Fallout Equestria: Lines

Chp 6: Melon’s Pond

The morning graced me with its normal opening. Even though Apricot found a nice room with honest to Celestia windows still intact, the cold breeze of winter was approaching. The early morning cold still seeped through the cracks and ruined parts of the building, pulling me out of my sleep.

Turning over, I laid on my back and stared at the ceiling. I tried to formulate what my plan for the day would be, but soon realized something. With me mostly locked into memories, I more or less wondered what my host would be doing with their day instead. I've been used to diving into a memory orb for an hour or two, but this was totally different. This was hours, if not days worth of memories. That's even after you account for the parts the system sifts out. Credit where it's due, Dr. Winter had been proficient enough to pull only what was asked or needed from a pony's memory.

The thing that didn't help was that I already knew what was going to be on them. There was no part of me that wanted to re-live the hell that these ponies had gone through. Unfortunately for me, that was the mission the Elder gave, and I'll be damned if I don't follow those orders.

With that though, I rolled out of bed and checked the clock on my pipbuck. It was early in the morning, and Apricot would have to take watch soon. I wanted to get something to eat before going back into the archive. Maybe if I was lucky, I could get her to join me.

I walked over to Apricot's side of the bed and leaned in. “Good morning” I said.

“Ehh...too loud.” Apricot placed a hoof on my forehead and pushed me away. She then turned over and pulled herself under the covers more.

“Come on,” I said. “Get up. You're going to want to eat before you get to stand around and stare at buildings.”

“If I become Elder, I’m going to abolish morning watch. That, and send a message to our enemies telling them they can only attack after launch.” Apricot mumbled out from under the covers.

“I don’t think they will follow that rule.” I said.

“Well they should. It’s a better idea than to wake up at this un-godess hour.” Apricot said.

“Well, you're not the Elder, so you’ve still got the morning watch.” I said poking her with my horn. “wakey wakey, time for oats and hay.”

Apricot rolled out of bed and stretched her legs. “I hate getting back into that armor; you’re lucky.”

“I don’t know. You got all that protection while all I’ve got are some robes.” I replied and picked up my scribe robe from the ground.

“Really wish you’d keep your clothes off the ground. You get them all dirty just leaving them there.” Apricot said, picking up her cloth cover that she wore under her armor.

“Hey, you can tell me to do that back at home. But we are in a ruined office building. I mean, our bed is a old oak desk. I’m sure the robes are fine on the floor. Besides, these are just the standard issue robes. I’m not too fond of them anyway. Though, I am glad that you keep that cover cloth I got for you off the floor.” I said.

“Of course I do. I am a mare of grace and cleanliness,” She said, placing her hoof on her chest and raising her chin. It was a similar pose to the one I saw Ink Jar strike in the memory the other day.

“Ummm, you’re the one that wasted a Local nest last week. Not sure grace is a great word to describe yo-” I said, quickly realising my word choice was poor. Clamping my muzzle shut, I hoped she’d just overlook the last ten seconds.

Disappointingly, she did not. The look I got from my mare said I was in trouble, and it wasn’t going to be pretty. The worse part was, I was going to be in memory orbs for several hours today, and she likes getting ponies back.

I lowered my head. “Okay, I know you're going to get me back for this, but please dont use permanent ink this time.” I said, pleading with Apricot.

“I promise nothing.” She said playfully as she slipped into her armor.

Yep, today I’m screwed. Maybe I can get that lock working on the door that was pulled open by... damnit.

I finished putting on my robe and placed my laser pistol in its holster. When I looked up again, I saw Apricot holding a black marker in her teeth. She winked at me as she put her helmet on.

“Ummmm, hun? You know you can’t eat with your helmet on, right?” I said in a bit of a confused voice.

She just turned her head to me, speaking in a more muffled metallic voice. “Going to grab something quickly and relive Donut. I forgot that I was going to relieve him earlier. That way it would give me more time tonight.”

Damn, I was really hoping to have a nice breakfast with her this morning. Oh well, we want to keep on Donut’s good side. Elder Mustard Seed seemed to show a bit of favoritism towards Donut. This was mostly due to the fact that Donut was ‘born of steel’, and well, me and Apricot were’nt.

“You coming?” Apricot asked, standing at the edge of the stairs as she looked back at me.

“Yes.” I replied quickly as I trotted up to her. When we reached the bottom of the stairs, I could hear the voices of Melon Seed and Tea Leaf in the hallway.

“Ya, we got caught stealing Metal Sheer’s bread, so we had to work in the scrap yard for the whole month just before the cold snap hit.” Melon Seed said, referring to the time that both me and him were hungry back at Boulder Junction. We thought it would be a good idea to take Sheer’s bread. Turns out we’d been wrong. The only good thing that came out of that whole ordeal was that Melon got his cutie mark of a blow torch, and I got to eat some bread.

“And thats how I got my cutie mark. We learned that I have a knack for cutting through metal.” Melon Seed said. Apricot and I stepped out into the hallway. I could see the two of them near the lunchroom.

Tea Leaf started to laugh a bit. “I’ve heard this story before, Melon. I noticed that you start to talk a lot when you're nervous. What's got you all worked up?”

It seemed like the jig was up for Melon. It will be better for him anyway if he just admitted his crush on Tea Leaf, but I figure that he’s afraid of what Donut Hole might do to him.

“Well, I’m nervous because...” Melon Seed began to say.

Before he could finish, Apricot jumped to his rescue. “Oh course you’re nervous. I don’t know why you agreed to go on the roof to help set up the transmitter. I thought you got over it, but guess your fear of heights is still around.” Apricot said.

Fear of heights? I thought to myself. I remember a crane in Boulder Junction that would cry foul to Apericots claim. Melon had been the one who had to climb up there and help one of Glass Weave’s colts down.

“Afraid of heights, are we?” Tea Leaf asked, looking over to Melon Seed.

“Yes, I am afraid of heights, but I’ve been trying to get over my fear. I think this will help me out.” Melon Seed said in rushed voice.

“Well, don’t worry, Mel. I’ll be right there with you to keep you from falling off.” Tea Leaf said.

“Mel is a nice nickname. I’ll have to remember that one.” Apricot said. I could bet that she had the biggest smile under that armor again.

“Th-thanks you guys.” Melon Seed said, flashing a nervous smile.

“No problem.” Apricot said.

“We should get some food before we head up on the roof, or do you think that’ll make you sick?” Tea Leaf asked.

