Ancient Infection

Chapters

Canterlot
Heading Home
Day 1
Day 2
Day 6
Day 7
The day gets worse
Day 8
Day 9
Night 9

Canterlot

It was a lovely spring morning, as the sun shined down onto Canterlot, as six familiar ponies and one small purple dragon cantered down the street. The one leading the small herd was Twilight Sparkle, and she was eager to meet with her former mentor. Princesses Celestia and Luna had sent word to the newest princess that they have received an interesting new exhibit for the Canterlot Museum. They had wish to have Twilight and her friends’ help in learning on this, since they’ve made multiple journeys into the Dragon Lands. They have gotten familiar with the creatures that has inhabited the region. Fluttershy, was namely the one who had studied and spoken to the other creatures.
As the six friends approached the museum, a royal guard meet with them and guided them to the back. Taking them to what looked like a lab of sorts. There was the princess of the sun and the princess of the moon standing there talking to Dr. Pones and Dr. Specks about the large ice melting behind them.

“Princess Celestia, I’ve received your letter, you needed our assistance for the newest exhibit?” Twilight asked her former teacher excitedly.

“Yes, Twilight, we are going to need your help identifying this creature in the ice. We hope that you or one of your friends might know what this type of dragon is.” Princess Celestia stated in her normal calm voice.

That was when a young blue filly ran in with a paper, handing it to Dr. Specks.

“Doctor! I’ve scan the specimen and I’ve got some readings on signs of life from it! But that’s impossible! Especially with it being frozen and, well, it shows obvious signs of decay.” The filly reported, her voice full of worry.

“Signs of life? But how?” Princess Luna asked, turning to her sister for help.

Fluttershy approached the melting ice, staring at the beast within. The creature was pony size, but was like a feathery dragon. Though, if the yellow pegasus was being honest, it looked like it barely escaped from being eaten and was decaying. It had a sick looking green hue to it, as its yellow bloodshot eyes looked dead ahead. It suddenly looked at her, and before Fluttershy could scream, it broke free from the ice and bit her on her chest, just below her throat.
Fluttershy managed to scream as that thing tackled her, its jaws on her chest. Rainbow Dash, being the fastest, reacted first. Shooting to the pair, kicking the beast off of her. A bolt of brilliant light shot out at the creature as Princess Celestia shot forward stood above the injured yellow mare, and she shot her magic at this creature. It had hit its mark. The beast’s head exploded like a gore filled balloon as guards rushed in to protect their princesses.
Celestia had ordered the guards to take Fluttershy to the hospital immediately. Princess Luna had put Fluttershy under a short sleeping spell to help with the pain that Fluttershy was in.
The rest of the mane six hurried after the guards, concern and horrified for their friend. As they entered the hospital, some of the staff stopped the group from going any farther. So they waited. Seconds turned into minutes and minutes turned into hours. Twilight and Rainbow Dash were pacing, one on the ground and one was flying. Rarity and Applejack were hugging the normally chipper Pinki Pie, however her mane and tail fell flat. Spike laid on Twilight’s back, having cried himself to sleep.

“What was that thing, Twilight?” Rarity finally asked, breaking the silence between them all.

Twilight hesitated before she answered, unsure of herself “I don’t know, Rarity, it’s not a creature I’m familiar with from any of my books.”

“Well…whatever it was, it’s dead now.” Applejack stated firmly, giving the alabaster unicorn an assuring look.

Rainbow stopped in mid flight and growled to herself.

“What is taking them so long?” She growled lowly.

“They’re…making her better…right, Dashie?” Pinkie asked in a soft voice, a small hiccup coming up after she asked.

“They are, Pinkie. Fluttershy is going to be fine.” They cyan pegasus stated like it was a done deal.

A doctor had stepped out with a chart, looking at the group whom’s attention was now solely on him. He slowly made his way forward.

“Ms. Fluttershy is in stable condition, luckily the wounds weren’t deep enough. She will make a full recovery and can be discharged as soon as she is awake. However as of this time, we do not want any visitors disturbing her rest. I suggest you take a moment too. Our cafeteria is behind those doors to your right.” The doctor had stated to them, as his eyes decided to focus on the purple alicorn’s eyes.

As quickly as he came, he left to help his other patients. The group of friends decidedly, whether if it was a conscious or unconscious decision, went to the cafeteria. As they had sat down to eat together, they barely ate anything at all. All too worried about their injured friend. That was when the hospital alarms all started to go off, calling for both doctors and security to one room.
All five of them looked at one another and hurried to that room to see if it was their friend. What they saw, however, was something straight out of a horror movie. Fluttershy had blood cover her from her chest to her mouth, as the doctor from before was hammering on her chest.

“She’s going into cardiac arrest!” The doctor shouted at his nurse.

What was even stranger though, was her body was seizing. Her eyes wide open and looking directly at the group. They were not glassy nor dead. It was like she was there, but it wasn’t her entirely. Soon Fluttershy let out a loud gasp, and coughed. Blood sputtered from her mouth, and soon her breathing went back to normal.
It was soon determined that she will have to stay two more days for observation. More for every pony’s safety including her own. The group of friends were ushered out, and was sent back to where they were staying. Twilight entered her old room where she stayed before she went to Ponyville. She immediately went through her library to try and find out what was wrong with her dear friend.
Book after book, minutes to hours, as the sun began to set, the Princess of Friendship found nothing on Fluttershy’s condition, nor about that beast. Her heart broke, and she felt dread creep in. What kind of friend was she, if she couldn’t save the gentlest pony she knows? If she couldn’t save her friend. Twilight headed to join the rest of her friends, head bowed, every pony and dragon knew what that meant. Rarity, knowing that Pinkie was too occupied with recovering from what she had seen, decided to act.

“Well…we shall not just sit around and be a bunch of worried old mares. Fluttershy is in great hooves and we should greet her when she is released with smiles. I, for one, don’t know about you, but I’m going to make something for her.” Rarity stated with determination, marching her way over to the door.

“A dress?” Applejack guessed, knowing that the fashionista would make a dress at any chance she is given.

Rarity glared over her shoulder, and spoke “Honestly Applejack, there’s more to me than just being a fabulous fashionista. You shall see when I am finished. You all are more than welcome to join me when you’re done moping around.”

With that, the alabaster unicorn marched out, and heading to the shopping district. She didn’t get too far when she heard a loud pop and was hugged from behind my a pair of pink hooves.

“You’re right Rarity! We shouldn’t be mopy dopey! We should get ready for a ‘You’re better! Yay!’ party! Thanks Rarity!” Pinkie cheered as she nuzzled her face into Rarity’s hair, feeling like her usual self again.

The others trotted over, joining the pair as they made their way to the shopping district. Rarity was purchasing some fabric, but it wasn’t that of the rainbow in color. Just pink, and a lot of white. Applejack had received a box from her home that is filled with her family’s apples. She purchased three green granny smith apples from the royal chef. Pinkie had stayed behind and decorated and cleaned up Twilight’s old dorm room for a party. Rainbow Dash and Twilight were, both surprising and unsurprising, at a bookstore.
Twilight had purchased a book on animals that reside in Canterlot, while Rainbow Dash found a small crystal shape white bunny, that was tied to a bookmark. Once they have returned to the old dorm, they found it less dusty and more looking cheerful and for a party. Applejack made her way into the old kitchen and placed the apples there to be used into making apple pie. Rarity was already starting to sew by hoof something small, though no pony knew what she was making. Spike had been passed out from the cleaning and decorating with Pinkie Pie.

