Whatever I was expecting George to say, that was not it. To say I am surprised is a severe understatement. I am stunned and do not know what to say at first.

George looks at me and pleads, “Please Mollygirl, do this for me, and keep it a secret. They are afraid of the others hating them. They came here to find peace. This was Quick Frost home at one time. She did not know where else to go.”

“George, I’ll do this for you, but is it safe?”

“As long as they know I sent you, yes. Choo Choo is a bit shy, but she has seen you and Magpie in the cave before. Even if she does not show herself at first, try to talk to her kindly and she should show herself.”

“Uh, George, would it be ok to take Magpie with me? I want to spend some time with her today also, and this may allow me to do so. Also, I have to get permission to head out to Emerald Grove first. I will let you know after muster this morning.”

“Ok, if not I will have to find a way to let them know. Especially since I may be laid up for a while. And yes it should be safe for Magpie.”

“I’ll do what I can George, no promises yet, but we will see. Now I need to get going to get some breakfast, I will have the others bring yours back if you want.”

Sleepily she answers back “Ok, Mollygirl. Have them bring it to me and wake me when it gets here.”

I watch her eyes slowly close again and she falls asleep. I gently put a hoof on her neck and give my sleeping friend a brief hug. I hate seeing her hurting this bad.

I catch up with the others and we continue to talk as we finish our breakfast. “After Muster, I am thinking of having two of you up in the air at a time while the others are resting. I have a feeling we may have trouble ground side and want to stop it before it gets out of hoof.”

I see the concern on their faces, then Sunset asks, “Mollygirl, what kind of trouble?”

“Sunset, I did not tell you all earlier, but last night I saw a mare named Tar Water trying to kill the wounded,” before they can interrupt me, I continue, “She is a known traitor who has run off with an officer of Red Eye’s Army. That means they are still in the area. If you see them call in and let command know so we can respond ok?”

“Ok, that makes sense. Charity, I know you wanted to spend more time in medical, but I may need your back up with me. Dodger, I will have you take Hope with you after you relieve me.” Sunset tells them.

“Sounds like good planning Sunset, I will leave you in charge of the fliers while I am away. All of you please be careful. I have to introduce you to an old 1^st Squad D troop tradition tonight that I want to pass on to you. But it will take a couple of visits.” I say with a smile.

I see a few eyebrows raise, and a smile on Magpies face. She may not be in the CDF, but she sure has learned fast.

I get up and excuse myself. Before I go Magpie stops me, gives me a kiss on the cheek, “I will meet you in George’s room, ok.” She tells me.

“Sounds good love. I will see you then and let you all know what is going on.” I tell them and then I head up to the Headquarters section.

Once I get to headquarters, I find the Sergeant Major and give him my muster report. Then I report in to the Major. Most of the staff members are present, but a few are notably absent. I also see most of the Company Commanders or their substitutes. I see horns to one side with a bandage on his neck and one of his horns half missing. He waves a hoof at me and smiles.

The major begins the morning briefing. “Ok Everyone, I am not going to sugar coat this. We got hit hard yesterday. As of this time, It looks like we have over 350 wounded troopers and militia members, with another 150 dead of wounds. The civilians in Manesville took it on the chin. We lost one wing of the hospital. The other three are still standing, but are being inspected for damage and potential failure. The Manesville Townhall has been burned to the ground. That means the tax records for the last six years are gone too. I guess we are all payed upon our taxes now then.” She jokes.

“The downtown waterfront was also heavily damaged as were a large number of homes a short distance from there. Emerald Grove has lost 7 farms in total. They also lost the General store and two of the closet residences. Dairy Anne has lost 13 farms. As well as having taken some damage to local businesses. “

She pauses before telling us “We will be holding a mass service for those who have passed in two days. That should allow us to get a better handle on the situation. We must also take into consideration a possible attack by Red Eye’s forces that are in the area. There are reports that at least one of his operatives was inside the stable last night. I do believe that Mollygirl can confirm that.”

She finishes off the meeting with “For those company commanders who took losses. Give us a list of your suggested advancements to fill empty slots in your unit structure. Also, let us know what you need to replace those losses. For today, all units will continue what they were doing already. Starting tomorrow I want those units in the field to continue repairing the defensive positions. Those who were to be rotated into the stable will assist the recovery efforts of equipment and remains. Finally, those who were to be on farm duty will assist with the cleanup of the local communities. While there you will remain underarms so you can provide a quick response if needed. Thank you and Dismissed. Oh, Mollygirl, the Colonel wants to see you in his office.”

