Iron and Blood: We Dear Sisters

“Well, are you going to walk with me or not?” Diamond stared at his newly bought slave. Pinkie kept her eyes on the three-story house. Its brick façade made its structure an imposing sight to behold. “What are you afraid of?” He pondered staring at her, studying her trembling blue eyes. Getting no response, he tugged on her collar with a gentle yank of her leash.

Pinkie lost her footing for a split second. But she quickly regained it as she followed her master up the granite steps that lead to the house’s double mahogany constructed doors.

Entering the home, Pinkie found herself in a grand lobby. She stared at the white marble tiled flooring and saw hers and her master’s hazy reflection. Seeing bright shimmering, she looked up and studied the crystal chandelier hanging from the second story ceiling. Two grand staircases curved their way up to a balcony made of oak and stained a red mahogany. Feeling the warm rays of the sun hitting her back, she turned around and saw the sun peaking through the clouds through the arch bay window above the front doors.

Diamond allowed a smirk to form on his lips at her expression. “Impressive, isn’t it?”

Pinkie looked up at her master and gave a slight nod. “Yes….” She replied weakly as she stared at her hooves. A rather large lump began to form in her throat as she stared at the leash. Diamond took out a bell from his coat’s inner chest pocket. Hearing the soft ringing of the bell, Pinkie looked at it, watching the clapper swinging side to side.

Hoofsteps echoed into the lobby. Pinkie’s ears stood erect as she turned her attention to the door on her right under the stairs. The door opened revealing a twenty-two-year-old earth pony mare. She wore an ivory-white long sleeved polo gown and a red wool sleeveless jacket. A black collar with red rubies hung around her neck. Her yellow mane and tail were cut short like Pinkie’s and her white fur looked like polished marble in the light.

“Won’t you be a dear and take her to the slave quarters. I want her bathed and dressed in this nightgown.” Diamond handed her the nightgown and collar he picked up on his way home. “After her bath, introduce her to the others. Give her the tour of the place and by that time the seamstress should be by to take her measurements for her outfit.” He gave Pinkie a quick glance before looking at the mare with a flirtatious smile. “Understood?” He rubbed her cheeks.

The mare blushed. “Yes, master.”

Pinkie raised her brow at their mannerisms. She was slightly confused. Every interaction she seen between unicorns and earth ponies was negative up to this point. Why was he being so nice? Then her mind drifted to Scarlet. Watching her master stroking her chin, reminded her of Scarlet doing the same. ‘Oh…’ Pinkie shivered as she watched the mare rub her cheek in his hand.

The mare pulled from her embrace and looked at Pinkie and gave her a smile. “Come slave, she took her leash from Diamond’s hand and tugged on it. Pinkie let out a little squeak and frowned at the mare as she followed her through the door and down the hall. Diamond watched as they walked down the hall with a dull stare. Seeing them turn the corner he let out a sigh and walked up the stairs.

Getting to the door at the end of the hall, the mare opened it and guided Pinkie inside. Stepping into the room, Pinkie studied the cramped space. The room was only twenty-five-feet long and fifteen-feet wide. Four hopper windows were the only source of natural light. The other source were six bright white halogen bulbs humming a dull mind-numbing tune.

At least the birch flooring and white painted walls made the space somewhat inviting given the circumstances that Pinkie found herself in. And there were beds. Six beds. Six comfy looking beds. Simple twin beds with black box-spring covers, white fitted sheets, flat white sheets, and white down pillows and comforters.

“Well, this is our room.” The mare spoke leaning against the door. “At the end of the room is the door leading to the restroom with a bathtub and three toilets. We are only allowed to use this restroom.” She gave Pinkie a stern glare to get the point across. Pinkie returned the glare. The mare huffed. “So, we’re playing this game?” Pinkie kept silent. The mare rolled her eyes. “Look, acting like this will guarantee the whipping post.”

Pinkie’s ears fell flat. “Whipping post?”

The mare gave a little smile. “Yes, the whipping post out back. Master only uses it when he has to. Keep your attitude up and you might need it.”

Memories of her time at the camp. Scarlet whipping her constantly. She felt her stomach began to twist itself into a knot.

Seeing her start to clam up. The mare softened her posture and kneeled down. “Hey.” She placed a hand under Pinkie’s chin. “As long as you follow Master’s rules, you’ll be fine. He’s a gentle master as long as you don’t upset him, he lets us be.”

Pinkie let out a shutter as she stared at the mare. “I don’t want to be here!” She felt her eyes began to water. “I want my sisters!”

