Life is normal for one teen and the other various people at his school, but that soons changes as the dead begin to rise and the world starts to rot...
Arthur Havel, a regular teen attending Canterlot High School, continues his regular life. The Main Seven do so as well, going on their escapades as per usual. But things soon change as an unknown disease that raises the dead. Begins to collapse the world around them. As society collapses, everyone must adapt to a rapidly changing world and soon, for they and others must work together to escape a world gone rotten.
Arthur Havel woke up to the familiar sound of bird song; he proceeded to snuggle deeper into the soft blanket and pillows enjoying the sensation of comfort. The alarm clock quickly reprimanded him however, that brought a groan of frustration, yet he conceded. Throwing his blanket to the side and getting up, giving a stretch that reached to the ceiling.
He moved to the window beside his bed, and slightly opened the curtain to glimpse at the suburban landscape before him. Wincing at the sunlight but his eyesight quickly adapted, he admired the view for a second before checking his watch for the time.
Right on time, just like every day.
Arthur headed to the bathroom, exiting his room and turning left. He went on with brushing his teeth, showering and shaving. After he headed downstairs to the kitchen, noticing a piece of paper on the marble island. Grabbing a banana, he picked up the note to read it while munching on the banana.
Hey Arthur, as you know, we are off to Hawaii, just remember we will be gone for two weeks, not the usual one we like to do. You know the usual rules and so forth, so I won’t bother. Just remember don’t do anything stupid, especially with your girlfriend. Or don’t like you would tell us, you goof. There are several lunches for your school, in the fridge. Don’t eat all of it at once! Anyways, have a good day at school. See you in two weeks.
Love, Mom and Dad
Arthur smirked, knowing he would probably eat those lunches in a day or two. He left the note on the island, grabbed a bowl and filled it with some cereal and milk. Checking his phone, saw his girlfriend and a few friends texted him, and responded as usual. After finishing his food, he went to get dressed for school, the usual jeans and t-shirt combo.
Putting his brown leather jacket and hardy hiking boots that he preferred to wear, especially in the wet conditions of Oregon. Grabbed his backpack, a tan and robust gift from his cousin in Canada, leaving his house and locking the door behind him. He started walking to the bus stop, to get picked up for another day of school.
It didn’t take long to get there; he and several others were waiting for no longer than ten minutes, before the yellow bus arrived. The bus came to crawling stop, the sound of the airbrakes and the opening of the doors loud in the quiet neighborhood. Arthur boarded and found his usual seat on the middle right side. It was the usual blur as the bus continued its route and more students filtered on, the noise increasing as they did, Arthur’s focus came back as Canterlot High School came into view.
“Well, let’s go, off to another day of school, starting with chemistry!” Arthur thought with a silent sigh.
The bus came to a stop in the long line of other school buses as it waited to drop off its cargo of students, Arthur stood and started to exit the bus, the line of students dispersing in all directions as they arrived, loudly calling to their friends in greeting and to find them. Arthur walked to the rearing statue of a horse, local landmark for the students to find each other easily. His girlfriend, Jennifer Larsson, was waiting by the statue, she quickly found Arthur in the crowd of students
She smiled with a beam as she walked to him, a woman of slight build, pale complexion and light brown hair pulled back into a high ponytail. Arthur approached her and gave her a quick soft kiss, leaning in to do so, her being four inches shorter than his five-nine.
“How’s a going sweetheart?” Arthur asked.
“Oh, you know the usual just hating history as my starting period, but” she reached into a pocket in her jeans, “I made you something.”
“Oh?” Arthur inquired curiously, “what would that be?’
Jennifer pulled a small knitted bear out, looking like a cute black bear, sitting in the palm of her hand upright.
“Just a small project, thought I would make it, in memory of our hike that day,” saying it with a smile.
Arthur took it and brought it to eye level to examine; it was well made, as usual with Jennifer’s knitting projects. He smiled remembering their hike two months, when they spotted a black bear and her two cubs from a distance, it was an enjoyable moment.
“You’re too damn sweet you know that?” replying with a smile as well.
“I try, but I could never compare to Pinkie, you know.”
“True that’s hard to compete with yet, I think you’re the sweetest.” Arthur said, leaning in for another kiss.
Jennifer smiled into the kiss, and the two began walking into the school for another day of classes, they entered into the lobby along the masses of students. Arthur checked his watch, class began in five minutes. Saying his goodbyes to Jennifer, he headed to chemistry class, hoping it would be slightly interesting today.
Arthur sat at the table with his few friends and began digging into his lunch; Jennifer was with her friends at another table, a mutual agreement between them that lunch was for friends, after school was for them.
“So what’s happening this weekend boys?” asked Jason, the stereotypical jock head of six feet and blonde hair.
Arthur took a bite of his roast beef sandwich, while chewing, his other friend, Kenneth, a more average looking teen with brown hair, responded, “Well, start with our workout obviously, after that who knows, maybe Sweet Shoppe or video games.”
Arthur swallowed and chimed in, “Why not hit the lake?”
The fourth of the group, Jack, a short man of a smaller build with black hair, piped in, “Nah, we did that just three days ago, there’s that new action movie we talked about, why not that?”
That got unison of nods and affirmative sounds, they continued eating, and enjoying brought lunches or cafeteria food. Kenneth was the first to talk again, a talkative one, especially about things he finds in unusual places.
“So, you guys hear about some new disease, that’s popped up in Cali and New York?”
The rest just gave a blank stare, till Arthur said, a bit mockingly, “No, c’mon man where did you see this, 4-chan?”
Kenneth took the comment in stride, “Not this time, saw it in a minor article in the newspaper surprisingly.”
Jack said with amusement, “You? Reading a newspaper, now that’s surprising.”
Jason just gestured Kenneth to go on, mouth full with Caesar salad. Kenneth continued, “Well, there wasn’t much just a small footnote if anything, just unknown disease has popped up, government has it dealt with, the usual shit you know?”
Arthur replied, “Alright, well who cares, probably just another scare like Ebola or the SARS thing ten or so years ago.”
Jason and Kenneth nodded in agreement; Jack hesitated for a second in confusion, but nodded as well. They all learned about it in history class, when the teacher mentioned it in passing when speaking about history of plagues.
Jason spoke this time, quietly “So, you guys think I got a chance with Rainbow Dash over there?”
He gestured to the table on the far side of the cafeteria where, as many people call them, the Main Seven, considering the amount of events that surrounded them.
Jack responded in surprise, “You got a crush on Rainbow Dash?!”
The others shushed him quickly, looking to see if anyone heard; no one was looking at them so that was a good sign.
Arthur spoke, “Jack, you got to keep it down man, like fuck, don’t act so surprised, you know they play soccer together.” Jack blushed, muttering an apology. Arthur turned to Jason, “So Rainbow eh? Have you asked her out yet?”
Jason, slightly blushed, “Well not yet. I plan on doing it after the big game at the end of the month, cause I know we will win!”
Arthur nodded a bit, a questioning look on his face. Kenneth smugly quipped, “Well you better, or I’ll tell her myself.”
Jason glared at him, slight murder in his eyes, “You wouldn’t dare, you fucker.”
Kenneth’s grin grew, “Maybe, so don’t chicken out.”
“I ain’t going to chicken out, unlike you have with Trixie.”
Now Kenneth glared back, his grin now gone, “I didn’t she’s just never available.”
Jack snarkly replied, “Sure bud, never available my ass.”
Everyone chuckled at Kenneth, as he slowly went red in the cheeks. Arthur said, “I don’t know what you see in her, but I get it, took me a good while with Jennifer.”
Kenneth just waved it off, “Yeah, yeah.”
Jack budded in, “Anyways, so Kenneth I need some help with Computer Science…”
The rest of the lunch period went by, and soon Arthur and his friends went to their respective classes, Arthur thought a bit what Kenneth said about this new disease, would it be something to worry about? He shook his head, I highly doubt, it’s just another scare like all the others, at least I think so. Arthur’s thoughts turn to other things, mainly his next class.
History, finally something to look forward too. Wonder what it’s gonna be today.
The last class of the day was going by very slowly for Arthur. Mathematics was never his strong suit, he understood what he was doing but it never made it more tolerable. He kept glancing at his watch constantly, in hope that another five minutes past to get closer to the ringing of freedom.
God, can I get some help here? Arthur thought, then an idea popped up, the teacher was distracted at her desk, everyone else was working on the assigned equations, quiet conversations with peers or on their phone trying to be subtle about it. Arthur decided to take a quick glimpse at his phone; maybe something interesting was texted to him. Taking a glance, he saw some text messages from friends, one from Mom but also one from his cousin Samuel…
Holy shit! Samuel texted, wonder what it could be about.
He quickly glanced up to check if the teacher was still distracted. She was, slightly cheering in his head, he opened the text, wanting to read it and respond in quick timing. The text from Samuel read.
Hey Arthur, hope things are going well and all that. Letting you know, I just got some time off a couple weeks ago. So I decided I’m going to come down and visit, perfect timing with your parents gone. We are going to have some damn good fun. See you this evening.
Arthur was elated; his favourite cousin is coming down. Samuel was a first cousin from Canada, related through grandparents, Arthur’s grandparents coming down to Oregon back in the sixties, riding the hippy wave. Samuel and Arthur spent several summers together, attempts to keep family close. The two became close despite Samuel being five years his senior and kept in touch, with the occasional visit ever since those summers long ago.
Before Arthur could respond he heard the teacher move from her chair, moving quick to hide his phone he glanced up to see if she noticed. She didn’t, that or she didn’t care, the teacher started going over the next bit of the equations. Arthur quickly refocused his attention, but a part of his mind was still focused on Samuel’s text.
Hopefully he’s here soon then, we got a lot of catching up to do, that and fun shit to do. He thought gleefully.
He checked his watch again, resulting in a barely concealed groan. There was still thirty minutes left.
As soon as the bell rang, Arthur packed his stuff, rushing out of the classroom hoping to beat the other students out of the school. He texted Jennifer about his cousin coming down, so they could schedule another day to go out. Jennifer mocked sadness, but she understood just saying he owed her.
He smirked at that, always having liked her understanding nature. He exited the main school doors, heading to his bus in the long line of other buses. He saw Fluttershy by the statue handing out flyers about the shelter she volunteers at; she always got there before the hordes of students somehow.
Just as Arthur was about pass her, he heard her speak out, soft and just audible enough to be heard. “Um… hello, would like, maybe, a flyer?”
Arthur stopped and looked at her. He remembered how she used to be, most of her face hidden behind her pink hair, one soulful turquoise eye peeking out, and her bent knees together slightly shaking. Now she stood with a purpose, not hiding or shaking like she once did, at least most of the time. Still spoke softly and shyly but with a hint of more confidence.
Most of the time he politely took one and went on his way, giving the flyer a quick look over. Mostly just the usual of adoption events, asking for donations or volunteers, but this time he decided to take a bit more proactive approach.
“Sure why not. What’s happening this week?”
Fluttershy smiled, “Oh, well we are having a fundraiser…”
He took a look at the flyer, listening as she went, he took a moment to appreciate the art and the list of various items on the flyer, mostly just series of pastries and baked goods, no doubt provided by Pinkie Pie, could always count on her for that.
“Well I’ll pop by, could always go for some good cookies.”
Fluttershy perked up a bit, giving a soft smile, a soft “Yay” coming from her. The hordes of students started filtering out.
“Well I got to go, see you around Fluttershy.”
He heard a soft goodbye as he turned away, Fluttershy now trying to catch other people’s attention.
I’ll give her credit, she has gotten better at the whole handing flyers out thing, hard to say no to begin with the way she is.
Heading to his bus, he couldn’t wait to get home, hopefully Samuel was already there.
As the bus pulled into its stop, Arthur rose from his seat as soon as the bus came to a full stop. He swiftly exited, saying his thanks to the bus driver, and turned to go home. He was excited, having not seen Samuel in two years, his excitement propelled him homeward, walking fast but also not running, in a hope it gave Samuel more time to get there if he wasn’t already.
It didn’t take long for him to get home; passing the suburban landscape before him, when he reached home he was disappointed, Samuel wasn’t here yet. Arthur shrugged, knowing his cousin would be here tonight, having texted him earlier. All he could do now was wait. Entering his home, he dropped his myriad of school supplies to the side, heading to the living room just opposite of the kitchen, the two rooms connected via open ended with no walls to separate them. Arthur sank into the soft black leather couch that took the middle of the living room, texting his friends about plans to see the action movie the next day.
Arthur started on some homework to keep him occupied until Samuel arrived. Setting out a few short assignments put on the mesquite coffee table, he went on for some time, eventually finishing them. He went to take a look outside, still no Samuel. With a sigh, he decided to play some video games till then.
Arthur focused intently on the boss fight he was currently entangled in. Just a couple more hits, and I got him.
Then he heard the sound of a vehicle pulling into the driveway, a truck. He smiled, paused his game and went to the door ready to see his cousin after two long years. Opening the door, the same time Samuel exited his 2012 Black GMC Sierra. Samuel’s boots hit the ground, his blue eyes met Arthur’s grey eyes, both them immediately had shit-eating grins.
“EEEEEEEEEEEEEEHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!”
Both of them yelled out loud, proceeding to strike the t-pose with forearms bent ninety degree downward at the elbow, they ran high knee style towards each other pumping their arms in and out. Once they reached each other they brought each other into a bear hug. Samuel stood three inches taller than Arthur, stronger too, result of being five years older and service in the army infantry reserves. Arthur tried to compete with him, but couldn’t keep up in the unspoken squeeze challenge. The oxygen got squeezed out of him, and he tapped Samuel on the back. Samuel let Arthur go, taking several deep breaths to recover.
“Shit man, you couldn’t have lost some muscle, like at all?”
A laugh followed Arthur’s comment, “No, I don’t think I will. If anything you have gotten stronger. Been working out?”
“More often then I used to, got to beat you one day.”
“Hah good luck with that, anyways lets go inside.” Samuel grabbed his duffle bag and small pack and they headed inside.
Arthur gestured to Samuel to follow him upstairs, guiding him to the one guest room in the house in between his room and the master bedroom. After setting his stuff up in the guest room, they headed down to the living room.
Samuel restarted the conversation, “So whats new nowadays? School still going good?”
“School is good, just the usual, still hate chemistry like fuck but otherwise good. Otherwise nothing new except got a new CB radio recently.” Arthur replied. CB radio was a hobby he got into a couple years ago, thanks to his father.
“Same here, nothing too much either. Besides releasing from the army about two months ago and getting into power engineering. But that’s old news, what I want to know is what shit we are getting into for the two weeks I’m down here.”
Arthur thought for a second, “We could take the guns out shooting.” His father occasionally went hunting and skeet shooting, to the disapproval of his mother, “Mom, never liked my Dad teaching me, and I can’t take them out obviously, but with you here…”
Arthur left the statement open, hoping his cousin might take him out shooting, even at risk of discovery.
“Colour me surprised, I remember how disinterested in guns you were, what’s the change in heart?” Samuel asked curiously.
“Well… you honestly… Dad always tried for awhile but Mom put a stop to it and Dad gave up, sometimes he would let me hold it or even tell me some things about them, but it never amounted to anything. I get it if you don’t want to considering my mom.” Arthur said a bit sheepishly.
“Shooooot, you think I care what your mom thinks, HA! Alright I’ll take you sometime this week. I’m guessing your dad has them in a safe?” He got a confirming nod. “Good, if you know where the key is we are golden, won’t be tonight obviously, I’m too tired for that. How about we watch a movie this evening?”
Arthur pumped his fist in the air, with loud “yes”, followed up with, “Which movie then?”
Samuel snapped his fingers and responded, “Smokey and the Bandit, trust me you’ll love it.”
“Sounds good to me, I’m gonna grab some popcorn and soda then.” Arthur went to grab the popcorn, while Samuel grabbed the remote. Finding the movie rather quickly, he hopped on his phone, browsing through the news. He found something a bit different this time. The headline read.
