A World Gone Rotten

Chapter 6

"Across the Casacdes"

Group Campsite, Cascade Foothills, Oregon

April 8th, 2015

2300 Hours

Arthur woke up with a start, taking several rapid deep breathes. After a moment he calmed down with a heavy sigh. It always seemed to be the same dreams, torn apart by zombies or friends and family turning into zombies. Every so often he had a dream about Jennifer; those hit the hardest for him. Grabbing his canteen, he took several gulps of the refreshing water.

Sitting up in his sleeping bag, he glanced over to Samuel who was sleeping soundly enough, though he did sleep somewhat like a vampire. Barely moving and if Samuel was awakened, he rose like a vampire from a coffin. Arthur smirked slightly at the image in his head, before deciding to get up to go take a piss. Slipping on some sandals he stepped out of the tent he and Samuel shared, baseball bat in hand, nobody went anywhere without weapons within arm’s reach these days, into the rather small area they decided to camp in for the night.

It was a partly cloudy night, the moon provided just enough light to see, if one strained their eyes. A variety of tents, with a few people just in sleeping bags with a bedroll underneath as they slept under the stars, forming a vague circle around a dead campfire, not even embers left. The temporary campsite was surrounded by the groups’ vehicles in a circle, resembling a wagon fort that the settlers of the frontier would use back in the 1800s.

A moderate breeze swayed the trees around the campsite, spruce and pine mixed with the occasional oak. A chill went up Arthur’s spine as said breeze went through. With only a t-shirt and shorts on, the coolness of night was biting into Arthur as he went to the rather quickly done latrine that was just outside the car-cum-wagon fort. Thankfully he was facing away from the camp allowing a sense of security from prying eyes as he unzipped and let it loose.

He heard the sound of footprints of two people behind him as he finished up. Taking a glance behind, he saw Ken and Norman with weapons in hand as they patrolled. On the first night after they left Canterlot, a guard system was put in place with at least two people in a “fire team” that makes rounds around the camp, taking turns with others every two hours.

“Hey Ken. Hey Norman.” Arthur greeted the two in turn.

The two men greeted him back and they continued their round, Arthur went back to the tent. Putting the bat to the side and sandals off, he went back into the tent, slipping back into his sleeping bag. Closing his eyes he tried going back to sleep. It didn’t take long for him to give up, the previous nightmares still in his mind, having left a lingering presence. So Arthur just settled with staring at the roof of the tent, completely absent mindedly.

Arthur didn’t know how long he stared into the dark, time passing by in a haze. Thoughts drifting from one thing to another, but never staying long enough to find purchase in his mind. It was only the sudden movement of Samuel, who sat up rather quickly with wide eyes and a deep breath through his nose. Arthur looked at him, blinking several times after staring blankly for so long and surprise at Samuel’s movement.

A few moments of silence followed as Arthur stared at Samuel, the look of brain processing evident as Samuel stared ahead.

“Uhhhhh…You good?” Arthur asked uncertainly.

Samuel turned his head to look at Arthur, “…I’m not entirely sure.”

“Nightmare?” Arthur asked.

Samuel rubbed his face with his hands, rubbing the drowsiness away, “You could say that. And I’m guessing you as well?”

A small nod was enough for Samuel, “The usual?”

“Yeah…Jennifer this time. Again.” Arthur replied sadly.

Samuel sighed, “For me it was my sisters back home. God only knows about them now.”

The two sat in silence for several minutes, thinking about friends and family, those dead and alive, or the hope that they are alive.

“Think we will be pass the mountains in a day or two? We are close to the valley pass after all.” Arthur asked, trying to keep his mind off the gloomy subject.

“Oh, for sure. I think we are all eager to push on getting out of here.” Samuel gestured lazily outside, “Besides that horde we saw a couple days ago, could be still in the area. Got me spooked.”

“Fuck was that a big horde. There must have been what? Several thousand?”

“No doubt at least that many,” Samuel sighed, “It’s already gotten so bad this side of the mountains. I hope it’s calmer on the other side of Oregon.”

Arthur nodded in agreement, “I haven’t heard much radio chatter that indicates it’s as bad as anything on the coast. I still pick up signals from Portland or Seattle, even Los Angeles.”

Samuel listened as Arthur explained the hopeless situation that many people have found themselves in the major cities. A combination of desperation and fear was what Arthur listened to on the radio.

“Every day there seems to be just a little less chatter or a few more people signing off,” Arthur explained, his voice frustrated, “One day I don’t think there will be anyone left in the cities, just the dead.”

Samuel shrugged in response, “It’s inevitable that the cities will become entirely abandoned. Nothing we can do about it.”

A moment of silence followed before Samuel spoke again, “Ready to sleep?”

Arthur shook his head, “Not yet,” a thought popped in, “Did I ever tell you the story how it all started with the girls?”

Samuel furrowed his brows, “No you haven’t. Finally gonna tell me how the whole story goes?”

“Yup,” Arthur made himself comfortably before going on, “It all started when Sunset arrived last year…”

Sunset stared at her book as she contemplated what to write to Twilight in Equestria. Having been unable to sleep, she decided to write a friendship report, this would be the first one since the outbreak began.

A snore tore Sunset’s attention away from the book and towards Rainbow who was sprawled over her sleeping bag. Sunset smiled slightly at it; at least someone was sleeping well. Turning her attention back to the book and with a soft sigh she began writing, hoping the words would flow as she went.

Dear Princess Twilight,

A lot has happened since I last wrote, more than I could possibly put into words. Remember the sickness I mentioned? Well it turned out to be a lot worse than me or any of the other girls could have imagined. I know it may sound ridiculous but just hear me out.

