Chapter 59 The Paths To Fate

“Strange things conspire when one tries to cheat fate” ― Rick Riordan, The Son of Neptune

Onboard the Hot Shot over Whinnyapolis: Ginger Snaps

I am awakened from a brief nap as I feel the engines shift position and we slow down to slightly more than a hover. In the red lit passenger compartment, I can see the others of our team all begin to wake and shift for a landing.

I look forward through the cockpit and can see the dark silhouettes of several damaged buildings and a large crater not far from the big river itself. As the aircraft tilts into a slow turn, I see the lights of several fires near there, Then I see the remains of a large skyport, which I notice has several aircraft still on it, including a couple of vertibucks, one of which is just landing.

I watch as the co-pilot Cloud Bank points a hoof towards the side and we bank more and I feel the engines shift as we begin to gain speed in the turn.

Shortly after this, only a few kilometers away I see a very large building complex that looks to have walls of various materials, including shipping containers, box cars, and even old self-propelled carriages that are on their sides. We make a quick circuit from a distance around the place, then I watch as the pilots bring us in for a landing in an old carriage lot with a large open spot in it.

As we begin our descent, I feel the aircraft begin to almost hover and I feel the loading ramp begin to drop down. Once the wheels bump against the ground, Love Tap directs us to unload.

We all grab our gear and begin to trot out the back, several of us taking overwatch positions behind the nearest of the abandoned carriages.

Once we are all out, I hear the ramp begin to go back up and feel the blast of air increase from the rotors as the aircraft leaps skyward again. I take my eyes away from my weapon's sight long enough to watch the Hot Shot twist in midair as it adjusts its rotors and makes its way back to the Colt.

I feel myself sigh as I watch them head away and it becomes real once again for us as Choo calls over the radio, “Ok, let us form it up, you know the drill. Moon, you, and the fillies are to go echelon opposite of those ahead of us. Weapons up everypony.” She pauses and then adds, “Flower, I need you to lead us around the east side. There should be a main gate in that direction. Keep to the ground everyone, no need to give them the wrong impression.”

Another pause by Choo then she says, “Blackbird, take a reading with the RDF and see if you can pinpoint that radio station. If not, we ask the locals if they can give us a hint.”

“Roger Big Blue will do,” Sunny responds. He is quiet briefly, then says, “I got a reading on it Big Blue, but using the map on my Pipbuck, it looks like it is closer to the main part of the town and the crater.”

“Roger Blackbird. Flower, lead us out.”

Xochitl says nothing but follows her directions and begins to lead us around whatever this place is. As we pass by one of the corner sections I can see what is a boarded-over entrance with a sign above it that proclaims, Welcome to the Mall of Equestria.

As we make our way around the place, I see occasional guard positions on the roof. Using my Eyes Forward Sparkle I can see that they are all ponied. I casually make a mental note of their locations.

Once we come around the far end, we can now see a wall with more guard towers placed along it, as well as the lights of the settlement. We are almost to the main gate when a shot rings out in our direction, and we hear a voice call out, “Keep back. We ain’t playing around this time.”

I find myself with a raised eyebrow and I begin to wonder what they mean by again. I guess Choo feels the same way as she calls back, “I am not sure who you think we are, but we have not been here before.”

Suddenly there is a spotlight on us that is blinding. Most of us go to the ground with our weapons ready. However, Choo and Moon both stand there in the light as they call out, “Who are you then?”

Choo then calls back, “I am Captain Choo Choo of the NCR Rangers, if you allow me to come closer, I will gladly show you my badge and credentials. Now who are you?”

I can barely see movements along the wall as one pony talks to the other and finally one calls out, “I am Key Turner, the current chief security officer for Mall. I will allow you and only you to fly up here Captain. Once I can see who you are for sure, I will allow the others in.”

“Fair enough,” I hear her call back. Then she turns to the youngsters and tells them, “You four stay with the others here.” She turns to me and tells me, “Cookie, you have the team until I return.”

“Roger Big Blue,” I answer. Then she flies slowly up to the wall and lands there, I cannot see clearly what is done, or hear what is said, but after about ten minutes she slowly flies back to us.

Once she returns, she tells us, “OK, we have permission to enter the settlement here. However, we are to turn in our weapons at the gate for the night.

We all nod our heads and Katie lets out a quiet woof then we follow her as we approach the gate. When we reach it, they open a small door next to it and an earth pony guard tells us, “Ok, one at a time. Turn your weapons in over at the window of that container over there. It will be tagged for you.”

My husband is the first to turn his in, and as he hooves the old zebra-made weapon in, the unicorn who is working the window casually jokes, “This thing does not a have a curse or anything on it, right?”

Xochitl smiles at them and shrugs then answers, “Funny you should mention that…”

I swear the unicorn almost drops it, and then she sees him laugh and realizes he is joking. She begins to get a disgruntled expression on her face then he tells her, “Sorry, that is only the second time I could use that joke, the first time was at the Hoofington Arena a while back. You handled it much better than they did.”

She still does not look amused and asks, “Is it as bad as they say it is down there?”’

He shrugs and tells her, “I am not sure, depends on how bad they say it was. I will admit, it was a bit hairier than most of the Wastelands though.”

She nods her head, tags the weapon, and has him sign a log to acknowledge they received it.

This continues for all of us, and I see her raise an eyebrow as she handles my MoM pistol and she asks, “Is there a reason you all seem to have weapons that are engraved to the Ministry of Morale?”

This time Choo Choo answers her, “Yes, but you probably would not believe me if I told you.”

The mare looks at Choo with a slight tilt to her head and simply shakes it, “Is there always something weird about you alicorns?”

Before Choo can answer, Moon Lily stands at the counter with her front hooves on it as she hooves over her carbine and asks, “Have you met a lot of alicorns like my granny?”

I see an almost patronizing expression come across the face of the counter mare as she smiles and gently tells her, “Not really, young mare, but we have had a few come through here. The one I remember most was a purple one many years ago, she was the one that helped clear out the security bots that were preventing us from salvaging inside the mall.”

As I am so close to the window still, I ask because I can see Choo wants to but is embarrassed to, “What was her name?”

The mare thinks briefly then answers, “Radiant Star, I think. Why, do you think you knew her?”

