A World Gone Rotten

Chapter 8

“The Hub Part 2”

The Hub, near Baker City, Oregon

April 17th, 2015

0900 hours

Arthur sipped at his coffee with something approaching a meditative state. It was a bright morning, and a small breeze blew through the camp, feeling nice on Arthur’s skin. Grabbing his porridge, he ate the bland meal slowly. Food hadn’t been an issue, yet. However, they were already low on variety and most meals were simple fare.

He already ate the peppered egg he was given, the chickens were a godsend in his opinion. Said chickens were currently pecking for food on the outer edges of the camp. Most people were eating around the camp as well. Even their newest member, Blue Blood, sat quietly as he ate, despite his grumbling about the food.

Elizabeth hummed happily beside him, already finished her food. He was playing babysitter until Samuel got back from the clinic, he and Sunset were there to pay for the surgeries and bring Rainbow and Mateo back. He wondered how long it would take, he and a lot of people were eager to explore this new place. Especially considering the amount to look at within the walls.

“Arthur. When will they come back?” Elizabeth asked.

Arthur looked at her and shrugged, “Who knows. Hopefully soon.”

Elizabeth just nodded and went back to softly humming. Arthur saw Rarity walking over towards him, peaking his curiosity.

“I wonder what she is doing.” Arthur thought to himself.

“Good morning Arthur and to you as well Elizabeth.” Rarity said cheerily enough with a smile on her face.

Arthur flashed a small smile, “Morning Rarity.”

Elizabeth beamed at her, “Good morning Rarity.”

“How are you liking your hair, Elizabeth?” Rarity asked.

She bounced up and hugged Rarity much to her astonishment, “I love it. Thank you so much for doing it.”

Rarity smiled and gave her a quick hug back, “You’re welcome Elizabeth.”

Elizabeth let go of Rarity and went back beside Arthur, taking Hobbes, playing with him. Rarity took a seat beside Arthur on the rather convenient log they found.

“So what brings you over here this fine morning?” Arthur asked as he finished the last of his porridge.

“Nothing much. Just checking on people.” Rarity said, sitting beside Arthur and crossing her legs, smoothing out her skirt.

Arthur nodded and looked towards where Blue Blood was, sitting alone with his porridge, and disgust clear on his face but hunger was a strong motivator for him to eat. Having gone from eating luxury food, to starving and then eating again.

Rarity saw where Arthur was looking, “I’m guessing you are still not entirely, shall we say happy, with him being here?”

Arthur tore his gaze from Blue Blood to Rarity, “Yeah…I’m not going to pretend I like him. I’ll tolerate him but if he starts doing the whole entitlement act again, I don’t think he will last long.”

“I agree darling. I don’t care for him either. But as Sunset said it’s mostly for Celestia and Luna. Even though I do feel slight pity for the man.”

“I don’t like him at all.” Elizabeth burst out.

The two looked at her in surprise before collectively laughing. After settling down, Arthur went to deposit his dishes in the collective washing bin. Rarity stayed seated with Elizabeth, she looked over at where the two Crystal Prep girls were, remembering what Pinkie told her. She watched to see if any of them were looking at Arthur.

One was and she was staring longer than what would be considered polite. The girl didn’t notice Rarity looking at her with quick glances. Rarity narrowed her eyes, wondering what she was thinking. Noticing Arthur coming back she averted her eyes back to him. As Arthur sat back down, Rarity snuck a glance back to the girl watching Arthur. Her sharp eyes noticed how the other girl’s eyes narrowed at her.

“Looks she has her suspicions too. I can play this game all too well. If you want him you’re going to have to prove it. And we will see who he will really pick.” Rarity thought to herself.

“Rarity?” Arthur said to get her attention.

She was startled from her thoughts and quickly looked back to Arthur, “Yes darling?”

“You good?”

Rarity smiled, “Of course. You know, I think you would look marvelous in this vest I’ve designed…

As Rainbow and Mateo were loaded into the bed of the same truck they were brought in on, Sunset and Samuel were talking with the doctor.

“So how much do we owe you?” Sunset asked as she crossed her arms.

The doctor thought for a second, “Something valuable. Quality alcohol if you have it. At least several bottles would work. Fuel or food in large enough quantities. I’ll take firearms and especially ammo if that is what you would prefer.”

“Gold or silver?” Samuel asked.

The doctor shook his head, “Even precious metals and jewels are of no value now, I’m sorry to say.”

Sunset and Samuel were surprised. Samuel spoke, “Really? Damn that is really inconvenient.”

“You have no idea.” The doctor said, chuckling.

Sunset sighed, “We have a somewhat excess stock of guns.” She looked to Samuel, “How many do you think?”

Samuel shrugged, “Enough. We got large caliber hunting rifles and shotguns that we aren’t using…I hate the idea of giving up guns but we can get more.”

“Give me at least eight of them, half rifles and half shotguns. A little ammo with both and I’ll considered it paid.” The doctor said satisfied.

Samuel nodded and shook the doctor’s hand, Sunset did the same.

“Would you have them here now?” The doctor asked.

“No. But we can get them quickly for you.” Sunset said amicably.

The doctor nodded, “Very well. I would like the payment no later than noon. And if I don’t get it. I hope you understand there will be consequences.” The doctor warned.

“What do you mean by ‘consequences’?” Sunset asked cautiously.

“I can go to the militia, who run this place or one of the gangs in town. Non-paying customers are incredibly looked down upon here. Either of them will make sure I get the payment. I hope you understand?” The doctor explained dryly.

“You’ve made your self perfectly clear doctor. I’ll be back with the payment within the hour.” Samuel said diplomatically.

The two left the clinic after that, hopping into Samuel’s truck. Sunset spoke with uncertainty in her voice, “I don’t like the sound of that at all. It can’t be that cutthroat here.”

Samuel shrugged, “I guess we will find out once we explore a bit more. But first let’s get Rainbow and Mateo back.”

“I think Norman and Joel should be able to do that themselves don’t you think?” Sunset said.

Samuel nodded at that, “Point. Let me make sure they know what to grab for guns and ammo to bring here.”

Hopping out of the truck he went to the medical truck behind him, explained to the two men what he needed. Getting a thumbs up the truck left the parking spot and headed back to camp. Samuel returned to the truck.

“So what should we start with?” Samuel asked.

Sunset put a finger to her chin as she looked around thoughtfully, a building that looked like a post office turned into a more meeting place had a large board outside that brought loads of people. All looking at said board, occasionally grabbing a piece of paper pinned to the board.

Sunset directed Samuel’s attention to the board, “I think that might be a good place to start.”

Samuel looked at it thoughtfully, “Looks like it could be a job board.”

“Makes sense.”

The two didn’t bother taking the truck since it was just across the street. Walking over, they discovered it was exactly what they thought it was. A job board. Getting closer they walked through the throng of people, with some difficulty. Apologies were made and a few shoves where needed. Eventually the two were at the front.

Both started reading the job postings. Many were simple jobs requiring an extra hand or labor. A good many were scavenging requests or zombie hunting to clear out the local area. Some were definitely more permanent job positions, which were of no interest to Samuel and Sunset.

“This reminds me of Thurston.” Sunset reminisced.

A few people were getting a bit peeved how long the two stood in front of the board. Taking the hint, the two left, not before Samuel grabbed two papers of interest. Heading back to the truck, Samuel read them to Sunset.

“The first one is a request by a local butcher asking for anyone with experience wrangling animals, particularly cattle. Says to inquire about details and pay at his business.”

“Sounds interesting. And I know just who we could get to do it.” Sunset said with a smirk.

Samuel smirked back, “Exactly. The second one wants an escort to grab car parts. The interesting part is who is requesting. A blacksmith, says to inquire at his tent in the tent market.”

Sunset looked at him with a raised eyebrow in confusion, “A blacksmith?”

“No idea why. But I thought it was interesting and if he is the type of blacksmith who makes actual weapons. Could be very well worth our time.”

“Fair. Think we should head back now?”

“Yeah. I’m quite sure people are anxious to explore this place. We will have to set some rules about that but once we are back.”

The two hopped in Samuel’s truck and took off towards the front gate and camp. Having to brake rather suddenly when someone ran across the street. Samuel honked at the person who just gave him the middle finger.

“Asshole.” Samuel muttered to himself, to Sunset’s amusement.

As they drove past the fence, Sunset looked at Samuel, “You know this would be the perfect place to get some more people. Especially anyone with skills we need.”

Samuel nodded, “Couldn’t say it any better myself. I think we should try getting a doctor and a mechanic in our group, so we don’t have the same problems again.”

“Duh. Of course we should.” Sunset said sarcastically with a smile.

Samuel chuckled, “Yeah. Pretty obvious when I say it out loud.” His tone turned more serious, “We should however be careful on letting information out that we are looking for people to join. Last thing we need is to be swarmed with people wanting in.”

Sunset nodded at that as they pulled into camp. Getting out, they were already being approached by people. All curious on what happens next.

With her hands in a placating gesture he spoke to the growing crowd, “I know. Everyone is excited to explore this place but I want to make an announcement first. Can everyone meet around the picnic tables?”

The mass of people went to the picnic tables as Sunset stood on one. Samuel stayed beside her but stayed on the ground. They gave everyone a chance to congregate around. Once she was sure everyone was here, she cleared her throat and began.

“Alright I know everyone is excited to explore this place. I’ll admit I am too. However we still need to be careful so we are going to lay out some rules for going forward. Samuel?”

Samuel stepped forward and spoke, letting his voice carry like an NCO’s, “I know everyone are adults here, for the most part. But that means you also understand the risks. So one, no one goes alone, especially drinking. I see you Norman, don’t think I don’t know that the first thing you’re going to do is drink.” There was a few chuckles at that, Norman just shrugged in defeat.

“Anyways, pairs at the minimum but try to stay in groups, be back before dark, if you’re going to be out after dark, let someone know and make sure your location is known so if we have to come looking for you, we can find you. Now any questions for me?”

Samuel passed a knife hand across the crowd, no one said anything. Some of them may have scoffed at what he said once, but in this new world they were all too aware now of what can happen. Once Samuel’s hand passed over everyone, he spoke again.

