The Fillycaust

Chapters

Chapter 1
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Chapter 2
Chapter 3

Chapter 1

It had been two months since Princess Celestia, the sole ruler of Equestria, had invaded Ponyville and began ordering the systematic removal of all Earth Ponies to dreaded Canter Camps. Everypony knew that those who went into the Canter Camps never returned. Many of the Earth Ponies, powerless against Celestia’s army of Pegasi and Unicorns went into hiding. Only a handful of ponies actually stood up to the tyrant but as time went on and the Princess’s laws more harsh the hope for a free Equestria dwindled.

Three Earth Ponies, Applejack, Applebloom, and Pinkie Pie, were hiding in the attic of one of their Pegasus friends, Fluttershy. It had been months before they had seen any direct sunlight and the cramped living space was almost unbearable, especially for Pinkie Pie who was an extremely energetic and outgoing pony.

“This place is killing me!” Pinkie Pie complained. “What I would give for a party about now!”

“This isn’t fun n’ games Pinkie!” Applejack snapped. “We best be quiet ye hear? Celestia’s army is really crackin’ down on refugees these days. Besides we only have another week or so before Rainbow Dash returns.”

Rainbow Dash was one of the few Pegasus ponies who had resisted Princess Celestia. She along with a few others had journeyed to Appaloosa in attempts to raise an army. The plan was for Rainbow Dash to meet up with the refugee ponies and escort them back to Appaloosa where they could help in the battle for a better Equestria.

“I know! I know!” Pinkie Pie moaned burying her face into her hooves. “I’m just soooooo bored!”

“Hush now! Even a youngin’ like Applebloom can hold their tongue longer than you!” Applejack pointed her hoof at the young filly who was also her sister.

“Your right...” Pinkie Pie sighed and curled up on the cold attic floor.

I don’t blame her. Applejack thought while studying the bored pony. I’m downright fed up with this waiting too. This isn’t the way us pony folk are supposed to live. Equestria changed from a mighty good place of peace and harmony into this nightmare. How could the Princess initiate such an evil act against her own ponies?

Suddenly a quick and quiet knock came from the attic trapdoor. The three Earth Ponies turned toward it startled. The trapdoor shuddered and then opened.

When the ponies eyes had adjusted to the light emitting from the trapdoor they saw Fluttershy’s head poking through it.

“Oh... Um...” studdered Fluttershy. Her face was pale as a ghost and Her left eye was blackened and swollen shut. “Hi girls, I’m... So sorry but they tortured me for information.” She paused briefly with tears in her eyes. “I’m so so sorry...”

Suddenly Fluttershy yelped and was pulled back through the trap door by somepony below.

“What in tarnation!” screamed Applejack. “They must’ve found us! Quickly girls we’ve gotta high tail outta here!”

“It’s too late!” laughed a familiar sounding voice from below the trapdoor. “The cottage is surrounded! There’s nowhere for you to go.”

A purple beam shot through the floorboards and blasted the whole attic apart. Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Applebloom flew like rag dolls with the debris the explosion created and landed with a crash in the middle of Fluttershy’s bedroom directly below where the attic used to be.

Applejack shook off the shell shock and looked up to see her former friend, Twilight Sparkle the unicorn, standing in front of her with a smile. Fluttershy lay in front of the purple mare trembling and crying.

“Twilight you can’t do this!” Pinkie Pie cried. “We’re friends!”

“Ha! Friends with an Earth Pony?” Twilight sneered. “Everypony knows Unicorns and Pegasi are greatly superior than you! By the order of Princess Celestia you are to be brought to Hoofscwitz Canter Camp.” Twilight Sparkle then turned to Fluttershy who was was still sobbing on the floor at her feet. “As for you...” she began. “A traitor pony is just as revolting as an Earth Pony. You have disobeyed our great leader’s wishes and therefore must be punished!”

“P-please!” Fluttershy whimpered. “We’re your friends Twilight, don’t you recognize us? Why are you doing this?”

“The Princess wishes it, and so it must be done.” Twilight remarked and with that she kicked Fluttershy in the head with her hoof.

Fluttershy squeaked and recoiled, covering her injured head with her hooves.

“Twilight this isn’t right! Put an end to this!” Applejack screamed. Applebloom had begun to cry and Pinkie Pie could only watch in horror.

“AJ I’m scared!” Applebloom sobbed. “Make it stop sis! Make it stop!”

“You want me to make it stop? Alright, I’ll make it stop.” Twilight jeered. She turned and aimed her horn at Fluttershy. A purple light illuminated around the horn and bolted towards Fluttershy. The beam ripped through the frightened pony’s back like a bullet. Fluttershy raised her head, gasped, and dropped lifeless. Warm red blood flowed from the open wound.

“You see?” Twilight laughed. “It stopped! That is what you wanted is it not?

“No!” screamed Applejack as tears filled her eyes. “You murderer! Fluttershy was the most innocent pony in all of Equestria! How could you do that?”

“Innocent?” gasped Twilight astonished. “You call betraying our great leader, Princess Celestia, innocent? Your opinion doesn’t matter anyway. It’s over for you.”

Twilight’s horn lit up again. A purple gas protruded from the tip which hovered over to the three frightened Earth Ponies

“Wh-what is that?” asked Pinkie Pie trembling.

A sleeping spell.” Twilight sneered, “And when you wake up, you’ll wish you’d never existed.”

Chapter 4

A screech was heard as the train slowly came to a grinding halt. Many of the ponies on board began to panic, desperately and hopelessly trying to find a way to get out.

Applebloom had long since woken up. She was still in the same position curled up between Applejack’s legs crying softly.

“Now listen here Applebloom.” Applejack said trembling as she heard voices from outside the train. “I need you to be a big brave filly can you do that?”

Applebloom didn’t show any sign of acknowledgement.

“I just want you to know-” Applejack was cut short as the large door of the train opened and the bright blinding light of day filled the boxcar.

Outside the train stood four unicorns viciously pointing their horns at everypony within. A red pegasus with a black mane flew into view hovering above the unicorns.

“Listen up!” he said sternly while eyeing the Earth Ponies. “Everypony get out of the train and line up for inspection.”

“What makes you think we’ll do that?” a voice asked from within the train.

The rest of the ponies gasped and began to mutter amongst themselves.

“Which pony said that?” the pegasus demanded angrily.

Without hesitation a young gray colt stepped forward. “I did!” he said.

“I see...” muttered the pegasus. “Guards you know what to do.”

“Can I do it sir?” asked one of the unicorn guards eagerly. “I’ve been dying to try out a new spell.”

“Do what you wish.” the pegasus sighed. “Just get it over with we’re on a tight schedule you know.”  “Of course sir!” the unicorn said excitedly. He quickly took position, aiming his horn carefully. In a flash a blue flame erupted from the end of the horn and engulfed the young gray colt.

“Wh-what is this?” the colt cried. “I-I can’t move!”

“Oh good it’s working!” the unicorn said with excitement. “That’s just the first part though wait and see the rest!”

The colt struggled to break free of the flame but with no success. Then slowly his fur began falling off of his coat revealing his bare skin.

“What’s going on?” the colt hollered. Suddenly his eyes grew wide with shock as his skin slowly peeled off his body and fell to the floor of the train.

“Well that’s an interesting spell.” the pegasus observed. “Looks rather painful.”

When all of the colt’s skin had been peeled off the flame dissipated and the colt fell to the ground. He began screaming and thrashing uncontrollably, as there was nothing left on his body except exposed muscle and ligaments.

“And that,” the pegasus proudly shouted over the colts screams. “Is why you should do exactly what we say. Now everypony out of the train!”

Applejack couldn’t believe what she had just witnessed and was still witnessing. The colts screams pierced her ears and she winced at the sight of the poor soul. She quickly covered Applebloom’s eyes with her hoof.

“It’s going to be okay sis. Just follow me. We’re gonna be okay.” she whispered into the frightened filly’s ear.

Everypony quickly jumped off the train and began to form a line. Most of them were trembling with fear. Applejack had somehow managed to move Applebloom out of the train and into line behind Pinkie Pie.

“I-I can’t believe.” Pinkie Pie began with a look of horror on her face. “Th-They... H-he...”

“Please let this be a dream.” Applejack prayed.

The colt was still screaming. He was obviously in an unfathomable amount of pain. His broken and bloody body convulsing more rapidly with every passing second.

“He’s fucking annoying.” complained the pegasus overseer. “Make that thing shut up!”

“Yes sir!” said one of the unicorns. She pointed her horn at the colt.

“Make it stop!” the colt screamed. “Please make it stop!”

“It’s your lucky day!” smiled the unicorn and with that a bolt of lightning shot from her horn killing the colt instantly and putting an end to the bone chilling screams of pain.

It’s like they enjoy it. Applejack thought. How could anypony be so cruel?

“This is the end of the road!” yelled the pegasus while hovering above the lined up Earth Ponies. “There’s no point in resisting. As we have already demonstrated, magic and flight are greatly superior than anything an Earth Pony could hope to accomplish. Now then, all stallions are to go with Private Flintlock here.” he pointed to the unicorn that cast the sickening skinning spell on the colt. “All mares will follow me, Sergeant Night Flare.” he continued. “And last but not least all fillies and colts will go with Private Spector and Corporal Sand Storm.”

Applejack turned to Pinkie Pie in horror. “They’re gonna separate us from Applebloom!”

“No they can’t do that!” Pinkie Pie cried.

Spector, the unicorn who had dealt the death blow to the colt, trotted over to Applebloom. “You there filly!” she shouted harshly. “Follow me!”

“She’s my sister! You can take her!” Applejack pleaded.

“She’s my sister you can’t take her!” mocked Spector sinisterly. “You’d best shut the fuck up or you’ll wind up like that pathetic colt back there!” She grabbed Applebloom by the mane with her teeth and pulled the filly away from Applejack.

“Don’t let them take me sis!” Applebloom sobbed while desperately trying to pull free.

I can’t do anything! Applejack thought. If I try to do anything they’ll kill her and me!

“Sis help me please!” the frightened filly screamed as the unicorn dragged her further and further away. “Why are you letting them take me away?”

Spector dragged Applebloom toward the walls of the Canter Camp which were a few hundred feet in front of the train. Sand Storm followed closely behind with two fillies he had rounded up as well.

Not being able to do anything tore Applejack apart inside. It was the right thing to do. She tried to convince herself. If I interfered we would’ve been six feet under by now. But the fear in Applebloom’s eyes... Is life even worth living in that kind of fear?

Applejack noticed that Flintlock was attempting to round the stallions up to take to the Canter Camp when he came across a pink mare with a straight blue mane and a dark blue stallion with a black mane. They were obviously mates.

“Line up with the rest of our group!” Flintlock commanded the stallion.

“Y-you aren’t going to separate us!” the stallion informed Flintlock with fear in his voice.

“Is that so?” Flintlock smiled sinisterly. He pointed his horn at the mare.

“No!” yelled the blue stallion. He tried to jump in front of his mate but was too late, Flintlock had already sent a spell at the mare. The blue light hit her with a bright flash. She dropped to the ground, her body scorched as if she had been set on fire.

“Daisy!” the stallion screamed in horror. He knelt down next to the mare, who was shaking.

“No no no!” he cried. “This isn’t happening!”

The mare shuddered and died.

The stallion looked up at Flintlock with hatred in his eyes. “You fucking monster!” he screamed. “I’ll kill you! I’ll ki-”

A second blue light hit the stallion before he could finish. His fate was the same as his lover’s. All that remained was a charred corpse.

The rest of the stallions lined up quickly and followed Flintlock to the Canter Camp without question.

“Alright!” Night Flare yelled at the group of mares that remained. “Follow me and don’t try anything stupid. If you do then consider it the last fucking thing you will ever fail at!” The pegasus flew slowly toward the camp keeping an eye on the group of ponies following him.

“Where do you think they’re taking us?” Pinkie Pie whispered to Applejack.

Applejack didn’t answer. She just hoped Applebloom was going safe; although after the cruelty displayed by the guards she couldn’t believe anything good was going to come out of the Canter Camp.

“This is so bad.” Pinkie Pie started. “Why are they so mean? Why did they kill those ponies back there? What have we ever done to them?”

“Pinkie I don’t know!” Applejack snarled. “Can you just shut it for once?”

Pinkie Pie looked at Applejack hurt. Tears started to form in her eyes. She nodded and then looked down at her hooves as they walked towards Hoofschwitz Canter Camp.

Applejack truly didn’t mean to go off on Pinkie Pie like that but everything that had happened in this short time was far too overwhelming. One of her best friends had been murdered by her other friend, she had just witnessed three innocent ponies get killed gruesomely, and on top of that she was forced to be separated from her sister. The last thing she wanted to know was what horrible things awaited for her and the other Earth Ponies inside the Canter Camp.

When they reached the walls two pegasus guards opened a large metal door and the ponies followed Night Flare into a small dark room.

The room reeked of mold. Rusty water leaked from a tangle of pipes on the ceiling. The floor and walls were poorly made out of stone and the cracks in the uneven ground hurt Applejack’s already sore hooves.

“Line up!” Night Flare ordered.

All of the ponies quickly formed a line as if their very lives depended on it.

The red pegasus then walked down the line inspecting each pony. “You!” he yelled at a light green pony who jumped at the sound of his voice. “Line up against that wall!” he demanded gesturing at the wall behind him.

The pony quickly trotted over to the wall trembling with fear and confusion at why she had been ordered to do so.

Night Flare continued to inspect the ponies stopping every so often to order one to line up behind the light green pony.

He stopped at Pinkie Pie and looked at her carefully. “Turn around.” he finally said.

“Wh-what?” Pinkie Pie asked.

“Turn around!” Night Flare repeated angrily.

Pinkie Pie cautiously turned around sinking her head low.

The pegasus examined her rear for a few seconds.

“Turn back around!” he ordered.

Pinkie Pie turned around trying to avoid Night Flare’s gaze.

“I have special plans for you.” he said sinisterly.

Pinkie Pie began to tremble with fear, and Night Flare continued onward toward Applejack. Her heart pounded as he inspected her, but he soon passed without a word.

When he was finished inspecting, a total of six ponies were lined up against the other wall.

“Private Shocker!” he yelled.

A yellow pegasus flew into the room and landed in front of Night Flare. “Yes sir!” he reported.

“Take these six to the room three. Find Private Flintlock and take his group with you as well.”

Sir yes sir!” Shocker said with a salute. He then turned to the six ponies. “You there follow me!”

The six ponies lined up behind him and followed him out of the room.

Night Flare turned his attention back to Applejack and the remainder of the Earth Ponies. “That group is going to the gas chambers to be executed.” Night Flare said with a smile.

The ponies gasped.

“All of you, however, are in working condition. You will be led to our barber, Quick Trim, where he will shave your manes. Next you will be shown to your section of Hoofschwitz were you will be worked until your death.”

Some of the ponies started to cry including Pinkie Pie.

“Guards!” Night Flare yelled.

Two unicorn guards, one white, one purple, entered the room.

“Escort this group to Snips. Except that pink one.” he said pointing at Pinkie Pie. “She’ll be arriving... A little late.”

“Yes sir!” the guards replied.

Night Flare walked up to Pinkie Pie, bit her mane harshly, and began to drag her out of the room.

“Pinkie Pie!” Applejack cried. “Pinkie Pie I’m sorry what I said earlier! You’re my fr-” one of the unicorns struck her in the back of the head with his hoof.

“Quiet!” he said.

Pinkie Pie sobbed as the pegasus forced her through the door. She was barely even trying to resist anymore. The door closed and Pinkie Pie was gone.

“Quit your crying and follow me!” exclaimed the white unicorn to the ponies. “If you think this is worth crying over then wait until you see the rest of the camp!”

Chapter 5

Appleboom sat shivering in the cold dark room where the two unicorn guards, Spector and Sandstorm, had dropped her and the two other fillies off.

She was too afraid to cry and could barely even think straight. The horrendous events that had happened so quickly left her in a state of shock.

“H-hi there.” said one of the other two fillies quietly. She was a sandy color with a pale blue mane. “My name’s Sea Breeze.”

Applebloom and the other filly, who was pink with a blue mane, didn’t respond.

“I think we should stick together.” Sea Breeze continued. “I know this place is scary but I know we’ll be all right.”

“All right?” the pink filly repeated angrily. “Did you see what they did to that colt back at the train! That could’ve been us!”

“We just have to do what they say.” Sea Breeze explained. “If he didn’t talk back to them then I’m sure he’d still be okay.”

“But they enjoyed doing it!” the pink filly replied. “Their going to hurt us too! We’re probably going to die!”

Applebloom started to cry. Warm tears ran down her face and fell onto the already damp cold stone floor.

“D-don’t cry. Everything will be alright.” Sea Breeze reassured. She walked over to Applebloom and put her hoof on the crying filly’s shoulder.

“Look what you did.” Sea Breeze snapped looking back up at the pink filly.

“It’s not her.” Applebloom managed to say through the tears. “I-it’s my sister!”

“Did she...” the pink filly said cautiously. “Did she die?”

“No.” Applebloom sobbed. “Sh-She j-just let them take me!” She cried harder. She always thought Applejack was the best sister ever, but how could the best sister ever abandon her in this strange place?

“It’s okay.” Sea Breeze said. “I’m here for you.”

The pink filly walked up to Applebloom. “I’m sorry for what I said, and I’m sorry about you and your sister. If it helps I’m here for you too. My name is Strawberry Quartz.”

Applebloom sniffled, “Th-Thanks guys.” she said wiping the tears off of her face. “My name’s Applebloom.”

Sea Breeze smiled, “It’s nice to mee-” the metal door to the room opened making the three fillies jump.

In walked an orange unicorn with a jet black mane. He studied the fillies with his scarlet red eyes and then smiled.

“Hello kids.” he said in a calm soothing voice. “I’m Doctor D. How is everpony today?”

The three fillies looked at each other unsure of how to react. Why was this unicorn being nice to them?

After a moment Strawberry Quartz spoke up, “Why did we have to come here?” she asked.

“That’s a very good question!” Doctor D laughed. “A question that deserves a very good answer! But first do you young fillies want some candy?” He grabbed a satchel slung across his back and tossed it in front of fillies. It hit the ground and small multicolored hard candies rolled out.

The three fillies stared at the candy none of them making a move.

“What’s wrong kids you don’t like candy?” Doctor D said disappointed.

“It’s not that.” Sea Breeze said. “This just seems... weird.”

Doctor D laughed. “Oh I see! You think there’s something nasty in the candy!”

He walked up to the satchel, lowered his head, and scooped up three of the hard candies into his mouth. They created a loud cracking sound as he bit down on them.

“Mmm I taste strawberry, grape, and orange!” he exclaimed merrily. “It’s okay kids! Really try some!”

The three fillies each slowly began to eat the candy.

“Hey!” Sea Breeze said. “This is good!”

“Are there any apple flavored ones?” Applebloom asked searching through the candies.

“Hmm I don’t know.” Doctor D admitted. “It doesn’t matter though girls take as many as you like, if there is an apple flavored one you’ll be sure to find it!”

“So are you going to answer my question?” Strawberry Quartz asked.

“Oh yes! I almost forgot!” Doctor D exclaimed. “The reason why you are here is because you are going to help make Equestria a better place! You see Princess Celestia realized that there were some ponies who didn’t have the same abilities as other ponies. These ponies were holding the other ponies back! So the great Princess Celestia came up with a solution.”

“She made the Canter Camps?” asked Sea Breeze.

“You’re a smart one aren’t you!” Doctor D complimented with a smile. “Yes Princess Celestia made the Canter Camps, and at the Canter Camps the ponies who were holding everypony else back could be taught how to better themselves.”

“What’s wrong with us the way we are right now?” Applebloom questioned.

“Nothing my dear! Nothing! You just haven’t reached your full potential yet! That’s why you’re here! We’ll teach you how to become better ponies!”

“That doesn’t sound so bad.” Strawberry Quartz pointed out.

“That’s because it isn’t! Now follow me young fillies, and don’t forget to bring the leftover candy! I’m going to show you to where you will be staying!” Doctor D turned and began walking towards the door.

Applebloom grabbed the satchel with her mouth and slung it across her back. She liked the Doctor, he was very outgoing and it was good to have an adult who talked to her in a comforting voice around. But in the back of her mind things still didn’t seem quite right.

The three fillies followed Doctor D out of the room and down a dark and dreary hallway. The only sound was the four ponies hooves clopping upon the stone floor and an occasional drip from a leak in the ceiling.

