The next couple of days pass without event. When we get to the mouth of the Hoofrock river we have to make a wider than normal turn to dodge the remains of the sunken barge. While I was not in the pilothouse to see this, Epona and Tater tell me all about it that night at dinner. It seems Rough has been enjoying their company and started to teach them how to pilot a riverboat.

Epona boasts to me, “Ma, he had me take the wheel for the shift in rivers. You can feel the current from both of them on the rudder, it was wild. Then ma, he taught me and Tater how to use the side wheels to make sharper turns and everything.”

Beside her, Tater is almost bouncing with excitement. “Yeah, Colonel it was great. I got to operate the engine order telegraph to tell the engineers what to do while Epona was steering. It takes so much more to drive a ship than I thought.

I have to smile at their enthusiasm as well as how Rough has taken to training them. “Well, I am glad you have not only been enjoying yourselves but learning some new skills,” though I do wonder if or how they will ever use these ones. Then again, who knows what surprises life can throw at us.

The last night of the trip home I can feel the energy among my troops as they become more excited about arriving home. Many of them are looking forward to seeing loved ones and family again. Some are just looking forward to being back to the stable and it’s feeling of comfort and security.

As for myself, while I am really looking forward to spending time with the rest of my family, part of me is jealous of the time with her I will have to share. I have so enjoyed it just being her and me. Ironically it gets me to thinking about Epona’s side, and how the me there was monogamous with Ivy.

As I am leaning on the rail watching the riverbank slide past, I hear my love ask, “You are thinking about her, again aren’t you?” as she puts a hoof over my shoulder.

I nod my head and I tell her the truth, “Yes, but I was first thinking about how much I have enjoyed this time of just you and me.”

I see the smile light up her face and her eyes. She then kisses me on my cheek and tells me, “Honestly dear, I have too. But all good things must end my love.”

I nod and tell her, “True, but we will still get some time alone dear,” as I give her another squeeze, and I feel her head against my neck. This causes me to simply take a deep breath and slowly let it out as I enjoy the moment.

After a bit, I hear Moon Lily tell Sutures she is hungry. It makes me realize how much less they are feeding from us, and are eating more solid foods. As I think I realize Millie has begun to prefer solid foods more and is expecting her own plate at mealtimes. Again, time goes on, but at least I got the extra time to bond with her.

As the darkness grows, we begin to head back toward the lower decks. The moon has risen above the horizon when suddenly Moon Lily stops and points at the moon and I see the silhouette of an alicorn fly in front of it. Moon says, “Is Princess Luna Mills?”

Millie stops and gaps at the sight and then Epona looks at me and asks quietly, “Choo Choo, ma?”

I do not want to disillusion my younger daughters so I tell Epona, “Most likely dear. She tends to patrol at night and we are getting close to Manesville again.”

She nods her head in confirmation of her understanding and then she says, “Ok little sisters, time for bed. Maybe Luna will visit us in our dreams.”

When she says this, I see Millie try to figure out what she wants to say next. Finally, she just says, “I hope so.”

Epona hugs her little sister and tells her, “So do I Mills, so do I.”

Shortly afterward we arrive back at our cabin and turn in for our last night away from home on this deployment. As I lay next to Sutures trying to get to sleep that night. I think of all she has been through with me and I tell her quietly, “Dearest, thank you for never giving up on me.”

In a sleepy tone, she answers back, “Your welcome my love. You are proving yourself to me. Now, please get some sleep. I know we have a lot to do in the morning before we arrive.”

I kiss her one more time and I hear her breathing shift as she drifts off again. And as I begin to enter the realm of dreams, I once again thank the Goddesses and Sweet Cream for giving me strength, guidance, and for putting my family in my life.

Before breakfast, my family and I make sure our bags are packed and ready to go. I have all of them stacked on Sutures and my bunk. I make sure the cots are folded and bound up. I even make sure we have no personal items left lying around.

At breakfast, we have a good meal of hot oatmeal with honey and cream in it. We also get some vegetables that were harvested just before the Glimmer came down to pick us up. Along with my family at breakfast is the rest of my staff as well as Tater. The mood is quite light for most of us as they talk about home. Chain Lighting and Dull Beak both talk with me about what all the battalion needs to get done once we dock.

After Breakfast, my orders are sent out to all of the company offices and Buttermilk by either PipBuck or by pegasus courier. Soon I notice most of my troopers are standing on the upper decks watching as we come closer to home.

Once we are only about an hour away, I see two of the river defense boats come zipping past us. Not long after that, I see a flight of pegasi scouts fly by and I notice that the lead is Sunset as he waves to us and then continues on his patrol.

Finally, we round the last bend, and I can see Manesville in the distance. Next to me, I hear Epona ask, “Is that really Manesville?”

I nod my head to her as I tell her, “Yes dear it is. Does it look that much different from your side.?”

She keeps looking straight at it and tells me, “It looks so big and is not wrecked.”

Sutures then tells her, “Epona, remember on this side the CEF and the Co-op won.”