Heading Home

After two days of waiting and wanting to see their friend, but wasn’t allowed to. They waited outside in excitement. The yellow pegasus had slowly walked out of the hospital, bandages wrapped around her chest still, but she was able to walk. She smiled widely as she saw her friends, as she welcomed their gentle embrace. Soon after, they arrived at the dorm and surprised her with a party. Rarity had given her a gift as the party was in full swing, celebrating that their friend was safe and okay
Fluttershy gently opened the gift and saw a white bunny with pink on the inner portions of the ears. Its black button eyes beamed up at her. She grinned and immediately hugged the hoof stitched stuffed animal, that looked exactly like her pet, Angel, who was at home. She quietly thanked Rarity as every other pony was surprised at the gift.
Rarity winked at Applejack, as if to say ‘I told you there was more to me’. Applejack brought the brim of her hat slightly over her face to hide the small amount of embarrassment she felt.
Soon after the party and nearly everyone was asleep. Twilight had received a letter from Celestia, informing her to head back home, with no reasoning on why. But she didn’t want to disobey her former teacher. So the next day, Twilight had informed her friends that they were heading home. Later that day, they were on the train. Fluttershy was sleeping against the wall, getting as much rest as she could.
Rainbow Dash and Pinkie were sitting together were quietly giggling to each other as they quietly told jokes. Twilight had taken to reading as Spike read his own comic book. Applejack quietly made her way to Rarity.

“Erm…Rares, I wan’ to say…I’m sorry. I didn’t know that you could make other things. I mean all I ever seen you make were outfits, but that was mighty kind of ya to make a stuffed animal version of Angel.” Applejack spoke softly to her.

Rarity blinked in surprise, then smiled as she managed to chuckle out “Applejack, of course I can make other things.” She paused before continuing “I am known for making dresses, but a lot of the time, I can make other things. How else did Sweetie Belle get her toy pony? I know I made our sisters and their friends capes for their little club. But honestly, I’m not just a one note pony.”

“I know you’re not. It’s just that, I’ve never seen you make anything other than clothes, and I thought that your sister got hers from a store. I’m mighty impressed that you can make stuff like that.” Applejack gave her a soft smile as she spoke, taking a seat next to her friend.

“Well, Applejack, I’ll be happy to make Apple Bloom something, if you like? I’m sure she, and her friends, would enjoy something they all can share.” Rarity offered.

Applejack’s hat covered her eyes as she spoke her request softly “Actually this would be a bit more…personal Rares. If you’re okay with it, and not mention it to any pony else?”

Rarity’s expression turn to that one of concern and seriousness if her dear friend’s expression was like this.

“Of course, darling. Any request at all will be accepted.” She stated.

Pinkie bounced by as she went to grab some snacks, as Rainbow Dash had started to read the latest Derring Do book. Just then, they arrived home, only to be greeted by Princess Luna.

“Princess Luna? Is everything alright?” Twilight asked, concern bubbling in her voice.

“It is quite alright, I am merely here to keep an eye on Fluttershy, per request from my sister.” Princess Luna answered calmly, and gave all the mares a calming smile.

“O-oh that would be…nice. I am schedule for a tea party with Discord next week, if you’d like to join us?” Fluttershy offered in her usual soft timid voice, one that was full of such kindness.

The dark alicorn smiled and nodded at her. It would be interesting for her to experience something akin to a tea party with Fluttershy and Discord. As they started to make their way through town, Twilight remembered the shipment of books that was meant to arrive at her old library home. The group caught the mail pony just in time, it was Derpy.

“Hello Princess Twilight! I have a couple of packages for you, but uh, your house is kind of…broken.” Derpy greeted with a kind smile but turned to the destroyed Golden Oak Library with a look of sadness.

“It’s alright, Derpy, just leave them at my castle, Spike will show you the way.” Twilight replied, as Spike hopped off to help everyone’s favorite mail mare.

“Well, I don’t know about all of you, but I think a spa day would be just what the doctor ordered!” Rarity smiled, gently suggesting that everyone should have a spa day with her to relax after what happened in the past few days.

As Applejack was about to decline due to work at her farm, Princess Luna spoke up “It would be wonderful for every pony to relax. I couldn’t imagine the worry you all had for Fluttershy. However, she and I must head to her home so she may rest some more in order to heal quickly.”

“That is absolutely fine, but you two must join us next time, and I will not take no for an answer. It will make up for the time you’ve lost today.” Rarity smiled as she spoke, rather having Fluttershy get better sooner than later.

Fluttershy placed a hoof on Rarity’s shoulder “We promise.”

The pair headed off to the little cottage as the larger group headed to the spa for some relaxation. Unbeknownst to them, Fluttershy started to grow hot in a feverish manner. Leaning on Luna for help, as they made their way back. All of her animals running away, sensing the danger that is about to come from their former caretaker.

Day 1

As they came into the station as they gotten home, Princess Luna had landed in her carriage. Surprising everyone in ponyville. As she stepped out, she headed straight to Fluttershy, wrapping one large delicate wing around her.

“Dear Fluttershy, how are you?” Luna asked softly.

“I am well, Princess, thank you for asking.” Fluttershy answered in a rather tired voice.

“I’m sure you all are wondering why I’m here.” Princess Luna stated as she addressed the others.

“Yes we are, Princess Luna.” Twilight agreed as her friends nodded.

“My sister felt guilty for not being able to protect Fluttershy in time, so I simply told her that I shall be here to watch over the dear pegasus, in her recovery journey.” Princess Luna explained, looking at everyone in turn.

“Oh I appreciate that you came all this way from Canterlot, Princess, but I’m sure I’ll be fine. I even have my animal friends to help me out.” Fluttershy managed to get out, bags were evident under her eyes.

“I assure you, it’s quite alright, it will put my sister’s mind at ease if you allow me to do this for you. I must admit, even I feel guilty about what happened.” Luna confessed, dropping her royal voice for that moment.

Fluttershy let out a soft sigh that turned into a yawn, and nodded, she was starting to fall asleep again. Luna gently guided the tired mare to her cottage.

“I shall look after her, do not worry all, she’s in safe hooves.” Luna called over her shoulder, as the pair left.

Twilight had waved goodbye, as her friends watched quietly.

“Even Princess Celestia is worried about her.” Applejack stated softy.

“I’m sure everything will be fine…” Twilight answered warily.

“Well in any case we should remain strong for our friend. She’s injured still, and is recovering. We shall throw a party for when she’s better. Erm…well how about a tea party, as to not overwhelm the poor dear.” Rarity proclaimed.

“A tea party?? Wow! I can throw one of those! I can put together some streamers, and balloons, and cotton candy-“ Pinkie started to list off party supplies.

“We can have it in my castle, but I don’t think tea parties are like regular parties, Pinkie.” Twilight stopped Pinkie from continuing, causing the pink party pony to groan in sadness.

“Ooh okay…fine. Boring Grand Galloping Gala style party then…” Pinkie pouted.

“But you and Applejack can make the food!” Twilight tried to cheer her up, looking to Applejack, silently asking for her permission to help with the party’s food.

Applejack smiled and nodded, causing Pinkie to smile largely, cheering in excitement.

“This tea party is going to be super duper positively fun! And it’s going to take careful planning! Just leave it to me Twilight!” Pinkie shouted with a lot of enthusiasm to shake the ground slightly.

