Archer neatly sums up how we all feel as we hear the words come from DJ Pon3. We are all so screwed. We have no pony that can do a toxic rainboom like Ditzy Do.

All we can do is sit here and take it like Friendship City or the other communities that they had already attacked. Granted we have George, and I am sure they would be surprised by the artillery section, but how much can one gun do? All this ran through my head as Archer continues into the squad bay with us.

I watch as he heads over to Stitches and puts his hooves around her and draws her in tight. I can see she needs that reassurance as much as he does. That is when I hear the voice over the Stable PA system, “Attention all Stable and CDF Personnel stand by for a Message from Colonel Chappy and the members of the Co-op board of directors.”

Board of directors? I thought those in charge of the Co-op were politicians, that makes them sound like business mares. A rose is a rose, I guess. Better hear them out.

“Members of the CDF and Stable personnel, I know several of you have heard the news from DJ Pon3. Yes, the existence of Stable 48 has formally been announced. This, as well as the decision to announce that the Co-op will provide aid and offers of membership to those Pegasi who desire it and who no longer give loyalty to the Grand Pegasi Enclave, are officially sanctioned and supported by myself as well as those of the council of mayors that make up the Co-op board of directors.” He pauses for a few seconds then continues. “These decisions were not made easily or without deliberation and care. But our allies need us. If they fall, so shall we eventually. Remember we all feed from the same haybale. In a few minutes, the senior member of the board Overmare Twilight Shimmer will make the first unhidden, unencrypted broadcast from Stable 48 since the doors closed on the final day. As you are the ones who have to fight and pay the cost to defend the Co-op and the Stable, I feel you deserve to hear this broadcast as it is made. I will pass on more information when the Overmare is through. Thank you.” He finishes speaking.

“Good evening, Mares and Gentlecolts. I am Overmare Twilight Shimmer of Stable 48. For one hundred years we have done our best to keep the location and status of Stable 48 a secret. No more. Along with the other members of the board of directors and the head of the Co-op Defense Force I have the honor and privilege of representing the members of the Co-op in offering our assistance to the other members of the resistance and Tenpony Tower. Additionally, as the head of the board of directors, I have been authorized to offer assistance to all Dashites and other non-enclave Pegasi who may need it. Those who desire to become members of the co-op are welcome to apply and will be held to the same standards as all others, this offer is not limited to ponykind. But said membership includes agricultural duties and military service. For those who desire war, you will find a fierce enemy. For those who desire friendship, we welcome you with open hooves. Thank you and good evening.”

I stand there stunned along with most of the others in the squad bay. My Goddesses, they had really done it. In the corner, I overhear Shadowbuck muttering to himself, “What have they done?”

Then over the PA system, we hear the voice of the Colonel again. “Troopers, you have heard what was announced tonight. We will be rebroadcasting the Overmare’s Message every three hours for the next two days. I do expect a response from the Enclave; however, I do not believe that we will see it tonight. Therefore, I will be giving liberty for the night for all those not on the ready reserve force, or out in the field. Tomorrow at formation new assignments will be issued out to all personnel. Enjoy your night. May Celestia guide us and Luna defend us. Dismissed.”

I watch as the exodus begins, first from the squad bay then out the entrance of the tunnel most going into town, but others heading out to the various outlying communities. Badger and I head out to Sumac’s to see our Mags and the others. At least it is not raining yet.

Once we arrive at Sumac’s everyone is surprised to see us. When we enter the house Sumac’s face drops. "What has happened you two. Be honest, I got a feeling we need to know.” She tells us.

“Ma, it's not good, not good at all,” I tell her.

Badger looks up at her, I can see the pain in his face. “Ma, they went and declared our alliance with the resistance and then went public with the stable tonight on the radio. And if that was not enough, they declared us a haven for Dashites and any rouge Pegasi.”

She looks a bit concerned but seems to not understand why this would upset us. Then Mags joins in. “Ma, the Enclave has a raging hatred for Dashites. They consider them worse than traitors. They attacked Friendship City a couple of days ago over one Dashite. Ma, they killed foals and the elderly as well as those who would have been a threat.”

I see the fear in Ma’s eyes now as it dawns on her what has happened. She calls out “Ginger, go fetch Xavier and his family, they need to hear this.”

We sit there chatting absently until they arrive. As they come in Xavier asks, “Yes, Ma, what is it you need us for?”

“Xavier, you need to hear what is going on. Things might be getting rough here in the next couple of days. If, after you hear what has happened, you and your family want to leave, I understand and will not try to stop you. But understand you always have a home here. All of you do.”

She points to Badger and me and he begins to speak. “Xavier, Persimmon tree. The leadership of the Co-op has gone public with our alliances and has publicly announced our welcoming of any Pegasi who oppose or are not aligned with the Enclave.”

I see Xavier’s face go neutral, “Does this mean what I think it does? Is an attack pending against us?”

Both Badger and I look at each other and nod, then I begin to speak, “Xavier, tomorrow they are calling up the Militia. I am sure you will be one of the ones kept on duty. I am sorry, but I think you need to know that. I only wish we had more time for weapons training for you. A couple of rounds in the backyard is not much.”

He looks at Persimmon Tree and Xochitl. Then he turns back to me. “This is my home, so no. I will fight if needed and die for it if I must, but run I will not. Persimmon, Dear, Understand this please.”

She nods her head and moves closer to the buck she loves and has given so much for. “Xavier, when have I ever turned my back on you. I will be here for you as will our son.”

With that, we all go to the parlor and sit down to spend time together. Magpie and I cuddle with Badger. Xavier sitting with Persimmon. Ma is in her favorite chair and to my surprise, I watch as Ginger and Xochitl cuddle up on the other chair. I have not thought that they were old enough to be interested in each other. But thinking back about it, I might be wrong. So, I go to tease Ginger lightly, “Ginger, I did not think you would want to cuddle with a colt?”

She looks at me with wide eyes, “Auntie Mollygirl, I, we, No! it’s not like that. He is not like other colts. He is my best friend, besides every filly knows that colts have cooties.”

I look from her to him, “Yes auntie Mollygirl she is right. Fillies are all weird and that. She is not weird. I like to hang around with her, and besides, it is slightly cold and I figured I would help her to stay warm.”

“Ok, I believe you, I was just wondering,” I tell them I see a smile on Sumac’s face as well as a slight bit of concern on Xavier’s. Nothing to worry about they are both still blank flanks anyways.

As the evening progresses, we talk of old times and those we love and miss. I tell some of the stories from when Ivy and I were young. Some that even Sumac did not know. Magpie talks about her youth some also. I am surprised to hear that Persimmon Tree was originally from around the Ponyville area, but had left years before as the raider activity increased. She had snuck out at night, leaving a note for her parents that included an apology for not letting them know she was going. She left with another young buck but he was killed by some Killing Joke. She tried to stop him from getting too near to it, but it was too late.

Xavier and Badger both sit there and listen. I think both of them want to talk, but have something stopping them inside. I really would like to know more about my husband’s past. What is it that hurts him so much he does not want to talk about it?

Finally, it has become late enough that we all decide it is time to head to bed. Ma takes Ginger upstairs with her. Persimmon and Xavier carry Xochitl with them. Mags, Badger, and I share the same room we had the night before. I am so glad we get tonight; I only pray it is not the last time we can all three do this. All I want is peace and a normal life. But what is normal in the wastelands anymore. Besides, all things considered, it was a pretty good day.

Morning comes with my alarm waking me and Badger. Magpie gets up and makes us all breakfast. Before we leave though Ma comes down with Ginger. “Kids, I hope you do not mind, but I would like Magpie to stay here with me until this all blows over. This was something I wanted to discuss last night but forgot to bring up”

Both Badger and I look at her, “Ma, I know I think it is a good idea, but that is up to her. We will support you Mags, either way, just let us know, so we know where to go to find you.”

Magpie smiles at all three of us. “I think I will stay out here with ma, but I am not too sure what my job will say.”

Badger answers for both of us, “Magpie, you have two spouses who can help to support you now. Along with ma, I am sure you do not need to worry if they let you go. But as Mollygirl said, we will support your decision.”