Zombies. Actual zombies exist now. How it all happened, I couldn’t even begin to guess. Already society has collapsed and almost everything we loved and knew is gone. I saw several of my classmates as zombies, who knows how many are dead now or gone, trying to survive like us. I have no idea what happened to most of them or any of the teachers, Principal Celestia and Vice-principal Luna, I know went somewhere but I don’t know where. The girls for the most part don’t know what happened to their parents or siblings or any family really.

It’s taken a toll on them. At least we got each other; I think we are all relying on each other more these days. I know once you read this you’ll try to come here and help us or get us to come to Equestria. Don’t try. I smashed the portal before we had to flee; I originally planned on bringing everyone through so we could escape. But everything happened so fast, we were split up, the zombies were overwhelming and I didn’t want to risk the chance of one getting through to Equestria. We have left Canterlot about a week ago anyways, trying to find someplace safe; hopefully we will find it east of the mountains.

Thankfully we have a good group for the journey ahead, we are already working relatively well with each other. The magic of friendship is still going strong at least. Do you remember ever meeting Arthur? I would be surprised if you did, regardless he is with us. He has been a huge help, his radio and his skills with it are the main reason our group is together, alongside having saved most of our friends actually. His cousin Samuel is another major reason why our friends are alive and together right now. Both have been steadfast and helpful from the start of all this. I think we are lucky to have the both of them.

I’m going to try to get some sleep now, hard to do between the nightmares and the fear of zombies finding us, which they occasionally do. I hope everything is going good in Equestria.

Your dearest friend,

Sunset Shimmer

Samuel laid prone on the side of a hill that overlooked the valley pass, binoculars in hand, hidden in the long grass mixed with wild flowers that swayed slowly in the breeze. It was a surprisingly nice day, blue sky with only the occasional cloud to disturb it. Samuel’s attention was focused elsewhere.

Looking through his binoculars he eyed up the small town, if it could be called that being closer to a hamlet or village, it was called Thurston and it sat on the only highway that went through this valley. The town wasn’t very remarkable, nothing but houses, a gas station and what looked like a few stores. That wasn’t what he focused on though; it was the makeshift wall surrounding the town and the small almost shadow like outlines of people on said walls. Further movement inside the town also caught his eye.

Well ain’t that a surprise. The town hasn’t fallen to the zekes, which means this place might be more out of the way than I thought. There is still the occasional roamer though.

As if a zombie could hear his thoughts, Samuel spotted one walking out of the bush towards the town. The zombie was some ways off from his position, he watched patiently as the zombie approached the town until a soft crack sounded, a rifle. Said zombie then dropped like a sack of potatoes. Samuel estimated the distance to be roughly about four hundred meters or twelve hundred feet.

Having seen enough he snaked his way back until he was comfortably out of any potential view and slowly butt-slid down the rest of the way until reaching the bottom. Rainbow Dash and Michael were waiting for him at the bottom.

“So whaddya see?” Michael asked in his raspy smoker voice.

“Town is full of survivors, got a wall with guards and they are at least somewhat vigilant.” Samuel stated.

Rainbow spoke somewhat surprised, “A whole town? Did they look friendly?”

Samuel shook his head, “I couldn’t tell you. Let’s go back, so we can come with a plan.”

Taking out a portable radio, Samuel reported back to the main group. Giving a quick report before, the three packed up the little they brought and headed back to the convoy, sitting on the highway until they got back.

Arthur was doing what he did best, working his radio, he was trying to get any kind of signal from the town of Thurston after hearing from Samuel about the situation. The hope was that they could talk without physical risk. But after fifteen minutes he sighed and gave up for now. Both Sunset and Twilight were beside him as they waited for him to get something. They saw the look of disappointment on his face as he took the headphones off.

“No luck?” Sunset asked.

Arthur nodded, “Yeah, no luck. Either they are ignoring me, or they don’t have a radio.”

Twilight piped in, “How would approach them then? Especially if they do decide to be hostile?”

The question lingered as everyone thought about it. They had a few hostile encounters with other survivors already, nothing violent as of yet. But it was only a matter of time before something happened.

“Well let’s wait until they get back, so they can tell us more.” Sunset said.

Arthur checked his watch; the little recce party having left an hour ago. They should be back in another hour was the assumption. Sunset and Twilight started to delve into their own conversation which Arthur politely ignored. Still feeling a little hungry he decided to go see if there is anything left from breakfast, leaving the girls and radio he went over to where Pinkie was still cooking out of a portable stove that was sitting on the tailgate of Samuel’s truck.

“Hey Pinkie, got any seconds ready?” Arthur asked hopefully as he approached.

“Yup!” she handed him a plate with everything he liked, “Almost out of eggs and bacon though. So grab them while you can.”

“Thanks Pinkie,” he hesitated for second, “Do I need to even ask how you even knew what I wanted today?”

Pinkie gave him a mischievous smirk, like he already knew the answer, “I think you already know, you silly.”

Arthur blinked then nodded, he knew never to question Pinkie when she knows or does something. Yet every once in a while, the urge takes over and the question comes out anyway.

“How are you doing?” Arthur decided to ask as he began to eat.

“I’m doing good. Much better now we are away from Canterlot…” she paused for a second, “But it’s still there, you know?”

“Yeah…yeah. I get you.” Arthur responded as he slurped up his last egg.

“But at least I’m with all my friends here! So, it’s not all bad,” Pinkie grabbed a mug that had some coffee, “Also here is that coffee you wanted.”

Arthur hummed happily with a mouthful of food, having almost finished his plate he quickly ate the rest, put the dishes in a plastic bin for later washing. Grabbed the coffee set to the side and took a sip to appreciate it. He was becoming increasingly attached to coffee, surprising himself since he never drank it before the apocalypse arrived.

“Thanks Pinkie, it was much needed.” Arthur said with a small smile.

Pinkie smiled back, “No problem Arthur.”

The older couple that accompanied their group, Henry and Mathilda, came over and the four began conversing for some time. Arthur was taken away however by the need to maintain a constant lookout around the convoy for security against zombies, alongside the increasing risk of hostile survivors as time went on.