“Alright. I’ll hand this back to Sunset now.”

“Thank you Samuel. Now another thing we have found is there is available work to be done.”

Ken spoke out, “Like what we did in Thurston?”

Sunset nodded, “Yes. But this time there is a lot more opportunities. In fact we have two I think we could do. Of course if you find any yourself on the job board in town, please bring it up. Check with me or Samuel to make sure.”

A woman that had been with them since Canterlot, in the crowd spoke up, “I think this brings up something that needs to be discussed. Who is actually leader of our group? Cause I feel like we should have a vote on that.”

A murmur of agreements rippled through the crowd. Some disagreed, thinking the current leadership situation was fine. Samuel gave a barely noticeable frown, in his opinion they didn’t need to vote on everything. Not that they did, but he would very much like it if that didn’t become a habit.

“I have to agree. We will have a vote on a leader come tomorrow morning. This will give people time to prepare and decide on nominations, which is how we will open the election. Agreed?”

The crowd once again rippled with agreement. The idea giving energy to the crowd.

“Now before we return to work, I know everyone is looking forward to some fun and something new. However we still need to gather supplies and get ready to move on, eventually. Now, anyone still wounded we are going to take you to a doctor and get you patched up, meet over by the truck, yes the ‘medical’ truck. That is all.”

The crowd slowly dispersed eventually leaving Samuel and Sunset again. Samuel spoke to her as he got down.

“I’ll take care of the two jobs if you take the last of the wounded to the doctor?”

Sunset nodded, “Sounds good.”

Samuel started to where the Apple family was and Sunset went to the truck with the wounded, a few people coming along to make sure things went smoothly.

“Applejack! Big Mac! Need you for something.” Samuel said as he got closer.

The two siblings came over, Applejack speaking, “Whatcha you need?”

“Got this job and it suits your skill.” Samuel handed them the paper, “Here.”

Applejack grabbed it and began to read it, Big Mac over her shoulder doing the same. A few moments later they finished.

“Well sounds interesting enough. Me and Big Mac can head over ourselves and talk it over. Sound good?” Applejack said happily enough.

“Yup. You two go on a head then, even though I might need you later Big Mac.” Samuel said.

Big Mac barely lifted an eyebrow, “What for?”

“You’ve done farrier work right?”

Big Mac gave a hearty snort, “Of course.”

“Ok, that’s all I need for now. You two take care now.” Samuel said as he walked off.

Applejack turned to Big Mac, “Well let’s get going Mac.”

Sunset was on her way back to the clinic, Pinkie was beside her as Chloe drove.

“You probably could’ve just stayed behind.” Chloe said to Sunset.

“Probably, but I feel…responsible for our people. So I’m going to make sure they get taken care of.” Sunset responded with a heavy tone.

“See you are a leader.” Pinkie said with a smile,

Sunset just rolled her eyes with her own smile. Upon reaching the clinic they pulled in and started the process of getting the doctor to treat the wounded. Payment was given for the previous surgeries and for current treatments. The process took roughly two hours, during those two hours Sunset, Pinkie and Chloe explored the street the seemed to be the main part of the Hub. A few places seemed shady enough that they avoided them.

One place was interesting, a place with a sign written “Pronghorn’s Tavern” with an image of a pronghorn running. The three girls looked at each other, shrugged and walked in through the double doors. The tavern had the look and feel of an old time bar, round wooden tables with wooden dining chairs doted the floor. On the right was a bar, two barkeeps behind it serving alcohol to a few patrons in the late morning.

Some of the tables were occupied, some people looking natural and relaxed while some looked jittery and anxious. As the three looked around, a waiter in a flannel shirt, jeans and cowboy boots walked up to them.

“Good day. Would you ladies like a table?” The waiter asked.

Pinkie spoke excitedly, “Sure!”

“Follow me then please.”

Pinkie eagerly followed, while Sunset and Chloe gave each other a glance shrugged and followed after. The waiter guided the three to a table in the far left corner in the front of the tavern. As they took their seats, Sunset asked a question.

“Before we get anything, what would we pay in?”

“Bullets are probably the most common form, but other forms exist. Tobacco for example. We can decide on it later of course as well. So what can I get for you to drink?”

“Do you guys have milkshakes?” Pinkie asked hopefully.

“Occasionally. Lucky for you today we do. Can’t say how much longer though. Power is a rare gift as well as fresh milk.”

“Then I’ll take whatever flavor you got!” Pinkie said with excitement, bouncing a little in her seat.

“Vanilla it is then.”

“Water is fine for me.” Chloe said.

“And I’ll take whatever soda you got. Pepsi preferably.” Sunset added.

“Ok. Give me a second and I’ll bring out some menus as well.”

A few moments later the waiter came back with said drinks and menus.

“Here you go girls. Need a few minutes to decide?” The waiter asked.

A round of “yeses” were said and he left to attend to other patrons. The girls discussed the menu and chose quickly. Eager to have some food with extra flavor, the waiter came over and took their order.

As Applejack and Big Mac pulled open the door to the store, a bell rang indicating their presence. The place had the slightest smell of iron from blood and meat. A deep voice called from the back.

“One moment!”

A minute later a middle aged man with a bit of a beer gut covered by a butcher’s apron, came from the back. Deep russet eyes stared at them with unflattering mutton chops covering his face, “Sorry for the wait. Now what can I help you with?”

“Don’t be sorry, it’s all good.” Applejack said as she brought the job paper into view, “One of our group found this on the board and sent us to discuss it.”

The man’s eyes widen, “Ooooohhhh. Well I’m glad to see someone finally picked it up, been up there for three days! You would think with us being in eastern Oregon there would some cowboy to do the job but nope, it’s like they all disappeared. Anyways what I would need are for you two to go and wrangle some loose cattle. They are all over the place nowadays and many a person would prefer they were feeding people rather than zombies.”

“We can do that. However what about payment?” Applejack asked all business like.

“I’ll give you gas. Ten gallons per head of cattle you bring, I got a whole semi filled with the stuff and not doing anything. And if you bring enough in, I’ll give some of the meat. How does that sound?” The butcher responded with finality.

Applejack looked up at her brother, he gave a slight nod. Applejack turned her attention back to the butcher, “Ya got a deal…”

“Carl. Pleasure is mine. Your names?”

“Applejack,” she used an open palm to gesture to her brother. “Big McIntosh.”

“Well if you could bring whatever you find in by…let’s say dusk or there about.”

Applejack nodded, “Yup, can do. Well me and my brother better get to work then. See ya.” She waved bye as the two left.

The butcher waved back, “See you two later.”

Samuel and Arthur were walking through the tent market. The place was thronged with people, both those that were shopping or trying to hawk their wares, calling out loudly, trying to out compete each other. The place smelt of the strong odor of people mixed with dust from the very well-worn paths.

The two were trying to find the blacksmith who put in the job request. The tents were numbered and the one they were looking for was numbered “293”.

“Where could this fucking tent be?” Arthur said in frustration.

Samuel squeezed by two people as he responded with the same frustration, “Who fucking knows. They got the numbers ordered fucking weird.”

It took more time until they finally came across another tent by the number of “287”. They followed, had to double back twice until finally finding it. A rather large open tent with a series of tables displaying a variety of tools and weapons, overseen by a man and what looks like his family with a couple employees.

There was a large enough crowd around the tent, making it hard to get close. Eventually they got close enough to where they could talk with a young employee.

“How can I help you today?” The young man spoke in a tired voice.

Samuel brought out the paper, “More like, how can we help you?”

He looked at the paper and nodded, “You’re going to want to speak to Mr. Wilson then. I’ll get him for you.”

The employee quickly walked over to where Mr. Wilson was hammering on a hot piece of steel, the center of the tent having a forge set up there. Fueled by a propane tank, a small kiln made of firebricks frothed with flame. The employee told Mr. Wilson of the situation, nodding he finished up with the piece he was working on, leaving the young employee to continue the work. Mr. Wilson walked towards them.

He made a follow me gesture and the cousins followed to where he let them in between the tables. Going towards the center Mr. Wilson spoke in a mumbling tone.

“So you’re interested in the job. Though I gotta make sure you understand what I need,” he gave the two a look over. “And I hope you got more people than just you two.”

Samuel nodded, “There is more than just me and him. We have a large enough group to provide the escort you need.”

Mr. Wilson looked at him in the eye, “You’ll need to show me they exist before the job starts. If you get the job.”

“Very well, what is it you would want us to do exactly?” Samuel asked.

“I’m going to be sending some of my people to go get suitable metal to work with. Leaf springs are some of the best. The problem is every single vehicle within a couple miles has either been taken or stripped already. I think you understand the rest.”

Arthur spoke, “So you have to go further away. My guess is into Baker City, which means more risk. So we provide protection while your people gather the metal.”

Mr. Wilson nodded, “Exactly. The hope is to get a full trailer. The more the better. And more reward for you.”

Samuel crossed his arms, “Let’s say we do get the job. What are we getting out of it?”

“I can’t offer the more normal means. No food. No gas. Nothing like that.”

Samuel was about to dismiss the job after hearing that before Mr. Wilson went on.

“I’ll give you pay in,” he gestured to the tables. “Weapons. Knives, swords, polearms, maybe some tools if you want them.”

Surprise spread on Arthur’s and Samuel’s faces. Samuel spoke in surprise, “Definitely not normal. But I wouldn’t say no or anyone else in our group. Arthur?”

Arthur nodded vigorously, already eyeing up what he would want, “I think absolutely yes.”

Both Mr. Wilson and Samuel chuckled at his excitement. Mr. Wilson spoke again seriously.

“I’m still not sure if I should hire you. The last group of random hires screwed up the damn job and got one of my employees killed.”

“I’m sorry to hear that but that doesn’t have anything to do with us.” Samuel said neutrally.

Mr. Wilson kept quiet for a few moments before speaking again, “I need the metal pretty badly. Dammit. Alright you got the job once you show up with some extra people.”

Samuel nodded, satisfied, “We will be back in about half an hour. It’ll be six of us. Should be enough to do the job.”

