The next three days go fast but well. We receive several new replacements into the company. I am surprised to see some of the old hooves from other troops transferred in too. I still keep an eye on 1^st squad as it was once mine. The squad pretty much has to be rebuilt between those killed, transferred out, and too badly wounded to make the expedition coming up. Among the new recruits into the 1^st squad Are Prairie Fire, Angel Wing, Peppermint Leaf, Raspberry Leaf, Summer, Diamond, who is a corporal from A-troop, and Duke, a sergeant from F troop. They are added to Pearl who was advanced to corporal, Dusty, and Woodrow.

On the company level, I really feel fortunate as I still have Sutures as a medic. At least I still have some friends left. I am also told that due to my having worked with outsiders so much and with my having helped develop the operational plan, that I will be in charge of the scouts for it. Some will be members of the CDF, plus I have the discretion to hire civilian scouts as well as draft any I feel will be of use from the Militia.

I am very happy when I get assigned Sunset as my NCO for the scouts. The colonel has decided to keep the others at the stable for now. I have put out the word that I need scouts to some of the caravans and a few of the civilians. Finally, I also decide to draft Xavier as a scout. I know this is going to get me in hot water at home, but dang it, I need him.

I am surprised though when I am approached on my way home by Chip and Blackberry Pie. “Mollygirl, Lieutenant Mollygirl, please stop,” I hear a male voice call. I turn and see it is Chip. “Oh, hi Chip. Hi Blackberry, it is good to see you again. I am really glad to see you are safe again.”

Both come up and give me a hug, “It is great to see you too Mollygirl. We heard about the fight here. My Goddesses, it sounds like it was a close one.” Blackberry says.

“It was, we ended up throwing everything we had at them and then some. Look, I am running late to get home, feel free to join me we can talk along the way besides I am sure Badger and Magpie would be glad to see you.” I tell them.

They both look at each other. “Mollygirl, that sounds good, but we do not have anything to add for supper with us.” Chip tells me.

“I know the rules, but this time you are invited. If Ma gets mad it will be at me. Besides being you just got back I think I would like to hear what all is going on.”

“Ok, agreed. I take it you three took my advice then and tied the knot?” Blackberry asks.

I smile at both of them, “To tell you the truth, yes. It really made up my mind for me to speed things up. As close of a thing as it was, I am glad we did too.”

She looks seriously at me, “Mollygirl, how bad was it? I mean I heard rumors, but that is not the same as hearing it from those who were there.”

“Let's just put it this way, if not for a dragon, some dashites, and a bunch of Feral ghouls the ending may have been a whole lot different.”

She laughs at first, then she sees I am serious. “Mollygirl, are you kidding me?”

My head is down and I am looking at the ground, I simply shake my head no.

“Oh, sweet Goddesses, it was worse than we heard then,” Chip says.

We continue to chat about the battle on the walk. Once we get to Ma’s I go in first, “Ma, I have some company for tonight’s supper,”

She comes into the front room. “Well welcome. Blackberry Pie isn’t it? And who is your friend with you?”

Blackberry Pie smiles, “Hello Sumac, yes, Blackberry is correct. The stallion with me is Chip. I hope you do not mind us joining you tonight?”

“Not at all, dear. please come in both of you and have a seat. Mollygirl, could you come help me in the kitchen for a minute?”
As they go sit in the front room, Ma and I go into the kitchen. “Mollygirl, I need you to run out to the root cellar and bring in some more potatoes and carrots for the soup. If I knew we had guests coming I would have been better prepared.”

“Sorry Ma, They ran into me on the road here. They still need to talk to me about some things for work. They just got back from Hoofington or Manehatten, I cannot remember which one.”

“Ok, now hurry along and get me those things will you. I want dinner to be done on time.” She tells me.

Once I bring them back to her, she has me go back in to talk to my guest as she finishes getting dinner ready. Magpie it seems has been out in the fields all day with Persimmon Tree. They are both surprised to see our guests. So, I introduce all of them. When I mention Blackberry Pies's name I notice a flicker of jealousy in her eyes, but she remains polite.

Next, I hear Xochitl and Ginger getting home from school “Ma, Granny, we are home,” I hear Xochitl call out as they get ready to come through the door into the kitchen.

“Wipe your hooves and go clean up for supper you two, right now, look at all that mud, what were you doing wallowing in it with some hogs?”

“No, ma’am, it was Choo Choo’s fault. We were all wrassling and she accidentally rolled into the ditch.”

As I hear this, I see Persimmon put her forehoof to her face and start to shake her head. She then mutters something in what I suspect is zebra. I have this reinforced when I see Chip blush and Blackberry Pie guffaw. Which is highly entertaining because then Persimmon is blushing as she realizes they understand her.

Finally, Badger and Xavier arrive home for dinner. When Badger sees Blackberry Pie sitting there on the couch he stops in his tracks and looks at Magpie with an expression of terror on his face. Then he notices Chip with her and relaxes some.