“Okay, Pinkie, but we should give her at least a week to recover fully. If she needs more time, then she will get more time. Okay?” Purple alicorn stated, making sure her friend knows how serious this is, how serious Fluttershy’s recovery should be.

Pinkie saluted, then bolted off, Applejack started to head to her family’s farm without another word to the rest of the group.

“Well, I guess I shall get to work on some fabulous gowns for us, oh! I know the perfect theme too!! Flowers in the Garden! Oh you all shall look so gorgeous!” Rarity started to gallop off, becoming excited to start her designs.

Before any pony could say anything else, Rainbow Dash left in silence. Spike and Twilight looked at each other, before heading to their home together. Spike hopped onto Twilight’s back, he was worried about Fluttershy, but refuses to voice it to stress his big sister figure out more.
As they waited for a week, they hadn’t heard a single word from Fluttershy, or Princess Luna. They were starting to get worried, so Twilight sent a letter to her other friends, to meet outside of Fluttershy’s cottage. She started to trot over to said cottage without Spike incase there might be something seriously wrong to have him witness it. As soon as every pony was near Fluttershy’s cottage, Twilight looked at each of them. Rainbow Dash and Pinkie had slight baggage under their eyes, Applejack looked fine, and Rarity looked normal.

“Alright every pony, we haven’t heard a word from either of the Princess or Fluttershy, we should check on them.” Twilight stated, turning to face the cottage.

A shiver ran down each mare’s spine as they looked at the cottage. It looked desolated, abandoned, and oh so eerily quiet. There were no birds chirping, as each of the pony’s clops were louder than normal. Twilight gently knocked on the door as they got to the door. No pony answered, but there was an awful smell coming from behind the door.
Twilight gently opened the door, the smell hit them straight in the faces. These were the smell of rotting corpses. As they all gasped, seeing a lot of half eaten corpses of animals. Even Henry the bear was laying there, dead, with two figures at his stomach eating. They were severely disfigured, but still had a pony like shape.
Twilight ignited her horn, pouring light to see what these figures were. The smaller one, was a pale grotesque yellow, feathers gone from what were once her wings. Her skin pull taught over her boney legs. Her snout was longer than normal, as she looked over at the group. Black blood poured from her mouth as her eyes were completely black as tears of red blood stained her cheeks. The taller one had an elongated horn, her wings were featherless as well. She did look similar to the smaller creature, but her chest had multiple bites taken out of it, and her horn was cracked and chipped. They roared at the group as Twilight screamed, slamming the door shut and barricading it with whatever she could find. Twilight turned to her friends as the bolted from the cottage. Leaving behind the sounds of something trying to get out.

“What in Equestria was that?!” Rarity shrieked.

“I-I don’t know! But what I do know is that we are in a lot of danger. Everypony grab your families, and what you need, then come to my castle. We’ll lock ourselves in, and I will message Princess Celestia for help. Got it girls?” Twilight stated, fear was evident in her voice.

Each of the mares nodded before splitting off to get their loved ones and their essentials. Twilight headed to the mayor, telling her to have every pony to stay inside and not come out until Princess Celestia had solved this problem. The mayor nodded and got to work, making the announcement, knowing the seriousness if Twilight looked as urgent as she did.
Twilight galloped back to her castle, making preparations, while having Spike write a letter to Celestia. Twilight made note of her food supplies, and decided to turn her balcony into a vegetable garden, as a knock came from her front doors. She quickly answered, thinking it’s her friends, but was surprised to see her brother and her sister in law. She immediately ushered them in along with her friends, as she saw what was once Fluttershy, jerkily making her way down through the town.
Once every pony was in, she quietly watched from a nearby window as her friends explain to the royal married couple the situation, along with their family members. Twilight watched as Fluttershy pounced on Berry Punch, ripping into her barrel, eating her inners as Berry Punch screamed in pain. Twilight grew more worried as she couldn’t find Luna, then there she was, watching another pony, transforming into one of them. Twilight shut and bored the windows, ordering Spike to do the same. Big Mac and Shining Armor volunteered to help, as they got to work. Twilight started to show the rest of the families around. When she noticed that Apple Bloom had a fever going. Twilight approached Applejack.

“Is she alright?” Twilight asked softly.

“She’s fine. She just has a fever. She won’t be any trouble, Twi, I promise.” Applejack stated, making sure to sound like this was a done deal.

Twilight nodded, watching Applejack move to where her little sister was. Helping her to get into her new bed. Little did every pony know, Apple Bloom had received a bite from a squirrel the day before. This was only the beginning…

…of the end.

Day 2

Pinkie sat with Pumpkin and Pound Cakes, feeding them by the bottles of milk, as their parents slept. It was nighttime, a little after midnight, as the usual pink happy pony took a peek outside the window, where they were high in the sky. She watched as the creatures became more in their numbers. She watched as a creature that was what once the earth pony named Bonbon devour Lyra's stomach. Slurping up the stomach and chewing on the ribs. She stopped for a moment as her attention. Having to see where another shrill scream came from. Then started to make her way there, leaving Lyra's bloody eaten body in the dirt. Pinkie quietly counted to herself as she stared at the mint green body growing paler, and paler, into a sickly grayish green. The body twitched. 7...8...9. Lyra's neck cracked and stretched with her legs. 10...11...12. An unworldly shriek came from her mouth, as black blood oozed out of her maw, eyes growing black as night, as tears of ruby red blood slowly made down her cheeks. 13. Lyra stood up, shrieking as she joined the monsters ever growing army. She bolted off, chasing a small brown and white foal. He was shorter than a normal colt, with fluffy brown hair, and a chubby body. Pinkie looked away as he was swallowed whole by the newest monster.

She gently took the sleepy foals to a small bed and tucked them in, before going to her makeshift bed. She tried to get some sleep, trying to ignore the distance screams of anguish, pain, and horror. One thing she did wonder about was why haven't any of them made their way here? Pinkie had a pit in her stomach, so she decided to do something that she is best at. She got up silently, heading to the hallway, making her way quietly to the kitchen. She barely made it there, when she heard coughing coming from the apple family's room. The door was but a crack open. Light peeked into the hallway, as she peeked inside. The family was around Apple Bloom's bed, she was sweating, and breathing shallowly.

"Granny...I don't know if this is just a fever." Big Mac began.

Applejack interrupted him "It is a fever, Big Mac! She wasn't anywhere near those things!"

"Now, now, Applejack. We don't know where this sickness came from." Granny cooed in her wisdom elderly voice.

"She was bitten by a squirrel the other day." Big Mac pointed out.

"A squirrel? What squirrel?" Applejack asked, stunned.

"She was out bucking apples with us, and she was bit by the squirrel when you went to go to the spa with Rarity." Big Mac explained.

"Damnit Big Mac! Why the fuck didn't you tell me earlier? It could've been one of Fluttershy's varmints! It could've been infected with whatever this is!" Applejack's voice risen, when Granny shushed her grandfoal.

"Applejack, it could just be a fever! We don't know if it is this virus, it's best if we waited and see." Granny stated, making her decision final.

Applejack huffed and turned from her family. Pinkie had her hooves over her muzzle at the news. She, then, quietly made her way into the kitchen. Making a hearty vegetable soup. The pink party pony heard hoofsteps walking over to the kitchen. The door creaked open as Applejack made her way in. Spotting the other pony. She didn't say anything as she made her way to a cabinet, opening it up, and taking out a bottle of Apple rum. She opened it and chugged some. The orange mare made a face, before taking a deep breath. Applejack rubbed her face with her free hoof, then peeked at the other mare in the room who was just watching her.

