raced, almost too fast. I began coughing.

"YOU WILL NO LONGER GET IN MY WAY!!!" She screamed, shooting a small RPG from her back. I quickly dove, the missile just clipping my mane as it whistled over me. It impacted the back wall, exploding and taking some of the interior wall with it. I had to give it to them, the prewar ponies definitely built this place to last!

I straightened myself out, getting as close to the machine as I could. "Violet, how much longer on the terminal until it reboots?!"

Violet shot passed, right behind Blight. She skidded to a stop briefly before zooming by me. "One minute! The enclave will receive a signal, after that!"

"Shit..." I looked between Blight and the computer. If Thunderhead received any signal from her, it wouldn't be good. I had to stop it. I flipped around, speeding towards Nico, trying not to get to close to him. I flapped as hard as I could, soaring just close enough to grab one of the spark grenades from his magic. I didn't understand what he yelled, but I was in a hurry. I traveled over Blight, pulling the pin with my teeth. Timing the detonation was difficult, but I managed to throw it at the terminal in time. Blight tried to catch it but she got caught in the vicinity. Electricity tendrils waved wildly over the equipment. Smoke seeped from the monitor. Sparks and lights flashed. The monitor shut off, buzzing and crackling. Blight's arm dropped, sparking, as well.

Redd hovered next to me. "Nice job."

I panted. "Thank you."

"Save your goo-goo eyes! You've pissed her off, now!" Violet pointed to the evil being.

Blight erupted into a robotic screech. By that time, she was about the same size she was when she had turned into the arachnid shape. I clenched my jaw, ready for her attacks. I was right to be weary. She unleashed a barrage of rockets, more than half a dozen barreled through the air towards us. All of us flew upward, but it was no use. They followed. Once we noticed, the three of us flapped for our lives to get away. Violet was too fast for them. She managed to trick the heat seeking technology into ramming into Blight, somehow. Redd and I had to try to out-fly the remaining four.

"Lead them to the wall and then split apart!" Redd commanded.

I nodded. I worked my wings, trying to keep up with stronger pegasus. Once we were inches from the wall, we made a sharp turn in opposite directions. The rockets hit the wall, exploding and sending concrete pieces everywhere. I wasn't far enough away, so the pieces pelted my hide. Luckily, they weren't big enough to do any real damage. I hissed from the stinging in my flank. There would be bruises and scratches for sure.

"Are you alright?!" Redd called to me. His wings fanned away the dust as he got closer to me.

"Yeah...I'm okay." I said, panting.

"You really should retreat." He held my hoof.

"Watch out!" Violet yelled.

Redd pushed me out of the way just in time for another wave of bullets to spray us. We took cover behind a desk, until Blight was done holding down the trigger. Too bad we forgot about her telepathy. The desk moved, being thrown across the room. Redd and I scrambled to get out of the way. More ammo unloaded into us. A couple of them hit my barding, but thankfully didn't pierce it. I looked back at my companion. Like me, his armor was taking the brunt of the bullets.

"We need to get to cover!" I yelled over the chaos.

Violet flew circled around Blight. For a moment, it slowed down the shooting. Blight's sent a large wave of magic, knocking us back, again. I heard Nico yell for Violet to back off, then I saw something being hurled towards Blight. The grenades! A bright light almost blinded me. Once that dimmed, electricity branched out all over the metal beast, causing her to spark and sizzle. Her eyes glowed brighter as her body began to temporarily shut down. I gulped, hoping it would hold her long enough.

"YOU ARE SO FOOLISH!!! YOU REALLY THINK THIS WILL KEEP ME DOWN?!"

"Oh, shut up!" Violet yelled.

The four of us joined together in front of Blight. I eyed the chest plate she had previously opened. There weren't any handles or even hinges for that matter. It must have been magically opened. I took a step closer, trying to inspect her. Nico crept up beside me. In thought, I glanced up at his horn. If Blight used magic to open it...

"Nico, you may have to open it. Don't get your magic near the pearls, though. I don't know what will happen." I pointed towards the pearls' hiding place.

He nodded, his horn flaring to life. The overglow enveloped a rectangular plate on her chest. Nico grunted, in an attempt to pull it open. When that didn't work, he grit his teeth and tried again. A layer of overglow surrounded the metal. It finally shifted.

Blight bellowed. I almost had to cover my ears.

"It's tough to get free, but I think I can do it." He grunted.

"Don't over work yourself. If you need a break-"

"No, I... I got it!" He said, triumphantly.

Just as the plate popped off, I noticed movement from the corner of my eye.

"Nico!!" I cried. Time slowed to a crawl like it did during the raider battle. Percentages appeared around my friend, but I didn't pay attention to that. A long, sharp piece of iron shot towards the unicorn. He only noticed after I brought out my gun and aimed at the rod. The percentage appeared around it, showing the number seventy-five. I fired off an energy beam. The shot was agonizingly slow, but it hit home.

I breathed heavily, the time warp going back to normal. The metal barely missed him.

"Whoa..." Violet said, staring.

Nico stared at the piece, then back to me. He smiled. "Thank y-"

He screamed. Another large piece of rebar pierced his chest, right where his heart would be. The unicorn fell. My stomach tightened. He convulsed as blood oozed around the foreign object, pouring onto the floor. I could do nothing, just stare. He gasped for air, clasping the rod.

No...

He looked down at his chest, tears forming in his eyes.

No!

"I-I'm s..." The light in his dark blue eyes began to fade.

"NO!!" I screamed. After I had processed what happened, I finally forced my hooves to move. "Violet, go get Pepper!"

I heard her flapping wings just as I started to pick up his head. I stopped, though. He was hurting. His lungs were quickly filling with fluid. I knew this, because his breaths became a gurgling pattern of struggle. "N-Nico..." My tears fell in his mane. "You'll be okay. Y-You'll be alright. You're not gonna leave us! You still have to help me, remember?" I inspected the wound. I could hear metal creaking. The stun grenades were beginning to wear off. Redd began unleashing more energy beams into her.

Sweat bled into Nico's brows. I wiped it away. "Please..."

His shaky hoof touched my foreleg. Somehow, he managed a half smile. "Th-this... it hurts." He hissed. "I don't think I'm making it out, this time."

My teeth almost broke, I clenched them so hard. "No! Nico, stop joking like that!"

He gave a dry chuckle, coughing up blood. "Don't worry. I gave you blood, so you'll always have a part of me in you. Isn't that what you told me?"

I collapsed in a heap of sobs. Why did I always do this? Why did so many have to die for my sake? And now...

I felt his hoof on my shoulder. His breathing became shallow. "Don't show... those tears. Please, watch over... Pepper. I'm gonna really miss you... Princess..." Nico leaned his head back, the life leaving his eyes.

I couldn't breathe. "N-Nico?"

No answer. His chest stilled.

"Nico!" I screamed. "Nico! Please!" I broke down. "Don't fucking go! Come back!" I slammed my hooves on the floor.

Redd swooped in, grabbing me and pulling me away from the incoming magic wave. I didn't even move. I just let him carry me. I looked back at the lifeless unicorn who had saved my life so many times. When it was time to save him, I couldn't do it. We landed behind a broken down wall. The blast knocked off a few pieces of dry wall. The pegasus held me, tightly. The Beacon burned around us. New Equestria was developing a new scar. I felt my mane being stroked as I buried my face in Redd's barding, trying to quiet my cries of despair.

"I... I couldn't-" I hiccuped.

He squeezed me, gently. "Don't blame yourself. He doesn't want you to do this."

I breathed a few times, before finally relaxing. Nico was really gone, this time. He would not be sneaking up on me on a rooftop, or waking up from a hospital bed. My friend was gone. I prayed, hard. Luna, take care of him. Please, let his heart finally be at peace. My head hurt, my chest ached, I felt nauseous. Nothing seemed to be going right. We were losing. I couldn't cry anymore. My eyes burned. I felt hate. I thought it was for Blight. No matter how hard I tried to cover it, my teeth stayed clenched. I wanted to kill Blight. I wanted to kill anyone who stepped in my way. This was no hate I knew before. Blight might have been the villain, but at the moment I was to be twice the evil she ever could be. She thought she came from me. My friend's body was all I could think about. My mentality had failed me again. I was going to show no mercy to her. The darkest part of me tried so hard to emerge. I thought of all she had already killed. She was going to pay. All at once, I felt my mother's hate for the Enclave. I knew it was directed to another, but it was all the same. Maybe it was directed to Blight. Maybe to myself. I screamed into Redd's chest.

"Stop, Sia. Don't be that pony, again. She was evil. She killed without reason. Those raiders are dead because of that, but what did you feel afterwards?" He whispered.

I hyperventilated for a few seconds before his words took hold. My anger stood, but it was being broken down. I killed many who I thought would relieve it. Did it help? My mother was so angry. She held so much hate. What was her ultimate goal? To eradicate an entire race? Pepper hated pegasi. Clockwork hated anything with feathers. Redd hated the ponies of the wasteland. Nico... hated himself.

My heart stung.

Redd pulled away, placing his hoof on my cheek. I nuzzled it, trying to get some comfort. My teeth almost broke from being clenched so hard.

"What do you want to do now, Sia?" He asked.

My ear twisted towards the sound of Blight. Her body seemed to be gaining more movement. I didn't know what to do. Nico was dead. My dad was fighting for his life. I honestly didn't want to put anyone else in harms way. There was nothing else that could be done. We tried, and we failed. I said I'd die trying, but now I was beginning to see what death was really costing. I looked up at the white stallion. He tried to give me a reassuring grin. I sniffed, emptying my mind. If we fought, we would probably die. If we fled, we would spend the rest of our lives hiding with only a small chance of survival, anyway. Did it even matter? Would any of my friends that have died back down?

Whatever was about to happen, I was going to be contempt. We did our best. Nico didn't die in vain. I was glad he didn't die alone like he previously thought he would. I looked behind the wall, seeing Blight struggling to get going. The entirety of her weapons had been drawn. Instinctively, I grabbed at my chest. The necklace still hung around my neck. I felt for it, rubbing the gem. Rarity and her friends wouldn't give up. They would have fought with their lives.

But I was tired.

"Redd..." I rested my forehead on his neck. "I'm done fighting."

Stunned, he sat for a moment. "O-okay... It's okay if you can't do it anymore. What do you want to do now? Go back to Moondancer's lab?"

I shook my head. "I want to win."

Level Up!

S- 7 (+1)
P- 6
E- 9
C- 4
I- 6
A-6
L- 5

Onboard- You have faced your worst enemy. +1 to Strength

Author's Note

Thank you to Kkat for this amazing world!

I am so sorry for the delay, guys. But I promise I will finish this story! I do want to take the time to thank my readers. It doesn't matter if there are even two of you, I am so glad you tune in to my story! Thank you! I plan to upload the finished story before the year is up! Thank you, guys. And be careful out there!

I love you!
AP

As always, if there are any errors/constructive criticism please let me know!

Prologue

War. You've heard that it never changes. It does. War changes us. It changes our surroundings. it changes our lifestyle, our personalities, our demeanor. The devastation of the megaspells took everything away. The act of war may never change, but it's been known to change a beautiful place into a hellish wasteland. You can blame the megaspells. You can blame the tanks and guns, but what about us? What about the events that led up to the thought process of those politicians? Did they mean well? Were they striving to make life easier? Six friends. Six ministries. It should have been easy for them to improve technology, arcane science, medicine, security, image, and... awesomeness. However, meaning well, does not necessarily make the outcome justifiable.

So, what happens when this sudden boom of industry is introduced to a simple lifestyle? Well, it leads to a demand for more resources. That leads to needing more from other civilizations. Mix in a few misunderstandings, a few bad apples, and maybe even some segregation and what have you got? A land tainted with battle and bloodshed. That isn't the last step, no. One side needs to win. One side needs better weapons, better soldiers. That side needs to be better. Thus, the creation of megaspells. Those nasty bombs of deadly magic could and would eventually destroy the very civilization it was meant to protect. No amount of ministry mares could prepare for such a devastation. Not even a Steel Ranger's armor could withstand the miles-wide shock wave. The Enclave had the right idea, it seemed.

If you don't know the Grand Pegasus Enclave, they were a militia made up of mostly pegasi to aid in the fight against the zebra. The Ministry of Awesome's top pony, Rainbow Dash, led them to several victories. That is, until they rejected her leadership. Suddenly, the pegasi retreated into the sky to escape the blasts. They abandoned everything she stood for. Loyalty was no longer a priority for them. From then on, Rainbow Dash was an outlaw. Her loyalty to her home was unmatched by their need for survival. Of course, the development of their strict laws prevented anypony from trying to follow her. Disobey them and you were literally branded with her cutie mark. This would be the definition of the term "Dashite". You would be banned from the clouds, shunned by most everypony.

Skip ahead one hundred sixty years and you've got the very place no one wanted. Where ponies once lived in harmony, every race now leaves their doors locked in fear of others. They are afraid to help each other as their ancestors did so long ago. Nopony can be trusted. A vast wasteland of raiders, thieves, murder, chaos, and even a few tyrants. Any glimmer of hope seems to be as scarce as sunlight.

Maybe, though. Just maybe, the occasional hero will emerge. One pony can make a difference. Watch those stable doors, for they can open. Watch the small towns, for the townsfolk can unite. And sometimes, if you look up, you can see heroic traits in the most unlikely of places...

Author's Note

Thank you to Kkat for such an awesome world!

See? I told ya I would rewrite. :ajsmug:

Anyway, I just want to thank everyone for the hundreth time for your patience! I know it's taken a while for me to get back to this, but if I can help it, I will not give up on this story! Hope you guys enjoy the new version of Our Will! I took a lot of the criticism I got and applied it to making this story better to read! I won't take up anymore of your time, so I'll be on my way! As always, constructive criticism is welcome!
-AP

P.S: Like the new cover art? :pinkiehappy:

Chapter 1: Head in the Clouds

"Once upon a time, in the magical land of Equestria..."

