The journey to Hoofington from Hackamore is a long and exhausting one for our entire party. It takes us almost three weeks total with having to change railroad lines as well as wait for arriving trains to depart in the direction we want to go.

As we crossed the countryside it was novel at first, but soon lost its excitement. However, we did try to keep our spirits up. I realized how bored we had all become when Raven asks Archer to read the book on engineering, he has out loud to us.

When she asks this, he smiles playfully and asks, “Raven we could always sing another round of 100 bales of hay in the loft.”

All of us adults groan when he says this and Raven says, “Please Daddy, no, I never want to hear that song again.”

He laughs at this and then tells her, “Get up here on my lap dear and I will read it to you.”

At the next station we luck out and we find not only some food and drink vendors, but also one who has several old books with him. I grin as our foals decide which ones, they are willing to give up in trade for new ones.

As we cross the border into what was once known as the Hoof, we see a sign saying Welcome to the Lunar Republic, in large letters. Underneath these, in smaller letters, it says, “All visitors must report the purpose of their visit to Local officials.

When he sees that I notice Badger scowl and then spit out the window. One of the ponies near us says, “Sir you really should have more respect, even if you have never been here before.”

Badger looks him right in the eyes and moves slightly closer to him and he tells him, “Sir, I will have you know I escaped from there when I was only a young colt. Some of these scars on my back come from some of the so-called Society members, after all, why would they care about a stupid serf and her foals.”

The older stallion steps back slightly and tells him, “Sir, it seems you have not been here for a very long time. Things have changed considerably since back then. Also, as you are coming back, Sir, I would like to say, Welcome home.”

I see Badger actually have the wind taken out of his sails and he asks, “What all has changed?”

The buck smiles and tells him, "Well for starters we no longer fight amongst ourselves like a bunch of savages. Secondly, well, secondly one of the big changes was that the serfs are no longer under contract like they once were. They earn what we like to call sweat equity and part of the profits of the Society’s largest farms is reinvested into them as well as the local area.”

When he says this, we all look at each other. I see Badger’s jaw is hanging some and finally, he overcomes his surprise and says, “Things really must have changed then. That almost sounds like the old Co-op now.”

The stallion looks at him and asks, “The what?”

Badger then sits closer to the stallion and begins to tell him about home and the old Co-op.

They continue to talk as we approach the Hoofington station. In the distance, I can see a large lake now where the old picture books showed the Core of the Hoof to have been. The stallion grins as he sees us all looking at it and tells us, “Yeah, the Hoof sure has changed a lot since I was a foal. I hope you all have a good visit, and if you see me again, my name is Upper Crust.”

My husband then introduces himself and tells him, “Oh, sorry, my name is Badger. Most of those with me are my family.”

Upper Crust looks at our family and asks, “Cousins, aunts, and uncles?”

Badger laughs lightly and grins as he answers, “One of them is a great aunt, but most are my spouses and our foals.”

I see the stallion's light gray ears go forward in surprise and his blush almost matches the color of his mane and tail. As he does this Raven tugs on Badger’s coat and says, “Papa Badger, Ma says we need to get ready so we can get off here.”

Badger looks at her and smiles. Then he says, “Thank you, Raven,”

After this, we feel the train begin to slow as it begins to enter the station and we hear it start to ring its bell.

The stallion then extends a hoof and Raven takes it and he says, “It has been a pleasure to meet you too young filly.” He then nods to the rest of us and says, “And the rest of you, as well. Take care.” After which he turns and grabs his saddlebags from the overhead rack as we do the same.

We quickly exit the train. Archer and I this time go to retrieve our cart. Once we have both carts down Badger harnesses up in ours, while Squall Line volunteers to take the one for everyone else.

All of us adults begin to put on our weapons. It is almost funny how we look like a team that is about to assault a target. But then again, we have all heard how rough the Hoof can be. I notice that even a few of the Ten Pony tower crew are putting on their holsters and talking out their long arms.

As we are doing this, I see a pony, well at least I think it is a pony, in a close-fitting clock approach us. The pony then asks, “May I ask, what you all are doing here?”

I step forward and tell them, “Yes, I am Lieutenant Colonel Mollygirl from the NCR Army. I am here with my family as well as a negotiation team to meet with the members of the Commonwealth’s leadership.”

I see him nod his head, “I see, and you feel you need that much hardware to meet with them?”

I look at my family and the others and I tell him, “No, but we do want to be prepared incase of trouble such as from raiders and such.”

He nods his head again and simply says, “I see.”

Next, I ask him, “Do you know where we may report in our business to the local officials?”

The hooded pony nods their head and tells us, “You just have, welcome to the Hoof Colonel, please take care and try not to shoot if you do not need to.”

I am surprised as is Purple Haze and the others who have come up beside me. “Thank you, I appreciate your letting me know. Now could you tell me where we may find a good hotel for our delegation?”

He nods his head, “If you go over that way about five miles you will be fairly close to the Society and still a good distance from the Collegiate at the university, it is also not overly distant from Mega Mart, I assume you will want to do business with them also.”

Both Purple and I nod our heads. Then I ask, “Which way to Chapel from here?”

While I can not see the cloaked pony’s face, I see them cock their head as they look at me, and ask, “Why would you want to go there? Don’t tell me you are one of those groupies for Security.”

