A QUIET PLACE ~ EQUESTRIA GIRLSby RudyGamgee2ChaptersDay 9Day 12The BellDay 10Day 11Noon2nd FloorDay 14Days 15, 16 & 17Pre-DawnDay 19Day 23Day 24Day 9C.S.P.B. PAX. C.S.S.M.L.—N.D.S.M.D. V.R.S.N.S.M.V.—S.M.Q.L.I.V.B. Day 9 I’m told this journal used to be Sunset Shimmer’s, whoever that may be. Lots of people are missing now. Found this on the floor of a torn-up school hallway, under piles of trash and ripped-off lockers. Miss Pie recognized the symbol on the cover. I scavenged all notebooks I could find, but Miss Pie tells me this one has something special about it, as her missing sister once told her. Even though the statue has been demolished by a wild semi that blew up, she thinks her sister Pinkie, her friends, and Sunset cannot get back to us from the other side, whatever that means, and would want to know why through the journal. Almost sounds like she’s in denial, but Miss Pie’s even tone somehow shows conviction. Anyway, I’m going to roll with it and try to offer a testimony of some kind for whomever finds this. Something to remember us by. So far, I’m joined by Miss Maud Pie, and her sister Marble, who used to own a rock quarry they called a farm, losing two another sister and parents. Maud also has her boyfriend, Mud Briar. I crossed paths with them while scavenging at Canterlot High, alongside a Miss Wallflower Blush, an only child without her own parents. From the local orchard, one Big Macintosh and his youngest sister, Applebloom. They’re also missing a sister from the ensuing chaos and bloodshed, with their grandmother who raised them now bedridden. Then coming to the Parish Hall from Crystal Prep are Mr. Shining Armor, his wife Mi Amore Cadenza (Cadence), and their infant Flurry Heart. Armor’s sister is also lost someplace. Again, so many of us are missing loved ones. As for me, my name is Solace Sheen. I’m a scavenger and survivor at Holy Cenacle Parish, where the Church, school, and Divine Providence Hall serve as a refuge for stragglers. I happened to find a pair of toddlers; sound asleep after all hell broke loose. Miss Pie told me their names are Pumpkin and Pound Cake, whose parents used to own a bakery and ice cream parlor in town. She said Pinkie told her all about them in letters before she, herself, moved here. It’s a miracle they’re alive to begin with, praise God! I decided to bring them to my home Parish, where we’re starting a place for survivors seeking shelter and necessities. Other, both from inside and out of the Parish, also joined in with all they have to offer. But there’s always the danger of growing sounds that come with growing numbers. Which brings me to how this all started. The radio and TV interrupted everyone’s baseball games and favorite shows on July 25, 2020, the Feast of St. Stumble Neath. I’m just going to refer to each day onward by counting up after that date. A special news report stated how a meteor shower was sweeping across the Northern Hemisphere and entering Earth. Satellites were wiped out, but thankfully the ISS didn’t suffer too much damage. Big cities were hit the hardest first. Not by the meteorites themselves, but what was on them. All of us at this small urban area, several miles from the closest major city, were not sure what to make of anything. Until they showed up. They went after anything and everyone that was making noise. All the screams, horns and sirens were silenced in no time at all. Those who avoided the first onslaught hunkered down under tables, busted cars, fallen debris, staying absolutely quiet as we watched one of them passing slowly from up close. So tall and limber, but also lean and deceptively lanky. It walked on all fours, though the front legs were folded as if crawling on elbows and wrists. It has long, razor-sharp appendages that can tear through steel and solid brick. It pulled down the giant water tower, by itself. But that’s not all. Not even close. Its head had no eyes, no visible ears, or even nostrils or gills. What it did have was the shell of the hardest exoskeleton I’ve ever seen. With a mouth full of long teeth, like dozens of scimitars and daggers. It made clicking sounds like a dolphin, before it shrieked worse than a wild animal. It would move its head around, as if to pick up a scent, before it did something else next. I don’t know how else to describe it, but it opened up its head. The exoskeleton flexed different parts of its skull to reveal flesh and giant ear canals. I didn’t realize I held my breath for so long, until I felt the pain in my chest and saw red flashes. Suffice to say, I only survived because it picked up another noise further out, and it made a mad dash towards it screaming like a banshee. 9 days later, we’ve been told through HAM Radio and earphones how the military’s response has made little impact on them. They’re spreading their numbers across whole continents, and into the Southern Hemisphere. It seems the only places that aren’t hit are those islands far from the meteors’ path, like Hawaii and Australia. Turns out these things don’t know how to swim and smart enough to avoid deep water. I started scrounging through wreckage as quietly as possible, finding notebooks and pads of paper to write on. Technology here’s been reduced to whatever electricity and generators are still working. That’s when I came across this journal, Miss Blush, Miss Pie, her boyfriend and sister, and other stragglers near the damaged high school looking and waiting for their missing siblings, friends, and Sunset Shimmer. So, I carefully brought them with me back to Holy Cenacle, where Fr. Redmane Farmer's starting a silent help and prayer center. We even started removing the noisy pews, one each day, for more floor space. They’re also tall enough to tip over and use for cover, as well as makeshift insulation for the winter months. Thing is though, we have to do everything so painfully slow, because the second someone makes a noise we have to stay absolutely still ‘til the danger passes. Thankfully, so far, we’ve been spared by a deer, squirrel, raccoon, or crows drawing attention away from us. But we can’t just push our luck and test Providence for much longer. We’re also setting up our own sound decoy systems, for when they get close to us again. Then there’s the issue with small children, who just don’t know better because they can’t. Whatever the Cakes gave their toddlers to stay asleep during the slaughter must’ve been something given regularly. None of us had the foresight to know what was coming. I went looking around at the Cakes’ address, seeing what I could find. Seems to be a feeding solution that you mix in water that the little ones are affected by. Cadence and other new mothers can also save and share some of the milk for orphaned babies to help soothe them. Another reason to be thankful is the fridges and ice boxes at the Parish Hall that still work. So far, we’ve kept the little ones in an enclosed space with old theatre curtains hanging for sound absorption. That’s been working fine so far. But again, we can’t just rely on that. And we can’t expect them to learn quickly and imitate their parents to stay quiet. As for health issues and medical needs, my cousins and neighbors have made trips to all the pharmacies and stores in town. They even collected oxygen tanks and sound-proof boxes on their last trip this morning. Thanks be to God! That’s the one thing I’ve picked up from surviving so far. Something that might last years or generations while these things are still alive on Earth. There’s always a reason to be thankful, especially the gifts found in having each other, and the hope for a future. Both during, and after this terrible danger. I’m not saying I have all the answers, like how to survive or why this is happening. Nor is this a new flood, since God’s promise to Restfulness obviously still stands. Otherwise, we’d all drown with them. All I can say is this: There’s an even greater evil we can’t sense, compared to what can kill the body. Long before these things showed up. An evil that does attack our souls and hearts, and even seduce us to despair, apathy, reckless abandon and depravity. But we’re also given a free will to resist, and to trust in the power of someone no evil can outlast or dare to touch. But that’s the thing, too. We do have a choice, whether to give in or fight back. And from what I heard about this Sunset Shimmer and those with her, their friendship is a strong reflection of that divine power. I see no reason why we can’t strive for that same holy resistance amongst ourselves. Something that’s given to us over-abundantly by silent, gentle Grace. Amen. Day 12PAX. C.S.P.B. C.S.S.M.L.—N.D.S.M.D. V.R.S.N.S.M.V.—S.M.Q.L.I.V.B. Day 12 Limpid: to describe something as perfectly clear, transparent, or even simple. Must’ve been very tired and exhausted. Nearly overslept and missed Mass. Our celebration of the Sacrifice is more limpid than the Low Tridentine and Novus Ordo, but only because of the dulcet silence. Those few of us Parish members still alive and attending remembered Our Lady of the Snows. When Beloved Rebel made it snow during the hottest month in Italy, exactly where she wanted a Church built for her Son to dwell. Fr. Redmane and I wrote some copies of his homily yesterday morning to distribute and reflect on today's memorial. I was brought to the cellar afterwards, to get everyone else, especially those in charge, up to speed alongside Comet and Maud. We reported what we found, what was missing, and described how the lone drifter ran out of the hospital after busting the alarms. How it came without any reinforcements, despite all the noise. Almost like their hearing's too sensitive for that kind of intense racket. It’s becoming more limpid to us that such a lethal strength can have its own weakness. I’m trying not to imagine what might've happened if the backup power weren’t on for that to work. Now Sparkler’s wondering what else she can do with all the surplus fireworks from last month’s Independence Day. Since we had everybody present to hear all this news, Madame and Fr. Red decided to collaborate with Cadence in some sort of group talk. The former two started things off by sharing a couple of their own bouts of turmoil, sorrow and dread, including the notion that their respective messages that my group will carry won’t find anyone to receive them. Cadence spoke of her shared fears as a new mother among the others, then coaxed Armor to speak up about his own doubts and worries concerning his family, both absent and present. We moved clockwise with those who stayed and were willing to partake. Came to Comet Tail who admitted he may not be up to traveling with myself and Maud Pie. He said how limpid it was to see the two of us as the calmest and most level-headed for the job. Made a point to emphasize how quickly and well we collaborated yesterday. She and I kept quiet, which, I guess, proved his point. This prompted the mayor to ask for one, if not two volunteers for tomorrow's expedition. Big Mac was the first to raise his hand, assuring his little sis that it’s for the better he helps. Next came Miss Blush of all people, who timidly admitted she can gather plants, herbs and seeds along the way to help Golden Harvest start a garden. She added how she can move quietly around without anyone noticing. The fact that she survived the first two weeks at all sure adds merit to her claim. I just hope she’ll keep it that way. I know, says the guy who got caught on a phone cable. Slightly ticked that my cousins didn’t speak up throughout, but also glad at the same time. Not sure how well I could handle losing them in front of me too, or vice versa. Their names are Polish Gleam, Shoeshine and Fine Finish. Lots of childhood memories shared between us and our respectively deceased siblings. After the meeting, Fr. Redmane and Madame Mayor had me and Pie stay in the cellar to spend the rest of the day in recuperation. Knowing how all that stress from yesterday can take its toll, with Tail as a limpid example, they insisted we stay and help care for the small ones, despite my disagreement. Fr. Red knows that I want to stay active after such high doses of adrenaline, stress and fear, which he said is why he wants me to stay. All that energy to help out downstairs, as well as ease some of the tension by interacting with the kids. He noted how limpid it was that the Cake twins, Pumpkin and Pound, have taken a liking to me. Pie made no effort to speak against this either, so any further arguments from me would be otiose. Plus, the security cameras Sparkler set up are down there for us. We can watch out for any sudden or strange movements. She also jerry-rigged a sort of warning system with a switch next to the screens for the porch lights and light poles. So not to feel too useless, I can always take a turn as lookout, and give someone else a break from staring at the screens. They show the outside facing the main Church entry, as well as the school and rectory's front and back. Can see the front and back yard areas completely. There’s also one showing the school gymnasium and inside the Church at the nave. We can see areas where pews are removed and replaced with unrolled rugs. Another is added to those already down the center aisle. For the sake of warmth and sound absorption in that echoic chamber, even with our bare feet. Salvaged rugs are rolled out on the gym floor also, where pews that are moved and tipped over can rest on them, offering a form of sleeping shelter for those of us here, and any other refugees that may come. Though she doesn’t seem alert to what’s happening around her, Maud convinced me she’s far more observant than she lets on. So, she’s been taking shifts with the cameras throughout the day, having Mudbriar by her side as support for one another. Armor and some Flash Sentry character are seen slowly helping with a pew and rug project on the screens, while his wife and daughter sit in front of me and the orphaned twins. As time passed, this activity proved helpful to lower my anxiety. “Seems you three have found a new family,” said Cadence, still with a gentle tone like everyone who comes to the cellar. I said in kind, “Starting to look that way. See what happens, one day at a time.” The two rolled a stuffed ball between the three of us before moving closer to Flurry. “Still call out for ‘Mama’ and ‘Papa.’” The past ten days were spent having evenings with Pound and Pumpkin, helping to change, feed and keep them calm. Often seen looking around, eyes scanning the area as they’d cry out for their parents. Sometimes, I get the word ‘Pinkie’ from the toddlers. Try to use the feeding solution sparingly. A.) Since we're still in short supply of it. B.) Don't want the little ones start to get hooked on the stuff at such a young age. If keeping their head against my chest while humming a lullaby doesn’t work, then I have to take the drastic step of placing each in a sound-proof box, wrapped with blankets and oxygen masks for the night. “What did you tell them,” Cadence asked. “That they were taken,” I said, plain and simple. “Just like mine.” “What else?” Flurry, Pumpkin and Pound started rolling around and climbing on top of each other. “Said I know they’re scared and hurt. That they’re not alone.” I’m guessing she noticed how little I shared after relaying what happened. “Do you feel alone?” That question still rattles my brain, long after the fact. More constant and intense than that alarm at the hospital. Do I feel alone? Why would I? I’m surrounded by other survivors with what’s left of their families and loved ones. I have my cousins. Got a couple of toddlers stuck to me like magnets now. My Parish priest is still alive. Godly Rescue the Anointed One is miraculously right there to receive Him every chance I can. Do I feel alone? “Confused,” was my feeble answer. “Overwhelmed.” “About?” “Why can’t I seem to accept what happened was beyond me? Why did they have to lose so much just so I can find them? What am I supposed to do with them, since there’s no guarantee I’ll make it back? – Other things I said I can’t transliterate. Too much condensation to write. The twins and her daughter grew aware of my predicament. Just went straight up to my lap, looking at me with those colorful pearls for eyeballs. So pure, so much genuine wonder inside them. Like the big sister and mother that I lost, Cadence came up and hugged me. The three little ones joined snuggly in the middle. Why? I just don’t get it. Why? I can’t understand it. Amen. Signed faithfully, Solace Sheen A.M.D.G. The BellThe bell. We’re all up, flashlights on and lighter ready. Grizzly, by its size and shape. Saw how it woke us while sniffing and scrounging around also. Stood upright feeling challenged by us with a growl. Our lights flickered. It came at the bear like a screeching shadow. ' . , . , . , . , . , ' Sounds of a struggle while we moved back onto the pavement. Kept a slow shuffle close together. Mac faced ahead of us, and the rest kept our eyes and lights every other direction. We pause for a minute or so to listen. , . , . , . , . , . , . Two more. ' . , . , . , . , . ' Pie tossed her firecracker in the dead grizzly’s direction. They headed that way while we keep moving. Blush handed her own to Pie next. We move. , . , . , . , . , . , . , Listen. , . , . , . , . , . , . , . , We’ve been moving slowly. The clicks and shrieks are getting quieter. Lights aren’t flickering. Mac stopped in front of a charred car frame. . , . , . , . , . , . , Ahead. , . , . , . , . , . , . , It opened its head to listen more clearly. Lights flickered. We stayed completely still. Pie couldn’t risk lighting the next stick yet. The shell closed before it crawled forward again. No flicker. Opened up again directly in front of us. Flicker. We heard the other things from behind. Nearly sliced us while passing over in a fast stride. No flicker. . , . , . , . , . , . , . On the move again. . , . , . , . , . , . , . , . Still no flicker. Move again. . , . , . , . , . , . , . , . We wait. Day 10PAX. C.S.P.B. C.S.S.M.L.