The light illuminating through my window almost instantly awakened me. One of the cons of living above the clouds, I guess. I threw the covers over my head, not wanting to get out of my precious, queen-sized bed.

Yep. I should not have stayed up last night, sewing.

My sewing machine was my soulmate. I could spend hours on the old thing, really. I say old, but I meant ancient. It's been in my family for generations. My passion, like my grandmother and her mother, is creating something beautiful out of just fabric and thread. The stress of my job practically melts away when I'm "in the zone". I know what you're thinking, "Oh, she must be a seamstress or fashion designer."

I wish.

While it would be super nice to do the one thing I love for a living, I wanted a better life for my grandparents. The families of officers receive benefits and since I am not married, these benefits go to them. They did raise me, after all. My parents died when I was only a filly. Or rather, that's what everypony tells me. Being raised on the belief that nothing else exists except for what's above the clouds never really made me question anything else. At least, not until I enlisted. There were rumors about what inhabited the so-called wasteland. I remember a few mares discussing the "civilization" on the surface. Major Fruit Salad quickly put an end to those rumors, though. "Nothing but savages and mutants", he told us.

Finally finding my inner strength, I rolled out of bed. I rubbed my eyes, groggily, and looked around my bedroom. Average. Very few paintings or decor, save for my home made drapes and bedding. Why buy something you can make, right? A big fancy house just wasn't my style, either. I prefer homey, comfortable, and boring.

"See you tonight." I whispered to my bed as I walked to the bathroom.

It was also small. A shower on the right, a sink to the left, and a commode by the back wall. The only pop of color was my blue toothbrush. I found the mirror over the sink and looked over myself. My shoulder-length, wavy mane had a few strands out of place. Tiny bits of thread stuck out from between the feathers on my wings. Oh, I looked tired, too. Frowning, I forced myself through my normal morning routine.

Once I was done brushing my teeth, I made my way down stairs for breakfast. I was in no hurry, so I strolled, looking at the same photos on the wall that I saw everyday. First, my grandparents and me after I graduated high school. Second, my friends/coworkers, Lantern Wick and Bolt Chaser. He loved to flirt with her. Third, a photo of me in my uniform. and lastly, the green coat and lilac mane of my best friend in the whole world: Violet Horizon.

I sighed. I miss you every day, Violet.

She had been missing for months. It was like she vanished into thin air. My commanding officers suggested a suicide, but I know my Violet. She loved life, no matter how boring it was up here in Thunderhead. I say boring because she loved a good thrill. She was not like me at all. I liked it boring, she liked to party. That's why I figured she wasn't even gone, just hiding out from her asshole of a boss at Alfalfa and Oats Cafe. It wouldn't be the first time, either. She had hid from him for four months before he finally went to her parents' house looking for her. Why they keep rehiring her is beyond me.

Deep in my mind, though, I always wondered if she finally fled to what was left of Equestria. I was constantly worried if she was being tortured or murdered. My anxiety was pretty severe, so I had these negative thoughts on a daily basis. I would just remind myself, "Violet will be Violet".

Dragging my hooves through my living room, I tried to imagine a tidy home. Unfortunately, the fabric and sewing supplies thrown everywhere said, otherwise. Half-made decorative pillows were strewn on the only couch I had. I picked up my crumpled uniform off the coffee table and tried to straighten it. The badge on the front read, "First Lieutenant Sienna". I shook my head at the wrinkles and went on my way.

"I'll clean later. I need coffee!"

I trotted into the kitchen. Grabbing a coffee mug, I started my next routine: Breakfast. On the menu today? Warm oatmeal, a cloud grown apple, and of course, coffee.

It's probably a little strange hearing the term "cloud-grown". The pegasi repurposed the S.P.P. towers to allow us to grow crops since returning to the ground was completely out of the question. They aren't too juicy, though. I know I said I like boring, but food is something that should not be boring.

Setting the mug of coffee on the dining table, I sat and waited for my oatmeal to be warmed. I sighed, tapping my hoof on the table. With how quiet it was, the tapping was pretty loud. Living alone was... okay. I had moved across the city from my only family. I thought about having a roommate, but never got around to actually going through with it. If- no, when Violet comes back, I'd probably ask her. I had a spare bedroom, anyway.

She's probably dead.

I swallowed, panic forming in my chest. Where did that come from?

"N-No, she is only in hiding." I told myself.

I ate, quickly, and cleared the small mess. Feeling for my head with a hoof, I sighed, again. Morning wasn't even over and I was already on a verge of a panic attack. This was going to be a long day. Being afraid of everything... sucked. I had a medic see me about my anxiety attacks, and she suggested small doses of Med-X to calm my nerves if I really need it. Weird, right? A First Lieutenant who is afraid of danger.

A soft-bristled brush lay on the counter, so I picked it up and went over my orange mane until the few streaks of yellow fell into place. I preened my feathers, then slipped on the all-black uniform. They really could have used some color in there. Sheesh!

As soon as my pistol was holstered, I made my way out the door, grabbing my bag. I stopped on the sidewalk and stretched my wings, breathing in the cool air. Pegasi were flying back and forth to work or school. You would think the open sky would be big enough to keep traffic from forming, but there was plenty of congested airways. Same thing every day. Just how I like it! My therapist said that since change overwhelms my anxiety, trying new things that aren't too "out of the way" would help.

The ten minute flight to my office at the S.P.P tower was peaceful. Well, except for dodging sky carriages and other ponies. I greeted the usuals with a "hello" or "good morning". Most smiled, one even replied with a "how are you". Must have been a good day!

The enormous, gray building grew before my eyes as I got closer. At least it was a safe environment. I approached the balcony that was outside of my floor and heard a familiar "Good morning, Lieutenant."

I set my hooves down and turned to quickly salute Major Fruit Salad. "Good morning, sir."

He was well respected there. For many of us, he was like a father. The years in the Enclave showed on him. The scars were scattered on his face. He could be terrifying if he really wanted to be. Of course, he did bring comfort in my life when I needed it.

"At ease. How are you?" He smiled and dipped his head, a small part of his gray mane fell from under his beret.

"I'm doing fine, sir. What about you?" I beamed.

"Excellent." His smile faded. "Have you or your new recruits heard from the raptor, Typhoon?"

I cocked my head. The Typhoon? Why would I be communicating with the airships? That wasn't my department. "No, sir."

He seemed troubled. "The ship has vanished. We've not heard from her crew in forty-eight hours. They were only supposed to make a routine scan below the cloud curtain. Incognito."

My eyes widened. "V-vanished?"

He nodded.

I gulped. We almost never lost a ship. This was definitely a big deal. Raptors are huge, equipped with turrets and other defense systems. It's not like they were simple targets. It could take out armies if the captain was skilled enough!

"What about the scouters? Have they been deployed?" I asked, taking a notepad out of my bag to write the order down.

He stopped me from writing, sighing. "I know you don't do a lot of field work, Lieutenant, but I need you to accompany a mission to scout the area. I'm sending you because you have a keen eye for detail. I have no doubt you'll be a great help."

Did my heart just stop? It did. It definitely did. Is he mad?!

My demeanor quickly shrunk. "The s-surface? No disrespect, Major, but I sit at a desk! I-I can't go down there! Can't you send someone else?"

"Those are orders." He tried to be stern, but his empathy betrayed him.

Panic slowly clawed its way through my chest, making me rub my hoof across my heart to get it to stop. "W-We'll be killed! I've never been in true combat!" I looked around nervously. "Oh, I can't do this..."

"Compose yourself!" He raised his voice slightly to catch my attention. "What about your fellow pegasi? You cannot abandon them in an hour of need. We strive for a better life above this cloud barrier and that means helping each other. Life is not fair, Lieutenant. Would you rather us be savages like those wastelanders? The council would be disappointed with your behavior! They would surely demote you! I expect you to do as you are told, understood?"

I rubbed my chest, again. He was right. If I neglected my duties they would probably ban me to the surface, anyway. I took a deep breath and nodded. "Yes, sir." I looked down to my hooves.

Oh, Celestia, please be with me.

"Good. Now, you will not be alone on this mission. Captain Bolt Chaser and Scouter Lantern Wick will be in your company. I have also sent for our top technicians and the best crew members for the ship. All you need to do is get in, search for the Typhoon, and get out. You may even be able to avoid any immediate danger." He explained.

Ha. Immediate danger.

The fear died down to an uncomfortable tightness. Bolt Chaser had been on several assignments to the surface. He was very good at his job. Lantern Wick was pretty brave, too. That brought some comfort.

Chaser had a cocky attitude, but he's as loyal as they come. He's a lady's buck, too. Well, not to me. He's more like an older brother to me. He has his eye on Lantern Wick. Shes like a younger sister to me. Chaser and I helped her along when she was a new recruit. Ever since he first saw her, he has been trying to go on at least one date with her. I think she secretly likes him, too, but she just won't say it out loud. Wick actually lives a few houses down from me. We could probably fly to work together if not for the fact that she had to be there earlier than I do.

"What exactly will I need to do once on the ship?" I asked.

"Captain Chaser will have your orders once you're off. You will meet the others on the landing dock in zero five-hundred hours. Raptor 27 will be your vessel. Until then, gather your thoughts and for the love of Luna, Sienna, take some Med-X" He shook his head, saying that last part quietly.

I grinned sheepishly. "I-I'll do my best, sir." I saluted, again.

As I began to trot off, Major Fruit Salad cleared his throat. "And Lieutenant."

I turned.

"Good luck." He wore a fatherly smile.

I returned the smile and continued on my way into my office. Maneuvering through the hall, I passed the other pegasi. It was probably my imagination, but I could have sworn they were giving me mournful glances. Never have I been more afraid for my life, but I had to go along with this assignment. It would be better to be under the clouds for a couple of hours than to be permanently banished there. Still, the sweat forming under my bangs wouldn't stop.

The walk to my office felt like forever. Passing door after door, I finally stopped in front of the large metal door. The same title as my badge was painted in neat, bold letters. As much as I love sitting at my desk, I guess I need to accept that the Enclave is not an accounting firm. Training was grimmer than the actual job. I practically flew through the ranks (no pun intended). Of course, I think Chaser pulled a few strings to get me there. He often redirects dangerous missions to somepony more skilled if they are originally assigned to me. It's probably wrong, but I am truly grateful. I guess this time I just have no choice.

I closed the door and locked it, backing into it and sliding to the floor with my hooves over my face. I whimpered a few times, pathetically.

What if I end up like my parents? Or Violet?

I shook the thought from my head and took a deep breath, sitting up. "I can do this. It's gonna be okay. No more fear. No more anxiety." I stood and paced between the four dull, gray walls. "M-maybe we won't find the ship. Then we can just come home!" I paused. "No... That's an awful thing to say. I just have to put on a brave face. Yeah, that's right! I'll show everyone who made fun of me in grade school that I, Sienna, will be the next-"

A sharp rap on the door made me dart towards the light fixture. "Sia? Is everything okay? Why is your door locked?" A familiar voice called.

I sighed, ashamed of myself, and hovered back down the floor.

"Are you in there?" She asked.

"Erm, yes! Everything's... fine. One moment, Wick!" I lied.

I fixed my mane and tail and straightened my uniform and pins. When I opened the door, Wick's auburn eyes met mine. Her cropped, peach colored mane was the same as it has always been. She was only a year younger than me, but I looked old compared to her. She was absolutely stunning! I would probably have a crush on her, too, if my barn door swung that way!

Her smile flattened when she saw me. "Are you sure you're okay?"

I faked a cough. "O-of course! Just think I'm coming down with something." I waved it off, nervously.

Nothing could get past her. I don't know why I even tried to hide anything.

She raised a brow. "Okay... Well, I just came by to see if you were given the news, yet."

"Yeah..." I let that word trail for a couple seconds. "Major gave me the news." I folded my ears back.

"You aren't stoked about it? Come on, it's an adventure for us! Why wouldn't you want to explore the surface? What if we spotted something amazing?" She clopped her hooves together in excitement. Good old Wick. Thinking positive, as usual.

"Like what?" I smirked at her enthusiasm.

"Like new technology! Or new species of plants and animals! Who knows? We might even be able to find ancient treasures! Oh, what about-"

"Savages? Pain? Death?" I interrupted. "It's a rescue mission. We aren't going to educate ourselves. Besides, let's face it. There is nothing down there but unnecessary danger."

Her giddiness faded. "Sia, I know you're afraid. You can't hide that from me. I can't stand seeing you so miserable and unable to enjoy the small things in life." I looked away from her as she spoke, but she pulled my face to look at her. "I promise, you will not end up like Violet. As long as I'm alive, you will be safe. Chaser and I have your back, you know that."

That made me smile a little. "I-I guess."

"Hey, maybe when we get back we can take a trip to the spa! You've never been right? I'll treat you! Besides, you look like you could use a facial." She giggled. "You need to relax before you start getting wrinkles."

I gasped, playfully.

She rolled her eyes, grinning. "Come on. Let's go help with the supply run and get snacks for the trip. I think Chaser is looking for us."

I trotted after her as she hovered along.

Wrinkles?

Wick and I eventually trotted together towards the landing platform where Raptor 27 waited for us. It was quite a sight. The ship was about the size of a large house, if not bigger. It was covered in sleek, black metal that made it stand out intensely against the sky. I could see the windows to the control room on the upper level. I was actually a little proud of what we were able to accomplish.