I shake my head and tell them, “No, I just want to pay my respects to someone who inspired me to Do Better, when I needed it most.”

They shake their head and reply, “I do not know why people consider her a hero. Look at all the damage that she did.”

I sigh and answer, “No one is perfect, including heroes. Perhaps, especially heroes.”

I see the head of the official turn the other way as if trying to look at me in a different light. Then they say, “Interesting way of looking at it. I will have to remember that. Ok, I need to get going, I have others I have to question.”

As we begin to walk off, I notice Moon Lily shivering and she looks very uncomfortable. Sutures asks her, “Sweetheart, what’s wrong? Are you ok?”

Moon answers her questions by asking, “Ma, can’t you feel it. The whole area, it, it feels twisted. Almost like I can hear the screams of those who were here before us.”

As she says this, I see Sutures put a hoof around her daughter and tell her “It feels fine to me dear, maybe you are just imagining it.” I also notice our Repair Ponies all glance nervously at each other.

“Ok you three, what is it? I saw how you reacted when she said that.”

Epona looks again at the others who nod their heads and she quietly tells me, “Ma, it’s just that Choo Choo said the same thing when we were here a while back. She said it was like magical and spiritual scarring had happened here. She said it made her feel very uncomfortable. Twinkles was with us and said she did not feel anything at all.”

Huh, now that is interesting, I wonder what it means, I think to myself. Then I nod my head and tell her, “Thanks for letting us know.”

As we continue, I see Moon Lily bracing herself and continuing on. Inside I wonder just what horrors this area has experienced and how she can experience it? Then I look at Ginger and I think of her birth mother Nugget and think of how bad being here had affected her and Major Quick Trot. Maybe it was more than just combat that had caused the problem for them.

Soon we have reached a decent looking hotel. It looks to be an old prewar structure that is still in reasonably good condition. The sign over the front porch proclaims it as the Hoofington Grand Hotel.

Windy, Purple Haze, and I all go inside to see if they have rooms for us.

As we enter, I immediately notice that the place has electric lighting. Without meaning to, I look like a rube, as I stare at the lights above. I know I should not be surprised, but lately, most of the hotels we have stayed at on this trip were still using candles or lanterns. Suddenly I am hoping for hot water too.

When we reach the check-in desk, I see a white unicorn with a black mane, tail, and mustache wearing a blue coat and tie.

He looks down at us with his snout in the air slightly and asks, “Yes, can I help you?”

This time Purple Haze takes over and replies in her normal Tenpony Tower manner, “Yes, my good pony you can. First I would like to see if you have a large suite for the Colonel and her family as well as perhaps seven adjoining rooms for the rest of our delegation.”

I see him look snidely at her and he asks, "and who are you and how will you be paying?”

She smiles at him and tells him, “First off, drop the attitude, or I will have your manager discipline you. The help does not talk to foreign dignitaries this way, do you understand young colt?”

I see his eyes go wide and he begins to look angry, then she continues, “But just so you know, I am Miss Purple Haze of Tenpony Tower, a member of the Twilight Society there, and the lead diplomat from the NCR on our mission. The two mares with me are both leading officers of the two regiments from the Manesville Brigade and are both part of my diplomatic mission as well as a trade mission. Our expenses will be covered by the NCR. Am I making myself clear or do I need to see your manager and possibly the owner of this establishment?”

I see him visibly gulp and he then nods his head and as he starts to look at his available rooms he says, “Yes ma’am, perfectly clear,” he pauses briefly and says, “Ma’am, I have just what you are asking for on the third floor. I apologize for any misunderstandings.” Then he begins to put several keys on the counter.

Purple smiles at him then and tells him, “Of course, I do understand. Thank you for your assistance.”

He smiles and nods his head and tells us, “The key for room 303 is for the suite. Let me know if you need anything extra.”

We scoop up the keys and are just turning to leave when Purple stops us and turns back to the clerk and asks, “Oh, one more thing, do you have couriers available to deliver messages?”

He nods his head, “Yes ma’am, we have a couple. However, depending on distance and the level of danger involved the prices can vary.”

She nods her head, “Understandable,” she returns to the desk and hoofs him a small stack of envelopes then tells him, “I need these delivered to the ponies listed on them. If they are not available, I need them delivered to those in charge at those locations. Thank you.”

“Yes ma’am, I will see that they are delivered and will add the price for the deliveries to your bill.”

She smiles and adds, “Of course, also add a tip for the couriers and one for yourself for being so helpful.”

As we walk back to the others I look over at Purple and I catch her looking over her shoulder and see her lift and shift her tail then turn her head forward again.

Once outside I ask her, “Aunt Purple, what was that all about?”

She smiles at me and tells me, “Dear you may be an excellent military officer, but you need to study more about diplomacy and how to deal with the help. I tore him down and set him in his place when I needed to, however, by that last bit I was able to feed his ego a bit and make him believe I was attracted to him, soothing some of the earlier wounds.”

I nod my head and I have to admit, I do need to think about that as we reach the rest of our party and have several bellcolts assist us in taking our bags up to our rooms. Once we are there I immediately go to the sink and turn on the water and feel how warm it is and all I can think is I can’t wait to take a hot bath.

