Five days ago:

New Hampshore had became a home for the Cazadores to reside and use buildings, including statues of Sapphire Shores, as breeding grounds for them to grow and repopulate. Any living ponies that are already outside would become food for the ravaging insects. Even other creatures stood no chance against them. It wasn’t long until Lab-00 had been turned into their own personal hive. Everything that was left behind, even my own former personal room being left to ruin. What this DJ-Pon3 mentioned was right; New Hampshore is now off-limits to any living beings to even dare to travel there. Not without the risk of having your insides eaten.

Inside an unknown, abandoned facility, Dr. Scalpel had looked on his latest creation, “Yessss… you are finally complete! Now… arise, my creation! Ariiiiiise!”

Soon, the hideously-deformed creature that roughly resembles of both a pony and Discord slowly rose to its hooves from the surgeon table. It took a small glance at its new creator.

Dr. Scalpel marvelled at his latest creation, with many different parts from different ponies he had abducted and amputated them in order for him to make this monstrosity come to life. Its tail even has a live serpent he previously used to attach its body.

“Go on… speak, my newly-created minion. Speak, for Dr. Scalpel…”

It stared at its new master, its vertically-slit eyes blinking at him, hissing a bit with its forked tongue akin to a snake.

“Yes, master...” It spoke, taking up a vague resemblance of my own voice mixed with other ponies he had abducted for his malicious purposes. Many of its body parts were stitched together to make it vaguely resemble as an ‘alicorn’. His response was a maniacal laughter upon hearing it talk for the first time.

“Yeeeesss! Yeeeeesss! My creation is a success! Now then… you are known by your new name; Genesys!”

It looked at Dr. Scalpel curiously as it had been given a name and spoke, “Genesys…”

Behind Dr. Scalpel’s surgical mask lies a maniacal grin, just admiring of his own successful work of his countless days of bringing the alicorn-like abomination to life, not unlike most artificial alicorns would. He rubbed both of his fore-hooves together and letting out a crazed chuckle before clearing his throat, “Now, Genesys… let’ssss go and out of our facility, my newest creation! We shall finally show Equestria that nopony has ever witnessed! Let’s go and put you to the test…”

Genesys slowly grinned at the crazed surgeon, “As you wish, master…”

Yesterday:

“I don’t know what happened out there… me and my brother, Flapjack, were playing hopscotch and one of the older ponies told us that our parents are waiting for us at an old, ruined park in Whooveswick. At first, they were kind enough to give us protection, but when we were taken near the border of Caneighda… the border pony control took us! They didn’t asked us why, but they took us in a slave camp!

“At least, that’s what I thought… they weren’t border guards; they were slavers…

“They took my only brother and just… just… tortured him… I ran. Ran so far that I just left him to die… goddesses, what have I done?!

“At least I was barely alive… took a bullet onto my foreleg, but not too serious. Flapjack, I’m sorry I abandoned you… I’m sorry that I left you to die…

“How will I ever explain to his parents when I return? I’m all dirtied up, hungry and lost. And these slavers are looking for me. And they want to beat me up like some victimized animal… *sigh* I even had to patch myself up with used bandages, and my wound isn’t getting any better. Even with food and water, I’m still bleeding. And the forest gives me no support whatsoever.

“If there was a safe haven, like maybe Ponyville, I would’ve been there already. Instead… I had to be born in the wrong place at the wrong time. I just don’t know how will I last. If the slavers hadn’t killed me already, these horrifying creatures would. All I could think of was maybe… maybe reunite with my family and get out of this hellhole. Yet, why am I dying?

“Damnit, why can’t I stop bleeding… my hoof is getting infected...

“Goddesses... please… help me…”

The recording stopped. I just listened to the recording in secret while Tootsie Roll sang a campfire song with Bob and Gale Storm. Whoever that pony was, he’s already met a similar fate that had happened to his friend known as Flapjack. My ears were already folded back throughout his unfortunate demise. At least the three didn’t saw me listening in. I already hid myself behind the tree, but remaining myself close to them. And what in the wide, wide world of Equestria is a Ponyville anyway? Then again, that’s hardly important. Even my non-existent PipBuck would tell me that Ponyville is nothing but a mere myth, an urban legend just like the Tesla Coil I found from the blueprint, courtesy of Neighkola Tesla himself.

Furthermore, as I don’t have the PipBuck with me, I won’t be able to acquire data from four other recordings I found on room 34B. I’ll have to re-play them until those five weeks are over and for us to return to Crankshaft’s workshop in Fhoal Island. The only thing that worries me is how will we ever get back, especially when there are mindless ghoul ponies already forming a blockade.

Either way, my mind was too much to handle. I can’t handle another recording of another pony meeting his or her death. I just gotta stick with my team and rest up for the next day. I walked around from the tree I was sitting back and regrouped with the three as I sat down next to Gale. She looked at me and asked with a hint of concern, “Are you okay, Zero?”

I gave her a nod. Tootsie was fast asleep already after singing her not-so obnoxious campfire song with Bob sleeping next to his filly companion. Come to think of it, I’m falling asleep too, but I’m also worried on how are we gonna sleep normally without any creature waiting to feast on us or other ponies who are intent on murdering us on sight.

“I’ll keep a close eye out for you three. Don’t worry about it.” Gale pressed her muzzle against my cheek. I nodded again and laid myself down onto the tree stump and allowed me to slowly drift off to sleep. Uncomfortable, yes, but I’m not getting my lab coat dirty.

She even told me while I was sleeping, “And I’ll keep a close watch on your belongings. Just rest up, kiddo. You’ll need it.”

Hopefully the gunshots doesn’t startle us in our sleep. And the campfire is still lit, and I would surely need it or I’ll be running into another nightmare with no help from Luna herself.

Three-and-a-half days ago:

Starshooter and his team were on a long trek beyond the narrow tunnel and out of their former headquarters of Lab-00. The door did an excellent job at keeping the Cazadores inside but also losing their only home as a result. To whichever path they took, they didn’t turned back. Eventually, they were out of the tunnel and are now at the sewage plant inside. It was abandoned, but well-maintained.

The same can’t be said for the outside of the plant, as its mostly likely to be overrun with Cazador that are waiting outside for them to feast on their latest prey.

There were multiple stairs that lead to multiple directions, half outside while others lead into different areas inside the plant.

One of the scientists had asked their leader, “Are you sure this is the right way, Starshooter? What if one of those doors were ravenous insects just waiting on us?”

“We have to determine if we hear any buzzing noises if they’re Cazadores or not. If there aren’t any buzzing sounds, then I shall check to see if it's safe to enter or not. If it’s safe, I’ll give you the ‘all clear’ word. Stick with us and don’t wander off to open any doors unless if given a specific reason. We are to avoid another breach from the Cazadores and we need to make our safe escape from New Hampshore. Got it?” Starshooter firmly instructed his fellow scientist ponies.

They all gave a nod as Olive Oil carefully approached to the door and pressed the left side of her head against it to hear if there are any buzzing noises inside. All she could hear were low humming noises behind the door, but no sign of a Cazador inside.

“Status report, Olive Oil?”

Olive Oil notified Starshooter, “No Cazadores inside as far as I heard! Just machinery.”

She carefully opened the door and took a small peek as to double check and make sure the coast is clear. Olive waved a hoof to the team.

Starshooter gave her an affirmed nod, “Alright, team. Let’s get inside and rest up for a while.”

They were relieved from the good news that there weren’t any Cazadores inside, but had also wondered where is Starshooter leading them. Inside, there were pumping stations and several unopened doors, with one of them being a descending staircase ahead. There was little lighting as well with flickering lights barely hanging on ceilings. It seems that it was previously ravaged before it was left abandoned.

“So… what’s up ahead?”