When they reached the end of the hall they went through a door and entered much nicer room. The floor was white carpet and the walls were painted sky blue. There were tables spread throughout room with various toys stacked on top and a small refrigerator next to a set of cabinets sat in the corner. There were also two other doors at the end of the room.

Doctor D turned around to face the three fillies. “This is where you will stay.” he told them. “I’m sure you will find it to your liking. This is the common room. That door over there is to the bed room and that door over there is to the bathroom. I have other matters to attend to now, so you three girls just get comfortable and make yourselves at home!” With that he turned around and walked out the door closing it shut. Applebloom could also hear Doctor D locking it from the outside.

“Hey this place is kind of nice!” Sea Breeze said looking around.

“Yeah this is really cool!” Strawberry Quartz exclaimed running up to one of the tables. “Look at all these toys!”

“I don’t know guys.” Applebloom said looking around the room cautiously. “There’s something fishy about this...”

“Relax Applebloom!” Strawberry Quartz laughed. “Maybe the Canter Camp isn’t so bad after all!”

“Hey!” Sea Breeze shouted. “Let’s go check out the bedroom!”

“Yeah!” agreed Strawberry Quartz.

The two ponies rushed toward the door where Doctor D had said the bedroom was. Applebloom quickly joined them.

Strawberry Quartz stood up on her two hind legs, turned the doorknob with her mouth, and opened the door.

The three fillies walked inside. The room was the same color as the common area and had six beds inside. At the end of each bed was a chest for belongings.

“Wow this is cool!” Strawberry Quartz shouted looking around the room excitedly.

“Yeah it’s really nice!” Sea Breeze exclaimed.

Applebloom looked down at the carpet beneath her hooves, she noticed a streak of what appeared to be blood on it.

“Hey guys.” she said quietly.

“I want this bed!” Strawberry Quartz laughed jumping on the bed nearest the door.

“Hey guys.” Applebloom repeated.

“Oh yeah? Well I want this one!” Sea Breeze giggled as she jumped on the bed next to Strawberry Quartz’s.

“Guys!” Applebloom shouted.

“What?” Sea Breeze asked as she stopped jumping and looked over to Applebloom.

“What’s this on the ground?” Applebloom questioned pointing at the red streak.

Strawberry Quartz jumped on her bed and examined the spot. “I-It looks like blood.” she stated.

Sea Breeze jumped off her bed and looked at the red stain as well. “It does look like blood.” she agreed.

Then a muffled moan came from behind them.

Sea Breeze squeaked and the three fillies turned around startled. The sound had come from the door that Doctor D had said was the bathroom.

“Wh-What was th-that?” Strawberry Quartz stammered.

“Let’s go see.” Applebloom said.

“Are you.. Are you crazy?” Sea Breeze whispered. “It could be something bad!”

Applebloom ignored Sea Breeze and walked out of the room. The two other fillies followed closely behind.

The quiet moan sounded again.

“I’m scared.” Sea Breeze cried.

“I-I’m a little spooked too.” Strawberry Quartz added.

Applebloom walked up to the door and opened it. There lying in the corner of the bathroom in a pool of blood was a purple pegasus filly with a red mane. Her back was covered in blood and her wings were bent and misshapen.

Sea Breeze and Strawberry Quartz screamed but Applebloom was quiet for some reason. The pegasus looked up at them.

“It... Hurts...” she said softly.

“What happened to you?” asked Applebloom.

“They said... They said they’d make me better....” The filly whispered with tears in her eyes.

“What is she talking about?” Sea Breeze said shaking in fear.

The bloodstained filly let out a bone shilling scream, “My back!” she cried. “It feels like I have swords sticking out of it! What did they do to me?”

Applebloom looked closer at her back and noticed cuts around her wings and down her spine. “Do your wings hurt too?” she asked.

“W-wings?” the filly said confused. She clenched her jaw and winced at the pain. “I-I don’t have wings.”

Applebloom noticed a mirror resting on the sink in the bathroom. She picked it up with her teeth and positioned it so the filly could see her wings.

“What!” the filly cried in horror. “I-I... But... I’m an Earth Pony!” she screamed again in pain and then passed out.

Applebloom lowered the mirror and turned to Sea Breeze and Strawberry Quartz who were holding each other and shaking with fear.

“What is going on?” Sea Breeze screamed. “What happened to her?”

“It’s just like Doctor D said.” Applebloom explained. “This is Princess Celestia’s solution to make us better.”

Chapter 6

Applejack had forsaken any attempts to resist ever since Pinkie Pie was taken away by Night Flare. She watched as the yellow hair from her mane fell to her hooves; the unicorn barber, Quick Trim, shaving it from her head and neck harshly paying no mind to whatever pain he caused her.

The recent events were enough to break anyponys mentality, even a tough Earth Pony like Applejack. The weight of everything just kept piling up. How can I ever be happy again? she thought. I just want to give up and die...

NO! she forced herself away from the negativity. I have to be strong! I have to somehow find and save Applebloom! The resistance in Appaloosa could show up at any time and save us! I have to stay positive, I can’t give up!

A sharp pinch from the razor that was shaving her mane off distracted her thoughts. She cringed at the discomfort but avoided letting any sound of pain escape her mouth. She had noticed earlier that the barber intentionally mistreated the other ponies and even more so if they complained.

“Oops!” Quick Trim said sarcastically as he again misdirected the razor. He let out a cold laugh. “I didn’t think Earth Ponies could get any uglier, boy was I wrong! You mares look disgusting without manes!”

Applejack’s head felt significantly lighter as the last of her hair fell to the ground. The coldness of room stabbed at the back of her head and neck, an alien feeling as her mane had usually sheltered these areas from cold. She also felt naked and awkward, before today she had never seen or heard of a pony without a mane. What’s the meaning of this? She thought. It’s just downright degrading!

The sound of the metal door opening caught her attention. She looked up to see Pinkie Pie standing at the door with Night Flare behind her. Pinkie’s head was down so low to the ground that her pink mane blocked her face. Night Flare was smiling sinisterly.

“Here you go Quick Trim!” the red pegasus laughed. “I’m done with this one!” Night Flare pushed Pinkie Pie into the room with his front hooves. She stumbled and with a squeak fell to the ground. Night Flare laughed again and slammed the door shut as he left.

“Get the fuck up and get in line!” Quick Trim yelled.

Pinkie Pie slowly stood up, walked over to Applejack, and stood in line next to her.

Applejack noticed Pinkie Pie had tears in her eyes and a look of shame upon her face. Although Applejack was happy to see her friend again she could only imagine the horror that the Pink mare had just been through.

“Pinkie Pie...” Applejack began.

“Shut up!” Quick Trim shouted viciously. The yellow unicorn walked over to Pinkie Pie and began to shave her head.

As Pinkie’s hair fell off Applejack noticed bruises down her neck and back. Applejack felt a surge of sympathy rise in her heart. Poor Pinkie... What do I say to her? What can I say to her?

Quick Trim finished shaving Pinkie Pie’s mane and moved on to the next mare who was the last in line. When he was finished with her he turned towards all the Earth ponies who were trembling with coldness and fear.

“You are now ready to begin working in the camp!” he exclaimed. “I’ll be back in five minutes with the guards that will see you to your posts.” He walked out of the room using magic to close the door behind him.

Applejack turned to Pinkie Pie. “H-Hey Pinkie.” she stammered. “I.. Well.. I um..”

Before Applejack could say anything Pinkie Pie hugged her and sobbed hysterically into her shoulder.

“I-I..” the Pink mare tried to say through the tears.

Applejack hugged Pinkie back and stroked the back of her neck where her mane used to be. “Shh Pinkie. It’s okay sugarcube.”

“I-I couldn’t s-stop him...” Pinkie Pie cried. “H-he... h-he...”

Tears began to fill Applejack’s eyes too. “I know Pinkie, I know. I’m here for you.”

After a few moments Pinkie Pie’s crying calmed down a bit. “It... It was my first t-time...” she managed to say. Her breathing increased rapidly. “I-I wanted the first time to be special...”

“It’s okay Pinkie.” Applejack reassured her. “You don’t have to talk about it. I’m here for you.”

“I-I want to go home!” Pinkie Pie sobbed.

“Me too Pinkie. Me too.”

The moment was interrupted when the metal door again swung open. Two unicorn and two pegasus guards marched in.

One of the guards, a white unicorn, spoke up. “By order of Princess Celestia, the ruler of Equestria, we are to take you to section A of the Hoofschwitz. There you will work from sunrise till sundown building additional parts of the camp. Rest is not an option, anypony who is seen slacking will be severely punished. Now follow me.”

The two unicorns walked out of the room while the pegasi stood guard at the door making sure everypony left the room.

“We have to go now Pinkie Pie,” Applejack said. “We’ll do this together.”

Applejack nudged Pinkie who eventually began to slowly walk out of the room following the rest of the ponies.

Once everypony had left the room the two pegasi guards closed the door and trailed behind the group. Applejack saw one of the unicorn guards in front of her open a door at the end of the hall, a bright light shone through it. As the ponies began to walk through the door and Applejack came closer she noticed the light was from the sun and the door led outside.

Pinkie Pie was still crying softly and Applejack didn’t blame her. It broke her heart to see Pinkie Pie so distressed, the happy and life loving pony didn’t deserve what had happened to her. Applejack also still felt guilty for getting angry at Pinkie earlier.

I’ll never go off like that on Pinkie Pie or any of my friends ever again. She told herself. You never know how long you’ll have them... Her thoughts shifted to Fluttershy and the all too familiar tears again filled her eyes.

Then a gasp from somepony in front of her distracted her thoughts. Applejack and Pinkie Pie walked through the door and into the heart of the Hoofschwitz Canter Camp.

Applejack’s eyes quickly adjusted to the light of the sun and she received her first glimpse of the Canter Camp. She gasped in horror.

The Canter Camp was a mess of tattered tents, run-down buildings, and crudely constructed walls of barbed and razor wire. The ground consisted of mud and dirt with a mixture of waste and pony remains, the putrid smell of the death and decay filled the air. The camp was full of Earth Ponies digging trenches and building new structures, they looked more dead than alive. The majority of them were starved, nothing but skin and bones. It was also clear that many of them were deathly ill. The sound of construction and moans resonated eerily around the camp.

Guard towers with unicorns at the ready and pegusi keeping watch from the sky made any thoughts of escape impossible. The Earth Ponies within the camp weren’t just sick and dying, they had also lost any traces of hope.

“It’s... It’s...” Pinkie Pie said, her crying had stopped with shock.

“It’s hell.” Applejack finished.

Twilight Sparkle walked through the palace of Princess Celestia in Canterlot, her two pegasus guards at her back. She had to talk to the princess, she had to know the reasoning behind the extermination of the Earth Ponies, she needed to have her conscience cleared.

It had only been two days since she had killed Fluttershy, and the image of the innocent mare’s death could not leave Twilight’s mind. She had not slept since the incident and found herself bursting out in tears randomly. She had tried to remove herself from the Pegasus guards when she had these episodes but even they had grown to become suspicious.

If anypony can help clear this all up it’s Princess Celestia. Twilight thought.

Twilight opened the grand door to Princess Celestia’s throne room with her magic and trotted in. The cathedral like hall was lined with pegasus guards standing at attention like statues. Princess Celestia sat on her throne at the end of the hall. The alicorn was looking at some sort of documents suspended in midair by magic in front of her eyes.

Twilight stopped about twenty feet in front of the princess and bowed. “Hail Princess Celestia,” she greeted. “Ruler of Equestria.

“I do not recall summoning you Twilight Sparkle.” the princess said still reading the parchment. “I am very busy, what is it you want?”

“I need your advice Princess.” Twilight began. She paused trying to think of the right words. “I did as you commanded and cleared Ponyville of all Earth Ponies.”

“And?” asked Princess Celestia. “You wish for a new task? I suggest staying in Ponyville and making sure it is indeed cleared out.”

“Well... That’s not exactly what I wanted to talk about.” Twilight explained.

“Then what do you want to talk about?” the Princess questioned.

“One of my... my old friends, Fluttershy, was hiding three Earth Ponies. Applejack, her sister Applebloom, and Pinkie Pie. I... I killed Fluttershy...” Twilight winced as the memory raced back through her mind. “And I sent the three Earth Ponies to Hoofschwitz Canter Camp.”

“Very good, very good now get to the point.” the Princess insisted.

“Yes well... I actually... I really regret the whole situation.”

Princess Celestia looked up from the parchment. “You what?” she asked coldly. Her eyes flared up with rage.

“I-I just don’t understand why you would have me make friends with Earth Ponies and then later send them to a Canter Camp.” Twilight admitted. She felt her knees tremble as she looked into the Princess’s eyes.

“When I sent you to Ponyville I ordered you to make friends Twilight Sparkle. I never specified that they be Pegasi, Unicorns, or Earth Ponies. It was you became fond of them, never me.” the Princess explained.

“But why all of the sudden Princess? If you’ve always despised Earth Ponies why didn’t you remove them earlier?”

The Princess was taken aback by the question, but she quickly hid the shock with a look of rage. “That is none of your concern miss Sparkle. All you need to know is that Earth Ponies are useless. Unicorns have the gift of magic, Pegasi have the gift of flight, but what do Earth Ponies have? Nothing. They are lesser than us, they are inferior. They control and corrupt Equestria’s businesses. They are a nuisance and they deserve their fate.”

At this point Twilight had begun to see the insanity behind Princess Celestia’s words. Her loyalty and unquestioning obedience to the Princess had clouded her judgement in the past, but now she noticed there was something different about the Princess. This was not the Princess Celestia she knew before, it couldn’t be. I can’t do anything about it though. Twilight thought. There’s too many guards here, I have to pretend to understand the Princess’s words, but I can’t go along with this anymore. And I have to get to the bottom of this.

“Are we clear Twilight?” Princess Celestia asked with a raised eyebrow.

Twilight bowed and raised her head to look Princess Celestia directly in the eye. “Yes Princess, we are clear. Please forgive me for doubting your divine judgement.”

Princess Celestia smiled. “Of course I forgive you Twilight, my faithful student. Please write to me when you arrive back in Ponyville.”

My faithful student. It replayed in Twilight’s mind. Part of her still felt that she had to obey the princess’s every will as she had done ever since she was a young filly. “Hail Princess Celestia!” Twilight exclaimed and with that she turned and began to walk away, the clopping of her hooves echoing in the silence of the hall.

I’m going to make things right. She convinced herself. I’m sorry Fluttershy and everypony I’ve hurt. She remembered Applejack, Applebloom, and Pinkie Pie. I can still right the wrong I’ve done.

Chapter 7

Applebloom, Sea Breeze, and Strawberry Quartz had done their best to move the injured pegasus filly to one of the beds. They wrapped a blanket around the poor soul, and Sea Breeze even attempted to clean the wounds with water from the bathroom sink.

“When do you think she’ll wake up?” Strawberry Quartz asked with a concerned look. “Do you think we should wake her?”

“My big sis Applejack used to tell me that you can’t rush everything.” Applebloom responded. “I guess she’ll wake up when she’ll wake up.”

“I feel really bad for her.” Sea Breeze said.

“Who wouldn’t feel bad for her?” Strawberry Quartz asked.

“Well obviously the ponies that did it to her!” Sea Breeze reminded. “D-do you think they’ll do the same thing to us?”

Applebloom shuddered at Sea Breeze’s question. The thought of being in the same position as the pegasus filly, deformed and suffering, made the fear build up in her heart again.

The three fillies were silent for a moment.

“We can’t think about that guys.” Strawberry Quartz finally said. “We’ve got to help this other filly right now, she’s counting on us.”

“Y-you’re right.” Applebloom agreed shaking of the fear. “But what else can we do to help her, I’m not a doctor.”

“Maybe we can get her something to eat when she wakes up!” Sea Breeze said excitedly.

“Something to eat?” repeated Strawberry Quartz.

“Of course!” Sea Breeze giggled. “Whenever I’m sick my Ma gives me some soup and I feel a ton better!”

“Soup does make you feel better doesn’t it?” Strawberry Quartz agreed.

“There’s a refrigerator and cupboards in the common room.” Applebloom said. “Maybe we can find some stuff to make soup in there!”

“It’s agreed then, we’ll make our new friend soup!” Sea Breeze laughed. “Let’s go!”

The three fillies quickly ran to the door laughing. Strawberry Quartz opened it to find Doctor D standing just outside the door way.

The three fillies stood there in shock and silence. Applebloom felt her heart throbbing in her chest. Oh no. She thought. N-not him.. Not now..

“Hello kids!” Doctor D greeted the frightened fillies with a smile. “How do you like your new home?”

The three fillies were silent. They knew Doctor D wasn’t everything he seemed to be. The realized that behind the smile was something much more sinister.

Doctor D’s smile faded into a disappointed frown. “You don’t like it?”

Strawberry Quartz finally spoke up. “N-no we... We love it!”

“You do?” Doctor D asked.

“Y-yeah it’s... It’s great...” Sea Breeze said quietly.

“What about you little one?” Doctor D said turning to Applebloom.

Applebloom felt herself freeze with his gaze, she tried to open her mouth but couldn’t say anything. Strawberry Quartz nudged her.

“Ugh... Um... Yeah! Yeah it sure is great here!” Applebloom lied. She bit her lip hoping the orange unicorn would buy it.

He raised an eyebrow and studied the three fillies. After a few seconds he smiled. “See I knew you’d love it here!” he laughed. He turned to Sea Breeze. “What’s your name little one?” He asked.

Sea Breeze looked startled. “M-me?” she asked.

“Yes you!” laughed the Doctor.

“S-Sea Breeze...” she answered quietly.

“Sea Breeze.” repeated Doctor D. “Well Sea Breeze, I’ll be back in an hour to get you.”

“G-get me?” Sea Breeze asked. Her face had turned as pale as a ghost.

“Yes, I’ll come get you and we’ll begin the process!” Doctor D said excitedly. “Alright until then, bye kids!” With that he turned and left the room.

Applebloom and Strawberry Quartz stared at Sea Breeze. Is Doctor D going to do the same thing to Sea Breeze as he did to the other filly? Applebloom wondered.

“Sea Breeze?” Strawberry Quartz said calmly. “Are you okay?”

Sea Breeze just stood there frozen in place.

Strawberry Quartz turned to Applebloom. “What do we do?” she whispered hoping Sea Breeze wouldn’t hear.

“I-I don’t know...” Applebloom admitted. She turned to Sea Breeze. “Sea Breeze. Everything’s going to be fine.”

“I...” Sea Breeze began, her face still pale. “I need to lay down...”

“Okay we’ll help you to the bed.” said Strawberry Quartz.

“No... It’s okay guys... T-thanks though.” The sandy colored filly turned and walked to her bed.

Strawberry Quartz and Applebloom watched as Sea Breeze slowly got in the bed and pulled the sheet over her head.

Strawberry Quartz turned to Applebloom. “Wh-what do you think will happen to her?” she asked.

Applebloom felt like she knew the answer but couldn’t admit it. “I-I don’t know.” she said.

“Well... What do we do now?”

Applebloom thought for a moment. Sometimes the best way to take your mind off of something is some good ol’ fashioned work. “How about we make some soup for the hurt filly and some for Sea Breeze too.”

“I don’t think soup will help Sea Breeze Applebloom...”

“Well what do you suggest then?”

“I ugh... Well...” Strawberry Quartz scoffed. “Fine...”

The two fillies searched the cabinets and eventually found enough ingredients to make a simple pea soup. They also found a microwave oven in one of the cabinets as well.

“We can heat up the soup with this!” Applebloom smiled she lifted the heavy oven up with a grunt and set it on the ground in front of her.

“Have you ever even made soup before Applebloom?” asked Sea Breeze.

Applebloom blinked. “No have you?”

“No.”

“Well it never hurts to try! I may even get a soup making cutie mark!” Applebloom said cheerfully excited at the idea.

“You’re right! Maybe I can get mine too!” Strawberry Quartz cheered.

“Yeah I had noticed you and Sea Breeze don’t have yours either yet. You two actually remind me of my old friends back in Ponyville. We made a club called the Cutie Mark Crusaders dedicated to finding our special talents and earning our cutie marks!”

“Cool!” Strawberry Quartz exclaimed. “What happened to your friends?” Strawberry Quartz’s cheerful expression quickly changed into embarrassment. “Oops, I shouldn’t have asked that...”

