The next day Milo’s family decides to head back to Harness. Before she leaves Laura Lee tells me, “Colonel, let me know when the trial is. I will be here to bear witness about what I saw, heard, and what was said after we captured them.”

I nod my head, “Thank you, Laura Lee. I really appreciate your willingness to do so.”

She replies, “Colonel, things can not get better if we keep looking the other way and not helping each other. By the way, it was good to see how you operate in the field. I feel better knowing we have a hooves on kind of pony in charge up here, but also one who will listen to others. If the NCR is like this, I look forward to joining it.”

I nod and tell her, “Yeah, but when a pony is right, they are right.”

I see a hint of laughter in Laura Lees’ eyes, and I ask her what is so funny. She then tells me, “You are Mollygirl. You don’t see me as a mule, just another pony. That is refreshing for me to experience. Even in Harness where we have so many mules, we still seem to be looked down on.”

“Your welcome I guess Laura Lee. And just so you know, I would be glad to have you by my side again in a fight if we need it.”

She gives me a devilish grin and tells me, “You know Milo is going to be sooo upset he missed it. He wanted to see how you used a unicorn combat team and I got to be part of it. I owe you a drink for that alone.”

I give her a half-smile and tell her, “Ya’ know I may have to take you up on that sometime.” What I don’t tell her is the reason why I want to take her up on that drink. Inside I hate knowing I will have to condemn ponies to die. This is not like combat where it is them or me. No, this time I make the decision and I pray Sweet Cream and the Goddesses understand.

I end up exchanging a quick hug with all of them as they leave, as does Epona.

Once they are out the gate and headed down the trail to Harness, Epona looks at me funny and says, “Ma, you never drink on this side. What is going on?”

I let out a small sigh and I tell her, “It’s ok dear, don’t worry about it.” But inside I fear she has already seen through me. Goddesses, I feel like a train wreck right now. With that, we both turn and head back into the command post to return to our normal routine.

Two days later the Gallows have been finished by my engineers. I see Bailey shaking his head as he tells me, “You know Colonel, I never thought we would ever build one of these.

“Goddesses how I wish we did not have to, much less need them, Bailey. All I can think of is how many wanted to use them on Tar.”

I see him nod his head, then he says, “Yeah, but Tar was a different case than these ones. Tar wanted to change. I have talked to Taser and some of the MPs. Ma’am, we need to do this and I am not saying that lightly.”

After he leaves, I send a messenger to Laura Lee letting her know the trial will begin in two more days. I then head into town to talk with Wicket.

As I enter the town hall, I see her behind the mayor’s desk looking over some paperwork.

“Hey Wicket, how is it going?” I ask as Epona climbs down off of my back.

She blows out some air and then shakes her head. “Colonel, I really did not want this job. I have talked to the town council and they want to hold elections in two weeks. The worst part is that they put my name on the ballot.”

I smile as I take a seat and tell her, “Yeah, I understand how it is to have responsibilities thrown into your lap.”

She nods her head, “I have heard about that. How did you get past it to where you are now?”

I shake my head and tell her, “I still really don’t want it Sticky, but to tell the truth, I know the job and my ponies, so I do what I have to do.”

She smiles at that answer and shakes her head as she gives a slight whinny. Then she says, “Ok, I guess if you can do it, so can I.”

I smile at her and tell her, “That is the attitude. Together we can do this.”

Then she asks me, “So what is the word on Beach Shack?”

This causes my smile to slip some, but I tell her, “Doc says he should be released in a day or two. His memory is a bit hazy on a few things, but he should be good to go. Doc just wants to get a few more days of healing as well as a few more healing potions into him before he releases him.”

She nods her head with some concern on her face, then she asks “How is Scrap Pile doing. That mare really is something to be wounded like that and still warn you. I heard Radio Shack and one of the raiders that day talking about shooting her and how she would bleed out before she made it to your base, so they were not worried about you being warned.”

I shake my head at that. “She is a tough mare. A good one too,” I tell her.

Sticky nods her head and replies, “I guess, not many folks here really know her. She tends to keep to herself.” I nod my head and then she continues, “You know how town ponies can be, most figured she just wanted peace and quiet other than when her store was open.”

I nod my head, “Wicket, I think she just has a hard time getting to know folks and maybe a bit shy. Try saying hi to her and just talking to her sometime. You might be surprised.”

I see her nod her head, “Yeah, that could be, I will have to try and talk with her sometime.”

Then I ask her, “Have you talked to any of those on the list of suggested deputy marshals that Beach gave us?”

She smiles at that and tells me, “Well of the five he recommended two declined saying when you and your troops head back to Manesville they are also. A third one straight out said no. But we did have two who are considering it.”

I smile at that and tell her, “Good, I am glad to hear that, I really would like to return my MPs to their normal duties.”

I see her sigh at that and she shyly says, “Yeah, I understand, but I have to say I am going to miss that Taser being around so much. Too bad he is not looking for an older mare.”

I almost laugh and instead tell her, “Well, even if he was, he still is leaving with us, so that would leave you in a bad spot then wouldn’t it?”

I see her blush then laugh as she says, “You never know, maybe I could get him to stay or maybe I would just be willing to pack up and move myself.”

At her humor, I decide to joke a bit with her and I slowly pan a forehoof across the room and say, “What? And give up all this?” At which point she actually laughs out loud.

Then she finally says, “Thanks for stopping by Colonel, let me know if there is anything I can do to help you, now I need to finish going through these books, it seems Radio Shack was fudging the numbers and skimming off some of the taxes collected.”

“I wonder if Beach knew?”

She shakes her head and tells me, “Who do you think suggested I go through the books. He said something about that a while back, but I just figured it was two brothers being overly competitive with each other. After all, look at how he was when he saw Radio wet himself that day you confronted the raiders with him.”

I sigh when she says this and asks her, “Do you think things would have been different if I had not done that?”

She looks me straight in the eyes and tells me, “Sure, it would have been worse and your troops would have been considered more useless than a gelding, and the NCR a gelded mule.”