That night we all enjoy dinner in the hotel’s dining room together. The next morning the military officers in our group decide we are going to head to Mega Mart to begin purchasing equipment for our brigade at home.

Most of the delegation has decided to begin to either prepare for the upcoming meetings and negations or to just enjoy the swimming pool that is located on the hotel roof. As we leave, I see most of the youngsters going to the pool. But I am stopped by Ginger as she asks, “Ma, can we come with you?”

I nod my head, “Sure dear, sounds good.” Then I notice Moon Lily and Millie next to her and Moon asks, “Mama Mollygirl, can we come too? The other mamas said we could if you say it is ok.”

I am hesitant at first then Archer tells me, “I think it would be good for them to see, besides they are old enough now.”

Then Badger says from the side, “Besides, with only two of the youngsters we should be able to keep an eye on them well enough.”

Well, that settles that. I quickly run inside to let the others know when Sutures tells me, “I want to go too. They may have some equipment I can use for my mother and mine's practice.”

I have to grin at this development, and I really can not blame her for wanting to go also.

I then tell her, “Sounds like a good idea dear. I am sorry I did not think to bring it up earlier. Besides, I do not figure this will be our only trip there during the mission.”

I see her grin and she quickly throws on her saddlebags over her light blue gingham dress.

As we walk out the main door to join the others, I nod to both of the armed guards by the door. Then I see Archer and Badger both grinning ear to ear.

First, we stop and grab one of the carts. Then Xochitl volunteers to pull it and we are off. As we turn and head in the direction the clerk told us to go for Mega Mart, I begin to look at the surrounding area we are passing through. It reminds me of the lesser recovered areas of Manesville, or some of the areas of Manehatten I saw in Millie’s memory orb. The most noticeable part for me is the remains of the old highway overpasses through the town. Manesville was never large enough for such a major road. Heck, until the final day Manesville was barely a stop on the railroad except for the granaries and the carriage plant. I can only imagine the number of ponies who lived here at one time.

I am still surprised to see that the lake that once had an island with skyscrapers on it is now just an open lake. I can see the hills in the background that I recognize from the picture books, but the Core is just gone. I have to say though that it does look much more welcoming and serene without it, but what could take out an entire island, and why had we not heard about it back home when it happened?

As we continue, I finally see a large rectangular building ahead of us with a large parking lot surrounding it and a junk wall set up around that. The large building in the center seems to have several areas that look to be new construction, well maybe not new, but more recent, like in the past ten years.

Even from a distance, I can see the large gun turrets that are on each corner of the roof. They appear to be in various conditions as one of them looks almost brand new even. Beside me, I hear Archer say, “That is a lot of firepower for anyplace, much less a market.”

As we approach, I see an old neon sign that proclaims Mega Mart on the side of the building. Under it, someone has hoof-painted Finder Keepers. I laugh when I read that as it almost seems like something our foals would say to each other. Then Xochitl says, “I would not laugh too much about that. I almost got into a fight last time we were here. It seems the Finders Keepers are one of the powers in the region. In fact, the pony who runs this place is a member from what I have been told.”

Ginger smiles and adds, “Yeah, she is about your age ma, maybe a bit younger. Her name is Bottle Cap. If we can’t find what we need we can ask her and for a finders fee she will help us find a source.”

“So, she only finds a source, she does not necessarily provide what we need? That sounds like a racket.” I say to her.

Then from behind me, I hear a pony clearing her throat. I turn and see a light green pony wearing a blue vest and a battle saddle with a shotgun on it, who tells me, “Well if you can find it yourself then do so. Why should anyone else find it for free for you?”

When she hears this Ginger and Epona both turn and I hear Ginger say, “Oh hey Purchase Order. Good to see you again.”

The young mare smiles at her briefly and then says, “It’s good to see you too Ginger, now if I can ask, why did you bring a pony with you who does not understand how we do business here?”

I see Ginger blush slightly and I realize I have embarrassed her. Well, I will apologize to her later. Ginger then says, “Well she is one of my adopted mothers. She and my fathers and one of my other adopted mothers are all here to shop for equipment for the troops back home.”

I see Purchase Order slowly nod her head, “Ah, ok. Now I get it. Well, make sure she and the others know it cost 7 caps a pony to get in.”

When she says this I ask, “I thought it was only 5 caps a pony?”

She looks at me and says, “Well it used to be. But we needed to up the price to pay for the repairs from the fight here. I mean it costs a lot to replace Gun as well as turrets that were damaged. Plus, the walls. We are not even starting to think about all the merchandise that was lost. I am certain Bottlecap thanks the Goddesses that it is all sold on a consignment system here and that she does not have to purchase it all to sell it.”

I nod my head as she says this and I hear Archer say, “That really makes sense to me.”

She walks with us talking to Ginger and Epona as we go to the main entrance of the building. Once we are to the guards there she says, “Remember Ginger, no gunfire inside the building. Gun 2 is just like the original in how it will open fire on anyone who starts gunplay inside Mega Mart.”

I see Epona smirk and Ginger says, “Yeah, I understand. My birth mother told me all about having seen it happen one time when we were sitting around the campfire.”