Unknown Disease spreads to several other States, unknown reasons behind it.
Samuel, tapped on the article and began reading, it was frustratingly vague and few concise details but there was enough to make him curious. Before he could find more, Arthur returned popcorn and soda in hands.
“Ready?” he asked.
“Of course.” Samuel replied. “But before we start, you heard about this new disease going around?”
“A bit, my friend Kenneth, read about it, told us about it, why?”
Samuel made a placating gesture, “Just curious, most likely nothing serious, so let’s watch the movie.”
Arthur smiled, “Sure.”
The rest of the evening went by quick, howling laughter and catch up talk came and went. Soon it was late, and time for bed arrived. The two went through a bedtime routine of hygiene and prepping for the next day, after mutual goodnights they went to bed. While Arthur racked out rather quickly, Samuel kept up, looking into this disease, he soon was going to more minor and insignificant sources for information, till he came across an article from a local news station in northern California. As he read, he considered it better than the others he came across, until he reached one part in the article that seemed ludicrous.
Some reports coming say that the people infected with this disease die very quickly, and they return to life, exhibiting unusually aggressive behavior like that of an animal infected with rabies. Until further information is revealed, this is considered unproven and potentially misleading information.
Samuel scoffed at the idea, and put his phone on the night end table. What a load of bullshit, what’s this zombies? Yeah and I’m the King of Canada, whatever time for sleep.If it’s anything to worry about I’ll do something about it then, so we shall see in time.
Samuel went to bed, shoving the information to the depths of his mind, and wiggled deeper into the mattress and pillow. Quickly falling to sleep, thanks to the quiet nature of the suburbs.
Breakfast was the usual fair of plain cereal and milk for Arthur, Samuel went with oatmeal, brown sugar variety, as the two sat at the island in the kitchen. They both ate in silence, enjoying their food and the silent company of each other. Soon being done, the two ready themselves to leave, Samuel driving Arthur to school now. The two of them hopped in Samuel’s truck, backing out of the driveway onto the road and taking off down the road.
“So you going to introduce me to all your friends, as well as your girlfriend, today?” Samuel asked.
Arthur checked his watch, “If we get there fast enough, we should have enough time.”
Samuel grinned, “Perfect, I can tell them all about your childhood. Including some bits you probably didn’t tell them.”
Arthur glared at Samuel with contempt, “Don’t you dare.”
Samuel shrugged, “Alright you got me, I wouldn’t.”
Arthur side-eyed him, not believing him just yet. The suburbs phased out, as they made way to the school, bypassing the more commercial areas on the way. Soon they arrived at the school, parking on the side of the street. Samuel took a moment to take in the sight, he never saw this many students in one school before, Arthur already was out.
“You coming or what?” Arthur quipped
“Yup lets go.”
Samuel exited the truck and the two made their way over to the open ground that covered the whole front of the school. Arthur pointed to and explained the various areas and objects to Samuel, with Samuel nodding or asking follow up questions. They eventually made their way over to the statue, the area wasn’t thronged with students yet, only about a third of the buses had arrived.
“So that’s pretty much it for this part of the school. At least a couple of my friends should be here soon.” Arthur said.
“Rog.” Samuel simply responded.
Arthur raised an eyebrow at that, “Rog?”
“Short for roger, picked it up in the army, picked up a lot of jargon and lingo,” Samuel pointed at some student trying to sneakily puff a vape, “Heard vapes be called douche flutes or a morale booster for example.”
Arthur snorted at that. Looking for his friends, he saw Samuel out of the corner of his eye pull a carton of cigarettes out. Before he could tell him to put it away, Samuel asked first if there was an area to smoke. When told no, Samuel put the carton away muttering under his breath about it. Arthur quickly pointed to seven specific girls all coming up the main pathway.
“Those seven are really special.”
Samuel smirked and curiously asked, “How so? You got a crush on them all or something?”
Arthur slapped his shoulder, “No you idiot. They are responsible for a lot of helping, organizing, all that type of stuff. Also for saving the school awhile ago.”
“Saved the school?”
Arthur just nodded, “Oh, by the way prepare yourself.”
Samuel was now confused, “Prepare, for what?”
Arthur grinned and took several steps back, “You’ll see.”
Samuel raised an eyebrow and then he got a gut feeling of something off. Looking to Arthur than looking back to the seven girls, now six, the pink one she was missing. Samuel’s vision was then filled with sheer pink.
“HI!” Pinkie yelled, being very close to Samuel.
“SHIT!” Samuel swiftly backpedaled before old drills kicked in and he tried reaching for a non-existent rifle. He quickly regained his bearing though, taking several deep breathes to calm himself.
“Please, for the love of god, never do that again.” Samuel pleaded.
“Ooopsie, sorry, I was just so excited to meet a new friend!” Pinkie gleefully said, bouncing up and down in one spot.
Arthur was laughing so hard, that he was wheezing, clutching at his stomach. The other six, approached. They had varying expressions on their faces, Rarity was the first to speak.
“Pinkie, don’t frighten the poor dear.” She looked to Samuel, an apologetic smile on her face. “Sorry about that darling, Pinkie is just rather eccentric meeting new people.”
“That’s alright, I just not expect that at all.”
Sunset Shimmer was next to speak, “Hey there, seems you’ve meet Pinkie now, are you new here? Seems a little late to be going to a new school.”
Arthur having finished his laughter, snorted and approached, “Yeah he is new, transferred all the way from Canada, right Samuel?”
The girls, all reacting in their own ways, introduced themselves, talking about how Samuel was going to love it here and etc. Far too fast for Samuel to get a word in edgewise. Once there was a brief lull, Samuel spoke up a little louder than usual.
“Alright hold up!” catching the girls off guard, in a more normal and civil tone, “I’m no new student, too old for that now thank god, I’m just visiting from Canada. I’m Arthur’s cousin, the little rascal, done for a bit than I head back home.”
That got a collective “Ooooohhhhhhhh” from the girls, Samuel looked at his watch. “Don’t you all have class soon?”
Arthur spoke up, “In fifteen minutes yeah, why?”
Samuel said, “Curious, also I need to go have a smoke.”
Some of the girls scrunched their faces in disgust, Twilight chimed in, “Why would you want to smoke? I assume you know the health detriments, right?”
“Yeah, but it’s a habit I picked up, army does weird things to you.”
Rainbow Dash’s eyes lit up a bit, “Really? Cool! Are you like special forces or something? That would be radically cool.”
A deep laugh by Samuel disposed such a notion, “Nah, nothing like that, was just a reservist for some years, learned a lot I won’t lie, but nowhere as cool as special forces.”
Rainbow just muttered, “Damn.” Samuel smiled at that, “So Arthur here, has told me a bit about you seven, quite the record you gals got.”
Applejack responded to that, “Aw shucks, it ain’t that impressive you know.”
Samuel just shrugged, and took a look at Arthur, giving a nod.
Arthur, “Well I gotta take Samuel for a bit more of a tour, so see you girls around.”
The seven girls and Samuel said their mutual goodbyes, and they went their separate ways.
The front grounds were much fuller now with students, making it a little more difficult to navigate. Arthur soon found Jennifer and his friends, introducing Samuel to them for the last five minutes before all the students, went in for class.
“I gotta go now, see you after school.” Arthur said as he walked away waving goodbye, Samuel doing the same, “Hey Arthur,” he looked back, “Stay safe.” Arthur nodding a bit confusingly.
Samuel walked back to his truck, and the moment he got in the truck, he pulled a cigarette out and lit it. Enjoying the feeling of the nicotine rush. Samuel pulled his phone out, the prior two days have been good, but info about this new disease has occupied some part of his mind constantly.
More articles and information have been coming out, alongside an mysterious increase in missing person cases, assault and murders. Samuel hoped in the end it would be resolved, but thinking to himself.
If this is the start of something, might be best to go get a couple things from the store, just a few in case items.
So he started his truck, buckled in and took a long puff of his cigarette. Off he went to the nearest store wondering if there were any special discounts or deals going on…
Arthur entered the cafeteria, lunch in hand, walked to the table that his friends were at, all looking at one phone playing a video.
“What’s going on?” Arthur asked.
Kenneth responded, “Sit and watch it, it’s fucked.”
Arthur sat down, and started watching the video. The video showed was on a body cam, a police officer being the source, was showing a vehicle accident on a highway coming out of Portland, the one that went to Canterlot. The camera focused on a woman in a stretcher, a paramedic who was going over her.
Then the woman began to move, bringing her arms up and grabbing the paramedic and bringing him down where she started to viciously start chewing into the paramedic’s neck. He was screaming as two officers ran up, one being the said officer with the body cam.
They approached from either side of the paramedic and tried yanking him off, causing the woman to hold on harder and double down on chewing. The paramedic screamed louder as a result, and the other officer grabbed his taser, jamming into it the woman’s chest, pulling the trigger as the two prongs went in.
The electric current made the woman temporarily lose her grip, long enough for the body cam officer to pry the paramedic off, the other officer also backpedaling away. The paramedic was taken by his buddy, allowing the officers to focus on the woman, who was now rising. Her gray, soulless eyes focused on them and she shambled toward them, mouth still filled with the paramedic’s flesh. The two officers pulled out their service pistols, telling her to stop, she didn’t.
As she got within ten feet, the officers unloaded into her, twelve rounds hit in the abdomen area, two in the left shoulder and one in the right arm. Fifteen rounds in ten seconds, she didn’t stop though and only being slowed, one of the officers then aimed for her head, firing two rounds, one grazing her head and the other hitting her square in the forehead. That finally dropped the woman.
The video came to an end, Arthur and his friends sat in silence, for a moment.
Jason spoke first, “Dude, what the fuck was that?”
Kenneth spoke next, very softly and slightly shaken “I don’t know man, it somehow got leaked and the official reports just say the woman was just, drugged beyond measure, but like it doesn’t make any sense.”
“Could it be that disease people are talking about?” Jack said concern in his voice.
They all sat in pondering silence for a minute, before Arthur spoke up, “Who knows, but I don’t think so, I haven’t seen anything about it giving people the ability to survive that many bullets, unless…”
He paused for a second, “Unless zombies are thing all of a sudden.”
Arthur felt silly about bringing that idea up, but nobody laughed, all looked at him with some seriousness at the thought.
“Well, I guess it could be possible but it does seem absurd doesn’t it?” Kenneth said.
Jason piped in, “It does, but I’m not convinced yet, it could be some drug.”
“God who knows, but I’m sure it’s going to be dealt with, and besides let’s not focus on this right now, we got a test soon.” Jack said.
That got a murmur of agreement across the table, so they dug into their food. Arthur took a look around at the other students across the cafeteria, it looked to him that a lot of others watched the same video and similar moods have popped up. He really hoped this would be figured out, and that his parents came home soon.
Samuel pulled up to Canterlot High School, parking off to the side. Waiting for Arthur in the truck, he thought about what he should do next.
Probably best to get Arthur’s parents on the line, got to see if they can get back, if not see from there. Make sure everything is squared away, also take Arthur shooting today.
Soon the students started filtering out; Arthur soon enough made his way over and hopped in truck. His mood a bit somber, Samuel picking that up quick.
“You alright? Seem a bit… off.”
Arthur sighed, “Yeah I watched something that was really off putting, I rather not talk about it much.”
Samuel shrugged, “Fair enough, lets go, got some shooting to do, right.”
That got Arthur out of his mood a bit, making him slightly smile. Samuel, smiled back and so they went home to get the guns, and go out to the woods.
Arthur held his father’s 30-30 lever action rifle, having a six round capacity plus one, in his hands, listening to Samuel’s advice on how to hold the rifle, how to work the action and so forth.
“Alright, you ready for this?” Samuel asked.
“Yeah.”
“Good, now aim at that target,” Samuel gesturing at simple circular target fifty yards away, “Follow the steps I told you and you’ll be fine.”
Arthur aimed down the sights, his cheek to butt stock forming a cheekweld, left support hand far as possible down the stock to give as much support as possible, knees bent and slowly pulling the trigger…
A loud bang sounded throughout the, Arthur controlled the recoil as much as possible but wasn’t entirely ready for it, Samuel had a hand on his back to support him.
“Shit man, didn’t expect that. How did I do?” Arthur asked, excitement gripping him.
Samuel nodded, “Decent for your first time, some things you can do better, pad of your finger on the trigger instead of wrapping the whole finger around, better stance positioning but otherwise good.”
“Let’s take a look at the target?”
“Not yet, put a couple more down range and we will see how your grouping is.”
Arthur did so, then they went to check the target. His grouping wasn’t terrible, five rounds in a semi-circle, four inches in diameter.
“Remember finger off the trigger, unless you’re shooting.” Samuel admonished Arthur.
Arthur quickly took it off, “Sorry.”
“All good, just remember it from now on.” Samuel looked at the grouping. “Decent grouping, not bad for your first time, we can do a bit more but your dad didn’t have much ammo so got to conserve it.”
After a couple more groupings with the 30-30, they put it away in its case. Instead bringing out the other firearm, a twelve gauge hunting shotgun, pump action, a two capacity tube magazine plus one in the chamber. Samuel explained to him how to use it, they had a lot more ammo for the shotgun then the rifle.
They shot for awhile, enjoying the fun and bonding experience, but soon they had to leave. Too little ammunition for an extended period of shooting. They packed up the firearms and ammo into the truck, and drove away from their area.
“So what type of ammo was that we were shooting?” Arthur asked, wanting to learn more.
Samuel replied, “Birdshot, its in the name for what its for, just a bunch of small pellets packed into it. I’m surprised by how much your dad has honestly, didn’t see any buckshot though. Those are just bigger, a lot more punch too.”
Arthur listened as Samuel continued explaining to him about firearms, eventually the conversation petered out. Which allowed Samuel to bring up Arthur’s parents.
“Call them?”
Samuel looked to him seriously, “Yes, see if they can get home sooner, for their sake, and you know why.”
“It’s the disease isn’t it? You’re worried about it aren’t you.” Arthur responded.
Samuel nodded, “I am, if it gets worse who knows what will happen. I actually already tried talking to them, they brushed me off though, maybe you can convince them.”
“They might shutdown the airports; it’s a disease so it would make sense, especially if it gets worse. Alright I’ll call them once we get home.” Arthur said, slight worry in his voice.
The drive home was short, the green landcape of forest and open meadows blooming with fresh flowers and bright green grass. It changed as they got closer to Canterlot, the urban landscape replacing the nature scenery. Soon rolling into the suburbs, Arthur spotted something off, an individual shuffling like they were high, but he saw them only for a brief second before they disappeared behind a shed.
I wonder who that was, they stumbled like that woman in the video, but I couldn’t tell. Could it be a zombie? God I hope not.
Arthur was very eager to get home after that thought, but they were close to home as Samuel pulled into the driveway. Arthur got out and immediately went inside to call his parents. Samuel brought the guns and ammo in first before he started unloading the various things he bought earlier, from the truck and bringing it all inside. Arthur’s conversation with his parents was white noise to Samuel as he brought supplies in, going in and out. Soon a pile of supplies sat on and around the island in the kitchen, Samuel was bringing in the last of it when Arthur finished his call.
“My parents are being stupid, they just told me it will be fine and they will see me once they’re done in Hawaii.” Arthur said with frustration.
Samuel gave a barely noticeable sigh, “I thought this would happen. I really hope to God they change their minds.”
Arthur murmured agreement, looking to the myriad of supplies on the table; he asked “So all this,” gesturing to it all, “I’m guessing is in case things go bad?”
“Yes, extra food, water, hygiene products and so forth. Stuff we will need if shit hits the fan.” Samuel said.
Arthur pondered for a second, “And if it gets resolved?”
“Then you got extra stuff to use later.” Samuel joked. His tone shifted with more seriousness as he went on, “We don’t know anything much yet. The news has been vague so far, so for us it’s wait it out, till something pops up.”
Arthur nodded but he felt he should tell about the video he saw, “Have you seen the police body camera footage that’s been leaked?”
Samuel said “No, I haven’t, is it related?”