The mare’s expression soured as she stood up. “You’re going to have to get over it!” She crossed her arms. “Your past life is but a memory. A memory that needs to be forgotten. This is your new life. This is your new home. You’re going to have learn to accept it or make it a living hell for yourself.” She grabbed Pinkie’s leather collar and dragged her to the bathroom. “Now wash up before I call master!”

Pinkie stood in front of the mirror studying her black collar adorned with Blue Lance Agate stones. The silver buckle that secured it snugly around her neck was polished to perfection. The blue stones shimmered in the light. The black leather of the collar contrasted nicely with her pink fur. She turned her attention to her nightgown. It was an off-white color. The skirt of the gown went just past her knees.

Finding her behavior amusing, the mare gave a hum as she walked up to a hamper and threw Pinkie’s used bath towel in it. Taking her old slave outfit, she threw it in the trash. “You look ten times better, but we still need to do your mane.” She motioned to her to follow.

Pinkie turned around and stared at the mare for a few seconds before following her back into the bathroom. “Why do we need to do my mane? The slave traders already did it.”

“Well, they did a terrible job.” She pulled up a stool and commanded Pinkie to sit.

Pinkie sat on the stool and stared at the mirror with a heaviness that could’ve shattered it. She stared at her collar studying the stones. She then looked at the mare’s collar and studied her stones. “What does the stones on our collars mean?”

The mare raised her brow as she brushed Pinkie’s mane. “Um, the stones on our collars show what status of slave we are. She tapped one of the stones on Pinkie’s collar. “Your stones tell others that you’re a house slave. Your job is cleaning and cooking.”

“What job does the color red stand for?” Pinkie looked at the mare through the mirror.

The mare swallowed a lump in her throat as she tried to come up with a response. “Um, I’m a house slave, but I have other responsibilities.” Pinkie stared at the mare’s flustered face with a questioning gaze. Frowning at the mare she looked down at her lap. The mare looked at the solemn filly and let out a sigh. “I’ll tell you when you’re older.”

“I’m almost of age.” Pinkie stated bluntly. “I’m also not dumb.”

The mare tilted her head as she stared at her with a flat expression. “You are?” She hummed to herself. “You look young. How old are you?”

“I’m eleven…” Pinkie stated flatly.

The mare looked at her handy work. “You have three more years until you’re of age under Earthen law, but now you’re under Unicorpian law, and the law states that you’re of age when you’re eighteen.” She smiled at Pinkie. “I can tell you’re smart though, but I’m not going to give you the details.”

Pinkie just glared at the mare. “I know what it’s like…” Her thoughts drifted to Scarlet.

The mare stared at the filly through the mirror. Her words sent a small shiver through her body. The mare’s own memories drifted to the surface. She remembered when Diamond took her virginity. She was fourteen. She let out a sigh as she pushed the memory to the back of her mind. “Look… Let’s not talk about it. You have no need to be concerned, you’re just a simple house slave.”

Pinkie stared at the mare, letting out a sigh she looked down at her lap. “Fine…”

The mare rolled her eyes. “Look, just follow orders and all will be fine.” Finished with her work she patted Pinkie’s shoulder. “Now we have a busy day today, so let’s go meet the others.” She waved for her to follow.

Pinkie stood under the doorway and stared at the mare with a stern glare. The mare sensed that she wasn’t following and turned around. “What?” She huffed.

“I never got your name?” Pinkie stated bluntly.

The mare rolled her eyes. “My name is Poppy.” She let a small smirk adore her lips. “You never told me yours.”

“My name is Pinkie.” She stated as she played with her tail.

“Now introductions are done, let’s go, shall we?” She growled as she held open the door for Pinkie. Pinkie lowered her head slightly as she walked out of the room. Walking down the hall. Pinkie kept her eyes on the dark hardwood flooring. Her hooves made soft clopping as she walked. She crossed her arms as she stared at her fuzzy reflection.

Poppy stared at the filly’s solemn expression. Letting out a sigh, she placed her hand on Pinkie’s head and rand her fingers through her mane. She felt Pinkie shiver at her touch. “Look I know you don’t want to be here, but it’s for the best.” She looked out the window and eyed the backyard. “This is the future for the earth pony race. It’s only natural for us to be subservient to a more evolved kind of our species.”

Pinkie looked at the mare with judging eyes. “But that’s not what God tells us.” She bit her inner cheek.

