Chapter 21: Comings and Goings

“That's what the American odyssey is really about: Leaving home. Leaving home and coming home, and trying to understand the difference”. - Author: Tom Bodett

Harness Trade Depot, Hackamore Region: Ginger Snaps

As we enter the depot compound, I am walking alongside Xochitl and Trader Jewel. We follow the directions of one of the guards and as we reach the spot for the lead wagon to park, the Guard points down and brings a hoof across his neck. The first wagon stops and Trader Jewel forms the rest of his caravan in the positions it will remain until they leave for their next trip.

Once they are all stopped, we say our quick goodbyes to our friends in the caravan. As we do so I hear Clarabelle tell Cowlick, “We will let you know what it is. Ok.”

He kisses both of them and tells them, “I would really appreciate that. Be careful and I will miss you both.”

Then Gertie tells him, “Thank you for helping us with this. It really does mean a lot to us.”

He smiles back at them both and tells them, “It means a lot to me also, and so do both of you.”

I lead the rest of the team back toward the gate. As we reach it, Choo and Sunny both land. Trader Jewel approaches us and when he gets to Choo he tells her, “Choo, it has been good working with you. I should have your payment ready come morning.”

“That will be fine. Sunny and I will be back in the morning to receive it.”

He waves a hoof, “Choo, before we left, they were talking about opening a new banking system in Hackamore. I can telegraph a payment for you to the bank in Harness and they will give you your payment if that is ok.”

Choo smiles and nods her head, “Yes that would be fine. In fact, it sounds like a rather good idea. Do you know who came up with it?”

Trader Jewel shakes his head, “No, not really, but I heard it was some Griffon with the Followers. They are even talking about creating branches in Junction Town, Ten Pony Tower, and even Manesville. They would honor a paper letter signed by a bank head and would give you the caps when you present it. This would mean travelers would no longer need to carry large amounts of caps.”

To me, this sounds like a good idea overall, but I see one problem and ask, “Ok, Trader Jewel, but what if the bank on the receiving end does not have enough caps to cover the banknote?”

“Huh, I had not thought of that. But I am sure somepony who is smarter than me will figure that out.”

Choo nods her head and then tells us, “That will be fine Trader. We need to get going so that we can seek rooms for the night in Harness and then begin our trip home.”

He nods his head again, “No problem, Choo. I just wish we could have talked you into signing on permanently with our caravan.”

“Thanks, Trader, we would like that if it were closer to home. But I know I would be willing to work with all of you again. Besides, I am friends with several of you.”

He nods, “We consider you all friends too. Now you best get going.”

We are just outside of Hackamore when we are met by Tailspin wearing civilian attire.

As he approaches, he gives Tater a hug and tells him, “Good to see you again. The rest of my team will meet ya’ all later at the Flying Cow. But for now, we head to the safe house.”

While he hugs him back, Tater tells his father, “Sorry dad, but Twinks and I have plans for tonight.”

At first Tail Spin is taken back a bit then he smirks and says, “Well then, I won’t stand in your way son. But I hope we can still spend some time together.”

“I would like that too dad. Thanks for understanding.”

Tail Spin grins at him then nods towards Twinks. Finally, he says, “Ok, just follow me on over to Scrap Piles shop and we will get you settled in for the night.”

Choo from the side tells him, “That sounds fine. Oh, I would also like to go to the telegraph office in a while as I have some business there as well.”

Soon we are at the top of the steps at the back door of what I now know is Scrap Piles shop. After she answers the door, we all go inside and set our saddlebags and extra equipment down. After we have our bedrolls down, she comes up to me and Epona, “Ok sisters, how did it go?”

Epona answers before I can. “Not bad big sis, it reminded me of a longer version of our visit to Fort Hope all the years ago.”

She smiles at us and then says, “Well, if you can tell me about it, I would love to hear all about it.”

We both look at Choo and she shakes her head no. I really feel disappointed that we cannot tell her more. But I do understand. Instead, I simply place a hoof on her shoulder and tell her, “Let’s just say we really got to know the Hoof better than we ever imagined we would. That and we made some friends who we had to leave behind that we are going to miss.”

She nods her head and tells us, “I do understand. I guess that also explains that small band of ghouls who passed through a couple of months ago.”

I am really surprised to hear that, then I hear Sunny say, “Oh good. I am really glad to hear that.” He pauses and then says, “Oh, and if you see some batponies come through here, they are pretty good people.”

I notice Scrap Pile raise her eyebrow at this as she gives a slight smile, and tells him, “If you say so, never met any before myself. I will be sure to let Beach know as well.”

Choo then says, “Ok, I guess we should go get something to eat. Scrap, would you care to join us?”

I see a surprised look on Tail Spin's face but before he can say anything Scrap tells her, “I would love to Choo, but honestly, I already have dinner being readied for my family. Besides, if we want to keep this safehouse a secret, let’s limit the number of beings who see us together when you are not supposed to be in the area.”

I watch as Choo blushes in embarrassment and tells her, “Your right, I should have thought of that, I was just thinking of you more as family than as a safe house.”

“However, if you were visiting the town openly, now that would mean we could be seen together with no problem. Of course, that means you would have to find lodging elsewhere. Most people just think this is an extra store room.”