With lever action in hand he relieved Big Mac from watch duty, with him going to take care of the horses, Arthur sat beside Applejack on the side of the road.

“Applejack.” Arthur greeted.

“Arthur.” Applejack greeted back with a tilt of her head.

The two sat in silence as they kept up a vigilant watch, for an unknowable amount of time. Only the birds and the occasional rodent disturbed their watch. So focused they didn’t realize Arthur was being called until the third time.

“Arthur!” Sunset called.

Arthur whipped his head around, “Huh?”

“Our scouts are back, need you on the radio again.”

“Got it.” Arthur replied as he got up as Michael came up to replace him for watch duty.

Arthur rushed over, shouldering his rifle, to where Samuel and Sunset were, as the two discussed what to do.

“Do you think they will cause trouble?” Sunset inquired.

Samuel responded, “I don’t think so, but without getting closer I couldn’t tell. I hope they aren’t feeling trigger happy.” He sighed, “I would’ve liked if we drove around the town but…that is out of the picture.”

Sunset nodded, “Besides you said they had a gas station?”

“Yes they do.” Samuel confirmed.

“We should try trading for some gas as it is then, it couldn’t hurt to have more. We may be able to recruit some more people as well for all we know.” Sunset stated.

Samuel nodded, “I agree.” He turned to Arthur, “Could you hop on the radio and try again?”

Arthur nodded, “I can try, no guarantees though.”

As Arthur tried with his radio again, Sunset and Samuel continued to discuss.

“We could trade some of that alcohol and cigarettes we found for the fuel.” Samuel said.

Sunset thought for a second, “That sounds good, but how do we first approach them? Should we send just one vehicle and a couple people to negotiate first? Cause I think that’s what we should do if the radio doesn’t work.”

“I would hate to put our people in that situation though with no backup if it goes south...” Samuel said slowly as he took out a smoke.

Sunset smiled slyly, “And that is why we have everyone else behind us who could fight ready to help if it does. So if it goes south, we could do a fighting retreat and then figure it out from there.”

Samuel’s face went grim, “Even if we do that, we are still at a big risk. That crash course I have given our main fighters won’t be enough; I don’t feel confident that we could pull that off. At least not without a huge expense in ammo and casualties.”

Sunset nodded gravely, “But what else could we do? I don’t think we have many options here.”

“You are right, we don’t. So let’s hope for the best. If we do have to fight, their walls aren’t too impressive. Bunch of semi-trucks and hastily put together materials in between. There also shouldn’t be too many actual guards or people they can actually throw into a fight. The sign right out of the town says they only have about a hundred and fifty people and I assume it’s about half that now.” Samuel listed dryly, like a military report.

Sunset nodded as he listed the details, before she spoke herself, “Perhaps they won’t be eager to fight after all then. So I think we can go ahead with the plan.”

Samuel nodded as he finished his cigarette, “Very well. I’ll grab two extra people to do this.”

Sunset added more, “I’ll come along. I don’t want to risk anyone else for this.”

Samuel shook his head, “No. You are needed here, your friends most of all. Despite what you might think, people are looking to you as a leader. At the very least a stabilizing force in the group.”

Sunset looked at him in surprise, “What? I doubt it. I’m just doing what I can to help. Like everyone else.”

Samuel rolled his eyes, “If you say so. I’m serious though,” Samuel looked at Sunset determinedly, “I’ll be taking Norman and Chloe if they agree. If things go south and we don’t make it back. You get out of here.”

Samuel put up a hand to stop Arthur from speaking, “You are staying here as well. You’re the only radio operator and I’m quite sure you know what that means if you go down.”

Arthur scowled a bit at that but conceded, “Well you’re going to have to go forward with the plan, still no damn radio signal from them.”

“Alright then. I’ll get going. Let’s get over the mountains by tonight.” Samuel said with a determined tone.

“I’ll get everyone ready to go.” Sunset said and off she went calling to people to get going.

“Best of luck. And try to make it back. Ok?” Arthur said, concern in his voice.

“I’ll do my best. See you in a bit Arthur.” Samuel said, giving a quick hug to Arthur and walked off to get ready.

Arthur sighed, that is when he noticed the Crusaders beside him, looking intently at his radio then three pairs of eyes looking at him.

“Soooooo…what are you doing with that.” Scootaloo said, as she pointed at the radio.

Arthur hesitated for a second but before he could speak Apple Bloom spoke up, “Can’t ya see? He is talking to people with the…radio right?”

“Yes, it’s a radio.” Arthur said.

“I told you two that’s what it is.” Sweetie Belle piped in.

Scootaloo countered, “You were told that by Rarity, don’t lie.”

“I’m not lying.” Sweetie Belle replied, then more softly, “Much.”

Apple Bloom rolled her eyes, “What we were wondering is-“

“Can we try it?!” Scootaloo interrupted, to Apple Bloom’s dismay.

Arthur looked around to see where Rarity, Applejack or Rainbow could be as he spoke, “I don’t think we will have time…”

Arthur looked down as he was poked to see the three Crusaders staring at him with puppy dog eyes, he found it much harder to resist now.

They are really wanting to learn this. We will see if they stay with it.

Arthur sighed, giving into them, “Alright, I’ll show you. But only for a quick minute we got to get going soon.”

A collective “Yay” from the Crusaders and Arthur began, “This knob here controls the frequency…”

Rainbow Dash was stretching her muscles as she got ready to move out. She was utterly focused, getting the tightness out felt good as she did it. She finished her quick stretching session and looked around for Scootaloo, it was time to get going after all. She looked at Fluttershy, who was taking care of her animals.

“Hey Fluttershy, have you seen Scootaloo anywhere?”

“Oh, I saw her and the Crusaders head over to Arthur.” Fluttershy said as she pointed in the direction they went.