“No no it’s okay, they weren’t Earth Ponies like me.” Applebloom said. She understood that at times like these many ponies had lost their friends and family. Discussions of the past could bring back painful memories. “My friend Scootaloo was a pegasus and my other friend Sweetie Belle was a unicorn.” Applebloom continued. “I think Sweetie Belle is still in Ponyville with her big sister, Rarity. Scootaloo moved to Appaloosa. Sea Breeze actually reminds me of Sweetie Belle and you kind of remind me of Scootaloo.”

“Scootaloo must be really cool then.” Strawberry Quartz laughed. “But that’s seriously really cool, I wish I could be a Cutie Mark Crusader!”

“I don’t see why you can’t!” Applebloom smiled.

“Really!” Strawberry Quartz said excitedly. “You mean it?”

“Of course! Now kneel for your official Cutie Mark Crusader initiation oath!”

Strawberry Quartz kneeled on the floor.

“I, Applebloom of the Cutie Mark Crusaders, hereby make you an honorary Crusader.” Applebloom said while placing her hoof on Strawberry Quartz’s head.

“Is that it?” Strawberry Quartz asked.

“Yeah I guess that’s it.”

“Cool! Now let’s get a soup making Cutie Mark!”

The guards led Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and the group of Earth Ponies into a toolshed where each pony grabbed pickaxes and shovels to build trenches for waste. They were then forced into one of the trenches and ordered to dig or else be killed.

Applejack dug into the side of the trench with her shovel that was tied tightly onto her hooves. She was knees deep in a revolting mixture of fecal matter, garbage, mud, and pony remains. The horrible stench filled her nostrils causing her to wince.

She scooped up a load of mud and tossed it on the ground above the trench. Although disgusting, the work wasn’t too grueling for her. She was used to hard labor on the farm and was confident she could work if she remained healthy. The same was not for Pinkie Pie on the other hoof.

Applejack looked at her friend. The pink pony had great difficulty raising her pickaxe. Pinkie Pie definitely wasn’t the strongest pony around. She was also still distraught over her experience with Night Flare which was distracting her from the work. She finally raised the pickaxe and brought it down upon the trench wall. It hit the wall and sunk deep into the mud. The trench was obviously no place to use a pickaxe in hopes of breaking up rocks, but the guards had ordered it so there was nothing that could be done. Applejack watched as Pinkie Pie struggled to pry the axe from the gooey mess.

I hope Pinkie can hold up here. Applejack thought. I can’t lose another friend.

The long and tiring day had passed and the Earth Ponies were released into a crammed mess of barracks which contained shelves for them to sleep in instead of beds.

Applejack and Pinkie Pie were waiting in line for their daily rations. The horrible moans of starving and diseased ponies filled the cold night air.

Applejack felt her stomach rumble. She hadn’t had anything to eat for two days. The constant trauma of the whole experience had caused her to forget about her hunger but it had finally caught up with her. She couldn’t wait to get her rations.

Pinkie also seemed to be excited about eating. “Boy I’m starving!” Pinkie exclaimed.

“You’re starving?” a voice said from behind.

Applejack and Pinkie Pie turned around to see a gray mare. She was so malnourished that her bones seemed to be almost poking out of her skin. It was amazing that she had enough strength to talk let alone stand in the line.

“I-I’m... It’s just..” Pinkie stammered realizing that she was no where near as starving as the poor mare or almost anypony else in the camp.

“It’s okay.” the mare said. “It’s your first day isn’t it? I don’t blame you. I guess you get used to it... It’s all you can do...”

“Yeah... I... I guess so.” Pinkie replied. She turned around with a look embarrassment upon her face.

Well nopony’s going to be hungry now that we get our meal. Applejack thought to herself.

They had finally reached the end of the line where a unicorn next to a giant pot was giving out the rations. Applejack stepped forward to receive hers.

The unicorn used his magic to retrieve a small bowl and scooped up a bit of whatever was inside of the pot with it. The bowl then hovered over to Applejack who caught it with her mouth. She stepped out of the line and waited with anticipation until Pinkie Pie got hers.

Pinkie Pie walked over to Applejack. Both ponies placed their bowls on the ground with excitement, but only to find that the bowl contained an extremely small portion of a whitish chunky goo-like liquid.

“Is this a joke!” Applejack roared.

Pinkie Pie sunk her head low to the ground and began to cry softly.

Applejack felt like going up to the unicorn and apple bucking him right in the face, but she knew if she tried that the guards would kill her in an instant. She clenched her teeth and tried to drown out her anger.

“Cmon Pinkie...” she finally said. “If this is what we gotta eat, then we’ll eat it...”

Pinkie Pie didn’t say anything.

Applejack took the lead and bent down to devour the gross meal. Just imagine it’s granny’s apple pies. She tried to convince herself. Just imagine it’s granny’s apple pies.

She slurped up the liquid and almost gagged at its revolting taste. It was amazing that even though she hadn’t ate in two days it still could taste horrible, but she knew that in order to survive she needed all the nourishment she could get her hooves on.

Pinkie Pie, still crying, knelt down and at the liquid as well.

The meal seemed to make the hunger only worse. It was nowhere near enough to satisfy and only served as a tease to their empty stomachs.

“Cmon Pinkie...” Applejack said sadly. “Let’s go find a place to sleep...”

Pinkie Pie nodded not saying a word. The two friends began walked solemnly back toward the barracks.

We can’t go on like this. Applejack thought. You can’t do hard labor without a proper meal, it’s just downright impossible.

“Applejack?” a familiar voice said to the left of the two ponies. Applejack startled, turned to see a stallion hidden in the shadows standing on the other side of a barbed wire fence that divided a portion of the camp from where she and Pinkie Pie were.

“Applejack is that you?” the stallion asked.

Applejack squinted and walked toward the stallion. Is it? No it can’t be! She thought. It is!

“Big Macintosh!” she shouted running towards the fence. “Big brother you’re alive!”

Although Big Macintosh looked different it was definitely him. His mane had been shaved and he had lost a lot of his bulky weight.

Applejack stopping in front of the fence with a different kind of tears in her eyes. Tears of happiness. “W-we thought you were dead big brother!” she cried. “I’m so happy you’re alive!”

The Apple family had been split up when Celestia’s troops invaded Ponyville. When Fluttershy had heard the news she flew to Sweet Apple Acres to tell Applejack about the invasion and to offer her cottage for protection. Unfortunately, Granny Smith and Big Macintosh were in the center of Ponyville selling apples at the time and Applejack had no choice but to take Applebloom to Fluttershy’s cottage before they were discovered. She didn’t want to leave Big Macintosh and Granny Smith behind but she had to protect Applebloom. She never thought she’d ever see Big Macintosh ever again.

“I thought you were dead too sis,” Big Macintosh said happily in his usual slow country voice. “But ye seem pretty healthy, did you only just get here?”

“Yeah, Applebloom and I hid out in Fluttershy’s cottage for a while but... but they found us eventually.”

Big Macintosh’s eyes widened. “Applebloom’s here?”

“Yes but...” Applejack sniffled remembering the painful parting with her little sister. “But they separated us... I don’t know if she’s okay or not...”

Big Macintosh thought for a second. “There’s still a chance.” he said with hesitation. “But...” he paused.

“But what?” Applejack asked worried. “But what big brother?”

Big Macintosh sighed. “There’s... Rumors that fillys and colts are taken and treated real well but then... Experimented on...”

“Ex-experimented on?” Applejack repeated.

“Now they’re just rumors AJ.” Big Macintosh explained. “But they say that a unicorn called the Doctor of Death treats the kids all nice and sich, but then does experiments on them. I don’t know if all of this is true though AJ, but it can mean that Applebloom is still alive.”

“Doctor of Death?” Applejack said horrified. “How can I feel that Applebloom is safe with somepony who’s name is the Doctor of Death.”

“I-I’m going to break it to you.” Big Macintosh said. “I don’t think Applebloom is safe... Not after everything I’ve seen. But if she is with the Doctor it does mean that she still has a chance.”

Applebloom and Strawberry Quartz had finished making the soup and were about to bring it to the injured filly and Sea Breeze.

“It sure doesn’t smell that great.” Applebloom admitted. “I don’t think we’re cutie mark soup makers.”

“Me neither.” agreed Strawberry Quartz. “But hopefully they’ll appreciate the thought more than the taste!”

Applebloom laughed. “Shh let’s surprise Sea Breeze.” she said quietly.

“Yeah!”

Applebloom and Strawberry Quartz quietly snuck into the bedroom. The injured filly was still asleep and Sea Breeze was sitting on her bed staring blankly at the wall.

“Hey Sea Breeze!” Strawberry Quartz exclaimed. “We made you some soup!”

Sea Breeze didn’t say anything.

Applebloom placed one of the two bowls of soup on the chest in front of the injured filly’s bed and then brought the other to Sea Breeze.

“Here you go Sea Breeze.” Applebloom said offering the bowl.

“I’m not hungry.” Sea Breeze said quietly.

“Oh...” Applebloom said disappointed. “It’s okay.” she place the soup on the chest in front of Sea Breeze’s bed. “It’s here if you want it.”

“I don’t want to go with Doctor D guys.” Sea Breeze said turning to Applebloom and Strawberry Quartz. Applebloom noticed her eyes were filled with tears. “I-I don’t want them to hurt me!” she began to sob.

Applebloom and Sea Breeze stood there for a moment watching the poor filly cry. They just didn’t know what to say.

“It’s okay Sea-” Strawberry Quartz began but Sea Breeze cut her off short.

“No it’s not okay! I don’t wanna be here! I want to be home with my Ma and Pa! I-I miss them...” she buried her face into her hooves drowning out the sound of her crying.

Applebloom sat down next to Sea Breeze and padded the filly on the back with her hoof. “We all just wanna go home... And we all miss our families. You know Strawberry Quartz and I are just as afraid as you are.”

Sea Breeze looked up. “Why are you guys afraid?” she snarled. “The Doctor isn’t taking you!”

“We’re afraid because you are our friend.” Applebloom explained. “And we don’t want you to be hurt either. That’s why...” Applebloom took a deep breath. “That’s why I’ve decided I’m gonna let Doctor D take me instead...”

Sea Breeze looked shocked. “You... You’re what?” she stammered as if she was unsure of what she heard to be true.

Strawberry Quartz was astonished too. “Applebloom!” she gasped. “You can’t!”

Applebloom turned to Strawberry Quartz. “Yes I can.” she said calmly. “If I can protect my friends in anyway then I will. I’d rather it be me than you.” Applebloom meant what she said. She was sick of being afraid. She realized that when she was with her new friends the fear and sadness that she had bottled up inside was almost nonexistent. It was a combination of being separated from Applejack, meeting Strawberry Quartz and Sea Breeze, remembering her friends back in Ponyville, and seeing her friends in distress that made her realize that it was through the lives of others that her own life held any meaning. If she could protect her new friends in any way then she wasn’t afraid anymore.

The entrance in the common room opened up. “Hey kids I’m back!” they heard the all too familiar voice of Doctor D say.

Applebloom knew what she had to do. For her friends and for herself.

I’m not gonna be afraid anymore.

Chapter 8

Applejack sighed. She didn’t want to think about what could be happening to Applebloom. “Well I’m just glad you’re safe brother.” she said trying to clear her mind of all negative thoughts.

“Eeeyup.” the red stallion said in his usual manner. “I’m glad yer safe too.”

“So er... What about Granny Smith?” Applejack asked.

Big Macintosh looked down at the ground. “They split us up when we got here.” he said solemnly. “I’m... I’m sure you know by now that those fit to work are sent here. Those who aren’t... well you know...”

“I-I understand.” Applejack said. “I guess I just expected the worst when it came to you two. Having you alive is more than I had ever hoped.”

“The same goes to you... And yer friend.” Big Macintosh said pointing his hoof at Pinkie Pie who was standing quietly behind Applejack.

“Hi there Big Mac.” Pinkie Pie said quietly. “It’s nice to see you.”

“Nice to see you too.” Big Macintosh replied with a smile. He looked back at Applejack. “Now you two should best be going back to the barracks, you need yer rest. Not to mention if the guards see us talking we could get into trouble.”

Applejack didn’t want to leave her brother, but knew that he was right. Their bodies just couldn’t function the next day if they didn’t get enough rest.

“I understand big brother.” Applejack said. “Can we see you tomorrow?”

“Eeeyup.” Big Macintosh nodded. “I’ll be here if ya’ll will.”

Applejack smiled. “Alrighty then. See you tomorrow Big Mac.” Applejack was about to turn away when she realized something. There’s no telling what tomorrow holds. She thought. If one of us doesn’t make it... well.. Applejack looked back at Big Macintosh. “I love you big brother, you’ve always been there for me ever since we were little foals. If... If I don’t make it then I just want you to know that.”

Big Macintosh’s eyes filled up with tears, which was a very uncommon sight. “I love you too sis. Now run along, you need your rest!”

“Yessir!” Applejack smiled. She turned around and walked back towards the barracks with Pinkie Pie following closely behind.

“I’m happy you found Big Macintosh.” Pinkie Pie said after a few moments.

“Me too sugarcube. It’s a good turn of events for once.” Applejack replied. “You didn’t really say much to him though.”

“I’m sorry. I just... I have a lot on my mind.” Pinkie Pie sniffled. “I’ve never had this much on my mind before, I’m not used to it.”

“This is a new experience for all of us Pinkie.” Applejack reassured. “We really should get some rest though. If tomorrow is anything like today then we’re really gonna need it.”

“I’m soooo sore!” Pinkie Pie moaned. “And hungry! How do they expect us to work again tomorrow with empty stomachs?”

“I honestly don’t think they care Pinkie.” Applejack admitted. “But if we wanna defy the odds then we gotta stick together and be smart.”

“I’m just really glad I’m here with you Applejack.” Pinkie Pie said with a smile. “I don’t think I could do it if I was by myself.”

Applejack returned the smile. “I’m glad you’re here with me too Pinkie. But hey if Big Macintosh has been here by himself for two months then the two of us can do it too! Right?”

“I guess so.” Pinkie Pie agreed.

The two ponies arrived at the nearest barrack. The poorly constructed wooden box was only about the size of a small house but could hold more than one hundred ponies.

They walked up the ramp and into the barrack. Ponies were packed liked sardines into the sleeping shelves on each wall. Pushing through the crowd of Earth Ponies, Applejack and Pinkie Pie finally found two vacant shelves next to each other.

“I guess we’ll take these.” Applejack said.

“Okie dokie lokie.” Pinkie Pie agreed.

Applejack smiled. Even if Pinkie Pie had said it by habit, it was still nice to hear a little bit of the happy life loving Pinkie Pie that she remembered.

“Well goodnight Pinkie Pie.” Applejack said giving her friend a hug.

“Goodnight Applejack.”

The two ponies squeezed into the shelves. Applejack grimaced as she received splinters on her back from sliding across wooden board. This is supposed to be a bed? She thought. I’ve seen rocks that are more comfortable.

It was extremely difficult to fall asleep in the barrack. This was due not only to the uncomfortable sleeping shelves but also to the noise. The constant moaning and coughing of starving and dying ponies filled the room. Applejack thought that she would never fall asleep as she listened to the horrible monotonous sound, but eventually her exhaustion caught up to her.

Applejack opened her eyes and looked around the barrack. She was shocked to see that there was nopony inside. Every single sleeping shelf was unoccupied and there were no traces that anypony had even been there at all. Where have they all gone? She wondered. An eerie silence gripped the structure truly giving it a feeling of emptiness. She lay there alone for several minutes trying to collect her memory.

Then she heard the soft distant crying of a filly.

“Wh-who’s there?” Applejack hesitantly shouted in the direction the crying came from.

There was no answer.

Applejack gathered enough courage to force herself out of the tiny shelf. She jumped to the floor and walked cautiously toward the door. The crying seemed to be coming from the other side.

She turned the doorknob with her mouth and pushed on the door. As it swung open a heavy mist from outside seeped into the room. She squinted out into the Canter Camp, trying to see the source of the crying, but the mist was far too thick.

The crying intensified.

Applejack stepped out of the barracks and walked down the entrance ramp. As she walked farther she spotted a small figure in the distance. It appeared to be the silhouette of a filly, sitting down and facing the opposite direction.

“Hey there!” Applejack called out. “Are you okay?”

The filly kept on crying.

“I’m not gonna hurt you!” Applejack reassured.

The filly showed no sign of recognition.

Applejack shuddered. There was something disturbing about the situation. Why wouldn’t the filly respond? It just sat there crying.

Applejack moved closer. A loud crack sounded beneath her hoof as she stepped off the ramp and onto the ground. She looked down to see the ground was completely covered with the skeletons of dead ponies. She jumped back at the sight breathing heavily. The fear rising in her heart. The crying, however, continued.

She turned her attention back to the filly. “What’s wrong?” she asked. “Why are you crying?” Then she noticed the filly’s familiar red mane and pale yellow coat.

“A-Applebloom?”

The filly stopped crying.

“Applebloom is that you?” Applejack asked. She felt a strange feeling build up inside her, as if something bad was going to happen.

“You left me sis.” Applebloom said calmly still facing the opposite direction as Applejack. “You let them take me.”

“No Applebloom! I had no choice!” Applejack pleaded. “It was to protect you!”

“You gave me to them.” Applebloom continued paying no attention to her sister’s excuses. “You gave me to him.” she emphasized.

“Applebloom I’m sorry, but they would’ve killed us! Please listen to me!”

“You let them do this to me..” The filly said softly.

“Do what? What did they do to you?” Applejack asked. Her heart was beating so fast that it seemed it was going to burst, but the rest of her body felt as though it were frozen in place.

Applebloom began to slowly turn around. “THIS!!!” she screamed. The filly’s face had disappeared. In its place was a large black gaping hole. “YOU LET THEM DO THIS TO ME!!!”

Applejack screamed and heard a ringing in her ears. She opened her eyes to find that she was back in the barrack. The guards were moving up and down the isles ringing bells and screaming, trying to wake up all the ponies to begin working again.

“Wake up you worthless scum!” one of the guards shouted. “Get to work or die!”

Waking up from a nightmare to find myself in a nightmare. Applejack thought. Not even my dreams can take me away from this horrible place.

Applejack quickly rolled out of the shelf and followed the hoard of Earth Ponies out into the Canter Camp. She searched the crowd for Pinkie Pie and spotted the mare about fifty feet in front of her. She too appeared to be searching the crowd for Applejack.

Applejack moved closer toward Pinkie. “Hey Pinkie.” she yawned when she was within earshot.

Pinkie Pie turned and smiled, “Hi Applejack. How’d you sleep?”

“Not very well... You?”

“I couldn’t sleep well either. I... I couldn’t get some things out of my mind.”

Applejack nodded. “Trust me I know what you mean...”

“Attention!” ordered a loud voice from above. Applejack and Pinkie Pie looked up to see Night Flare flying over the crowd of ponies.

Pinkie Pie cowered trying to make herself disappear amongst the other ponies. Applejack looked over at her friend. She couldn’t imagine what it felt like for Pinkie Pie to see the stallion who had no doubt haunted her mind last night. Poor Pinkie Pie. Applejack thought. She looked up at Night Flare and felt her anger building up inside. Who does that pony think he is?

“Attention!” Night Flare repeated. “Today all of you will be digging out the foundation for a new barrack. You are to follow and take construction orders from Novelty.” Night Flare pointed his hoof at a brown Earth Pony below him.

Why would they let an Earth Pony be in charge of the construction? Applejack wondered.

Night Flare scanned his audience. His eyes fixated on somepony within the crowd and a wicked smile crossed his face. “Now get to work you worthless scum!” he commanded.

All of the ponies quickly began to follow the construction leader Novelty. While walking, Applejack saw Night Flare, out of the corner of her eye, swoop down and land somewhere amongst the crowd. Soon after she heard an ear-piercing scream.

“No! Please no!” a pony screamed in distress.

Applejack craned her neck to try to see through the crowd. What the hay is going on over there? She wondered.

The screaming continued, “No not you! Not again!”

Applejack finally saw the source of the screaming. A bright yellow mare with a straight violet colored mane was trying desperately to escape Night Flare. The red pegasus was biting on her mane toying with the poor Earth Pony. It was a repeat of what happened with Pinkie Pie.

“You’re coming with me!” Night Flare said with a sinister laugh.

The mare was sobbing, “Please no...” she whimpered. “Please...”

Applejack looked over at Pinkie Pie who was cowering and shaking uncontrollably with fear. We have to get out of here. Applejack thought. I can’t let that monster see Pinkie.

“Pinkie Pie.” Applejack whispered to her frightened friend. “Pinkie we need to leave.”