I nod to her. “Thanks, Sticky. I best let you get back to work.”

She smiles and then dives back into the books.

From there I head over to the Marshal’s office. As I walk, I look over and I see the Gallows that have been set up. I notice that Bailey has built it so that three beings can be executed at a time. Goddesses how I wish that thing were not needed. I continue to walk past it and the rail station till I get to the marshal’s office.

Inside I find that Baton is on duty. She has one of the local ponies with her. Baton stands up as I enter and introduces me to Tumble Weed. I smile as I look at his dark gray coat and his white and brown mane and tail. He smiles at me and says, “Good evening Ma’am. It is a pleasure to meet you finally.”

“It is good to meet you,” I say as I reach out a hoof to him but glance toward Baton.

She notices and explains, “Ma’am, Tumbleweed is one of the ponies suggested by Beach Shack to be a deputy. Taser has had me reviewing standard Stable-Tec security procedures plus what we have learned in the field.”

I have to smile at this and nod to her. “Glad to hear it. How are the prisoners?”

She looks toward the back rooms where the cells are and I hear her tell me, “Could be worse, I guess. Radio Shack has started to keep away from the bars to the cell next to him. Last time the raider in there grabbed him by the back of the head and smacked it against the bars. He took a couple of stitches for that one. I had the local doctor take care of it rather than bothering Doc Treacle.”

“How about the others?” I ask hopefully.

She nods her head, and quietly replies, “I think that two of them really did want a new start ma’am. But I am still afraid they may not be able to make it. Last night we had to stop some of the locals from coming in and grabbing the prisoners and testing the gallows themselves.”

I raise an eyebrow at this. “Huh, no pony told me about that.”

She smiles proudly and says, “Ma’am We did not feel it was really worth bothering you about. You have enough on your plate with the other settlements. Especially since we were able to take care of it so quickly.”

“Ok, Corporal, I will leave you to your duties,” I tell her, then I turn to Tumbleweed and tell him, “It is good to meet you also. I look forward to when we can turn this all back over to you and the other civilians.”

He nods his head and laughs lightly as he says, “Ma’am, it is still surprising to us that you do not want to be fully in charge of the town. You have to understand that until you came, any pony with enough strength would take over and run things like they were royalty.”

Then I hear Baton tell him, “But you have to understand, it does not have to be that way. Back home we always tried to keep a separation between the military and law enforcement. To us, the military is to defend the citizens or members of the Co-op from its enemies, not enforce the laws unless absolutely necessary.”

I see him nod his head. “So, it is just the way you were raised then?” he asks.

I nod my head also, “Yes, we are here to help, not take over. This is not my home, but when I leave, I want it to be better for all of you then when we got here. Our home has come a long way since we opened the Stable, however, we were isolated and left to grow and recover. Now, now, we just want to give you all that type of chance also.”

I see him nod his head as he is thinking until he asks, “But what about the raiders?”

I sigh and I tell him, “That is what we are here for. If they are willing to change their ways, we will help them, but if they persist on going the way they have been then we will eliminate the problem.” When I say the last part, his eyes go wide and his ears forward.

“You really do mean that, don’t you?”

“Yes, Tumble Weed I do,” I tell him.

He looks at me funny and then says, “But what about you and your having been a raider?”

Baton starts to laugh out loud and points at him with one hoof as she says, “Colonel Mollygirl a raider, buck do you have the wrong mare on that.”

I see his jaw drop as he looks from her to me and he sees me slowly shaking my head with my eyes half-closed. I then tell him, “I never was one. I have fought them my entire life though.”

“What would you say if you found out somepony was once a raider?” he asks nervously.

I smile at him and tell him, “I would ask them if they want to leave that life and what I can do to help them leave it.”

“And if they refuse to change?”

“They will stop being a raider, one way or the other. Those in there. If they cannot change, they hang.” I tell him coldly.

I watch him as he gulps and I see him start to step back from me with his eyes wide and his ears back, an expression of fear on his face.

Beside him I hear Baton say, “Relax Tumble, even if you were once a raider, you are changing and are safe. Unless you go up against her.”

I nod my head, behind me I hear Epona say, “Yeah, Ma wants to help anypony who wants to do better in their life.”

He sits down then and I see him shake slightly as he looks at me and tells me, “Colonel, I like you ma’am, but I swear to the Goddesses I never want to go against you.”

Seeing the fear and expression on his face I wonder how he is seeing me. I do not see myself as terrifying. I see myself as a mother, lover, friend, and a soldier who is doing her duty. What does he see?

I patiently wait until he calms down and then I put a hoof on his shoulder as I tell him, “Tumble Weed, even if you were once a raider, I trust Beach Shake’s judgment enough that I will more than give you a chance. In fact, if you were, I will be glad to help you change your life.”

I see him shaking slightly, “No ma’am it is just the expression on your face. Ma’am, you are downright scary.”

“Even more scary than those in the cells?”

“Colonel, I would bet caps on you in a fight. Frankly Colonel, you scare me.”

I sigh some at that, I would rather be respected than feared, but in the Wastelands, we take what we can get.

“As long as you are on the side of the NCR you need not fear me Tumble Weed.”

I see him take a deep breath and relax. Then he looks me in the eyes and asks, “Do you really mean that?”

I nod my head and I tell him, “Yes I do. We all have done things in our past that we are not proud of. But what makes the difference is that we move on and try to make things right. If you were to tell me you were a raider, all I would ask is are you still one? And if the answer is no, then we are good.”

He relaxes and then I calmly tell him, “I can understand why you may think I was a raider. Many have thought so before and once I even encouraged them to think that way and brought my family with me to an interrogation. The difference between me and a raider I think is purpose, I have done things I would rather I had not had to, but I did them not for me, but for the sake of others. Being a soldier is not easy and I would be a liar if I said it was. Now I just pray that I can be forgiven for those things I have done in the name of my duty.”

I see his as well as Baton's jaws drop. Then Baton asks, “Colonel, do you really feel that way?”