“No no, I should be okay.” Melon Seed said and proceeded to head into the lunchroom.

Tea Leaf looked back at Apricot. “I almost had him Apricot.”

“Ya, but now you can play with him more.” Apricot replied as she opened the door for Tea Leaf.

Tea Leaf walked into the lunchroom, swinging the door closed.

I turned to Apricot. “So, why did you dig Melon Seed out?” I asked.

“Because I’m a friend. That and its also going to be more fun watching those two dance around each other for a while.” Apricot said.

“Ya, but wouldn't it have been better just to have him tell her?” I asked.

“Well yes, but then Tea Leaf might want a private room for themselves. In case you’ve forgotten, there’s only one private room in this building. I don’t want to lose my room, especially since I already owe her.” Apricot said, looking through the window that peeked into the lunchroom.

“What do you owe her?” I asked.

“That is something you’ll learn on your birthday. In the mean time, I’m going to go relieve Donut. Hopefully I’ll have some time to think of more ways to have fun with the two of them.” Apricot said as she turned and walked toward the front.

“Oh, I was hoping to have breakfast with you.” I said with more than a pang of disappointment.

“I didn’t think you’d even want breakfast. You did see what Peach cooked, right?” Apricot said, turning and looking back at me.

At first I didn't notice, but then I sniffed at the air. Oh good, it was Pre-war surprise. I guess Peach didn’t have much time to cook this morning. It was the only item that Peach Fuzz made that well was more a crime than anything that qualified as food.

I guess I’ll go get started in the archive then. Hopefully when Peach Fuzz woke up, he’d cook up something other than that poor excuse of a meal.

“Yeah, you’re right. I’ll just get started on the archive. See you at lunch then?” I said waving to Apricot.

“Okay, I’ll see you then.” Apricot said, waving back as she proceed down the hallway.

I quickly walked away from the lunchroom area. My stomach gurgled at the memory of the one time I made the mistake of trying Pre-war.

I stepped into the hallway that lead to the office with the Archive door. It’s placement was odd. The archive room was kept dark and locked off in its own little world. I guess it was a bit fitting when you considered what I was doing. I couldn't help but laugh a little bit as I walked down the stairs into the office area. With another few steps, I was in the Archive room.

Dr. Winter’s skeleton was still laying on the floor where I’d placed it. Though, this time I looked at the skeleton a little more closely. Now that I did, it looked like the skull had a hole in it. Mind you that I had no real medical skills, but it seemed wrong. If Melon was here, he’d probably tell me what happened and maybe even what Dr. Winter was eating when she died. For me, all I can tell was it looked like she was shot in the head. Really the only reason I’d even got to that conclusion was the old revolver that was on the floor near by.

I guess either somepony here didn’t like her. More likely than that, was when the bombs fell, she was trapped in this room and took the quick way out. The thought of Dr. Winter shooting herself because she was trapped faded out of my mind quickly when I could hear my stomach rumble.

“Ehh, I should get started.” I said allowed to a empty room. Quickly, I sat in the chair and placed my hoof on the screen. Being set in a memory should keep the hunger away from me. At least, I hoped it would.

I realized that I’d left Dr. Winter’s ID in the system last night. Not sure what will happen because of that, if anything. With a shrug, I placed my hoof onto the black screen on the console and spoke up. “A.I.?”

“Yes, A.I. system is online. Please remember to remove your Employee ID from the console. This is the third time you have left the ID in the system. Continuation will require a class on maintaining security during wartime, and a notice being sent to the Admin.” The A.I. said.

It didn’t sound like they’d restrict access to the Archive, but I still didn’t want to risk it. One thing I was sure of, was that I didn't have to worry about a letter being sent to a dead admin whose desk currently served as my bed. However, I wasn’t sure if the system will try to force me to take a class on security or something. I don't think anyone here will be teaching it this long after the war, so I’m not sure how I could pass it. However, luckily it seemed that Dr. Winter was forgetful about her ID as well, and now the A.I. would think I was her even more.

“Uhhh... Sorry about that. I’ll have to remember to remove my ID next time. Please resume last memory and set accelerator to its max available setting. However, please stop the memory orb after four hours of view time.” I said thinking that I would just forgo my break and go straight to lunch. By then I think Peach would be awake and will have had time to make something that qualifies as food.

“Order confirmed, please stand by.” The A.I. said.

My visale pulled away. The growing familiarity of the E.F.D and the text of the archive loading the orb displayed as expected. As my stomach grumbled once more, I was really hoping the feeling of hunger would disappear when I entered the memory.

<=======ooO Ooo=======>

My field of view returned with the sight of my host looking into a dark swampy forest. Though when I ended the memory it was still daylight.

“A.I. did you skip ahead?” I asked.

“Confirmed. By request, ‘watch’ events are skipped unless specified information is given or related films are found. As of this time, no related films were found to be in place of this subjects watch, so that section was skipped.

Great! I wouldn’t have to sit through being bored for hours on end as I’d hoped to avoid.

I could hear a voice come from my hosts right side. “Okay, its my turn.” The voice of Sergeant Yellow Cherry said.

My host turned to see Cherry walking up to her. “I thought you were going to take third watch?” my host asked.

“I was. But then I said something stupid to Maplewood, so I got the crap watch as punishment.” Yellow Cherry said with a bit of a sad look on his face.

“Oh. What did you say to get you stuck with second watch?” My host asked with a bit of amusement in her voice.

“Nothing I care to repeat. Head on over to the camp fire and warm up.” Yellow Cherry said and he stepped in front of my host and looked out into the forest.

“Oh come on, Cherry. You can tell me.” My host insisted.

Yellow Cherry quickly turned to my host and scowled. “No. Now move back toward camp. You are interrupting my watch, and I’m sure you don't want to help Blue Leaf tomorrow morning with breakfast.”

“Yes sir.” My host said. She then trotted over to the camp fire with the other ponies around it. I could see Apex was already sitting down. When my host walk up, I saw everypony was here but Coffee Bean. Apparently, she’d been the other pony chosen to go on second watch.

My host took a seat next to Silver and Lieutenant Maplewood. My host locked eyes on Apex, who apparently had a rather scarrow look on him. I guessed my host had the same face, seeing as he looked more upset when their eyes met. That, and the fact that North Star sat next to him with a hoof over her mouth, seemingly trying to hide her face.