Once I arrive in the Colonel’s office, I am surprised to see several members of the staff are there, as well as being followed in by the XO and the company commanders. I march up in front of the colonel’s desk and salute him. He returns the salute. The Sergeant Major calls attention and all present go to the position, then he begins to speak. “Mollygirl, it is very rare for us to have a member of the CDF be a cadet for such a short period of time. However, it has been an intense period of time that you were at that rank for. Today it is my pleasure to confer upon you the rank and privilege of a full officer in the CDF.” At that point, he removes my cadet pips and replaces them with my Lieutenants bars. After which he shakes my hoof “Congratulations, in the fine tradition of the Equestrian Army you are now an Officer and a Lady.” It would have been a lot more impressive if several of the other officers in the room did not have to suppress smirks. Goddesses my reputation.

After he is done, he steps back and I salute him again. The ceremony is done. The others come over to congratulate me. After that the XO and the colonel wave me over. “Mollygirl, I have already informed Emerado of her advancement. Due to her being a cadet longer as well as the order the paperwork crossed my desk, she will be senior to you. She will receive her bars formally tomorrow morning. I know the wetting down ceremony is usually held the same day. However, I am forgoing that for tonight so we can do a larger one tomorrow with Emerado, Horns, as well as several of the enlisted troopers who are being breveted to Lieutenants in the militia, including Badger.”

“Thank you, Sir, Ma’am, I really appreciate that. Besides, we have our door Kicker tradition to continue on with the fliers as well as the Door Kickers tonight.”

Then the major speaks. “Mollygirl, Emerado will be remaining on staff here and with the Fliers as of tomorrow morning. You will be assigned to D Troop. Broken Dreams has been advanced to Captain and will be taking Abby’s place. I hope this meets your satisfaction?”

“Yes Ma’am. I am fine with that. I just will miss my fliers is all.” I tell her.

She nods, “I understand. Now go report to Broken Dreams and help get the Door Kickers ready for action again.”

After I leave, I find Broken Dreams waiting outside. “Hey Mollygirl, congratulations.”

“Congratulations to you also,” I tell him. “I hope you do not mind; I have a bit of drinking to do tonight with the fliers as well with 1^st squad tonight?”

He smiles, “No, not at all. I know the tradition and would have been disappointed in you if you did not. I do have a question for you though?”

“Ok, what is it, sir?” I ask.

“Mollygirl, since George is down, and we will be going on that expedition soon, do you think we could get one or two of the fliers attached to D-troop?”

I think about it for a bit. “Dreams, they told me Em was going to get the fliers for now, but if you were to inquire, then perhaps we could at least get one of them.”

“Alright, I will see what I can do in a bit. The first squad is still in the lines along with the 2^nd and 3^rd Squads. The rest of the company are in Manesville assisting with the wreckage. In fact, after you get done checking on them you and I will head into Manesville to meet up with the rest of the company. Check on them, get refamiliar with every pony, and make sure they see your new rank. Remember you are now the officer. If I am not around you and the other LT’s are in charge.

“Sir, after that may I take my wife home over by Donovan and Dairyanne?”

“Sure, I really appreciated all the help she gave us yesterday. I will try and have you back here by lunch so you can take her back.”

“Thank you, Captain, I really appreciate it,” I tell him.

He chuckles humorlessly, “It still feels strange to be the captain now. I sure wish I could have gotten it another way.”

“I understand entirely sir,” I tell him with a slight, sad, smile.

First, I head down to George’s room I tell them about what has transpired and put Sunset in charge for the day. George has already eaten her breakfast and fallen back to sleep before I get there, so I cannot tell her what is going on yet.

“Mollygirl, I am sorry you are not going to be with us anymore. It has been a privilege.” Sunset tells me.

The others all express similar feelings to me. After that, I tell them “I will be back later tonight everyone. I am still here so do not feel like I am not going to be around.” I tell them.

Magpie comes up to me and takes me in her hooves, drags me close, and suddenly I feel her muzzle against mine and without thinking my mouth opens and my eyes close. My eyes finally open when I hear Sunset tell Dodger, “See, I told you it was a good idea to come here.”

Then I hear Hope, “That a mare Magpie, show ‘em how it’s done.”

When we break the kiss Magpie looks at me, “Congratulations on your promotion dear. I am so happy for you.”

“Thank you, sweetheart, we will be doing the wetting down party tomorrow. Badger should be coming to that one also.” I tell her, when she raises an eyebrow, I tell her, “He is being breveted as a lieutenant in the Militia. That means for as long as the Militia is active, he will get paid and treated as a lieutenant.”

“I never imagined both of you being promoted that high love, I am so proud of both of you.” She tells me.

“Thanks Mags. I need to get going for a bit. I have to go up to the trenches for awhile. After that, I have to go into Manesville and then I will take you to Sumac’s if you would like.”

“Mollygirl, how about I wait for you and go into Manesville with you. I want to see what all happened, then after that, we can go to Sumac’s beside, I need to get some clean clothes and my own toothbrush.”

“Sounds good Mags. Dodger, you have the flight. I will see all of you later this evening.” Then I leave followed by Magpie. As I enter the trenches, she sits upon the hillside overlooking them with her eyes on Manesville.