Once the kids are ready, we all go into the dining room for supper. Ma is at one end of the table, Badger at the other, and the rest of us sitting around it on the sides. As we eat, we start to talk about current events in the Co-op with them, and in turn, they regale us with the stories of their times on different missions. Toward the end of dinner Chip finally looks at me. “Mollygirl, Part of why we stopped you is we know you need scouts. Blackberry and I would like to offer our services, at least temporarily, as civilian guides.”

I look at both of them. “Not only do I appreciate the offer but if the Colonel and XO allow it, I will accept it. Thank you both of you.”

Now I have two more scouts. Things are looking up. Shortly after sunset, as Chip and Blackberry Pie are leaving, I see a lantern and several ponies coming up the walk to the house. Ma is behind me and as she heads in the door, I hear her say, “I will be right back with Bessie, them dang Waters again.”

I step forward on the porch, “Can I help you?”

From the dark, I hear a stallion’s voice, “If you are the one called Mollygirl, then yes.”

“I am her, what can I help you with?” I ask.

“Mollygirl, this is about Tar, she has turned against our home and dishonored our family. I have brought my colt Trouble to be one of your scouts. We want you to bring her in if ya can, if not we want her put down equinely.”

“I would appreciate another scout. However, I must tell you that as a military operation, finding Tar is not our primary concern.”

One of the smaller ones steps forward and removes his hat, I hear a younger stallion’s voice this time. “I understand that Miss Mollygirl, but she is my sister. I need to bring honor back to the family name.”

By now Ma has come to the porch with the shotgun. “Ma, put it away please, there is no trouble here. In fact, I would like to invite them in, or at least Trouble.”

Then I hear the older stallion again. “Widow Sumac, I am sorry we are bothering you tonight, do not worry, we will not enter your home without a welcome. I only wanted to volunteer my son’s services.”

“I understand Grey, I hope you understand my caution after your all’s last visit,” Ma tells him.

“Yes, ma’am I do. Please do not hold it against Trouble though, he was down by Hooffington at the time and was not involved.” Grey Water tells her.

“OK then, Trouble please come on into the house.” She tells him.

He puts his hat back on and comes up the steps, “Yes, Ma’am, I appreciate it.”

Once inside Trouble and I sit at the kitchen table. “Trouble, before we go any further, I have to ask, do you want to do this? Not because your family wants you to, but you.”

“Well Ma’am, I really would rather not, but Tar has done this to all of us. If a stallion’s dog needs to be shot, he should be stallion enough to do it himself. Ya know what I mean ma’am.”

“Ok, I can understand that. My next question is what were you doing in Hoofington?”

“Mollygirl, I was down there chasing a bounty that I heard about while in New Appaloosa.

“Ok, Trouble, I would like to have you sworn in as a member of the Militia before we leave. That would mean that while activated you would be operating as a member of the CDF, and subject to its rules and regulations as well as being paid and supplied by it. This would also mean you cannot just walk away or disobey orders you do not like” I tell him.

I see him pause and consider this, after a bit, he looks at me offers me a hoof and I take it, “It’s a deal ma’am. When do you want me and where?”

“Trouble, meet me at the main Stable entrance tomorrow at noon. We will go over your equipment requirements as well as get you a physical.” I tell him.
“Alright ma’am, I will see you then.” He tells me as we both get up and walk to the door. Once he steps outside, I see him nod his head at his father.

“Thank you, Mrs. Mollygirl, we all appreciate this.” I hear Grey Water tell me.

“Your Welcome, have a good night all,” I tell them as they turn and walk away. Then I go into the house, “Ma, Persimmon Tree, we have to have a short talk I think.”

To say that my decision to draft Xavier was unpopular is a huge understatement. I really had not seen Persimmon Tree upset is seems. After threatening to kill me in my sleep if anything happens to her husband, she goes back to her house crying. Xochitl is upset also but does not say anything. He only looks at Ma and says, “Granny, I am sorry, I have to go take care of my mother.”

I have a hard time sleeping that night. Even with Magpie stroking my mane I can not seem to relax. I toss and turn half the night and go to get up to lay on the couch in the front room when Magpie stops me.

“Mollygirl, please don’t, even if you can’t sleep, please just lay here with me.” She asks of me.

I can not hurt her like that, so Instead, I lay next to her and stare at the ceiling in the dark. Eventually, I hear her breathing rhythm change as she falls asleep. I lay there quietly until I feel her start to jerk in her sleep, then she is crying out and screaming in her sleep. I roll onto my side putting my hooves around her. Gently kissing her and telling her it is alright. After a while, she settles down, and finally, I sleep too.

Come morning I wake up early and leave before anyone else is up. After last night I really do not want to be here, except for Mags. We spend the day getting our equipment ready for the coming campaign. At lunch, I run into both Archer and Emerado.

“Hey guys, what is up?” I ask them as I sit down.

