A World Gone Rotten

Chapter 3

"Another Rescue"

Canterlot, Oregon

March 24th, 2015

1700 hours

Samuel and Arthur finished fortifying the house, one hour ago. The two started organizing the multitude of supplies they have, putting it all in proper places. There was enough essentials to last a week and a half, when adding the girls into the equation, it did mean more supplies had to be gathered and soon.

“Where would we get more though? Scavenge the nearby houses?” Arthur asked putting some canned beans in a cupboard.

Samuel was putting the variety of baking supplies from Sweet Shoppe away, “Probably, in due time though, but first we have to see about what is going on.”

“Like the government? Other survivors?” Arthur asked.

“Exactly. The rest of Canterlot too, it was fucking quick how things fell apart. Who knows where the police and the government are in general.”

Arthur got an idea, getting enthusiastic, “I can use my CB radio, there must be broadcasts from all types of people, other amateur radio hobbyists, government, hell radio stations.”

Samuel nodded in agreement, “The T.V. too, as long as power is going.”

They packed the rest of the stuff away, Arthur running to his radio set in his room. Samuel went back to the living room; the rifle and shotgun were off to the side, unloaded but ready at a moment’s notice. He grabbed them and took the rifle and started doing basic maintenance, cleaning out the barrel, chamber and nooks and crannies full of carbon and other shit in there. Once he finished he oiled the rifle, put the rifle back together, putting beside his chair and started on the shotgun.

He was alone, the two girls going upstairs earlier to the master bedroom. He appreciated the silence, enjoying it while he can; something told him it would be scarce from now on. As he finished the shotgun, he realized how quiet the neighborhood is, more so than usual. That got him to go around the house checking the outside through the windows; they made little viewports, which doubled as firing ports if necessary, through the planks. The outside perimeter was rather undisturbed, all good in the backyard and sides.

The front was different; having a good view of the street he saw a small amount of zombies, at least four. Most of the houses seem to be closed, whether they’re occupied was difficult to tell. Many vehicles were still parked on the sides and in driveways, none in any accidents so far. Samuel now satisfied with it, headed upstairs to check on Arthur, see if he has made any progress with the radio. Reaching his bedroom door, he knocked, getting a “come in” from Arthur. Entering he saw Arthur hunched over his desk, headphones on, listening to something. Samuel sat on Arthur’s bed as he waited for Arthur to finish.

When he did, he looked at Arthur, his eyes showed mental exhaustion. Samuel felt concern, was it that bad?

“Is it bad?” Samuel asked.

“Yes,” Arthur giving a weary sigh, “Most of the channels I’m picking up, are just calls for help, some for mild things, most for some form of genuine help, some … some are on the verge of death, desperate pleas, asking for someone, anyone to save them.”

“That’s fucked, I’m sorry that you had to listen to that, but is there anything else?”

Arthur nodded, “There are broadcasts from some levels of government, and most are just repeated messages, keep indoors, stay away from zombies, shit like that. About four from live politicians, they were nothing special though. Nothing from the President or from the White House at all. Plenty of news though, but its mixed from all over the damn place. Various radio stations big and small, that sort of thing.”

Samuel digested the information, as Arthur told him what he heard, “How far could you pick up signals? And in return how far could you broadcast?”

“As long as I got no interference with the radio waves, I picked up most from within Oregon, some from the surrounding states. Farthest was probably Los Angeles, that or Salt Lake City, those were rather weak though. If I had something to boost the signal or a top of the line radio, that or someone to bounce the signals from, I could get better info.”

“Good job on that, take a break though, at least for the rest of the night, I can tell it’s taking a toll,” Samuel now spoke more softly, “you have had a long and rough day, and I’m counting on you in the coming days, so don’t push yourself too hard. Please.”

Arthur’s shoulders slumped; he knew Samuel was right, “Ok, I will, getting hungry too.”

“I’ll cook something up, but before I do that. How are the girls doing?” Samuel asked.

Arthur took a moment to gather a response, “Fluttershy may be scared, but there is a core of steel in her, she doesn’t show it much though. Pinkie… I have never seen her like that; maybe her friends have but not me. I think losing the Cakes hit her real hard…they were real nice, great bakers and hosts.”

Samuel solemnly nodded, “You’re sure about Fluttershy? Doesn’t seem she can keep it together very well.”

Arthur flatly responded, “I saw her one time lay into one of the biggest football players in the school, for hitting a mouse with a football. Like I said, a core of steel, if her friends or animal friends get in trouble she’ll be there. Don’t doubt it.”

Samuel raised both hands in surrender, “Alright I believe you. Am surprised you know so much though.”

“They were practically the school’s celebrities, word got around, and almost everyone interacted with them from time to time. Enough you get a picture of who they are.”

Samuel nodded, “I’ll get started on dinner, see if you can get them down to eat, if not, I’ll bring a plate or two up for them.”

They both got up and went to where they needed to go. Samuel started the stove and got a pot of boiling water going, grabbing a bag of frozen vegetables. Arthur went to the master bedroom, knocking. The door opened up partially, enough to see Fluttershy’s head.

“Umm, yes?”

“Samuel is cooking dinner right now, if you want you can come down to eat or some plates can be brought to you.”

Fluttershy looked back for a moment before looking at Arthur again, “We will, come down. Give us a few minutes?”

“Of course. It’ll take some time to get dinner ready anyways.”

Arthur turned and headed downstairs, seeing Samuel steaming vegetables while prepping some chicken with Shake n’ Bake.

“They’ll be coming down.”

Samuel gave an affirmative noise while focusing on the task at hand. Arthur went about setting the table; an oval shaped thing stained a dark hue, four plates, knives and forks. It wasn’t long before the girls came down, Fluttershy holding Pinkie’s hand as she guided her down. Samuel gave a glance before returning to cooking.

Arthur gestured to two seats, and the two sat down, Fluttershy holding herself awkward, not sure exactly what to do. Pinkie sat there just, depressed, her eyes casted downward. Arthur came to check on the cooking.