I sadly nod my head and reply, “Yes, but I ask you to keep it between us corporal. If I had my druthers, I would still be home with my spouses and remain a simple farm wife. Sadly, I am needed here.”

They both seem stunned by this revelation and frankly, I am surprised I said as much, but I feel better having said it. It is the truth and by Sweet Cream I wish I did not have to be here or make the decisions I am going to be required to make.

I talk with them a bit more and then I check on the prisoners before I leave. As I am walking down the street I look once more at the gallows standing there in the sunlight. I am surprised though when I see a single crow on the main platform of it looking at it almost like it is inspecting it. For a minute I think maybe it is the Mareigan, but no. This is not a battle or a life being brought forth for home, so it can’t be.

From beside me, I hear Epona ask, “What’s wrong Ma?”

I shake my head slightly and smile as I tell her, “Nothing dear, I was just looking at something I wish I never had to see.”

She looks at the gallows and then back at me and tells me, “Ma, whether you want to or not, sometimes we are left with no choices.”

I nod my head and tell her, “Your right young mare, but it does not mean we have to like it.”

I see her laugh at this and she tells me, “You used to tell me the same thing on the other side. Ma, I think the you from that side would have understood the need for this sometimes.”

“Dear, it is not that I don’t understand the need for it. It is that I am the one who will have to make the decision to use it. I will be the one to decide who lives or dies. Epona, I am not a goddess. In battle, it is one thing, but this is so different.”

“Ma, if they are bad enough and will not change, you are going to be saving other lives.” She tells me.

I then notice where we are. Without realizing it, Epona has guided our route to the Flying Cow. I look up just in time to see Buttermilk standing there smiling at us. Before I can say anything, she asks, “Would you two like to come inside to the parlor for some tea with me?”

Epona, quickly replies, “Yes we would Buttermilk. I think we both need to talk to Ma a bit.”

I am surprised when I hear this but I see a knowing expression on her face as she says, “I can see by the look on your face Mollygirl that she is right. Now I know you are a believer and follower of our faith, so perhaps your path was guided here. It is our slowest time of the week, so we should not be interrupted.”

I nod my head and Epona and I go inside with Buttermilk. As we go inside, I really take the time to look at the walls and the interior furnishings and decorations. I am stunned to see a painting behind the bar of a light brown cow wearing a pink nightgown and matching socks, in an almost seductive pose while sitting on a cloud.

Buttermilk sees me looking at it and smiles. “Do you like it? I could have one done for you too. Corn Bread likes to paint in his off time. The model for it is Esmoorelda, she is one of our girls.”

I raise my eyebrow at this, “Your husband is very talented. I have to say, perhaps when we get to Manesville I could commission him to do one for us, of our family.”

I see her smile as she says, “So you know we are planning on going home with you still. We are hoping to get a farm and reclaim it, so I don’t know how much time he will have, but I could talk to him about it.” She pauses and then she asks me, “Being what our profession here has been, would you mind us being your neighbors?”

I smile as I sip some of the tea she has provided. Then I tell her, “No, I would actually like to have you for my neighbors. Our hiredhoof's wife Persimmon Tree on the other hoof might not be too thrilled, but only because she would probably be afraid of what her husband Xavier is up to.”

She thinks briefly before replying, “Xavier? That is a funny name for a pony.”

I smile at her and tell her, “Oh that is because he is not a pony, he is a zebra.”

I actually get to see her spit her tea out and her eyes go wide. Then she wipes her chin and asks, “Are you serious?”

I nod my head yes and she just shakes her head, “So we would be more than welcome?”

I nod my head and tell her, “Just like the three sisters and George.”

I see her tilt her head and she asks, “George and the Three Sisters?”

I smile as I realize I had not, nor it seems anypony else told her about them. So, I begin to explain first about George and then about the Choo Choo and her sisters.

When I am done, she has both eyebrows raised and an expression that is half disbelief and half ready to laugh. She shakes her head and tells me, “Mollygirl, you certainly do have a wide assortment of friends. I never would have imagined any of them being in the Co-op.”

I smile and shrug as I tell her, “Two years ago, neither would I. But since then things have changed. After all, who had ever expected the day of Sunshine and Rainbows.” As I say this, I feel a twinge in the back of my mind as I remember that day all too well, as well as the cost. Goddesses the cost we have all paid since then. Part of me wonders if it was worth it, then I look at my two companions for tea and realize it has to have been because at least I did not have to leave my own universe.

I see them both nod their heads. Then Buttermilk asks me, “Do you think the church will welcome us there?”

I nod my head and tell her “Yes of course.”

“And why do you think they would welcome us?” She asks.

“Because you are herd. The faith welcomes those who are part of the herd or who desire to be.”

She then asks me, “You remember in the book of Herds how we need to stand together against the predators don’t you?”

I again nod my head and answer, “Of course I do. Why?”

She smiles sadly at me and answers me with a question, “You do realize that not all predators are carnivores or omnivores. Sometimes they come to us in the forms of those who should be herd members, but instead prey on the members of the herd.”

I am slightly confused at first then Epona nods her head and tells me, “Ma, what Misses Buttermilk is trying to tell you is that even ponies or cattle can be predators against the herd. Tater and I snuck in here and talked to Buttermilk and Corn Bread about this the other day after school. Ma those raiders who do not want to change, as well as Radio Shack. Ma, they are predators. They prey on the weak and will take us all down if we do not protect ourselves and the herd from them.”

After she finishes Buttermilk says, “Exactly Epona, exactly,” then she pauses and tells me, “Don’t worry, the kids were kept downstairs and not allowed any further than the parlor.”

I let out a sigh of relief at that. Then I tell her, “I am sorry Buttermilk, but our family tries to keep certain behaviors reserved for just the adults to see at home.”

Epona looks at me, “Ma, I understand what they do here and I also understand the difference between just sex and a relationship.”

I am shocked when she says this then she says, “Ma, I am almost a young mare. We talk and seeing there are not many kids on the base mine and Tater’s ages, we talk to a lot of adults and we listen, and Ma, Buttermilk has made sure to explain it to us in a good way.”