Archer looks at me, “I was just telling Emerado, that it looks like we should have a battery of 81-millimeter mortars ready to use in two days. We found four on the train we recovered as well as two that just came in last night on the last shipment we expect to arrive from Hoofington for a while. It sounds bad enough down there that the caravan that brought them is looking for work out of the Co-op. I mentioned it to the XO and she is considering using them in the supply runs for the expedition.”

That actually surprises me. “You know that is really a good idea. It would allow us a lot more freedom in our supply chain. I like it. Right now, I have three more scouts signed up as well as Sunset. I hope to hire some more on the march.” I tell them.

“Mollygirl, part of me really wishes I could go with all of you on it,” Emerado tells me.

“Come on Em, it will only be a month and a half to two months total, why not try and get transferred out to one of the participating troops?”

She looks down slightly embarrassed, “I can’t go Mollygirl, when I went for a physical so I could do that, I found out I am pregnant.”

“I am so happy for you Em,” I tell her, and part of me is, but inside my heart feels like it is breaking, everything I have wanted she has been getting. Damn it, why can’t I catch a frigging break just once. “Could they tell you if it is a colt of filly yet?” I ask.

“No, still too soon they said.” She tells me then continues “I am sorry Mollygirl, I know this should be your foal.”

“No, Em, I am really happy for you and Bullet. I really am.” I tell her. I guess my face must be betraying me as I feel Archer put a single hoof on my shoulder.

“We are your friends Mollygirl, we all understand dear.” He tells me.

“Thank you, both of you, and Em I really am happy for you, I just wish the Goddesses had smiled on me too like they have you,” I tell them.

Archer looks from Em to me and then tells me “You never know Mollygirl. From what Badger has told me, while the odds are against you ever being able to catch, for all the years I have known you, you usually end up beating the odds.” At which point he puts a hoof across my shoulders and gives a quick squeeze. “I best get going, I have to see what we can do about getting some more mortar crews set up and training.”

“I will talk to you later Archer, thanks again,” I tell him as he gets up and walks away.

I am still talking with Emerado when it happens. A general message on all of our PipBucks. There is an attack going on by Donovan. Emerado looks at me “Good luck Mollygirl. I will keep you informed of anything I hear.” I am running from the Mess hall to the assembly area for D troop when I see all four of the pegasi come running out of George's room fully armed. Sunset yelling at them the entire way to the door, “Move, Move, Move, lives are dependin on us, let’s go...”

I say a silent prayer for all of them as I run out the main entrance hatch. Once assembled We watch as Archer and his artillery go running by pulling his guns toward Donavan. We then see the Brahmin Busters and the Cocky Colts moving in line behind the Guns.

Along with the rest of the Door Kickers, I sit and wait. Broken Dreams comes over and addresses us. “Ok, we have the quick response troops going out to support the Donavan Militia. We are on stand-by in case things go bad. Right now, there are reports of between 150 to 200 raiders attacking the town and outlying farms. They are organized and maybe from Red Eye’s Army.”

Shortly after that, We watch as the Apple Eaters are called out of their positions by the stable and are sent south of Donovan through Emerald Grove. It seems either the raiding troops are trying to flank those at Donovan, or A troop will be trying to flank them. All the while we wait. I am at first upset about this but realize that they are saving the troops that are assigned to the expedition so far as a reserve.

I listen to the battle the best I can over my PipBuck. I only can hear the overall command circuit though. I hear Badger several times giving orders out to those troops arriving and later as he replies back to the XO, who as head of 2^nd Battalion has taken overall command of the situation.

I still have my fliers Pip tags as well as Badgers and Archers. I watch on my Pipbuck as well as listen. There is a lot of confusion but It seems the pegasi have made a difference again. They are using the tactic I learned from Rainbow Dash's raid of using two pegasi teams, one nimble and light to attract enemy fire and the other loaded for Ursa Major with Miniguns and heavy weapons.

The battle rages for over two hours. We can barely hear Archers guns; we cannot even hear the rifle or automatic anti-machine rifles from here. I hate just waiting. Eventually, we get the word for us to stand down. It seems we are fine for now. Then I start to see a line of prisoners being escorted back. We are lucky in that after the battle of Manesville we realized this could be a problem and have converted one of the old warehouses that used to support the carriage factory into a modified prisoner of war camp. This should be interesting. After hearing all of Red Eye's speeches I can only imagine how his troops feel about pegasi. We will have to keep the two groups from killing each other.

As we head back to the stable, I see Trouble Water waiting by the stable door for me. “Captain, excuse me, I have a new scout I have to meet over there.”

“Very well Lieutenant. Catch up with me after you are done. We have a couple of things to discuss yet.”

As I approach him, I call out, “Sorry about keeping you waiting Trouble, unfortunately, it was a situation I could not control.”

“It is no problem ma’am, I heard what was going on. Tar often told me what it was like.” He replies to me.

“I am glad you understand. Let us get you inside. I want to get you a physical as well as issued a kit. While out as a scout it will be your choice as to whether you use the CDF gear or your civilian gear and clothing. However, you will be required to wear a PipBuck.”