I find the second squad first. They are pretty much all in order. It seems they only lost one pony and a bull during the fighting. I recognize some of them and say hello. I let their squad leader know I am the new Lieutenant for the troop.

“Glad to have you back with the troop Ma’am. I was worried about who the new LT might be. Emerado is good, but I was afraid she might have gone soft working as a staff pony for so long.”

“Thanks for the vote of confidence sergeant, I really appreciate it. I best go find the other two squads. I will catch back up with you all later.”

“Yes ma’am. 3^rd squad is the next squad over and 1^st should be just a bit beyond them.” He tells me, and I continue on my initial round of the troops. Once I find 3^rd squad I talk to both their sergeant and corporal I can see how much they have improved this section of the trenches. I let them know I am back with D troop. They let me know that they took several wounded during the battle, but none were killed. I am glad to hear that and tell them so, then I tell them I will be back later before I continue on to the 1^st squad.

Once I find the 1^st squad I see how bad they were hit. The first pony I see is Pearl, she has a shovel in her hooves. She lets me know she is in charge of the squad right now, at least until Bullet and Shadowbuck are fit for duty again. I inform her that I am back with the troop now and that both Em and I have made LT. She congratulates me on both.

I also see Dusty, Woodrow and Sutures. They are all working to clean out this section of the line. Off to the side, I see a small pile of weapons and a couple of suits of pegasus power armor. The suits both have damage to them as well as blood on them. I stop by and chat a bit with all of them.

“Hey Dusty, my condolences on your loss. I understand what you are feeling. Come talk to me anytime if you need to.” I tell her.

She looks at me dully, “Thanks Mollygirl, I appreciate it. Neither of us got to be there for a proper burial. That is the worst part for me. I did not even get to collect his ashes, that damned rain from when the sky cleared, washed them away.” As she tells me this she is looking down at the ground. Her ears are flat and out to each side. I can see how bad she is hurting, and I really do understand. Sure, Ivy was buried, but I was not there for it. I did not get to say goodbye to her either." Yep, I feel another stone slide slowly into my saddlebags. “I’ll talk to you later Dusty; I have to get moving.”

“Yes Ma’am.” She replies and starts back to work. As I walk over to Woodrow and Sutures.

“Hey Lt. Congratulations,” Woodrow tells me. This is quickly seconded by Sutures.

“Its good to be back with the troop. I hope you two are doing good.”

“Yes, ma’am we are, but are we going to get some new troopers soon? I mean the squad really is depleted right now.” Woodrow asks.

“I am pretty sure we should be getting some soon Woodrow. I will let you know as soon as I hear anything, I best get going. I need to meet the Captain and head into Manesville.”

“Ok Ma’am. I will see you later then.” He tells me.

As I walk away Sutures follows me into a communications trench. She stops me when we are out of sight of the rest of the squad. “Mollygirl, I am still worried about Dusty.”

“I can understand that Sutures but she did take a big loss yesterday, I think we should be worried a bit. But at least she is functional right now. All I can say is keep an eye on her. I know I will.” I tell her.

“OK, as long as we both agree on that.” Then she looks around for a brief moment. “On a personal note, I hope I did not offend you with the kiss on the cheek last night Mollygirl. I know you are a married mare.”

“Sutures, it was not a problem. I will say you did surprise me was all.”

She leans in closer to me. “Mollygirl, I just really appreciated your being there to listen, thank you again.”

“Anytime Sutures, anytime,” I tell her.

She glances around quickly one more time, gives me a quick kiss on the cheek, “Thanks gain Lt.” then she walks away as if nothing had happened. But right before she goes around the corner, I see her raise her tail and give it a quick swish to the side which she holds until she goes around the corner. Must have been some bugs bothering her. I wonder if she noticed I was still watching her flank, best not to think about it Mollygirl.

I then head back out of the trenches and find the Captain. As we meet, Magpie comes down and joins us. As she approaches, she sees the Captain and greets him. “Hello Broken Dreams, it is good to see you again. Congratulations on your promotion.”

I had not known she knew him. Before I can ask her about it, he responds, “Good Morning Magpie. It is good to see you again also. I really appreciated your help last time with picking out that dress for my mother. She never buys herself anything and it was such a nice surprise for her.”

Ok, that explains it, I think. We all walk together to Manesville, during which time the Captain and I discuss the unit some as well as what we have heard lately with Magpie occasionally joining the conversation when she can.

As I am telling him about what had happened with Tar Waters last night, he tells me, “I am really sorry to hear she has gone and fallen so far. I really liked her at one time. I know her family is fit to be tied. They have even talked about trying to catch her themselves. They feel she has dishonored the family name as well as turned against their home.”

“I am surprised to hear that. I do not really know them well, but I had not realized that they were taking it so rough.” I tell him.