Arthur nodded and took out his phone to show him the video. The two watched it in silence, Samuel blank faced as the video went on. Once it finished, Arthur continued.
“Some people are saying its drugs, others its fake, but no one really knows, a lot of people are saying its related to the disease and coming from it are… well zombies.”
Samuel didn’t say anything for a moment, “I see. I … didn’t think of that honestly. However till we know for sure what is happening, lets just continue on, nothing seems to be affected from the disease, stock market and shit like that.”
Arthur quipped, “Not yet.”
Samuel conceded to the point, before saying, “You got any plans tonight with friends or Jennifer?”
“My friends are out doing their own thing and Jennifer is out of town, so nope.”
Samuel smiled, “Then lets go to a really nice restaurant tonight, and eat like kings, if shit is going to hit the fan might as well enjoy something before it does.”
Arthur looked at Samuel in slight shock, “Really?”
“Really, really.”
Arthur smiled back, “Sounds good to me.”
The two went back to the truck, hopped in and headed downtown, for an evening of fine dining.
It was three days later after that evening of fine dining, as Arthur gazed out at the school as Samuel pulled up. He noticed how there was a lot less students today, as less were showing up now, its been that way for the last two days. Already two of his friends have not showed up, Kenneth and Jason, he been able to contact Kenneth who was staying home due to his parents insisting on it. Jason was nowhere to be found, even visiting his home brought nothing, the entire family was gone.
Arthur was worried, definitely not feeling like going to school today, but he forced himself to because Jennifer was still going. He saw that the Main Seven were still here but even from this distance he could tell the mood wasn’t great. Everyone seemed down today.
“You sure you still want to go?” Samuel asked.
The two already talked about it, Samuel thinking it wasn’t a great idea, but agreed in the end.
“Yeah, I don’t want to be here, but Jennifer is still going and I want to make sure she is ok. She hasn’t texted since about seven this morning, so I’m concerned.”
Samuel nodded, looking at the school and its much diminished numbers of students, “Alright, remember call if anything happens, I’m going to see about getting more supplies, even though the stores are running short, got to try.”
Arthur nodded in agreement and exited the truck; the two waved their goodbyes as Samuel took off down the road. Arthur went near the statue, waiting to see if Jennifer or Jack would show up. Only a few minutes later Jack showed up finding Arthur quickly. The two chatted about what is happening and their concerns. It wasn’t long till the alarm rang and the students started heading inside. Arthur lingered for a few seconds before following Jack in. Jennifer wasn’t there.
That made him much more concerned now, enough to make him text Jennifer again after the fifth time. Yet still no answer, an announcement was made, all students to the gymnasium for an assembly. That received a rolling sound of confusion as everyone made their way to the gym. Arthur looked at Jack who just shrugged as they walked.
As the students filtered into the gym, Arthur saw Principal Celestia and Vice-Principal Luna, in the front of the gym, alongside half the staff at the school, Celestia being in front of a podium. The two watched as everyone found a place to sit or stand with no real order to it. Once the last of the students entered, Celestia cleared her throat to begin speaking.
“Good morning everyone, as you can gather from your surroundings, many of your fellow students and much of the staff are absent today. You also no doubt heard of the disease going around. In light of these circumstances, the school division has decided to shut down our school and others until things are resolved. In accordance to guidelines out by the government, you will all be returned home or wait here until you can be picked up by family.”
The students were shocked by this, a loud murmur of conversation erupting as a result. Arthur looked at Jack and he looked back, the two looking in each other’s eyes, both them concerned and slightly scared. Celesta managed to get all their attentions back quickly.
“Please let all of us remain calm now. Several police officers will be here soon to provide protection, everyone now please gather your things and start going to your respective buses or wait in the front lobby for your ride.”
The mass of students obeyed, filtering out of the gym, heading to gather things from lockers and heading out to buses or mingling in the front lobby as they waited for rides. Arthur and Jack waited out in the front lobby; Jack was waiting for his mother to come pick him up. Arthur called Samuel, if he didn’t pick up, he would go on the bus, then head to Jennifer’s place to check on her.
He received a voice message, which was concerning. What could it be preventing him from calling?
Samuel was perusing in a hardware store, grabbing various things that could be used to fortify the house if necessary, his current cart was full. If the apocalypse was going to happen no point on keeping money that was going to be useless. He was in an aisle with various screws, nuts, bolts, nails and so forth.
That’s when he heard a commotion in the next aisle over, he grabbed his cart and moved down the aisle, feeling a keen gut feeling to leave now. Leaving the aisle, he briefly took a look down the aisle where the commotion came from, he saw a man walking with a stagger down the aisle knocking various things over. Most noticeable was large bite on his leg, with some flesh missing. That was enough evidence for Samuel to leave, so he headed to checkout, he would just prefer to leave but things were still somewhat normal, there was the security guard and the one cashier still in front, so no running off yet.
He started putting items on the till, with fast movement, as the cashier scanned the items far too slowly to Samuel’s liking, That is when the staggering man came over, having been alerted by the noise from the scanning, its grey eyes took one look at all three people and let out a hungry growl, shambling forward. Samuel slightly panicked.
Fuck, this is not good, damn zombies do exist now. Fuck!
The security guard walked several hesitant steps forward, before realizing the man wasn’t normal, it was too late. The zombie lunged forward with both hands and grabbed the guard, who was now panicking wildly, grabbed his extendable baton and started hitting it. The zombie didn’t care and the two went down, the zombie lunging in for a bite. Samuel prevented that, swinging a small two by four, he hit the zombie with a meaty whack. The zombie was pushed off course and its mouth missed, hitting the floor.
The security guard quickly used it as an opportunity to push it off and scrambled away, kicking the one hand that still gripped his left ankle off, got up and ran out of the store. The zombie started to get up, before Samuel pushed it into a display of paint cans, the zombie now temporarily out of action. Samuel looked at the cashier, who was staring in shock at the whole incident, and told him to run. He did so; Samuel grabbed his cart and ran out of the store after him.
Samuel looked around him as he went to his truck; the whole area was starting to delve into chaos. He saw more zombies just like the man in the store, shambling around on the street, in the various parking lots and stores, some chasing people or already ripping out flesh and devouring their victims. People were running around, trying to get away, or to get to vehicles, some already driving off.
Samuel went to the bed of his truck and started throwing all his items in, going as fast as he can, so he can get going.
Got to get moving, shit really has hit the fan now. Hopefully Arthur is safe at school or at home.
Finished loading the bed, he hopped in the truck and started it. He checked his phone; he saw three missed calls from Arthur. Swearing under his breath, he called Arthur and started driving away. As he waited for Arthur to pick up, he kept looking around, seeing the chaos around him. A sedan exiting an intersection at high speeds, having a zombie on the windshield trying to get in, the driver drove straight into another vehicle coming the other way, crashing totaling both, as several other zombies closed in on the accident.
Samuel saw a single woman surrounded by six zombies, she fanatically tried fighting, till they all converged on her and she went down in a gory mess. He continued driving, avoiding other vehicles driving, some very haphazardly, zombies or people. Arthur finally picked.
“Samuel? Is everything fine? I tried calling-“
Samuel interrupted him, “No, shit has hit the fan now; it’s getting worse, fast. Where are you?”
“I’m at Jennifer’s, she is sick, like really bad.”
“Fuck, does she have a bite mark?”
Arthur replied, “Yes she does. Wait are you saying…”
Samuel sighed heavily, “Yes, zombies are now real, confirmed. I’ll come to you, just stay put, stay safe and watch Jennifer like a hawk.”
Arthur replied shakily, “I will, you get here safe too.”
“I will.”
Samuel hung up and swore under his breath, stupid kid. He made his way to Jennifer’s, hoping to get there in time.
Arthur sat beside Jennifer’s bedside; the woman was sweating with a hot fever. Arthur was doing his best to keep her comfortable, wet towel on her forehead and a glass of water always on the night table on standby, was the best he could do for now. He was desperately trying to keep the thought out of his mind she might turn into a zombie.
Please for the of love god, please no. I don’t know what to do.
Jennifer spoke, very softly, “It’ll be ok, I know you’re worried.”
Arthur shook his head, “Do you even know what is happening?”
Jennifer gestured for more water, Arthur grabbed the glass and put it to her lips, she drank slowly, once finished, she continued, “A little. That disease, right?”
Arthur reluctantly spoke, “Yes, but… its more than that.”
Jennifer looked at him, “How?”
Arthur bit back a response not knowing how to tell her she may be on the verge of turning into a zombie. Something he still couldn’t accept. He felt Jennifer’s hand on his.
“You can tell me, no point hiding it now.” Jennifer reassured him.
Arthur squeezed her hand, “People that are infected are turning… into zombies.”
Jennifer looked at him with disbelief, “No, you can’t be serious.”
Arthur gave a sorrowful sigh, with a voice on edge of tears, he answered, “I am.”
Jennifer started softly crying, Arthur did as well. The two embraced each other, comforting each other as they cried, enjoying what time was left. A rumbling noise was heard outside, it stopped. Followed by someone entering the house.
“Arthur?” Samuel called.
Arthur relaxed a bit, thinking it could have been someone or something else. “Up here.”
Samuel came up the stairs, shotgun in hand and entered Jennifer’s room. He saw the two embraced, looking at Arthur “How is she?”
Jennifer blubbered, “Not .. good.”
Samuel nodded, “Are you bitten?”
“Yes…I am.” Jennifer blubbered again.
That was enough for Samuel, so he looked at Arthur and gestured to him in a “come here” gesture. He reluctantly came over, especially after getting a nod from Jennifer in reassurance.
“Has she been getting worse?”
Arthur nodded, “Are you gonna suggest… ending it? Cause I can’t do this man. Please.”
Samuel’s face was sorrowful, “Let’s ask what she wants and… go from there.”
They both looked at Jennifer, who was visibly getting worse. Samuel looked at Arthur; he was too emotionally unavailable for this. So he went to Jennifer’s bedside, knelt beside her and asked.
“What do you want, Jennifer?”
She looked over to him, “Can you… stay, please? Until… until I die?”
Samuel nodded, it was the least he could for her. Arthur came from the other side and knelt taking her hand into his. So they sat in silence, as Arthur comforted Jennifer as much as possible. Samuel prayed for her, whispering while doing so. It wasn’t long before she began to have deep gasping breaths. Arthur looked up at her, knowing it would be the end. Samuel knew too.
“Arthur, go outside to the truck. I’ll… make sure.”
Arthur looked at him in shock, “Please… no.”
“I know you don’t want this,” he came over and put a hand on his shoulder in reassurance, “But I know you don’t want the alternative either, so please.”
Arthur went back to Jennifer grabbed her hand, gave her one last kiss on the cheek and forehead, said “I love you” and exited the room in solemn frustration. Samuel looked to Jennifer, she was now breathing much slower before it just… stopped. He knew she was gone now, with one last look he raised the shotgun to her head.
“Forgive me.” Samuel softly asked.
Arthur heard the blast of the shotgun, as he neared the truck. Entering the truck, he began crying again, his heart crying for Jennifer. Samuel entered the truck, putting the shotgun in the back; he reached over and hugged Arthur. He returned the hug as he cried into Samuel. They sat for several minutes until Arthur finished.
“Let’s go home now, ok.”
Arthur silently nodded, and the truck was started, Samuel driving away, down the street for home. The scenery was pitiful, already there was bodies laying in lawns and the streets. Several zombies were seen, and wrecks were here and there. Smoke that went to the sky, centering from within downtown.
They rumbled home, pulling into the driveway. Samuel got out, taking the shotgun with and headed to the bed to start unloading. Arthur sat for several moments before getting out and helped unload. They unloaded quickly, the living room packed full of hardware supplies.
Arthur sat on the couch, Samuel joined him. Arthur didn’t say anything, so Samuel did.
“I’m sorry… I’m so sorry.”
Arthur was silent before quietly speaking, “I know. I…I just wish it was different. I don’t blame you.”
“Thank you, Arthur,” he stood up and grabbed a hammer, nails and a couple pieces of plywood, “I’m going to start barricading the windows, take the time you need, I’ll be here if you need anything.”
Arthur nodded. Samuel went to work, one window at a time.
A couple hours later, Samuel made decent progress on fortifying; about half the windows were done. Arthur sat for a while before going to his room, sleeping for a bit. Samuel went to check on him, just as he did, Arthur jumped awake. Waking up in a sweat, he calmed himself quickly.
“You alright?”
“I’ll…be okay. I just remembered my parents.”
Samuel’s eyes widened, “Shit, you’re right. Call them, I have to do the same for my family.”
Arthur immediately grabbed his phone and his parents. Samuel went to do the same. Arthur waited as the phone rang; anxiety going up the longer it took. His mother answered.
“Arthur? Are you ok? Where are you? Is Samuel there still?” Arthur’s mom asked in rapid pace.
“Yes, mom, to all of it. We are both at home. What about you and Dad?”
“We are ok, just stuck in our hotel for now. We couldn’t get a phone call to you, at all until you called. We can’t get back either, all the flights are shutdown, and the military is all over the place.” She said sadly.”
“Can you get back at all?” Arthur asked with concern.
“I don’t know… What?...We are being moved?... By who? Where?”
“Mom?”
“We have to go, remember we love you always. Stay with…”
The phone disconnected, leaving Arthur alone again. With a frustrated yell he punched the dry wall, leaving a hole. Samuel popped in again, seeing it.
“Line disconnect?”
Arthur rubbed his knuckles, “Yeah. Same for you?”
“Yeah but things are sorted enough up there, no point trying to get there now, would have to cross the Rockies for that.”
Arthur looked to him and nodded. A phone rang, both looking to Arthur’s phone.
“Who’s calling? One of your friends?”
Arthur shook his head, “No, both are named contacts.”
Answering the phone he was surprised by who spoke.
“Hey Arthur, are you around right now? Need some help, kinda in a jiffy.” Pinkie said.
“Pinkie? Wait you need help? What’s wrong?”
“Me and Fluttershy are at Sweet Shoppe helping the Cakes, but some of those weirdos showed up and are now trying to break in. I phoned whoever I could and you picked up! So could we get some help, they seem to be getting closer…”
Arthur replied a bit in shock, “Yeah, yeah. Me and Samuel will be on our way. Just hold tight!”
“Okie dokie! Do try to hurry though, please?” Pinkie said, sounding a little scared.
“We will. See you soon.”
Arthur hung up and then rushed downstairs, Samuel following. Arthur explained the situation as grabbed his pack, a wooden baseball bat from his childhood days, and the lever action rifle. Samuel grabbed his pack, a crowbar and the pump action shotgun. Arthur was about to open the door before Samuel stopped him for second.
“Are you sure you’re up for this.”
“Yes. I can’t standby feeling helpless, not again.” Arthur responded, purpose in his voice.
“That’s fair, we might not be able to save everyone, but we can save some.”
Arthur nodded in agreement.
“Give me the rifle, you take the shotgun, it’ll be easier for you to shoot them with.”
Arthur agreed and they exchanged firearms, exiting the house and jumping into the truck. Starting it, they headed to Sweet Shoppe, Arthur giving directions as they went. Entering the area, zombies didn’t infest it but they was enough for concern.
“How bad did it sound, the situation?” Samuel asked as he dodged a SUV crashed in a lamp post.
Arthur checked his bat, still good, “Really bad, not once have I ever heard Pinkie be scared.”
“That means we need to be prepared for when we get there, we have to make it quick, the truck will draw them all in for blocks,” Samuel said seriously, his old drills taking over again, “I am surprised that she knows your number though.”
Arthur snorted, “She knows everyone’s number, it’s just a Pinkie thing.”
Samuel was about to respond, before Arthur pointed out Sweet Shoppe. There were six zombies outside, with who knows how many inside. Samuel got out quickly, Arthur a second behind. The six zombies turned to them and shambled towards them.
“No point in being subtle, blast the things.” Samuel said as he raised the rifle and shot, in the chest, swearing he worked the action and aimed at the head, two tries to take out the first. Arthur at the same time pointed the shotgun at another, shot it, the buckshot working its magic and killing in one shot.