“OK Ma’am, I understand. Let’s take a look at what you have for weapons and I will decide then. I appreciate it.”

After his having a physical and swearing into the Militia I take him to the Armory. “Hey Buckshot, I have a new scout here. We need to get him kitted out. Start with a PipBuck if you would.” I tell him.

He brings it out and puts it on Trouble. As he sets it up I grab his tag right away. Then after thinking about it. “Trouble, one of the things about a PipBuck is that it has a location tag. With it any PipBuck that knows that tag can locate it. I have already grabbed yours onto mine. I will be having Buckshot load mine onto yours.”

As he continues to set it up Buckshot looks at Trouble and tells him, “Trouble, this used to be Tars. There are still some audio files on it from her. You might want to listen to them sometime. They are personal. Otherwise, I can just erase them.”

I am now intrigued a bit myself. “Thank you, Buckshot, I appreciate your letting me know that. I think I will listen to them later then.” He tells Buckshot.

After the fitting out and preparations of the PipBuck are done. Buckshot gives him a full rundown of how the PipBuck works and its programs. As they continue, I hear Trouble talking to himself, “Wow, I could really have used some of those when I was out hunting bounties.”

After the PipBuck, he is issued a uniform, helmet, and saddlebags. Finally, it comes down to his choice of weapons. “As a scout Trouble, you have a choice. Many choose carbines, some choose assault rifles.”

I see Trouble thinking, “Buckshot, do you have any pistols?” he asks.

The old ordnance sergeant replies back, “Sure, we have a couple of different types. We have some IF-21’s, some IF-22’s, even a couple of IF-38’s if you prefer a revolver, most earth ponies don’t, I cannot say I blame them though.”

“I take an IF-21, if it’s good enough for the LT here I think it should be good enough for me.”

Then Buckshot asks him about a long arm.

“I have my own rifle, based it off an old bolt action. Beefed it up a bit, sealed the stock, I also added a bipod to it if I need it, along with my scope. It fires 7.62mm rounds. If I am scouting, I do not really want to advertise my presence, and if I do, I want to be like that old pre-war advertisement for ET&T, that phone company, ya know; reach out and touch somepony.”

I can’t help myself; I have to laugh out loud at that. “Thanks, Trouble, that is the first laugh I had all day.”

After we finish up kitting him out, I take him back to the D companies HQ office. I introduce him to some of the company staff, especially Broken Dreams. “Sir, Trouble here is going to be on the expedition as one of the scouts. I thought he might assist us in looking at the terrain we are going over as well as giving us a heads up about what it is like out there. He has lived outside the Co-op for several years sir.”

He holds out a hoof, “It is a pleasure to finally meet you Trouble. I know most of your family.”

Trouble looks at him very seriously, “Sir, understand one thing about me. My sister Tar meant the world to me. I heard you broke her heart. I will respect you, but sir, understand I know about you two.”

“Damn, well we might as well get this out in the open then. Trouble, I loved your sister, I never meant to hurt her. The way my life is, I almost asked her to marry me, but I did not want to risk hurting her more. I would have been willing to die for her. I am sorry.”

“Sorry does not mean much sir. Just words. Actions, not words. Now that we understand each other, let's get down to brass tacks and look at the maps.”

We spend the next couple of hours looking at a pre-fall map with Trouble giving us information about settlements and factions in different areas. After we finish, I tell Trouble to meet me tomorrow morning here at the stable for formation. I will be having all of the scouts meet there. After he leaves, I send out a quick message to Blackberry Pie, Chip, and Sunset to meet me at formation also. I will tell Xavier this evening at home. I already have his orders typed up to hoof to Badger. I am not looking forward to that.

Before I leave Broken Dreams looks at me, “Well, at least he did not shoot me. Mollygirl, the scouts are all yours. I will need your assistance still in running the company, but I will leave the scouts in your hooves.”

“Thank you, sir. I will do my best for you.”

“Oh, and Mollygirl, the word has come down, two days we jump off. The Colonel will not tolerate the attack without a response. When the rest of the CDF hits them, The CEF will be born and take the march.”

“Thank you, sir. What is the CEF?”

“Oh, yeah, The Co-op Expeditionary Force. We become our own command until we return to the Co-op at least.”

On my way home, I send a message to Badger. Send Xavier home. I have his orders. We take the leap in two days. Shortly after that I get a message back from him. Will do. WE WILL TALK ABOUT THIS.

Buck me to Tartarus, I had hoped at least we could have a good last couple of days together. Unfortunately, it does not look that way. I love him, but he needs to understand sometimes that I do not do things just because I want or can do them.

Once home I take off my uniform, clean up and change into the floral pattern dress that Ma gave me. I hope this helps him some. Next, I go down the hill to Persimmon Tree. I knock on the door. “Come in.” She calls.

“Oh, it's you. I never knew someone could be a homewrecker without even causing someone to cheat before.” She says to me.