“I have known all of them for years. They are a rough bunch. To tell the truth, if they were any place other than the Co-op, I could see them going raider. But Tar Water is, or was different. She had a real sweet side too. In a way you remind me of her.” He tells me and a part of me is offended.

“I take it you two were close then?” Magpie ask him.

“You could say that. We dated for two years. I almost asked her to marry me, but I kept getting cold hooves. Finally, she had enough and said she would rather be alone then unsure. Next thing I know she is listening to Red Eye on the radio and talking about how much better earth ponies are than any other species. I feel a lot of what she has become is my fault. Please do not tell anyone else.” He tells us.

“No worries, I will keep my mouth shut Dreams, I know Magpie will also,” I tell him.

At that point we come around the corner and are looking down the street we can see the remains of the hospital wing on the ground. Many of our troops are going over it. As we approach it, I see the extent of the damage. I notice that members of the Door Kickers are mixed in with members of Manesville Militia. They are still searching the ruins for survivors who may be trapped underneath the debris.

When I get closer, I see several ponies I know also working there. First, I see Pages with several members of the militia. Then I notice Whiskey. His normally immaculate mane and tail are frazzled. Some spots are burnt. I then notice how dirty and tired he looks. He sees me approaching with Magpie following.

“Hey Mollygirl, Magpie,” he says quietly, I can hear the fatigue in his voice.

“Hi Whiskey, I thought you would be in Dairyanne helping there?” I reply.

“Never made it that far. I was here when the attack began. I was helping to evacuate the patients.” He begins to choke up some. “Memory was here too. She was getting her treatments when the alarm began, she started to try and help others.”

“I am sorry Whisky, I understand,” I tell him.

It is then I notice Woofers and Tweeters, both dirty, worn-out looking, and whining by the pile of debris. “Has anyone tried digging over where those two are yet?” I ask.

Several of the ponies and a couple of ghouls and cattle all tell us no.

I go over where they are laying and begin to dig, shifting the larger pieces as well as I can. Others begin to join us in the digging as we try and find another survivor. Finally, I see a white hoof. I use my EFS and see a yellow marker. We all begin to dig harder. It’s Memory, we have found her. As we move her, she is cold and I can tell she is dead. Beneath her, we find an almost newborn calf, still alive. The calf was protected by her body. She has died saving the life of another.

No, I tell myself. I can’t have lost another friend. I want to scream. Then I ask myself, what will we tell Badger?

I help to pull the calf out of the hole and hoof her up to those above. I hear cheers from above as they see the still-living calf come out of the hole. At least one more life has been saved.

Then I have Magpie and Whisky put Memory on my back and I climb out of the hole, carrying her frail, broken form. Tears fill my eyes, as I reach the top of the pile and slowly make my way down. Woofers and Tweeters coming to walk beside me, both whining and with their heads down. I stop and pet both of them briefly on the head, telling them “You did good, you tried you two.”

Broken Dreams comes up to me, “A friend of yours?”

I nod my head slowly, “Yes, she was a friend to many of us. She deserved better. I have to tell Badger now.”

I send Badger a message on my PipBuck to let him know what has happened. He returns it quickly. Ma is with me at Donovan, she says take her to the farm. We will meet you there.

Broken Dreams looks at me, “Take the rest of the day off Lieutenant, do what you have to do and I will see you at the muster in the morning. For what it’s worth, I am very sorry for your loss.”

“Thanks Captain, I will see you later sir. I need to get her taken care of.”

Whiskey is beside me. “Where you taking her?”

“To Sumac’s farm. She told Badger to do so.” I reply.

“Ok, sounds good. Besides not like there is anything left of our place according to the reports from Dairyanne. She deserves a good place to rest. I will be by later.” He tells me.

Then Magpie and I begin the journey to Sumac’s. It is in the late afternoon when I get there. Badger and Xavier are there and are building a casket for her already. Sumac has us bring her in and we clean her body for burial.”

“I am going to have you bury her in our family cemetery if you do not mind.” Sumac tells us. “She has no other family in the area other than Badger, Whiskey, and us, so I only think its right.”

“That’s fine Ma. She was a good pony, a good friend. She deserves to rest with those who care about her.” I tell her.

Badger and Magpie both agree with me. Persimmon Tree has the kids in the other room and I hear her explaining exactly what is being done and why, they understand about death, but they are now learning our customs.

Finally, I hear Ginger, “If Memory is gone, then who is going to take care of Woofers and Tweeters?”

My ears pick up as I am wondering that too. I have to say I have grown very attached to them. Then I hear Xochitl, “We can, can’t we mom? I mean Ginger and me.”

Persimmon replies, “That would be nice dears, but you have to ask Sumac and see how she feels about that idea. It is her farm.”

Suddenly we hear the clicking of small hooves running into the room with us skidding to a stop. “Granny Sumac, can we keep Woofers and Tweeters, can we, can we, pleaaassse?” they ask.