“Eight if you can.” Mr. Wilson negotiated.

“I can do that but only if a group member of mine gets some blacksmithing lessons from you. He’s done farrier work before so it shouldn’t be much of a stress to you. That’ll make up for the pay from bringing more people.” Samuel counter offered.

“You plan on selling the stuff he makes?” Mr. Wilson asked suspiciously.

Samuel shook his head, “No. We don’t plan on staying near the Hub for any lengthy period of time. Just something useful down the road.”

“Alright. I’ll take your word for it. And before you go…”

Mr. Wilson went to some weapon racks and took two weapons off, bringing them back. He handed one to Arthur and the other to Samuel.

“This is a way to prove that what me and my family make are good and solid. Their free of charge and of payment for the job.”

Samuel looked down at the sword he had been given, a straight bladed sabre that was about a yard long in the blade and had braided paracord around the wooden handle, carved to fit a man’s hand, with a brass D-guard to protect the hand. The blade itself had a thick back that tapered down into the point, it was a tad heavy but seemed well balanced and Samuel nodded in approval.

Arthur looked up, in his case, at the polearm he was given. Standing roughly six feet tall in total, a foot long blade and about five feet in the pole, brown in color and seeming to be made of ash wood. The blade had three separate points, one that curved into a bill hook, another went straight up another five inches or so giving it a spear point and the last was a small hook on the back, seeming perfect for grabbing clothes. Arthur looked it up and down several times, smiling as he did so.

“Now these are some proper weapons.” Samuel said with approval.

Mr. Wilson smirked, “Thought you would like them. I’ll keep them here till you get back.”

Samuel nodded and handed the sabre back, Arthur handed the polearm back after a moment’s hesitation.

Samuel noticed and smirked, “You’ll get your sweet baby back soon, don’t worry.”

Arthur looked at him and just rolled his eyes.

“See you in a bit.” Samuel said as he as Arthur left.

“Yup.” Mr. Wilson responded as he went back to work.

It was surprisingly windless as Applejack and Big Mac rode though the shrubbery. They were some distance from camp now, not that the horses minded, they seemed happy enough to be doing some kind of work again. Riding uphill they quickly wound up on top, looking over a large clear meadow of dead grass that was starting to be overcome by fresh grass.

Applejack chewed on a piece of grass as she leaned forward in the saddle, standing in her stirrups looking for any cattle. Big Mac grabbed the ropes around the two cows’ necks. Trying to get them up the hill and complacent. Big Mac then also took a look across the meadow. Both were lightly sweating as heat and hard work took their toll.

Plenty of experience and long days working with cattle gave Applejack and Big Mac the edge to find stray cattle. They found more cows dead from zombies than they did alive.

“I hope we find more, cause I don’t feel like bringing back only two cows.” Applejack said with slight frustration.

“I know.” Big Mac simply responded.

“Wish the damn zombies would stop eating them. Make our jobs harder for no reason, like come-“

Applejack stopped when she saw movement coming out of a gulch, five head of cattle running.

“Big Mac! Binos!” Applejack called.

Big Mac took out a pair of binoculars and took a look at the cattle. His mouth scrunched up when he saw several zombies chasing them. All shamblers.

“Got five zombies chasing. Let’s go.” Big Mac said as got his horse moving, disturbing it from its grazing.

Applejack quickly followed, only a few paces behind big Mac as they brought the horses to canter, hurrying but without tiring out their steeds, dirt flying from their hooves. They covered the several hundred meter distance quickly, the five cattle changed direction, their eyes bulging in fear and trying to avoid anything deemed a threat. The zombies moaned loudly as they tried to catch up.

Applejack and Big Mac dismounted once close enough. The horses would go only so close to the undead before they would begin to freak out, no matter how well trained. They can be counted on to stay still however, ground tying them. A skill taught to them, thanks to their grandfather who was a well-trained horse wrangler and trainer.

Applejack slid her double barrel from its sheath while Big Mac drew a Glock from a holster. The zombies noticing two new prey, and in their minds a lot more preferable to eat, changed direction and shuffled towards them. Aiming with the bead of her shotgun, Applejack pulled the first trigger and blew a large hole in the lead zombie; she shifted her aim slightly to the left on another and pulled the second trigger.

Her aim was slightly off; the majority of the pellets missing while a few grazed the skull. She reloaded with a practiced ease, her skills having only gotten sharper since the beginning. Big Mac had taken two down himself and took down a third with two shots to the head just as Applejack flipped her shotgun back into a locked position.

She finished the last one with a single shot, blowing the entire head off in a red mist thanks to the buckshot. The two surveyed around them, checking for any potential zombies coming in and to see what there the five cattle went. No zombies, yet, and the cattle weren’t too far away having slowed down.

The two Apples went back to their horses; they shied away a bit due to the noise of the gunshots but stayed roughly in the same spot. The cattle Big Mac had been dragging were only slightly farther away.

“Now we got some cattle.” Applejack said, pleased.

“Eeeeyup.” Big Mac responded.

Mounted up again, they trotted over to where the five cattle and started herding them, towards north of the camp.

Applejack looked up to see the position of the sun, covering her eyes with a gloved hand. It was roughly four in the afternoon.

“What do you think Mac. Head back now or see if we can find more? Cause I think we could get a few more.” Applejack said confidently.

Big Mac mused for a second as he looked to see the position of the sun as well. He responded a second after, “A few more. I’d say another two hours before we start heading back.”

Applejack nodded happily, “Alright lets go then.”

The two got the herd moving faster, much to the cows’ protest, trying to make best of the time they had left.

The truck moved slowly through the suburban landscape, the cookie cutter houses falling into disrepair. Trash and the occasional corpse littered the area, the place smelled of decay and the residue of smoke from burned buildings, which there were plenty of. The truck came to a stop in front of the next batch of vehicles to be stripped.

Samuel and Arthur stopped as well, alongside the six others they brought. Norman stared at the landscape with a crowbar in hand. Ken not too far to the left of Norman, an aluminum bat in his hands as he looked nervously across the landscape. Joel inspected his tire iron as he took up the rear while another man from Thurston, named Brad, looked nervously behind him as he tightened his grip on his pipe wrench.

Having to dig into the bottom of the barrel for manpower for this job thanks to still recovering wounded, even Pinkie and Twilight were here. Pinkie had a pry bar as she seemed to almost bounced happily but at the same time fully aware of her surroundings. Twilight had her old bat with her, the thing having a few dents these days, while taking notes in small notebook, she still kept her head on a swivel.

Everyone also had a firearm of some kind, but melee weapons were the way for the day for obvious reasons. The eight were in rough oval around the truck, one of Mr. Wilson’s sons, Henry, and two of his employees had already begun removing the leaf springs from a sedan. They did their best to be quiet but it was still a noisy process and the eight guards have been earning their keep.

Samuel left Arthur to sentry the front as he left to talk to Henry. Who was theoretically in charge of this little expedition, but deferred to Samuel on fighting matters. Samuel took a look at the trailer being towed by the Ford truck, it was getting filled with leaf springs and a few other bits of metal deemed worthy.

“Hey Henry. How much more do you think you need?” Samuel asked as he crouched beside Henry.

Henry looked back from the tire he was working on to remove before answering, “Hopefully after this block. I’m getting nervous too, don’t worry. Are more coming in?”

Samuel nodded, “Yes. We will hold them off of course. But if there is too many or we have to start using guns. I’ll be calling it.”

“That’s fair. We’ll try to go faster then.”

“Rog.” Samuel said as he went back to the front.

Samuel felt the handle of his sabre again, he was quite happy with its quality and it was proving its worth. It was currently in a wooden leathered covered scabbard that hung on his left hip. He was still getting used to the weight there, and the way it occasionally got in the way of his foot but not too badly.

He smirked though at the image of how happy Arthur was with the billhook, he wasn’t trained in it but it cleaved zombies incredibly well with its reach. Samuel took his place by Arthur.

“So?” Arthur said.

“After this block he says he should be satisfied. All good up here?”

“Quiet for now. Are you sure we can’t scavenge from the vehicles?” Arthur asked hopefully.

Samuel shook his head, “No. Have to stay on watch. Yes I know it sucks but we got a job to do. Now stay alert I’m going to check on the others.”

A quick round later and checks made, Samuel returned. It wouldn’t be for another fifteen minutes when more zombies appeared. Several appeared in the front, with a few coming in from other directions.

Samuel looked at the others to make sure they were sticking to their battle buddies. Arthur elbowed him and gestured forward, Samuel looked forward to a lone sprinter barreling towards them. Rushing across the overgrown yards and built up trash.

Arthur brought his bill down to be able to stab the sprinter. Samuel unsheathed his sabre and prepared it. A new tactic they began to use was Arthur would stick the sprinter, keeping it in place, while Samuel cleaved its head open. The two prepared as the sprinter rapidly closed the distance.

The former man’s grey eyes stared unblinking in excited hunger as it let loose a loud growl. The two cousins kept their focus, and just as the sprinter reached twenty feet from them. Arthur walked several steps forward and braced as the sprinter skewered itself on the bill. Gritting his teeth in sheer effort and focus, he tried to keep the zombie still as much as he could as it thrashed to get closer.

Arthur didn’t have to wait long as Samuel stepped in with long overhead swing and brought it down with the force of his entire body behind it. Unfortunately the zombie’s head twitched at the last second making the sword cut deep into its neck instead. Samuel quickly brought the sword back up and once again brought it down overhead.

This time he successfully cleaved the zombie’s head open, blood, bone and brain exposed in bloody fashion. Arthur extracted his bill and readied himself for the next, as Samuel flicked his blade to rid of some of the thick blood off. They had four shamblers walking their way.

Advancing only a bit further out they waited with a hesitant patience. Once the shamblers got closer the two attacked with forceful aggression. Arthur swung his bill downward at the first zombie, opening up its left shoulder, blood leaking. With a quick yank back he brought the bill back and did a thrust into its belly. With a wordless shout he pushed the thrashing zombie into the ground, pulled his bill out and brought the bill down like he was chopping wood with an axe, onto its head. Splitting open its face and digging into the brain.