“God does not exist.” Poopy said harshly. “We evolved over millions of years. And now the Unicorns and Pegasi are correcting the pecking order. Righting the wrongs of our world.” Pinkie just glared at the mare. “You’ll learn your place.” She gave her a sly smirk. “Or master will whip you into shape.” She opened a door. “Let’s go say hi to the others. They’re out back.” She motioned her to step outside first.

Pinkie took her offer as a command and a threat. She fought the lump in her throat as she stepped onto the grassy field of the backyard. The backyard itself was about ten acres of flowing grass which made about sixty-five percent of the backyard’s composition. The rest of the backyard contained a large warehouse, and a small two-acre variety garden of fruits and vegetables.

“Master likes growing his own produce. Saves money and there is nothing like fresh fruit.” Poppy stated as she saw an earth pony colt working the garden. “And the colt over there is Copper.”

Pinkie looked at where she was pointing and saw the colt in question. He was a fourteen-year-old colt who was rather tall for his age. His blonde mane and tail were wavey. His green eyes held so much emotion that she thought they would burst. His light reddish-brown fur coat was slightly curly like his mane and tail. He was busy with his work and didn’t notice them.

“Go say hi.” Poppy patted Pinkie on the back.

Pinkie let out a little sigh as she wandered up to the colt. Still the colt continued with his work preening the dead limbs of a Myer’s lemon bush. Pinkie tilted her head. Either he was oblivious to the world around him or he was hard of hearing…. Or both. “Um. Hi.”

Copper jumped as he looked up at her. Those bright green eyes of his studied her thin frame and her straight magenta mane and tail. He locked eyes with her. Those bright blue eyes of hers sent shivers down his spine. Not shivers of fear, but shiver of delight. Happiness. “Uh, hi.” He gave her a wave.

Pinkie returned the wave. “Hello….” She put her hands behind her back. “My name is Pinkie.”

“Uh,” He stood up quickly. “My name is Copper….” He saw his hands were covered in dried mud. He quickly patted his hands against his jeans and gave her his hand.

Pinkie felt her cheeks get hot as she took his hand. She let out a little giggle as she shook it. “Hello Copper.” She looked at the garden. “You work the garden?”

Copper nodded. “Yeah.” He put his hands on his hips. “Master bought me two years ago. I’ve been working the garden and cooking with Poppy ever since.” He pointed at Poppy and gave her a small nod of his head. “I take it you’re new?” He gave her a sheepish smile. “Well, it’s obvious you’re new.”

Pinkie’s smile left as she played with her tail. “Yeah….”

Copper tilted his head. “Well welcome to your new home.” He placed a hand under her chin and lifted her head. “Master is kind as long as you’re on his good side.” He gave her a smile.

Pinkie forced herself to smile as she nodded his head. He glanced back at Poppy and saw her waving to her. Pinkie looked back at Copper and gave him a little wave. He waved back and got back on his knees.

Getting back to Poppy’s side Pinkie followed after her as she eyed the twelve-foot-high fence lining the property. Frowning at its imposing stature, she let out a sigh as she crossed her arms.

Getting to the warehouse, Poppy peaked her head in and saw two stallions working on one of Master’s automobiles. “Hello?” She called out as she guided Pinkie into the warehouse. The stallions looked up from their work and noticed Pinkie. “Pinkie, this is Usip and Jasper.” Poppy hummed as she pointed at the stallions. “Usip and Jasper, this is Pinkie.” She pointed at the pink filly.

Pinkie studied the stallions. Usip was an earth pony in his mid-thirties. His black fur shimmered in the light. His white mane and tail were cut short like hers. He wore blue jeans and a white shirt. Jasper was a cream-colored earth pony in his late fifties. His bright blue eyes slightly unnerved Pinkie. But his posture seemed like the calm and collected type.

“Master bought himself a filly Usip!” Jasper shouted as he laid on a mechanic’s creep.

“He sure has.” Usip replied dully as he studied her appearance. Pinkie played with her tail as she stared back at the stallion’s blue eyes.

“Hey how much do you wanna bet he bought her to be his young concubine?” Jasper laughed at his own statement.

“Jasper!” Poppy hissed. “Watch your foul language!” She stood over him. “Look at her collar!” Jasper looked at Pinkie’s collar and gave a shrug. “She’s a common house slave.” She growled.

“Like that means anything!” Jasper growled back as he stood up, getting in her face. “And I don’t doubt you know exactly what I mean.” He glared at her collar. “Ungodly mare!” He hissed as he walked to the back of the warehouse to a tool cupboard.

Poppy glared at him as she crossed her arms.