I feel like I have been slapped. “Persimmon. I am sorry. But I really need him. He will be home tonight and tomorrow night. We leave that morning. I am sorry, really I am, I wanted to give you both more time.”

“It’s always your duty with you, isn’t it? Nothing is more sacred? Mollygirl, if your duty is so important, why did you get married? In fact, why can’t you just keep it as important to you and leave others alone.”

I realize I made a mistake. “I am sorry to have bothered you Persimmon. I do not have a lot of real friends left; I had thought you were one and I had hoped you would understand. If you all come up for supper, I will see you then, otherwise, goodnight and goodbye Persimmon.”

I leave her home and go back to the house; on my way, I make a side trek to the cemetery. “Hi Ivy, Epona. A lot has happened since you have been gone. I miss you both so much. Ivy, I will always love you, dear. I hope that you two are not angry at me too. I need Xavier for this expedition. I hate having to leave here myself much less take him. To be honest, I do not even know if I will ever be back here again after we leave. The one thought that consoles me Ivy is that if the worst happens, at least I will be with you again.”

I stop talking for a moment, I wipe the tears from my eyes. “So much has happened, Ivy, I hurt so much anymore. I sometimes just wish the hurt would stop. A couple of days ago I found out Tar Water is related to me. I was reading Millie’s journal and found out that during the Ten Pony Expedition she had been drugged at a party and raped.”

After pausing for a breath, I continue. “I now know why she became an alcoholic Ivy. She got pregnant from the rape. Oatie kept accusing her of cheating because she wanted to keep the foal. He threatened to divorce her if she did not abort it.” I stop, take a deep breath, and continue. “She finally talked him into just letting her give the foal up for adoption. Then she saw how the adopted parents treated the foal as it grew up. She could never even let her know she was her mother. Ivy, it broke her. I, I, am so afraid now of what could happen on this expedition now. What if something like that happens to me. I know I can’t get pregnant, but what if…” I can not say it. Instead, I stand there shaking trying not to cry.

Then I hear Ma. “Mollygirl, come on in dear. It’s ok.” I feel her put a hoof around my shoulders. I turn my head and cry into her neck.

“Ma, I never wanted this. I never wanted this kind of life. Everything I want, I lose or have taken from me. I watch others get what I wanted so badly. Ma, am I cursed or something?”

“No dear, sometimes bad things happen to good ponies. Once this is done, why don’t you consider getting out of the service? Mollygirl I would love to have you help full time on the farm.”

“Ma, you do not know how much I really want to do that. I have been thinking about this a lot lately. But what about Persimmon Tree. She hates me Ma, and I can’t blame her.”

“Mollygirl, she does not hate you. She is just hurting too. She is striking out at you because she does not know what else to do. Come on inside dear.”

When Badger gets home, he storms into the house. “Mollygirl, where are you. I want to talk to you right now.”

Before I can say anything, Ma goes out of the kitchen into the front room. “Son, how dare you come into my home acting all high and mighty like that. You want a fight I’ll give you one. But you lay off that mare of yours. I have had enough of everyone kicking her while she is down. Goddess Damn you. All she wants to do is make you happy and earn your love. Unfortunately, she has a job to do also.” She says to him face to face.

He sputters at first, “I have a job to do, and she is making it even harder for me.”

“Really? You get to stay at home while she has to lead troops out into the Wastelands. She is in charge of getting the best scouts she can so she can bring as many home alive as possible. Yet you want to pick a fight over one stallion.” Calmly she looks at him, “Son, when I approved of Ivy marrying you, I never thought you would be so selfish, please prove me wrong son. Please?” She is almost begging now.

As I enter the room, I see him looking at Ma, he has flushed, his ears are at the side of his head, he is looking down. “Your right Ma, I was only looking at it from my side. It's been a real bad day and then this just pushed me over the edge. Thank you for stopping me from making a huge mistake Ma.”

“Your welcome son. That is what us Ma’s are for. Now go over there and tell her you love her. It has been a hard day on her too.”

He comes over to me “I am so sorry Mollygirl.” He puts his hooves around me and holds me as I sink into his embrace, put my muzzle to his neck, and just breathe in his scent as I try not to cry more.

A short time later Magpie comes in from the fields. I see she has been crying too. I go over and ask her, “What’s wrong Mags.”

She looks at me in the eyes, “You, you left this morning without even so much as saying goodbye. We could hear the battle here, and I had no idea where either of you was or if you were ok. I just heard the news from Persimmon Tree about you leaving. Mollygirl.”

“I am so sorry Mags. I guess it's not just Badger who has been self-centered.”

She nods her head and follows me inside. Dinner is a rather somber affair. Xavier and his family eat at their house. Ginger does not say much. She just sits there and listens. After dinner while I am sitting in the chair reading in the front room, she crawls up in my lap with her Daring Do book in her mouth, “Auntie Mollygirl, could you read to me, please.” She asks. So, I put my book down and read to her until she gets tired and she heads up to bed.