I see her sigh as she keeps looking at it getting closer. Then she says, “Yeah, I guess, but after the fight with the pegasus there was a lot less left standing too. I just am not used to seeing it like this anymore.”

As we get close to the piers, I can feel the ship begin to vibrate and Tater looks at us and says, “Both wheels are full astern to slow us down.”

As the Glimmer slows and begins to turn, I can feel the bow swing and the adjustment of the steam engines as we maneuver alongside the pier. Soon I see the mooring lines being pulled across and attached to the pier. Then I hear a single loud blast from the steam whistle and Epona grins as she tells me, “Ma, that means we are secure. Were home ma.”

I nod my head and smile as I put a hoof around her and tell her, “Yes we are dear. Welcome home.”

Once the brow is down the unloading begins. I watch as the engineers and scouts begin to file down to the pier and hoist the company wagons ashore. As I am watching this Sutures asks me, “Dear, would you prefer that I wait for you or should I just head home with the fillies already?”

I ponder that briefly and I tell her, “Dear while I would really like to be there when we all get home; Especially Epona, I do understand entirely if you do not want to. How about you take them to lunch and bring me something, then after the battalion is back at the stable, I can walk you home too.”

I see her nod, then she smiles and tells me, “I will catch something at a local stand, we will meet you on the pier love,” She then gives me a brief kiss and says, “Ok young mares come with me. Time to get something to eat for lunch, other than milk. We will come back when we are done ok.”

Behind her I see Epona nod her head and I hear Millie and Moon Lily both say, “Ok Mama,” as they follow her across the deck to the stairs and off the Glimmer. I see Epona is behind them all making sure to keep track of her sisters in the hustle and bustle on the boat and pier.”

After they go, I am approached by Rough. Once he is close enough, I hear him say, “Howdy Colonel. It was good spending time with you and even better with it being a quiet run.”

I smile at him and tell him, “Honestly, I am just as glad as you that it was such a quiet return trip. Now we have to have you out to the farm for dinner sometime.”

His grin grows as he agrees and tells me, “Ok, but I also would like you to bring your family back to the Glimmer for dinner sometime. Especially that husband of yours Badger that you told me about. I am sure he would love to get a look at these old steam engines. We could trade some more sailing stories.”

“it’s a deal Rough. I am sure he would love to just look at them. I know he has enjoyed talking about steam engines with Choo Choo.”

I see him raise an eyebrow as he asks, “Who is Choo Choo, and how would she know about steam engines?”

It is then I remember not everypony may know about her, so I tell him, “Oh she is one of the three sisters. Back before the war, she was an engineer for the railroad.”

I see the surprise on his face and he replies, “You mean one of the three alicorns I have heard about?”

I nod my head as I tell him “Yes Rough, she is a friend of the family.”

I see his eyes are wide and his jaw is slack at first. Then he asks me, “Mollygirl, does that friendship extend to the clan?”

I smile at him and I tell him, “Rough, I have never asked her that. But I will say she gets on well with Tar, Trouble, and has given flying lessons to Trouble’s son Sunny.”

I see him sit down hard and he says to no one in particular, “Well I’ll be. I guess that is why he is such a good flyer.”

I nod, “Well in part Rough, but honestly, I think it has a lot to do with who initially taught him, which I will tell you about when we have more time,” I pause then I add, “Well that and he talks to every flier around about how to practice and improve, that includes my XO, Major Dull Beak.”

I see Rough shake his head with a smile on his face as he lightly laughs. “You know Mollygirl, I can believe that. But who would have ever imagined us having a flier like him in our family line?”

I smile at him as I put a hoof on his shoulder and I tell him, “Remember at one time when the stable closed there were two pegasi in there, and we are descended from their children.”

I see him grin and he tells me “Yeah, that is what I understand from Grey and your other wife Magpie. I took your advice and stopped in at the library. I still cannot believe Millie led one of the first teams out of our stable,” he shakes his head as he finishes what he was saying.

As I am talking, I am also watching all of the other vessels being unloaded. Once the majority of them are unloaded I tell Rough, “Well Commodore, I need to head down below, make a final check of my cabin and then finish getting my troops organized.”

He and I both go to the position of attention and salute each other. Then we both head our own directions. I already have all my kit on me, so the check of the cabin is a quick one, then I head down to the pier. As I walk the pier, I notice all of the barges being unloaded. I see the coal wagons from Harness being unloaded. Their mule teams moving them quickly and efficiently, getting them onto the pier in record times. As one wagon touches down the team puts on their harness and they then pull it clear for the next.

Then I see Buttermilk standing on the pier talking to some of the other civilians, among them are Xyliana and her family as well as medically retired trooper Barrel Tap.

As I approach, I hear them asking about where they are supposed to go. Buttermilk looks rather flustered so I answer for her, “Excuse me Xylaina, but I could not help but overhear your questions. The answer is for the civilians to follow the military troops back to our stable. There we will have others who will give you more information and help you to get resettled.”