“Ignore him, he’s too religious for his own good.” Usip heard the stallion curse under his breath. “Or so he thinks.” He looks at Pinkie. “Has she met Copper?”

Poppy smiled. “Oh yes.” She ran her fingers through Pinkie’s mane. “I think she likes him.” Pinkie blushed and glared at the mare.

Usip laughed. “Oh, young love.” He knelt down to be eye level with Pinkie. “Listen here little missy, let me give you a word of advice.” Pinkie looked at the stallion. His gaze became intense, very authoritative to the point she only felt comfortable if she played with her tail. “I’m sure you are aware that Poppy told you Master can be kind. But he has a temper and if you break his rules, he won’t hesitate to take you to the whipping post right over there.” He pointed at a pole a few yards from the warehouse.

Pinkie stared at the six-foot-tall, two and a half feet in diameter pole sticking out of the ground surround by a three foot in diameter circle of course dirt. A shiver ran down her spine as memories of her time at the camp came flooding back into her mind. She could imagine the whip striking her back, the cold tone laughs of Scarlet enjoying her pain….

Usip let out a sigh. “I can see you understand.” He scratched the back of his head. “Were you whipped before? Old master or the camps?”

Pinkie swallowed a lump as she teared her eyes from the pole. “The camps….”

Usip gave her a small smile. “Stay on Master’s good side and everything will be just fine.” He looked at Poppy. “So, what does Master have planned for her?”

“He wants her to clean the house along with me.” She patted Pinkie on the head. “But first we must get an outfit made for you.” She eyed the time on the clock within the warehouse. “She should be here, let’s get going.”

Pinkie stood in the guest lounge whose window overlooked the front yard of the mansion. Pinkie studied the dark crimson painted walls, the bright white ceiling trim and baseboards. The fireplace behind her was made of a bright white marble with specks of red sprinkled throughout.

Pinkie turned her attention from the décor of the guest lounge to the seamstress who stood over her bag. She was a unicorn with a light tan fur and black mane and tail. Her outfit was a simple red dress and a black wool jacket. She turned around a gave her a small smile. “Let me just take some measurements.”

She sat in a chair and started taking Pinkie’s measurements. Pinkie blushed as the mare worked. She never had anything done to her like this. It felt strange, but a part of her liked the feeling of someone taking the time to make a dress just for her.

Diamond stood by the door and watched the mare work. He saw Pinkie’s blushed smile. He couldn’t help but let a small smirk adore his lips. He found her demeanor amusing. “How much will it cost to have three outfits made?” He asked as he watched the seamstress measure Pinkie’s waist.

“I say about two-hundred bits.” The mare moved to her arms. “Supplies are hard to come by for the colors you picked.” Finished with her measurements the mare pulled out a notepad and wrote down some numbers.

“I don’t mind paying.” He stared at Pinkie as she watched the mare scribble in her notepad. “I want my slaves to match.” Pinkie stared at him and tilted her head glancing at him with a raised brow. He found this quite amusing and raised his brow in return. Something about his gaze made her feel uncomfortable. Pinkie could only look down at her hooves.

“I understand.” The mare put her tools away before pulling out a folder. “Which dresses did you have in mind?” She stood up and as she handed him the folder.

Diamond took the folder and skimmed through the different styles. Seeing one that caught his fancy, he looked up and pictured Pinkie in the dress. A smile crept onto his lips. She would look stunning, a dress highlighting her delicate features. She was going to be a fine-looking mare when she got older, he thought. Pinkie felt her Master’s gaze was still on her. She shivered as she tried to hide her face behind her bangs. He bit his inner cheek as he circled the dress with a pen. “I think I’ll go with that one.”

The mare looked at his choice and gave a smile as she looked at Pinkie as well. “That will fit her perfectly.”

Diamond smiled as he walked the seamstress out the door. Shutting the door, he turned around and saw Pinkie staring at him with judging eyes. He gave a little huff of amusement as he completely turned around to face her. “What is it little one?”

Pinkie felt her throat tighten up. His posture and tone of voice was intimidating. Nervous she began to fidget with her fingers. “I…. uh….”

Diamond crossed his arms. “If you’re wondering what to do next, you’re going to mop the floors with Poppy.” He activated his magic and grabbed her collar. “I don’t expect you to know all the rules just yet, but you better learn quick little one.” He told her as he pulled her by the collar.

Pinkie let out little huffs of frustration as she tried to keep up with his pace.

Looking back at Pinkie he stopped and let go of her collar. “Understood?”

