Just Over the Horzine

((Due to computer issues, the chapter image shall be uploaded at another time))

“This... is London?” Rainbow Dash asked bewilderedly.

“That can't be right,” Fluttershy said. “The way Victor described the area, it sounded nothing like this.”

Schneider walked towards the ponies. “I'm sure he described this city perfectly, but a lot can change in a few hours.”

Twilight's eyes grew in shock. “A... a few hours? But that... that's impossible! There's no way that... it can't...”

“You've seen what those freaks can do,” Briar replied. “It's a wonder how the whole damn city hasn't burned down.”

“Then what will we do?” Rarity asked.

“Right now we need to find somewhere to rest,” Masterson answered as he dusted off his gloves. “We’d have to be a bunch of bleeding idiots to rush into a fight in our state. Besides...” He looked at the still-unconscious Thorne. “We still have that one to worry about.”

“So we just need a place to stay, huh?” Rainbow Dash asked. “I'll get airborne and take a look for any safe spots around town.”

The Lieutenant rubbed his chin. “Might be risky, if those zombies see you and follow you back here, we're not going to last very long.”

“Then I'll just fly high enough that I won't be noticed.”

“Will you be able to see anything from that height?”

“I can if any of you humans have binoculars or something.”

After a moment’s consideration, Masterson dug through his top-most pouch to pull out a pair of binoculars. He almost handed them out, then stopped. “How, um... how exactly will you be able to hold this?”

Rainbow Dash raised an eyebrow. “With my hooves, duh.”

There was an awkward moment of silence between the two before Rainbow urged the object towards her. “If you insist,” Masterson replied. He handed it to the blue pegasus, who surprisingly could grasp the binoculars.

“Told ya,” she replied before taking to the sky.

The very second Schneider opened his mouth, Applejack said, “Y'all can pick things up with them digits o' yours, works the same.”

Lewis said, “Then I guess we'll just have to wait here until he gets back.”

Rarity's ears perked up. “I'm sorry, dear. Did you say ‘he’?”

“Yes. That friend of yours, when he gets back we'll–”

Pinkie Pie laughed. “You silly filly, Rainbow Dash isn't a boy.”

Briar added, “He's not?” Everypony exchanged odd glances.

“Well,” Twilight awkwardly began, “I suppose that since we couldn't tell your human genders apart it only makes sense that–” A loud crack interrupted Twilight's train of thought. Everyone turned around to see a pair of damaged binoculars on the floor. “What the...”

Fluttershy looked up and gasped. “Rainbow Dash!” Everyone looked up to see the blue pegasus hurtling towards the ground in a free fall. The care-taker quickly took to the sky and caught her unresponsive friend in the air. Her wings flapped desperately in an attempt to slow their descent, but their momentum was too great. When they almost hit the ground, the two pegasi stopped suddenly. Twilight released the magical field she cast around her friends, setting them free. Fluttershy laid Rainbow Dash on the floor as the four remaining ponies crowded around her.

“What in tarnation just happened?” Applejack asked.

Twilight looked over Rainbow Dash. “She was fine just a minute ago, how did this happen?”

The downed pegasus' eyes slowly opened. “Rainbow Dash! You're okay!” Pinkie Pie cried as she hugged her friend.

Rainbow let out a yelp of discomfort. “Easy, Pinks, easy!” When the party pony released her death-grip, Rainbow Dash slowly sat up. “What just happened?”

“That's what we'd like to know, darling,” Rarity replied.

“You just dropped straight out of the sky” Twilight added.

Rainbow rubbed the back of her head as she processed this information. She looked over to the shattered lenses of the binoculars. “Sorry about those,” she apologized. “I’ll just get back into the sky.”

Masterson crossed his arms. “Are you sure you're alright?”

“Yeah, that won't happen again,” she said as she took to the air once more. “What was that?” she wondered aloud as she gained altitude. “I've flown enough times to know when I... I...” Her world went black.

Thankfully, Fluttershy took the initiative to follow her rainbow-maned friend, catching her just as her descent began anew. “Rainbow! What's wrong, Rainbow?” she asked as she held her friend in the air. The yellow pegasus gently shook Rainbow Dash, but to no effect. She thought back to when Briar was first incapacitated. “No! It might not be safe.” She gently lowered both herself and her friend to the floor.

“What happened this time?” Twilight asked.

“I take it this isn’t normal?” Wilkes asked as he knelt next to everypony.

“This shouldn't even be happenin'. She ain't never fallen outta the sky like that,” Applejack said as she shook her head.

“Is she okay?” Pinkie asked frantically.

Rainbow Dash answered that question by opening her eyes once more. She looked at all of the concerned faces around her. “Did I fall again?” The nods of confirmation from her friends caused the blue pegasus to face-hoof. “I just don't get it. Why is this happening?”

Twilight hummed to herself and asked, “Did anything unusual happen to you today?”

“You mean besides all of this?”

“Yes.”

Rainbow shrugged. “I can't think of anythi— wait...” She brought a hoof to her chin. “My skin turned into metal earlier.”

“Metal?!” the purple unicorn replied. “You mean real metal?”

“Yeah. It ha–”

“It was amazing!” Pinkie Pie interrupted. “First that meanie-pants hurt Applejack really bad! Then Rainbow Dash showed up and puffed her chest up, because that's how you know she means business!” she continued as she acted the events her story. “But then that human kicked Rarity in the face, for shame! So Rainbow got really really mad and flew right towards him at super top speeds! But the human turns around and punches Rainbow in the face! Just when everypony thought she was down for the count, Equestria’s top flyer stands right back up and laughs defiantly in the face of danger!”

“Pinkie...”

“So then she goes into her super-hardcore-mode and her necklace started to shine really bright as she turned into metal! Not like the metal that is wrapped around those super-fantastically-delicious chocolates at Mr. and Mrs. Cake's shop, but the metal that ponies use to build the trains!”

“Pinkie.”

“In the blink of an eye, she zooms forward at top speed, slamming right into that meanie-grumpy-pants human. He’s out cold, and the crowd goes wild! Rainbow Dash smiles and waves to the crowd in the face of an overwhemling victory!”

“Pinkie Pie!” Rainbow Dash finally yelled.

“Yes, Rainbow?” the party pony asked while innocently batting her eyes.

Rainbow sighed. “Pinkie, you didn't... well... actually, that's almost exactly what happened,” she admitted.

Twilight sat on her haunches, looking away while in thought. Her necklace glowed too? If it’s happened to half of us, then it's safe to say something's going on with the Elements. I'll have to look into this later. “That's cleared up a few things for me, actually. But I can explain that another time. We need to find somewhere safe, right?” she asked as she turned to Masterson.