When I say this, I see the surprise on Buttermilk's face and she asks me, “Really, you will have them ready when we get there?”

I nod my head, “Yes Buttermilk, at least there better be or heads will roll. Please understand, you are not the first group I have brought home like this.”

I see the surprise on most of their faces, all except Barrel Tap who says, “I was trying to tell them that Colonel, but they just wouldn’t listen. Goddesses how I hate being maresplained things when I really do know what I am talking about, just cause I am a stallion.”

I can understand his frustration as I have experienced that all too often from some of my peers and superiors. Luckily for me, it does not happen that often anymore. I then only reply by telling him, “I understand, I am glad I could help sort things out.”

From Xyliana I hear, “Thank you, Colonel. White Cloud soon?”

I nod my head to her, “Well after we have you check-in at the Stable on the base with the immigration officials to register you and give you information on the area. I mean more up to date than what we had in Hackamore. I would also like to have you stop at my farm so I can introduce your family to mine as well as my hired hoof Xavier and his family.”

After I say Xavier’s name, I hear one of her sisters speak excitedly in Zebracan. I suddenly wish Epona was here with me, but Barrel Tap tells me, “She was wondering if he was really a zebra.”

I nod my head again and I tell him, “Yes, his wife Persimmon is a pony and we also have his son Xochitl with us.”

Barrel translates this to her and I see her excitedly ask something else. They talk briefly back and forth and then he says one final thing in an exasperated voice. Then he turns to me and says, “She was wondering if Xavier might be interested in adding a zebra mare to his family?”

I am so surprised at this I start to cough and finally when I can answer I tell him, “I won’t speak for them, but I doubt it. That would be something to talk to them about.”

I see the zebra mare show some disappointment when he translates that for her then she nods her head.

As I continue on, I next come across Pogey Bait and his people unloading their wagons and workshops. I hear him cursing as one of the wagons begins to slip, but I watch in fascination as one of his pegasuses flies up and add additional rigging to keep it steady. Soon afterward the wagon is on dry land and being put into position to head back to the stable.

As this is all going on, I hear the troop commanders giving orders to their troops and I see them all begin to take their positions as the formations begin to take shape on the pier and the road leading up to the waterfront.

Soon Sutures is back with me along with the fillies. I notice that Epona is still looking at everything with wide-open eyes. Then she tells me, “Ma, mama Sutures took me to a sewing shop and it is run by a ghoul.” I can hear the surprised wonder in her voice then she asks, "Was it always like this?”

I smile as Sutures tells me, “I took her to Sewing Bobbins shop. I know she will need a couple of good dresses, so I ordered her a couple. I hope you don’t mind love.”

I smile and tell her, “No, I don’t mind at all, thank you.” I then pause and shift my attention back to Epona and I tell her, “No dear, at one time they lived, uhh, err, ok, stayed on their side of the river and we on ours mostly. That changed on the day of Sunshine and Rainbows when they helped us with the clean up after the Battle of Manesville. Well, that and a bunch of ferals caught a platoon of pegasus troopers in the tunnel to the main entrance. That helped turn the tide of the battle.”

I see her face look stunned at this as she asks, “They really came over to help?”

I nod my head and tell her, “Yes, in fact, they were instrumental in helping us get back on our hooves during the rescue and recovery period. We even have a militia company now over in Dead Quiet.”

I see her mouth start to hang open in surprise. So, I gently close it with my hoof and I tell her, “I guess that is another big change?”

She nods her head and I ask her, “So you never saw many ghouls here in Manesville? They aren’t too different from those under Canterlot Mountain, are they?”

She shakes her head, “No Ma, it was just not something I was expecting. But Sewing did seem very nice.”

“I am glad you like her Epona, she is not only a good seamstress but a friend of the family.” Sutures tells her.

Then I hear the troops being called to attention. I turn to my family and I tell them, “Go get on the HQ Company wagon dears. I will be along soon.”

I watch as Sutures hurries our brood into the back of the wagon and then I check to make sure the entire column is ready. Once everyone is ready and I have confirmation from all of my commanders and Buttermilk I give the command, “Battalion, Forward; March!”

Once again, we are on the move and as we march through the streets, I see the locals look out from their windows and shops as we march by. I guess this is getting to be routine as there are not nearly as many as there once was to watch us.

As we approach the Stable we are directed by the MPs. The gates open wide and as we approach the drill field, I see that the stands normally reserved for the Opening Day ceremony have been set back up and are filled with ponies and cattle and even a few griffons. I can tell when my troops really notice them as they begin to have a bit of a swagger in their step and I begin to hear them singing The Mare I left Behind Me. I find myself joining in just as much as the others.

As we approach the field itself, I give the commands that are repeated by each element of the column as we twist and turn into position. Finally, I give the command, “By Fours, right into line,” I wait until it has been repeated several times, then I give the order, “March!” and I watch as each troop takes their positions in front of the stands.