They dispatched the rest, two with gun, the last two in melee. Rushing inside they saw another two, Arthur shot, missing twice before the third took one out. Samuel rushed in close and kicked it over, putting the rifle close to its head and blowing its brains out. Samuel looked to Arthur.
“Go upstairs to see if they are up there, be quick but careful. I’ll look down here.”
Arthur went up the stairs quickly, seeing a single zombie pounding at a door. He had his baseball bat out, shotgun slung over his shoulder, he yelled as he charged in and swung. Just as the zombie looked at him, the swing connected with his jaw and he fell. Arthur didn’t let up and swung two more times to kill it. He then pounded on the door.
“Hey Pinkie! Fluttershy! You in there!” Arthur yelled, adrenaline pumping in his veins.
The door opened and Pinkie was there, behind her Fluttershy was shaking badly.
“You’re here! Thank goodness!” Pinkie said in relief.
“You two alright? Are you hurt?” Arthur asked in an excited tone, looking them over if they were.
“Nope! We’re good. Where are the Cakes though?” Pinkie asked with concern.
“I don’t know. I’ll check the other rooms quick, grab anything you need, we got to go.”
Pinkie turned and got Fluttershy moving to grab their things as Arthur checked the other rooms. There was no one in the rooms. He heard fighting downstairs. Rushing downstairs he saw Samuel come out of a back room, crowbar covered in blood.
“You okay?” Arthur asked.
“Yes, there was two, no longer now. Are the girls up there?” Samuel’s eyes looking out to see if there was more coming.
“Yes, I think they are ready to go. Did you see the Cakes? Couple who own the place.”
Samuel’s eyes widened in surprise, “Shit. They’re gone, they were the ones that were getting eaten in the back room.”
Arthur swore as the two girls came down the stairs, backpacks in tow. Samuel told Arthur to break the news gently, him knowing the two better. Pinkie looked at Arthur and asked.
“They’re… gone Pinkie, I’m sorry.”
Pinkie lost all her colour, going to gray, her hair going from puffy to sheer straight.
“What? Oh no…” Pinkie began sniffling.
Samuel interrupted, “I’m sorry but we have to go, there is more coming,” he looked to Arthur, “get them in the truck, I’m grabbing some stuff and I’ll be right out there in a minute. Now go.”
Arthur gently guided Pinkie out, emotionally distraught as she was, Fluttershy following. As they got out to the street, Arthur got the two in the back of the truck. He took a look around, zombies were starting to close in. He racked his shotgun and fired at one, only fifteen yards away. It was followed up by another shot, drooping the zombie, the first one grazing the head. Samuel burst out of the building, pack bulging with items, with two flour bags in his arms.
“Get in the truck! We’re leaving!” Samuel yelled.
Arthur double checked around them for others, as he got in the truck. Samuel threw the flour and his bag in the bed, as he ran by, getting in the truck and slamming the door. He started the truck and stepped on the gas. Just as two zombies got close, hitting one on the way out. They headed back to home.
As they drove away, Arthur looked at Pinkie, she was sniffling and blubbering, Fluttershy was shaken bad, but she quietly provided comfort to her as best as she can.
“You handled yourself well Arthur, good job.” Samuel commented.
“I feel like I’m gonna be sick, I never killed something before. At least not… not like this” Arthur said, the adrenaline disappearing, he looked green around the gills.
“I know, first time for me as well, we will be ok, all of us.” Samuel said, looking at the two girls in the back.
Pinkie didn’t react, and Fluttershy gave a slight nod in acknowledgement. Arthur talked to them; they were going to be at his home soon. Samuel kept his head on a swivel, avoiding anything in the way. Arthur was doing his best, but he could tell he wasn’t doing much good.
They all arrived at Arthur’s home, as Samuel pulled in the driveway. Parking the truck he sighed in relief, getting out and making sure the coast was clear, he grabbed his pack and the flour. Arthur got out and opened the door for the girls, gesturing them to come out. Pinkie moved very mechanically as she got out, Fluttershy following closely.
Entering the house, Samuel headed to the kitchen to drop off the supplies. Arthur and the girls went to the living room, the girls sitting on the couch, Arthur in a lazy chair. Samuel soon followed, taking a seat too. The four rested for a moment. Samuel stayed silent before nodding to Arthur and off he went to continue fortifying, grabbing some two by four planks.
“Do you want anything to eat? Or anything really?” Arthur asked, trying to be gentle.
Pinkie didn’t answer, which concerned him, which was very unusual for her. Fluttershy softly replied, “No, thank you.”
Arthur nodded, “Alright, well if you need anything, just ask,” he went to go see about helping Samuel but first, “Fluttershy could I talk to you for a second?”
Fluttershy startled a bit, looking at him but she conceded. She left Pinkie, making sure she would be ok first, and then came over.
Arthur glanced at Pinkie than to Fluttershy, “I can tell she isn’t doing well, and I’ll try to help, but I’m guessing that won’t be enough.”
Fluttershy agreed, “I… don’t know what to do, usually the others would be here to help, but…”
“I know, just do your best, everyone at school knows about how the seven of you are special in your own way, that and how you always beat the odds.”
Fluttershy slightly blushed, but she nodded in thanks.
Arthur gestured upstairs, “You two can use the bedroom on the far right, for yourselves. Also any idea where the others are?”
“Umm, well, not right now. Last time was before we left the school.” Fluttershy said.
Arthur nodded, “Okay, well try to find them, I’ll try to help, Samuel will too, I think I can vouch for him. I’m going to go help him right now, do whatever you guys need to do.”
Fluttershy went back to Pinkie’s side, delving into quiet conversation between them. Arthur picked up some boards and went to help, one window at a time.
Samuel and Arthur finished fortifying the house, one hour ago. The two started organizing the multitude of supplies they have, putting it all in proper places. There was enough essentials to last a week and a half, when adding the girls into the equation, it did mean more supplies had to be gathered and soon.
“Where would we get more though? Scavenge the nearby houses?” Arthur asked putting some canned beans in a cupboard.
Samuel was putting the variety of baking supplies from Sweet Shoppe away, “Probably, in due time though, but first we have to see about what is going on.”
“Like the government? Other survivors?” Arthur asked.
“Exactly. The rest of Canterlot too, it was fucking quick how things fell apart. Who knows where the police and the government are in general.”
Arthur got an idea, getting enthusiastic, “I can use my CB radio, there must be broadcasts from all types of people, other amateur radio hobbyists, government, hell radio stations.”
Samuel nodded in agreement, “The T.V. too, as long as power is going.”
They packed the rest of the stuff away, Arthur running to his radio set in his room. Samuel went back to the living room; the rifle and shotgun were off to the side, unloaded but ready at a moment’s notice. He grabbed them and took the rifle and started doing basic maintenance, cleaning out the barrel, chamber and nooks and crannies full of carbon and other shit in there. Once he finished he oiled the rifle, put the rifle back together, putting beside his chair and started on the shotgun.
He was alone, the two girls going upstairs earlier to the master bedroom. He appreciated the silence, enjoying it while he can; something told him it would be scarce from now on. As he finished the shotgun, he realized how quiet the neighborhood is, more so than usual. That got him to go around the house checking the outside through the windows; they made little viewports, which doubled as firing ports if necessary, through the planks. The outside perimeter was rather undisturbed, all good in the backyard and sides.
The front was different; having a good view of the street he saw a small amount of zombies, at least four. Most of the houses seem to be closed, whether they’re occupied was difficult to tell. Many vehicles were still parked on the sides and in driveways, none in any accidents so far. Samuel now satisfied with it, headed upstairs to check on Arthur, see if he has made any progress with the radio. Reaching his bedroom door, he knocked, getting a “come in” from Arthur. Entering he saw Arthur hunched over his desk, headphones on, listening to something. Samuel sat on Arthur’s bed as he waited for Arthur to finish.
When he did, he looked at Arthur, his eyes showed mental exhaustion. Samuel felt concern, was it that bad?
“Is it bad?” Samuel asked.
“Yes,” Arthur giving a weary sigh, “Most of the channels I’m picking up, are just calls for help, some for mild things, most for some form of genuine help, some … some are on the verge of death, desperate pleas, asking for someone, anyone to save them.”
“That’s fucked, I’m sorry that you had to listen to that, but is there anything else?”
Arthur nodded, “There are broadcasts from some levels of government, and most are just repeated messages, keep indoors, stay away from zombies, shit like that. About four from live politicians, they were nothing special though. Nothing from the President or from the White House at all. Plenty of news though, but its mixed from all over the damn place. Various radio stations big and small, that sort of thing.”
Samuel digested the information, as Arthur told him what he heard, “How far could you pick up signals? And in return how far could you broadcast?”
“As long as I got no interference with the radio waves, I picked up most from within Oregon, some from the surrounding states. Farthest was probably Los Angeles, that or Salt Lake City, those were rather weak though. If I had something to boost the signal or a top of the line radio, that or someone to bounce the signals from, I could get better info.”
“Good job on that, take a break though, at least for the rest of the night, I can tell it’s taking a toll,” Samuel now spoke more softly, “you have had a long and rough day, and I’m counting on you in the coming days, so don’t push yourself too hard. Please.”
Arthur’s shoulders slumped; he knew Samuel was right, “Ok, I will, getting hungry too.”
“I’ll cook something up, but before I do that. How are the girls doing?” Samuel asked.
Arthur took a moment to gather a response, “Fluttershy may be scared, but there is a core of steel in her, she doesn’t show it much though. Pinkie… I have never seen her like that; maybe her friends have but not me. I think losing the Cakes hit her real hard…they were real nice, great bakers and hosts.”
Samuel solemnly nodded, “You’re sure about Fluttershy? Doesn’t seem she can keep it together very well.”
Arthur flatly responded, “I saw her one time lay into one of the biggest football players in the school, for hitting a mouse with a football. Like I said, a core of steel, if her friends or animal friends get in trouble she’ll be there. Don’t doubt it.”
Samuel raised both hands in surrender, “Alright I believe you. Am surprised you know so much though.”
“They were practically the school’s celebrities, word got around, and almost everyone interacted with them from time to time. Enough you get a picture of who they are.”
Samuel nodded, “I’ll get started on dinner, see if you can get them down to eat, if not, I’ll bring a plate or two up for them.”
They both got up and went to where they needed to go. Samuel started the stove and got a pot of boiling water going, grabbing a bag of frozen vegetables. Arthur went to the master bedroom, knocking. The door opened up partially, enough to see Fluttershy’s head.
“Umm, yes?”
“Samuel is cooking dinner right now, if you want you can come down to eat or some plates can be brought to you.”
Fluttershy looked back for a moment before looking at Arthur again, “We will, come down. Give us a few minutes?”
“Of course. It’ll take some time to get dinner ready anyways.”
Arthur turned and headed downstairs, seeing Samuel steaming vegetables while prepping some chicken with Shake n’ Bake.
“They’ll be coming down.”
Samuel gave an affirmative noise while focusing on the task at hand. Arthur went about setting the table; an oval shaped thing stained a dark hue, four plates, knives and forks. It wasn’t long before the girls came down, Fluttershy holding Pinkie’s hand as she guided her down. Samuel gave a glance before returning to cooking.
Arthur gestured to two seats, and the two sat down, Fluttershy holding herself awkward, not sure exactly what to do. Pinkie sat there just, depressed, her eyes casted downward. Arthur came to check on the cooking.
Samuel said something first, “The chicken is going to be longer than I thought, the vegetables have been done for awhile, take them and give a serving to everyone. Should be the right amount, I hope.”
Arthur did just that, scooping a good serving onto everyone’s plate. Pinkie gave a small sign of acknowledgement, her eyes looking at the vegetables. Fluttershy gave a thank you. Which reminded Arthur of something.
“Fluttershy you’re vegetarian, right?”
“Ummm, yes. I was hoping you maybe had something else?” Fluttershy asked politely as she could.
Samuel paused for a second, before going to the fridge to find something. Cursing under his breath, he looked at Fluttershy apologetically.
“Sorry Fluttershy, we don’t really have any of that vegan meat, I could get you some yogurt and fruit if you want?”
Fluttershy just nodded, it was acceptable.
“Arthur keep an eye on the chicken, I got to cut up some fruit.”
Samuel grabbed a cantaloupe, honeydew and some strawberries. Laying the fruit out on a cutting board he got to work. Arthur kept an eye on the chicken, about ten minutes left till it should be good. Samuel cut the fruit rather quickly and nicely.
“Where did you learn to do that?” Arthur asked curiously.
“I worked a few years at a store in produce, occasionally having to make fruit trays and the like.”
Arthur’s curiosity now sated, he brought the chicken out, cutting it to make sure it cooked all the way through. Before he put one on every plate, except Fluttershy’s, the extra sat on the stove for now. Samuel had enough fruit cut up for Fluttershy, putting it in a bowl alongside a small helping of yogurt.
Everyone was now seated, Arthur started to eat, hunger driving him. Samuel said grace before starting to eat with practiced speed, another old army habit. Fluttershy began to slowly eat with small bites. Pinkie was picking her food, occasionally taking a small bite. The table was quiet, no one really knowing what to say for conversation.
Arthur decided to see if he could get a word out of Pinkie, “Hey Pinkie…are you doing ok?”
Pinkie looked at Arthur with a frown, not against him, but one in continuous sorrow, “I…don’t know.”
Arthur decided to go out on a leg, despite the pain it brought, “I lost…someone today too,” he felt his eyes begin to water, “my girlfriend, Jennifer.”
Everyone looked at him as he shared what happened; Samuel looked to him with a guilty consciousness even if he knew the reason behind what he had to do. Fluttershy looked at him with a growing look of horror. Pinkie just listened; she couldn’t look any more depressed than she already was.
As Arthur finished he was shedding a few tears, the pain still fresh. Samuel put a hand on his shoulder in comfort. Fluttershy looked at him with deep empathy, Pinkie’s expression changed as she spoke softly.
“How can you deal with that?”
Arthur paused, and then he looked at Pinkie, softly responding, “I don’t know. All I know is having Samuel with me and lots of work to do helps.”
Samuel decided to speak now, “Other people will be our greatest source of comfort if one doesn’t believe in God and Jesus or any other religion. I know I’m clutching to my faith more now,” he looked at Arthur, “A good friend or family is sometimes what we need most though.”
Arthur smiled at Samuel who smiled back, Arthur continued, “We will help you Pinkie, you too Fluttershy, especially finding your friends and get you back to them. Right Samuel?”
Samuel paused for a second, “Within reason, but yes like Arthur said we will help, the question is, do you know where any of them are as of right now?”
Fluttershy responded, “Umm, not really, they could be home but with phones not working, we don’t know.”
“And with the rise of the undead they could be forced anywhere in Canterlot or out of it. You could find their location, because there is a chance phone service could work again its spotty in our experience, and if you find them, we will see what we can do then.” Samuel said with conviction, Arthur agreeing with the same conviction.
That got Fluttershy to give a small smile in appreciation. Even Pinkie gave a small quirk of the mouth. They returned to eating, the quiet atmosphere returned but with a more comfortable feeling. It didn’t take long to finish and Arthur gathered everyone’s dishes and began to wash them.
Samuel said to the girls, “You can return upstairs, it’s been a long day, get any rest you need.”
The two nodded and went to head upstairs, but Pinkie turned and said.
“Thank you… for saving us earlier.”
Fluttershy added to it, “Yes, thank you.”
Samuel and Arthur looked at each other, Arthur responded, “Your welcome, couldn’t leave you two at the mercy of zombies, besides it’s the right thing to do. That and need your parties again sometime Pinkie.”
Pinkie gave an actual smile, and her colour seem to be brought back just a bit, even her hair gain small amount of puffiness. Fluttershy smiled too, happy her friend was smiling again. They went upstairs back to the master bedroom, getting some rest.