“Indeed,” he replied. “Then we've got several things to think about. One, a new course of action, if necessary. Two, how you lot figure into this equation. Three, most importantly, restock for the next fight.”

“One problem,” Briar objected, “where are we going to find any bloody ammo?”

“I can take care of that,” a filtered, female voice answered. Everyone spun around in alert, looking for the noise's source. “No need to be so frightened, my dears. For the time being we're on the same side.”

Lewis proclaimed, “Up there!” as he pointed to a loudspeaker in the wall.

“There are plenty more of those around the city, darling,” the voice pointed out. “However, what I have to tell you is much more important, but you'll have to come to me first.”

Masterson asked, “Where can we find you?”

“There's an old cafe on the corner of Devinshire and 58th. I'll prepare a few tables for you. Don't keep me waiting.” There was a click before all was quiet.

Eventually, Schneider asked, “Should we trust her?”

“That creature did say they were on the same side, right?” Twilight asked. “Why don't we go find them?”

“Would it be safe?” Fluttershy cautiously asked.

“She's offering us some help in this mess, and help is something we desperately need,” Wilkes advised. “I say we find her and see what she wants. The intersection she mentioned isn't too far from here.”

Masterson paced around for a small moment. “Can either of you keep Thorne afloat?” he asked the unicorns, which Twilight nodded in response. “We'll find her.” He turned to his fellow humans. “Keep your eyes peeled for any other zombies, but do not engage any of them. We can't afford a fight right now. Schneider, Davin, you two take point. The rest of you, follow in close behind. Remember, eyes peeled.”

Rarity said, “I can help with keeping an eye out. When Fluttershy went missing, I tried finding her with a spell of mine. Somehow the spell has grown just before coming here and I can now see where other creatures are in the surrounding area.”

“Like a living sonar... can you do it again?”

“I can try.” The white unicorn's eyes closed while her horn glowed. “Come on,” she quietly said to herself. Slowly, her necklace took on the same shine. “There,” she replied, keeping her eyes closed. “Now would somepony be so kind as to lead the way? I will let you know what lies ahead.”

The group moved, as instructed, through a few streets and alleyways. Rarity would spot the occasional enemy and reroute everyone with a safer alternative. A short time later everyone was in front of the café, as instructed. Damaged tables and umbrellas littered the floor of the brick-built structure. A lone security camera rested above the metal door out front, slowly rotating towards the left and the right as Schneider walked towards the establishment’s entrance, weapons drawn. As he pressed his hand against the door, it slowly opened on its own. He aimed his pistols, but there were no enemies to greet him. The café's inside fared no better than its exterior. Tables and chairs were flipped or destroyed, decorated with various paintings of blood and entrails.

“I was beginning to think you'd never show up,” the female voice piped up. Schneider looked towards the back to see a tall, dark-skinned woman illuminated by a single light above her. “It's never proper etiquette to keep a lady waiting, you know,” she said as she dusted off her left shoulder on her green sweater.

“Clear,” Schneider said as he signaled his allies. Everyone filed evenly into the cafe.

“So who are ya, and whaddya want from us?” Applejack asked.

The woman’s face looked shocked for a split-second before she put on a smile. “Truth be told, I was only expecting to see a group of trained soldiers. I suppose I should be shocked, but you’re honestly not the most remarkable things I’ve seen today.”

“It’s nice to meet a friendly face,” Twilight began, “My name is—”

“Let me stop you right there, sweetie,” the woman interrupted. “Names aren’t too important in my line of work, so there’s no need to waste your breath. I’m sure I’ll tell you all apart in time. You can call me 'The Trader’, and I have something I believe you're all in desperate need of.” She flipped a switch, which lit up the entire room, causing everyone to nearly gasp in surprise. Behind The Trader was a vast quantity of weapons. Guns, explosives, and melee weapons lay there, as if taunting the men, behind a barbed-wire fence established between the two parties. No way in except for the slot at the bottom of the divider. “I believe we can help each other out.”

“Are those the things you guys have?” Rainbow Dash asked Bewilderedly.

“All that and more,” The Trader answered. She dragged her hand along the counter as she walked back and forth through her personal space. “My employers are very concerned about this zombie outbreak and what it will do to the country's economy. They've seen you all in action and are willing to come to an agreement. You agree finish off every last specimen out there, and we'll supply the firepower as necessary.”

“You are? This is going to be awesome!”

The Lieutenant asked, “And what do we do for these weapons?”

The Trader seemed offended. “Honestly, darling, it's no fun if you're going to try spoiling the catch ahead of time.”

“The catch?” Rarity specified.

“What do you mean?” Schneider asked.

“This is how it's going to be. See, my employers aren't exactly eager to give up such wares without compensation, so you'd have to pay for them. Full price, in cash.” There were cries of outrage from everyone in the room. “She patiently waited for the complaints to die down before she continued. “I had more to say, if you hadn’t so rudely interrupted me. Seeing as how the value of the pound is going down the shitter, my employers have come up with an alternate solution.

“It's quite simple. Each specimen out there will be marked as worth a different value in pounds. For each one killed, you'll earn money in a credit line that will be shared amongst all of you. The more you kill, the more weapons there will be at your disposal. The same goes for ammunition, which also is supplied in exchange for money.”

Pinkie Pie asked, “So it’s like a game?”

After a moment of thought, The Trader replied, “Yes... that’s probably the best way to put it.”

“Is that what this is to you?” Twilight asked with a hint of anger and perplexion in her tone. “We’re risking our lives out here to keep everypony safe, and you’re going to treat it like it’s sport?”

After a sigh, she explained, “My employers have to get their money’s worth somehow. It’s either this, or you’re left with a bunch of pea shooters.”

Fluttershy managed to ask, “What if we... um... don’t want to... um...”

Predicting the yellow pegasus’ question, The Trader said, “It’s fine to be a pacifist. Not exactly the most effective method, but any specimen killed by your group’s hands will add to the collective sum; regardless of who kills it.”

“Then give us all your weapons,” Briar demanded proudly. “We slaughtered the lot of the bastards in Horzine, so we’ve probably got a good few thousand pounds saved up. Hand them over.”

The Trader tutted. “So sorry, love, but the only specimens we're allowing are those who are killed after you leave this store. Otherwise that would just be cheating.

Briar stared at The Trader. “You mean to tell me that because your fuck-wit employers didn't think of this little system until now, all those specimens we killed off count for shit now?”

“Those are the rules, sweetheart.”

The Constable threw his arms into the air. “Well thanks for being such a big fucking help.”

“What a ripoff!” Rainbow Dash added.

