"The truth of the matter is that you always know the right thing to do. The hard part is doing it." - Robert H. Schuller

When Badger and I arrive at Sumac’s, Magpie and Sumac are just finishing up clearing dinner off the table. Ginger opens the door for us. This time, she is not playing butler.

“Hi Ginger, how are you tonight dear?”

“Hi, Mollygirl, Hi Badger, Granny Sumac says to come in.”

Once we enter Sumac asks us right away, “Have you two kids had supper yet?”

We both admit that we haven’t, so she goes and gets some of the leftovers out of the kitchen as Magpie gets us both plates. Both sit down and talk with us as we eat. Ginger has gone off to the other room to do some homework.

“Now kids, I have no problem with you getting married here tomorrow, but we do not have the supplies laid in for a good celebration afterward.” Sumac starts off.

“Ma, we understand that We just want to share this with you, Xavier, and his family and it is as close to having Ivy and Epona here with us as we can,” I tell her.

“Ah, that I can understand. It has been a long time since we had a wedding here. I'll have a couple of the neighbors come with instruments to play for us both at the ceremony and after. If the weather is bad, I guess we could hold the dance in the barn. Pigpen said he has some good homebrew he will gladly bring as a wedding present.”

Badger smiles at Ma, “That would be fine Ma, we do not want anything too fancy. I would love to see Pigpen and their whole gang over here for it. Speaking of guests, Ma,” he looks kind of uncomfortable bringing this up but plows on through, ‘We have a special guest that we would like to invite, but we would not dream of it, without your consent.”

“Now, you know I would not mind most guests unless it is those dang Waters. They are bad enough as is, but after what their daughter Tar Water up and did,”

“No, Ma, it isn’t them. In fact, she is not a cow or pony.” He tells her.

“Well then, what is she? A griffon, a ghoul? What?” Sumac asks in a confused tone.

Then I tell her, “Ma we would like to invite our friend George, she is a dragon.”

I watch as first confusion, then doubt, then after looking back and forth between me and Badger, her jaw drops open. Finally, she replies, “Well, when you kids do something, you do not do it by halves, that’s for sure,” She laughs slightly, “This will be the talk of the town for a while. Not like having Xavier and his family has not caused enough already. Heck if anyone has a problem with them, maybe this will keep ‘em from bothering us again.”

All three of us look at her and at the same time ask “Again?”

“Oh yeah, a couple of weeks back some folk came around trying to tell me that they should not be here and that you can never trust a zebra or zebra lovers. It ended really quick when I pulled out ol’ Bessy, my departed husband's 10-gauge double-barrel shotgun,” she tells us with a smile and a chuckle.

“So that’s a yes, right Ma?” I ask.

She looks me in the eyes and smiles. “That is a yes dear, I am surprised this is so important to you, after all, you only met her a couple of days ago.”

“Ma, after today,” I stop myself, I do not want to worry her or Magpie.

“Mollygirl, what are you not telling me and Ma?” Magpie demands.

“Today, while flying we had a run-in with a flight of armored Pegasi. She took a couple of minor hits, but we beat them. George, Em, and I worked as a team. It was close though, real close.” I say with my ears at the side of my head, and looking down at my front hooves on the table.

With her eyes wide I see the nervous look on Magpie’s face. “Mollygirl, how close really?”
“Mags, just some damaged barding, singed manes and tails for me and Em, but George had a back scale burned through as well as the tip of one horn burnt off. I felt bad for Emerado, after all today was her wedding day.”

“Did you get to see the ceremony you two? How did Shadowbuck take it?” Ma asks.

“Yes, we did get to see it, George and Shadowbuck were with us,” I tell her. What did everypony know about Bullet and Shadowbuck but me?

Finally, as we finished eating Badger looks at Sumac, “Would it be alright if we were to go out and talk to Ivy and Pona for a bit? Neither of us has gotten a chance to yet.”

Sumac chokes up a bit, I see a tear in her eye, “Yes, please do kids, I should go out myself. I have not been to the family cemetery in a while.”

After we clear the table, all four of us head out to the cemetery We find the shared grave of Ivy and Epona. I see several bottle caps on top of the grave marker, left by fellow members of the defense force who have visited her grave. I fall to my knees crying, Badger trying to comfort me as he is in tears also. Sumac holding onto Magpie too. I hear a scream like an animal in pain. I have no idea where it is coming from, then I realize that it is coming from me. They all help me get back up and walk me back inside. I miss them both so much.

As we get back inside Ginger comes up to me and hugs me. “I know how you feel Auntie Mollygirl it’s ok. I feel the same way. I want to hurt those who did this to us and them just as bad.”

How can she be so young and sweet at times, yet have such wisdom I wonder? “Thank you, Ginger, I really appreciate it,” I tell her as I start to piece myself back together. I need to be strong, but Goddesses it hurts still.

I look at Sumac, “My only wish is that she could have been here too. At least Dusty got a chance to marry her buck before something bad could happen to either of them.”

Ginger looks up, “I missed my big sissy getting married?” I see the disappointment in her face as well as hear it in her voice.

“Yes, but only because they would not allow most civilians into the Stable. That is why we did not do it there.”

Upon hearing that she nods her head, “Ok, that makes sense, Is he nice? Will I like him as a big brother?”

I smile at her, “Has Xochitl ever told you about Chance, the buck who helped to rescue him and his family?”

She nods, “Uh-huh.”

“That is who Dusty married today.”

She smiles. “I am sure I will like him then."

As the night wears on we continue to talk, then it is Ginger’s time for bed. Sumac looks at us, “Magpie slept in the front bedroom last night, feel free to all use it tonight. I am going to call it a night myself.” She comes over and gives each of us a hug and a kiss on the cheek, which we all return. Then she and Ginger head upstairs.

The three of us go to the front room. We take off our uniforms and climb into bed. Badger takes one side, and I the other, Magpie in the middle. We both begin by nibbling on her neck and caressing our little mare. We smile at each other and I look at Badger, “How’s this for the last night as a bachelor?” I ask.

He smiles back, “So far, so good, but I will let you know fully in the morning love.” And the next thing I know they are both on me and I am the center of attention for a bit. We all take turns that way. It will be a long day tomorrow, but so worth it tonight. Life may not be perfect, but it can still be good.

We wake in the morning to the smell of breakfast being prepared, shortly before my alarm goes off. I spend the extra few minutes just cuddling and enjoying the feel of the two other ponies in bed with me. Then suddenly it is death from above as I see Ginger leap into the air, “I see your eyes are open, prepare to receive my wrath, you filthy pirates!” Not what I was expecting but I have to admit it does get me to smile as I reach out to catch her and call back to her, “That’s what you think you filthy sea dog!” as I bring her to land gently on the bed and start to tickle her.