Pinkie Pie looked up at Applejack and nodded. As they walked away the sound of the struggle continued. The mare’s continuous screams echoing through Applejack’s mind. She felt so helpless. She wanted to help but her common sense told her that if she tried anything then she would be killed. Her objective was to survive, and although it made her feel terrible to just walk away from the incident, she knew that she had a duty to protect Pinkie Pie if she could. It felt like a repeat of her having to be separated from Applebloom.

Applejack tried to convince herself that what she was doing was right. I have to protect Pinkie Pie. Plus Applebloom might still be okay. She thought. And if she is then she’s counting me to take care of her when this is all over. She wondered where her baby sister was and if she was okay. Oh Applebloom, I hope you’re safe...

Applebloom took a deep breath and turned around. Standing in the doorway to the bedroom was the orange unicorn, Doctor D. He was smiling at the fillies in his usual manner.

“Okay Sea Breeze,” he began. “It’s time for you to come with me!”

“Actually...” Applebloom interrupted. She looked back at Sea Breeze and nodded. “Sea Breeze isn’t feeling that great, I’ll go with you instead.”

Doctor D blinked taken aback by Applebloom’s willingness to go. “Well... Er... Okay!” he said smiling again. “Right this way... What’s you’re name little one?”

“Applebloom.”

“Well right this way Applebloom!” Doctor D turned around a began walking out of the room and towards the entrance.

“Hold on a sec!” Applebloom shouted. She turned to her two new friends and gave them each a hug. “Bye Sea Breeze! Bye Strawberry Quartz!” she smiled. “I’ll be back, promise not to worry!”

“B-bye Applebloom.” Sea Breeze said, her eyes tearing up. “And th-thank you...”

Strawberry Quartz was trying not to cry but Applebloom glimpsed a tear roll down the filly’s pink cheek.

“Bye Applebloom.” Strawberry Quartz sniffed. “We’ll be waiting for you okay?”

Applebloom smiled and nodded then turned to Doctor D. “Okay.” she said. “Let’s go.”

Chapter 9

Applebloom followed Doctor D out of the living quarters and into the dark and gloomy hallway. It was strange how fast the mood changed with the surrounding environment. The living quarters actually had a comfortable and friendly atmosphere whereas the rest of the Canter Camp seemed to be uninviting and morbid.

Applebloom felt her heart start beating faster. She tried her best to remain calm but her surroundings told her instincts that she shouldn’t proceed with Doctor D in this strange place.

The two ponies turned at the end of the hallway and walked down several flights of stairs. The lower they descended the colder and darker it became. With every step the clop of their hooves echoed throughout the stairwell. Each second seemed like an eternity.

“Right this way!” Doctor D exclaimed with excitement when they reached the very bottom of the stairs. In front of them was a large metallic door. It looked as though it had been built as some kind of vault to protect whatever was inside. On the side of the door was a keypad with the numbers one through nine and a large enter button upon it.

The Doctor began punching in numbers on the pad, with each button he pressed a little beep sounded. When he was finished, after hitting about nine or ten numbers, he hit the large enter button. The giant door groaned and then slowly split in two, each side retracting into the walls.

The hallway within resembled some kind of hospital. White and beige checkered tiles covered the floor carrying the reflection of the bright lights embedded the ceiling above. Three stretchers lay off to the side of the hall, one of them clearly splattered with blood and gore. Applebloom’s heart rate increased at the sight.

“It’s just in here.” the Doctor said motioning at the first door on the left hoof side. Doctor D moved toward the door and opened it with magic.

“We’re set and ready to begin Doctor.” came a voice from inside.

Doctor D proceeded into the room with Applebloom hesitantly following behind. The first thing she noticed inside was a vast amount of strange medical machines and equipment scattered throughout the room. Three other unicorns, dressed in medical capes, were also in the room huddled around what appeared to be an operating table. A giant lamp hung above the table.

“So this is the new test subject?” asked one of the unicorns.

“Not the one I was expecting, but yes she’s from the new batch.” Doctor D replied.

“What are your orders then Doctor?”

“First things first, a routine check up.” Doctor D began. “We need to make sure she’s ready for the procedure.” He turned to Applebloom. “Please step over here.”

Applebloom took a few steps forward and stood in front of Doctor D. He put his hoof under her left jawbone and held it there for about fifteen seconds before taking it off. “Your heart rate is extremely fast for a filly your age.” Doctor D observed. “Are you experiencing any stress at the moment?”

“Well... I um... I guess I’m kind of nervous.” Applebloom admitted.

“You don’t have any heart conditions do you?” Doctor D asked.

“Not that I know of.” Applebloom said. “Back in Ponyville Nurse RedHeart said that I was a healthy filly during my last physical.”

Doctor D’s horn glowed orange and a device that appeared to be a microphone flew off of one of the tables in the room and hovered in front of him. He wrapped it around his neck so the end was in front of his mouth. “Test subject one three four,” he spoke into it with a monotone voice. “female filly Earth Pony. Yellow coat red mane. Heart rate eighty one beats per minute. Test subject’s heart rate most likely increased due to adrenaline.” Doctor D turned to one of the unicorn assistants. “Sphygmomanometer please.”

The assistant used her magic to levitate some kind of medical instrument to Doctor D. The instrument had a sleeve with a clock on one end connected to a small balloon on the other end by a tube. Doctor D lifted Applebloom’s left hoof and slipped the sleeve onto her leg. He then rested one of his hooves on her leg and squeezed the balloon with his magic. The sleeve began to constrict tightly around Applebloom’s leg.

After a few seconds Doctor D slowly released the balloon and the constriction eased. Applebloom could feel her own pulse beating throughout her leg, as if it contained a heart of its own. The odd sensation subsided when the sleeve deflated back to its original state.

“Blood pressure one twenty over seventy.” Doctor D said into the microphone. “Again increased blood pressure due to adrenaline.”

For a half hour Doctor D performed a series of routine medical check ups that Applebloom had had done many times before in Ponyville. This isn’t so bad. She thought.

“Test subject appears to be healthy and ready.” Doctor D narrated. “Are we all ready to begin?” he asked turning toward his assistants

Ready to begin? Applebloom thought in disbelief. We’ve only just started?

“Yes Doctor!” the assistants replied with excitement.

Doctor D turned back to Applebloom. “Please lay face down on the table and we’ll begin.” he smiled.

“O-Okay.” Applebloom said unsure. She walked over to the table, hopped up on it, and laid down on her stomach. She felt awkward and embarrassed as the four unicorns moved around preparing for whatever procedure they were talking about that lied ahead.

“Make sure you strap her in.” Doctor D told his assistants.

“So it’s going to be one of those procedures?” One of the assistants asked. Applebloom heard a hint of fear or distaste in his voice.

“Yes,” Doctor D answered. “I want to see exactly how the test subject reacts to the procedure without the use of general anesthesia. We will however use local anesthesia for the incisions although in small doses.”

What is anes... Anes-peesh-yer? Applebloom wondered.

“Yes Doctor.” the assistant said. She walked over to Applebloom and with magic summoned five leather straps which immediately tied Applebloom tightly down to the table. Four straps binding each leg and one large strap across her back.

Applebloom panicked. “Why aren’t you letting me move?” she cried. She struggled to get free but with no success.

“It’s only part of the procedure.” Doctor D said happily.

The assistant who had tied Applebloom down moved closer to her. “I’m so sorry...” she whispered in Applebloom’s ear.

Applebloom’s heart rate had increased again, her breathing became heavy and rapid, and although she had tried to force it out of her, the all too familiar fear rose again deep inside her chest.

“Ten forty-two PM.” Doctor D spoke into the microphone. “Procedure is ready to commence.”

“Which procedure is it Doctor?” asked an assistant.

“We are closer to becoming successful in creating a Pegasus more so than a Unicorn. I still haven’t found a successful way of converting the magical pulses from the horn into a normal and useable brain wave pattern that an Earth Pony’s sensory strip can harness. To try another attempt at that procedure would be to throw away a perfectly good test subject. No, I’d rather have another go at the Pegasus procedure. This time, however, I would like to add use more muscle tissue. I feel that our last test subject wasn’t nearly strong enough to be able to fly.”

An image of the pegasus filly in the bathroom screaming in pain flashed through Applebloom’s mind. Th-They’re gonna do the same thing to me! Applebloom thought in horror. She knew that when she volunteered in Sea Breeze’s place that something like this would happen, but now that she was here in the moment it was different than she had imagined.

“Applying anesthesia.” one of Doctor D’s assistants said. Applebloom felt a pinch on her left flank and yelped. The uncomfortable sensation was followed quickly by another pinch on her right flank. Soon after a tingling sensation began to form around the areas that the pinches came from.

“Can you feel this?” Doctor D asked after a few seconds.

“F-feel what?” Applebloom said.

“Me tapping your side right now, do you feel it?”

“No.”

“Test subject has successfully been given anesthesia along each flank.” Doctor D said into the microphone. “We are ready to make incisions.”

“Should I retrieve the parts?” asked an assistant.

“Yes.” Doctor D said. “Pale yellow and O blood type if you can.”

“Donor or traitor sir?” asked the assistant.

“Whichever best suits the test subjects criteria. Make sure that it’s a fully grown mare. The test subject will need to grow into them, I believe it will work better.”

What in tarnation are they talking about? Applebloom wondered as she saw the assistant leave the room out of the corner of her eye. What did all that mean?

“In the meantime,” the Doctor continued. “let’s begin. Scalpel please.”

Applebloom heard the sound of clinking metal but couldn’t see what the doctors were doing behind her. Then she felt a tugging around the same area that she had felt the pinch, as if someone were pulling on her skin. Suddenly, her flank felt as though it had been set on fire and Applebloom screamed in pain. The horrible burning continued as a razor sharp item cut back and forth deep into her muscle. Applebloom writhed in agony but the straps held her down firmly.

“More anesthesia Doctor?” asked an assistant. “It appeared to only numb the skin tissue.”

“Not yet.” Doctor D replied.

The agonizing pain lasted for a grueling five minutes as Doctor D proceeded slicing through Applebloom’s flank.

“First incision made.” Doctor D finally said into the microphone. “Proceeding to the second.”

Applebloom heard the Doctor and his two remaining assistants walk over to her other side. Soon the tugging sensation began once again on her flank and she felt like she knew what was coming next.

“Please stop!” Applebloom cried desperately. “It’s going to hurt again!”

Doctor D paid no attention to Applebloom’s pleas, and just as she predicted the searing pain roared again alongside her flank. Never before had she felt such pain. She became dizzy, her entire body tensed up, and her own screams almost made her turn deaf. Finally the pain subsided and Applebloom laid there panting and crying softly. Cold sweat ran down her face.

“Second incision made.” Doctor D said. “Now we have to wait fo-” he was cut off as the doors swung open and the assistant who had left returned rolling a stretcher with a Pegasus on top. Tubes and wires were strung all across the Pegasus and she appeared to be sleeping. Her coat was the same color as Applebloom’s and her mane was a lime green color.

“Right on time!” Doctor D exclaimed.

“Yes Doctor, and a lucky catch!” The assistant bringing in the Pegasus said happily. She stopped the stretcher directly in front of Applebloom. “Same color and blood type as the test subject. This pathetic traitor didn’t even put up a fight, no guards were needed.”

“Just out of curiosity what’s on her record?” Doctor D asked.

“Conspiracy against the Princess.” the assistant replied. “Apparently this one was trying to make her way to Appaloosa to join the Earth Pony lovers!”

Doctor D laughed. “Well if she loves them so much she’ll thank us because soon she’ll be an Earth Pony herself!”

The three assistants laughed.

“Well shall we continue?” Doctor D said. “Does anypony need a quick refreshing of what we’re going to do?”

“I could use a review.” said the assistant who had told Applebloom she was sorry.

“Better safe then sorry eh?” Doctor D laughed. “Firstly we need those wings along with some extra muscle, nerve endings, and skin tissue. Then we can begin attaching the bones to their proper places with the use plates and screws. Blood flow can then be established by anastomosis of the arteries and veins. Then we can repair and attach muscles and tendons followed by nerves. The next stage is to attach the nerve implants into the spinal column and connect the wing nerves to them. If the test subject can’t control her wings after recovery then we’ll have to resort to brain implants.”

“Yes Doctor.” the assistant said. “Are we going to apply more anesthesia though?”

Although Applebloom couldn’t see Doctor D’s face, she could tell he was smiling. “No.” he said cheerily. “I still want to observe how the patient reacts without it’s use.”

“Y-yes Doctor...”

“We wasted enough time, let’s begin!” Doctor D exclaimed. He walked over to the Pegasus, the three assistants following closely behind watching his every move. Applebloom watched as they worked cutting and sawing with delicate precision. They used a combination of medical tools and magic to get the job done. Bones popped out of place, muscles were severed, and blood trickled out of the open wounds. The gruesome sight made Applebloom feel sick to her stomach. Every so often Doctor D would stop and narrate his work into the microphone and one of the assistants would check on Applebloom, cleaning the incisions made on her flanks. After about twenty minutes the team managed to remove one of the wings. It hovered magically above the stretcher covered with blood.

“I’ll trust you two to get the second wing.” Doctor D said pointing at two of his assistants. He turned to his remaining assistant. “We’ll begin the process of attaching this one.”

Doctor D moved towards Applebloom. She squirmed hopelessly underneath the straps realizing that there was only more pain in store for her. “Please let me go!” she cried. Tears flowed like a river from her eyes and memories raced through her mind. She remembered Ponyville and all of her friends there. She remembered Sweet Apple Acres and the scent of Granny Smith’s apple pies. She remembered Applejack tucking her into bed and telling her that there were no monsters in the closet. “I want to go home! I want my big sis Applejack!” she sobbed.

Doctor D was not phased at all by Applebloom’s heartrending cries. However, the assistant who was to help Doctor D with Applebloom, the same one who had told Applebloom she was sorry, became sympathetic.

“Doctor,” she said. “I think it would be best if we used general anesthesia at this point.”

“Why would you think that?” Doctor D asked.

“Because... Because the patient... er... The test subject will most likely fidget which could ruin the procedure.”

Doctor D laughed. “You doubt my expertise! No the procedure will go along as planned.” He walked behind Applebloom. “Beginning to attach the humerus to the dorsal vertebrae.” he narrated.

The pain returned as Doctor D pulled back Applebloom’s skin. It felt as though someone had thrown boiling oil on her entire flank. She thrashed back and forth but the pain continued. A hard metallic object was then thrusted into her side and eventually rested upon her spine.

“First plate inserted.” Doctor D said. “Now to insert the humerus.

Applebloom barely knew what was going on anymore. Her entire mind was focused on the pain, focused on how to stop it. She began convulsing uncontrollably. The room grew dimmer and dimmer. And then blackness.

Chapter 10

Twilight Sparkle walked the empty streets of Ponyville yet again, only this time to her friend Rarity’s house. She needed to talk to someone whom she could trust. Since her meeting with Princess Celestia, Twilight had seen everything for what it really was. She could now see the horror and injustice that ran rancid across Equestria. How couldn’t she have seen it before?

Twilight could never forgive herself for what she had done. The death of Fluttershy would haunt her forever; however she knew that if she had any chance of clearing her conscience it lied with the fates of her friends in Hoofschwitz Canter Camp.

Twilight walked up to the doorstep of carousel boutique. Even during such harsh times the fashionable unicorn’s house stood elegant as ever, it’s candy colored decor welcoming potential customers.

Twilight looked behind her to make sure nopony was following. Convinced she was alone, she knocked on the door with her hoof.

“Just a minute!” Rarity’s voice echoed from inside.

Twilight rolled her eyes, it was obvious Rarity was busy making dresses as usual. Sometimes it seemed all the white mare ever did was work.

The door swung open with magic revealing Rarity standing in the hallway.

“Twilight!” she gasped. “Twilight darling I haven’t seen you in ages!”

“Hi Rarity.” Twilight smiled. “Is it okay if I-”

“But of course come right in!” Rarity interrupted stepping aside to let Twilight into the house.

“Thank you.” Twilight said as she walked into the house closing the door behind her with magic. She turned to Rarity. “Rarity we need to talk, but first I need you to promise me that what we discuss here and now can’t leave this room.”

Rarity looked worried but nodded. “Yes of course Twilight, what’s wrong?”

Twilight took a deep breath. “Fluttershy’s dead.”

Rarity stared into Twilight’s eyes as if not fully comprehending what she had heard. After a few seconds of complete silence Rarity laughed. “Is this a joke Twilight? Fluttershy can’t be dead! Why I only saw her...” she stopped realizing that Twilight was completely serious. “How?”

Twilight opened her mouth but no words came out. She knew what she needed to say but couldn’t bring herself to say it. The shame was too great, plus how could Rarity ever trust and work with her knowing she had cold-bloodedly murdered their friend? “It was Princess Celestia.” Twilight lied. “Fluttershy was hiding Earth Ponies in her attic.”

Rarity looked as though she had just run into a brick wall. Her expression was a mix of horror, fear, anger, and most of all sadness. She stood there silent for what seemed like an eternity, but in reality was only a couple of seconds.

“I-I don’t believe it...” Rarity finally said. She fell to the ground as if she were drunk. “I can’t believe...”

Twilight sat next to Rarity and embraced her. Soon after the white mare burst into tears, but Twilight herself couldn’t cry. She only felt guilt and shame, she was disgusted with herself. She had not only hurt Fluttershy, she had hurt everyone who had ever loved the innocent yellow mare.

“I can’t keep working for the Princess.” Twilight said when Rarity’s sobs had soften down. “This isn’t the same Princess Celestia that we knew.”

Rarity nodded and wiped her tears with her hoof. “I-I didn’t w-want to side with Celestia,” she sniffled. “but I-I was afraid... I didn’t want my Earth Pony friends to leave, but... I-I was a coward...”

“It’s okay Rarity.” Twilight comforted. “We can still right our wrongs. Pinkie Pie, Applejack, and her sister Applebloom have been sent to a Canter Camp. We need to rescue them.”

Rarity looked at Twilight. “How can we do that? We’re just two ponies...”

“We could go to Appaloosa.” Twilight suggested. “There’s a resistance there.”

“They wouldn’t trust us.” Rarity complained. “No offense but they could never trust you Twilight, you’re the Princess’s loyal student.”

She has a good point. Twilight thought. But I don’t know what else to do. I can’t continue living under Princess Celestia’s sadistic rule, which means I can’t stay here. The only place I can go for help is Appaloosa, it’s the only place where I can start making plans to rescue my friends. The longer I stay here, the more likely I am to be caught conspiring. “Going to Appaloosa will have to a be a risk I’m willing to take.” Twilight explained. “I can’t keep living like this. I’ve been changed by the things Celestia has ordered me to do, and now that I see the truth behind everything I can’t go back...”

Rarity nodded but was silent, no doubt still soaking in all the devastating news.

“D-did you s-say Applebloom is in trouble?” came a soft voice from behind the two ponies.

Twilight and Rarity turned around to see Sweetie Bell, Rarity’s younger sister, standing behind them at the bottom of the main stairwell in the house. She had a frightened look upon her face.

“I’m sure Applebloom’s fine dear.” Rarity reassured. She tried to cover up her emotions but it was obvious to anypony that she was lying.

“I-I need to help her!” Sweetie Bell cried. “She’s my friend, I don’t want her to be hurt!”

“She’s going to be fine.” Twilight said trying to calm the filly down. “But you need to decide if you’re going to come with me, Rarity, and fast. The longer we stay here the more danger we’re in.”

Rarity sighed. “I knew this day would come.” she said. “I wanted to believe things would just magically go back to the way they were before, but deep in my heart I knew that the only way for that to happen was for me to take a stand and stop hiding. I’ll come with you Twilight.”

Twilight blinked. She had never known Rarity to be an inspirational speaker, but those last few words really made her think. For the first time ever Twilight realized that she had the capacity to be completely in control of her own life. She didn’t have to bind herself to anypony and follow them without question. It was her own decision to stop working for Princess Celestia, and it was her own decision to decide to help rescue her friends. Never again am I going to blindly follow anypony. She thought. I know the difference between right and wrong and I can make my own judgements. I won’t let anypony tell me otherwise.

Applejack and Pinkie Pie followed the group of Earth Ponies lead by Novelty trying to blend in with the crowd and stay out of Night Flare’s sight. The screams of the poor mare he was teasing rang throughout the camp.

Applejack tried to ignore the screams and looked toward Novelty. It puzzled her that the Unicorns and Pegasi thought Earth Ponies were inferior, treating them cruelly, but yet they would allow an Earth Pony to lead one of their construction projects.

Applejack looked at Pinkie Pie who was still cowering in fear after seeing Night Flare.