“That's what we're willing to offer,” she said while looking to Masterson, acting as if Briar's and Rainbow’s outbursts never happened. “Do we have a deal?”

The Lieutenant thought hard about this offer. Ultimately, he shook his head. “We're not going to put our lives on the line to be pawns for your little game.”

With a shrug, The Trader said, “Shame, darling. We could've had a great business going.”

“Ya got a real dirty way of conductin’ business, sugarcube,” Applejack commented with a slight glare.

“Let's go, everyone. We're done here,” Masterson said as he made his way toward the door.

“Wait!” The Trader pleaded, “I want you to have this.” He turned around to see a small device in her hand. She placed it in slot and stepped back. “This is a GPS my employers have created. It's used so people in my line of work can find one another. I move frequently, so this will guide all of you to me, should you change your mind.”

Twilight said. “Why are you doing all of this for us?”

With a chuckle, she replied, “I'm just following orders, nothing more.” Her upbeat mood slowly died off. “However,” she continued, “As of late, I've got my own reasons. If it were up to me, I'd give you these right away, but guns don't grow on trees, sweetheart.”

Masterson reluctantly walked over and picked up the navigator.

“Good move. I'm sure I'll be doing business with you lot again very soon.” Everyone moved outside of the café, the door slamming shut behind them.

“So what do we do now?” Pinkie Pie asked.

“Find shelter,” Powers answered.

“Precisely,” Masterson added, “Fluttershy, it's up to you to take a look from the sky for anywhere we can hide for the night.”

“What about me?” Rainbow Dash questioned. “I can fly too, you know.”

“Oh we know,” Davin remarked. “And from what we’ve seen you can fall just as spectacularly.”

The athlete nearly scowled. “Nopony asked you, anyway!”

“He’s right though,” Lewis commented. “How do we know you won’t just fall back down again?”

“It’s been a while since that happened. It’s not going to be a problem now.”

The Lieutenant shook his head. “Sorry, but I’m not taking that risk. You’re staying down here, and that’s that.”

“But... I...” A frustrated look grew on the pegasus’ face. With a groan, she lightly shook her head and said, “Fine. I’ll stay here.”

The yellow pegasus began to jitter. “Are... are there any specimens in the sky?

“As far as I know,” Gary answered, “there is nothing of the sort.”

With one deep breath, she said, “I– I'll try...” She gently took to the air. “You can do this, Fluttershy,” the yellow pegasus told herself. “Just go up real quick, take one look, and then go right back down to the others.” When she reached the optimum altitude, she took a look, but was distraught by something much more worrisome than the unknown. Seeing the massive fires and pillars of smoke billowing into the sky struck a chord within Fluttershy. “All of these humans could be... no. Don't think like that, Fluttershy. If you want to help them, you've got to do your part.”

She quickly scanned the area below. After minutes of searching, she finally found a relatively together house not too far away from everyone's current location. She quickly flew back to her friends and let them know of her discovery. Moving as efficiently and carefully as possible. The group eventually found their way towards the desired location. It was a one story building, complete with a battered living room, ransacked bedroom, defunct bathroom, destroyed closet, and a dilapidated dining room. Various living-ware was damaged beyond repair, and some windows had been smashed. However, the house was still suitable to rest in.

After a quick look around, Briar exclaimed, “We hit the jackpot!” Everyone was caught off-guard, seeing as the Police Constable had removed his helmet to reveal a head of red hair and a shaggy moustache. “What?” he asked before everyone decided to follow him towards his discovery at the back of the house.

Before them was Davin, who also removed his mask to reveal a man of asian descent with a buzz-cut, and a rusted trap-door. “You know how there are those paranoid sons-of-bitches who are prepared for the end of the world?” He and Briar pulled the door upward. “We happened to find the house of one such person!” Below the door was a dimly lit set of stairs that descended into the darkness.

Aside from Fluttershy, Sergeant Powers, and Rarity staying behind, everyone walked down the corridor to find a room stocked with a plethora of canned food and sealed water. Not only that, but the room contained an electric torch, several flashlights, lighters, and several other necessary equipment for survival. After a brief celebration, the supplies were carried up and into the den. With stacks sorted into the various categories of canned food and beverages, aptly stored in an easy-access location nearby, Masterson began giving his people tasks for their current stay. After seeing the Lieutenant go to work, Twilight felt she had to speak up.

“Before we do anything else, perhaps we should sit down and get to know each other a little bit more?” The confused stares from the humans made her face turn red. “I mean... if we're going to work together, then we'd have better teamwork and coordination if we at least know everypony's names.”

Lewis followed the officers’ notion and removed his mask as well, revealing his dark skin and curled black hair. “Okay, seriously, what's with 'everypony' and those other words you ponies say?”

“Another reason to get to know us, wouldn't you agree?”

Private Schneider rubbed the back of his head. “Well, it’s a bit quiet out, so perhaps now would be a good time to rest up before we get into another struggle. The sun will be going down soon.”

“Do you have a princess that lowers the sun too?” Pinkie Pie asked.

“What are you talking about? The sun and moon move on their own,” Gary replied.

“They do?” Rainbow Dash asked.

Sitting down, Gary said, “Seems we really do have a bit to talk about.”

**********

Kevin kept running through the corridor, visibly out of breath as he trudged onward. He eventually stopped and slumped against a wall as he gathered his bearings. “This... should be it,” he told himself between breaths. He looked at a protrusion in the wall and kicked it, revealing a number pad. He instinctively reached for the grid before his bind reminded him of the current predicament. “...Fuck,” he muttered. Kevin turned himself around and shifted his back against the wall until his fingers could touch the numbered buttons. Slowly and methodically, he pressed a series of numbers until the sound of air pressure escaped from a hidden door. A patch of wall slid aside and showed an additional wing to the laboratories.

As Kevin casually strolled inside, a pudgey scientist peered around the corner, inspecting the noise. “M-Mr. Clamely, sir! When we didn’t hear anything from you, a lot of us had... oh my god, what happened to you?” he said in a reverent tone, pointing to the blemishes on his head.

“Just some stupid shit, but it doesn’t matter anymore,” Kevin regarded as he brushed past the jittery man. “Just help get these things off of me.” He turned around to reveal the pair of handcuffs forced onto his person. With a hurried mindset, the scientist looked around the immediate area before coming back with a sturdy pair of pliers. With a dash of effort, the bind was severed. Kevin gleefully moved his arms. One pain in the ass out of the way. I’ll get the cuffs removed later. “Now tell me you got something done while I was busy.”