“Well, when you get back from dinner, I would love to chat.” She tells us, then she smiles and goes back into her apartment area above her shop through the door the joins them. As she goes, we overhear her say, “OK, you two. What are you up to…” which is interrupted as her tone of voice goes to near panic and she calls out, “No! get away from that stove!”

I guess we will hear the story behind that later I think and I laugh silently to myself. After all, they are that age where they are going to be trying to get their cutie marks. I shake my head, I guess being I am marrying a zony I never will have to worry about that. Without meaning to I let out a quiet sigh.

From beside me, I feel a hoof on my shoulder and I hear Epona whisper, “I know sis, but with our family’s luck maybe you can carry his.”

She and I have had this talk many times over the years. She understands. She really is my sister. Even if she was born in a different universe.

I catch myself sniffling a bit and I tell her quietly, “Thanks Sis.”

From the side I see Xochitl drop his head slightly as well as his ears shift down along his head. Next to him, I see Cowlick whisper something into his ear and then I see him smile sadly as he tells Cowlick, “Now that sounds like something to celebrate.”

Cow nods his head and smiles as he puts a hoof on Xochitl and tells him, “Yeah, I guess so.”

Soon Choo breaks the mood and tells us, “Ok, dinner is at the Flying Cow tonight. The company is buying. So, let’s get going.”

From the corner of the room, I hear Sunny ask, “Is it an open bar?”

Choo leans against the wall with one hoof on her waist. “Really Sunny, is that what really has you concerned?”

He laughs lightheartedly and tells her, “No, not really Choo, but I was just asking for all of us.”

Soon we are out the door and on our way to the best restaurant and bar in town. The fact that it is also the best bordello with the cleanest staff means nothing to most of us. But I am sure Sunny can’t wait.

As we walk down the main street on our way there, I notice Tater lightly swishing his tail and occasionally bumping into Twink’s. Finally, I see her smile as she catches it with hers and winds her tail with his. With my peripheral vision, I see Xochitl smile as well as he does the same with me.

Outside the door, we are met by Esmoorelda, who tonight is wearing a red robe with black trim and stockings. When she sees us she smiles and tells us, “It is good to see you again. Your friends are already inside waiting for you.”

“Thank you Esmoorelda," Choo tells her. "It is really good to see you again as well.”

She opens the door and waves a hoof at one of her employees inside, who trots to the door. Once the young stallion arrives, he smiles at us, flirting a bit with Epona and Choo, then he asks, “Yes ma’am, what can I do for you?”

Esmoorelda smiles at him and tells him, “These are Special guests, the rest of their party is already in the VIP room.”

He nods his head knowingly and tells us, “Follow me, the rest of your party is seated in the back.”

As we go in, I see a painting over the bar of Esmoorelda in her younger days wearing a robe, a collar with her cowbell, and nothing else. Then I pan my eyes around the bar and I see something I never expected to see. A painting of my adopted mother Sutures and my therapist Buttermilk both wearing pink teddies and gazing longingly into each other’s eyes. I give a brief shake of my head and grin as I continue on my way.

As we head to the back I see Dull Beak, one of the Battalion commanders for the 1st Regiment across the room. The brown griffon with a white head discreetly waves to us. I smile and wave a hoof back to him, as do Xochitl and Choo. He served with us during the expedition, first by being attached as a liaison officer on our then commander and later Lieutenant Mollygirl’s staff after the other officers were killed. Once we were home, he left for a bit and returned once Manesville and the Co-op had joined the NCR. After the wave, he stays in his seat and we head to the back room.

As we enter the room, I see Blackberry Pie leaning against Chip with his hoof around her. Seated at the head of the table is Tater’s father Tail Spin.

As we file in, we all take a seat at the table. The door connecting this room to the front is closed and a side door to the kitchen opens. I guess the surprise shows on my face as the stallion who led us in here stops and tells me, “For your more discrete parties, we try to keep everything on the down low. In fact, Esmoorelda said to let you know about the back door and that if your party members need to use it you may.”

Choo smiles and tells him, “Please tell Esmoorelda thank you for us. I do believe some of us may do just that.”

After our food arrives and the staff departs Blackberry asks Choo, “How did it go?”

Choo, with a serious expression on her face, responds, “Overall, it went well. We did have a few rough spots. We made a few allies and other connections there. But I am very concerned about what we saw of the Enclave while there.”

Suddenly Blackberry sits up straight. And I see her look completely serious. Chip gets up and locks the doors to the room and it is then that I notice the sound dampening on the walls. I guess this room really is for private parties. She then asks, “OK Choo, let’s hear it.”

Choo begins to give her a quick once over about the military maneuvers we observed as well as what we knew about their attempts to disrupt the Lunar Commonwealth's control of its territory. Finally, she smiles and asks, “Oh, would you like a map of Thunderhead?”

“Choo, we have plenty of maps of Thunderhead from the refugees that came to Manesville.”

This time Choo shakes her head slightly and tells her, “Oh, this is up to date as of when we left.”

I see Blackberry’s eyes go wide and both Chip and Tail Spin both sit up straight and are completely serious. Blackberry then tells us, “Choo, you should not have risked it.”