Once we have all stopped into our proper spots, including Buttermilk’s civilians, I see the Colonel approaching us. When he gets close enough, we exchange salutes and I tell him, “2^nd Battalion has returned as ordered sir.”

He nods his head and says, “Very Well Lieutenant Colonel, dismiss your troops and we will begin to check-in equipment and weapons so the troops can return to their families,” quietly he tells me, “I would like you to stop by my office before you head home, I need to talk to you.”

As he steps back, I give the appropriate commands and soon my soldiers are falling out. I then notice Faith in her wheelchair approaching the civilians along with several others from the stable staff, including Moon Pie.

I then see my family get out of the company wagon and Sutures tells me, “I saw my mother in the stands love. I am going to take the fillies to meet her, but I will wait until you are ready to head home.”

I give her a quick kiss on the cheek and tell her, “Sounds good dearest, I will talk to you in a bit.” Then I turn and head over to Moon Pie so I can introduce her to Buttermilk.

As I approach, I see Moon Pie smile and shake her head as she tells me, “Colonel, you know you can’t keep bringing the wastelands home with you?”

I smile back and I ask her, “Moon Pie, you do realize where they come from right?”

She shakes her head and tells me, “No, but I do know one of them used to be a stable psychologist, so I look forward to talking to her.”

I stop her before we reach the civilians, “Ok Moon Pie, It seems they wanted this to be kept secret, but I don’t think there is any way to keep this quiet,” I pause before I continue because of the confused expression on her face. Then I tell her, “Moon Pie, they come from a different reality. One where we lost. Some of them died already on this side. Others seem to have never existed.”

She looks at me skeptically and tells me, “Ok Mollygirl quit pulling my hoof.”

I shake my head and look at her seriously, “I mean it, you remember Captain Abby?”

She nods her head, and I then tell her, “She is back. She is the captain of Luna’s Lancers.”

I see her jaw drop and she shakes her head as if clearing a bad dream. Then she says, “Mollygirl, that is not funny. Are you suffering hallucinations?”

I shake my head and I call for Abby over my PipBuck, “Captain Abby, would you please return to the drill field and meet me at my PipBuck Tag.”

We both hear her reply over its speaker, “Yes Colonel, I will be there momentarily.”

I see her stunned expression and then as Captain Abby approaches, she sits down hard and starts to cry. I put a hoof around her and ask her, “What is wrong Moon Pie?”

She sniffles back tears and tells me, “She was one of my friends Mollygirl, I lost her and I never expected to see her again.”

I nod my head and I tell her, “She was one of my friends too, so I do understand. However, the one you see is not the same one you knew. Her memories are different, but I am sure this one would be glad to be your friend also.”

I see Abby slow to a walk as she gets close. Once close enough she salutes me and asks, “What can I do for you Ma’am?”

I reply by telling her, “Captain, I wanted to introduce you to our stable’s psychologist Moon Pie. She was friends with this side's version of you, and I hoped you knew your side's version and would appreciate a friendly face.”

I see her look slightly perturbed at first. Then Moon Pie slowly stands up and extends a hoof and tells her, “Captain it is a pleasure to meet you. If you or any of your people need to talk to me, please feel free to.”

I then see Abby smile as she shakes the offered hoof and tells her, “It is a pleasure to meet you too. Perhaps sometime we can go and have a cider or two together.”

I see Moon Pie begin to smile also and she tells her, “Thank you, I would like that very much.”

I then tell Moon Pie, “I hate to say it, but we need to introduce you to the civilians, especially Buttermilk.”

Abby follows along with us and I see her and Buttermilk nod to each other when they see each other in a silent salute of respect. Then Buttermilk says, “Thank you Colonel for being so quick. They have already begun the process of taking down our names and trying to help those who wish it to find employment and lodging. Most seem to be interested in the village you called White Cloud.”

I smile and nod my head, “I am glad to hear that. That would make me their neighbor,” I pause briefly so I can change the subject and I tell Buttermilk, “This is Moon Pie the stable psychologist, I have just told her about your origin. They had kept her in the dark about it.”

I see Buttermilk purse her lips as she starts to appear angry but keeps her temper. Finally, she says, “So that is how things are done on this side here. Mollygirl, if they are going to treat us like this I could have just as soon stayed in Hackamore and continued running the Flying Cow.”

When she says this, I raise an eyebrow and before I can say anything, Moon Pie asks, “What is the Flying Cow?”

When she asks, I have to crack a smile as Buttermilk explains it to her and I see the expression on Moon Pie’s face. Then I hear Moon Pie ask, “So you really did that, and you had the president eat there even? I want to hear all about it.”

Then I see Buttermilk's face light up and she asks, “You really mean that?”

Moon Pie nods her head excitedly and tells her, “Yes, It sounds like a really fascinating place you ran there. And besides, we both know that in a profession like that we also use parts of the one we share.”