Then I hear Ma calling “Ginger, I said to wake them for breakfast, not to repel boarders, now leave them alone dear.”

“Ahhh, Granny, but we were playing.”

“I know dear, but you need to get ready for school. Badger, Mollygirl, you need to get ready to head back to the stable. Mags, could you be a dear and help me around here today?”

“Sure Ma, give me a minute and I will be there,” Magpie replies as she stretches and gets out of bed. Once she is up, I move so that Badger can also get up and get ready. Badger grumbles something as he heads out of the room while Magpie and I finish making the bed.

As Mags and I enter the kitchen I see Badger standing at the counter drinking a cup of tea while Ginger is eating her oatmeal. Just in time to hear him ask Ginger, “So what was your homework about for today?”

“Because all the kids are talking about getting their cutie marks or ear tags, our teacher wanted us to talk to one of our parents, or an adult in our house to find out how they got their cutie marks and then write a report about it and to name something we learned from it.”

“I did not hear you talk to anyone last night, so how did you do it?”

“Uncle Badger, I remembered how you got yours, So I told about yours.”

I see he looks a little uncomfortable about that, but he says nothing about it, “And what did you say you learned from it?”

“I said I learned that sometimes what we are doing when we get our cutie mark isn’t always something that makes us happy and that we should not hurry to get ours.” She tells him.

At this I see him smile, “That is good Ginger, too many do realize that. I am really glad you remembered it.”

Magpie goes and sits next to Ginger while I go and get us both a cup of hot water and tea leaves. After I get them ready, I bring one to her and sit across from her at the table. Ma brings both of us a bowl of oatmeal with raw carrots cut up in it. I never had it that way before but for some reason, it really hits the spot. Ma just smiles at Mags and I as we quickly devour it.

As we are eating Badger sits down and Sumac brings him a bowl with some blueberries mixed in. As he eats it, I see the pleasure he takes in each bite.

“I am so glad you kids are enjoying your breakfast. Now Badger, Mollygirl, you two need to get along to work, Epon…, Ginger, you need to get heading out to school. Besides, Magpie and I have a lot to do today to get everything ready for tonight, ok kids.”

“Alright ma, your right, but just to make sure, it is ok for George to come, right?” I ask.

“Yes dear, I would like to meet her. She sounds very interesting.”

As Badger and I head back to the stable, we are escorted part of the way by Ginger and Xochitl. Shortly before we part ways Ginger asks, “Auntie Mollygirl, will my mom come and see me tonight?”

“I hope so dear; I am sure she will if she can,” I tell her.

“Thanks, Auntie Mollygirl. Oh, and do you think I could ride a dragon someday too? I mean I would love to fly like my hero Daring-Do. I mean I am not a pegasus, so I bet riding a dragon would be almost as good.”

“Perhaps little one, but remember, you would have to have their permission. They are as much a person as anypony else.” I tell her.

She seems a little crestfallen and Xochitl bumps her on the shoulder and tells her, “Do not worry, I am sure if we cannot find a dragon to let us ride, we will find a way. You’re a smart pony Ginger.”

Badger just listens quietly as we walk with a smile on his face. I can see he is just enjoying it. When we part ways with them, he tells them, “Have a good day and study hard. I will see you both tonight.”

We make it back to the stable just in time for formation. During formation, they give us the updated information that has been picked up over the radio frequencies and from our scouts. We hear about the atrocity of Friendship City by the Enclave. They also let us know that DJ Pon3 was back on the air last night with the Resistance radio. The last helped to brighten the spirits of the troopers some, as it did not take long for any of us to tire of the Enclave propaganda, and what they call music.

After formation Badger and I, both make sure we invite our friends. I see Bullet and Emerado along with Shadowbuck all looking tired and happy. I have to smile as I remember hearing Em call him Bucky yesterday. I never thought I would hear him referred to in that manner. I also notice Dusty and Chance, they seem to be almost in heaven.

Em and I spend most of the morning working with Horns on the plans for the expedition. We have chosen three troops of the regiment as well as one platoon of engineers, the artillery section, and the quartermaster unit. We are looking at a jump-off of eight days if everything goes as planned. It will be heading out to cut between the extended elements of Red Eye’s Army around Hoofington from the main body. We need to hurt them as much as possible as far from the Co-op before they could turn their attention onto it.

The plan involves raiding those lines at various points. Blowing three bridges to hinder their movements. If successful we will continue on with a campaign of harassment, raids, and ambushes, usually using a single company to perform the main attack with the others in reserve.

Yet in the back of my mind, the thought keeps creeping in of what about the Enclave? After getting reports of fighting at New Appaloosa, I could only wonder, how long before it is us in the crosshairs, and what had they used to defeat four Raptors?

When lunch comes, I notice that George has not come back yet. I have to admit that I am worried about my friend, but I may have to check on her before we go to the wedding. I mean if I am a bit late, they can not start without me, can they? I better ask Badger to wait if that happens.

I meet Badger in the mess hall. I have to say; I am tickled pink that they have raw carrots available today. I do not know why, but I have a stronger craving for them than normal lately. I see my intended smile when I mention it to him.
“You know Mollygirl, I had a very similar discussion with Magpie just the other day after you left for the stable. If I didn’t know better, I would swear…” Just then our discussion is interrupted by a call on my PipBuck for me notifying me that my presence was requested at the stable entrance.

“Sorry to interrupt you hon, but I really gotta go. I will see you later,” I tell him as I get up and give him a quick kiss on the cheek.

I am met at the stable door by Emerado, Horn, and Major Star Burst. “Thank you for getting here so quickly. I figured you would want to be here when they bring in the prisoner,” The major tells us.

“Yes ma’am, what prisoner?”

“One of the flyers you took down yesterday. We captured her just before a Search and Rescue Vertibuck could find her.” She tells me.

I see several of the members of Troop K, the Kow Kritters, dragging a travois with a wounded pegasus on it. I know a couple of them. “Hey troopers, how’d it go for you?” I ask.

“A bit rougher than the normal SAR missions, but we got her,” Replies a bovine sergeant I know named Buttercup.

“What happened?”

“Just as we got her loaded on the travois, A friggin Vertibuck shows up. They were not going to give up on trying to recover her. We lost a couple of troopers, but they backed off when we took out the co-pilot. That only took an AM gun to pierce the windscreen. More fun than I like to have I can tell you Mollygirl.”

The major looks at them, “Good job bringing her back. We will need to get her down to Medical. I already have the surgeons on notice to be ready.”

I look down at her, I see several pieces of her armor, including her helmet, have been removed. I see where one of her legs has two holes in it near the knee she also has a similar wound near the base of the wing root. She is almost panting for breath. She slowly lifts her head, “Please, if they are going to have to remove my wing, just kill me. Please.”