“Oh yes, sir! Quite a bit has been accomplished since you last checked in.” The CEO let his employee drag on as he inspected the hidden facility. The area wasn’t as spacious as an entire floor of laboratory equipment, but it was still large enough to house several specimen stations. His most faithful scientists scurried back and forth, comparing notes and results. Occasionally he would catch an employee’s gaze. For the briefest of moments they were frozen; he could see tangs of respect and fear in their eyes. Kevin would just give a subtle nod, a sign for the worker to resume their duties. “... and if these results stay accurate, then we should have our opportunity to take control of London. Then there’s the—”

Kevin rolled his eyes and said, “Stop for a second.” He clasped his hands together. “You know me very well, right, Lance?”

“I... I’d like to think so, and It’s Drew, sir.”

“Same shit. Anyways. You know me well... so you know that everything you’ve been talking about is on a list I call ‘Shit I Do Not Care About’, right?”

Drew stood surprised before finally sputtering, “Y-yes... sir.”

“Good,” Kevin replied as he turned away and walked onward. “Because I can’t begin to give two fucks about something that’s painfully obvious.” He stood in front of a sealed-off room. “This, on the other hand, I’d like to get an update on right now.”

“Right away, sir.” Without another word, Kevin unlocked the additional area while his subordinate flipped through his notes. The lights inside flickered until they illuminated the room within. It was designed to be just like the area outside, but served an additional purpose. A lone specimen, this one called a scrake, was kept asleep in an enclosed space. “We think we’ve attained pristine conditions with the scrakes, sir.”

“Is that so.” He moved to the control panel before him and turned on the lights within the scrake’s confinement. After a few seconds, it roused itself and examined its area. This specimen was much taller than any other specimen before it, standing nearly three meters tall. Its skin appeared pale and it sluggishly walked around in its bloodied medical scrubs and sleeveless shirt. Kevin whistled once, making the scrake stop in its tracks. The specimen clenched its left hand, making the rubber glove it wore squeak, as the sound of an engine grew. It faced the CEO and revealed a chainsaw in place of its right hand. The specimen took two steps forward, studying the two humans who stood outside of its prison. It swung its chainsaw-arm once, only for the wall to harshly repel the attack. “Bulletproof glass, very good.” The Scrake stood mindlessly as it wandered around its space. “Tell me, how do these ones fare in combat?” Kevin asked as he turned to face Drew.

“We haven’t had a proper opportunity since the first prototypes first escaped the complex. Even then, they didn't last long enough to get any proper statistics.”

“Is that so?” The CEO rubbed his chin. “Prepare this one for deployment.”

“Where to, sir?”

A vile smile cracked onto Kevin's visage. “I know just the place.”

**********

“Let's see if I've got this right,” Corporal Lewis began as the humans sat on one side and the ponies across from them. “Rarity, Twilight Sparkle, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash–”

The blue pegasus cleared her throat while she gave the soldier a stern look.

“Who is definitely not a boy.” Her smile and nod was his signal to continue. “Applejack, and Fluttershy.”

“That's all of us,” Twilight confirmed. “Now let's see if–”

Pinkie Pie jumped up. “Me! Me! Let me try!”

The purple unicorn chuckled. “Okay, Pinkie Pie, you can go ahead.”

The party pony took a deep breath. “Corporal Lewis, Lieutenant Masterson, Private Schneider, Police Constable Briar, Police Sergeant Davin, Sergeant Powers, Gary Glover, Wilkes...” She pointed to the still-unconscious man on the ground. “And Thorne!”

Wilkes said, “That sounds about right.”

“So,” Twilight began, “Your uniforms, what do they mean, exactly?”

Schneider spoke up, “We're in what we call an army. Brave men and women who are sworn into service to protect their country.”

“Is that similar to the Royal Guard?” Rarity asked.

“The what?”

“The Royal Guard,” Twilight reprated. “Based off what you've described, they sound similar. I have a brother who's captain of the Guard.”

Davin started to laugh. “A bloody pony outranks all of you!”

Schneider pointed out, “He outranks you too.”

“I'm in the police force, you git. There’s a slight difference.” Suddenly, a light went off in his head. “Since we're all here. I think a certain-someone's got a story they've been neglecting to share with us,” he said as he turned to the Lieutenant.

“What are you going on about?” Masterson asked.

He pointed to Thorne. “That crazy bugger says you 'smell like science guy', and Clamely goes and says that you're 'the best experiment that never was'. Next thing we hear is you two getting real chummy with each other. There's something you're not telling us.”

“This isn't the time.”

Twilight said, “Actually, even I've been somewhat curious as to that connection.”

“Keepin' secrets ain't exactly the best way to earn trust, sugarcube,” Applejack reprimanded.

“Listen,” Masterson began to explain, “I'm sure you've all got some pressing questions you'd like answered, but it's really not important right now. When we're in a more secure location, sure, I'll tell you what you need to know. As for now, let's just focus on making sure we're safe for now.” Everyone's look began to bore into his person. “Please?”

After a moment, Briar said, “Fine. But if you're keeping your secrets, don't expect to hear my life story any time soon.” The Lieutenant conceded.

“Moving on,” Gary said, “I've got something I'm curious about, myself. How are you two able to use magic?”

Rarity answered, “It's a skill that comes with being a unicorn, my dear.”

“Yes, but I mean how Fluttershy was able to fully heal Davin, and how Dash was able to knock that Thorne fellow out cold.”

Everypony turned to Twilight, who put a hoof to her chin. “That kind of magic isn’t normal, and I've been thinking about that for a while now.” She removed her tiara with her magic and placed it before her as she laid down. “While we were in Equestria, the Elements of Harmony were used together to bring peace to the land. Now it's like they can act on their own and give each of us some sort of spell. If I had to take a guess, I’d say that travelling between dimensions, or even this world’s energy itself, has something to do with this. It’s the only hope for a logical explanation over our newfound powers taking root.

“The bigger issue right now, however, is the after effects of using these powers. Rarity seemed fine when she uses her ability, but Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy's side-effects hampered their well-being. If we hadn't noticed... I don't even want to think about it.”

“Ya think we've all got somethin' like that, Twilight?” Applejack asked.

“There's enough evidence to suggest just that. As for what they are and how exactly they even became a reality, I’m stumped.” Twilight lightly tapped her free hoof on the floor as she studied the jewelry.

Rainbow Dash spoke up, “So what do we do now?”

Masterson stood up. “It's getting late. If we're going to be staying here for the night, we need to establish who's going to be on night watch. First, however, we need the area scouted for anywhere those zombie might use to get in here. Whoever’s going will use these.” He stopped to pull out two two-way radios from the pile of supplies.

“How do we decide who goes first?” Rarity asked.

“Well, the easiest way first. Do we have any volunteers?”

After a moment, Twilight raised her hoof. “I volunteer.” She noticed the shared concern among her friends. “Don't worry, I'll be fine, girls.”