Samuel said something first, “The chicken is going to be longer than I thought, the vegetables have been done for awhile, take them and give a serving to everyone. Should be the right amount, I hope.”

Arthur did just that, scooping a good serving onto everyone’s plate. Pinkie gave a small sign of acknowledgement, her eyes looking at the vegetables. Fluttershy gave a thank you. Which reminded Arthur of something.

“Fluttershy you’re vegetarian, right?”

“Ummm, yes. I was hoping you maybe had something else?” Fluttershy asked politely as she could.

Samuel paused for a second, before going to the fridge to find something. Cursing under his breath, he looked at Fluttershy apologetically.

“Sorry Fluttershy, we don’t really have any of that vegan meat, I could get you some yogurt and fruit if you want?”

Fluttershy just nodded, it was acceptable.

“Arthur keep an eye on the chicken, I got to cut up some fruit.”

Samuel grabbed a cantaloupe, honeydew and some strawberries. Laying the fruit out on a cutting board he got to work. Arthur kept an eye on the chicken, about ten minutes left till it should be good. Samuel cut the fruit rather quickly and nicely.

“Where did you learn to do that?” Arthur asked curiously.

“I worked a few years at a store in produce, occasionally having to make fruit trays and the like.”

Arthur’s curiosity now sated, he brought the chicken out, cutting it to make sure it cooked all the way through. Before he put one on every plate, except Fluttershy’s, the extra sat on the stove for now. Samuel had enough fruit cut up for Fluttershy, putting it in a bowl alongside a small helping of yogurt.

Everyone was now seated, Arthur started to eat, hunger driving him. Samuel said grace before starting to eat with practiced speed, another old army habit. Fluttershy began to slowly eat with small bites. Pinkie was picking her food, occasionally taking a small bite. The table was quiet, no one really knowing what to say for conversation.

Arthur decided to see if he could get a word out of Pinkie, “Hey Pinkie…are you doing ok?”

Pinkie looked at Arthur with a frown, not against him, but one in continuous sorrow, “I…don’t know.”

Arthur decided to go out on a leg, despite the pain it brought, “I lost…someone today too,” he felt his eyes begin to water, “my girlfriend, Jennifer.”

Everyone looked at him as he shared what happened; Samuel looked to him with a guilty consciousness even if he knew the reason behind what he had to do. Fluttershy looked at him with a growing look of horror. Pinkie just listened; she couldn’t look any more depressed than she already was.

As Arthur finished he was shedding a few tears, the pain still fresh. Samuel put a hand on his shoulder in comfort. Fluttershy looked at him with deep empathy, Pinkie’s expression changed as she spoke softly.

“How can you deal with that?”

Arthur paused, and then he looked at Pinkie, softly responding, “I don’t know. All I know is having Samuel with me and lots of work to do helps.”

Samuel decided to speak now, “Other people will be our greatest source of comfort if one doesn’t believe in God and Jesus or any other religion. I know I’m clutching to my faith more now,” he looked at Arthur, “A good friend or family is sometimes what we need most though.”

Arthur smiled at Samuel who smiled back, Arthur continued, “We will help you Pinkie, you too Fluttershy, especially finding your friends and get you back to them. Right Samuel?”

Samuel paused for a second, “Within reason, but yes like Arthur said we will help, the question is, do you know where any of them are as of right now?”

Fluttershy responded, “Umm, not really, they could be home but with phones not working, we don’t know.”

“And with the rise of the undead they could be forced anywhere in Canterlot or out of it. You could find their location, because there is a chance phone service could work again its spotty in our experience, and if you find them, we will see what we can do then.” Samuel said with conviction, Arthur agreeing with the same conviction.

That got Fluttershy to give a small smile in appreciation. Even Pinkie gave a small quirk of the mouth. They returned to eating, the quiet atmosphere returned but with a more comfortable feeling. It didn’t take long to finish and Arthur gathered everyone’s dishes and began to wash them.

Samuel said to the girls, “You can return upstairs, it’s been a long day, get any rest you need.”

The two nodded and went to head upstairs, but Pinkie turned and said.

“Thank you… for saving us earlier.”

Fluttershy added to it, “Yes, thank you.”

Samuel and Arthur looked at each other, Arthur responded, “Your welcome, couldn’t leave you two at the mercy of zombies, besides it’s the right thing to do. That and need your parties again sometime Pinkie.”

Pinkie gave an actual smile, and her colour seem to be brought back just a bit, even her hair gain small amount of puffiness. Fluttershy smiled too, happy her friend was smiling again. They went upstairs back to the master bedroom, getting some rest.

Samuel looked at Arthur with a smile, “Well done, hopefully she will get better soon. I’m gonna check the T.V to see if any news is running, should be lots right now. If the internet is up we should check it too. Join if you want.”

Arthur just replied “Maybe.”

Samuel nodded and headed to the living room, turning on the flat screen, switching the channel to news he saw the scenes that played, a riot happening in Portland as rioters and riot police clashed, he saw that some people in the scenes were no doubt zombies. He flipped through several more channels showing similar scenes or the destruction wrought by a collapsing society, and the zombies themselves, ripping into flesh and gorging themselves on it, some in hordes of hundreds or thousands already in the bigger cities.

Samuel watched with a mix of horror and concentration to gain info, from what he could tell the entire continental United States was dealing with the same thing. It proved that there most likely was no help to come, at least not right now. It seemed that Canterlot got hit harder than some other places, explaining how no police or military was responding to the situation in the area.

Shit. This is worse than I thought, fucking clusterfuck, who knows what’s next. It’s up to God now I guess.

He sighed, the weight of responsibility on his shoulders, for Arthur, even Pinkie and Fluttershy. He liked them, nice and friendly from the beginning, he didn’t know what to make of it. Ordinary teenagers now thrusted into something beyond any of them could deal with. He also felt the mental and emotional exhaustion wrought on him and the others. Nightmares most likely for everyone, with a healthy dose of mental problems especially PTSD.