I smile and shake my head as I hear them begin to rattle on to each other and I tell them “Buttermilk I am going to leave you in her capable hooves, I will be leaving through the east gate to head towards White Cloud, if you leave without me, leave word with the guards there for me please.”

She smiles bashfully and tells me, “Of course I will Mollygirl. I really want you to lead us to our new home.”

I smile back at her and tell her, “I would like that very much, my friend. I will catch you in a bit then.” Then I turn and trot back to the stable.

As I enter this time, I see the painting of the regiments of the Manesville Brigade insignia. Then I notice that someone has begun to list the major battles that each regiment has participated in next to them. I notice that all three of the battles of Hereford are listed, as well as the major ones from the expedition, but not that of our deployment. That hurts in a way, especially the battle of Harness. Then I see that the Battle of Harness and Fort Hope is missing from both of them. I let out a sigh and smile, as at least it is both Windy and I that are slighted on this one, not just me and my people this time.

As I enter the stable proper, I first pass the armory. The Enfields are currently taking their turn at returning their weapons and field kit. I see Buck Shot and Flash Bang working the counters. I stop in and let them know I still have my personal weapons and I briefly turn them in. As I do so Buck Shot smiles at me and tells me, “It is good to see you again Colonel. Welcome back ma’am.”

“Thank you, Buck Shot, it is good to see you again too. I hope your family is doing well.”

He grins and tells me, “They are, thank you for asking, my youngest has even gotten used to her glasses now,” he pauses, then he tells me, “Oh, bring your Pipbuck in sometime in the next week for maintenance, I best not keep you ma’am. Have a good day ma’am.”

After I leave, I soon run into Choo Choo. I see her smile as she tells me, “Good afternoon Colonel, It is so good to see you again.”

“It is good to see you too Choo, how have you been?”

“I have been doing pretty well. I do miss George though. The cave has been kind of lonely without her or Paper Work
around.”

I smile and I tell her, “Well Paper Work is back so he should be able to keep you company again.”

I see her grin widen and she says, “I am so glad you all are back now. Ginger told me you have another daughter you brought home,” She pauses and then asks, “What is her name?”

I grin myself, as I tell her, “Epona is her name, you met her once before under Canterlot Mountain when she came through the doorway. You can meet her again as soon as you like. She is out by the reviewing stands with Sutures, Millie and Moon Lily.” I then remember something and I tell her, “No teaching Moon Lily magic without permission from Sutures first. She is a lot more powerful than I thought she would be.”

I see a look of surprise come over Choo Choo’s face and she says, “You mean just for her age, or period?”

I sigh and I tell her, “At least for her age, we are still not sure about her total power.”

I see her almost bouncing on her hooves as she asks, “Do you think Sutures will let me teach her some?”

I am honest and I tell her, “I am not sure, but my great aunt Haze is already going to be working with her. Maybe if Sutures agrees, you should talk to her too.”

She smiles and tells me, “Ok, now I better go see if I can find Paper Work. I can’t wait to see him. Oh, is it ok if I stop by the farm to visit on my next day off?”

I smile and tell her, “Of course Choo, you are always welcome. Besides, you are family after all thanks to your relations to my wife.”

“Thanks Colonel, I will see you later than,” She says as she trots off down the tunnel to try and find Paper Work.

Soon I am back at my office and I see the empty rack where I normally store my equipment. I then realize I still have my full kit on and smirk to myself. I remove my helmet and my web gear and battle saddle. I hang them all on the rack behind my desk. I then notice my coffee cup had been set upside down and there is a slight layer of dust upon it. I smile at the sight of it and I place it upside right. As I do so I notice Chain Lightning standing in the doorway.

He smiles at me as he leans on the frame and tells me, “Well ma’am, we're home.”

I smile back and I tell him, “Not yet Chain, but almost. In a bit we will head to White Cloud, then we will be home.”

He nods his head and tells me, “Yeah, Tail Spin left me a note with an address to an apartment we are renting there. So Yeah, I guess that will be home Colonel.” He pauses and before I can say anything he continues, “You know ma’am this will be the first time in years that I will have a home and a family, thank you for prompting me to talk to him again that day.”

I step over and put a foreleg over his shoulder and tell him, “Sergeant Major, it has been my pleasure. I am just glad to hear you will be living out that way too. I always wanted good neighbors.”

“Do you mind if Tater and I walk that way with you ma’am?”

“No, not at all, speaking of that, where is Tater?” I ask.

He smiles and tells me, “Well, he is hanging out with your daughter and her siblings right now.”

As we are talking, I pull a few of my personal items out of my saddlebags and put them back on the shelves and my desk. Finally, I tell him, “Well I need to get going so I can talk to the Colonel so we can head home soon.”

“Alright ma’am, I will see you in a bit then.”

As I walk out of my office, I look at the window to my headquarters and I see the painting of the twin enfields that are part of the 2^nd of the 1^st battalion crest and I cannot help but smile at how much they look like Woofers and Tweeters.

My next stop is the Regimental Headquarters. As I enter the Regimental Sergeant Major greets me, ‘Welcome back Ma’am. The Colonel is expecting you. Please follow me.”