“We can only assume that this would be our ticket out of New Hampshore. And I deeply pray to Celestia that we would happen to find a working subway underground…” Starshooter replied, his expression displaying uncertainty. It was either going outside and get ambushed by millions of pony-eating Cazadores or venture deep into the unknown.

Olive Oil gave him an affirmed nod, “All right. I’ll let my team know about this.”

She turned her attention to the staff team of the former Lab-00 as they were quietly talking to each other. She spoke out, “Listen up, team. We’re going to venture deep within the sewage plant. Wherever Starshooter goes, we follow. And no second thoughts, got it? When we do arrive, we’ll need to take a short break and take a quick meal before proceeding further.”

They nodded to her, with an unnamed scientist mare pointing her hoof up at the broken-off skylight, “Don’t look now guys, but...!”

An erratic-moving figure was seen at the top of the skylight and as it flew into the broken-off window, it turned out to be a Cazador! It wasn’t long before other ravenous insects flew inside as they screamed in panic and quickly making their mad dash to the door, “Starshooter, they’re here!”

Panic arose as they frantically made their way to the open door leading down the stairs. Despite Starshooter’s orderly personality, he told his fellow scientists, “Hurry, everypony! Get inside!”

Olive Oil and Blue Print were the first inside as the rest of the scientist ponies scrambled to get inside. Starshooter stood into the entrance, but the number of Cazadores were dangerously increasing and several unfortunate ponies’ lives were claimed as they were stung to death, their supplies with them. He was shocked at the sight and even with his energy weapon at his possession, there was nothing he could do; the numbers were too great.

About ten ponies (scientists and kitchen staff) had succumbed to a Cazador attack and with Starshooter looking on in dismay, he had closed the door and made sure it was sealed once the remaining surviving scientists and kitchen staff members were inside. They all looked on with traumatized expressions, some crying in despair after hearing their fellow teammates having stung and devoured from an unexpected attack. They were hugging and consoling each other, as Olive Oil let out a worried look at the head scientist, “Starshooter… we lost some of our…”

He softly interrupted Olive, “I know. We’ll have to stay underground until we can find a safe passage and prevent further losses. A Stable facility will simply not do. We’ll have to locate a safe haven for us to reside in, and it won’t be easy. If it's patrolled, then allow me to convince them. Do not panic and do not resort to objections. We cannot encounter a hostile environment and put ourselves into anymore danger. Understood?”

They all nodded to his orders as Olive Oil spoke out, “Take a short break and we’ll continue after ten minutes and no more than that.”

“Furthermore, we’ll need to find any source of meals along the way… we lost some of our kitchen staff team, and our supplies with them…”

Judging from Olive’s worried expression, she was consoled by Starshooter as he assured her, “We need to stay strong if we want to move on ahead. And we will get out of New Hampshore if we are to stay alive.”

As she nodded, they looked on as Blue Print went to search the railway to see if a tram is there and functional. Starshooter looked on to her, “Whatever you are looking for, do be careful, Blue Print. You don’t know what you might find.”

She nodded and gave him a salute as she searched around for a tram, hoping for it to be functional and enclosed.

Two days ago:

“Hey fuckheads! I got a shotgun with yer names on it!” Bleak Venom shouted at unsuspecting Raiders nearby as he and his allies opened fire at them. Before the Raiders could even react, they were easily gunned down, leaving one of them gravely wounded as he trotted over to the unfortunate pony, with Poison and the others looking on.

The unnamed and wounded Raider weakly spoke to Venom, “Y-You fucker…”

Without any remorse, Venom let out a maniacal grin and points the shotgun muzzle at her, “Tell me. How much does it hurt? Like having your head burst like a piece of grape you are!”

He shoves the shotgun muzzle into her mouth, grinning as wide as he could possibly do, “And before you ask, yes. I aim to not only surpass the so-called alicorns, but to that cheap excuse of a demigod known as Tirek as well! And nopony will stop me either! So… any last words before I turn your brain into a bloodied smoothie, toots?”

He carefully moved the shotgun muzzle from her mouth to allow the gravely wounded Raider to speak her final words to him, “Go die… in a hole!”

BLAM!

“Wrong answer!” Bleak shouted as he had mercilessly blew her head off into gory pieces, with his fellow allies cringing at the sight.

“Now then, before you neanderthals ask, yes, we’re gonna keep moving and find more useful stuff. And unless you asshats want to object and end up like these idiot Raiders, we will keep on moving! And no, Poison, ya ain’t gonna have ‘sexy times’ with those dead bodies.”

Poison merely whined at his leader as he and the others had followed their cruel, heartless leader.

Today:

I can’t tell if we’re either lost or the fact that not having a PipBuck with me means I would have to start relying on poorly-drawn maps just to navigate ourselves throughout Equestria, and find a way back to Fhoal Island. And being a scientist doesn’t make a me a globetrotter by knowing the names of unknown locations we’re currently in, including places of interests.

The only thing I could know is that I have a fair amount of supplies in my saddlebags. That’s all I could remember. But to find a way back to Fhoah Island that’s close to Crankshaft’s workshop is no easy feat, and I just plainly suck as their navigator.

What is this place? There’s so many cabins strewn around the forest that isn’t Everfree Forest and that is almost way too similar to Camp Mayne Six. I can’t tell if my pony mind is correct or not, but at least there aren’t any signs of pony life that are bent on shooting us on sight. I torqued my neck a bit to loosen myself up a little as I let out a relieved sigh. Goddess, this long trek of nothing is killing us…

Gale directed us to a nearby and intact cabin, “We should rest up inside for a short break. But… where are we anyway, Zero?”

I merely shrugged. I don’t know either. Tootsie let out a tired groan, “Finally! My hoofsies are getting tired! And Bob gets to hitchhike onto your back, no fair!”

Bob responded to her with a teasing beep as Gale turned to Tootsie with a soft giggle, “Well, you said you didn’t wanted to ride onto my back, soooo I figured that you needed some exercise.”

Heh, good on ya. Maybe then you wouldn’t be complaining like your robo-scorpion friend would. Tootsie let out a cute pouty face as we went inside, “Fiiiiine…”

Inside was a simple bookshelf, twin mattresses and a desk containing a terminal which I’m unable to record data from without my PipBuck.

As Tootsie relaxed herself onto the mattress, Gale sat onto the other mattress. Me? I booted up the terminal and contained some of the messages displayed on screen, with Bob letting out a curious beep at me. I only looked at him; if I still had my voice, I would’ve told him that I’m only going to look at the messages from the terminal. Not like I wanted to read somepony’s diary or anything deemed personal… they’re likely dead anyway.

I suppose reading a terminal and earning knowledge even without a PipBuck would suffice. For the time being anyway. Now, let’s see what it has to offer me…

“Neighkola Tesla was a fascinating stallion in providing us his latest inventions for our betterment of ponykind. He did warned us that his inventions were prototypes and can prove to be lethal and are also unstable. The Tesla Cannon was left a mystery and even Neighkola Tesla himself is still perfecting the Tesla Coil in order for the Tesla Cannon to be constructed. To when he’ll announce it would be anypony’s guess.

“As for me? Well… I’m no genius like Tesla himself, but even so, his inventions would prove useful to take out any remaining threats of Equestria and harmony would be fully restored.

“But the Ponyunion Council isn’t making things easy for us and until things have fully settled, I guess we still have to suffer. At least with Neighkola Tesla, he can provide help for innocent ponies. Until the next day, of course.

“He went missing when his research facility was raided by fellow Enclave soldiers. Although he escaped, he never returned to his work ever since, and I’m worried on how will I ever witness the Tesla Cannon’s amazing power. I feared that his invention will never come to light, and hasn’t returned since. I had a feeling that he may not have made it. I could be wrong.