"Vegetable soup?" The country pony asked, her drawl was a little thicker than normal.

"Y-yeah, I've heard that Apple Bloom had a fever, and I hope that this could help her." Pinkie spoke softly as she made her way over to Applejack.

"You heard all of what happened not too long ago, didn't ya?" Applejack growled, her gaze was cold and hard.

"Yes, but I believe that it's just a fever, since, ya know, it's been going around the foals in school. Sweetie Belle had it last week after we left for Canterlot." Pinkie whimpered under that gaze.

That gaze was like a cold steel blade pressed against one's throat. One she had nightmares about when she first watched Applejack used that glare.

"You may be right, Pinkie, you may be right." Applejack grumbled.

"C...do you need to talk, Applejack?" Pinkie asked softly.

Applejack looked at her friend for a moment, then sighed.

"When we were on our way back from Canterlot, I asked Rarity for a favor. Once she was done, I hadn't had the chance to give it to Apple Bloom." Applejack gave in, her voice was soft and monotone.

Pinkie could tell that she was ready to cry, even though she cries on the inside.

"I...I want to give it to her, but she's too sick to even stay wake." the orange country pony whimpered.

Pinkie's blue eyes widen as Applejack revealed two small dolls from under her hat. One was of a yellow stallion with a pink mane and tail like Apple Bloom, the mare was a pale cream color mare with an orange mane and tail. They didn't have cutie marks, however their button eyes were green like Applejacks. Were these...?

"Are these..." Pinkie began, her eyes swam with tears.

"My parents..." Applejack confirmed before continuing "Rarity help me make doll versions of my parents since Apple Bloom never got to meet them. And I thought giving them to her would help her remember them better. Ever since their deaths..."

"I...I'm sorry Applejack." Pinkie hugged her friend.

They were hugging in silence, until the heat of the bowl reminded the baker that she had a delivery to be made to a young filly. Pinkie pulled away and walked with Applejack to her family's room and entered. Pinkie helped nurse Apple Bloom as best as she can. She then, excused herself to wash whatever bacteria off of her. She laid down in her bed, falling asleep. Finally feeling the grace of sleep pulling her into the darkness, embracing her.
In the morning, every pony went downstairs into the castle’s dining room, where Twilight was waiting for them. As they ate breakfast, Pinkie sat a little unnerved. Twilight had noticed this, as well as the rest of her friends.

“Girls? Can we talk alone in the table room?” Twilight asked gently, pointing to the door with her hoof.

The remaining five elements quietly made their way into the map room. Each sitting in their chairs, but remained silent for their empty chair. No pony wanted to break the silent, but it was driving Pinkie to another breakdown.

“13…” the pink mare stated as her mane slowly fell flat.

“What?” Rarity asked in confusion as the others looked between each other.

“Lyra came back as one of those things, just after 13 seconds…” Pinkie stated and continued “I watched her body, counting to when she gets back up. It was Bonbon who was eating her.”

“This information is valuable. We now know that bites or being eaten by them will cause us to turn. But what else can cause us to get infected. Not to mention what is this virus?” Twilight finally went off, immediately hoping out of her throne and started to pace, her voice was nervous and sounded scared.

“Those two things from yesterday…were they…?” Rarity began to ask.

“Princess Luna and Fluttershy, yes. They were.” Twilight looked away from them.

“So what do we do? We need to be doing something! We…we’re the saviors of Equestria! Aren’t we?” Rainbow asked, trying to keep every pony’s spirits up.

“We still are, Rainbow Dash, but this is one problem that is different from every other we have faced.” Twilight explained, then received an idea “I’ll need to do some research, and maybe I can find a cure.”

“What do you mean, Twi?” Applejack asked, cautiously watching her alicorn friend.

“I…I discovered a dungeon under this castle, if we get one of them down there, I’d be able to watch, study, and experiment to find a cure. It would be better if I had the original infected pony or ponies. Therefore…” Twilight trailed off

“You’re going to need Princess Luna and Fluttershy to use as test subjects…” Rarity finished.

“Yes. I’d rather not, but if we have one of them, or a pony who was infected by them first, then we can find a cure faster.” Twilight stated.

“What does Princess Celestia have to say about this.” Applejack asked.

“Who cares? If anything we need to do this now before it spreads any further!” Rainbow Dash shouted.

“She’s right. Princess Celestia has been alerted to this and ordered Ponyville to be quarantined. However, if anything, it’s only the matter of time before it gets out. As for the infection…if we had its origin…” Twilight announced.

“Uh pardon the interruption, but I think we should be apart of this conversation.” Princess Cadence had knocked and entered the room, followed closely by Shining Armor.

“Cadence! Shining! Right, you two should’ve been invited, but I didn’t want to panic or put you at risk.” Twilight answered, sitting in her throne once again.

“I know Twilight, but I also know that this is a dangerous matter as well. I’ve placed a magical bubble to keep any infected out.” Cadence stated, as she sat in Fluttershy’s empty chair, then she asked “Is Fluttershy hiding somewhere or is she safe with her animals?”

The five ponies looked down in a somber way, Applejack pulled the brim of her hat down over her eyes.

“She was the first infected after the incident in the Canterlot’s Museum.” She stated in a low voice.

Cadence gasped, pulling her hoof over her mouth. She and Shining Armor looked at each other, as if exchanging words that were silent.

“I-I’m sorry, I didn’t know.” Cadence stated.

“In any case we should take action. All of us. Not just to capture one of those, but to make this place a sustainable fortress.” Shining announced, pawing at the floor a little.

“Right. We’ll get planning today, and we’ll set them into action tomorrow.” Twilight said, looking at each pony in the room.

Meanwhile with Apple Bloom, she started to cough, and a small amount of inky black blood came out of her mouth.

Day 6

Rarity and Cadence were walking around the castle, getting to know one another. They’ve never really had spent anymore time together, not since the Games. Now they had plenty of time to talk. It felt like a normal day in the castle. The two mares had made their way over to where the Apple family’s room is. Rarity knocked lightly on the door, it was Big Mac who answered, looking a little haggard.

“Big Mac, is Apple Bloom doing any better?” Rarity asked, as she stepped in after he had stepped aside.

The red stallion nodded his head and pointed to where the filly was, laying in bed, playing cards with Granny. She wasn’t going to win anytime soon, but she looks better. Applejack was in the corner looking relaxed for once. There was a sense of peace and calm in the air, that was, however, till a scream ripped the peace to shreds. Applejack turned to her family, telling them to stay there as she, Rarity, and Cadence galloped to where the scream was coming from.
The Cake’s room was barely open, when the group arrived. Running in, they found Pinkie atop the dresser as they all watched in horror of the matriarch of the family was eating her husband with one of her foals, where was the other?
Pain shot through Cadence’s hind leg, as she kicked away whatever cause it. It was Pumpkin Cake! She was one of them, as her limps were long and pointed, teeth were sharp like tiny needles, eyes black as coal, as tears of red ran down her tiny cheeks. Her twin brother looked almost exactly like her, save for his missing wing. Their mother was more round, and limbs were elongated with jagged ends instead of hooves. Her mouth was long, dropping all the way down to the floor.
Cadence watched as her veins start to turn black, she could feel her body slowly shifting as the time slowly began to run out. She quickly telekinetically moved the mane six out of the room, before locking it.

“No! Cadence! No!” Twilight shouted, trying to get back in, pounding on the door.