Turning to the other zombie he lashed out with the bottom end of the bill in an upward motion, hitting the zombie in the chin causing its head to shoot back and staggered several steps back. Using the precious time he was given, he did a quick pull and thrust through the bottom of its chin and spiking the brain. It was almost comical how the tongue shot out as it was cut.

While Arthur was dealing with his two, Samuel did a quick slash at the neck of his first target, almost cutting all the way through, with a strong yank to remove the sword he moved away as the second one almost got into grabbing distance. Samuel snarled as got back into a fighting stance.

“Haakaa paalle!” Samuel yelled as he moved around, light on his feet and swung again at near decapitated zombie, slicing through the last of the tendons and flesh in a flash of blood. The zombie’s head fell unceremoniously to the ground.

Shifting ever so slightly, he lashed out with a punch, using the D-guard to bash the face of the former woman. With the zombie pushed ever so slightly to the left from the force, Samuel brought the blade over his left shoulder and using the momentum of his body cut through the top of the head at a slight angle. It toppled over onto the sidewalk.

Both breathing from exertion, the two men checked quickly for anymore incoming. But there was none in their vicinity or coming towards them. And a quick look back at the rest showed they dealt with much fewer than they did. Only two zombies which had been easily dispatched.

Samuel looked at the head of the zombie he decapitated. The thing was still alive, the eyes looked at him as the jaw snapped at him. With slight disgust, he brought the tip of his sabre to the temple of the head. With a quick thrust he ended its undead life.

Arthur stared at it, “Weird.”

“Indeed weird…and strange. Maybe Twilight knows why. Regardless, back to the job.” Samuel said.

Samuel slightly turned his head to see the truck was moving again. He sighed internally. Constant combat has been tiring and he looked forward to once the job was done.

“Almost done. Just a little further down the block and we’re done.” Samuel thought.

It was almost dark by the time Applejack and Big Mac drove their herd into the Hub. Eighteen heads of cattle was the final count after a long day of work. They kept the herd moving down the main street towards the butcher’s shop. Quite a few people were staring at the cattle, not all in astonishment, many with hungry eyes at the walking beef. The butcher was going to be a very popular man.

Applejack kept an eye on all the gawkers, making sure none try to do something stupid like grab one of the cows. A few people called in from the group helped guide the cattle along from heading somewhere they shouldn’t. Their presence also helped keep people away and them being heavily armed makes a good deterrent.

Nearing the shop, she saw Carl standing outside on the sidewalk, wearing his butcher garb, he stood in shock.

“Well I’ll be! That’s a lot of cattle! Bring them down this side street, on the left. Got a pen they can stay in.” Carl said as he guided them.

Slowly herding the herd down the street, they only had a bit further to go. Making another left turn where it narrowed significantly into a cattle holding pen. With shouts of encouragement and a few slaps on the rumps, the cattle all headed in. Tightly packed as they were, there was quite the stir among them, mooing at the humans making them do unreasonable things in their minds.

“You brought in so many…I won’t be sleeping tonight that’s for sure!” Carl said with a laugh.

Applejack chuckled and moved her horse closer to the man, “Well glad you’re happy. Now our payment?”

Carl smiled, “Of course! Would you happen to have any jerry cans?”

Applejack shook her head, “Not with us. We do back at camp. How about we just come in the morning to grab the gas?”

Carl nodded, “Works for me. Now since you brought so many, how about I give you a whole cow?”

“What? I know you said we could get some meat but...are you sure?” Applejack asked confused.

“I won’t be able to get through this much meat quickly enough; some of it will just go to spoil. Besides you’ve earned it. Pick one out and I’ll get it done nice and quick.” Carl said.

“Well thank you, that’s mighty kind of you.” Applejack said gratefully.

She turned to Big Mac, who was staring at the cattle, “Big Mac! Which one do you reckon we should pick out?”

Big Mac mused for a second before pointing at one beefy Angus, “That one.”

Carl nodded, “Alright. Give me about fifteen minutes and I’ll have her butchered and quartered.”

Applejack smiled and picked up her walkie talkie. Camp was going to be excited.

Samuel’s group had finished about an hour before Applejack and Big Mac. The group was now much better armed for close combat. Everyone pretty much had a high quality knife now, and at least half had some kind of weapon. Some polearms, some swords, some maces and even a couple warhammers.

While cleaning his sabre, Sunset came over with Rainbow, slowly as she used her crutches to move.

Samuel spoke with a smirk, “Feeling better?”

Rainbow watched her step as she responded, “Yeah. Whatever painkillers the doctor gave really knocked me out.”

“Good to hear.” Samuel looked to Sunset, “Liking the new toy?”

Sunset looked at the sword she received that hung from her belt, almost the exact same as Samuel’s except with a hint of a curve in the blade and was sharpened on the reverse to about half way up the blade.

“It’s quite something that’s for sure. Well worth it.” Sunset said with praise.

“I better have got something, you know!” Rainbow called out.

Samuel’s smirk turned into a smile, “Don’t worry. Got you a mace.”

Rainbow looked up at him, “Awesome!”

The three turned their attention to Arthur who was running toward them.

“Samuel! Applejack and Big Mac are back! They just radioed we got a whole cow to eat!” Arthur yelled excitedly.

The three looked at him in astonishment, and more than a few heads turned at what Arthur said.

“No way.” Rainbow said in astonishment.

“Yes way!” Arthur responded.

“Well shit, I think you know what that means.” Samuel said.

The three looked at him, it dawned on Sunset a moment later who smirked and gave a nod.

“Hey Pinkie!” Samuel yelled at the top of his lungs.

“Yes Sammy?” Pinkie asked as she seemed to appear out of nowhere.

Despite getting more used to Pinkie, Samuel and Arthur still flinched when she appeared, in their minds it was like she teleported.

Samuel looked at her with a smirk and narrowed eyes with humor in them, “Party time.”

Pinkie gasped incredibly loudly, she then grabbed Samuel’s shoulders, looking deep into his eyes, “You mean it? Like really, really mean it?”

“Really, really.” Samuel simply replied.

Pinkie looked to Sunset, who gave a nod.

“YAAAYYYYY!” Pinkie squealed with glee.

“Well what you waiting for? Go get started!” Samuel egged her on.

“Way ahead of you!” Pinkie yelled as she ran off to get started.

The four laughed at her antics, Samuel sheathed his sword as he got up, looking to Arthur.

“I’m guessing we are getting the cow however.” Samuel said.

“Probably. Besides I want the first steak!” Arthur said in excitement, running to Samuel’s truck.

Rainbow glared at Samuel, “I better get some too!”

“Same here!” Sunset added.

Samuel chuckled, “I’ll make sure you get some good cuts. Be back in a bit.”

The two cousins took off back to the Hub, both excited to get some fresh meat after god knows how long in their minds.

About an hour later, the first of the meat was cooking on a grill over an open fire. The dark illuminated by several campfires and a few lanterns to fill the gaps. The area was usually safe enough with zombies being routinely culled from the local area. Watch duty was still to be carried out and drinking of liquor was to be heavily regulated.

The group felt generous and invited a few of the smaller groups nearby that seemed nice enough. That is what Samuel and Sunset were dealing with at the moment, talking with a man speaking for his group who seemed interesting in joining. They were off at a small section of the camp for private conversation.

“You guys seem to have quite the set up here.” The man, introduced as Greg, said as he looked around the camp.

“We try our best here.” Sunset said.

“So how about we discuss why you want to join.” Samuel inquired.

“I think it is pretty obvious. You guys have your shit together and my guess is you have a plan of some sort.” Greg said.

“Well thanks. We do have something approaching a plan. However before we consider letting you join, tell us about you and your group.” Sunset said in an appraising tone.

Shifting in his seat, Greg went on, “I’m a carpenter by trade and my wife was a nurse. Two friends of ours that are with us, another couple like us. Alex was a greenhouse manager and Bethany did accounting. We do have our kids with us, my two and their one.”

Sunset and Samuel looked at each other, both thinking the same thing.

I’m sold.

“Well consider yourself part of the group now.” Sunset said happily.

Greg perked up, “Actually? That quick?”

Samuel responded, “Your skills are sorely needed. But first things first. Do realize you will have to follow the rules, understand?”

Greg nodded, “Of course. I understand and my group will be made aware of that.”

“Good. Also about the plan, we are heading east to find somewhere to permanently settle. You get a part of it for coming along and we don’t have a set location in mind yet but we are working on that.” Sunset explained in detail.

Greg shrugged, “Enough for me. When can we move in?”

“Tomorrow. For now just join the festivities, get to know the people and have some fun.” Sunset said.

Greg smiled, “Thank you. You don’t know how much I appreciate this…How much we all appreciate this.”

Greg left to join the party, which left Sunset and Samuel alone.

“You know we should have a more solid idea of where we should go.” Samuel said.

“Idaho might have what we are looking…I’ll grab the map.” Sunset said as she got up.

“Sounds good.” Samuel simply responded.

For some time the two discussed on checking a few places for likely locations. In the end, they were indecisive.

“This is hopeless, without any up to date information we are going to need to get closer to recce. Or get Arthur do his magic.” Samuel said with a frown.

Sunset sighed, “Yup. Anyways I think we should get some more people still.”

Samuel thought to himself for a second, tilting his head to the side, “How many more could we take though? Food is going to be pretty short at this rate; we don’t have much of the Apple’s stocks left or anything really.”

“I saw a lot of the papers on the board offering food as a reward. Guess we might just need to step up our scavenging. As well as our hunting and fishing despite our lack of success.” Sunset said thoughtfully.

“Fair point. But you are correct; we need people because wherever we end up. If it’s worth having…someone else will want it too.” Samuel said.

Sunset looked at him silently, pondering what he said.

Both didn’t expect Pinkie to pop up behind them.

“Hey!” Pinkie yelled.

Both jumped in their seats, Sunset looked back at her with wide eyes with her hand on her sword. Samuel had his halfway out of the scabbard with wide eyes and the beginning of a snarl on his lips.

“Pinkie! Don’t do that!” Sunset roared.