I look at her, “Don’t worry, we will do everything we can to ensure you keep it.”
I see her breathing begin to slow as her panic subsides or she just becomes too exhausted. I look at the team, “We better get her moving, I do not think we have time to wait for the medics.”

Halfway to Medical, we are met by the stable trauma team. We keep moving her as they start to prep her, making an assessment of the wounds. One grabs the prisoner’s PipBuck, pushes a couple of buttons on it, and calls on her own to let the surgeons and the rest of the team know what they will need to have prepped and what the injuries truly entail.

Once at Medical, the unicorns on the team levitate her from the travois and carry her over to the operating table. We are then dismissed by the medical team. The troopers from K troop head on back to their squad bays. Horns and I stick around waiting to hear the results of the surgery.

After a couple of hours, I start to get nervous. I do not want to be late for my own wedding. Finally, after three and a half hours the head surgeon comes and reports to us. “Looks like she is out of the woods. It was a close one, but she should make it. We were able to save the wing; her leg is still borderline though. Another couple of hours and the infections from the bullets would have caused us to have to amputate both. We will see in a couple of days. We have her sedated for now.”

“Thank you, Doctor, I appreciate it. We will be keeping her under guard during her recovery.” Horns tells him. I look over and see one of the stable security officers standing there, next to him is one of the artillery cows. I had not thought about it, I guess that is how they are rotating them a bit.

I look at the time, “Ok Horns, I will head back and report to the Major, after that I plan on getting cleaned up and heading to Sumac’s.”

He smiles at me.” I understand Mollygirl, no problem. I will try and make it if I can. If so, save a dance for me tonight,” he tells me with a smile.

Oh, my, I forgot about that tradition of the bride dancing with the guests too, “I will make sure to do that Horns. I will see you there.” I am off and running after that.

I give my report to the Major as we go, I finally get back to my stall to clean up and change. When I get there, I find Nugget is already in the room. She is just sitting there in the corner, listening to music on her PipBuck.

As I walk in the door, she looks up at me. “Oh, Hi Mollygirl, good to see you again. Sorry about last night and not making it out to see Ginger. Last night I spent some time with Dusty and Chance. Then I decided I needed to find the bottom of a bottle.”

I stop what I am doing. This is not like her at all. “Nugget, are you ok?”

She looks at me with a sad haunted expression. “Mollygirl, I spent two weeks in the Hoof. No, I am not alright. The shit that is going on down there. My Goddesses Moll, I can’t even wrap my head around it all. That Security pony, I saw her and her crew in action at a distance, she has earned every bit of praise. I can not understand how ponies can live down there like that. On the other hoof, I did get to see the Mega Mart when we visited there with the Major. I found a couple of nice things to pick up for Ginger and Dusty.”

I look back at her, I can understand how she feels to a point. After the last month, I could use a good drink myself, but I can barely stomach the taste right now. I just smile at her, “I’m glad that you could get them something nice, I hope you found something for you too.”

“Nah, what’s the point. Look at me Mollygirl, I am a wreck, and with this job, how much longer do you think I can last. The only thing keeping me going right now is Ginger, I am planning on going out to Sumac’s to see her tonight.”

I smile, “Nugget, that would mean more to her than you realize. She really misses you. She told me this morning on the way back.”

She looks at me kind of funny, “You and Ivy an item now?” Then she sees the pain in my face, the tears being fought back.

“We were, as well as Magpie and Badger. Nugget, I hate to tell you this, but Ivy, well Ivy and Epona were both murdered.” I tell her through the tears I am fighting back. Her face drops.

“Oh, My Goddesses, and nobody told me. I am so sorry Mollygirl, I know she was your best friend.”

“Nuggs, it is ok, I am just still trying to deal with it. If she were still alive, she would be getting married to me, Magpie and Badger today. Ginger has taken it pretty hard losing her sissy too.”

“Damn it, I am so sorry Molly, I did not mean to make you cry on your wedding day.”

“It, ok, Nugget, but would you please come to Sumac’s tonight, we are getting married there. I know Ginger really could use having her mom come and see her. She loves you Nugget, and she needs her mother.”

“Sure Molly, I would really like to be there for you as well as for Ginger. I have missed that little filly. Now you better get ready so you are not late. I will have to straighten myself up a bit too.”

I finish getting ready and have my best uniform ready to go when I get a message from Em on the PipBuck. "Come to the backdoor, George wants to see you.”

I grab my stuff and head for the back door of the stable. There I find Emerado and Shadowbuck as well as Bullet and Badger all waiting with George for me. “Hi guys” I call as I approach.

Badger comes over and gives me a hug, then I look up and see George smiling at me. “Hi, Mollygirl, I am sorry I am late today but I had a couple of things I wanted to pick up today as well as I finished a couple of extra harnesses. Badger has already been given the extra harness so in a bit we can fly out to Sumac’s. She and Magpie said it would be fine to carry you both there for the wedding today.

I look over and see a bit of unease on Badger’s face, but he nods his head yes. So, Badger and I put on our harnesses as the others help George with hers. I look up and see the look of surprise on Nugget's face as she watches from the balcony above. I guess things really have changed since she was gone. I wonder what she thinks of this.

We finish getting ready and walk outside, Nugget has joined us at this point. I overhear her telling Bullet, “Ok, it seems a lot of weird shit has happened here too while I was gone, will someone fill me in on the way to Sumac’s farm please?”

Bullet just chuckles a bit, “Sure Nugget, we can do that, on the way.”

After making sure that Badger has his harness attached properly and him double-checking mine, George takes off and we fly toward the south first for a bit, then she adjusts our course and we head to Sumac’s. I look back at Badger, he is just looking around at the sky and the ground. He seems kind of amused. “So, what do you think Love?” I yell back to him.
He smiles and yells back “Not too bad, almost like being at sea.”

I look forward and see George smiling also. I think she really is enjoying this too. After a short flight, we land at the farm. Once we get down, I walk over to George, “Thank you, George, I really appreciate it,” and I give her a hug.

“Your welcome Mollygirl, but that is not my present to you. That is inside already.”

I am suddenly wondering how she knew where Sumac lived and had talked to her and Magpie. “George, when did you get to meet Magpie and Sumac?”

She looks down at me, “Oh, this morning, they found my cave. We had a really nice conversation over tea. They are both such nice mares. They even called into the cave first to see if I was home and if they could come in. That is such a novelty to me.”

“I am really glad you enjoyed their company than George. They are both parts of my family and I am so glad you fit in with them.”

Badger who is now standing next to me looks up at George, “Thanks George, I appreciate the lift, I never have had a chance to fly before.”

George looks at him with a smile, “Oh, does that mean you want to be an alternate flight crew member? I mean in case one of the mares gets pregnant or hurt?”