The large door was open on the ship so I could see inside. The interior space was large enough for pegasi to fly around. Smaller doors, terminals, and other technology lined the walls. I've only ever been on a Raptor twice, both times were only test runs around the sky. It definitely wasn't below the clouds. I looked around at the various pegasi scattered around the platform. Some tinkered under the ship while others carried supplies back and forth.

I took a deep breath and let it out slowly. I'm going to be okay. Everything will go smoothly.

Wick smiled as she drew a breath. "I am so excited!"

"I'm... less excited." I rubbed my chest. "Where is-"

I started to ask before a sea foam green streak flew past, making my head spin. Chaser landed in front of Wick and I and saluted. After stopping my eyeballs from going in circles, I saluted back. He flipped his pale yellow mane out of his eyes and winked to Wick. "Ladies."

She blushed, profusely. "C-Captain, we aren't supposed to give suggestive signs to other personnel on duty. It's against code 4-2D in the-"

"Yeah, yeah." He waved her off and smiled my way. "How's it going, sis?"

"Good, sir." I nodded.

He rolled his eyes and playfully punched my shoulder. "You know you don't have to be so formal when it's just us. Save that for when we are in formations."

"Yes, sir. I mean, Captain. Er... Chaser!" I facehoofed.

They chuckled as Chaser walked off.

I stuck my tongue out at Wick then smirked, myself. "You know he's still waiting on that date."

She glared at me. "Very funny. He's just a flirt. I don't like show-offs, anyway." She said, trying to hide her flushed cheeks.

"Are you sure? I saw you turn red when he winked at you!" I taunted, puckering my lips at her. She laughed and pushed me away.

"Let's go, before I tell Major Fruit Salad you have the hots for him." She giggled, cantering away.

I was taken aback. "Hey! I do not!"

We met Chaser at the entrance of the air ship and went inside. After the crew were accounted for, I heard the hum of the engine, followed by the sudden jerk of it taking off. Finally, we were in the air. I decided to wait in the barracks while Wick went to check the ship's course. I propped my head in my hooves and stared out the small window. Nothing unusual, so far. I looked down at the energy pistol strapped to my shoulder. It was nothing compared to the weapons in the armory. I was actually a little frightened by the appearance of some. I liked the smooth design of the gun I had. It wasn't big or alarming. Hopefully, I wouldn't need it on this mission. All we had to do was get in, search around, and get out. Easy to do in the ship.

I groaned and returned my gaze to the window. Clouds were passing by, slowly, as we began to descend. I gulped. My chest already began to tighten as the clouds thinned. It felt like slow torture. Then, we were free of the curtain. What I saw should not have surprised me.

The mud covered wasteland stretched into eternity. The pictures I saw of old Equestria were nothing like this. Dead plants and trees scattered throughout, lifeless. I noticed the skeletal remains of buildings in the distance. Trash scattered the ground and debris had merged with the environment, creating warped mounds. It was as if a great storm tore through the land, destroying everything in its path. I could almost hear the screams and cries of ponies everywhere as sirens wailed, warning of impending disaster. The screams grew louder as I looked skyward. Gray. The clouds were dark gray, producing large raindrops. The screams suddenly stopped.

BOOM!

I jumped, looking around for an explosion. It boomed again, and I realized it was only thunder. This world was truly amazing and disturbing. I took a shaky breath, wishing I was back home in my bed. My whole life was nothing but blue skies and sunlight. This...

"Pretty dull, huh?" I jumped at Chaser's voice.

"Oh, yeah. It's so different from the books I've read about Old Equestria. It's so depressing." I wiped a tear I didn't know had formed in my eye.

He winced. "That it is. The day the megaspells hit was the greatest catastrophe that's ever happened to ponykind. Now, it's nothing but beasts and mutated wildlife. Ponies kill for fun. I've even heard of zombies living here." He looked on with a mix of sadness and weariness.

"Z-zombies?" I heard my teeth chattering.

He quickly shrugged it off. "I'm sure it's just a pony tale, but look at this place. Nothing would surprise me."

I closed my eyes and placed my hoof on the window. "Why does it have to be this way."

"I don't know, but I wish things would return to the way they were before the ministries."

I looked up and gave a small smile. "What do you think it would be like for us if the war never happened?"

He smiled, sincerely. "Better." With a nod, he turned and walked away.

I watched him disappear into the corridor. I had never seen him so down, before. Maybe this ghost of a country just made ponies this way even if they don't live here.

"Officers and scouts report to take-off deck." The loudspeaker coldly demanded.

What?! Take-off deck? That was only for...

"Fuck."

I left the window. Wick hovered just outside the hall. I galloped after her. "Wick!"

She spun and waved after realizing it was me calling her. "Sia! Isn't this awesome?" Her enthusiasm was painfully sincere.

"What's going on? Why are we going to take-off?" I asked in a hurry.

"We're inspecting the ground while the ship stays aloft." She smiled even brighter.

I couldn't move. On the ground? No, no, no! This is terrible! All those... monsters! Have they lost their mind?!

Wick must have noticed my distress, because she landed next to me with concern on her face.

"Sia?"

I couldn't speak.

"Sienna!"

I snapped out of it. "The ground level?!"

This time, she jumped, startled.

I frantically rubbed my chest "No. Way. No bucking way am I going down there! The radiation will destroy our bodies! We can't do this! There are monsters! There are murderers! Killer plants, rogue ground-walker technology! Maybe even ZOMBIES! WE'RE ALL GOING TO DIE!"

I was met with a stinging cheek. Wick glared at me as I placed a hoof on the spot she slapped with her wing. "Ow."

Ponies had stopped to watch the mad mare lose her cool.

"Lieutenant! Get a hold of yourself! Those are orders from the General. We have to do this." She lowered her voice. "We will have special armor to protect us from the radiation. If there's any dangers, we can just fly away. Sia, you are not going to die. Remember my promise."

"B-but..."

"No." She cut me off and grabbed my shoulders. "No more. You are going to face your fears and I will be there the whole time, okay?" Her face showed genuine care.

I sniffed. "A-are you sure?"

She let out a sigh of relief. "Yes! You are my friend. We have to stick together, right?" Her hooves wrapped me in a hug.

"You two are supposed to be at the deck." A gruff stallion interrupted.

Wick rolled her eyes. "Yeah, we know." She looked at me. "Let's go, Sia."

I nodded and followed. I hoped she was right. Oh, Celestia and Luna be with us.

:ERROR:
NO STATS TO DISPLAY

S- 1
P- 3
E-2
C- 1
I- 3
A- 3
L- 0

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

Quick note: For some reason my paragraph indention is not working. While editing, they are there but once previewed they are not. I will try to see about this issue when I can. In the mean time, please bear with me and let me know if any formatting is off!
-AP

Chapter 13: The Good, the Bad, and the Worst

"You did WHAT?!"

"Heave!"

With each "heave", Violet and I put all our might into getting the heavy crate up each step. The ropes had started to chaff my waist. I panted and struggled, wishing Redd or Nico were there to help. I was not a very strong mare and it really was starting to hit me. We beat our wings in an attempt to skip a few steps, but it was impossible not to stop at every one. At least we were halfway there.

"We should have -nngh- brought the stallions with us. They could have -nngh- done all the work." I complained.

"Then we wouldn't -nngh- have any girl time!" She whined.

I groaned and looked up. Twenty steps to go.

"Let's talk to pass the time! What sort of -ungh- things have been happening?" She asked.

I gave her a "you don't want to know" glance.

She chuckled. "That bad, huh?"

"I guess the strangest thing is that I spoke to a dead ministry mare a couple of times. Well, the first couple of times she was disguised as Princess Luna. When I first -nngh- got here, I met a ghoul named Fleece. I was afraid for my life, by the way, until I got to know her. But, I digress. She gave me the necklace that has a part of Rarity's soul. That's how I'm able to talk to her. So, that is -nngh- one thing." I was sweating.

"Oookay. I believe you, but... That is weird." She replied with a look.

"Yep. So -nngh- Hope is after the pearls and I am most likely not the right pony for this job. If I don't give them to her, though, she's going to destroy the entire town of Floater. And... Nico." I pulled back my ears.

She paused and stopped me from going further. "Wait, you're not thinking of giving them to her, are you?"

"I didn't say I was going to give them to her! There is no telling what she would do if I did." I pulled out the emerald and showed it to her. She widened her eyes at its beauty. "I'm going to leave Rarity to deal with the pearls. I'll just... have to find a way to protect Floater. Hopefully, I figure something out, soon."

She stared at me before propping her hooves on the crate. "Well, that sounds dangerous, indeed." Pause. "Count me in! They don't call me 'Flashbang' for nothing!"

I smiled. Having Violet with us would be awesome for several reasons, but one of the most important: I'd finally have a mare to talk to!

We pulled and grunted the rest of the way up. When we got to the top, we threw the ropes off and fell onto our backs, breathing heavily. Our manes and fur were sweaty and messy. I looked at her and laughed, slightly. She returned the giggles and it eventually grew into laughter. I wasn't sure what we were even laughing at. The breathlessness I felt was a good sensation for a change as I tried to compose myself.

"Oh, Sia, I'm so happy to have you around, again!" She wiped a tear. "Even if it's just for a little while."

I sighed, happily, my throat sore. "Me, too! I swear, I thought I had lost you, forever!"

"Nope." She stood, helping me to my hooves, as well. "I like to think of myself as indestructible."

I snickered, again, readjusting the harness. "No one is indestructible, Vi. Not even Redd."

I caught her smug look. "So, which one do you like more?"

For a split second, I panicked, but hid the fact that she was making me nervous. "No ma'am, I am not getting into this."

"Awwww..." She groaned. "Fine. But, I am going to get an answer before it's all said and done."

I smiled. "I guess I can meet you halfway. I'll tell you one day."

"I will hold you to it."

Our wings flapped as we began hovering with the crate in tow. Because it was so heavy, we couldn't get too far off the ground, so we just tried to stay out of the open. We kept our conversation going. I told her about everyone I had met so far. Violet said she had been through Floater a couple of times, but had never known about Nico's house. She knew of Walkerton but didn't stop there for fear of being killed. She kept trying to bring up the so-called "love triangle" in my life, but every time I would change the subject.

"It's funny." She said.

"What?"

"You're in the dangerous wasteland for a short time and already, you've got the captain of the hoofball team and the mysterious stranger lining up to hit that." She playfully slapped my flank.

I blushed. "Hey! It's not like I asked for this." I rubbed my flank.

"You love it, though." She sang. "What happened to the sweet, shy Sia who used to drink her plain, chocolate shake with extra whipped cream and had no idea that Redd was after her?"

I quizzically turned to her. "You knew, too?"

She sighed. "My friend, everypony knew. Except you."

I can no longer hold the title for detail oriented.

Being so caught up in gossip, I didn't even notice we had found our way in the open. Early daytime, too. Our conversation was cut off as I stopped and looked around. I didn't recognize anything.

"Violet, are we lost?" I asked, nervously.

She looked around. "Good and bad news. The good news is I still know where we are. The bad news is that it's gonna be difficult to find our way back if we don't have a bird's eye view."

"Great." I said in a monotone.

"We'll figure it out. The stallions might be worried, but they'll live." She waved it off.

"I'm sure they'll be fine. I, however, won't be when Nico is done strangling me."

"Psh. He's like an overprotective dad or something."

I sighed. "Or something."

Before we could continue, two ponies emerged from behind a pile of dirt. Their manes were styled into mohawks. Their barding was dirty and stained with blood, fitted with spikes. Both mares. Both earth ponies. I knew exactly what they were when I saw the yellowed eyes.

"Raiders." Violet growled. She took the word right out of my mouth.

Shit. Our weapons are back at the shack!

"Time to party! They even brought a present!" One of the mares chortled.

"Fuck off, shitwads!" Violet spat.

"Such big, bad words for a feather brain." The other mare smirked.

I whimpered. "Violet..."

"It's okay, Sia." She whispered.

"Pit, wanna see 'em dance?" The first one pulled out a sawed-off shotgun and pointed it at us. The other one, Pit, cackled as the weapon fired several times with puffs of smoke. The gun was barely held together, but it still did its job. Violet and I flapped side to side in order to avoid the buckshot. Luckily, she wasn't really trying to hit us, yet. It was still hard, though, seeing as though we were tied to a box. I bumped into Vi a couple of times. She swore and threatened the raiders with every curse she could think of. I could do nothing but whine and squeak.

"Alright, I'm tired of this. Let's get'em!" The one with the gun loaded another round and pointed it to Violet. "Any last words?"

A huge shadow passed over us. I looked up to see a large wingspan gliding in the sky. A loud shriek cut through the air, making the raiders stop what they were doing and point their noses upward. Before my eyes could focus, a white blur crashed down into the first raider. Gladys! The mare's back snapped under the weight of the griffon. Without hesitation, she plunged her claws into Pit's chest. When she pulled back, she grasped a, still beating, heart. Just as the horrified pony fell, she tossed the organ into the sky. I saw one of her guards grab it in his beak and swallow. Gladys finally looked at us, a smile curving across her beak.

I motioned for Violet to set down the crate and tore out of the rope. I zoomed to the nearest ditch and vomited, hearing a few snickers behind me. I hung my head over the side and panted. That was a ghastly scene.

"Sorry, friend." Gladys spoke.

I held up a hoof and waved on, unable to speak for a moment.

"So, Flashbang, is it okay if I take this back?" I heard a claw tapping the weapon container.

I threw my eyes towards her. She gulped. "I-I'm..."

Right. Violet forgot to take off her suit. Damn it!

I rushed over, still pale from the gory event from earlier. "Gladys, hold on! It's really not her fault! Please, don't be angry at her. We were on our way to bring it back to you, actually, until-"

"No harm done. I owe you, anyway, for making you blow chunks all over the place." She cackled.