Pinkie stared at her with impunity, “Well why aren’t youuuuuuu at the party!”

Samuel sighed as he slid the sword back into its scabbard, “Just discussing what comes next Pinkie. We are pretty much done. Right Sunset?”

“I guess so.” Sunset mumbled.

“Well come on then! We are doing pin the tail on the donkey right now! And then we will do some dancing and other games! Oh gosh it makes me SO EXCITED!” Pinkie shouted enthusiastically.

“Let’s go then.” Samuel said with a smile.

The girls sat around a campfire, taking a break among all the activities. The party was still ongoing with a lot of it just being talking and a bit of drinking. A dance would happen before the end of the party, Pinkie insisted. Not too far away a poker game was going on; Arthur and Samuel were part of it, Elizabeth beside him watching in fascination. Many of the kids were already in bed; some of the older ones were mixed in, trying to be more like adults, much to the amusement of others.

Sunset tried to relax but her mind was preoccupied. She can’t help but worry and ponder what comes next.

“Sunset dear. Are you alright?” Rarity asked.

Shaken out of her stupor, Sunset looked at Rarity, “…Not entirely.”

“Well that ain’t a surprise; you’ve been going and going.” Applejack said as she sipped at her cider, the alcoholic variety.

“Have a cider Sunset. It won’t hurt; I know it’s helping me.” Rainbow chimed in as she gulped the last of hers.

Before Sunset could respond, a cider was pushed into her hands by Applejack, “Don’t worry, non-alcoholic. Don’t got much left so enjoy it while it lasts.”

Looking down at the liquid, she got an intense feeling of desire to drink. Throwing back her head she gave several hearty gulps before stopping with a sound of “ahhhhhh” at the taste.

“You’re right. It does help.” Sunset said to Rainbow with a smile.

“Of course I’m right. Now come on lets have fun.” Rainbow replied confidently.

Twilight adjusted her glasses as she spoke, “So Pinkie what are we doing for the dance?”

Pinkie, finishing the last of her several drinks, responded as she stood up with arms stretched to the sky, “I got a whole list of songs for it! It will be just like the parties at school! There will even be some live music! Not sure entirely what kind though.”

Twilight nodded as she looked over at the poker table then back. Fluttershy sipped timidly at her non-alcoholic cider, while petting Angel in her lap. Rarity had some watered down wine, only she really knew what type. Rainbow very carefully shifted her wounded leg to be more comfortable.

“Good job today Applejack. Can’t tell you how much I missed a good steak.” Sunset said with gratitude.

Applejack waved a dismissive hand, “Weren’t nothing to it. Thank Big Mac though as well.”

Sunset smiled, “Already did.”

A large yell of triumph from the poker table, startling Fluttershy as she cried “eeeeep” and tried to shrink herself. She looked around as everyone looked at her.

“You ok Shy?” Rainbow asked.

Fluttershy nodded slowly, “I’ll be alright, just startled that’s all.”

Rainbow smiled as a thought got in her head, “You know what. Let’s go join. Me and you Shy.”

Fluttershy looked at her with wide eyes, “But I don’t know how to play. And all those people…”

“It’ll be fine.” Rainbow said as she rolled eyes, crutch walking to Fluttershy, “Besides I’ll be there, Samuel and Arthur too. We got you.”

“Umm…Well…I…Ok.” Fluttershy said quietly, admitting defeat.

“Rainbow don’t force the poor dear.” Rarity said in an admonishing tone.

“It’s ok Rarity, I’ll go. Maybe it will be fun.” Fluttershy said as she gave a nervous smile.

“Right on Fluttershy! Let’s go!” Rainbow said in excitement.

Arthur looked at his hand blankly but internally was giddy. He had a good hand going and he was giving Samuel a run for his money. Arthur would admit he had a decent poker face, using the whole stare past someone trick, from doing drill with the army. When the time came to reveal hands, Arthur smugly laid his cards down.

He wasn’t surprised when he won and took the whole pot, a random assortment of valuable items. Alcohol, smokes, bullets, pretty much anything that had a use. He looked up to see Rainbow and to his unconcealed surprise, Fluttershy coming over.

“Well I’ll be damned. Look who is back!” Norman said happily.

“Sup dudes. Mind if we join? To kick your collective butts of course.” Rainbow asked with a smirk.

A round of laughter followed her statement. The two were quickly brought into the game, to Rainbow’s delight and Fluttershy’s rather well hidden misery. Fluttershy was seated by Arthur, who volunteered to help her understand. The game would go on for some time, no one person gaining or losing much. Elizabeth, who was obviously tired but too excited by the game to fall asleep, kept giggling and smiling as Samuel played more to make her laugh than win and at everyone making snide comments at each other.

Michael, his arm in a sling from the shot that went through his shoulder, spotted what looked like a big dance party start to begin; he mentioned it and everyone looked to it.

“We better wrap up then. Pinkie will kill us if we don’t participate.” Rainbow said, a bit bummed out by it.

Samuel knew just how to end it, “How about all or nothing for the last round? Anyone who wants to back out now better do so.”

A few decided to take what they got from the game, leaving to join the dance. Samuel, Arthur, Norman, Michael, Rainbow, Fluttershy and two others from outside the group were left.

Arthur smiled smugly, “Let the final round commence. But before that everyone throw something into the pot. Make it real sweet.”

A few looks around the poker group, some shrugs and everyone threw something in. Samuel, a prized bottle of whiskey. Arthur a half full box of cigars. Norman and Michael threw in some regular cigarettes. Rainbow threw an MP3 player, a few whistles at that prize. The two outsiders, some bullets. And lastly Fluttershy decided with a sigh to throw in her new knife she got.

“Oh this is going to be sweet.” Arthur thought to himself.

Letting Elizabeth be the dealer, much to her joy, she slowly handed out two cards to each player. Putting the three cards in the middle and slowly revealing each one as she tried creating suspense.

Arthur couldn’t help himself but grin; this was his best hand yet and by the looks of it, he was going to win. He was ready to just slam the cards down in triumph but waited as each player showed their cards. When the circle of turns reached him he put his cards down with an absolute shit eating grin and the groans of everyone there.

He looked at Fluttershy, the last in the queue. She looked nervously at everyone looking at her, took a deep breath and put her cards down. Arthur didn’t think anything of it and already was reaching for the pot.

“Whoa cowboy.” Norman said as he put a hand forward to stop Arthur.

Arthur looked at him confused until he looked at Fluttershy, and his eyes bulged when he saw her hand.

She won.

Fluttershy looked around at everyone in slight confusion, “Did I win?”

“Yes Fluttershy you won.” Samuel said as he began to smile.

Arthur’s mouth dropped in sheer shock, he couldn’t believe he lost.

“What the fuck!” Arthur yelled.

Everyone laughed to the point of being out of breath at his reaction. Samuel found the air to speak.

“Suck on that you smug little shit!” Samuel said as he laughed, Elizabeth beside him clutching her stomach rolling on the ground in sheer laughter.

Arthur just let his head drop in defeat. He felt a hand on his shoulder, looking up he saw Fluttershy.

“I’m sorry…Do you want your stuff back?” Fluttershy said as she held her winnings.

Arthur sighed, “No. You won fair and square Fluttershy. You keep it.”

“Oh…Ok umm thank you.” Fluttershy responded as she looked confused what to do with all her new stuff.

The group tidied up the card game and joined in the dancing.

Some of the songs that the girls have made during school were playing; they were using a car with a rather impressive speaker set to play the music. Most people were dancing, much to Pinkie’s enjoyment. Samuel was dancing with Elizabeth as she stood on his feet her hands holding Samuel’s, both smiling and laughing.

The Main Seven were all dancing as well, with differing intensities. Arthur danced beside Samuel. The man had no talent for it so it was more of a shuffle in place than an actual dance. Yet in this moment there wasn’t a single care in the world, just enjoying the moment. All the death, suffering and deprival of modern day conveniences just disappeared from people’s minds.

After a few songs played, a man and woman came out, warming up their instruments, an accordion and a tuba. Oom-pa-oom-pa. Was the sound that followed.

“Polka? We are doing a polka?” Samuel asked bewildered.

“Well why not? It’ll be fun!” Pinkie cried happily. “Besides they are the only ones who can play live around here.”

Everyone kind of just looked at each other and shrugged because Pinkie is going to Pinkie. People began to pick partners, some just being friends, others already couples or showing interest in each other. Chloe and Michael for example.

“Still want to dance Elizabeth?” Samuel asked.

Elizabeth shook her head, she smiled, “You got to pick a partner.”

Samuel put an exaggerated confused face on, “Well who should I pick?”

Elizabeth kept smiling as she pointed to the Main Seven, “One of them.”

“Then let us go see who will dance with me tonight!” Samuel said enthusiastically.

Elizabeth giggled, grabbed his hand and dragged him over. The girls watched in amusement, seeing a little girl drag Samuel over was an interesting sight. Elizabeth stood rather confidently in front of them; chest puffed out and hands on her hips.

“Samuel needs a dance partner and one of you can be it!” Elizabeth said, trying her best to stop from laughing.

A collective look at Samuel for an answer was received by a smirk and a slight shrug. The girls looked back to Elizabeth looking at them with expectant eyes.

“Well?” Elizabeth asked expectantly.

Smiles and a few giggles followed, with a roll of her eyes Sunset stepped forward.

“I guess I can be his dance partner.” Sunset said with a smile.

Elizabeth jumped up in excitement, “Yay!”

Samuel stepped forward with a hand reached out, “Shall we?”

Sunset grabbed his hand, “Lets.”

The two joined the growing group of dancers, lively prancing around. Elizabeth pumped her fist in triumph.

Applejack noticed that, “What’s got you so happy?”

Elizabeth looked up at her, “I was able to get him a partner.”

Applejack smirked, “You trying to play little matchmaker?”

“Ummm…No? Just trying to have some fun.” Elizabeth said flustered.

Applejack chuckled and gave a few pats on her head, “If you say so.”