He smiles back at her “Maybe, George, maybe, we will have to see. But thank you again. Now I need to go get changed.” With that, he heads into the house.

Just as I am getting ready to head into the house, I see Ginger and Xochitl come running up the path at a gallop, Ginger yelling, “Oh my gosh, Oh my gosh, Oh my gosh, a real Dragon!”

Behind her, I hear Xochitl yelling at her “Ginger, mind your manners. Remember to be polite.”

She skids to a sliding stop in front of George and me. “Hi Auntie Mollygirl, can I meet your friend?” she says with wide eyes.

“Sure dear, I will introduce both you and Xochitl to her.”

I turn around “George, these two youngsters are Ginger and Xochitl. Ginger is Dusty’s little sister. Xochitl lives here in the hired hooves house with his father Xavier and his mother Persimmon Tree, I do not know if you have met them yet.” I then turn around to face the children, "Ginger, Xochitl, this is my friend George.”

Simultaneously they both call out “Hi George, it is a pleasure to meet you.” I could not have planned that.

George smiles back at them “It is nice to meet you too.” And she gives them both a brief wave of her claw.

“Now you two behave and do not harass George, please. I have to go get changed. George, I am going to open the window to the room so we can talk if you like,” I tell her as I head inside.

I am just getting in the door when I hear Ginger ask George, “Can I touch your scales, they look so pretty.” I do not hear the answer but when I get upstairs to change and open the bedroom window, I see both Ginger and Xochitl climbing on George's back and hear all three giggling. A dragon who likes foal sitting, who knew?

As I look out, I also see Badger and Xavier setting up chairs in the yard for our guests. I see Persimmon Tree and Sumac coming in from the barn. It looks like a table is set up in there for refreshments following the ceremony. I still have a hard time believing it’s real.

Finally, I am finished getting ready. Sumac comes up and tells me to wait a couple of minutes yet as Badger has just come upstairs to get cleaned up and changed also. As I wait, I see most of the Door Kickers have arrived. I also see several of the Headquarters staff and our other friends and neighbors arrive.

I hadn't realized so many would actually come. I bet they just want to make sure it actually happens after all of the rumors. I also find it funny how many of our guests, due to being in service, as well as the recent events, have come armed. It reminds me of the jokes about the shotgun weddings from the old days. At least Magpie and I are not pregnant for this right. At that thought, again my hoof finds itself rubbing my belly. I am learning to accept it will never happen, at least without a miracle.

Then Sumac comes and gets me she leads me to the barn where I meet Bullet, also in his dress uniform, and Magpie. She is wearing the blue gingham dress that I love so much on her, along with a light straw hat, with a small vail on it. Bullet stands between both of us. I look up and see Badger standing on the porch with Whiskey next to him. I also see both Padre and the Bull that officiated at yesterday’s weddings in the stable. On one side of the porch I see Emerado in her full uniform, on the other I see Pages in a pretty pink and white skirt waiting to be the maid and matron of honor for Mags and me.

Also, in the barn behind us are Xochitl and Ginger, both carrying a basket of flowers. Just outside the door, I see George sitting there watching everyone. Everything seems so perfect. Celestia and Luna, please do not let anything mess this up.

Pigpen and his family begin to play their instruments, Then Bullet nudges me and he escorts both Me and Magpie up the aisle that has been formed by the chairs to the porch. Ginger and Xochitl are following behind us. I can not believe how nervous I am. Out of the corner of my eye, I see both Bullet and Magpie smiling.

Halfway there I notice Kicker and her family. They are seated next to Horns and his. There are so many calves and foals here. Behind them are Dusty, Chance, and Nugget. Behind me, I hear an excited squeak from Ginger. On the other side, I see Magda as well as several of the Librarians. I also see Memory sitting next to Xavier and Persimmon Tree.

As we proceed, I am stunned to see the Colonel sitting in the back row with his wife next to Captain Abby, Archer, and Stitches. All of them are watching me and Mags as we walk. I have to smile when I see both Woofer and Tweeter fly up to the porch roof and look down over the edge at us.

Finally, we make it to the steps. Only three of them Mollygirl, only three, I tell myself all the while hoping I do not trip. Once on the porch, I swing to Badger's right side and Magpie glides to his left. The attendants step back as we all step up next to each other in front of Padre. Then he begins.

“Friends, Family, Herdmates, we are gathered together here today to join in mare-trimony Badger, Magpie, and Mollygirl. While theirs is a relationship that is unusual by many of our standards, its structure is not fully without precedent. Before the three portions of Ponykind banded together, oftentimes the family structure would be made up of more than one mare and their stallion. During difficult times this allowed them to depend on more than just one other member. This allowed them to thrive. However, it is not always an easy path to follow either. It takes a special bond to make it work. Before we can find love, that allows this bond, we must find friendship. When love and friendship are strong enough it creates a family. When families join together in their common interests, we find our herds. Each level builds upon and strengthens the others. It is in this spirit that I ask our fellow herd member, the leader of the local Bovine chapel, Ahimsa to speak.”

I watch as the bull steps forward. “Friends, neighbors, fellow herdmates. I thank you for allowing me to partake in this ceremony. Padre has spoken well of this joining of souls. I would like to offer my blessings upon it from myself and our cattle community. May the Goddess Sweetcream always smile upon and grant you her favors as well as those of Celestia and Luna. May your love always be sweet, and may your families be rich in health and joy.” He moves his hoof in a quick motion again, I do not see exactly what it is. “Padre, if you would, please finish the ceremony,” and then he steps back out of the way.

Padre steps forward again, Now is the moment of truth, “Badger, do you take Magpie and Mollygirl to be your mares?”

There is a brief pause, it seems to take so long, but he answers very seriously, “I do.”

“Magpie, do you take Badger to be your Stallion and Mollygirl to be your sistermare?”

Again, I hear a pause, before she replies “I do.”

Finally, Padre looks at me, “Mollygirl, do you take Badger to be your stallion and Magpie to be your sistermare?”

I quickly reply “I do.” Only then do I hear both Magpie and Badger let go of the breath they too were holding.

Finally, Padre looks at us, “I now pronounce you stallion and mares. Congratulations.”

We all three turn to our friends and family and together begin our new life as we walk side by side between our friends, family, and those we consider our herd, back to the barn to start the reception. It is then that I notice that the squad, as well as the Colonel and Archer, have formed a column on both sides behind the aisle, and before the barn, as we approach, I hear the Colonel give the commands, "Prepare to draw Sabers; Draw sabers! With the sound of metal upon metal, I see them draw them and bring them to their shoulders. Then I hear the command “Form Arch,” and they bring their sabers forward and roll them over to form an arch above our heads that we walk through. As we reach the end of the arch the last two block our way with their sabers. Archer is on Magpie's side and Saber on mine.