Pinkie looked up at her Master as she played with her collar. She felt her throat tighten up once more as she stared into his gold-colored eyes. “Y-Yes Master….”

“Good, now go to your slave quarters. Poppy is waiting for you.” He snapped his fingers. Pinkie shivered as she ran down the hall. Seeing her turn the corner Diamond let out a long sigh as he ascended the stairs.

Pinkie grumbled as she pushed the mop across the marble floor. The large glass windows that spanned from floor to ceiling allowed the afternoon sun to shine in the spacious living room. But even though the room allowed for a large amount of light, the warmth of the sun failed to enter the room. It didn’t help that the windows faced the backyard, the back of the mansion never received direct sunlight. A chill sat heavy in the room. Pinkie shivered as she felt the cold splash of water on her legs when she dunked the mop into its bucket.

Poppy leaned against the archway that led to the living room from the grand lobby. She watched Pinkie as she swung the mop side to side. The lemony pine smell of the cleaner sent a shiver of delight down her spine. She let out a sigh as she smiled at Pinkie’s dull expression.

The front door opened, A unicorn mare and her daughter stepped into the home. Setting down her bags, the mare took off her sunglasses and shut the door. Noticing that Poppy was just standing at the door. She sighed as she walked up to her slave with her daughter by her side. “Poppy why are you just standing there? You should be working.”

Poppy turned around and gave the mare a bow. “I am working Mrs. Holly.” She pointed at Pinkie. Master has bought a new slave.” She smiled. “I’m making sure she does her work properly.”

Holly and her daughter peaked into the room. They saw Pinkie moving the mop across the floor. They noticed her defeated posture as she stared at the ground with dull eyes.

Feeling their gaze, Pinkie looked up from her work and saw Holly and her daughter staring at her. Holly was a forty-year-old unicorn mare. Her fur color was a light peach and her fur a silvery white. Her hazel eyes held a lot of kindness within, yet they told her that she could show authority when need be. Holly’s daughter looked to be fifteen. Her fur was a dull greyish white and her mane was black and straight like Pinkie’s. Her hazel-gold-colored eyes studied her with an air of curiosity rather than contempt.

“I didn’t know my husband bought a slave?” Holly mumbled to herself. “Poppy?” She looked at her slave. “Do you know where my husband may be?”

Poppy bowed her head. “Yes, he’s in his personal office.”

Diamond sat at his desk as he mulled over his locomotive business’s finances. He let out a drawn-out sigh as he took a sip of his bourbon. He rubbed his brow just below his horn as he leaned back in his chair and sipped his bourbon once more. “Damn it….” He picked up one of the sheets of paper from his desk and read it over once more. “I’m going to need a lot of financing.” The paper was a letter from the King asking for ten new state of the art steam trains for the Royal Logistics Division. The trains had to be cable of hauling several six-ton landships. Basically, they looked like a putter-wagon if you gave it treads, a twenty-millimeter cannon, and tons of armor and threw it on to the battlefield in hopes of breaking the trenches that covered the front.

Taking a larger sip of his bourbon, Diamond looked out his Palladian window. He eyed his fence line hugging the base of the mountainside. He saw Copper watering the garden with a hose. He looked to his left and saw Usip and Jasper washing his V-6 Dagger putter-car. Its shiny appearance brought a smile to his lips, but it didn’t last as he looked up and saw a large airship flying slowly towards Canterlot. He growled at the blimp as he finished his glass of bourbon.

He thought back to their inception, their maiden voyage.

The first airship was a simple design. Built when he was just a colt, no more than five years old. It was built in the norther human nation state of Capricorn. Its envelope was only a hundred yards long and fifty-yards in circumference, and its cabin could only house four.

For a while many nations looked at the machines as a novelty, an expensive and dangerous one. Many early models had a tendency to explode into flames when they landed. But after some top feline scientists of the Cattentery Aeronautics division made some improvements, many nations began adopting them.

With the improvements the airships’ proved themselves to be capable transport vehicles for military and civilian personnel. They were also capable of being used as central bombardment units for the battlefield.

Flying artillery.

Diamond rubbed his brow as he refilled his glass. He looked at the blimp as it flew over his house. At least the airships’ cargo capacity was small. Trains were still needed for heavier loads. “And it better stay that way for a long time….” He mumbled to himself as he drank a large swig of his booze.

Hearing a knock on the door, Diamond turned his attention to it. “Come in!” The door opened revealing his wife. “Oh, hello dear what is it that you need?”