Violet even gave a grin. "Sia's got a weak stomach."

Gladys searched around. "Where are Nico and Redd-head? I figured they'd be doing all the heavy lifting."

"We don't need those fools. We, gals, gotta stick together." Violet nudged me. "I think Sia can agree they're only useful for good d-"

"Violet!" I went from pale to red. A hole in the ground is what I needed right then.

Gladys and Violet's laughter erupted in unison. The griffon slapped Violet on the back, still guffawing. "I like this one! She's a real hoot! We should hang out, tonight!"

"Heh... Yeah..." I flattened my ears.

Violet nodded, rubbing her hooves together. "I know just the place. Ever heard of Bean's Tavern?"

"Who hasn't? See you guys tonight!" Gladys continued squawking as the other two griffons picked up the ropes and flew off with the crates. Of course, they lifted it with great ease. I facehoofed.

"I like her. Also, I'm pretty sure I've got a date tonight." Violet winked.

"Wonderful. Maybe I can do something else for you guys to laugh at. I'm the star of the show, after all." I said, sarcastically.

"Oh, come on, Sia. We're just messing around. I'm sure you've got loads of embarrassing stories about me!" She half hugged me.

I slipped a grin. "I guess."

"Good! Now, stop being mopey and let's get the heck out of here. I'm sure Nico and Redd are running around like chickens with their heads cut off." She rolled her eyes and took off.

I followed after her. She was right about the bird's eye view. It was so much easier to find our way back while airborne. I flew with a sullen look on my face, though. I was a little annoyed that there were more plans getting in the way of my own mission. Violet turned and tilted her head.

"What's the matter?"

I sighed, willing my patience to come forth. "I know your plans tonight sound fun and everything, but I really should be getting back to the task at hoof. You know, since Equestria is in possible jeopardy." I crossed my forelegs.

She frowned. "One night is not going to hurt. You've come this far, already."

"True, but still. I don't want to waste anymore time than I have to."

Violet thought for a moment, then shrugged. "That's too bad. Specs makes the best Bloody Berries. But, I guess alcohol really isn't your sty-"

"Whoa, whoa, whoa. Alcohol?" I interrupted her.

She grinned, evilly. "Why, yes. Did you really expect me to hang out in dry places?"

"I guess I can take a small vacation."

"Whoo! That's the spirit! Now, pick up the pace! I'll race you there!"

She bolted before I could object. I shook my head, but took off after her, anyway. When I caught up with her, we slowed down and enjoyed the flight. Giggling some more, we flipped and spun midair, practicing our stunts and agility. She had been right about the freedom. We could fly through the sky without worrying about air traffic and bumping into other pegasi. There were no congested airways in the wasteland. I closed my eyes and smiled as the wind ruffled my feathers. No cold rain, today, it seemed. As we closed in on the shack, I straightened my wings to a glide. I spotted Redd pacing outside.

"Hey, Redd!" Violet called out.

He galloped towards us as we landed. "Where, in the wide world of Equus, were you two? We thought you were foalnapped!" He threw his hooves up.

"Wow. Okay, 'Father'." Violet rolled her eyes.

Redd snorted. "I'm not the one you need to worry about. Nico is pretty angry." He pointed to the shack.

I sighed. "Damn it."

I flapped as fast as I could towards the door, sliding to a stop in front of it. I burst through, to see him sitting with his hooves on his temples. He faced the fireplace in worry. "Not now, Redd." He mumbled.

"Nico." I spoke.

He sat straight up before bolting to me. When he stopped, he grabbed my shoulders and shook them. "You, idiot! What the hell were you thinking?! You could have been killed!"

I stared, wide-eyed, at the shouting stallion. He seemed legitimately worried.

"We've been searching since this morning! You have no idea what I thought had happened!"

Finally, after a few seconds of awkward silence and breathing, he hugged me.

"I-I'm sorry. We just returned the rocket launcher to Gladys. I didn't think it would be that big of a deal. It wasn't too far away." I tried to explain.

He let go and seemed to calm down a little. He looked me over. "At least you aren't hurt."

"We aren't completely helpless." I assured him.

As I finished the sentence, Violet and Redd trotted through the door. "I see there is no ill will held between the two of you." She chimed. "Did you tell him we have plans tonight?"

"Plans?" Nico snorted her way. "After you both left us and could have possibly been killed? I'm still slightly pissed off about that." Nico wore more of a disappointed look than an angry one, despite what he had just said.

That wasn't enough for my best friend, though. Violet sarcastically laughed. "Seriously? We are perfectly capable adults." She poked his chest. "And we definitely don't need a foalsitter."

"I don't know how you do things, but I'm trying to keep her from dying, not bring her closer to it." He pointed to me.

"How I do things? We managed three raiders just fine! Luckily, Gladys-"

"Raiders?" He turned to me. "You left your guns! And yeah, Gladys was there, but what if she hadn't been?"

Violet stood in front of me to protect me from his scolding. "Don't blame her! I'm the one who dragged her with me! You are not going to talk to my best friend like that!"

"It's okay, Violet." I tried to speak over the yelling, but was ignored, of course.

"Yeah, some friend you are! Did you stop and see how she felt about it? Did you really have her back?" He bared his teeth.

"She was just fine with me, you toxic asshole! We had more fun than she's been having with you!"

"Toxic? How the hell am I toxic? Excuse me for being a caring pony." He put a hoof to his chest.

I sighed and waited for them to finish, taking a cookie out of my bag and snacking on it. I also hoofed one to Redd, who sat next to me.

"Thanks." He said. "You know Violet will not stop until she's won, right?" He took a bite.

I nodded. "Yep. Might as well wait it out."

"-so fucking stubborn, I don't see how anypony could possibly be around you!" Violet raged.

"Ha! And you are Equestria's high priestess? Get over yourself. I can tell you like the mares because no stallion would have you!" He countered.

I had already opened a bottle of Sparkle Cola and propped myself on Redd's side. He was already falling asleep.

Violet growled. "You... I... UUUAAARRRGGHH!!! I don't like stallions because they try to control us! Just like you're doing with Sia and you aren't even together! It wouldn't surprise me if her barn door started swinging that way, too!"

"I do not control anyone! Unlike you, when I care about my friends, I don't put them in danger!"

"Care? You don't care! If you did, you would trust Sia and not treat her like she's some fragile foal."

I clenched my jaw. "Okay, guys, that's enough."

They each looked at me briefly before they locked eyes, again.

"This isn't over you... you... ass-hat!" Violet snorted and walked towards the door. "Redd, come on. Help me get brunch started." Then she glared back at Nico, again. "Like a good little house-wife." She said the words like they were poison.

With a sigh, Redd obediently followed her. I gave him a sympathetic smile as he trotted past. As soon as the door shut, I moved to where Nico stood shaking with anger. "I'm s-"

"If you say you're sorry I'm going to take your alcohol privileges." He shot me a look.

I sealed my muzzle. There was no way I was getting those taken away.

He inhaled slowly and let it go even slower. "I'm the one that's sorry. I don't mean to come off as pushy or controlling. I guess I just have the wrong idea about protectiveness. I should trust you more."

I grinned. "That was a quick change of mind. I'm guessing Violet broke through your hard outer shell?"

He flicked his tail, slightly annoyed. "I wouldn't put it that way, but I guess there's some truth to that. I'll try to be less... predominant. The whole reason we're out here in the first place is because of your mission. You should be in charge."

"Well, I mean I can't do it without you guys." I blushed.

He softened his gaze for a moment before he went back to hard-ass mode. "Alright, well we'd better go see what Redd and the manticore are up to."

"Don't be so hard on her. She really means well, she's just... a lot like you actually." I poked his leg.

"I'll try to remember that."

We shared an awkward chuckle as we grabbed our saddlebags and headed to the door. The timidness wouldn't leave my body, after that. I barely noticed the musty odor that barricaded itself in my nostrils as Nico opened the door. The familiar sensation of nausea crept in the back of my throat. "Hungry?" Violet chimed. In her hoof, was a battered pot filled with what looked like vomit. The pale sludge had a mixed aroma of soil and spoiled milk. Tears wet my eyes as I backed away, holding my mouth.

"N-no, thank you." I groaned, holding back the best I could.

She snickered as she poured a bowl. "Redd?"

He gave her a look that just screamed, "hell no".

She didn't say a word to Nico, just eyed him. He nodded in reply.

In this weird, silent conversation, was understanding. She poured a bowl and hoofed it to him. The tension was back in the air, again, but as not bad as I thought it would be.

Clearing my throat, I decided to break some of the awkwardness. "So..." I carried the word for a few seconds. "What the hell is that?"

Violet laughed. "Oatmeal a la Violet. My specialty! I'd give you the recipe, but it's a secret. Sorry, bestie." She winked.

I grinned, sheepishly. "Trust me, I am not the least bit offended." My gaze fixed on the old burner next to her. The coil was still red from the heat, but you could tell it had been used for over a century. A rusty spoon shared the space next to it. I wondered how (or if) she even sanitized her equipment.

"It tastes better than it smells, but if you're suuuure you don't want any." She slurped directly from the pan, the sound making me sicker. I sat next to Redd, hiding the sight from my poor eyes.

"Disgusting." He rolled his eyes.

Remembering the preserves I found at the market, I dug in my bag and pulled out two of the dusty jars. I nudged Redd and and passed one to him. He half-grinned and opened the container. "Thanks."

I winked, then started eating from my own jar, suddenly finding myself eyeing the red-maned stallion. Every move he made, his forelegs flexed. Nico, too. His mane almost perfectly ended where his lids covered his beautiful, oceanic eyes. I had to wipe sweat away. A voice finally broke my trance.

"Oatmeal not good enough for you two?" Nico smirked.

With a mouth full, I spoke up. "Not when the recipe calls for dirt."

Redd nearly choked on the fruit. He gave me a hoofbump.

Nico rolled his eyes as he finished his grotesque brunch.

Violet let out an exaggerated laugh. "Good one!" Then, she added, "We should start heading to Bean's Tavern. The day is flying by."

"Bean's Tavern? I go there, sometimes." Nico pointed out without making eye contact. "The pegasus who owns it gives me discounts."

I clopped my hooves, playfully. "Tavern? Pegasus? Discount?! Let's go!"

The four of us packed our things and headed out. Violet and Redd flew above us to watch for danger. I walked beside Nico to keep him company. The whole walk, I wondered what this "tavern" would be like. Would there be music? A dance floor? Food? I wanted to picture it as being kind of like The Beacon, but I doubted there were anymore buildings like that. Of course, as long as there was alcohol, I wasn't complaining. I would sneak some looks over at my walking partner. Having to use his legs more than the average pegasus gave him a slightly toner muscle mass. I wondered how he would look if-

My attention snapped back. What the hell is wrong with me, today?

"So..." Nico interrupted my daydreaming. "What's going on in the mind of a princess?"

I gave a sideways glance towards him. "Nothing. I'm wondering how many drinks it will take me to forget this place exists, again."

He held back a laugh. "Probably not many, this time. Specs makes 'em pretty strong."

"Is he the pegasus you mentioned?" I asked.

Nico shook his head. "Specs is just the bartender. Mixer is the owner. Bean was the original, obviously, but he died. He left the place to Mixer since he helped the old unicorn in his last few years." He explained.

"Mixer?" I looked at him, puzzled. What a weird name for a pegasus.

"Yep. I don't think that's his real name, but that's what everypony calls him."

"Is he nice?" I remembered the animosity Clockwork had towards us.

As if sensing my worries, Nico smiled. "Oh, yeah. He's pretty great. Accepts all races, creatures, et cetera. He looks tough, but Fleece could probably tear him down with a look."

I let out a sigh of relief. I wanted to put Walkterton behind me.

As we walked, the sound of laughter and conversation grew. When the dead trees cleared, I realized we were there. A two-story, wooden building sat in disrepair in the middle of the woods. The door swung like a saloon's would. The roof had clearly been damaged and repaired, crudely, several times. Lettering spelled "Bean's Tavern" was painted on the external wall. It was a strange place for a bar, but it was crowded despite its location. As long as the alcohol was good, I wasn't complaining.

"Over here, guys!" Violet called, waving us over.

She stood next to four familiar griffons. Besides them, a few other ponies mingled out front. I smiled, nervously, waving my wing. Nico nudged me forward. Tiptoeing through the crowd, I was greeted by Gladys with a tight hug. Her immense strength was surprising. I could barely breathe.

"There she is! I was wondering when you were gonna stop making googly eyes at Nico and come mingle!" She cackled.

I covered my face with my wings, blushing. Nico rubbed the back of his neck.

From the small gap in my feathers, I noticed Redd furrowing his brows, looking away.

I really need to set all this straight.

"Why are you blushing, stud? I call it like I see it." The griffon, happily walked through the door, stopping to turn to us. "What are we waiting for? Let's get this party started!"

Violet flew after her, giggling at her remark. Redd walked in with his head down.

I peeked at Nico, who was still red in the face. "We'd better go with them." I said, hurrying inside.

When I walked through the swinging entrance, the first thing I noticed was the old-style decorations. Dusty furniture was stacked on the back wall. There were mounted fish surrounding us. They were prewar, but definitely kept up. Hats also covered the walls where the mounts were absent. It must have taken decades to collect them. A counter situated on the right could easily sit ten ponies. It wasn't anywhere near as big as the one at the Beacon, but it was enough. The floor was old and wooden. I didn't mind the many repairs and damages. This place felt warm and welcoming! I smiled.

"Home, sweet home." Nico breathed beside me.

"I love it!" I exclaimed. "I'm quite fond of old-fashioned things."

"You sound like Mixer. Let's sit at the bar while there's still some space. You can meet him." He nodded towards the bar.

