Author's Notes:

Here is chapter 3 things our going to get interesting Some things may have become messed up in the importing of the chapters please let me know on any chapter of this story that may have been messed up during import from google docs. other than that enjoy.

Friendship Is an important part in the founding of Equestria being reunited with a good friend is always a happy occasion.

When I awoke that morning I felt rested I had Storm Chaser a close friend securing her bedding She noticed that I was waking up. “Good Morning CJ sleep well?” She asked.

“Yes.” I replied with a Yawn… “Anything left to eat must of slept longer than I intended to.” I asked.

“Yep there is.” Storm hoofed me my breakfast. “Eat quickly so we can get on the road again we should hopefully make it to New Appleloosa by noon If we get moving soon.” Storm said.

I nodded as I ate I thought about last night's talk between the four of us we learned that the currency of the wasteland was bottlecaps. I was surprised to say the least but after thinking about it some more it made sense. Bits would be hard to come by, but we did learn that bits or pre-war money as it was called is can be traded for caps in bulk the gold and silver were worth something if only to repair and engrave things or make trinkets for somepony special. I finished my food while I was in thought stored my bedding.

“I’ll pull first today Storm you pulled until we stopped last night. I’ll pull until we reach New Appleloosa we will do some barter hopefully we can speak With Ditzy would be nice to see her again. I’m sure she would want to catch up with us but business first we need to get some caps from what Daisy says her stores name is Absolutly Everything the stores motto is was kind of cute.”

Storm Wing Laughed again after I repeated the motto “Yeah that does sound like Ditzy doesn’t it.” Storm Chaser replied.

I nodded “Yes it does I just hope we will be able to talk to her before we the ponies of the town drive us off for being pegasi.” I said.

“I wouldn’t be too worried about that Last time I came through they had a Pegasus that was escorting Traders in and out of town I think he was a Dashit though normally we do not see many Pegasus ponies around I know of only two pegasus ponies in the wasteland both are Dashits.” Daisy said.

“Dashit?...” I replied in confusion… “What do you mean by Dashit?”

“Oh right you wouldn’t know of the term from what I’ve been told a Dashit is what the Enclave calls a traitor they use a magical brand in the shape of the outline from what I’ve been told is Rainbow Dash’s Cutie Mark effectively eliminating the pegasus’s cutie mark replacing it with the brand than exiling them to the wasteland or tried for treason or something like that not 100% sure on it you would need to ask a Dashit about it if you wish to know more.” Daisy said.

The look of horror on Mine and Storm Chasers face that turned to righteous anger was proof that Storm Chaser was as pissed as I was about hearing about this.

“If we meet this Dashit you mentioned I will of course ask about it in private something like that is not to be taken lightly by me or Storm but it is something we would need to know about I served with Rainbow Dash she was an element of harmony for buck sakes the element of Loyalty to be precise and they have the gall to use her name and cutie mark to replace ones cutie mark that means so much to the pony in question as a mark of a traitor is outrageous not to mention the fact that Rainbow Dash would not stand for something like that if she was here and heard that.” I said.

I took some deep breaths to calm myself down. “Alright everypony is everything packed secured and ready to go?” I asked.

“Yes Ma’am I just finished a double check on the gear in the tortoise and supply wagon everythings good to go.” Storm said as i got nods from both Misty and Daisy.

“Ok then let’s move out.” I said as I hooked myself up to the Tortoise called up the waypoint to the EFS and started to pull.

The trip was uneventful no attacks no ambushes so I had no outlet for my anger My first sight of New Appleloosa was of surprise than of amusement.

“Storm you have to see this.” I said. Shortly after I said that Storm and Daisy stepped out of the tortoise.

Storm looked at the town for a moment. “Ma’am is that what I think it is.” She asked.

“Yep the town is made up with a bunch of train cars making a wall with two gates one on each end some stacked pretty high looks like they also have a crane there which would have helped them stack the cars up to build the defensive wall around the town propor.” I said,

“Thats right Commander New Appleloosa has used the train cars to build that there wall to protect themselves from raiders and the like.” Daisy said.

“Wise precaution and makes it so there are only two ways into town unless you can fly that is but I wouldn’t do that to ponies I wish to have a good first impression with I rather not have to fight if I don’t have to.” I said.

“Well shouldn’t have to worry too much they are expecting my caravan to come through about this time we make this trip twice a year this is the second trip so it is the last one of the year we have others we would be gather for other locations but will probably not be making them trips I plan to ask Dj Pon3 to put out an alert for all traders to keep a stay on their guard while traveling raider activity has increased since the last time we made this trip.” Daisy said I nodded in agreement with that.

“Alright let's get going again almost there than Misty and I can relax and rest for a bit.” I said.

The others laughed at my comment but complied Storm and Daisy returned to the tortoise and I began to walk again toward the town in the distance 30 minutes later I was approching the gate when a gunshot and a puff a dirt at my hoofs caused me to stop. “That’s close enough enclave your not welcomed here so go someplace else.” I heard from the stallion on the wall.

Storm Wing and Daisy Stepped out of the tortoise. “Mind telling me why you're shooting at my escort to your town.” Daisy asked Glaring at the stallion.

“Daisy is that you.” The stallion asked.

“Yes you shit for brains now will you please kindly put your weapon down I do not like yelling like this.” Daisy replied.

“Fine but we're watching you pegasus.” He said.

I walked slowly forward and approached the gate.

“Mind telling me what the buck is going on here Daisy.” The stallion said as he stepped in front of her.

“The caravan was jumped yesterday these two mares came to our rescue but was too late to save the rest of the group me and my sole surviving guard is all that’s left they even managed to get my brahman so they offered us a lift to town there new to the wasteland Railright in a since you could say there stable dwellers considering they woke up Two days ago.” Daisy said.

The now named stallion Railright looked confused. “What do you mean by woke up two days ago?” He asked.

“I can answer that question sir Myself and My wingmare here were placed in what was called stasis or suspended animation along with Two hundred other ponies when we awoke the other day we found out that the others did and did not make it 17 years ago they were woken up due to an emergency that cut power to there cryo chamber that was to in hopes of restoring power so they could return to finish there sleep. I was the commanding officer and was to be revived first to check on the conditions to make the choice whether to wake them up or return to my own stasis pod. When I awoke and began to check on the status to see if it was safe to wake them I discovered that they awoke 17 years ago and died trapped in the stasis pod chamber. I quickly checked on My second in command to see if she was alright made the decision to wake her see and see what we should do. I am Commander Cloud Striker First recon of the Equestrian Airguard. This is my second in command Storm Wing we salvaged what we could and what was usable and or fixable and left half an hour later we came to the aid of Daisy and Misty here after learning that she was part of a supply caravan consisting of her husband and four guard only herself and Misty survived we offered them assistance and escort here. Before you asked the question you're undoubtedly going to ask Yes I’m over 200 years old and no I’m not a ghoul pony.” I said as I removed my helmet.

“I did hear from Daisy here that there is a ghoul by the name of Ditzy Doo here she can vouch for me that I am who I say I am For we are old friend I know Ditzy from before the war and during it.” I said.

“Would somepony get Ditzy please so we can clear this up just so you know I don’t want nothing to do with the enclave If your story checks out and Ditzy can confirm your story and who you are Then and only than will I let you in Damn it Calamity I could really use you about now.” Railright said sighing that last part under his breath.

A moment later a pony walked out the gate with the one who left to get Ditzy the moment I looked into her eyes I knew it was Ditzy.

“Ditzy!” I exclaimed.

She took one look at my face and the next thing I know I’m on the receiving end of a very squishy hug. I hugged back “Good to see you Ditzy but By Celestia what happened to you?” I asked.

“Wait don’t tell me yet that can be for later right now Can you please tell This stallion who I am by the way Railright I gave you my military callsign not my name.”

Ditzy giggled at that before taking up her chalkboard and wrote out. “This is a friend I thought I had lost long ago to the war. Her Callsign is Cloud Striker she’s a sniper for the Equestrian Airguard.” She had to erase and write several time to write all of that out. Ditzy said in writing.

Railright looked at me and Storm Wing. “What about the other one Ditzy?” he asked.