I shake my head as does Choo, who then adds, “I do not remember her, but then again since she was not in the same wing as me, I may not have ever met her directly and there were a lot of my sisters back then.”

“Yeah, I guess. I just thought with that unity thing and all.”

I notice Choo feels uncomfortable with this line of conversation and she changes the subject by telling us, “Once our weapons are checked in let us go have a look around.”

The mare at the counter then tells us, “The market will not be open until morning. But you should be able to get something to eat and drink if you want. There are also some rooms to rent so you can get some sleep.”

I smile at the mare and tell her, “Thank you for letting us know.”

She then adds, “Besides you have to be tired after your flight in.”

I know they had to see us land, but until then, no one has mentioned it. I then ask her, “Do you get many who fly in here?”

“Not really, and usually they are Enclave if they do. But you know how it is.”

“Yeah, yeah, we do. Well, I hope you have a good night,” I tell her.

Choo is the final one to turn in her weapons. The counter mare seems to be taking it all in with no reactions until she sees Choo’s newest pistol and I can tell when she sees the engraving of Special Agent Choo Choo on one side, and then on the other side, its engraved Night Train that looks like her cutie mark. She says nothing but her eyes go wide in surprise and she simply nods her head.

Choo looks at her with a raised eyebrow but says nothing. Once she has signed the log book, she then leads us into the settlement proper. Together we all head to the closest open shop, which happens to be a tavern.

As we reach the door, I turn to the youngsters and tell them, “You four will not be having any alcohol here, and if we say something, listen.”

Choo then interrupts and adds, “Actually, none of us will be having any alcohol tonight. I mean it. We are still in the middle of a mission after all.”

We all acknowledge her order and we follow her inside, Katie right next to Xochitl.

As we go into the now quiet tavern, we notice several tables with long benches next to them. That we head towards. Behind the bar, I can see an older unicorn who is using his TK to lift and clean a class with a rag. Over by a table to the side I see several more ponies and a griffon all sharing a plate of food and drinking from pint glasses. With a mare who is wearing a corset and skirt standing next to them and talking.

As we sit down, I see her turn her attention to us. She says one more thing to the other table then she comes over to us and asks, “Are you here for food or just for drinks?”

I look at Choo and she tells them, “Food as well as drinks,” she then looks at the rest of us and tells us, “The meal is on the company tab. But please be reasonable.”

The waitress then tells us, “I will bring you a couple of menus."

Once she returns, we all order our drinks. While most ask for Sparkle Colas, myself and my sisters all have tea. Choo, though is ecstatic when she finds out they have Sparkle Cola Rad and orders two right away.

After dinner when she goes to settle our bill, she is using her TK to pull out the bag of caps she has with her, and her MoM badge falls out onto the floor.

*****

Inside the Tavern, Mall, Whinnyapolis: Xochitl.

While the meal is not spectacular, it is filling. Most of what was listed on the menu seems to be from food stocks that were found inside the actual mall itself. So, it is not really the freshest. But it is filling and even the fillies enjoy it. However, I do overhear Frost Glitter telling her sister, “It is not as good as we get at home from the farms.”

I then hear Slip Stream whisper to her, “Not so loud, remember your manners.”

Snow Song beside her nods her head, but then whispers to Slip Stream, “You're right, but so is she. It is good, it just does not taste as good as what we get at home.”’

I just shake my head and am thankful none of the locals overheard them. I know that some would have been very insulted if they heard that.

I do see Choo look at her granddaughter and I swear it is almost like when she talks with her sisters using their minds. But I know Moon Lily cannot do that. Well, at least I do not think she can. However, shortly after this, I hear Moon tell her friends to be on their best behavior.

I notice that some of the locals that are in there tend to be paying attention to us while trying to not be obvious about it. Well, at least they are being polite about it, I think to myself.

After our dinner as Choo is paying for our meals, I am just finishing my drink as she uses her TK to get her bag of caps out. As she lifts it out, I notice her Ministry of Morale Special Agent badge with her number on it, is stuck to the caps bag, and then falls onto the floor face up right in front of the waitress.

When she hears the metal hit the wooden floor the waitress steps back and looks at it. I see her eyes go wide and her mouth forms an O. She then carefully picks it up and hooves it to Choo Choo, who uses her TK to put it back into her saddlebags.

I notice that the waitress is now visibly anxious but she continues to finish the transaction. Then she tells Choo, “Ma’am, let us know if there is anything you need while you are here.”

Choo seems slightly confused but answers her with, “Thank you. Now could you tell us where we could find a room for the night?”

She nods her head and tells us, “Yes ma’am, once you go outside, turn left. It is one of the closest sets of shipping containers nearest the mall itself.”

As we leave and are heading into the night to find some lodging, I overhear one of the locals saying, “I didn’t know the Pinks were back in business.” I think nothing of it, simply shrug and continue with the others.

Once we arrive at the place, we are directed to find a room, Choo has us wait outside while she goes in to secure a place for us to rest. While she is gone, I hear Snow Song ask Ginger, “Is it always this boring?”

My wife laughs lightly before she tells her, “No Song, just be glad it is right now. We never really know what is going to happen on an op.”

She looks at me and I nod my head in agreement. Then I tell her, “Often when we are unsure about a target’s location or such, we go into an area and get the lay of the land. Major landmarks, factions, specific dangers we should look out for.”

I am just finishing up when Choo returns and tells us, “I have our lodging for the night. Once we get there, I want the rest of you to get some sleep. Ginger, I will wake you up an hour before dawn so I can get a nap.” After which we follow her to a large shipping container that is on the second stack along one of the outer walls of the compound, and we settle in for the night.

The next morning begins as normal until we go to get some breakfast, where we are met by the Chief of Security for Mall.
As he approaches us, I see two unicorns and an earth pony with him. Once close enough he tells Choo, “Ma’am, I need to talk with you privately if you do not mind.”

She turns to us and tells us, “Please go get breakfast and I will join you as soon as I can.”

We are most of the way through with eating when she returns to us. I notice her expression is one of amusement as she sits at the table and tells the waitress to bring her some tea and two eggs if they have them.

Once the waitress has departed Choo then tells us, “Well, it seems that we may be spending a bit more time here at Mall today than I had anticipated. Ginger, I will be taking Twinks. Doubleback and Moon Lily with me. The rest of you, please feel free to shop and perhaps see if you can find any equipment that we can use.”