She tried to teleport in, but felt the powerful shield that prevented her from doing so. That was when Shining Armor charged onto the scene, looking at every pony, confused on where his wife was. Applejack pulled her hat off solemnly.

“She…got bit, and barricaded herself inside. She did it to protect the rest of us.” Applejack broke the news to him, his face fell as tears swelled in his eyes.

Twilight only sat at the door, her wings were drooping, as Shining sat next to his little sister. Her hooves found themselves wrapping around him as she cried into his shoulder. Every pony sat in silence. Mourning another loss of one of the four princesses.
After a few moments, Shining stood up, Twilight watched as he placed a magical shield over the doors, so they not break down if the infected tried. Twilight added a magical health bubble over the layer of shield, since she had learned of this spell when she hand last hung out with her sister-in-law, and their adventure with Discord.
The memory stung her eyes with tears, as both she and her brother quietly made their way back to the throne room. The rest of the girls followed, as Pinkie walked in both shock and horror. It was when each of the remaining mane six sat in their respected thrones the questioning started.

“How did this happen? Did you know they were infected, Pinkie?” Twilight asked, her voice was showing that the purple alicorn was still in shock and sorrow.

Pinkie simply shook her head, as tears started to finally run down her cheeks, dampening them.

“They’ll be alright, right Twilight? Right? You’ll figure this out and fix them! It’s going to be okay. You’re smart, you can figure this out…right?” Pinkie stated, more to herself than to her friend.

Twilight hesitated “I…I don’t know, Pinkie, this problem is new to me, and isn’t in any of the books I have in my library. But I promise, I’ll do everything I can to turn every pony back to normal.”

“Can you promise that, Twily?” Shining asked, his two blue toned mane covered his downcast eyes.

“I…I’ll do my best. I have no guarantees right away, but I should be able to study it the best I can. I promise that Shining. For now.” Twilight declared as her wings spread out before them.

Rarity looked between her friends, feeling the heavy air around her, she sat up tall and proud.

“Let’s not what had happened bring our mood down. Yes, we have lost loved ones, yes the outside world has gone to complete Tartarus. We might not have all of the elements of harmony, but by Celestia we are still its bearers! I don’t know about the rest of you, but I’m going to keep my mood up. Twilight, if there’s anything I can do to help you make a cure, please do let me know. I am more than willing to help.” With that, Rarity trotted off, leaving every pony in the room speechless.

“Rarity is right, we shouldn’t let this slow us down. I will be down in my lab if any pony needs me. I will solve this.” Twilight stood up, hopped from her throne, and marched herself to her lab that was under the castle.

While Applejack and Rainbow Dash headed off to go up stairs to the room for some fresh air, leaving Pinkie and Shining Armor alone. In silence.

“…did you know?” Shining asked quietly, clearly anger seething under his breath.

Pinkie sniffled, whimpering out a soft “…no…”

“…I’m sorry…”

“…I’m sorry too…Cadence was a good mare…a good princess too…”

“The cakes are amazing too…before this…we sent out a letter asking them to bake a specific cake…”

“What kind of cake?”

Silence filled the room, neither equestrian spoke for a moment. That was until Shining Armor revealed a secret that only broke the pink pony’s heart, as well as her mind, only just a little bit more.

Day 7

Spike entered the Apple Family's room with some carrot soup, happily handing them out. He did noticed that the Cake family, as well as Princess Cadence. None of the other ponies are willing to talk to him about it. He had a sneaking suspicion that something had happened, so he decided to confront Twilight about it, if not Pinkie. He made his way to the lab with a bowl of the soup that he made. He didn't know what to expect when he entered the lab. As soon as he entered, he heard a distorted cry of tiny voices. Like it came from a baby, and something else entirely. Something wrong, otherworldly, something evil. It had chilled the baby dragon to the bone, nearly making him want to turn and run to find Twilight if she was somewhere else. Though he knew that she was down here. She hadn't left her lab since yesterday, so he took a deep breath and looked around the corner of the door to see one of the creatures in a cage. It looked to what was baby Pound Cake, however his neck was long, jaw dropping to the floor with just the skin, teeth needle sharp, his legs were jaggedly sharp rather than of hooved. His wings were drooping and stretched out. Feathers were missing and parts of his fur and main. He snarled and cried at his capture. Twilight had gotten a tissue sample from his front foreleg. She had placed it under a microscope, studying it carefully.

"I-Is that Pound Cake?" Spike asked with a soft scared voice, wondering what happened to this foal and if his family was the same.

He watch Twilight jumped, turning around quickly, stared at him for a moment.

She hesitated, but sighed "Yes, Spike, it is."

"H-how?" he asked again, as he set the bowl of soup onto the counter next to him.

"I...I don't know, even Pinkie doesn't know how this happened. I have a sneaking suspicion that they were bitten by animals that escaped Fluttershy...or what was Fluttershy." Twilight theorized, thinking out loud, as she looked around the foal's body that can be seen.

She pointed to an area where there was a small bite.

"There, it kind of looks like a mouse bite, but I can't be sure." She stated.

"I wonder how long ago the bite was..." Spike muttered out loud.

"By the looks of it...maybe.... wait...oh no!" Twilight had suddenly remembered something, as she bolted upstairs.

She barged into the Apple Family's room, putting a bubble around Apple Bloom. The family spoke out in protest. Twilight levitated the youngest apple and looked at her bite wound, seeing black veins spreading from it.

"Twilight what are you doing to my sister?" Applejack shouted, stomping her hoof, demanding answers.

"She's been bitten, Applejack, she's infected." Twilight stated, pointing out the veins.

"N-no, she's fine! She hasn't acted like those things!" Granny Smith stated.

"I'm sorry, but I discovered that one of the Cake twins was bitten by one of the infected animals that escaped Fluttershy's Cottage! I'm sorry Applejack, but she has to be placed in quarantine." Twilight stated, carrying the bubbled filly down into the lab area, gently placing Apple Bloom into a cell.

"You...you can't do this, Twi, please, she's getting better, she won't turn." Applejack pleaded quietly to her friend.

"Applejack, I'm sorry, but I cannot risk every pony's safety. Especially after what happened to the Cakes, and..." Twilight began to explain but fell silent when she reached the second name.

The alicorn shook her head, as she continued "In any case, if memory serves correctly, Fluttershy was starting to feel better before the virus took over at some point in between then and when we found her."

Applejack's head hung low, her hat hung over her eyes, hiding them. Soft plip sounds as tears ran down the orange pony's cheeks. She let out a shaky breath. Twilight had gotten worried, as she felt the pang in her heart. She knew that Aj cries on the inside, but for her to cry on the outside, it was big. She gently placed a hoof on her country farmer friend.

"I will take care of her, and I will find a cure. When I do, she'll be the first to be cured." Twilight promised.

Applejack didn't say anything, she didn't have to. She turned and quietly made her way out of the lab, walking past Spike, who was watching the entire time. He paused for a moment, thinking if he should go and comfort Applejack, or help Twilight. That was when he noticed something pink. Pinkie was standing just down the hall, her blue eyes were shrunken, her face was in shock. Spike reached out a claw, calling her name, as she just turned and walked away. He followed her, there she sat in front of another cell. Spike heard hissing, growling, and a familiar foal cry. Pinkie gave a soft giggle.

"It's okay, Mr. and Mrs. Cake, Pumpkin, I found Pound, he's safe. Twilight will keep him safe too. She said that she'll look for a cure, so you'll get better too." Pinkie spoke to the creatures that were once the loving baker family.