This makes me wonder so I ask her, “Is this a job you would consider someday?”

I hear her giggle then she tells me, “No Ma. And not because I think it is wrong. It is just not what I want to do. Ma, I want a relationship like you and my mother had on the other side.”

I sniffle a bit at this and I tell her, “Dear, I wish I could have too. I still miss the Ivy from this side and I really wish I could have had the life your sides me and her had together.”

“Mollygirl, I know you have to make the hard decisions on this, but let Sweet Cream guide you.” Buttermilk tells me.

After this, we switch our conversations back to more mundane and positive subjects. Finally, we get ready to leave. I have to smile as I watch Epona go over and give Buttermilk a hug and tell her, “I will see you later big sis.”

Buttermilk smiles back, “I will see you later little sister, go with her blessings upon you.”

Then I am surprised when Buttermilk gives me a hug and tells me, “My friend we need to do this more often, it is so nice just to have someone to sit and talk with.”

I hug her back and tell her, “Your right Buttermilk, I am sorry I have not visited more, but I just have not had much time.”

She nods knowingly and tells me, “I do understand. May the Goddesses and Sweet Cream bless you and guide you Mollygirl. Remember, if you ever need to talk, I am here to listen.”

After this, we leave and head back to the base. The conversations helped some, but I know it is still not going to be easy. Once back to the base we return to our normal routine and settle in for the night. As I am falling asleep that night, I try to calm my mind, but tonight it does not want to settle down. Instead, I wonder about how things are back at home, how the delegation is doing from Harness, and if somewhere out there is a version of me that is actually allowed to be happy. Finally, I drift away into a fitful sleep.

The next day goes as normal until the early evening. I am just about to head to the mess tent when I get notified that I have guests at the gate again.

I have them brought to my office and am pleased to see it is Laura Lee and Cedar Box. I tell the Corporal of the guard who is escorting them, “Thank you, Corporal, I have them now, you may go.”

“Yes ma’am, You mares have a good night,” he says and heads out quickly.

I indicate for them both to have a seat and as they start to sit down I tell them, “It is good to see you again. Laura Lee, I appreciate this.”

She smiles at me and tells me, “Not a problem Mollygirl, I just wanted to be early for tomorrow. By the way, could we get a place to stay again tonight?”

I nod my head and tell them, “Actually, tonight and tomorrow night with no problem. Hopefully, the trial does not take any longer than that.”

Laura Lee snickers at that and says, “I don’t reckon it will last more than a few hours for that old mayor. Mollygirl, you heard him as well as all of the team that captured him say what he did. Plus, all of the other witnesses. Back in Harness he would already have had his birth certificate expire.”

I shake my head slightly and ask her, “Excuse me? What was that?”

Cedar Box chuckles a bit herself and then tells me, “Mollygirl, what she is trying to say in a roundabout manner is that we would already have executed him. There is more than enough evidence.”

I nod my head, “Alright, I have to agree, but still we need to go through the proper steps if we are going to form a civilized society.”

They both nod their heads in agreement. Then I hear a knock on the door. I look over and I see Dull Beak standing there. He then says, “Speaking of civilized society Colonel, shall we go have dinner. I am sure these two beauties here would enjoy a good meal as much as us.”

I stand up and grab my softcover and I tell him, “Thanks Dull Beak for the reminder.” Then I turn to Laura Lee and Cedar Box and ask, "Would you care to join us?”

They look at each other and both say, “Yes,”

As we leave the office, I see Tater and Epona coming into the command post and set down their saddlebags with their school books sticking out of them. Epona then says, “Ma, can we just leave these here until after dinner?”

I nod my head and as a group, we head over to the mess tent again.

Once there our conversations begin to wonder a bit. I hear how things are going back in Harness and Cedar Box asks if she can talk to Pogey Bait about selling some things to us. As we talk, she begins to tell me how much she and the others are missing Milo already.

“You know Cedar I understand exactly how you are feeling about Milo. I feel the same way for my spouses.” I tell her.

She gives me a shy smile and tells me, “I know Mollygirl, that is why I feel I can talk with you about it. No pony back in Harness can really understand. They all keep saying at least he isn’t dead or some such thing.”

I nod my head, “I am sorry to hear that they are not more understanding Cedar. But hopefully, soon you will receive a letter from him or something.”

She seems surprised when I say this and asks, “Mollygirl, if we join the NCR would that be one of the things we would see? I mean mail. I don’t think any of us has received mail there since the mine was closed up on the last day.”

I nod my head and tell her, “Actually, yes. Cedar. That is how I have been keeping track of things back home. It is not perfect, but it helps.”

I see her think some, then she asks, “After you leave, would you be willing to keep in touch with me and our family that way?”

I nod my head, “Sure, I mean it may be some time between letters, but I would really like that.”

Laura Lee than says, “That would be great, perhaps our two families can keep in touch and get to know each other that way. Like if we were to have some foals, your foals could stay in touch with them too.”

I nod my head smiling, “That would be something wouldn’t it.” I tell them.

They both smile knowingly at each other and then nod their heads. “It really would be Mollygirl. It would almost make it like one big family. Like they say it used to be before the war. I wonder what that was like?” Cedar says to me.

I smile back at her and tell her, “Besides, who knows, if the rotations go on long enough, we may keep getting to see each other.”

They both smile at that. Again, I see a knowing smile on their faces and wonder what is going on. But I am distracted when I hear Dull Beak ask, “Colonel, are you ready for the trial tomorrow?”

I nod my head and forget about the discussion I was having with Laura Lee and Cedar Box, and I begin instead to talk about who all will be on the jury and how the proceedings will occur. I will be running it as a typical military court, with the exception of having a civilian jury also.

“You know Colonel, I could be the judge for you instead if you like,” Dull Beak interjects.

I smile at him and tell him, “Thanks DB, I really do appreciate the offer, but this is something I have to do. Besides, if Radio Shack is convicted, it is best if another pony gives him the verdict and punishment. If you were to do so, some may say it is being speciesist, even though we both know that would not be true.”