Shortly after telling us this, she takes Twinks and them with her and I notice she is heading into the mall itself, which gets me to scratch my head in wonder as we were told at the gate that the mall itself is still off limits to most outsiders.

I am distracted from this wondering when I hear Slip Stream squee from near a stand in the market. I quickly turn to see what is going on and I see her holding up some old webgear. I do not see anything special about them, so I go on over to her to find out.

Once I am near her, she holds them up for me and tells me, “Look at this set of web gear, can you believe it, it is a nearly mint condition full set of prewar Griffon equipment, and it looks like it will fit me.”

I then look at the vendor and ask, “Can she try it on?”

He looks at us before he asks, “Are you the Pinks that came into town last night?”

I guess the word got out about the markings on our weapons as well as Choo’s badge, so I answer, “Well, not so much as formal Pinks, but they were all gifts to us with our names on them from the former Ministry Mare for them.”

I see his eyes go wide and he slowly nods his head, “Yeah, sure she can.”

Beside her, I see Snow Glitter and her sister also looking through stock here, but still paying attention to Slip Stream. As she tries the harness, ammo belt, canteen, and small backpack on they come over and help her position it.

By now Epona has come over to see what is going on. The merchant’s eyebrows go up as he looks at Epona’s engraved pistol as she asks Slip Stream. “So how does it fit Slip?”

I watch as she first stretches, then hovers with it on. Then she answers, “It might need a few adjustments still, but I think it will do. Can I get it?”

Epona looks at me and I simply raise an eyebrow and shrug. She then turns to the merchant and asks, “How much?”

The vendor quickly replies, “It fits her so well and is in such good shape, I cannot let it go for less than 250 caps.”

Epona shakes her head, “That is way, way too much and we both know it. I would not pay more than 75 caps for it.”

I see the crestfallen expression on Slip Stream's face when she hears this and she begins to slowly take it off. Beside her, I can see how her friends also seem sad for her. The vendor then offers, how about 200 caps?”

Epona then counter-offers and they go back and forth over the price, finally agreeing on 150 caps. As soon as the deal is done, I watch an excited hippogriff mare put it right back on and show it off to her friends. From there we move on to the other vendors. During this time Tater keeps looking over weapons and parts for them to see if he thinks we should purchase them once Choo gets back. A few of the cheaper parts I notice he picks up with his own money.

After about an hour we all hear over our radio, “Tater, I am sending Double Back out to get you. I need you in here.

Fifteen minutes later I see Double Back coming out of what had to have been one of the main entrances for the old mall. Tater sees him coming and tells me, “I will be back in a bit Cohitl.”

I watch him trot over to meet Doubleback and follow him inside. As they go Epona and my wife both look at me and we all shrug our shoulders. Then I hear Slip Stream ask, “Should we follow them?”

Ginger tilts her head as she looks at her and responds, “Did Choo or I tell you to?”

She looks down at the ground, “No Ginger, she did not.”

“Then do you think we should follow them?” Ginger asks in a stern tone of voice.

“No, I guess not. But I want to go see what Moon is doing,” the young hippogriff answers as she twists her hind hoof.

“This is just like when me and Xochitl were on the expedition for you. We are going to treat you as adults. That means you act like adults and follow orders.”

I then hear Snow Song say, “You mean you really had to act like grown-up back then?”

I nod my head yes and my wife tells her, “Yes, we did. It was hard work, a lot harder than what you three have had to go through so far, so enjoy it being this easy for now.”

The three young mares all look at each other and shrug their shoulders, then they go back to shopping.

After another hour we see Choo and the others coming back out of the mall. I notice that they are carrying some items with them and that Moon Lily looks a bit perplexed.

Once they are close enough, I ask, “So how did it go boss?”

She looks at me and tells me, “You would not believe it.” She pauses, then adds, “Uh, we have a new supply depot here, it seems.”

*****

The settlement of Mall, Whinnyapolis, Choo Choo

The morning seems to be going so well for us when I see the Chief of Security for this settlement approaching us with two unicorns and one earthpony who seem to be other members of security here. I think nothing of it until he stops and tells me, “Ma’am, I need to talk with you privately if you do not mind.”

I do not like it, but I do not want to cause trouble, so I turn to the others and tell them, “Please go get breakfast and I will join you as soon as I can.”

The chief leads me away toward a shipping container that is nearer the main gate, but also a couple blocks further into the settlement away from it and the wall. Once there he tells the other three, “Wait outside. I will be right with you.”

He then leads me inside and has me take a seat. Once I am seated, he asks me, “Ma’am, may I see your badge and credentials?”

I take my badge out of my saddlebag and show it to him, then I show him the basic information on my Pipbuck. As he looks at them, I ask, “Is there a problem here?”

He shakes his head no, and tells me, “No, no problems, but this site was a Ministry of Morale run site, and if a member of the ministry shows up, we have to extend certain courtesies that we would not do for most. In a bit, I would like to take you inside the mall and give you a tour of the facilities here.”

“Yes, I would like that, however, I have a few members of my team that I would like to have accompany me on this tour.”

“But of course, ma’am. I would suggest not bringing them all in at once as there are a few areas that are not in the best of condition. Part of the unpleasantness from several years ago when your sister Radiant Star was here.”

I raise my eyebrow in curiosity, and tell him, “I did not know all my sisters even though we were all in unity. I am not familiar with Radiant Star, could you tell me more about her and what she did here?”

He shifts uncomfortably in his seat and tells me, “Well, I was not the Chief back then, so much of what I know is from hearsay, but I will tell you what I can.” After which he gives me a brief rundown.

Once finished I tell him, “That is all very interesting, but how does that affect me and my people now?”

He shifts again in his seat and then answers, “After they left, while we were cleaning up, we found a hidden entrance. Unfortunately, even with our most skilled hackers and lock picks, we have not been able to access it. Perhaps one of the ministry agents can open it?”

I feel myself sigh and I tell him, “I guess I can try. But I do not guarantee anything.”

“Fair enough.”

I then tell him, “However, I do want part of my team to go in with me.”

He shakes his head and mutters under his breath, then he says, “Fine, but not the whole team.”