—N.D.S.M.D. V.R.S.N.S.M.V.—S.M.Q.L.I.V.B. Day 10 Early in the morning, I woke and got up from my cot in the corner of the vestibule, offered a small morning prayer before washing my face and brushing teeth at the restroom with water running low. Those of us from this Parish quietly attended the daily celebration, remembering the New, Eternal Covenant by Godly Rescue, The Holy Anointed One. We mouth the responses we’ve come to know by heart. I started making a few pamphlets by hand for anyone interested to learn them. Knowing it’s my turn to help with laundry on our new weekly cycle, I took my own cloth sack of items to be brought for washing. Got a stable setup in the rectory, where Madam Mayor and Amethyst Star put together an area for soaking, another for washing, then a direct access point towards the backyard for hang drying. I slowly started a fresh batch of hot water to fill in the soaking and washing tubs and untwisted the cap for detergent with great care. For the sake of listening for sudden noises, to prevent or stay alert for incidents, I opted not to wear a single earpiece for music. To pass the time, I focus on each article of clothing that’s been piled for people whose laundry day happens to be today. First week doing this, it’s not that much. Amethyst, a childhood friend at elementary, has been very active coordinating the various projects we’ve begun here. She came in to start her shift on time today, as usual. Asked me about the newcomers I picked up from Canterlot High. All was needed was for her to mouth the words, “New guys”. I said in slow breaths, “Cuts and bruises, but okay.” Sparkler, as her close friends like to call her, continued, “What else?” Nodding with comprehension about their background, I replied, “Strong farm hand. Small sister, quick and tough. Two sisters, great with rocks. One boyfriend, vegetation. One loner, gardener.” “The grandma,” she asked. “Cellar, resting.” Most sounds can be easily muffled by being underground in the rectory’s cellar, added by those theatre curtains I mentioned after we slowly brought them down. We got it set so that the sick, injured, and moms can use the most obscured area on the property for rest and nurturing. Again, a temporary fix. “Comet,” Sparkler stated, referring to Comet Tail, Canterlot classmate of hers. “Getting ready for hospital trip tomorrow.” We figured to at least start foraging items there, since other teams are taking the stores. With currency no longer an issue, anything’s up for grabs. I just hope that doesn’t include us. And I don’t just mean those things. “Fr. Red,” came the next matter to address. “Finalized inventory last night. Getting bishop’s letter ready.” Despite knowing the dangers in traveling outside city limits, especially on foot without immediate help or reception, we agreed to chance a delivery service. Both to inform Bishop Cutlass our current situation, and to see if he or anyone else is still there. This way, we can know whether or not we’re the only survivors in the county or diocese. That is, friendly survivors. Again, those alien sound predators aren’t the only possible danger. Thankfully, so far, everyone that’s come to the Parish has been vouched for by neighbors, schoolmates and relatives. And even if a total stranger comes by, we still need to offer some benefit of the doubt, while also watching his movements and actions. We just need to figure out a system that can scare unsavory characters without endangering everyone else. “Firecrackers.” Like that. I told Sparkler, “Hard to use on the fly.” “I split them,” she said. “Have lighter in one pocket, one stick in the other. Pull out and set light close to it.” “Can’t maneuver well.” I put both my hands deep in my pockets to demonstrate how I move. “Bad posture.” She countered, “Not whole group. Just one in the middle.” We make it a point to have teams traveling anywhere in threes, at least. “Take rock sister with you and Comet.” “One of them still in shock. The other barely responds.” And the few things she talked about make little sense on writing down. Of course, Amethyst and I were referring to Miss Maud Pie. “She’s steady, calm, direct. She can still help.” There’s still one issue: “You ask her yet?” “She stepped up to join the hospital. I’ll ask her about delivery before. She’ll do it.” “How do you know?” “She’s driven. She and ‘farm hand’ did more in two days than the other new guys.” “Not smart to use up energy fast,” referring to both Pie and Macintosh. “Nine-day trip. Plenty time to rest.” We figured six miles a day was doable. Four days to get there, a day to scavenge and resupply, then four days back. Barring incidents. I conceded that she must’ve thought about these and other variables beforehand. We’re all still trying to establish a good structure here, especially in so short of time. Bad enough we’re taking a risk to deliver a message to someone we’re not sure is alive, in whatever’s left of that major city. Plus, we’re still reeling over our new situation, one that may prove less and less temporary with each day. Worse still, enlisting someone that just joined the refugee site, without knowledge or consent, adds even greater risk that may prove unnecessary. But with how the other teams have no one to spare for this trip, Miss Pie and Macintosh will definitely be needed sooner than later. “Hospital tomorrow,” I told Amethyst. “See what happens first.” She nodded, satisfied with that consensus before prepping the tubs for the next batch of garments. I put my load into other cloth sacks before heading to the clothesline. We kept this process going through the morning ‘til all is left hanging to dry. After finishing our task, we had lunch prepared for us by Daisy, Lily and Roseluck. The afternoon was spent by slowly dismantling another pew from the nave. Dinner provided also by Daisy, Lily and Roseluck. Our meals are received at the Parish Hall, before we find quiet seating on the lawn. The evening is allotted to us for leisure use, whether it’s reading, listening to earpiece music, or just lying on the grass. Many are still having difficulties regaining some normalcy. After Cheerilee and a few parents are done tutoring students, they’re all given the afternoon to make cloth-based items for board games, playing catch, or just sit down with thick paper, paints, pastels, and pencils on top of thick blankets. Whenever a little one starts to grow upset about something, one of us rushes to take him or her back into the cellar with all the hanging curtains. There, they can have their fuss while the grownup soothes and listens. Kids old enough to understand help to ensure those younger practice silence when outside or upstairs. Applebloom is one such adolescent, alongside a few she recognized: Pipsqueak, Rumble, and Dinky Hooves. I found out she used to play and explore with two very close friends before that day. She knows that one traveled with her folks to Australia for vacation, while the other took a trip with her own parents to the lake at Camp Everfree. All three had sisters or sister figures from the high school who went missing along with Sunset Shimmer. From what I gathered, using pencils and notepads, the newcomers that could answer me said how Sunset and her friends were able to wield certain abilities that are tangible, yet also above the natural order of things. Somehow, by harnessing benevolent energy shared between their friendly bonds, the seven teens can ward off those who disturb the peace and dark forces. This journal was a way for Sunset to get in touch with another friend who doesn’t exist in this world, and the busted mustang statue held an active portal that bridged the two worlds. Hoping for some miracle, Fr. Redmane suggested I continue to write in this logbook used for communication. 1: For the sake of providing ongoing records of our activity during this time for posterity. 2: If this book can reach someone else to inform them our situation so they can help, even with the bridge out, then it’s worth a shot. 3: Since nothing on the pages suggest the occult, it’s good to at least try and capitalize such means with due prudence. Hence the Latin initials for exorcising satanic incantations from St. Blessspeech, just as a precaution. On that note, for the sake of trying something different to restore some levity and normalcy, I decided to find a random word in the Dictionary I don’t know. I’ll write it down and its definition, then form my own sentences with it in each entry. It may not be every day, or every time I record. But maybe I can broaden my vocab, and that of future readers. Otiose (oat-yose): something that serves no useful purpose. Someone can argue that, given our drastically dangerous environment, this sort of hobby is otiose. There can also be some who believe that life and all our efforts are absolutely otiose, whether by overexposure to pain and grief, or for the sake of numbing said pain. Even though our lives are fleeting, the only thing that renders something otiose is our own attitude towards it. Faith is considered by some otiose or opposed to reason, while others view them as complementary, and others still declare faith the only thing worthwhile. We can ask ourselves which camp we fall under, and why that is. By evening, some of us prayed with cloth Rosaries before bedtime. I made it down to the cellar to see Macintosh check on his grandma and Marble Pie. Applebloom said they had a small crush before he met his deceased fiancé. I got to spend some more time with Pound and Pumpkin Cake. Got to read a bedtime story with them, as Granny and Marble lied still listening. After teeth brushed, I’m back on my cot to close out the day. Signed faithfully, Solace Korbinian Sheen A.M.D.G. P.S. That acronym is a maxim of St. Flamemire’s. Amen. Day 11PAX. C.S.P.B. C.S.S.M.L.—N.D.S.M.D. V.R.S.N.S.M.V.—S.M.Q.L.I.V.B. Day 11 Obstetricate (ob-stet-rih-kate): to serve the function of a midwife during labor. Deemed archaic, or obsolete. Another nightmare last night. Playing back the same moment but with a few twists and changes every time. Having to cover my little brother’s ears and turn his face to my chest, I watch our parents getting sliced to pieces. I see the thing come up to us with a cackle. The clicks it makes almost sound like it’s mocking me. Then its shrieks turn to sadistic laughter, like its saving me for sport. “Next time,” it said. Then it leaves. I’m practically screaming at it to come back and finish the job, before opening my eyes to see Fr. Redmane with a hand over my mouth. He brought me into the confessional’s thick walls to talk about it before Mass. He suggested I spend extra time alone in the Church before the hospital trip. My parents were Constance Joy and Solemn Reginald Sheen. I also had four siblings. Their names are Felix Dawn, Serenity Dusk, then twins Prudence Karen and Credence Kevin. They’re all dead. That’s more for my benefit than anything else, really. I keep having the same questions in my head. Like nails, pikes and thorns jammed deep into my skull. Why them? How wasn’t I quick enough to help at least one of them? How come I’m still alive? What greater good can possibly come from all this? There’s no rhyme or reason for this senseless violence, pain and destruction. It’s nothingness, but that’s what also makes it powerful. Like a black hole sucking me into itself from inside myself. All I can do is lay it all bare at my LORD’s feet, at the altar of His Cross. I’m not saying I’m a dualist, nor having a split personality. Just because you see someone talking aloud to himself or herself, doesn’t make it schizophrenia by default. And it’s not like I didn’t have dark thoughts and demons assaulting me until that day. I’m just presenting the fact that there’s two parts of the same whole in myself. I’m hurting, fallen, wounded, scared and just as much capable of depraved, corrupt misuse of me free will as everybody else. And I’m sure there are other parts of my whole being I’m not fully aware of that also need care and healing. Long before those things crashed down, lots of people have been looking for answers; a scapegoat, something or someone to blame. Some means to take swift action for a quick fix, or a reset switch to flip and solve all the world’s problems. Little do we realize that we bring all our own problems into the mix, buried under a genuine wish for a fresh start. Not just past traumas or wrongs done to us, but our own flaws and temptations that stem from something deeper than any physical influence. Though, that can definitely be a part of it. There’s an even worse enemy than what those things can do. One that can - and has taken its toll on our human existence. One that we cannot see, hear, smell, or touch, yet at the same time even more real than flesh and bone. Those alien sound hunters are just obstetricating more rotten fruit for the evil one’s self-imploding, repetitive schemes. I need to be careful not to obstetricate more corruption from within. Just like everybody else. I know I can’t do this on my own. But like it says in the Philippians, I just need to trust in Godly Rescue for my strength. Only then can I do all that He wants me to do. Like everyone else, I need to ask Him for ~~peace~~Serenity in matters beyond my control, courage to face challenges I can help with, and the Wisdom to tell the difference. NoonNoon. Sun’s reached its zenith now. I’m on the first-floor reception of the ER wing with Comet Tail and Maud Pie. Most of the building’s damage seems to have erupted here, so it was difficult not to disturb broken glass or debris. But we checked all the other doorways, finding them blocked or bolted shut. Also, making our way to the stairwells, we found the northeast corner with the least blockage and without loose steps ready to fall and crash. Tail got anxious at first, since I took a while in the Church after my nightmare. He shows jittering movements sometimes but improves after he stops to take a deep breath. Miss Pie has been calm and still throughout the trip, blinking her eyes now and then, and sometimes following us with her line of sight. She demonstrated to us how quick she is with setting a lighter next to a firecracker from her pockets with so little noise. With that, I took the end of the line while Tail led the troupe. With Pie looking out for unpleasant company, Tail and I have been scrounging one small area at a time. At least, those areas we can access without too much trouble. I’m surprised at how low the body count is down here. But that’s only because these were the lucky souls who weren’t snatched away at death. We don’t know what those things do to their prey on capture. Because of how sporadic the slashes are against the walls, floors, trees and ground, we’ve got very little to work with and track down their remains, never mind what exactly happened. I paused to offer a small prayer for all my deceased neighbors and brethren in the Anointed One. Lots of toiletries and air tanks in supply closets, but we don't have the means to take them all this trip. More paper, pens and pencils here. Some extra bags for carrying things here and there. Prescription tablets strewn on the floor and countertops out of their containers, which are empty to distinguish what belong to where. The containers still intact and full we foraged, alongside a couple cans of instant coffee. Very little else aside from crutches, wheelchairs, and lollipops. Figured the kids could enjoy the latter, at least. The rest is otiose, whether to use or carry with us right now. We stopped for a small lunch here at ER reception, made for us by Daisy, Lily and Roseluck. Don’t want to rush ourselves going anyplace, for the sake of keeping calm and not causing loud disturbances while we work. After a few more sips from our water bottles, we’ll gently put them back in our backpacks then carry on to the second floor. 