Samuel looked at Arthur with a smile, “Well done, hopefully she will get better soon. I’m gonna check the T.V to see if any news is running, should be lots right now. If the internet is up we should check it too. Join if you want.”
Arthur just replied “Maybe.”
Samuel nodded and headed to the living room, turning on the flat screen, switching the channel to news he saw the scenes that played, a riot happening in Portland as rioters and riot police clashed, he saw that some people in the scenes were no doubt zombies. He flipped through several more channels showing similar scenes or the destruction wrought by a collapsing society, and the zombies themselves, ripping into flesh and gorging themselves on it, some in hordes of hundreds or thousands already in the bigger cities.
Samuel watched with a mix of horror and concentration to gain info, from what he could tell the entire continental United States was dealing with the same thing. It proved that there most likely was no help to come, at least not right now. It seemed that Canterlot got hit harder than some other places, explaining how no police or military was responding to the situation in the area.
Shit. This is worse than I thought, fucking clusterfuck, who knows what’s next. It’s up to God now I guess.
He sighed, the weight of responsibility on his shoulders, for Arthur, even Pinkie and Fluttershy. He liked them, nice and friendly from the beginning, he didn’t know what to make of it. Ordinary teenagers now thrusted into something beyond any of them could deal with. He also felt the mental and emotional exhaustion wrought on him and the others. Nightmares most likely for everyone, with a healthy dose of mental problems especially PTSD.
Shutting the T.V off he went upstairs to go to bed. Making a quick stop at Arthur’s bedroom, he knocked and Arthur answered rather quickly.
“Yes?”
“Just saying goodnight, sleep well. And if you need anything, wake me.” Samuel said in an older brotherly tone.
Arthur frowned, “I’m not a kid, you know that.”
Samuel plowed on, “I know. But this isn’t some bullshit you can wave off like it’s another day at school. You and I did things we never thought we would do today, so don’t brush this shit off like it’s nothing.”
Arthur frowned deeper but before he could speak, Samuel shushed him and went on, “In the army I went to my buddies about any problems I had, because you get close with them, really close. They understood things that no civilian friend of mine could. That’s why you don’t brush this shit off, cause it can end in mental problems and potential suicide. And don’t say it won’t happen, some of the baddest motherfuckers my unit ever knew ended it.”
Samuel took a deep breath in before continuing, “I’m not saying we got to talk about it to the moon and back, getting all soppy with emotion like women do, but don’t hide it. Because I will pick it out. Besides I’ll probably be in the same boat as you. Goodnight Arthur.”
Samuel turned to head to bed, he did hear Arthur say goodnight though. That was good enough for him. Changing into sleep clothes he went to bed, sleep coming quickly after an exhausting day.
The morning came as Arthur blinked, the sun shining in his eyes. He groggily got up; last night wasn’t the best for sleeping, constant nightmares and waking up in a cold sweat, in particular of Jennifer. Getting out of bed, he left the bedroom, and saw Samuel watching out of the window at the end of the hall. Cigarette in his hand he took a puff, slowly exhaling out the window.
“Morning.” Arthur said groggily.
“Morning. Sleep well?” Samuel asked, in a tired voice.
“Not really. You?”
“Same, unfortunately. There is no zekes on this side thankfully.” Samuel observed.
“Zekes?” Arthur asked curiously.
“Yeah shorter than saying zombie, always got a shorter name for everything.”
Arthur made an affirmative noise, before asking, “Breakfast?”
“Sure, let me finish my smoke and I’ll be with you.”
Arthur went downstairs and began taking out cereal, milk, oatmeal and other stuff. He heard Samuel shut the window and come downstairs, who headed straight to the windows to take a peek outside.
“See anything?”
Samuel responded, “It’s about the same as yesterday, except a couple more zekes. Oh, and a car accident outside, before you ask the drivers are gone.”
Arthur nodded and continued, making some oatmeal, Samuel grabbed some leftover fruit from last night and began eating. The two ate, enjoying the silent company of each other.
“Sleep well?” Samuel asked.
Arthur remembering last night’s conversation, he decided to go along with it, “Could have been better.”
Samuel nodded in encouragement, “I get that, it was same here. Regardless we need to decide what we are doing today.”
“Well what about getting more supplies? We are going to need more eventually.” Arthur said.
“Maybe, depends on the two girls if they find their friends, then go from there.” Samuel thought for a second, “How are your friends doing? Any idea where they are at?”
Arthur sighed, “As you know Jason disappeared, still no contact from him. Kenneth and his parents have already left, heading for Portland. Same goes with Jack and his family, they left, where to, I don’t know.”
Samuel gave an affirmative grunt and the two finished eating. That is when they heard the two girls come down, both looked tired, seems nobody got a good sleep last night. But Pinkie did look somewhat better; some more colour to her, a bit more bounce to her step and even a small smile. Arthur was happy that she was a least a bit better today. He knew it might take a while for her to fully recover, but it was good to see progress.
Fluttershy too, was a bit better than yesterday, at the least not as scared. Everyone said their good mornings and the girls went into eating breakfast. Arthur inquired about if they discovered where their friends are. Same answer as yesterday, nothing yet. Samuel decided to count available ammo, counting meticulously in the living room while Arthur decided to check his CB radio, in case anything changed.
As the girls chatted between themselves, Samuel was disappointed in the amount of ammo left. Forty rounds of 30-30 for the rifle, fifty-five birdshot, twenty –four buckshot, and eight slugs for the shotgun, that Samuel surprisingly found.
This ammo is going to go faster than we expect, a lot faster if we do target practice anytime soon. Shit, and where in this city could we find more?
Canterlot isn’t what you would call a serious gun town, which would make it harder to find any new firearms or ammunition. If the situation doesn’t require guns then its melee weapons from here on out. Samuel’s thoughts were interrupted when Arthur came down, rather quickly.
“Heard something real interesting.” Arthur said excitingly.
“Oh?”
“Apparently there is establishment of refugee cities, Portland being one of them. Supposed to care of all of us, protection, food, water, everything we would need.” Arthur getting more excited as he went on.
The girls were now paying attention too, enthralled by Arthur’s enthusiasm. Samuel however was more skeptical, “You know, what refugee camps look like, right? It’s not pretty. Also was it from an actual broadcast or second hand information?”
Arthur swore for a second, “No, it was a local news station from out of town. Which means it might not be true.”
Samuel nodded, “Maybe. It could be true, you don’t know, but we need more information before we make a decision.”
The girls slightly deflated at that, Arthur as well. Samuel continued, “Besides we need to find the other girls first before we do anything like leave.”
That got a better reaction out of them this time. Arthur decided to go peruse the internet this time instead, while it still worked. Samuel continued organizing what he could. The girls were chatting while trying to contact their friends as time went by for all of them.
It was four hours later when Pinkie and Fluttershy interrupted Arthur who was on his laptop, surfing the web, gathering info relevant to their situation. They were rather excited and Pinkie was first to speak.
“We got in contact with Rarity! We have her on the phone right now!”
Arthur almost threw his laptop to the side as he got up and the three all gathered around the kitchen table, putting the phone in the middle like a conference call. They all took a seat and the conversation started with Rarity.
“Arthur? Thank goodness, the girls told me what you and Samuel did for them. Thank you for helping them. We were worried sick about them.”
Arthur slightly blushed, “It wasn’t a hard decision but you’re welcome. Are you in a safe place right now?”
“Yes, even though we are in a bit of a precarious situation. Frankly we are in need of some help, darling.” Rarity said, sounding slightly desperate.
Pinkie and Fluttershy now looked worried; it was Fluttershy who spoke up.
“What’s wrong Rarity? Is anyone hurt? Or any of the pets?”
“No we are quite alright, darling. It’s rather that we are stuck in the Boutique, with no food left. Not including the amount of hideous creatures outside.” Rarity replied.
Samuel walked in just as Rarity finished, he was surprised to hear her.
“You got in contact with her?”
Arthur said, “Yup. At least the girls did, finding out where she is,” looking to the phone he talked to Rarity, “You said there are others, right?”
“Correct darling. Me, Rainbow and Twilight are here, including Opulesence and Spike. We got trapped in here when I was grabbing some tailoring items, then we got ambushed by those things,” speaking in disgust about the zombies, “We have been trapped ever since yesterday. I hate to be a bother but we do need some help here, dear.”
Pinkie spoke after, “How bad is it, Rarity? Like super dooper bad?”
Rarity sighed wearily, “It’s absolutely dreadful, there is no food, and we haven’t eaten anything since yesterday. The boutique is trashed, everything, including some of my best designs, are just thrown against the windows!” her voice getting louder in frustration, “I am absolutely dirty with filth! Not to mention those things outside, won’t go away! I…what Rainbow?...Oh my…Yes I will stay quiet.”
Fluttershy and Pinkie both spoke with worry, asking what was wrong.
Rarity cleared her throat, but some fear broke through as she spoke, “It seems they heard me from outside, Rainbow says we should be okay. They have not broken in yet. This is why we need help though, as soon as possible.”
Samuel spoke next, a level of seriousness to his voice, “If we are going to come help, I need to know what the situation is. Particularly the amount of zekes there is outside and if you have everything packed and ready to go.”
“Zekes? Well I don’t know…wait…Rainbow… go count those things outside. They need to know for whatever reason…Anyways, nothing is packed but that can be done in the hour, dear.”
Samuel grunted in affirmative, “Alright good, make sure you have everything you need, we won’t be going back.”
A slight delay before Rarity responded, “No worries darling, we will have everything packed. Rainbow just got back…Thirty?...Oh dear…yes, thank you. Rainbow said there is around thirty just outside on the street. Will that cause a problem?”
Fluttershy balked at the idea of going through that many, Pinkie comforted Fluttershy, and she wasn’t so fazed. Arthur looked at Samuel who was thinking, Arthur decided to speak.
“It shouldn’t be, just need to find a way to draw them away. Could we use the truck?”
Samuel shook his head, “No, it’s our only vehicle, it also has the space for everyone and everything with them, we could do something else. Wait, I can go check to see if any of the vehicles outside have keys, we could use one of them instead.”
That got a good reaction from everyone, Samuel spoke to Rarity, “We have a plan now, and your part in it is to get out and into the truck as soon as possible. We will draw them away and get you out. Be ready to fight if necessary, we will see you in an hour.”
Everyone said their goodbyes and Rarity hanged up. They made a quick, improvised plan on what to do once there. Samuel went to check the front outside for zombies, and finding none close enough to cause problems, went out with crowbar in hand, to find an extra vehicle. Arthur turned to the girls.
“I’m guessing you want to come along?” they both nodded, “Both of you are having a weapon on you, understood?” Arthur’s tone brokered no argument.
The girls looked at each other, Pinkie nodded with a look of conviction, Fluttershy took a couple seconds before nodding also with a look of conviction, with a hint of fear. Arthur was glad, going over to the various tools they had. He grabbed two claw hammers and handed one to each of them.
“Me and Samuel will take care of the zombies, you two help your friends get in the truck, ready to go. Like Samuel said, we need to get in and out really quick. Fight only if you have to.”
Samuel shortly returned keys in hand for a vehicle. They all quickly grabbed their gear, Samuel and Arthur with the same gear. Fluttershy and Pinkie had their packs, hammers and a backup kitchen knife. Leaving the house for the vehicles, Samuel driving the truck with Pinkie as passenger. Arthur driving the black sedan that Samuel found, Fluttershy as passenger with him.
Leaving the suburb block, Samuel followed Pinkie’s directions to the boutique, Arthur close behind. As they got closer, heading out of the suburbs, and into the more commercial areas. Samuel noticed there was more zombies, not absolute hoards of them but the numbers seemed to be increasing even if slightly. A concern to be sure, but there was a task to be done.
Avoiding a plethora of accidents and zombies, they made their way to about three blocks away from the boutique before coming to a stop. Samuel and Pinkie got out of the truck. Arthur and Fluttershy got out of the sedan and headed to the truck. Samuel spoke to everyone quickly before their plan went into action.
“Let’s go over the plan quickly one more time, I will take the car and go on the opposite side, draw as many as I can away, I’ll meet you at the boutique or at home if things go south. Arthur what’s your job?”
Arthur repeated what they went over, “I will take the truck and get it as close as possible to the boutique and fight off any stragglers. Load everyone and their stuff up and then get out.”
Samuel nodded, “Good. Girls what is your job?”
Pinkie went first, “We go with Arthur, help him and our friends with what we can, and then drive off, easy peasy lemon squeezy.” Samuel looked to Fluttershy, “What she said?” Fluttershy said smiling nervously.
“Good, we don’t have a lot of time, so let’s make it fast. Wait till I start honking, that will be the signal, wait one minute then get in there. I expect no longer than a couple minutes, then I’ll back track and we go home.” Samuel finished with a tone of finality.
Everyone knowing their job went to their vehicles. Samuel taking off in speed, soon rounding the corner onto the street the boutique was on; the honking began, along with a wave of groaning and moaning undead. The three then waited a minute; Arthur stepped on the gas, the truck roaring as it went. Soon getting onto the street, the scene wasn’t looking to good.
While most of the zombies followed Samuel, there was still at least a dozen or so left, including another five pounding at the boutique doors. Arthur clenched his teeth and drove almost to the front of the boutique, leaving enough space for all them to get out. Arthur hopped out quick, shotgun in hand, birdshot loaded.
“Stay near the truck, I’ll get closer and deal with them.” Racking his shotgun, loading an extra shell to replace it in the tube. Taking a look around, that dozen were far away enough to not be a problem right away. That meant it was just the five zombies to deal with. Taking aim at the five zombies, who were much more focused on the inside of the boutique. He could see that the girls inside were ready to get out, just needed a little help.
Aiming at the closest one, he yelled to get its attention, three of them faced him. As soon as they did, he got about within twelve feet, and fired, the first shot doing damage to the first and some hitting the second, but not enough to kill the first zombie. He quickly racked and fired again, dropping the first in a gory mess. Racking and firing his last shot he got the second, its brains covering the one behind it.
Slinging the shotgun over his shoulder, he grabbed his bat, strapped to the side of his pack. He rushed the last one, as the zombie raised its arms to grab him; he swung upward hitting square in the jaw. The zombie pitched backwards, falling onto the ground, he swung another time that broke its skull open. Looking to the boutique, he saw the last two shambling towards him, gripping his bat hard he was ready to fight.
That is when Rainbow came bursting out of the boutique, a table leg in her hands, and attacked the zombie closest to her, giving Arthur an opportunity to deal with the one in front of him with no worry. Quickly dealing with them, Rarity and Twilight came out after, backpacks filled with each having a suitcase as well, Spike following close behind. Opulesence, was in a carrier, she wasn’t happy. They had the misfortune of looking at the corpses, gagging at the stench and aftermath.
Arthur spoke, “Get to the truck, lets go!”
Rainbow went and grabbed her pack, and another suitcase. With the three girls following Arthur, they got to the truck. All the girls yelled in excitement, seeing each other again. A quick round of hugs and words in their reunion. Arthur however was staring worryingly down the street Samuel went, hoping he was alright. He turned to the girls, as they put their bags in the bed of the truck.
“Is that everything? All good to go?” Arthur asked, his tone filled with tension.
“Just a few more things, darling.” Rarity responded.
That almost made Arthur groan but he restrained himself, “Well let’s go, we are cutting it short.”
He, Rainbow and Rarity rushed back to the boutique, Twilight and the pets staying back. Going inside, Arthur grabbed two suitcases, Rainbow grabbed the last one. Rarity double checking for anything forgotten.
“That better be the last of it. We need to go.” Arthur said in growing frustration.
Rainbow mumbled in agreement, Rarity reassured them with a rather dignified nod. Leaving the boutique, for the truck, the dozen zombies were a lot closer now, a little too close for comfort. Two were in the way; Rainbow handed the suitcase to Rarity, and rushed forward, her athletic prowess coming into use. She quickly batted the two out of the way, one strike each and they fell over. Giving enough time for them to run past.