That is when Sunny speaks up and says, “It was not Choo who did it. I got in and out of there. I needed to give a message to one of our contacts who was in the Nightingale Military Hospital there.”

Tail Spin pipes up this time and asks, “Sunny, where did you hear that name from?”

“Tail, it was on the sign outside of it. I was in a pair of Volunteer Corps coveralls and just told them I was visiting my cousin who was a patient there.”

They all look at Sunny as if reappraising him. Then Blackberry says, “Well, I would have to say your mission was a success then.” After this Sunny gives them the full rundown of what he saw and passes them a copy of the map he had made, which is identical to the one we gave the Applejack’s Rangers.

After he finishes Chip gets up and unlocks the doors. He opens one of them and asks a staff member, to bring in a couple of bottles. Once we all have our cups full Blackberry raises hers and tells us, “Here is to mission success. Good work. All of you.”

We all drink to her toast and then once dinner and drinks are finished Choo tells us, “Ok, have a good night. Do not get noticed and I will see you back in our room.”

With that our groups begin to break up, heading our own ways for the evening.

*****

Hackamore, Hackamore Region NCR: Xochitl

As we get ready to leave, I overhear Tater telling Epona, “I am going to take her to that spot you told me was the Colonel’s favorite. So, if you need us, you know where to find us.”

Epona tells him, “Ok, sounds good. I will be here for a while. I saw a couple of people I want to talk to.”

He grins at her, “Yeah, I am sure. Just make sure you're careful and use an anti-conception spell ok.”

She grins back, “But of course. I am just glad Tek had an extra one he could sell me.”

He grins back, “I am too, for your sake. Have a good night and I will see you later.”

I watch as Tater and Twinks head out the back door, both smiling and holding tails. Soon I see Cowlick slide out that way as well. I look at Ginger and tell her, “What do you say we go have a pint with Dull Beak.”

She grins and tells me, “If Choo, Blackberry Pie, and Chip join us it will almost be a reunion of our old scout squad.

I smile, but inside I feel a chill as I think back to those days on the expedition. But what keeps the smile on my face from slipping is the thought of that is when I knew I wanted to marry this little mare of mine. I slip my tail into hers and she leans against me as we enter the hallway to the front of the bar area.

As we enter the main bar, I see Dull Beak wave a talon at us. Once we are seated, he asks, “First what are you having?”

The waitress takes all of our orders and leaves. Then I realize that if he buys this round all of us are obligated to buy one as well. Well, in for a bit in for a cap. Besides, we earned it.

We make small talk as we wait for our drinks. Once they arrive, Dull Beak raises his and gives a toast that I always make when we get together with the old gang. But also, one that hurts so much inside. “To lost loves and fallen comrades.”

When he makes this toast, I hear the bar around us go quiet and suddenly the toast is repeated not only by us, but by the rest of the bar, and all eyes are on our table. Choo then stands and without missing a beat says, “To Regiment!”

Again, another round of toast. And then I decide to make a toast I had not thought I ever would, “To our flag, long may she fly.”

The toast is repeated by those around us and then the bar goes back to normal. Then Dull Beak says, “It sure is good to see all of you, but what are you doing down here? I mean I heard a rumor that you guys had come through here a couple of months ago.”

Choo smiles and tells him, “Oh, we just came down to see the world a bit. So, we hired on for a bit with a caravan that visited the Hoof.”

He gives us the griffon equivalent of a smile and asks, “So how were things down there?”

This time I hear Ginger answer, “Remember how my birth mother said it was? It is a bit better, but still, not someplace I would like to call home.”

He nods his head to her. “I can only imagine what the Lunar Commonwealth is like. See anything interesting?”

We all simply shrug. Then Choo tells him, “Well, we did notice a lot of Enclave airships conducting what looked to be military maneuvers. But nothing that affected us.”

He takes on a brief serious expression then shrugs and tells us, “So nothing to get excited about yet?”

Choo shakes her head no as does Blackberry Pie next to her.

I see him look relieved and I realize he knows something is up more than what we are saying as he nods to both Choo and Blackberry Pie, who he knows along with her two partners are with the NCR Rangers. But he also does not want to out us.

We continue to drink with him and a couple of others from his staff. Finally, Sunny tells us, “I am heading back to my room. I got a couple of letters I want to write so I can send them before we leave. See you later.”

Dull Beak asks, “What was that about? What happened that changed him this much?” He pauses and then adds, “I never thought I would see the day Sunny Water would leave a place like the Flying Cow early or at least by himself.”

The others all look at me and I shrug. Then I tell him, “Honestly, I think he found a mare who could tame him. But I am not sure. He never said anything about her like he normally does.”

Then I watch as Epona gets to her hoofs with a slight wobble and says, “Well, Dull Beak, I don’t want you to be disappointed in our clan on this. So, I will take his place. Then she grins and sees the waiter from earlier, she waves at him. He blows her a kiss and I watch as she walks slowly with a slow, heavy swish of her hips and tail, which she has lifted very high on her way to him. The waitress takes our orders for our next round as I spot Epona heading upstairs with a big grin on her face.