“Why do you think they’re letting an Earth Pony be in charge of construction?” Applejack questioned trying to distract Pinkie Pie from her fear as well as start up a conversation.

“What?” Pinkie Pie asked. “Who’s letting who do what?”

Applejack pointed at Novelty. “That Earth Pony is running our construction project today. Don’t you think it’s odd that the Unicorns and Pegasi would let one of the prisoners do that?”

“Oh.” Pinkie Pie said. “I don’t know. I guess so.”

“It seems mighty fishy.” Applejack pointed out. “I think I’m going to have a word with him. C’mon Pinkie.” Applejack nudged Pinkie Pie and started making her way to the front of the crowd. “Excuse me, pardon me.” she said as she brushed past the multitude of sick and starving ponies until she was directly behind Novelty.

“Er um.. Excuse me, Mister Novelty sir?” Applejack said.

The brown Earth Pony glanced over his shoulder. “Yes?”

“I was wondering well.. I’m just curious why the guards would let an Earth Pony run the construction project.” Applejack explained.

Novelty looked away from Applejack and was silent for a few moments. She didn’t think the pony would respond to her but he sighed. “You’re new here aren’t you?”

“Well yes...” Applejack answered.

“I’m not an Earth Pony.” Novelty said.

Applejack was confused. Has he gone insane from the time he’s spent here? She wondered. “What do you mean you’re not an Earth Pony?”

“Exactly what it sounds like.” Novelty hissed startling Applejack. Seeing that he had lashed out the brown stallion softened his voice. “Look I know I look like an Earth Pony, but I didn’t always.”

Applejack didn’t understand.

“Have you heard any rumors yet about the Doctor of Death?” Novelty asked.

Applejack remembered Big Macintosh explaining how the Doctor of Death took colts and fillies and did experiments on them. “Yes.” she answered. “I’ve heard the rumors.”

“Well they’re true, and most of those rumors started with me.” Novelty said.

“You’ve... You’ve met him then?” Applejack asked.

“Well... Not conscious, but yes I met him. Before I met him I used to be a unicorn.” Novelty turned his head toward Applejack and swept his mane to one side revealing a hole where his horn had been removed.

Applejack gasped. “What did he do to you? Why did he do it?”

“You still don’t get it? The Doctor of Death experiments on ponies. He took my horn and tried to implant it onto some poor colt. I don’t know how I survived, but the colt wasn’t so lucky.”

“Why does he do that?” Applejack questioned.

“Because he can.” Novelty explained. “He has power and he exploits it. Does he really think he can change all Earth Ponies to Pegasi and Unicorns? Well maybe, but he can’t really believe that the next generation of those ponies will be Pegasi and Unicorns. He’s a sadist and a monster hiding behind the curtain of science.”

“But why you?”

“Because I’m a prisoner. A traitor of Celestia. They view us as sub-pony like you.”

Applejack remembered Twilight Sparkle’s words before she murdered Fluttershy. A traitor pony is just as revolting as an Earth Pony.

“It doesn’t matter anymore.” Novelty continued. “I survived. I was an engineer. So they took advantage of that and let me lead construction in this hellhole. They could get the job done themselves if they wanted, and much faster too, but we’re all slaves and we don’t cost a cent. Plus they like to watch us suffer. They’re monsters all of them.”

“They are.” Applejack agreed. “I... I think my baby sister is with the Doctor of Death.”

Novelty looked at Applejack. “What makes you think that?” he asked.

“Well we arrived at the camp together an-”

“And the only way she would still be alive is if she was with the Doctor.” Novelty finished. “I understand. Listen, I know this may be hard for you to hear, but maybe it’s better if she isn’t with the Doctor of Death. From my experience with him I would rather be dead than some kind of sick experiment, plus this is no place for a foal to grow up.”

Applejack couldn’t bear to listen to that kind of pessimism. “No, I believe that if she is still alive then she still has a future.” she argued. “We can still save her.”

Novelty sighed. “You can believe whatever you want to believe. I just don’t believe in hope anymore. Not after everything I’ve seen.”

Applejack was finished with the conversation, she slowed her pace and caught up with Pinkie Pie.

“What did you talk to that stallion about?” Pinkie Pie asked.

“Nothing that made me feel better.” Applejack scoffed.

The group of ponies retrieved shovels and pickaxes from the toolshed and then proceeded to the construction site where they began to dig out the foundation for the new barracks under Novelty’s command. The work was strenuous and grueling and the intense heat of the sun only made the job harder.

Applejack faired much better than most of the other ponies working even though her empty stomach weighed her down. Pinkie Pie on the other hoof was having great difficulty with the task. It was obvious the Pink mare was tired, hungry, and in pain, but she never complained and never backed down from the task.

Applejack was sad to see her friend in such a condition, but also proud to see that she wasn’t giving up.

Two ponies lost their lives that day during construction due to a combination of being overworked and malnourished. Three other ponies were beaten to death for not working hard enough. Thankfully Applejack and Pinkie Pie weren’t among the casualties.

The two friends received their meager daily rations and visited Big Macintosh before heading off to the barracks to sleep. Another day in the Canter Camp had passed, and they both knew that many more terrible days awaited them.

Chapter 11

Applebloom felt dizzy, her whole body ached. She slowly opened her eyes but everything was blurry. Where am I? She wondered.

“Look Sea Breeze!” said a distant voice. “She’s waking up!”

What’s going on?

“Applebloom? Applebloom?” said a second voice. “Are you okay?”

Then she remembered the operation. Her heart surged with fear and she sat up and screamed. “No!” she wailed. “Don’t hurt me! Stop please! No more!”

“We’re not going to hurt you Applebloom!” said the first voice.

“Everything’s going to be all right!” the second voice assured.

Applebloom focused her eyes and the blurriness slowly faded. She saw Sea Breeze and Strawberry Quartz standing in front of her with worried looks on their faces. They were back in the bedroom.

“It’s you guys...” Applebloom said collapsing back on the bed she was in. “I’m... I’m back here...”

“Yes you are.” Strawberry Quartz smiled. “So... so how do you feel?”

“I’m really sore...” Applebloom admitted. “My... flanks hurt...”

In that instant the details of the operation came back to Applebloom, mainly the pegasus and her bloody wing that Doctor D was going to attach.

Applebloom struggled to raise her head and look at her flanks, but she was too weak. “Do I have... Am I a...”

“You have wings.” Sea Breeze answered. “I guess you’re a pegasus now.”

Wings? Wings? Applebloom thought in shock. The concept was so foreign. I have wings? I’m a pegasus?

“You should rest Applebloom.” Strawberry Quartz suggested. “But, we made you some soup if you want any.”

“Hey Applebloom...” Sea Breeze said shyly. “Th-thank you... You know, for what you did... That was really brave of you, I promise I’m not going to be a scaredy-cat next time.”

Applebloom smiled. At least her friends were safe, and it seemed she was too. But she was tired and still hurting. She closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep.

Voices awoke Applebloom again.

“She doesn’t look so good.” Applebloom heard Sea Breeze say. “Do you think she’s going to... you know?”

“I don’t know...” Strawberry Quartz admitted. “Applebloom looks a lot better than her though.”

“She hasn’t woken up since she got here!” Strawberry Quartz said.

“Wh-what are you guys talking about...” Applebloom muttered without opening her eyes.

“Quartzy look Applebloom’s awake again!” Sea Breeze shouted.

“Hey, don’t call me that Sea Breeze! But yeah hey Applebloom how’re you feeling?”

“Who were you talking about...” Applebloom asked.

“Oh we were just talking about... well... the filly we found in the bathroom.” Strawberry Quartz answered. “You know the hurt one...”

“Yeah, she looks a lot worse now.” Sea Breeze continued. “We were also wondering why Doctor D hasn’t come back yet.”

Applebloom slowly opened her eyes. She was still dizzy and her flanks still burned. She gathered her strength and looked over to see the injured pegasus filly in a bed next to her. The purple pony’s wings had turned blackish and the incisions where the wings met her flanks oozed a disgusting yellow puss. The filly’s face was ghost white and her breathing was slow and heavy. The sight was appalling.

Applebloom looked away and shut her eyes again. She didn’t want to think about anything to do with the terrible operation, but she knew that the memories were almost inevitable. She would have to deal with it all sooner or later. “How long have I been sleeping?” she asked.

“Well about two days or so actually.” answered Sea Breeze. “You must be really tired, I’ve never slept that long.”

“You must be pretty hungry too.” Strawberry Quartz added.

Applebloom felt her stomach rumble. “Well... I am pretty hungry I guess.” she tried to get up but an intense pain flared throughout her back and flanks. She screamed and fell back down on the bed wincing.

“Applebloom!” Sea Breeze and Strawberry Quartz exclaimed together rushing to her side.

“I’m... I’m okay...” Applebloom lied.

“You can’t even get up Applebloom, you’re not okay.” Strawberry Quartz observed. “Just take it easy, we’ll bring you some soup.”

Applebloom’s rapid breathing made her realize how parched her throat was. “Can you guys bring me something to drink too?” she asked. “I’m really thirsty.”

“No problem Applebloom!” Sea Breeze said.

The two ponies ran out of the room and quickly returned with a bowl of soup and a large glass of water.

“Do you need help?” asked Sea Breeze.

“That’s a stupid question Sea Breeze.” Strawberry Quartz scolded. “How can she eat if she can’t even get up?” The pink filly put the bowl down on the chest in front of Applebloom’s bed. She picked up the spoon with her mouth, scooped up some soup, and walked over to Applebloom.

This is so embarrassing. Applebloom thought. I can’t even feed myself.

“Here comes the choo-choo train!” giggled Strawberry Quartz almost spilling the soup.

“Stop teasing her!” Sea Breeze growled. “You wouldn’t think it was funny if you were her!”

Applebloom opened her mouth and Strawberry Quartz poured the warm pea soup in. “Aww come on Sea Breeze!” Strawberry Quartz protested. “I’m just kidding around, I’m trying to make light of the situation. You know that right Applebloom?”

Applebloom swallowed the soup, it didn’t taste that great but it was nourishment all the same and her stomach begged for more. “Yeah, I know.” Applebloom said. Truthfully she didn’t like to be babied, but Strawberry Quartz didn’t mean any harm by it.

After Applebloom was finished with the soup and water the three friends told Applebloom what had happened after she had been taken by Doctor D.

“We were really worried, weren’t we Sea Breeze?” said Strawberry Quartz looking at Sea Breeze who nodded. “We were waiting forever! We thought you’d never come back!”

“I felt... I felt really bad...” Sea Breeze said. “I never wanted you to be taken, I was the one that was supposed to go, not you. I’m really really sorry...”

“It’s okay Sea Breeze, I didn’t want you to be taken either.” Applebloom smiled. “So when did Doctor D bring me back.”

Sea Breeze and Strawberry Quartz looked at each other. “Well actually...” Sea Breeze began.

“Actually he didn’t bring you back.” Strawberry Quartz finished.

“What do you mean?” asked Applebloom. “Well how did I get here?”

“Well Sea Breeze and I were in here trying to take care of the other filly and we heard a loud noise.”

“It sounded like an explosion or something!” Sea Breeze exclaimed hopping up and down.

“Yeah it did.” Strawberry Quartz nodded. “And it sounded like it came from the common room, but we had the door open and nopony had came in. We checked the bathroom and you were just lying there like the other filly when we found her.”

“I was just... Just in there?” Applebloom asked puzzled.

“Yeah, we were thinking that Doctor D teleported you there or something.” Strawberry Quartz said. “But it seems really weird that he would take all that time to put those wings on you and then just throw you up here like that.”

“After we found you we moved you in here.” Sea Breeze added. “It was tough because you’re wings are really big and heavy.”

My wings. Applebloom thought. I have wings. Part of her wanted to see her new appendages, but another part of her was afraid to. She remembered the Doctor and his team surgically removing the donor mare’s wings.

“They...” Applebloom winced as she felt a sharp pain race down her back. “They aren’t my wings...” she finished.

“What do you mean?” asked Sea Breeze.

“Doctor D had a Pegasus brought in, he took off her wings and put them on me.” Applebloom explained. “They aren’t my wings, they’re hers. And I’m still an Earth Pony, I don’t feel like a Pegasus at all.”

Sea Breeze and Strawberry Quartz looked horrified.

“Th-they... J-just cut off her wings?” Strawberry Quartz stuttered.

Applebloom nodded and another sharp pain raced down her back. “Ow!” she yelped. “I have to remember to stop moving, it really hurts.”

“Why would they do that to a Pegasus?” asked Sea Breeze.

“They said she was a traitor.” Applebloom said. “They said she was on her way to Appaloosa.”

“Hey, I’ve heard of Appaloosa!” Strawberry Quartz exclaimed. “My big sister told me that Earth Ponies could live there safely alongside Pegasi and Unicorns!”

“You have a big sister too?” Applebloom asked.

Strawberry Quartz’s face grew grim. “Well... I... I used to...”

Applebloom felt guilty. She had blurted out the question without thinking. “I... I’m sorry... I didn’t mean...” she stammered.

“No, it’s okay...” Strawberry Quartz said trying to hide her emotions. She looked up at Applebloom and Sea Breeze. “It’s okay because she used to tell me that when I was sad or afraid or lonely there was always some sort of light in the darkness. When she...” Strawberry Quartz paused trying not to cry. “When she passed away trying to protect me I didn’t believe her... I thought it was just a lie to make me feel better. I was brought here and I thought everything was over, but then I met you guys, and we became friends. I feel like my big sis was watching over me and you guys were the light she was talking.”

“Quartzy...” Sea Breeze said with tears in her eyes.

“Sea Breeze!” Strawberry Quartz shouted ruining the emotional moment. “I told you not to call me that!”

“I’m sorry!” Sea Breeze apologized. “It’s just so much easier to say than Strawberry Quartz.”

Strawberry Quartz sighed. “Anyway Applebloom, don’t feel bad about asking about my sister. You and Sea Breeze have been helping me deal with her passing more than you’ll ever know.”

Applebloom felt a little better, but the talk about Strawberry Quartz’s sister made her remember Applejack. Strawberry Quartz’s sister died trying to protect her. She thought. My sister let them take me away.

“So what else did Doctor D say about the Pegasus?” asked Sea Breeze.

It took Applebloom a few moments to realize what Sea Breeze was talking about. “Nothing really, he just said she was going to be an Earth Pony soon.”

“That’s really messed up.” Strawberry Quartz said. “I hope she’s okay.”

“I don’t know.” Applebloom admitted. “The last thing I remember was...” she shuddered as she recalled the extreme pain. “Well never mind...”

Strawberry Quartz and Sea Breeze nodded understanding that she didn’t want to talk about it.

Another surge of pain blazed through Applebloom’s flanks causing her to scream again.

“You should rest.” Sea Breeze insisted. “You’re a lot better than you were the last time you woke up so the next time you wake up I bet you’ll be even better.”

“O...Okay.” said Applebloom as the pain subsided. “I’m am feeling tired again anyway.”

“It seems kind of early.” said Strawberry Quartz. “I wish I knew what time it was around here, there’s no clocks.”

“Yeah!” Sea Breeze agreed. “There’s not even a window so we don’t know if it’s night or day!”

“I thought you guys said I was sleeping for two days though.” Applebloom pointed out.

“Well it feels like it’s been that long...” said Sea Breeze. “But, I guess we honestly don’t know how long it’s been. We went to sleep two times though since you’ve gotten back.”

“Are you guys going to go to sleep too right now?” asked Applebloom.

“I’m not.” Strawberry Quartz replied. “I’m not tired at all.”

“Me neither.” said Sea Breeze. “But we’ll be quiet and let you sleep.”

Applebloom yawned. “Thanks guys...” she said closing her eyes. She heard the clop of the her friends hooves as they walked out of the room, the click of the light switch, and the creak of the door as they shut it behind them. Applebloom smiled. She was happy that she had a conversation with her friends.

“So you seem to be doing well.” said a familiar voice from within the room.

Applebloom quickly opened her eyes and saw Doctor D standing in front of her. She tried to scream but she couldn’t open her mouth as if it was being held shut by some invisible force. She tried to get up but the pain raced through her back and flanks forcing her back into the bed.

“I don’t want to you to alert your friends.” said Doctor D happily. “Don’t worry I’ll release the spell when I’m finished.”

How did he get in here? Applebloom wondered in horror. Anypony but him! He’s going to hurt me again!

“You’re one of our better test subjects.” Doctor D continued. He looked over at the other filly in the room. “Sadly I can’t say the same for her. She’s not going to last much longer. She has a very serious infection, also it seems that her immune system seems to be rejecting the wings, but only the strongest survive. Isn’t that right?”

Applebloom’s heart pounded in her chest.

“You though. You’ve exceeded my expectations. Most of the test subjects die by now, but you appear to actually be making a recovery. Quite extraordinary since you were one of the test subjects I didn’t use anesthetic on. I could... Speed up your recovery, but that would be cheating in my book. No, you will survive if nature intends that you do.”

Doctor D walked closer to Applebloom inspecting his work.

“Yes, one of my more successful procedures.” he said proudly. “Now I guess the next stage is to see if you are able to use your wings when you recover. Well, I guess that is if you do recover.” Doctor D laughed. “I shouldn’t get too far ahead of myself, you still have a long way to go.”

Doctor D walked even closer to Applebloom. “I’m curious on a scale of one to ten how bad does this hurt.” The Doctor placed his hoof where Applebloom had felt the incisions made on her right flank. Applebloom writhed in pain as her flanks flared up only causing her further discomfort as she flexed her back. Tears came to her eyes, she tried to scream and breath out of her mouth, but it was held shut forcing her to breath in rapid successions out of her nose.

Doctor D removed his hoof from her flank. “Oops I forgot you can’t speak!” he laughed. “Silly me, oh well I’ll just have to try that experiment another time.”

He moved closer to Applebloom so his face was only about an inch or two away from hers. “Sweet dreams.” he said and disappeared with an orange flash.

Chapter 12

Twilight Sparkle, Rarity, Sweetie Belle, and Spike the baby dragon walked through the barren desert to Appaloosa. The sun mercilessly beat down upon them and the scorched sand under their hooves. The vast desert was normally traveled by train, but the railway had long since been shut down and the only way to reach the Earth Pony settlement now was to walk.

The grueling journey wasn’t an easy one. Each pony could only carry a limited amount of supplies to keep a steady pace going. Food had to be carefully rationed to make sure everypony had enough to survive the harshness of the desert. Thankfully, with Twilight and Rarity’s magic they could find hidden water holes buried underneath the sand which helped if their water supply ran low. The group also needed to be completely aware of their surroundings. Patrols of bounty hunters roamed the desert in search for traitors and Earth Ponies heading toward Appaloosa.

Twilight had called Spike from his duties in Canterlot. She figured she could trust her number one assistant and make good use of his skills. It turned out that the baby dragon also despised Princess Celestia’s actions against the Earth Ponies. He too had only followed her out of fear, although he would never admit it to Twilight.

“I just didn’t have to opportunity to leave.” Spike lied.

“Well I’m very happy that you decided to join us Spike.” Twilight smiled. “You’re doing the right thing.”

“That’s all I ever do.” Spike said cooly. He winked at his crush Rarity who shook her head and turned away.

“How are you holding up Sweetie Belle?” Twilight asked turning to the white unicorn filly.

“Well my legs are kind of sore, but I’m okay.” Sweetie Belle answered.

“You’re doing very well Sweetie Belle.” Rarity complimented. “I, however, can’t wait until we arrive in Appaloosa. I need a bath at once! This sand is chaffing my poor delicate hooves.”

Twilight rolled her eyes. Even in the desert all Rarity seemed to think about was fashion.

The group had set out as quickly as possible after Twilight and Rarity’s decision to leave. When Spike arrived they waited until nightfall to slip out of Ponyville unnoticed. They traveled all night trying to put as much distance as possible between them and Ponyville. Twilight knew that eventually word of her desertion would reach Princess Celestia’s ears. Her greatest fear was that the princess herself would go looking for her.

“So Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Applebloom are in a Canter Camp?” asked Spike. “That’s not good, I’ve only heard bad news about the camps.”

Twilight had never been to any of the Canter Camps herself, but she too had heard the rumors. Everypony knew that the ponies who went to the Canter Camps never came back. Oh, I hope their all right. Twilight thought. I don’t know what I’d do if I found that I sent them to their deaths as well.

“Spike!” Rarity hissed leaning close to him. “Don’t talk about Applebloom around Sweetie Belle.” Twilight heard her whisper in his ear.

“Oops!” said Spike. “My bad!”