I guessed they were still upset with each other over insulting each others towns. Town pride seemed to be big during this time of Equestria. Which was strange, since some of the books I’d read and training orbs we used, talked about how towns were united in the fight. Either the books and orbs were lying, or something eventually ended up pulling the ponies together.

Though, it definitely wasn’t happening right now. However, it seemed Blue Leaf picked up on My host’s and Apex’s anger. In a move to lighten the atmosphere, she broke the sudden silence.

“Hello Archer and Apex, enjoy the fire and warm up. Silver was just telling us about his career as a dancer. Apparently, he’s a well known dancer in Baltimare.” Blue Leaf said.

Oh Celestia, please don't let this break into a fight over which town can out dance the other. I really don't need to listen to a bunch of old, long dead, bickering ponies.

“Well, its more of a start in a career. I mostly worked as a background dancer. You know, the ponies in the back of the leads making the performance seem bigger. I was hoping after this experience that I’ll be able to addition for better rolls.” Silver said. Then he started to laugh a bit. “I mean, the way I figure it, if I can survive being yelled and maybe shot at, then I could survive being a center stage pony.”

My host looked over to Lieutenant Maplewood. They both seemed to share the same look that Silver didn’t know what he was in for.

“Private Silver,” Maplewood said. “You do know that you're in a sword squad right?”

“Yes, sir?” Silver said in a questionable voice.

“Sword squads are the ones that take on the more aggressive mission against the zebras. So odds are, Private, you will be shot at. So you know, I have yet to meet pirates that haven’t fired a shot at us first. They are aggressive and dangerous. Keep that in mind, Private Silver.” Maplewood said.

“Yes sir.” Silver said.

I notice my host was just staring into the fire now. She seemed to be in a rather deep though that I was not privy too.

“Well, I just hope after all this I’ll be able to take center stage.” Silver said.

“I’m fairly sure you will Private Silver. Maybe when I get some time off, I’ll stop in to Baltimare and see a show. I been wanting to get a few performances.” Maplewood said.

That statement seemed to snap my host’s attention back to the Lieutenant. “Sir? I never thought you be one to see plays. Or at least, as a royal guard you’d only see plays that Celestia or Luna visit.” My host said.

“I told this story before, Corporale Archer. Remember? Back at Clover Cove around the campfire? It was after Copper told us about his farm.” Maplewood said.

“I think I was on watch, sir.” My host replied.

“Oh thats right, you had first watch and I went to bed early.” Maplewood said.

“Most of everypony went to bed. Ginger Ale relieved me, and no pony at the fire was really talking. So I went to bed. Then, in the morning we got attacked.” My host paused for a moment. “Nopony was in a mood to really tell me your story after that.” My host said.

Maplewood was silent for a second. His eyes were cast into the fire similar to what my host was doing just a little while before. “Ya, you missed the story. I came from the Pearl district of Canterlot. It used to be a rather upscale area of the town. Before you ask, yes, I was part of an upper crust family. Since my parents worked at the castle, it was natural for me and my sister to work as well. My sister worked with the diplomatic staff, and I decided to join the guard. My father was the one that commissioned my armor. Do you ever wonder why I keep my armor polished, Archer?”

“I figured you just had too. You know, since you are the command pony.” My host replied back.

“Nope. You should see Lieutenant Seedwoods Royal Guard armor. It’s scuffed and tarnished, but it’s just plain old standard issue Royal Guard armor. When he joined into the military ranks, he didn’t keep up with maintaining it. However, mine is special to me because my dad got it for me. It’s even got our family seal on it.” Maplewood said pointing to his chest plate.

On his chest plate you could see half of what I think was Celestia mark. I wasn’t really sure, only having seen it in books and in my first subjects memories. I didn’t really ever need to see what her mark was before. The second half of the seal was a crescent moon with the tips of it touching the half circle of the sun mark. In the middle in the empty space was a... windmill? A windmill with what looked like a horseshoe shrouding it.

My host had the same question I did. “Windmill?”

“Yep my great great grandfather was the one that invented it, so he made it part of the family crest.” Maplewood said.

“Odd, most family crest’s are well...” Ink Jar started to say, but then stopped. It was either out of a lack of knowing what to say, or he was worried what would happen to him if he said anything.

“Yes, most family crests have something more interesting.” Maplewood said looking over at Ink Jar. “That’s what I’m going to assume you were going to say.”

“Yes sir.” Ink replied back.

“No. It’s not a powerful or or majestic crest, but it is symbol to me and my family all the same. I am proud to wear it.” Maplewood said.

“Isn’t it extremely hot under all that armor, especially out here?” North Star asked.

“I wouldn’t say I’m a river under this gold plating, but It is a bit uncomfortable.” Maplewood replied back

I could hear a few of the ponies laugh a bit under their breath, Including my host.

“Well, I guess I got one of my questions about you answered sir.” My host said.

“There are more questions?” Maplewood asked.

“Ya, like do you guys dye your mane? Or how about answering if your armor is enchanted, or maybe your families ar-” My host began to say before Maplewood raised his hoof. My host stopped talking quite quickly, the and whole of the group around the campfire fell silent.

“Mind what you say. The next sentence is were Yellow Cherry got into trouble.” Maplewood said as he looked at my host.

“Why would he ask about the dye in both your mane and tail? Is it mandatory in the guard?” my host said.

“He knows why most of the guards hair is the same, but didn’t stop him from trying to make a joke of it.” Maplewood said.

“Cherry forgot that I outrank him out here, so I got to get him back for once.” Maplewood said,

“Isn’t that abuse of power?” Ink Jar asked.

“Kind of, but it’s all in good fun. Besides, Sergeant Yellow Cherry’s been dumping second watch on the rest of the squad to long. I figured that it was about time that he should give it a try.” Maplewood said with a bit of a chuckle in his voice. “Besides, I remember a question you had about another unicorn in the group back in the wagon. The more I think of it, even I’d like to know the answer as well.” Maplewood said.

My host seemed confused at first. I guessed that she forgotten. Not surprising, seeing as even I’d forgotten, and I have the short version of her memories.

“Private North Star, you said you climbed out of her majesties school. I know a lot of the guards that patrol the halls and walls in Canterlot and at the school. I’d like to know how you as a filly got around them.” Maplewood said.