As I follow him to the Colonel’s office, I hear Colonel Chappy pouring a cup of coffee. As he turns around, he asks, “Lieutenant Colonel, would you like one also?”

I decide I will mind my manners and tell him, “Of course sir.”

He then brings me a cup. He sets it down next to me. Then he returns to his seat and takes a sip of his coffee, after he does this I do also.

After I take my first sip, he then begins to speak. “Mollygirl, I have been keeping track of the reports during your deployment. Excellent job with the town of Harness and bringing them into the NCR, as well as bringing the coal wagons back.”

I nod my head and take another sip of coffee before I tell him “Thank you Chappy, I appreciate it.”

He nods and continues, “You deserve it, however, there are a couple of things we still need to talk about. First, you can not risk your life as if you were still a sergeant.”

I am just about ready to reply when he holds up a hoof and continues, “Hear me out, you are now too important for that. While Apple Cobbler is senior to you and is next in line to replace me when I retire, he too is getting old and will most likely retire in the next couple of years. Especially if the rumors are true about his interest in one of the mares down in the Hackamore region.”

This time I am stunned, especially by his reasoning. I don’t know what to say, but instead, I simply blush and look down at my cup. Finally, I tell him, “Thank you, sir. Oh, and I had not heard anything about him and a mare yet. But I know he and Silver Melody got along really well when I introduced them.”

He smiles sadly as he then tells me, “Mollygirl, If I make it another ten years, I will be lucky. I am tired and the stress is taking a toll on me. And yes, I know with all you have been through how much stress you have had too. That is part of what has added to mine. I still hate myself for what I had to do concerning Serenity Valley, but Mollygirl, we had to stop Silver Spite, fully, you saw what his subordinate was like, can you imagine if he had gotten loose like that in the Co-op.”

Now I can finally understand why they did it. He saw in his mind what would have happened otherwise. I nod sadly as I begin to tell him, “Sir, I now know you were right, Epona and some of the Others have told me what happened. He was a real monster. It still does not make it easier, but Chappy, I do understand. I just wish you could have let us know a bit more.”

This time he looks down at his cup and looks embarrassed before he answers. When he does, he surprises me by saying, “Mollygirl, I really wanted to. But we did not want to take a chance of not catching him off guard like we did. We were just as desperate about it as you were. I am very sorry Mollygirl,” He stops, looks up at the ceiling, and tells me, “Just so you know, it never gets any easier when you lose people. I had to leave the room to cry after I read the casualty list when the Rangers were wiped out. I still feel I should have found another way, but we had to be sure. I am very sorry for that.”

I nod my head and I tell him, “Chappy, I do understand, especially after the battle of Harness. That is why I lead the team against the Praefect. He was not as sadistic as Silver Spite but he was a danger to the NCR, and sir, while we are starting to make improvements, we have a long, long way to go before we are back to where ponykind once was.”

At that he nods his head and tells me, “Lieutenant Colonel, why don’t you head home now and see your family. I will see you in two weeks ok.”

I am surprised at getting a full two weeks, but I will take it. I quickly finish my coffee and set the cup down on the table next to me. I get up and I step closer to his desk and shake his hoof as I say, “Thank you sir, for everything. I do appreciate it. I will see you in two weeks.” I then exchange salutes with him before I turn and walk out the door. As I go past my HQ, I see Chain Lighting get up to follow me as we head toward the main stable entrance. I stop briefly at the armory to pick up my weapons and then continue on.

As we go past, I see one of the cows from the Belles is painting new names next to the regimental insignia in the tunnel. I have to smile when I see the battles now listed; River’s Mouth, Hackamore, Harness, and Fort Hope. The cow looks up and smiles as she says, “The Regimental Sergeant Major told the Captain to have one of us fix the battle list, I hope you approve ma’am.”

I smile as I answer, “You did a fine job trooper. Have a good night and I will see you in two weeks.”

She smiles back and tells me, “Thank you Ma’am, you also.”

Then she turns back to her work as Chain and I continue on our way.

I have to laugh to myself at how much different this return is from the last time. This time it is still daylight as I get close to the farm. Besides my family, there are so many others including Chain and Tater as well as Buttermilk and most of her civilians.

Epona is walking and talking with Buttermilk instead of on my back like Ginger. Millie is just in front of me and Moon Lily is next to her bouncing excitedly. I have to laugh when I hear Moon say, “Was too Luna, Mills.”

Millie shakes her head and says, “No, was not, Mama said was Choo Choo, so did Mista Pappa Work.” With a calm but stern tone of voice and expression on her face.

I guess Choo Choo and Paper Work had stopped to say hello to all of them while I was still inside the stable.

As we get closer to White Cloud and we can see some of the cloud village and its fields in the distance I hear some of the Others say things like, “Can you believe that.” And “My Goddesses, they really have gone far over here.”