Shutting the T.V off he went upstairs to go to bed. Making a quick stop at Arthur’s bedroom, he knocked and Arthur answered rather quickly.

“Yes?”

“Just saying goodnight, sleep well. And if you need anything, wake me.” Samuel said in an older brotherly tone.

Arthur frowned, “I’m not a kid, you know that.”

Samuel plowed on, “I know. But this isn’t some bullshit you can wave off like it’s another day at school. You and I did things we never thought we would do today, so don’t brush this shit off like it’s nothing.”

Arthur frowned deeper but before he could speak, Samuel shushed him and went on, “In the army I went to my buddies about any problems I had, because you get close with them, really close. They understood things that no civilian friend of mine could. That’s why you don’t brush this shit off, cause it can end in mental problems and potential suicide. And don’t say it won’t happen, some of the baddest motherfuckers my unit ever knew ended it.”

Samuel took a deep breath in before continuing, “I’m not saying we got to talk about it to the moon and back, getting all soppy with emotion like women do, but don’t hide it. Because I will pick it out. Besides I’ll probably be in the same boat as you. Goodnight Arthur.”

Samuel turned to head to bed, he did hear Arthur say goodnight though. That was good enough for him. Changing into sleep clothes he went to bed, sleep coming quickly after an exhausting day.

The morning came as Arthur blinked, the sun shining in his eyes. He groggily got up; last night wasn’t the best for sleeping, constant nightmares and waking up in a cold sweat, in particular of Jennifer. Getting out of bed, he left the bedroom, and saw Samuel watching out of the window at the end of the hall. Cigarette in his hand he took a puff, slowly exhaling out the window.

“Morning.” Arthur said groggily.

“Morning. Sleep well?” Samuel asked, in a tired voice.

“Not really. You?”

“Same, unfortunately. There is no zekes on this side thankfully.” Samuel observed.

“Zekes?” Arthur asked curiously.

“Yeah shorter than saying zombie, always got a shorter name for everything.”

Arthur made an affirmative noise, before asking, “Breakfast?”

“Sure, let me finish my smoke and I’ll be with you.”

Arthur went downstairs and began taking out cereal, milk, oatmeal and other stuff. He heard Samuel shut the window and come downstairs, who headed straight to the windows to take a peek outside.

“See anything?”

Samuel responded, “It’s about the same as yesterday, except a couple more zekes. Oh, and a car accident outside, before you ask the drivers are gone.”

Arthur nodded and continued, making some oatmeal, Samuel grabbed some leftover fruit from last night and began eating. The two ate, enjoying the silent company of each other.

“Sleep well?” Samuel asked.

Arthur remembering last night’s conversation, he decided to go along with it, “Could have been better.”

Samuel nodded in encouragement, “I get that, it was same here. Regardless we need to decide what we are doing today.”

“Well what about getting more supplies? We are going to need more eventually.” Arthur said.

“Maybe, depends on the two girls if they find their friends, then go from there.” Samuel thought for a second, “How are your friends doing? Any idea where they are at?”

Arthur sighed, “As you know Jason disappeared, still no contact from him. Kenneth and his parents have already left, heading for Portland. Same goes with Jack and his family, they left, where to, I don’t know.”

Samuel gave an affirmative grunt and the two finished eating. That is when they heard the two girls come down, both looked tired, seems nobody got a good sleep last night. But Pinkie did look somewhat better; some more colour to her, a bit more bounce to her step and even a small smile. Arthur was happy that she was a least a bit better today. He knew it might take a while for her to fully recover, but it was good to see progress.

Fluttershy too, was a bit better than yesterday, at the least not as scared. Everyone said their good mornings and the girls went into eating breakfast. Arthur inquired about if they discovered where their friends are. Same answer as yesterday, nothing yet. Samuel decided to count available ammo, counting meticulously in the living room while Arthur decided to check his CB radio, in case anything changed.

As the girls chatted between themselves, Samuel was disappointed in the amount of ammo left. Forty rounds of 30-30 for the rifle, fifty-five birdshot, twenty –four buckshot, and eight slugs for the shotgun, that Samuel surprisingly found.

This ammo is going to go faster than we expect, a lot faster if we do target practice anytime soon. Shit, and where in this city could we find more?

Canterlot isn’t what you would call a serious gun town, which would make it harder to find any new firearms or ammunition. If the situation doesn’t require guns then its melee weapons from here on out. Samuel’s thoughts were interrupted when Arthur came down, rather quickly.

“Heard something real interesting.” Arthur said excitingly.

“Oh?”

“Apparently there is establishment of refugee cities, Portland being one of them. Supposed to care of all of us, protection, food, water, everything we would need.” Arthur getting more excited as he went on.

The girls were now paying attention too, enthralled by Arthur’s enthusiasm. Samuel however was more skeptical, “You know, what refugee camps look like, right? It’s not pretty. Also was it from an actual broadcast or second hand information?”

Arthur swore for a second, “No, it was a local news station from out of town. Which means it might not be true.”

Samuel nodded, “Maybe. It could be true, you don’t know, but we need more information before we make a decision.”

The girls slightly deflated at that, Arthur as well. Samuel continued, “Besides we need to find the other girls first before we do anything like leave.”

That got a better reaction out of them this time. Arthur decided to go peruse the internet this time instead, while it still worked. Samuel continued organizing what he could. The girls were chatting while trying to contact their friends as time went by for all of them.

It was four hours later when Pinkie and Fluttershy interrupted Arthur who was on his laptop, surfing the web, gathering info relevant to their situation. They were rather excited and Pinkie was first to speak.

“We got in contact with Rarity! We have her on the phone right now!”

Arthur almost threw his laptop to the side as he got up and the three all gathered around the kitchen table, putting the phone in the middle like a conference call. They all took a seat and the conversation started with Rarity.

“Arthur? Thank goodness, the girls told me what you and Samuel did for them. Thank you for helping them. We were worried sick about them.”