“Thanks.” Rainbow replied as she headed in the direction pointed.

Rainbow couldn’t help but feel somewhat relieved they were finally leaving and would hopefully be in the east of Oregon by tonight. As she reached the front of the convoy she spotted the Crusaders listening to Arthur, as he pointed and they prodded at the radio. She took a moment to appreciate the scene, the Crusaders being able to focus on something besides the deadly apocalypse they found themselves in.

“It’s nice to see the girls be more like themselves again. It’s like they are already forgetting what we left.” Rarity said as she moved away from the vehicle she was making ready.

Rainbow startled a bit, not expecting Rarity to appear, “Yeah...maybe it can stay that way,” Rainbow sighed, “I hope.”

Rarity nodded, “I agree dear, one can only hope it does,” she raised a finger to her lips in a thinking gesture, “I am surprised they are interested in the radio of all things though.”

Rainbow shrugged, “Better than yesterday when they tried driving a car…again.”

Rarity gave a conceding nod, “Agreed, I still haven’t decided what to do with Sweetie.”

“More chores?” Rainbow offered.

Rarity pondered for a moment, “You know what? That is a splendid idea, thank you Rainbow.”

Rainbow snorted, “Anytime.”

Thinking about something Arthur told her, Rainbow felt the need to share, “Arthur told me about how one of his friends had a crush on me. Jason, he was on the soccer team.”

Rarity looked at her in surprise and slight glee, “Really? That is fantastic news darling!”

Rainbow looked at her sadly, “Jason is gone Rarity. Arthur told me cause he felt like he needed to.”

Taking several rapid blinks, Rarity sighed before speaking with tone of frustration, “I forgot for the slightest second the situation we are in. Damn this apocalypse.”

Rainbow went on, “I actually would’ve given him a chance too.”

“…We should grab the girls so we can get going.” Rarity said after a moment of silence for things that could have been.

“Let’s go.” Rainbow replied tautly.

The two walked over to Arthur and the Crusaders, starting to hear what he was talking about.

“…If I had some extra walkie-talkies I would give you them but I don’t, sorry girls.” Arthur said apologetically.

The three let out a collective “Ahhhh” as Rarity and Rainbow arrived.

Rainbow spoke first, “Alright time to get going girls.”

“But he was just showing us how you talk to people on it!” Scootaloo responded.

“And how you can do other things like music.” Sweetie added.

“She’s right, I got to pack it up. I’ll teach some more later. Sound good?” Arthur offered.

“Sounds good to me.” Apple bloom replied.

Her two friends sounded their agreements, and the three grabbed their backpacks. Rarity and Rainbow rounded them up; guiding them to the vehicle they were staying in. As they approached the SUV, Applejack came up with her double barrel in hand.

“About time we pulled in our horns and get this party moving.” Applejack said.

Rainbow chimed out, “Apparently we got a small group going to talk to the town first.”

“Where did you hear that dear?” Rarity asked.

“Sunset.”

Rarity “hmmmed” in response as she made sure the three girls got in and they were buckled in. Despite vocal protest by the Crusaders. Once Rarity finished she saw Arthur in the corner of her eye as he lugged his radio to another vehicle, she couldn’t help but stare for perhaps a tad longer than usual. She was grateful that he was being nice with her sister and her friends and she found herself admiring his arm muscles as he helped shift a load in the back of a pickup.

“What you looking at Rarity?” Pinkie said out of nowhere.

Rarity was startled straight, jumping a significant height, as she landed she glared at Pinkie as she composed yourself, “Pinkie! What on earth makes you think that was a good idea! To scare me like that!”

Pinkie smiled, “To get you to stop of course, silly. You also didn’t answer my question,” she edged closer and spoke in a singsong tone, “What you looking at?”

“Umm…Nothing Pinkie, what would make you ask that?” Rarity countered as she began to blush, knowing it was hopeless against Pinkie.

Pinkie’s smile grew and her eyes narrowed as she leaned in, “You like him, don’t you Rarity.”

Rarity’s blush began to grow much quicker, “I…I wouldn’t say that Pinkie.”

Rainbow couldn’t help but pipe in with a smile, “You like Arthur?”

Turning to Rainbow, Rarity spoke with a warning tone, “Don’t you dare add to this Rainbow Dash.”

Not being able to help herself, Rainbow stirred the pot, “How long have you had a crush on him? Hmmm?”

Applejack decided to jump in, “That’s enough now ya’ll. But I am curious…do ya?

Rarity looked at her with a slight glare before speaking in a slight huff, “Even if I did dear. The poor man lost his girlfriend recently so I don’t think he is exactly what you would call ‘available’. So if we could let it rest girls.”

That got their silence, which was soon interrupted by the sound of Samuel’s truck taking off down the road.

“Think that’s our cue to go girls.” Applejack said.

Samuel took the road to Thurston at a decent speed, it wasn’t long till the foothills gave to the flatness of the valley and the town. Samuel looked to Norman and Chloe, making sure they were keeping it together.

Norman sat indifferently as he put he some chew in his lip and Chloe looked around at the surroundings with a nervous air around her. Samuel adjusted his helmet as the town came into closer view and the shadow-like people began to appear clearer, as well as their movements growing more erratic.

The plan was already set and there was no going back now. The makeshift wall and now the gate as they approached. The truck slowed as Samuel brought the truck about a hundred meters out. The three stayed in there for a minute waiting for the reaction of the guards as they stared each other. Samuel looked to the other two and with a nod he exited the truck. Slinging his M4 and putting his hands in the air he approached the gate slowly until a guard called out.

“What do you want!”

Samuel called back, “Preferably safe passage and maybe someone to talk to!”

“Why’s that?!”

“Heading east! Maybe some trade too!”

“Give a moment!”

Samuel waited as the guard disappeared, as several guards stilled stare at him with guns still at the ready. He looked back at the truck as the other two watched in interest. It didn’t take long for someone to arrive.