Today we both leave on time for the stable and walk with Ginger and Xochitl as far as the split to their school “Will we see you tonight Uncle Badger?” I hear Ginger ask.

“We will see dear; it depends on what they say at the stable. Hopefully, I can, but no promises youngsters.” He tells her.

“Ok, Uncle Badger. I understand. If they call up the Militia, can you make sure my dad will be ok?” Xochitl asks.

I bend down to look him in the eyes, “We will do our best Xochitl, we will do our best.” Then I give both him and Ginger a quick hug and nudge them onto their way to school.

Once back at the stable we continue our tradition of a kiss at the stable door. I like this tradition and hope he never tires of it. Then we go our separate ways for the day.

I make it to the HQ section just in time to hear the XO call Horns, Em, and myself into her office. “Ok you three, I want you to assist in setting up the militia units and their training. During this time, I want you to evaluate some of them to determine if they may be used to fill in the holes in the ranks of our regular units that have been somewhat depleted. I will fill out the appropriate paperwork to formally draft them.”

“Yes, ma’am” we all replied.

“After formation I want all three of you to return to my office and we will continue this discussion.” She tells us.

During the formation, the word comes down. All further liberty and leaves have been canceled until further notice. Each company is also assigned a section of the fortifications around the Stable and the Co-op that they are to begin to occupy. Most of the regulars will stay in the vicinity of the stables. Those whose rotations were to put them in the field are to take those positions as usual but will be reinforced by the militia. It is also announced that three more companies of troops will be formed from volunteers if possible, draftees if necessary. These are in addition to the militia troops. Finally, all the troopers and NCOs that were recommended for forming, training, and leading the militia troops are called out and told to form up after formation at the stable doors. I am somewhat surprised and saddened to see Badger be one of those called out. That means I will not have any time with him for a while, but it also may help to keep him safer.

As the formation breaks up and we all start to go to our assigned areas we have a surprise. We look up and see a flight of two unarmored Pegasi fly above us holding white flags, only one is armed. They circle the formation field once then land a short distance from most of the HQ staff.

I look at them. One has a bandage on his leg and side, the other has several scars and is missing half his right ear. Both are underweight and look in rough shape. The one missing part of his ear is teal with a black mane and tail, he is wearing a battle saddle with an energy rifle on it. His partner is a dusty gray with an orange mane and tail, that one has a pistol in a holster on his foreleg and is wearing one yellow saddlebag with a butterfly on it. Both wear the brand of the cloud with a lightning-bolt-shaped rainbow on their flanks.

They slowly approach carrying the flags in their mouths. I watch as the Major and Horns approach them. They both stare at Horns like they have never seen a bull before, then it hits me, they probably never have. Finally, when close enough the Major asks “Yes, what do you want?”

The Gray one looks at the Major, sits down his white flag, and answers, as his eyes keep shifting to Horns, “Morning Ma’am, I’m Sunset and this here galoot is my partner Cloud Dodger. Is this the Co-op and Stable we heard about on the radio?”

The Major keeps looking at them, “Yes, it is, can we help you?”

“Ma’am, we have come for help. As you can see, I am hurt pretty good, we got jumped by some enclave scouts three days ago and I took a couple of minor wounds, which have got infected. We were hoping we could get some help here, and maybe a meal or two. Also, we wanted to check into this membership thing y’all mentioned.”

The Major nods her head. “Well then, welcome to the Manesville Co-op, you are the first Pegasi we have had as guest and possible membership since the stable doors closed. We had not expected anypony to be arriving so quickly so please excuse us for not being ready.” She tells him. She calls on her PipBuck and I watch as one of the security ponies comes to escort them inside the stable.

She then continues. “One of our security ponies will escort you to medical to get assistance and then to the mess hall for something to eat. If they give you any trouble, please have your escort call me. After that, we will have one of our troopers explain how the Co-op functions, so you can find out what your options are, and then you can decide if you want to join us. If not, we will provide you with two days' rations before you go. Oh, one final thing, when you enter the stable, please turn in your weapons at the armory. They will be returned to you when you leave.”

At that last part, I see the one called Sunset start to look upset and getting ready to say something. His partner puts a hoof across his chest, “Now hold on Sunset, we need help and they are willing to give it. We would have done the same at home.”

I see Sunset take a deep breath and then let it out, “Ok, I will do it for you Dodger, but I just don’t like it, you know that.”

As I am about to walk away, I hear the Major call me. “Mollygirl, would you mind accompanying these two to the armory with their escort. Give them a brief rundown about the stable's history too if you would.”

“Yes Ma’am. Do you want me to go with them to medical also, or just to the armory?”

“To the armory should be fine cadet, but get to know them and when they are finished today, I would like you to escort them back out of the stable also, nothing wrong with a friendly face that they can get to know. Find out from them if there is anything, we might do to help assist others of their, uhm, kin, who may show up.”

As we enter the stable with Cuffs, from security I begin to talk with them both. I notice Cloud Dodger looking at my flank and while yes, I am a married mare, I still lift the tail a little and put a bit of a bounce in my walk. I see the smirk on Cuff’s face as I do so.

Then I hear Sunset say to Cloud Dodger, “You know with a bounce like that I would swear she is part pegasi, too bad she does not have the wings though.”

I smile and look back at him, “Good Guess, When the Stable door closed, we ended up having two pegasi inside. They were not supposed to be there, but somehow they ended up inside. One of them was my ancestor Cloudseeder, He was a weather control warden who ended up working security.” I see all three stop and stare at me after that. “Sorry Cuff’s, for not telling you before, but you can understand can’t you for me keeping it quiet.”

“Well at least that explains your love of flying Mollygirl, do you mind if I tell the chief at least, I am sure it would make him feel even better about the goggles we loaned you.”

I see both of the others staring with their jaws open, finally, Cloud Dodger asks “You fly, how? You’re an earth pony for Celestia’s sake.”

Whoops. I guess I should have watched my mouth more, but they will find out soon enough so I decide I should tell them. “Well, it’s kind of complicated, you see, there is this friend of mine and, well she is a dragon and she has a full set of harness to wear for combat just like what the zebras used. In fact, it is an old Zebra harness that she has repaired.”

“Well riding a dragon around may seem fun and all, but it sure is not like combat flying, let me tell you, you get jumped by a flight of scouts and you will find out how rough it is,” Sunset tells me.

I see Cuffs start to laugh as he tries to talk, “You can tell you don’t know Mollygirl.”

Sunset gets indignant, “What you think I am kidding, I bet she would be throwing up and never fly again if she had something like that happen to her.”

“Please stop laughing and get up,” I tell Cuffs.

He gets back onto all four hooves and with tears in his eyes tells them, “Buddy, just three days ago, Mollygirl, her Co-flier Cadet Emerado, and our dragon George, got jumped by four of the Enclave armored scouts. They shot down three of them and the fourth ran and escaped. To top it off that day Emerado got married, and the next day Mollygirl got married herself. Yesterday ol’ Mollygirl there flew in and landed on the formation field along with her husband and two of his squadmates. To top it off, the three foiled a raid by Red Eye’s army. If there is an earth pony who loves flying and can handle it, you are looking at her.”

I see Sunset reappraising me while Cloud Dodger has an expression of stunned surprise on his face. I simply blush a bit, “It’s not that big a deal Cuffs come on. Besides Badger said it was not much different from being on a ship.”

Again, I see the surprise on their faces, as we begin to walk to the armory again. During the walk, I begin to tell them a bit about the early history of the Co-op and the stable and how we formed. I also touch on the fact that everypony that is a member of a Co-op does agricultural duty, from the Overmare and Overcow on down to the lowest pony, we work side by side to make sure crops are planted and harvested. This pays a sweat equity that allows us to be guaranteed to eat. If we want anything fancy now, that is up to us to pay for, but we do not go hungry here.

Once we get to the armory, I see Buckshot right away, “Hey buckshot how're your little filly’s eyes doing?”

“Hey Mollygirl, she is doing ok. She still is sensitive to bright lights and we have to keep her eyes covered right now, the doctors said to give it a couple of weeks and we will see. Sorry I did not get to tell you at your wedding the other day, by the way, tell Magpie I said she made a beautiful bride and looked so pretty in her dress up there with you and Badger.”