Arthur slightly blushed, “It wasn’t a hard decision but you’re welcome. Are you in a safe place right now?”

“Yes, even though we are in a bit of a precarious situation. Frankly we are in need of some help, darling.” Rarity said, sounding slightly desperate.

Pinkie and Fluttershy now looked worried; it was Fluttershy who spoke up.

“What’s wrong Rarity? Is anyone hurt? Or any of the pets?”

“No we are quite alright, darling. It’s rather that we are stuck in the Boutique, with no food left. Not including the amount of hideous creatures outside.” Rarity replied.

Samuel walked in just as Rarity finished, he was surprised to hear her.

“You got in contact with her?”

Arthur said, “Yup. At least the girls did, finding out where she is,” looking to the phone he talked to Rarity, “You said there are others, right?”

“Correct darling. Me, Rainbow and Twilight are here, including Opulesence and Spike. We got trapped in here when I was grabbing some tailoring items, then we got ambushed by those things,” speaking in disgust about the zombies, “We have been trapped ever since yesterday. I hate to be a bother but we do need some help here, dear.”

Pinkie spoke after, “How bad is it, Rarity? Like super dooper bad?”

Rarity sighed wearily, “It’s absolutely dreadful, there is no food, and we haven’t eaten anything since yesterday. The boutique is trashed, everything, including some of my best designs, are just thrown against the windows!” her voice getting louder in frustration, “I am absolutely dirty with filth! Not to mention those things outside, won’t go away! I…what Rainbow?...Oh my…Yes I will stay quiet.”

Fluttershy and Pinkie both spoke with worry, asking what was wrong.

Rarity cleared her throat, but some fear broke through as she spoke, “It seems they heard me from outside, Rainbow says we should be okay. They have not broken in yet. This is why we need help though, as soon as possible.”

Samuel spoke next, a level of seriousness to his voice, “If we are going to come help, I need to know what the situation is. Particularly the amount of zekes there is outside and if you have everything packed and ready to go.”

“Zekes? Well I don’t know…wait…Rainbow… go count those things outside. They need to know for whatever reason…Anyways, nothing is packed but that can be done in the hour, dear.”

Samuel grunted in affirmative, “Alright good, make sure you have everything you need, we won’t be going back.”

A slight delay before Rarity responded, “No worries darling, we will have everything packed. Rainbow just got back…Thirty?...Oh dear…yes, thank you. Rainbow said there is around thirty just outside on the street. Will that cause a problem?”

Fluttershy balked at the idea of going through that many, Pinkie comforted Fluttershy, and she wasn’t so fazed. Arthur looked at Samuel who was thinking, Arthur decided to speak.

“It shouldn’t be, just need to find a way to draw them away. Could we use the truck?”

Samuel shook his head, “No, it’s our only vehicle, it also has the space for everyone and everything with them, we could do something else. Wait, I can go check to see if any of the vehicles outside have keys, we could use one of them instead.”

That got a good reaction from everyone, Samuel spoke to Rarity, “We have a plan now, and your part in it is to get out and into the truck as soon as possible. We will draw them away and get you out. Be ready to fight if necessary, we will see you in an hour.”

Everyone said their goodbyes and Rarity hanged up. They made a quick, improvised plan on what to do once there. Samuel went to check the front outside for zombies, and finding none close enough to cause problems, went out with crowbar in hand, to find an extra vehicle. Arthur turned to the girls.

“I’m guessing you want to come along?” they both nodded, “Both of you are having a weapon on you, understood?” Arthur’s tone brokered no argument.

The girls looked at each other, Pinkie nodded with a look of conviction, Fluttershy took a couple seconds before nodding also with a look of conviction, with a hint of fear. Arthur was glad, going over to the various tools they had. He grabbed two claw hammers and handed one to each of them.

“Me and Samuel will take care of the zombies, you two help your friends get in the truck, ready to go. Like Samuel said, we need to get in and out really quick. Fight only if you have to.”

Samuel shortly returned keys in hand for a vehicle. They all quickly grabbed their gear, Samuel and Arthur with the same gear. Fluttershy and Pinkie had their packs, hammers and a backup kitchen knife. Leaving the house for the vehicles, Samuel driving the truck with Pinkie as passenger. Arthur driving the black sedan that Samuel found, Fluttershy as passenger with him.

Leaving the suburb block, Samuel followed Pinkie’s directions to the boutique, Arthur close behind. As they got closer, heading out of the suburbs, and into the more commercial areas. Samuel noticed there was more zombies, not absolute hoards of them but the numbers seemed to be increasing even if slightly. A concern to be sure, but there was a task to be done.

Avoiding a plethora of accidents and zombies, they made their way to about three blocks away from the boutique before coming to a stop. Samuel and Pinkie got out of the truck. Arthur and Fluttershy got out of the sedan and headed to the truck. Samuel spoke to everyone quickly before their plan went into action.

“Let’s go over the plan quickly one more time, I will take the car and go on the opposite side, draw as many as I can away, I’ll meet you at the boutique or at home if things go south. Arthur what’s your job?”

Arthur repeated what they went over, “I will take the truck and get it as close as possible to the boutique and fight off any stragglers. Load everyone and their stuff up and then get out.”

Samuel nodded, “Good. Girls what is your job?”

Pinkie went first, “We go with Arthur, help him and our friends with what we can, and then drive off, easy peasy lemon squeezy.” Samuel looked to Fluttershy, “What she said?” Fluttershy said smiling nervously.

“Good, we don’t have a lot of time, so let’s make it fast. Wait till I start honking, that will be the signal, wait one minute then get in there. I expect no longer than a couple minutes, then I’ll back track and we go home.” Samuel finished with a tone of finality.

Everyone knowing their job went to their vehicles. Samuel taking off in speed, soon rounding the corner onto the street the boutique was on; the honking began, along with a wave of groaning and moaning undead. The three then waited a minute; Arthur stepped on the gas, the truck roaring as it went. Soon getting onto the street, the scene wasn’t looking to good.