“Our search was in vain; no trace of Neighkola Tesla… nothing. Never left a trail at all. I’m not sure if he’s either missing or dead.

“I can only hazard a guess that he must’ve sought refuge in Canterlot, but those are just rumors. How will we ever discover the power of the Tesla Cannon when he’s gone missing? I’m afraid that we would have to call off the search and declare him deceased.”

I turned off the terminal after reading it with Bob. Seems somepony was eager to discover the Tesla Cannon like myself, but to realize that Neighkola Tesla himself went missing and having never returned to his facility had me wondering if his inventions were true after all. As for Canterlot itself is a rumor indeed. Just like this Ponyville, Canterlot seems to fit as a mere urban legend as I’ve never heard a thing called Canterlot before. More importantly is the Tesla Cannon not being invented because a Tesla Coil is needed to construct such a powerful weapon…

Even the Book of Arcane Sciences has hundreds of pages that contains nothing about the Tesla Coil for it to be constructed into a Tesla Cannon. Bob looked at me and I looked back, as if wanting me to take him to his filly friend and Gale before I let out a nod and took him to the two.

As me and Bob joined up with Tootsie and Gale, the young filly glanced at the ex-Enclave’s tail, “Ooohhh… are you part-scorpion like my pal Bob, Gale?! That’s soooo cool!”

Part… what?

Gale let out a soft giggle to her with a hoof gently pressed against her lips, “Not exactly, little Tootsie. Sure my tail resembles that of a scorpion, but I’m nowhere near a scorpion-pony hybrid. Its what us Enclave use to paralyze anypony who tries to resist us, be it lethal or nonlethal. Of course, I’d rather use it as a means of defending you guys, and nothing more.”

I sat down on the mattress next to them as I listened to her conversation, “Of course, I didn’t wanted to be some cruel and heartless Enclave even if I was given orders to make sure the occupation of Itrotly was secure… I wasn’t expecting to being treated harshly by my own kind. If my father hadn’t persuaded me, I would’ve been working more as a nursery mare instead of working with the Enclave… now how am I gonna explain everything to my younger sister?”

Wait… she has a sister? Hmm… could it be Cloud Storm we met back in Stable Town? It’s no wonder she didn’t noticed the heavily armored Enclave that turned out to be her sister. That’s why she’s been silent while we took Tootsie Roll and Bob for a medical procedure. My pony mind thought. I would’ve asked her, but eh. No PipBuck and no voice means I can only rely on my thoughts and my ears to listen on.

“Ooohhh… was it Cloud Storm?” Tootsie asked, although her initial response was Gale’s brief glare as the filly quickly covered her mouth with her hooves, “Oopsies! Sorry…”

Of course, she expressed no hostility to the young filly as she let out a soft sigh, “Its fine. Cloud Storm is indeed my sister, but I remained quiet inside a clinic back in Stable Town because I didn’t wanted her to know who I was. I had to stay quiet while she focused on healing you, Tootsie Roll. Don’t ask why I didn’t took off my helmet. I was afraid that she would hate me because I joined up with the Enclave. It wasn’t my fault, my father can be quite persuasive and strict when it comes to selecting ponies to join his cause. Not to mention their advanced weaponry given to me…”

Now I feel really sorry for her. Tootsie frowned and gave her a hug, “Awww! Don’t be saddy-waddy! We’ll go back to Stable Town and have you talk to her!”

Sadly, she shook her head to Tootsie.

“No. I can’t. All she’ll think about is scold me for being an Enclave soldier. And it’s surprising that she didn’t even noticed me when we entered the clinic to have you two treated. Guess she’s just as naive as always…”

I simply looked on, not wanting to interrupt or anything. Not that I can’t speak anyway.

It wasn’t before Gale turned her attention to me, “Zero? I understand that you can’t speak at all, but I wanted to tell you that you’re quite the silent scientist I’ve ever met, and a brave one too.”

I gave her a smile in thanks for the compliment, with a nod to go for. It felt comfortable inside the cabin with no danger coming in from the outside. For now, at least. There was only one screen window that was partially broken off, allowing a cool breeze enter the room although the outside is eerie and lifeless. At least that’s what my non-existent PipBuck told me.

Of course, my smile was only temporary as I laid back onto the mattress. To top it off, the Pinkie Pie in my head began a mental conversation with me.

“Oh come on! Its just a silly little PipBuck! You don’t need that silly old thing! You’re better off without it!”

A PipBuck isn’t a silly old thing, Pinks. Its a device that lets me check my inventory, logs and more importantly check on waypoints from the map. Not to mention that it allows me to use E.F.S. and slip into S.A.T.S. for better precision and be able to determine either friendlies or hostiles. Without it, I’m pretty much vulnerable without my PipBuck letting me know what’s going on.

“Pfft, no wonder you’re such a nerd! You love technology too much! Get some fresh air, mingle around with other ponies, or even make friends with rocks! Heck, Maud here had a pet rock named Boulder! Can you believe that?! More importantly, why not move to Ponyville?!”

For once, fresh air doesn’t exist. Its lifeless and every breath I take is like breathing emptiness and possible death. Second off, I’m a scientist and I dare not to be resigned as such! Thirdly, who in the buck is ‘Boulder’ or ‘Maud’ anyway? And lastly, Ponyville is a myth, and even if it was meant to be true, what makes you think I can sprout wings and fly all the way from where I’m living in to Ponyville? Or even turn myself into a false alicorn and teleport my ass off over there?

“Hehe, you’re so silly! Ponyville exists, and filled with joy and happiness! Why aren’t you happy?!”

Gee, I wish I was happy if it wasn’t for New Hampshore being both in shambles and then later overran by a swarm of Cazadores. Or maybe Mayne going into a state of a free-for-all. Or maybe having to barely survive from a hungry, relentless Tatzlwurm that’s intent on turning me and my friends into food! This Ponyville may have joy and happiness, but in the other side of Equestria I’m living in… it’s a complete opposite. I don’t care how many times you deny my statement, but the truth of the matter is that we’re still suffering and that’s that. And don’t get me started on my old friends. They were gone for good, and it wasn’t easy being a scientist by being sent on a simple retrieval mission gone awry which resulted in the loss of both of my older friends and teammates.

“Awww! You’re making Pinky all frowny-wowny! How can you say such things?!”

Maybe if you were taking the Goddesses’ places and are still alive, you’d be realizing that not everything is filled with joy and happiness. And perhaps if you were an alicorn, then you could’ve taken me and my new friends out of this hellhole. Otherwise, why are you convincing me to be happy? I’ve lost my former teammates, and my home with it. So whoop-de-doo for me, Pinkie Pie.

And before you release those outbursts to me, don’t. Unless there’s happiness, the Wastelands have other plans for the time being. Thanks for trying to cheer me up anyways.

“You’re welcome! And good luck, neeeerd!”

Sheesh. Nopony heard Pinkie except me. And the only pony who’s heard a voice in my head which sounds really silly because only I could hear her. My friends are gonna think I’m crazy as I kept looking on the ceiling, wondering how will this day pass by.

It wasn’t until Gale Storm sat on the mattress next to me as Tootsie Roll rested up on the other side with Bob, “We’ll return to Fhoal Island once those weeks pass by, Zero. I have a feeling that your PipBuck is gonna take some time until it becomes fully operational again. Remember, you have us and nopony will ever take it away from you.”

I guess. It felt like a treasure to me and to let it go means its gonna be difficult on our journey as our days pass by.

Even if this Pinkie Pie was telling the truth, I’m thinking that she’s just trying to force me to think of happy thoughts. If I was happy, then Equestria would’ve been the same way. What I got instead was pain and suffering, which all began in New Hampshore and later on in Mayne. Especially with our brief encounter with the slavers and barely escaping a ravenous Tatzlwurm… and going as far as to put my old friend and a suffering colt to their merciful death.