Out of the corner of their eyes I see stunned expressions on their faces again, this is beginning to be fun.

I smile brightly at him “Thanks Buckshot, I will tell her that the next time I see her. Oh, these two Gentlecolts need to check in their weapons for today, by the Major’s orders. When they depart, they are to have them returned in fully functioning condition ok.”

“Sure Mollygirl. No problem. Oh, by the way, we had a new shipment come in yesterday from the salvage effort, stop by later and I will see if you are interested in any of them,” he tells me.

I turn to Cloud and Sunset, “It was nice meeting you two. I hope you decide to join us, but if not, no problem. I will see you later. Talk to you later Cuffs have a good one.” I tell them as I turn to leave.

As I go out the door, I hear one say to the other, “Damn, that mare does not do things by half does she.”

I hear Buckshot laugh back, “Not since I have known her, now let’s see what we can do to help you, what do you two have there.”

As I head from the armory to the office, I run into Padre again, “Thanks Padre for coming out to Sumac’s to perform the ceremony. We all really appreciated it.”

“It was my pleasure Mollygirl, it was a bit unusual, but you have learned how to keep me on my hoofs young mare. I hope you did not mind Chaplin Ahimsa, taking part, I know I should have asked you three for permission, but it seems the cattle in the Co-op have taken a great interest and liking to you and your spouses. Besides, more blessings are always a good thing, right.”

“Of course, Padre, I thought it was a wonderful addition to the ceremony. Well, I best be going, I have some work to take care of for the Major.”

“Oh yes, yes, I better not make you keep her waiting, take care Mollygirl.” And with that, he is off on his business again.

When I get into my office, I see the Major waving me over to her office. As I approach her desk, she asks “Ok Cadet, how did it go with the Dashites?”

“It seemed to go well, ma’am. Unfortunately, when one said I looked part Pegasi, I admitted my heritage and my love of flying. This led to George being brought up. I turned them over to Buckshot at the Armory along with Cuffs. They should be in good hooves. I did give them a quick rundown about the stable history as well as the setup for agricultural duties. It was interesting to hear them banter about combat flying though. I had not thought of it, but maybe we can build an escort squad for George Ma’am.”

“While I am not happy that you made that kind of slip, they would have found out soon enough anyway. Besides, by now both the Enclave and Red Eye’s forces know about her. I also like your idea for the use of Pegasi military volunteers to form a flying unit. Good thinking Cadet.”

“Thank you, ma’am,” I tell her. Did I really suggest that, or just plant the seed? I guess it does not matter.

“Oh, and cadet, I would like you to come up with a write-up concerning the history of the co-op and the stable. Make sure you mention those two Pegasi who were inside when the door closed. I am sure that will make them feel a bit more welcome. Although, I might be a bit more, how do I say this, discreet about your bloodlines? You know we do still have some hotheads here that may hold it against you.”

“Yes ma’am, I was already thinking that and have asked that Cuffs refrain from mentioning it to anyone other than the Chief.”

“Very good. I almost forgot, get with Cadet Emerado and the Sergeant Major and come up with some suggestions on how to process and house any refugees we may get. Goddess alone knows what we are going to do if we get a large number of them.”

“Ma’am, we will do what we always do, figure it out and make it work. But I will get started on the suggestions so we can make it easier if possible.”

“Ok, cadet, dismissed. Hold on, I almost forgot, after you are done with this project then you and Emerado can assist Cadet Horns again with the Militia troops.” At this point, she returns to doing paperwork at her desk and I leave her office looking for Em and the Sergeant Major.

Once with the Sergeant Major and Emerado, we begin to come up with ideas of what needs to be prepared for with the arriving refugees as well as beginning to brainstorm on where to process them and provide for their basic survival needs. Finally, the Sergeant Major, an old stallion with a tan coat and a graying blond mustache, mane, and tail looks up at me. “Cadet, we are forgetting a couple of things. What if they show up somewhere other than the Stable or Manesville? We need to have our troopers understand how to handle them. We also should look at possibly changing the broadcast message to give directions to an area where we can meet them.”

“Well Sergeant Major, I have to agree fully with the first. But if we broadcast the second, we are setting ourselves up for an attack on that location by Enclave forces. Normally I would agree with you but from what I can gather, the Enclave is really hateful of Dashites and those who help them.”

“Ok, Good point Mollygirl. It still just rankles me the idea of them flying into wherever though. Maybe we should have it broadcast that if they want to seek assistance or refuge here that they approach one of our checkpoints. I would suggest a patrol, but that could cause more problems if any of Red Eye's troops are operating in the area still. Oh, by the way, you two, good work with George yesterday. I heard from the First Sergeant in with the Jumping Jacks when they brought in the prisoners. They really appreciated the assist and getting their flapjacks out of the fire.”

Emerado smiles and replies for both of us, “Thanks Sergeant Major, it is good to hear it was appreciated. I know George will be glad to hear it also.”

“No problem Cadets. But you better go get these proposals to the XO. I know you both have a lot of work to do yet. Have a good day, Cadets.” He then gets up and leaves the office. Em and I then finish organizing the proposal and typing it up before hoofing it in to the Major. It would be so much easier to type if I was a unicorn, but I make do with a pencil in my mouth to hit the keys. It just seems to take so long using the hunt and peck method of typing.

After turning in our proposals, we go to the cafeteria for lunch before heading out to see the militia units. While there I run into Cuffs again along with the two Dashites. “Hi Cuffs hey Sunset, hey Dodger, how is it going, everypony treating you ok?”

“Hi, Mollygirl,” Cuffs replies.

“Oh, it’s you,” replies the one called Sunset, “So far we’ve been treated pretty good. Your ordnance sergeant seems pretty interested in my battle saddle and how it fits. It seems he wants to make a couple of them in case ya get other Pegasi. He is takin care of my weapons for me also. Now, I have a question for ya. What is up with all the one-headed Brahmin, I mean only one head and covered with hair, it just seems weird.”

I try not to smirk, I guess not too successfully as Em gently kicks my leg, before I answer, “Sunset, Brahmin are a mutated form of cows. What you are seeing is how cows looked before the war. I forgot to tell you that about one-quarter of the original stable population was of cows.”

“Huh, Interesting. I see them in a lot of roles normally done by ponies, how does that work. It seems the brahmin I have met just were not as smart as ponies. Did they get dumber or something?”

“Well, I do not know about that. But before the war, most of them only spoke cow and they worked mainly on the farms. I think it might be more of an educational and cultural thing. In the Co-op, they are treated as equals and perform their jobs like anypony else.” I tell him.

Emerado seems to be tired of just being quiet and decides to introduce herself, “I see you have met Mollygirl, I am Emerado, welcome to the Co-op.”

“It is a pleasure to meet you Emerada, So I am afraid ta ask, are you the one who flies with this spitfire over here, or am I finally getting to meet a single mare?”

I see her blush, “Just call me Em, and yes Sunset, I am the one that flies with her and George, but how did you know I was married?”

He grins for a few seconds to let her wonder. “Well I have to admit, Cuffs there told me and Dodger about ya’alls exploits.”

I see her shaking her head, and still blushing a bit, “I never really thought about them that way.” She turns to me, “Dang it Mollygirl, now I am involved with the gossip about you.”

“Sorry, Em, it happens it seems.” I tell her, “Now if you two are going to be here for a while in the Co-op, I can see if I know any single mares who are interested in meeting you.” I tell them, then without thinking I tell myself out loud, “I know Pearl is still single. I am not sure if my wife’s best friend Pages is looking to date, but I can find out.”

I see Cloud Dodger look a bit confused and then he asks “You’re a Fillyfooler? I thought you had a husband named Badger?”

Now it is my turn to blush. Emerado answers for me, “Mollygirl is married to both Magpie, her wife, and Badger, their Husband. I hope that clears things up a bit.”

I see Sunset get a grin on his face, “With mares like this, I know we come to the right place Dodger, I told ya it was a good idea.”

Dodger, turns his head to look at Sunset, “Sunset, While I agree and think it has been a good idea to come here, I got the feeling that she is not the normal mare, or that most are like that, so calm down buck.”