2nd Floor2nd Floor. Took me awhile to realize this, but after a couple sections upstairs, Pie noted a complete lack of first-aid kits, extra batteries and other things lying around. This brought all three of us to conclude that others have come to this building looking for supplies also. Probably someone who frequented this place to know where things are, then grab them incrementally. Tail and I were pondering how to proceed, whether to keep going, leave or wait outside the aperture to see who else may come or depart, when Pie . , . , . , . , . , . , . Wait. . , . , . , . , . , . , . , . , Passed our hiding place between the counter and lounge. Sounds like it took the northeast stairs. Wait. . , , , . , . , . , . , . , Still hearing clicks and thumps above us. No clear shot for Pie to throw a firecracker out the window. Tail thinks we should chance leaving before it can come back or wait to pounce. Pie’s stalk still. , . , . , . , , . , . , . I noticed a subtle shift. Barely. I look at her and ask under shallow breath, “What do you need?” She pointed at the wall, where there’s a fire alarm handle untouched. I admit there were low chances of it working, since someone might’ve already triggered it elsewhere during the chaos and destruction. But better than nothing, I slid low since I was closest. Kept myself against the counter towards the wall before a phone cable snagged and fell down. Pie was right beside me for the catch. Barely. She kept both parts close to her chest. To be more careful, I really made sure to take my time. Made it across the gap, and got below it. I pushed it in then yanked the handle down. Pie dropped the landline. I took lead with Tail at the end. We moved during the blaring intervals, and stopped at the momentary pauses per Pie’s hand on my shoulder. We made it twenty feet from the ER exit before it wildly burst in from behind us with a shriek. I think I heard Comet Tail yelp, or maybe I heard myself. It barely missed our heads as it barreled over us. Thrashed at each and every sound speaker close to the ceiling, then moved on to the next area of the building. Thankfully, it cleared some of the rubble out of our way from before entering. Blaring sirens were heard across the parking lot as we kept racing back to the main road. Then it stopped. In case there were more of them outside with us, we decided to stop for a breather and listen. Praise God it was a loner! Clearly agitated by the constant loud noises in the hospital, especially after tearing out every system in the building, it ran away. We just made it back to Holy Cenacle before dark. Now I’m on my cot after several minutes of quiet gratitude. Need to get the last of my adrenaline settled before sleeping. Writing all this down helps. For the sake of consistency, please forgive me in advance. I sure hope I don't have to enter another hospital in the near future, let alone obstetricate from inside one. Good night. Faithfully, Sheen A.M.D.G. Day 14PAX. C.S.P.B. C.S.S.M.L.—N.D.S.M.D. V.R.S.N.S.M.V.—S.M.Q.L.I.V.B. Day ~~13~~ 14 Coterie (koh-tuh-ree): Exclusive group of individuals closely sharing a unified goal, purpose or interest. That’ll be the last one for a while during this trip. Had to leave the dictionary behind for packing space. Looking back at the last entries, I forgot to mention what exactly happened at the hospital. Maud told me and Comet how we were short of time and resources to either wait for other people or try and gather more things. We agreed to start heading back to the Church and school after consolidating all that we found, and I decided to record that before we all heard a reverberating crash. Something fell from the rooftop. Neither Comet nor I had the chance to check what it was, but Maud described seeing a large metal box like the ones attached to the bed of a truck. Suggesting that someone else was in the building, it may have been more than one, and those possibly living there were not keen to join our coterie. That got me to wonder if the backup power system was ever on, or if the original generator was restored. At any rate, our rations were prepared in advance the past four days before departure yesterday. Roseluck, Daisy and Lily had for us a variety of snack bars, string cheese, chips and jerky pre-removed from their bags and wrappers, which were kept inside clean bandanas, handkerchiefs, and towels. Four days’ worth of food to get us there, Amethyst, Maud, Big Mac and I figured it’d be best that we scrounge for more food once in the big city to save up on supplies here. With rolled up sleeping mats, wool blankets, plastic jugs, and some of those durable shopping backs folded in our backpacks, we put on some hiking boots before cutting through the school’s ballfield and reaching the road towards the interstate. Attended the Mass Liturgy celebrating the Feast of the Transfiguration. I thought it was fitting, since Godly Rescue talked about His self-sacrificing departure with Waterdrawn and Mi Domino Deo on the mountain. Applebloom and Pipsqueak are most familiar with the Cake twins. Able to take good care of them and kept them occupied during our exit. Left them a small token for them. Fuzzy dice they enjoyed playing with after I found them 10 days ago. I started the first day in leading the pack, with Wallflower Blush right behind me followed by Maud Pie, hands ready on a firecracker and light, and Big Macintosh trailing last. The mile markers and signs are great indicators of how far we travel. Still, Blush opted to carry an old roadmap for navigation. No guarantee that every road sign is still intact at each exit. It’s a clear shot, with a wide ditch on both sides of, and between the two roads. No obstacles too challenging to maneuver. Capsized cars, trucks and semis mostly spaced out, whether on the road or in the ditches. Unlike the echoing gym and Church nave, we felt the need to wear our boots on the road for the sake of broken glass and debris. The asphalt offers solid traction that absorbs most sound from our slow, conserving steps. And with a clear line of sight ahead and behind us, and ample space between us and the tree line, we’re able to traverse down this sure path with little worry about sudden ambush. Even if one of us accidentally makes a noise, there’s plenty of grass cover to muffle our steps and quickly lie still in the ditch. Maud can then be ready to light and throw a stick across the street for a diversion. Anyone trying to surprise us would have to make a noise themselves, putting their own lives in jeopardy. Still, during such times as these, people are liable to do crazy, senseless things out of desperation. Take the hospital, for instance. Can’t be too careful. Not a sound nor sight of birds, squirrels or rabbits. No wildlife detectible for miles. I imagine many of them had to migrate southward. Even a bird’s got to find someplace to forage and roost. We spent the first night in the center ditch, where Maud rigged a bell system around us without the other three’s notice. Anyone trying to come close to our coterie would trigger one string or another, while trying to go over or beneath. In case that ever happens, she mentioned Sparkler’s suggestion of each carrying a stick of firecrackers to incrementally toss as we move away from encroaching aliens. With a flashlight in case to travel at night, we opted to keep our campsite without chancing a fire, or lamplight. For the sake of minimal attention and to keep any intruder from seeing the bell line. The bells themselves would be fair enough of a warning. We all slept on our pads, wrapped in our wooly blankets with relative ease. The stars above, on the canvas of a clear sky offered momentary consolation. Today, we moved along the road again. Starting after dawn, we saved our rations ‘til we’re three miles out for lunch. Further out of any city limits was much clearer, with very little metallic carnage or places where a fire erupted. Still, the area has clear signs of a wildfire that did spread from beyond our line of sight. Taking a rest after three miles, I thought we might try a brief game to help raise our spirits a little. I wrote instructions on what to do, then wrote a sentence for a story and drew a picture. I passed it to Blush, who would try to write the next sentence of the story, then draw a picture based on that sentence. Passing it to Macintosh, he would do the same before sending it to Maud. Then it would come back to me after everyone’s finished. Here’s how it went: A raven flew by, nabbed someone’s bread, then ate it. The raven landed next to a giant flytrap that was also hungry. There's also a nest full of fruit bats nearby who went and ate all the giant flies before that there plant can get any. And there was a rock named Boulder. Boulder says that he was dehydrated but was glad that he doesn’t have to eat. The End. I think the four of us shared a good smile amongst ourselves. Wallflower was at least somewhat amused, while Big Mac seemed glad of the chance to reminisce a bit. I’m guessing Maud was happy to incorporate her pet rock into the game then let said rock play along too. The other three miles for today were, thankfully, uneventful. The advantage we have in walking past burnt down trees was not seeing movement amidst charred stumps and ash. Anything trying to approach us would be spotted instantly. The downside to all this though was traveling with the sun shining directly onto us, without any shade for cover. We were probably all thinking about sunscreen and aloe vera to grab once we get to the big city. Though there was fewer flotsam around our camp for string to wrap around, Maud spotted long sturdy poles from ripped-off markers and road barriers. Gently and firmly driving them into the ground, us coterie members helped her set up the bell system for the night. Like the other nights previous after a short supper, I prayed on my cloth Rosary before going to bed. Good night. Faithfully, Solace Sheen A.M.D.G. Days 15, 16 & 17PAX. C.S.P.B. C.S.S.M.L.—N.D.S.M.D. V.R.S.N.S.M.V.—S.M.Q.L.I.V.B. Day 15 Same routine. Only this time during break, Macintosh pulled off a bandana he’s been wearing that happens to be checker-box in pattern. Then he removed from his backpack a sack of felt chess and checker pieces that he and his sister made. I played a round each with him. I didn’t last long. Wallflower played longer than me at chess and beat him at checkers. Came across a wide brook. Stopped to refill our bottles, after first using filtration canisters my dad used during hunting trips. Sheen A.M.D.G. Day 16 Maud decided to play a round of chess with Big Mac. Came down to a very close finish, before she eventually won. Before reaching the city, I got in two more rounds of chess with Mac, then a round each with Maud and Blush. It became limpid that I’m the least formidable in our coterie. I barely beat Wallflower, much to everyone’s amusement. I say everyone, because even Pie gave her thumbs down and tongue out at my sole victory. All in good fun and silent chuckles. We chose the most obscure, abandoned one-story building that we saw. We helped Maud set up bells at the door and windows not blocked by broken glass or debris. Next, we took the nearest corner to the main road, where we can slip out quick and back onto the interstate in case of incidents. It’s getting dark since we first arrived, so we had to resort to flashlights and our lantern in the middle to watch our steps. One thing we learned while setting up our refugee center was how those things somehow cause our lightbulbs to flicker. As if their presence can obstruct an electric current. Seeing as how we’re in the sole major metropolis in the county, where more of those animals are likely living, we decided to take a chance and leave our lantern on at the center as a precaution. I forgot to mention that after my evening Rosary, I’ve been offering a small prayer to our guardian angels and the archangels for guidance and protection. A novena, nine days, because I found it appropriate for our projected length of time in getting here, then back. Sheen A.M.D.G. Day 17 First, we chose to make our way to downtown for me to find the cathedral and main building of the diocese. I set a time to wait and be picked up by the other three after lunch, so they can reach city hall and find any signs of the mayor there. We’d also try to scrounge and resupply as best we can before we leave the city. Also agreed not to go back to our original camping area, in case someone might wait for us there. Instead, we’ll get back onto the interstate, using our flashlights if need be, before hunkering down in the center ditch again. I found the diocese administration building, and the cathedral, totally barricaded. Dismayed, but not completely shocked by this, I pulled out Fr. Redmane’s clerical crest that he had made on a large piece of cardboard and folded tightly into my bag. Hoping this would let them know I’m trustworthy, wishing I didn’t have to resort to this. After a full lap around the buildings in a figure eight, or infinity sign I guess, I saw a sealed envelope and small sack of food at the rectory’s front door. Not wanting to risk more time drawing attention to myself, I left Fr. Red's letter at the door and put both items in my bag with the cardboard sign before making my way to the nearest store to scavenge more sustenance. The others returned with some luck of their own. They also received an envelope, but no sack of food. We all had some fortune in grabbing snack bars and chips before heading back onto the interstate. We settled four miles out of the city, making our day’s walk come to a total of ten miles. Guess something about numerous tall buildings left in disrepair and fire damage all round left us feeling uneasy. Especially if any of those windows now have a pair of watching eyes, or listening ears, at anything and anyone that moves. It got dark again by the time we set up bells and sleep mats again. My flashlight hasn’t flickered yet while writing all this down, so that's good sign at least. Good night. Faithfully, Sheen A.M.D.G. Pre-DawnPre-dawn. Sky’s changing colors. Sun’s not out yet. Been moving incrementally this way all night. Can’t stop too long for a proper rest yet. Too much adrenaline. We’re moving again. . , . , . , . , . , . We wait again. ' , . , . , . , . , ' Mac, Blush and I started stumbling with our steps. We left our mats behind. Still got wool blankets. Pie handed me the lighter and stick. Pulled out her extra twine and bells. Always keeps the bell raised and close to chest. Set to where no one can go over or under. Even in broad daylight. Lost track of mile markers to count. Have to rest before looking a map. Good night day. Sheen. A.M.D.G. Day 19PAX. C.S.P.B. C.S.S.M.L.—N.D.S.M.D. V.R.S.N.S.M.V.