I leaned in and whispered who my wingmare was and Ditzys Eyes locked onto Storm Chaser I laughed as Ditzy proceeded to give Storm Chaser a squishy hug.

Storm Laughed as she hugged Ditzy back. “I was wondering where my hug was Ditzy been some time since we last spoke.” Storm Chaser said as Ditzy backed off so she can remove her helmet.

Ditzy again picked up her chalkboard and began to write. “This is another old friend callsign Storm Wing of the Equestrian Airguard they both fought in the war but were reported MIA

7 months before the magaspells fell.” Ditzy wrote out.

“MIA?” Railright asked.

“It stands for Missing in action reason behind that is classified I'm afraid, but I can say this it does in part lead into how we are standing here today.” I replied.

“Very well Ditzy has Identified you and has given your callsign names that you gave me which should would know only if she knows you.” He said

“Ditzy we will need one of them survival guides you wrote we also have things we can trade but first off I believe Daisy has business with you to complete first we can weal and deal after then catch up a little…” I leaned in and whispered… “I’ll tell you why we went MIA but you have to keep it a secret can’t tell anypony.” I said getting a nod from Ditzy.

Ditzy lead us to her store me pulling the Tortoise and supply wagon to the shop while Ditzy and Daisy did their business Storm myself and Misty waited outside standing guard over the Tortoise and supply wagon. I had put my helmet back on so I could if need talk to Storm privately.

We were kicking back drinking some cold pure water when a colt and filly bumped into me “Wah nelly are you two okay?” I asked helping the two to their hoofs an older pony came up saying “How many times do I have to say look where you're going or you will end up hurting yourselves.” She said taking the two home after apologizing for them. Just to be on a the safe side I checked to see if anything was removed from my saddlebags nothing was everything was accounted for I stopped myself shaking my head. [i/] Old habits die hard. I thought.

Daisy came out of the store 20 minutes after the foals ran into me. “How did it go Daisy is Ditzy able to help you out?” I asked.

“Well yes and no she was did accept the supplies to be distributed that was ordered through her as for helping me get a wagon or something no so I hate to ask but would you at least help me to Tenpony Tower my last stop I know you're heading that way I can buy additional provisions to replace what me and Misty would use Ditzy will make arrangements to get deliver the supplies I can’t deliver on my way home for I know there is nothing at Tenpony that has a wagon and no brahman I would be able to acquire along the way.” Daisy said.

“Well I can see if we can at least provide or make you a wagon from a a skywagon along the way. If we can It would go along way to replacing the brahman and could be pulled by just about anypony all we would need is an axle and wheels a heavy duty axle would be needed for the type of wagon we could put together. I’ll ask Ditzy if she has something that would work I have the necessary tools to do this in the tortoise If needed.” I said getting a nod from Daisy.

“Well I’m still thinking about what I said about accompion you with helping Equestria recover and helping everypony that needs it. I know that I need to talk with the my girls about this but I can’t help but feel I need like I need to do this can’t explain it.” Daisy said.

“I know that feeling Daisy. As I said before you need to at least speak with your girls before you make a final decision, This choice is never an easy one trust me I made a lot of choices in my life not everyone of them was the right choice I never talked with my Mother or Father about Joining the guard they found out after I had already done so and had returned from Basic training I got an earful from both my parents. It put strain on my relationship with them and it was something I regretted and to add to that I was declared Missing in Action before being assigned to the base that brought me here I lost everything Daisy my mother my father my brother and sister I have no clue what happened to them did they survive do I have great great nephews or nieces? Do I even have any family left All I have is one of my closest friend yes I just reconnected with one of my friends. I even lost the closest pony to me somepony I considered my closest friend that I considered family somepony I Idolized. I have no clue what happened to any of them. I have this feeling deep down that I failed every single one of them. I said.

Daisy looked at me with a little bit of shock. She nodded a few moments later. “I’ll talk with them see what they say help them through this tough time for us we lost not only my husband but a father and a family friend who has been with us for a long time.” She said

I nodded. “Daisy can you see if you can get us a room for the night, I doubt Ditzy is going to let me off easy we might not be leaving tonight. If there is no rooms available We can sleep in the tortoise the supply wagon can work and be stored safely within Ditzys place of business.” I said getting a nod from Daisy.

I entered Absolutely everything and met a smiling Ditzy who switched her sign to closed so we could talk.

“Ditzy before we begin I must tell you That everything I’m about to tell you is Classified or was classified you will not get the location of where I woke up at for that is a secret even now I will not let it fall into the hoofs of the Steel Rangers or worse the Enclave so do not ask me for the location. Suffice it to say Storm and I are Special forces black ops ministry of awesome intel agents recon scouting and assassination if needed I was being trained that whole time I was MIA until the magaspells happened I was given command of covert ops base one that doesn’t even exist in essence it’s a stable that has a hangar and is to this day fully functional We were 2 parts away from completing a dragon killer class raptor that would be one of a kind none ever like it built for stealth and recon behind enemy lines. Was supposed to help turn the tide so to speak after Zecora’s death was going to give us an edge so we can hit hard and quickly but it was never completed. To complete the ship I need a raptors navigation system and the fire control spell matrix for the ship’s weapon systems. Storm Chaser and I were placed in cryo sleep Ditzy when omega protocols went live. We secured everything sealed up 200 ponies crew and engineering staff for the ship and base went into cryo sleep before me and Chaser I was the last to be put under. I awoke 2 days ago Ditzy Two days and I already feel like I have failed everypony I cared and loved I even lost Rainbow Dash Ditzy a pony I considered family somepony I was very proud to serve under I didn’t even get to say goodbye to anypony Ditzy not even the 200 members of my crew they died by their own hooves Ditzy because they didn’t want to resort to barbarism to survive for 17 years for a rescue so they flooded the chamber with Manticore poison in a gasses form They all had one last hurrah though 40+ mares with eager stallions you can guess what How I found some of them hell three stallions to each mare died in the throes of passion I got in and sent them off properly like they asked in the last log in that room some of the audio log even had the screams or moans of mares getting rutted good and hard in it.” I said.

Ditzy had moved over to me and was rubbing my back.

“Like I said Ditzy I would have a special request it could be hard to find or even to come by but I need the parts to complete the raptor Storm Chaser and I are heading for a MoA hub in Manehattan to pick up a shipment that was to be shipped out the day the magaspells fell It did mention the required components for complete the raptor was registered as being in the prepped for shipping with the other at the same time, but I also know that the MoA hub has been picked clean. So I want to have a backup option. Plus I have a bunch of weapons and ammo that I can barter with Military grade weapon static and vacuum sealed armory So hot off the Factory line mint condition plus medical supplies enough to support this settlement for a while if used correctly and from the story’s Daisy tells me not mixing the healing Potions with Apple schnapps that weaken these potions super restoration potions medix magicly laced medical bandages and radaway. 200 weapons and ammunition for said weapon have around 250 ammo boxes for said weapons total weapons we brought with us is 350 we are keeping 150 of the weapons to arm any companions we may gain in our travels Misty was given a rifle and I repaired her shotgun. If you are interested in trading we could use the caps considering it’s not going to be completely easy to resupply some of our ammo we have only 5 ammo crates of Missiles we are currently at ammo capacity for our munitions stores on our armor 7.0 mm rounds will not be easy to find I have 12000 rounds ranging the standard 7.0 to the Ap rounds.” I said.

Ditzy nodded Picked up a notepad on a clipboard and began to write. “Sure new stock of weapons and ammo can be hard to come by as for 7.0 ammo I can look around and keep an eye out for some. I take it that Storm Chasers guarding your supplies and equipment?” Ditzy asked.

I laughed a little “Can you blame us Ditzy Military grade equipment a fully operational sky tank with magical energy weapons as its primary weaponry Probably worth quite a lot of caps to get their hooves on it not to mention the weapons and other supplies we have stored inside we loaded everything we could safely take with us without putting critically strain on the power systems of the Tortoise and the modified supply wagon. Speaking of Wagons Ditzy would you have a heavy duty axle and wheels?” I asked.