“Well ummm... like I said sir, I stuck to the walls and climbed them every chance I had. I’d been climbing the walls of everything even before I was a student.” North Star said before laughing a bit. “My parents said they couldn’t even keep me in my crib. So when I found my love for astronomy, I wanted to look at the stars all the time. But you know how Canterlot is sir. Small residential houses next to towers and spires. I could not see the sky to well from my own roof, so when my parents were asleep, I snuck out and climbed up the nearest spire as high as I could.”

North Star seemed to have a nostalgic look to her face. “The first thing I climbed was the tree outside my room. It was a good spot for me untill a limb snapped and I fell. Dad got mad at me, so he cut the tree down thinking that I would stop. Nope, instead I climbed the gutters. Then our neighbors roof, since it was higher up, and so on, and so on. Finally, my parents saw my dream of being an astronomer, so they submit an application to the school and I got in.”

“But, I thought that school was for magic?” Blue Leaf asked.

“No, it says school for gifted unicorns. We have other gifts besides magic. My magic’s never really been that strong, but I knew the stars and every dot in the night sky.” North Star said proudly.

“So? How’d you get around the guards?” Ink Jar asked.

“Oh, well I might have been in a school that will teach me more and more about the sky, but I couldn't do that at first. I had to do all the boring classes. You know, learn how to write and read and all that. Math was a kind of fun, but I just grew tired that I couldn't watch the night sky. So I got out. Walls and spires of the school made for excellent hiding places and observation spots, and on cloudy nights I was able to sneak into a few parties as well. Every night, I watched the guards with how and where they’d walk. Lieutenant Maplewood sir, you know that royal guard armor has a unique sound to it when a pony is walking in it. Because of that, I always knew when a guard was walking by. Thats how they never could find me.” North Star said, looking completely proud of her self.

At that moment I could only hear the crackling of the campfire.

“Sorry sir, I mean, you royal guards are really good at your job but...” North Star started to say. She stopped when she couldn’t find the right words to dig herself out of the hole she was making.

“It’s okay Private. You were able to best the royal guards and not cause any problems. That is, except attending parties you should not of had.” He smirked as he spoke. “But as long no pony got hurt, it’s all fine. It seems that even with the distractions, the school still managed to get your head and tail put in the right spots. I’m happy to take this ego hit if you’ll show me where you snuck out too. Just so we can keep an eye on the area. I’d rather see the next pony have to come up with their own way to get around us.” Maplewood said.

“Yes sir,” North Star replied.

“Well, now that my ego taken a bit of a hit, I think I’ll be going to bed. I want this fire out both before the sun comes up, and the moon sets below the trees. I dont want to give off too much light before dawn. Remember, keep your rifles with you. I know its against the safety rules as well, but keep a magazine loaded. However, I advise that you keep a round out of the chamber. I don’t want any of you to accidently shoot yourselves while sleeping. Be up at dawn for breakfast and briefing. Understand?” Maplewood said.

“Yes sir.” All the ponies around the campfire said in unison.

Maplewood sat up and walked over to one of the tents. “Night everypony.” He said before dipping inside.

“Night sir.” Silver said, now standing himself. “Well I think i’m going to be getting to bed as well.”

“Really?” My host asked.

“Ya, I want to get some good sleep. We’ll probably have to do a bunch more walking tomorrow, and I’d like to be well rested.” Silver replied, walking towards one of the tents.

“Well this is just great fun. My family used to sit around the campfire for hours telling stories as well.” Ink Jar said.

“We might be a bit like a family, Ink. I know you, but I don’t really know too much about everypony else here.” North Star said.

“No time for more stories anyway. Lieutenant Maplewood wants the fire out and most of us are fairly tired”. my host asked. “Ink, can you rain on the fire to put it out?”

“I shouldnt. It’ll put up a whole lot of smoke and steam. Might just give us away if some zebra were watching.” Ink Jar said.

“Don’t worry, I’ve got it.” North Star said as she walked over to the fire. Her horn began to glow shortly before a field formed around the fire. The rising smoke quickly became trapped, filling the bubble and smothering the fire out.

“Neat trick.” My host said.

“Ya, my family did a fair amount of camping as well. I learned to do that fairly early on.” North Star said with a smile. She then turned and walk towards one of the empty tents.

“Have a good night, North. You too, Archer.” Ink Jar yawned out as he took flight back up to the cloud he made.

“Yeah, have a good night.” My host said quietly as she proceeded to one of the few remaining empty tents.

My host opened the flap to the tent and settled in. She placed her rifle near the side she was sleeping on, checking that it was ready before letting her head hit the pillow. She closed her eyes and after a few seconds, the familiar memory flashes began.

When the bright light faded, all I could see was darkness again. I waited for my host to open her eyes or to hear a sound but nothing. As the darkness persisted, it felt like my eyes were closed. I could somewhat feel the rest of my host, but she refused to look around. I could even see the little fades of light and dots. I figured my host was just laying there trying to sleep, but I should hear her breathing or something shouldn’t I?

As I continued to watch what was the best way to describe as the inner part of my host eyelids, I started to notice something. Some of the little false lights formed into varied shapes and shadows. They drifted around slowly, disappearing and appearing almost at random. For just a moment, I could see one that seem to be in the shape of a pony. The shape quickly faded away and was replaced with just curved lines.

A few seconds later my host eyes sprung open and she quickly started to breath heavily, reaching for her rifle on almost instinct. I didn't think she heard a sound or I would of heard it as well. She looked around, holding her rifle while peering through the flap of her tent. I could see a pony laying on their back a few feet away on one of the dug up dirt mounds.

My host slowly opened the flap and looked at what seem to be Blue Leaf. She lay there looking up at the sky. My host then to pulled herself up and out of the tent, strolling slowly towards Blue Leaf.

“Blue, are you okay?” My host asked in a whisper.

“Ya, Just watching the sky. North Star said I should do that more since I live in a big city. Truth be told, I find it fairly calming.” Blue Leaf said.

“Oh, okay” My host replied back.

“Archer, is there something wrong? You’re sweating an awful lot, and you’re breathing pretty heavily.” Blue Leaf said sitting up and looking at my host. “Feel sick or something?

“I uh... kind of... I had a nightmare,” My host said.

“Oh, I know nightmares.” Blue Leaf said scooting over a bit so my host could lay back and relax. “Sit down and tell me what you dreamed.”

“Well, it was about when my old squad was attacked a few months ago.” My host said laying back and looking at the sky. “I keep seeing it happen over and over.”