Two days ago:

“Have you located something, Blue Print? We have to hurry before the Cazadores realize that we’re hiding inside an underground subway and proceed to attack us. And we also don’t know if this door will hold them off any longer.” Starshooter informed her. In response, Blue Print pointed at the century-old train sitting on the tracks.

The train had broken-off windows, which can make attacks susceptible by ravenous Cazadores and create further casualties among the staff members of Lab-00. Starshooter nodded before informing her, “We need to barricade windows, should we reach the surface where the Cazadores are waiting for us. We cannot have any more casualties and further losses to our remaining supplies. Team! Search for any boards or any objects that can barricade windows for our escape.”

After their break and their tear-ridden emotions from the loss of their members by being stung and eaten alive by the insects that breached inside the sewer plant from the broken-off skylight, the remaining scientists and staff members went off to search for boards or metal sheets to barricade the windows of the only working train that is sitting on the tracks. The train was small and compact, but enough to fit the team inside and get out of New Hampshore while they still can.

“Be sure to return post-haste and do not wander off too far; we cannot allow anymore further casualties that will hamper our escape! Understood?”

They saluted to him and left to scavenge for items in different areas inside the abandoned subway tunnel to bar the windows as to prevent Cazadores from breaching inside. Olive Oil looked on, her emotions mixed between confidence and worry as she glanced at Starshooter, “Will they be…?”

He gave Olive an affirmed nod, “Yes. They will be alright. We are to refrain from further casualties. And we will get out of New Hampshore for us to relocate elsewhere. Not only that, even our best weapons can’t hold off against a huge number of Cazadores and ammo is scarce in this area.”

Meanwhile, Blue Print was looking for an operating system inside the train, finding a lever that goes either forward or back. There is even an ignition button on the right side from the lever to start up the train.

Of course, she wasn’t sure if the train is fully operational as it hasn’t been used in years or even a century. She waved at the two as they entered inside the train.

“Tell me if this train is operational, Blue Print.”

Her only reply was a shrug. She hadn't dared to touch the lever yet and wanted to wait for the group to return.

“Hmm… perhaps we will wait until our team has returned with sufficient parts for us to board up windows before we can make our escape.” Starshooter instructed her.
The three went inside the train that is unclear of whether it still functions or not as they wait for their members to return with boards and/or metal sheets. Hours go by as they were concerned if there are any hidden dangers that could bring possible injuries or worse upon return.

A voice echoed out from a distance within the corridor, “We found boards and metal sheets, sir!”

The three had heard the pony’s wonderful news as the team had safely regrouped with boards and metal sheets they had found strewn throughout the abandoned subway tunnel inside. As they made across a train bridge, Starshooter was the first to exit the unused train and waved a hoof to them as to instruct to bring them over inside.

“We must begin construction immediately by boarding up windows as a form of a barricade, but we also must leave very small gaps as we don’t succumb to suffocation. Once again, we don’t know where we are going, but we’re getting out of New Hampshore and find a safer location for us. Understood?”

Starshooter gave them additional details, “And before you ask, yes, our field of vision will be hampered by our improvised barricades, but we must ensure that we cannot reach the surface unprepared. The threat is still imminent and there could be thousands of Cazadores waiting out in the open and preparing themselves for a sudden ambush.”

With proper tools in their possessions, they began to drill and hammer to barricade broken-off windows as to shield themselves from yet another possible Cazador attack.

It took several hours to fully barricade the windows and leaving smaller gaps to allow them to breathe without the risk of suffocation while preparing for their long and uncertain travel to unknown territories. Once everypony was aboard inside the train, Blue Print slowly pushed the lever forward as the train had begun to gradually increase speed throughout the subway. The scientist members would celebrate, but it wasn’t time to do so. Not while waiting for the inevitable to happen whether or not they’re about to emerge the outside world. Especially with ravenous insects lying in wait.

Blue Print looked on from the small gaps from the boarded window; she could see a barely-lit light up ahead of the tunnel. All other crossroads were buried in rubble, rendering them impassable. Whatever lies ahead can mean life or death for the remaining scientist members of the former Lab-00, as the light ahead brings uncertainties to the team.

As they emerged from the tunnel and into the environment filled with nothingness, it seems that there aren’t any Cazadores on sight. Of course, with windows boarded up to shield themselves from a possible attack, there’s no guarantee that these would hold them off while traversing their way out of New Hampshore.

Starshooter ordered the team, “Lower your heads and do not look out the windows unless if given reason. We don’t know what’s outside and only Blue Print is navigating us somewhere and also getting us out of New Hampshore. We need to ensure that further casualties are prevented and that we make it out of here safely. The situation is too unpredictable at this time, so keep your heads down until Blue Print gives us the all clear sign. Understood?”

They nodded and no objections were made as they ducked down, keeping their remaining items close to each other as a sudden gunshot can be heard within the distance. It wasn’t aimed at the train but the bullet had ricocheted off of the train. Faint, blood-curdling screams are heard from the distance, most likely a lone pony falling victim to a Cazador attack. It seems the threat remains high as they made their way out of the now-ravaged New Hampshore. Statues depicting Sapphire Shores were partially covered up by Cazador insects before they took notice of the train’s presence before they begin to fly erratically towards the moving train.

Muffled banging are heard from the outside as the scientists and kitchen staff members gasp in horror; The Cazadores were attempting to breach into the train!

“Oh no! They’re here and they’re trying to break in!” The unnamed scientist stallion yelled out.

There were panicked shouts as Starshooter ordered his team, “Everypony, calm down! Ready your weapons and ward them off until we get out of New Hampshore and out of the ambush! But be sure to point the muzzles at the small gaps and open fire, should they attempt to breach inside the train! Furthermore, make every ammunition count! We cannot afford to waste ammo by firing it in the air!”

“Blue Print, push the lever to speed the train but carefully! We can’t risk derailment with all of us inside…”

Blue Print gave Starshooter a salute and slowly pushed the lever forward as the train soon began to pick up speed in an attempt to outrun the Cazadores. Soon, the train began to tilt from the excess weight of a fairly large number of Cazadores on the roof; they were approaching a wide curve from the rail as the scientist ponies shouted in surprise and clung onto each other from the curve and their weapons dropped in the process.

SCCCREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!

Starshooter shouted orders at the team while Olive Oil was hanging onto the side as the speed combined with excess weight was about to give way, “Quickly! Move to the other side! We need to rebalance the train before we get derailed!”

Without objections, they quickly scrambled to push the train to correct its position as they grunted with effort and with all their might. The train was still dangerously tethering to the side but once the curved rail became straight again, it soon corrected itself onto the rails again and the risk of derailment was minimized. Even the Cazadores flew up from the roof of the train, but had resumed their pursuit.

The team slumped back with a sight as Olive Oil looked on, “Quick! Grab your weapons, everypony! We’re not out of here yet… and I hope the goddesses can take us somewhere safe…”

The scientist ponies grabbed their weapons as the kitchen staff team were guarding of what remains of their food that became a mess from the train nearly derailed.

A couple of twists and turns later, the Cazadores were still pursuing them with no regard of losing interest of their prey before they were gunned down by two guardponies inside the watchtowers. Of course though, a voice yelled out from the megaphones as the train approached to a restricted area, “Stop the train or we'll blow it up, trespassers! This is your first and final warning!”

Blue Print realized that she and the others were approaching a restricted area before pulling the lever as the train soon screeched into a halt, with some of the ponies propelled forward from the sudden stop.

They were dazed, but unharmed. Starshooter glanced at the boarded window which left a couple of dents from the Cazadores attempting to breach inside, “Hmm… it seems that we’re out of New Hampshore.”