Dodging the growing crowd, we headed to the far side of the saloon. I saw many ponies along the way. Some of them wore stetson hats like the ponies in my History of Apploosa text book. They danced to some kind of prewar country music that trickled from the crackling speakers. I guess this music was better than no music. When we made it to the counter, Nico pulled out a stool for me with his magic. He then sat in the next one.

"Specs!" He called to a tall, skinny earth pony with thick glasses.

The pony turned and smiled, cleaning a glass all cliche-like. "Nico! Good to see ya, again!"

"Nice to see you, too, old friend." He shook his hoof.

"What can I get fer ya, Nicky boy?"

I snorted at the nickname. It was horribly amazing.

"Two shots of Wild Pegasus for me and my friend." He gestured to me.

Specs looked me over. "Ya got yerself a young'un, this time." He chuckled, pouring the drinks and setting them in front of us. He sounded exactly like Ma. I wondered if he was one of her children. He even said the same thing as her!

Both of us blushed, but Nico spoke, first. "She's new around here."

"Mhm." The barpony went back to cleaning the same glass.

"So, where's Mixer?" Nico changed the subject, hurriedly, gulping the shot.

"He's in the back, stockin' the cold room. Should be finishin' up. Let me know if ya'll need anythin'. I gotta take these orders." He trotted along the bar, taking orders and throwing out drinks with such speed and grace, you'd think he had the skills of ten of the barponies at the Beacon.

I drank the whiskey like there was no tomorrow. Nico saw my empty glass and grabbed the bottle, refilling both of ours. I propped my head in my hooves, trying to avoid asking Nico what Specs meant by "this time". I knew, anyway, but still. I didn't really know a lot about Nico. I knew a few things, but he definitely knew more about me.

"Hey, Mixer!" Nico called.

"Hey, Nico! Glad to see you, again!" A booming voice yelled over the crowd.

I brought my attention back to the bar as a rather large pegasus trotted from some hidden stairs next to us. He wasn't as muscular as Weights, but he still looked like he could fight multiple stallions at once and win. He carried a couple of large crates on his back with ease. His cream-colored coat and red-orange mane were barely visible under the crates. He finally set them down and began stocking shelves. He looked to be middle aged. I gasped as I stared in horror at the brand mark, covered mostly by his wings.

So, he is a Dashite!

"Yeah, it has been a while, for sure." Nico replied.

"Sorry, I'm in a bit of a rush. I'm trying to get this stock out before the evening drunks come piling in." He chuckled as he worked, never even looking up. He probably took his job seriously. It didn't even seem like his lack of a cutie mark bothered him, much.

"I want you to meet somepony. She's a new friend of mine. I think you'll like her." Nico winked at me.

I smiled, nervously. "Nice to meet you."

The stallion turned, wiping his hoof, before he shook my hoof. "Any friend of Nico's is a friend of-" He stopped and stared, eyes wide. "mine..." The empty bottle he was about to dispose of crashed to the floor, shattering. Mixer's eyes locked on mine, in shock. I shot a panicked glance to Nico, who wore a concerned frown. The bar got quiet as everypony started staring at us, too.

Why is he looking at me like that?

"Mixer?" Nico waved his hoof in front of the pegasus.

The stallion shook his head, his eyes watering with tears. He flapped his wings, flying lazily over the counter and landing closer to me. "I... I can't believe... This can't be possible."

I swallowed. "I-I..."

Nico looked between us. "Mixer, do you know Sienna?"

"Sienna..." Mixer wiped his eyes and smiled. I squeaked as the massive pony grabbed me in a hug.

Violet trotted over, placing a hoof on his shoulder. "What are you doing, Mixer?"

He sobbed into my shoulder, alligator tears staining my barding. "My... little filly."

What?

Some mare gasped. Others whispered throughout the room.

I pushed him away. "What are you talking about? Who are you?"

When I focused on his face, memories flashed through my head. He was holding me, then he wasn't. We were laughing as he flew, with me on his back. I giggled and held onto him as I learned to fly. I remembered him kissing my forehead with those same tears in his eyes the last time I saw him. I was so young.

My memories ended as I stared at Mixer with tears streaming down my own face.

"Daddy?"

Level Up!
S- 3
P- 3
E- 4
C- 3
I- 4
A- 4
L- 3 (+1)

New Perk
Rollin' in the Caps - You will now find +10 caps every time you find a stash while scavenging.

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

Thank you for reading! As always, constructive criticism/error spotting is always welcome!
Stay safe, everyone!

-AP

Chapter 28: One Generation to the Next

"Oh, what a power is motherhood, possessing a potent spell. Love, light, blessings." -Euripides

I was so tired. I swore as soon as this war was over, I was going to sleep for two months.

When I awoke, I was lying on my side. It took a few seconds to open my eyes, since the lights in Moondancer's lab were so bright. I noticed I was on one of her tables. Redd sat next to me, but faced the others. They were gathered around my mother, who no longer wore the helmet or the oxygen mask. She was still unconscious.

"Redd?" I called, weakly.

He quickly put his nose to mine, affectionately. "Sia."

I returned the gesture, slowly lifting my head. "What happened?"

"We don't know. The necklace had attached itself to Hope, then your eyes went all white, and you stayed like that for an hour." He said. Then, he whispered. "How are you feeling? Do you think we should ask Moondancer to check the foal?"

I shook my head. "I'm just super nauseous. I think it's okay." I smiled, sweetly.

"Do you want a trash can? A pillow? Some water?" He looked me over.

"I'm fine, Redd." I chuckled, putting a hoof on the side of his face. "I promise we are okay."

He grinned. "You scared me. Just take it easy. Don't-"

I climbed off the table, wobbling a bit from the dizziness.

"-get up too quickly." He finished with a sigh. Supporting my side, he walked me towards the others.

"Sia, welcome back!" Violet grabbed my cheeks, smooshing them. "I guess Prince Charming's kiss awakened you, after all."

I blushed earning looks from the others.

"How is my mother?" I looked to Fleece.

She smiled. "I don't know what happened with that necklace, but it saved her life. It kept her stable long enough for the memories to implant back into her brain." She pointed to eleven, black orbs. They sat on the table next to her, the magic no longer inside of them.

My tense shoulders calmed. Thank you, Rarity.

Gale began to stir. I stood next to her, hoping she would really be on our side. She propped herself onto her elbows, rubbing her head. "Where... am I?"

I swallowed, nervously. That's not good.

She looked around, then her eyes settled on me. She looked at me, puzzled, but at least there was recognition etched onto her features.

"Mom?" I said.

She slowly got to her hooves, still staring at me.

"Do you... know who I am?"

She nodded. "I... I can never forget my Marshmallow."

Tears filled my eyes as I smiled. The tension in the room evacuated, quickly.

"Marshmallow." Pepper repeated, snickering.

I didn't even care. I was happy to have my mom back with me. I hugged her, tightly. She rubbed my back.

"So, does this mean you're on our side, now?" Violet asked.

Mom pulled away, addressing the green pegasus. "I suppose so. I still hate the Enclave and wish to see its destruction, but... for now, maybe I will try a different approach." She held my wing in hers. "As a family."

My face was stretched as far as it would go with my smile.

"So you remember everything?" Nico questioned. "What can you tell us about Blight?"

An urgent look suddenly took over her. "Blight. She plans to take The Beacon."

My heart dropped. The Beacon?

"When?" I asked.

"It was supposed to be only a couple of days, but she's since learned of an armory in Shattered Hoof. She'll be going there, first. I'm afraid she will be hard to defeat. Those machines. They're unlike anything I've ever seen. I shouldn't have handed them over, but... I had to get your body back before she destroyed it."

"What do you mean destroyed it?" Redd asked.

Mom continued. "Blight can't survive in a flesh and blood body. She has to be in something that can withstand her power. And as long as she has the rainbow pearls, she can conform the harvesters into any form."

"Great." Pepper said. "So doom-tractor is an understatement."

"Were there any guides or plans for the tractors? Anything that can give us a weak spot?" I asked.

Mom shook her head. "She destroyed them."

"Damn it. There has to be a way to beat her. We have a rocket launcher on hoof, but I don't want to waste anything if it's not going to work." I stomped.

"You may be able to slow down her weapons, but it won't completely destroy her." She said.

I rubbed my chest. It was as good as we were gonna get.

"The only thing we can do is fight and pray to Luna we can come up with something better." Fleece said. "I have faith in you all. If anypony can win this, it's you."

My chest and neck began to tense, again. That wasn't enough. I needed a plan. I had to have a plan! If this didn't go our way, I'd be risking a lot of lives. My baby's included. I began to hyperventilate, trying to keep it to myself. Redd noticed, though. He wrapped his wing around me. I took a deep breath and let it out slowly.

"Everything will be okay." He whispered.

I nodded, then looked at Moondancer. "Please tell me you have an estimated time when she will be here."

Her eyes lit up. "Calculating the distance to the closest armory in Shattered Hoof and back comes out to two and a half days. That is not adding the variable of time it would take for her to gather her weapons. It's already been almost a day, so I'd say one and a half at least, give or take a few hours."

"Oookay." Violet said. "Do you want to go let the troops know?"

"You're faster than I am. I think you should be in charge of that." I told her. "Tell Gladys to get The Fucker ready."

She saluted and zoomed out the door.

"I'm gonna go check on the defenses for Floater. Something tells me they're gonna need all the guns they can get." As I headed back towards the tunnel, a sudden dizzy spell hit me, making me sway on my hooves.

True to his promises, Redd rushed to my side. I waved him off, shaking the dizziness away.

Fleece walked beside us. "You need to rest. You flew all night and walked half of the day. I will take care of security."

"But, what can I do? I'm tired of feeling useless."

"You're not useless, but if you don't rest your body, you'll be paying for it later." She said, sternly. "Tomorrow, you should be up and ready to get things done."

I sullenly let out a breath.

"She's right, Sia. Come on, we'll get you a room at the hotel." Redd told me.

I followed behind him, reluctantly. "What about-"

"No." He told me. "You are going to sleep."

I grunted through my teeth. "Fine, but I am not going to sleep peacefully."

In a way, I was glad to be a little selfish. If I were to walk farther than the hotel, I would have collapsed. My legs shook with each step, but I didn't dare say anything to anyone. I was only a few weeks along, too. I dreaded the symptoms that accompanied a giant, swollen belly. My chest began to feel tight as I thought about it. How many mares died giving birth in this place? Was I trying to do more than I should? I breathed slowly, trying not to think about it. I'd just have to keep telling myself that everything was going to be okay. Besides, giving birth wasn't supposed to be scarier than fighting Blight's killing machine.

Then, why is bringing life into the world the scariest thing I can think of, right now?!

"Sienna!" My mom's voice carried over the ponies walking in the street. She flew behind Redd and me, trying to catch up.

I stopped and waited. "Mom?"

"Sienna, do you think I could talk to you?" She asked, nervously. This was definitely not the confident, belligerent pony I had previously known as Hope.

Redd narrowed his eyes. He didn't trust her. I wouldn't object to his distrust, either.

Mom looked away from him. "It won't take but a few moments."

He nodded to me. "I'll go ahead and get your room."

When he was across the way, the yellow pegasus chuckled, lightly. "Lightning's boy certainly has a fondness for you."

"I'd hope so." I told her. "We're sort of... together."

She brightened. "I'm happy for you, both."

"You... didn't come to talk about my relationships, did you?"

Mom sighed, hanging her head. "No. I... I want to say I'm sorry." Before I could say anything, she stopped me. "This is something I wanted to say, but not in front of the others. I know they will probably never trust me. You probably don't trust me. If they decide that I should be exiled, I wanted to tell you how sorry I am. I have done so much. I don't deserve a second chance from you. When you were a filly, I left you. You saw the memory." She clenched her jaw as her eyes watered. "But then, you found your way down to this wasteland. I saw you. When you were being carried to this town by that unicorn, I knew. I knew in my heart that it was you."

"But, why didn't you come to me? Why did you kidnap me and... use me?" I glared at the dirt under me. "I really needed you."

She shook her head. "I-I'm so sorry, Marshmallow. I wanted to go to you. I wanted to hold you and tell you how much I missed you." She covered her eyes with her wings. "The coven. If they had known you were of my flesh and blood, they would have doubted my leadership. I was afraid that... If they didn't trust me, they would have killed me and you, both. This was the only way I could guarantee no harm would come to you by them."

"The chloroform. I almost died..." My chest burned. That was a memory I hoped to never relive.

"I had no idea. Please, believe me. When I learned what Chem Trail had done..." Her angry growl definitely gave away the rest of that statement. "She won't hurt anypony, ever again."

I swallowed. "Did you-"

"Never mind that." She changed her tone. "Everything that's happened to you... My heart had never ached as much as it has been. I know that's why I was so set on finding those pearls. If I could just rid the world of the bastards who hurt you. The ones who betrayed you. Blight sought to destroy them, too. It's why I thought joining her would only get me closer to that goal."

I held back my own sobs.

"When I was inside my own memories, I had realized something: I was the one who betrayed you, first. I... I should have just kept my muzzle shut in front of the council. There could have been another way, but... I just- I..." She finally broke down. "I put this wretched world above my baby."

I sniffed. "Please, don't..."

"Let me have this guilt. Let me suffer under this heavy burden, Sienna. Don't tell me you forgive me. At least, for now, just let me suffer. I deserve it after all of this." The yellow and gray strands of her mane fell into her eyes.

That statement was so similar to how I constantly felt. I wanted to feel guilt for a lot of things, too. It ate me up on the inside, but oftentimes I would just ignore it. I would go on with life like the guilt was just another tingly sensation or a small ache in my heart. I didn't even see it as a real emotion because I tried so hard to make it a figment of my imagination that it just wasn't real to me. Yet, right in front of me, I was seeing a fragment of that very emotion.