I hear him sigh and then he tells me, “True, I guess that is why you don’t have Kettle Bell do it instead.”

I nod my head with a slight smile and I add, “That and she is also invested financially in the town by being a part-owner of the Flying Cow.”

I see him smile at that and he nods, “Yeah, I guess there is that also.”

We all continue to talk until after the meal. I stop by the command post with Epona so she can grab her saddlebags as does Chain Lightning with Tater. Then we all head back to our respective quarters for the night. As I am walking, I notice that nightfall is starting to come upon us and I see Paper Work sitting there looking up at the moon. I stop and ask him, “So what are you looking at?”

He takes a deep breath and smiles as he turns to me and tells me, “Just thinking of Choo and how much I enjoy seeing her flying in front of the moon. She loves to fly at night. She says It is so calming. She even took my flying one night before we left. Colonel, I miss her so much.”

I nod my head and I tell him, “I do understand Paper Work. Have you gotten any letters from her lately?”

He smiles and tells me, “A couple Ma’am. Mostly she talks about how things are going back home and how her sisters and George are doing.” He pauses briefly and then snickers and tells me, “Oh, by the way, this season's pegasus tag winners were the 3^rd of the 2^nd. I guess they surprised everpony.”

I laugh lightly, “I bet Choo was disappointed.”

He nods his head, “Yeah, she figured with her for the 1^st regiment or her sisters for the Militia they would have had it for sure.”

I laugh again, “So her sisters are both on the militia team full time, I am surprised.”

He smiles and shakes his head as he tells me, “I am not. Ma’am, I got to know them a bit before we left and to tell the truth, I now can understand how they feel and why they too did not join the regulars. Heck part of me wishes I hadn’t.”

I put a forehoof on his shoulder and tell him quietly, “I fully understand. I think we all feel that way at times.” I notice the time and I tell him, “I best get going. I need to get Epona to bed soon so she can go to school in the morning.” Then I get up and I continue on my way to the barracks.

The next day begins like most. However, I still feel tight in my stomach. Once my daily routines are done, I put on my best uniform and head into Hackamore. The trial is to begin at Nine so I leave early to make sure I am not late.

I notice several of my staff as well as my guards all heading that way as well. As I get close, I see Laura Lee and Cedar Box both coming out of one of the new restaurants in town. They fall in behind me as I get closer to the Town Hall.

Once there, I take a seat on the head of the room behind a large desk. Next to me is a gavel that is normally used by the mayor during town meetings. But today I will use it for my court.

Most of those here are civilians who are here as witnesses. I actually prefer this, so that they can see what actually transpires. When we begin I have them first bring over one of the raiders from the Jail.

I watch as he is escorted in by Beach Shake and Tumble Weed. I recognize him as the raider who kept saying he just wanted a new start. They bring him before the desk and I begin with, “Mister Rapid Fire is it?”

He nods his head, “Today I offer you a chance to turn from the life of a raider. However, if I do this understand that if you do return to that way of life and are recaptured, your life is automatically forfeited. I will be passing your name and description on to the higher authorities in case of such an event occurs. Do you understand this?”

He nods his head and replies “Yes, I do understand. I just want a fresh start.”

I nod my head, “Ok, in two days’ time, pending the decisions of others and this court, I will order you released. However, you will have to take an oath to the NCR as well as to swear that you will not return to your old ways. If before then an execution is ordered, you will be required to witness it so that you know what fate may occur if you renege on your oath or word.”

I see him nod his head, “Yes ma’am, I fully understand," he says.

“Very well, I will continue forward with you upon those conditions we have just stated,” I turn to Beach Shake and Tumble Weed and tell them, “Return the prisoner to his cell and bring me the next one.”

I look over those in the gallery as I wait and notice a fair mix of old and new ponies and even a few cattle are present.

The next prisoner brought before me is the one that was unrepentant when we recaptured him. I see the hatred in his eyes, but I still must offer him the chance. “Mister Forged Chains, have you had it explained to you clearly what we are doing right now?”

He raises his top lip some, exposing some of his teeth as his ears slip fully back and his eyes start to partially close. He then says, “Yeah, but why don’t ya say it again just for laughs.”

I find myself raising an eyebrow as I say, “Mister Chains, you are being offered a chance to leave the life of being a raider. However, if you take this offer and return to such behaviors and activities, once caught you will be executed. If you take up the offer, you will be required to take an oath of loyalty to the NCR as well as a pledge to leave the raider lifestyle. Failing to do so will result in your execution. If you take the oath and make the pledge, then return to the said lifestyle, when recaptured you will be automatically executed.”

I see him make a silent laugh and shake his head. Then he tells me, “Why don’t ya just kill me. Why all the fancy show? Buck you and your pretty uniform, buck this town and most of all buck the NCR.”

I sigh when he says this and ask, “Does this mean you refuse the offer being made to you?”

He laughs out loud and asks, “Are you deaf, dumb, or just stupid? BUCK ALL OF YOU AND YOUR DEAL.” I then see him stand tall and with a defiant expression on his face.

I slowly shake my head and then tell him, “In that case, you will be hanged until dead, sentence to be completed in two days at dusk.” I slap the gavel on the table and after putting it down I tell the Marshal and his deputy, “Please bring me the next prisoner.”

They lead Forged Chains out of the Town Hall and return a short time later. This time it is the mare raider who also was begging for her life. When offered a chance for a reprieve, she accepts it. I then tell them as they are getting ready to take her out that we will take a half-hour break.

When I return from the break, I see Tumble Weed standing there and I have him go bring me the last prisoner. While he is gone, I explain to the jury and the courtroom the rules for the trial and that the jury will be responsible for determining guilt on each count. I also let them know that I will decide the punishment for any charges that they may find the defendant guilty of.

The foreman of the jury then stands up and asks, “Your Honor, I have two questions. The first is what happens if we can not obtain agreement on guilt or innocence? The second, why are all those in positions of the court military ponies?”