The creatures growled at her, as she listened like they were actually saying something to her. Spike peeked around the corner more and saw what had become Mr. Cake. His half-eaten torso and belly were facing to the ceiling, his legs becoming long and jagged like his family's, as his body was upside down, his head was twisted around, as his maw remained in a twisted way. Instead of it opening up and down, it opened from side to side. His teeth were sharp with a jagged tongue lopping out from time to time. His long intestine hung limply outside of his body, his coagulated blood caked his body, with black goo slowly slid out from his mouth and chest. His eyes were as black as onyx, with red blood falling down his cheeks, like tears for his fallen family. Spike covered his mouth, trying to suppress his gasp of horror. He watched as Pinkie giggled unsettlingly, as her ear twitched in a familiar way. Like what happened years ago when she thought that none of her friends wanted to go to any of her parties anymore. Her body twitched, as her hair slightly deflated. Then there was another sound further down the cells. It sounded like two voices at the same time. One older, one younger. Spike had to investigate it.

The day gets worse

Spike stuck to the shadows, sneaking past Pinkie Pie, and walking further down the corridor. There was a sound to accompany the sound of the voices, the moans. As he stepped closer, he saw...her. Her head was long, one of her wings was missing, and her horn was broken off. Her front portion was larger than her back portion, which was normal size. Her large hooves had turned red, inflamed, and had multiple bite wounds. Her remaining wing had several bite marks, as well as part of it hanging on by a single strand of flesh. Her enlarged head was looking sad, while a second smaller head namely caught his attention. The second head looked like a foal's head, its horn broken off, her large eyes were looking around as if seeing everything for the first time. That was when the pieces fell into place in Spike's mind. Princess Cadence was pregnant! How could this have happened to her? She should have been protected for Twilight's sake, for Shining Armor's sake. But she wasn't, no pony knew except her and possibly Shining.

"She was pregnant..." A voice came from behind Spike.

He turned around as tears streamed down his face.

"Pinkie? You knew?" He asked, seeing the pink pony, her hair was still curly but not as poofy as it would normally be.

"I knew after it had happened. I wish we'd knew before all of this happened. Maybe Twilight would have stayed for their visit, we wouldn't have gone to Canterlot, and none of this would have happened." Pinkie's voice was monotoned, as if she wasn't talking to him specifically.

"Are you okay, Pinkie?" Spike asked, his voice was soft, concerned for her.

"I...no, I'm not, Spike, I lost my found family, and now I am losing my friends, one by one." Pinkie confessed; tears were streaming down her pink cheeks.

Spike's eyes soften, and he gave her a gentle hug, not knowing if it was actually safe to hug her or not. Still, she needed a hug, badly. He couldn't think of how it would feel if he lost Twilight, or Shining, or even worse, Celestia. The only family members he had known in his whole life. He let her cry as he hugged her, she gave a soft sniffle.

"I don't think Twilight knows..." Pinkie stated softly, her ears were drooping as Spike blinked at her.

"We should tell her, so she'd know too." Spike stated, then saw Pinkie’s expression “I’ll tell her, so you don’t have to. I know it will be difficult for you to tell her.”

“Thank you, Spike.” Pinkie gave him a weak smile, as she hugged him tightly.

With that, the pink party pony let go of the baby dragon, and started to walk away, and out of the dungeon. Spike headed back to Twilight, noticing she was getting frustrated by the squirming tiny monster. She growled for him to stay still, but he didn’t listen, continuing to squirm on the table where he was strapped down. Spike cleared his throat, getting Twilight’s attention.

“What is it?” She asked, not turning around to look at him.

“T-Twilight? It’s about Cadence…” Spike began.

“I already know, Spike.” Twilight cut him off.

His green eyes widen “Y-you do? How?”

“She has a second head on her, a foal’s head. If you’d look closely, you’d see a mixture of both her and my brother’s hair. I was going to be an auntie…” Twilight’s voice trailed off.

“I’m sorry, Twilight…” Spike’s voice was soft, sad.

Twilight took a deep breath and injected the squirming monstrous brat. He was still for a moment, then he began to writhe, Pound Cake began to shriek in pain, as his body swelled, before popping. Spraying not only blood, but black goo, flesh, bone, and intestine. Luckily for the pair, Twilight engulf both of them in a health bubble and shield. After the poor foal popped, Twilight let out a roar of frustration, stamping her hoof harshly on the ground, causing it to crack and dent. The lavender alicorn began to pace in anger.

“Why didn’t it work? Not even a little! I need more samples, but I’ll need it…” Twilight began then sighed, turning to her assistant “Spike, gather everyone into the map room. I need to talk to them and tell them that it’s important.”

He nodded before hurrying out, and running upstairs as fast as he could. Terrified to what he had saw, what he had smelt. He couldn’t believe that Twilight was cold about the foal’s death. He might’ve turned, but the baby Cake could have still been in there, somewhere. Maybe? He couldn’t really tell. He didn’t know what these creatures were pre-say, but they were certainly dangerous.
He gathered up the rest of the surviving group. The Apple family reluctantly following suit, clearly still mourning the loss of the youngest Apple. Applejack still clung to the hope of her not being infected like the Cakes, Fluttershy, and the others. Maybe a cure could be found? Maybe Twilight was their only hope, maybe...Applejack shook her head, right now she had to focus on this meeting. Once everyone was in the map room, Twilight finally spoke.

"I need samples in order to figure out what this is, and to help find a cure." Her voice was monotone, as she was a princess speaking with her subjects and not her friends.

"Samples?" Rarity asked, "What kind of samples, and from whom?"

"The original first two infected, Princess Luna and Fluttershy. If it came from Fluttershy, that would be more preferable. Nevertheless however, I need those samples." Twilight stated firmly.

"What about the Cake family? Couldn't you take some samples from them?" Rainbow Dash asked, looking rather uneasy.

"I tried, and I tried to make a cure, or something of that sort, unfortunately the results...." The alicorn's voice trailed off, falling silent.

"Pound Cake had blown up from one of the tests." Spike bluntly stated.

Almost everyone gasped at the reviel.

"Which is why we need samples from the original, I have tried every which way possible from the Cakes, but it's no use. I need them. We need a plan. Any ideas?" Twilight asked, looking around the room a little bit.

She did not notice that Pinkie's hair had fully deflated, her eye twitched, and a large, unnerving smile grew.

Day 8

Rarity and Twilight were quietly walking down an empty street in Ponyville, they were trying to sneak, and watch out for any infected. They were looking for their target or targets. If they could just get one…

“Twilight? Are you sure this will work?” Rarity asked as quietly as she could.

“Yes, this plan WILL work. I know it will…we just need to stay focus and calm. We will find them, if not the others will.” Twilight replied, equally as soft in her volume.

“Is really corralling these things a great idea for plan B?” Rarity asked, unsure if it’s the best plan.

“It will work, Rarity.” Twilight answered a bit more bluntly than intended.