Arthur threw the suitcases in the bed, and immediately turned to face a zombie almost upon him. Eyes widening in panic, he lashed out a kick that connected with its stomach, resulting in the zombie taking a few steps back. Enough time to grab his bat and beat its head into a pulp. Rainbow was fighting the same two again by herself and several were almost to the truck.
Rarity was using a table leg, trying to keep one at bay, Pinkie was right beside her fighting another with her hammer, having more success as she smashed the temple inward and the zombie fell. Fluttershy and Twilight were in the bed, not really attempting to fight the three trying to reach for them. That’s when he saw Samuel full out sprinting down the street towards them, right at the three zombies trying to get in the bed.
Arthur went to help Rainbow first, swinging into the back of the left knee of one, causing it to collapse, and then swung three times to kill it. Rainbow killed the other one with a swing that broke its jaw and a follow up swing after. Arthur looked at Rarity, her and Pinkie dealt with the one but another two were approaching them. Just as he and Rainbow went to help them, he heard a loud scream of terror.
A zombie was able to grab Twilight by the ankle, managing to get its abdomen up and over, hanging over the wall of the bed, and started dragging her closer to a gruesome death. Fluttershy was pulling her by the arms but it was a losing battle. Spike was barking with ferocity to no effect. The zombie being stronger was winning, groaning in awaiting hunger. But before anyone could help her, or the zombie take a chunk out of Twilight, a war cry was sounded.
“HAAKAA PAALLE!” Samuel yelled. Sprinting forward he rammed the bottom end of the crowbar into the back of its skull, impaling the brain, brain exploding. The zombie‘s grip faltered and Twilight was able to get away. Extracting the crowbar Samuel fell back several steps as the other two lunged for him. Teeth gritted, adrenaline pumping and breathing heavily he whacked the first to the ground, and quickly pierced the skull of the second, blood covering the crowbar. And as the first one was trying to get up, he clobbered it twice till brains covered the street.
Samuel looked around, the zombies were all dealt with, all twelve of them. Arthur ran to him and gave him a one arm hug for a second, a result of his worry.
“Thank god, you’re alright. We good to go?”
Samuel took a moment to regain his breath before replying, “Yeah let’s get the fuck out of here.”
Everyone started loading up; when the first zombies started rounding the corner that Samuel drove down, dozens of them. The sound of shambling feet and a constant droning of moans and groans came marching down, filling the street with its horrid sound. Everyone took a look, then doubled down on getting loaded. Samuel got into the driver’s seat, Arthur in the passenger seat, and the girls in the backseats or the bed of the truck. Spike and Opulesence sat in their owners laps.
Stepping on the gas, the truck sped away from the encroaching hoard and the boutique. Rounding the corner they left the street for home. Driving away, Arthur looked back to check on the girls. They were all looking sick to different extents; he wasn’t feeling the best either. Samuel too, looked a bit sick. Arthur sighed in relief, getting out of the situation with no one hurt.
“Are you alright back there? No one is hurt.” Arthur asked, wanting to check.
Pinkie and Rarity just nodded, a bit in shock, Rainbow was more awake, “Yeah man. All good, got to say that was some good moves. Like really cool, not as cool as me but close.”
Arthur chuckled and Samuel just snorted, before Rainbow continued, “What was that you yelled Samuel? Sounded weird.”
Samuel just smirked, “It’s Finnish, literally means, hack them down or better yet, kill kill kill. Had some ancestors from Finland come over way back in the day.”
Rarity looked at him with some degree of disgust, Rainbow on the other hand, “Cool!”
Samuel went on, “Anyways, Rarity,” getting her attention, “What is all in those suitcases? There is a lot, enough it almost got people killed.”
Rarity looked bashful, “Well its… a bunch of… well designs and clothing, they will be useful I assure you darling.”
Samuel gave her a small glare via the rearview mirror, “They better be, that was a close call, and don’t fuck around like that again.”
Rarity just nodded in bashful acceptance, not wanting to test Samuel. Rainbow gave a bit of a glare back, but she understood where he was coming from. Pinkie just gave Rarity a hug, for both their sakes. That is when Arthur asked a question.
“Where is Applejack and Sunset? Are they ok?”
Rainbow answered, “Yeah they’re at the farm, they’re safe, Big Mac, Granny Smith, the Crusaders too.”
Pinkie smiled at that, a great big smile of happiness. Samuel nodded as well as Arthur, but more enthusiastically. Avoiding the accidents, piled cars and zombies, they soon arrived in the suburbs. Samuel noticed some signs of survivor activity, not enough to see any of them though. Soon arriving home, pulling into the driveway. There was almost a collective sigh of relief getting home.
All of them exiting the truck they started unloading the myriad of suitcases and packs, bringing it all inside, putting it all in the living room. Spike and Opulesence were let inside, Spike going to a couch, Opulesence finding a convenient high perch. After unloading everyone found a seat and just slumped into it, exhausted from earlier. Surprisingly Twilight spoke up.
“Samuel, I just want to… thank you for saving me.” Twilight said gratefully.
Samuel gave a small smile, “No thanks necessary, but your welcome.”
Rarity spoke next, “Yes, thank you. You and Arthur, without your help today… well who knows what would have happened.”
Rainbow nodded, “Yeah well, I could’ve handled it but yeah thanks for helping.”
“Hey! We helped to you know.” Pinkie said jokingly, a pout on her face.
That got a general chuckle and people relaxed, as that happened, Fluttershy decided to speak up.
“Umm, I was wondering…if we could check the animal shelter? I want to check on the animals and Angel bunny is there, if it’s not a bother.”
No one was too eager to leave right away again, but a series of nods left the idea open. Samuel pondered for a second, then a question was asked,
“Is there any kind of medical supplies? I guess food for the pets as well? Or anything else of use?” Samuel asked curiously.
Fluttershy spoke with some more confidence, in her element now, “Some of the antibiotics could be used, bandages, oh and most of the veterinarian supplies will be of use. There is plenty of food for the animals, enough for a while. I think that is about it.”
That got Samuel to come around, “Is it fine if we wait till tomorrow? Let things settle in the area, so we ain’t dragging a hoard of zekes with us.”
Fluttershy nodded, wanting to leave sooner but she understood. Arthur came with a compromise, “How about we leave first thing tomorrow morning? The sooner the better, right?”
Fluttershy smiled, and Rainbow piped in, “I’ll come along, always ready to go, you know?”
Samuel checked his watch, evening already, “Arthur lets get started on dinner, after that we got some maintenance to do, maybe check the radio again, anything that needs doing.”
Pinkie spoke up with enthusiasm, “Don’t worry, I’ll cook tonight, least I could do. Rarity and Fluttershy will help me.”
Pinkie was looking better than yesterday, still not to her full colour or puffy hair, but better. Rarity and Fluttershy, looked at her but decided to go along with it. Samuel and Arthur said their thanks, appreciating that. The evening would go smoothly, with the three girls cooking, supper came along in no time, a good meal that filled them all. The pets getting some leftovers.
Arthur and Samuel cleaned and oiled the guns, with Arthur soon going to use his CB radio, Twilight helping him in a project to see if the radio could be improved upon. Rainbow just took a nap, Samuel went about just organizing Rarity’s large amount of stuff to in proper places, Rarity helping along, making sure was nothing was ruined.
Pinkie and Fluttershy went about chatting, all the girls did, especially as the night drew to a close. Soon time to sleep came along, Samuel gave up the guest bedroom he was staying in, so the girls could get some sleep in a proper bed. Taking a couch downstairs, he fell asleep quickly.
Arthur laid in his bed, thinking to himself about all that is happened. He worried about the future.
I hope we can deal with this, things have just…gone south so quickly. I wonder if the government is doing anything, haven’t heard anything yet.
With that last thought he fell asleep, hoping for a more peaceful sleep.
Samuel woke early in the morning as usual, old habits from the army and school, and headed to the kitchen, grabbing milk to drink. He poured a glass and headed to check the windows to outside. He was surprised when he saw at least three vehicles loaded up, and packed families inside. As they were driving away, he wondered where they were heading.
Checking his phone, a mostly useless paperweight now, there was nothing for an alert. The internet was still working, for how long that would remain was anyone’s guess. Checking the local government website he found information pertaining to it. Actual confirmation of the refugee centers, closest in Portland and Seattle.
Looks like the government isn’t gone after all. The question being, what are they doing to combat the undead?
He heard someone come downstairs, it was Arthur. He inquired about the vehicles.
“I heard some cars, they going somewhere?”
“Apparently so, I checked the internet, the refugee centers are true, everyone must be trying to get there now.” Samuel said neutrally.
“Should we be going too? Wait no, we have to get the others first.” Arthur said.
“Not just that, I’m quite sure the highways will be clogged for miles, there is only one highway out of here after all. A recipe for disaster that’s for sure.” Samuel stated.
Arthur nodded before going on, “We should probably leave eventually though, things seem to be getting worse, but where would we go?”
Samuel just shrugged, “The million dollar question eh? We can decide later got to get a lot more supplies, weapons, vehicles, enough for everybody for an extended trip. But for today lets just focus on what needs to be done, especially this shelter trip.”
Arthur agreed and the two went about having breakfast. Over the course of an hour, the girls filtered downstairs, they too having breakfast. Conversation went on, for a bit, Fluttershy seemed eager to leave. She very politely asked if they could leave. Samuel just nodded as well as Arthur. Rainbow seemed a little groggy, but up to the task. The sooner it was done the better.
Grabbing the usual gear, Rainbow given a prybar for a weapon. After their goodbyes, and the four of them hopped in the truck, and off they went. Arthur turned to look at Fluttershy.
“Just curious, what do you plan on doing with all the animals anyway? Release them?” Arthur asked curiously.
Fluttershy nodded, “Try to give them chance, I can’t just leave them.”
Arthur agreed and the trip went by, Samuel following directions, more of the same views. As they approached a random intersection, two vehicles drove past them, speeding by incredibly fast. Forcing Samuel to slam on the brakes, cursing as he did so, nobody really bracing for it, all of them close to being flung forward. Making sure the coast was clear, he slowly accelerated back to previous speed.
“What the fuck was that? People going somewhere?” Rainbow asked, rubbing her neck.
Arthur responded, “Seems everybody is leaving…or trying to, there is refugee centers out in Portland,” he pondered for a second, “Seems like there is one in any major city on the coast, like what Samuel found on the internet. But I also got some of that news on the CB too.”
That lead to the same discussion as earlier and the same results. So they continued on their way to the shelter, the area was rather quiet, no zombies or survivors in sight. Reaching the shelter, Samuel parked to the side and they all got out. Samuel cocked his rifle, looking around for any sign of movement, Arthur and Rainbow did so too.
“Its quiet…too quiet. This way too much like a movie, before something pops out.” Rainbow said disconcertingly.
“Well, lets get this done then. Fast.” Arthur said with growing worry.
That got a degree of agreement from everyone. Fluttershy led the way, entering the shelter. The front was rather clean as they entered, Fluttershy continued to the back of the shelter, entering the area with the holding cages for all sorts of animals, from the biggest dog to the smallest rodent or reptile. What they saw astonished them.
“Is it supposed to be empty?” Samuel inquired.
Fluttershy shook her head, “No. Unless someone else took them or let them out.”
Then Fluttershy’s face showed the look of a sudden idea. Walking out of the back area and going into an office, she found a note. She proceeded to read it, rather fast. The others gathered around her, wondering what the note said. They were all taken back by Fluttershy’s rather loud gasp.
That got Rainbow asking questions. Fluttershy just ran to another part of the shelter, the veterinary clinic. That surprised Arthur and Samuel, not expecting such a reaction, Rainbow was quick on her heels though. A rather loud exclamation of surprise came soon after.
“ANGEL BUNNY!”
That got the guys into action going forward, rushing to the clinic. The sight they saw was not the dangerous event they were expecting, Fluttershy was hugging the aforementioned rabbit, he wasn’t the only one. Several other animals were there, in their own carriers for the most part. A sigh of relief followed.
“Well looks like this is done, lets grab whatever we can and get going.” Samuel said a bit impatiently.
Fluttershy grabbed her rabbit, and the other animals, taking them out to the truck. Rainbow and Arthur grabbed various medical supplies, bandages, suture kits, and an assortment of medicines, identified by Fluttershy, anything that could be of use for humans. Samuel grabbed an assortment of pet food, since they now had a menagerie of animals to feed now. They loaded all of into the truck bed, getting ready to leave.
Arthur approached Fluttershy, a bit flustered, “Hey, I’m just wondering…you’ll take care of all those animals, right?”
Fluttershy nodded vigorously, “Oh, of course. Don’t worry I’ll take of them, they won’t be a problem I promise.”
Arthur blew out his concern, feeling more at ease. As they were about to leave, Rainbow caught movement from down the street, the same route they came down. That got Samuel to take a good look as well.
“Seems we are compromised, lets go.” Samuel said calmly.
Everyone piled into the truck and off they went, going the opposite direction from the zombies making their way down. They were taking an alternate route, one that only took a bit longer. That is when Arthur turned to look at Fluttershy.
“So what was in that note?” he asked curiously.
“It was from the person who was there when…things got bad. She was able to get most of the animals out. She left Angel bunny,” who sat on her lap as she softly petted him, “and the others cause she knew I would come.” Fluttershy said happily.
Arthur smiled, “Well I’m glad it worked out.”
That a got a soft “hmm” in agreement from Fluttershy. The rest of the trip was rather uneventful, a welcome reprieve from earlier events. Once more entering the suburbs, Samuel quickly getting the all home, still morning as well. Pulling into the driveway once more, and making sure the coast was clear, after dealing with a lone stray zombie. They proceeded to unload everything into the house, the girls who stayed came out to help, speeding up the process.
After everything was dealt with, everyone seemed to have made their way to the living room. It becoming almost like a place where everyone meets for one reason or another. That being its purpose as of right now. With everyone having a seat, it was Arthur brought up the inevitable question on all their minds.
“So…what now?” Arthur asked openly.
That got a rather round about look around their little meeting circle from everyone. Twilight spoke up.
“I heard about the refugee centers being set up, wouldn’t it be in our best interest to go and get everyone from the farm? Then we could leave for Portland or Seattle.” She said hopefully.
“I don’t think that is in the cards right now,” Samuel responded in a wary tone, “I saw footage last night while the T.V is still up and running. There was problems happening, a riot in Portland for example, multiple large cities are dealing with outbreaks that are already having large numbers of zekes.”
“But darling, surely the police and military would be able to deal with them?” Rarity asked.
Samuel shook his head, “God knows how many are zombies now in the big cities, and trust me when I say there won’t be enough troops to handle any outbreak that happens in large enough numbers. Especially if the police or soldiers decide to just say ‘fuck it’ and desert for themselves and their families. Even if they don’t, they need enough ammo, fuel, equipment the whole nine yards,” Samuel spread out his arms in exaggeration for effect, “I think you can all figure out what that means.”
Everyone thought for a moment, some of them paling at the said thought.
Twilight was in obvious thought was doing quick mental math before it dawned on her, “That means we could lose. The whole country, the world! An actual apocalypse!”
She started muttering to herself, all her friends quickly gathered around her in attempt to calm her. Thankfully it worked, she was still a bit distraught but holding it together. After they took their seat again. Arthur spoke this time.
“Our food situation isn’t any good either, we don’t have enough for even a week, not for all of us,” he said with concern.
Pinkie nodded in agreement, “After supper last night, I took a look at what was left. It isn’t much, even if I baked everything!”
Samuel sighed deeply, “That is the other problem, even if we did leave, we wouldn’t have enough, of well anything. Which means we need to get more and soon.”
“Well where could we go get more? Start scavenging the nearby houses?” Rainbow quipped in.
Some of the girls gapped at the thought. Rarity voiced what they thought, rather violently “Rainbow Dash! We are not looters; we can get what we need without becoming mere ruffians! How could you justify such a thing!”
Rainbow glared at her, “Well if there is nobody in the houses anymore, someone else will just take it! Its not like we can just go to the store!”