When we go to bed Badger climbs in with both of us. “I am so sorry I have not been here more often. Mollygirl, I am really going to miss you when you are gone. Please be careful love.”

I am in the middle between them. “I will. I am going to miss you both so much too. I am sorry about this. Badger, Mags, when we get back, would you be upset with me if I resigned my commission and left the CDF?”

Badger and Mags are both surprised, “Mollygirl, I will support you no matter what,” Badger tells me. Mags agrees with him.

Soon I feel a nuzzle against my neck and a light bit of licking, then I feel the same on the other side. I let out a low moan, “Oh, that feels so good please don’t stop.” I tell them and they don’t.

When I get up in the morning both Badger and I have to make a quick run to our duty stations. I grab a couple of apples to eat on the way, choke down a cup of tea quickly, and am off.

On the way to the Stable, I see Choo Choo alongside the road. “Hey Choo Choo, how are you doing?”

“Mollygirl, is it true, are you leaving tomorrow?” She asks me.

“Yes, Choo Choo, it is, but how did you know?”

“Xochitl told me when I saw him crying last night. You are taking his father too?”

“Yes Choo Choo, I need him. I need good scouts I can depend on. He knows about the Wasteland and is very stealthy in them.” I tell her as we continue walking.

“Mollygirl, I would like to volunteer to go with you as a scout then.” She tells me.

“Choo Choo, what would Quick Frost say? Besides I am already taking Xochitl’s dad with me, I want you to be here to protect them.”

“Oh, ok, then we will do it your way. Then she becomes serious, Blue Star and Quick Frost have requested that if you are leaving that you introduce us to the local heads, so we have someone friendly do so for us. We have had hard times with that before.”

“Ok, when do they want to do this?” I ask.

“As soon as convenient would be best. Perhaps in a couple of hours. It seems our visit to Quick Frost family farm has been already brought to the attention of the cattle in the area.”

“OK, give me a couple of hours and I will see about meeting you at the back door of the stable,” I tell her.

“Thank you so much Mollygirl. We will see you then,” Choo Choo Tells me then takes off.

Muster goes fairly well. The word comes down that tomorrow morning we are to be prepared for a major operation; full kits are to be ready. They do not tell us where we are heading. But the members of D-troop see my mixture of civilian and military scouts with me.

I have most but not all of my scouts with me for it. During the formation Sunset receives his orders of transfer as well as a brevet to sergeant, so he has more authority with the scouts. As he arrives, I begin to introduce all of my scouts to each other. Some have not met each other before. I see the grin on Sunset's face as he and Blackberry Pie flirt a bit with each other. I also see Sunsets reaction to meeting Xavier, at first he is surprised, then he asks "Shouldn’t your stripes be red or something?”

Xavier looks him straight in the eyes, with a slight zebra accent I hear him reply “No Sergeant, my ancestors were loyal Equestrian citizens. We did not betray anyone. This is my home now, just like it is yours. We are both immigrants here.”

“Good answer Stripes,” He says as he holds out a hoof to Xavier. “I think you and I are going to get along just fine.”

“I agree sergeant Feathers, I agree,” Xavier says with a smile back as he shakes hooves.

I am also interested to see the interaction between Sunset and Trouble and am surprised to find out that they have met several times over the years. “Well Sunset, looks like we have another job together, it has been a couple of years. Good to see you again.” Trouble tells him.

I further introduce my scouts to the officers and NCOs of D Troop. “While they are not formally members of D-troop. On the upcoming operation, they will be working closely with me, and I am with both groups, so I want you all to get to know each other.” I tell them.

Broken Dreams then tells us all “This will give us an upper hoof by having a close relationship with the scouts. It also means we can provide better protection for them whenever possible.”

The meeting goes fairly well and we all disburse for the rest of the day to make the necessary preparations. As we separate, I notice that Blackberry Pie and Chip do not have PipBucks. “Ok you two, I know you normally do not have PipBucks, but I want you to have them for this operation. Let’s head up to the Armory. Also, if you need weapons or any equipment, I want you to draw it before we leave.”

“Thank you Mollygirl, we are just not used to having more than the bare minimum with us on our forays,” Blackberry tells me.

“That may be true, but how many are done with such a large group. Extra supplies can be carried in the company wagon.” I tell them.

Once we reach the armory, I tell Buckshot and Flechettes to hook them up with what they need, I will sign for it. Then I head out to meet the alicorns at the back door. On the way I stop at the regimental HQ, I first see the XO, “Ma’am I am going to be bringing in some special guest in a bit, I would like you, the Colonel, and possibly the Overmare and Overcow to also meet them.”

At first, she seems put out, “Mollygirl, I do not know what kind of special guest you may have that could be so impor…” She stops, looks at me. “Are they along the line of special like George?”

“Yes and no Ma’am. They actually are friends of George’s and mine. They are a bit different though.”

She looks at me, “I know I will regret this, How different?”

“Well ma’am; they are alicorns. They are supposed to meet me at the backdoor here in about a half-hour.”