“We are letting you in! No tricks!”

“Sounds good!”

Samuel went back to the truck and told the two the situation. Telling them to stay as he headed in. The gates opened, big steel doors welded together moving on semi-truck tires. Moving past the threshold of no return he entered the town where several men wearing makeshift armour surrounded a woman looking stern with crossed arms. The gates closed behind him.

“So who would you be wanting to enter my town?” the woman asked.

“Samuel. May I ask who you are?” Samuel responded.

The woman smirked, “Sharon. Mayor of this town. If that title means much anymore. So what is it that you want?”

Samuel shrugged, “I think you already know what I want.”

Sharon nodded, “Safe passage east and trade. Which means you better be honest.”

Samuel’s eyes slightly narrowed, “What do you mean?”

Sharon’s smirk turned into a smile, “Just that, be honest. You’ll get honesty in return.”

“Forgive me if I find that hard to believe.” Samuel said.

Sharon nodded, “I can understand that reasoning. However nothing can be gained without some give. Wouldn’t you agree?”

Samuel internally groaned but decided to take the bait, “Well it’s true about the heading east and trade part, we have no intentions in staying in the western part of Oregon.”

Sharon listened silently before speaking, “Which means you want to go through my town which we can allow for a price,” her eyes sparkled for a second, “What I want to know is what you want to trade.”

“Fuel mostly, ammunition secondly.”

“Ammunition I can’t allow but fuel we can do. What do you have to trade for it?”

Samuel pulled out his pack of smokes, slowly, and waved it, “Tobacco and alcohol are what I got.”

Sharon nodded indifferently, “Not what I really want but I have uses for that.”

Samuel put out his hand for a handshake, “Do we have a deal?”

Sharon approached him, several inches shorter than him and shook his hand, “The beginning of one.”

“Then perhaps I should tell you now I got a much larger group than this,” Samuel smiled, “I think you understand why.”

Sharon only raised an eyebrow at that, “Sneaky of you, I’ll allow that as long as they stay out for now while we do the trade.”

“I can agree to that,” Samuel took out a small radio, “Arthur bring everyone forward, we’re clear.”

A few seconds later a response came, “Roger that, Bringing up the convoy now.”

Sharon told her guards the situation to prevent any costly mistakes.

“Since you decided to announce now that you got more people than I thought, I have an offer for you.” Sharon said.

Samuel was now the one to raise an eyebrow, “What kind of offer?”

“We both know how critical supplies are to keep our people going,” she looked up at him with serious eyes, “Especially for a moving group like you.”

She went on, “There is a small homestead only a few miles away. Mormons. Good people they were and rumour had it they got a good stash of all kinds of things. According to their beliefs as you probably know.”

Samuel listened with intrigue, “I’m familiar enough. I noticed you said ‘were’ so I assume they’re gone?”

“Unfortunately. I had my people check their place early on. Place is overrun so they fell back. But the place was always in the back of my mind,” her eyes stared north, “I want those supplies, takes a lot for even a small town like this.”

Samuel looked north as well, “It’s north of here isn’t it.”

“Yes it is,” she looked back to him, “So are you willing?”

Samuel looked down at her, “Depends. What do we get of it?”

“A quarter of the stash alongside anything else you find on the homestead. Free passage through the town and I’ll throw in some fuel as well. Let’s say thirty gallons besides what we trade.” Sharon listed dryly.

Samuel thought hard for a second, “I’ll have to ask some people in my group about it first. I’ll get back to you.”

Sharon shrugged, “Fair enough. Don’t be long.”

Nodding at her Samuel was let out of the gates, just as the convoy was arriving. He waited by the truck, as they pulled up it didn’t take long for Sunset and Arthur running up to him.

Sunset spoke first, “So what’s the verdict?”

Arthur added to it, “Hopefully good right?”

“Yeah it’s good but we got an offer in exchange for some work…”

The two listened as Samuel explained the offer to them, once he finished Sunset spoke again.

“I think we could get a better deal, you sure there is nothing else to this?”

Samuel shook his head, “I don’t think so but it’s a chance we might have to take. I don’t think the extra supplies would hurt.”

Sunset rolled her eyes, “I know, I agree with that. But it couldn’t hurt to be careful.”

“So the deal is on?” Samuel asked.

“Yes. But see if you can get a better deal. I also want to see if she’ll allow us to recruit any of her people.” Sunset said firmly.

Samuel nodded before turning to Arthur, “Keep the group on the road for now and ready. I also need at least six people ready to go if this deal goes through.”

Arthur nodded and went about his task. Sunset went off with him and Samuel headed back to the gate which was still slightly open. Sharon waited with a patient look as he came up.

She stared at him, “So?”

“I want to re-negotiate a bit.” Samuel responded firmly.

Sharon raised an eyebrow, “Oh really? Very well lay out your terms.”

“A third of the stash,” he plowed through Sharon’s attempt to talk, “We’ll be spending our ammunition for this, have no doubt. I’m also putting my people at risk doing practically mercenary work.”

Sharon looked unimpressed and slighted at the counter offer but she spoke without it showing, “Alright a third then but only if all the zombies are dead. I want them all gone so they don’t bother us. Anything else?”

Samuel nodded, “This is separate from the offer but first I want to make sure our deal is good as it stands.”

Sharon nodded slowly, “It is, done deal. Now what else?”

“Possibility to recruit a few people from your town.”

Surprised at first, Sharon let out a short laugh, “Sure go ahead. But not any of our skilled people. They stay.”

Internally Samuel was a bit peeved she figured that out but didn’t let it show, “Done. Now I have some work to do.”

Sharon smiled, “Yes you do,” she pulled a flare gun out of her pant leg pocket and gave it to Samuel, “Use this once you’re clear and we’ll come and collect.”

Samuel nodded and off he went back to the convoy, finding Sunset giving some directions to the group. He waited for her to be done before approaching.