“Oh, nothing….” Holly mummed to herself as she stepped into the room. She took her seat across from him in one of the Victorian styled, red velvet chairs. “So….” She leaned against her seat. “I heard from your concubine that you bought another slave.” She frowned. “Without asking me first.”

Diamond let out a sigh as he took a sip of his drink. “Holly, please.” He finished his drink and poured himself some more bourbon.

“Please?” Holly crossed her arms. “Don’t tell me that slave is the reason why you fired our maids?”

“They were charging too many bits for a lousy job.” He leaned back in his chair. “I know I bought a young slave, but with the right teaching she’ll fall in line quickly.” He swirled the contents in his glass around. “I know she’ll be worth the bits.”

Holly stared at his glass and quickly looked at the large twenty-ounce bottle. She saw that it was a third of the way full. “I…” She placed her hands in her lap. “I hope in the future you keep her as a house slave.”

Diamond gave his wife a raised brow as he sipped his glass. “I plan on it.” He set down his glass. “I only want one concubine….” He looked out the window. “And besides, she’s too young anyways.” He looked at his wife. “But I do find your question wanting?”

Holly looked down at her lap. “I just want to make sure.”

“Dear, you are my true love. That’s why I married you, gave you children. But We cannot deny our biology, our evolution. Stallions are not meant to only have one mating partner, same goes for mares.” He picked up his glass once more and took a sip. “At least we have something in common with bat ponies.”

Holly looked away as she let out a sigh. “I do not wish to have another stallion in my life.”

Diamond rolled his eyes. “Don’t be like humans, foxes…. Earth ponies!”

Holly gave her husband a dull stare. “I will not. I’m proud to be a unicorn.” She stood up. “I’m so blessed that I'm under the rule of our king.” She placed a hand on her husband’s shoulder. “I’ll introduce myself to our new slave.” She walked to the door. “What meal do you want Copper to fix us tonight?”

“Let’s have cabbage stew.” He looked out the window at the swaying trees. “It’s going to be a cold night tonight.”

Pinkie looked out the window on the right side of the second story balcony that over looked the main lobby. She watched as the sun slowly dip behind the horizon. Letting out a shallow breath she picked up her can of wood polisher and sprayed the top of the large dresser that sat under the window.

Poppy was behind her as she swept the hardwood floors. The fine bristles softly scratched against the floor as she pushed the dust into the dustpan. She hummed a soft tune as she worked. Even though Pinkie found her to be a little rude. She found Poppy’s singing calming. As long as she was singing, she wasn’t able to constantly correct her on every little thing.

Dragging her rag across the top of the dresser, she stopped and picked up a picture frame. She looked at the photo and saw her Master and his wife and their two children standing by a statue somewhere in Unicorpia. Pinkie stared at their happy faces. A tight sensation formed in her chest. ‘They looked so happy…. Like my family did….”

“Hello dear.”

Pinkie put the photo close to her chest as she whipped her head around. She looked up and saw Holly standing behind her with her arms crossed. Pinkie couldn’t read her flat and dull expression. She was just like Maud. She could hide her emotions when she wanted to and you couldn’t do a thing about it. Poppy noticed Holly and bowed. Seeing that Pinkie wasn’t bowing, she growled as she gave the filly a harsh glare. “Bow!”

“It’s alright Poppy. She’s new, she’ll have plenty of time to fall in line.” Holly commented as she kept her eyes on Pinkie. “Looking at one of our photos?” Pinkie felt her cheeks blush as she looked down at the picture once more. “You’re a shy one.” Holly smirked at Pinkie’s timid demeanor.

“No! I… I mean, I’m not shy Mistress….” Pinkie replied. “Um, you look really happy.” She handed Holly the picture.

Holly stared at the photo and looked at herself and her husband. “Yes…. Happy.” She looked over at Poppy. Poppy bowed her head and looked away with her cheek’s red as a lobster. Holly let out a small huff as she returned her attention back to Pinkie. “What’s your name?”

“Um, my name is Pinkie.” Pinkie softly spoke as she put her hands behind her back.

“That’s an interesting name.” Holly smiled. “My name is Holly.” She put her hand under Pinkie’s chin and kept her head’s posture pointing at her. “I don’t want to be called mistress, understand?”

Pinkie felt a chill run throughout her body. It wasn’t an unpleasant chill, but it wasn’t a chill of delight either. “Yes, Holly.”