I nod my head and reply, “The answer to the first is that the jury will be sequestered until agreements on the charges can be determined. However, they do not all have to be the same. As for the second question, do any of you know any attorneys? I have appointed my Officers and myself to take those positions they would normally have taken. I hope that in time they can be replaced by civilians, but for now, we make do.”

I see him and the rest of the jury look at each other and nod their heads.

When Tumble Weed returns, I notice that Beach Shack is not with them. He is instead I am told out front waiting to be called as a witness. Instead in front of me are Tumble Weed and the other new deputy that I have not met yet. Between them is Radio Shack. I nod to the deputies and then I ask, “Mister Radio Shack, you have been accused of theft from the treasury of the town of Hackamore, Treason to the NCR, aiding and abetting the escape of captured raiders and attempted murder of the town Marshal Beach Shack. How plead you?”

He gives me a snide glare and tells me, “Yeah, I know why. You want to take over the town too. You think I don’t know a raider when I see her.”

Next to him, I see one of my officers, Lieutenant Trip Hammer from the Enfields acting as his defense attorney, look down and shake his head.

Then Trip Hammer whispers into Radio Shack's ear and I see him nod his head and whisper back. After this brief exchange Trip Hammer looks up at me and states, “My client pleads not guilty your honor.”

I then tell him, “Lieutenant please have yourself and your client take a seat.” I turn to Summer Solstice, who is acting for the prosecution in this case, and tell her, “Please present your case.”

I see her face become very serious and she takes on the air of righteousness. Part of me wants to shake my head, but instead, I sit there and listen as she begins, “Mares and Gentlestallions of the Jury, I will present to you the facts of the case as well as provide you evidence of the actions by the defendant Radio Shack. Once we have presented the evidence and witnesses for both sides, it will be up to you to decide if the defendant is innocent or guilty of the charges laid against him.”

She pauses briefly and then states, “For our first witness I call upon the acting mayor, Sticky Wicket.”

I watch as the oath of witness is administered by Taser to her. Then she steps upon the stage next to me and sits down before those assembled there.

I watch as the questioning begins. Sticky Wicket seems fine at first then slightly uncomfortable as the questions continue from along the lines of "How long have you known the defendant?" to "What made you decide to check the books?"

Sticky looks over at Radio Shack first, then to Beach Shack. She takes a deep breath and begins, “I was encouraged by Beach Shack to check the books as he suspected his brother of possibly embezzling from the town.”

“This is in addition to the caps and supplies that he was openly paying each month to the local raiders?” Summer Solstice asks.

“Yes, it is. In fact, I found a substantial amount over time that had been unaccounted for. Unfortunately, I had not looked into this matter until after the incident where Radio Shack brought the released raiders into the town hall.”

“Speaking of raiders, Miss Wicket, do you know if he was the one who attacked the marshal and released the raiders during the large incoming raider attack that day?”

She nods her head and answers, “While I did not witness him do it, I did hear him bragging about it with the released raiders. He also stated that he was the one preventing you from hanging him.”

I accidentally snort when she says this, but try to stay neutral in my disposition. After she is done being questioned by Summer Solstice, she is questioned by Trip Hammer.

“Now Miss Wicket, is it not true that you harbored some resentment towards the mayor and that you desired his position, which you are now filling?”

I am stunned as she laughs out loud and says, “Are you kidding me? I never wanted to be mayor and the only reason I took it was because it was thrown into my lap so we could avoid the military having to declare martial law. As for harboring resentment I really have none. I even understood why he would have me go out to meet unknown groups. I am fairly old, I have no foals, and my position was not particularly important. So no, I do not hold anything against him.”

“You say you hold nothing against him, but you still looked at the books to try and find out if he was stealing from the town. Why?”

She shakes her head, “Why you ask? Because if he could attack his own flesh and blood and then brag about it, what would keep him from fleecing the town. That is why.”

I see Trip Hammer take a step back at the venom in her voice. He then turns to me and says, “No further questions for the witness.”

Next up on the witness stand is Beach Shack. He is asked what happened on the day of the attack. He responds with, “As the alarm for the base went off, I opened the door and I saw Scrap Pile there. I told her to come in and she offered to help me guard the prisoners.”

Summer Solstice then asks, “What happened next?”

“Shortly afterward I heard a knock on my door again and I saw Radio Shack there, asking to come in. I opened the door and two of his goons came in with him. I asked him what he was doing and he told me. I am letting your prisoners go.”

“Why do you think he wanted to let them go?” Summer Solstice asks.

Suddenly I hear Trip Hammer yell, “I object, your honor, that question is not of fact but opinion and can lead the jury.”

“Objection sustained. The prosecution is reminded to remain to the facts, not opinions.” I tell them.

Trip Hammer nods as does Summer Solstice, who then says, “Yes Ma’am,” she pauses and then asks,

“What happened next?”

I nod my head and Beach begins again, “Ma’am, I told him I was not letting them go. He and his goons pulled pistols on me and Radio started to hit me in the head repeatedly. That is when I heard Scrap Pile yell no, and they shot her.”

“What happened after that?” Summer asks.

I see him cringe as he thinks then Beach Shack says, “I really don’t know as I passed out after I heard them shoot Scrap Pile.”

Summer Solstice then says, “No further questions your honor, Defense the witness is yours,” and she steps back to a desk on the other side of the room and sits down.

Trip Hammer steps up next and asks Beach, “What is your relation to the defendant?”

Beach looks at him funny and says, “He is my brother.”

“and how long have you known him?”

I see a look of surprise at the phrasing of the question come over Beach’s face and he tells him, “All my life. He was born first.”

I hear several laughs from the back of the town hall. I want to join them but instead, I smack the gavel several times and call out, “Order in the court.”

Quickly the laughs stop and Trip continues his questioning, “And how long have you been in the position of Marshal?”

“For a little over three years.” He answers back quickly.

“And how did you become town marshal?”

“I was appointed by my brother after he became the mayor.”