He glanced at the team with a concerned but strict expression, “Everypony, do not say a word and let us handle the situation at hoof. We’re in a restricted area and I urge everypony to remain calm and conceal your weapons unless if given order by a supreme commander… now, then.”

The boarded door was soon cut open by a saw blade covered by a magical aura as the team retrieved their weapons and hid them in their bags.

Outside, some of the heavily-armored ponies were gunning down the last few remaining Cazadores before one of them gave the ‘all-clear’ sign to a fellow soldier. The bodies of dead Cazadores are seen lying onto the ground, with one of them being dissolved into toxic liquid.

Starshooter, Olive Oil and Blue Print looked on and what appeared to be a heavily-armored pony soldier as he pointed a highly-graded rifle at them, “State your business, strangers. What brings you here to Ranger Delta North?”

The scientists startled in fear as they backed themselves against the back of the train, with Olive Oil slowly and wisely stepping back with Blue Print simply looking on, her face still concealed with a scientist mask.

“And another question; did you brought those ravenous insects to us?”

Starshooter cleared his throat before speaking out to a high-ranked Ranger, “We were being pursued by ravaging Cazadores that had overrun New Hampshore, so therefore we boarded the train and made our escape. Although the latter result was the loss of our scientist team and staff members who had fallen victim from a Cazador attack, and some of our supplies were also gone. We’re in dire need of safe refuge, sir. We can’t return to New Hampshore as it’s now been overrun by the Cazadores you also killed them.”

“We normally don’t take any stragglers into our base unless if given a specific reason. However, we do accept a team of scientists that can help us creating state-of-the-art weapons and provide them any available shelters inside our base. As for New Hampshore… if what you said is true, then I fear the city can’t be saved by any means especially when the numbers are too high for the city to be contained. Until there’s a possible solution, you will have to come with us for now.”

There weren’t introductions yet, but the Ranger had instructed Starshooter to bring his team inside the base. He turned his attention to his members, “We are given an order to head inside the base. Grab your items and let’s go. The soldier’s waiting for us at the entrance.”

Today:

We had left the cabin and we were sticking ourselves close together with a barely-lit lantern that was carried around by me, grasping the handle with my teeth. To find any remaining meals in this dreadful wastelands is a must. We’re also out of the forest, but the skies are still dark with no light source to go for. And don’t get me started with not having a PipBuck with me.

Bob is still riding shotgun onto my back as he can’t walk on his own. And we’re still looking for a not-so abandoned repair shop so somepony can fix him up again. Tootsie let out a bored groan, “Uuuugh! Why are the skies so dark?! Skies, stop being dark and miserable!”

Like that’ll work.

“Sweetie, the skies have always been dark. Nothing we can do about it.” Gale assured the filly. She’s right; the skies have always been dark and miserable, no sign of life anywhere. And if there was, there’s always something that’s gonna get us killed.

Tootsie let out a cute pout from the ex-Enclave’s replies, “Fiiiine… but I wanna see the skies smile for once! How bad can it be?”

My ears let out a soft twitch, followed by a short spasm from my tail indicating a possible danger up ahead.

You just had to ask, Tootsie Roll. Whoo-fucking-hoo.

“Body spasms, Zero?”

I nodded to Gale, though I would’ve told her that it wasn’t any ordinary body spasms if I had my voice back or my working PipBuck strapped around my hoof.

“Maybe there’s a Steady somewhere…”

What?! I’m not nervous, Gale! Ever since I acquired a Pinkie Pie statuette, my senses were heightened to the point where my body twitches whenever a possible danger is present! Not to mention that I could see better, even with just one eye with me…

At least we’re out of the forest and into a town with many broken-off billboards and signs that makes the location difficult to identify and I’m not sure if it has living inhabitants that doesn’t include shooting us for no apparent reason.

Gale took a small glance at a glistening object inside an abandoned building, “There’s something inside that building...”

Is there? I looked at Tootsie as to wonder if we could check it out. She gleefully squealed at us, “I bet there’s candy in there! Maybe toys, too! Let’s go inside!”

Heh. Hyper as always, Tootsie Roll. We went inside, with Bob still on my back; he was still in no shape to walk with us until we can find a repair shop to have him fixed.

As we went inside, lights were flickering inside, with some of the bulbs barely hanging on. The shelves were ransacked and many items were littered onto the floor, with a cash register going as far as being ripped in half. Behind the counter lies a skeleton pony who is sitting on a chair. I let out a quiet shudder at the sight before the filly ran to the counter and waved at the obviously dead pony, “Hey, mister! I want chocolate candy bars, please! Heeeeey! Are you even listening to meeee?!”

Its dead. How would a dead pony even listen to you? Much less respond to your shenanigans? Even Bob let out an annoyed whirring noise from your silly antics. I simply face-hoofed at this.

“Tootsie Roll, that skeletal clerk isn’t really alive. It’s been dead since then. We’ll need to keep looking around to see if there’s any food to find.”

Tootsie pouted to Gale’s response, “Awww… okey-doke… at least our pal Zero listens!”

And how am I compared to a lifeless skeletal pony, per se? Honestly, Tootsie…

We looked around in different aisles to see if there’s any food left over for us to scavenge and store inside my saddlebags if we’re gonna venture forward. I could hear music inside the storage room as I poked Gale’s shoulder with a hoof to grab her attention.

“Hmm? Is something the matter, Zero?”

I pointed my hoof at the storage room door, with a faint song playing inside.

“Whatever’s inside… go and check it out. I’ll look after your saddlebags so you don’t have to come over here.” Gale instructed me. She’s trustful enough to look after my things as I gave my saddlebags to her with a nod and a small smile in thanks. Afterwards, I opened the door to the storage room and went inside and taking Bob with me along the way. It looks like a Sprite-bot, without its wings and is just sitting on the table, not being able to move and all. It was playing a random jazz music before it was abruptly cut off and replaced by the same familiar voice I’ve heard after our escape from Mount Gallopmore.

“Goooood morning Equestria! This is DJ Pon3, here with some breaking news!

“Remember when I told you that New Hampshore is purely off-limits even to residents? Well, it’s indeed off-limits! New Hampshore had just become a one, big nest for the nasty Cazador insects and have made a once, bustling city into their own home! Children, if you’re still in New Hampshore, hide while you still can! And don’t set hoof on that dreadful place!

“What’s also surprising is a massive creature that nearly went on a bloody rampage! Thankfully, the danger is deterred and the giant, pony-eating worm is no more! And it's all thanks to a fellow scientist and his, you guessed it, an Enclave soldier willing to help restore the greater good of Equestria!

“Now don’t be surprised, children. The Grand Pegasus Enclave may be notorious for their heinous crimes, especially after Itrotly was taken over, but know that not all Enclaves were evil! Some would rather work for themselves or follow different pathways!

“As for the scientist himself? Well, you could say that he was named after a number, but it could be more than just a simple number! And that, children, is Zero! And he’s here to bring the light to the rest of Equestria, so best of luck to our fellow and muted scientist colt!

“And with that, this has been DJ Pon3! Building new inventions since discovering fire. And now, back to the music!”

It then resumed playing jazz music briefly before the signal died out and became static. I was… really surprised from my standing ovation. Still, who is this DJ Pon3 I just heard of again? I could only guess that this DJ Pon3 had somehow found the signal within the Sprite-bot to spread the news. But I haven’t done anything to save Equestria. At least not for the time being…

There was however, the intense situation that occurred in New Hampshore. I rested my forelegs against the table as I looked up in thought. New Hampshore had been completely overrun by Cazadores. I wasn’t sure if this was their beginning of their offspring or that New Hampshore was their starting point. Oh goddesses, what will happen if they go into areas like Mayne for example?! It would be a massive migration for the killer insects! The remaining ponykind won’t survive an onslaught of ravaging Cazadores!

Damnit… if Celestia was still alive, she’d wipe the Cazadores from their fucking existence!