I then hear Xochitl say, “Yeah, I remember her talking about that. She seemed pretty shook up by it.”

“I forgot you said your mother was here back then. I was still a foal myself. Those were some rough times back then. I ended up living in Chapel for a while after the battle for Mega Mart.”

Purchase Order then looks off to the side then back at Moon Lily and asks, “Ginger, what is she doing?”

I look over and I see Moon is finishing the hoof movement and I hear her whisper the last bit of blessing of the dead. I tell the young mare what she was doing and I see her go pale as she quietly whispers, “That is not funny, my parents died over there.”

Moon Lily walks over to her and gently lays a hoof on her and says, “I am not being funny, I felt some souls who were ready to crossover, but were afraid and did not know how or which way to go. I helped them.”

I see the mare look skeptical at first and she begins to make a sarcastic remark then she hears a cloaked zebra coming out the door asks in broken Equestrian, “Where is they, where the necromancer? Tell me, I felt their magic.”

Purchase Order then looks back and forth, shakes her head, and quietly whispers, “Maybe it won’t be so bad to stand guard in that area anymore.” She shakes her head and says, “I will see you later, and Epona, remember, if you ever want a date, look me up,” then she heads through a side door that says employees only.

The Zebra on the other hoof looks at us and I see him stare at Moon Lily and shake his head. He utters something in Zebracan and before he can walk off, I hear Epona begin to talk to him in his native tongue, which seems to completely surprise him.

They talk back and for a bit and finally, they shake hoofs and I watch as the Zebra stallion walks away. Ginger then turns to me and says, “We will meet him later Ma. Epona told him to meet us for dinner at the hotel.”

I nod my head and wonder, just what kind of daughters have I raised? Then I ask myself, was I ever like them? I shake my head and grin and follow Badger and the rest into the Mega Mart.

As we step through the door into the main market area I am stunned when I look up and see a cannon hanging from the ceiling. Next to me, Archer starts to laugh and he tells me, “They got one on me with that one. I never would have even thought of it. Celestia, look at the size of its bore.”

As he is saying this, I hear Badger say, “Hey Sutures, look over here. I found some medical instruments that look in good condition. Behind me, I hear Millie say, “Look Moon, they got more Daring Do books. And a couple of comics!”

Again from behind me I hear Ginger say, “I got the fillies Ma. Go do what you need to do.”

As I look, I notice the goods from the vendors have been laid out on pallets and old metal shelving. Several of the vendors have rough curtains hung up as dividers between their stalls and the ones next to them. As I walk along, I see several look at Duty on my battle saddle and snicker.

I just ignore these. Finally, I find a vendor who has several boxes of slightly used Equestrian Military helmets as well as web gear and a couple of battle saddles in stock, so I begin to look them over.

I haggle with him for a bit, then when I decide the price is still too high, I walk away. He calls after me and tells me, “Fine, I will go with your highest bid. But it is up to you to get them out of here.”

I smile and tell him, “That sounds fair. I will be back in a bit with help to move them.”

Soon I return with Archer and Badger and we carry the equipment out to the cart. As we approach I notice Epona is sitting on it and alongside her is Purchase Order. As we get closer, I hear Purchase Order asks, “So you mean your family has even more mares and foals than what I met today?”

Epona nods her head, “Yeah, it can get hectic, but we are a big family.”

The Purchase asks her, “So which one is your birth mom?”

I see Epona look at the ground and she starts to cry lightly as she says, “I am adopted. My birth mother died and they took me in and made me one of them.”

I want to say something but I don’t want to ruin the moment for them. Instead, I signal to the bucks to stop. Then I continue to watch as Purchase moves slightly closer to Epona and puts a hoof around her and tells her, “I envy you finding a family like that. I wish I could have.”

I am surprised at this and I think Epona is as well. Then I watch as the young mare gently kisses my daughter first on her cheek and then on her muzzle. After the kiss is done, I hear Purchase say, “Epona, I am interested in both mares and bucks too, so I like the idea of how your family does things. If you want, whenever you come through here, we date. Then maybe eventually we can decide on where to live. Does that sound good to you?”

I watch as Epona wipes the tears from her eyes and nods her head. “Purchase, I really would like that. I had hoped to see you again. Maybe if my family doesn't mind you could even meet them?”

I make sure she can’t see me and I call out loudly, “Hey Badger, you and Archer want to help me put this in the cart for now. If we find Epona, maybe she can watch it all for us.”

Then I step up and act surprised to see her. “Oh, hey dear. Do you think you could watch this load for us for a bit while we make another pass-through?”

Archer and Badger both step up and as the two youngsters move to the side of the cart, I hear her say, “Sure ma, I hope you don’t mind Purchase Order keeping me company?”

I smile at her and tell her, “Not at all dear, she seems like a nice young mare.”

I see Epona raise an eyebrow at that and I give her a slight nod of my head and quickly direct my ear toward Purchase. She smiles back and says, “Thanks for understanding Ma. Oh, ma, would it be ok if she stopped by the hotel sometime for dinner?”

I nod my head and tell her, “Or maybe your sister and her husband can come over here with you some time while we are here. Depending on how the negotiations go, we may be here for a while.”