—S.M.Q.L.I.V.B. Day 19 We woke up with the midday sun shining through the wool covers yesterday, based on my water-resistant digital watch. Remembered to check that any alarms stayed off before traveling. Turns out we walked another 7 miles that night. The brook we crossed before is directly below us. We all agreed to spend the rest of the day recuperating before moving again. We also didn’t want to chance traveling by night again, in case we trip over any debris to make some noise. Just resting and wading our feet in the running water for cover sound: a great way to rest right now. None of us slept well that morning. I dreamt that I woke up by myself after hearing someone ask, “Do you feel alone?” I saw no one else. The strings and bells were still untouched. But then I sensed something right behind me. Long before the clicking started. Against my better judgment, I quickly spun around to see the animal and try putting some distance between it and me. But I couldn’t budge. Like my arms and legs were jell-oh wrapped in plastic. It just kept its head turning towards my way, as if it had always known where I was. Like the other times before, it moved its javelin jaws up and down to talk. “Next time.” I can’t remember the last time I stuck my head underwater to yell like that. Do I feel alone? It’s like the answer’s right there on the tip of my tongue. Clear as day, at the back of my mind. But I’m not getting there. It’s like an invisible wall taunting me to grab what I should be able to reach. I feel frustrated, angry, borderline despondent. I almost want to quit caring about the answer. It’s going to get myself and everyone else killed at this rate. Why even bother, anymore? Fr. Redmane told me to stop, breathe, and pray after this came back to the surface. Even when I think it’s pointless, he told me to make an effort. Even if it means getting one word of prayer in. And not just from my end. Thankfully, I was able to think of two words: Dad? Mom? All I got in reply was the gentle brush of air under the bridge, joined by rhythmic gurgling from the water flow. I can picture them close by. Reliving a time when we all went camping. My parents and siblings. I can almost see them, hear their voices, if not sensing their presence. He also added that I should write this down, to help sort through my thoughts and feelings. Can’t imagine how Fr. Red must be feeling right now. What, with helping the mayor lead a refugee site at the Parish and school. And that’s even without considering what Bishop Cutlass has to say in the letter for him. Now I’m starting to wonder what sort of shi –things he might be going through. Does he feel like he’s the only one around to handle this situation? No telling what the bishop’s letter says. He always told me Godly Rescue’s right there to pour out my troubles for Him to bear and listen. Since he’s ordained, Fr. Red can help make that happen anytime, anyplace though, right? All he needs is some piece of bread and a tin cup of wine like they did in Dachau or Siberia. But what about where I’m at? No tabernacle, no Presence, no chalice or ciborium. Sure, if two or more are gathered in the Anointed One’s Name, then He’s there. I’m looking at my teams faces, and they don’t seem interested in trying that out. Of course, Maud’s hard to read. Who knows whether yay or nay with her? But Wallflower looks like she wouldn’t have a clue what’s going on. Big Mac looks like he’s questioning everything just as badly as I’ve been. Do I feel alone? Never mind me! Ask anyone else that question, see what sort of answers come from that! I stopped myself to breathe again. Mom? Dad? Right now, the only comfort I’m getting is from the wind’s touch and brook’s babble. Maybe that’s as far as I can find Him, for now. I thought Godly Rescue’s supposed to be right next to me. But then I’m reminded of what He said on the Cross: “Why did you abandon me?” Guess He’s closer to me than I’d like right now. Hopefully, Fr. Redmane’s still there for me to ask him. Though, depending on what the letter says, he and I might both need extra quiet time in Church. Again, I keep telling myself we shouldn’t test God’s Providence. Yet here we are, constantly relying on it like it’s, well, our bread and butter. Guess that’s all I can do right now, just keep hoping and relying on that. I must’ve said those two words out loud, or something. Because the next thing I knew, I nearly jumped out of my skin when Mac rested a hand on my shoulder. He muttered under the brook’s current, “Mine too?” Just the look in his eyes told me exactly whom he meant. Next came Pie, who came to offer a hand on my back from behind. Though Blush was last, she eventually joined in, taking the other shoulder for her hand to rest on. I told them my family’s names. And they shared the same with me. Maud’s parents, Igneous Rock and Cloudy Quartz, and sisters Limestone Pie and Pinkamena Diane. She said the latter would like me a lot, same with everybody else. Big Mac’s parents, Bright Macintosh and Pear Butter, whom he lost years before that day. His sister, Applejack, whom he’s still holding out for, as Maud for Pinkie. His late fiancé is named Sugar Belle. Wallflower said she’s an only child, expecting me not to remember the first time. I told her I remembered, which she seemed to appreciate. Her parents’ names are Hayfever and Paintbrush Orchid. We just stayed there under the bridge in that same position throughout Day 18. Before getting to sleep, of course. All that helped to ease most tension down across my spine. Praise God. I had spent the next 24 hours with these same thoughts and shared experience before finally putting this down after another six miles today. During our break, Maud coaxed me in a round of checkers with her. That helped get my mind away from that inner vacuum I mentioned. Even though I wasn’t all the way into it, she knew, and we took our time. Still lost, but not as badly as I would’ve. I at least got two kings against her three. We’re more than halfway now. Couple more days to go. Right now, I’m just looking forward to the next time I can rest in my cot. I can’t worry about that wall standing in my way. Obviously, I’m not ready to scale it yet. God knows it. Devil knows it. I know it. Can’t afford to worry about every single thing that’s going on and what needs done. Just think about the very next thing right in front of me, work through that, until that’s done and can move on to the next thing after that. God, help me keep patient with myself. Amen. Faithfully, Sheen A.M.D.G. Day 23PAX. C.S.P.B. C.S.S.M.L.—N.D.S.M.D. V.R.S.N.S.M.V.—S.M.Q.L.I.V.B. Day 23 Eclectic: broad, a wide range of tastes, styles, or ideas. I guess you could say Beloved Rebel is eclectic, due to her various titles. Yesterday we remembered her as Lady of the Garden. I’m sure Wallflower appreciated hearing that one, considering how eclectic she may be with what she plants. I know, quit while I’m ahead. Now we got that out of the way, let’s review the past four days: We made it back to the refuge site and Church before dusk, the day before last. Thankfully, no more events throughout. While we were resting in the cellar yesterday, Sparkler, Comet and the rest started hanging thick stage curtains all over the school gym. Grabbing them from abandoned and destroyed theatres and school buildings around town. They were also able to scavenge for supplies, including 50 lb. bags of sand for walking on pavement without shoes. Some more stragglers were found and joined our troupe. There’s Bow Hothoof & Windy Whistles, parents to one Rainbow Dash known by Shimmer. They came with a few injuries and a high fever. And then Zephyr Breeze, who came looking for his sister Fluttershy, another of Shimmer’s friends, after losing his parents. Not sure how much help he’ll become yet, since he prefers to stay in the cellar with the elderly and sick, if not with Mudbriar at the cameras. Marble seems to be the one prompting him to offer a hand here and there, now that she’s back on her feet. Amethyst said she got motivated to help out and move, after growing too anxious waiting for Maud. Macintosh’s grandmother got better and walks around with the little ones. There’s also an herbalist named Zecora. She came from the national park near Camp Everfree, joined by Applebloom’s friend Sweetie Belle, and her mom Cookie Crumbles. They went looking for Shimmer’s other friend, Rarity, before finding us. The dad, Hondo Flanks, didn’t make it. I also found out that Flash Sentry is Shimmer’s ex. And Shining’s sister, Twilight Sparkle, also befriended Rarity, Fluttershy, & Sunset. More refugees coming in, all the extra sand, rugs and curtains to absorb sound will make the gym and outside a better place to get situated. We can even start on the classrooms for shelter. Move the sick and elderly out of the damp cellar to warmer, drier spaces, and sound-proof a larger area for little ones. But even that’s bound to get packed, at this rate. Rations are also harder to come by. Which brings us to Bishop Cutlass’ letter. All that debris barricading the Cathedral and rectory were set by a mob trying to find a scapegoat. It was about a dozen people still living in the city. Any other survivors would’ve made noise trying to stop them, which is what happened. Before they could burn the Cathedral down with Bishop and staff inside, the mob didn’t realize they grew louder as they progressed, drawing those animals onto themselves. Cutlass asked that we keep those people in our prayers too, since they were just acting out of desperation, pain, and outrage. LORD, grant them Eternal Rest, and let perpetual light shine on them. May they rest in peace. Amen. Afterwards, the sacristan with headphones heard a message on the radio. The National and Coast Guards were setting up evacuation checkpoints. Since the creatures can’t swim, and can only travel on the mainland, there’ll be ships that can take people to small islands off the coast, then some later to Australia, the Philippines, Hawaii, etc. Cutlass said that, for now, he and his staff could only prep for maps marked with locations and letters for the rest of the diocese and county. Because they were trapped in the rectory, they couldn’t risk removing the barriers from inside the windows. Not yet at least. Just enough off the rectory’s front door for an envelope to be dropped or picked up. The city’s mayor fears facing similar circumstances, and only helped somewhat before barricading himself and his own colleagues inside the capital. Wonder if someone like that dropped the table from the hospital roof. The closest checkpoint for us is westward, past the major city. Twice the distance of our recent roundtrip, which amounts to sixteen days getting there at least. We didn’t hear about this over the HAM Radio. In fact, it’s gone silent for us while Pie, Mac, Blush and I traveled. Best we can figure, those in our range aren’t around anymore to spread the word. So, now we got two more issues: Is that radio message trustworthy, and who would risk traveling from so far inland after the checkpoint? Answering the first part came in the officer’s name, rank, and G.I. number who made the announcement. Only someone with military background would use correctly. Thankfully, we got a veteran in one Karat to confirm it, after he read the looped message that’s written verbatim. Shining Armor made it through boot camp before that day, so he understood enough to verify Karat’s assessment. Sentry joined Canterlot High’s training reserves program, as a side note. The last question has some added caveats. Can we afford sending a scout party? Will the Guard still be around/alive when we get there? How many can travel at a time? Who’s willing to chance it? Fr. Farmer and Madame Mayor decided to let these questions and info settle for the day, so that everyone can discern in a calm, quiet manner. Next day, we’ll see who’s wanting to try for a better chance of living, and who of us four are willing to travel again, provide escort, and come back. “What will you do?” Cadence asked me after the meeting. “Not sure,” I told her. “I can be helpful here. We might become another small checkpoint for survivors. Plus, the twins. No sense to risk them leaving.” But they can’t stay here with me gone again for that long a stretch either. Pumpkin & Pound have been clinging to me the whole day I rested. Sparkler, Cadence & others did a great job, for sure. There’s just a more intense link between me and them before realizing it. Even when outside for fresh air, they were keeping quiet just so they could stay with me. They’re learning fast, but still too young to risk taking them. Cadence said she and her husband agreed it’s best to have Flurry stay with the twins too, since the three can be extra support for each other. Shining also pointed out how Maud and Big Mac already volunteered for the next trip. Blush is still ruminating, same as me. Writing all this down on my vestibule cot, I’m starting to make up my mind. But first, I need to pray on this, sleep on it, then pray some more at Mass in the morning. Like Father said, take time to recollect and figure out what decision provides deeper peace and resolve in me. Still feeling restless after that first trip, I can get another cycle of the yarn Rosary in before bed. I’m gonna need it. Faithfully, Sheen, A.M.D.G. Day 24PAX. C.S.P.B. C.S.S.M.L.—N.D.S.M.D. V.R.S.N.S.M.V.—S.M.Q.L.I.V.B. Day 24 Bilk: Describes a person choosing to avoid payment and giving someone the slip. Sparkler heard my description of the flickering flashlights and spent the whole night working on a makeshift alert system. She determined that their means of hearing also involves some kind of sonar that disrupts electric currents. With one earpiece, a portable power box, and an iPod Shuffle, someone can listen to music, or white noise while traveling. That way, they can know when those space monsters are getting close and listening. At night, people can take shifts with a flashlight. Extra batteries will be packed. On that note, something I forgot to mention from yesterday. The Bishop wrote in his letter how the military has been calling the creatures "death angels" over the radio. Makes me think of the story of Waterdrawn and the Great Departure from Egypt. Though these things don't just go after the firstborn. But like with the lamb's blood on the doorpost, anyone not making a sound is spared. I also heard a couple other nicknames for them, like "hearers" and "sound killers." As you probably guessed, a decision’s been made. Ten people are willing to chance the checkpoint. Way more than I expected. But it seems to be the right amount of safety in numbers, while helping each other’s silence in smaller groups. First, there’s Cookie Crumbles, her daughter Sweetie Belle, then Big Mac’s Granny and sister Applebloom, plus Clarity Cut and Karat. The escort volunteers are Mac, Maud, Mudbriar & Zecora. The latter would provide first aid and medicine, plus wildlife experience. Mac would take the lead, having Crumbles, Bloom & Sweetie behind him. Zecora will keep behind Granny, Clarity & Karat in the center. Then Maud and Briar will escort from the back of the caravan. If the Guard’s no longer there, they can either keep going or come back. Reaching that destination, Macintosh says he’ll stay with his family and try the boats. That means Maud Pie, Mudbriar & Zecora will be the ones traveling back to us. They’ll be set to leave first thing tomorrow morning, with them returning by Day 58, mid-late ~~Aug~~September, at the earliest. Macintosh hopes Granny won’t push herself any further than the daily 6-mile trek, with Clarity and Karat to help each other with that. Those three being the only elders here, they’re showing how tough they are by traveling. Apparently, Bloom says her Granny’s a great swimmer. That leaves us with ~~23~~6728 staying here. Madame, Farmer, Cadence, Shining & Flurry, the Cake twins, myself, Blush, Comet, Sentry, Lily, Rose & Daisy, Cheerilee, Sparkler, parents Golden Harvest, Written Script & her sister Dinky. Then there's Pipsqueak, Marble, Zephyr, Hothoof & Whistles, Thunderlane & brother Rumble, Caramel, and one Cherry Fizz. I try not to bilk and leave out names. Something else I forgot to mention: my cousins already took the first trip to scout the area. Polish Gleam, Shoeshine & Fine Finish left shortly after hearing Cutlass's letter. If they make it there, they'd turn back the next day to let the caravan know what they found. Putting all these names down made me realize just how crowded we’re getting. Hopefully, these next 32+ days won’t be too eventful. The rest of us will get more things set. Those classrooms for one, as well as start a garden for fresh produce, including Zecora’s herbs. Wallflower’s starting that project with Daisy, Lily & Roseluck. Amethyst will have me help Thunder, Fizz & Caramel on the rooms, then make some type of warning system for creatures. When Whistles gets better, and Hothoof heals from his wounds by Zecora’s input, the two will help Armor & Sentry with more scavenging. Marble’s getting better with watching the sick/injured and youth with Cheerilee, Cadence, Script & Harvest, as well as the cameras. Plus, she’s keeping Zephyr busy in small ways. At least till he adjusts to everyone here. Making sure he doesn’t behave a bilk to our community, while also staying patient with him. For right now, Sparkler’s got me helping prep the troupe with supplies and small gear like we used for the city. I took that chance to visit with Macintosh, show my appreciation for his help, and wish him and his family the best. Not many words traded between us. Just a “Thanks,” then an “Eeyup, you too,” and a heartfelt hug around the shoulders. Felt a nice pop in my upper back. I’m just gonna pray extra hard for these people leaving tomorrow. Make a month-long novena for them. So much can happen out there without immediate or definite support. The stress of making a bad step, forced to take an off-road detour, exposure to elements, cross paths with unsavory characters. But there’s also the dangers that can come to us. So many are living here already, we’re bound to have upcoming issues with food and medicine, rising tensions among refugees, and become a potential target for raids. Saw Bloom & Belle play some checkers, and even one last quiet Monopoly game with Pipsqueak & Rumble while I did laps on the outside grass barefoot. Had the twins napping with pacifiers on pouches at my back and chest. Extra-wrapped in wool blankets to help muffle any sounds as a buffer to race back on the new sand trail. Shining and Cadence were doing the same with Flurry. Can’t just keep ourselves and others inside forever. Especially the next generation. Granny Smith & Clarity Cut finished up with wool-knit sweaters, socks, gloves and headwear they’d been working on while the former was sick. Definitely need as many layers as possible for people when Fall & Winter come rolling. Let’s hope and pray it doesn’t last that long. Then saw Sparkler on a picnic sheet reading a mystery novel, with Wallflower joining with literature on botany. Looks like she borrowed it from Roseluck. Marble & Maud were in the cellar making some sort of rock candy necklaces, with Briar gladly beside them at cameras. Mac, Thunder & Caramel worked on some role-playing scenarios and characters for an hour or two. Coming back inside, I set Pound and Pumpkin down and joined in their sweet siesta. This was a day to really just try to relax and enjoy life for a short while, as best we could. Faithfully, Sheen, A.M.D.G.