With a look of sternness on her face, she looks at the colt and filly, “First, she is not even in the ground yet and you are asking for her property. I should spank both of you for that. Second, Badger and Whiskey both lived with her and would have first claim if they desire.” I see both of their faces fall, then Sumac continues, “However, if they do not want to keep them with them, then I will allow it.”

I see both of them raise their heads, “Ok Granny, we understand.” Xochitl tells her.

“I am sorry Granny, Thank you,” Ginger says.

“I am glad you understand now. However, until a decision is reached, they can both stay here.” She then tells them. I swear they are about to jump out of their skins.

“Thank you, Granny.” They both tell her.

Then I look at the time. I really need to get going. “Badger, Mags, I hate to say it, but I need to head back. I still have to stop off at George’s cave for a couple of things for her. Then I have to take the fliers and 1^st Squad on the traditional wounded toast.”

“1st squad? Mollygirl I thought you were no longer with the Door Kickers,” Badger tells me. Then he notices my uniform. “Well I’ll be danged. You made Lieutenant and did not even tell me.”

“Sorry Dear, but I just got it today and, well, the way things have gone today.”

“I understand, I am just surprised is all. So when is the wetting down party for ya?” he asks.

“Tomorrow night love, same as yours,” I tell him.

“Mine? Mollygirl what are you talking about?” he asks.

I guess he had not heard yet. “Badger, you and several others are being breveted to Lieutenant in the Militia soon. I thought you already knew.” I tell him.

“No, that is the first I heard of it. Thank you for telling me.” He says. “With all of the dead and wounded, when do you think we should bury Memory?” he asks.

Xavier looks at us. “Tomorrow I think would be good,” he says, “I can have the grave dug by then. When we all meet back here, we can hold a private service for her.”

We all agree. I say my goodbyes and I leave the house. Magpie meets me at the door. “I am sorry love, I wanted to be with you tonight, but I think perhaps I should stay here. I promise I will be there with you tomorrow though, ok?”

“Ok Mags, I understand. I will see you tomorrow love.” I tell her and give her a brief kiss. Then I turn and head out for Emerald Grove and then to the Stable.

I pass just north of Emerald Grove on my way to George’s cave. I can smell the burned-out farms and other buildings. I still am able to see smoke rising from above the hamlet itself. I wonder if any of the buildings from before the war are even left standing there now?

Finally, I approach the cave entrance. I knock three times rapidly and repeat the pattern two more times. Then I call into it, “Hello, George has sent me.” Then I walk inside. I follow the tunnel past the kitchen into a much larger room. Inside it I see several lanterns lit along the wall. There are bookshelves along two of the walls and I notice a large bed. I also see several scrolls rolled up and stacked together. Then I see my first alicorns. One is green and the other is purple. I slowly approach them. “Hello, I am Mollygirl. George told me to tell you she is ok, but her glasses are broken so she cannot return home until they are fixed.”

As I stand there waiting to hear them talk, I feel like somepony is touching me. I feel my mane shift and a breath on my fur. This gets me to jump a bit.

Suddenly there is a blue alicorn next to me. She is giggling at me. “Made you jump.”

I hear the green one tell her, “Now is not the time to play sister.”

I look at the blue one and ask, “Are you Blue Star?”

She giggles some more, and the Green one answers, “No, I am Blue Star. I know, not a name for a green alicorn. I wonder if it is a type of joke from the goddess. Her name is Choo Choo. My other sister here is Quick Frost.”

Besides me, Choo Choo laughs lightly, “I remember you. You and Emerado visited here and I sat in the kitchen listening. Can we have tea with you now?”

“Uh, tea sounds really good, but how could you have been there and I have not seen you Choo Choo?” I ask.

I hear her infectious smile in her voice, “That’s easy, I can become invisible.”

Ok, that it explains it, I think. I nod at her answer.

Blue Star than replies, “you have to excuse Choo Choo, when we broke with unity, she did not get all of her memories back. She remembers working on trains and she remembers being a foal, but a lot in between is missing. “

“That’s right, I am still trying to remember things.” Choo Choo adds.

“So, what brought you all to the Co-op?”

Quick Frost then replies, “So that is what you call it now. When I was young, I was raised in what we called Emerald Grove. I was a farmer here before I was drafted into the army. The last thing I really remember is being at Maripony and the warning sirens going off. I loosely remember my time as part of Unity. When we broke from unity, my sisters and I were together still and I was the only one who remembered where my home was, so we came here.”

I smile at that, “Quick Frost, to tell the truth, we still call it Emerald Grove. The Co-op is just some of the local communities that have banded together to protect ourselves. Also, I guess I should say, welcome home.”

She seems startled at that, “You mean just like that you trust me?”

“No, but George trusts you, and I trust her. Besides, if you were lying you would have made up a better story.” I tell her.