“O’course you’ll be fine,” Applejack said, “cause I’m comin’ with ya.”

Rainbow Dash nodded, “Me too!”

“As will I,” Rarity affirmed.

“Stop, just stop,” Masterson insisted while holding out his hands. “I can see where this is going, and I’ll tell you right now. You’re not all going out at once.”

“Why not?” the purple unicorn asked.

“Because the point of these scouting groups is to not send the entire platoon at once. At the most, I’d suggest one pony and one human.”

“Why are we being dragged into this?” Davin queried.

“We humans have the experience with guns, weapons, equipment, and most important, hands. Besides, I doubt that any of you ponies have been in London long enough to know your way around. Since Twilight volunteered, she’s going first. As for who’s going with you...” He looked at the other humans, some showing slight insistence that they not be picked. “Sergeant Powers,” he decided.

The Sergeant, who had never removed his mask, looked to Fluttershy. “Don’t worry, we’ll protect your little pet while you’re gone,” Briar chided. After staring for an uncomfortable moment, Powers stood up and nodded.

“Alright. If you see anything dangerous, let us know with the radio. Otherwise, use your own discretion on how to handle the situation. You can take this assault–” The Sergeant silently plucked the axe off the floor, took the device, and walked outside, waving his hand for Twilight to follow. “...rifle.”

“Are you sure you'll be alright, dear?” Rarity asked before Twilight could leave.

“If something bad happens, I'll come right back here. Don't you worry,” the purple unicorn assured. After a quick embrace from each of her friends, Twilight left to catch up with her companion for the night. It hadn't taken long for her to get back to Powers. “I'll keep an eye on the left, you keep yours on the right. If you see anything, let me know, alright?”

He didn't say a word.

“You know, anything at all, give me a holler, alright?”

No response.

Feeling slightly frustrated, Twilight said, “You're not much of one for words, are you?”

After being ignored for the third time, she kept her mouth shut and looked out for anything worth mentioning. The duo found a network of streets and alleys, but, aside from the blocked paths, they all eventually merged into one main route towards their current residence.

“This is Powers. Area is clear,” the Sergeant reported into his radio.

“Good work.” Masterson replied. “Report back to base immediately, we’re sending the first stake-out team once you get back.”

She groaned as she started walking back. On the way, however, something she noticed made her stop. There appeared to be slight movement in a nearby house. “Mr. Powers!” she called out, “I think somepony’s inside of this area!”

The Sergeant peered over his shoulder. “It’s not important. Keep moving.”

“But... there could—”

“It’s not important. Keep moving,” he repeated while only ushering the unicorn towards him once. Powers turned around and walked like there was never an issue.

Twilight grumbled to herself before trudging on. She hadn’t gotten more than seven steps away before she stopped. She stared at Powers retreating backside, then to the house behind her. With a huff of breath, she walked back towards the house, ready to investigate. She cautiously approached the residence, horn aglow. After a silent countdown, she went inside and looked around. The burned debris cracked underneath her hooves as she passed under a broken arch in the doorway. Inside was nothing but destroyed walls, damaged furniture, and several piles of indiscernible objects. After navigating her way through rubble and possessions, she noticed a human lying underneath several beams of wood on the floor. Working hastily, she lifted the wood off its body. The sight before her made her breath shallow.

Aside from the red shirt and blue pants it wore, Most if its hair and skin was badly burnt and several of its limbs were severely damaged, bent and gouged in ways she’d never thought possible. Oh my... Twilight looked over the body to see it slightly stir once more with slight breaths. She's alive! But this doesn't look good. No! Focus, Twilight. You can save this... female, she reasoned asshe examined the human thoroughly. If pony vitality is anything like a human's, then she needs help now! Her horn glowed as the woman was wrapped in the unicorn's magic. Wait... I’ve never healed a human’s limbs before. Can I do this? The unicorn shook her head. I have to try. It’s better than doing nothing. She immediately got to work, closing her eyes while she focused on her attempt to patch the skin and repair the muscle in the woman’s wounds.

As the seconds dragged on, Twilight felt more and more of her magic ooze out of her body. She soon stopped applying her healing spells as she tried to catch her breath. “That... should do it,” she raggedly told herself as she looked over her work. However, she quickly became distraught. While some of the damage had been repaired, the woman's limbs still appeared to be in complete disarray. Twilight’s heart jumped into her throat. “No no no, this is bad!” she hurriedly muttered to herself as she futilely struggled to apply more magic.

The human started to stir, groaning in pain as she came to her senses. “What happened?”

“Please stay still!” Twilight told her.

Seeing a talking horse startled the human, who accidentally jolted her right arm. Feeling the searing pain, she wearily lifted it and saw several lacerations traveling up her arm, fresh blood dripping from the orifices. Panic and agony quickly set in as she observed the rest of her limbs which either shared her right arm’s state, or were broken and overloaded her sense with searing pain. She started to scream incoherently, frightening Twilight in the process.

“I can help! Just... just give me a second to–” The purple unicorn was shoved out of the way by Powers, who took a quick look over the writhing woman. Twilight noticed him slightly grip the axe tighter than before. “No...” He raised the axe over his head. “Stop!” Powers swiftly brought down the weapon onto the woman's throat. She gurgled blood and seemed to reach out to the purple unicorn as he brought the axe down once more to finish the job.

Twilight sat and stared at the body before her. She slowly looked at her own hooves and noticed spots of blood that were splattered onto her. Then and there, she realized that her sandwich from the party had returned as she rushed to the corner behind her to vomit. After her stomach's contents left her, she weakly turned around to see Powers walk out the door, bloodied axe in hand. Before exiting, he said, “Don't do that again.” The purple unicorn looked at the woman's body once more. Her emotions had shifted from grief to rage. She ran outside and yelled, “Hey!” Powers didn't stop. Being fed up with his attitude, she used her magic and hastily pulled him back to her. “I'm talking to you!” she yelled as she started to cry out of pure anger. “Why...” she shakily asked, releasing her magical grip, “why would you do something like that?”

“She was screaming,” he reasoned. “In pain. Did her a favor.”

“I could've saved her!”

“How?”

“I...” she shied away. “I don't know, but I would've come up with something. I just needed time!”

“She was better off without your help. It's called a mercy-kill.”

“There's nothing merciful about what you did!”

Powers quickly brought his face directly in front of Twilight's. She inched away, seeing nothing but her own helpless form in the reflection of his mask. “Listen well, Twilight Sparkle,” he grimly advised. “Don't. Be. A hero.” He stood up and stepped away. “Let's go,” the Sergeant ordered as he walked off.