It is then that we see the one cow and stallion that were married in the mass wedding finishing their meal, the cow gets up and gives the stallion a kiss on the cheek before heading off. I see both of their jaws drop. “Is that normal around here?” I hear Dodger ask.

Emerado answers back, “Not particularly, but it’s their business, not mine.”

I just look at them, “With my life, I have learned a long time ago to not judge,” I tell them with a shrug of my shoulders. “Well, I will leave you bucks to finish your meals. Let me know if you need any assistance with anything.”

As Em and I walk away I overhear one of them say, “Dang, she really does not do anything by half, two bad both them mares are married though.” And then I see a smirk on Em’s face as she lifts her tail a bit and swishes it as we continue on our way.

Once outside, she turns to me, “Sorry, I had to tease just for the fun of it.”

“Boy, would they be in for a surprise with you normally,” I say with a laugh.

“True, but they will never know anyways.” She says with a smirk, “that was kind of fun ya know”.

“It’s all good to have your fun Em, but just remember, don’t take it too far either, but that was well done. Now time to start to meet the Militia units.”

We first head to the Manesville old armory building where its militia members were instructed to assemble by fliers that were posted around town on fences and building walls as well as inside on some building’s windows. I am stunned by how many ponies and cows are there when we arrive. They have already sent those who are too old or badly injured to serve back home, and there has to be about a regiment’s worth of personnel.

As we approach, we see several of the regular troopers and NCOs working with company-size units of the militia. Unfortunately, I have heard Badger was assigned to the militia unit at Donovan, so no chance of seeing him here. However, I do see a couple of them I know. So, I go over to talk to them. “Hey Kite Tails, Hey Whisky Dreams, how is it going so far?”

“Oh, hey there Mollygirl, Emerado, Good to see you two again. So far, so; ah the hell with it, we need some work here. Most of them are shop keepers or wait staff it seems. Those who work in critical roles such as doctors, or police ponies we have already sent on their way unless they insisted. But we are currently just trying to get them to work as a team before giving them any weapons.” Sergeant Kite Tails tells me.

“Did any show up with weapons already?” Emerado asks.

“Several actually. Most are civilian model rifles or shotguns. A few had good military-grade weapons. We have tagged them each for their owners and are storing them in the armory right now. Tomorrow morning, we hope to begin basic weapons training and after that, we will move into small unit tactics. Nothing fancy. After we get the basics down that we can refine their training. You know how it goes.” Whiskey Dreams tells us.

“Yes, Yes I do,” I reply, is there anything that you need from us right now? “I ask.

“Yes, get us some weapons, barding, helmets, whatever you can. We do not have any other than what they have brought and we really do not want to go into a fight looking like a bunch of raiders.” Kite replies.

“OK, I will see what we can do, but no guarantees. I do not think anyone thought about the need for all the extra barding. Also, if you want, see if you can get with public works to find maps of the sewers in the areas that the troops will be assigned, I will try and do the same. If we get hit by the Enclave it may be the safest way to move troops around.” I tell them.

“Ok, sounds good Mollygirl, now our 10-minute break is done, time to get them going again,” Kite says then he starts to yell, “Come on you mules, on your hooves, we got work to do!”

We check with the other regulars in the area and have similar conversations with all of them. It all seems so normal until I look over and see Pages is marching in the ranks of one of the units. I had never expected it of her. I nod my head to her as she marches by in formation, she keeps looking forward, but I see a small nod back in reply from her.

One more pony I will be worrying about now. While the call-up of the Militia is mandatory for bucks, mares can also volunteer. I had not thought Pages such a mare. I wonder if Magpie knows. I will have to tell her the next time I see her.

After our excursion to Manesville we head over to Emerald Grove. There we find the Militia has formed up across the road from the General Store in an open field. There are only 25 of them there, most of them farmers or hired hooves. Of course, Emerald Grove has always been a small hamlet, so it is not surprising, I only see one NCO there and he is talking with the unit’s commander who is also the town mayor and store owner. “Seriously Mayor, I think we should spend a little bit more time on marching, tomorrow morning we can practice with small arms. And in the afternoon, we can start to train on the small unit maneuvers.” I overhear the NCO say to the older mare.

“Corporal, I have enough experience with these ponies to know that they know how to walk. We do not need to learn to march. Besides when are they really going to march anywhere? Most of these bucks and mares can shoot also, so we got that going too. Now we need to learn how to fight and move so we do not get killed like a bunch of drunken raiders.” The mayor replies back.

It is at this point Emerado interrupts. “Good afternoon you two. Do you mind if I interject upon these matters?”

The NCO looks over at us, “Good afternoon Cadets, please do ma’am.” He says.

The Mayor looks at Em, “Of course please do, after all, I am sure you will prove me correct.”

“Mayor, all of the militia units are going through the same training, this is to make sure it is standardized. The Corporal is correct on that. However, if you can work through all of the required training faster, then by all means, please do emphasize that training that you still feel needs to be worked on.”

“Corporal, would you care to join them for the marching drill and I could make out the calls for a while?” Emerado offers.

“Ma’am, I think that would be great, Mayor, would you care to join us? That way we can both decide when we feel they are working well enough as a team to go to the next phase of training.” He asks.

They both go and fall in with the ranks. Emerado making the calls and I observing. After about 45 minutes of this, we decide it is a good time for a break for them. We let the Corporal and the Mayor know we are going to be leaving, but to keep up the good work. Once we leave, we head over to George's cave.

Once at the cave entrance I knock on the side of the wall and call in, “Hello, George, are you home?”

In the distance, I hear her call back, “Come on in Mollygirl, head-on into the kitchen and I will be with you in a couple of minutes.”

We head on in and I can hear George talking to herself, at least I think she is talking to herself, but I have not really heard her do so before. Em, and I sit in some chairs at the cave’s kitchen table and after a short wait, she joins us.

“Hi Em, Hi Mollygirl, sorry you had to wait, I had a few things I wanted to finish up really quick.” She tells us.

She then heats up some water for the tea. As she does this, I grab some cookies from my saddlebags for Em and I as well as a couple of gems for her. Once the tea is ready, we sit and chat for a while. This visit is just personal, we avoid talking about business at all. It is actually a relief to be able to just sit here and talk like this. Just like neighbors and friends visiting. Again, my thoughts begin to wander to what it would be like if I were to get out of the Guard and just try to live a normal life. I realize that my entire adult life has been in the guard and I really do not know what else I could do. Farm, I guess, but that would mean Badger and Magpie and I would have to buy or recover a farm. I just do not know how they would feel about that.

After a while, I notice George seems to be a bit anxious about something so I ask, “George, is there something bothering you?”

She nods her head yes, then quietly asks us “Mollygirl, Em, does it ever get easier?”

We look at each other and I have to ask, “Does what, ever get easier?”

I see her rubbing her hands together and then she replies, “Taking the life of an intelligent being. I have eaten meat all my life, but only hunted those animals I thought were not really intelligent. Now two days in a row I have attacked and killed ponies that I knew had lives, had families, that could think and dream, and I took that away from them. It really is bothering me. Last night I could barely sleep even.”

I sigh and look down at my hooves. “I am sorry George. I am so sorry to have caused you to hurt like this. I do not know if it ever gets any easier to live with, I can say it gets easier to do, but afterward, not so much. At least not for me. I guess I just justify it as saving those I love and the things I care about. But it still bothers me sometimes. I can still see the face of the first pony I ever killed. Oh, I am sure he deserved it, he was a filthy slaver who we came across on my first patrol. He even had a shotgun aimed at me, and I am sure he would have killed me without a thought. But I still did it.”

“Thanks, Mollygirl, I appreciate your being honest with me. In all my years I have rarely killed when not hunting. I hid to avoid having to fight. Now, I am fighting to protect my friends and their families. It hurts, but I guess as long as I feel the pain it means I am alive at least.”

“A good way of looking at it,” Emerado tells her. “I look at it that way too usually. But having been held by slavers, I really have a hard time caring about their lives and dreams. They took from me what I can not get back. So, when it comes to slavers, I feel no pity, and from what I understand Red Eye’s Army is made up of slavers and raiders, so to hell with ‘em.” She says to us with a venom in her tone that takes me by surprise after all these years.