She turned the pad sheet over and wrote on it “Why would you need a Heavy duty axle and wheels?” Ditzy asked. “Ah but that the thing Ditzy its not for me it’s for Daisy we are going to be going to Manehattan we will most likely come across some skywagons in decent shape frame and body structure wise that I can convert into a Caravan wagon for Daisy using my tools on the Tortoise I should be able to build and modify a skywagon to be a supply wagon that can be pulled by anypony and work just as well as the Brahman she lost plus I could armor it for better protection and make it in fully covered wagon to keep her wares dry and offer a better means of defence should it come under attack again. I couldn’t save her husband Ditzy or her brahman At least I can give her means of Livelihood back a means to keep going so she can help the ponies who are needing the supplies her caravan brings to the distant towns and villages that she stops at. I know you are helping her already with doing or making some arrangements to get supplies to where she’s to make her rounds next. I know she’s talked about hanging up passing it on to her filly’s, but they have a business to run in Tenpony Plus she has a lot of things to discuss with them before making a final decision.” I said.

“I see what you mean Cloudy. I agree with you that and told her the same thing you just told me that you told her to do I know you regretted not telling your mom and dad about joining the military I can say this much they were not at home or anywhere near cloudsdail when it was struck as for your sister and brother I don’t know. The MoA hub hasn’t been breached as far as i'm aware of I fly by there every now and then. Ultra sentinels have that place under heavy guard I have even been shot at because I flew too close without authorization.” Ditzy said.

“Ditzy do you have any spark grenades or missiles….?” I asked…. “Reason I’m asking is because of what I’ve heard from Daisy about the steel rangers I would rather knock out there spell matrix and talk then outright kill them from what I have surmised and Daisy has confirmed it something going to snap and we will have an internal fight within the steel rangers. Not only that but this thing with Redeye and this supposed goddess, Slavers and the enclave I’m so mad right now and even feel ashamed about being a pegasus because of what they are and or have been doing Do you know anything about the term Dashit or why they still haven’t come down to assist everypony?”

“Spark Grenades I do have missiles I only have a few there pricey because of how hard they can be to find an unexploited find. As for the Dashit I would say ask Calamity but he’s with little pip at the moment traveling with her I do come by a crashed Raptor but the enclave pretty much picks them clean before anypony makes it to the crash sight I’ll keep an eye out for the special order you placed Please let me know if you do acquired the parts needed.Now lets go take inventory of your Supply wagon.” Ditzy said. As she got up, I held up a hoof turned it so she could see the pipbuck screen and called up the supply list for the wagon. Ditzy looked over the inventory list she pointed out that she would take the 9mm pistols all of them and the all the ammo for them, she stated she was buying the ammo two caps a round so she hoofed me eight hundred caps for the ammo and thirty five caps each for the pistols so in grand total Ditzy paid me was one thousand one hundred and fifty caps for that one transaction.

“Storm gather up the 9mm pistols and ammo Ditzy has just bought it all off us and if Daisy is around yeah can you please inform her I could use her in here Ditzy is going through the supply list and offering deals but I do not want to bleed a friend dry on caps according to the price guide she bought the ammo at two caps a round and thirty five caps per gun for the 9mm’s anyway she said the harder the ammo the more expensive it can be. We are currently sitting on one thousand one hundred and fifty caps. Oh and set aside a magical energy rifle and the ten spark packs for it. I’m going to offer it in trade for Spark grenades missiles and the axle and wheels she has. She has told me that the energy rifles are to pricey for her to buy. Oh add an ammo box of 5.56 rounds at four caps a round keep a price list and get a list of prices Daisy would think about the list of weapons we have and how much they would sale for she has been a trader for sometime after all she must know a bit about it.” I said.

“Will do CJ I got that rifle you asked for and the spark packs Daisy has offered to shift anything Ditzy buys inside Misty and I are guarding the Supply wagon I have the tortoise locked the ponies of the town seam to be keeping their distance from us to be honest I would be worried as well if some strange Power Armored pegasi showed up in town with everything that the enclave seems to be not helping but hurting everypony down here, and here we are in power armor granted I want to have as much of an advantage as possible out here, but we are scaring a lot of ponies because we are pegasi and are unknowns we have no clout so to speak.” Storm Chaser said.

“I hear you Storm Oh….” I paused as a silver filly walks into the room…. “ Storm Ditzy has a filly here looks like she’s taking care of her I’ll pass along anything else in a moment I need to remove my helmet so I can speak to her without scareing her.” I said getting an understood, I took my helmet off. “Hello there sweetie what’s your name?” I asked the little filly she froze and looked frighten. “Don’t worry I will not hurt you and mean you no harm Ditzy I pointed to the ghoul Is a dear friend of mine I’m doing business here before heading out got places to go and ponies to protect My name is Cloudy Joy I’m a member of the Equestrian Airguard.” I said.

The filly seemed to relax a little Ditzy had stopped when I began to speak to the filly She was holding up her pad I looked it said. “This is Silver Bell she lost her mother father and sister to raiders who killed them out at the old pie rock farm Silver was trying to act like Pinkie Pie to try and cope with her loss she thinks it was all her fault that her family is dead they killed them right in front of her and her sister from what Littlepip, Velvet Remedy and Calamity said I had gotten back not to long before you got here with her she has been sleeping since she got here.” Ditzy said.

“Silver Bell that’s a pretty name so a fan of Pinkie Pie huh you know I knew her personally I knew all of the ministry mares they were a great group of ponies they each had their faults each one made mistakes but it’s what we learn from the mistakes made that we improve What you went through no filly should have had to gone through That is what I am trying to prevent I wish I could have been there for you Silver Belle to been able to Protect your mother father and sister Ditzy is a good pony your in good hooves Silver Trust her she will do everything to protect you So will I should I be in the area I will help out anypony in need of assistance No matter how small or how much it could be a problem its my duty to help the ponies of Equestria no matter what it could cost me.” I said, seeing tears in her eyes. “Come here sweetie Like I said before I will not hurt you and you need somepony right now Ditzy is working so is busy right now but I am willing to offer my shoulder and or ear if you should need somepony to talk to.” I said and the filly bullet barrels into me she cried her little heart out in my shoulder I looked over at Ditzy with that look that said She’s hurt so deeply who could do this to such a sweet filly. Daisy comes in carrying the guns and Ammo sees Silver Belle crying in my arms with an eye cocked.

“Here you are Ditzy this is what you paid for already Cloud will communicate with Storm and place I’ll be bringing it in after its been gathered up and set for delivery. Also Ma’am Storm said this is what you asked for where do you wish me to set it down?” Daisy asked.

“Set it down next to what Ditzy has already bought I will work out the arrangement with Ditzy after I am free to focus on it. Right now I have a filly that needs comfort and I will not turn away from offering that.” I said.

“Understood Ma’am.” Daisy said, as she turned and left to return to the supply wagon.

I held Silver Bell whispering comforting words to her after twenty minutes she settles down I looked down at Silver Belle and gave her a smile. “Ditzy if it is alright with you I have something for Silver Belle back in the tortoise No charge it’s free and I think she would like it.” I said looking at my friend.

Ditzy just smiled and nodded.

“Silver Bell if you will come with me for a moment Like I said to Ditzy i have something for you but it is in the tortoise I want to give it to you Ditzy can come to if it will make you feel better.” I said getting a nod from Silver.

I laid down go ahead Silver Bell climb up but please mind my wings and don’t touch the outer edge of my wings they're sharp there part of my melee weapon set there called wingblades basicly my wings are encased and the wingbone is being protected but has been sharpened into a lethal blade. It is mainly used in combat if I’m moving fast I can take a bad ponies head off I do not like fighting I rather not have to fight if it can be avoided but it isn’t always possible to avoid a fight. Enough about that.” I said as Silver Bell climbed onto my back resting between my wings wrapping her forehooves around my neck to hold on.

I stood back up and walked out the door my friend Misty and Daisy looked up at me noticing my passanger.

“Ma’am looks like you brought company who’s this sweetie? Asked Storm Chaser.

“Silver Bell the other Pegasus in the same type of armor I have on is Storm Chaser Storm this is Silver Belle she lost her family to a raider attack out at the pie farm or was the pie farm that Pegasus we will need to talk to at some point and his friends found her and called Ditzy for help Storm Please open the door to the tortoise please I have something for Silver Belle in there for her.” I said.