Holly smiled as she stroked her cheek. “Oh, Poppy.” She turned around and walked up to the young mare. “I want Pinkie to help Copper prepare our meals from now on.” She placed her hand on her shoulder and gave it a little squeeze. Poppy squirmed under her touch. “He’ll teach her everything, so you won’t have to.” Holly let go of Poppy’s shoulder and gave her a sly smile. “I plan on giving you and Usip another task to do during supper, understand?” Poppy gave her a small nod of acknowledgement, but her eyes screamed out in anger. Holly ignored her glare and looked back at Pinkie. “See you during supper.”

Pinkie poked her head out and stared at Diamond and his family as they sat around the dining table. The dining room’s walls were painted a light cream color. The hard wood flooring was stained a dark cherry red. The table was a dark stained oak table with intricate carved legs.

Diamond sat at the head of the table on Pinkie’s right. Holly sat at the other end of the table. Their daughter sat in the middle. Feeling someone’s gaze, their daughter looked up from her book and stared at Pinkie. Pinkie felt her body tense up. Unsure of what to do, she gave her a small wave in hopes that it would ease tensions. The daughter smiled as she returned the wave.

Seeing his daughter wave from the corner of his eye. Diamond looked at her with a raised brow. “Ashlyn, what are you doing?”

Ashlyn dropped her wave and lowered her head. “Um, our new slave was staring at me.”

Diamond turned his head to his left and saw Pinkie standing under the archway. Frowning he snapped his fingers and pointed at her. Pinkie shivered as she ducked back into the kitchen. Holly looked at her husband and let out a sigh.

Pinkie felt her heart pound against her chest. Swallowing her nervousness away, she walked up to Copper who was standing over the stove. Feeling Pinkie’s presence, Copper looked down at the filly from his stool and smiled. “Master is not too angry. But I wouldn’t do that again.”

“Understood….” She looked back at the archway. “Um…. Where is their son?”

Copper tilted his head. “Didn’t Poppy tell you?”

Pinkie shook her head. “She was too eager to put me to work.”

Copper shook his head. “Typical of her.” He stirred the contents within the pot. “Their son is fighting in the war.” He let out a sigh as he enjoyed the steam washing over his face. “Another unicorn fighting for their cause.”

Pinkie stared at Copper. “What are they fighting for?”

Copper stared at her, confusion on his face. “Really?” Pinkie just shrugged her shoulders. “Your parents never told you anything about the war?”

“No….” Pinkie played with her mane. “I lived in Ashmore…. We didn’t have to worry much about the war and to be honest I didn’t care. I was in my own little world.” She stared at her hooves. She felt her emotions working their way to the surface.

Copper sighed as he looked down at the floor. “Damn… They made it all the way to Ashmore?” He jumped off the stool and stood in front of Pinkie. He studied her defeated posture. “Hey,” He placed his hand under her chin and lifted her head. “I understand, I had the same mindset. But I was unlucky. Flint Heights was right on the boarder.” He stared into her eyes. His smile left as he let go of her chin. “I’ve been a slave for four years now…”

Pinkie stared at the colt and sighed as she grabbed his hand. “I’m sorry.”

Copper gave her a smile. “It’s alright.” He squeezed her hand. “How long have you been a slave?”

“Barley a year.” She said bluntly.

He frowned as he rubbed the back of her hand with his thumb. “The unicorns of Unicorpia are fighting for dominance over the earth pony nations. They believe that we’re an inferior race and that they must tame the wild animals that we are.”

Pinkie’s ear folded against her head. “But God says we are all his creatures.”

“They don’t believe in God.” Copper huffed as he got back on the stool. Seeing that the stew was done, he turned off the burner. “We’ll talk about this later. Can you just get the bowls over there?”

Pinkie looked at where he was pointing and walked up to the cupboard. Pulling out three bowls she set them on the island. Copper lifted the pot off the stove and set it on the island. Taking out a ladle, he filled bowls. “Grab that tray over there.” Pinkie did what she was told. Copper placed the bowls on the tray and gave her a little bow.

Pinkie giggled at his manners.

“Do you know what to do?” He asked.

“Take the tray to them and serve them.” She sighed. “Yeah, I do….”

He smiled as he walked over to a cupboard and pulled out five worn bowls. “I know you got this.” He gave her a smile. “I’ll prepare our bowls.”

Pinkie tilted her head. “We’re allowed to eat this?’ She gently lifted the tray.

Copper smiled. “Yeah, Master hates wasting things.”

Pinkie looked at the tray of bowls and let out another sigh. “Welp, here I go.”

He placed a hand on her shoulder. “You’ll get used to it.”

Pinkie stared at her hooves. “That’s what I’m afraid of….” She picked up the tray and walked into the dining room.