Day 9C.S.P.B. PAX. C.S.S.M.L.—N.D.S.M.D. V.R.S.N.S.M.V.—S.M.Q.L.I.V.B. Day 9 I’m told this journal used to be Sunset Shimmer’s, whoever that may be. Lots of people are missing now. Found this on the floor of a torn-up school hallway, under piles of trash and ripped-off lockers. Miss Pie recognized the symbol on the cover. I scavenged all notebooks I could find, but Miss Pie tells me this one has something special about it, as her missing sister once told her. Even though the statue has been demolished by a wild semi that blew up, she thinks her sister Pinkie, her friends, and Sunset cannot get back to us from the other side, whatever that means, and would want to know why through the journal. Almost sounds like she’s in denial, but Miss Pie’s even tone somehow shows conviction. Anyway, I’m going to roll with it and try to offer a testimony of some kind for whomever finds this. Something to remember us by. So far, I’m joined by Miss Maud Pie, and her sister Marble, who used to own a rock quarry they called a farm, losing two another sister and parents. Maud also has her boyfriend, Mud Briar. I crossed paths with them while scavenging at Canterlot High, alongside a Miss Wallflower Blush, an only child without her own parents. From the local orchard, one Big Macintosh and his youngest sister, Applebloom. They’re also missing a sister from the ensuing chaos and bloodshed, with their grandmother who raised them now bedridden. Then coming to the Parish Hall from Crystal Prep are Mr. Shining Armor, his wife Mi Amore Cadenza (Cadence), and their infant Flurry Heart. Armor’s sister is also lost someplace. Again, so many of us are missing loved ones. As for me, my name is Solace Sheen. I’m a scavenger and survivor at Holy Cenacle Parish, where the Church, school, and Divine Providence Hall serve as a refuge for stragglers. I happened to find a pair of toddlers; sound asleep after all hell broke loose. Miss Pie told me their names are Pumpkin and Pound Cake, whose parents used to own a bakery and ice cream parlor in town. She said Pinkie told her all about them in letters before she, herself, moved here. It’s a miracle they’re alive to begin with, praise God! I decided to bring them to my home Parish, where we’re starting a place for survivors seeking shelter and necessities. Other, both from inside and out of the Parish, also joined in with all they have to offer. But there’s always the danger of growing sounds that come with growing numbers. Which brings me to how this all started. The radio and TV interrupted everyone’s baseball games and favorite shows on July 25, 2020, the Feast of St. Stumble Neath. I’m just going to refer to each day onward by counting up after that date. A special news report stated how a meteor shower was sweeping across the Northern Hemisphere and entering Earth. Satellites were wiped out, but thankfully the ISS didn’t suffer too much damage. Big cities were hit the hardest first. Not by the meteorites themselves, but what was on them. All of us at this small urban area, several miles from the closest major city, were not sure what to make of anything. Until they showed up. They went after anything and everyone that was making noise. All the screams, horns and sirens were silenced in no time at all. Those who avoided the first onslaught hunkered down under tables, busted cars, fallen debris, staying absolutely quiet as we watched one of them passing slowly from up close. So tall and limber, but also lean and deceptively lanky. It walked on all fours, though the front legs were folded as if crawling on elbows and wrists. It has long, razor-sharp appendages that can tear through steel and solid brick. It pulled down the giant water tower, by itself. But that’s not all. Not even close. Its head had no eyes, no visible ears, or even nostrils or gills. What it did have was the shell of the hardest exoskeleton I’ve ever seen. With a mouth full of long teeth, like dozens of scimitars and daggers. It made clicking sounds like a dolphin, before it shrieked worse than a wild animal. It would move its head around, as if to pick up a scent, before it did something else next. I don’t know how else to describe it, but it opened up its head. The exoskeleton flexed different parts of its skull to reveal flesh and giant ear canals. I didn’t realize I held my breath for so long, until I felt the pain in my chest and saw red flashes. Suffice to say, I only survived because it picked up another noise further out, and it made a mad dash towards it screaming like a banshee. 9 days later, we’ve been told through HAM Radio and earphones how the military’s response has made little impact on them. They’re spreading their numbers across whole continents, and into the Southern Hemisphere. It seems the only places that aren’t hit are those islands far from the meteors’ path, like Hawaii and Australia. Turns out these things don’t know how to swim and smart enough to avoid deep water. I started scrounging through wreckage as quietly as possible, finding notebooks and pads of paper to write on. Technology here’s been reduced to whatever electricity and generators are still working. That’s when I came across this journal, Miss Blush, Miss Pie, her boyfriend and sister, and other stragglers near the damaged high school looking and waiting for their missing siblings, friends, and Sunset Shimmer. So, I carefully brought them with me back to Holy Cenacle, where Fr. Redmane Farmer's starting a silent help and prayer center. We even started removing the noisy pews, one each day, for more floor space. They’re also tall enough to tip over and use for cover, as well as makeshift insulation for the winter months. Thing is though, we have to do everything so painfully slow, because the second someone makes a noise we have to stay absolutely still ‘til the danger passes. Thankfully, so far, we’ve been spared by a deer, squirrel, raccoon, or crows drawing attention away from us. But we can’t just push our luck and test Providence for much longer. We’re also setting up our own sound decoy systems, for when they get close to us again. Then there’s the issue with small children, who just don’t know better because they can’t. Whatever the Cakes gave their toddlers to stay asleep during the slaughter must’ve been something given regularly. None of us had the foresight to know what was coming. I went looking around at the Cakes’ address, seeing what I could find. Seems to be a feeding solution that you mix in water that the little ones are affected by. Cadence and other new mothers can also save and share some of the milk for orphaned babies to help soothe them. Another reason to be thankful is the fridges and ice boxes at the Parish Hall that still work. So far, we’ve kept the little ones in an enclosed space with old theatre curtains hanging for sound absorption. That’s been working fine so far. But again, we can’t just rely on that. And we can’t expect them to learn quickly and imitate their parents to stay quiet. As for health issues and medical needs, my cousins and neighbors have made trips to all the pharmacies and stores in town. They even collected oxygen tanks and sound-proof boxes on their last trip this morning. Thanks be to God! That’s the one thing I’ve picked up from surviving so far. Something that might last years or generations while these things are still alive on Earth. There’s always a reason to be thankful, especially the gifts found in having each other, and the hope for a future. Both during, and after this terrible danger. I’m not saying I have all the answers, like how to survive or why this is happening. Nor is this a new flood, since God’s promise to Restfulness obviously still stands. Otherwise, we’d all drown with them. All I can say is this: There’s an even greater evil we can’t sense, compared to what can kill the body. Long before these things showed up. An evil that does attack our souls and hearts, and even seduce us to despair, apathy, reckless abandon and depravity. But we’re also given a free will to resist, and to trust in the power of someone no evil can outlast or dare to touch. But that’s the thing, too. We do have a choice, whether to give in or fight back. And from what I heard about this Sunset Shimmer and those with her, their friendship is a strong reflection of that divine power. I see no reason why we can’t strive for that same holy resistance amongst ourselves. Something that’s given to us over-abundantly by silent, gentle Grace. Amen.
Day 12PAX. C.S.P.B. C.S.S.M.L.—N.D.S.M.D. V.R.S.N.S.M.V.—S.M.Q.L.I.V.B. Day 12 Limpid: to describe something as perfectly clear, transparent, or even simple. Must’ve been very tired and exhausted. Nearly overslept and missed Mass. Our celebration of the Sacrifice is more limpid than the Low Tridentine and Novus Ordo, but only because of the dulcet silence. Those few of us Parish members still alive and attending remembered Our Lady of the Snows. When Beloved Rebel made it snow during the hottest month in Italy, exactly where she wanted a Church built for her Son to dwell. Fr. Redmane and I wrote some copies of his homily yesterday morning to distribute and reflect on today's memorial. I was brought to the cellar afterwards, to get everyone else, especially those in charge, up to speed alongside Comet and Maud. We reported what we found, what was missing, and described how the lone drifter ran out of the hospital after busting the alarms. How it came without any reinforcements, despite all the noise. Almost like their hearing's too sensitive for that kind of intense racket. It’s becoming more limpid to us that such a lethal strength can have its own weakness. I’m trying not to imagine what might've happened if the backup power weren’t on for that to work. Now Sparkler’s wondering what else she can do with all the surplus fireworks from last month’s Independence Day. Since we had everybody present to hear all this news, Madame and Fr. Red decided to collaborate with Cadence in some sort of group talk. The former two started things off by sharing a couple of their own bouts of turmoil, sorrow and dread, including the notion that their respective messages that my group will carry won’t find anyone to receive them. Cadence spoke of her shared fears as a new mother among the others, then coaxed Armor to speak up about his own doubts and worries concerning his family, both absent and present. We moved clockwise with those who stayed and were willing to partake. Came to Comet Tail who admitted he may not be up to traveling with myself and Maud Pie. He said how limpid it was to see the two of us as the calmest and most level-headed for the job. Made a point to emphasize how quickly and well we collaborated yesterday. She and I kept quiet, which, I guess, proved his point. This prompted the mayor to ask for one, if not two volunteers for tomorrow's expedition. Big Mac was the first to raise his hand, assuring his little sis that it’s for the better he helps. Next came Miss Blush of all people, who timidly admitted she can gather plants, herbs and seeds along the way to help Golden Harvest start a garden. She added how she can move quietly around without anyone noticing. The fact that she survived the first two weeks at all sure adds merit to her claim. I just hope she’ll keep it that way. I know, says the guy who got caught on a phone cable. Slightly ticked that my cousins didn’t speak up throughout, but also glad at the same time. Not sure how well I could handle losing them in front of me too, or vice versa. Their names are Polish Gleam, Shoeshine and Fine Finish. Lots of childhood memories shared between us and our respectively deceased siblings. After the meeting, Fr. Redmane and Madame Mayor had me and Pie stay in the cellar to spend the rest of the day in recuperation. Knowing how all that stress from yesterday can take its toll, with Tail as a limpid example, they insisted we stay and help care for the small ones, despite my disagreement. Fr. Red knows that I want to stay active after such high doses of adrenaline, stress and fear, which he said is why he wants me to stay. All that energy to help out downstairs, as well as ease some of the tension by interacting with the kids. He noted how limpid it was that the Cake twins, Pumpkin and Pound, have taken a liking to me. Pie made no effort to speak against this either, so any further arguments from me would be otiose. Plus, the security cameras Sparkler set up are down there for us. We can watch out for any sudden or strange movements. She also jerry-rigged a sort of warning system with a switch next to the screens for the porch lights and light poles. So not to feel too useless, I can always take a turn as lookout, and give someone else a break from staring at the screens. They show the outside facing the main Church entry, as well as the school and rectory's front and back. Can see the front and back yard areas completely. There’s also one showing the school gymnasium and inside the Church at the nave. We can see areas where pews are removed and replaced with unrolled rugs. Another is added to those already down the center aisle. For the sake of warmth and sound absorption in that echoic chamber, even with our bare feet. Salvaged rugs are rolled out on the gym floor also, where pews that are moved and tipped over can rest on them, offering a form of sleeping shelter for those of us here, and any other refugees that may come. Though she doesn’t seem alert to what’s happening around her, Maud convinced me she’s far more observant than she lets on. So, she’s been taking shifts with the cameras throughout the day, having Mudbriar by her side as support for one another. Armor and some Flash Sentry character are seen slowly helping with a pew and rug project on the screens, while his wife and daughter sit in front of me and the orphaned twins. As time passed, this activity proved helpful to lower my anxiety. “Seems you three have found a new family,” said Cadence, still with a gentle tone like everyone who comes to the cellar. I said in kind, “Starting to look that way. See what happens, one day at a time.” The two rolled a stuffed ball between the three of us before moving closer to Flurry. “Still call out for ‘Mama’ and ‘Papa.’” The past ten days were spent having evenings with Pound and Pumpkin, helping to change, feed and keep them calm. Often seen looking around, eyes scanning the area as they’d cry out for their parents. Sometimes, I get the word ‘Pinkie’ from the toddlers. Try to use the feeding solution sparingly. A.) Since we're still in short supply of it. B.) Don't want the little ones start to get hooked on the stuff at such a young age. If keeping their head against my chest while humming a lullaby doesn’t work, then I have to take the drastic step of placing each in a sound-proof box, wrapped with blankets and oxygen masks for the night. “What did you tell them,” Cadence asked. “That they were taken,” I said, plain and simple. “Just like mine.” “What else?” Flurry, Pumpkin and Pound started rolling around and climbing on top of each other. “Said I know they’re scared and hurt. That they’re not alone.” I’m guessing she noticed how little I shared after relaying what happened. “Do you feel alone?” That question still rattles my brain, long after the fact. More constant and intense than that alarm at the hospital. Do I feel alone? Why would I? I’m surrounded by other survivors with what’s left of their families and loved ones. I have my cousins. Got a couple of toddlers stuck to me like magnets now. My Parish priest is still alive. Godly Rescue the Anointed One is miraculously right there to receive Him every chance I can. Do I feel alone? “Confused,” was my feeble answer. “Overwhelmed.” “About?” “Why can’t I seem to accept what happened was beyond me? Why did they have to lose so much just so I can find them? What am I supposed to do with them, since there’s no guarantee I’ll make it back? – Other things I said I can’t transliterate. Too much condensation to write. The twins and her daughter grew aware of my predicament. Just went straight up to my lap, looking at me with those colorful pearls for eyeballs. So pure, so much genuine wonder inside them. Like the big sister and mother that I lost, Cadence came up and hugged me. The three little ones joined snuggly in the middle. Why? I just don’t get it. Why? I can’t understand it. Amen. Signed faithfully, Solace Sheen A.M.D.G.