I see Purchase Order's ears perk up at this and a look of hope comes into her eyes. Yeah, I know that look. Now to try and help my daughter be happy. I then tell her, “Purchase while I don’t know you, Epona is a pretty good judge of character so please feel free to come to visit her sometime. If you need an escort, let us know, we have plenty of ponies to make sure you are safe too.”

I see her grin at that, “Thanks Ma’am, I appreciate the offer, but I know my way around here pretty well.”

I nod my head, “Ok, just offering, even back home we tend to escort each other after dark, a few years ago my wife Sutures was almost killed by a radhog when she was going on a delivery call.”

I see her look somewhat confused and Epona tells her quietly, “Mama Sutures is a midwife. It was about eight years ago. Xochitl, Ginger, and our cousin Sunny took care of that pack.”

I see Purchase nod her head in understanding, then she asks, “Why didn’t you help them?”

Epona shrugs her shoulders and says, “I would have, but it was right after Ma found me and adopted me. So, I was not back home at the time.”

Archer then taps me on the shoulder and says, “Dear, let's head back in. I had a lead on a couple of artillery pieces and limbers that were recovered from by No Mare’s Land. Depending on their condition we may contract to have them shipped back home.”

With this I am back to business, I tell Epona and Purchase, “I will see you two later, we have some more shopping to do.”

As we are heading back towards the door, I overhear Purchase say, “You know your parents do seem pretty normal overall.”

Epona laughs at this and replies, “Ya, they do seem that way, but you should see them in a fight…”

Soon we are back inside and I have to struggle to keep up with the bucks as they make a beeline for a booth that advertises weapons and armor. On one side of the booth is a sign saying, “Not all stock on site. Ask for details about our additional merchandise. Shipping handled through Two Bucks and a Brahmin Transport.

I have to smile at this as I realize how much their business has grown over the years. The funny thing is they still insist on having their main hub of operations out of White Cloud. They are doing pretty good for themselves if they have caravans out of Hoofington as well as up in the NCR.

I listen as Archer begins to talk to them. Then they tell him where we can meet them to inspect the weapons ourselves if we really are interested. As I listen, I hear Archer tell him, “You know what, if you really are interested in selling them. Bring them tomorrow. I have a statement from the NCR department of state guaranteeing your bottlecaps if and if, I find the guns to be in good enough condition to use.”

The merchant pony who is wearing worn loose robes under his web gear and battle saddle looks Archer up and down and asks, “So what makes you think you know artillery so well?”

I begin to laugh and the merchant looks at me with disgust on his face, “So you think it's funny, do you?”

I nod my head and reply, “Yes, I really do. He was my head of artillery during our expedition ten years ago, and he has been in charge of his own battery with the Manesville Brigade since then. I am sorry, but he knows artillery.”

I see a bit of a look of appraisal come over his face and he asks, “So how many guns do you have with this brigade anyways?”

I smile and tell him, “So far, we have twenty-four, but we are looking to either bring the batteries up to six guns each or form another two batteries. If you have the guns, we have the caps.”

He then looks at us, “And how do you plan on getting them home?”

I smile, “Well once we get them to the railroad we can manage from there. I would be happy to pay you for your assistance in getting them that far.”

I see him look disgusted and about this time I see Ginger and Xochitl come behind the merchant. Xochitl lays a hoof on his shoulder, “Salvage Value, it's good to see you again,” he tells the merchant.

I see the nervous expression on Salvage Value's yellowish-brown face as he asks, “That blue, she ain’t with you right now is she?”

Ginger grins, “Maybe, you know how they are, sometimes they just like to stay invisible. She is like family to us. And those ponies you are haggling with are my mother and my two fathers. Now, she may not like it if you tried to trick them out of caps.”

I see him begin to look around as he answers back, “Look I swear I was not going to try to take advantage of them. Just keep that blue away from me. Them alicorns make me nervous.”

Shortly after he says this I hear a disembodied voice that I recognize as Moon Lily’s say, “Why is that? Are you afraid we may catch you trying to cheat us?” then she laughs like Choo Choo does. I swear I see him almost go white as he quickly looks around.

At this point, Archer turns his head and says, “Ok, now why are you so nervous?”

“I, I am not. I, I just don’t trust Alicorns, ever since a few years back. They are dangerous, pardon my honesty ma’am,” he says as he nods in the direction, he heard Moon’s voice come from.

Shortly after this, I see Sutures come around the corner with Millie and Moon Lily. I notice that Moon has picked up her great grandmother’s habit of whistling and trying to look like she is innocent when she is involved with shenanigans.

I see both Archer and Sutures notice this too as both simply close their eyes and shake their heads.

Archer then asks, “Ok Salvage Value, all I want to know right now is do you have any artillery pieces readily available? If they are in decent enough condition to use, I will pay you more for them. If you have a spare gun or two that are not functional, but that I can scrap to get the others running, I will even consider purchasing them, at what we both consider a fair price mind you.”

I see the merchant grimace slightly and he says, “Ok, I may be able to get a couple of them here by tomorrow. How about you meet me here when the place opens and I will show you them.”

Archer nods his head and tells him, “That is agreeable to me. I will see you then.”

The sales pony then asks, “Well how about a holding deposit then?”