“Yes Ma’am.” Storm snapped a salute and went about doing just that. When the door opened up I walked in carrying Silver Belle with me I walked over to the cooling unit opened it up and Pulled out a one of the single serve cakes than said. “Here you go Silver Belle enjoy.” I said as she looked at me then took the cake. “th-thank you.” she squeaked. “You’re welcome Silver Belle help out Ditzy and be good I might have another gift when I pass through on my way to wherever I go to next after Manehattan depends on if we find what we are looking for as well.” I said looking at her.

“I promise you this I will give you something that you will be able to use for the rest of your life. So help Ditzy and be strong but do not forget you have Ditzy help in when you can’t be strong weakness can be a strength too want to know how me and Storm Chaser here work so well together we know each other's strengths and weaknesses we support each other protecting each other there is a say a team is only as strong as their weakest link we each pull our own weight in a unit that's the key we are only as strong as our weakest link Both me and Storm are great flyers but with ground boned member of the group we can’t always be flying I’m a trained sniper I excell in long range support I could shoot a target from two hundred yards away and hit my target I’m great in mid range fighting even hoof to hoof in a pinch, but I do not like fighting hoof to hoof never have heck don’t like combat I joined the Equestrian Military so I could help protect my loved ones my home and friends I failed them all but it wasn’t only me that failed It was everypony in the Military that shares this pain that I feel deep inside because Equestria is a wasteland. All I can do now is to keep going on Equestria maybe a wasteland now. It can recover all we need is to work together unite in a way helping each other we all are in this together trying to survive as best we can traders are important shop owners too they provide good and spread the good around you have no clue what a trader might have. One could have the ammo or weapons that could help protect ponies another can have food and medical supplies and other could have scrap that could be used to repair or even build something useful.” I said.

Silver Bell looks up in ah at what I was said.

“CJ speaks the truth there sweetie. Like her I was alive back before the war and joined around the same time Cloudy Joy did we became friends we seen a lot of action in the war none of it pleasant we lost friend family and loved ones ponies close and dear to our hearts we were trained to kill and to protect. We are sworn to protect Equestria now we will help Equestria recover while protecting and surviving helping our fellow ponies regardless of what some ponies may think there are pegasi out there who want to help CJ and I have to not because of duty but because it’s the right thing to do we have hope that might be all we have. If we let hope die then there is no recovery from the sins of the past no pony is perfect not even Princess Celestia and Luna were perfect they had their faults like anypony does they made mistakes and learned from them and moved on. CJ and I will be helping out there might even offer our skills and knowledge to improve the chances that the Equestria wasteland would become a better place.” Storm Chaser said.

I nodded in agreement. “Chaser and I rescued Daisy and Misty here from a Raider ambush Daisy is a trader was part of a caravan Misty was one of the guards we escorted them here because this was one of their stops we are going to be escorting them to Tenpony Tower in Manehattan after we leave. Also happens to be we were heading there in the first place so it’s not like we are going out of our way we have business in Manehattan so its no trouble even if we were not going to Manehattan we most likely would have escorted them the rest of the way anyway because what Daisy does is important there are places for ponies like me and Storm we weren't always guards or soldiers I was a weather mare before the war so was Storm Chaser we each had our place. If you give me a moment There is something I want to show you.” I said as I headed to the front of the Tortoise. “Wait here I’ll be right back.” I said.

When I got to the front compartment I got out of my armor. After that i returned to the back were Silver Bell was everypony was surprised to see me without my armor.

“Silver Bell if you didn’t know I was a soldier and had met me like I am now would you have been afraid of me? Under all that armor I’m still a pony a mare just like Daisy and Misty here I have dreams wants and need like everypony does Let me tell you the a story it is one that happened quite a while ago over 200 years in fact I was a Filly around your age when I got my Cutie Mark….” I paused my story to show her my mark…. “I was playing with my little sister the game we were playing was tag my mother always said I was a ball of sunshine that I could chear anypony up we were playing in a park in Canterlot the capital city of Equestria where the Princesses lived. So anyway like I was saying we were playing tag and where running around laughing playing just having fun when we heard somepony crying. So I walked up and asked the mare if she was alright I was surprised when the mare turned out to be Princess Celestia my brother sister and I bowed as is customary to do so when in the presence of Royalty. She told us to rise I asked again if she was alright she asked if i could keep something a secret. I replied that I could Now I won't tell you what she told me but I can say this I ended up cheering her up that she had a big smile on her face instead of being all sad and gloomy and I got my cutie mark of a smiling sun braking the clouds of sadness I didn’t understand what it meant at first but as I got older I learned to trust my instincts when talking to somepony who was sad or depressed I had a knack of lifting that depression or sadness leaving joy and happiness.” I said.

Little did I know a crowd had formed when I was telling my story to Silver Bell.

“I can not give up hope that Equestria will recover will there be fights in the days to come I have no doubt that there will be can there be peace again sure it can happen. Will there be differences? Absolutely. Will it be easy? Nope. Will it take effort? Yup. Equestria is battered hurt and divided there are three tribes of ponies Pegasi Unicorns and Earth ponies not one is better than the other. Each of the tribes have something in common we are all ponies each uneak to use an old saying. Together we can face any hardship Divided we'll fall and fail to achieve the objective whatever it maybe. Equestria has see over a thousand years of peace that all ended with the war. During the war I noticed things that didn’t seem right we were not working together helping one another as the war raged on Equestria started to fall apart the Nobles were thinking of only themselves the Princesses were trying to foster peace with the Zebras business ponies were thinking of how they could line their pockets with bits damning the consequences of their actions. The pegasi that formed the Grand pegasus Enclave when the magaspells fell they only thought of themselves closing up the sky creating a cloud blanket to protect themselves and only themselves in essence trapping the radiation and the fallout from the megaspells down below the clouds….” I looked around at everypony here… “I can see why there is not any trust in pegasi with the exception of a few. Like I said before I know about weather and clouds and I know how to fight been trained to fight I don’t like it but I will fight and kill if needed.” I said turning around and going back to the forward compartment and got back into my armor stepped back out in full armor.

Silver Bell looked at me in my full armor and helmet on. She didn’t shy away like she did the first time she seen me.

I looked around again at all the faces. “New Appleloosa I am a pegasus each and everyone of you can see that. I was a part of the Equestrian Military during the war, I have seen what Equestria was like before the war and I would like to see it flourish once more green with crops grown with love and care and the fruits of the land shared freely and openly or traded for what others might need. I swore an Oath to Equestria to serve and protect I hold that oath dearly at heart I’m no merc I am a soldier trained to fight In a war that no side won we all lost that war both Equestria and Zebrica both lost the war yet the fighting continues a different kind of war is being fought, United we can conquer any hardship, what happened Silver Belle has left a mark on her and hurt her deeply, but with time and the proper care even those wounds can heal working together each and everyone of us can help Equestria recover from the war as well each and everyone of us can do our parts to make something better instead of fighting amongst ourselves. I know the pegasi are out there I Have hope that their are good ponies amongst them. There are good, bad and misguided ponies out there. The road to true recovery is a long and hard road battles may be won or lost. What I see here in this town is hope I see Unicorn and earth ponies working together to survive. Misty here is a Caravan Guard her job is to help protect that caravan so they can arrive safely at the destination yes she gets payed for doing the job but that goes to acquiring ammo and other necessities that she may need to do her job and survive whether its armor, repairs to weapons to food and medical supplies. Like me she is a protector. I will fight beside Misty and protect others and stay loyal to my oath I swore in front of the Princesses when I joined the EUP guard. I will help protect others and help make this wasteland a better place. I am a pony out of place I don’t know everything there is to know. I may not understand the wasteland but I will not let it beat me.” I said looking around me.

I looked to Misty and Daisy taking my helmet off again and gave them a smile. I reached a decision on something Misty and I talked about on our way here.

“Storm can I talk to you in private for a moment.” I asked my friend.

“Sure.” She replied we excused ourselves for a moment.