The rest of the girls quickly either paired off with each other, or found other dance partners. Except Rarity who looked for Arthur, this was the perfect chance to get something off her chest and a dance was always nice to do. She found Arthur sitting on the ground nearby, he wasn’t exactly hiding but he wasn’t exactly present either.

His head was down and in his hands; she was sure she heard a soft sob and saw a few tears bypass his hands. She paused for a second, she wasn’t exactly certain if it would be the right time.

“But if not now than when?” Rarity thought to herself.

She took a deep breath and just as she was about to step forward she felt something approaching a presence as if someone put a hand on her shoulder. She looked back and saw nothing. It was odd but it didn’t feel hostile more like something or someone was guiding her forward. Emboldened by it she went forward.

Arthur didn’t notice Rarity approaching until she spoke, “Darling? Are you alright?”

Looking up suddenly, his eyes were red and puffy from crying. He was quick to rub his eyes free of tears and nose of snot. It took a moment for him to respond.

“H-Hey Rarity. I’ve…been better.”

“What’s wrong?” Rarity asked with worried eyes as she sat down beside him.

Arthur gave a shuddering breath, “The memories…of Jennifer. She always enjoyed…these kinds of dances. Always tried to make me join in, you know?”

“I’m so sorry to hear that dear, I really am.” Rarity reassured him.

“Thank you Rarity,” he said as he pulled out the knitted black bear he received before the outbreak, a lifetime ago in his memory. “Is there something you needed though?”

Rarity slowly shook her head, “No Arthur. I was only going to ask if you wanted to dance, however…I understand if you wouldn’t want to.”

“You wanted to dance?” Arthur said, bewildered.

With a small comforting smile, Rarity responded, “Of course. But we can talk about it after.” She pointed a finger at the knitted bear, “Can you tell me about the bear?”

Arthur snorted in humor, “We went on a hike once and we saw a black bear and her cubs. She made this for me; I got it just before everything went to shit. Now, it’s one of the few things I have left of her.”

Rarity put a hand on his shoulder, trying her best to comfort him. Dry sobs began to rack his body, his shoulders shuddering with the movement, but no tears came out. Deciding to try and make a difference, Rarity embraced him in a hug. Arthur startled slightly at the sudden contact however he returned the hug.

It only lasted for about a minute but for both it seemed like an hour. Arthur let go, feeling a little better and his dry sobs stopped. Rarity hesitated to let go, she enjoyed the feeling of his arms around her, at least he was doing better now.

“Thank you again Rarity…I’m sorry you’re stuck dealing with my sorry ass.” Arthur joked dryly, in an attempt at humour.

Rarity crossed her arms; her narrowed eyes stared at Arthur with frustration at his behavior, “Don’t you dare speak about yourself like that. It is completely within reason to be sad about this; you are not being a ‘sorry ass’ as you would say.”

Arthur looked at her with surprised eyes; he wasn’t expecting a response like that. Rarity kept her posture as she continued to stare at him, “Besides I’m quite sure Jennifer wouldn’t be happy if she heard you talking about yourself like this.”

Arthur smirked, she wasn’t wrong, “You’re right. She wouldn’t be happy about it.”

Rarity scooted a bit closer, her eyes softened, “What do you think she would want you to do Arthur? As of right now?”

Arthur mused for a few moments, his eyes falling downwards before bringing them back; he turned his look to Rarity, one filled with determination. She raised an eyebrow, wondering what he was going to do.

“She would say, ‘go dance’.” Arthur stood up and reached a hand down for Rarity to grab, she looked at it in surprise. “Rarity, would you dance with me?”

She simply smiled, took his hand with grace and stood up, Arthur helping. The two walked over to where the others were dancing, the polka music still going. Oom-pa-oom-pa.

Joining the rhythmic dance; having gone into square dancing now. The two pranced and danced, both feeling joy as they moved. Rarity saw the transformation on Arthur’s face, the sorrow and tears that once graced it were now gone, replaced by a jovial smile and grey eyes stared at her blue ones with a sincere gratitude. She couldn’t help but become a little flustered at such a look, but the feeling that stirred in her chest made it all worth it.

The dance slowed as the impromptu polka band began the finishing part of the dance. As the last notes played the two found themselves rather close to each other; both breathing slightly heavier at the exertion. Rarity felt this was the moment she was waiting for; she decided to make her move.

“Can I confess something to you?” Rarity murmured, glancing softly at Arthur.

“Of course, what is it?” he replied, looking over at her with a soft expression on his face.

“I… I care about you, like romantically.” She admitted, setting a hand on his face before pulling it away.

Arthur’s expression changed to slight surprise but he quickly composed himself, nodding thoughtfully for a moment, staring out into the darkness, nodding before he started to speak, “I’m sorry Rarity, I… I’m just not ready to think of anyone else in that way right now.”

Rarity nodded with a sad smile on her face, “I thought that would be the case. I just wanted to tell you now, in the case I never get a chance to do so.”

He pulled her in closer and whispered in her ear as they stood together, “Maybe one day though.”

Rarity’s eyes went wide; she wasn’t expecting such a response. She looked into his eyes for an answer, “Do you mean that?”

“I do. I just need time to recover. So one day I might love again.” Arthur said softly.

“When that happens can I be first on the list?” Rarity asked with a slight hopeful smile.

“You’ll be the first and only.” Arthur replied with a soft smile.

Rarity’s eyes sparkled at the promise; she couldn’t help but stand on her toes and kiss him on the cheek. To Arthur’s utter surprise, he looked at her not entirely sure what to do.

“Then I look forward to that day.” Rarity said dreamily.

Thinking of only one way to respond, Arthur hugged Rarity tightly, she didn’t hesitate to return it. The two became aware of their surroundings again, the dance had just finished. No one seemed to notice their little exchange. Their attention and everyone else’s focused on Pinkie who was shouting.

“Thank you polka band! Now on to our next-“

A gunshot rang out, everything and everyone stopped, looking towards the direction it came from. One of the people came running from where the watch party was on the northeast side of the camp.

“It was just one! But who knows if there is more coming!” The guard yelled.

A blanket of depression covered the camp; it seems the party was over. Samuel sighed heavily before he sprang into action.

“Shut it down Pinkie, sorry it has to be this way.” Samuel said with slight sorrow.

Pinkie slouched over in a depressed state nodding at his words and began to get the party packed up. As she did that, several people alongside helping her, Samuel got people moving to secure the camp in case of more zombies. Arthur looked back to Rarity with a sad smile.

“Continue this another time?”

Rarity sighed as she looked off to the side and then back to him, smiling sadly back, “I suppose so. Let’s go now.”

The next morning the whole group, tired and yawning from the very few hours they were able to sleep stood around the picnic tables. The group election for a leader was in process. Nominations and speeches were already made; Sunset was the first to be nominated followed by a few of the more popular people in the group being nominated. To many Samuel was already a figurehead to the group and he was nominated to nobody’s surprise, but to many a person’s shock he turned down the offer. Citing he was better as a hammer than a chisel for the group’s purposes.

Each nominee made their speeches, most had the same message of people coming together as they made their way to the Promised Land. There were a few different points on how leadership should be ran, from a direct democracy where everyone had their say to a single strong person should make all the decisions, some crying out about how it was tyrannical or dictatorial. Others went a more middle ground with leadership trying to resemble an oligarchy or representational democracy or republic, based primarily on the model of the United States.

Once the last speech was made the voting process began, everyone sixteen and older got a single vote. Written on pieces of scrap paper people would put their vote in a bucket that was watched closely by Samuel and a few fellow keepers of the peace. Once the last of the votes were collected, a person under sixteen was chosen to count the votes; it was Sweetie Belle in this case to allow a certain security from intersecting interests.

Everyone waited in suspense as Sweetie counted the votes, in front of everyone for fairness reasons. The keepers of the peace kept people from getting to close; glares from each one were enough of a reason for that. As Sweetie dug into the bucket for the last vote, everyone held their breath. The camp was unnaturally quiet for those few moments as all eyes were on Sweetie Belle as she whispered into Samuel’s ear as he slowly nodded.

Eyes shifted from Sweetie to Samuel as he climbed onto top of a picnic table and all the nominees stepped forward for the results. Samuel coughed to clear his throat and spoke, his voice carrying to every corner of the camp.

“Before I announce who is the new leader, remember we had a fair enough election as we can have these days so no calls for re-election or complaining about how it should have gone another way. Or else I’ll personally kick your ass.”

There was a good amount of chuckles and a few eye rolls before a few started to shout for the results, spreading until everyone chanted for the results.

“Alright! Alright! Settle down now. The winner is…Sunset Shimmer! Getting almost half of all the votes!”

Sunset smiled softly in victory, being at peace with the results. The other nominees shook her hand and wished her luck. The crowd cheered for the most part, with only a few dissenters. Sunset’s friends all crowded her with excitement at the victory. Eventually the cheers turned into a call for a speech.

Heeding the cries, Sunset took the same place Samuel was, he got down and offered a hand to Sunset to help her up and she took it with a gracious smile. She began her speech.

“Thank you to everyone for voting today. And a special thank you to my friends who I wouldn’t be here without.”

Sunset smiled at her friends who smiled and waved back, Pinkie somehow shooting confetti in celebration. Sunset returned her attention to the crowd.

“Now for the most part things will continue the same. But after hearing people’s complaints about how informal leadership was in the group, there will be a change on how that operates. First my official second in command will be Samuel, who has always been a helpful friend and ally.”

Samuel gave a barely noticeable smirk and gave a casual two finger salute, Sunset smiled for she knew she could always rely on him.

“For the rest I will be having, one could say a ‘council’ to help run things; it will work like this…”

A week and four days had passed since the election took place; new habits took place as people got used to being near the Hub. It wasn’t uncommon for small parties from the group to be coming and going for a variety of reasons, from doing jobs, to trading or just having a drink at a local bar. The supplies were slowly but surely filling up again from payments from jobs, trading or good old scavenging. A few people learned or reinforced skills such as Big Mac learning blacksmithing from Mr. Wilson so eventually, they could start making their own melee weapons.