I see Archer sigh as he turns around and tells him, “To be honest, I would have earlier, but after hearing how nervous you are about one of my wives Great Grandmother being able to find out you cheated us, you are lucky I am not going to the local head of the Finders Keepers to have your membership revoked. Sir, please understand I am a gentlecolt because I choose to be, not because I have to. I have killed much bigger and tougher than you with my bare hooves.”

I turn my head to look at him and he tells me, “Serenity Valley.”

I nod my head in understanding and we begin to walk away. As we go Archer says, “I will see you then Salvage.”

We then walk away from his stall and peruse a couple more on our way out. Twice I hear Badger say, "I will need to check up a bit more on this for Bailey.” Then he puts the items down and continues on with us.

Once we are back at the cart, we find Epona and Purchase are still talking. I watch as Archer puts it on this time. We put the merchandise we bought into it and have Millie and Moon both climb up inside it.

As we get ready to head out Epona tells Purchase Orders, “I will see you tomorrow, ok?”

Purchase smiles back at her and tells her, “I look forward to it.”

The next day goes smoothly and we complete the transfer of the first two artillery pieces with a third to be used for spare parts, because as Archer tells them, “Look the barrel is all but worn out. I can barely see any rifling in it. Either sell it to us for parts or take it back.”

They haggle over it for about fifteen minutes. Then Archer tells them, “I tell you what, if you and your associates will pull these to the railroad station so we can transport them back to Hackamore then I will gladly make up for the difference so that you can still make the caps for the three guns and limbers, with only a bit extra work.”

After they have shaken on it the merchant then asks, “So would you care for some ammunition to go with these guns?”

I see my husband smile and say, “Now I thought you would never ask.”

On our second day in town, we receive our first agreement for a diplomatic meeting with the leadership of the Lunar Commonwealth. It comes as an invitation for myself and the civilian diplomats from the Collegiate to attend a luncheon at their headquarters at the old university several days later.

During this waiting time we have completed acquiring most of the equipment we wanted for the 1^st Regiment. However Windy and I are talking before I am to leave with Purple Haze and the other civilians for Hoofington University. “Mollygirl, I really would like to head over toward the old Skyport. The Exchange over there may also have some Pegasus equipment we may not be able to get anyplace else.”

I nod my head and tell her, “Windy, that sounds good. But let’s plan it after we get back tonight, ok?”

“That sounds good Mollygirl,” she says as she gets up and gives me a hoof to help me up as Purple knocks on the door to our suite. As I head toward the door, I see Xochitl, Ginger, and Epona come out dressed in their all-black barding, hats and carrying their weapons on their battle saddles.

I look at them and ask them, “Where are you going?”

Before they can answer, Purple Haze answers, “They were hired by the NCR to act as our escorts in Hoofington, didn’t anyone tell you that?”

I shake my head no and tell her, “No, but I guess it does make sense. Especially on our way to some of these meetings.” I tell her as I finish putting on my battle saddle over my dress uniform.

I see Purple Haze shake her head as she tells me, “Really Colonel, perhaps you should only take the pistol and saber.”

From a doorway behind me I hear Purchase Order say, “Honestly Miss Haze, it is probably best for her as a military leader here, to come fully armed and with an escort. It lends credence to her authority.”

As she says this, I see Windy raise an eyebrow. Then I hear Moon Lily ask, “Ginger, can I come with you guys too? You know what I can do in a fight.”

As I start to shake my head no, Ginger tells her, “Not this time Moon. This is more about impressions. If we take you, they will not take us seriously because of your age and size.”

“But, but Ginger, you seen what I can do.”

I interrupt and tell her, “Now Moon, we all know what you can do, but others do not. You are our ace in the hole if they try to come after the others while we are gone. So, I really need you here to make sure they are all safe while we are away.”

I see her look disappointed and she answers, “Aww, ok mama Mollygirl.”

Soon after we depart and head to meet the Collegiate. The trip there takes us through some rough burnt-out areas. I notice our escorts’ heads moving as if on swivels as they scan the area we are passing through. They only start to relax once we reach the university campus and are met by the guards there.

We are soon taken to the Chancellors Building. As we approach, I find myself admiring the old architecture. I can only imagine what this place had to have been like before the great war and how much knowledge they must have lost. I am sure Magpie would be spitting mad if she knew how close we came to their old library.

Once inside we are seated in an antechamber and wait to be asked to enter. Purple looks at our escort and tells them, “Remember to wait here while we are inside. This is only our first meeting with them so it should not take more than a couple of hours.

After a half-hour wait, we are escorted in. I take my seat at the far end of the civilian diplomats and just listen as they make introductions and begin to talk. Myself, I sit quietly listening to the discussions and I realize we really should have a medical expert on the team here when I hear them begin to talk about what the benefits are of trading with the NCR.

I start to pay attention when I hear the head of the Collegiate delegation ask, “And just how do you think you can help us? Look, we can help you, but it will cost you more than most are willing to pay.”

I shake my head as I hear them talk more and then I hear them say, “Besides who else has pure genetic samples from before the day to work with.”

I see Purple cringe but I notice she stays silent as does the rest of her delegation on this subject and I decide to ask her about it more later. Then I hear them talking about medical procedures and how they can make more effective prosthetics. It is at this point I see one member of her delegation raise a hoof and counter that with, “Perhaps we could exchange information concerning this, as we have at least one community in the NCR that has developed very effective artificial limbs.”