I see Trip think for a moment and then he states, “To be clear you owe your position as the Town Marshal to your brother?”

Beach Shake nods his head and in a nervous voice says, “Yes I do.”

I see a look of victory come over Trip Hammer's face as he asks, “So what did you do before you became the Town Marshal?”

I see a look of horror come over Beach Shakes face as he answers in a shaky voice, “My brother and I were raiders. We came here to start over, at least I did.” I see him then look down in shame as Trip Hammer's expression changes to one of horror as he realizes what he has just done. The town hall erupts in shouts and expressions of anger. I again smack the gavel over and over until everyone quiets back down.

I see that Trip Hammer has gone pale and in a shaky voice he says, “No further questions your honor.”

I am ready to have this case over with. I have just found out one of my best allies and a friend has been a raider and hid it from me. Despite how I feel or what I want, I ask, “Prosecution, any further witnesses?”

I see her sneer a smile as she says, “My next witness is Radio Shack.”

From the defenses side of the room, I hear Radio Shack yell out, “No, enough of this, no!”

I look to the jury and see the surprise in their faces and then over the courtroom. Then I say, “Will the witness please step forward.”

I see him stand and shamble as he walks to the front of the courtroom and takes the seat his brother has just vacated.

I then notice that Beach Shack has taken a seat in the back and is sitting next to Scrap Pile who has a hoof around him as he looks down at the floor.

After sitting down Radio Shack gazes over the room and steels himself as he acquires an expression of disdain on his face. He then looks straight ahead.

Summer Solstice next steps forward and asks, “Mister Radio Shack, you have been mayor for several years in this town, and are now accused of being a former raider, is this true?”

He looks straight at his brother with an expression of hatred on his face and says, “Yes both are true.”

“Were you allied with the raiders who have attacked this town before or since?”

He sits there and says nothing just looking straight ahead.

Summer seems frustrated then asks him instead, “Ok, you refuse to answer that question, Instead, Did you attack your brother on the day that the base went on alert and the raider prisoners were released.”

Again, he says nothing. And just stares straight ahead.

Finally, Summer quietly asks, “Why would you attack your brother and release those raiders?”

He shakes his head and then looks at her and quietly replies, “Because I thought it was better for me and the town if I helped them. They should have overwhelmed that, that base of NCR filth and then they would have taken the town.”

Summer Solstice shakes her head and looks at me and says, “The prosecution rests your honor.”

I look at Trip Hammer and tell him, “He is your witness.”

He looks at his client then back at me and stands up. He approaches the witness and asks, “Why did you attack your brother?”

I see Radio Shack sigh and he says, “He got soft. He has decided he is one of them. He no longer remembers what it means to be a raider. He actually cares about this filthy town. “

Trip Hammer seems stunned and then he asks, “Do you care about this town?”

Radio Shack laughs at this and replies, “Never have, it was just an end to a means and gave me a bit easier living. At least until she showed up,” he says as he looks at me.

I see Trip Hammer’s head go down as he closes his eyes. When he raises his head back up, he says, “No further questions, the defense rests.”

I then tell those in the town hall, “Court will adjourn while the Jury deliberates. Please return the defendant to his cell until after the jury reaches a verdict. Once it has been reached, I will alert those who want to hear it by having the bell of the town hall rung slowly,” I smack the gavel down and get up and walk outside.

Most of those inside leave the courthouse. I watch through the window as Beach Shack walks up and takes his badge off and offers it to Sticky Wicket. She takes the badge and hooves it back to him, and I see his head go back up a bit and a look of hope appears on his face.

I then turn and see Radio Shack being led to the town marshal’s office and I see him stumble as he looks over at the gallows next to the train station. It is then when I notice the crow has returned and circles over the group and then lands on the top of the gallows.

While we wait, I tell Taser, "I will be at the Flying Cow having tea," and I leave to visit Buttermilk. We are enjoying our second cup of tea when I hear a knock on the door to the parlor and Taser says, “Colonel, the jury has reached a verdict.”

I get up slowly and tell Buttermilk, “Thank you for your company today. It really has helped me.”

She smiles back at me, “You are welcome Mollygirl, remember she would want you to protect the herd.”

I nod my head and head back with Taser to the Town Hall. Once there I give the order, “Slowly ring the bell.”

As I enter, I begin to hear the bell ring slowly to alert the town that a verdict has been reached. Once inside I return to my seat and notice the Jury is already present. I see many of the seats are already filled but more ponies are still coming inside. Finally, all the seats are filled and I order the doors to be closed so that no more beings can come inside. I then tell Taser, “Have the defendant brought over.

Once Radio Shack has been brought to the town hall, I see he is nervous. After he has sat down, I begin, “Mares and Gentlestallions of the jury, what is your verdict?”

The lead stallion on the jury stands up. He clears his throat and then begins, “We the jury find the defendant not guilty of theft from the Town of Hackamore’s treasury. For the charge of aiding and abetting in the escape of the raiders we find the defendant guilty,” he pauses, “For the charge of attempted murder of the Town Marshal, we find the defendant guilty,” Again a pause. I see him gulp slightly and then he states “For the Charge of treason to the NCR, we find the defendant guilty.”

I nod my head and close my eyes. I briefly and silently ask Sweet Cream to guide me and give me the strength to make the right decision. I look up and I see him looking at me with a hateful expression on his face. This does not bother me, I expected it, but then he turns and looks at the others there with the same expression. I know what I have to do.

“Bring the defendant forward,” I order.

Once he is before me I look at those in the town hall and then back to Radio Shack and I tell him, “Radio Shack, you have been found guilty by a jury of your peers of Aiding and Abetting in the escape of known raiders, of attempted murder of the Town Marshal, and finally of treason to the New Canterlot Republic,” I pause briefly and then I continue, “You have shown no remorse and only contempt for the citizens of this town and the NCR, with this in mind I hereby convict you of these crimes, with the penalty being death. You will be hanged until dead, at sunset in two days.”