Twilight stared at the floor, tears now freely flowing. What have I gotten myself into?

“Let's go.”

She slowly got to her hooves. This time, Powers watched Twilight until she walked in front of him. Not once did Twilight look at the soldier or say a word during the entire walk back.

**********

“Ahm just sayin' that ah coulda sworn ah heard somethin' odd,” Applejack said as she looked out the window.

Rainbow Dash looked out the same view. “It's probably nothing, AJ.”

Gary said, “Let's hope it's just nothing. If it’s a siren, then we're in some deep trouble.”

“I'm sure those ponies can handle it,” Briar mentioned as he laid on the floor. He lazily waved his hand while he said, “Just use some of that crazy magic of theirs and that bitch is a goner.”

Rarity looked dejected. “We're not some tool for you humans to use, Constable Briar.”

“Just Briar. I hate using those bloody titles.”

“Regardless, Briar, we can't just use our magic so frivolously. There are limits, you know.”

Briar looked up. “Is that so?”

The white unicorn nodded her head. “If any unicorn uses all of their magic or expels too much too quickly, then their body has quite the... adverse... reaction.” Her eyes lit up. “Wait a minute...” She started to murmer to herself as she paced in a small circle. “Somepony tell me when Twilight arrives. I have much to discuss with her.”

Wilkes looked outside. “You won't have to wait long, here they come now.”

“Guess we'd best be ready to go,” Applejack said as she stretched her joints.

“Ya sure you've got everything you need?” Rainbow Dash asked while the orange mare put on her saddlebags.

“Ahll be fine. Between mah legwork and Mister Wilkes’ fancy thingamajig, them zombies won't be no problem.”

Wilkes picked up his AA-12 shotgun and filled a backpack with food and beverages. “You need to know the basics of night watch?”

Applejack chuckled. “If it's anythin' like scoutin' the apple orchard fer critters, then ahm sure ah'll get the jist of it.” She waved goodbye as she went outside to greet the purple unicorn after Powers went to talk with Wilkes. “Howdy, Twilight. Anythin' we need... ta...” Twilight silently passed by the farm pony while her head hung low. “Twilight?”

“You ready, Applejack?” the security guard called.

“Y-yeah, ahm ready.” As she left to catch up to Wilkes, who was busy receiving the radio and learning the layout of the area from Powers, Applejack peered over her shoulder and saw her friend's state remain unchanged.

As Powers entered the abandoned house, Masterson immediately met with him and asked what he saw. Twilight slowly entered afterwards.

“Hey, Twilight,” Rainbow Dash greeted. “Oh, Rarity wanted to talk to you about something, right?” she said as she looked at the white unicorn.

Rarity trotted forward. “I've been thinking about what you mentioned about the Elements and what happened with Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy. Frankly, it is quite simple when you think about it. I'd like to discuss a theory I have on–”

“That's... great,” Twilight interrupted, not making eye contact with her fellow unicorn, “but... I really don't want to talk about that or much of anything right now.”

Rarity's jaw dropped. “B-but, Twilight. You said this has been bugging you ever since we arrived. Is something the matter?”

“I'm fine,” the librarian half-heartedly replied. “I'm just want to go to sleep now.”

“Are you sure you're alright, Twilight?” Fluttershy asked.

“Again, I'm fine. Just... drop it, alright?”

Rainbow Dash shook her head. “I'm not buying it for one second that–”

Being fed up, the purple unicorn turned around and said, “What part of drop it do you not understand?!” The household fell silent. Her face reddened as she turned away and sighed. “Look, you're concerned about me. I get that, and I appreciate it, but I just want to be left alone.” She walked to a corner and curled up into a ball on the floor. “Goodnight, everypony.”

The remaining ponies looked at each other, unsure of anything besides respecting Twilight’s wishes. From afar, Masterson said, “Perhaps we should all get some sleep while we can. We'll be needing it for the road ahead.”

As everyone settled in for what little rest they could muster, a select few words repeated themselves through the purple unicorn's head. Don't. Be. A hero.

**********

“So I try telling him,” Wilkes discussed as both himself and Applejack left for night-watch, “that we can’t allow such devices in the facility. It’s signal is so strong that it would interrupt all communications on the complex if it were turned on. He, evidently, doesn’t like being told what to do, so he starts yelling in my face. At this point I’m very much sick of the bastard, so I kindly escort him off the premises. Next thing I know, Horzine is breathing down my neck because the stupid git turned out to be a pretty big deal. Well, excuse me for considering the company’s well-being over some fat-cat’s arrogance! Bloody Horzine.”

The security guard looked down at the orange mare, who looked lost in thought. He sighed. “Alright, what’s going on?”

Applejack snapped herself out of her stupor. “Huh, wha’?”

“You’ve been looking out of it ever since we left to keep watch. I can’t have you spacing out on me if we’re going to do this.”

“Oh, sorry. I just... ya saw Twilight back there, right?”

“Briefly, yes,” Wilkes answered as he moved his arms behind his back.

“Ya saw her then, didnt’cha? She looked like her whole world collapsed.” Her ears drooped. “That girl really worries me sometimes.”

He shrugged. “Just give her some time. We all have our issues.”

“Whaddya mean issues?” Applejack asked as she raised an eyebrow, sounding slightly offended.

“You know, just... issues,” Wilkes reasoned. “I’m not trying to insult your friend. But really, everyone has those little things that bring them down. Don’t tell me that’s never happened to you.”

The farm pony slightly shifted her gaze. “Well... yes, it has. But this don’t look like no ‘little thang’ ta me. Dont y’all humans care ‘bout a friend’s feelings?”

“Of course we do,” the guard answered, returning that slightly offended tone. “Some humans care for anything and everything, but others really just keep to themselves. They say that whatever’s happening to one person is ‘none of their business’.”

“Don’t sound like no friend t’ me.”

“Welcome to Earth.” Wilkes stopped and examined his surroundings. “This looks like the place.” He sat down and placed his pack in front of him, pulling out a select few items to eat and drink, and a small electric lantern. He turned on the device, illuminating the immediate area. The orange mare could make out the shapes of several destroyed buildings around her; remnants strewn clear across the open space. She noticed a select few bodies remained seared from the famished fires that plagued their immediate area. Being unsettled, Applejack sat herself next to her human companion. For a good portion of time, the two sat in silence, listening intently for anything out of the ordinary.

Eventually, Applejack’s senses led her mind astray. She’d occasionally glance towards the sky, spotting a star or two peeking in through the smoke-filled portrait above. It brought the orange mare back to a recent night sitting on her front porch. The night’s cool air would bring the faint scent of apples while it delicately brushed against her cheeks and run its fingers through her mane. Chatters of the nightlife filled her ears while the bright moon shone down onto the farm. Her sister had tried to chase fireflies, both her brother and grandmother watching in shared amusement. She closed her eyes, sighing contently and cracking a small smile. I wonder. If I fell asleep here, would I wake up back home? Could this just be one bad dream?