The BellThe bell. We’re all up, flashlights on and lighter ready. Grizzly, by its size and shape. Saw how it woke us while sniffing and scrounging around also. Stood upright feeling challenged by us with a growl. Our lights flickered. It came at the bear like a screeching shadow. ' . , . , . , . , . , ' Sounds of a struggle while we moved back onto the pavement. Kept a slow shuffle close together. Mac faced ahead of us, and the rest kept our eyes and lights every other direction. We pause for a minute or so to listen. , . , . , . , . , . , . Two more. ' . , . , . , . , . ' Pie tossed her firecracker in the dead grizzly’s direction. They headed that way while we keep moving. Blush handed her own to Pie next. We move. , . , . , . , . , . , . , Listen. , . , . , . , . , . , . , . , We’ve been moving slowly. The clicks and shrieks are getting quieter. Lights aren’t flickering. Mac stopped in front of a charred car frame. . , . , . , . , . , . , Ahead. , . , . , . , . , . , . , It opened its head to listen more clearly. Lights flickered. We stayed completely still. Pie couldn’t risk lighting the next stick yet. The shell closed before it crawled forward again. No flicker. Opened up again directly in front of us. Flicker. We heard the other things from behind. Nearly sliced us while passing over in a fast stride. No flicker. . , . , . , . , . , . , . On the move again. . , . , . , . , . , . , . , . Still no flicker. Move again. . , . , . , . , . , . , . , . We wait.
Day 10PAX. C.S.P.B. C.S.S.M.L.—N.D.S.M.D. V.R.S.N.S.M.V.—S.M.Q.L.I.V.B. Day 10 Early in the morning, I woke and got up from my cot in the corner of the vestibule, offered a small morning prayer before washing my face and brushing teeth at the restroom with water running low. Those of us from this Parish quietly attended the daily celebration, remembering the New, Eternal Covenant by Godly Rescue, The Holy Anointed One. We mouth the responses we’ve come to know by heart. I started making a few pamphlets by hand for anyone interested to learn them. Knowing it’s my turn to help with laundry on our new weekly cycle, I took my own cloth sack of items to be brought for washing. Got a stable setup in the rectory, where Madam Mayor and Amethyst Star put together an area for soaking, another for washing, then a direct access point towards the backyard for hang drying. I slowly started a fresh batch of hot water to fill in the soaking and washing tubs and untwisted the cap for detergent with great care. For the sake of listening for sudden noises, to prevent or stay alert for incidents, I opted not to wear a single earpiece for music. To pass the time, I focus on each article of clothing that’s been piled for people whose laundry day happens to be today. First week doing this, it’s not that much. Amethyst, a childhood friend at elementary, has been very active coordinating the various projects we’ve begun here. She came in to start her shift on time today, as usual. Asked me about the newcomers I picked up from Canterlot High. All was needed was for her to mouth the words, “New guys”. I said in slow breaths, “Cuts and bruises, but okay.” Sparkler, as her close friends like to call her, continued, “What else?” Nodding with comprehension about their background, I replied, “Strong farm hand. Small sister, quick and tough. Two sisters, great with rocks. One boyfriend, vegetation. One loner, gardener.” “The grandma,” she asked. “Cellar, resting.” Most sounds can be easily muffled by being underground in the rectory’s cellar, added by those theatre curtains I mentioned after we slowly brought them down. We got it set so that the sick, injured, and moms can use the most obscured area on the property for rest and nurturing. Again, a temporary fix. “Comet,” Sparkler stated, referring to Comet Tail, Canterlot classmate of hers. “Getting ready for hospital trip tomorrow.” We figured to at least start foraging items there, since other teams are taking the stores. With currency no longer an issue, anything’s up for grabs. I just hope that doesn’t include us. And I don’t just mean those things. “Fr. Red,” came the next matter to address. “Finalized inventory last night. Getting bishop’s letter ready.” Despite knowing the dangers in traveling outside city limits, especially on foot without immediate help or reception, we agreed to chance a delivery service. Both to inform Bishop Cutlass our current situation, and to see if he or anyone else is still there. This way, we can know whether or not we’re the only survivors in the county or diocese. That is, friendly survivors. Again, those alien sound predators aren’t the only possible danger. Thankfully, so far, everyone that’s come to the Parish has been vouched for by neighbors, schoolmates and relatives. And even if a total stranger comes by, we still need to offer some benefit of the doubt, while also watching his movements and actions. We just need to figure out a system that can scare unsavory characters without endangering everyone else. “Firecrackers.” Like that. I told Sparkler, “Hard to use on the fly.” “I split them,” she said. “Have lighter in one pocket, one stick in the other. Pull out and set light close to it.” “Can’t maneuver well.” I put both my hands deep in my pockets to demonstrate how I move. “Bad posture.” She countered, “Not whole group. Just one in the middle.” We make it a point to have teams traveling anywhere in threes, at least. “Take rock sister with you and Comet.” “One of them still in shock. The other barely responds.” And the few things she talked about make little sense on writing down. Of course, Amethyst and I were referring to Miss Maud Pie. “She’s steady, calm, direct. She can still help.” There’s still one issue: “You ask her yet?” “She stepped up to join the hospital. I’ll ask her about delivery before. She’ll do it.” “How do you know?” “She’s driven. She and ‘farm hand’ did more in two days than the other new guys.” “Not smart to use up energy fast,” referring to both Pie and Macintosh. “Nine-day trip. Plenty time to rest.” We figured six miles a day was doable. Four days to get there, a day to scavenge and resupply, then four days back. Barring incidents. I conceded that she must’ve thought about these and other variables beforehand. We’re all still trying to establish a good structure here, especially in so short of time. Bad enough we’re taking a risk to deliver a message to someone we’re not sure is alive, in whatever’s left of that major city. Plus, we’re still reeling over our new situation, one that may prove less and less temporary with each day. Worse still, enlisting someone that just joined the refugee site, without knowledge or consent, adds even greater risk that may prove unnecessary. But with how the other teams have no one to spare for this trip, Miss Pie and Macintosh will definitely be needed sooner than later. “Hospital tomorrow,” I told Amethyst. “See what happens first.” She nodded, satisfied with that consensus before prepping the tubs for the next batch of garments. I put my load into other cloth sacks before heading to the clothesline. We kept this process going through the morning ‘til all is left hanging to dry. After finishing our task, we had lunch prepared for us by Daisy, Lily and Roseluck. The afternoon was spent by slowly dismantling another pew from the nave. Dinner provided also by Daisy, Lily and Roseluck. Our meals are received at the Parish Hall, before we find quiet seating on the lawn. The evening is allotted to us for leisure use, whether it’s reading, listening to earpiece music, or just lying on the grass. Many are still having difficulties regaining some normalcy. After Cheerilee and a few parents are done tutoring students, they’re all given the afternoon to make cloth-based items for board games, playing catch, or just sit down with thick paper, paints, pastels, and pencils on top of thick blankets. Whenever a little one starts to grow upset about something, one of us rushes to take him or her back into the cellar with all the hanging curtains. There, they can have their fuss while the grownup soothes and listens. Kids old enough to understand help to ensure those younger practice silence when outside or upstairs. Applebloom is one such adolescent, alongside a few she recognized: Pipsqueak, Rumble, and Dinky Hooves. I found out she used to play and explore with two very close friends before that day. She knows that one traveled with her folks to Australia for vacation, while the other took a trip with her own parents to the lake at Camp Everfree. All three had sisters or sister figures from the high school who went missing along with Sunset Shimmer. From what I gathered, using pencils and notepads, the newcomers that could answer me said how Sunset and her friends were able to wield certain abilities that are tangible, yet also above the natural order of things. Somehow, by harnessing benevolent energy shared between their friendly bonds, the seven teens can ward off those who disturb the peace and dark forces. This journal was a way for Sunset to get in touch with another friend who doesn’t exist in this world, and the busted mustang statue held an active portal that bridged the two worlds. Hoping for some miracle, Fr. Redmane suggested I continue to write in this logbook used for communication. 1: For the sake of providing ongoing records of our activity during this time for posterity. 2: If this book can reach someone else to inform them our situation so they can help, even with the bridge out, then it’s worth a shot. 3: Since nothing on the pages suggest the occult, it’s good to at least try and capitalize such means with due prudence. Hence the Latin initials for exorcising satanic incantations from St. Blessspeech, just as a precaution. On that note, for the sake of trying something different to restore some levity and normalcy, I decided to find a random word in the Dictionary I don’t know. I’ll write it down and its definition, then form my own sentences with it in each entry. It may not be every day, or every time I record. But maybe I can broaden my vocab, and that of future readers. Otiose (oat-yose): something that serves no useful purpose. Someone can argue that, given our drastically dangerous environment, this sort of hobby is otiose. There can also be some who believe that life and all our efforts are absolutely otiose, whether by overexposure to pain and grief, or for the sake of numbing said pain. Even though our lives are fleeting, the only thing that renders something otiose is our own attitude towards it. Faith is considered by some otiose or opposed to reason, while others view them as complementary, and others still declare faith the only thing worthwhile. We can ask ourselves which camp we fall under, and why that is. By evening, some of us prayed with cloth Rosaries before bedtime. I made it down to the cellar to see Macintosh check on his grandma and Marble Pie. Applebloom said they had a small crush before he met his deceased fiancé. I got to spend some more time with Pound and Pumpkin Cake. Got to read a bedtime story with them, as Granny and Marble lied still listening. After teeth brushed, I’m back on my cot to close out the day. Signed faithfully, Solace Korbinian Sheen A.M.D.G. P.S. That acronym is a maxim of St. Flamemire’s. Amen.
Day 11PAX. C.S.P.B. C.S.S.M.L.—N.D.S.M.D. V.R.S.N.S.M.V.—S.M.Q.L.I.V.B. Day 11 Obstetricate (ob-stet-rih-kate): to serve the function of a midwife during labor. Deemed archaic, or obsolete. Another nightmare last night. Playing back the same moment but with a few twists and changes every time. Having to cover my little brother’s ears and turn his face to my chest, I watch our parents getting sliced to pieces. I see the thing come up to us with a cackle. The clicks it makes almost sound like it’s mocking me. Then its shrieks turn to sadistic laughter, like its saving me for sport. “Next time,” it said. Then it leaves. I’m practically screaming at it to come back and finish the job, before opening my eyes to see Fr. Redmane with a hand over my mouth. He brought me into the confessional’s thick walls to talk about it before Mass. He suggested I spend extra time alone in the Church before the hospital trip. My parents were Constance Joy and Solemn Reginald Sheen. I also had four siblings. Their names are Felix Dawn, Serenity Dusk, then twins Prudence Karen and Credence Kevin. They’re all dead. That’s more for my benefit than anything else, really. I keep having the same questions in my head. Like nails, pikes and thorns jammed deep into my skull. Why them? How wasn’t I quick enough to help at least one of them? How come I’m still alive? What greater good can possibly come from all this? There’s no rhyme or reason for this senseless violence, pain and destruction. It’s nothingness, but that’s what also makes it powerful. Like a black hole sucking me into itself from inside myself. All I can do is lay it all bare at my LORD’s feet, at the altar of His Cross. I’m not saying I’m a dualist, nor having a split personality. Just because you see someone talking aloud to himself or herself, doesn’t make it schizophrenia by default. And it’s not like I didn’t have dark thoughts and demons assaulting me until that day. I’m just presenting the fact that there’s two parts of the same whole in myself. I’m hurting, fallen, wounded, scared and just as much capable of depraved, corrupt misuse of me free will as everybody else. And I’m sure there are other parts of my whole being I’m not fully aware of that also need care and healing. Long before those things crashed down, lots of people have been looking for answers; a scapegoat, something or someone to blame. Some means to take swift action for a quick fix, or a reset switch to flip and solve all the world’s problems. Little do we realize that we bring all our own problems into the mix, buried under a genuine wish for a fresh start. Not just past traumas or wrongs done to us, but our own flaws and temptations that stem from something deeper than any physical influence. Though, that can definitely be a part of it. There’s an even worse enemy than what those things can do. One that can - and has taken its toll on our human existence. One that we cannot see, hear, smell, or touch, yet at the same time even more real than flesh and bone. Those alien sound hunters are just obstetricating more rotten fruit for the evil one’s self-imploding, repetitive schemes. I need to be careful not to obstetricate more corruption from within. Just like everybody else. I know I can’t do this on my own. But like it says in the Philippians, I just need to trust in Godly Rescue for my strength. Only then can I do all that He wants me to do. Like everyone else, I need to ask Him for ~~peace~~Serenity in matters beyond my control, courage to face challenges I can help with, and the Wisdom to tell the difference.
NoonNoon. Sun’s reached its zenith now. I’m on the first-floor reception of the ER wing with Comet Tail and Maud Pie. Most of the building’s damage seems to have erupted here, so it was difficult not to disturb broken glass or debris. But we checked all the other doorways, finding them blocked or bolted shut. Also, making our way to the stairwells, we found the northeast corner with the least blockage and without loose steps ready to fall and crash. Tail got anxious at first, since I took a while in the Church after my nightmare. He shows jittering movements sometimes but improves after he stops to take a deep breath. Miss Pie has been calm and still throughout the trip, blinking her eyes now and then, and sometimes following us with her line of sight. She demonstrated to us how quick she is with setting a lighter next to a firecracker from her pockets with so little noise. With that, I took the end of the line while Tail led the troupe. With Pie looking out for unpleasant company, Tail and I have been scrounging one small area at a time. At least, those areas we can access without too much trouble. I’m surprised at how low the body count is down here. But that’s only because these were the lucky souls who weren’t snatched away at death. We don’t know what those things do to their prey on capture. Because of how sporadic the slashes are against the walls, floors, trees and ground, we’ve got very little to work with and track down their remains, never mind what exactly happened. I paused to offer a small prayer for all my deceased neighbors and brethren in the Anointed One. Lots of toiletries and air tanks in supply closets, but we don't have the means to take them all this trip. More paper, pens and pencils here. Some extra bags for carrying things here and there. Prescription tablets strewn on the floor and countertops out of their containers, which are empty to distinguish what belong to where. The containers still intact and full we foraged, alongside a couple cans of instant coffee. Very little else aside from crutches, wheelchairs, and lollipops. Figured the kids could enjoy the latter, at least. The rest is otiose, whether to use or carry with us right now. We stopped for a small lunch here at ER reception, made for us by Daisy, Lily and Roseluck. Don’t want to rush ourselves going anyplace, for the sake of keeping calm and not causing loud disturbances while we work. After a few more sips from our water bottles, we’ll gently put them back in our backpacks then carry on to the second floor.