While most of the zombies followed Samuel, there was still at least a dozen or so left, including another five pounding at the boutique doors. Arthur clenched his teeth and drove almost to the front of the boutique, leaving enough space for all them to get out. Arthur hopped out quick, shotgun in hand, birdshot loaded.

“Stay near the truck, I’ll get closer and deal with them.” Racking his shotgun, loading an extra shell to replace it in the tube. Taking a look around, that dozen were far away enough to not be a problem right away. That meant it was just the five zombies to deal with. Taking aim at the five zombies, who were much more focused on the inside of the boutique. He could see that the girls inside were ready to get out, just needed a little help.

Aiming at the closest one, he yelled to get its attention, three of them faced him. As soon as they did, he got about within twelve feet, and fired, the first shot doing damage to the first and some hitting the second, but not enough to kill the first zombie. He quickly racked and fired again, dropping the first in a gory mess. Racking and firing his last shot he got the second, its brains covering the one behind it.

Slinging the shotgun over his shoulder, he grabbed his bat, strapped to the side of his pack. He rushed the last one, as the zombie raised its arms to grab him; he swung upward hitting square in the jaw. The zombie pitched backwards, falling onto the ground, he swung another time that broke its skull open. Looking to the boutique, he saw the last two shambling towards him, gripping his bat hard he was ready to fight.

That is when Rainbow came bursting out of the boutique, a table leg in her hands, and attacked the zombie closest to her, giving Arthur an opportunity to deal with the one in front of him with no worry. Quickly dealing with them, Rarity and Twilight came out after, backpacks filled with each having a suitcase as well, Spike following close behind. Opulesence, was in a carrier, she wasn’t happy. They had the misfortune of looking at the corpses, gagging at the stench and aftermath.

Arthur spoke, “Get to the truck, lets go!”

Rainbow went and grabbed her pack, and another suitcase. With the three girls following Arthur, they got to the truck. All the girls yelled in excitement, seeing each other again. A quick round of hugs and words in their reunion. Arthur however was staring worryingly down the street Samuel went, hoping he was alright. He turned to the girls, as they put their bags in the bed of the truck.

“Is that everything? All good to go?” Arthur asked, his tone filled with tension.

“Just a few more things, darling.” Rarity responded.

That almost made Arthur groan but he restrained himself, “Well let’s go, we are cutting it short.”

He, Rainbow and Rarity rushed back to the boutique, Twilight and the pets staying back. Going inside, Arthur grabbed two suitcases, Rainbow grabbed the last one. Rarity double checking for anything forgotten.

“That better be the last of it. We need to go.” Arthur said in growing frustration.

Rainbow mumbled in agreement, Rarity reassured them with a rather dignified nod. Leaving the boutique, for the truck, the dozen zombies were a lot closer now, a little too close for comfort. Two were in the way; Rainbow handed the suitcase to Rarity, and rushed forward, her athletic prowess coming into use. She quickly batted the two out of the way, one strike each and they fell over. Giving enough time for them to run past.

Arthur threw the suitcases in the bed, and immediately turned to face a zombie almost upon him. Eyes widening in panic, he lashed out a kick that connected with its stomach, resulting in the zombie taking a few steps back. Enough time to grab his bat and beat its head into a pulp. Rainbow was fighting the same two again by herself and several were almost to the truck.

Rarity was using a table leg, trying to keep one at bay, Pinkie was right beside her fighting another with her hammer, having more success as she smashed the temple inward and the zombie fell. Fluttershy and Twilight were in the bed, not really attempting to fight the three trying to reach for them. That’s when he saw Samuel full out sprinting down the street towards them, right at the three zombies trying to get in the bed.

Arthur went to help Rainbow first, swinging into the back of the left knee of one, causing it to collapse, and then swung three times to kill it. Rainbow killed the other one with a swing that broke its jaw and a follow up swing after. Arthur looked at Rarity, her and Pinkie dealt with the one but another two were approaching them. Just as he and Rainbow went to help them, he heard a loud scream of terror.

A zombie was able to grab Twilight by the ankle, managing to get its abdomen up and over, hanging over the wall of the bed, and started dragging her closer to a gruesome death. Fluttershy was pulling her by the arms but it was a losing battle. Spike was barking with ferocity to no effect. The zombie being stronger was winning, groaning in awaiting hunger. But before anyone could help her, or the zombie take a chunk out of Twilight, a war cry was sounded.

“HAAKAA PAALLE!” Samuel yelled. Sprinting forward he rammed the bottom end of the crowbar into the back of its skull, impaling the brain, brain exploding. The zombie‘s grip faltered and Twilight was able to get away. Extracting the crowbar Samuel fell back several steps as the other two lunged for him. Teeth gritted, adrenaline pumping and breathing heavily he whacked the first to the ground, and quickly pierced the skull of the second, blood covering the crowbar. And as the first one was trying to get up, he clobbered it twice till brains covered the street.

Samuel looked around, the zombies were all dealt with, all twelve of them. Arthur ran to him and gave him a one arm hug for a second, a result of his worry.

“Thank god, you’re alright. We good to go?”

Samuel took a moment to regain his breath before replying, “Yeah let’s get the fuck out of here.”

Everyone started loading up; when the first zombies started rounding the corner that Samuel drove down, dozens of them. The sound of shambling feet and a constant droning of moans and groans came marching down, filling the street with its horrid sound. Everyone took a look, then doubled down on getting loaded. Samuel got into the driver’s seat, Arthur in the passenger seat, and the girls in the backseats or the bed of the truck. Spike and Opulesence sat in their owners laps.

Stepping on the gas, the truck sped away from the encroaching hoard and the boutique. Rounding the corner they left the street for home. Driving away, Arthur looked back to check on the girls. They were all looking sick to different extents; he wasn’t feeling the best either. Samuel too, looked a bit sick. Arthur sighed in relief, getting out of the situation with no one hurt.