“What can you tell me about the inside of the mall that could help me to determine which team members to bring?” I ask.

He then begins to give me a rundown about the mall itself and what damage had been done that had to be corrected. Eventually, we finish our little question-and-answer period and he tells me, “I will meet you at the main entrance to the mall in an hour.”

I use my Pipbuck to help me find the rest of the team quickly, then I tell them, who I want with me as well as what I would like them to do while I am away.

Ginger then asks, “Will those items be coming out of our pay, or the company account.”

I think briefly and tell her, “If it is a more expensive item, wait for me to return and we can use the company caps. But as for the less expensive items, I will let you determine Cookie.”

As we get ready to go, I see the other three of Moon Lily’s friends all look like they want to go as well. Moon turns to them and tells them, “It’s alright mares, I will be back in a bit. Let me know if you find any good deals, OK?”

I then have Twinks, Double Back, and my great-granddaughter join me as we go to meet the Chief.

Once we arrive at the entrance, I notice the Chief also has a couple of ponies with him who he introduces us to, “Special Agent Choo, this here is Scrapper and Slightly Used. Both are about the most familiar ponies with the mall itself. They will be your guides.”

I raise an eyebrow and ask, “You are not going with us?”

He shakes his head, “No, I will be going to the old security office and monitoring on camera for possible trouble. If I see any, I will call for backup.”

While I am not comfortable with his answer, I guess I will have to accept it. I then turn to our guides and tell them, “Ready when you are.”

The one called Scrapper smiles as he turns towards the entrance and tells us, “Follow me, and mind your steps.”

As we enter, I feel like I am flashing back to a part of my life from before I was changed. The entrance itself takes us inside the bottom floor of one of the large department stores that used to be here. The walls are all white, with green tiles outlining the edges of the various departments that used to be here. In between them, light tan tiles are forming what seem to be paths, almost giving an illusion of being outside. On the far end of this store, I can see a corridor that leads into the main section of the mall itself, which just inside of it has a makeshift barricade set up.

As we approach the barricade, I notice two more ponies are next to it. I then ask, “Is it still that dangerous in here that you need to keep it guarded?”

Scrapper smiles and shakes his head, “No ma’am. Occasionally we get something dangerous trying to come out, but most of the time it is just to keep the non-locals out.”

Beyond the barricade, I can see the abandoned storefronts stretching out before us. I glance at Moon Lily and I can see the expression of wonder on her face as she looks at the white-lined corridors. Then she asks, “Were all the stores like this when you were my age?”

I smile and shake my head, “No Dear, but many were by the time I was your mother’s age.”

“Really Granny?”

“Yes, Moon, really.”

I notice out of the corner of my eye the guide Slightly Used looking at me appraisingly. Then he asks, “How old are you?”

I smile, “I was almost sixty-five when I was changed to this form, that was over two hundred and ten years ago.”

I see the surprised expression on his face then I hear Scrapper tell him, “Don’t be so surprised, most of her kind are that old.”

As we walk further into the mall, we enter a large open area that is not as well-lit as those we had come through. Ahead I can see the tracks for the roller coaster that my children had wanted to ride. I about stumble as I suddenly remember my son and daughter both begging to ride it with me. I quickly shake my head and continue.

I feel Moon ask me, ({Granny are you okay?})

({Yes Moon, I was just surprised by a memory I did not know I had.})

She then asks aloud as she points a hoof at the roller coaster, “What is that?”

“That my dear is a roller coaster ride.”

Twinks then asks, “A ride? You mean you are supposed to ride it. Boss, it goes in loops even.”

“Yes, you are supposed to ride it. The loops were supposed to be part of the fun. It gave us unicorns and earth ponies a chance to feel like we were flying.” As we get closer to it, I notice the sign for the ride calling it the Wonderbolts Adventure Ride. To the side, I see an area with what looks like an obstacle course that is labeled, Daring Do’s Wild Forest. Besides these two, we can also see several other rides in this area. I smile as I realize it is almost a scaled-down version of the Fillydelphia Fun Park I used to visit with my family as well.

Once we are past them and enter a corridor on the other side, we are led to a side hallway that has a sign with an arrow pointing down it that reads, Engineering: Engine Room # 3. I am curious what that could mean. As we get ready to enter, Scrapper tells us, “The engine rooms house the equipment that was used to cool the place down way back when. I suppose using some pegasus weather magic or something. It is not well-lit in there, so please keep close, where we want to take you is on the far side of the engine room.”

As we make our way through the dimly lit room, I use my horn while Twinks and Double Back use their PipBucks for light. I see the corpses of at least three ponies in here still. This gets me to ask, “Have you started to clean out the bodies from deeper in the mall yet?”

“Nah, not yet. Only in the areas we have salvaged so far.” He pauses and points to a door that is only a short distance in front of us. Above it is a simple sign that says, Engine Room Control. Next to the door is a smaller sign that reads, Authorized Personnel Only! Deadly Force Authorized. As I read them, I raise an eyebrow as I wonder what is on the other side.

“Has anyone tried to go in there yet?” I ask.

Scrapper looks a bit put out before he answers, “Yeah, once through this door there is one more but it has a terminal to open it, as well as a few MEW auto-turrets. A few have tried, but none have been able to do so. A couple of them became nothing but a pile of ashes.”

I am just about ready to ask him why not when Twinks asks, “Okay, what have they tried, and why did it not work?”

“I do not know what all they tried, but I will try to give you what information I can.” Then he begins to tell her what he knows.

A short time later Twinks looks at me and tells me, “Boss, why not have the others wait out here and you and I go in first?”

I have to agree that would be a better idea than all of us going in, so I tell her, “That makes sense.” I turn to the others and I tell them, “I will call for you when it is safe for all of you.”

I lead with Twinks right behind me. On the way down the stairs and through the hall I notice several turrets tracking us, as well as two piles of ashes and a couple of skeletons. Once we reach the terminal I sigh as I look at it and tell Twinks, “I think I will let you try first.”

She nods her head and steps up to it and looks at the screen. I see her think briefly and then she taps something in. Finally, I hear a robotic voice say, “Password accepted, present credentials.”

At first, I am surprised by this and begin to bring up my PipBuck, but Twinks then tells me, “Uh, Boss, how about presenting your badge.”