"I don't deserve to be called a mother." The mare all but sunk into her hooves. Her inner torment made me sympathize with her.

My wings fidgeted. Did I forgive her? There was so much I wanted to say. So much I wanted to feel, but was any of it true forgiveness?

Mom...

"Gale?" My stomach dropped at my dad's voice. He wasn't supposed to see her, yet!

I am so done trying to keep any secrets.

Mom looked passed me, her eyes already wide.

Redd landed next to me. "I tried to stop him, I swear!"

"Thunder?" Mom stepped t forward.

The busy ponies around us glanced our way as they walked. Mom and Dad were either filled with joy or awkwardness. They watched each other like they were waiting for somepony to make a move. The latter finally walked towards us, not blinking. My tongue fought to break the silence, but I also wanted to see how this would play out. Would Dad be angry? Would Mom run away from him? I eased my eyes to Redd, who seemed to have the same thoughts as I did.

"I-I can't believe it..." Dad said, breathlessly.

Mom hung her head, tears falling into the dirt. "You probably don't want to see me. I... I-I'm so sorry, Thunder Cloud."

Before she could say anything else, he grabbed her as fast as he could and held her. He was already crying. "Oh, my goddesses. I missed you. I missed you, so much! I was so scared something had happened to you. Please, know that I never stopped loving you. I still love you, sweetheart."

Her shocked expression took a while to turn to relief. Both of them had tears falling by the time a few minutes went by. I wiped my own eyes and nudged Redd. "Come on. Let's give them some space."

Truth be told, I wanted to join the embrace. I was so happy to have both of my parents here and alive. Unfortunately, I would have to wait for my foalhood wish. I wanted them to sort out their own dealings. We headed inside, giving them what them what they, so desperately, needed. In The Beacon, ponies were still doing what they always did: Gambled and drank. It was too early to do that, but hey, who was I to judge?

"Redd, I'm going to get a Sparkle Cola from the bar." I told him. "I know I'm supposed to 'rest' but, my throat's kind of dry."

"Okay, but you can't keep putting it off." He nickered.

Both of us took a seat at the very end of the long counter. My hoof tapped the counter to get the attention of the bartender. Just as she stopped in front of me, an earth pony with security armor hurriedly got my attention. "Are you Fear Fighter?"

I sighed. "Seriously? The name is Sienna, but yes. That is me."

"I need you to come with me. Fast." His gruff voice urged.

"What for?" Redd erected his ears.

"There are raiders outside the city. They have some kind of catapult and a massive amount of spark grenades." He said. "We need you!"

Spark grenades?

"Get ole' Sparky! These birds are gonna get cooked!"

My head started pounding as I grabbed at it.

"Raptor 27, this is Lieutenant Sienna. Do you copy?"

I heard the echo of a loud electrical buzz.

"Wick! Chaser!"

I gasped, almost falling off the stool. "No! No, no, no!"

"What is it?" Redd held my foreleg.

I breathed quickly, dragging Redd to my level. "Go get the others!"

"You can't possibly be thinking what I think you're thinking." He furrowed his brow.

"Now! Redd, please!" I teared up.

He swore, obeying my orders and zooming out the entrance.

I looked back at the security buck. "Show me."

Outside, the town residents ran into their houses or held their weapons in front of them. I was led behind the giant building, where a couple of security were already standing. One of them held binoculars, looking into the distance. Gladys was there, too. Her eyes focused on the small specks on the horizon.

"How many are there?" I asked the griffon.

"Four-eyes, over here, counted about thirty. I say there's forty." She said. She wasn't joking.

"Damn it." I felt for Bob. It was in my holster, still.

"'Damn it' is right. They got a spark bomb, too." The griffon clicked her beak, warily.

Images of the Typhoon on the ground flooded my mind, threatening to force my hooves to run. I shook away the incoming migraine. If they launched that into the town, a lot of ponies would get electrocuted. I flapped my wings, pacing in the air. "Fuck! Not now! Why now?!"

"We can always use The Fucker." Gladys shrugged.

"No. I'd rather save that for Blight. Bullets will kill these raiders, but we have to get to them before they can get to the town." I said.

She pulled out twin revolvers and smirked. "What are we waiting for, then?"

"I-I don't want anyone to die! We already have so much going on and now this?! Fuck!!" I grit my teeth, not even anxious anymore. Now, I was just pissed off.

"We volunteered for this, Fear Fighter." One of the security ponies said.

Gladys rolled her eyes. "I live for these fights. What are your orders, fearful one?"

I looked around at the small group of ponies and the griffon. We couldn't wait for the others. By the time they got there, the raiders would have launched the spark bomb.

"Ugh! Let's get this over with!" I yelled through anger.

"That's what I'm talkin' about!" She squawked, whistling for the unseen griffons overhead. I zoomed after them, pistol ready to shoot. The three security ponies ran behind me.

"If it gets too dangerous, fall back!" I barked.

Ignored, I rolled my eyes and flapped harder so I could keep up with the large creatures. My heart pounded, already. That nap would just have to wait. I was a extremely nervous, too. I swallowed, mentally apologizing to Redd. He would be furious that I charged into battle like this. I didn't blame him, but what was he expecting I do when Blight came along? Sit and watch? This was my fight to begin with and I wasn't about to let anyone else die for me. A panic attack threatened to crawl through my body.

When we were close to them, I stopped and hovered above our group to get a better look. There were a little over three dozen of the crazy ponies coming our way. I squinted getting a good look at the giant, ancient catapult and the giant ball of silver ready to be launched. It was a massive group of spark grenades crudely taped and stuck together. It was ridiculous-looking, like it shouldn't even work. I wasn't going to doubt that it did, though. I knew it worked. I knew it was deadly.

"Alright, we need to focus on not letting them hit the switch on that thing. Gladys, how many of your griffons have sniper rifles?"

She counted from the five behind her. "Three of them."

I nodded. "Have them stay back from a distance and pick off any who get near the catapult."

"You guys hear that?" She barked at them. They saluted, holding long, sniper rifles in their talons.

"You, the rest of the griffons, guards, and I can try to get what we can from the outside. Try to stay as far away from them as possible unless absolutely necessary." I instructed the others. I inhaled. I exhaled. "Do. Not. Die!"

Once Gladys had her snipers set, the rest of us got a little closer to the raiders before we started firing rounds. That's when all hell broke loose. Gunshots rained from every direction. It took a lot of energy to dodge. I was barely able to keep in the air. A group of four came after me, half of them wielding bats. I stayed well above them as they swung. The other half had a pistol and a hunting rifle. I held the Pipbuck in front of my stomach, to prevent any shot from getting through. Bob lit up as I fired a beam at the one with the rifle. Her hoof caught the shot, then it began to burn. She screamed, but still kept her focus on me. Three more shots rang out as they buzzed passed my ear and shoulder. Another beam and she was turned to ash. I bit down, aiming for the one with the pistol. She held up a rusty piece of metal to shield herself.

Crap.

Her pistol spit bullet after bullet as I zig-zagged out of the way. My wings were throbbing from fatigue. I had to land. I backed away from them, far enough where I could take a few seconds to catch my breath. They charged after me. Dodging, I took the opening and zapped one that was holding a bat.

"Fear Fighter, watch out!" The security pony warned.

The pistol raider shot at me as the other batter swung the rusty nails at me. It almost made contact with my skull, but I was able to get out of the way.

"Copper Pot! No!" Another voice shouted. I turned for a split second to see one of the security guards lying in a pool of blood.

No...

"Damn it! I told you to fall back if it was too much!" I yelled.

I whipped around to shoot again, but got a face full of hoof. I was knocked off my hooves, sliding on my back. The unicorn with the bat smiled, horribly and shrieked. "You are a baaaaad pony!" She swung the piece of wood with nails at the same time that I held up my naked foreleg. Hot, stinging pain rolled through my entire leg. I hissed, instantly feeling like I would pass out. I felt a tug as she tried to remove the bat. It was stuck in my leg!

"Hey! Give me that!" She snarled.

I reached for the knife that Tonno Weights had given me. Flicking it open, I slashed the blade across her face, cutting her cheek and snout. The gray unicorn mare wiped the blood trickling around her jaw and bared her teeth. I swallowed, as she lifted the bat with her magic, snatching it out of my hide with a nasty sound. It took a lot of precision, but once she let the bat fall, time suddenly slowed to a crawling pace.

"What the-?" I said.

I could suddenly see her body parts and a percentage of some sorts. I panicked as I shook the image away. What the hell was that? It was like I had went into a trance! Too bad I didn't dodge in time. The weapon dug into my shoulder. It hurt. A lot. Blood poured down my armor. I couldn't tell how deep the wound was. The bat was stuck again, though. I took the opportunity and jammed the knife into her throat. As she gurgled, I quickly snatched the knife and looked away.

"Sorry." I whispered.

Ignoring her deadly struggle, I bit down on Bob, shooting the crude pistol out of the other mare's mouth. Another zap later, and she was turned to ashes, too. I didn't waste any time flapping my wings and getting to the air. My blood dripped down my foreleg and onto the dirt, below. I was going to have to bite the bullet and deal with it.

"Damn, Sienna. Maybe you should head back." Gladys said, soaring over me. Her pistols fired into a crowd of nine raiders.

"No..." I grunted. "This is... -nngh- my fight."

She shook her head, but kept firing.

The numbers were diminishing, thankfully. It went from forty, then thirty-four. Then twenty-eight and now, there were nineteen. I didn't bother to aim my pistol, anymore. I just aimed and shot where I thought there were raiders. Two down. Four down. Ten... and a half? I didn't know anymore. The land became an ocean as it began to roll like waves. I needed to get to the ground.

With a few more uncoordinated shots and a throw of my knife, later, I finally landed. Hard. My legs gave out. I was losing blood. I picked my knife up off the ground. Did I even hit anyone with it?

An explosion thundered around me. A cloud of dust rolled through all of us. Gun shots stilled for a small minute, but resumed in slower succession. I dizzily twisted my head towards the source. Dirt stung my eyes. I tried not to wipe them, instead letting tears wash way the debris.

"Blast! Blast!" I heard Gladys' scream from somewhere. Her mournful roar echoed in my head. Rapid fire rained into the remaining raiders, only managing to hit some of them. "You fucking bastards!"

I watched Gladys stand over her fallen companion.

Blast? She's...

The familiar, sweet sound of energy rifles almost deafened me. I shakily stood on all fours, aiming my pistol again. I bit down but was rewarded with a hiss of a burned out cartridge. "Damn it!"

The cavalry had arrived.

Violet, Pepper, Redd, and Nico charged towards the dwindling army. Nico stood in front of me, picking them off with his rifle. Violet struck raider after raider in her lightening-like attacks. Her sword slashed through them like old meat. Redd annihilated a large number of them, zapping them like bugs.

"Drink, now!" Pepper forced me to look at her and all but threw a healing potion to me. I wasted no time chugging the nasty thing.

"What were you thinking?!" Nico yelled at me.

I threw the empty glass on the ground.

"Why didn't you wait for us?" Pepper asked, less angry than him.

I took slow breaths, letting the potion do its work. "I-I'm sorry! I couldn't let them do to Floater what they did to Chaser and Wick!" I argued.

"Violet, your right!" Redd yelled.

I watched the ninja pony decapitate an axe-wielding stallion. True badass.

My ears swiveled to hooves pounding behind us. I flapped my wings and barreled into two raiders that were coming up behind us. One of them caught my hoof in their throat and the other had the misfortune of getting my knife in their eye.

"Sia, stop!" Violet called to me. "Let us handle it!"

Three more. Two charging and shooting at Violet and Redd. One was coming towards me. I flapped hard, my heart nearly beating at the speed of light. My back hoof impacted her jaw, sending her flying back. She slid across the dirt, leaving a trail. I knew she wasn't dead, but she would definitely be knocked out for some time.

"Or not..." My best friend muttered after she zoomed over to me.

The battle ended so fast. I looked out into the sea of dead raiders. They were drowned in a lake of blood. Seeing them didn't bring me relief. I was sad. No, I was angry. These were ponies. Someone's sons or daughters. Someone's sisters or brothers. They may have even been parents. I grabbed my aching chest, holding back tears to the point where my face had reddened.

"Why?!" I screamed at the bodies, as if they'd answer. "Why did you do this?!" I stomped my hooves, demanding an answer.

Why...

I was nauseous. I broke down sobbing. "Why? I hate this fucking wasteland! I hate Equestria!" I was so dizzy I couldn't tell if it was from exhaustion or blood loss.

Violet rested her hoof on my shoulder blades. I turned and fell into her, crying. "Why? Violet, why do they do this? Why?" She rubbed my back, shushing me. My tears flowed so much. I meant every word. My brain scrapped and scraped for an answer, only to be disappointed by the lack thereof. I didn't understand any of it. So many had to die. So many who were just trying to survive. The emotion was overwhelming. I didn't even feel anger towards the raiders or slavers. I no longer felt hate for Hope's coven. I felt pity. They didn't know any better. What if they could have gotten help? What if somepony had just reached out to them? Maybe, just maybe...

"That's enough." Nico pulled me away from Violet. He held my shoulders, searching me. "Stop this, now."

I was so shocked I couldn't even continue my pity party.

Pepper sighed. "Nico, please-"

"No." He said, not looking away from me. "She needs to hear this." He gripped my shoulders tighter. "It's time you stop feeling sorry for everyone who chooses this life. And yes, I do mean choose this life."