“We got a deal. A third of the stash with the original offer and we can recruit but no skilled people.” Samuel reported.

Sunset smiled, “Good. Will you be going now?”

“Yes, I’ll grab the six I need and we’ll be on our way,” he showed the flare gun, “Once we are finished I’ll shoot this indicating we are done.”

Sunset nodded, “I’ll deal with the trade and recruitment so don’t worry. Stay safe. Be quick as you can.”

“We’ll try.”

Samuel headed to Arthur where he was geared up, alongside Rainbow, Applejack, Ken, Big Mac and surprisingly Fluttershy. Samuel looked to each of them making sure they were squared away before he spoke.

“Everyone knows the deal?”

A round of agreements and affirmatives was all he needed to hear, “Alright let’s step off. Hop in the truck.”

The six loaded into the other pickup in the group, Big Mac driving with Applejack as passenger. The rest in the bed on top of some supplies which couldn’t be helped. The dirt road was easy to follow north to where the homestead was. Arthur started a conversation up with Samuel.

“Think this will be worth it?”

“I think so. At least one can hope.” Samuel responded.

“Think she was honest about it?” Arthur asked, somewhat for reassurance.

Samuel tilted his back and forth for a second, “For the most part we will see when we get there. Why did you bring Fluttershy by the way? She doesn’t exactly fight.”

Arthur nodded before responded, “I thought we might need a medic. She is closest we got.”

Samuel looked at Fluttershy as she held the wall of the bed with a white knuckle grip. She noticed him looking; she waved shyly before a slight bump brought her hand back to the wall. He smiled slightly at her and turned his attention back to Arthur.

“Fair enough.”

Samuel noticed they were already getting close to the homestead, he could make out a fence through the trees as the terrain began to grow with hills. He slammed on the roof of the truck to get it to stop and it slowed to a soft stop.

“This as far as we go. We walk the rest.” Samuel said as he hopped out of the bed.

The rest followed and everyone checked weapons and gear. Arthur scanned the hills to see if any uninvited guests were showing up. None showed. Samuel took a look at the terrain before deciding an approach.

“We will take that hill to our left and try to gain the high ground on any zombies.” Samuel stated.

“Let’s do this.” Rainbow said confidently as she twirled her prybar.

“Yuuuppp.” Big Mac added as loaded his rifle.

Ken was obviously calming himself for this mission. Fluttershy checked her bag, softly counting items she had. Applejack tilted her hat as she chewed on a piece of grass. With a nod to each Samuel stepped off and the rest followed in behind, single file. They parted through the knee high grass and flowers as they entered the forested area and climbed the side of the hill.

Pushing aside bush Samuel got to his belly and leopard crawled the rest of the way up as he gestured to the others to stay back except Arthur and watch out for any zombies. The two came to the crest of the hill and parked themselves behind a tree. They had a clear view of the homestead. A two story blue house with an attached garage that was open, a truck and a sedan parked out front. A barn stood slightly to the left of the house, a large tractor sitting undisturbed. The zombies were the primary attraction.

They wandered around the property aimlessly. The two men counted, only slightly audible. Several minutes went by before they spoke to each other quietly.

“How many did you count? Counted twenty two.” Arthur said.

Samuel nodded, “Twenty. Where is the other two you see?”

“Underneath the truck and the other that just went behind the barn.” Arthur explained.

“Good eyes. But there is probably more we can’t see including in the house.” Samuel said.

“What should we do? Spread out and get them that way?” Arthur asked.

Samuel pondered for a minute as Arthur waited in agonizing silence before finally speaking, “Somewhat. I’m thinking one group shoots and another is ready for melee in case any get close. Once we shoot the obvious ones and wait for any others show up. We will all close in after that.”

Arthur nodded, “Think this hill is good enough?”

Samuel looked around before nodding in agreement, “Yes. Bring the others up. Leave Fluttershy and Ken behind to make sure none sneak up on us.”

Arthur slithered back and soon after, the rest came up.

“Ready weapons. Rainbow, Applejack, I need you to be ready to intercept any that get close on the sides, we’ll back you up if there is more than one at a time.”

Rainbow smirked, “Don’t worry we can handle it.”

Applejack nodded silently. Samuel returned the nod.

“Light em up!” Samuel yelled.

The first shots rang out loud, and the first zombies were done. It didn’t take long for the others to turn towards the group and a cacophony of groans and moans sounded. Three sprinters took off towards them; mass fire quickly ended them in a display of blood and gore.

Samuel kept a steady pace as he shot one former woman in the head and her brains covered the sedan. Arthur cocked his lever action and took aim at one shambler that was crooked sideways, his brains were soon on the ground. Rainbow impaled one in the head that came from the woods while Applejack fired both barrels of her shotgun into another.

Big Mac calmly and smoothly worked his bolt action as he popped another head, the 30.06 round blowing it apart. Samuel checked to make sure that everyone kept their firing arcs and there was no lazing of each other.

It didn’t take long for the remaining eight or so to get a little close for comfort.

“Prepare for melee!” Samuel yelled as he slung his M4 and brought out his crowbar. The rest followed suit and they waited for them to climb the hill. Once they reached about half way, Rainbow and Applejack hit them from the side, bashing in skulls or pulverizing faces. While the rest hit them from the front. Samuel hit one in the face making it stagger as he followed through with a swing into the top of its head.

Arthur swung up with his bat that made the zombie he was targeting to roll back down the hill. He helped to dispose of another targeting Big Mac, he had a large pipe wrench he swung into its knee, making it bend and buckle. The group quickly advanced down the hill and finished off the rest.

Breathing heavily the group gathered themselves and checked themselves for injury, everyone was good. It was soon followed by a scream.

“That was Fluttershy!” Rainbow yelled as she dashed back to where her and Ken were.