Archer then tells us “The brides must pay the toll of a kiss, first.” We both give a kiss on the cheek to the saber holder blocking us, then they raise their sabers. As we pass Archer takes his saber, and with the flat lightly swats Magpie on her flank. “Welcome to the CDF family,” he tells her with a smile. I love that tradition; you can always tell the ones who have never been to a military wedding with that one.

We then continue on. As we do, I notice two little scamps who are flying just above us, Memory is looking scandalized by their behavior and I hear Xochitl and Ginger giggle as they trot along behind us. Once we get to the barn door, the three of us stop and both Magpie and I kiss Badger at the same time, much to his surprise. Then we enter the barn and begin the festivities.

Pig Pen, Wheat Seed, Plower, and Dirt Clod take their instruments into the barn and begin to play. I see Ma is over by the table for the refreshments and the cake making sure everything is in order. As everyone comes in the three of us greet them and shake hooves or give hugs. It makes me realize how many friends we really have.

After a while, we cut the cake. Persimmon Tree along with Ma’s neighbor Waffles had worked together to bake a good-sized carrot cake for it. Ma is also making sure to issue out the homebrew that Pig Pen and family brought so that everyone of age can get some. I saw her catch Ginger at least once trying to get some.

Looking out the barn door I am amused to see Ginger and Xochitl playing with Woofers and Tweeters as well as several other calves, fillies, and colts, with George looking on, herself amused and smiling. Nugget is sitting outside talking with Persimmon Tree about the kids.

Once the dancing begins the real fun starts for me. It starts out with Badger and Magpie doing a slow dance that shifts to Badger and me, and finally Magpie and me. After this, we start to dance with others at the reception. I know I see the Colonel dancing with Magpie at least twice and I get to dance with Archer and to my surprise Horns. Badger it seems has his dance card filled also with dances shared with Pages, Stitches, Captain Abby, Horn’s wife, and so many others. The dances vary from some of the typical one-on-one partner dances such as waltzes to reels involving large groups together. I swear I dance with almost every male there, as well as a few mares and cows. It is such a wonderful time.

During one of my breaks from dancing I go outside to catch a breath of air and to talk with George. I see most of my old squad has migrated up the hill to the family cemetery. They are gathered around Ivy and Epona’s grave and are sharing a drink together as well as singing. Most of them have not had time to visit her grave yet, and this is their way of sharing in our joy, but also in sharing ours and their grief. I smile. I love them all, they are family, even if not blood. I look over at Badger and get his attention, he looks and nods and grabs a bottle of Old Overmare from the table. I go over and get Magpie's attention and ask her if she would like to join us. The three of us quietly join those in the cemetery.

Badger opens the bottle and throws away the top. He holds it up and gives the toast that means so much to us “To lost loves lost family and fallen comrades.” He drinks and passes the bottle.

When it comes back to me, I give the traditional toast of “To the Regiment.” I drink and pass the bottle around.

This time Magpie stops it, “For Friends, For Family, For Herd.” She drinks, then passes the bottle and when it comes back this time, I hear Badger begin to sing:

Come over the hills, my sweet pony mare
Come over the hills to your darling
You choose the rose, love, and I'll make the vow
And I'll be your true love forever.

The rest of us then join in the chorus

Red is the rose that in yonder garden grows
Fair is the lily of the valley
Clear is the water that flows through Whitetail Wood
But my love is fairer than any.

We continue to sing in this manner for the entire song, Part of it is in sadness, but a part is a joy and the shared bond we all have. It was one of Ivy’s favorites.

‘Tis not for the parting with my sister Kite
‘Tis not for the loss of my dear mother
'Tis all for the loss of my sweet pony mare
That my heart is breaking forever.

Red is the rose that in yonder garden grows
Fair is the lily of the valley
Clear is the water that flows through Whitetail Wood
But my love is fairer than any.

After this song, the three of us excuse ourselves and go back to the barn, and the rest of our guests.

As the night goes on our guests start to leave. We say goodbye and goodnight to them as they go. Some ask if they can spend the night in the barn or on the porch. George has already been granted, by Ma permission to sleep in the barn for the night. Ma has given us the main house to sleep in for the night and takes Ginger to sleep down at the hired hoofs house with Xavier and his family.

As the three of us prepare to spend the first night as a married family together we can still hear some of our friends and family outside singing. This certainly puts a new twist on things by being serenaded while we consummate our marriage. I am such a lucky mare. Today was a really, really, good day.

I awake in the morning cuddled up with my two favorite ponies, Can I say that still? I mean we are married now, so do I have to just say, my husband and wife? Of course, I love the way that sounds too. I can hardly believe it is real. My body does let me know though, time to get up.

In the kitchen, I can hear someone making noise. I find ma cooking a very large breakfast.

“Morning Ma, I know it was a big day yesterday, but I do not think Magpie, Badger, and I are going to be able to eat all that.”

She laughs lightly, “Mollygirl, it’s not just for you. A couple of the 1st Squad are still outside on the porch trying to wake up, as well as some of our other guests from last night. I figured I better make something for everypony, so at least they have something in them before getting back to the stable, or heading home.”

I look at my PipBuck and see the time, oh no, we overslept, “Badger, we are late, time to get up, grab something to eat, and go.”

From the other room, I hear him, “Oh shit, sorry Mags, I gotta go quick, we’re late!”

I look out on the porch and see Pearl, and Woodrow just waking up. “Rise and Shine darlings, we’re late, Ma’s got hot tea and breakfast ready, time to grab it and go,” I call to them.

I look over and see George in the barn smiling. She is holding up her harness as well as mine and the spare Badger used yesterday on the way there. I look over at Badger, “You ready to fly to work?”

I see his jaw drop, “Are you serious Mollygirl, what about the others?”

“Let’s ask George.” Before I leave the house, I run into the bedroom, and give Mags, a quick kiss and hug “I will see you tonight love.”

As I run out the door, I hear Mags call out “Love you too sweetheart,” This is quickly followed by her calling to Ma in the kitchen with a laugh “You owe me 5 bottle caps, I told you they both would oversleep.”

As I run up to George the others are still chewing on their breakfast as they assist George in putting on her harness. I am putting on mine as I see Badger give a quick kiss to Magpie on the porch and then he turns and runs to us. From Xavier’s house, I see the foals run outside to see what is happening. They start to laugh as Badger and I climb up onto George. Then she takes Pearl and Woodrow each under one of her front legs cradling them with her front claws as she starts to jog on her hind legs with her wings starting to flap and we take off.

Below me, I hear Ginger yelling, “My turn to fly next George, please, please, please.” As we start to gain altitude and head to the stable.