The Collegiate delegate then says, “If you have such an effective community then why does one of the members of your delegation have such a poor one?”

At this, I raise a hoof and answer, “Please excuse me, but that would be my wife. She is a former combat medic and now midwife. She has been offered the chance for such a device and has chosen not to take advantage of it as she does not want to become dependent on them. Now another member of our family who is not with us on the other hoof uses one of the aforementioned prosthetic hooves and has used it during her military duties for the last eight years.”

I see the surprised look on their faces and I notice a quick nod from Purple. Then the talks begin again. After about four hours of this, we adjourn for the night with the promise that we will return the next day.

As we leave the campus Purple turns to me and says, “Colonel, thank you for your discretion and for not feeling like you had to try and run things back there.”

I smile at her and tell her, “Purple, on a battlefield or in a fight, I will take charge, but in there, that is your battlefield and you and your people know more than I do. I just saw an opportunity and took it when I spoke up that time.”

She smiles and tells me, “That is what I mean. You did well and we all thank you.”

I shrug my shoulders, “Your welcome. I guess.”

On our way back we are intercepted by several gang members. First Epona notices them and I see her ears signaling to the other two. I notice that they all have burn scars on their bodies. I also notice that they are wearing old worn-out firefighters’ coats and are carrying what appear to be modified flame throwers.

They step out of the doorways and one sprays flames across in front of us to get us to stop. Then one calls out, “Now that we have your attention, give us what you got.”

I hear Ginger and Xochitl start to laugh as they see me tilt my head at him and ask, “Really?”

Then Epona calls to him, “Hey Tinder, Hey Kindling, are you saying we can play again?”

“Ah shit, where is Big Blue?” one of them says.

Ginger grins and tells them, “She’s not with us today, or maybe she is behind you. You know how she is.”

The one who cussed looks around nervously, “Yeah, we know how she is, that is what has us worried. I guess you can go, next time, let us know you are in town will ya. We still owe you for teaching us how to make those Fuel-Air bombs. Mare those are impressive.”

Xochitl nods his head and tells him, “Yes, and they are only a few of the tricks of the trade. Now, aren’t you glad you worked with us last time we came through here?”

I see them look at each other and they nod their heads. "Yeah, you were fun to work with. I still want to meet the pony that taught you how to make them things,” The one they call Kindling says.

Xochitl grins, “Well he is stationed back home in Manesville in the NCR, so sorry. But he learned a lot of those tricks from some ghoul buddies of his.”

They continue to banter back and forth for a bit then finally Tinder tells us, “Ya go on through. Seriously Chotil, Gin, and Pona, let us know when you are here. It avoids such misunderstandings.”

Ginger then tells him, “Ok, we will keep that in mind. Oh and if Big Blue has a job for ya sometime, would you be up for it?”

They look at each other, then Tinder answers, “Possibly, as long as it does not cause us and the gang a problem with the LC heads. Don’t need the Reapers, the Zodiacs, or even the Brood coming down on us.”

Ginger nods her head with a serious expression on her face. “Tinder, that sounds good and makes sense. OH, just so you know we will be in town for a while, if you see any of us, or those with us, I am not asking you to give them a hoof, but how about not giving up grief either.”

They look at each other and Kindling says, “Deal, we will pass the word with the others. Just keep Big Blue away from us.”

Ginger grins at them and tells him, “Ok, sounds good. See you around, and try to keep out of trouble.”

Then I hear one of them say, “Ah, but where is the fun in that.”

Soon we are on our way and back at the hotel. As we enter the hotel lobby, I am surprised by Magpie and Badger greeting us and she tells Purple Haze, “Ma’am a few hours ago we received a message from the First Citizen out in Elysium.” She then hooves it to Purple who opens it and reads it silently.

When she is finished with it, I see her eyebrow has gone up and she grins as she says, “Ok, we all have an initial meeting in three days. At Elysium.”

As she says this, I see Badger cringe slightly and I put a hoof on him and ask, “Are you alright dear?”

He nods his head and tells me, “Yeah, it's just the last time I was there, was the day I received the scars on my back and decided to make a run for it.” He is silent briefly then he continues, “It is just hard going back there, but you know how that is.”

I sigh and think back to Two Step. “Yeah, yeah I know how it is dear,” I tell him as I see Magpie do the same from his other side. We then head back to our suite and begin to talk about our upcoming meetings.

When we finally go to the formal meeting with the First Citizen, we take our entire herd. Not just the adults, but also our foals. The Repair Ponies are all in their unofficial uniforms of all black as they escort us through the streets.

Once we arrive at the gates of the formal country club, I am stunned to see the fields being worked so well. I see fresh fruit as well as vegetables being harvested. I can feel my mouth get moist when I see and smell the strawberries growing just inside the grounds to one side. The guard at the gate stops us and asks us, “Who are you ponies?”

Purple Haze steps up and says, “Excuse me, but here is our invitation from the First Citizen.”

He takes the letter and envelope from her and reads it. I smile as his lips move with the words he is reading. Then he looks up and says, “Hold on a minute while I call my superiors.”