“The Ambush you suffer?” Blue Leaf asked.

“Yes...” My host said.

“It’s okay. Silver told me what you’d told him.” Blue Leaf said with a sigh and an understanding nod. “I’m sorry about your friends.”

"Copper and Lime weren’t really my friends, we just worked together. The thing is, I remember when the fighting was over, and the zebras had been pushed back by another squad that was working in the area. Me and our squads medic opened up the tents to Copper and... and it was just the look of surprise on his face. Lime almost made it out of her tent but... a lesson I learned out here is that it only takes one bullet to kill you." My host said. I noticed as my field of view changed a bit, fuzzing up slightly. After a moment, I realized that my host seemed to have tears in her eyes.

"Yes, one bullet can kill you." Blue Leaf said, agreeing to my host’s statement. Her voice made her sound still a bit confused as to why my host had said it.

"No, I mean it was the first time it had made since to me. I... I don't know why it was that moment; but now I dream about the moment that one shot that hit Lime. Only in her place, it would be me that would get that one shot. I see it in you new guys. You don't have that fear yet." My host said.

"I'm scared as well. I’ve seen ponies hurt and killed." Blue Leaf said with concern in her voice.

"Really? When? This is your first station." My host said looking over to Blue Leaf.

"I don't know if you read the papers or not, but do you remember the train derailment a while ago in Manehattan?" Blue Leaf asked.

"I... I kind of don't read the papers anymore. I enjoyed reading a school paper, then it got weird and mean, so I just stop reading it. I guess I never really got back into reading the news after that." My host said.

"Well, a train derailed near the harbor in the city. It came off the tracks fully loaded and plowed right into a nearby restaurant full of ponies having lunch. When we responded to the scene, there were just parts of ponies everyone. What ponies survived were twisted and pinned by the metal beams. We could only cut a few out. Some like Coffee Bean were lucky and were out of the building." Blue Leaf said, now starting to feel sad as well.

"Coffee Bean was there with you?" My host asked.

"Yes. One of the good things that came from that event was meeting Coffee and us becoming friends." Blue Leaf said.

"What was she doing there?" My host asked.

"Coffee worked at the near by dock loading ships. She told me that she tooked an early lunch that day. It’s what saved her life probably. The train went right through the restaurant and killed nearly everypony in it," Blue Leaf said, placing a hoof on my host shoulder. "I know what nightmares you're talking about. See the faces of the ponies that never saw it coming. They didn’t know what was going to happen to them. Even now, It’s hard for me to get those dreams out of my mind so I can go back to sleep." Blue Leaf said.

"Then what do you do to stop these dreams?" My host asked pleadingly

"You can't. At least, I haven't heard of anypony who’s seen these kind of event's and is able to get rid of them.” Blue Leaf said. "I guess you could ask a counsellor, or maybe you’ll be lucky and Luna will visit you in a dream. I’ve heard that happens from time to time. Even so, I don't even think she can stop these nightmares, only help you understand them. As it sits, all we can do is try to place them somewhere else in our heads and just try to go back to sleep."

"I'm not sure what to replace it with." My host said.

"Maybe think about your friends. Silver said that Lieutenant Maplewood and Sergeant Yellow Cherry saved you. That seems rather friend worthy of them." Blue Leaf said while smiling at my host.

"I'm kind of already friends with them. I admire what they did for me and how they saved me and the others. They even helped to get me promoted..." My host said before abruptly stopping. She seem to be looking up into the sky. Lost in thought perhaps? "I guess you’re right. The more I think about it, the more I realise that even in that horrible event, I was able to find something good that came of it. Though, I wish Copper and Lime didn’t have to die for me to gain friends." My host said in a sad tone.

"I don't think there was anyway you could’ve stopped that. Just be happy you made friends and do your best to move on. I couldn’t stop that train when it's brakes failed, and I couldn’t save the ponies that were trapped in the wreckage. What I was able to do, was to help as many as I could, and I was able to help a pony with the trauma she saw. With that, I was able to earn a friendship, and that is the part I try to focus on so I can go back to sleep." Blue Leaf said as she sat up and offered her hoof. "So lets both try to get back to sleep."

"Okay," my host said, wiping away a tear that had been distorting my view of Blue Leaf.

My host climb back into her tent and wished Blue Leaf a good night’s rest before turning over and closing her eyes. I was stuck in her moment of peace and quiet as I waited for her to fall back asleep. I thought about how some ponies seemed to be quick to suffer mental trauma from death. I’d forgotten that for them, it wasn't a day to day event unlike it was for ponies in the wasteland. Now and again, even I had nightmares of my friends being killed in an ambush or something. By far though, the worse dreams also have me watch Apricot get killed while I’m rendered helpless and unable to help her. I remember one time I woke up nearly screaming in the back of the crawler, only to stop my self and see Apricot laying next to me still asleep.

My thought was interrupted by my host falling asleep, which caused the memory to flash. This time when my host open her eyes, I could tell that the sun was up and I could hear birds singing, while some of the squad members talking while the crackle of a campfire.

My host stretched and slowly got out of her tent. She picked up her rifle and slung it around her back as she walked over to the newly built campfire. Blue Leaf was sitting by a large cooking pot stirring it, while Yellow Cherry was busily adding carrots into it.

"Good morning." my host said as she looked over at Yellow Cherry.

Both Yellow Cherry and Blue Leaf replied back with their own cheer. "Good morning."

"Lieutenant Maplewood will be going over are mission in about half hour, so wake up fully, get some of these oat and carrots, and get yourself ready." Yellow Cherry said.

"Yes sir." my host said.

My host quickly moved back over to her tent and grabbed her mess kit. When she turned around, she could see Ink Jar floating down on his cloud. He smiled at her through holding his mess kit in his mouth.

"Good morning Ink Jar," My host said.

Ink Jar placed the mess kit in his hoof and said "Good morning."

Breakfast came and was over with fairly quickly. With Yellow Cherry’s statement for everypony to quickly eat, breakfast conversations were mostly absent. Only Blue Leaf and North Star were talking, and all they spoke of was the stars that Blue Leaf were looking at during the night.

After Breakfast had been finished, I could see Maplewood walking out from his tent with a map in his magic field. "Good morning, all." he said.

"Good morning, sir." The ponies replied in quick unison.