2nd Floor2nd Floor. Took me awhile to realize this, but after a couple sections upstairs, Pie noted a complete lack of first-aid kits, extra batteries and other things lying around. This brought all three of us to conclude that others have come to this building looking for supplies also. Probably someone who frequented this place to know where things are, then grab them incrementally. Tail and I were pondering how to proceed, whether to keep going, leave or wait outside the aperture to see who else may come or depart, when Pie . , . , . , . , . , . , . Wait. . , . , . , . , . , . , . , . , Passed our hiding place between the counter and lounge. Sounds like it took the northeast stairs. Wait. . , , , . , . , . , . , . , Still hearing clicks and thumps above us. No clear shot for Pie to throw a firecracker out the window. Tail thinks we should chance leaving before it can come back or wait to pounce. Pie’s stalk still. , . , . , . , , . , . , . I noticed a subtle shift. Barely. I look at her and ask under shallow breath, “What do you need?” She pointed at the wall, where there’s a fire alarm handle untouched. I admit there were low chances of it working, since someone might’ve already triggered it elsewhere during the chaos and destruction. But better than nothing, I slid low since I was closest. Kept myself against the counter towards the wall before a phone cable snagged and fell down. Pie was right beside me for the catch. Barely. She kept both parts close to her chest. To be more careful, I really made sure to take my time. Made it across the gap, and got below it. I pushed it in then yanked the handle down. Pie dropped the landline. I took lead with Tail at the end. We moved during the blaring intervals, and stopped at the momentary pauses per Pie’s hand on my shoulder. We made it twenty feet from the ER exit before it wildly burst in from behind us with a shriek. I think I heard Comet Tail yelp, or maybe I heard myself. It barely missed our heads as it barreled over us. Thrashed at each and every sound speaker close to the ceiling, then moved on to the next area of the building. Thankfully, it cleared some of the rubble out of our way from before entering. Blaring sirens were heard across the parking lot as we kept racing back to the main road. Then it stopped. In case there were more of them outside with us, we decided to stop for a breather and listen. Praise God it was a loner! Clearly agitated by the constant loud noises in the hospital, especially after tearing out every system in the building, it ran away. We just made it back to Holy Cenacle before dark. Now I’m on my cot after several minutes of quiet gratitude. Need to get the last of my adrenaline settled before sleeping. Writing all this down helps. For the sake of consistency, please forgive me in advance. I sure hope I don't have to enter another hospital in the near future, let alone obstetricate from inside one. Good night. Faithfully, Sheen A.M.D.G.
Day 14PAX. C.S.P.B. C.S.S.M.L.—N.D.S.M.D. V.R.S.N.S.M.V.—S.M.Q.L.I.V.B. Day ~~13~~ 14 Coterie (koh-tuh-ree): Exclusive group of individuals closely sharing a unified goal, purpose or interest. That’ll be the last one for a while during this trip. Had to leave the dictionary behind for packing space. Looking back at the last entries, I forgot to mention what exactly happened at the hospital. Maud told me and Comet how we were short of time and resources to either wait for other people or try and gather more things. We agreed to start heading back to the Church and school after consolidating all that we found, and I decided to record that before we all heard a reverberating crash. Something fell from the rooftop. Neither Comet nor I had the chance to check what it was, but Maud described seeing a large metal box like the ones attached to the bed of a truck. Suggesting that someone else was in the building, it may have been more than one, and those possibly living there were not keen to join our coterie. That got me to wonder if the backup power system was ever on, or if the original generator was restored. At any rate, our rations were prepared in advance the past four days before departure yesterday. Roseluck, Daisy and Lily had for us a variety of snack bars, string cheese, chips and jerky pre-removed from their bags and wrappers, which were kept inside clean bandanas, handkerchiefs, and towels. Four days’ worth of food to get us there, Amethyst, Maud, Big Mac and I figured it’d be best that we scrounge for more food once in the big city to save up on supplies here. With rolled up sleeping mats, wool blankets, plastic jugs, and some of those durable shopping backs folded in our backpacks, we put on some hiking boots before cutting through the school’s ballfield and reaching the road towards the interstate. Attended the Mass Liturgy celebrating the Feast of the Transfiguration. I thought it was fitting, since Godly Rescue talked about His self-sacrificing departure with Waterdrawn and Mi Domino Deo on the mountain. Applebloom and Pipsqueak are most familiar with the Cake twins. Able to take good care of them and kept them occupied during our exit. Left them a small token for them. Fuzzy dice they enjoyed playing with after I found them 10 days ago. I started the first day in leading the pack, with Wallflower Blush right behind me followed by Maud Pie, hands ready on a firecracker and light, and Big Macintosh trailing last. The mile markers and signs are great indicators of how far we travel. Still, Blush opted to carry an old roadmap for navigation. No guarantee that every road sign is still intact at each exit. It’s a clear shot, with a wide ditch on both sides of, and between the two roads. No obstacles too challenging to maneuver. Capsized cars, trucks and semis mostly spaced out, whether on the road or in the ditches. Unlike the echoing gym and Church nave, we felt the need to wear our boots on the road for the sake of broken glass and debris. The asphalt offers solid traction that absorbs most sound from our slow, conserving steps. And with a clear line of sight ahead and behind us, and ample space between us and the tree line, we’re able to traverse down this sure path with little worry about sudden ambush. Even if one of us accidentally makes a noise, there’s plenty of grass cover to muffle our steps and quickly lie still in the ditch. Maud can then be ready to light and throw a stick across the street for a diversion. Anyone trying to surprise us would have to make a noise themselves, putting their own lives in jeopardy. Still, during such times as these, people are liable to do crazy, senseless things out of desperation. Take the hospital, for instance. Can’t be too careful. Not a sound nor sight of birds, squirrels or rabbits. No wildlife detectible for miles. I imagine many of them had to migrate southward. Even a bird’s got to find someplace to forage and roost. We spent the first night in the center ditch, where Maud rigged a bell system around us without the other three’s notice. Anyone trying to come close to our coterie would trigger one string or another, while trying to go over or beneath. In case that ever happens, she mentioned Sparkler’s suggestion of each carrying a stick of firecrackers to incrementally toss as we move away from encroaching aliens. With a flashlight in case to travel at night, we opted to keep our campsite without chancing a fire, or lamplight. For the sake of minimal attention and to keep any intruder from seeing the bell line. The bells themselves would be fair enough of a warning. We all slept on our pads, wrapped in our wooly blankets with relative ease. The stars above, on the canvas of a clear sky offered momentary consolation. Today, we moved along the road again. Starting after dawn, we saved our rations ‘til we’re three miles out for lunch. Further out of any city limits was much clearer, with very little metallic carnage or places where a fire erupted. Still, the area has clear signs of a wildfire that did spread from beyond our line of sight. Taking a rest after three miles, I thought we might try a brief game to help raise our spirits a little. I wrote instructions on what to do, then wrote a sentence for a story and drew a picture. I passed it to Blush, who would try to write the next sentence of the story, then draw a picture based on that sentence. Passing it to Macintosh, he would do the same before sending it to Maud. Then it would come back to me after everyone’s finished. Here’s how it went: A raven flew by, nabbed someone’s bread, then ate it. The raven landed next to a giant flytrap that was also hungry. There's also a nest full of fruit bats nearby who went and ate all the giant flies before that there plant can get any. And there was a rock named Boulder. Boulder says that he was dehydrated but was glad that he doesn’t have to eat. The End. I think the four of us shared a good smile amongst ourselves. Wallflower was at least somewhat amused, while Big Mac seemed glad of the chance to reminisce a bit. I’m guessing Maud was happy to incorporate her pet rock into the game then let said rock play along too. The other three miles for today were, thankfully, uneventful. The advantage we have in walking past burnt down trees was not seeing movement amidst charred stumps and ash. Anything trying to approach us would be spotted instantly. The downside to all this though was traveling with the sun shining directly onto us, without any shade for cover. We were probably all thinking about sunscreen and aloe vera to grab once we get to the big city. Though there was fewer flotsam around our camp for string to wrap around, Maud spotted long sturdy poles from ripped-off markers and road barriers. Gently and firmly driving them into the ground, us coterie members helped her set up the bell system for the night. Like the other nights previous after a short supper, I prayed on my cloth Rosary before going to bed. Good night. Faithfully, Solace Sheen A.M.D.G.
Days 15, 16 & 17PAX. C.S.P.B. C.S.S.M.L.—N.D.S.M.D. V.R.S.N.S.M.V.—S.M.Q.L.I.V.B. Day 15 Same routine. Only this time during break, Macintosh pulled off a bandana he’s been wearing that happens to be checker-box in pattern. Then he removed from his backpack a sack of felt chess and checker pieces that he and his sister made. I played a round each with him. I didn’t last long. Wallflower played longer than me at chess and beat him at checkers. Came across a wide brook. Stopped to refill our bottles, after first using filtration canisters my dad used during hunting trips. Sheen A.M.D.G. Day 16 Maud decided to play a round of chess with Big Mac. Came down to a very close finish, before she eventually won. Before reaching the city, I got in two more rounds of chess with Mac, then a round each with Maud and Blush. It became limpid that I’m the least formidable in our coterie. I barely beat Wallflower, much to everyone’s amusement. I say everyone, because even Pie gave her thumbs down and tongue out at my sole victory. All in good fun and silent chuckles. We chose the most obscure, abandoned one-story building that we saw. We helped Maud set up bells at the door and windows not blocked by broken glass or debris. Next, we took the nearest corner to the main road, where we can slip out quick and back onto the interstate in case of incidents. It’s getting dark since we first arrived, so we had to resort to flashlights and our lantern in the middle to watch our steps. One thing we learned while setting up our refugee center was how those things somehow cause our lightbulbs to flicker. As if their presence can obstruct an electric current. Seeing as how we’re in the sole major metropolis in the county, where more of those animals are likely living, we decided to take a chance and leave our lantern on at the center as a precaution. I forgot to mention that after my evening Rosary, I’ve been offering a small prayer to our guardian angels and the archangels for guidance and protection. A novena, nine days, because I found it appropriate for our projected length of time in getting here, then back. Sheen A.M.D.G. Day 17 First, we chose to make our way to downtown for me to find the cathedral and main building of the diocese. I set a time to wait and be picked up by the other three after lunch, so they can reach city hall and find any signs of the mayor there. We’d also try to scrounge and resupply as best we can before we leave the city. Also agreed not to go back to our original camping area, in case someone might wait for us there. Instead, we’ll get back onto the interstate, using our flashlights if need be, before hunkering down in the center ditch again. I found the diocese administration building, and the cathedral, totally barricaded. Dismayed, but not completely shocked by this, I pulled out Fr. Redmane’s clerical crest that he had made on a large piece of cardboard and folded tightly into my bag. Hoping this would let them know I’m trustworthy, wishing I didn’t have to resort to this. After a full lap around the buildings in a figure eight, or infinity sign I guess, I saw a sealed envelope and small sack of food at the rectory’s front door. Not wanting to risk more time drawing attention to myself, I left Fr. Red's letter at the door and put both items in my bag with the cardboard sign before making my way to the nearest store to scavenge more sustenance. The others returned with some luck of their own. They also received an envelope, but no sack of food. We all had some fortune in grabbing snack bars and chips before heading back onto the interstate. We settled four miles out of the city, making our day’s walk come to a total of ten miles. Guess something about numerous tall buildings left in disrepair and fire damage all round left us feeling uneasy. Especially if any of those windows now have a pair of watching eyes, or listening ears, at anything and anyone that moves. It got dark again by the time we set up bells and sleep mats again. My flashlight hasn’t flickered yet while writing all this down, so that's good sign at least. Good night. Faithfully, Sheen A.M.D.G.
Pre-DawnPre-dawn. Sky’s changing colors. Sun’s not out yet. Been moving incrementally this way all night. Can’t stop too long for a proper rest yet. Too much adrenaline. We’re moving again. . , . , . , . , . , . We wait again. ' , . , . , . , . , ' Mac, Blush and I started stumbling with our steps. We left our mats behind. Still got wool blankets. Pie handed me the lighter and stick. Pulled out her extra twine and bells. Always keeps the bell raised and close to chest. Set to where no one can go over or under. Even in broad daylight. Lost track of mile markers to count. Have to rest before looking a map. Good night day. Sheen. A.M.D.G.