It was late afternoon as Sunset and her council finished their discussion, they finally decided on a few locations to check once they entered Idaho. One suggested staying at the Hub but most agreed it wasn’t a good long-term solution, as many wanted to eventually settle with a roof over their heads again. There were only a few things that needed to be done before they left; while gathering as many supplies was a priority it was finding a proper doctor and mechanic which kept them, no one wanted to repeat the aftermath of the bandit ambush.

Sunset folded her map and grabbed the few items she brought along. She was tempted to just go find somewhere and be alone, even if it was just a few minutes but she felt the responsibility of leadership on her shoulders and she couldn’t just shake it off. With a small sigh she walked to where Samuel was, preparing to head into town.

“Last vehicle?” Sunset asked as she brushed some dirt off her pants.

Samuel looked to her with a nod, “Yup. Last one needing repairs, should be quick since it’s just something with the radiator.”

Sunset nodded as she inspected the blue van that would be taken in, she spoke as she continued her inspection, “Any luck on convincing him yet?”

Samuel shook his head with a sad expression, a lit cigarette in his mouth “No. He and every other mechanic in the Hub refused our offer. I don’t think we will have a mechanic by the time we leave, sorry to say.”

Sunset gave weary sigh, “We’ll be leaving tomorrow or the day after. So we are just going to have to make do.”

“Good. We need to leave, while a lot of the locals seem to appreciate us doing their dirty work. I think we are close to outstaying our welcome.” Samuel said as he tinkered with the van, rigging a quick patch on the radiator hose to get it into town. “Also is it just me or has there been more gunshots the last few nights?”

“I noticed that too. I think that means more zombies are coming in from the city.” Sunset said thoughtfully.

Samuel slammed the hood down, wiping his hands on a dirty cloth, “All the more reason for us to leave.”

Sunset nodded and was about to respond when a nearby commotion made the two turn their heads at what could be causing such a racket. It was Blue Blood, who seemed to be getting into a yelling match with Granny Smith, the now designated camp boss. Granny wasn’t backing down even with Blue becoming increasingly erratic in his movement.

Samuel’s blue eyes narrowed in growing anger, his fists slowly clenching then unclenching. Sunset’s cyan eyes looked to him in concern than back to Granny who was still standing strong but Blue Blood seemed to be ready to strike her. Sunset was the first to take a step forward, Samuel quickly followed, a noticeable stomp in his feet, almost like he was marching in the army again.

A growing crowd was gathering around, many not entirely sure what to do. Apple Bloom was now beside Granny trying her best to stand against him. Sunset was making her way over, increasing her speed. She saw out of a corner of her eye Applejack and Big Mac coming over, both with incredibly furious faces. Samuel noticed too.

“Keep those two back. They’ll be likely to kill him. I’ll deal with Blue personally.” Samuel said, his voice had one hell of an edge to it.

Sunset never heard him speak that way before, she looked at him with wide eyes but she kept herself composed, nodding at his words as she split off to stop the two Apples. Samuel barged through the crowd, the bystanders quickly made way for him as they were terrified by his expression. Entering the empty circle around the center of attention, Blue Blood raised his right hand to strike Apple Bloom.

He never got the chance as Samuel came up from behind and grabbed his arm. Blue whipped his head around with an angry expression even though he saw Samuel it wasn’t enough to shake him out of his anger. He turned around to strike with his left fist; Samuel punched him first, square in the chest near the solar plexus and Blue went from anger to shock very quickly as he fell to the ground winded, breathing fast and hard.

“Granny, Apple Bloom I’ll deal with him. Go join the rest.” Samuel said as nice as he could, trying to be mindful with his fuming anger.

Granny nodding in understanding, she gently grabbed Apple Bloom’s hand and guided her away. Apple Bloom stared in curiosity and slight fear. Once the two were out of the way, Samuel turned back to Blue still recovering from the blow.

“You have ten fucking seconds to explain yourself Blue Blood or I will beat the ever living shit out of you.” Samuel said with crossed his arms, eyes flaming in anger as he stood over Blue Blood.

Blue Blood tried sputtering out words but couldn’t. Samuel yelled this time, “If you can fucking breath you can talk! Now spit it out!”

Blue Blood made himself talk, wheezing between words, “She…was…making…me …chop…wood…again…”

“And that gives you a fucking excuse to freak out like the lazy fuck you are?” Samuel snarled.

Blue’s breathing had mostly recovered, he spoke in an indignant tone, “All I was doing was relaxing after doing those god awful chores. Then that old woman was on my case to get more firewood, why should I when there is others who can do it?”

Samuel gave a deep breath of anger before responding, “You know why you’re fucking doing those chores Blue Blood? Because there isn’t a single fucking other thing you can do! You got no skills or even knowledge to put to use! There is always work to be done! While everyone else is busting ass to keep things together, you think you’re so fucking special that you deserve a break from doing a few simple chores!”

Blue Blood’s face returned to anger, speaking with a violent tone, “Don’t you dare speak to me like that! I was socialite who had and could do things you can only dream about, you absolute peasant!”

Samuel watched in anger as Blue Blood tried getting up, he wouldn’t allow it as he threw a right hook into Blue’s jaw, slamming him into the ground. A gasp came from the crowd, they weren’t expecting this.

Samuel didn’t say anything as he grabbed Blue forcefully by the shirt and lifted him to his knees; he had a hand on his jaw where Samuel struck him, his expression one of fear at what he brought upon himself and his eyes began to water.

Looking into Samuel’s eyes, Blue knew he fucked up and opened his mouth to beg for mercy. Samuel spoke in a low tone first, “I told you what would fucking happen if you tried this shit. And since you were about to hit a child I’m going to show what is like to be hit by someone a lot stronger than you.”

Blue’s eyes widened, he tried raising his arms to block the blow. He wasn’t fast enough as Samuel’s open palm slapped across his cheek then followed up by a backhand. His cheeks were red and tears began to form in his eyes. Samuel looked at him with narrowed eyes, “We aren’t done yet you cocksucker.”

To reinforce the lesson Samuel gave a short overhead chopping blow into Blue’s face, Samuel snarled as Blue whimpered in pain and fear. Samuel punched him twice more, the noise sounding like a hammer on wood as he struck him. With knuckles aching Samuel shook his hand at the pain, he stared at Blue Blood wondering if he should continue. He decided to do so, clenching his fist again.

Just as was about to punch him again, the sheer flinch that came from Blue was enough to convince Samuel it was enough, for now. He pushed him onto the ground, Blue curling into a ball as tears fell from his eyes and raised his arms to cover his face. Samuel went onto one knee beside him and spoke harshly.

“Look at me Blue Blood. Now.” Blue looked at him with one eye. “You listening?”

Blue nodded vigorously. Samuel went on, “Good. This will be your one and only chance to make things right. First you’ll apologize to Granny Smith and Apple Bloom, without complaint. Next you need to realize that if this happens again, I will beat the shit out of you again and throw you out on your ass. Do you understand?”

Blue looked confused but it quickly sunk in, he nodded slowly. Samuel continued, “In that case then just know this, you can be treated with respect anytime you want. But you have to earn it and drop the fucking attitude. I’m giving you one more chance due to the girls who pleaded to take you in. Now get out of my sight and sleep off the bullshit. I expect you to work doubly hard tomorrow. Now move.”

Blue scrambled to get away from Samuel and hobbled quickly towards the tent he slept in giving a quick apology to Granny and Apple Bloom on the way by, the crowd split like the Red Sea for him, avoiding him like the plague. The crowd’s attention shifted back to Samuel as he huffed and crossed his arms. He spoke loudly, “I won’t abide trash behavior. I will not tolerate it in this group and I’m quite sure you are all in agreement. Next time don’t let it escalate this badly. I understand there might be fears if you intervene that you will get punished as well. That won’t happen as long as you have a good reason. Now back to work.”

The crowd murmured and went back to whatever they were doing, a good many gave him nods or a pat on the back. He nodded in return as such gestures. Once most of the crowd left, he saw Applejack and Big Mac approach.

“While I thank you for dealing with him I would have preferred if I would’ve been able to.” Applejack said in disappointment.

“Agreed.” Big Mac said.

Samuel nodded, “I understand. If it happens again, you’ll get your chance. For now just leave it. I’m quite sure I put the fear of God in him.”

Applejack snorted with a smirk, “That you did. We’ll drop it, for now. Have a good day Samuel.”

“Likewise.”

The two Apples left him, Sunset approached with Elizabeth holding her hand. Sunset looked at him with wondering eyes.

“I know why Samuel. I broke my promise we would keep him in check. I’m sorry.” Sunset said with regret.

Samuel sighed heavily, he gave a soft smile, “It’s ok Sunset. It is what it is. Is there anything else you need before I go?”

“No Samuel. Thank you for dealing with it…appropriately.”

Samuel nodded and beckoned Elizabeth over; she looked up at Sunset with a smile and walked over to Samuel grabbing his hand. The two started walking back to the van, engaging in conversation. Sunset couldn’t help but watch a tad longer than she usually does.

Driving slowly down the main street Samuel watched as members of the local militia were being a lot more active than usual, their presence being more noticeable. Small patrols of four or larger were moving about, another noticeable change was there was a lot less civilian foot traffic.

“Samuel, what’s going on?” Elizabeth asked as she peered curiously out the window.

Samuel shrugged, “No idea. We are here.”

Pulling into the auto body shop, the mechanic waved at him, Samuel waved back calling his name.

“Hey Barry. How’s a going?”

Barry shrugged, “Alright. What you bringing me today?”

“Radiator problem, hopefully a quick fix.”

Barry smirked, “So you hope. Well bring her in.”

Pulling on a chain, Barry slowly opened up the one garage door to his shop and Samuel drove in. Closing the door behind them, Samuel and Elizabeth got out. The three headed towards his office, Elizabeth staying close to Samuel. The place smelled of oil and burnt coffee, Barry decided to get to the point as he poured himself a rare cup of coffee.

“So how quick do you need this done?”

“Today. We will be leaving soon.” Samuel said as he fiddled with his lighter, craving a smoke.

Barry’s eyes widened slightly, “Ok…Well I’ll get started then.”