As for the ‘giant, pony-eating worm’? It must be the Tatzlwurm he’s referring to. Lucky escape too, all thanks to Gale. And speaking of, she was mentioned by this DJ Pon3 and mentioned that not all factions are evil. Maybe he’s right, maybe he’s not.

At least he took my name seriously and not some insult as well… thank the goddesses. I would’ve snapped if I heard him refer my name as an actual number.

I should check on the two and see how they’re doing. Before I opened the door, I glanced to my left to see an opened container box with a couple of empty Sparkle-Cola to go for and-- what’s this? Why is that one Sparkle-Cola bottle… glowing?!

Its also clear-looking! And there’s no bottlecap as well… somepony left it open and never sealed it back in. I suppose I'm the first to give it a taste, wouldn’t I? I mean, how bad can it be? I picked it up with my hoof and read the label (also being careful as to not spill it):

Sparkle-Cola Quartz

Hmm… I wonder what it tastes like? I would share it with my allies, though I suppose the old saying is ‘finders keepers, losers weepers’ and me to discover it for myself!

Oh well. Bottoms up!

Glug. Glug. Glug. Glug. Glug.

Huh… feels warm from the radiation. Nothing out of the ordinar--

FOOOSH!

What in the everlasting hell was that?! My entire body is glowing! And I could see well inside, like increased visibility for some reason!

Bob would’ve been surprised, but he’s still too hurt to even see my new glowing body. Tootsie did noticed this as she looked at a visible glowing light inside the storage room, “Oooohhh… Gale, I see something glowing inside that room!”

Gale had just finished collecting any available food inside my saddlebags as she looked at her, “Glowing?” She looked at a glowing body inside the storage room inside, “Zero..?”

The two approached at the door, the saddlebags in Gale’s tow as she slowly opened the door. The two gasped in surprised as I looked at the two, my body still glowing brightly.

“Whoa! Zero looks like a living flashlight! So cool! What did you do to yourself?! Did you wanted to become a living light bulb?!”

Wh-What?! I never wanted to be a living light bulb, Tootsie! Whatever’s in that drink made me all… glowy and shit! Seriously, how will Celestia or even Pinkie Pie react to this?! My pony mind complained out loud inside my head from Tootsie Roll’s utter shenanigans.

“Hmm? What’s this?” Gale picked up the empty soda bottle as she reads the label carefully.

“Sparkle-Cola… Quartz?!”

Gee, who’d knew the ex-Enclave must’ve found out I drank it? Blame curiosity, Gale!

“Zero, please tell me that you didn’t just drank the entire bottle of it!”

I… sorta did. I slowly nodded in response. Gale’s eye twitched in disbelief, “Y-You’re a scientist, for pony’s sake! You’re supposed to experiment new things by discovering potentials, but not by ingesting the whole bottle!”

Gee, blame curiosity. Of course, Bob let out a beeping mocking laugh at me for drinking the whole thing before I gave it a glare. And what are you laughing at?! You dare mock a scientist?! Of course, Bob stopped letting out his beeped laughter and merely looked around innocently.

It wasn’t until Gale let out a groan from my unintentional actions, “For a scientist, you sure need to avoid discovering new things and misuse them, especially after you had somehow ‘experimented’ your own body…”

Great, I have to take orders from her now? For an ex-Enclave, she does have a point and all. Still, it tasted delicious! I couldn’t help myself, hehe…

“Anyway, let me put your saddlebags and your sniper back on you. Tootsie, get Bob.”

Tootsie let out a playful salute to Gale, “Yes ma’am, will do ma’am!”

She waved at Bob, “Come on, Bob! You already rested, time to get up and get your legs moving!”

Bob had reluctantly got off of my back to join up with Tootsie to allow Gale to place my saddlebags onto my back, and my sniper tucked in between my side and the saddlebags. It felt a bit heavy, though I assumed that she had found any remaining food available inside a small market. Come to think of it, drinking Sparkle-Cola Quartz had somehow curbed my morning hunger. I figured we should head elsewhere now.

I gave the three a nod for us to head off now. Gale was the first to respond, “Right. And Zero, please don’t drink anything that has unusual substances again. You don’t know what might happen, even if you’re a scientist. Remember, curiosity can get the better of you if you’re not careful. Okay?”

She’s quite authoritative, I’ll give her that. But at least she’s showing her care for me as we left the market, my body still glowing brightly that illuminates the darkness this DJ Pon3 calls it ‘morning’. Time to keep going and see how long will my newly glow-in-the-dark body will last after having (inadvertently) chugged down a bottle of Sparkle-Cola Quartz.

We were in a town, but we don’t know what. Hopefully with any living residents, they wouldn’t be opening fire at us or we’re gonna have problems in our hooves.

Two days ago:

Ranger Delta North. It was housed with hundreds of Rangers inside the base, all armed with military-grade weaponry around their battle saddles with some being carried by magic from unicorns. The scientist team explored the base inside, almost like a museum to them. One of them asked, “Sooo, are there any rooms for us to rest and continue with experiments?”

The unnamed commander shot up a glare to him in a strict and authoritative manner, “I ask the questions around here. Understood?”

He let out a nervous nod in response, “Y-Yes sir.”

Starshooter gestured the scientist team and kitchen staff members to keep their mouths closed until they have arrived inside the quarters. Once inside, the Ranger commander turned his attention to the team before taking off his helmet with magic to reveal himself, “Now that we’re here, I’d like to introduce myself. My name is Commander Midnight Lancer, leader of Ranger Delta North. We scavenge any pre-war weaponry and put it into better use for highly-advanced technologies we could find in Equestria. Since you’re here, you’ll be aiding us in our assistance and no questions asked.”

It seems the burnt sienna-colored stallion doesn’t take no for an answer as they listened on. Lancer pointed his hoof at the room leading to the cafeteria, “Any remaining chefs you have with you are free to work and cook in the kitchen.”

Starshooter kept himself calm and collected, though he was overall impressed by the qualities they have inside their base so far. He motioned his head to Olive Oil, “Lead them inside the kitchen and have them present our remaining meals we have with us… even it was a mess from our hasty escape.”

“Got it. I’ll lead them to the cafeteria.” She followed the remaining staff members inside the kitchen area from the mess hall, “Present of what you have left in your bags and begin to assist them. I see that there’s only four chef ponies inside and would need a lending hoof…”

Despite their traumatic experience, they immediately began to focus on assisting the Ranger Delta North’s myriad number of ponies serving up meals for them. Meanwhile, Midnight Lancer presented several dorm rooms that are currently vacant. They were small, but convenient. Starshooter nodded at the rest of the scientist team, “Rest up for tonight, scientists. Me and Blue Print shall continue on under a new order from Midnight Lancer. We have a long day ahead of us, and we need all of you to be in top shape when you wake up. Understood?”

They gave him an affirmed nod and each went inside the dormitories to rest up for the night. The two were led inside the auditorium where it currently sits empty, “Here is the auditorium, where performances and announcements take place.”

Starshooter cleared his throat to Midnight Lancer, “I hate to interrupt, but I figured that it's time that we make our introductions to you. I am Starshooter, head scientist of the former Lab-00 in New Hampshore. And this is Blue Print. Not a talkative pony yes, but she gets the job done.”

Blue Print gave a nod before removing her goggles and mask to reveal her face to them. Midnight Lancer released a neutral response, “I see. Well, now that we have made proper introductions, let’s asses to the matter at hoof in my office.”

“Blue Print, you may go and rest up as well. I will see you tomorrow.” The elder scientist informed her as she wears her mask and goggles back on before heading off to rest up. Midnight glanced at Starshooter and motioned his head, “Come with me.”