“Oh, Yes, of course, thank you Twinks,” I tell her as I use my TK to levitate the badge from my bag and present it to the camera above the terminal.

After this, I hear a set of locks click on the door and it slowly opens. As it does so all I can see at first is bright lights from inside the doorway until my eyes adjust. Once they do I tell Twinks, “Okay, let us go,” and I lead her through the entrance.

As I enter, I notice that it is a medium-sized room that reminds me of the stable back in Manesville. Well, except for the Mister Hoovsie that I see hovering about ten feet back from the door. As we step through, I hear it say, “Welcome Special Agent Choo Choo. As per our records, this is your first official visit to this facility. As such I will be your guide to the Ministry of Morale Special Surprise Party Store number three.”

“And you are?” I ask.

“Ah yes, excuse me Ma’am for my lack of manners, it has been some time since I have had proper company visit our facility. My name is Party Favor. Would you like to call those waiting for you outside to join us on your tour?”

I think briefly and tell them, “Yes, at least some of them.” I then use my PipBuck to call Double Back and tell him, “Double Back, bring Moon with you and come on in. Have Scrapper and Slightly Used wait for us up there.”

Once they join us, I tell Party Favor, “Let us continue.”

“But of course, madam,” he replies brightly and begins to drift across this entry room further into the facility. As we go, I notice several large rooms that appear to be offices but are all empty. At one point we come to a large cafeteria and he tells us, “When we have awake inhabitants we prepare and serve meals here.”

I stop in my tracks when he says this as does Twinkle Hoofs. Before I can ask anything, she asks, “What do you mean awake inhabitants?”

I have never heard a robot sound flustered before, but this time I do as it sputters out, “Well we do have a few of our original staff in cryo-sleep right now. I was going to take you there after I showed you the armory, warehouse, and medical facilities.”

My jaw drops as I realize what he has just said. Beside me, Moon Lily asks, “Granny, what is crying sleep?”

Party Favor spins to face her and has all its eye sensors looking at her as he answers, “Cryogenic sleep young mare, no crying sleep. We have several active pods in service right now. I have taken care of them as best as I can. Unfortunately, there were a few malfunctions over the years.”

My ears are fully on it as I tell them, “Please take me to them immediately.”

“OH, okay then. Please follow me.”

We quickly make our way through several other sections of the facility until we reach a section that is marked, Cryogenics. As we enter, I see several chest freezer-sized cabinets with hoses running to them. All of them have a computer monitor next to them as well as a window to look inside of them. I then notice Moon Lily shiver slightly, then she begins to give the blessing of the dead.

Twinks and I begin to check out the cryosleep chambers and of the twenty that are in there, only five contain still living ponies. However, they all are locked. Twinks looks at the locks on them and tells me, “Choo, I think I will need Tater to help me with these.”

I send Double Back to get Tater and bring him here. As we wait, I ask Party Favor, “Why didn’t you open these before?”

He gives me what I figure is a robotic shrug and replies, “My programming did not include how to unlock them. I was programmed for maintenance, not rescue. The medical robot failed several years ago, and I was not able to repair it. The director of the facility one time told another of the staff members that the locks were to keep them safe while asleep from zebra agents.”

I am afraid of the horror that those poor souls who were in the failed cabinet might have gone through. But I can understand what has occurred as well. Finally Double Back returns with Tater and he and Twinks begin to try to open the locks.

As they begin to work, I notice Moon Lily keeps looking into the ones that still have living ponies as she checks them. I can see a concerned expression on her face each time.

Finally, I hear the first set of locks on one of the cold sleep units click, and then I see a small light next to the terminal for it begins to blink, which gets myself and Moon’s attention. I look at the screen and see that it states, Hibrination Sleep Mode Terminating. Commencing Reanimation Processing. Expected time until completion is 4 hours 59 minutes.

Well, that gives us some time, I guess. I turn to Twinks and Tater and tell them, “I want you two to continue on this as I finish the tour with Party Favor.” I then pause and tell Moon Lily and Double Back, “I want you two to come with me.”

After he hears this Party Favor tells me, “Are you sure you want to leave those two alone in here Agent Choo?”

“Party Favor, not only do I trust them, but the Ministry Mare herself recognized them as part of my team in the same Surprise Party Package that she left me my badge and a note with my name on it. In fact, Tater there received a birthday card from her even.”

I watch as the robot's eye stalks all suddenly turn and seem to focus on Tater. Then he says, “Huh, I would not have expected that, but of course, we all know how Ministry Mare Pie was.”

“I noticed you used the past tense. I assume you know about her death then.”

“Yes, Ma’am. I had no illusions about what was going on outside of this facility. I am more surprised that more of you flesh and blood types even survived.”

This gets me to raise an eyebrow, but I do have to agree with his assessment. Especially knowing how many died on the dreadful day and in the years since.

He then takes us further inside to first the armory. There I see racks of weapons that I know the armorers would drool over back in the Manesville stable. As we move about the room, we are also able to see several more racks that contain Ministry barding, stealth bucks, Combat armor, and even a couple of suits of Ministry-specific recon armor.

As we look over it, Party Favor tells us, “But wait, there is more. Please follow me to the warehouse.”

It is there that I am most surprised as I see rows upon rows of supplies, some are medical, others are ration packs. These are supplemented by survival equipment, blankets, water purifiers, and even some musical instruments of all things.

Finally, Party Favor takes us to a room that has a bank vault door on it. When we reach it, he tells us, “This is the facility's main ammo locker.”

Double Back, until then remaining quiet then asks, “Party Favor, why did the ministry have so many weapons and ammo here?”

“Ah, that. Yes. Well, we were a regional hub for our Special Surprise Party teams. That and we provided a rapid reaction force in case of a Zebra attack on the mall and the park in it.”

“Did you ever have to use them?” he asks.

Again, the eyes of the robot move back and forth as they refocus on him. Then he answers, “A time or two. Those attacks were kept from the general population. Those who were involved had their memories wiped so that the secret was kept.”

Double Back grins and then tells the robot, “I guess that was like they did with Harness.”

Suddenly I see the robot’s entire demeanor change and his voice becomes threatening enough that Moon Lily, Twinks, and I all light up our horns as the robot asks, “Where did you hear that name? That name was memory wipe information.”