“Storm I want your opinion on that battle saddle we have that was designed for a unicorn the one with the shotguns with the partial powered one.” I said looking at Storm

“Well CJ it does have some powerful weapons on it with holsters for rifle and sidearm made for a Unicorn to use. I have a feeling you made a choice and want my opinion on it Let me guess it is in regards to Misty.” Storm asked, I nodded. “I’ve been thinking about it for sometime now she would make a good companion plus she would be out of a job if Daisy decides to join us after Tenpony. To be honest both would make a good start Daisy is a trained Steel Ranger might not be as trained as we are, but that can be corrected. If Daisy does decides to join us we would have a representative to the rangers should the internal matters come to ahead in the rangers if this SteelHooves acts we could gain their aid with her help. This is of course if she joins us she is still going to talk to her filly’s about it but from what she has told me it more than likely that she will join us we could put one of the armors to use but she will have to swear an oath to us before we take them to the base the same one we took upon completing basic becoming a full member of the guard.” I said getting a nod of agreement.

“To be honest CJ I agree we need more ponies willing to help others plus if this trip to MoA hub pans out we will need ponies to crew the raptor once the components that are missing are installed. My only question is can we trust them with the info that the base is fully operational and intact. Storm said and asked.

“We are going to need to trust somepony sooner or later I do not want the bases resources going to waste we can help a lot of ponies with the aid of the base and raptor with its medical garden and hydroponics for fresh food can be tended to I started the planting process for the hydroponics the droids will monitor and harvest when needed but we need ponies who can do that plus If we do manage to get the aid of the outcasted rangers who go back to the true meaning of their oath they can supply pony power and maybe even help spread what is grown there not to mention supplying Logistical support the base was meant to survive and help rebuild we just never got the personnel to run everything. That’s also why we have the equipment to manufacture ammo and other things, we can make over a billion rounds with the supplies it has with what’s on hoof at the base. Until we know who we have to watch out for and who we can approach for support the base can not be revealed. The base is too important to let it fall into the wrong hooves. That is why it is so heavily defended. Rainbow wasn’t Lying when she told us we were given command of an important Military installation If Equestria fell and the worst came to pass the instructions I was given by Rainbow Dash, Celestia and Luna was to assess the damage to Equestria protect and rebuild we can start with Misty. Daisy still has things to think about but we can put the resources of the base to use determining what needs to be done.” I said pausing for a moment. “Storm we have a duty to protect Equestria it is not going to be easy Storm, but I can’t do this without you I need you.” I said when I continued.

“You have me CJ I wouldn’t abandon you but we need to be careful who we trust and who we take to you know what.” Storm Chaser said I nodded.

“You are right in that we do need to be careful, but we still need a lot more info especially on the enclave they might be the only true military left in Equestria. We can’t let them get their hooves on the base. They would use it against the best interest of Equestria and use it for there own selfish means.” I said getting a nod in agreement from my friend.

After our talk we rejoined everypony. I walked over to Misty motioned for her to follow me.

“Storm, Daisy would you help Ditzy with going through the supply wagon?” I asked getting nods in return. “Thanks.”

Misty followed me into the Tortoise I shut and locked the door and turned to Misty. “Misty how would you feel about joining Me and Storm Wing as a full time member of our team?” I asked.

Misty’s eyes went wide and her ears perked up. “What do you mean?” She asked.

I smiled at her. “What I mean by that is would you like to become a member of my unit to protect and help others from the dangers that the wasteland can through at ponies. I’ll be honest with you Misty I’m looking for good ponies willing to help their fellow ponies. I see a lot of potential in you Misty. I see the fire that burns inside you. I know that you have been hurt in the past and I can see why you became a guard. You didn’t want another pony to suffer the pain you and the surviving of your town had isn’t it. So I ask you again what do you think about joining my team?” I said.

Misty looked at me for a moment, I could see that she was searching for something before she answered. “Yes I became a guard because I want to protect ponies from harm and to defend them. I also do it because there are not enough ponies willing to step up sure mercs will do it for caps I do it because it’s the right thing to do true the caps are a plus and allow me to get the things I need to survive. I was lucky enough to have schooling from the stables teachers not meany wastelanders can say that they have had an education most they know how to do is read and write and basic math adding and subtraction and the skills they learned out in the wasteland whether it is hacking a terminal picking a lock or the means of defence. I want to protect and help ponies Cloud Striker I want to make a difference. I left friendship city with Daisy and her husband when they passed through last time they were in Manehattan I just happened to be at Tenpony Tower when they came in they had lost one of their guards I offered to help been with them ever since we would make a stop every time we can to Manehattan at friendship city to see how my fellow towns ponies were doing and see if they needed supplies we would pick up from Tenpony. If you're offering me a chance to do the right thing then yes I will join you and help you protect others from harm plus it couldn’t hurt to have a guide who knows some of the dangers of the wasteland with you.” She said with a smirk.

I laughed at that. “That is true it doesn’t hurt to have a guide of sorts who knows of some of the dangers so I’ll ask you would you swear and oath to protect Equestria and her citizens in our travels?” I said and asked.

“Yes I will I’ll do anything to help protect and help rebuild Equestria if I can.” She replied instantly.

“Then repeat after me I do solemnly swear to serve and protect the ponies of Equestria to defend them with my life should it come to pass. I swear to uphold the laws of our great nation to defend her and her citizens from harm in Celestia and Luna’s name this I swear.” I said as Misty repeated what I said I could see the fire burn hotter and brighter in her. When she finished I said with a smile on my face. “Welcome to the Team Corporal Misty Sparks.Lets get you outfitted and geared up.”

“Yes Ma’am.” Misty replied the look of pride in her eyes was a joy to see.

I took her to the front section of the tortoise before entering I turned to her.

“Misty I have new armor for you it is kind of the little brother and sister to the power armor that the steel rangers and enclave use but isn’t quite power armor was designed to be worn by a unicorn this armor comes in conjunction with that battle saddle I told yeah about that I have there is also something else I will tell you but this is a classified MoA secret speaking of it could mean failure in the mission at hoof. As you know Storm Wing and I awoke from cryo sleep at a base and that we salvaged what could. That is partially true. We did wake up in a base but this base was no normal base It was a Military stable constructed in secret from the rest of Equestria by the Ministry of Awesome no record of this stable was ever made to the rest of Equestria it did not exist Only Six ponies besides the 200 staff that went in cryo with us knew of its existence. Myself Storm Wing, Rainbow Dash, Princess Celestia and Luna of course Applebloom who built the stable that agreed to have the memory removed after the completion of the base. During the war the base was to be a Ministry of Awesome black ops covert operations and recon base. It did have another function should the worst came to pass inside the base is the seeds Hydroponics enough to provide food for a million ponies with manufacturing capability to provide an adequate defence. Not to mention being extremely well defended. That base is Fully operational. Like I said I’m looking for Ponies who are willing to step up and lend aid to help rebuild Equestria. Until i know what is truly happening out here and find the dangers that base must remain hidden currently it is in the care of the maintenance and computer controlled droids. Storm WIng and I are going to the MoA hub in Manehattan to acquire info and equipment that was reported to be heading to the base the night the bombs fell but had yet to be shipped it is vital we find that equipment. Two of the items are parts to what was the best guarded secret in the MoA and was under construction and nearly completed at the base a dragon killer class Raptor outfitted with stealth tech and slated for reconnaissance and strategic strikes. The 200 ponies that died were my crew and engineers for the raptor. My staff had yet to arrive or be selected the process was underway when the bombs fell.” I said.

“I swear to Celestia I will never speak of this to anypony the idea of that stable falling into the wrong hooves is frightening.” Misty said I nodded in agreement.

I turned around and continued to walk with Misty following after entering the forward compartment of the tortoise I proceeded to start hoofing the armor to Misty who stored her armor after removing it and began to put her new armor on when it came time to put the battle saddle on I paused. “This armor is to help you handle the recoil of these guns they have quite the kick as i mentioned before it dampens and absorbs the recoil and strengthens your legs to withstand the kick according to the unicorn mare who’s armor this use to belong to it is now yours wear it with pride to honor her memory.” I said getting a nod from Misty.

After the armor was completely on I activated it targeting system It had a limited EFS and crosshairs in the helmets visor displaying ammo count. I began to load the ammunition storage and I walked her through how to change the ammo type. Misty picked up on it pretty quickly as I heard a soft click as she loaded her new guns.