Everyone followed, Samuel pushing himself to catch up with the very fast Rainbow Dash. Going up and over the hill, they saw a zombie wrestling with Ken as he tried avoid getting bitten. Ken was huffing and puffing as he did so. Before Samuel or Rainbow could reach them, or the zombie could sink its grotesque teeth into Ken. Fluttershy stabbed her knife into the temple of the zombie with an audible yell of effort and fear.

Ken scramble away from it and began thanking Fluttershy profusely. She was staring at her handiwork, eyes wide in shock. Samuel approached.

“Fluttershy?”

She didn’t answer but she looked at him, he went on, “You did good. Just keep it together till we get back. Alright?”

She nodded, Samuel turned to Rainbow, “Rainbow-“

She interrupted, “I got it don’t worry,” She looked to Fluttershy, “Come here Shy.”

Samuel left the two and got Ken to his feet, “You good?”

Ken nodded rapidly, “Yeah…Yeah. Fucker showed up from nowhere.”

Samuel nodded, “Thought so. Keep it together, keep watching our backs and take Fluttershy and Rainbow to bring up the truck.”

Ken nodded, more determined now. Samuel looked to the rest gathered around, “We are not done yet. Gotta find the stash and clear the house and buildings.”

Samuel took lead again as the rest followed at a brisk walk. Passing by the corpses and vehicles, Big Mac and Applejack split off to search the barn. Samuel and Arthur searched the garage first, melee weapons at the ready and finding it empty.

“Just the house now.” Arthur said.

Samuel nodded, “I’ll open the front door and make a racket to bring any out. Stay vigilant.”

The two got to the front door, looked at each other and nodded. Samuel opened up the screen door before putting an ear to the door to hear for anything. Nothing. He checked the door knob, door was still open. Hammering the door for a few seconds, he pushed it open with speed and backed off, crowbar up and Arthur beside him.

The wait was agonizing for both as they waited, adrenaline pumping but nothing came. Entering the house slowly, they began sweeping the first floor. Dining room, living room, closets and bathroom all proved to be clear. The basement door was locked. They began to head upstairs once again checking bedrooms, closets and bathroom.

This time however one bedroom held a surprise. One zombie was there, he was zip tied to a radiator heater. He thrashed and bit open air as his grey eyes looked at the two.

“Well shit.” Arthur said.

Samuel didn’t say anything as he approached the zombie, looking at it sadly. And without a word he raised his crowbar and brought down hard into its skull. It stopped moving after that. Arthur saw a note on the bed, he picked it up and read it aloud for Samuel to hear.

If you are reading this I am already dead or turned. I’ll keep it short, the zombies came, my parents died and I was bitten. Only my sister Elizabeth is left, she is in the basement with all our stores. There is a key in my nightstand to access it. Use the stores as you need, just don’t waste anything. Take care of my sister please. Finally if you can, if we could get LDS rites it would be appreciated. God bless whoever you are.

John Earl

The two looked at each other before Samuel grabbed the key from the nightstand and rushed downstairs, Arthur closed behind. They quickly got to the door to the basement; Samuel put the key in and turned it hearing the lock move. Once the click sounded he opened it up to glaring darkness below.

Arthur pulled out a flashlight and pointed it downstairs. They both saw only the floor at the bottom. Samuel decided to call out.

“Elizabeth! You down there!?”

No response came, so Samuel shrugged and headed down the stairs cautiously, Arthur behind. Reaching the bottom they saw a myriad of goods on shelves, canned and jarred goods, flour, candles, medicines and others. Both stared at it all with awe before the sound of movement of disturbed them. Both approached with weapons in hand before turning around a corner flashlight glaring.

In the glare of the flashlight a girl in cutesy dress stared at them with fearful dark blue eyes. She was holding tight to her chest a plushy, a tiger to be exact. She looked no older than ten or younger than eight. Her black hair was in braid, much ruined now due to her time spent down here. She was dirty as it was, and probably smelled too if the two men’s noses weren’t use to much worse now.

Samuel put his crowbar away, and began moving slowly towards her and spoke soothingly, “It’s ok. Elizabeth. We aren’t here to hurt you. We want to help.”

She obviously didn’t believe that as she tried backing up before hitting the wall. So she decided to curl up and hide as much as possible, her eyes still watched him. Samuel continued slowly and Arthur stayed at a distance, watching concerned.

Once Samuel was only a few steps away he stopped, got on a knee and reached out a hand. She eyed it before looking directly in his eyes. Samuel tried keeping his face as soft as possible. It took a minute before she opened her mouth to speak but stopped. Samuel decided to speak first.

“My name is Samuel, Samuel Havel. And you’re Elizabeth right?”

She nodded, he continued, “I want to help you. OK?”

She nodded again, this time she spoke, her voice tiny and fearful, “Are they gone?”

Samuel gave a soft smile, “If you mean the zombies. Yes. They are gone.”

Elizabeth visibly relaxed at that, she was still shaky, she spoke again, “Where is John? He said he was bit and he couldn’t come down here with me.”

With a downcast look Samuel replied, “I’m sorry…he is gone.”

Her eyes went watery and she began to cry, surprising Samuel she ran forward and hugged him, seeking some form of comfort. He blinked in surprise he hugged her back and tried saying comfortable words. He turned to Arthur with flare gun in hand, who looked at him with shock.

“Go shoot this in the air and round up the others, grab everything besides the stocks. It was part of the deal. I’ll take care of her.” Samuel said firmly.

“You sure?” As Arthur slowly grabbed the flare gun.

“Yes. I’m sure.” Samuel responded as Elizabeth cried into his shoulder.

Arthur nodded and went back upstairs, Samuel stayed downstairs as he comforted the poor girl. Once she settled own a bit after an unknown amount of time. He stood up, took her hand and guided her back upstairs. She followed meekly. She covered her eyes as she saw light after a long time.