I watch as he collapses and then tries to get up. I look at the deputy marshals and tell them, “Return him to his cell.” I then smack the gavel on the table and call out, “Court dismissed.”

As I get up and walk out the door, I see Scrap Pile sitting next to Beach Shack comforting him. Then I turn and leave the building with my officers and staff falling in beside me I head back to the base. As I walk, I look over at Summer Solstice and ask, “Do you have any Old Overmare?”

She nods her head and with a concerned look on her face says, “Yes Ma’am, why?”

I look at her with my heart breaking inside as I tell her, “Because I may need it after this is all done.”

I have Taser accompany me to the prisoners we took in the fight. I offer all of them the same offer I made this morning to the raiders. I am surprised when both of the Zebras take up the offer. Overall, three of the former raiders refuse to change. I then tell them that they will be hanged at sunset in two nights also. I also require those who say they want a new start to be present at the execution so that they can see how serious we are about it.

Then I break away and I head to my office. I close the door and sit there with my eyes closed. After a bit, I hear a knock on my door and it opens slightly. I look up and see Laura Lee and Cedar Box standing there. They both come in and close the door behind them.

“I am sorry for wasting your time Laura Lee, But I did not think it would go like it did.” I tell her.

She smiles at me and replies, “Well, I had a feeling. I was surprised about the Marshal though. But I think he really was trying for the town.”

Then I hear Cedar Box ask gently, “Mollygirl, are you going to be ok?”

I nod my head and I sniffle slightly. She comes over and gives me a light hug and tells me quietly, “I am here for you if you need me.”

I nod my head and tell them both, “Thank you both so much. I am sorry, but combat is different from a courtroom.”

We talk a bit more then I leave to go have dinner with my staff and Epona. As I lay down that night, I hope the next two days go quickly so I can get it over with.

The next two days do go fast. On the second day, I finish my dinner early and put on my best uniform. My entire staff does likewise and accompany me into town. Before we leave, I turn to Epona and I tell her, “You are to stay here for this.”

“But Ma, I am not a little filly, I am old enough.” She counter argues.

I look her in the eyes and I tell her, “No, not this time. This is something I wish I did not have to see.”

I hear Tater arguing also, but finally, he tells his father, “Pa, I will do as you say, But I do not like it.”

I hear Chain Lightning sigh and tell him, “Son, for this I do not care if you like it or not. This is not for entertainment. “

My MPs escort all of the raider prisoners. Those to be executed are taken up onto the gallows. Those who are not stand in front of them with an escort. As the sun begins to get lower in the sky I ask the Mayor to have her deputies bring Radio Shack and the others from the town jail.

Once they are back, I look and see that a large part of the town has shown up. Many colts and fillies are with their parents even and I feel my stomach churn. I step up to the edge of the platform and I tell the crowd, “We will first execute the raiders who have stated they will not turn away from that life.” I turn and tell the MP's “Bring the first three of the condemned forward.”

Three of them are brought forward and a noose is placed over each of their necks. Once all is ready, I give the command and the platforms drop, the raiders' bodies follow. The short drop with the knot in the correct position snaps their necks. Their feet kick briefly and I hear several of those in the crowd suck in their breaths. But I also hear one of the zebras yell, “YOU BARBARIANS! You are trapping their souls in their bodies.” Then she begins to cry.

The bodies are then removed and the ropes prepared again. This time Radio Shack is led up first. Next to him is Foraged Chain and next to him one of the other raiders. Radio Shack is shaking but still steps up and the noose is put around his neck. I watch and know it to be placed in the correct position. Next, the rope is placed around Foraged Chain’s neck. When it is on, he spits in the MP’s face. I watch my MP wipe the spittle from his face and then he makes sure the knot is correctly placed. Finally, the third one is ready. He says nothing just faces forward with a sneer on his face.

I wait a few more minutes and then I sigh and give the order. The platform drops and in horror, I see that the knot has shifted on Radio Shack. While the others quickly die, he is instead twisting in the air, his feet kicking back and forth as he twists and turns. This is made all the grimmer as it is by the light of the torches illuminating the area.

I hear several in the group assembled before me get sick. I almost throw up myself. But I am able to fight it off. Finally, he stops kicking and after several more minutes, the bodies are lowered.

I wait till the bodies are all removed so they can be buried and the crowd begins to leave. I walk down the steps and approach the remaining prisoners and ask them, “Do you understand now how serious your oath is to leave the raider life?”

They all mumble yes or just nod their heads. I nod back and I tell the MPs, “Go ahead and release them.”

I turn back to them and tell them, “Change your ways, become better, do not make me do this to you also.”

I turn and take one final look up at the gallows and I see the crow walk across the rail. It looks me in the eyes and then it flies away.

I put my head down and I walk back to the post with my head down and my tail tucked tight. Tonight, my saddlebags feel full. I pray to Sweet Cream and the Goddesses to grant me strength.

Dear DJ Pon3,

Taday I have been givin the chance to leave the life of a raider. I was born into it and know no other way. Besides, like the NCR would give us a real fair deal. In two nights, I am to be hanged for my life. By the time you gets this letter I wil already be dead. The one song that seems to sum up how I feel tonight is McPhearson’s Rant. If you could please play it for me.

Yours

Forged Chain.

Hopefully, this chapter provided a couple of surprises for you the reader. The court-martial and the execution of punishment by Mollygirl are not easy on her and may be considered a moral wound by some. But they do lead to some important developments in characters and the story in the next couple of chapters. For those who found the execution to brutal, my apologies, I tried to keep the details to a minimum to spare those who may have lost someone that manner. To those who wanted more details, I had originally written it that way but decided to go the way I have out of respect for those I mentioned previously.

The chapter's dedication song was actually written by Jamie McPherson a Scottish man the week before he was hung by the English in Banff Scotland 16 November 1700CE. He is reported to have played the song as well as singing it under the Gallows tree. He offered his fiddle to his clansmen who would play it at his wake, but when refused, he did break it apart.

For those who would like to listen to this Chapter's dedication song, the YouTube link is:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ltuetqTKpY