Today:

My body was still glowing for a good moment as I led them somewhere that isn’t sitting in isolation or occupied by Raiders or any other hostile faction. As great as it was to ingest Sparkle-Cola Quartz for the first time, my currently illuminated body is sure to give away to anypony or creature to come after me like moths frantically searching for a light source.

We arrived in a small residential area that was totally not destroyed by a Tatzlwurm hellbent on devouring us all (and thank the goddesses that this monstrosity isn’t after us now!), with some doors and many windows being boarded up as usual. Oh, and who can forget pony skeletons littered around the area?

Now if only I had an existing PipBuck, I would’ve known what location we’re in. I’m a scientist, for pony’s sake! I’m not some navigator!

“Well, apart from getting us lost, at least we’re not looking at Slavers or anypony starving themselves to death, right?”

Well, it was either that or we have to waste ammo to defend ourselves. And with Bob still in disrepair, I don’t think there’s any repair shops nearby neither…

And apart from the isolation, its pretty empty, but I figured I could lead them into a vacant home for us to rest for a while before moving along. Too bad I have nothing to write with; the ground’s too hard for me to even write down one word for them. All I could do was point a hoof at a house that wasn’t boarded up inside.

“A vacant house? Well, I suppose we could head inside and rest up for a little while. Maybe there could be some things we could find?” Gale asked as Tootsie already got a head start. Well, there’s your answer. Wait up, Tootsie! We don’t know what’s inside yet!

I quickly caught up and blocked the door before the excited filly to try and grab the door handle, “Heeey! I wanna open first!”

I frowned in response. You have no idea what’s behind the door, do you?

Gale giggled quietly to Tootsie Roll and gently patted her head, “Now, now, little Tootsie. Zero’s our faithful leader, so he should be the one to check what’s inside first.”

Thank you for doing a better job at foal-sitting than I do, Gale Storm! I know how to swing barn doors the right way! That is if doesn’t include ravaging Cazadores… or Dr. Scalpel himself. Ugh…

Okay, pony self. Time to set those excitements aside and see what this door has to offer us. I slowly and carefully pushed the door open…

Crreeeeaaak.

I took a small peek, my ear letting out a small twitch. Danger? Hmm… I don’t see any creatures or a pony greeting me with a buckshot to the face. Unless…

It was dark, but my illuminated body allowed me to see the floor littered with armed land mines! As a beeping commenced, I quickly slammed the door shut and frantically waved a hoof at the three as to move!

“Gale, Zero wants us to go inside!” Tootsie unwittingly ran towards me as Gale looked suspicious until she realized that I wasn’t intending on bringing the filly inside.

“Wha…? Tootsie, get back!”

As she skidded to a stop, I quickly lifted Tootsie up to my back and galloped from the beeping noises! The ex-Enclave realized that it was a trap and quickly picked up Bob and flew off, “Explosives!”

The mine beeped faster from the door being slammed shut until…

BEEP! BEEP! BEEP! BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!

It let out a series of explosions as the house was completely disintegrated, with me being propelled forward from the blast and crashing through a fence! Ack! Tootsie fell onto the ground, dazed but unharmed, “Wah! Why did the house go ka-blooey?!”

If I would’ve told you, the house was littered with landmines inside! Of course, Gale Storm told her for me, “There were landmines inside! That’s what Zero was trying to warn us!”

Thank you for that! Bob glanced at shadow-like pony figures heading our way as he lets out a warning beep to us, “What is it, Bob? Something’s coming our way?”

It seems so. And I honestly can’t tell if they’re hostile or not. No E.F.S. means no way to determine whether they’re friendly or hostile, so we’re gonna have to assume the worst. As they emerge from the shadows, several armed ponies were making their approach. Oh no… its the Slavers! Four of them, but they also have somepony else in tow; a purple, tattered mare in chains! Oh hell no!

The slavers were all unicorns, with the slaver being a mere earth pony like myself. Quickly, I turned around to the three and thought of a plan… a plan that involves me trying to speak with my non-existent voice. I whispered to Gale’s instructions (which is of course, my only method of quietly saying things up close to my ally) ‘Ambush them in the air’. I couldn’t hear my own voice, I sure hope to goddesses she understood what I told her.

“Ambush them in the air…?” Gale was clueless at first (goddess-damnit!) before I pointed a hoof at the approaching slavers and the unnamed mare held captive.

“Oh! I get it now. Will do, Zero! Just create a distraction.”

Afterwards, she flew airborne with her twin Plasma Rifles at the ready while I led Tootsie Roll and Bob behind the side of an abandoned, unexploded house. I shushed at Tootsie as to not make any noises as I took aim with my sniper rifle. I can’t tell if I could tell her to open fire as I pretty much have no way to talk without my actual voice; she wouldn’t even hear my whispers from way up above.

“Oi! Don’t be mistreatin’ her until we get to th’ Sacrificial Temple, ya twat!” One of the Slavers spoke to the other. He let out a snide snort in response.

“Oh please! I’m not mistreating her! Just sprucing her up, Kill Switch. Besides, at least we didn’t ended up like those buffoons who became lunch with that monstrosity of a worm. Sucks for them!”

The mare let out a muffled speech from the muzzle restraints preventing her from making any normal speeches as another Slaver pulled the chains close to him, “What was that? You wanted to be free? Well, too bad, toots. You’re too valuable to be moseying along.”

No S.A.T.S. with me as well. Might as well do this the old fashioned way. Steady now…

I slid my tongue around the trigger and pulled it, resulting the sniper rifle to fire off the shot and driving through Kill Switch’s head, killing him (talk about being kill switched… damn, my pun was off!).

“What the bloody hell was that?! Kill Switch’s dead!” One of the Slavers shouted as he and the other Slavers were met by a barrage of Plasma Rifles. They ducked out of the way, with the mare defenselessly cowering against the ground. Gale had missed, but one of her shots did managed to land a hit onto the Slaver’s leg as he shouted, “Damnit! We’re being ambushed!”

Soon, they fired back at Gale from above though I provided her covering fire as I fired another shot at the Slaver square in the head. It didn’t took long for one of them to open fire at me (my body stopped glowing along the way, as the effects from the Sparkle-Cola Quartz had finally wore off) as I quickly moved my head and my sniper rifle away from gunfire. Ugh! Damn wooden fragments spraying a bit from bullets…

There was only two left as the Slaver told him, “Go an’ take care of that sniper, Vandal! I’ll take care th’ one from above!”

“Got it, Royal Pain!” He was now targeting me! I gotta take him down before he grabs me and possibly Tootsie and Bob! I turned to aim at Vandal, but the bastard managed to catch me off guard by knocking the sniper rifle off of my hooves and tackled me onto the ground! Ack! Get off of me, you conniving bastard!

Despite Bob’s injuries, he managed to land a shot as Vandal was floating a meat cleaver at me and allowing me to give him a headbutt to distance myself before grabbing the muzzle of my sniper and smacking him hard with the rifle.

THWAP!

“Guh! Why you little-- come here!” Vandal shouted at me as he lunged at me, only for me to fire the sniper rifle at point blank range, which hits the torso and forcing him to land on the ground. I soon shoved the muzzle inside his mouth and and gave him an angered look.

Even if I’m a scientist, I’d be damned if I even let you bastards get your filthy hooves on an innocent pony! Not now, not ever!

Mercilessly, I pulled the trigger and the bullet drove through his head and killing him instantly. No need to S.A.T.S. for this one (at least not for the time being, of course). Tootsie was covering her ears as always to muffle out the gunfire. The ground was splattered with blood, with some of my face and my suit stained with it. Ugh… bloodstains aside, I could see Gale holding her own though Royal Pain somehow managed to get a lucky shot through her wing as she shouted in pain!

Oh no! Gale! Hold on, I’m coming!