Eventually, we finished our tea and let George know we have to go. I tell her that the Colonel said she could have another day off if she would like, but that she is welcome to come to the stable if she likes. After that Em and I begin the trip back to the Stable to try and make it in for dinner.

Following Dinner, we go to the 1^st Squad's bay and find that they are all gone. We contact Bullet by a message on Em’s PipBuck and find out that they are in one of the bunkers in the line. They are fixing it up to live in for a while and invite us out to visit.

We leave the stable and enter the trenches. It is a weird feeling to be so deep in the ground. The trenches are all over 2 meters deep and the sides reinforced with wood or sandbags. On one side of the main trenches are firing platforms that a pony can get up on and fire their weapon over while standing on their hind legs and leaning forward. In between each of the main trench lines are smaller, narrower communication trenches. None of which travel more than 4 meters before making a sharp turn. This makes it very difficult for attackers to just shoot down the sides of the defenders.

We finally get to the bunker for the 1^st squad and are met by Shadowbuck as we approach. “Hey Emmy, Hey Mollygirl, Good to see you.”

“Hi Shadowbuck, how’s it going up here?” Em asks.

Not too bad, but I hope we do not have to live like this for too long. We are digging out an area for a latrine in the side of the communication trench you came up in, tomorrow, right now it is travel back into the stable or use a honey bucket otherwise. You know how it is,” he tells us. Then he steps past us and starts to head back to the stable, “Excuse me, I will be back in a bit,” He tells us as he squeezes past us.

We enter the bunker itself and see only a handful of ponies. Pearl, Dusty, Saber, Woodrow, Chance, Stitches and Captain Abby are there besides Bullet. Bullet comes over and gives a hug to Emerado, “It’s so good to see you dear, and you too Mollygirl. Thanks for visiting the Lil’ buck play stable.” He jokes. I see the others all snicker at the reference. It means that at least they still have a sense of humor.

The interior of the bunker is big enough for at least twenty ponies. The walls are reinforced with sandbags and the roof has thick beams with dirt over the top of them. I can see out the two windows on the front as well as the one on the back and each side. Each window has a sheet of metal set to slide in front of it if need be. They have set up a set of bunks using fresh-cut lumber as well as made a table and chairs. Most of the light inside comes from outside through the windows and there are some candles and a lantern hanging on the wall.

Em and I go inside and sit down on the ground with the others. Em snuggling up to Bullet. Me, I go over and sit by Stitches and the Captain. It almost seems like old times when out in the field. A little later when it is time, they tune one of their PipBucks to the Resistance Radio to listen to DJ Pon3. As the music winds down, we expect to hear his voice begin, instead, we get static, and that shifts to music.

Em and I exchange glances with each other and the Captain. “Em, go ahead and visit some more if you want. I am going to go inside the stable to visit the radio room and see if they have any news.”

“Do you mind if I join you Mollygirl?” I hear Abby ask.

“Sure, I am sure anything we hear you are going to want to know and pass on.”

We head inside the stable. Once we get to the radio room, I notice that there is a light over the door saying ON THE AIR in red letters. Wow, I never noticed that before. I look through the window on the door and see Soundwaves is at the microphone and is talking with Sunset and Dodger. I quickly scan the radio stations and suddenly hear their voices.

“… I have ta say, I most certainly have been made to feel welcome, first time in a long time since I came dirtside.” I hear Sunset say.

“That is very nice to hear you say Sunset, Now Cloud Dodger, May I just call you Dodger?”

“Sure, everypony else does.”

“Now Dodger, is there anything you would like to say to any of your fellow dashites or others out there?”

“Well Soundwaves, I would tell them, that any of the dirtside Pegasi or others needing a home that the Manesville Co-op may not be perfect, but it is a much better than anything I have seen since I was kicked out of Neighvarro. We were able to obtain medical care as well as the first hot meals I have had in a while. I am not so sure about joining your Co-op yet, but I am not being pressured either. I thank all of you for your hospitality.”

“On behalf of all of us in the Co-op Dodger, your welcome. Any last words from you Sunset?”

“Now, Soundwaves, I have to overall agree with my pard Dodger here, but I am really leaning toward not only becoming a member of this here Co-op but joining up with your defense force, especially after seeing some of those pretty mares y’all have here.” I see Sunset look at me in the window and wink as he says this.

I instantly blush. I look over and I see Captain Abby leaning against the wall one foreleg crossed over the other with her eyebrow raised and shaking her head. “We can’t let you out in public can we.” She quietly tells me.

“Well Gentlecolts, it has been a pleasure getting to meet you. Thank you for allowing me to interview you and again welcome to the Co-op. For those Pegasi and others dirtside in the wastelands looking for help or a new home, remember the Co-op will be glad to assist you, and if you decide you want to join us then you will be offered the same opportunities to do so that the rest of us have. Once arriving in the Manesville area please approach one of our many checkpoints with your weapons visible and either holstered or pointed in a safe direction with your mouths off the bits. We will be back in an hour with more news.”

I see Soundwaves draw his hoof across his throat and the on the air light goes out. I stand back as the door opens and the Dodger and Sunset exit. As he passes me, I feel Sunset's tail lightly slap me on the flank. He smiles at me and apologizes. However, the Captain has something to say.

“All right big guy, I know you are new around here and a bit of celebrity right now, but enough of that kind of behavior. I’ll have you know that Mollygirl is a married mare.”

“Oh, excuse me Ma’am. It was an accident. Are you’re her wife?” Sunset replies.

“No, I am not her wife, but I know both her wife and husband. There are plenty of single mares around here to choose from, no need to go after the married ones alright.” She continues, as I stand to the side embarrassed.

“Ok, Ma’am, it will not happen again, I apologize to both of you.”

It is then that I am surprised to hear Dodger ask her, “Would you happen to be one of those single mares?”

I see her fluster a bit as she thinks about her answer, “Well, I guess I can not say I am single, but I am a widow.”

Dodger smiles at her and holds out a hoof, “It’s a pleasure to meet you, I am Cloud Dodger, and my ungracious partner here is Sunset. May I ask what your name is?”

She seems to blush a bit, holds out a hoof “It’s good to meet you to Cloud Dodger, I’m Captain Abby of the Troop D, the Door Kickers, but please call me Abby.” She says with a smile.

“Ok, Abby, in that case, please call me Dodger like everypony else. And while it is very nice to meet you, we need to get going, so I hope to see you again soon.”

“Likewise, Dodger, likewise.” She says with a smile as they walk off and we go into the radio room.

Once inside and the door closed, she looks at me, “Howdy, I have to say you got to love a buck with feathers,” it is then that she realizes what she just said and where, and that we are not alone. I see her blush for the first time ever.

“Please forget you heard that troopers,” she tells Soundwaves and Specs, as they fight back a chuckle or two, at least it was not me this time.

“Hi Guys,” I begin, “We noticed DJ Pon3 was not broadcasting tonight so we decided to see if you guys had heard anything.”

“Hey Mollygirl,” Soundswaves replies. “Actually, we have heard quite a bit, between our Skywatchers by Appleloosa, Manehatten, and Fillydelphia. We have lost contact with the ones out by Canterlot and Hoofington.”

“Alright, I’ll bite. What is a skywatcher?” I ask.

Specs begins to talk this time. “Well, the skywatchers are a group of ponies with radios that have been sent to critical areas to monitor them for potential hostile activity, especially that of the Enclave. We set them up about a month ago, about when we started to get more reports of Pegasi than normal.”

“Wow, and this is the first time either Mollygirl or I have heard about them,” the captain tells him.

“Well Ma’am, we are supposed to keep their existence quiet. But it is how we got the original reports about the bombardment of Canterlot. Two days ago, one of our skywatchers reported a Raptor attacking Horseshow Tower. The raptor shattered it. Today we have begun to get reports of fighting between the Enclave and Red Eyes forces over near Filly. Not sure how that one turned out, but it should be interesting, as this could cause a three-way fight if the others attack us.”

“That’s very interesting bucks. Thanks for the information.” Abby tells them.