“Today we will be attacking the pirate camp south from here. Our job is to take their leader and bring him back for questioning. We’re hopeful he’ll disclose where other pirate camps are. Even if he’s uncooperative, this mission will show that their behavior will not be accepted in Equestria or the Zebra Lands.” Maplewood said.

Maplewood unraveled a map onto the table. My host moved closer to look and I could see Square section on the map with smaller squares inside it marking where both this camp, and the enemy’s were located. Maplewood had already noted lines of attack on the map, and it seemed like he’d wanted to come around the side of the cove where the land juts out into the ocean. I’m no tactical genius, but to me, it seemed that he’d wanted to cut off their chance to escape by ship.

“We will hit them on the east slope of the cove. Ink, I want you to drop in and hit the ship with lighting. Damage it as much as you can without endangering yourself. Understand?” Maplewood asked looking at Ink Jar.

“Well, yes sir, but if you remember my lighting isn't really that accurate.” Ink Jar replied back in a concerned tone.

“I’m sure you can hit the top of a ship, Ink.” North Star said as she patted him on the back.

“Agreed. Archer, you and Coffee Bean will move to take up a shooting position at the tip of the cove. We will be offering them a chance to surrender, but I want to make sure we are ready on the account that they tend to reply unfavorably to that notion. Cherry you, North, and Silver will push into the camp itself. Only shoot the zebras that are being aggressive. I know a lot of you are afraid and might make mistakes, but we’re not here to wipe them out. Remember, we want prisoners. I’d rather not have to deal with another Salamander Bay incident, is that clear?” Maplewood said looking around at the other ponies.

I could tell that some of them were confused on what had happened at Salamander Bay. Though, from what I could figure, is it seemed that the zebras were put in a similar situation, didn’t surrender, and it ended with a lot of blood.

“Me and our Operative will be covering Blue Leaf, and will assist with any casualties and interpretation.” Maplewood said.

“Operative?” a few of the ponies ask quizzically.

“Yes, you all will be meeting Xec later today. He was one of the prisoners taken last year. He’s turned to our cause and is willing to help us stop the other pirates.” Maplewood said.

“Sir, is it safe to trust a zebra pirate?” Apex asked.

“He’s a young zebra and got in over his head by joining the pirates. The counselors and the higher ups trust him, so I will give Xec the benefit of a doubt. If he turns out to be uncooperative, he’s looking at going back to prison or worse,” Maplewood said.

“Yes sir.” Apex replied back.

“When will we be meeting up with him?” My host asked.

“About a hour from now. So I want the camp packed and ready to go before then, for now, Ink, please take lookout up on your cloud. Blue Leaf, Apex, and Coffee Bean, you three break down the tents. Silver, North Star break down the kitchen. Archer and Yellow Cherry, you two are with me. I still have a few more things to discuses with you two. Everypony understand?” Maplewood asked looking at everypony.

“Yes sir.” ponies said in unison. The squad quickly trotted off to their ordered spots, while Ink Jar return to his cloud. My host stayed with Maplewood and Yellow Cherry as they gather around the table.

“Archer becareful on this slope, you need to make sure you stay behind it. The maps and skyguard noted that it is a steep slope, so you’ll need to be sure you don’t fall in or fall over. Also, be quiet. I don’t want them to hear you. You will be the first group to move into position. Keep a close eye on Cherry's group. There going to be fairly exposed in that position. I’d rather not let them be in any more danger than what they will be in.” Maplewood said.

“Yes sir,” my host replied

“Cherry, we’ll cover your flank and make sure that no zebra gets behind you while enter the camp. Remember, be firm with them. Make sure they understand that their only choice is to surrender.” Maplewood said.

“Yes-” Yellow Cherry spoke, but was quickly interrupted by a loud noise.

The loud crack echoed around my host. It took a few seconds for my host to register what happened, and to notice the red splotches with white fur that landed on the map. My host turn to Maplewood who seem different. His left eye seemed to be staring blankly at the table while his jaw seem out of place. My host looked up to see that his right ear was gone. Before my host could full registerd that Maplewood was shot. Yellow Cherry grabbed her and threw her up against the side of the pond.

She looked back at Maplewood. His body collapse to the ground, and his blood spilled from the hole in him, filling the cracks in the dried pond.

“Blue Leaf!” My host screamed before having her mouth covered by Yellow Cherry.

Blue Leaf started to step out of one of the tents. A shot rang out and she dove to the ground for cover.

“Blue Leaf stay put. Everypony take cover!” Yellow Cherry yelled.

The dirt next to my host was sent up in a puff as another crack rang out. The shooter, who was somepony or probably a zebra was shooting from one of the trees.

“Is everypony else okay?” Yellow Cherry called out.

“I don’t know sir. I don’t got a lot of cover here!” Apex shouted from behind a small hill of dirt. I could tell he was curled up into a tight ball, just trying to keep his body in the cover.

My host turned to see Silver, North Star and Blue Leaf quickly moving from where the tents were set up to the edge of the pond.

Coffee Bean tried to join them. She started to run from the cover however she was knock down quickly to the ground with a crack and a loud metal clang.

“Coffee!” Blue Leaf shouted, nearly leaving her cover to help her friend she was only pulled back by North Star and the fact that shooter was trying to hit her now.

Coffee bean layed there for a second, but I couldn’t see any blood. She shook off the hit and rolled over to one of the holes we’d dug in the pond bed.

In a pained voice, she called over to us. “I’m... i’m okay.... I think. My head is ringing, but I’m... i’m alright!” I could tell it was Coffee Bean. Her helmet seemed to have saved her.

“Sir, what the plan?” North Star said in a panicked voice.

“Ink Jar, can you see who shooting at us?” Yellow Cherry shouted while another spot on the ground sprayed dirt up as a round struck it. I could tell that they must have been under attack by a amature sniper at best. The shooter seemed to only try to keep them pinned down, and not to draw them out.

“I can’t tell sir! I don’t see anypony!” Ink Jar called back. However this now made him a target.

My host looked up and perked her ears to hear what Ink Jar was saying. I could see now the cloud was being shot at, as little tuffs were ripped away while the rounds zipped through it..

“Sir, Ink’s In trouble.” my host said.

“Yes, I can see that Arch.” He cupped his hooves around his muzzle to yell up to him. “Ink get ready to get down here. Everypony else, give supporting fire into the woods. Try to keep that shooter’s head down!” Yellow Cherry ordered.

“Yes, sir!” The ponies of the squad called out.

“Ready! Three, Two, One!” Yellow Cherry called out as a shot rang out.