Fluttershy intervened, “Stop it! My friends will not argue like this! Not when we need to work together!” she gave a menacing glare that cowed the both of them, “Am I clear!”
Rarity and Rainbow nodded vigorously, wide eyed at the sudden outburst. Samuel was impressed, obvious on his face.
“See what I meant?” Arthur quietly spoke, leaning over to Samuel.
“I do.” Samuel muttered.
Fluttershy returned to being quiet in her seat. Giving Arthur an opportunity to talk, clearing his throat he started.
“Rainbow is right, we can’t just buy anything we need, not now. So we can scavenge anything we need. Doesn’t mean we steal though either.”
A series of nods, before he continued, “As Samuel told me, we all had to do things we never thought we would have to do,” he shrugged in defeat to the idea, “I don’t think there is anyone coming to help, so we are on our own.”
People looked at each other with concern at that idea, Samuel piped in before anyone could argue.
“I know the idea is ludicrous sounding. But Arthur is right, if we want to live we have to rely on ourselves now. Help may come in some form but until we have solid confirmation we can’t risk it. We can’t merely react to things, we need to be proactive.”
Rainbow snapped her fingers, “Exactly! Just like in any sport, we have to make things happen.”
Samuel looked to her, “Bingo. We can start today, making plans at the very least.”
He looked to Arthur and Twilight, “Could you do anything with the radio?”
Twilight looked happy at the idea of being distracted by something, especially something that would keep her mind occupied. Arthur nodded.
“Of course. We can check to see if there are any other survivors, could also get in contact with the farm. Even see about jury rigging something to improve the radio in some way.”
Samuel smiled at that. Pinkie went on about what she could do to help extend the food situation, Rarity about repairing or making any clothing needed. Rainbow was particularly adamant about scouting anyplace they could scavenge, Samuel warning to take someone with, people only going out in buddy systems from now on. Fluttershy was quiet, but the others brought up how she had some medical knowledge which could prove useful.
Arthur then brought up a rather important question.
“If we do get enough to leave, should we head to an refugee center? Or somewhere else?”
That brought a round of discussion, ideas being pitched in and then debated. Before Samuel piped in.
“We can decide this later, right now grabbing the people at the farm when we are ready and making sure we got enough supplies is number one priority. Situation could change, and as they say in the military, ground dictates.”
Everyone agreed, so they began making plans for their actions to survive and getting what they need. Time flying as they planned and decided, on future actions, to survive. It was much later in the day that Arthur and Samuel had a moment alone together.
Samuel puffed on his cigarette as they sat in the backyard, relaxing to the sun setting. “What do you think.”
Arthur looked to him, “What do you mean?”
“If we can make this work, including our rather interesting group that is forming.”
Arthur took a deep breath, “I have to believe so, to help me keep going if anything.”
Samuel nodded, taking another puff, “Fair. I’m with you on that, we can’t survive on our own, that lone wolf shit rarely works. So we got to make it work.”
Arthur pondered as they sat in silence for several minutes before he continued the conversation.
“If the refugee centers don’t work. Where could we go? In a world that could be filled with zombies?” he asked in a tone searching for answers.
“Some level of government could still be working. A much smaller level to be sure, but something will continue.” Samuel said hopefully.
Arthur cocked an eyebrow, “That is rather different from your earlier talk. Where did the whole ‘we have to rely on ourselves’ talk go?”
“Oh I’m still very much about how we are on our own, but the government could be elsewhere or some form of safe haven. We just shouldn’t expect any help.” Samuel replied.
Arthur nodded, “That still leaves the question where.”
Samuel thought for a second, “That is where your radio comes in real handy, it can help us find that place. If not we do some recce on our best way outta here and go from there.”
Arthur grunted in agreement and the two sat for a while longer as the sun reached the horizon before the conversation continued.
“What do we need most, you think?” Arthur asked.
Taking a long puff of his cigarette and finishing it, putting it in an empty pop can, he replied, “More firearms and their ammunition and good, reliable vehicles. Food and water will be easier to get, at least for now. Some kind of training wouldn’t hurt either; I doubt any of the girls have ever shot a gun before for example.”
“Gonna need some outdoor supplies I would think as well. Camping stuff and the like. If we are gonna leave afterall.” Arthur responded thoughtfully.
“Agreed, too much stuff we could use, we better get our shit together and get ourselves in gear.” Samuel said nonsensically.
Before Arthur could respond, Pinkie came outside telling them supper was ready. So the two headed inside for a good supper, as another day in the apocalypse past.
Arthur moved quietly as he could to the next house he was scavenging, another cookie cutter type house on his suburb block. This was the third house today, the scavenging missions being of top priority for them. Making his way to the backyard fence, he quickly found the gate, he gestured to Rainbow who was shortly behind him.
As she reached the gate, the two gave each a quick nod; they have started getting used to working with each other, what Samuel would call unit cohesion. Rainbow opened the gate and took a step back; Arthur did so as well, ready for any zombies to come out. They waited a moment, and once nothing came out they entered the backyard.
The backyard was empty; grass was already starting to overgrow. They passed the set of patio furniture and barbeque to reach the back door. Same process as the gate, no zombies again. Entering the kitchen they started to sweep the house, going room by room carefully, going from back to front and then upstairs using the same procedure.
Arthur opened the last room, the master bedroom, this time finding a lone zombie, a woman staring into a corner. Grabbing his knife, of the kitchen variety, he pushed it into the wall, just as it turned to face him. Pinning the zombie to the wall, he rammed the knife into the temple, where it shuddered before the brain finally died and he let the body fall to the ground.
I’ve gotten use to this quicker than I thought. Helps they are already dead, but still doesn’t take away they were people once…God I hope things get better.
He looked at the once human woman, for a moment before walking out into the hallway. Rainbow was there, cocking an eye brow at him.
“You all good, dude?”
Arthur sighed, “Yeah. I’ll be alright, it was just one,” he looked back to the room, “It’s something I’m still getting used to, you know?”
“Same here dude,” her tone shifted as she went on, “Like, it feels surreal, like being in some video game or something like that.”
“Sure does,” he took a deep breath, “Let’s just finish up here, last house on the trip anyways.”
The two started scavenging, starting upstairs Arthur started in the bathroom, and Rainbow in one of the bedrooms. Arthur took everything of use, shampoo, soap, toothpaste, a first aid kit, and a variety of over the counter pain relievers. Stuffing it all into the duffle bag he brought along to carry extra supplies, he was surprised how much a single house could have.
He moved to other rooms on the second floor, he found mostly standard household items, batteries, some cigarettes in a night table, a couple blankets he could fit. Once he finished, he could hear Rainbow already rummaging through something downstairs, going down he saw her in the kitchen cupboards, taking a plethora of canned goods, baking supplies, boxes of pasta, various spices and condiments.
Taking a moment to look around, he could see the living room had nothing of interest, so he moved to help Rainbow and the two loaded their backpacks and duffle bags to the brim. They grabbed whatever was edible in the fridge, some cleaning supplies from under the sink, and two bottles of wine.
“Good haul eh?” Arthur stated.
“Oh yeah, we’re bringing home the bacon,” Rainbow said with some cockiness, “Think there is anything else?”
“The garage. Should have something, it’s a garage for fuck sake.” Arthur said thoughtfully.
They checked to see if the garage was connected with a door to the inside of the house, there was. Setting duffle bags to the side they did their little door procedure, same result as usual. The garage was rather empty, just a non-descript sedan, some labeled plastic bins stacked in the corner, and random holiday decorations. Rainbow and Arthur looked at each other disappointed and just shrugged.
Leaving the house the way they came in, pausing to spray paint an orange ‘x’ on the door to mark it already being scavenged, the two proceeded back home, thankfully not too far away. The suburbs were already deteriorating, lawns were overgrowing, garbage was filling the streets and yards, corpses were sporadically all over the place, several vehicles crashed into trees, other vehicles or houses. Even the sky was gray with clouds, promising rain, adding to the gloomy environment.
Returning home, the two quickly got in; Twilight was already at the door waiting to open it. The two took a couple deep breaths, having sprinted home the last two house lengths with heavy laden bags. After recovering it turned into the usual routine of putting what they could away and organizing it. A couple other girls pitched in to help, speeding up the process. Once done Rainbow went over to one of the lazy chairs in the living room, perching her feet on the coffee table.
Rarity wasn’t having it and quickly shooed Rainbow off the coffee table. She was doing some sewing to repair a pair of jeans, along some other clothes, as clothes were already getting ripped and torn by the apocalypse. Fluttershy was nearby taking care of the animals, the good lot of them. While Twilight returned to doing something with Arthur’s CB radio, trying to cobble something together to improve it.
Arthur bypassed them all and headed to the backyard, where Samuel was with Pinkie teaching her to use the rifle and shotgun, only on how to use it though. No practice firing in this environment, where a single shot would bring much unneeded attention from the undead.
“Show me your stance again, remember what I told you.” Samuel said in an instructor tone, with an underlying patience.
Pinkie went into a shooting stance, shotgun in her hands, as Samuel watched with an inspective eye, looking for anything to improve.
Samuel nodded, “Much better this time, now continue your drills. Load.”
Pinkie did so with gusto, and for the next five minutes they went through the drills of loading, readying, unloading and what to do about stoppages, the best they could anyway without ammunition. Arthur watched the whole time, visualizing in his head doing the drills himself.
“Alright not bad Pinkie, hopefully we can get out target shooting to actually do the real thing. Then we can get you and the others feel the real thing.” Samuel said with approval.
Pinkie beamed at him, she was now much better, some time with most of her friends has done wonders.
“Thanks Sammy!” she said excitedly.
Samuel sighed but didn’t say a word, much too worried about accidently saying the wrong thing that could hurt her.
“No problem. I’m just glad you’re willing to learn. Anyways I’m going to get started on the barbeque. Mind grabbing the meat?”
“Sure, be back in a jiffy.” Pinkie said as she walked into the house.
Arthur just smirked at Samuel before saying, “Sammy? New nickname? How cute.”
Samuel shook his head, putting the rifle and shotgun to the side, “Very funny you little shit. I don’t know where it came from.”
Arthur went over, giving Samuel a pat on the shoulder, “You’re not the first and you won’t be the last,” his tone being rather humourus, “It’s Pinkie being Pinkie, don’t fight it.”
With a look of defeat, Samuel nodded and proceeded to get the barbeque going, the click of propane and the use of a lighter to get it started. Pinkie came over with a plethora of burgers, hotdogs and ribs. Including a small box of vegan burgers they found in a home, perfect for Fluttershy.
“Here you go Sammy,” putting it all on the side of the barbeque, “I’m guessing that is everything?”
“Yes, thank you.” Samuel replied.
“You’re welcome,” she then perked up, “I need to go check on my cupcakes! Bye!”
The two were temporarily surprised by how fast Pinkie took off. Rushing like it was the end of the world, or at least before it did. Samuel went into cooking the various meats, using the whole barbeque.
Cocking an eyebrow at Samuel, Arthur asked, “So why so much meat? We having a feast or something?”
“In a way yeah we are,” he flipped some of the burgers, “We have quite a bit, the amount people have…did have, that we have found. So we don’t have room in the freezer for this much, and once cooked we can eat it as necessary,” pointing his tongs to the nearby power line, “I’m also concerned that the power is going to go out soon. Surprising it lasted this long and still going.”
“Well we already have lost internet and cell reception, so I wouldn’t be surprised if we lost power and water today.” Arthur said deadpan.
Rotating some of the hotdogs and a couple ribs, he applied some barbeque sauce and continued, “How did the scavenging go?”
Arthur took a seat, “It was good, found the usual stuff, which we can never have enough of, of course. A couple zombies but easily dealt with,” his tone shifted with worry, “There is more wandering about though, enough it’s making it harder the further we go from home. Getting harder to be quiet and avoid them.”
“Good to know. Haven’t we scavenged the entire block?” Samuel asked.
Pondering for a moment, Arthur replied, “Almost, a couple more houses at the very edge of the block before the intersections. Plan on hitting them tomorrow,” snapping his fingers he pointed at Samuel, “After that we probably have enough to leave, we got at least two weeks of food and water for us all. We could then head to Sweet Apple Acres, be safer than here.”
The whole group had already discussed on how to proceed, including Applejack and Sunset via radio, they all agreed to meeting up at Sweet Apple Acres. Where they would discuss on where to go from there.
“There is one place I want to hit before we leave and not one of the houses.” Samuel said as he added some cheese slices to some of the burgers.
“What could you wanting to hit? We already saw that the downtown area is already overrun, and I wouldn’t be surprised that if more places were the same.” Arthur said confused.
“There is an outfitter store combined with a hardware store I learned of, saw a business card in some dudes wallet. I’m thinking we could get some much needed supplies from there,” he grinned, “What I’m really hoping for is guns and ammo, if not the camping, fishing and any of the hardware stuff could prove really useful.”
“Where is it? I never heard of any place that sold guns. Even after living here my whole life. ”
Finishing up the burgers and hotdogs, Samuel started putting them on a couple plates, “Right on the edge of downtown, unfortunately,” he now frowned, “But if it’s possible to get in, I believe it’s worth the risk. Me, you and Rainbow, we should be enough. But we will talk it about it further later. Supper is ready.”
Turning off the barbeque, he finished the ribs and the two grabbed the plates stacked with food, bringing it all inside to be set on the island. Alongside some cupcakes put out by Pinkie, as well as mashed potatoes and sliced carrots. Samuel grabbed some buns off the counter and condiments from the fridge. Arthur announced dinner and the girls started filtering in.
Everyone grabbed a plate and picked whatever amount they felt they could eat. They all took a seat at the table, which could be extended to accommodate more people. Fluttershy, who conscripted Rainbow into helping, fed the animals that were surprisingly patient, as long as it was Fluttershy, Rainbow got the short stick on that end. Once those two took their seat, everyone began to eat.
Conversation flowed and ebbed like a winding river, many a story was told of before the apocalypse began. It allowed for a sense of normality and somewhat peace, smiles and quiet laughter. About an hour later dinner was done, everyone pitched into clean up and people settled into routine.
The girls settled in the living room, chatting as they did, Arthur joined them. Samuel however went into the backyard to have a smoke. Taking a seat he grabbed a cigarette from his pack, lit it, and took a long drag before breathing it out.
God I wish I had a drink right now, some whiskey sounds really good.
A good drink helped him deal with stress at times, and a single one wouldn’t hurt. Too bad Arthur’s parents didn’t have anything. Few of the houses they scavenged had any alcohol surprisingly, and what they did get was wine or beer, hard liquor was rather nonexistent. Sighing at the thought he decided a can of Pepsi would be good enough.
Thankfully he had the forethought of bringing one with him, cracking it open he took a swig followed by “aaaaahhhh” at the taste. Sitting in surprising silence for some time, he took the time to appreciate it, before several gunshots sounded from a distance away. Hard to pinpoint with it echoing all over the place.
He heard the backdoor open, thinking it was just Arthur coming out. He was surprised when he heard who it actually was.
“Hey Samuel…I was wondering if we could talk?” Twilight said, not entirely sure of herself.
Samuel looked over his shoulder, seeing her standing in a nervous stance with Spike in her arms; he wondered what she could want to talk to him about.
Tapping his cigarette in the nearby ashtray, he responded, “Sure, come take a seat,” pointing to the seat next to him.
Pushing her glasses back upon her face, she quickly walked over and took the seat gestured to by Samuel. She took a few moments to compose herself, petting Spike helped with that. Twilight seemed to be trying to get her words out, but for some reason without much success. Samuel decided to take the lead, taking some pity on the poor girl.
Taking another swig, he started, “What’s on your mind Twilight?”
She responded “Well…I heard from Rainbow, that you, her and Arthur, are going on a scavenging mission. And I was hoping to…” taking a breath, she puffed out her chest in an attempt at confidence, “To join you on your mission.”
Samuel blinked, he wasn’t expecting that, putting his now finished cigarette butt in the ashtray, he asked, “Why? You haven’t expressed much interest before, so what changed?”