She flies us all as fast as she can, then to my surprise she starts to circle and then land at the end of the parade field with time to spare for formation. As she lands, she sets both Pearl and Woodrow down first, Woodrow is off like a shot to the Doorkickers, Pearl takes a minute to regain her composure. Then she slowly trots off. Badger and I unhook and jump down, we both forget about the harnesses. “Thanks, George, you saved us from a lot of trouble,” I tell her.

Badger right beside me agrees, “I can not say thank you enough George, on behalf of myself and Mollygirl as well as for Woodrow and Pearl. You are a lifesaver, George.”

She looks at both me and Badger. Quietly she tells us, “That was your wedding present from me. Sumac and Magpie were both afraid you would oversleep today and I told them I would make sure you were here in time.”

For once I am at a loss for words, Badger, on the other hoof, laughs lightly, “George, it was an excellent present, thank you,” he then turns and runs off to his place in the formation.

“Thanks again George, I better go, I will see you later, ok?”

“Ok, I am going to go grab a snack before our flight today. I will catch you inside.” She says as she turns and makes a running take-off for the short flight to the back door of the stable.

I then run over to the Headquarters company's position for formation. I hop into line next to Emerado, and without thinking raise my goggles up to see better. It is then I notice the Major staring at me, and the Colonel and several others trying not to laugh. Oh no, what did I just do? Emerado nudges me, “Next time remove the harness and goggles before getting into formation, oh and try not to land on the parade field.”

From across the formation, I can see a large portion of those assembled also trying not to laugh. Some seem to be stunned. I see Captain Abby shaking her head as she face-hoofs herself. Archer and his artillery crews on the other hoof just seem to smile. I guess if you are going to do something like this go big or go home. At least we were on time.

After Formation, we head back inside. We are going to have a full staff meeting for all the officers and senior enlisted in the HQ company. We go inside, I walk next to the railing on the balcony as I head to our area. I see so many faces, so many lives. How many trust us to make decisions that will determine if they live or die. I see George down below, she looks up, sees me, smiles, and waves then continues to eat another gem.

Once the meeting starts, I notice that there is a map on the wall. It shows where all the reported attacks from the Enclave have occurred so far. We get the full rundown on the attack on Friendship City.

“In light of these events, I will be calling up the local militia units for temporary active service. We will commence training them for firearms use and small unit tactics. They are to be a reserve, I do not want to throw half-trained civilians into a fight if we do not have to,” The Colonel tells us.

I see Horn’s raise a hoof, the Colonel nods toward him, “Sir, it has been years since we last called up the militia, what leaders they had are either too old or no longer available, how do we want to replace them?” he asks.

“To assist us in training and building these units I want to use select, promising troopers as well as some senior non-coms to be breveted to the appropriate rank to lead them. This means I want the word out to the company commanders and I will want a proposed list by this evening. I will make the formal announcement tomorrow.”

“Colonel, Sir, where do you want those in the militia to assemble? In their towns, or here at the Stable?” I hear the Major ask.

“We should have the initial muster in of them be in their hometowns. Then we can have the assemble up here after we determine who we can work with and who the community can afford to lose to service.”

“Sir, I do not know if we have enough weapons to arm all of them. How will we deal with that?” I hear Buckshot the Ordinance Sergeant ask.

“Buckshot, that is a good question. We need to see how many weapons we can get into service from that train in the next couple of days. We will issue them out of that. For drill purposes, we can use broomsticks if we have to.”

“Now we come to brass tacks, I have authorized the existence of Stable 48 in the Co-op to be revealed by DJ Pon3 on Resistance Radio as well as to announce our loyalties to Tenpony Tower and its allies. This will occur tonight on his broadcast. I know this will bring us into the open and make us a target. However, we have been asked by Watcher to do so. This is to draw off some of the Enclave forces from other fronts and operations,” we all nod in agreement at this. Then he says something I wish I had never heard, “Finally tonight along with our announcing our alliances, DJ Pon3 will also declare us a refuge for Dashites or other non-enclave Pegasi. We will also broadcast this from our own stable after that.”

Almost all of us are stunned, before he can continue, I jump to my hooves and yell, “Colonel for the love of the Goddesses, you can’t do that, do you know what that means, look what the Enclave just did to Friendship City…”

He points at me with one hoof, “Sit down and shut up now, or get the hell out and resume being a trooper. Do you hear me? This is not up for argument or discussion. That goes for the rest of you. I am not any happier with this than you are.” He pauses to give us time to respond, I sit down and he continues. “I think that concludes the meeting. Mollygirl, I want you, the XO, and Emerado in my office in 5 minutes. Do not be late.”

We arrive in the Colonel's office a couple of minutes later. The Colonel is sitting behind his desk and stares at us as the three of us stand at attention, waiting. Finally, he tells us to sit down. After we have all taken a seat, he looks at us. “Ok, have you all calmed down?” He looks at all three of us. “XO, I know how you feel already, I know we discussed this the last three days. Emerado, I could see the expression on your face. Mollygirl, you just walked a finer line than I will normally let anypony get away with. Do. Not. Ever. Challenge. Me. Like. That. Again. Do you hear me?”

“Yes, sir, I am sorry sir. I forgot my place and panicked. I have seen what they did to one of their own just to keep him from becoming a prisoner. I also know that they consider Dashite to be as bad or worse than a normal traitor for some reason. No excuse sir, only my reasoning. I was wrong either way.”

“Good as long as you understand that Cadet. Now we have some planning to do for using you two and George if we need to.”

We continued the meeting for another hour and a half discussing possible uses for her in the defense of the Co-op and the stable. When we leave, we are all in agreement. We also determine that the field fortifications will start to be manned full-time starting after tonight. Hot rations to be provided by runners from the stable kitchens. After this Em and I leave the office to go talk with George.

While we are sitting with George, I get a message on my Pipbuck asking if the Squad could come to visit George during their lunch break. They show up bringing something for all of us to eat and drink. I have to smile at the sandwich that they have brought George. It seems they found enough large eggs to make a sandwich over a foot long. They also topped it with some dandelion greens, several types of cheese, and a sauce they call mayonnaise. I have never heard of it before, but Badger assures me that it is an old recipe that he heard of when he was onboard the ship. I notice the surprised looks of several of the others in the squad when he says this.

Suddenly Saber asks “Badger, if you were on a ship, why are you here in the Co-op?”

He smiles grimly with his ears back, “To tell the truth Saber, I really do not like to think about it much less talk about it. Maybe sometime when I am in my cups you can ask, and I may even tell you. But please, for today, let's skip it.”

I can see how much it hurts him to even think about it. My Goddesses, what did he go through? Saber also can see it and backs down on his questioning, “Oh, Ok Badger, I am sorry about bringing it up.”