My host turned and brought her weapon up. She started to fire into the forest, taking quick shots. Both her and Yellow fired into the branches and leaves of the trees, while the others fired at the base of them. They worked well as a team, covering a lot of the places they could have been getting shot from.

I could see the shadow of Ink Jar drop from below.

“I’m here!” Ink Jar called out.

My host quickly dropped back behind cover. The other ponies followed in short succession.

“Okay, We’ve got everypony here. Now we can focus and take care of that zebra.” Yellow Cherry called out. “North Star, I want you to create a magical field around the campfire. Collect the smoke, but don't put out the fire. Ink Jar, get behind the smoke and create a gust to blow it towards the forest. Everypony else, keep your ears up. Get ready to mass your fire at whatever starts coughing in there.”

Another shot hit near where my host was, causing her to flinch and turn away. She could see the North Star was concentrating on the fire while Silver was re-loading.

A crack from the shooter rang out again, but this time instead of the normal sound of it hitting the dirt, this one was quiet before the sound of gurgling. I could hear from my host’s left, as she turned to see Yellow Cherry pulling himself back to the bank of the pond. He struggled to move, and covered his neck with his hooves. Yellow Cherry was hit. His crimson blood was streaming from between his hooves. He turned to look at my host with shock in his eyes, shortly before slowly collapsing over. His blood was slowly flowing over to where my host was sitting.

My host quickly tried to back up, nearly forgetting about the zebra that had just shot Yellow Cherry. He was still taking shots at them when she quickly slip back down into the bank.

“Ahhh!” my host cried out.

“Archer are you okay?” Blue Leaf called out.

“NO! Yellow Cherry’s been hit, and I think its really bad.” My host yelled back.

“What are we going to do?” Silver called out.

“Help!” Apex screamed as his cover took two shots in quick session.

My host seem to freeze and close her eyes. I could hear Apex cringing as the dirt mound he was behind was hit again and again.

I could hear the sound of my host helmet hitting the dirt behind her. She opened her eyes and looked up. Everything was so fuzzy, I could tell she had tears in her eyes. She quickly blinked them away and took a slow, deep breath. She tensed herself slightly as she sat there.

“Ink Jar, get ready!” My host called out and an authoritative voice.

“What?” Ink Jar called back.

“We sticking with what Cherry planned!” My host shouted. “North are you ready?”

“I’m having a hard time keep the smoke together, ma’am!” North Star called back.

“Blue, help her out. Silver, Coffee get ready. Apex stay in cover.” My host yelled as she looked over to North Star and Blue Leaf. I could see that Blue Leaf’s horn had started to glow while she concentrated on the fire. My host turned again to the now growing smoke screen.

“Ink are you in position?” My host said as she looked for where Ink Jar was.

I couldn’t see him in the smoke, but I could hear him calling out “Yes ma’am!”

“Coffee, Silver, listen for the coughing before you start shooting.” My host ordered. “We don’t want to screw this up.”

“Yes ma’am.” Silver and Coffee called out.

“Okay...NOW!” my host shouted.

The cloud of smoke swirled towards my host, quickly passing by the entrenched ponies before it entered the tree line. Everypony fell silent, listening for a sign of where the zebra was. After a few seconds of waiting, a light cough came through the air from the trees. The ponies didn’t fire. Instead, they waited a little more, trying to get a bearing on exactly where it had come from.

My host quickly popped over the bank and pointed at a spot in the trees. She steadied her gun and then opened fire. The other ponies in the squad quickly to joined in, and I could see leaves and twigs breaking from the trees.

A figure drop from one of the trees, and as quick as it was, I could tell it was equine shaped. My host quickly turn and fired at the shape the first two shots miss however the last one seem to strike the equine in the leg. My host quickly zeroed in a kill shot. As she pulled the trigger, I could hear the clicking sound of her now empty rifle. My host quickly tried to load a new magazine into her rifle, but the shape was gone before she could take another shot.

“Stop firing!” My host shouted.

Shots slowed and then ceased altogether. The area was in a cold silence. No birds were singing, and even the wind seemed to have died.

“Lieutenant, is it safe to come out?” Apex shouted. From his voice, he was still curled up and didn’t seem to have known what happened.

“Lieutenant Maplewood is dead, Apex.” North Star said, kicking at the dirt. “So is Sergent Yellow Cherry.”

Blue Leaf ran over to where Sergeant Yellow Cherry’s body was laying.

“He… he might be okay.” Blue Leaf said, carefully rolling Yellow Cherry’s body over.

My host looked at Yellow Cherry. His muzzle and chest was covered in dirt and blood. She followed the trail of Cherry’s blood that had pooled into a small hole that my host unknowingly dug while trying to stay in cover. When her gaze turned to at her forehooves and flank, she leapt up and fell backwards. In a panic, she pushed herself as far away from Yellow Cherry as she could. My host clamped her eyes closed, and all I could hear was her breathing heavily.

She opened her eyes again to see Blue Leaf now standing over where Maplewood laid. She had splotches of drying blood on her but didn’t seem to care about that. It seemed that her past made her focus on trying to help, rather than worry about what's on there body. My host seemed to have the opposite effect.

My host closed her eyes again and continued to breath heavily. After a few seconds, I could hear her breathing beginning to slow.

“Archer, what do you want us to do?” A voice asked. The voice seem a bit distant. I at first thought it may of been an error in the memory orb system, but thinking on it, I realised that my host was experiencing a new trauma and the memories where becoming distorted.

“Leave Archer alone. let her think.” This time I could tell it was the voice of North Star. “Come on, Silver, help me watch for another attack.”

My host’s breathing was still deep, but it slowed more and more as the seconds crawled by. She opened her eyes again, looking down at the ground. Her hind legs was still covered in dirt and blood. She took a moment to collect herself, taking several deep breaths before she stood up.

“Is everypony okay?” My host asked.

After a moment, ponies started to reply. Coffee Bean had given a hesitant yes in her reply. She seemed to be completely shaken up from what just happen. Then again, anypony would be if it were their first taste of losing a comrade and friend.

Blue Leaf was already looking her over now giving up on any chance that Maplewood or Yellow Cherry had survived.

“Coffee are you okay?” Blue Leaf asked.

“Ya, I’ve got a headache, but I think the shot hit my helmet.” Coffee Bean said. Taking her helmet off. The helmet was deformed from the hit, but it did its job and protected Coffee Bean’s head.