Ginger looks at me and asks, “What? She may be well-behaved, but she still has needs and desires too.”

I hold up a forehoof and tell her, “Love, I never said anything was wrong with her going up there. I just was wondering about her and that mare at the Mega Mart.”

Ginger shakes her head, “Oh, she really likes her. I mean really likes her, but dear, they have not even kissed yet.”

“Ah,” I say when she says this, “Ok, kinda like Cowlick.”

She raises her eyebrow but says nothing.

After this Dull Beak laughs lightly and tells us, “You know you two kids even sound like an old married couple now.”

I grin at him and tell him, “I forgot you did not know, Ginger and I finally got engaged right before we left Manesville. So yeah, you can collect on those bets when you get back.”

His eyes open wide and he calls out loud, “Waitress, another round, but this time of your best cider. We have something to celebrate here.”

I know my head is going to feel rough in the morning, but honestly, we all need this to blow off some steam. Once the next round of cider arrives it is in two large jugs that have been chilled in a bucket of cold water. The drinks are poured and Dull Beak stands and calls attention to us.

He then says aloud to all in the Flying Cow,” I would like to ask all of you to join me in a toast to a young stallion and mare that I have known and fought alongside since they were youngsters on their Engagement.” He pauses and then says, “May happiness and joy follow you as husband and wife, and may you never go to bed mad at each other.”

We both smile and nod our heads to his toast. Then with everyone else in the bar, we drink his toast.

We continue to enjoy ourselves for another couple of hours, then Ginger and I excuse ourselves and find our way back toward the safe house. On the way, we take a small detour and walk past the gallows that still stand there. I remember Tater and Epona telling us about them, but seeing them up close really makes me think.

So, this is what got the Colonel? Something so simple, but filled with so much responsibility. I shake my head and I hear Ginger sigh. She then tells me, “Dear, let’s go back and get some sleep. I heard enough about this, this thing and I don’t need to spend any more time than necessary by it.”

“Ok, dearest. But somehow, I think I can understand her better now.”

She leans against me and lightly kisses me. Then we begin to head back to the room to settle in for the night.

The next morning, we awake as a group to the smell of bacon frying and the whistle of a teapot. I look toward the woodstove in the next room of the safe house and I see Scrap Pile with an apron around her waist cooking. She sees us rousting up and says, “Good, glad to see you are all awake. The foals are off to school and Beach has already headed to his office, so I figured we could enjoy some tea and a good breakfast.”

“Thanks, Sis,” Epona tells her.

“So, did you have a good time last night, Pona?” She asks.

I see her smile and blush slightly as she answers, “Yes, I really needed that. Thanks for suggesting it.”

“Oh, you’re welcome. I remember what it was like when I was still single.”

I notice Epona smiles lightly again and looks down at the floor, then she asks, “Before we leave, can I talk to you privately Scrap?”

Scrap Pile looks at Choo who nods her head and answers, “Yeah, I would really like that, Pona.”

After breakfast, we help clean up the kitchen and then finish packing our gear for the day. Scrap Pile leads Epona into her private apartment.

While Epona and Scrap are talking Choo tells us, “We will be catching the train from here to New Appleloosa, then we go on hoof back to Western Landing. Blackberry Pie and her team have already left and will set up our transportation back to Manesville from there.”

Ginger raises her hoof and asks, “Any idea what our transportation is from there?”

“Ginger, I do believe that the safest way to travel that far is by the river. So, most likely by a riverboat or barge.”

We all nod our heads at that. Then I raise a hoof and when Choo nods I ask her, “Choo, how long are we going to be in New Appleloosa?”

She shrugs and tells us, “Not long. I do not plan on being there overnight even. Sorry team.”

Shortly after this Epona returns to the room with a smile on her face. Choo then tells us, “Well, now that we are all here, let’s get moving everyone.” With that, we begin our trip back home from Hackamore.

*****

Western Landing, New Canterlot Republic: Choo Choo

I feel a bit of relief when we arrive at the town of Western Landing. I find myself smiling as I remember how none of this was even here only ten years ago when I first came through here along with the rest of the Co-op Expedition Force or the CEF as we all ended up calling it. It was here that we first met now Lieutenant Colonel Dull Beak and some of the other forces of Gawdina’s talons. So much has changed since those days.

As I approach the shipping office on the docks to secure our transport, I notice several steamboats along the riverfront. I am surprised though when I hear from the south one short and two long blasts of a steam whistle. I know this is the Water clans landing signal so I turn and look. As I do I hear Ginger say, “Looks like the Baltimare Colt is coming back from another run too.”

I nod my head, “I wonder where all they have been this time?”

Ginger shrugs, “No telling. I hear tell that they have been to Baltimare a couple of times, so maybe they are coming back from there.”

I nod my head as do Xochitl and Tater who are beside her. “Ok, wait here while I go inside and make sure Blackberry Pie has already made our arrangements like she said she would.”

They all take a seat outside with the exception of Cowlick who simply stands relaxed in the traces of our cart. I hear Twinks ask him, “Do you want me to help you untack?”

I am just getting to the door when he says, “No, not yet. I bet I would have to just put it back on it a bit anyways. But thanks for asking Twinks.”