Double Back holds up one of his hoofs and tells him, “Whoa, Whoa, Whoa. I was born there. Several of our team members have family from there and all of us have visited it and helped with its defense.”

The robot moves menacingly forward as it says, “Then you should know not to speak of it!”

I place myself between them and tell the robot, “Stand down Party Favor. The reason it was secret died with it on the last day. However, the secret of why it existed at all has been kept quiet and we all intend to keep it that way.”

As I do this, I see it back up and focus its eyes on me. I swear I hear it mumble something and then it visibly relaxes. “Standing down as ordered by the senior Ministry of Morale Special Surprise Agent 42.”

I let out a sigh of relief and all our horns go back out. Then I tell it, “If there is no more you need to show us, please lead us back to the cryo-sleep department.”

“Yes, of course, Ma’am,” it replies and begins to guide us back there.

Once we arrive, I see they have the other units also unlocked. All of them with a countdown going. I notice it will be several more hours before they open up so I tell the others, “Tater, I think you and Twinks will want to see the armory and warehouse.”

I see them both look at me curiously and Tater asks, “What do you have for us Boss?”

“Sweet Potato, I do believe you need to see this for yourself. You too Twinkle Hoofs,” I answer and lead them behind Party Favor back toward the armory and warehouse.

Once in the armory, I watch as first his jaw drops, then he gets a devilish grin on his face. “You know Choo, it might not be a bad idea to gift a couple of these support weapons to the locals to help defend this place. I mean, it would be nice to have a supply hub like this we can come to if we need it. Sort of like that Ministry of Peace facility we assisted.”

“I think you may be correct, but before we decide just what to give them, let us also look at the warehouse.”

After we have taken them through the warehouse, we return to find the first of the sleep chambers is about ready to open. I realize this as I hear a slight hiss as the air seals release and then it begins to open.

Inside the unit, I see a middle-aged Stallion in a light white cotton jumpsuit. I watch as he slowly begins to first move his ears. I then see his legs twitch slightly as well as his head. Then I watch as his eyes pop up and I hear him scream.

Twinks and I immediately run to him. I then hear Twinks tell him, “It is ok, we are here for you. Relax.”

He turns toward her and I see his eyes open wide as he sees me and I hear him say, “Your Highness, you came for us. Thank You.”

I see him relax then I tell him, “I am sorry, but I am not our fair Luna. But I have come to help you.”’

He nods his head and tells me, “Right, right, I guess she is busy, but who are you, princess?”

“I am Special Agent 42, but you may call me Choo Choo, and I am not a princess.”

He looks at me with his eyes wide, “But you are an alicorn. You must be a princess.”

I shake my head and explain, “No, really, I am not. But I can explain more about that later.”

As I say this Moon Lily walks up beside me and tells me, “Granny, we have about ten minutes before the next one opens.”

“Thank you, dear.” I tell her. Then I turn to the now fully awake pony from the past, “Let us get you out of there, by the way, what is your name?”

“Oh, sorry, I am Doctor Deep Sleep. This was my project. How, how long was I asleep?”

I look at Party Favor who has since approached and he answers, “Two hundred thirteen years three months, and 4 days.”

I twist my head and look at the robot and hear myself ask, “They have been in here since before the Last Day?”

“Which day is this Last Day you mention?” the Doctor asks.

The robot stays silent but instead turns its attention upon me.

I take a deep breath and sigh. Then I answer, “Doctor it seems that you and your compatriots here went into cryo-sleep approximately three months before the war with the Zebras ended.”

“Outstanding. I take it our forces were victorious of course.”

This time I feel a tear fall as I shake my head, “No Doctor, they were not.”

I hear him stutter, “What, you mean the Zebras won? How?”

Again, I fight a sob as I answer bitterly, “No you damn fool, no one won. Both sides damn near destroyed the entire planet of Equus.”

I see him stagger as if I had hit him. His eyes are wide. “For the Goddesses sake, please tell me this is an elaborate joke. Have Pinky come out here.”

I shake my head and this time I hear the robot answer, “That is impossible. Ministry Mare Pie was terminated during the said Balefire bomb and Megaspell exchange.”

I call over to Twinks, “Twinkle Hoofs, how long until the next chamber is ready to open?”

“Only a couple of more minutes Boss,” is her reply.

I then turn to Doctor Deep Sleep, “I know you are feeling exhausted right now, but would you be willing to assist us in reviving the others? Also, let us know what you need to help you recover as well.”

“Yes, I will help. But we need blankets, some warm tea or coffee would be beneficial. We need to start slowly on getting the digestive system back into full operation.”

Double Back and Tater both go and get the requested items and we begin to assist the others who survived the cryo-sleep as well. It seems to be going decently until the last one. As it begins to open the doctor tells me, “Her name is Cargo Consist. She was the head of our supply department.”

As the older mare in that unit becomes aware again. She too screams like the others. However, that is not what throws me. It is that I feel a tickle in the back of my mind as if I had known her before.

I can see her light blue coat, as well as her dark blue and gray striped mane and tail, which seem so familiar. Doctor Deep Sleep assist us in greeting her into her new life. After he introduces me to her, I hear her laugh lightly as she smiles sadly. Then she looks at me and tells me, “I used to have a sister once who was named Choo Choo. I wonder what happened to her?”

That tickle is back in my mind, so I ask her, “What did she look like?”

She describes a mare that sounds very familiar and could even have been mistaken for Sutures’ mother Doula. I then ask her, “Could you look at a picture for me?”

She shrugs and answers, “I guess, I do not know how it could help or hurt, but it seems I have plenty of time.”

I slowly bring out my picture book from saddle bags using my TK. I then open it and find the picture I am looking for. When I show it to her, her eyes get very wide and she asks, “How did you get that picture of my sister and her family?”

I try and think of how to answer, when I hear Moon Lily ask, “Granny, did she just say you were here sister?”

I watch as the mare’s jaw drops open and she then says, “No, you can’t be. You look nothing like her. This is not funny. It is a cruel joke. Even for royalty.”

I feel myself shaking my head as I explain, “I did not always look this way, but on the Last Day, I was changed to this form. I do not even have all my memories anymore. I am sorry to have bothered you. I, I just guess I wanted to let you know you still have family alive and to find out more of what I no longer can remember.”