Blue Leaf then walked over to my host. “Are you okay, Archer?”

“Ya, I... I just got... spooked is all.” My host said, trying to compose herself.

“It’s okay. Lets get you cleaned up really quick, alright?” Blue Leaf said, quickly grabbing some water and a rag. She then began to wipe the dirt and blood off my host cleaning up her coat. “There this will help you,” Blue Leaf said.

“Thank you,” my host replied.

“Okay, I think we are safe,” Silver said.

“Good.” Apex said, walking over to my host. “Archer, Ma’am.” He said with a bit of hesitation in his voice. “We should leave. Head back to base.”

“Or maybe we should have Ink Jar go get some reinforcements. We aren’t far, they can be here in only a day or two.” Coffee Bean said.

“I don’t like the idea of staying here even another day.” North Star said. “I think we should head back.”

“What do you want us to do, Archer?” Blue Leaf asked with concern in her voice.

“I... I think we...” My host began to say. She paused for a moment, looking at the two dead ponies. “I think we are going to finish the mission to capture that pirate leader.”

“What?” Was the reply from many of the members

Apex was the only one to ask, “Why?”

“We need this leader captured. With him taken out, this war will end sooner. We need it to end as soon as we can so we wont have anymore of... this.” My host said pointing over to the bodies.

“But they killed the Lieutenant and Sergeant! We’re down two ponies and they were the ones that were in the Royal Guard.” Apex said in frustration. “They knew what they are doing.”

“I know what I’m doing as well, Apex. Maplewood wanted to remove this camp, and I will keep to his wish.” My host said with resolve building in her voice.

“We don’t have enough ponies to go threw with the Leutients plan. North Star said. “Let alone the fact that we don’t know if that zebra Xec will be waiting for us.”

“Hell what if this Xec was the zebra who was shooting at us? I mean, he or she knews where we’d be camped out at.” Apex said.

“Maplewood trusted Xec. I know zebras, and they hold honor above all else.” My host replied back.

“Zebra’s in Equestria are honorable, sure. But Xec is a former pirate. I don’t think that will give him that much credit.” Silver said.

“Doesn’t matter anymore. I have command of the squad now, and we are finishing this mission. Silver, Coffee please dig two graves for the Lieutenant and Sergeant. I don’t want to leave them out in this heat.” My host ordered

“Yes, Ma’am.” Silver and Coffee Bean replied as they quickly trotted off.

“North Star, you and Apex continue to break down this camp. We need to get it done quickly. Xec will be here soon, and if we can, I want to have a quick service for our squad mates.” My host ordered

“Yes, Ma’am.” North Star replied back quickly. Apex was more hesitant on his reply.

“Blue can... can you prepare the bodies for burial?” My host asked. This time she didn’t use an authoritative voice, more a regretful one.

“Yes, Ma’am. I will get them cleaned up.” Blue Leaf said.

As most of the ponies trotted off, my host walked over to the table. Blue Leaf followed behind her.

“Are you sure you want to do this?” Blue Leaf said. “A lot of the ponies are scared and confused.”

“I know Blue. They are not used to see all this. I don’t think I’ll really ever get used to seeing this.” My host said sighing.

“We aren't really used to it. It’s just, we know what the shock feels like and we can respond to it…” Blue Leaf said. “but I think we should go with Apex’s idea of going back.”

“No. The zebra’s think they beaten us, and we can use that to get them back. We lost due to surprise, but I think we gain our own advantage with it.” My host said as she looked at the map. Her voice was sounding both more cold and more confident.

I knew she was still traumatised by what happened, it’s not something you could just shrug off. She was focused on the clump of fur that lay on the map from where Maplewood stood. She stared at it for a few seconds before quickly whipping it off the map.

She studied over the map, keeping her focus on the different areas around the enemy camp. I watched as her sight to always drifted back to a hill near by the enemy camp. It seemed to me, that she had found the location of her attack. However I was unsure if she noticed the message on the map that displayed the warning ‘mines’.

She grabbed a nearby pen in her fetlock and marked up the map, circling the hill. My host continue to look at the map for several more minutes it seem she was pulling her thoughts together. She was finally interrupted by Blue Leaf.

“Ma’am, we are ready.” Blue Leaf said.

My host looked over to Blue Leaf. Behind her, I could see the two graves that had been quickly dug for Maplewood and Yellow Cherry. Their bodies were already set in side the holes, covered by the rolls they’d used for bedding.

“Okay... Give me a minute.” My host replied.

Blue Leaf just nodded and join the others that were gathered around. My host stood there in contemplation of what she was going to say. She then took two deep breaths, and walk forward.

“I worked... served with Lieutenant Maplewood and Sergeant Yellow Cherry, for six months. In that time, I’d gotten to know just how great of ponies they were. Maplewood had always treated us with the respect and understanding we’d deserved. Sergeant Yellow Cherry was hard on us from time to time, but I knew that in his heart, he wanted to make sure we stayed safe. I knew that both of them would step into the line of fire to save anyone of us. Cherry showed this courage for us today. He guided and looked after us, even though it was only for a short time...” My host said before starting to choke up and sob a bit.

She took another deep breath, looking down at the bodies. “I... We, will continue to follow in what you taught us, sirs. We will continue to fight and protect Equestria. We will see our mission through, I promise you that.” My host said before saluting and standing there in silence.

Each pony join in the moment. All that could be heard was the wind and distant birds.

After the moment passed, my host picked up the shovel and piled dirt onto the shallow grave. One after another, the other ponies join in. A few moments later, the graves had been filled in. Blue Leaf walked over and placed two tent stakes in the ground above the graves. She then placed Lieutenant Maplewood’s Royal Guard helmet on one stake, and Sergeant Yellow Cherry’s helmet on the other.

“When we can’t take the ponies that have passed on with us, we mark the spot where they fell, and place a personal item as a marker to show who they were.” Blue Leaf said.

The ponies stood around in silence, trying to figure out what was need of them next. While they knew their mission, my host had seemed to have lost that all determination she had minutes ago.

“Archer, look.” Ink Jar said pointing over to a figure stepping out of the tree line.

The figure cleared into the shape of a zebra. He walked at a steady pace towards them with a rifle slung on his back.

“Hello my name is Xec,” the zebra said. He looked down at the two grave markers, and to my surprise, he lowered his head. “I see you have already meet my kin.”