We are about a mile from the farm when I hear several Radhogs squealing and suddenly I see Ginger and Xochitl run across the road and jump a fence with them not far behind. Then we hear two rifle shots and the two largest radhogs slide across the ground in front of us and the others run off into the underbrush off to the side away from us. Then I see Sunny come flying over to them as Ginger and Xochitl return to the hogs and get ready to butcher them. Next to me, I see Sutures shake her head and mutter something about timing.

Then I notice as Epona leads Tater over in that direction with Millie and Moon Lily trotting along happily with them. I tell those who are with me, “Sorry about that, we do have radhogs here now and these three have a business hunting them.”

It is funny, but they all seem unbothered by it or actually entertained. As I approach them, I see Ginger and Xochitl talking with Epona, and I hear her say, “This here is Sweet Potato, but we just call him Tater, he is my best friend.”

I smile as both Ginger and Xochitl tell Tater, “It is good to meet you, welcome to your new home.”

As I get closer, they all seem to notice me, I first hear Xochitl say, “Afternoon Colonel, welcome home, it has been too long ma’am.” In his normally formal but cheerful tone of voice.

Ginger then trots over to me and gives me a hug, “It is really great to see you again Ma,” Then she drops my hug and says, “Hi Mills, Hi Moon, wow you too have gotten so much bigger.”

I watch as the little sister timidly goes over to her big sister Ginger and gives her a hug. Then Ginger says, “I best let you all get going so we can get this radhog back to the farm to prep it.”

I smile at her and tell her, “Ok dear, I will see you at the farm.” And I give her another hug.

Then I start to laugh as I see Moon Lily’s horn light up and the largest hog is lifted into the air and she says, “I help Ginga.”

Ginger and Xochitl both have their jaws drop open in surprise at this. I then hear Epona tell her, “Moon, what will your mom say about using magic without permission?”

I see the little filly look disappointed as she sets the carcass back down and sadly says, “Is a no, buts I wants help, sissy.”

Beside Ginger I see a still stunned Xochilt say, “We may want to talk to your Mama Sutures about Moon Lily being a business partner to help us move the radhogs dear.”

My ears pick up at the last words, yes, they are officially a couple it seems. I ignore that and instead tell him, “Sorry trooper, but I have a feeling she will say no, for now,” as I turn back and look at my wife, “give it a while, ok?”

He nods his head, “Sure thing Colonel, by the way, the village already has some radhogs in the ground for tonight’s welcome home.”

By now Buttermilk has approached us and she hears this and I watch as she comes over and says, “Well Mollygirl, that sounds pleasant, but my people probably should wait to arrive then so we do not take over your welcome home celebration.”

Then from slightly above us I hear Sunny say, “No ma’am, the celebration is not just for her return, but to welcome all of you. We heard you were coming from the reclamation bureau last week, and that some of you had lived in the Co-op on the other side of some door,” he pauses and says, "Ginger and Xochitl tried to explain it to us. So sorry. But the welcome is for all of you.”

By this time, I see all of the others in our group have come up to us. When they hear this, I hear an excited murmur go through the crowd. Then I see one of Xyliana’s sisters’ colts’ approach and begin to speak in zebracan to Xochitl. I see his eyes go wide when not only Xochitl, but Ginger answers back and they start talking to him in that language. Soon even Sunny is talking with him.

Xyliana comes up and she tells me, “Thank you Colonel for bringing us here. I did not think we would be accepted.”

I smile at her and tell her, “You are welcome as is the rest of your family. Now we should get the rest of you into White Cloud, ok. “

I then tell Xochitl, Ginger, and Sunny, “Why don’t you get these two field dressed, I will take this group into town and then see about bringing a cart out to pick up the meat ok?”

I see them smile at each other than me and I hear Ginger say, “Ok Ma, I will see you in a bit then.”

I then watch as she goes over to Epona and gives her a one-hoofed hug and tells her, “Welcome home Epona, it is great to see you again.”

Epona hugs her back, “You too, and congratulations on bagging your buck sis.” She tells her as she grins and looks at a suddenly embarrassed Xochitl.

As our group passes the family farm, I see Shadowbuck and Woody playing in the yard with a young zony foal. Sumac and Persimmon Tree are watching them but come over to the fence and greet us as we approach. Then I notice Xavier working on a fence near the barn, stop and wave to us.

Once past the farm we soon go past Trouble and Blondie’s place. I am surprised to see how good the crops look this year. I also notice that Blondie’s figure seems to be a bit wider again. I go to point it out to Sutures and I hear her say, “I best stop there on the way home and check Blondie out. She looks about mid-term.”

I nod my head in answer and laugh lightly. Well, it looks like the family is still growing. I see them all wave at us as we walk past.

As we reach White Cloud, I notice several new buildings, including a schoolhouse, and next to it is a new church that has a symbol on the sign that I recognize as being that of the cattle religion.