She looks confused briefly, then she asks, “You really were the mare in the picture?”

I nod my head, “Yes, Side Track had my pictures still and he gave them to me when I ran into him ten years ago.”

I see her shake her head, “How? How could you become like this Choo, better yet, I remember Side Track. How could he still be alive ten years ago.”

I sigh and I tell her, “It will take some explaining, but here is what happened to me…”

I then explain what I remember of how I became an alicorn. Then I explain to her what ghouls are, and how Side Track had become one.”

Finally, she asks, “Choo, I recognize your locomotive, but how did you get Luna’s cutie mark too?”

I shake my head, “You probably would not believe me if I told you. I know I have had a hard time believing it as well.” Then I tell her, “Here is another photo,” and I show her the picture of my team and the Princesses.”

She looks at it and asks me, “Uh, Choo, why does your picture show the Ministry Mare with wings?”

I smile sheepishly at her and tell her, “Because, in that universe, she ascended into an alicorn.”

She looks confused again and this time asks cautiously, “Choo, what do you mean in that universe?”

“Well, it was another universe or timeline. But my team and I met them after we went through a portal.”

Her eyes are open wide and she then tells me, “And I always thought I was the adventurous one of us.”

I smile when she says this and then I ask, “Cargo, could you tell me a bit about our family and growing up?”

She smiles and tells me, “Sure, but let me get some tea first.”

A few hours later I notice the time. I explain to my sister and the others about the world as it is now and then I tell them about the settlement outside and Tater’s suggestion. They all agree that it would be a good idea and then Doctor Deep Sleep asks me, “Agent Choo, do you think perhaps before you depart this area you could introduce us to leadership up there?”

I nod my head. Then I suggest, “Not only that but with your medical facilities and such, perhaps you might become a part of the community and provide medical assistance to them in exchange for food and security.”

“What if they want more?”

I think briefly then I tell him, “That is up to you. But if they try to force their way inside, turn on the security measures again.”

Soon after this, I am back outside again looking to find my team. As we walk, I hear the confused question from Moon, ({Granny, is she really your sister?})

({Yes Moon, that means she is family to you.})

({So why didn’t you correct her on my not being a pegasus?})

({Because dear, she has enough to process right now. Later, at another time we can explain it to her.})

When we catch up with the others, I see Xochitl, Ginger, and the fillies first. When I reach them, he asks me, “So how did it go boss?”

I smile briefly and answer, “You would not believe it.” Then I tell them, “Uh, we have a new supply depot here, it seems.” After the surprise wears off, I then add, “Oh, and tomorrow we will begin making our way towards the radio station.”

*****

Civilian Housing, Rainbow Dash Skyport, Hoofington, Grand Pegasus Enclave Territory: Ball Lightning

I have a sinking feeling in my chest as I hear the rise in gunfire from the direction of the civilian housing. I then realize I told Green Apple Three to hang on when they were already down. Great, I hope I did not add to their panic as I fly with my escort as fast as possible. I then call back to our Battalion HQ. Apple Barrel, this is Apple 2, The situation is stable at the main gate. I request the ready reserve be sent to the base housing ASAP!

Over my radio, I hear, this is Apple Barrel, The Zap Apples are already inbound. Apple Salesman asks do you require more troops than those?

I think briefly and tell them, Roger, but they may be too far out. Green Apple 4 has already indicated they are being overwhelmed. We need to protect those civilians.

I then hear Red Apple 1 this is Apple Barrel; we need a shipment of about two dozen apples to the East Gate and housing.

Roger Apple Barrel, on it right now.

As I arrive in the housing section I can hear gunfire on the far side. And I see several troopers falling back in near panic. I stop them and have them form on me as I lead them back into the fray. As we go, I use my PipBuck to find Green Apple 4 and then I help him rally those troops who are close to him.

The attackers keep pressing us as we reform, using whatever cover we can find. At this point, I have taken local command of the troops here and begin to shift the Green Apple company troops to better defensive positions while we wait for reinforcements.

As we hunker down, I find myself repeatedly looking toward the skies for the rapid reaction force. We are still waiting when I hear behind me, “Apple 2, Red Apple company is forming up to your rear sir.”

I turn my head and see the A company’s commander standing there in his full combat kit, with blood and dirt on his face and uniform. He then asks, “Where do you want us Major?”

I first reply, “Thank the Goddesses.” I pause briefly and tell him, “Form to our right, once ready let me know and we will begin to advance.”

He nods his head, then asks, “You sure you do not want to wait until the RRF gets here?”

I shake my head, “No, they have already killed some of our civilians as well as our troopers. We just do not have time.”

“Yes, Sir!” he replies then trots off giving commands over his radio to his company.

As they go, I see another rush being made by the attackers and I take a few potshots with my carbine as well.

I see several of them go down, but only a couple of them are screaming, so either they are hit, or they are just hitting the ground briefly.

It only takes another couple of minutes and I hear over my radio, Apple 2, this is Red Apple one, we are ready.

Roger Red Apple 1. All Red and Green apple elements forward! I order as I jump up and begin to lead our counterattack.

I have gone about fifteen paces when I feel a sharp pain in my left shoulder. I have been hit again, but it can wait I tell myself as I keep leading my people forward. Soon we are amongst the civilian homes. Many of whom are my troops family and friends. Part of me worries about my family but I know I must do this first.

Before too much longer we have them on the run, and as they fall back, we continue to keep the pressure on them. However, I noticed several times individual troopers stopping at the homes and checking on the occupants. We are almost three-quarters of the way to the gate and fenceline when I notice I am by my home. I look over and I can see several windows are broken out and the front door has been knocked off its hinges. Outside the front door, I see two dead bodies. I tell the others to keep pressing to the fence line as I take my remaining sergeant from my security detachment with me. As I get to the door I call inside, “Hello, is anyone in here?”

I hear Scout yell in an upset voice back, “Dad, we're here, but you need to get help, Mom is hurt bad.”

I tell the sergeant, “Quick go get a medic and bring them here.”

As he runs to get help, I slowly enter my home. I see the couch and the dining table are both flipped over. As I round the pile of furniture, I see Scout lying next to my wife, who is lying in a puddle of blood and panting very hard.