“And you are bringing this up with such short notice now, why?” She asks me.

“Ma’am, Choo Choo let me know that they wanted to meet you this morning on my way to the stable.”

“Mollygirl, what is it about you that attracts this kind of thing? I will go get the Colonel and see what he wants to do.”

I wait for her in the main HQ area. Finally, I see the Overmare and Overcow both go into the Colonel’s office, then I am called in.

As I go in, I see them all looking at me. “Ok, Lieutenant would you mind explaining to us about these friends of yours.” The Colonel tells me.

“Sir, there are three of them. One of them, Quick Frost came from here originally. All they want is to be left in peace. Quick Frost has met some of the residents of Emerald Grove at her old family farm. I think they just want to make sure they are safe.”

The Overcow looks at me. “So, the rumors about Emerald grove I heard this morning are true. Interesting.”

The Overmare looks at her, “And you were not going to tell me Daisymay?”

“I was going to bring it up to you when I knew more Shimmer. Please continue Lieutenant.” Daisymay tells her and me.

So, I continue to briefly tell them about the alicorns. After I finish, I look at the clock on the wall. “They should be here to meet me at the back entrance any minute. Should I bring them in, turn them away, or do any of you want to meet them with me?”

They agree to have me bring them in. When I get to the back entrance, I see the three of them waiting next to a very nervous set of guards. Choo Choo sees me and then smiles and waves, excitedly telling the guards. “Oh, here she comes now, see.”

I approach the guards. “It’s Ok, the Colonel and the Overs have authorized me to bring them in. Besides, they are friends of Georges, do you really want to get on her bad side?’

I swear I heard both of them let out a small epp. Then the one says “Very well ma’am.” As he stands aside and waves them into me.

As We enter, Quick Frost and Blue Star maintain their dignity; and then there is Choo Choo. She keeps looking around, and oohing and ahhing as she walks. I also see her smiling and waving at those who stop and stare at us as we walk through the atrium on our way to the elevator.

Once we are in the headquarters area, I see several of the staff members stop and stare, Emerado among them. Finally, I one-upped her without meaning to it seems.

I bring them to the Colonel's office and introduce them to everyone inside. I notice by this time Quick Trot, the commander of the 3^rd Battalion has also arrived. The conversation begins with the Overmare asking, “I understand you wanted to meet with us, what would you like to discuss?”

Quick Frost steps forward of the others, “My sisters and I would like to remain in the Co-op. We have had it explained to us that we have to earn our way to stay here.” At which point all eyes go to me again. I simply shrug, and she continues. “We have no desire to serve in the military, we have fought and destroyed enough for a lifetime. We also do not wish to be servants, but are willing to assist others as needed.”

The Co-op leadership continues to talk with them after this for another hour. When all parties are satisfied with the discussion, we get ready to leave. Then Choo Choo asks, “Is George here, can we see her?”

The Colonel nods yes and I take them to visit George. On my way-out Quick Trot lets me know that after I am done with these three, she needs to talk to me about my scouts. Once we arrive, I watch Choo Choo go up and wake George. After George is awake, we all talk for a bit. When we leave Choo Choo goes and talks quietly to George. I see George have a slightly worried smile on her face, then she quietly whispers back, “Ok, take care of them for me.” She then looks at all of us, “Please all of you visit when you can. It is lonely here.”

I take the alicorns outside and watch as they fly away. I then reenter the Stable and go back to meet with Quick Trot. After that meeting, I take care of my last one for the day and catch up with Broken Dreams. We discuss the company and the new replacements. Finally, he tells me, “Mollygirl I need you and all hooves back here at 4 in the morning. We will be holding a mission briefing then, followed by kitting up and moving to our jump-off position. Let all your scouts know to be there then also.”

“Thank you, Sir, I will make sure that they know to be there then.”

I stop by my stall. I make sure my saddlebags are packed and ready for the morning. I put my extra field uniforms in there also. Finally, I take out Ivy’s old uniform. I inhale as deeply as I can, so I can smell her scent one final time. I put it back inside her old locker, and head back out of the stable to Sumac’s.

On the way, I catch up with Xavier. “Hey Xavier, how are you?”

“I am Fine LT. I am sorry that Persimmon Tree has taken the news so hard. She is very afraid for me and all of us. There are times I wish I could talk to the stars, just so I could calm her fears. But alas, my ancestral tribe is lost to me, so I do not even know if I am of that tribe.”

“I understand. I had lost a lot of my ancestral history too when my mother died. I am lucky and have found some of it out now.” We are getting to the farm about then so I tell him, “Have a good night Xavier. I will see you in the morning. Remember we have to be back by four.”

“I understand. Have a good night as well Mollygirl.” He tells me.

Badger meets me at the door along with Magpie. After a hug and kiss from him, he lets me know that he has to be up and ready early also. I see the look of worry on Mag's face. Ma then comes in and lets us know that dinner is ready. We are going to be eating it in the kitchen as it will only be the four of us tonight. It seems Ginger is going to be spending the night with Xochitl again.