“If we find the equipment that was meant for the base you will have a pipbuck that will interface with your armor and improve some of its functions as well opening up new options including S.A.T.S and improving the EFS and manage your Saddlebags and ammo.” I said.

“Cool mom never did get around to giving me one most of the town had pipbucks I was to get my mother's when the time came they didn’t have enough to outfit the whole stable so they were passed down.” Misty said.

“We can of course look for your family if they still survive. You should have a radio like device that looks like this.” I showed her the radio icon on my pipbuck. “Switch to it and give me a moment.” I connected my pipbuck to Misty’s armors system to update and patch her armors com unit in so she could hear Storm and I speak when using the com system. “There you should now see a com channel has popped up Select it and mark it as primary that will allow you to listen in and speak to us should you be pulling or have something to report to me or Storm. When in the presence of other ponies address me as the name i gave you when we met Cloud Striker or ma’am do not use my real name on com or when around others call it a military habet drilled into me and Storm in private do you can address me in a less formal way Cloudy Joy or CJ for short.” I said.

“Yes ma’am.” She snapped a salute with a smirk and I laughed. “Alright let’s do a com check. Storm com’s check Do you read me.” I said.

“Yes Ma’am loud and clear why test the com system when its working fine?” She replied with a question.

“Sorry Ma’am we were checking to make sure my com system was tied in.” Misty replied to Storm Wings question.

“Misty has joined the team Storm so I was patching her into the com’s.” I said

“Welcome Corporal.” Storm replied.

“Thank you Ma’am.” Misty said.

We left the tortoise and rejoined Storm WIng helping her and Daisy. Ditzy bought 7 more weapons and 200 rounds of each type bringing us up to a grand total of 3400 caps she was bartering with Daisy on our behalf when it came to the medical supplies getting us another 400 caps. So we have 3800 caps not to bad.

“Ditzy there is a deal I want to offer you it’s in trade and a down payment on that special order I asked you to keep an eye out for and I will not take No for an answer on that Ditzy should I manage to acquire what is requested before you can do so it’s still yours to keep. The deal is simple I’ll trade you one or two of these complete with spark packs for the Spark Grenades and what missiles and standard grenaded you have rest goes to the special order.” I said.

I opened the case showing Ditzy the magical energy rifle and the ten spark packs that went with it. I watched Ditzy’s Eye go wide at the offer then she put her hoof to her chin in thought. She picked up her pad and wrote a 2 and turned it to me. I nodded and replied. “The other one is already amongst the first load brought in before I met Silver Bell.” I said as I handed Ditzy the case after I closed it.

Daisy looked at Misty and let out a whistled after doing a double take “Now that is some firepower and magically enhanced unicorn power armor. Unicorn scribes in the steel rangers use it but made a fully powered version to match the rest of the rangers. I take it the guns are why she in partial power armor?” Daisy said and asked.

“Yes she also joined Storm Wing and I. If you decide to join me and Storm after Tenpony you will be welcomed in our ranks as well Daisy I will restore to you the rank of knight which you earned in your time with the Rangers. Until that time think about what this could all mean the wasteland would be down one caravan until such time as your girls manage to get it going again I will still help you make it easier to get it going again, but do not be quick to decide we still have aways to go before Tenpony.” I said.

“Well I’ll be I had a feeling you would jump at the chance to really help ponies out there Misty I could see it in your eyes you had that fire that was slowly burning I can see it has been stoked to a roaring blaze I approve your a good mare Misty wear that armor proudly.” Daisy said.

“I will.” Misty replied with a smile.

Ditzy came back with the grenades and missiles also the heavy axle and wheels giving me a wink when she seen my expression. I just laughed.

“Anyway Storm It’s getting late why don’t you spend some time with Ditzy we have a lot of road to travel come morning Misty your first watch Wake me when Storm is done and I’ll take second watch while Storm sleeps I’ll wake her after five hours.” I said.

“Yes Ma’am.” both Storm and Misty said in unison. I couldn’t help but laugh and they joined in.

I awoke to Misty and Storm Wing talking from what I can heard Storm was giving her a rundown on the tortoises communications sweet as well as how to use weapon system now that there was Three members instead of just me and Storm Wing we can send out a scout every now and then in other words Storm Wing or I could scout ahead while Misty had her turn of pulling the Tortoise. Just than Misty patched the broadcast of Dj Pon3 to the cabin.

“GOOD MORNING Wasteland it’s your good pal Dj Pon3 bringing you the news now folks I have no clue what to make of this but looks like two pegasi in power armor helped a caravaner out of an ambush out near New Appleloosa. The strange thing about this is that these two then helped then escorted the caravan to New Appleloosa I have no clue whats going on or who these two are but they helped that caravan out. There armor from the reports is blue in color not like the enclaves power armor which is black. We just might have some new friends out there folks be careful..” I rushed to the com board and flipped a few switches and began typing out a message I said in the message.

“Attention Dj Pon3 This is a message for your eyes only Im sending this message by text instead openly broadcasting to you I would ask you not to repeat what Im about to say I am one of the pegasi you are reporting about just now Due to the fact that the enclave maybe listening in on your broadcasts should you be using the white towers as a relay network I am sending this message directly to the M.A.S.E.B.S transmitter I would not like our presence to be known to the Enclave which could very well have just happened me and my companion are traveling to Manehattan on business that Caravan is the one that makes trips there twice every year and will be escorted by me and my friend I wish to speak to you in person. Since the fact that we might have been brought to the attention of the Enclave I can say we are not from the enclave I will of course explain more when we reach Tenpony. You can say we are Friend not foe in your broadcast but please keep our movements and our actions secret until we have a chance to speak I will send you another message like this when we get near Tenpony Consider this as booking an appointment.” ending the transmission I heard Dj Pon3 pause saying one moment folks. “Well it appears from the report I was just hoofed that these two are friendly. So If you're listening keep your eyes and ears open and heads down and now have a little Sweetie Belle.” When one of Sweetie’s songs playing in the background I looked at Misty and Storm.

“Storm continue to monitor all channels keep your armors on the squad’s channel for reports keep me appraised of anything and everything you may hear on possible enclave channels like before we will switch pullers every two hours and you or I will scout ahead Storm use the stealth bucks keep your eyes and ears open for trouble do not disregard your efs’s. Misty you're up first on pulling we should also provide Daisy with some armor and a weapon just to be on the safe side I do not want any surprises.” I said.

“Yes Ma’am.” both of them said.

“Let’s get ready to move out the sooner we get to Manehattan and done with the MoA hub and get to Tenpony the better I want to speak with this Dj as soon as possible, but the hubs top priority.” I said with a sigh.

Walking out of the tortoise I looked around Daisy was talking with Ditzy and Silver Belle I walked into Ditzys shop. “Good Morning.” I said to Ditzy Daisy and Silver Bell.

“Daisy were getting ready to head out Storm is also getting some gear out for you to use along our way to Manehattan. I’m sorry to leave be leaving so Soon Ditzy if you heard Dj Pon3’s morning broadcast you would understand.” I said.

“We did hear his broadcast what’s up Ma’am.” Daisy asked.

“The spp towers those white towers pick up and transmit communication signals across Equestria Dj Pon3 is using the EBS system at Tenpony which is an emergency broadcast system it is possible that the enclave could know about Storm Wing and I know they could very well investigate maybe even try to find Storm and I. I do not want to cause any problems or put anypony in danger should they investigate. Storm Wing and I are on High alert. I am hoping I am just jumping to conclusions, but I am expecting a possible confrontation with the enclave in such a case I want to be prepared just incase they do decide to investigate an alleged report of power armored Pegasi helping ponies down here. From what I understand there is only one other pegasus besides Storm and myself and maybe the exception of ghoul ponies so a report that two unknown power armored pegasi being reported helping ponies might send some flags up within the enclave enough to warrant an investigation.” I said after a moment's thought Daisy nodded in agreement. “That would be a good idea to prepare for a potential run in with the enclave. I take it the gear Storms putting out for me includes armor and a weapon.” Daisy asked.

“Yes Daisy it does you will be armed with AP rounds just in case. I would like you to keep an eye out of any problems Misty’s going to be pulling Storm or I are going to be scouting ahead every now and then we can do that quickly without being spotted.” I said.