“No problem Ma’am, Glad we could be of help.” Specs replies back.

We leave radio and begin to head back to the squad’s bunker. On our way, once again it starts to rain, the reinforced walls help to keep the trenches from collapsing but do nothing for the bottom of them, which becomes mud very quickly. As soon as we can we get into the bunker and try to keep from dripping too much onto the wooden floor.

As the Captain and I enter the bunker I notice that the windows have been closed. Shadowbuck looks up at us with a smile. “Sorry you two, but these here bunkers are only for ponies, not mudpuppies.”

“That’s ok Shadowbuck, I needed a somepony to stand watch out in the rain, I appreciate your volunteering.” The captain responds back without missing a beat, “But actually, Sargent, we would be best advised to keep a guard out, and if the water starts to get too high then we may need to start bailing out the trench.”

“Yes, Ma’am, I will make up a watch bill for tonight,” Bullet responds back.

Emerado looks at me all covered in mud and lets out a sigh, “Well if Bullet is going to be busy Mollygirl, we may as well head back into the stable for the night.”

We say our goodbyes for the night and return to our stall. Before turning in we both take a shower to get all the mud off of us from returning from the bunker. If we get too much rain, we could really have some problems. After cleaning up Em and I stay up for a bit talking about the news that Soundswaves and Specs passed on to Abby and me. Finally, we both drift off for the night.

Our morning routine is slightly different as now the trenches stay ponied, the muster is taken by squad, carried up to the company CO’s who then turn them in at Headquarters in the stable. It is still lightly raining so Em and I continue working on the information to be given to any refugees that may show up. We still have a lot of work to do. One thing I notice is that we still have not gotten any new reports of refugees coming in. Part of me is glad as it makes things easier, but part of me is disappointed as we have painted a big target on ourselves with the Enclave for little results.

Shortly after lunch, we get reports that the rain has stopped. That is good news for those in the trenches at least. We also get word that George is here. So, we stop our paperwork, grab our kits and head down to meet her. When we get there, she seems in better spirits than yesterday and already has a couple of the staff members assisting her in putting on her harness. We grab ours and follow George out the back door of the stable. We mount up, make sure we have our weapons ready, and double-check each other’s gear. Shortly afterward George has us airborne and we start our training and observation flight, as we head over Manesville I suddenly see two pegasuses come flying out from between the buildings along the waterfront to intercept us. At first, we are all ready to fight them, then I realize it is Sunset and Dodger.

Dodger waves to us and then uses his front hooves to indicate they want to form up into formation with us. I motion back to them and they fall in with one on each side. George begins to climb to a higher altitude. Sunset flies up Georges's head and yells that they want to practice maneuvering with us. I see George nod yes and give him a thumbs up with her foreclaw.

Then it is on. We start simple with a formation barrel roll. After this, we transition to a Split S maneuver. Then we begin to climb for the cloud ceiling as George rolls over on her back I see the two Pegasi are weaving around George from one side to the other in a manner that allows them to clear each other and George’s tail if we were being pursued.

We practice these maneuvers for a while before Emerado finally gets my attention and lets me know she needs a break as she is getting sick. We all then go to level flight and begin to head over toward Donovan. Might as well check up on the Militia troops while we are in the area. If I am really lucky, maybe we can sneak in a stop at Sumac’s farm.

As we approach Donavan, I indicate to George I want to land, she sees the militia troops performing maneuvers and we slowly make our approach so as not to be seen as a threat to those on the ground. George lands with Sunset on one side and Dodger on the other, almost simultaneously.

Emerado and I both get off of George and are met by Badger and the head of the Donavan Militia. Over in the ranks, I think I see a zebra and realize it must be Xavier. He seems to be fitting in so I decide not to bother him yet. Badger comes over and gives me a salute, followed by a big hug and kiss, he then says hello to Em and George. Next, he turns to me, “So, who are your escort? I was kind of surprised to see you three being escorted.”

I then turn and motion to both of the Pegasi, “Badger, this is Sunset and his partner Cloud Dodger,” Then I point my hoof toward Badger, “Sunset, Dodger, this is my husband Badger, he is assisting in the training with the militia. If you two do not mind, I would like to check on how their training is going.”

Sunset is the first to speak, “Pleased to meet ya Badger, I have ta say I wanted to meet the Stallion that could wrangle in a wild filly like your Mollygirl.”

I see Badger smile, “It is a pleasure to meet you too Sunset. You also Cloud Dodger, Welcome to the Co-op.”

Finally, Dodger speaks, “It is a pleasure to meet you also Badger, but please, just call me Dodger for short.”

“Alright, Dodger it is then. I hope you do not mind, but we really need to go over some issues with training, so if you will excuse us for a bit.” Badger tells him.

“Not a problem my good stallion, I have had a good time flying with them today and I really want to discuss some maneuvers to try with George and Sunset anyways.”

With that I begin to walk away with Badger, I hear Emerado behind me, “I will catch up with you two, I need to make some introductions here.” Oh no, I forgot to introduce them to George. I hope I did not offend anyone here.

“How’s it going so far, dear?” I ask him.

“So far so good, give me a month and I could feel comfortable putting them in a defensive position, two months on the attack, unfortunately, well I have a feeling we do not have that long, so we do what we can with what we have.” He tells me back.

“How is the weapons situation looking for them?”

“Not as bad as it could be, most have their own rifles, some pistols and such. You know things for hunting and defending their farms or shops from raiders and the like. After all, they are the furthest community in the Co-op from the Stable, so they have always had to be a bit more self-reliant. But that is part of the problem too. Too many chiefs, not enough buffalos if you know what I mean.” He says as he looks from me to the troops that are practicing attacking and defending a farm on the outskirts of the town.

I can only nod my head and agree. “I have seen that before, so yes, I do understand. Was that Xavier I saw in the ranks?”

“Yes, it is. He is not the best at combat tactics, but he has a natural talent for scouting as well as melee and hoof to hoof combat. I have been having him assist me with the others.”

“That makes sense. I remember what he did to me the first time I met him, and he was not in as good of shape then as he is now. Please just do not let him do any lasting damage to the ponies,” I tell him with a slight laugh.

“Do you think you might be able to get back here again soon dear?” He asks, “I would really love to spend some time with you and Mags soon.”

“I understand love, I feel the same way and I am sure our Mags does too. Speaking of Mags, I hate to say it dear, but we need to get going, I want to stop by Sumac’s on the way back.”

“Ok, I hope to see you again soon dear. Please be careful.”

“I will Badger, take care love and I will see you again as soon as I can.”

At that point I walk back over to the rest of the group, it seems Emerado has gotten into the discussion about the different maneuvers and tactics they were discussing. “Ok, everypony let's get going, I want to stop at one more place before we head back to the stable. Sunset, Dodger, you are both welcome to come along. George, our next stop is Sumac’s, ok?”

“Ok, Mollygirl, do you think the foals will be there? They were so much fun to visit with and watch.” She tells me.

“I think so, they should be done with school for the day by now,” I tell her.

Then I hear Dodger, “Did you say school? Do you mean that your local communities actually have schools set up for the young?”

Emerado answers that one, “Yes Dodger, we do. I came here when I was older and they even assisted me in improving my education.”

I nod in agreement, “Yes Dodger, we base the classes off the old stable schooling. It may not be fancy, but it does the job for us.”

I see him ponder this as Emerado and I mount back up on George and double-check each other’s harnesses.

The flight to Sumac’s is a short one, and once we land, I see Ginger run inside quickly to get every pony else. Shortly afterward she runs back out followed by Xochitl as they excitedly come out to see George.

They are followed shortly by Sumac, Magpie and Persimmon Tree. I give Ma a brief hug and then Magpie all but jumps into my hooves. Persimmon Tree comes out and yells to the youngsters, “You two calm down, I do not want you annoying George.”

I hear Ginger and Xochilt both let out an “Ahhh, but…” at the same time.

“No buts you two.” She continues.

“It’s ok Persimmon, I was hoping to see them today,” George tells her.

“Ok then, but behave you two.” She finishes.