Day 19PAX. C.S.P.B. C.S.S.M.L.—N.D.S.M.D. V.R.S.N.S.M.V.—S.M.Q.L.I.V.B. Day 19 We woke up with the midday sun shining through the wool covers yesterday, based on my water-resistant digital watch. Remembered to check that any alarms stayed off before traveling. Turns out we walked another 7 miles that night. The brook we crossed before is directly below us. We all agreed to spend the rest of the day recuperating before moving again. We also didn’t want to chance traveling by night again, in case we trip over any debris to make some noise. Just resting and wading our feet in the running water for cover sound: a great way to rest right now. None of us slept well that morning. I dreamt that I woke up by myself after hearing someone ask, “Do you feel alone?” I saw no one else. The strings and bells were still untouched. But then I sensed something right behind me. Long before the clicking started. Against my better judgment, I quickly spun around to see the animal and try putting some distance between it and me. But I couldn’t budge. Like my arms and legs were jell-oh wrapped in plastic. It just kept its head turning towards my way, as if it had always known where I was. Like the other times before, it moved its javelin jaws up and down to talk. “Next time.” I can’t remember the last time I stuck my head underwater to yell like that. Do I feel alone? It’s like the answer’s right there on the tip of my tongue. Clear as day, at the back of my mind. But I’m not getting there. It’s like an invisible wall taunting me to grab what I should be able to reach. I feel frustrated, angry, borderline despondent. I almost want to quit caring about the answer. It’s going to get myself and everyone else killed at this rate. Why even bother, anymore? Fr. Redmane told me to stop, breathe, and pray after this came back to the surface. Even when I think it’s pointless, he told me to make an effort. Even if it means getting one word of prayer in. And not just from my end. Thankfully, I was able to think of two words: Dad? Mom? All I got in reply was the gentle brush of air under the bridge, joined by rhythmic gurgling from the water flow. I can picture them close by. Reliving a time when we all went camping. My parents and siblings. I can almost see them, hear their voices, if not sensing their presence. He also added that I should write this down, to help sort through my thoughts and feelings. Can’t imagine how Fr. Red must be feeling right now. What, with helping the mayor lead a refugee site at the Parish and school. And that’s even without considering what Bishop Cutlass has to say in the letter for him. Now I’m starting to wonder what sort of shi –things he might be going through. Does he feel like he’s the only one around to handle this situation? No telling what the bishop’s letter says. He always told me Godly Rescue’s right there to pour out my troubles for Him to bear and listen. Since he’s ordained, Fr. Red can help make that happen anytime, anyplace though, right? All he needs is some piece of bread and a tin cup of wine like they did in Dachau or Siberia. But what about where I’m at? No tabernacle, no Presence, no chalice or ciborium. Sure, if two or more are gathered in the Anointed One’s Name, then He’s there. I’m looking at my teams faces, and they don’t seem interested in trying that out. Of course, Maud’s hard to read. Who knows whether yay or nay with her? But Wallflower looks like she wouldn’t have a clue what’s going on. Big Mac looks like he’s questioning everything just as badly as I’ve been. Do I feel alone? Never mind me! Ask anyone else that question, see what sort of answers come from that! I stopped myself to breathe again. Mom? Dad? Right now, the only comfort I’m getting is from the wind’s touch and brook’s babble. Maybe that’s as far as I can find Him, for now. I thought Godly Rescue’s supposed to be right next to me. But then I’m reminded of what He said on the Cross: “Why did you abandon me?” Guess He’s closer to me than I’d like right now. Hopefully, Fr. Redmane’s still there for me to ask him. Though, depending on what the letter says, he and I might both need extra quiet time in Church. Again, I keep telling myself we shouldn’t test God’s Providence. Yet here we are, constantly relying on it like it’s, well, our bread and butter. Guess that’s all I can do right now, just keep hoping and relying on that. I must’ve said those two words out loud, or something. Because the next thing I knew, I nearly jumped out of my skin when Mac rested a hand on my shoulder. He muttered under the brook’s current, “Mine too?” Just the look in his eyes told me exactly whom he meant. Next came Pie, who came to offer a hand on my back from behind. Though Blush was last, she eventually joined in, taking the other shoulder for her hand to rest on. I told them my family’s names. And they shared the same with me. Maud’s parents, Igneous Rock and Cloudy Quartz, and sisters Limestone Pie and Pinkamena Diane. She said the latter would like me a lot, same with everybody else. Big Mac’s parents, Bright Macintosh and Pear Butter, whom he lost years before that day. His sister, Applejack, whom he’s still holding out for, as Maud for Pinkie. His late fiancé is named Sugar Belle. Wallflower said she’s an only child, expecting me not to remember the first time. I told her I remembered, which she seemed to appreciate. Her parents’ names are Hayfever and Paintbrush Orchid. We just stayed there under the bridge in that same position throughout Day 18. Before getting to sleep, of course. All that helped to ease most tension down across my spine. Praise God. I had spent the next 24 hours with these same thoughts and shared experience before finally putting this down after another six miles today. During our break, Maud coaxed me in a round of checkers with her. That helped get my mind away from that inner vacuum I mentioned. Even though I wasn’t all the way into it, she knew, and we took our time. Still lost, but not as badly as I would’ve. I at least got two kings against her three. We’re more than halfway now. Couple more days to go. Right now, I’m just looking forward to the next time I can rest in my cot. I can’t worry about that wall standing in my way. Obviously, I’m not ready to scale it yet. God knows it. Devil knows it. I know it. Can’t afford to worry about every single thing that’s going on and what needs done. Just think about the very next thing right in front of me, work through that, until that’s done and can move on to the next thing after that. God, help me keep patient with myself. Amen. Faithfully, Sheen A.M.D.G.
Day 23PAX. C.S.P.B. C.S.S.M.L.—N.D.S.M.D. V.R.S.N.S.M.V.—S.M.Q.L.I.V.B. Day 23 Eclectic: broad, a wide range of tastes, styles, or ideas. I guess you could say Beloved Rebel is eclectic, due to her various titles. Yesterday we remembered her as Lady of the Garden. I’m sure Wallflower appreciated hearing that one, considering how eclectic she may be with what she plants. I know, quit while I’m ahead. Now we got that out of the way, let’s review the past four days: We made it back to the refuge site and Church before dusk, the day before last. Thankfully, no more events throughout. While we were resting in the cellar yesterday, Sparkler, Comet and the rest started hanging thick stage curtains all over the school gym. Grabbing them from abandoned and destroyed theatres and school buildings around town. They were also able to scavenge for supplies, including 50 lb. bags of sand for walking on pavement without shoes. Some more stragglers were found and joined our troupe. There’s Bow Hothoof & Windy Whistles, parents to one Rainbow Dash known by Shimmer. They came with a few injuries and a high fever. And then Zephyr Breeze, who came looking for his sister Fluttershy, another of Shimmer’s friends, after losing his parents. Not sure how much help he’ll become yet, since he prefers to stay in the cellar with the elderly and sick, if not with Mudbriar at the cameras. Marble seems to be the one prompting him to offer a hand here and there, now that she’s back on her feet. Amethyst said she got motivated to help out and move, after growing too anxious waiting for Maud. Macintosh’s grandmother got better and walks around with the little ones. There’s also an herbalist named Zecora. She came from the national park near Camp Everfree, joined by Applebloom’s friend Sweetie Belle, and her mom Cookie Crumbles. They went looking for Shimmer’s other friend, Rarity, before finding us. The dad, Hondo Flanks, didn’t make it. I also found out that Flash Sentry is Shimmer’s ex. And Shining’s sister, Twilight Sparkle, also befriended Rarity, Fluttershy, & Sunset. More refugees coming in, all the extra sand, rugs and curtains to absorb sound will make the gym and outside a better place to get situated. We can even start on the classrooms for shelter. Move the sick and elderly out of the damp cellar to warmer, drier spaces, and sound-proof a larger area for little ones. But even that’s bound to get packed, at this rate. Rations are also harder to come by. Which brings us to Bishop Cutlass’ letter. All that debris barricading the Cathedral and rectory were set by a mob trying to find a scapegoat. It was about a dozen people still living in the city. Any other survivors would’ve made noise trying to stop them, which is what happened. Before they could burn the Cathedral down with Bishop and staff inside, the mob didn’t realize they grew louder as they progressed, drawing those animals onto themselves. Cutlass asked that we keep those people in our prayers too, since they were just acting out of desperation, pain, and outrage. LORD, grant them Eternal Rest, and let perpetual light shine on them. May they rest in peace. Amen. Afterwards, the sacristan with headphones heard a message on the radio. The National and Coast Guards were setting up evacuation checkpoints. Since the creatures can’t swim, and can only travel on the mainland, there’ll be ships that can take people to small islands off the coast, then some later to Australia, the Philippines, Hawaii, etc. Cutlass said that, for now, he and his staff could only prep for maps marked with locations and letters for the rest of the diocese and county. Because they were trapped in the rectory, they couldn’t risk removing the barriers from inside the windows. Not yet at least. Just enough off the rectory’s front door for an envelope to be dropped or picked up. The city’s mayor fears facing similar circumstances, and only helped somewhat before barricading himself and his own colleagues inside the capital. Wonder if someone like that dropped the table from the hospital roof. The closest checkpoint for us is westward, past the major city. Twice the distance of our recent roundtrip, which amounts to sixteen days getting there at least. We didn’t hear about this over the HAM Radio. In fact, it’s gone silent for us while Pie, Mac, Blush and I traveled. Best we can figure, those in our range aren’t around anymore to spread the word. So, now we got two more issues: Is that radio message trustworthy, and who would risk traveling from so far inland after the checkpoint? Answering the first part came in the officer’s name, rank, and G.I. number who made the announcement. Only someone with military background would use correctly. Thankfully, we got a veteran in one Karat to confirm it, after he read the looped message that’s written verbatim. Shining Armor made it through boot camp before that day, so he understood enough to verify Karat’s assessment. Sentry joined Canterlot High’s training reserves program, as a side note. The last question has some added caveats. Can we afford sending a scout party? Will the Guard still be around/alive when we get there? How many can travel at a time? Who’s willing to chance it? Fr. Farmer and Madame Mayor decided to let these questions and info settle for the day, so that everyone can discern in a calm, quiet manner. Next day, we’ll see who’s wanting to try for a better chance of living, and who of us four are willing to travel again, provide escort, and come back. “What will you do?” Cadence asked me after the meeting. “Not sure,” I told her. “I can be helpful here. We might become another small checkpoint for survivors. Plus, the twins. No sense to risk them leaving.” But they can’t stay here with me gone again for that long a stretch either. Pumpkin & Pound have been clinging to me the whole day I rested. Sparkler, Cadence & others did a great job, for sure. There’s just a more intense link between me and them before realizing it. Even when outside for fresh air, they were keeping quiet just so they could stay with me. They’re learning fast, but still too young to risk taking them. Cadence said she and her husband agreed it’s best to have Flurry stay with the twins too, since the three can be extra support for each other. Shining also pointed out how Maud and Big Mac already volunteered for the next trip. Blush is still ruminating, same as me. Writing all this down on my vestibule cot, I’m starting to make up my mind. But first, I need to pray on this, sleep on it, then pray some more at Mass in the morning. Like Father said, take time to recollect and figure out what decision provides deeper peace and resolve in me. Still feeling restless after that first trip, I can get another cycle of the yarn Rosary in before bed. I’m gonna need it. Faithfully, Sheen, A.M.D.G.
Day 24PAX. C.S.P.B. C.S.S.M.L.—N.D.S.M.D. V.R.S.N.S.M.V.—S.M.Q.L.I.V.B. Day 24 Bilk: Describes a person choosing to avoid payment and giving someone the slip. Sparkler heard my description of the flickering flashlights and spent the whole night working on a makeshift alert system. She determined that their means of hearing also involves some kind of sonar that disrupts electric currents. With one earpiece, a portable power box, and an iPod Shuffle, someone can listen to music, or white noise while traveling. That way, they can know when those space monsters are getting close and listening. At night, people can take shifts with a flashlight. Extra batteries will be packed. On that note, something I forgot to mention from yesterday. The Bishop wrote in his letter how the military has been calling the creatures "death angels" over the radio. Makes me think of the story of Waterdrawn and the Great Departure from Egypt. Though these things don't just go after the firstborn. But like with the lamb's blood on the doorpost, anyone not making a sound is spared. I also heard a couple other nicknames for them, like "hearers" and "sound killers." As you probably guessed, a decision’s been made. Ten people are willing to chance the checkpoint. Way more than I expected. But it seems to be the right amount of safety in numbers, while helping each other’s silence in smaller groups. First, there’s Cookie Crumbles, her daughter Sweetie Belle, then Big Mac’s Granny and sister Applebloom, plus Clarity Cut and Karat. The escort volunteers are Mac, Maud, Mudbriar & Zecora. The latter would provide first aid and medicine, plus wildlife experience. Mac would take the lead, having Crumbles, Bloom & Sweetie behind him. Zecora will keep behind Granny, Clarity & Karat in the center. Then Maud and Briar will escort from the back of the caravan. If the Guard’s no longer there, they can either keep going or come back. Reaching that destination, Macintosh says he’ll stay with his family and try the boats. That means Maud Pie, Mudbriar & Zecora will be the ones traveling back to us. They’ll be set to leave first thing tomorrow morning, with them returning by Day 58, mid-late ~~Aug~~September, at the earliest. Macintosh hopes Granny won’t push herself any further than the daily 6-mile trek, with Clarity and Karat to help each other with that. Those three being the only elders here, they’re showing how tough they are by traveling. Apparently, Bloom says her Granny’s a great swimmer. That leaves us with ~~23~~6728 staying here. Madame, Farmer, Cadence, Shining & Flurry, the Cake twins, myself, Blush, Comet, Sentry, Lily, Rose & Daisy, Cheerilee, Sparkler, parents Golden Harvest, Written Script & her sister Dinky. Then there's Pipsqueak, Marble, Zephyr, Hothoof & Whistles, Thunderlane & brother Rumble, Caramel, and one Cherry Fizz. I try not to bilk and leave out names. Something else I forgot to mention: my cousins already took the first trip to scout the area. Polish Gleam, Shoeshine & Fine Finish left shortly after hearing Cutlass's letter. If they make it there, they'd turn back the next day to let the caravan know what they found. Putting all these names down made me realize just how crowded we’re getting. Hopefully, these next 32+ days won’t be too eventful. The rest of us will get more things set. Those classrooms for one, as well as start a garden for fresh produce, including Zecora’s herbs. Wallflower’s starting that project with Daisy, Lily & Roseluck. Amethyst will have me help Thunder, Fizz & Caramel on the rooms, then make some type of warning system for creatures. When Whistles gets better, and Hothoof heals from his wounds by Zecora’s input, the two will help Armor & Sentry with more scavenging. Marble’s getting better with watching the sick/injured and youth with Cheerilee, Cadence, Script & Harvest, as well as the cameras. Plus, she’s keeping Zephyr busy in small ways. At least till he adjusts to everyone here. Making sure he doesn’t behave a bilk to our community, while also staying patient with him. For right now, Sparkler’s got me helping prep the troupe with supplies and small gear like we used for the city. I took that chance to visit with Macintosh, show my appreciation for his help, and wish him and his family the best. Not many words traded between us. Just a “Thanks,” then an “Eeyup, you too,” and a heartfelt hug around the shoulders. Felt a nice pop in my upper back. I’m just gonna pray extra hard for these people leaving tomorrow. Make a month-long novena for them. So much can happen out there without immediate or definite support. The stress of making a bad step, forced to take an off-road detour, exposure to elements, cross paths with unsavory characters. But there’s also the dangers that can come to us. So many are living here already, we’re bound to have upcoming issues with food and medicine, rising tensions among refugees, and become a potential target for raids. Saw Bloom & Belle play some checkers, and even one last quiet Monopoly game with Pipsqueak & Rumble while I did laps on the outside grass barefoot. Had the twins napping with pacifiers on pouches at my back and chest. Extra-wrapped in wool blankets to help muffle any sounds as a buffer to race back on the new sand trail. Shining and Cadence were doing the same with Flurry. Can’t just keep ourselves and others inside forever. Especially the next generation. Granny Smith & Clarity Cut finished up with wool-knit sweaters, socks, gloves and headwear they’d been working on while the former was sick. Definitely need as many layers as possible for people when Fall & Winter come rolling. Let’s hope and pray it doesn’t last that long. Then saw Sparkler on a picnic sheet reading a mystery novel, with Wallflower joining with literature on botany. Looks like she borrowed it from Roseluck. Marble & Maud were in the cellar making some sort of rock candy necklaces, with Briar gladly beside them at cameras. Mac, Thunder & Caramel worked on some role-playing scenarios and characters for an hour or two. Coming back inside, I set Pound and Pumpkin down and joined in their sweet siesta. This was a day to really just try to relax and enjoy life for a short while, as best we could. Faithfully, Sheen, A.M.D.G.