“Alright I should probably check the gear out and gear up It was good to see you again Ditzy and nice meeting you Silver Belle until next time.” Daisy said getting a nod from Ditzy.

I gave Ditzy and Silver Belle a hug. “I’ll try and stay in touch DItzy and like Daisy said was good to see you again be safe out there DItzy.” I said getting another hug from Ditzy.

I turned and headed back out to the tortoise checked the wagon making sure it was secured seeing Daisy stepping out in her armor and her weapon in the holster. I gave her a nod. “Looks good on you Daisy we have a lot of travel ahead of us to cover today keep your eyes peeled and looking for trouble I don’t want to have any surprises on the road.” I said getting a nod from her in reply.

With everything secured and Misty hitched up, we headed for the gate.

As we went through the gate I took flight. I have to say it felt good to stretch my wings in flight.

I loved flying it was something that always made me happy I had an athletic build well muscled hell Celestia knows I attracted quite a few Stallions and mares in the past, although I didn’t take any of these advances one reason I was focused I wanted to be the best I could be. I of course did find some sexual relief in the form of my hoof or a toy when i was stressed out.

I activated my Stealth buck when we got out of sight of New Appleloosa and asked “How is everything down there?”

“Everything's alright here ma’am so far.” Replied Misty.

“No activity to report.” Said Storm.

“So far so good nothing troublesome up ahead EFS is clear.

Thirty minutes later I was getting the same report all clear. why do i get the feeling that something's not right. It could be possible that they haven’t been monitoring the broadcasts or at least not all of it for full control they would need the SPP central hub to have full control of the towers. I thought.

“I’m coming in Storm Be ready to scout ahead plus it will be good to stretch your wings a bit was a joy to really go for a fly again. On a side note call this a gut instinct something doesn’t feel right I can not put my hoof on it. Any communication traffic at all besides the EBS and the sprite bots?” I asked.

“Nothing but random blips like there is some interference that clears up for a moment then closes shortly after could be due to Radiation in the lower cloud layers.” Storm said.

“Ma’am there are at times intermittent breaks in the cloud cover in some spots most notably near the Everfree that you can actually see the stars or the sky at times I have never seen it myself, This is second hoof info do not know If it’s relevant or not but wanted to let you know.” Misty said.

“Hmmm. that could be important I know for a fact that the Everfree works differently than the rest of Equestria’s weather back before the war so it could possibly be hard to maintain the cloud blanket near the Everfree. Anyway stay alert be ready for anything.” I said as I made my approach. I was a little surprised to see Daisy pulling the Tortoise when I landed.

I hopped into the tortoise just as Dj Pon3 started the evening news broadcast.

“Good evening wastelanders! How’s every pony doing? Got some great news for you today! Remember that little Stable Gal who took on the slavers of Appleloosa and saved all those ponies? Well don’t ask me how, but she survived takin’ a nosedive off a cliff in a speeding train. That’s right, fillies and gentlecolts: she’s back! And what’s she been up to now, I hear you ask? Well, sit down an’ put on your listening ears, cuz it’s time for DJ Pon3 to tell you a story. Ready? Good. This is the story of a little filly named Silver Bell…”

“Well that goes to show he isn’t complete all knowing or he gets the reports right away.” I said getting a nod from Storm.

Misty popped her head out from around the main guns pod entrance. Causing me to pause for a moment.

“Misty are you familiar with the guns targeting systems and fire control?” I asked.

“Storm was walking me through it Ma’am Daisy offered to pull so Storm was teaching me how to use or at least operate the guns on the tortoise incase we have a fight we could use all the firepower we have at our disposal.” Misty said, and I nodded in agreement.

“Hopefully we will not be the only three in this unit I suspect Daisy will join us that would give us a small team. We can do limited reconnaissance flights with what we have now, but I would like to get more ponies who would be willing to travel with us. Not to mention getting ponies who we could trust to bring the base into full operation. Crewing the Raptor is not a priority but the base can be a great boon to Equestria. If only we didn’t lose the personnel that went into stasis with us the base would be in operation now.” I said.

“Yes Ma’am we managed up until the magaspells fell with the staff we had on hoof training new staff to operate the systems will not be easy. True we have training manuals and what not at the base but it could take months for the base to be up and running at full capacity if not years.” Said Storm WIng.

“I know Storm I know do we even have a choice in the matter its going to have to be done one way or another ponies are going to have to learn the systems eventually The base is in standby mode automated maintenance droids are maintaining the bases systems and the super sentinels are maintaining the security of the base.” I said getting a nod from Storm Wing.

“Misty do you know of anypony that might be able to help with personnel?” I asked.

“Not off the top of my head Ma’am might be able to hire a merc company but other then that I have nothing.” Misty replied.

I sighed. “Mercs can’t always be trusted if the base was revealed to the wrong ponies or groups it could be disastrous. It maybe possible to get some steel rangers provided the ones in question go back to the true meaning of the oath they swore it is a possibility but one that would have to be done delicately. I know for one they would be able to operate the bases systems far better than somepony that has to learn from scratch again this would have to be dealt with care and cushion. For it is not there base it is Mine I am the commanding officer of that base and what I Say goes If they agree to be under my Command.” I said while holding up a hoof to forestall Storms outburst.

“I know what you're going to say Storm Wing and I agree with you. We don’t always have the luxury of being picky but we do have to be careful who we have running the base. For one they have to be loyal to helping others not for there own gain or the power that base could offer. The Steel Rangers regardless of what they have become are still a military force one I would not want to have as an enemy. I would like to have more pegasi but that might be a tough one to achieve. Anyway I have to talk with Daisy about something. Carrie on you two After my talk with Daisy I will relieve you Storm so you can do an aerial reconnaissance. Keep an eye out for a place we could possibly stop for the night I want to give Misty a chance to get some Practice in with her new weaponry best learn to use them effectively before a fight than while in the middle of one.” I said getting a nod from both. Turning around I left the tortoise walking up to Daisy.

“How you holding up Daisy?” I asked.

“Doing well enough, I guess I could be doing better you could say I have a lot on my mind.” Daisy replied.

“I hear you there Daisy I have a lot on the mind too, I have to be ready for a lot of diffrent things I have to be careful around my fellow ponies. Raiders Slavers farul ghouls. Not to mention fellow military institutes I have worked with in the past because they have lost their way in 200 years or are misguided I do not know who I can trust who would play me or just outright shoot at me just because I am a Pegasus in magically powered armor. Equestria has forever been changed, but can recover in time. Storm and I have lost so much we might not be able to see each others faces when our helmets are on but I know Storm was Crying so was I when we went outside for the first time. We didn’t sob or balled but we were crying. To us we went to sleep and woke up to find the land that was green and vibrant and teeming with life was gone replaced with this…” I swept my hoof around indicating our surroundings…. “ Not only that, but the pegasi our brethren have not only abandoned Equestria but maintained the cloud cover all this time not once assisting in anyway. It hurts to think that Equestria has fallen to such a state that some ponies would outright kill another just because they could or would sell another just to survive instead of banding together for the greater good and help one another. Oh I know there are ponies out there that would lend a hoof to somepony in need and escort and even protect others even help others. Equestria was founded on friendship each tribe working together in harmony in peace. For Equestria to truly recover from the war friendships must be formed and harmony required we must help one another, and not kill one another something that ties into trust. The ministry mares each embodied six virtues and were heroes of Equestria. Twilight Sparkle the Element of Magic, Rarity the Element of Generosity, Rainbow Dash The Element of Loyalty, Pinkie Pie the element of Laughter, Applejack the Element of Honesty and last but not least Fluttershy the Element of Kindness. Those six ponies where the barriers of the elements of harmony and saved Equestria more times then I then I have feathers on my wings.” I said.

“Equestria you just described sounds too good to be true. Oh I know it was so back before the war history told me that much. I have never seen what Equestria was like before the war only in pictures of the past, but you lived there you were there before and during the war Equestria nowadays is cruel and unforgiving place and has a way of changing a pony somepony new to the wastelands can lose who they are or what makes them who they are if they're not careful. Heros come and go some lose themselves in the process of trying to help the wasteland be a better safer place. There are times when I feel like just giving up. Then something reminds me that nothing is Impossible not everypony out there are good ponies there are those out there that are only thinking of themselves and would sooner rob you and kill you then help yeah.” Daisy said.