As the foals continue over to George, Sunset and Dodger come over to the rest of us. “Everyone, this is Sunset and Cloud Dodger. They just arrived in the Co-op yesterday.” I say as I point to each in turn. Then I continue. Sunset, Dodger, this is Sumac, my wife Magpie, and our friend Persimmon Tree.”

“It is a pleasure to meet you fine mares, please call me Dodger as Mollygirl has.”

“It is very nice to meet ya’ all, it is a nice farm ya’all have here. What kinda crops do ya grow, and a better question is how?”

Sumac smiles, “It’s a pleasure to meet you two also. Sunset, those are some good questions, perhaps we can discuss it over some tea if you would like.” She then looks over to where George is with the foals climbing up on her. “George, would you like some tea also, I can brew up a pot just for you?”

“Thank you, Sumac, that would be wonderful. I will be over to the house in a bit.”

“Ok, I will leave the kitchen window open for you.” She tells George.

We all go inside and sit down at the kitchen table as Sumac begins a pot of water for tea for most of us and a soup pot of water for George’s tea. I notice both of the Pegasi looking around the house. Finally, Sunset notices the shotgun hanging over the kitchen door.

“In case of raiders or some of our more troublesome neighbors,” Ma tells them after she sees what he is looking at. “She is a 10 gauge, used to be my dear departed husbands, but I can still handle her just as well as he could.”

I notice a smile on Sunset's face and a raised eyebrow from Dodger. “Trouble I take it?” Dodger asks.

“Sorry to say, yes, not much but some. It seems some of my neighbors do not take kindly to my hired hoof being a zebra, as well as his having a pony wife. Luckily most are not that way around here.” She tells him.

“Glad to hear that. Maybe we will not have to worry as much about them hating us just because we have wings then.” Dodger tells us.

“I think that would be a good assessment, but I cannot speak for everyone in the Co-op.” Persimmon chimes in.

We continue to talk as the water heats up, and once it is ready, I assist Sumac in getting the cups and tea leaves out for everyone. After it has had a chance to steep, I call out the window for George to let her know it is done.

As she comes up to the window, I take the pot of tea out to her. She then joins the conversation with us through the window. I notice she is particularly interested when Ma tells Sunset about the different crops that we grow here.

“So, how come you can grow crops here, but the rest of the wasteland cannot?” he asks.

“Perhaps it has something to do with how we recover these old farms,” Ma says.

“What do you mean by recover them?” Dodger asks now with a bit of curiosity.

“Well when someone decides to recover a farm, they not only have to fix up the buildings, they plow under the soil that is magically radioactive. After that they cover it with manure from the sewage plants. From what I understand, when we first came out of the stable, the stable provided all of the original compost for the fields, and until the farms were established, they provided most of the food. It really is a good system. To make sure we have enough labor to raise the crops we all have to work the fields. My daughter Ivy, bless her soul, one time told me she spent an entire two-week rotation working the fields of a farm with the Mayor of Manesville. No pony is too good or important.”

“Now that is an interesting way of doing things. So, are you telling me the Co-op owns everything and everypony just works for them?” Dodger asks.

Ma shakes her head, “No, we all own what we work for. However, by doing it this way we make sure we all have enough to eat. We build what we consider a sweat equity. This does not mean you always eat for free, but it does mean that you always have something to eat. It keeps us from having an institution like slavery being tried here. In fact, that is one of the concepts we find most repugnant.” Ma replies. “In fact, any member of the Co-op who decides they no longer want to be part of this agreement can leave it, however it also requires them to leave the Co-op and its protectorate. That has happened before, some come back, others we never see again.”

“Very interesting,” Dodger says as he thinks about it. “What about military service then?”

I smile and tell him, “In the CDF, we have a rotation system that includes two weeks of farm work, every rotation. So, we do more than most, but it also gives us a break most of the time from being on alert. However, we also can be a quick response force to raiders during times of trouble. I hope that this helps you two understand us a bit better.”

“I think it does Mollygirl. I really appreciate all of you talking with us about it. Your setup is definitely different from most of the wastelands.” Dodger answers.

We continue with another cup of tea and then it is time to head back to the Stable. I still have some paperwork to finish tonight. Before we go, I take the time to take Magpie into her room just so I can talk to her privately for a minute. I let her know how Badger is fairing over in Donovan and give her the kiss and hug she deserves, without the others being right there, at least I thought so until I look up into the window and see two youngsters up in the tree next to the house pointing hoofs and giggling at us. I did not expect a couple of young blank flanks to be able to make me blush. Curtains, next time I will have to close the curtains I tell myself.

Once we are all harnessed up and mounted the five of us take off and wave as we circle around the farm. Then we start to climb up and gain altitude as we head back to Manesville. On the way we take a slight detour to overfly Emerald Grove, just to make sure everything is quiet from that direction.

As we start to adjust our patterns, we suddenly see three airborne Pegasi flying high above us. Dodger and Sunset move to intercept as we wait in the background as a reserve if they need us. If they are Enclave, we will hit them as hard as we can, hopefully, Sunset and Dodger can last until we get there.

We slowly approach as we see them fly in what looks like a dogfight, but I hear no gunfire and see no MEW beams. That is interesting so I have George take us over into the fray. Once we get close enough, I see that the three newcomers are unarmored and their weapons are in a stowed position. They are having a mock air battle with Sunset and Dodger, I can hear all of them laughing and catcalling each other. We get close enough that I can see that two of them have the Dasahite brand while the third still has their cutie mark.

I have George stop and signal for them all to approach. Sunset and Dodger lead them over to us and provide the introductions. “Mollygirl, these three whippersnappers are Faith, Hope, and Charity, all siblings. I used to know them and their parents years ago, back in Thunderhead.” He then continues and introduces myself, Emerado and George to them.

“Mollygirl, would you mind some more practice flying on the way back to the stable,” Dodger asks.

“Sure, that would be fine,” I answer before asking, “Are they coming to join us in the Co-op?”

“Not sure yet, but we are considering it Ma’am,” I hear the young buck, I believe they said his name was Charity, answer. He is a light grey body with a dark gray mane and tail, he wears the brand of the Dashite on his flanks. Both of his sisters are opposite of him in their coloring but only one has been branded, the other I can see her cutie mark clearly of a compass head from a map.

“Fair enough, Welcome to the Co-op,” I tell them, but I am disconcerted a bit when Charity is almost in my face smiling while flying upside down.

He then asks, “Really, two earth ponies on a dragon? In all my days I never thought I’d see it.”

Sunset then tells him, “Yep, really, well, one earth pony, the other has a bit of Pegasi in her too.”

I see the three youngsters blush at that, as well as myself. Suddenly I hear Sunset sputter, “That’s not what I meant. For Celestia’s sake, she is a married mare. Not that I would be averse to that mind ya, but she is not that way. Besides, I have met both her husband and wife.”

Oh, Goddesses, why does this always seem to be such a point of interest for everypony. We can’t have been the first. I look up and all three are looking at me as if appraising me.

“Well, both of them have already proven they are not the normal earth ponies just by being up here with us.” I hear Faith say.

Then, Hope, I think it is Hope says, “We best get going, I really would like to get some rest soon.”

I have to agree to that. “Ok, then If George and Emerado are ok with it, we can do some formation flying on the way back to the stable. Once there, I will see about taking you three to the armory and then helping you get cleaned up, fed, and some rest. If you need any medical help, please let us know.”

After that, we start the short flight back to the Stable. We have George in the middle of the first flight, with Dodger and Sunset slightly behind us in a V formation the other three are in a staggered line formation that slopes from left to right. As we get over the stable, I call in to let them know we are returning with additional refugees, and that we are going to do some practice maneuvers over the stable. We do several different maneuvers including barrel rolls, split S’s, and loops. The formations of the Pegasi changing as well as the position of George in the flight. It seems she is having fun with this.

At one point we dive toward the ground all of us weaving our positions and then about a hundred meters above the ground we all pull out and scatter in different directions. Behind me, I hear Emerado screaming. It has been a while since she has done that. Below us, I can see the troops in the trenches watching us many with a hoof covering their eyes. I swear I can hear them cheering. We then reform and I take them all in to land at the backdoor of the stable.