“You’re not zoning out on me, are you?” Wilkes asked, snapping her back to reality.

In an instant the calming facade of her family’s presence had vanished, the scent of apples replaced with burning buildings, the sounds of insects and animals drowned out by the crack of a dying fire, the cool air substituted with the smoldering heat of a nearby complex. Her mood declined. Course it wouldn’t be that easy. “Ahm still here,” she flatly answered. “Just... thinkin’ ‘bout home.”

Wilkes sat back. “What’s it like where you’re from?”

Applejack’s grin resurfaced. “Nicest place ya ever did see. Mah family would run the biggest apple orchard in Ponyville.”

“So your name’s not just for show, eh?” he mused.

“Nope.” She paused to chuckle. “Ah’d wake up early to help mah big brother begin pluckin’ the ripest apples off them trees. Sometimes we’d compete ta see who’d pick the most before the sun came up. Ah feel no shame in admittin’ we’ve got the same amount’a victories. Ain’t seen nopony work as hard as Big Macintosh.

“We’d always be listenin’ fer mah granny ta ring the ol’ triangle, meant breakfast was hot n’ ready. Mah lil’ sis would come down eventually. If it weren’t the ringin’, it sure was the smell of the full spread on the table. Then we’d just... eat our fill n’ talk fer a while. Ah always liked those times.”

Wilkes offered Applejack a bottle of water, who gratefully accepted. “You’re a family pony, huh?”

“Eyyyup,” she replied after a gulp of water. “Ah hold ‘em close ta mah heart every day.”

After staying silent for a bit, the security guard asked, “What about your mother and father?”

Her mood visibly dipped as she swallowed a lump in her throat.

“I-I’m sorry. Was that too personal of a question?”

“No, it’s... it’s fine.” She quieted herself and looked to the sky. “We reckon they’ve passed on.”

The security guard shifted his position. “You’re not sure?”

Applejack explained, “It’s like this. My ma and pa were salesponies, back when ah was jus’ a filly. They’d always leave fer a spell, then come back n’ settle down fer a while. Sure, it’d be lonely sometimes, but they’d always come back. Then one night, not long after mah sister was born, they had to leave again. It was the usual routine: Mah parents would wake up early in the mornin’, they’d pack what they could carry, and then they’d give us hugs and kisses before headin’ on out. As usual we waited... but this time we never heard back from ‘em.

“The Royal Guard got involved, but that didn’t turn up much. Just a bunch’a old mare’s tales that led to dead ends.” She paused to search through her saddlebag. “There weren’t any fancy cameras around until a little before they left. Even then, there was only time fer one picture,” she said as she pulled out her photograph, “and ahm the stupid filly who ripped ‘em out of it.”

“What made you do that?” Wilkes asked in a slightly surprised manner.

The orange mare had a melancholy expression on her face. “Ain’t that the worst of it? Ah can’t remember. It could’a been anger or somethin’, but ah just don’t know.”

There was a shared moment of silence before the security guard said, “My parents are gone too.” Applejack looked somewhat shocked. “Gone as in dead,” he elaborated, “not gone like your parents, that is. Happened only a year or two ago, at that. My mum was the first to go, and I guess my dad couldn’t handle being so far apart.”

With an understanding look in her eye, Applejack said, “Ya know, ah thought humans were complete opposites from us ponies. Maybe we’re not so different after all.”

“I think that once you get to know us, you’ll see we’re not too bad.” The next three hours dragged on. The conversation traveled through many different topics to pass the time. Applejack eventually yawned loudly before smacking her lips. “Not going to be much longer, try to stay awake,” Wilkes enouraged. He looked at the watch underneath his right sleeve. “Only half an hour, then we can get a few winks in.” The farm pony looked dazed and confused. “It’s an expression.” He pulled out a thermos, twisting off the top and pouring into it the canister’s contents. “Here,” he offered, “you probably could use some coffee more than me.”

“What’s coffee?”

Wilkes explained, “It’s a drink that most of us humans need to keep ourselves awake at night, or to just wake up, period. Hope you don’t mind if it’s not hot.”

“Thank ya kindly.” She reached out to grab the beverage, noticing its dark complexion. A slight doubt wavered, but she soon lifted the cup with her mouth and took a sip. Her eyes immediately shot open as she gently set the coffee back down. Applejack shuddered as she asked, “Is coffee usually so... bitter?”

“I probably should’ve guessed that you wouldn’t like your coffee black.” When the orange mare shook her head, he rummaged through his bag for another bottle of water. “This should help,” he said while he unscrewed the cap. She gladly took the water and began to drink as Wilkes finished off his caffeine.

Applejack snuck a look at the security guard to see him remove his helmet. Just like mine. She thought as she took note of his hair color.

He noticed the farm pony stare and asked, “Is something wrong?”

“Oh, uh, nothin’.”

The two remained silent, observing the nearby buildings for any movement. “Half an hour... I can hardly wait,” he said as he set his now-empty cup on the floor.

**********

Pinkie Pie lazily opened her eyes. She sat up as she noticed the moonlight shining directly into her eyes. After adjusting her position to avoid the glare, she heard her stomach growl. The pink mare quickly looked around to make sure that no one’s slumber was disturbed. When the coast was clear, she navigated her way towards her saddlebag. I just knew I’d need this! She reached into her bag and pulled out a chocolate cupcake. She sniffed the raspberry frosting on top before licking her lips.

Just as she was about to invite the delicacy into her maw, she heard a noise. The party pony froze as she looked around. After hearing nothing, she cautiously re-attempted to eat before again being interrupted by the same noise. It sounds like somepony’s sniffling outside. She placed the treat onto her back as she walked towards the window. As she peered outdoors, she saw a figure sitting in the dirt, mumbling to itself. Pinkie Pie could only pick up a few key words, like “idiot” and “egg-head” and several other condescending adjectives. Upon closer inspection, she realised that this Negative Nancy was actually Twilight Sparkle.

Is she talking about herself? After a moment's thought, Pinkie Pie grabbed the cupcake off her back and looked at it, then back to Twilight. I think somepony needs this more than me. She quietly tip-hooved her way outside and made it a few steps before the purple unicorn quickly turned to see her oncoming friend.

Twilight hid her eyes before asking, “Pinkie? W-what are you doing up at this hour?”