As I go inside, I see an older-looking griffon with dark grey fur and feather wearing an eyepatch and a grumpy expression at a desk to one side. On his desk is a placard that reads, Harbor Master.

Across the room on the other side, I see a civilian unicorn stallion wearing a blue civilian uniform and glasses who has its back partially turned to the door as they look for something in a set of cubbyholes along a wall.

The unicorn turns around and I see a name badge that indicates his name is Expedited Freight, below that on his tag it says, Ticket and Shipping Agent. Ah, just the pony I need to see. As I approach, I see him turn back to the cubbyholes and he uses his TK to lift an envelope from it and sets it on the desk next to him.

I then tell him, “Good Afternoon sir, my name is Choo Choo and I was told I would have passage booked already for myself and some of my comrades.”

He smiles at me and I think he may be trying to flirt a little bit as he says, “Yes ma’am, I just got your tickets and information down.”

“How did you know it was me?” I ask.

He grins again, “I had assumed as you fit the description so well.”

He opens the envelope and reads the paperwork that is in there. “Ah yes, here we are. Nine tickets for passage booked on the Baltimare Colt. She just arrived. That was her lines landing whistle you heard a short time ago.”

I am perplexed when he says nine tickets as there are only eight members on my team. I ask him about this and he again uses his TK to hoof me a wax-sealed letter with my name on it. I use my TK to open it and begin to read.

Choo Choo,

I know you are wondering why there are nine tickets instead of eight. Sorry about that, but we forgot to tell you we have a potential recruit for you that will be traveling with you back to Manesville. He will be meeting you at the docks. His name is Double Back. Myself and the others think he might be a good addition to your field team. He comes with strong recommendations from both Milo and his brother husband Gus.

To help you recognize him, he has a coat that starts up high as dark gray and fades to white as it goes down his body. Also, his mane and tail are black.

He knows to meet you at the Colt and will be aboard before you leave.

I will see you back in Manesville.

Blackberry Pie.

I nod my head as I fold the letter back up and place it into my saddlebags. Then I take the rest of the tickets and information with me as well. “Thank you, Expedited Freight,” I tell him as I levitate a couple of caps to him for a tip.

He takes them and tips his hat to me. Then he replies, “Thank you, ma’am, have a safe trip,” as I turn and exit the office and return to the rest of my people.

Once outside I tell them, “Ok. Let’s head to the Colt. Ginger, I need to talk to you on the way there.”

I see a look of concern come over her face as she and the others get to their hooves. “No need to worry Ginger, we will talk about it on the walk to the Colt.”

As we are walking Ginger and I are in the lead. I begin to tell her about the potential new team member.

She turns her head at me and asks, “Ok, so Blackberry and her team think he may be able to help. How?”

I simply shrug and tell her, “They did not say how in the letter. Just that Milo and Gus highly recommended him.”

This time she nods her head, “Ok, I have not really gotten to meet Gus, but both Papa Archer and Momma Mollygirl both speak highly of him as does Epona. Milo, now he does not recommend ponies without cause. So, let’s see what he has to offer. By the way, do you have a name for him yet?”

I find myself nodding as I tell her, “Yes, his name is Double Back.” Then I give her a brief description.

Behind me I overhear Epona ask Tater, “Didn’t we used to know someone named Double Back when we were down in Hackamore?”

“I think so Epona, but it has been a long time.”

“Well, I guess we will find out Tater,” she finally answers.

Once we are at the Colt, we all go onboard. We are greeted by the crewmembers at the brow cordially. Bell Stand the 1st Mate smiles as we come up the brow and tells us, “It is good to see all of you again. The captain would like Epona and Tater to report to the pilot house after they secure their gear, Miss Choo.”

While I feel slightly affronted that Rust has ordered two of my people to perform duties, I am slightly mollified by the fact that I am pretty sure of what they will be doing and why. I also appreciate the fact of him notifying me so I can confirm it with them. I then ask, “Are we using the same area for our quarters?”

He smiles, “Yes ma’am. Just as soon as we get your cart aboard.”

I then smile and tell the rest of my team, “Ok, you know what to do then. I will wait for our prospect.”

Once they head out, I begin to scan the pier looking for the stallion that Blackberry Pie wrote me about. Our cart is loaded and I notice the crew is getting ready to lift the brow when I suddenly see an equine shape galloping toward the Colt from a couple of blocks away. I see the black mane and tail and the gray-to-white coat and realize this must be him. As he gets closer, I suddenly notice the lanky build and long ears. I catch myself grinning. Well, she did not say anything about a cutie mark so I guess I should have known.

He makes it to the brow just as Bell Stand gives the command to raise it. As he comes aboard, I turn to Bell Stand and say, “I do believe he is with us.” Then I turn to the late arrival and ask, “What is your name sir?”

He is breathing a little hard but then says, “My name is Double Back. Are you Miss Choo?”

I nod my head and tell him, “Yes, now if you would, please follow me so I can introduce you to most of the rest of the team.”

As we begin to enter the hatch leading to the cargo deck, I again hear the one short and two long blasts on the ship's whistle and I feel us begin to move. With one eyebrow raised I tell him, “You cut it very close. May I inquire why you did not meet the boat earlier?”