Rarity frowned. “A moment ago you said that you only ever do the right thing.”

Spike scratched his head and blushed. “Yeah well... I... uh...”

Rarity walked over to Sweetie Belle and began to talk with her. Twilight couldn’t hear the conversation, but she guessed Rarity was trying to comfort her little sister and keep her mind off of Applebloom and the Canter Camp.

Spike looked up at Twilight. “Hey uh Twilight... Do you mind? My feet are kind of sore.” he said gesturing at her back.

“Gee Spike.” said Twilight. “And I was beginning to think you were a big strong baby dragon.”

“Twilight!” Spike moaned. “Cmon!”

“Fine.”

“Yeah!” Spike cheered and hopped up on Twilight’s back. “Say Twilight,” he whispered making sure Rarity and Sweetie Belle couldn’t hear. “how’d you find out that our friends were sent to the camps?” Spike asked.

Twilight was taken aback by the question. Just like she couldn’t tell Rarity that she murdered Fluttershy, so to she couldn’t tell Spike that she had sent her own friends to a Canter Camp.

“Well.” Twilight began trying to think up a lie. “You see I heard about it from... uh... Cheerilee.”

“Twilight.” said Spike. “Cherilee’s an Earth Pony... Didn’t she go into hiding?”

“Oh yeah! My mistake!” Twilight laughed. “I meant... I meant Cherry Seed! Ugh I get their names mixed up all the time!”

Spike raised an eyebrow. “Cherry Seed? I don’t think I’ve ever met her before.”

“Yeah she’s... She’s a Pegasus in Celestia’s army.” Twilight lied. “She was part of the raid on Fluttershy’s cottage.”

“Poor Fluttershy.” Spike said in a depressing tone. “I almost didn’t believe it when you told me. It still doesn’t seem like she’s gone... What monster would do such a thing to her? She was only trying to protect her friends!”

Spike’s words really stabbed at Twilight’s heart. “Yeah...” she said softly. “Whoever did it was a real monster.” I’m not going to argue there. Twilight thought. I still can’t even believe I did it... It was like I was a different pony...

“Was it that Cherry Seed you were talking about?” Spike asked.

“No... I don’t think it was Cherry Seed.” Twilight said.

“Is there something you’re not telling me Twilight?” Spike asked.

“Twilight! Spike!” Rarity yelled. “Look!”

Twilight looked up to see Rarity pointing at a small cloud of dust in the distance. Six tiny black specs were galloping their way, and fast.

“Bounty hunters!” gasped Twilight. “Quick everypony, get down! I’ll cast a spell of invisibility so they won’t see us!”

“I’ll cast a spell to clean up our hoof prints in the sand!” Rarity shouted. “I’ll be right back Twilight!”

“There’s no time Rarity!” Twilight protested, but Rarity had already begun the spell. Twilight turned to Sweetie Belle who was hiding behind a cactus.

“What do I do Twilight?” the filly asked shaking.

“Come over here Sweetie Belle I need to cast a spell so they can’t see us.”

Sweetie Belle ran up to Twilight and stood next to her. “What about my siser?” she asked.

Twilight looked back at Rarity who was still trying to sweep away the tracks. “Rarity! Please, come here!”

The white unicorn looked up at Twilight and then back at the incoming bounty hunters. The six dots were exceptionally closer and had quickened their pace, a sure sign that they had spotted Twilight, Spike, Rarity, and Sweetie Belle. “They’ve already seen us Twilight.” Rarity said softly.

“No Rarity! Over here now!” Twilight cried. “There’s still time.”

Rarity shook her head. “Take Sweetie Belle to Appaloosa Twilight.” she said. “Make sure she’s safe.”

“Rarity!” Twilight exclaimed realizing that she was planning to stay and distract the bounty hunters.

“No Rarity!” Spike cried. “You’re not going to stay! I’m not going to let you!”

“Be quiet Spike!” Rarity hushed. “This is my decision!”

“But Rarity!” Sweetie Belle sobbed tears already streaming down her face. “You can’t!”

Rarity smiled. “Oh don’t worry about me Sweetie Belle, this mare knows how to handle herself!” She turned to the bounty hunters. “Run Twilight! Take Sweetie Belle and run!”

Twilight felt tears build up in her eyes. Rarity. She thought. You are always so stubborn. She didn’t want to leave her friend but it was painfully obvious that the bounty hunters had spotted them; they were now shouting and hollering in their direction, and they had gotten so much closer that Twilight could even make out that they were all unicorn stallions. Maybe we can fight them off. No, I can’t risk putting Sweetie Belle in danger.

“What are you doing just standing there Twilight?” Rarity screamed. “Get out of here now! There’s no point in all of us being taken!”

“Come on Sweetie Belle.” Twilight said. “Get on my back with Spike.”

“No!” Sweetie Belle argued. “I’m not leaving my big sister!”

“I’m staying with Rarity too!” Spike agreed. He jumped off of Twilight back.

“I’m sorry Sweetie Belle.” Twilight said under her breath. “I’m sorry Spike.” Twilight used her magic to pick up Sweetie Belle and Spike and hold them down on her back. She then began to run as fast as she could, tears streaming from her face Sweetie Belle and Spike kicked and thrashed angrily about trying to break free from the spell, but it was no use.

Twilight knew how much Spike cared for Rarity. Ever since he had first seen her all he ever wanted to do was impress her and make her happy. It was also unimaginable how horrible Sweetie Belle was feeling to have to leave her older sister behind. They’ll never forgive me for this. Twilight thought. I’ll never forgive myself for this...

Rarity!” Sweetie Belle screamed. “Rarity!”

“Why is she doing this?” Spike sobbed.

“To protect you two.” Twilight answered.

Twilight sprinted as fast as she could in the direction of Appaloosa, forcing herself not to look back. Then, only about five or so minutes after they left Rarity, a scream was heard far behind them.

“No!” Spike screamed. “Rarity!”

“What happened?” sobbed Sweetie Belle. “What did they do to her?”

“They’ve got her...” Spike whimpered. “They’re taking her away...”

“Are any of them following us Spike?” Twilight asked. She didn’t dare waste anytime to look behind her.

“Does it even matter...” Spike said solemnly.

“It does matter Spike! Rarity stayed behind to protect us, it’s all for nothing if we get captured too!”

After a few moments Spike spoke. “It looks like two of them are taking Rarity. I think the other four of them are coming after us.”

What do I do now? Twilight wondered. This isn’t good at all! She studied her surroundings and saw a pile of boulders far off in the distance. If I can make it there then maybe we can get out of their sight and be able to hide.

Twilight ran as fast as she could. She definitely wasn’t the best sprinter, but she knew she couldn’t let the bounty hunters catch up to her. Her legs ached and her lungs gasped for air not to mention the spell she had cast on Sweetie Belle and Spike was slowly draining her energy as well.

“Their gaining on us Twilight!” Spike shouted.

“Do you think we can make it to those rocks ahead?” asked Twilight

“If we hurry, but seriously Twilight they’re really close!”

Twilight thought of one way she might be able to run faster, but wasn’t sure if she was willing to risk it. “Spike, if I release the spell can you promise me to stay and make sure Sweetie Belle doesn’t leave either?” she asked panting.

Spike was silent. Twilight could tell that he wanted to go back and help Rarity, but he surely had to have realized by now that such an attempt was futile.

“Spike if we make it to Appaloosa we can get a rescue team to help save Rarity.” Twilight assured.

“I...” Spike paused. “Okay Twilight... I promise.”

Trusting in Spikes word, Twilight released the spell. To her surprise Sweetie Belle didn’t even attempt to run away, but Twilight could hear the filly crying softly behind her. Without the spell draining her stamina Twilight could run much faster. But is it enough? She wondered.

The sun was starting to set in the horizon and the once distant boulders were getting closer and closer. Twilight didn’t know how long she could continue galloping, it felt like her heart was going to give out at any second. Never before had she ever exerted herself like this before. She had exceeded what she thought to be her limit, but she kept on going somehow. I’m almost there. She reassured herself. I’m almost there.

Finally they reached the scattered mess of boulders just as the last ray of the sun had disappeared into the horizon. Twilight ran behind one of the bigger rocks and collapsed from exhaustion, Spike and Sweetie Belle falling off of her back as well.

“Twilight!” Spike shouted as he picked himself up. “What do we do now?”

“We... Need... To... Hide...” Twilight said in between breaths.

“Hide where?” Spike asked looking around.

From behind them the hollering of the four bounty hunters grew louder.

I have to do the invisibility spell. Twilight thought. They saw us run into this jungle of boulders but they didn’t know where we went from here. Maybe if they can’t find us here they’ll keep on running past the rocks assuming we kept going...

“Spike, Sweetie Belle, get... behind me.”

The baby dragon picked up the crying filly and ran up to Twilight. “Yeah what now Twi?”

“I’m going to... cast... an invisibility spell.” Twilight said gasping for air. “You... need to... stay still...”

Twilight put her magic to work. A purple light illuminated around her horn and covered the three of them in its glow. The amount of energy it took to cast the spell almost made Twilight faint from exhaustion. The world around her grew dim but she refused to give into the blackness. I must protect them. She thought. For their sake and Rarity’s sacrifice.

About five minutes later the four bounty hunters had reached the boulders. Their hooves making clopping sounds every so often when they stepped on a rock. Spike covered the whimpering Sweetie Belle’s mouth.

“Shhh.” he said softly. “We need to be quiet Sweetie Belle.”

“Do you think their hiding here?” asked one of the bounty hunters. “Or did they just run past it?”

“Damned boulders.” said another one. “I don’t know, I couldn’t see behind these stupid rocks.”

“We have to find her!” exclaimed a third voice. “That was Twilight Sparkle! Princess Celestia’s student! I’m sure of it!”

“It seems unlikely that one of the Princess’s most trusted officers would be a traitor.” said the first voice.

“No it was definitely Twilight, and that white unicorn back there was one of her friends.” the third voice confirmed. “I used to be a guard at the palace and I’ve had to escort that mare more times than you know. It was her alright.”

“Wait did you hear that?” asked a fourth voice.

Twilight’s heart stopped. Did they hear us somehow? She wondered. No that’s impossible! We didn’t make any noise!

“I hear it too!” the first voice screamed. “Ambush!”

Just then all hell broke loose. The rocky terrain was engulfed in flames as somepony cast a spell. The explosion broke apart boulders and sent debris flying everywhere. There was shouting that seemed to come from every direction. One of the bounty hunter’s screamed, “Retreat! Run away!”

Twilight lost control of the invisibility spell in the confusion revealing her position. Her ears were ringing from the explosion and she looked around in a daze.

“I think we got them all!” shouted a familiar voice. “Wait who’s that?”

Twilight’s eyes focused and she saw her old friend Rainbow Dash hovering in front of her. The Pegasus was looking directly at her with a look of shock on her face.

“Rain... Rainbow Dash?” Twilight said.

“Twilight?” the cyan pony said in disbelief. She flew down to them. “And Spike and Sweetie Belle?”

“Rainbow Dash!” Spike laughed. “You just saved us!”

“Hold on!” Rainbow Dash growled backing away slightly. “Twilight, I’ve heard about what you’ve done. You’re on Celestia’s side, you’re an Earth Ponies murderer!”

Twilight opened her mouth to speak but Spike spoke first. “No!” he yelled. “Twilight’s not helping Celestia anymore! Her, Rarity, Sweetie Belle, and I all left for Appaloosa! We’re not on the princess’s side! Honest!”

Rainbow Dash studied them all. “Well where’s Rarity then?”

“She’s back there!” Sweetie Belle sobbed pointing her hoof in the direction they had traveled from.

“She stayed back to hold those ponies you just fought off.” Spike explained. “Please you have to help her Rainbow Dash!”

“What’s wrong with Twilight?” Rainbow Dash asked studying the purple unicorn.

“She sprinted the whole way here trying to save us.” Spike said. “She’s exhausted.”

Rainbow Dash looked behind her. “Hey guys over here!” she yelled.

A Pegasus who Twilight noticed was one of the Wonderbolts, Soarin, flew down and landed besides Rainbow Dash.

“Where are the other two?” asked Rainbow Dash.

“One of them was getting away.” Soarin replied. “Braeburn and Silverwood went after him.”

Twilight recognized the name Braeburn. He was Applejack’s cousins, an Earth Pony who had settled in Appaloosa a while back.

Rainbow Dash sighed. “Soarin, I need you to take these three back to Appaloosa. They’re friends and Celestia defectors.”

“How am I supposed to bring all three of them back?” Soarin complained.   “That’s not my problem. Sweetie Belle you said Rarity was in that direction?” Rainbow Dash asked pointing her hoof.

Sweetie Belle nodded.

“Don’t you worry kid, I’ll get her back safe and sound.” Rainbow Dash said cooly. She turned to Twilight. “I believe you Twilight. But don’t think this changes the fact that you supported Celestia. I’m not going to forget that so easily.” She took to the sky and darted away in a flash.

Soarin watched Rainbow Dash fly away and then turned back toward Twilight, Sweetie Belle, and Spike. “Awww man...” he sighed. “I have to carry you three back and I haven’t even eaten yet...”

Chapter 13

The next few hours were a series of vague and confusing blurs for Twilight Sparkle after she, Spike, and Sweetie Belle had packed together on top of Soarin’s back. They took off into the desert night towards Appaloosa but Twilight couldn’t stay awake for long as her exhaustion forced her to sleep.

“We’re... Almost... There...” Twilight heard Soarin pant. She slowly opened her eyes again to see that the sun had begun to rise in the horizon. She looked down at Soarin who was struggling to fly under the weight of Spike, Sweetie Belle, and herself.

As they flew the cool breeze was welcoming and felt good against her face, but her whole body ached like never before. Her vision was blurry and she closed her eyes again.

“Twilight, are you awake?” Spike asked from behind her.

Twilight took a deep breath, the air stinging at her sore lungs. “Yes Spike... I’m awake...”

“How’re you feeling?” the baby dragon asked. He began to massage the back of her neck.

Twilight winced. The sensation was painful but felt amazing at the same time as her muscles began to relax. “Well better now.” she smiled. “How’s Sweetie Belle?”

“She’s asleep.” Spike answered. “I couldn’t fall asleep though...”

Twilight didn’t need to ask why. She understood that Rarity was on his mind. “Rainbow Dash will get Rarity back safe and sound Spike, don’t you worry.”

The little dragon was silent.

“So... Hungry...” Soarin said. “I can almost smell the apples...”

Twilight looked down to see rows upon rows of white specs scattered across the desert sand next to a large plateau. The wooden buildings of Appaloosa rose in the center of the specs. Behind the plateau was a stream and a forrest of apple trees.

“What are all those white things?” Spike asked.

“Oh those? Those are tents.” Soarin explained. “Even with all the speedy construction that’s been going on lately there’s still not enough room for everypony.”

Twilight studied the buildings. There was indeed many more of them since the last time she had visited Appaloosa. Even the apple orchard seemed to have increased dramatically in size.

“Alright. Time to go down... “It might get a little bumpy, you should wake up the filly.”

Spike nudged Sweetie Belle. “Hey Sweetie Belle we’re there.”

Twilight felt the filly jolt slightly as she awoke. “W-We’re at Appaloosa?” Sweetie Belle asked with a yawn.

“We sure are.” Spike answered.

Soarin tilted his body diagonally so his face was pointed at a slope towards the ground as he began his descent. Twilight wrapped her front legs tightly around his neck fearing that she might fall off.

“Gah!” Soarin choked. “Let... I can’t!”

“Oops!” Twilight exclaimed easing up her grip around him. “I’m sorry.”

“You can’t just strangle me while flying you crazy mare!” Soarin laughed. “If you wanted me to fly slower you could have just asked.”

Twilight blushed. “Sorry.”

Soarin laughed and shook his head. “Don’t worry about it.” The Pegasus spread his wings to their full span and glided gracefully down to the ground. They landed in the town square so softly that there was barely any sound of impact.

There were hardly any ponies around town as it was still very early in the morning, however Twilight noticed a group three Earth Ponies wandering along the dirt roads.

“Look!” Sweetie Belle shouted. “Earth Ponies!”

Soarin laughed. “Haven’t seen them in a while have you?”

Sweetie Belle hopped off of Soarin’s back. “No!” she smiled.

Twilight remembered that the last Earth Ponies she had seen were Applejack and Pinkie Pie. A wave of sorrow filled her as remembered her friends.

She watched the three Earth Ponies walk in the distance and noticed a small portion of her felt hatred towards them. But why? She wondered. I don’t know them. They’re probably nice ponies. There’s no reason for me to hate them. You can’t judge a book by it’s cover. Twilight gasped realizing why she felt the hatred. When she had seen the Earth Ponies she didn’t see them as fellow ponies but as inferior ones. This prejudice seemed to have burrowed itself within her mind since working for Celestia. She immediately felt guilty with the thought. How can I go back to seeing them as I did before? There’s nothing wrong with them Twilight. She tried to convince herself.

“Um...” Soarin announced distracting Twilight from her thoughts. “The ride’s over.”

Twilight looked down and realized she was still laying on Soarin’s back. Spike and Sweetie Belle were staring at her with looks of confusion of their faces.

“Uh Twi... What are you doing?” asked Spike while covering Sweetie Belles eyes.

Twilight immediately hopped off and laughed awkwardly. “I... Um... I was just thinking... Um...” She blushed. “It’s not what it looked like.”

“Hey you have to take me to dinner first.” Soarin joked. Spike started laughing hysterically.

“No!” Twilight objected. “It was nothing like that! I was just daydreaming!”

“Oh I bet you were!” Spike remarked falling to the ground with laughter. Soarin began to chuckle.

Sweetie Belle stood there looking at Twilight and then back to Soarin and Spike. She shook her head. “I don’t get it.”

Soarin calmed down a bit. “Okay.” he said. “Well welcome to Appaloosa, now I’m gonna go get something to eat!” He spread his wings ready to take off but Twilight stopped him.

“Wait!” she cried. “What are we supposed to do now? Who do we report to?”

Soarin retracted his wings and hung his head low. “You’re right.” he sighed. “Food will have to wait, I’m supposed to take you to the Princess to see if you all are truly welcome here. We don’t want spies or anything.”

“Wait the Princess?” Twilight asked confused.

“Yeah, Princess Luna.”

Twilight and Spike gasped. “She’s alive?”

A couple of months ago Celestia had announced that Princess Luna had been murdered. She told all of Equestria that her sister had been killed by rebels in an heroic attempt to bring them to justice. She even held a grand royal funeral in Canterlot which both Twilight and Spike had attended.

“Oh I almost forgot, you all still must only hear the lies and rumors that that tyrant Celestia spreads.” Soarin realized. “No, Luna is very much alive although not anywhere near as powerful as she once was. She was forced to flee Canterlot after a failed attempt to remove Celestia from power you see. Unfortunately, she was hit by a powerful spell during her escape, and she’s been weakened dramatically by it ever since.”

“So where is she?” Spike asked.

Soarin sighed. “Just follow me I’ll take you three to her.”

Applebloom didn’t want to tell Strawberry Quartz and Sea Breeze about Doctor D’s horrifying visit. She didn’t want to scare her friends if she didn’t need to, but now Applebloom herself was terrified. The thought of Doctor D materializing in the room when she least expected it was a horrifying one. She realized that she had been in a false sense of security within the comfortable living quarters, and as long as she was in the Canter Camp she could never be safe.

Applebloom tried to relax but the pain in her back and flanks combined with the adrenaline boost after seeing Doctor D made it almost impossible. She looked over at the dying Pegasus filly in the bed next to her. Doctor D said that she won’t last much longer. She thought. And he said that I might not recover. Does that mean that I could... die?

The thought of dying was strange and mysterious. Until recent events she hadn’t given it much attention, but after witnessing the colt die in the train and feeling the fear that she herself was going to die the thought of death crept up on her much more frequently. She knew that dying was scary and that it would hurt, but she wondered what happened after. Is it just really dark? She contemplated. Maybe we go to a better place like Granny Smith always said. Maybe it’s not all that bad after all. But the more she thought of it the more the idea of her life ending frightened her.

The filly next to her made a raspy breathing noise and Applebloom turned to look at her again. The purple pony’s chest began to move up and down quickly.

“Are you awake?” Applebloom asked.

There was no response. The filly’s breathing continued rapidly for a few more moments and then, after a long exhale, stopped altogether.

Applebloom stared at the filly for a long time. There were no signs of movement coming from her and the room was silent with the exception of the eerie ambience of the air conditioning.

“Are you okay?” Applebloom asked even though she knew the filly wouldn’t respond. “Are you... dead?”