“Not a problem Saber, you did not know, how could you, Even Mollygirl and Magpie do not know.”

George, being George looks at Badger, “Badger, perhaps sometime you can tell me your story and I will tell you mine.” Wait, what was this story of Georges that she would exchange? I know she was over 200 years old, but still.

After that Bullet and Shadowbuck start to try and liven things up a bit for everypony by telling some jokes. One of them, most of us get right away, all except George, she looks confused. That only gets everypony else to laugh harder. After they are done laughing Shadowbuck explains the joke to her, and then she laughs some too. I am glad she does not feel offended or hurt.

After lunch, the 1st squad heads back to work. George, Emerado, and I put on our harnesses and go to make a recon flight over the southern edge of the Co-op. It is then that I see what looks like several raiders in the distance heading toward a farm to attack it. I call into the stable over my PipBuck. I not only get a reply from the stable but am told that the closest company, the Jumping Jacks, has already been alerted by radio and will be taking care of it. We are asked to stay available in case they need backup.

We watch as the raiders begin to approach the house and barn. I then notice the ready reserve has sent in a full company of troops. I can only see about 20 raiders below, so it should not be too bad. As the ready reserve approaches the farm, I can see it fan out below us into a line abreast formation the troops on the far right start to swing wide and begin to envelop the hostiles. Just as they begin to move forward I see more of the hostiles ambush them from behind. How did I miss that? The flank is shattered and the troopers begin to panic as they are hit from both the front and the rear. This causes those in the center to become nervous I then notice a second group of about 100 hostiles begin to approach the closest flank. That is when we go into action. I signal to George and Em, pointing out the additional troops.

George rolls over into a quick dive. The raiders have no idea we are coming, they are in a brush line between fields using it as concealment, when we roll over them. George blows fire along the brush line then she twists away and climbs again. Emerado and I strafe them with gunfire as we pass by. I see several of those that were hiding in the brush be burned alive, several more run with their manes, tails, or just their barding on fire.

The raider forces seem to be in confusion. Then George hovers for a brief second and lets out a loud roar as she begins to perform a split S allowing us to take them under fire again. It is then that I see a Black earth pony with a light blue, green, and black mane and tail alongside a dirty white unicorn with a filthy white coat that is almost brown in spots, and who has a mane and tail that are a rusty brown. If only I could see his face better. Tar Water and Silver Spite? They would not be that brazen, would they? We go in fire breath and guns blazing. I miss both of them, but I make the one I think is Tar Water dive for cover. However, the dirty white unicorn returns fire at us as we pass by, a few rounds striking my barding and some of Georges's heavier scales.

It is too much for most of them to take. The raider band breaks and begins a full route. We make one more pass at them just to keep them moving before we climb back up to a safe altitude to watch. As we circle above, we see the Co-op forces capture about 20- 30 of them before their captain calls them in and keeps them from overextending themselves. It seems we have saved that farm for at least another night.

It disturbs me how organized these raiders were. Normally raiders would just swarm the local farms and begone before we could react. The same with slavers. These ones had chosen to send in a smaller force and then set up an ambush to catch our reaction force when they arrived. We really need to find out who they are.

We inform the stable about the attack and how the op-force is now in retreat. We then request permission to return to the stable for a quick debrief. I really want to let the Colonel know what has happened and my suspicions. Also, with the large number of prisoners it appears we have taken, we need to determine how to handle them.

Once we land Em and I assist George in taking off her harness as well as ours. We also check each other for wounds. I am particularly concerned about George as she had no barding on. I feel so fortunate that none of the rounds that hit her penetrated her armor. While I inspect them, she looks at me, “Don’t worry Mollygirl, it just stings a little bit.” Then she tells us “I’ll just wait until you two get back before I head home, you know, just in case.” We smile at her and then head upstairs.

Now I am beginning to really worry. Before I was worried about the Enclave hitting the towns, so I was going to ask Magpie to stay with Ma and Xavier’s family out at the farm. But after today, I worry that whoever hit us may attack the farm too.

We report into Major Star Burst, upon our report she thinks for a couple of minutes and then calls Colonel Chappy on his PipBuck. “Sir, the riders are back, I think you need to hear their report.”

“Thank you Major, bring them to my office please.” He responds back.

Once in his office. Again, we are all standing at attention. “Ok you two, the major seems to think I should hear directly from you. What is so all-fired important that you need to be in my office a second time like this.” Like this?, What, are we in trouble now?

Emerado begins, “Sir while observing the response to what we thought were raiders by the reaction force, we saw that they had set up an intricate ambush against the quick reaction force. We then engaged them, and while we killed and drove away most of them, it seems J troop took almost two dozen prisoners.”

As she finishes, I continue, "Sir it appears that among those who ran when we attacked the brush line that the ambush was waiting were both Tar Water and Red Eye’s scout Silver Spite.”

I see his eyes open wider a bit and his ears forward. “Do you really believe it was her with them, and that we have engaged Red Eye’s army?”

“Sir, it makes sense. Tar Water would have known how we would respond. I think we caught them before they were ready, and I am sure George was a big surprise,” I tell him.

“Cadet, do you think it was worth revealing George’s existence and her abilities to them at this time?”

“Colonel, they had both flanks of the Jumping Jacks caught in crossfires. I am sure we took some casualties, but they would have been much heavier otherwise. It also gave her and us some practice in ground support. Finally, it may cause them to hesitate before attacking us again, I may have bought us some time sir.”

“Ok then, I will have to agree it was worth it. I would like to give George a day or two's break though, so I will have you two stand down from flight status for two days, or unless we are attacked.”
“Yes sir”, we both chorused back to him.

“Both of you are dismissed.” As we leave the office we overhear, “XO, I want the Platoon leader for the Engineers in here as quickly as you can arrange it.”
We both head down to the atrium after that to let George know what is going on. When we get there, we see she is taking a nap. I had not noticed it before but it seems that someone has brought in a pile of blankets for her to sleep on. I really hate the idea of waking her up. Especially if she has become comfortable enough to sleep here. Em, and I both look at each other and agree to wake her in a couple of hours.

We head back out and, on the way, back to our offices, we stop by the Security office to chat with them and to let them know about the large number of prisoners that have been captured. I see the surprise on the Chief's face when we let him know. He is trying to figure out where we can put all of them. I have a feeling it is going to be a very long night for all of us.

Em and I head back down to see George. It is one of the few times she has had the door closed. While she does not see us as we open the door, we see her licking the scales that have been hit on her side. I guess they must have hurt worse than she let on. Once she notices us, she stops. “Sorry about that. It just seems to relieve the stinging some,” she tells us.

“George, is there anything we can do to help?” I ask.