“Well, my tummy was rumbling, and so I went to go get a cupcake that I brought from Ponyville for a midnight snack. Just as I was about to eat it, I heard a noise outside, and it turned out to be you. So... why are you still awake?”

Twilight bit her lower lip before replying, “I couldn’t sleep.”

Pinkie’s head cocked slightly to the left. “Is it because of what happened before we went to sleep?”

“No, Pinkie, I told you that I’m fine.”

“Are you super-duper sure?”

“Yes, Pinkie, I...” The librarian’s jittering jaw betrayed her. “Oh, what’s the use. No... I’m not fine,” she answered, sitting on her haunches and revealing a pair of misted eyes to her friend.

Moving the cupcake onto her shoulder, Pinkie Pie moved over to sit next to the distressed equine while she asked, “What happened, Twilight?”

Despite the trial that it was, the purple unicorn recalled the event the took place when she and Sergeant Powers left to scout the surrounding area. As the details dragged on, Twilight’s composure began slipping. Just when she felt like opening the floodgates, Pinkie Pie quickly laid a reassuring hoof on her friend’s shoulder. “I’m so sorry.”

She took a few deep breaths to calm herself down. “Do you know what the worst part of this is?” Twilight said with a defeated demeanor. “I think he’s right.”

With a slightly agitated look, Pinkie Pie commented, “You know that’s not true.”

“But it is!” she countered. “Think about it. Everypony was so set on asking the Princess to help, but who had to say it’s a bad idea? Me.” Twilight started to quietly chuckle as a tear squeezed its way out. “Me and my big mouth. I’m the one who said that we should go help the humans. All because I... wanted to be the hero.”

“You don’t mean that.”

“I do, Pinkie. And even if it’s not true, what have we done so far? We’ve ran around like scared little fillies and watched as humans die right in front of us. I willingly offered our lives like they were nothing. Oh, let’s not forget how I almost got Fluttershy killed. We’re just doing so—” Twilight’s rambling was cut short when Pinkie Pie embraced her.

She gently rubbed the back of the unicorn’s head and cooed, “Please don’t say things like that, Twilight. We still agreed with you, and you have helped save humans so far.”

Twilight pulled away and cocked an eyebrow. “What are you talking about?”

The party pony reassuredly smiled. “Don’t you remember when we wound up next to the portal room again? Wilkes fell on the floor and almost got hit by that fireball, but you jumped in front of it and saved him! Not only that, but you later carried Thorne out as we escaped. Aside from that, Fluttershy saved Briar’s life, Applejack and Rainbow Dash helped bring down Thorne before he could really hurt somepony, and Rarity spotted that stalker before it could hurt us.”

Twilight was slightly taken aback and looked away as this information washed over her. “I... guess you’re right.” A small smile started to surface on her face.

Just a little more. “What I’m trying to say is this,” Pinkie Pie began. “We have to do what we can for now. There will be other times for us to help more humans, and even if we can’t save them all, we’ll do what we can, alright?”

After a moment of reflection, Twilight wiped her tears away while she nodded. “Okay,” she conceded, “I’ll try to keep my chin up about this. I’m sorry for snapping at you and everypony else earlier. Thank you, Pinkie.”

“Twilight, I need you to do something for me.”

“Go for it.”

Pinkie Pie scooted herself a short distance away. “I want you to Pinkie Pie Swear that you won’t become sad like this again, okay?”

After Twilight agreed and performed the accompanying ritual, Pinkie Pie reached for the treat on her back and handed it to the unicorn. “Oh no, I couldn’t,” Twilight stated. “You brought that from home. I don’t have any right to eat your food.”

“It’s okay,” the pink pony insisted. “It’ll make you feel better. Please take it.”

Once she’d finished toying with the idea in her head, the librarian reached out and took the cupcake. “Thank you very much,” she said before taking a small bite. Her eyes immediately shot open as a fireworks display ignited within her mouth. She let out a brief, quiet moan as she touched her cheek. “So... sweet,” she commented as a full grin appeared.

“I told you it would make you feel better!” Just as Twilight neared a second bite, Pinkie Pie’s ears perked up as she looked down the lone road behind them. Her eyes squinted as she scanned the area. “Isn’t that Applejack?”

The unicorn looked towards the area in question. Sure enough, the farm pony was galloping fairly fast towards their location. “It is. And she’s... alone? What’s going on?”

The orange mare scooched to a halt as she approached her friends. While slightly out of breath, she asked, “Twilight? Pinkie Pie? What're y'all... oh nevermind. That ain't important right now.” She ran inside the house to yell, “Everypony up an at 'em! Time ta wake up! Git yer gear together n' come out to the entryway on the double!” There were a few disgruntled replies as Applejack eventually gathered everyone in the entryway.

“What's so bleeding important that you had to wake us up at this hour?” Davin asked as he attached his mask.

“Wilkes and ah were watchin' the area real careful like. Then he hears a noise and got nervous, tellin' me ta gallop here as fast as ah can n' git y’all.”

“Why didn’t he use the radio?” Private Schneider asked.

“‘Parently it ran outta juice. That’s why he told me ta run. Ah think he’s fightin’ off whatever it is that’s over there. Said it was somethin' about a... what was it... a chainsaw?”

Dr. Glover's eyes grew wide. “You're certain that's what he said?” he grimly asked. A short nod from Applejack reaffirmed his fears. As he looked at Lieutenant Masterson, he said, “I don't know if what we have is enough for this.”

“We'd better hope it's enough,” the Lieutenant replied, sharing the scientist's worried expression. “Everyone, grab your weapons or Elements; Wilkes is going to need our help right now! Let's move!”

The ensemble moved as quickly as possible outside and towards the stake-out location. Their old residence was almost out of sight when Twilight suddenly stopped. “We forgot Thorne!”

They slowed down as Masterson ran the possible scenarios through his head. “Twilight, Corporal Lewis, both of you grab him and bring him over to our new location. Everyone else, carry on!” The soldier and the unicorn ran as quickly as they could back into the house.

The soldier said, “You get him with your magic and I'll cover you on the way back. There's no telling what might—” Twilight and Corporal Lewis stood slack-jawed at the sight before them. The security guard was nowhere to be seen. He left no trace behind aside from a few tattered pieces of rope. “This could be bad...”

“Where could he have gone?” Twilight asked as she looked around.

Lewis armed his weapon. “I don’t know. I had a feeling he was out for too long. Maybe he was just biding his time until we were all asleep. Personally, I think we're better off without the lunatic.”

“Do you think he has anything to do with what we’re going up against?”

“I don’t know, but if it’s something that can get even Lieutenant Masterson spooked... it can’t be good. We'd better get back to the others.” Without another moment’s hesitation, the two individuals quickly ran from the house and towards their comrades.