The door behind Applebloom opened and Strawberry Quartz and Sea Breeze walked in.

“Are you talking to somepony Applebloom?” Sea Breeze asked.

“Did the other filly wake up?” questioned Strawberry Quartz excitedly trying to peer over Sea Breeze’s shoulder.

“I think she’s...” Applebloom began. “I think she’s dead.”

Her two friends stood frozen in the doorway in shock. “Dead?” they both said simultaneously after several moments.

“She not breathing anymore.” Applebloom explained.

Sea Breeze and Strawberry Quartz were silent. Applebloom could imagine that even though the filly looked like she was dying before the fact of her actually being dead now had left her friends speechless. It made Applebloom remember a time when she was little.

One day Applebloom had found a worm inside of an apple and decided to take it in as a pet. A couple of days later the worm had stopped moving. Concerned, Applebloom brought the tiny creature to Applejack.

“What’s wrong with him sis?” she asked. “Why ain’t he wigglin around anymore? Why doesn’t he wanna play?”

“Well, he’s... He’s dead sugarcube.” Applejack explained.

“What’s that mean?” Applebloom had asked.

Applebloom remembered her sister being hesitant to explain. “Well you see... It’s kinda like being broken... Uh... But you can’t fix him... Look here Applebloom a filly like yourself shouldn’t have to think about death yet. Say how bout I take you down to Sugarcube Corner and you can pick out some sweets?”

Applebloom instantly forgot about the worm enticed by the idea of goodies. Even though later in life Applebloom’s understanding of death increased the words her sister said echoed in the back of her mind. A filly like yourself shouldn’t have to think about death yet. But here in the Canter Camp death seemed to be all anypony could think about. Her two friends stood there in silence gazing at the filly’s body, and Applebloom wished that Applejack would come and offer to take her to Sugarcube Corner again and take her mind off of such thoughts.

“Alright it’s just through this door.” Soarin pointed out. He had led Twilight Sparkle, Spike, and Sweetie Belle to what was apparently the Appaloosa courthouse, although the rustic wooden building didn’t really resemble any kind of courthouse that Twilight had seen before. “Before I let you in I have to warn you, Princess Luna is a little...”

“Anti-social?” Twilight giggled.

“Well... Um... Just a little...” Soarin admitted. “Don’t be alarmed if she uses her Royal Canterlot Voice every so often.”

“Don’t worry, we’ve had to deal with that before.” Spike grunted.

Soarin laughed. “Well, whenever you’re ready you can go on in.”

Twilight nodded and pushed opened the door with her hoof. As it swung back she instantly saw Princess Luna sitting at the end of the courtroom. It was undoubtably her although she seemed to have lost a great deal of weight and appeared to be sickly.

“Who goes there?” Luna asked looking up.

“Twilight Sparkle your highness.” Twilight said while taking a bow. “And this is Spike the dragon and the filly is Sweetie Belle.”

Princess Luna stood up. “I know you!” she gasped. “You’re my sister’s student!”

“I assure you your highness that I am not on Celestia’s side. I’ve defected. I’ve come here for help to rescue my friends from Hoofschwitz Canter Camp and to find a safe place for my two friends here to live.”

Luna studied the three of them. “WHO LET YOU IN APPALOOSA?!” she questioned in her Royal Canterlot Voice.

“Soarin Wonderbolt your majesty.”

“SOARIN WONDERBOLT!!!” Princess Luna shouted.

Soarin’s head poked out of the doorway.

“WHO GAVE YOU PERMISSION TO LET THESE THREE INTO APPALOOSA?”

“Uh... It was a mare in my squad. Her name’s Rainbow Dash.”

“BRING ME THIS RAINBOW DASH!!!”

“Actually Princess,” Soarin began as he walked further into the room. “Rainbow Dash isn’t here, she went to rescue the group’s forth member who was captured by bounty hunters. But I can assure you Princess from what I’ve seen these three are good ponies and... well... er... dragon. At least let the filly go.”

“I’M NOT WORRIED ABOUT THE FILLY AND THE BABY DRAGON! I’M WORRIED ABOUT MY SISTER’S STUDENT!!!”

“Princess Luna.” Twilight interrupted. “If you wish to take me into custody, then I humbly summit. I’ll do whatever it takes until you are willing to trust me.”

Just then Rainbow Dash burst through the door carrying an unconscious Rarity and a bloodied pony that appeared to be Applejack’s cousin Braeburn.

“Rainbow Dash!” Twilight and Soarin cried in surprise.

“Rarity!” Spike and Sweetie Belle cried likewise.

The three ponies and Spike rushed to Dash’s side. The cyan Pegasus had bruises and burns all over her body and she collapsed as she dropped the two ponies off of her back.

“I thought... you’d... be here Soarin...” Rainbow Dash panted. “They killed Silverwood.” She turned to Twilight. “I need you... to... heal them with your magic...”

“They killed Silverwood?” Soarin repeated.

“Rarity!” Sweetie Belle cried. “Wake up big sis! Wake up!”

Twilight wasn’t the most skilled healer but she knew enough to tell that Rarity was going to be okay. Unfortunately she couldn’t say the same for Braeburn.

“Don’t worry Sweetie Belle your sister’s going to be fine.” Twilight assured. “We should bring her and Braeburn to a hospital though. What were you thinking bringing these two here Rainbow Dash?”

“I was thinking that the hospital is full!” Rainbow Dash snapped angrily. “But you wouldn’t know about that would you Twilight? Where the hay have you been this whole time? Oh yeah hanging out with Celestia! So don’t try to lecture me about what I should be doing!”

Twilight was taken back by Rainbow Dash’s sudden outburst. “Look I’m sorry, but I don’t know proper medicine.”

“I WILL HELP!” Luna shouted from behind. She flew down to Rarity and Braeburn and inspected them. “YOU ARE RIGHT THIS ONE WILL BE FINE!!!” Luna blared pointing at Rarity. “THIS ONE, HOWEVER, MAY NOT SURVIVE.”

“Can you try to heal him?” Soarin asked concerned. “Please Princess!”

Princess Luna lowered her voice a bit. “I am still very weak but yes, I will try.” She pointed her horn at the bloodied Earth Pony and clenched her eyes shut with concentration. A dark blue light illuminated her horn and a beam shot out and scanned Braeburn. After a few seconds the bleeding stopped and Luna released the spell.

“That is the best I can do.” she said breathing heavily.

Braeburn shuddered and made a grunting noise. Everponies attention turned to him. “H...Hey...” he whispered weakly with his eyes still closed.

“Everything’s going to be alright buddy.” Soarin assured. “You’re gonna be okay.”

The Earth Pony slowly opened his eyes and struggled to look around the room. His gaze fell upon Twilight. “Y-you’re my cousins friend... Aren’t you?” he asked.

“Yes.” Twilight answered.

“Rainbow... Dash d-didn’t know what... what happened... to her. Do... you? Is... Is she safe?”

Twilight decided this wasn’t the time to break the news to him that his family members had been sent to a Canter Camp. “She’s fine... We’re going to bring her and Applebloom back here. They’re going to be safe.”

“You... promise?” Braeburn asked. His voice seemed to be fading.

“I promise.” Twilight comforted feeling tears build up in her eyes.

“Good...” Braeburn smiled. “It’s good to know... that some of my... family survived...” With that he closed his eyes and died.

Chapter 14

Applejack awoke again to the sound of the guards ringing bells and screaming for everypony to get up and begin another grueling day of work in the Canter Camp. Was this her third day here? Or was it the fourth day? No maybe it had been more than a week! She couldn’t keep track of time in this dreadful place. The day was split into two different parts: the time when she was working and when she wasn’t, and seeing as she was too exhausted every night to keep from sleeping, her life in the camp seemed like one long continuous period of work.

Her stomach screamed for nourishment and her sore legs told her to lay back down, but to refuse to work was an instant death sentence by the guards. She winced in pain as she rolled out of the shelf and followed the other ponies out into the camp.

They walked like zombies to the toolshed, retrieved their pickaxes and shovels, and continued onward to the construction sight. Several Earth Ponies collapsed in the sand and mud even before they reached the worksite. The guards hollered for them to get up and get to work. When they dying ponies didn’t or couldn’t the guards beat them to death without mercy. The screams of the Earth Ponies as they were being bludgeoned echoed throughout the camp. The sound didn’t phase Applejack anymore though, she had heard it so many times since she arrived that it seemed to be just a normal part of life. You either worked or you died. It you couldn’t learn that fast then you couldn’t survive in the Canter Camp.

Applejack seemed to go in and out of consciousness as she worked. She was awake the whole time but her mind spaced out as if she was a robot. Put the shovel in the ground. Lift the shovel. Throw the dirt, rocks, and debris over the side of the trench. Repeat. The only good the monotonous process ever did was take her mind off of her fear and suffering. Fear! Ha! She thought when her mind came back to her control. What was there to be afraid of anymore? Death? She still hadn’t given up hope for Applebloom, Pinkie Pie, and herself, but she had seen so much suffering and death recently that it had changed her perception of death. As long as it wasn’t long and painful then death wasn’t all that bad, but then again all death in the Canter Camp was long and painful. At least death’s end result was an end to the pain and misery.

Wait! Applejack thought coming to a realization. She looked around. Where is Pinkie Pie? Applejack paused her work for a moment scanning the laboring ponies, however a guard glared in her direction giving her no choice but to resume the digging.

Applejack couldn’t remember if she saw Pinkie Pie when she woke up that morning. She imagined that if she had then she probably would have walked with her to the construction site anyway. Applejack thought back to the few ponies that had been beaten that morning. She was positive that Pinkie Pie wasn’t among them, but where could she be? A terrible thought crossed Applejack’s mind. Perhaps Pinkie Pie had died in her sleep last night.

Pinkie Pie seemed to have been holding up rather well. Well at least for a Canter Camp. The pink mare was of course starving and sore like everypony else, but she had worked diligently and seemed strong and extremely driven to survive.

Applejack longed to gallop back to the barracks and search for her friend, but she knew that would mean death for herself. Tears filled up her eyes. Pinkie Pie please don’t be dead. She prayed. Please don’t be dead. You’re my friend. I can’t lose you. Fluttershy, Granny Smith, Pinkie Pie. How many countless others needed to die? How many families had been broken apart? How many mares and stallions had lost their foals? How many friends had gone through what she was going through right now?

Tears began to roll down Applejack’s face. If she died in her sleep, at least she died peacefully. She tried to convince herself, but it didn’t help her stop from crying. Memories of her happy friend flashed through her mind. Pinkie hopping and laughing, baking cake and cheering everypony up.

“Well look what we have here!” laughed somepony.

Applejack looked up to see a guard jeering at her above the hole. “Awww.” he mocked sarcastically. “Are you sad?”

Applejack didn’t say anything and kept on digging. She focused her anger on the ground.

“Did you lose your family?” the guard sneered. “Did all your friends die?”

Applejack sniffed and drilled the shovel deep within the soil pretending it was the guard’s face.

“You’re going to die too you know!” the guard laughed before trotting away.

Applejack was thankful he didn’t stick around and continue to push her further. She had been right on the brink of jumping up there and bucking him right in his smug little face. What stopped me from doing that? She wondered. She quickly realized. Hope. Somewhere deep inside she knew Applebloom was still alive, and she believed she could save her and escape the camp and this horrible nightmare would all be over.

Hope couldn’t stop her from crying though. She worked the rest of the day mourning Pinkie Pie.

As soon as the guards released the mares from work Applejack sped straight to the barracks. Her legs burned and her stomach screamed for her to go get her daily rations but she fought through the pain. She looked at each of the dead ponies lying in the mud that she saw on the way back. None of them were Pinkie Pie.

Applejack ran up the ramp and into the sleeping quarters. She raced through the hall searching each of the shelves. There were no bodies to be seen. Finally she came to the shelf that she believed Pinkie Pie had fallen asleep in the night before. Her legs trembled as she slowly looked into it, but to her surprise it was empty. She raced around the barracks searching every shelf, but there were no bodies to be seen.

Where is she? Applejack wondered.

She ran outside and looked around the barracks, she traced her path to the toolshed, but again none of the bodies on the trail belonged to Pinkie Pie. Reluctantly, Applejack gave up and walked to the line for rations. Maybe the guards had cleaned out any bodies that were in the shelves. Applejack contemplated. Poor Pinkie Pie.

After having her meager meal she walked to the fence where she met with Big Macintosh every night. The sun had long since retreated into the horizon and the camp was encased in the darkness of night. Thankfully, the large red stallion was still there waiting for her. At least he’s still alive. Applejack thought. I need somepony to talk to.

“Hey there sis.” Big Macintosh greeted. “Where’s your friend?”

Applejack’s felt fresh new tears run down face. It was amazing she was able to cry at all after being so depraved of food and water. “Pinkie Pie...” Applejack stammered. “I think Pinkie Pie’s dead!”

Big Macintosh was silent.

Applejack began to cry out loud and collapsed pathetically to the ground on the edge of the fence.

“Shh.” Big Macintosh hushed looking around to make sure no guards were near by. “We don’t want to alert anypony.”

“I-I’m sorry.” Applejack whimpered.

Big Macintosh knelt down next to Applejack on the other side of the fence. “It’s okay.” was all he could manage to say. He stayed there with her trying to comfort her.

Then, suddenly, a familiar voice came from in front of them. “What’s wrong Applejack?”

Applejack and Big Macintosh looked up to see none other than Pinkie Pie standing in front of them. She had a concerned look on her face.

“Pinkie Pie!” Applejack cried. She leapt up from off the ground and embraced her friend. Tears of happiness and relief now flowed from her eyes. “But where have you been? I searched everywhere for you!”

“What did you think I was dead?” Pinkie Pie giggled.

Applejack released her embrace and looked Pinkie Pie in the eye. “Well yes Pinkie... I did think you were dead...”

Pinkie Pie’s expression changed to that of sympathy when she realized what Applejack must have been through that day thinking that she had died. “I’m so sorry Applejack!” she apologized. “Novelty took me and two other ponies to fix a broken gas pipes on the other side of the camp. I should’ve told you.”

“That’s alright sugarcube.” Applejack smiled. “I’m just happy your safe and sound.”

“Hey! What are you doing over there?” a voice hollered from Big Macintosh’s side of the fence.

“Applejack, Pinkie Pie, get down!” Big Macintosh hissed. “Get down!”

Applejack and Pinkie Pie jumped in a nearby trench.

“I asked what you’re doing over there!” the voice yelled angrily. A pony walked out of the shadows. It was none other than Night Flare.

“Oh me?” Big Macintosh replied as if he didn’t know Night Flare was talking to him. “I was just relieving myself.”

“We have fucking trenches for that!” Night Flare growled. “Are you telling me you don’t want to take a piss in the trench? Are you telling me that you want to piss on this clean ground?”

The ground was obviously not clean. In fact the skeletal remains of a dead Earth Pony laid only a few yards away from Big Macintosh.

“No sir, sorry sir.” Big Macintosh apologized. “I won’t do it again.”

“You won’t get the fucking chance to do it again!” Night Flare laughed. He charged at Big Macintosh with the intent of ramming him straight into chain linked fence.

Big Macintosh dodged to the side, and as Night Flare whizzed passed he kicked him full force in the ribs with his powerful hind legs.

The Pegasus was thrown off course flew directly into the barbed wire above the fence. The left side of his face and his left flank were ripped open painting the fence red in blood.

“Why you!” Night Flare screamed pulling himself free from the barbed wire. “You disgusting Earth Pony! I’ll kill you!”

“Eeeyup.” Big Macintosh said calmly. “We’ll see.”

Night Flare charged at Big Macintosh again. This time, though, Big Mac didn’t dodge. Instead he raised his hooves and caught Night Flare in mid air.

“Get your filthy hooves off of me!” Night Flare roared.

With a low grunt Big Macintosh threw Night Flare with all his might. The Pegasus tried to regain control in midair but didn’t have enough time, he hit the ground hard with a loud thud and screamed as the exposed open wounds on his flank rubbed against the mud and dirt on the ground.

“Guards!” he yelled while picking himself up off the ground. “Guards!”

Big Macintosh looked back at Applejack and Pinkie Pie who were still in the trench watching in disbelief. He smiled and mouthed the words, “I love you sis.”

Applejack’s eyes teared up. She knew that it was over for her brother, and as she gazed into his big green eyes she could tell that he knew it was the end for him too. She hated this feeling of helplessness. There was nothing she could do to help him, not when she was on this side of the barbed wire fence anyway.

The sound of more guards coming to Night Flare’s aid radiated throughout the camp. Big Macintosh mouthed the words, “Run sis! Run!” and Applejack turned to Pinkie Pie who was already crying.

“Cmon Pinkie.” Applejack managed to say although there seemed to be a giant lump in her throat.

Pinkie Pie nodded understanding the situation and realizing they couldn’t stick around any longer. There was nothing they could do for Big Mac.

The two Earth Ponies crept out of the trench and ran silently back to the barracks leaving Big Macintosh behind.

They’re going to be safe. Big Macintosh thought to himself. He smiled. He knew what was going to happen to him, but he had accepted it long ago. He was sick of being treated like he was, it was time to strike back, even though it would mean his death.

Night Flare stood up completely. “You need to learn your fucking place!” he snarled his eyes filled with hatred.

“Eeeyup.” said Big Mac. “I could say the same to you.”

Two Pegasi guards flew up from behind Night Flare. “Sir.” they both reported in.

“Don’t just stand there!” roared Night Flare. “Kill that prisoner!”

“Yes sir!” the two Pegasi guards charged at Big Macintosh. The red stallion turned around and kicked the one in front directly in the face killing him instantly and sending him flying back crashing into the Pegasus behind.

A Unicorn guard ran up from behind and hit Big Macintosh with a spell that exploded and burned a large area on his thigh where his cutie mark was. Big Macintosh winced slightly at the pain but quickly turned and charged the Unicorn. Before the guard had a chance to fire another spell, Big Macintosh had rammed him head on. The Unicorn crumpled to the ground with several broken ribs and gasped for air.

Another spell hit Big Macintosh, this time directly in his right eye. It burned and felt as though someone had poured boiling oil on his face. He tried to open the eye but couldn’t see anything when he did.

“Serves you right you animal!” Night Flare laughed.

Big Macintosh looked up to see that guards were swarming at him from all around the camp. No doubt the sound of the fight alerting more and more of them.

He looked down at the ground. “Eeeyup. I guess this is it.” he sighed. He closed his eyes and felt a soft breeze brush against his cheek. It felt good. He took a deep breath, opened his eyes, and charged at Night Flare.

Numerous spells shot from all different directions. The mixture of green, blue, orange, purple, red, and yellow orbs flew at him illuminating the ground as they passed overhead.

Funny. Big Macintosh thought as the splendid display of magic raced towards him. It’s actually kind of beautiful.

Applejack and Pinkie Pie sat on the ramp to the barracks. The sound of guards shouting and excitement around the camp begun to fade into the night. They both realized it was over. Big Macintosh was dead.

They sat there for a long time staring blankly into the camp. Neither said a word, neither made a sound. The fresh memory of what had just happened replaying over and over again in their minds.

Applejack knew she and Pinkie Pie needed to go to sleep and rest, but she also knew she wouldn’t be able to. “Pinkie Pie.” she said softly. “You should go to bed. I think I’m going to sit out here a little longer by myself.”

Pinkie Pie shook her head. “You don’t have to go through this alone Applejack. I’m here for you.” she put her hoof around Applejack’s shoulder.

The two friends sat there all night gazing into the sky and thinking of Big Macintosh. He’s in a better place. Applejack thought as a tear rolled down her cheek. I know he’s in a better place.

Chapter 15

Sweetie Belle paced back and forth in the small tent glancing periodically at her sleeping sister lying on the cot.

Everypony says she’s going to be fine Sweetie Belle. She tried to reassure herself.

Rarity was one of the only family members Sweetie Belle had left. Although Rarity never actually confirmed it, she sometimes made remarks that implied their Earth Pony father had been killed sometime during the takeover, and since Sweetie Belle hadn’t seen him or her mother in months she guessed they were probably dead.

It was hard back then. At first it almost drove her insane wondering every waking second if her parents were alive or not, and once she finally accepted the fact that they were most likely dead she had been overcome with terrible grief and depression. Only recently, before Twilight had shown up on their doorstep, had Sweetie Belle started to begin feeling better and normal again. And then, as if someone was playing a cruel joke on her, Rarity, her only remaining family member, stayed behind in the desert to be killed by those monsters making that all to familiar pain surface once more.