"But they don't-"

"Yes they do!" He slammed his hoof into the dirt. "You are doing nothing but making excuses for this type of shit. I was raised in this same wasteland. I witnessed some fucked up shit in my life. As a colt, I lost a lot and I did make some bad decisions. You know what, though? None of those decisions brought me to kill an innocent pony. I never thought about being a raider or slaver. Don't you think they had a choice? Look at you! Take one fucking look at yourself, Sia! Look at Redd and look at Violet!" He gestured to each of us. "The Enclave is notorious. They wouldn't hesitate to exterminate us groundwalkers. But look at how you three have turned out. Did Violet come here to kill? She escaped the Enclave. You and Redd may have been sent here, but even then, you hesitated on your duties just because you saw us as ponies. It may have taken time, but you still wouldn't have killed, outright. Those raiders don't think twice about blowing our brains out! Their enjoyment is the huge difference between a normal pony and savage!"

I stared at him. "I..."

"Do you see, now?" He glared at me, hatefully. The resentment oozed from his words. "Stop feeling so sorry for yourself for defending a fucking town! You saved lives, you didn't end any! Those lives you thought you ended were over, anyway! They were about to kill hundreds! Stop! Just stop putting yourself in such a terrible place because you feel bad! That makes you selfish! You pity these evil beings, but does it make you any better than them?"

The buzz pierced my ears. Redd put his wing between Nico and me. "Shut your damn mouth."

The tan unicorn glanced at him with that cold gaze.

Nico looked back at me, drilling me with his stare. I saw anger. I saw his hatred, but I knew it wasn't directed towards me. I wanted to explain myself. To tell him what I had told my mother: There was another way. Would he have even listened? I looked over at the others. Violet glared at him, but said nothing. Pepper watched the dust beneath her hooves. She wouldn't object to him.

I put my wing around Redd, resting my body against him. "Let's go. I'm tired."

His rifles died down. Redd's fiery eyes were still blazoned. "Alright."

As we started to walk away, I didn't look behind. Was I wrong? Did it really not matter?

Level Up!

S- 5 (+1)
P- 6
E- 7
C- 4
I- 5
A- 4
L- 5

New Perk
Punch Out! - You do 10% more melee damage.

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!

Thank you all so much for reading! As always, constructive criticism/error spotting is welcome!

Stay safe!

-AP

Chapter 30: Contention

"I'm going to need more popcorn..."

The Beacon was almost empty. He was going to have one drink. Just one. He was already ready to go to war. Redd was born for that life, after all. He was a military trained Sergent! His mind was clear even when he had a simple drink. Whatever Blight had on her side, he was ready for it. Nobody could stop him!

Well, except her...

Redd sat at the empty counter. He stared at the marble. Why did he feel betrayed? Sia didn't love Nico. She already said that Redd was the one for her. She meant it. Right?

I trust her. I... I would trust her with my life. I love her.

He started to get the attention of the barpony, but he couldn't bring himself to do it. He just wanted to talk to Sienna and straighten everything out. He wanted to go back to bed and lay next to her, again. These jealous thoughts made him miserable. He tried to block them out with the memory of how they met.

A smile curved his lips. They were all just foals. It was their first day of school. Well, after school, really. His mother had dropped him off at his aunt and uncle's house while she competed in her last race of the season. Redd hated it. He wanted to go with Lightening Flare.

ooooooooOOOOOOOOOoooooooo

"Your father wouldn't like that. The military would be a better career." Lightening Flare had told him. She always rolled her eyes when she talked about his father.

His little hooves dragged through the front door. Violet had met him with her obnoxious, smiling face. Her braces were definitely showing, then. "Hey, Redd! Guess what? Guess what? Guess what?!"

He snorted. Annoying. "Leave me alone, Vi."

"No! You have to gueeeeeesss!!!" She whined.

"Shut up."

"Gueeeess!!!"

"No!"

"Fine. You can't play with me and my new friend." She harrumphed.

He groaned. He didn't have time for her nonsense. The sofa was usually where he spent most of his time when he was at Violet's house. It would be the only time he could relax, away from his cousin. That day would be different, though. He wouldn't be able to relax in his comfy spot because there was already somepony sitting there. A tiny filly with a coat the same color as his sat where he usually did. She had her orange mane in a pony-tail. Glasses situated themselves on her nose. For a second, he couldn't believe his eyes...

Someone had the guts to sit in his spot!

"What do you think you're doing? Who are you?" He puffed out his chest.

She jumped, suddenly shrinking. "I-I'm sor-sorry!" She took a deep breath, calming herself. "My name is Sienna."

He gawked. What a wuss!

"That's my spot. Move." He demanded.

The filly's ears folded back, but she didn't move.

Redd growled. He couldn't say or do anything else, lest he be in trouble. Aunt Sugar Cookie would tell his mother if he did. "Lame."

"Hey! That's my friend you're talking to!" He didn't have time to turn around. With every ounce of her weight, Violet tackled the colt to the floor, twisting his wing. "Tell her you're sorry!"

Violet was smaller than him, but she was stronger. Somehow. "Ow! Stop it! AUNTIE COOKIE!"

Pain gnawed at his side. "Tell Sia you're sorry!"

"I'm sorry!"

She let go. "That's what I thought."

Redd's aunt finally walked in. "Violet, what are you doing?"

She smiled, innocently. "Nothing."

Ugh. You brat!

When the mare went back into the kitchen, Redd glared at the two fillies. He wasn't going to let them boss him around. Finally, he decided to go home. If he couldn't sit in his spot on the couch, he was going to leave. Once he was outside, he breathed out and began his journey. Home wasn't that far, so it wouldn't be too difficult. Lightening Flare would be furious, but it wouldn't be as bad as dealing with two fillies throwing it in his face. Grown ponies passed by, not even giving him a second glance. Hateful bastards. They could at least move out of my way.

"Hey!" A voice called far behind him. "Stop!"

He recognized it was that Sienna's voice, so he ignored her. Why would he stop for her?

"Please!" She called. She was running out of breath. To her credit, she did manage to catch up to him pretty fast.

He stopped as she approached behind him. "What do you want, nerd?"

She took a few deep breaths and glared at him. "You should get back to the house."

"Why? So you and Violet can act stupid? I would rather be home alone than listen to two fillies make fun of me."

Sia squinted. "You're the one being mean!" Her cheeks turned pink. "It's not surprising, since you hang out with the rest of the jerks at school."

Redd folded his forelegs. "I hang out with the kids on my level. Besides, didn't your parents teach you not to take what's not yours?"

The white filly lowered her head. "My parents are dead."

An arrow pierced his heart. He never felt guilty, but this time... "I-I didn't know."

"It's okay. Most don't." She wiped her eyes, hiding her sadness.

Redd looked at this filly. She was smaller, yet, she held herself together better than he would have. Her green eyes rolled up to him. He softened.

"I'm sorry." Redd said, stepping closer. "I'm just... I wanted to go to the track with my mom."

Sia cocked her head. "Why? It seems... dangerous..."

He grinned. "Well, Mom is tough. I want to prove to her that I can be tough, too."

Sia giggled. "You seem tough, to me." She sat on her haunches. "I bet when you grow up you'll be the toughest, fastest flier."

Redd lit up. "Really? I mean... Yes, I will." He deflated. "Listen, about earlier..."

"How about when you do win a race, I want to be the first to get your autograph. Then, I will forgive you."

He nodded. "Deal."

They looked around at the ponies moving about. Sia swallowed, beginning to tremble. "I... don't remember how to get back."

"Don't worry. Stay close to me."

ooooooOOOOOOOoooooo

That day, he didn't let his guard down in front of her, but he did secretly want to open up. It wasn't until high school that he finally confessed his feelings to her. The "Shake Squad" had already made itself known. It didn't matter if Violet was there to ruin every moment he managed to get with Sia. The pain of being shot down was rough for a while, but he eventually accepted it. Of course, that didn't mean he stopped trying. Any other stallion that seemed interested in her was quickly threatened. She didn't know, of course. That long of a growing love didn't really seem right to just throw away to him.

He sighed. Stay close to me. Please...

The dim light outside showed it was early morning. It wouldn't be long, until Blight decided to make an appearance. The white pegasus sighed. He didn't want to show it, but he did worry. Even thought he knew to let Sia do her thing, he still kept a close eye on her. She was hiding it, but Redd could tell the pregnancy was taking its toll on her. It couldn't be easy on a mare's body to suddenly jump a month ahead of term.

"Oh, man. I shouldn't have left her out there..." His hoof ran through his thick mane.

"Redd!" His ears perked at the sound of a mare calling for him outside. He twisted his neck, seeing Violet flapping wildly through the window. Climbing off the stool, he quickly went to meet her.

"Is Blight here, now?" He asked.

She grabbed his shirt. "It's Sia! She's not doing so good."

His stomach rose to his throat. "Where is she?!"

"Moondancer's-"

Redd didn't have to let her finish. He darted towards Fleece's clinic, not caring if he almost broke the door off its hinges. Everything flashed by while he flew like a bullet towards the tunnels. His jaw clenched and his heart pounded. It was sheer terror as he wondered if she was okay. If their foal was okay. Regret started eating away at his mind. Not for the sweet, amazing night they had behind the tavern. No, he was starting to regret not being careful. What if this killed her?

"Damn it, damn it!"

He finally made it inside the brightly lit laboratory. Moondancer already had wires hooked up to the unconscious mare on the table. Redd grit his teeth as he rushed to her side. Violet came, shortly after. For once, he was faster than even her.

"What happened?!" He yelled.

The robopony didn't miss a beat. "Her hemoglobin is at dangerously low levels. She needs a blood transfusion."

"Okay, so do that!" He demanded, Violet pulling him back a little.

Moondancer glared at him. "I have many things in this lab, but extra blood is not one of them."

Redd stomped. "Take some! Here!" He shoved his foreleg in her face.

The unicorn ignited her horn, sending a slight burning sensation through his vein. After a second, she shook her head. "Not a match."

"What about me?" Violet said, holding her leg out, too. Moondancer repeated the process. Again, she shook her head.

"Go find her parents." Redd told the green mare, who nodded and zoomed away.

"I do not want you to be panicked, but Sienna has an uncommon blood type. It wouldn't surprise me if they weren't matches, either." She said, checking Sia's pulse.

Redd growled. "So what, then?! Check everyone in this town!"

"You and I both know that would take too long. We need a definite-"

Like a switch, Redd's hope suddenly restored itself as he remembered. He grabbed the metal pony and shook her shoulders. "Get the equipment ready and tell the others I will be right back!"

In a flash, Redd was out the door. He still hated that bastard. Detested him, actually, but Nico was his only hope. Sia gave him her blood, before. He knew Nico would be a match. Fleece had confirmed it. The only problem was if he was still angry at her. When Redd saw them hugging, he thought they had made up. To what extent, he didn't know. Nico might have been just trying to hide his anger.

You son of a bitch, you better help her. She helped you! If you hesitate for one second, I'll kill you with my bare hooves!

Cold rain started to pour from the sky, stinging Redd's hide. Small price for getting there in a hurry. His wing was sore, too, but he wasn't going to slow down for one minute. "Damn wing!" Thunder cracked above him as he beat his wings as hard as he could. To keep his attention off the pain, he started to think. He kept Sia on his mind. He imagined their future, together. He pictured her holding their newborn foal. That's why she had to live. She had to!

Halfway there, Redd spotted the two unicorns walking towards him. He dove, not worrying about whether he would knock into the unicorn buck or not. If he was honest, he wouldn't care if he did. Redd's hooves skidded a few feet before he came to a complete stop in front of them. He breathed fast and his mane was soaked.

"What are you doing here?" Nico asked, glaring at Redd.

The pegasus grabbed him by the collar. "You need to get to Moondancer's lab, now!"

Nico growled. "Let go of me, asshole! What happened?"

It took everything not to punch that guy. "Sia's pregnant and needs a fucking blood transfusion!" Redd screamed at him. He was going to regret telling him, but he needed the urgency. "She helped you when you needed one, so now it's your turn."

Nico ignored the other stallions frantic behavior and pushed him off. "Let's go."

The unicorns broke into a full gallop, Redd flying beside them.

"Pregnant..." Nico repeated out loud. Realization etched across his face. "Oh, goddesses... Please, tell me it's not that ra-"

"No, Nico." Pepper spoke.

The tan unicorn turned to her, shocked. "You knew?"

She folded her ears. "I wasn't supposed to know. I just... stumbled in on their conversation." She nodded towards Redd.

He looked between them, then settled on the pegasus. "You're the father, then."

"I am."

"Good. That's... good." Nico looked relieved for a split second before he turned unreadable. "I'm happy for you both."

"Are you, though?" Redd snapped.

"So you are angry." The other buck said between breaths. "Sia was upset about you storming off, you know. She and I don't have anything between us, anymore. We had several talks about it, actually. Don't worry, feather duster."

Still want to punch him.

When he heard that Sia was upset, he felt terrible. Maybe, he should have waited for her instead of running away. He was the coward. He was so terrified that she would choose Nico over him, and it was selfish.

They ran through the town limits and through the clinic. Redd didn't stop for even one breath, though. He kept flying through the pain. The fake appendage worked as hard as it could. It would probably start bleeding, again. Through the door, Redd noticed everyone was there. Violet, Mixer, and Gale were standing a few feet away from the sleeping mare. It broke Redd's heart to see her that way. He switched and started using his legs instead of his wings. A hoof reached out and caught him, before he could get to Sienna's side, almost choking him.

"You. Got. Her. PREGNANT?!" Violet had her hooves wrapped around his neck. "WHAT WERE YOU THINKING?!"

"I-I-" He choked out.

"And you couldn't tell me?!"

Nico grabbed her in his magic and pulled her off of him. "You didn't know either, huh?"