Quick Frost nods her head, “When we first got here, I went to the farm I was raised on and it was no longer like it was when I left it. There were cattle living there and they had some ponies living in a smaller building outside the house. We needed shelter so I teleported us to this cave I remembered playing in as a colt.”

“Wait, you used to be a colt?” I ask.

“Yes, I was. I remember being a yellow colt with a dark black mane and tail. Back then I even had a plow for a cutie mark.” She says as she looks sadly at her flank. “It’s all gone now, like so much else.”

Blue Star speaks next, “We have come here to try and find peace. We do not want any trouble.”

As she says this, I notice Choo Choo has disappeared again. “Blue Star, I think you will be able to find peace here. Unfortunately, we just had to fight a large battle to protect the Co-op, so some may not be as friendly as others. But If you would like I can see what we can do to quietly introduce you to the local communities.”

As I finish talking, I hear small hoof steps behind me. I turn to look and see Ginger and Xochitl running up to me. “Whoa, Auntie Mollygirl, are these really alicorns, really?” Ginger asks.

They skid to a stop beside me and before I can apologize suddenly behind them, I see Choo Choo appear she reaches down with her wingtips and touches both of them on the back and shouts “BOOO!”

Both foals jump and then I can smell it. Yep, I am so glad George is not here for this. Behind me, I hear Choo Choo laughing as she rolls on the floor, “That is so funny, oh my gosh, so funny.”

I look down at the Ginger and Xochitl then up at Blue Star and Quick Frost, “Do you have a towel?”

Once the mess is being cleaned up by Ginger, Xochitl, and Choo Choo, I continue to talk with Quick Frost and Blue Star. “I am so sorry about that. They were not supposed to follow me.”

“We understand, George has talked to us a lot about these two. What worries me is which will corrupt whom. I am not sure whether they will be an influence upon our sister, or her upon them.”

“Well, that is a good point. Again, I am sorry that your secret has gotten to them. I will make sure I discuss the importance of keeping it.” I tell them.

“We would appreciate that. At least for now.”

“You said you came back to your home; did you miss the farm life? Is that why you returned or was there more to it?” I ask.

Quick Frost answers, “Mollygirl, I missed my home, I guess I missed my life from back then, I know I cannot have it back but I still miss it. I even miss the feel of the plow as it bits into the soil to till another row. I miss the smell of fresh-cut hay.”

As she speaks, I listen and think. “Things are starting to change here in the Co-op it seems. Normally we have to work in the fields for a year to earn membership than you can make a claim to recover a farm if you are interested.” I tell her.

She looks angrily at me, “You think I would be willing to be a slave? How dare you.”

“Quick Frost, it's not like that. We do not have serfs or slaves or any of that. We work on the farms to earn what we consider a sweat equity. You can leave anytime you want. It just means you have to leave. The other way is to join the military, but I do not think you are interested in that.”

Both she and Blue Star look at each other, “No, we are not interested in the military. We have done enough fighting for several lifetimes.”

“I can understand that. I will talk to some of the higher-ups and see what I can come up with for you.” I tell them. Then I look and notice that Xochitl, Ginger, and Choo Choo are gone. “Excuse me, I think I need to find them before they get into trouble.”

I step out of the cave just in time to see Choo Choo getting ready to take off into the sky with Ginger and Xochitl on her back. Behind me I hear Quick Frost command, “Sister, stop what you are doing right now.”

Choo Choo turns around and I see the disappointment on all their faces. “Ah, come on Quick Frost we were just playing.”

“Yeah, we were just playing,” Ginger says.

“Ginger, Do I need to talk to Granny about your behavior?” I tell her, and see her head slump. “I am sorry Quick Frost.”

“No need to apologize, my sister knows better.” She tells me.

I notice the time. “I really need to get going. I apologize for such a short visit and hope to have a longer one again sometime if you do not mind.”

I see Quick Frost and Blue Star think about it briefly and nod to each other. “We would like that. Perhaps even the young ones, as I see how attached my sister is already becoming.”

As she says this I look over and I see Choo Choo on her back rolling with the youngsters in the dirt, playing. I have to smile at that. Finally, she gets up and comes trotting back to us. Ginger and Xochitl trailing behind. “They remind me of my foals so much.” She tells us.

I see the surprise on the faces of both Quick Frost and Blue Star. “But you have never remembered your family before, are you sure?” Quick Frost asks.

Choo Choo is excited, “Oh yes, I remember playing with them in the grass like that, I remember them, both of them. Quick Frost, Blue Star I was once a Mother.”

She is excited for a few minutes, then I see the pain on her face, “I was a mother. I wonder what happened to my foals?” She says as she lowers her head, her ears at the side of her head, tail down, and wings drooping.

Ginger and Xochitl both go up to her and standing on their hind legs put their hooves around her neck. “I am sure you were a good momma,” Xochitl tells her, “You would never have left them behind on purpose.”

Choo Choo leans lightly into their hugs, “Thank you, both of you.”