“Are you alright back there? No one is hurt.” Arthur asked, wanting to check.

Pinkie and Rarity just nodded, a bit in shock, Rainbow was more awake, “Yeah man. All good, got to say that was some good moves. Like really cool, not as cool as me but close.”

Arthur chuckled and Samuel just snorted, before Rainbow continued, “What was that you yelled Samuel? Sounded weird.”

Samuel just smirked, “It’s Finnish, literally means, hack them down or better yet, kill kill kill. Had some ancestors from Finland come over way back in the day.”

Rarity looked at him with some degree of disgust, Rainbow on the other hand, “Cool!”

Samuel went on, “Anyways, Rarity,” getting her attention, “What is all in those suitcases? There is a lot, enough it almost got people killed.”

Rarity looked bashful, “Well its… a bunch of… well designs and clothing, they will be useful I assure you darling.”

Samuel gave her a small glare via the rearview mirror, “They better be, that was a close call, and don’t fuck around like that again.”

Rarity just nodded in bashful acceptance, not wanting to test Samuel. Rainbow gave a bit of a glare back, but she understood where he was coming from. Pinkie just gave Rarity a hug, for both their sakes. That is when Arthur asked a question.

“Where is Applejack and Sunset? Are they ok?”

Rainbow answered, “Yeah they’re at the farm, they’re safe, Big Mac, Granny Smith, the Crusaders too.”

Pinkie smiled at that, a great big smile of happiness. Samuel nodded as well as Arthur, but more enthusiastically. Avoiding the accidents, piled cars and zombies, they soon arrived in the suburbs. Samuel noticed some signs of survivor activity, not enough to see any of them though. Soon arriving home, pulling into the driveway. There was almost a collective sigh of relief getting home.

All of them exiting the truck they started unloading the myriad of suitcases and packs, bringing it all inside, putting it all in the living room. Spike and Opulesence were let inside, Spike going to a couch, Opulesence finding a convenient high perch. After unloading everyone found a seat and just slumped into it, exhausted from earlier. Surprisingly Twilight spoke up.

“Samuel, I just want to… thank you for saving me.” Twilight said gratefully.

Samuel gave a small smile, “No thanks necessary, but your welcome.”

Rarity spoke next, “Yes, thank you. You and Arthur, without your help today… well who knows what would have happened.”

Rainbow nodded, “Yeah well, I could’ve handled it but yeah thanks for helping.”

“Hey! We helped to you know.” Pinkie said jokingly, a pout on her face.

That got a general chuckle and people relaxed, as that happened, Fluttershy decided to speak up.

“Umm, I was wondering…if we could check the animal shelter? I want to check on the animals and Angel bunny is there, if it’s not a bother.”

No one was too eager to leave right away again, but a series of nods left the idea open. Samuel pondered for a second, then a question was asked,

“Is there any kind of medical supplies? I guess food for the pets as well? Or anything else of use?” Samuel asked curiously.

Fluttershy spoke with some more confidence, in her element now, “Some of the antibiotics could be used, bandages, oh and most of the veterinarian supplies will be of use. There is plenty of food for the animals, enough for a while. I think that is about it.”

That got Samuel to come around, “Is it fine if we wait till tomorrow? Let things settle in the area, so we ain’t dragging a hoard of zekes with us.”

Fluttershy nodded, wanting to leave sooner but she understood. Arthur came with a compromise, “How about we leave first thing tomorrow morning? The sooner the better, right?”

Fluttershy smiled, and Rainbow piped in, “I’ll come along, always ready to go, you know?”

Samuel checked his watch, evening already, “Arthur lets get started on dinner, after that we got some maintenance to do, maybe check the radio again, anything that needs doing.”

Pinkie spoke up with enthusiasm, “Don’t worry, I’ll cook tonight, least I could do. Rarity and Fluttershy will help me.”

Pinkie was looking better than yesterday, still not to her full colour or puffy hair, but better. Rarity and Fluttershy, looked at her but decided to go along with it. Samuel and Arthur said their thanks, appreciating that. The evening would go smoothly, with the three girls cooking, supper came along in no time, a good meal that filled them all. The pets getting some leftovers.

Arthur and Samuel cleaned and oiled the guns, with Arthur soon going to use his CB radio, Twilight helping him in a project to see if the radio could be improved upon. Rainbow just took a nap, Samuel went about just organizing Rarity’s large amount of stuff to in proper places, Rarity helping along, making sure was nothing was ruined.

Pinkie and Fluttershy went about chatting, all the girls did, especially as the night drew to a close. Soon time to sleep came along, Samuel gave up the guest bedroom he was staying in, so the girls could get some sleep in a proper bed. Taking a couch downstairs, he fell asleep quickly.

Arthur laid in his bed, thinking to himself about all that is happened. He worried about the future.

I hope we can deal with this, things have just…gone south so quickly. I wonder if the government is doing anything, haven’t heard anything yet.

With that last thought he fell asleep, hoping for a more peaceful sleep.

Samuel woke early in the morning as usual, old habits from the army and school, and headed to the kitchen, grabbing milk to drink. He poured a glass and headed to check the windows to outside. He was surprised when he saw at least three vehicles loaded up, and packed families inside. As they were driving away, he wondered where they were heading.

Checking his phone, a mostly useless paperweight now, there was nothing for an alert. The internet was still working, for how long that would remain was anyone’s guess. Checking the local government website he found information pertaining to it. Actual confirmation of the refugee centers, closest in Portland and Seattle.

Looks like the government isn’t gone after all. The question being, what are they doing to combat the undead?

He heard someone come downstairs, it was Arthur. He inquired about the vehicles.

“I heard some cars, they going somewhere?”

“Apparently so, I checked the internet, the refugee centers are true, everyone must be trying to get there now.” Samuel said neutrally.

“Should we be going too? Wait no, we have to get the others first.” Arthur said.

“Not just that, I’m quite sure the highways will be clogged for miles, there is only one highway out of here after all. A recipe for disaster that’s for sure.” Samuel stated.