Going outside, Elizabeth stood close to Samuel, sniffling as she kept her eyes down. Samuel monitored the steady gathering of supplies, clearing out everything. People went about their tasks loading up the pickup as well as the one from the homestead.

Samuel called out, “Hey Big Mac! That pickup working?”

“Yuuuppp!” He called back.

Samuel nodded happily, he felt the tugging of his hand and looked down at Elizabeth, who looked up at him.

She looked at all the people worryingly, “Who are these people?”

“My group. Don’t worry they’re friendly.” Samuel responded.

Elizabeth nodded, she stayed silent for a moment before speaking again, “What do I do now? I don’t know what to do.”

Samuel knelt done to be on her level, “Do you have any family in Thurston? Or close by? Or anyone you would stay with?”

She shook her head no; he nodded and went on, “You can stay with us if you want?”

Looking to the house she called home, she responded meekly, “Okay.”

Samuel nodded, “We will be going soon. Kinda like a road trip.”

She didn’t respond as she looked down again. Samuel stood back up and saw several vehicles pull in. Some from his group, others were not. He watched as a town folk approached him in a serious stance.

“Is there a stash there?”

“Yes, in the basement.” Samuel responded.

The man nodded, barked orders to some followers and they went inside to start loading. He decided to take Elizabeth over to his group’s vehicles where most of the group was here now. Sunset approached him to talk, but she stopped once she noticed Elizabeth.

“Who is this Samuel?” Sunset asked softly.

“The only survivor. She was in the basement, her brother put her down there. She’ll be coming with us.” Samuel said in a tone that brokered no argument.

Sunset nodded and knelt to talk to her, “Hi there. I’m Sunset Shimmer, who are you?”

Elizabeth looked up at her and quickly retreated behind Samuel, she didn’t respond. Samuel spoke for her, “Her name is Elizabeth Earl. But we can discuss that more later. All done in town?”

Standing back up Sunset spoke, “Yes, Got the fuel and a few people decided to join us, three singles and one family.”

Samuel nodded, “Let’s load up and get moving on. I’m just gonna make sure Elizabeth has someone watching her.”

Sunset nodded and went about getting supplies loaded up. Samuel found Fluttershy standing by a vehicle tending to her rabbit. She noticed the both of them.

Samuel spoke first, “Fluttershy could you watch her for a second while I load up?”

“Oh yes. I can do that, what’s her name?”

“Elizabeth, she probably won’t talk much. She has had quite the…ordeal.” Samuel said softly.

Fluttershy nodded, “That’s ok. We will be ok here.”

Samuel looked to Elizabeth, who cautiously approached Fluttershy, who began softly speaking to her. Samuel smiled slightly and went about the business of loading up.

An hour later everything of use was loaded up and the stocks were split between the groups. The parents and John were buried in graves and a quick service, led by a random townsfolk. They left the homestead, Samuel’s truck in the lead. Quickly returning to town the gates were opened and the town’s vehicles were let in first.

The convoy was next and some guards began leading it through the town, Samuel and Sunset were behind as they talked with Sharon.

“Well I’m glad it worked out well.” Sharon said happily.

“It was, despite circumstances.” Samuel said dryly.

Sharon nodded, “Yes. Despite that.”

“I hope things work out for you here.” Sunset said.

Smiling back Sharon replied, “Likewise.”

“A bit of last info for you though,” Sharon looked at Samuel as he spoke, “We saw a horde of at least several thousand a few days ago. I think it’ll get worse from there.”

Sharon raised an eyebrow in concern, “That is good to know. Thanks but I think we’ll be good.”

Samuel nodded, “We should get going now. Goodbye Sharon.”

“Goodbye. Good luck on the road.” She said as she shook both of their hands.

With that the two hopped into Samuel’s truck and started down the road, quickly passing all the buildings, passed the gates and back into the convoy.

“Good job today Sunset.” Samuel praised.

“You did good too Samuel.” Sunset said back.

Swapping out passengers, Arthur and Twilight quickly found themselves back in their respective seats. Elizabeth was in there as well sitting in the back beside Twilight. She looked at Twilight who gave a nervous smile, Spike however was friendly, something that Elizabeth enjoyed. Samuel saw her give a smile, a very small one but a smile regardless.

The convoy drove on as evening started to set in. Slowly the valley gave way to eastern Oregon and its much dryer climate. Many felt relief being away from the densely populated west. Driving until it started to get dark; they made camp away from the main highway inside dense bush.

“Alright let’s set up.” Samuel said as he parked the truck.

Arthur and Twilight got out, Elizabeth did not. Samuel noticed and stayed in. They sat in relative silence before Samuel spoke, “What is your tiger’s name.”

She responded by hugging the tiger tighter and spoke, “Hobbes.”

Samuel smirked at that, knowing where that name was from, a certain comic panel, “That is a nice name. Does he help you sleep?”

She nodded, “And keeps the nightmares away too.”

“Where do you want to sleep tonight? I’m quite sure some of the girls won’t mind-“

“With you.” Elizabeth quickly interrupted.

Samuel raised an eyebrow, “Are you sure?”

“Yes.”

Samuel smiled, “Ok. You and Hobbes can stay with me and Arthur,” he gestured to outside, “Ready?”

She nodded and the two got out, Samuel introduced her to everyone and showed her how to set up the tent, Arthur playing along. Alongside a quick supper and the best bath they could give, which some of the girls helped with that part. By the time night arrived, the three and Hobbes were in sleeping bags, ready to sleep.

“Night Arthur.”

“Night Samuel.” Arthur responded as closed his eyes.

Samuel turned to Elizabeth, who looked back at him, “Goodnight Elizabeth, Hobbes.”

“Goodnight Samuel.” Elizabeth said back as she snuggled into the sleeping bag.

With that Samuel closed his eyes, fell asleep to the rather quiet atmosphere only disturbed by crickets, an owl’s hoot and the occasional coyote’s howl.