When they are done, I look at both Ginger and Xochitl, “I have to go to the Stable for work. Both of you need to get home. I also need you both to understand that these three being here needs to be kept a secret. No if, no ands, no buts. Do you understand me.”

Both look at me and nod their heads, “Yes, ma’am.”

“Ok, Now get home you two,” I tell them.

They start to walk and then I hear Quick Frost. “Blue Star, I want you to help Choo Choo take these two home, please be discreet, and come right back.”

They both nod in agreement. She continues, “Mollygirl, I would ask but a moment more of your time.”

“Of Course, Quick Frost,” I tell her.

After the others take off with Ginger riding Choo Choo and Xochitl on Blue Star, Quick Frost approaches me. “Do you think they will keep our existence secret?”

“Yes, for a little while at least.”

“OK, please let George know we are ok and understand.”

“Thank you, Quick Frost, I will return as soon as I can,” I say to her as I watch her return to the cave. After she is inside, I turn and head back to the Stable.

Once I get back to the Stable things start to move. I grab a quick bite to eat in the mess hall, then I have to find a couple of bottles of whiskey, I find three, two of Old Overmare, and one of Wild Pegasus. After that, I head down to George's room. She is still asleep so we leave her that way and head up to the medical department to see Faith.

The medic on staff just looks up, the nurse, however, sees us, she lets us know Faith is awake and then warns us to not let her have two much. I agree, tonight is more of form than to get drunk. When we get there, I let Charity and Hope go in first. It is a surprise to her. After them Dodger and Sunset go in, I follow them. Everyone gives her a light hug.

I see Dodger give her a hug, but he then goes to give her a kiss on the cheek, but she turns her head right then and their muzzles meet. I see both their eyes go wide, ears forward. I can tell they are both surprised. Then they both surprise me by completing the kiss in a most gentle and affectionate manner.

After that, I get up to Faith, “Sorry dear, I can not compete with that one. However, I do come bearing gifts,” I tell her as I pull out the bottle of Wild P.

I see a small grin on her face. “Really, I have to get this beaten up to have a drink with you Mollygirl?”

"No, but it helps,” I reply to her. “Now I need to teach you the CDF tradition of sharing drinks with our comrades who have been wounded.” I remove the top of the bottle and hoof it to Faith, “First the injured party has the first drink,

She takes a drink and passes the bottle to each of us as we did not bring any glasses. After that, the bottle comes back to me. I take a small sip and pass it on again. After the third time around everyone is laughing and talking with each other. I am getting ready to leave when I hear Faith talking to Dodger, “Sorry about the kiss, I mean I know you are interested in Captain Abby.”

Dodger looks at her with a sad smile, “Well I was interested in her, but unfortunately she did not survive the battle. But to tell the truth a buck can be interested in more than one mare if they are not in a relationship anyways.”

“That’s true Dodger, but I am sorry to hear about Abby anyways, she was a nice pony.” She tells him.

“She was, but she was not the only nice pony around.” He tells her with a smile. Over in the corner I see a raised eyebrow from Sunset, it is then I remember he has known her since she was a foal. I hope he is not going to be overprotective.

At that point, I make my way over to Faith, “Sorry Faith, but I have to get going. I will be back to visit again soon, if you do not mind?”

“Oh, I would enjoy the company Mollygirl. Besides, I really could use somepony to talk to. I have a lot on my mind.” She tells me.

“Ok, I will see you later. Have a good night every pony.” I tell them, “Sunset, Emerado should be returning to you all tomorrow or the day after. I will see you all again soon.” I tell them as I leave.

From there I head on down to the 1^st Squads bay. I meet up with Dusty, Woodrow, Pearl, Sutures, and I am surprised to see Archer already there. “Hey guys, shall we go visit Bullet and Shadowbuck?”

We head to their stall and I am surprised to see that Emerado has hobbled her way there already. To be honest, I had expected her to be in our stall still, I guess she missed those two. She is sitting on the bunk with Bullet. Shadowbuck is across from them and the other two bunks in the stall are empty. We file in. I go and give a hug to all three of them the rest coming in behind me. Then I break out the bottle of Old Overmare.

“Now this is a problem, you all three have been injured and are all together at the same time, so who gets the first drink?”

I see Shadowbuck and Bullet look at each other. “Well, to be honest, I say Shadowbuck should,” Bullet tells us. I hand the bottle to Shadowbuck. He looks at it then at all of us. “I know that toast are always optional at these visits, but tonight I would like to give one.” He pauses, looks up at the ceiling and then back at us again. He raises the bottle with both front hooves, “To survival, may we never give up no matter how much it hurts us. We have lost so much and so many in such a short time, but we are still here. To you my friends, my family, and my squadmates.” He then takes a long pull on the bottle before passing it on.