Downing his coffee he went back to the van to start his work, he called out to Samuel to come over.

“Just stay here Elizabeth, just keep coloring.” Samuel said as he got up.

Elizabeth just gave an “uh huh”, not looking up from her coloring book as she filled in the lines.

Samuel walked over and leaned against the van, crossing his arms and gave an expecting look at Barry. He coughed into his hand and gave a sheepish smile, as he worked to remove the radiator hose.

“Well I was wondering if…that offer was still available.” Barry said sheepishly.

Samuel gave a raised eyebrow, “Perhaps…if you explain why you’ve changed your mind.”

Barry hesitated, before taking a deep breath, he explained, “You know my girlfriend is pregnant…and that she has gestational diabetes.”

“I remember that. So explain.”

“…I can’t afford the insulin anymore. I’ve borrowed more than I can payback and I’m quite sure they are planning to come and take whatever I have.” Barry said, desperation in his voice as he looked at Samuel with pleading eyes.

Samuel was quiet as he stared back, the two men looking at each other both thinking on what happens next.

“We need his skills but his situation is far too precarious to put the group in danger.” Samuel thought.

“You do know if we took you two in, I’m putting my people at risk.” Samuel said with a frown.

Barry pleaded again, “Please. I beg of you.”

Samuel was quiet again, torn between the empathy he had for the man and practical logic knowing at him to keep trouble away from the group. Both of their attentions were brought to the front door of the shop when a loud banging took place.

A muffled shout came from behind the door, “Barry! You owe us and time is up! So give it or we take it!”

Barry dropped his wrench with it clanging onto the concrete floor; he looked at the door in fear and then looked to Samuel for help.

“If I do help you, you’ll owe me more than you think. Answer the door now.” Samuel said in frustration.

Barry gave a gulp, and then walked over to the door to answer, “I’m opening the door. Please let me explain.”

“I’ll be the judge of that!” The voice shouted behind the door.

Opening the door, several men barged in, looking like stereotypical bikers. The lead one was a gruff looking man, tinges of white in his hair and beard. He got close to Barry and spoke, “Where is our payment?”

“I-I don’t have it.” Barry stuttered in explanation.

The biker narrowed his eyes, but he and the others’ attention whipped to Samuel, the noise of the fire selector switch on his M4 causing it. Samuel spoke in a no nonsense tone, “Easy now boys. He is part of my group now, and I speak for him.”

The lead biker stepped back from Barry and walked up to Samuel, “Then I guess we will collect from you.”

Samuel stood his ground, “Yes. You’re payment is this shop and its inventory.”

Everyone looked at him in shock, Barry spoke in shock, “But that’s everything!”

Samuel glared at him, “You either get out of this alive or I let you deal with these gentlemen by yourself, your call.”

Barry sighed but conceded. Samuel went on, “The only thing I want is Barry is able to keep his personal belongings and whatever tools and parts we can fit in the van. The rest is yours. I assume that will cover what is owed?”

The lead biker smiled and nodded, “Covers his tab with us and several others. I’ll give you two hours to gather what you want and then you’re out of here. Only the one van too, no sneaking extra stuff out.”

Samuel put out a hand for a shake; the biker looked down and shook his hand. Silently both agreed to the deal. The bikers left, two staying as guards and to make sure the deal is kept. Samuel approached Barry who began to thank him profusely.

“Thank you Samuel. Thank you.”

“You’re welcome. But I did mean it that you owe me. Now let’s get packing.” Samuel said.

Both were surprised when Elizabeth appeared out of nowhere, she spoke innocently, “What happened?”

Both men couldn’t help but laugh.

It was late night as the group settled in; Barry and his girlfriend had been welcomed with excitement. An early night was to be had to allow everyone a good sleep for the drive to the Idaho border the next day.

Twilight was sleeping comfortably, cuddling Spike with sleepy happy sigh. She was in the midst of a dream when she was abruptly awakened by the heavy sound of gunfire. Sitting up in whirling speed, she almost tossed Spike, who yelped as he was clutched hard.

Sunset and Rainbow were awakened violently too by the gunfire. All noticed how much gunfire, the sound of rifle cracks, booms of shotguns even the bursts of fully automatic weapons. The three sprang into action, wanting to see what was causing it. Exiting the tent the sound of Arthur’s voice was clear and loud.

“Stand too! Stand too!” Arthur shouted, the words he was shouting were the call sign to ready for action.

“What’s going on Arthur!” Rainbow cried mace in her hands, walking better but with a noticeable limp.

“Not sure! Too dark to tell!” Arthur responded.

A parachute flare was shot into the sky, the red light illuminating the surrounding environment. What they saw were zombies by the hundreds, surrounding other groups and drowning them in sheer bodies. Everyone couldn’t help but gawk at the sight. They never have seen this many up close. Gunfire erupted from their camp, killing the closest but that only delayed the inevitable slow march of the undead.

Sunset forced herself into action, ordering people to start packing with haste. People moved with panic and urgency. Not even to properly pack things they threw whatever they could in the vehicles. Sunset rushed to the front lines as the para flare died out, but another was shot again into the air. The zombies were getting closer, their numbers seeming to just appear from the dark. With a gulp of fear at the number Sunset grabbed her pistol and aimed at her first zombie, pulled the trigger and its brains were blown out.

She continued to add to the cacophony of gunfire; Samuel made his way over to her with his M4 putting precise holes in the heads of the undead. Samuel shouted over the noise.

“How close are we to getting out of here?!”

“Not sure! We still have things to pack!” Sunset responded as she nailed another zombie.

Samuel said nothing as he moved back to check, it didn’t take long for him to come back.

“We need to leave now! We are getting surrounded on the east and south sides! We are going to get overwhelmed!” Samuel yelled in slight panic.

Sunset looked at him with wide eyes at the information, now that was bad news. A quick withdraw was organized by Samuel, he stayed until the last man was out. Vehicles were starting, their lights illuminating the dark and began to drive off. Zombies were plowed over, slammed to the side and even rolling over some vehicles. The convoy proceeded to head to the main road heading into the Hub, the town itself was lighted up as giant spotlights and other devices lit up the zombies. The muzzle flash of firearms could be seen from where they were, the convoy rolled through the horde, avoiding zombies where they could, a few of their own muzzle flashes showing where they were killing them.

Everybody was tense as they drove, they could see the looks of fear, desperation and focus. Sunset having hopped in a random vehicle looked out the window, she saw other people taking off in their own vehicles. The silhouettes of people running away or being bitten then dragged down to the earth by the zombies. She was thankful she couldn’t hear the screams.

The zombies began to show less and less as the convoy rolled back onto the very road they came in on. What surprised Sunset was the convoy was slowing down, she tried looking forward through the windshield to the vehicles up ahead. She watched curiously, as two vehicles stopped the very front one of the convoy. Sunset couldn’t help but hop out and rush to the front, wondering what was going on. She came upon Arthur in a yelling match with two people looking like they were from the Hub militia.

“Everyone is to help defend the Hub from the horde that was the order.” The first guard said in anger.

“We are under no obligation to do that.” Arthur growled.

Sunset and Samuel came up beside Arthur, the two guards gripped their rifles harder. A couple more people from the group backed them up. The guards were now much more nervous, being hopelessly outnumbered.

“We are going through. Whether you like it or not.” Sunset said with her tone on a knife’s edge.

“But-“A guard started.

The second one grabbed him, “We aren’t risking our lives, let’s go.”

The two moved out of the way, Sunset with a shake of her head at the situation, turned to get back into a vehicle when she saw the first man reach for the pistol at his side and brought it up to aim directly at her.

With widened eyes she tried to reach for her own, but she knew it would be too late. A shot sounded into the night, hitting the asphalt with a sharp sound. She looked to see Arthur had shot him with his lever action, a giant whole in his chest. Samuel lashed out with his sabre at the second guard putting it at his chest, he dropped his rifle and put his hands up, clearly not wanting to die.

“Leave us and you will live.” Sunset said to the guard.

The man nodded in fear and hopped into his SUV taking off into the night. The growls of the undead were loud as they shambled and sprinted over to the convoy. They all hopped in vehicles quickly at the warning by the zombies. A few strangers were running from the zombies and hurled themselves into open truck boxes and doors. Right now saving them could be done; they could be talked to later.

Arthur, Samuel and Sunset were in the back of truck with two brand new strangers with them as the convoy rolled forward into the all-encompassing dark.

“We don’t want to cause problems honest!” A young woman said with her hands up.

“We were just escaping the zombies, promise!” The young man beside the woman said nervously.

The three looked at each other and just shrugged, Sunset spoke in a tired tone, “It’s ok. I think we are all just escaping right now. We can talk about it at a later time.”

The two strangers visibly relaxed at that, the woman spoke again, “I’m Alex and that’s Nathan.”

Nathan waved, “Hey.”

Arthur spoke this time, “Well we are heading east if that matters to you.”

“Don’t matter to me, just want out of here.” Alex said with a shake of her head.

“Fair enough.” Arthur responded with a shrug, his attention was diverted to a walkie talkie and he began his job answering questions.

Samuel scooted close to Sunset, worry in his voice, “You ok?”

Sunset looked at him with amused eyes, “Yes I’m fine. What is done is done.”

How about to open his mouth to respond, Samuel shut it as Sunset went on, “We should head straight for the border and I don’t think we will be welcome here anytime soon.”

Samuel smirked, “That is true. We should be there in a couple days.”

The two looked to the ever increasing distant Hub, everyone grew to kind of like the place with its civilized commodities again, but like anything in the apocalypse it wasn’t meant to last. Sunset looked back at Samuel, appreciating the way his face looked.

“Samuel?” Sunset called a slight blush on her face.

“Yes?” Samuel answered as his eyes looked into hers; she noticed how they softened from the usual hardness.

“I…it’s nothing.” Sunset said as she looked away, her blush growing.

Samuel raised an eyebrow but didn’t pursue it, not thinking on it much. With only the lights to illuminate the darkness Samuel stared ahead, seeing the occasional zombie wandering. He hoped it would be easier once they were in Idaho.

But something deep in his gut told him it wouldn’t be.