“No, not that I can think of, I just have to tough it out right now. For more serious injuries and wounds, we dragons tend to sleep and heal. Em, Molly, do you two mind if I take the day off from flying tomorrow to rest. I, I just feel a bit overwhelmed right now and I just want to be alone in my cave for a day or two. I hope you understand.”

“George, that would be fine with us. Just, if you hear the emergency sirens go off, please come help us.” I tell her.

“Mollygirl, Em, you both look upset. Have I done something wrong?”

“No George, just things might go really bad here soon. After the meeting this morning I think we may be in really big trouble.”

George looks at me with a straight face, “Mollygirl, how big of trouble? And why?”

“George, I don’t know if you have heard about the Enclave being back and attacking different communities that they find a threat. Tonight, the Stable is throwing down the gauntlet and letting them know we are here, and offering aid to any Dashites.”

“Ok, Mollygirl, remember, long sleep, been a while since I had a lot of contact with anybody outside the Co-op. What’s a Dashite?”

Em, and I look at each other, “Well we kind of hoped you knew for sure. From what we understand they are pegasi that have left or been kicked out of the Enclave and are living down below the clouds. I got a hold of an old copy of the Wasteland’s Survival Guide and it said that they are considered deserters by the Grand Pegasus Enclave and have their cutie marks branded over with Rainbow Dash’s cutie mark.”

I see George think a bit, then she just looks at us, “That is not good, that is not good at all. If they hate them that much, then we are in trouble. I thought we were good taking on a flight of armored pegasi. Mollygirl, we will be lucky if we don’t see some of their military airships. Mollygirl, Emerado, I do not know if I am good enough to go against them. The Raptors alone were designed to hunt and kill my kind.”

While she does not show it, I can feel the fear in her. I hate to say it, but I am glad she is taking this as seriously as I am. I know I am scared too, not just for myself, but for all of us.

“George, it just means we have to do the best we can to survive if possible. You know nothing crazy,” I tell her.

Em looks at me her ears at the side of her head and eyes wide, “Mollygirl, you mean like flying with two mares against an airship, cause, after all, that would not be crazy. Here I was just getting used to the idea I may not die every time we fly and you have to go and up the ante. Molly, your one of my best friends, but you really suck at motivating speeches, you know that.”

George laughs a bit, then looks at Emerado and then me, “You know Mollygirl, she is right, you do suck at motivating speeches.” With that my ears go down as I frown at both of them. They both start laughing.

“I really hate you two sometimes, you know that. The things I have to put up with from my friends.”

“Hey, what are friends for Mollygirl, what are friends for,” Em says to me as she continues laughing.

After a bit more chatting George finally looks at me and Em, “Ok, I best get going for now. If you can, would you two stop by soon for tea? Just us, I really would like that.”

“Ok George, we will if we can. Anything we should bring?” Emerado asks.

“No, nothing I can think of. Maybe something for you to snack on would be a good idea though.” She tells us as she starts to walk to the stable rear entrance. “I will check in sometime tomorrow evening otherwise. Talk to you later,” she says as she starts to jog and takes flight to head home to her cave. Em and I turn back into the tunnel and go back to work, on the way we stop at the armory to replace the ammunition we used earlier, fill out the paperwork explaining where it went, and take the time for cleaning our weapons.

Shortly before dinner time, Emerado calls over to me, “Hey Mollygirl, let's call it a day. I think we may want to go spend some time with the boys before all Tartarus breaks loose around here.”

“You know, I think you are right about that, I would love to go see Mags tonight, but I do not think that will be an option tonight, so Badger will have to put up with me. I guess Bullet is really a lucky buck with both you and Shadowbuck being CDF so you can always spend time together in the stable.”

“True, Moll, but hey at least you know she should be safe out at the farm with Sumac. But perhaps we can find an excuse to visit her in a day or two, just to make sure for you.”

“Thanks, Em, I appreciate it.”

We eat dinner by ourselves and then head to the Doorkickers 1st Squad’s squad bay. Most of them are in there. I sit on the couch next to Badger, enjoying some good cuddle time. Emerado is on one of the other couches and seems perfectly comfortable having her head on Bullet's lap while Shadowbuck and he are snuggled up to each other.

Pearl and Woodrow are playing cards with Dusty and Chance at the corner table. I see Saber is over at another table talking with Stitches. She had mentioned to us when we got there that Archer might stop by too. It would be nice to chat with him some also.

Then the time for DJ Pon3’s show comes and we turn the squad bay radio on to it.
Hello again all my fellow Wastelanders, this is DJ Pon3 and Resistance Radio. For those of you who have not heard two days ago, the Enclave attacked the town of New Appaloosa with four Raptors. Now not saying it was a fair fight, but all four were brought down by a toxic rainboom by none other than the Wasteland’s Survivor Guide author and distributor Ditzy Do herself. Makes one wonder about that whole pen being mightier than the sword thing.

In other news the resistance continues to grow as more ponies and communities join the fight and announce their alliances with Tenpony tower and the other resistance groups. I know many of you have heard me talk about the back 48 and my friends there from time to time. But tonight, I have been authorized for the first time since they came out of the stable, that the Manesville Co-op and its members from Stable 48 have fully thrown in with the resistance. They have also authorized me to say that any Dashites or other non-Enclave pegasi who need assistance are welcome there and will have the same opportunities for membership as any pony else. This is after they have heard about the events at Friendship city. Welcome to the Resistance Stable 48 and the Manesville Co-op. In other news…’’

The room, in fact, the entire stable was dead quiet as the report was read except for the sound of machinery. Then I hear Archer's voice from the doorway, “We are so screwed…”

__________

Dear DJ Pon3, I would like to dedicate the song Turn, Turn, Turn, to my best friend Magpie and her spouses Badger and Mollygirl who were married today. During these trying times, we often need a reminder to slow down and understand that things will happen when they are supposed to happen. Sincerely Your Fan,

Pages, Head Librarian
Manesville Co-op.

Sorry for being late on getting my author's notes up with the rest of the chapter. Unfortunately real life has had my hopping between my normal work, additional OSHA training and my College work.

Once again I have to thank Kkat for developing this world for us. I also want to take time out to thank Somber, Fuzzy Vee Vee, No One and several others for showing me how much of this world could still be developed and explored.
I also want to thank my readers. If you have comments you want to make or questions that you want to ask, but do not want to post publicly, please feel free to private message me. I will try and responds as quickly as possible.

The song Red is the Rose that is sung at the grave side in this chapter is a ponified version of an old Irish song that I have heard song in the style around many a campfire over the years. The you tube link for it is: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmsYF9yCzZ4

The dedication song for this chapter https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKP4cfU28vM. I felt it appropriate for all of the changes that have been happening and that are still yet to come. I should have the next chapter out on time this week, however I am not sure about the one after that do to real life.