Arthur nodded before going on, “We should probably leave eventually though, things seem to be getting worse, but where would we go?”

Samuel just shrugged, “The million dollar question eh? We can decide later got to get a lot more supplies, weapons, vehicles, enough for everybody for an extended trip. But for today lets just focus on what needs to be done, especially this shelter trip.”

Arthur agreed and the two went about having breakfast. Over the course of an hour, the girls filtered downstairs, they too having breakfast. Conversation went on, for a bit, Fluttershy seemed eager to leave. She very politely asked if they could leave. Samuel just nodded as well as Arthur. Rainbow seemed a little groggy, but up to the task. The sooner it was done the better.

Grabbing the usual gear, Rainbow given a prybar for a weapon. After their goodbyes, and the four of them hopped in the truck, and off they went. Arthur turned to look at Fluttershy.

“Just curious, what do you plan on doing with all the animals anyway? Release them?” Arthur asked curiously.

Fluttershy nodded, “Try to give them chance, I can’t just leave them.”

Arthur agreed and the trip went by, Samuel following directions, more of the same views. As they approached a random intersection, two vehicles drove past them, speeding by incredibly fast. Forcing Samuel to slam on the brakes, cursing as he did so, nobody really bracing for it, all of them close to being flung forward. Making sure the coast was clear, he slowly accelerated back to previous speed.

“What the fuck was that? People going somewhere?” Rainbow asked, rubbing her neck.

Arthur responded, “Seems everybody is leaving…or trying to, there is refugee centers out in Portland,” he pondered for a second, “Seems like there is one in any major city on the coast, like what Samuel found on the internet. But I also got some of that news on the CB too.”

That lead to the same discussion as earlier and the same results. So they continued on their way to the shelter, the area was rather quiet, no zombies or survivors in sight. Reaching the shelter, Samuel parked to the side and they all got out. Samuel cocked his rifle, looking around for any sign of movement, Arthur and Rainbow did so too.

“Its quiet…too quiet. This way too much like a movie, before something pops out.” Rainbow said disconcertingly.

“Well, lets get this done then. Fast.” Arthur said with growing worry.

That got a degree of agreement from everyone. Fluttershy led the way, entering the shelter. The front was rather clean as they entered, Fluttershy continued to the back of the shelter, entering the area with the holding cages for all sorts of animals, from the biggest dog to the smallest rodent or reptile. What they saw astonished them.

“Is it supposed to be empty?” Samuel inquired.

Fluttershy shook her head, “No. Unless someone else took them or let them out.”

Then Fluttershy’s face showed the look of a sudden idea. Walking out of the back area and going into an office, she found a note. She proceeded to read it, rather fast. The others gathered around her, wondering what the note said. They were all taken back by Fluttershy’s rather loud gasp.

That got Rainbow asking questions. Fluttershy just ran to another part of the shelter, the veterinary clinic. That surprised Arthur and Samuel, not expecting such a reaction, Rainbow was quick on her heels though. A rather loud exclamation of surprise came soon after.

“ANGEL BUNNY!”

That got the guys into action going forward, rushing to the clinic. The sight they saw was not the dangerous event they were expecting, Fluttershy was hugging the aforementioned rabbit, he wasn’t the only one. Several other animals were there, in their own carriers for the most part. A sigh of relief followed.

“Well looks like this is done, lets grab whatever we can and get going.” Samuel said a bit impatiently.

Fluttershy grabbed her rabbit, and the other animals, taking them out to the truck. Rainbow and Arthur grabbed various medical supplies, bandages, suture kits, and an assortment of medicines, identified by Fluttershy, anything that could be of use for humans. Samuel grabbed an assortment of pet food, since they now had a menagerie of animals to feed now. They loaded all of into the truck bed, getting ready to leave.

Arthur approached Fluttershy, a bit flustered, “Hey, I’m just wondering…you’ll take care of all those animals, right?”

Fluttershy nodded vigorously, “Oh, of course. Don’t worry I’ll take of them, they won’t be a problem I promise.”

Arthur blew out his concern, feeling more at ease. As they were about to leave, Rainbow caught movement from down the street, the same route they came down. That got Samuel to take a good look as well.

“Seems we are compromised, lets go.” Samuel said calmly.

Everyone piled into the truck and off they went, going the opposite direction from the zombies making their way down. They were taking an alternate route, one that only took a bit longer. That is when Arthur turned to look at Fluttershy.

“So what was in that note?” he asked curiously.

“It was from the person who was there when…things got bad. She was able to get most of the animals out. She left Angel bunny,” who sat on her lap as she softly petted him, “and the others cause she knew I would come.” Fluttershy said happily.

Arthur smiled, “Well I’m glad it worked out.”

That a got a soft “hmm” in agreement from Fluttershy. The rest of the trip was rather uneventful, a welcome reprieve from earlier events. Once more entering the suburbs, Samuel quickly getting the all home, still morning as well. Pulling into the driveway once more, and making sure the coast was clear, after dealing with a lone stray zombie. They proceeded to unload everything into the house, the girls who stayed came out to help, speeding up the process.

After everything was dealt with, everyone seemed to have made their way to the living room. It becoming almost like a place where everyone meets for one reason or another. That being its purpose as of right now. With everyone having a seat, it was Arthur brought up the inevitable question on all their minds.

“So…what now?” Arthur asked openly.

That got a rather round about look around their little meeting circle from everyone. Twilight spoke up.

“I heard about the refugee centers being set up, wouldn’t it be in our best interest to go and get everyone from the farm? Then we could leave for Portland or Seattle.” She said hopefully.

“I don’t think that is in the cards right now,” Samuel responded in a wary tone, “I saw footage last night while the T.V is still up and running. There was problems happening, a riot in Portland for example, multiple large cities are dealing with outbreaks that are already having large numbers of zekes.”

“But darling, surely the police and military would be able to deal with them?” Rarity asked.