“Gah! Fucking bastard got my wing…!” She was struggling to get airborne from her damaged wing that was driven through by a bullet. I whistled as loud as I could to grab the bastard Royal Pain’s attention, taking aim at him again. Not sure how many bullets I have left in me, but if I have one in me left, I better pray to the goddesses I make it count!

Even without S.A.T.S., I may pull this one off so long as Royal Pain here doesn’t throw me off guard. Come on, Zero. Focus…

“What the--?” Royal Pain caught my attention from my whistles. Too late, you chauvinistic Slaver…

BLAM! Click. Click.

That was my only shot and I managed to single-handedly take him down as Gale painfully flew back onto the ground, tending her wing as she winced in pain. I stood up and waved at Tootsie to come with me as I rushed over to Gale, skidding to a stop to look at her wing that was bleeding from the gunshot.

“Gah… fucking hell..! Please tell me you killed him…”

I gave her a confirmed nod. I slid my saddlebags down and checked to see if I have any healing potions and hopefully bandages from our endless trekking. Aha! They’re they are, though I’ll need Tootsie’s help to patch up her wing. She’s a unicorn and I’m just an earth pony with no method of carrying more than one things. The filly arrived with Bob next to her and I showed her the bandages and a healing potion bottle for Gale, “Ooohhh. Doctor Tootsie is in and I will heal this not-baddie Enclave up, Doctor Zero!”

I let out a quiet chuckle from Tootsie Roll referring me as a doctor. I need to check on the chained-up mare, though. I motioned my head to Bob to follow me as I looked at the unnamed mare, who was still cowering in fear from exchanged gunfire. Once we arrived, I nodded to Bob to fire at the restraints for them to come loose. I could hear her whimpering and crying softly from the restraints holding her back as Bob returned the nod to me, firing off laser shots onto the chains as they break off. Afterwards, he carefully fired the muzzle lock off for her to speak.

She scrambled back from us, frantically waving a hoof, “D-Don’t kill me, please! I-I-I have nothing to give you, I swear!”

Bob let out a soft whirr as he waved a metal claw to her, as to indicate that he and I mean no harm.

“Wait… you’re not… Slavers, are you?”

I shook my head and offered a hoof to help her up with a soft smile to go for.

She recoiled back at first, but the mare soon placed her hoof onto mine as I helped her up once she realized that we’re not one of them, “I… I don’t know what to say… thank you… I don’t know what would happen if those Slavers did awful things to me… again, thank you mister…”

I smiled to her, the mare’s words were quite moving and sincere. She also giggled at Bob, who was waving his claw to her as she waved in return, as she looked at me, “I don’t have anything to give you except this.”

I received a heartwarming hug from her and returned the hug to her. She lets go of me and glanced at me before galloping off, “You’re my hero. I’ll never forget that.”

I felt a pang in my chest. She called me a hero… that’s… really awesome...

Me and Bob watched her leave as we turned our attention back to Tootsie Roll and Gale Storm, as Tootsie had already patched her wing up, “There! All better! Doctor Tootsie hereby thanks for your service!”

Gale giggles softly from her foal-ish and playful behavior, “Thank you for treating me, Tootsie Roll. Looks like I won’t be flying for a while, I guess…”

It sucks that she can’t fly now, but at least she’s still alive. That’s what mattered most. Our consolation will have to wait, however. My tail let out a sudden twitch, indicating that our danger isn’t over yet… I can only hazard a guess that Slavers have somehow sent reinforcements. I could even hear commotion from a far distance.

I waved a hoof for us to make a hasty leave. We need to get out of the residential area or we’ll be spotted!

Gesturing my hoof to the three, we need to get out of here. Gale looked at the two with a nod, “Zero’s ordering us to get out of here. I don’t think we should be sticking around inside for long…”

Tootsie saluted to her and looked at Bob, “Ten hut! The Enclave goodie has told us to go, pronto!” Of course, all Bob could do is crawl onto her back as all of us left the area. It wasn’t until I took a small glance, facing right to see that they’re not slavers… but Powder Gangers! At least they didn’t saw us; they were there to survey the damage as the result of a chain reaction of explosions that destroyed the house altogether.

“Boom Boom, what’s the damage?!” Taser yelled out. There was a small pair of Powder Gangers, but their weapons are lethal enough to blow you to smithereens.

“The Fiends were there! But no bodies, sir!”

Taser immediately gritted his teeth in between out of sheer anger, “Those damn Fiends are getting smarter by the minute, aren’t they?! Well no matter! We have Lightspeed already setting up a trap within northern Fhoal Island, so when she catches the Fiends, we’re gonna cut them up to pieces and show them that us Powder Gangers are a force to be reckoned with!”

Two days ago:

Both Starshooter and Midnight Lancer were inside an office, with Starshooter explaining the situation regarding New Hampshore, “...which is why we had no other choice but to make our escape from our own facility. Not only have we lost Lab-00, but New Hampshore altogether. Unless there’s a way to find the source of the Cazadores’ offspring, New Hampshore is no more. We can’t return without the risk of further casualties and we don’t have enough firepower with us, and my scientist teams are not combat-ready to eradicate those insects head-on. Furthermore, we had to call off the search and rescue because of the situation that’s dangerously increasing lately. If you have any available solutions, Midnight Lancer, now’s the time.”

The commander of Ranger Delta North tapped his chin in deep thought after thoroughly hearing his distressful explanation, “Currently, there is none, Mr. Starshooter. However, I will address the situation to my fellow rangers tomorrow morning. It seems like you ponies had made a hectic run from those vile insects. For now, rest up and I will debrief with the others addressing the situation at hoof.”

Starshooter bowed to him and got off of the chair as he left the office, “Thank you for allowing us to stay in your base, sir Lancer. It was appreciated of you.”

“Don’t mention it.”

Today:

Once again, we’re now in a dense forest this time. At least leaves are still (barely) alive as I was still relieved from having saved a mare from being used as a ‘sacrifice’ of some sort. All we could do now is find real pony inhabitants or maybe find ourselves back to Stable Town.

We looked around and see nothing but dead, lifeless trees and twigs snapping along the way. This is gonna be a long and tiring journey. Tootsie was humming along a random song with Bob whirring along in tune. Too bad we don’t know where we are because simply put, I have no PipBuck attached to my foreleg. Woo-hoo.

Now, where is--

Wah!

I suddenly fell down into a pit! Of course, just my luck; I couldn’t even scream! I landed hard onto the soft mound, enough to daze me silly. I thought for sure I was skewered, but... the bigger problem is that the three hadn’t noticed me having fallen into the pit! I wish I could shout at their names. I really should…

As the three moved on without me, Lightspeed was perched on top of a branch with a snide grin, “Gotcha, you bastard Fiend…”

She flew down into the pit and saw that it wasn’t a Fiend (obviously), but me, being too dazed to get up, my saddlebags and my SDM-9 sniper rifle tossed aside from the harsh landing. Damn I could feel my bones breaking apart!

“What the--?! You’re not a fiend! Or are you? Either way, you’re coming with me.”

With my broken-off body immobilized, I was defenseless. Lightspeed (who is obviously a Powder Ganger I saw weeks ago during our stay in Camp Mayne Six) grabbed my body, my saddlebags and my sniper rifle and flew out of the pit as I was taken somewhere else. Great, now I’m being foal-napped. Damn my lack of voice… dammit all!

I sure hope my friends realize that I’m missing, or they would find me carved up alive. Goddesses, help me out for once!

Footnote: Level Up.
New Perk: Hobbler -- Your chance to hit an opponents' grounded limbs is increased by 20%.
Quest Perk Added: Blackjack’s Fury -- As a “child of the bottle,” you fight better when you are drunk. You receive a 10% bonus to your Unarmed/Melee skill and +d10 corresponding damage (choose when picking the perk) when under the influence of alcohol.