I see him blush slightly and he answers, “Sorry ma’am, but I figured this way you would have to give a mule a chance as it would be too late for the Baltimare Colt to go back.”

I laugh lightly to myself as I remember Ginger using the same logic for hiding in a wagon to sneak along on the expedition all those years ago.

“Ok, I guess I can understand your logic, but honestly, we would not have considered leaving you behind just because you are a mule.”

He almost seems surprised at this so I ask him, “Why would you think myself and my team would be that way?”

For the second time, I see him blush, “Sorry ma’am. It’s just that the few times I have been outside of Harness I have been made to feel unwelcome.”

I nod my head some, “Did Blackberry Pie or those with her make you feel that way?”

“Well, no, but I just figured they were being nice because of what my Uncles Milo and Gus said to them.”

By this time, we have reached our team's berthing area. When he says this Ginger looks up and smiles as she asks, “So your kin?”

He looks confused and does not answer. Then Ginger asks, “You are related to Milo and Gus. My adopted family's parents have helped them have foals, so we consider them family. Therefore, you would be family as well.”

He looks at the rest of the team who were already kicking back and starting to relax. Cowlick and Xochitl are off to the side with Sunny, who stops shuffling a deck of cards. Twinks looks up from a technical manual she is reading as she hears this.

Sunny then says, “I guess our new team member made it in time?”

I nod my head and tell them, “Yes, he did. Now, how about each of you introduce yourselves to him and tell him what your role in the team is.”

After they are finished, I tell them, “Ok, Ginger, you have the team for now. I want to go up and talk with Captain Rust Water if she is available.”

“Ok, boss.” She then turns to Double Back and tells him, “Come on over here with me and show me what you have in your kit, and tell me what you can do for the team.”

Once I get to the Pilothouse, I notice Rust Water is off to one side. Epona is at the helm and next to her on the engine order telegraph is Tater. I hear her giving commands to the two and watch as they respond. In the back corner near the chart table, I notice her regular helmspony and EOT operator are standing-by if needed.

She hears me enter the pilot house and nods in my direction as she tells me, “I will be with you in a bit Choo. We have a bit of a rough spot with a couple of wrecks to dodge around up ahead that I want to maintain the helm for.”

“Ok, thank you, Captain,” I tell her and I step back out of the Pilot House and lean against a rail of the upper deck as I watch the shore move past. Soon I feel the Colt start to turn slightly I look up ahead and I see one broken-off chimney as well as some burnt wreckage sticking out of the water closer to the eastern shore, shortly before a turn in the river. As I look further upriver after the turn I see another wreck on the opposite side. I guess I can see what Rust was talking about now.

Soon I see Bell Stand walk past and enter the pilot house. Shortly after this, I watch as both of my team members as well as Rust all come down the stairs onto the upper deck.

As they pass by me, I tell Epona and Tater, “The new team member is down below with the rest, I would like you to go meet him and get to know him some.”

“Anything special we should know?” Tater asks.

I shrug my wings and tell him, “He is a mule and is related to Gus and Milo.”

I see Epona perk up a bit at that as she asks, “Does that mean he is family?”

I laugh lightly, “Perhaps, I will let you decide for yourselves.”

She nods her head, “Ok, thanks for the heads up, Choo. Come on Tater.”

As they walk away Rust asks me, “Ok Choo, what do you need?”

I then tell her, “Just checking in with you and wanted to see how things have been going for you and the Colt since we left.”

She gives me a half smile, “I do appreciate your checking in, but honestly, for now on unless it is an emergency, it can wait. However, it is good to see you and the team again. Now, what is this I hear about you having a new team member?”

I tell her about Double Back and I see her nod her head. Then she says, “Ok, sounds like we should give him a chance then. Now, speaking of chances, what can you tell me about this mare Purchase Order that Epona and the team met.”

This time I get to smile as I tell her about Purchase and our visit to Mega Mart as well as a few other areas of the Hoof.

“So, you are saying Purchase is just a friend?”

I nod my head, “So far. Honestly Rust, I think there is more interest on both their parts, but they are both afraid to move on it.”

She nods her head, “You said she was hardly eating before they met. That has me worried.”

“I can understand that Rust, but before we left, she was eating better, her friend Tek is keeping an eye on her. Besides, I know Epona has sent her at least a couple of letters via the mail since we left.”

“Ok, I just don’t want to see Epona hurt. Oh, and by the way, while you are traveling on the Colt, I would like to throw Epona and Tater into the watch rotation to get them both a bit of extra experience. They both expressed interest in it.”

“Ok Rust, as long as they are interested, I have no problem.”

She grins, “It also means that they will not have to pay to travel.”

I can’t help but smile again, “You just are trying to get more family as crew members aren’t you.”

She smiles back, “Maybe a bit, but also, it means we have auxiliary crew members, and if we get into a fight and take a prize, we can crew it as well.”

This gets me to put a hoof under my chin as I think. Then I ask, “Do you take prizes often?”

She shakes her head, “Not most of the time. Just like before. We fight as hard as we can and hope to survive, but there is always an off-hoof chance.”