Redd rubbed his neck. "It wasn't my choice! Sia didn't want anyone to know, yet!"

Mixer was already inconsolable, weeping as Gale tried to comfort him. She sighed. "Same, old Thunder Cloud."

"I-I'm gonna be a-a GRANDPA!!!" The large stallion wailed.

Shit. Redd swallowed. "Mixer, I'm so-"

Mixer grabbed Redd and squeezed him, almost breaking his back. "Son, I'm just glad it's you and not a stranger!" Then his tone changed to a deep, threatening bass. "But I will break your neck. Take care of her."

Redd nodded, quickly. "I plan to do just that."

Moondancer met Nico with a tube and a needle. She made him hold out his foreleg while she checked the blood type. She nodded. "You were right, Redd. It is a match. Sorry, by the way. I had to check the foal's vitals and they came in at the wrong time. I didn't mean for them to find out."

"How long will this- OW!" Nico yelped. Moondancer had shoved the needle in his leg and was already taking what she needed.

"So, is this standard procedure for a blood transfusion or is this just a quick way to do it?" Pepper asked.

"Normally, I perfer a clean stick, but we are short for time."

Redd left the others, coming to rest beside Sia. He moved a strand of her mane from her face with his feathers. She looked peaceful. He hoped she wasn't in pain. He rested his head on the table, nuzzling her.

"She will be fine." The stallion twisted his ears to the sound of Gale's voice next to him.

He sighed. "I know."

"And yet, you choose to stay by her side."

"I promised her I would." He glanced at the yellow pony next to him. Her eyes looked exactly like Sienna's.

She didn't speak for a few seconds. Gale gently grabbed Sia's hoof. "You're like her father." She looked back at the stallion, who was wiping tears away. "When we left the Enclave, he stayed by me every step of the way."

Redd didn't share her gaze. Instead, he kept his eyes on the mother of his foal.

Gale sighed. "I was a fool. I gave up a wonderful stallion because of my selfishness." She put a hoof on Redd's shoulder. "Sia is not like me. I think you both will fight until the end. Blight doesn't stand a chance."

He looked at her, puzzled.

She gave him a reassuring look. "Think about it."

As Gale went back to console Mixer, Moondancer levitated a bag of blood and the rest of the equipment. She set it up, jabbing the needle in Sienna's foreleg. "This won't take long."

"Thank you for doing this." Redd told her.

"It's literally my job. And Sia is my friend. I wouldn't do this for anyone else." She said, bluntly.

He ignored that. "When will she wake up?"

The robocorn checked her vitals, again. "To be honest, she did need a blood transfusion badly, but that isn't why she fainted."

Redd flattened his ears. "W-what?"

"She was suffering with pretty severe fatigue. Her body just couldn't stay awake another second."

"Wait... So, it wasn't that urgent? She's not in as bad of shape as we thought?"

Moondancer shrugged. "Yes and no. She wouldn't have dropped dead, immediately. The transfusion is important, but if it was absolutely necessary, it could have waited at least a day. I didn't tell you this earlier for two reasons: One, she shouldn't be fighting in this condition. Two, I honestly just wanted you to work him up a bit." She pointed to Nico across the room.

Redd smirked. "I think I like you, better, now."

Moondancer fixed her glasses. "Likewise."

Redd rubbed Sia's cheek with the back of his wing. "Our foal?"

"It's fine."

Redd swallowed. He was afraid to ask, but it was something he needed to know. "Moondancer, do you think this pregnancy is dangerous?"

The unicorn gave a tinny sigh. "All pregnancies are a risk. Giving birth is a risk. Living is a risk."

He groaned. "That didn't help."

"She won't die. Not while I'm around. You forget I have state-of-the-art equipment and I am a genius scientist in the body of a robot."

"Uh... Okay." He gave her a half-grin.

His cheek rubbed against the other pegasus'. It had a few scratches from battling those raiders the day before. Redd wished she hadn't just went into it without him. He would have made sure no harm had come to her.

I should have stayed by your side. I shouldn't have took my eyes off you for one moment.

The door to the lab slammed open. Fleece ran in, distraught. "We have a situation! Blight's army has attacked and she is making her way towards the Beacon! A few of the Coven have broken into the clinic!"

Redd's blood ran cold. He quickly turned to leave, but stopped himself. He had to stay with Sia. Gunfire could be heard at the far end of the tunnel.

"There's three of them!"

"Violet, Nico, get down there!" Redd shouted. "They won't get in here."

The two ponies quickly charged out, Nico's rifle already firing off shots.

Redd faced the door, daring any of them to get in. The energy weapons at his sides buzzed to life.

"If you destroy my lab, I will kill every one of you." Moondancer said. She fiddled with the I.V. "The transfusion isn't finished."

"Pepper and I will stay with her. They need you." Gale said, grabbing his shoulders.

He looked back, worried. "I-I don't know..." He growled. "Gale, how big is her army?"

She looked down. "My coven had a few hundred ponies."

Redd gawked at her. "Shit. Shit, okay."

"I'll go with you." Mixer told him.

Redd nodded, flapping his tired wings and following after the others. Mixer joined him in the air.

Outside, was utter chaos. There were so many running and flying through the streets, Redd had a hard time seeing the ground. Bullets flew through the air. Grenades exploded, making dirt rain down around them. A couple of houses were already in pieces. When Blight moves, she moves. Luckily the Coven was easy to tell part from everyone else. Dark colored robes did little to hide them in the daylight.

"YOU WILL ALL KNOW THE MEANING OF BLIGHT!!" A booming voice echoed through the town.

Redd saw her. He wished he wouldn't have. The silver body of what looked like a spider and tractor mix was riddled with leg-like appendages. The huge machine slammed each leg down, almost crushing civilians and Coven, alike. Different weapons protruded from its sides. A missile launcher made its presence known as she launched one into a nearby house. The rest of her looked just as scary. She turned the top of the thing into a computer screen, where two evil eyes scanned the town. Bullets slammed into her, to no avail. They bounced off as if they were only tiny bugs. She turned away from her path, just to fill the body that shot at her with more ammo. The poor mare didn't even look like a pony, anymore.

"TRY AGAIN!!"

Taking his attention off the giant machine, he searched for Violet in the sea of ponies and griffons. She slashed through a few robed ponies with her sword. "Violet!" He zoomed over, zapping a few of them. Two tried to ambush him from behind, but he kicked out his back legs, sending them flying. He punched one in front of him. Zapped a few more. They weren't very experienced in fighting, but Blight probably saw them as disposable. Violet impaled two smaller, cloaked mares, dropping them right in front of him.

"Tell Gladys to get her rocket launcher!" He yelled over the battle.

She saluted, cartwheeling over a cloaked stallion and slicing his throat.

Mixer bulldozed through a group of ponies, crushing one in the process. Nico and Tonno Weights fought side by side. The latter shooting a pistol. Redd bit down, again, transforming more ponies into ash. He was beginning to get overwhelmed. Five soldiers closed in, trying to disarm him. One of the unicorns ignited her horn and a magical rope snaked its way around his neck. He tried to shoot, but her hold was too strong. He grabbed at his neck, choking. Was this how he died? He expected for Blight to be the one to end him. Not just some civilian. Just before he blacked out, A storm of bullets fell from the sky, instantly killing the five around him. Redd swallowed air as he threw back his head. Two griffons with machine guns watched him. He nodded in thanks.

"PITIFUL! YOU WORTHLESS COVEN ARE AS WEAK AS YOUR OLD LEADER! IF YOU'RE GOING TO BE OF NO USE, THEN YOU SHOULD DIE, AS WELL!" Blight let missile after missile launch in the town center. That attack, alone, killed at least a hundred. Cloaks, included.

All he could do was wait for Gladys. The rifles were going to overheat if he kept this up. He flapped his wings, again, staying airborne as he fired off more energy beams. A sharp pain in his thigh almost took him down. A bullet lodged itself right in his muscle. He growled, shooting into another mass of robes. Dead bodies littered the ground. Some were townsfolk. Most were Coven. Redd's eyes burned as dust and smoke filled the air.

"Redd!" Nico called up.

The pegasus looked down to see a syringe of Med-X levitating towards him. He took it and jabbed it in his flank, no questions asked. The pain was dulled significantly.

"There's too many of them!" Nico yelled.

"I know! Gladys is getting The Fucker! We have to hold on for a while longer!" Redd replied. Two more zapped to ashes. "Sia, please don't wake up, yet. You need to stay where it's safe." He said to himself.

Luna, help us.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

My eyes flew open. I gasped for air as I sat up. The sudden movement made me dizzy. I held my head and groaned. An I.V. was inserted in my foreleg. I followed the tube to a bag that was filled about one-third of the way with blood. "What happened?" I asked nobody in particular.

Why must I always wake up in a lab or doctor's office?

Mom held my hoof. "Easy. You needed a blood transfusion. You and the foal are okay, Marshmallow."

"A blood tranfu- WHAT?! H-How did you find out?" I asked, my new blood curdling. I was amazed Moondancer managed to find a supply. I tried not to think about where it came from. Would two-hundred year old blood kill me?

She pat my hoof. "Redd didn't tell us, if that's what you're wondering. We just kind of... accidentally saw when Moondancer was checking it."

I sighed. "So, I guess you know about us, too?"

She nodded. "If it's any consolation, I like him."

I blushed. Was he still mad at me, too? "Where is he? I... need to talk to him."

Mom's face tightened. "He's outside... Sweetheart, Blight is here."

My chest squeezed my heart so fast I could barely notice, so I suddenly grabbed at it. "Sh-she's here?" I looked around. Only her, Pepper, and Moondancer were in there with me. "I have to go!"

I tried to take the I.V. out, but an aura of magic wrapped my hoof and pinned it down. Moondancer, horn lit up, appeared next to me. "Absolutely not. You need to finish this transfusion. You can wait a few minutes. You'll be useless if you're unconscious."

I hissed through my teeth. "I'm already useless! I can't sit around and let anybody die! This is my fight!"

"You'll have to!" Moondancer actually yelled at me, that time. It was surprising to hear her voice in a louder tone. "At least you're not dead! At least you're trying to heal so you can go out there! I said to wait here for a few minutes! Stop being such a drama queen!"

I didn't say anything else, I just stared at her in complete shock. What was that? "C-Can I at least get my gun and b-be ready?"

She sighed, regaining her cold composure. "You may move around. Do not leave this lab." Those words stabbed me.

I rolled off the hard table, grabbing my gun from the shelf. I inspected it, making sure it was ready to go. Then, I felt for the necklace around my neck. "Get ready, Rarity."

Minutes passed. I began to pace, chewing my wingtip. They were all out there. They were fighting a murderous machine and an army and I couldn't do anything about it. I wished I could have at least talked to Redd, first. I kicked the floor. Curse my stupid, fragile body!

"Moondancer, can we please see what's going on out there?" I asked.

Her glowing eyes rolled. "Fine." She clicked a few keys and the computer screen came to life. On it, was a security camera feed from the Beacon's roof. The blood drained from my face. There were bodies everywhere. Dead bodies. Ponies and griffons charged into hundreds of ponies wearing those familiar robes. I spotted familiar faces. The old shopkeeper, Ma, laid into a cloaked pony with her shotgun. A few bartenders, still in uniform, were trying to defend themselves with bats and machetes. I spotted Nico, Violet, and Tonno Weights shooting and stabbing through a large number of them. Where was...

There!

I hovered, getting a closer look at him. Redd was a mess. He looked exhausted. I watched him command a couple of griffons. They had The Fucker, putting it together.

"That thing is huge!" Pepper said, next to me.

I nodded. "It's gonna be our best bet."

I watched Redd disintegrate a few of the Coven. Upon closer inspection, I noticed he was already shot. I gulped. Please, please be careful, guys!

Suddenly, Redd jerked backwards, blood poured from his side as he began to descend from the air. "No!!" I screamed at the screen. He glided towards the Beacon roof and landed just to the right of the camera's view. He was still alive but, he was in bad shape. A few of the Coven who were pegasi, followed him. He zapped at them, barely able to stand. He managed to get one. Rolling to the side, he dodged more of their gunfire. Finally, one of the griffons slammed into the two remaining. I saw her almost decapitate them with her talons. I could have hugged Gladys and all the other griffons.

Redd knelt on his knees.

No, get up!

"Moondancer, take it out!" I grabbed her.

"Absolutely not. It's at eighty percent-"

"Now! Please!" I begged her.

She eyed me. Finally, she sighed, removing the tape and pulling out the tube. "Don't. Die."

I flapped my wings, ignoring the slight dizziness. Tears streaked down my cheeks.

Three bodies were on the floor of the tunnels. I grit my teeth.

Maybe, they had families.

I shook my head. No! I can't do this, right now!

I flew at the speed of light, racing through the tunnel and through Fleece's clinic. I burst through the door and zoomed as high in the sky as I could. It was worse to see in person. Death was everywhere. Bullets, fire, and explosions were everywhere. Right in the middle of it all, was Blight. The machine she possessed was enough to scare anyone. She was slowly making her way towards the Beacon. Why did she even want to take it? She couldn't even fit through the double doors!

Wait... The radio. She wants control of the frequency!

I dodged flying debris and blood spatter, heading towards the roof. I couldn't let her see me. My heart pounded and my chest crawled. I thought my throat would close. I couldn't breathe, but I flew anyway. This was life or death.

This would be the biggest panic attack I would ever have.

Level Up!

S - 5
P - 6
E - 7
C - 4
I - 6 (+1)
A - 4
L - 5

New Perk!
Over the Moon - Hanging out with Moondancer has increased your Intelligence +1.

Author's Note

Thanks to Kkat for this amazing world!
As always, error spotting/ constructive criticism is always welcome!
Stay safe!

-AP