We all come in at the same time, in the double V formation. I see the Pegasi wings and their bodies begin to shift for landing at the same time I feel George do the same. I look at the entrance tunnel and am surprised to see the Overmare, Overcow, and most of the HQ Staff Waiting there. The Colonel is there along with the XO, both just shaking their heads. Horns begins to approach us as well as some of the others. He looks up at me with a smile, “Mollygirl, what is it with you and flying? I would ask how it went, but I think we all can see from the airshow.”

I look back and see the new trio all staring at Horns and the Overcow as she walks over with the Overmare to introduce themselves and welcome them. The youngsters seem a little overwhelmed at first then come up to introduce themselves.

After I have gotten down, I walk over to Sunset and Dodger, “Thank you for the fun up there. Just wondering, what are your two’s thoughts on joining us.”

I see Sunset start to think about it. “Mollygirl, I am leaning that way, but I am not sure yet. Talking with Sumac and the others helped a might bit, but I am still thinking.”

I turn my head to Dodger, “Not trying to force anything on you two. I just feel you both would be good additions to the Co-op. Especially to the CDF if you chose to join up.”

Dodger looks at me very seriously “I understand, I really am thinking this through though.” He pauses for a moment, “Mollygirl, you need to understand that I was once a part of the Enclave Army. It was on a scout down here that it hit me what we had really done. I broke my oath up there after that, and I will not take an oath again without considering what it really entails.”

“Dodger, I can understand that. In fact, I truly respect it. Thank you for letting me know.” I tell him.

“No problem. I figured it was the least I could do. Now we should get these youngsters inside and take care of all the harnesses.” He tells me as he turns back toward the tunnel entrance.

As we begin to walk inside the Colonel and the Major flag us over to the side. “Cadet, I would like to talk to your team. Sunset and Dodger, you are invited also.” He then turns and we follow him inside to George's room. Sunset and Dodger tagging along out of curiosity.

Once there, he turns to us. Great show all of you. Cadets, George, I have been very impressed with your work. I would like to create a temporary flight squad for the CDF. An airborne militia you could say. Sunset, Dodger, if you decide to join the Co-op you would automatically be added to the militia unless you were to decide to enlist in the CDF.”

“Sir,” I hear Dodger say, “We have not made up our minds yet. Would you mind waiting until the morning for us to give you our answers?”

“Not a problem Dodger, I just wanted to let you know how things stand and what we were thinking. Also, those three that came in would also be added to the flying squad under those same conditions if they decide to join us. Normally I would not be so hasty to decide this, but you all have a specialty that we really lack, as well as I will say, an impressive ability to fly together. George, I hope you do not mind either, as your position in the Co-op is a special one that has a long history.”

I see Dodger and Sunset look at each other, then Sunset asks, “How long a history does she have to warrant special consideration?”

Emerado answers that one, “Over a century. One of our troops is named George’s Gang in her honor.”

Both of them have their jaws drop in surprise, finally, Dodger replies for both of them, “I guess that does constitute a bit of a history sir.”

“Yes, it does, now if you do not mind, I would like to discuss the defense of the Co-op and especially of the stable using air support. If you are interested, I would love to hear your opinions on this also, George, as heavily involved as you are, I need your feedback also.”

I see a surprised look on her face, “Yes sir, but I do not know much about fighting.”

“George, maybe not, but you know what you are capable of, and I do not want to expect you to do things beyond your abilities.” He tells her, and she nods back in agreement.

From there we begin to talk for the next couple of hours about how we can help defend the stable, and support the troops on the ground. We come up with several ideas depending on who is attacking us. We also discuss using two of the empty stalls for the Pegasi to sleep in for the next couple of nights. George then offers to share her room as a squad bay for the fliers for the next couple of days, or until things can be arranged for them to have one of their own if needed. Finally, I suggest to the Colonel that all of the fliers receive old radio sets set to the same channel so we can communicate easier in the air. This is something that no one in the Co-op had thought of before. However, Dodger agrees with its importance.

As we are talking, I receive a message on my PipBuck from Horns. Faith, Hope, and Charity want to know where Sunset and Dodger are so they can talk with them. I tell him, and shortly afterward we are interrupted as Horns brings them all in. They have all been cleaned up and had lunch earlier. Now I can see their physical condition better. They are not as bad as they could be, but I can count their ribs and can tell they were in rougher shape than I thought. They must be tough ponies to be in that kind of shape and still perform like they did during the practice maneuvers.

“Hey Horns, thanks for escorting the trio,” I told him.

“No problem Mollygirl. I have to admit I was interested to get to know them some.” He tells me.

Charity then joins in, “It was really nice to meet ya to Horns. I never met a hairy one-headed brahmin before.”

Horns just smiles at him, “Charity, that is because there does not seem to be many of us left. All the brahmin are our cousins whose ancestors were not inside a stable on the final day. It seems the radiation was a bit rougher on cattle than on ponykind. However, I am sure they would consider us strange to look at also.”

“Makes sense, I guess. I hope to talk with you more later sir.” He tells Horns.

“I do too Charity. You and your sisters are very interesting and fun to talk to, now I best be going, I will see you around., Oh Mollygirl, shall I have some dinner brought down here for all of you, or are you going to be going to the mess hall tonight?”

“Not sure really, that depends on George here. Are you going to be staying a while yet or are you heading back to your cave tonight?” I ask.

She smiles a bit nervously. “Mollygirl, I really enjoyed it today and it has been a pleasure to be with everyone, however, I think I need to go home for the night to relax.”

“I understand George, thank you again for everything today dear. I hope to see you in the morning.”

“I plan on it Mollygirl. I really would like to fly with everyone again tomorrow.” She tells us, “I best be going though so you all can get something to eat. I will grab something on my way home,” she tells us as she gets up and starts to head for the stable exit. We all walk her to it and watch as she takes off and flies back toward Emerald Grove and her cave.

From there we continue on our way to the mess hall. I watch the Pegasi as they eat. It seems that our food has more flavor than what they had in the clouds, but not as much as what they had been getting when they could get something to eat in the wastelands.

After supper, we all go back down to George's room and sit and talk for a while. Eventually, Emerado excuses herself so she can go out and see Bullet and Shadowbuck in the bunker. I continue to talk with the Pegasi. We begin to exchange stories for a while and finally, out of curiosity, I have to ask, “Hope, may I ask what your cutie mark is for?”

At first, she looks anxious, then after Faith and Charity tell her to go ahead and answer, she looks me in the eyes, “Well, it’s a map compass head. My specialty is navigation. In fact, I used to be the navigator on the raptor Arcus. Faith served on there with me. She was one of the gunners before they branded her a Dashite for speaking up against the Enclave after Charity was branded.” She hangs her head down and looks at the floor, “I could not let my siblings be down here without me, so I left a letter resigning my commission and deserted to find them. If the Enclave captures me, I am a dead mare walking.”

I see Faith nod her head in agreement. Charity looks sadly at his sisters, “It’s all my fault. I had a mare I cared about that joined the Volunteer Corps, she disappeared. I left home and went down to the surface to look for her. I never did find any traces of her. Eventually, I gave up and tried to go home. That is when I was grabbed and marked as a Dashite. No-fuss, no muss, I made the mistake of going dirtside without permission. For that, I was thrown out, and my sisters followed. Sorry, it is not a better story Mollygirl, but it’s the sad and sorry truth.”

We all continue to talk after that, however as it gets later, I start to drift off. Eventually, I excuse myself and return to my stall, and sleep for the night. It has been a long and tiring day. But well worth it. If only I can get some time with Magpie and Badger again soon. I miss spending time with them so much. I slowly start to fall asleep and have troubled dreams that I will half-remember come morning.

Dear D.J. Pon3, I recently found a new home and met a mare who has had me enthralled and captured my soul. Unfortunately, I also know she is untouchable and unattainable. I know of one song that captures my life right now and all of its quandaries. Could you please play Achilles for me?

Thank You

Sunset

Manesville Co-op

Thank you to Kkat for creating the world of FoE. I also would like to thank Somber, Fuzzy Vee and several others for showing me how much more of that world we could tell the stories of.

This week's dedication song is available to listen to on Youtube at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vxruXa3LbSQ