When he uses that word, I notice Badger’s eyes begin to half close and his ears begin to go back. Sumac is right next to him and puts a hoof on his side. Then I hear Shadowbuck ask, “Hey Dad, what’s wrong?”

I hear Badger sigh as his ears begin to go forward again. He then tells his son, “Sorry son, just some bad memories from when I was a foal here.”

“Dad, you lived here as a foal?” Shadowbuck asks.

As he nods his head, I look up and I see the stallion we had talked to on the train approaching us with two more security guards. They stop in front of all of us and the older gray stallion says, “Welcome to Elysium, the hub of the Society and its farms.” He looks at all of us and then adds, “It is very nice to see all of you again,” He pauses and sees Raven by her mother and adds, “Especially you young mare.”

I see her practically beam at being remembered like that and I am fascinated to see her curtsey and tell him, “Thank you, sir.”

Then he looks at his pastern watch and says, “AH, we need to hurry so we are not late for tea. Please, everypony follow me.”

As we go in, I notice all three of Windy’s children are flying just above the ground. I suppress a smile when I notice Rain Dancer has his tail hanging low enough it can wrap with Millie’s.

As we continue on, I hear Upper Crust continue to talk, primarily to Badger. I notice that Purple Haze at first is irritated by this, but then I see her irritation change to curiosity as they continue.

“So, Badger, after our conversation on the train the other day I decided that I needed to make some inquiries for you concerning your mother. I do hope you do not mind.”

I see a minor look of irritation on Badger’s face but he just shakes his head and says, “No, not at all. I am just surprised that you took such an interest in me is all.”

Upper Crust smiles and tells me, “Well, I had heard a version of this tale many years ago from my wife. She once had a son named Honey Badger who ran away and she never knew what happened to him.” He pauses and takes a quick side look at Badger and then adds, “My wife’s name is Honeysuckle. That would not have happened to have been your mother’s name would it?”

I watch as Badger stops dead in his tracks and stares at the stallion briefly and he answers in a hoarse voice, “Yeah, that was mom's real name.”

The stallion then asks, “So you really are Honey?”

I watch as my husband surprises all of us and slowly nods his head. I just thought he did not like it when I used the pet name Honey for him. Now I understand why he acted so weird. Finally, he says, “Is, is she here? Can I see her? I want her to meet her daughters-in-law and our children.”

Upper Crust smiles and tells him, “She will be at the luncheon as will be your brother, Honeycreeper.”

I see Badger have a tear in his eye that he quickly wipes away and he says, “I really would like that.”

“Ok, then,” as we enter the doors to a long chamber that is fancily decorated, he says, “They are waiting in the day room. We will meet them there and have lunch. After lunch, the First Citizen will meet with Purple Haze and her contingent. He pauses and turns to look at Purple and tells her, “Please forgive us for having everyone attend, but it was my idea so that my family could be reunited.”

I see Purple smile as she tells him, “No sir, I understand entirely, as I am related indirectly to them so they are my family as well.”

Once we enter the day room, I notice a mare to one side who is in a wheelchair with a ghoul servant that she is talking to. But right before us is a mare that is about 10 years older than Sumac. She has a gray coat as well as a brilliant yellow mane and tail. I can not help but smile at the Honeysuckle flower on her flank and I see both her and my husband tear up as they slowly approach each other. Finally, she sits down and holds out her forehooves, and says, “Honey Badger, my little colt, you have grown up.”

He slowly and carefully hugs her back. I see him draw in her scent and she, his. Then I hear him say, “Mom, it has been so long. I am so sorry.”

From the side, I see another stallion who is a couple of years younger than Badger, with an off-white coat and orange mane and tail, say, “So this is really him Ma?”

She nods her head as she continues to hug her long-lost son. “Yes Honeycreeper, this is your long-lost brother. He has come home.”

Finally, the hug ends and Badger says, “Ma, first I want to introduce you to my spouses.”

I notice she is not surprised, but then I remember Upper Crust already knew about our family, so he must have prepared her for it.

Then I see all our family’s foals begin to step forward and I hear Woodrow say, “Grandma, it is so nice to actually meet you.” She is soon mobbed by the rest as they all come forward for a hug from a grandmother who had just refound her family.

Dear DJ Pon3

Today I have seen my mother for the first time in thirty years, the prodigal colt has returned home. I have done much I am not proud of but I have found I have done much that has made her proud of me. For years I was afraid I had shamed her or that I had abandoned her, even though she was in my heart. With this in mind, could you please play for my mother You Can Never Do Wrong in a Mother's Eyes?

Thank you

Honey Badger, Captain, 2^nd Manesville Regiment (Airmobile)

I would like to thank KKat for creating the universe of FoE. With this chapter, I would particularly like to thank Somber for creating many of the locations and some of the characters we see in this chapter in his story of Project Horizons. Particularly Mega Mart, Elysium, as well as the gang known as the Burner Boys, who we see the first hoof.

7/21/2022 The artwork of Purchase and Epona kissing was done for me by Laura Sikes on commission. This is a new purchase and addition, for those reading or rereading this chapter, I hope you enjoy it also.

For those who are desiring to listen to this chapter's dedication song, the YouTube link is: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mios6634U0E