I find myself laughing lightly, which gets Rust to have a serious expression come over her face. She then asks, “And why are you laughing?”

I respond quickly and in a light manner, “Because Captain, you almost sounded like an optimist for a moment.”

She then shakes her head, “Yeah, I guess I did, well don’t let the crew know. They will think I am going soft.”

Leaning against the rail I shake my head, “Rust, I don’t think this crew could imagine you going soft. But you got my word on it.”

She smiles again, “Good, I am glad to hear that. Now, how about you join me for a cup of coffee on the mess decks.”

“Rust, that would be my pleasure. Besides, maybe you can catch a glimpse of our newest team member.”

*****

Thunderhead, Grand Pegasus Enclave: Ball Lightning

It has been two weeks since I got out of the hospital and I finally returned to my platoon just last week. I look up from my typewriter and I see Down Draft walking in with a smile on his face. “Hey Down, how’s it going today?”

“Not bad Ball, I was just checking to see if you and Dancer wanted to join me and Alto tonight for dinner?”

I think briefly and then tell him, “Sure, where do you guys want to go?”

Grinning he tells me, “How about the normal place.”

“Fuss and Feathers?” I ask to make sure.

He nods, “Yeah, that’s the place. Alto says their team may be heading out soon, so…”

I snicker a bit then I hear the door to the main area open and the platoon clerk asks, “Can I help you sir?”

“Yes, I would like to talk to Lieutenant Ball Lighting. I have a set of orders detaching him and a few others for a special mission,” I hear Air Burst's now familiar voice say.

I look beyond Down Draft and see him standing there. I wave a hoof and I see Down turn and his smile starts to break. I quietly hear him say, “Damn it, so soon.”

I look up at him again and he quietly says, “I was hoping for more time with him before he left.”

“I understand Down, but we should have tonight, hopefully.”

Then I see Air Burst tap him on the back with a wing and tell him, “Excuse me Lieutenant, but I need to talk to Lieutenant Ball Lightning.”

Down Draft turns to him and I see the recognition come over his face. He then replies, “Of course sir. Talk to you later Ball.” Then he backs up and leaves via the front door of my platoon's HQ.

Once inside the office, Air Burst closes the door and then takes a seat. He sits down across the desk from me and smiles and asks, “Ready to go again?”

I raise an eyebrow at this and reply, “Yeah, when and where this time?”

Grinning he looks at me and tells me, "Your and my team leave in two days. We will be infiltrating through Manehatten and then heading toward the Manesville region that you gave me the information about. The powers that be are very worried about just how much of a threat that area may be.”

“Makes sense. If half of what they said was true they are ponies to watch.”

He leans back in his chair, tilts his head slightly, and then asks, “Do you think they set us up that last time?”

I shake my head, “No, I don’t think so. Besides, what could they have gained from it?”

He looks thoughtful for a minute, then he answers, “Elimination of the competition?”

“Nah. Again, what would they really gain since they were leaving.”

“How do you know they were leaving?” he asks.

“Air, I called in a few favors from some of our other recon troops and they let me know. The last they saw them they were at that settlement at the E-3 Oasis.”

“Humph that matches what I got reports on too,” he replies, pauses then continues, “Well we can play the same game. Once we are in Manehatten we find a caravan going to this Manesville place and we hire on as escorts.”

“Good, let them see how they like us sneaking into their home turf.”

“Ball, if we do this right, they never know. I mean it. We keep it neat and clean. In, out, and not one of them the wiser.”

While I understand why I can’t help but feel some disappointment. I would love to say hi to Sunny in his home territory to let him know he is not the only one who can do it. So, I answer the only way I can, “Understood Air.”

He smiles and tells me, “Good. I have the orders for your team already drawn up. In two days, we leave. So, go have fun with your pals tonight. But remember, once dirtside, it is on.”

“Any idea how we are going in?”

He then has a smile cross his face that does not meet his eyes as he says, “Air insertion north of Baltimare. We go in clean. I will give you our cover story once we get there.

“Sounds good. Thanks for the heads up. I will get Gunter and Anan in here and give them a heads up after you leave.”

As he asks me, “What about Funnel Cloud?” I just smile as I see him entering the platoon HQ through my office window.

“We won’t need to look for him Air, he just arrived now,” I tell him.

He looks around and as the door opens, I see the expression on Funnel Clouds' face go from a serious but positive one to a blank one like the one I used to use as a cadet when being chewed out, to hide my thoughts.

“Ah, Funnel Cloud, good to see you again. I was just telling the Lieutenant that the powers that be have decided to attach you four from last time with my team again.”

Funnel nods his head slightly and replies neutrally, “Glad to hear it, sir. Let me know when and where.”

I notice a slight tick in Air Burst's ear, which is the only sign of irregularity in his behavior as he says, “Well, come on in and close the door.” Once the door is closed, he continues, “I was just telling Ball here that we leave in two days. We will be infiltrating into the NCR via Manehatten then into the Manesville region.”

Funnel Cloud nods his head and I can see his ears shift in concern. When he sees this Air Burst asks, “How’s the leg doing Funnel?”

“It’s tolerable Sir. I can use it fine, but it still feels weird not having the original equipment there.”