I sighed. “I have been trained to adapt to the situation Celestia knows I was never expecting to be in this position to begin with I will help anypony in need if I am able, I have to look out for my own as well Storm Wing and now Misty are my family. Before you ask Yes I treat my unit like family because no matter what we are in it together through thick and thin we help and support each other. Storm Wing is my sister in arms now Misty is as well I will look out for them. I am there commanding officer but more than that I’m their friend as well. I will not turn my back and walk away if they're in danger. Storm Wing and I have to adapt to the wasteland if we are to survive. I can’t do this without there help. I need good ponies who would help out and not stab me in the back trust is earned not given freely. I can read a pony pretty well its part of my talent. I was a good weather pony. I have lead ponies into battle taken command of a situations that would seem like a walk in the wasteland to you but for me was some of the most challenging experiences of my life. I once had to take command of a Thunderhead during a battle because the Commander wasn’t doing there job wouldn't go to the aid even with repeated requests for assistance and backup turns out upon investigating after the battle that he was a traitor to the crown gave the enemy the entire plan of attack to the zebras. I took command of the ship and saved the day. The second In command of the Thunderhead was fighting with her commander they kept countermanding her orders. Now what I am about to say is not something I would normally tell anypony Storm WIng knows because she was able to do the same given that the circumstances warranted it. I was able to take command of any unit within the Equestrian Military being a member of the Ministry of Awesome and a military commander Under the ministry mare herself I had a lot of clout I have only used that power granted to me by the Princesses only once. I have no clue if that will be helpful now or not.” I said my efs picked up a friendly indicator coming towards us.

“Look alive ponies possible friendly inbound Daisy I’ll take up pulling why not take a break get a snack or a drink.” I said getting a nod from her as she disconnects herself from the harness and I took her place.

Storm jumps out of the tortoise as Daisy passes her the ever annoying music of a sprite bot could be heard getting louder there was a crackle of static as the music died as the bot came into view.

“Good Evening I have to say I didn’t expect to see two pegasi wearing those colors nor did I think I would ever see pegasi help down below the clouds or even hearing about it. Before you do something rash I am not your enemy. I am a friend.” the voice from the sprite bot said.

I looked to Storm Wing. “Why should I believe a voice from a spy bot of the ministry of moral that so happens to know what the colors of our armor mean. That out of the blue decides to talk to us with no introduction or Identification.” I said.

“Far enough you can call me watcher as for your armor colorization your members of the Equestrian Airguard or at least that's what your armors are telling me as well as the skytank your pulling.” Voice on the Sprite bot said.

“Ok so I take it you can hack into the sprite bots to communicate and of course watch whats happening, but before I forget the names Cloud Striker.” I said.

I heard a slight gasp. “Cloud Striker!” The voice said.

the voice sounded surprised and full of emotion. I thought to myself.

“Yes I am Commander Cloud Striker of the Equestrian Airguard my Wingmare Storm WIng.” I said as I pointed my hoof to Storm WIng.

Another Gasp was heard. “Would you please remove your helmets?” Watcher asked.

“Why should I?” I replied instantly.

“Because I must know if you're telling me the truth. If you are who you say you are.” Watcher said.

I looked at Storm Wing before turning back to the bot. I sat down reached up and removed my helmet slowly.

“Sweet Celestia it is you!” Watcher exclaimed.

I raised an eyebrow. “I take it by the reaction that We know each other or have met before.” I said.

“MET!! CJ by all that is holy you are as stubborn as Applejack.” Watcher said.

My eye go wide. “NO way.” I said before being interrupted by Watcher. “Please don’t say my name Cloud Striker but yes it is me.” Watcher said.

“Oh thank Celestia you're alive. I thought all of my friends were dead after waking up in what has become of Equestria Only Storm and I Survived out of 200 ponies that went into cryo stasis and no I can’t tell you where number one assistant. RD would be pissed at me and I will not betray her trust even if she's not around anymore.” I said.

Spike Laughed. “Damn It CJ still as stubborn as ever I am glad to see you and Stormy are alive I do not have a lot of time on these things so I’ll be quick The enclave doesn’t know about you two yet as far as I'm aware but that could easily change They send out patrols every now and then to gather intel or to see what is happening down below the clouds. I know they do not lift a hoof to stop any of the violence or protect anypony so I when I heard that two powered armored pegasi assisted a caravan I had to investigate. We will speak again CJ.” Spike A.K.A watcher said before a his and pop from sprite bot and the annoying music started playing again.

“Ok what just happened?” Storm Wing asked not knowing it was spike speaking to us.

I laughed Leaned in and whispered into her ear “That was Spike Storm Chaser Twilight’s Number One Assistant.” and giggled as i pulled away from her dumbfounded expression.

“OH…” She said sheepishly.

“How do you know that it was spike?” She asked.

“Because out of everypony that knows us out of my friends He was the only one that said I was as stubborn as Applejack. There was a week Applejack refused help at Sweet Apple acres big mac had hurt himself and wasn’t able to help on the farm Aj tried to harvest the all the apples by herself cause quite a few problems in town even catapulted Rainbow Dash into the Library. It took Twilight Sparkle and Big Mac to make her see reason and ask for help. I can admit I can be stubborn. Although I know when I need help.” I said as I put my helmet back on and began to walk again.

Storm Chaser put her helmet back on as well. “Might as well get to that Aerial Reconnaissance you want done Ma’am So what do you want me to look for in a place to stop for the night?” Storm asked.

“Hmmm would like to be able to conceal the tortoise if possible yet allow us to have good defensive possibility plus We need to get Misty use to her battle saddle before we have a firefight no offence Misty but I would rather you learn how to use that saddle effectively before a fight then the spur of the moment during a fight.” I said.

“No offence taken Ma’am I was thinking the same thing If these guns pack a kick I want to know how to effectively fire them without being liable to shoot a friendly if we come to the rescue of somepony.” Misty said.

Storm took off and began flying in the direction we were traveling in.

An hour later we had stopped for the night place wasn’t my Ideal location to stop for the night but was better than anything. Misty was standing next to me I had set up some targets mainly cans and bottles found near by.

“Ok Misty lets see what you can do pick a target and shoot it remember that is a automatic shotgun you can fire go through ammo quickly just by holding the trigger. Unlike your other shotgun these are mounted on a battle saddle and fire differently you got the hang of how to load reload and swop ammo types should be similar to pull the trigger.” I said.

“Ok here goes nothing.” Misty said as she fired the shotguns.

BLAM BLAM BLAM BLAM screamed the shotguns Misty squealed in delight she took out all the targets and obliterated the target stands. Not to mention the ringing in my ears.

“Ok that was pretty good. You need to work on precise shots try not to pump more shots then needs to be done that was a bit excessive fire would have been overkill if the targets had been alive but good shooting nonetheless.” I said..

“Thank you Ma’am and yes I know just kind of surprised myself plus the kick the power these beautiful guns pack was pleasing shock but you are right do need to learn a bit of control with them though spray and pray might be fun we neither have the ammo or currently the need to do that only time I could think of for that would be if we run into zombie ghouls and a lot of them.” Misty said and I nodded in agreement.

Footnote: Cloudy Joy Storm Chaser 35% to next level

New Perk: Aerial Reconnaissance- With the addition of a third team member you are able to do Aerial Reconnaissance and scout ahead you gain 20% to all perception while in flight This perk is only active when you have more the ponies beside yourself and Cloudy Joy in the team. This perk effects Cloudy Joy and Storm Chaser.

New Unit member Misty Sparks mid range heavy support. Battle Saddles Heavy Semi automatic combat shotguns. 200 5 gage shells

New Perk: Shotgun Filly- You gain a 20% accuracy and damage bonus while using shotguns

Companion Perk: Wasteland scavenger- you may find 5% more caps when scavenging. This perk is in effect when Misty Spark is in party

Travel Companion: Daisy Streak.

Companion Perk: Wasteland Trader- While Daisy Streak is in party you get a 20% trade discount with certain merchants. This perk is active only while Daisy is in the party