Rarity fell silent when she heard this. That was when there was a loud pop and a fizzle. It was a signal to allow others know that their target was found. Twilight galloped as Rarity followed closely behind her. They saw Shining Armor with his shield up, both around him and Spike. The monster that was attacking had pale yellow fur and a limp greasy light sun bleached mane of pink. Another monster was a blue color that looked like it, too, saw too much sun.
Twilight ignited her horn, surrounding the pair, and Rarity tied them up with some rope given to her by Applejack. The others came galloping, and pausing at the very sight of the monsters who saw all of this. Applejack had a sharpened shovel with her while Shining and Rainbow Dash had swords that were part of the decor of Twilight’s castle. Then groaning and hissing could be heard coming from every which direction. It wasn’t until Rarity felt shearing pain on her left hind leg, she saw that it was a pony her sister told her about, a bully, Diamond Tiara. Rarity shrieked and bashed the filly’s tiny skull with her own back hooves. Applejack saw the wound and began to tie off the leg. Rarity protested, her eyes shrinking when she saw the made weapon raised.
The pain was burning, and hot. It sent Rarity’s mind into shock before she let out an ear piercing shriek, then blacking out. More of those creatures came into view, as the group was being surrounded. Twilight began to panic, and unleashed her built up magic to teleport her friends and family back inside her castle with only Fluttershy. Little did they know, that the rope on Luna was breaking, soon, she will be free to hunt again.
Rarity was quickly placed into the kitchen counter as Applejack turned on the stove, heating up the shovel, Pinkie, for her part, was holding onto Rarity’s hind leg, or what was left of it. Pinkie could hear soft whispers of the Cake family calling to her. Her pink ear twitched once, twice, and turned to the direction the voices were coming from.
Soon as the shovel was red hot, Applejack cauterize Rarity’s wound, and bandaged it as best as she could.
Twilight had Fluttershy’s body strapped to her operating table with chains, as she took some blood samples. Her yellow friend chomped at the air towards her, letting out the occasional snarls. Snarls that soon turned to groaning and whimpers. Twilight looked at her with curiosity, then sadness.

“It’s going to be okay, Fluttershy. I’ll make a cure to help you and every pony. I promise.” Twilight stated firmly.

Back upstairs Pinkie sat alone in the throne room. To the others, it seems as though as she was watching thin air. However in her mind, she was watching the cake twins play and coo. Mrs. Cake was sitting in Rainbow Dash’s chair, humming as she stirred a bowl, while Mr. Cake was reading a recipe book. They all looked to Pinkie with smiles that she had missed so much.

“Pinkie, could you do us a favor dear?” Mrs. Cake asked, her voice was a bit distorted.

“Yes, Mrs. Cake?” Pinkie asked eagerly.

“Could you take Sweetie Belle home tomorrow? Her parents are so worried about her!” Mrs. Cake asked kindly, though her eyes doesn’t reflect the kindness.

Pinkie beamed and said “Yes, yes, yes! I can do that! I can totally do that for you, Mrs. Cake!”

Pinkie’s eye twitched, as her lips were curled into a rather creepy smile, her hair laid limp. Her bright pink coat, grew a grey tone. Soon she shook her head, mane barely poofing up. She looked around confused, the Cakes weren’t there anymore. She shrugged and trotted away into the kitchen.
Rarity laid on her bed, her blue eyes fluttering open, seeing a concerned Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. Applejack was sitting in the corner, making something with wood and other objects.

“Wha-what happened?” Rarity asked groggily, her throat scratched and burned.

Sweetie Belle handed her a cup of water as she spoke “Applejack saved your life!”

“What? How?” Rarity asked, confused, as she shifted in her bed.

“I had to cut off your leg before the infection spread.” Applejack grumbled out, seemingly angry with herself.

“What?!” Rarity shouted, removing her covers to reveal her missing limb, then the memories came back “oh…right. Th-thank you for that Applejack. How did you know it would work?”

“I didn’t, but I had to take that chance. Couldn’t lose another pony I care for. Especially after…” Applejack sighed, pausing her work, then continuing “I’m making something to help ya walk again.”

“Erm…Sweetie, Scootaloo, could you two be a dear and go help Granny Smith, I’d like to talk to Applejack alone.” She asked the remaining cutie mark crusaders, they nodded and galloped away.

The white unicorn waited a moment, watching Applejack work.

“Erm…mmmm…thank you Applejack. For saving me, and making me…whatever it is. I guess I owe you my life, since you saved it. But I think we’re even on making stuff for each other. How did…she like the dolls?” Rarity asked, unsure of what else to say.

“She loved them so much, she even cried. She has them with her now, thank you for making them for Apple Bloom. She almost forgotten what they looked like, it’s been so long.” Applejack responded.

“Well I’m glad she loves them, and regardless, I would still made a pair for you, I could make you them while I’m stuck here in bed for the time being.” Rarity offered.

Applejack gave Rarity a weak smile “Mighty kind of ya, but that won’t be necessary. I have my memories, and my pa’s hat. Thank you, though, for offering. You should get some rest, I’ll ask Twilight to help me make this for you when you wake up.”

With that Applejack left, before Rarity could say another word. A bad feeling stormed in the unicorn’s gut, a really bad feeling.

Day 9

The sun slowly moved higher into the sky as Applejack finished fitting Rarity with her new prosthetic leg, with the help of Twilight, it was gem powered to be linked with her mind. That way it could move like any other leg. She was up walking around before she knew it, though she had taken some curtains from a window and started to sew. Making both a fashionable and functional outfit. She had added some padding and pockets to it. It was awhile before she wore it, and went to look for her sister to try hers on. She gasped when she saw the front door opened, she shut the door and ran to tell every pony else. She found almost every pony.

“W-wait, where’s Sweetie Belle?” Rarity asked, looking for her sister.

“And where’s Pinkie Pie?” Rainbow Dash added.

Shining Armor galloped past shouting “We don’t have much time! Follow me!”

Twilight galloped behind her brother “The Cakes are missing!”

Rarity had an awful feeling, as she followed them, they made their way to Sugarcube Corner. It was ablaze with light of the fire, as it roared. Pinkie Pie sat there smiling at the fire, as if she’s watching something amazing. Inside there was screaming, a familiar night pitched scream.

“SWEETIE BELLE!!!” Rarity screamed, running ahead to help her sister inside the building.

Shining Armor caught her before she could go in, dragging her back quickly before the entrance collapsed. Her blue eyes widen as she saw the shadow of her little sister be consumed by rubble and flames.

“NO!” Rarity shrieked, trying to get Shining Armor off of her, but her attempts at freeing herself were not enough.

She laid on the ground, crying. Pinkie started to laugh, it started as a chuckle, then a giggle, and finally a laugh. Rainbow Dash snarled and launched herself at the laughing pony. Tackling her and pinned her down by her shoulders.

“Why Pinkie? Why?” Rainbow Dash asked, anger in her eyes.

“Because, silly, Mr. and Mrs. Cake asked me to!” Pinkie asked, shoving Rainbow Dash off.

Rainbow Dash took a few steps back, wings flared out.

“I brought Sweetie Belle home, and now she’s nice, and safe, and toasty!” Pinkie giggled manically.

She was unaware of the danger creeping forward behind her. A snarled, a squishing sound, and a gasp. Carrot and Cupcake had pounced onto Pinkie and bit into her neck and shoulder. Dragging her to the ground, Rainbow Dash rushed forward to help her friend, but it was no use.

Rainbow Dash felt weight on her back suddenly and pain in the back of her neck, and her back. Pumpkin Cake was ripping chunks of her flesh away from her, Rainbow Dash desperately tried to get her off. Until she bit on to Rainbow Dash’s wing. Thats when the cyan Pegasus knew what she had to do. She ripped off the infected filly and threw her into the burning out via broken window.

She felt the infection creeping in, and she fought back as she bucked the Cakes in too, before grabbing the turning Pinkie Pie. Rainbow Dash started to cry as she shouted to the others to get away. Her magenta gaze drifted to her friend.

“Pinkie…” Rainbow Dash managed to get out as the Cakes surrounded them.