The bottle gets passed around and someone else pulls out one they had stashed away. Everyone is taking comfort in the company of each other. After a while, I realize that while I am still me, something has changed in the way most of the others react to me. I am no longer the sergeant. When I became the LT. the way the others looked at me changed too. I am not really one of them anymore, I am the boss now. That hurts a bit too. As I excuse myself and am leaving, I hear Archer tell Sutures, “I’ll be right back love.”

He follows me down the hallway after closing the stall door. “Hey Mollygirl.”

“Hey Archer, shouldn’t you be back there with your marefriend?”

“I’ll be heading back to her in a bit. But I have an old friend I need to talk to first.”

I stop and look at him, “Ok, Archer, what do you want to talk to me about?”

He smiles at me, “I know, not too subtle. I just wanted to let you know that I know what you are feeling right now, I mean concerning your old squad. All of us who become officers go through it. That is part of why they normally have a year or two period as a cadet before becoming an LT. It allows us to stop thinking of ourselves as just one of the herd. We are herd leaders now. We have to make the hard decisions; the responsibility is on us. Because of that, whether they realize it or not, they will look at you, and treat you differently than before. That is also why that when someone becomes an officer, they try to transfer us to a different troop than we served in before.”

“Thanks Archer, I really appreciate what you are saying, it's just a bit hard. I am back to the Doorkickers, but I no longer really fit into my old squad. I had my fliers taken away from me. This on top of everything else is starting to wear me down.”

“I understand Mollygirl, you have had so much so fast happen that I am surprised your head is not spinning in circles.”

“I feel like it is. At times I just want to crawl into a bottle and pull the cork into it behind me. If it wasn’t for what I heard about my Great Grandmother Millie and what it cost her, I might just do it. Besides right now anytime I drink alcohol, it just tastes off.”

He looks at me a bit funny at first. “I really hope Badger realizes how lucky he is to have a mare like you Mollygirl.”

I look back at him, “Funny thing is Archer, I hope the same thing. Even though we are married, I am still afraid he would rather have just Magpie than both of us. Just his luck it’s a package deal.”

“Well, if he doesn’t then he is a bigger fool than I ever imagined.” He tells me.

“Archer. Thanks, I really needed to hear that. “

“Your welcome Moll, I guess I should get back to Sutures and the others. Have a good night.”

“You too Archer. Thanks again.” I tell him before giving him a kiss on the cheek. I then turn and walk back to my stall.

Once I get back to my stall I realize I still have a bottle of Old Overmare with me. I pull it out and put it on Ivy’s old bed. I take out her one uniform that is still hanging in the stall. I inhale deeply, barely catching her scent anymore from it. One more thing I am losing. I sit on her bunk; I open the bottle and take turns drinking from it and trying to smell my lost love. After a while I stop caring about the taste of the whiskey, but that for a little bit I know it will make me numb to my pain, at least for a little bit. After the bottle is empty, I cry myself to sleep.

Later I wake up and feel somepony has climbed in bed with me. I can tell by the scent it is a mare, I roll over and put my head against her chest, I do not care who she is, just that I need to be held and comforted tonight. I start to cry again, I feel her hold me in her forehooves, telling me it is alright, let the pain out. I do. Eventually, I cry myself to sleep again, but at least I am not alone.

When I awake in the morning, I see Sutures getting up. Her Uniform is wrinkled like she has slept in it. I guess she has, as did I. She smiles weakly at me. “Archer told me you might be having a hard time last night. I hope you did not mind, but I was worried about you and when I came in you seemed to be having a nightmare.”

I smile back at her. “Thanks Sutures. I really did need a friend last night. If you see Archer before I do, tell him thanks from me also.”

“I will Mollygirl, I best get going to breakfast and then get ready for muster. One last thing Mollygirl, please watch your drinking, while it may help for a bit, it can get you if you do not watch it.”

“I will Sutures, I will. Thanks again for being here for me when I really needed it.”

“Your welcome Mollygirl, that’s what friends are for.” She smiles at me one last time, “Talk to you later LT.” Then she is gone out the door.

After breakfast, I head to the muster field and meet up with the Captain.

“Morning Sir,” I tell him.

“Good morning Mollygirl. I talked with the Major already this morning. You are ordered to meet with Moon Pie immediately following the muster. No ifs, no ands, no buts.”

Ah buck me, I tell myself.

Dear DJ Pon3 One of the strongest ponies and a good friend finally was kicked in the teeth one too many times by life. Could you please play How to Save a Life to all those others out there who are called to save a friend also.

Thank you

Sutures

Manesville Co-op

Once again I would like to say thank you to Kkat for developing this world of FoE. I would also like to thank Somber, Fuzzy Vee Vee, and so many others who have shown us how much more of Equestria to there really is and the stories that can be found there.

As I wrote this chapter it seemed to remind me that we all need to remember that sometimes those who seem the strongest are trying to be strong for others and may really need our support too.

For this weeks song dedication, the link on YouTube is: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rkBvhnri5s0