Stepping out of the kitchen, Pinkie walked over to her Master and handed him his bowl. She moved onto Ashlyn and then to Holly. Holly took her bowl and gave Pinkie a smile. “You’re doing well for your first night.” She looked at the table. “Did a wonderful job setting the table.” She scooped up a spoonful of her meal. “Wait over their by the table cabinet.” Pinkie gave a small bow before stepping away from the table.

Diamond stared at Pinkie. He saw her keeping her eyes to the floor, trying to avoid any awkward eye contact. “Why are you being kind?”

Holly added some pepper to her stew. “She seems timid.” She looked up at her husband. “She’s going to need a lot of work.”

Diamond rolled his eyes as he dipped his bread in the stew’s broth. “I’d prefer that she remain timid.” He chewed before continuing. “She needs to learn the pecking order.”

Holly chewed her cheek. “She’s still a pony.”

“A ferial pony.” Diamond looked at his daughter. “Don’t you agree?” Ashlyn looked at her father and just shrugged her shoulders.

Pinkie listened in on the family’s conversation. She glanced up at Holly. She felt a light feeling in her chest. A thought crossed her mind that maybe she was different from the other Unicorns she’s encountered. It was a distant hope, but a hope that she enjoyed thinking about none the less.

“So, you would rather treat them like trash.” Holly huffed. “If you want a nervous wreck of a slave then go for it.”

Diamond let out a huff. “I don’t mind showing some affection for our slaves.” He took a bite of his stew. “But we still need to show force, who is the alpha within this home…. It’s how their society works.” He looked into his bow. “Can we not talk about politics, had enough of that this morning.”

Holly played wither meal. “I agree.” She looked at her daughter and studied her hunched posture. “How’s school been for you sweat heart?”

Ashlyn looked at her mother. “It’s been going well. Our teacher is going to take us to downtown Canterlot to the Deco Art Museum.”

“That sounds exciting.” Her father hummed.

“Yeah.” Ashlyn sipped her broth. “It shall be interesting.”

“I’m glad you’re looking forward to it.” Holly hummed as she broke a piece of her bread. “Now our son needs to come home, spend some time with his family….”

“His last letter he wrote said he should be getting leave for the holidays.” Diamond hummed as he thought of his son.

“I hope this war is over soon. I don’t need my son to die for a pointless cause.”

Diamond stared at his wife as he slowly chewed his meal. Swallowing he looked down at his bow and just shoved another bite into his mouth.

Pinkie looked at Holly and Diamond. The smell of the stew reached her snout. She felt her stomach growl causing her to lick her lips as her hunger grew by the minute.

Pinkie sat on her bed as she hungrily consumed her meal. The other slaves looked at her with mixed emotions ranging from concern to pure wonder. “Damn, she seems to be starving.” Jasper stated as he watched her inhale her bites.

“It seems like the camp she was in just gave her the bare minimum amount of nutrients.” Usip hummed as she sipped his broth.

Copper sat on his bed opposite of Pinkie’s and watched her eat. Felling his gaze, Pinkie dropped her spoon from her lips and looked up. Seeing his fiery green eyes staring into her soul, she blushed as she looked back into her bowl. Copper felt his cheeks get hot as he looked into his own bowl.

Poppy smiled at the two as she took the last few bites of her own meal. Seeing Pinkie scrapping what little she had left, Poppy swallowed her bite and let out a sigh. “You’re done little one.”

Pinkie looked up at the young mare with wide-eyes. “Can I have seconds?”

Poppy rolled her eyes. “No! Copper and you made enough for one serving for each of us. Remember?” She glared at Pinkie. Pinkie cowered under her gaze as she let her bowl rest in her lap.

Usip looked at Poppy. “Go easy on her.” He said with stern eyes.

“Why should I!” Poppy growled. “She needs to learn her place!”

“And she will!” Usip stood up as he walked up to Pinkie. “Are you finished?” Pinkie looked at her empty bowl and handed it to the stallion.

“Hey!” Poppy huffed. “She needs to put away her bowl herself!”

Usip glared at her as he set the bowls by the door. “For this night I will do it for her.” He walked up to her. His posture and tone caused Poppy to cower in her bed. He leaned over and pinched her ear. “I can see she scares you.” He whispered. “Afraid you’ll lose your status.” He stared at her collar. “If I remember you said she is a house slave.” He raised his brow. Seeing she gave him a coward’s nod, he let go of her ear and walked over to the light switch. “Let’s get to bed. We have a long day tomorrow.”