Rainbow sniffled “I…I love you, Pinkie Pie…”

Pinkie’s milky eyes stared at her for a moment, before she lunged at her throat, her needle like teeth digging in before ripping a large hole into her throat. The Cakes descended into Rainbow Dash as the fire consumed them all.

The remaining survivors were all crying, and in shock that such a thing happened. Some wondered why this had happened. Others were numb, and then there was the baby dragon who was too traumatized to fully take in what had happened.

He was confused. Why did Pinkie Pie do this? She was just fine…wasn’t she? He didn’t know. All he could do was to hang on to Twilight’s leg, as her wing gently came down to wrap around him in some sort of comfort. But it only did so much.

The group made their way back to the castle, however something was wrong. It wasn’t until Spike burped up a scroll from Princess Celestia. Twilight immediately grabbed it in her magic, and read it carefully.

Princess Celestia was asking if Twilight was alright and still alive, asking for any updates and what was happening to her subjects as the infection reached Canterlot.

Princess Celestia was trapped in her throne room.

Twilight began to panic, however Shining Armor stopped her by putting his hoof on her muzzle so she could listen. There was skittering. They were not alone, nor were the dungeon cells empty…

Rarity, Twilight, and Shining Armor light up their horns, as Applejack brought out a crossbow that she had been secretly working on. They all froze as they saw something large and red, small and yellow, and something else long and green.

Big Mac’s lower jaw was missing, his tongue lolled out. It was elongated and sharp like a whip, while his flesh had holes and bubbles all over. Like acid was poured on to his flesh. There were strips of meat and skin whipping about like tendrils.

Granny Smith had an elongated body as her hooves were split in half. Her head was upside down as her eyes dangled from their sockets. Her milky eyes watched them carefully, like a wolf would with their prey.

Every pony and dragon stood absolutely still. Trying to figure out what to do. Twilight was about to use her magic, but an orange hoof stopped her. Applejack walked forward with her crossbow and shot Granny Smith clean through her elderly skull.

“Applejack?” Twilight began.

“Go, Twi, I’ll hold them off for as long as I can. Get to Princess Celestia.” The farm pony ordered coldly.

Twilight was about to speak, but was cut off by the pulling of her brother. Applejack stood alone, it was her against her siblings.

Night 9

Tears streamed down Twilight's face, as she ran with Spike on her back, her brother at her side, and a sobbing Rarity. They couldn't stop, they couldn't. They kept galloping and galloping. Shining Armor made sure that he was behind the smaller and smaller group, making sure everypony was there with them. Rarity was now gasping for breath, slowing down as her heart was pounding, her legs begging for a break. She kept going as the image of her sister burning to death stayed in her mind.

"Keep going, Rarity!" Shining ordered gruffly.

"I can't! I need a break!" She cried out, slowing down more, eventually limping.

Twilight slowed down with them, as they came down to a slow. Walking before sitting down. Twilight had started to cry, as she couldn't figure out what to do. Her brother hugged her, though it wasn't as warm and comforting as it used to be. She still took what she could in the comfort. Then she saw how dark it was getting.

"We should rest for the night." She muttered.

“No we should keep going, we have to get there.” Shining Armor growled, looking around to find away to help them travel faster “There! It’s a train, we can take it to Canterlot!”

Twilight and Rarity looked between themselves, Twilight was hesitant, but Rarity nodded. She was confident, in both the alicorn and the former captain of the royal guard. The siblings nodded to each other, the quietly made their way over to the train. They scouted around to see if they were going to have to avoid any of the infected ponies.

Though there were none to be found, Twilight and Shining Armor casted a shield spell together. Upon closer inspection, the train was in need of some minor repairs, nothing Twilight couldn’t handle thanks to her books. As Rarity and Spike settled down inside the train engine, Shining Armor and Twilight worked. Twilight telling Shining how to fix certain things, while Spike and Rarity are resting on the engine.

“What’s going to happen to us?” Spike asked softly as he watched Shining Armor worked, not looking at anyone.

“I don’t know darling, it’s hard to say. But I won’t let anything happen to you, I promise…” Rarity tried to comfort the baby dragon.

“Spike?” Twilight called.

“Coming Twilight.” Spike stated before heading over, he hesitated for a brief moment, looking at Rarity.

Twilight watched as he approached, before pointing to a part of the train, asking “Can you use your fire to heat up the metal so we can fix this?”

“I-I dunno Twilight…” He whimpered, he was feeling anxious.

The alicorn gently placed a hoof on his shoulder, with a kind smile, trying to encourage him. “You can do this, Spike, I know you can. You’re the only one who can.”

The baby dragon nodded, taking a few steps forward, inhaling, and blew fire onto the metal, heating it up high enough for the metal to turn white. Twilight used her magic to close the hole.

“That’s great Spike! You did it!” Twilight praised happily, hugging him tightly.

He coughed as he halts his fire, as he quietly watches Twilight work.

“Um…Twilight?” He spoke nervously.

“Yes Spike?” She answered.

“N-no matter what happens…y-you’ll be able to protect me, right?” He whimpered out, showing how much he truly is scared.

“Oh Spike.” Twilight turned and hugged him, holding him close “I’m sorry, so much has been going on, I forgot you were just a baby dragon. I will always protect you. You’re basically more like my little brother, I can’t lose you too. I promise, no matter what happens, I’ll put your safety first.”

Spike nodded, knowing that her vow was something she was determined to keep her promise. It did sooth his anxiety a little bit, but he couldn’t help but wonder what was to come.

“What do you think is going to happen when we get to Canterlot?” He asked out loud.

“I don’t know, Spike, hopefully it all ends well and we find a cure.” She answered, her work halting when she finished with a relieved sigh.

“Do you think Princess Celestia can help us find a cure?” Spike asked.

“I hope so…” The purple alicorn’s voice trailed off, as she looked to the sight of Canterlot, she could barely see it as she continues “We know that she’s alright since the sun and moon cycle is still going.”

The sun started to set when they were finished fixing the train. Shining Armor was magically spent, he laid on the ground. He was still on guard. Twilight added more energy to the shield spell to keep it going, as Spike started a small fire. They were all quiet.

Rarity quietly brought out her emergency sewing kit and had a cloth with her. She started to sew. Shining Armor rolled his eyes at this.

“What?” Rarity asked quietly, not knowing why the alabaster unicorn’s behavior was so bad, though she does have a clue.

“Nothing.” He growled.

“Shining-“ Twilight started, but was interrupted.

“Why didn’t anyone helped Cadence?” He asked.

The two mares were silent.

“You get bit, and your leg was amputated before the infection spread. But when my wife was bitten, no one did anything!” He snapped at them, his hoof slamming on the ground.

Rarity winced, her metallic hoof twitched.

“You couldn’t because of your leg.” He snapped then turned to Twilight “so why didn’t you save her?”

“She shoved us out before we could do anything. The Cales swarmed her after the bite, she shove us out. She even started to turn, I tried to teleport back in to grab her…but…” Twilight explained.

“But she didn’t let you back in…” Shining Armor finished.

His sister nodded with tears rolling down her cheeks.

“We lost so many ponies. Even Luna…” Twilight closed her eyes, finally letting herself cry and mourn.

“Wait, what?” Shining spoke in shock.

“She was taking care of Fluttershy, but went missing for a week, we went to see what was wrong and they were both like those things.” Rarity explained this time.

Things were quiet for a single moment before the bushes began to move. Rustling loudly as something emerged, something orange.