I slowly approach her and check her out. I see two bullet holes in her side that have frothy blood oozing out of them.

Scout tells me, “The rest are upstairs with Savannah. Dad, I, I couldn’t leave Mom alone.”

“You did good Scout. Why don’t you go upstairs and check on them for me.” I tell him. I have studied enough medicine in my off time that I know how badly she is hit.

As he leaves the room I tell her, “You are going to be ok Love.”

She coughs and looks at me with unfocused eyes and tells me, “No Ball, I won’t. I am sorry.” Then she starts to pant for air.

I hear something behind me and I see the white mare with the braided yellow mane and tail that I recognize as Val approaching us.

She nods at me and smiles at my wife. “She has earned a warrior's death,” then she begins to reach for her.

I step in front of her and tell her, “No Val, take me instead. I beg you.”

I see anger flash across her face as she tells me, “How dare you try to stop me from doing my job.”

I am almost sobbing as I tell her, “Val, my children need her. They need their mother. Take me instead. Just leave my wife and family alone. Please. I will do whatever you want me to.”

She looks at me shrewdly as she thinks briefly. Then she asks me, “You are saying you would make a deal with a spirit to save her and your family?”

“Yes, yes I am,” I tell her with desperation in my voice and thoughts.

“Hmmm, very well. I will not take your wife this time, or any of your family members, but instead, at a time of my choosing I will take something else that you love as much. Is that deal acceptable to you?”

I am holding my wife’s head up, with tears in my eyes as I tell her, “Yes, yes. I agree.”

She smiles knowingly and tells me, “The deal is done.” She looks out the door and tells me, “Here comes the medic, now I should go, I have much more work to do.” Then she turns and walks out of the house.

Right after this, my sergeant returns with a medic and two stretcher-bearers. As the medic enters, he looks at the amount of blood on the floor and then at me as he tells me, “I got her sir, but you need to get looked at soon too,” as he drops an IV into my wife’s foreleg and then uses a large dressing and its packaging to cover the sucking chest wounds in her side, finally pouring a healing potion down her throat.

He nods his head as she seems to improve and tells me, “She should be okay now. But I am not going to lie to you sir, it looks like it was a close thing for her.”

As the stretcher-bearers pick her up and begin to head out, he follows them and I begin to realize how bad it is. My foals have not even been weaned yet. I now have to figure out where to get milk. I look at the wrecked house and realize that while I want to follow my wife, our children have to come first right now. I then slowly walk upstairs and I see them all huddled together. Savannah and Lil’ Bit holding onto their youngest siblings.

Savannah then asks in a horse voice, “Is, is Mom going to die? Scout told us she was shot as he and she killed two of them who kicked open the front door.”

I shake my head as I tell her, “No kids. They are taking her to the hospital right now. She will be alright it just might take a while.”

I then begin to think about what must be done and I begin by telling them, “Scout, Scrap, I need you two to help me set the furniture back up. Patchwork, Bent Plate, could you both get me a bucket and mop so I can begin to clean up the floor downstairs? Savannah, in a bit, we will need to begin making dinner for the others. “

With that, as a team, we begin to try to clean up our home and get it ready again. As they clean, I call my CO and tell him, “Sir, I am taking care of my family right now. Sundancer was badly wounded and is in the hospital.”

“OK Ball, but you need to think of what to do with them while you are on duty while she is out.”

“Yes, sir. Of course.” I answer and I think of Alizée and I will ask her to give me a hoof with them. Thank the Goddesses that she feels close to them still.

After we have the basics cleaned up and I have put wood over the broken window and replaced the door as well as possible we all begin to make the trek back to the RDS medical center. As we walk out the door, I notice that the weapons on the two attackers that were by the door are missing.

That is when I notice that Scout now has a nice and shiny M-10 battle rifle on his shoulders and Scraps is carrying a carbine I never saw him have before. When I ask, they all grin and tell me, “Well Pa, we figured these were better than the ones we had, so we just took them. I gave Savannah the one's pistol.”

I look back at the young hen and notice a bulge under her coat that I have never seen there before and she nods her head and asks, “That was ok Dad, wasn’t it?”

I smile. “Yes, my children. You did good and you earned them,” I tell them. Then I remember something else that was earned and how I now owe a debt for a deal I made. While I thank the Goddesses that Sundancer is still alive, I now wonder what the cost will be for me.

*****

Good evening to all of you out there in the Wastelands. This is Chrome Microphone and you are listening to the HOOF radio, the number one station in Hoofington and the Commonwealth. We have a lot for you tonight in music and news on tonight’s show.

In the war news, there have been more reports of an increase in the activity of the Enclave forces in the Whinnyapolis area. This comes shortly after the news of them having withdrawn before the winter has set in up there.

From here in the Lunar Commonwealth there are unsubstantiated reports of several attacks by unknown forces against the Enclave's ground-side bases and facilities. As of broadcast time, there was no further information, including casualty estimates.

From Van Hoover, we have had a report of Enclave forces clashing with the Steel Rangers order there. Currently, it is said to be only skirmishes and some house-to-house fighting. To those brave members of the Steel Rangers we say, keep up the good fight. Help will come as soon as they can.

From the river highway, we have also had reports come in of a recent battle having taken place between an unknown steamer and the known pirate Calico Jack and the Dragons Horde. It seems one of them has slipped out of his grasp. For those brave souls who did this, good job, but keep your steam up and your weapons ready as while the NCR Navy’s River flotillas are trying to clear the waterways, they cannot be everywhere, especially with the current unpleasantness.

We will be back with more news you can use after our next song in tonight’s show, Valhalla Calling.

Author's Note

In this chapter, we can see both the results of some fates and others making deals that may change what their and those they love fates may be. Sometimes we are forced to make decisions and deals that we would never otherwise for our friends and family. Hopefully, this will not come back to haunt Ball Lighting too badly.

I have been permitted to use the settlement of Mall from Volrathxp as it is his creation upon which I have embellished for this story. Choo's sister Radiant Star is also his creation and I have used her time there as an explanation for the condition of certain mall sections. Mall and Radiant Star are in his story Fallout Equestria: Starlight.

For those who would like to listen to this chapter's song, the YouTube Link is: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mI8hPSSZSL4