Sweetie Belle sighed, “Everypony says she’s going to be fine Sweetie Belle.” she repeated out loud. “There’s nothing to worry about, she’s just sleeping.”

The sound of the canvas entrance flap opening startled Sweetie Belle. She quickly turned around and gasped at who had entered.

Standing in front of her was one of her best friends, and fellow Cutie Mark Crusader, Scootaloo. The little orange pegasus filly had the same look of awe on her face, as if she couldn’t really believe what she was seeing.

Sweetie Belle broke the silence. “Scootaloo!” she cried with joy. She jumped forward and embraced her friend.

“Sweetie Belle!” Scootaloo laughed. “It really is you!”

Sweetie Belle let go of Scootaloo and smiled. “I’m so happy to see you! How’d you know I was here?”

“I ran into Twilight Sparkle!” Scootaloo explained. “Well... Actually I kinda rode my scooter into her... Anyway, she seemed to be in a big hurry to a meeting or something, but she had enough time to tell me that you and your sister were here and point me in your guys’s direction!” Scootaloo noticed Rarity sleeping on the cot behind Sweetie Belle. “What’s with her? It’s like one two o’clock in the afternoon.”

Sweetie Belle told Scootaloo about her journey through the harsh desert and how Rarity stayed behind to let Twilight, Spike, and herself escape from the bounty hunters.

“Whoa!” Scootaloo exclaimed. “You’re sister’s actually pretty cool Sweetie Belle! That was really brave of her! So how did she get back?”

“Rainbow Dash rescued her and brought her back along with a Earth Pony named Braeburn.”

“Leave it to Rainbow Dash to save the day!” Scootaloo said proudly. “So how’s Braeburn?”

Sweetie Belle hadn’t expected Scootaloo to ask about him. “Why do you know him?”

“Well duh, he’s in Rainbow Dash’s squad! I know all the ponies in her squad! There’s Braeburn, Silverwood, and Soarin! Soarin used to be a Wonderbolt!”

“I... I have some bad news.” Sweetie Belle said softly. She hated the idea of breaking the news to her friend, but she knew Scootaloo would only pressure her with more questions and eventually force her to tell anyway. Plus it was only a matter of time before she found out.

“What?” Scootaloo asked. Her smile faded instantly and her happiness changed to concern.

Sweetie Belle took a deep breath. “Braeburn and Silverwood didn’t make it.” She told her friend.

Scootaloo stared blankly for a few moments and then laughed. “Good one Sweetie Belle! You almost got me! Those four are the best there are they couldn’t...” she stopped chuckling when she saw that Sweetie Belle was completely serious. “Did they really?” she asked softly.

Sweetie Belle shook her head yes.

“I mean... I didn’t know them all that well...” Scootaloo admitted. “But, that’s so weird I just saw them like two days ago... I guess that would explain why I didn’t see Rainbow Dash last night. She’s okay right? She isn’t hurt is she?”

“She’s fine I think.” Sweetie Belle answered. “But I have some other bad news too.”

“Oh no.” Scootaloo moaned. “What now?”

“Well...” Sweetie Belle started trying to think of the best way to say it. “Before we left Ponyville Twilight came over to Carousel Boutique and had a long talk with Rarity.”

“Yeah and?”

“I overheard them talking about how Applebloom and her big sister Applejack had been taken to a Canter Camp.”

“What!” Scootaloo said in shock. “Well somepony has to rescue them!”

“I know!” Sweetie Belle agreed.

“Oh man this is bad.” Scootaloo said looking down at her hooves. “I’ve heard terrible things about the Canter Camps. Do you know which one it was?”

“No I didn’t hear them say.” Sweetie Belle admitted.

“Maybe we can try to convince Rainbow Dash to help.” Scootaloo suggested.

Sweetie Belle shrugged. “I guess that’s a start. Do you have any idea where we can find her?”

“Hmm.” Scootaloo muttered thinking. “She might be at the courthouse, she gets missions and stuff from Princess Luna there.”

“Alight, let’s go!” Sweetie Belle exclaimed.

The two fillies galloped out of the tent and toward the center of Appaloosa. It was astonishing just how many ponies there were in the town. When Sweetie Belle arrived in the early morning there was almost nopony to be seen, but now the dusty dirt roads were filled with Earth Ponies, Pegasi, and Unicorns alike.

They darted through the crowd but when they reached the courthouse they found a sign on the front door that read, SESSION IN PROGRESS, NO UNAUTHORIZED ENTRY.

“I guess we’ll have to look somewhere else.” Sweetie Belle said turning to her friend.

“No way!” Scootaloo laughed. “When that sign’s on the door it means they’re having a meeting, if they’re having a meeting then Rainbow Dash is in there. She’s the leader of her squad which means she has to attend.”

“Well we can’t just barge in there if they’re having a meeting.”

“No, but we can sneak in. I know a secret way.”

“Really?” Sweetie Belle asked wide eyed.

“Sure! I’ve snuck in on meetings there loads of times!” Scootaloo bragged. “Follow me!”

The orange filly darted down a small alleyway between the left side of the courthouse and its neighboring building. Sweetie Belle hesitantly followed.

“In here!” Scootaloo whispered pointing at a missing plank in the side of the courthouse’s wooden wall.

The two fillies squeezed into the hole and army crawled in what was apparently the foundation of the building. As they inched there way farther into the darkness they heard voices above them arguing. Suddenly, Sweetie Belle ran into Scootaloo who had abruptly stopped.

“Ouch!” Sweetie Belle cried.

“Shh.” Scootaloo hushed. “Listen.”

The voices were now directly above them and Sweetie Belle looked up to see tiny rays of light protruding from the cracks in the floorboards above.

“Look,” said one of the voices. “You do realize Princess Luna could have thrown you in prison for siding with Celestia in the first place!”

“And I thank Princess Luna for trusting me enough not to.” answered the unmistakable voice of Twilight. “But there needs to be something done about the ponies Canter Camps!”

“AND WHAT COULD WE POSSIBLY DO?” questioned Luna in her Royal Canterlot Voice.

“We need to send a rescue team to Hoofschwitz.” Twilight proclaimed.

Everypony above them began to chatter in disapproval.

“It would be a suicide mission!” somepony scoffed. “Plus how do we know you aren’t trying to lead us into an ambush?”

“I’m on your side now!” Twilight insisted. “My friends have been sent there! I’ll go myself!”

“I DO NOT THINK SO TWILIGHT SPARKLE!!!” Luna yelled. “I’M LETTING YOU STAY IN APPALOOSA, NOT BECOME THE GENERAL OF IT! I DO NOT TRUST YOU ENOUGH TO GO THROUGH WITH YOUR PLAN!!!”

“But Prin-”

“I HAVE MADE UP MY MIND!!! WHAT DO THE REST OF YOU SAY?”

Ponies who were spread throughout the room began to speak up.

“I agree with Luna.”

“I too side with Luna.”

“We just can’t throw away lives for a hopeless cause, I’m with Luna.”

Ten or so other ponies agreed similarly. Then Sweetie Belle heard Rainbow Dash’s voice speak up. “Look Twilight, if you are really serious about this then help us stop Celestia by helping around Appaloosa. Even I’m still wary about completely trusting you.”

“But Rainbow Dash!” Twilight protested. “Pinkie Pie and Applejack are there! They’re our friends!”

“I hate to say this Twilight, but you could’ve probably done more for them working with Celestia than with us.”

Twilight Sparkle was silent.

“WELL PUT YOUNG PEGASUS!!!” Luna exclaimed. “IT IS SETTLED! COURT DISMISSED!”

Scootaloo tugged on Sweetie Belle’s ear signifying it was time to leave. The two fillies crawled out from under the floorboards and stood back in the alleyway.

“I can’t believe it!” Scootaloo cried in rage. “Even Rainbow Dash doesn’t want to help them! What’s with those ponies?”

“What do we do now?” Sweetie Belle asked.

Scootaloo thought for a moment. “I say we go help them ourselves!” she decided.

“What?”

“Sweetie Belle listen,” Scootaloo said. She placed her hoof on Sweetie Belle’s shoulder. “This is our best friend, Applebloom. Are we just going to sit here and let her die in a Canter Camp?”

The thought of the little yellow Earth Pony being killed stabbed at Sweetie Belle’s heart, but what could Scootaloo and her do about it. “What makes you think we can do anything?”

“Well first off Celestia’s followers are looking for Earth Ponies.” Scootaloo raised her wings up and tapped on Sweetie Belle’s horn with her hoof.

“But those bounty hunters attacked us even though Rarity, Twilight, and I are all unicorns.”

“Yeah, but you were going to Appaloosa. We could pose as leaving to help Celestia!”

“I don’t think that will work Scoots.” Sweetie Belle said shaking her head. “Plus do you even know where that Hoofschwitz place they were talking about is?”

Scootaloo smiled. “Well no, but I know how we can find out! Rainbow Dash has maps of Equestria in her tent, they have the locations of all the Canter Camps I’m pretty sure.”

“Okay so we get to the Canter Camp and then what? Do you think they’ll just let us in?”

“Well we have two options I think. We can either sneak in or pose as one of the guard’s foals.”

“Do they let the Canter Camp guard’s foals into the Canter Camp?”

Scootaloo shrugged. “I don’t know but we could act all innocent and stuff like we got lost. I think we can pull it off.”

“I still don’t know Scootaloo, we tried being Cutie Mark Crusader secret agents before and it didn’t really work out.”

Scootaloo laughed. “Yeah I remember that! But in all seriousness hear me out. I have a really good plan.”

“What would that be?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“We write a letter to everypony in Appaloosa explaining exactly what we did.”

“Why on Equestria would we do that?”

“Think about it! They would have to send a rescue party to retrieve us!”

“Why would we want ponies in Appaloosa to take us back?”

“Because dumb dumb,” Scootaloo bonked Sweetie Belle on the head with her hoof. “Think about all the ponies who would insist to go looking for us! Twilight, Rainbow Dash, and Rarity! If they’re the ones that find us, then we can guilt trick them into helping us rescue Applebloom along with Pinkie Pie and Applejack!”

“Scootaloo your a genius!” Sweeite Belle laughed. “How did you come up with that?”

Scootaloo blushed. “I don’t know, but it is a pretty good plan isn’t it?”

“Definitely! Let’s get to it!”

Twilight Sparkle laid in her bed unable to go to sleep. It was a combination of rage at the fact that Luna wouldn’t help the ponies in the Canter Camp and guilt and sorrow at the deaths of Braeburn and Silverwood that fueled her insomnia.

She replayed the memories of the bounty hunter attack in her head over and over again. She was sure it wasn’t her fault that Braeburn and Silverwood had died, but she still felt guilty all the same.

At least Rarity is okay. Twilight thought. She felt terrible to admit it, but she was happy that it was Braeburn and Silverwood who had died. Not because she actually wanted them dead, it was just because of the fact that she didn’t know Braeburn that well and had never even met Silverwood. Twilight knew she would feel a great deal worse if it were Rarity that had died.

Twilight turned and looked at the clock. It was four thirty in the morning. I really need to get some sleep. She thought. She wriggled trying to get comfortable under the sheets.

“Can you just go to bed Twilight?” Spike said drearily. The baby dragon had to share the same bed with her and had obviously been woken up by Twilight’s movements.

“I’m sorry Spike, I just have a lot on my mind.”

Spike grunted something that Twilight couldn’t make out before pulling the sheets back over his head. After only a few minutes he was snoring.

How can he fall asleep that easily? Twilight wondered. Especially after everything that’s happened...

Twilight’s ears perked up as she heard the sound of an argument from outside the tent.

“No I will not!” somepony said. “It’s too obvious! It’s her idea!”

“No Twilight would never do that!” another pony shouted back.

Are they talking about me? Twilight wondered staring wide eyed at the entrance to the tent.

The flaps were pulled back and Rainbow Dash stormed in followed by Rarity.

“You!” Rainbow Dash growled angrily pointing at Twilight. “This is your doing isn’t it?”

“Dash please calm down!” Rarity pleaded.

Twilight was so confused. What was Rainbow Dash accusing her of and when did Rarity regain consciousness?

Spike woke up. “Can you just let us sleep?” he complained.

Rainbow Dash ignored him. “So this is your plan?” Rainbow Dash questioned angrily holding up a piece of paper. “This is how you’re going to get us to go to Hoofschwitz? You’re sick you know that?”

“What are you talking about?” Twilight cried.

“See she doesn’t know anything!” Rarity exclaimed. “We have to stop accusing ponies, Rainbow Dash, and act! My sister is out there in the desert as we speak!”

Sweetie Belle is in the desert? Twilight could have sworn that’s what Rarity just said. But what would drive Sweetie Belle to go back into the desert? “Will somepony please explain what the hay is going on?”

“You know damn well what’s going on!” Rainbow Dash snapped.

“No she doesn’t Dash!” Rarity turned to Twilight. “Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle stole one of Dash’s maps and some of her food. They also wrote this.” Rarity snatched the piece of paper from Rainbow Dash and with her mouth and tossed it to Twilight.

She looked down at the paper and began to read.

Dear Rainbow Dash,

Sorry about taking your map and food, but we really need it for where we’re going. Sweetie Belle and I have decided to go rescue Applebloom from the Canter Camp she’s in. We would’ve asked you to go too, but figured you’d never allow it. Sorry that I had to tell you all this in a letter. Oh and by the way Sweetie Belle says hi to Rarity and wants you to tell her not to worry.

You’re number one fan,

Scootaloo (and Sweetie Belle too I guess)

“You can’t be serious.” Twilight said reading the letter over again. “They didn’t really...”

“They did though Twilight!” Rarity exclaimed on the verge of tears. “We need to do something! My baby sister is going to get herself killed!”

“I thought those two were smarter than that!” Twilight said shaking her head. “Do they really think they can rescue Applebloom by themselves?”

Rainbow Dash sighed. “Well are you ready Twilight...” she said in an irritated tone.

“For?”

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. “We’re going to have to go get those dumb fillies and you know it. We can’t bring this up with Luna, she’ll think you’re behind it all and won’t allow anypony to go after them out of fear of a trap.”

“So what makes you think any different from Luna?” Twilight questioned.

“Well... Nothing, but I’m not going to sit around while Scootaloo is out there trying to get herself killed.” Rainbow Dash paused hating to admit her true feelings. “Look I’m really fond of the kid okay, I don’t want to lose her.”  “Just like I’m not going to lose Sweetie Belle!” Rarity agreed.

Twilight nodded.

“I’ll go too guys!” Spike butted in.

Twilight shook her head. “No Spike, you need to stay here. I’m not going to put you in danger too.”

“But won’t somepony question me about you guys not being here?” Spike asked.

“He has a point.” Rainbow Dash admitted.

“Well, can’t you just go get Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle by yourself Rainbow Dash?” Twilight asked. She really didn’t want to put any more lives in danger than she had to. “I mean you are one of the fastest flyers in Equestria. We would only slow you down.”

Rainbow Dash looked down at her hooves. “Okay look, there’s a reason why squads around here have at least one unicorn in them. Sure, us Pegasi can fight other Pegasi pretty well, but against trained Unicorns and their magical attacks we can’t really do that much unless we have the element of surprise. I almost didn’t make it back myself when retrieving Rarity and Braeburn. I know I’m pretty cocky most of the time, but this isn’t something I can just charge into. Those two fillies have a better chance if we play it smart.”

“So can I go?” Spike asked.

Twilight took a deep breath in. She knew this decision could very well cost the life of Spike in the future, and she didn’t to add anymore blood on her hooves. It was, by no means, an easy decision to make, but she realized it wasn’t entirely her decision either, Spike was old enough to think for himself. “You have to promise me, Spike, that you will not do anything stupid.”

“I won’t!” Spike promised.

“And you have to promise that if anything happens to us then you’ll come straight back here.”

Spike hesitated. Twilight knew that the baby dragon didn’t agree with leaving his friends behind when they were in danger, but she needed all the comfort she could get ensuring that Spike would be as safe as possible on the journey. “I promise...” he finally agreed reluctantly.

“Well what are we waiting for?” Rainbow Dash. “Let’s go get those featherbrained fillies back.”

Chapter 2

Applejack slowly opened her eyes, the room was dark. It took her a few moments to realize that there were ponies huddled all around her.

What in the world? She thought dazed. Where am I?

A jolt that rocked the entire room shook off Applejacks tiredness. She looked around and noticed the ponies were all shaking in fear. Some of them were even crying. A putrid smell of feces and vomit pierced Applejack’s nose causing her to wince.

Then the truth raced through her mind like a suppressed memory revealing itself. Fluttershy. Twilight. It was all real.

Panic swept through Applejack and she started breathing heavily. Her heart pounded faster and faster. And then she realized something.

“Applebloom!” she yelled. “Oh God no! Applebloom!”

Some of the ponies looked up at her but nopony said a word.

She turned to the pony next to her. “Please sir!” she cried. “Have you seen my sister Applebloom, she’s a young filly about-”

“It doesn’t matter.” he said angrily. “Don’t you see? We’re all going to die anyway, we might as well accept it.”

“Accept it?” Applejack said in horror. “Accept my innocent baby sister’s...” The thought of Applebloom being hurt or even dead caused Applejack to burst into tears. She collapsed on the floor causing another pony next to her to fall as well.

“Hey!” the pony said. “That wasn’t very nice!”

Applejack didn’t care all she could think about was her sister.

“Oh it’s you! Hey Applejack!”

Applejack looked over to see the pony she had knocked over was none other than Pinkie Pie.

“P-Pinkie Pie..” Applejack stammered. “H-have you seen Applebloom?”

“Why sure!” the pink pony replied. “She’s asleep right now, but she’s right over there!”

Pinkie Pie pointed her hoof at a small yellow filly that was on the ground between two other ponies. It was indeed Applebloom.

Applejack’s breathing returned to normal and she sighed in relief. Applebloom was safe and unharmed.

Applejack turned to Pinkie Pie and gave her a hug, “Oh thank you Pinkie! Thank you!”

“No problem!” Pinkie Pie replied. The cheerfulness of Pinkie’s voice was calming yet odd. How could she be so happy after what had happened?

“Pinkie don’t you remember?” Applejack began. “F-Fluttershy?”

Pinkie Pie’s smile instantly faded and her eyes filled with tears. “I...” Pinkie began. “I wish I didn’t remember.” The pony dropped her head and began to cry softly.

Applejack had actually never seen Pinkie Pie so distraught. It was an eerie sight for a pony to be happy in such a situation, but it was even odder seeing her friend like this.

Another jolt shook the room.

“What was that?” Applejack asked with curiosity while also trying to change the subject.

Pinkie Pie looked up again holding back her tears. “We’re in a train.”

“That would explain it.”

“Applejack?” Pinkie said softly.

“Yes Pinkie Pie?”

“What do you think it's like... to die?”

Chapter 3

Twilight Sparkle walked down the streets of Ponyville, her two Pegusi guards following her. The beautiful town was now silent and empty. Not at all a surprise since Ponyville was an Earth Pony town anyway.

They reached Twilight’s old residence, the library, and Twilight raised her hoof for the guards to halt.

After examining the structure Twilight turned to the guards. “I’m going to go inside." she said. "Can you two stand guard here at the door?"

“Yes ma'am!” The guards exclaimed simultaneously. “Hail Celestia!”

“Hail Celestia.” Twilight agreed.

She opened the door and walked inside.

The once vibrant library was now just a distant memory of past days. Cobwebs hung from the shelves and a unsettling silence gripped the empty room.

Twilight shut the door and walked further into her old house. Memories flooded her mind, images of her laughing with her old friends.

“Everything seemed so good back then.” Twilight said quietly to herself.

Fluttershy’s cries raced through Twilight’s head. Why are you doing this?

Twilight shook off the new memory, but it kept coming back. Guilt overcame her. “No!” she objected. “Fluttershy was a traitor! Princess Celestia is the ruler of Equestria, she knows best! I’m her student, her right hoof! I did the right thing! I did what had to be done!”

Twilight’s goal for her entire life had been to please and impress Princess Celestia. It had engrained itself in her mind as her sole purpose, but now that she had experienced friendship and then had it taken away she wasn’t so sure what to believe anymore.

The look of horror on her friends faces flashed before her. Twilight remembered the cruelty she showed to them. Her laughter as she murdered her friend. Their cries of pain and sorrow. Fluttershy’s lifeless body stained with blood. Twilight had changed with Princess Celestia, but a small part of her remained. A part that remembered the times that she spend with her friends in the very place she was standing.

“What have I done?” she whimpered as tear rolled down her face.