I had hoped to see her one last time before I left, so it is a bit disappointing for me. She has allowed me to feel like a mother at times. I will miss having her and Xochitl sit on my lap while I read to them. Along with dinner, tonight we have hot apple cider along with some spices and rum in it. I note a bit of cinnamon to it. It is such a treat.

After dinner, I ask Ma and Magpie if they would be willing to try and cut my mane and shorten my tail for the expedition. “It does not need to be perfect; it just needs to roach most of the mane, I will keep the top in a bob, the tail, well, we can shorten that up as much as possible. I do not want it dragging in the mud or dust.” I tell them.

“Ok Mollygirl, if you really want that, then I will do it,” Magpie tells me. I sit on the floor and try not to get upset as she cuts my hair short the way I asked. I always loved my long mane, but I just will not have the time for it.

When she is finished, she has me stand up and she trims my tail, taking off a good 15 inches of length. I have not had it that short since I was a new recruit. She has me go and look in the mirror, “You did a great job love, thank you.” I tell her, as I watch her pick up several lengths of it to save.

“Before you go in the morning wake me up Mollygirl, I want to fix you a good breakfast and say goodbye,” Ma tells me as she heads up to bed for the night.

The other three of us then head to our room, As I am closing the shutters for the window, I think I see shadows by the barn. I really hope the Ginger and Xochitl are not sneaking out to play with Choo Choo this late at night. But if they are, I hope they are having fun.

I climb into bed on one side of Magpie while Badger is on the other. We share some pillow talk. I am so going to miss this I tell them. They also tell me how much they are going to miss me too. That night we share ourselves with each other like we may never be able to again. I am going to be tired tomorrow, but I may never be able to do this again. Before drifting off to sleep I put my face down to Mag's belly. “Little one, I love you. If I am not here when you are born, know, your other momma loved you too.” I feel a hoof run through my mane and I hear two other ponies start to sniffle as they fight back tears. I have slipped and said the unspeakable. That which all of us fear. I move back up and we all snuggle together as we cry ourselves to sleep.

I awake with a start to my alarm. Badger and I both slowly disentangle ourselves from Magpie. He kisses me, “I will go get Ma up. You just start to get ready love.” He tells me. Magpie also gets up and puts on a housecoat. I still see the tears in her eyes. “Remember our discussion from the other night. After this, I really am thinking of hanging up my uniform. I do not want to have to keep leaving you, my love.” I tell her as I take her in both of my forehooves and kiss her.

Once we are in the kitchen, we eat a good hearty breakfast of Oatmeal with slices of apple. Ma also has some carrots cut up for us to eat too. This is topped off with some nice hot tea with milk and honey. After Breakfast I make my way to the porch. All three of them say goodbye to me.

“Take care Mollygirl, I will miss you and be praying for you young lady,” Ma tells me as she gives me a hug.

“Thanks Ma. I appreciate it. I will see you all as soon as I can again.”

Badger takes me in his hooves. His muzzle meets mine, my mouth opens and we explore each other. After this, he tells me, “Be careful love. I will be missing you every day you are gone. I cannot wait to have you back again my mare. Please come home to your stallion as soon as you can.”

I put my head against his neck. “I will miss you too my stallion. Your mare loves you and will miss you every day. Please take care of Mags and Ma for me.” I tell him.

“I will dear, I will.”

Finally, Magpie comes up to me. I take her in my hooves gently and kiss her as gently and lovingly as I can. She tells me, “Be careful Mollygirl. I will be missing you so much. Please come home as soon as you can. Our foal needs you in her life.”

I kiss her on her forelock and tell her, “I will be missing you too, you and our little one. I will be back as soon as I can.” We kiss one more time and then I am off to the stable. I hear Badger saying goodbye behind me and then him leaving for Donovan behind me.

I am so going to miss this place, these ponies. I feel a twist in my stomach at the thought of leaving them. Then I lift my head and concentrate on what is ahead. Onward and upward as the Pegasi used to say.

Dear DJ Pon3, Tonight I am saying goodbye to my home, perhaps forever. As I sit here thinking of my beloved mare who has already left us and betrayed all of us because of me, all I can think of is this song. Please play Yesterday for me and the mare I hurt so much, my sweet Tar.
Sincerely

Captain Broken Dreams

Co-op Expeditionary Force

As always, I appreciate the world and alternate timeline created by Kkat. I also appreciate all the stories written by others who have shown us all how much more we can still add to this world. I also want to thank those who test read the chapters for me, as well as on special person who I test read the subchapters to as I write them.

In this chapter, we say goodbye to Co-op as Mollygirl finally gets ready to march on the expedition into the wastelands. It will be a while before we see The Co-op again as well as some of the characters. As the CEF marches forth we will meet new characters, get to know some of the others better and experience new adventures and dangers.

We all have sorrows and regrets, in this chapter, I have revealed some major ones for some of the characters. This chapters dedication song can be found on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WSuVCyT63II