I have to smile at this as I see a brahmin come out of the door of the church talking to a young bull who is wearing attire similar to what I am used to seeing Ahimsa wear. He has a gray coat with black mane and tail hair. I also notice he has a prosthetic leg like Sutures’s, but it is his hind left leg that it replaces. Then I recognize the young bull. His name is Khatri, he was once a trooper with the Belles and he served with me at the Valley. He waves to us and begins to come our way.

As we begin to walk down the main street of town more of the residents come out to greet us, I see a very flustered Fancy come out of the town hall and I hear her say, “Ok, why did someone not say they were getting close? Someone go to the schoolhouse and have Miss Text Book ring its bell, please.” She is wearing her coveralls and hat again, but she also has a young foal in a chest carry pouch.

She comes right over to me as does Khatri. “Colonel it is so good to see you,” she pauses and looks at those behind us and says, “Welcome to White Cloud all of you, we have been expecting you. I am Mayor Mare Fancy Flourish. Tonight, we will be having a feast in honor of your coming home.” She pauses and then adds, “As for lodging, tonight we will have your camp on the outskirts of town to the east side. This is near where we will be having the festival. It will also allow you to meet some of the locals whose farms you may want to work on or businesses you may want to be employed by. Also, we can discuss the farms in the area that are ready for recovery.”

I hear a nervous murmur go through the crowd behind me at this, then Khatri steps up and says, “Herd Mother, welcome home. It is so good to see you again.”

I feel myself blush at this title and I simply say, “Thank you, Khatri, it is good to be home and back in our herd territory.”

He smiles at this and I hear Buttermilk gasp next to me as she says, “Mollygirl, why did you not tell me you are a Mother of the Herd?”

I sigh and tell her, “Buttermilk, I normally do not think about it. I am sorry, but would you have believed me if I had said so.”

She then looks at those who followed us here and when she looks at Kettle Bell, she asks, and “And why did you not tell me?”

Kettle Bell simply shrugs and tells her, “Because I was asked not to Buttermilk. I am sorry, besides, I thought you would realize it on your own.”

Beside me, I hear Fancy ask, “Herd Mother?”

Then Khatri explains, “Yes, in our religion it is a title given to those believers who have shown themselves as caring about all of the herd as their children and treating them as such. We also have Herd Fathers.”

Buttermilk just shakes her head and I hear Corn Bread say quietly, “Well that does explain a few things.”

As the locals begin to talk to the newcomers we continue to chat on the street and I see Stir Fry coming as well as Blueberry Crisp. Then I see both Sweet Apple and Cookie Cutter coming our way. Cookie has a young filly with her and I see they are holding tails. When they get close enough I hear Cookie asks, “Mollygirl, where is Taser?”

I smile and tell them, “He should be along shortly, he had to check in with the MP company and he asked me not to wait for him. But I know he can’t wait to see you three. I also know how excited he is to meet your newest family member.”

I see Cookie smile proudly and I hear Sweets say, “I can’t wait to show him our new orchard too. We have worked really hard at it and we got about twenty trees that are already blossoming.”

I understand their sense of accomplishment. It is no easy task growing trees out here. I talk with them a bit more than I decide it is time to head back to the farm. I round up my family and before we head back to the farm, I tell Buttermilk and Corn Bread, “I will be back later, I need to visit the farm first and see the rest of my family.”

She smiles at me and tells me, “I understand, I will see you later, and Mollygirl,” she pauses, “Thank you for this, I finally feel at home again.”

“Your welcome Buttermilk, I am just glad to have you with us my friend, and thank you also for being there with me when I needed it.”

As I get back to the farm, I see Badger has gotten home too. He trots out of the house and I watch as he scoops up Millie and Moon Lily first for a hug. Then he goes over to Epona and says, “Epona, I have waited a long time to meet you. Welcome to our family.” Then he gives her a hug.

I see tears in her eyes at the warm greeting she is receiving from him as well as Magpie.

Then I watch as Sumac comes over to her. They both seem very nervous and then I hear her say, “Hello Epona, I am Sumac, please call me mama Sumac.”

I see the surprise on Epona’s face and she says, “Thank you, Mama Sumac, it is so good to finally meet you too.” Then I see Sumac sit down and open her hooves for a hug and I watch as Epona tentatively at first, then all but jumps into her hooves and gives her a big hug back with tears of joy in her eyes.

Then I hear Sumac tell her, “Welcome home dear, welcome home.”

Dear DJ Pony,

It has been a long time since we have left home, and today we are finally returning home again. It has been a very long and hard journey. As we walk the final miles all I can think of is how good it is to be back. Please let all my friends and family know how I feel by playing Finally Coming Home for myself and those with us.

Thank you Very much,

Kettle Bell,

2^nd of the 1^st Manesville Regiment. White Cloud NCR

Once again Mollygirl brings home a new group of immigrants to the Manesville/Co-op region. We begin to see the interaction of the two groups as they feel each other out. But most importantly we see Mollygirl with her family again.

For those who are interested in listening to this chapter's dedication song, the YouTube link is: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXrukk-fVdQ