Samuel shook his head, “God knows how many are zombies now in the big cities, and trust me when I say there won’t be enough troops to handle any outbreak that happens in large enough numbers. Especially if the police or soldiers decide to just say ‘fuck it’ and desert for themselves and their families. Even if they don’t, they need enough ammo, fuel, equipment the whole nine yards,” Samuel spread out his arms in exaggeration for effect, “I think you can all figure out what that means.”

Everyone thought for a moment, some of them paling at the said thought.

Twilight was in obvious thought was doing quick mental math before it dawned on her, “That means we could lose. The whole country, the world! An actual apocalypse!”

She started muttering to herself, all her friends quickly gathered around her in attempt to calm her. Thankfully it worked, she was still a bit distraught but holding it together. After they took their seat again. Arthur spoke this time.

“Our food situation isn’t any good either, we don’t have enough for even a week, not for all of us,” he said with concern.

Pinkie nodded in agreement, “After supper last night, I took a look at what was left. It isn’t much, even if I baked everything!”

Samuel sighed deeply, “That is the other problem, even if we did leave, we wouldn’t have enough, of well anything. Which means we need to get more and soon.”

“Well where could we go get more? Start scavenging the nearby houses?” Rainbow quipped in.

Some of the girls gapped at the thought. Rarity voiced what they thought, rather violently “Rainbow Dash! We are not looters; we can get what we need without becoming mere ruffians! How could you justify such a thing!”

Rainbow glared at her, “Well if there is nobody in the houses anymore, someone else will just take it! Its not like we can just go to the store!”

Fluttershy intervened, “Stop it! My friends will not argue like this! Not when we need to work together!” she gave a menacing glare that cowed the both of them, “Am I clear!”

Rarity and Rainbow nodded vigorously, wide eyed at the sudden outburst. Samuel was impressed, obvious on his face.

“See what I meant?” Arthur quietly spoke, leaning over to Samuel.

“I do.” Samuel muttered.

Fluttershy returned to being quiet in her seat. Giving Arthur an opportunity to talk, clearing his throat he started.

“Rainbow is right, we can’t just buy anything we need, not now. So we can scavenge anything we need. Doesn’t mean we steal though either.”

A series of nods, before he continued, “As Samuel told me, we all had to do things we never thought we would have to do,” he shrugged in defeat to the idea, “I don’t think there is anyone coming to help, so we are on our own.”

People looked at each other with concern at that idea, Samuel piped in before anyone could argue.

“I know the idea is ludicrous sounding. But Arthur is right, if we want to live we have to rely on ourselves now. Help may come in some form but until we have solid confirmation we can’t risk it. We can’t merely react to things, we need to be proactive.”

Rainbow snapped her fingers, “Exactly! Just like in any sport, we have to make things happen.”

Samuel looked to her, “Bingo. We can start today, making plans at the very least.”

He looked to Arthur and Twilight, “Could you do anything with the radio?”

Twilight looked happy at the idea of being distracted by something, especially something that would keep her mind occupied. Arthur nodded.

“Of course. We can check to see if there are any other survivors, could also get in contact with the farm. Even see about jury rigging something to improve the radio in some way.”

Samuel smiled at that. Pinkie went on about what she could do to help extend the food situation, Rarity about repairing or making any clothing needed. Rainbow was particularly adamant about scouting anyplace they could scavenge, Samuel warning to take someone with, people only going out in buddy systems from now on. Fluttershy was quiet, but the others brought up how she had some medical knowledge which could prove useful.

Arthur then brought up a rather important question.

“If we do get enough to leave, should we head to an refugee center? Or somewhere else?”

That brought a round of discussion, ideas being pitched in and then debated. Before Samuel piped in.

“We can decide this later, right now grabbing the people at the farm when we are ready and making sure we got enough supplies is number one priority. Situation could change, and as they say in the military, ground dictates.”

Everyone agreed, so they began making plans for their actions to survive and getting what they need. Time flying as they planned and decided, on future actions, to survive. It was much later in the day that Arthur and Samuel had a moment alone together.

Samuel puffed on his cigarette as they sat in the backyard, relaxing to the sun setting. “What do you think.”

Arthur looked to him, “What do you mean?”

“If we can make this work, including our rather interesting group that is forming.”

Arthur took a deep breath, “I have to believe so, to help me keep going if anything.”

Samuel nodded, taking another puff, “Fair. I’m with you on that, we can’t survive on our own, that lone wolf shit rarely works. So we got to make it work.”

Arthur pondered as they sat in silence for several minutes before he continued the conversation.

“If the refugee centers don’t work. Where could we go? In a world that could be filled with zombies?” he asked in a tone searching for answers.

“Some level of government could still be working. A much smaller level to be sure, but something will continue.” Samuel said hopefully.

Arthur cocked an eyebrow, “That is rather different from your earlier talk. Where did the whole ‘we have to rely on ourselves’ talk go?”

“Oh I’m still very much about how we are on our own, but the government could be elsewhere or some form of safe haven. We just shouldn’t expect any help.” Samuel replied.

Arthur nodded, “That still leaves the question where.”

Samuel thought for a second, “That is where your radio comes in real handy, it can help us find that place. If not we do some recce on our best way outta here and go from there.”

Arthur grunted in agreement and the two sat for a while longer as the sun reached the horizon before the conversation continued.

“What do we need most, you think?” Arthur asked.

Taking a long puff of his cigarette and finishing it, putting it in an empty pop can, he replied, “More firearms and their ammunition and good, reliable vehicles. Food and water will be easier to get, at least for now. Some kind of training wouldn’t hurt either; I doubt any of the girls have ever shot a gun before for example.”

“Gonna need some outdoor supplies I would think as well. Camping stuff and the like. If we are gonna leave afterall.” Arthur responded thoughtfully.

“Agreed, too much stuff we could use, we better get our shit together and get ourselves in gear.” Samuel said nonsensically.

Before Arthur could respond, Pinkie came outside telling them supper was ready. So the two headed inside for a good supper, as another day in the apocalypse past.