I actually see Air Burst look slightly ashamed at that. He looks back up at the Sergeant Major and tells him, “I am really sorry that happened to you. If I could have prevented it, I would have. But I also know if you and your team had not been there, my team would have all been killed.”

I watch as Funnel Cloud shifts his wing uncomfortably and then nods to Air Burst before replying. “Yeah, I do understand Air. I’m not blaming you or anyone else. I am just glad we were not caught completely flat-hooved. If we were not prepared, they would have gotten us all.”

This time I see Air Burst's wings shift uncomfortably. “Yeah, I hate to admit it, but it could have been a lot worse for us. But this time we are going in fresh. No pony should know us there.”

I see Funnel nod his head, then he asks, “Ok, so let’s take a look at the mission plan. I need to know what gear we need to be issued to use, as well as to work on our cover stories.”

Air Burst almost looks insulted. Then he asks, “What you don’t think we would have a believable cover for our team going in?”

This time Funnel Cloud laughs before he answers, “Actually, no. You may have one for the team, but not for us as individuals. And while I am sure that is well done, we should each have a cover story, and each has a rough idea of the others so that way we sound believable.”

I see Air Burst cross his forehooves as he tilts his head and looks thoughtfully at Funnel Cloud. Then he asks, “Have you ever thought about coming over to the dark side permanently? You have a good head for it.”

“Sir, I have done recon long enough to learn a thing or two. But honestly, I am looking at retiring in another couple of years and finally settling down. So, not really. But let’s begin to go over these plans with the Lieutenant.”

Two days later both teams meet on a tarmac on a nearly deserted portion of the base. We all have our gear. A mixed bag of ground sider and wartime weapons and gear as well as civilian attire mixed with some military uniform parts. We look like some of the mercenaries that I saw while I was working dirtside.

I smile as I see Alto and Sundancer again. The last two nights we spent together along with Down Draft. Part of me wishes he could have come with us, but unfortunately for us, he can’t. we load both teams into one Vertibuck with Air Burst leading the way.

As we get on, he tells us, “Alto, there will be a cart at our drop point. I want you to hitch up to it as usual.”

Alto gives him a half grin, “Ok boss, you got it.”

After he gets on, I smile as I give a hoof to Sundancer to help her on as well. I am surprised though as she settles into her seat when I notice she is carrying one of the old Angel Bunny Submachine guns, and she has a tab on her shoulder that says, Contractor Medic.

She sees what I am looking at and smiles. Then she tells me, “I got a few more classes on triage and trauma wound care while you were in the hospital.”

I nod my head, then I ask her, “Should I call you Doc then?”

She smirks, “I guess. It would make it more convincing.”

Behind me, I hear Gunter say, “Actually, it would make me a lot more comfortable to call you Doc. I mean that means we have a combat medic with us, and honestly, I prefer to have one with us on a mission.”

“Thanks, Gunter. I appreciate it.” She tells him.

Then he surprises me when he says, “Why do you seem surprised Doc? I mean I saw you when we got hit last time. You earned the title. You even patched me up.”

This time I see her blush slightly but says nothing. Then I hear the Pilots beginning their preflight checklist. Followed shortly by the engines starting and the rotors starting to turn. Soon they have completed the process and I feel the vertibuck begin to lift off the tarmac and lean forward slightly as we lift off and begin our journey.

Before too long I fall asleep to the vibrations of the aircraft as we initially fly at high altitude over the Lunar Commonwealth. Then I wake up as we rapidly drop and begin to fly nap of the earth until we reach our insertion point north of Baltimare.

As we fly so low, we dodge and jink, missing obstacles and debris that may stick up. Suddenly I feel the rotors start to shift and we slow down. The pilot lowers us to only a few feet over the ground and we get told to dismount.

We grab all of our gear and run to the ruins of a small building nearby. Once we are clear the Vertibuck begins to move slowly forward as it spins around and we watch it recede quickly the way we had come in.

We all look at each other and realize how deep we are in hostile territory. Before we can think too much about it, Air Burst calls out to us, “Ok, let's move out,” as he activates his battle saddle, and his M10 automatic rifle is brought out to the carry. The rest of us follow suit with our weapons and soon we begin the trek north toward Manehatten.

*****

In tonight’s news, we are hearing of increased incursions into NCR territory by elements of the reunited Grand Pegasus Enclave. There has also been an increase in raider activity between Hoofington, Baltimare, and Manehatten, so if you are traveling between those cities try to travel in a group, as there is safety in numbers.

In other news, there have been reports of a second stable 48, this one out of Reino having not only opened up but announced its alliance with the Grand Pegasus Enclave. Additionally, there have been reports that the Wanderer has been seen recently in that area.

For those of you out traveling the trails and highways of the wastelands, especially those who are guards or mercs, this next song is for you. Here is Bad Company.

Author's Note

The Repair Ponies now begin thier trip home. On the other hoof Ball and the gang are on their way to pay them a visit. Of course often awry go the best laid plans of mice and mares.

We also have a possible new team member begin to know also. Now, how will he stack up to the others?

For those who would like to hear this chapters song, the YouTube link is: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uL0UPsMb3yU