She laughed a bit uncertainly, “I was…hoping to…” her voice getting quieter, “To get…some things.”
Samuel raised an eyebrow, and then asked with a patient tone, “I don’t believe that, just be honest with me. What is the actual reason?”
What was left of her attempt at confidence disappeared, but she went on, “Ok, the actual reason is I want to gather information on the ‘zombies’,” her talking speed increasing, “so I was hoping to get some notes on their behaviors, capabilities and maybe some samples if possible. Then with those results, I can learn more about how they work, maybe even the virus or whatever it may be that causes this, and with that information we can better avoid or combat them. Maybe even find a way to make a vaccine or a cure! I would need to get more science equipment of course; some help would useful as well. But first I need information,” she gave Samuel a placating grin, “So can I come with? I won’t get in the way I promise.”
Taking a final swig of his pop, finishing it, he took a brief moment to think about it before answering, “Alright you can come with, on two conditions,” he popped one finger up, “First you will help with the scavenging, information gathering comes second, priority of work after all and only if there is enough time.”
He gave her a chance to respond, “That is reasonable, as long as I get something though, I won’t return without anything.” She said in a tone that brokered no argument.
“Alright that is fair, we will make something happen. But,” he popped a second finger up, “my second condition is that you will learn on how to use the guns, no excuses and no exceptions.”
Twilight slightly paled as Samuel said that, speaking with her nerves on edge “But…but…I never held one before! I don’t know anything about them and they are dangerous! Why would I need to learn about on how to use them?!”
Samuel took a deep breath, Twilight already made it know she wasn’t very comfortable around guns, but he felt everyone needed to learn about them in this new world. He spoke in a soft tone.
“I know, you already made it known. But I’ll ask, why? Were you told that they are dangerous, just because? Or is it more than that?”
Calming down a bit, Twilight responded, “Well no…it wasn’t how I was raised, but I was never exposed to them. But I read so much about them and how they are dangerous, just look at the statistics. Also you and Arthur know how to use them, why do I need to?”
Samuel just smiled before going on, “The reason you should know is you might have to use them, especially to keep yourself safe. There will be a day when you are going to have to fight, and I think you will prefer to fight at a distance than up close against zombies.”
Taking a breath he continued, “And you’re not wrong, they can be dangerous, but only if you’re stupid or untrained with them, that is why you respect the weapon. It’s also a new world we are in; I don’t think statistics are going to matter much anymore.”
Twilight nodded at his points, “But what if I do something wrong? I could hurt someone!”
“That is why I’ll teach you,” Samuel stood up, “Come. I promise we will take it slow, no rush,” he looked up at the clouds, they were getting darker, “Unless it rains but it’ll be fine.”
Twilight let Spike out of her arms, who went to find a convenient spot in the backyard. She stood up, following Samuel a bit out, who had the rifle with him.
“Besides some of your friends have learned. Heck Pinkie learned, so you can too” Samuel said with some humour.
Twilight gave a small smile at that, and so the two went over on how to use the two firearms. Samuel being a patient teacher, while Twilight slowly became more comfortable with the firearms and their usage.
Arthur stood watching out of a window, which allowed a view into the backyard. He was curious to see if it would start raining, the clouds proving to be rather ominous. He was somewhat surprised to see Samuel teaching Twilight on how to use the firearms. Explained where she went though. For a while he just watched, curious as on how this would go.
Rarity came over; Arthur noticed her from the corner of his eye. She stopped and looked out the window as well. She seemed surprised.
“Now that is a rather unexpected sight,” taking a sip from a cup of tea in her hands, “Samuel convinced her you suppose?”
Arthur shrugged, “Must be. He is adamant about everyone learning. Have you been taught yet?”
Rarity gave a small smile, “I’m afraid not darling. Even though I must admit I’m also reluctant, but I understand the reasoning.”
Arthur nodded, “You know it’s not that bad once you learn how to use them.”
“I do not doubt it dear,” she took another sip of her tea, “This may be a tad random but have you ever told Samuel about…certain events that took place?”
“If you’re referring to the whole Sunset thing, then no. Is it even relevant considering everything?” Arthur asked.
“I suppose not but perhaps one day then.”
Arthur gave a grunt in acknowledgement and the two were silent for a minute before Rarity spoke again.
“I must also thank you and Samuel for saving me and the girls again,” she said gratefully, “Who knows what could have happened.”
Arthur blushed but smiled, “You’re welcome, and I should say thanks for all your help. Especially fixing my clothes, amazing how they tear and rip at the most random times.”
“One reason for why I brought what I did, dear. You are welcome in return darling.”
That is when the sound of thunder came, catching both of them off guard, as well as Twilight and Samuel outside. They came inside rather quickly after that, and Samuel took the firearms to the living room. While Twilight stood with Arthur and Rarity, striking up conversation.
The storm approaching continued to get louder as time went on. The clouds in their ominous dark gray, promised heavy rainfall. It also stirred the zombies outside in the streets, making them aggravated and prone to sporadic movement with them wandering about more than usual. A concern for the group as some may wonder over to the house.
So for the first time a watch for the night was implemented with Samuel taking first watch. As he looked out at the street a lighting flash illuminated the night sky, but also showing an increasing numbers of zombies, some of them groaning to the sky. Rain proceeded to down pour. It was going to be a long night.
Arthur sat on the edge of his bed, sunlight coming through the window of his bedroom. The nightmares were with him again last night, Jennifer and his friends a major component of them. He didn’t have any more tears to shed though, he already used them all. At this moment he felt an impulse to get a smoke off Samuel, but he kept it under control.
It was a few minutes later when he decided to leave his room, a glass of milk on his mind. Entering the hallway it was at that moment he realized the lights weren’t on, and trying to flick the switch did nothing. He sighed; the power finally went out in the night. He also heard from the bathroom a voice of frustration.
Walking over curiously, the door suddenly opened and walked out Rarity. The first thing Arthur noticed was her hair was wet and straight, not her usual curls. She must have tried to have a shower but the water pressure didn’t hold out. That is when their eyes met, and Arthur quickly realized something else.
She had nothing but a towel wrapped around herself, and he noticed her figure with the way the towel fit her. He stared for a moment, a quick glance down and up before he forced his eyes to meet hers. They both began to blush heavily at the compromising situation. For a good moment neither could say anything.
“…Sorry,” Arthur said, barely audible to Rarity and he turned fast enough to almost give himself whiplash and he hurried back to his room, hearing Rarity do the same a split second later.
Arthur sat in his room for about half an hour to calm himself and also to avoid another potential incident. Once he felt comfortable enough to leave his room again, he popped the door open, taking a look left and right down the hallway. Checking to make sure no one was there, he finally made his way downstairs. Samuel and Rainbow were already eating when he came down. A collective “morning” sounded off, and they went about their business.
“Sucks the power went out last night,” Rainbow pointed out, taking a bite of her cereal.
Samuel finished his oatmeal before adding in, “Damn shame for sure, though it lasted longer than I thought it would. It’s also another reason we finish our scavenging today, we got to leave soon.”
Arthur looked over at the windows, “What does it look like outside?”
“Like absolute dog shit, that storm really did a number outside, and the zombies are still all riled up,” Samuel took a swig of juice, “Their numbers are also increasing and there was at least a dozen I could see when I checked. Now who knows?”
“We can still avoid them easy, like they aren’t fast.” Rainbow chimed in.
“True, are we going soon then?” Arthur asked.
Samuel nodded, “Just finish eating and we will get going, Twilight is just grabbing something and we head out.” He gave a small sigh, “I’m really hoping that we get lucky and find something good. Like how did we not find any guns what so ever in the houses?”
Rainbow and Arthur just shrugged, and the business went on. An hour later the group of four was ready to go. The gear was the usual for the three; however Twilight was going on her first scavenging trip, so she had a backpack with several easy to access tubes, beakers and other scientific equipment. As well as a kitchen knife, and an aluminum baseball bat.
The coast was clear enough that they began to leave, with Arthur almost last one out he took a quick glance back. He saw the rest of the girls watching them leave, his eyes meet theirs individually. His eyes stayed a moment longer on Rarity, the incident not entirely forgotten, a light blush seemed to appear but he couldn’t tell. He gave a nod, and left but not before he heard one of them say “stay safe”.
It sounded like Pinkie, he was sure it was Pinkie. Closing the door behind him and locking it, he went over to the truck which was parked by a red Jeep Wrangler and a black GMC Terrain. Two vehicles they have acquired for later use, Samuel’s truck was the preferred vehicle still for any outings.
As the truck roared to life, several zombies whirled around and began to shamble over, almost at a speed walk. Once more pulling out and down the street like all the other countless times, the group looked at their surroundings at the destruction.
The storm caused a lot of objects to be tossed over, even some branches broken off the trees lining the city, in some places blocking any vehicle that wanted to come that way. With the lack of day to day maintenance that a city required in just a week it was starting to look like a landfill, with shambling corpses walking around to add to it. More than once Samuel had to dodge or take a detour to avoid a variety of hazards, from fallen debris and vehicle collisions to large pockets of zombies.
It took a while to find the outfitter store, only having the business card with the address to go off of, the contradicting directions from the three Canterlot residents didn’t help, much to Samuel’s dismay. Turning down the street the outfitter store stood out among a host of organic grocery stores and hipster style restaurants, surprisingly there was only several zombies. The group thought that with it being this close to downtown there would be more.
Samuel parked the truck right in front of the store, and immediately got out to deal with the four zombies approaching. Rainbow and Arthur were right behind, while Twilight hung a little behind, not entirely confident in her ability to fight an undead. With the zombies spread out, they were quickly dispatched in melee combat, with Twilight immediately taking several samples from them as they were dropped, she looked green in the gills but she kept herself together surprisingly well.
“Alright let’s get this done, I don’t think it will be long before the paparazzi get over here,” Arthur quipped.
As they approached the front of the store it became obvious that it was already looted, the door busted wide open. Providing a good look to the inside, full of shelves toppled and bare.
“You got be kidding me!” Rainbow exasperated, “What are we supposed to find now?!”
“Surely something was missed in there we could take?” Twilight said hopefully.
Samuel proceeded to go in, to further discover what was left. As they guessed it was absolutely ravaged, he felt a slight linger of doubt pop up. With no power the store was darker especially towards the back of the store where the sunlight couldn’t reach. Grabbing the flashlight he had he lit up the store best he could. To check if any zombies were inside he clanged the flashlight on a shelf and waited a solid moment. Nothing came.
“Spread out and quickly search whatever might be interesting, and if it’s useful grab it,” he proceeded to mutter himself; “Hopefully some scraps were left for us.”
Rainbow went over to some shelves and rummaged through them, Arthur did the same further down. Twilight just stood for a second, reading the shelf labels before disappearing down an aisle where the shelves weren’t toppled. Samuel went to where the guns would be sitting, waiting to be sold.
Completely fucking empty, there is nothing left. Damn! I guess it shouldn’t be too surprising though.
He decided to take a look through anyways, empty boxes and other garbage strewn around the place. Making his way behind the counter, he proceeded to find nothing. Looking at the shelves longingly, the hopes of finding semi-auto rifles and shotguns completely dashed. Reaching the end of the length of the shelves he gave up finding anything. But as he turned his flashlight caught the suspicious look of a butt stock under some flyers, just under the edge of the counter in a hard to find place.
Removing the flyers he grinned at finally finding something. It was a Mosin-Nagant bolt action rifle, it obviously has seen better days the wood body cracked and discoloured, however it had all its parts after a quick inspection. Most likely knocked over and lost in the chaos, never being found. With a renewed hope he checked in any place that could be hiding something, but unfortunately he didn’t find anything else.
Returning to the front of the store, where a small pile of items were stacked from the scavenging. Some camping equipment, including a portable stove surprisingly, a few boxes of various ammunition to be sorted later, a camp axe, two hunting knives and a hatchet. He put the Mosin against the wall and went to see what the others were doing.
Arthur and Twilight were coming from the farther part of the store, the hardware part. Lugging some screws and bolts in small boxes to the front. Samuel nodded approvingly and went to the darker part of the store, using his flashlight he entered an area that seemed to have sold archery gear. It did not surprise him that all the bows and crossbows also have been taken, along with their respective ammunition. Taking a chance he took a look for anything, finding an unopened box of arrows, some target heads and some replacement strings for a compound bow.
Going a little out of the way he found a couple sets of binoculars, even a rifle scope meant for a .22 rifle. Bringing it all back to their now slightly bigger pile he placed them and Rainbow was there now, bringing two fishing rods and several lures with her.
“Hey you did find a gun. Is that it though?” Rainbow asked.
“Yup. Place is really cleaned out, this is probably it for things we will find.”
Rainbow smirked, “Sure about that?”
Samuel quirked an eyebrow, “Oh?”
“Found a door that heads further into the store, I would have gone in. But I didn’t feel like hoarding all the glory, you know.” Rainbow said not very convincingly.
Samuel smirked at her; he didn’t believe it but didn’t point it out, “Let’s go find out what is there then,”
The two headed into a far corner in the store, both had their flashlights out, somewhat looking for anything else until they reached the door. It was a standard door with an “employees only” sign on it. Samuel opened it, surprisingly it was unlocked. Going in with Rainbow slightly behind him, the room revealed itself. It was a rather plain employee break room with an attached office. What drew his attention was a dead man, wearing clothes that suggested he was an employee here; he was rather young looking if it wasn’t for all the blood on him and the small hole in his head.
The cause of the hole was still in his hands, a single shot .22 bolt action rifle, the type meant for teaching someone how to shoot. Beside him was a backpack, probably with some items in it. Samuel approached and noticed a piece of paper beside him, picking it up he noticed the shaky writing.
“What does it say?” Rainbow asked curiously.
“It’s about his last moments. About several days ago in fact…how he came here to find anything left…him and a group…ambushed by zekes…and finally him ending it here, after getting bit.” Samuel said sadly.
“Fuck man…” Rainbow muttered.
“Shitty isn’t it? We have to keep going though, you understand that.”
Rainbow nodded and she decided to occupy herself by going into some of the cupboards. Samuel grabbed the .22 rifle form the dead man’s hands, apologizing for disturbing and thanking him for the rifle. The backpack contained a box of .22 rounds, some water plus food and a single handheld radio. Looking over to Rainbow he saw the look of frustration at the lack of anything worthwhile.
“Probably won’t find anything else back here. Let’s go” Samuel said.
Returning the front and putting what they had there, Samuel went to go check outside for any approaching zombies. Mentally cursing himself for not checking sooner, especially once he noticed how some of them were very determined to get over to the truck and more were filtering in.
He looked at Rainbow wide eyed, “We fucked around too long, and we got to go! I’ll start loading shit, and you go get the other two!”
Rainbow took off to find them and Samuel started to load everything, literally throwing it all into the bed of the truck that could be tossed with little regard, the more fragile items being lightly dropped or placed. On his third trip, the zombies were a lot closer, too close for liking. Throwing the items in his arms into the bed, he grabbed his lever action rifle, flipped the safety off and cocked the rifle. Three zombies within ten feet were the target, applying the sights to one of them he fired and a large whole appeared in a flash of gore. Working the action he switched to another grazing on the first shot and hitting on the second. The third zombie was almost upon him, as it reached with its arms he whirled the butt stock into its face with a meaty smack
Falling over, the zombie immediately tried getting up, even with a broken jaw. Samuel put the rifle close to its head and blew its brains out, plastering the asphalt. The three others popped out of the store with the rest of the supplies they gathered. Collectively they threw it in the bed and proceeded to hop in the truck. Samuel was coming around the front of the truck when he came face to face with an absolute juggernaut of a zombie.
The former man stood at least six five and was probably all of three hundred pounds, with a body builder physique. Its grey eyes met his, looking excited if such a thing was possible and a hungry groan sounded. Wide eyed and with a feeling of panic Samuel tried bringing the rifle to bear but the zombie was upon him. With a wordless shout of terror he went down with the zombie on top of him. The rifle fell to the side as Samuel was locked in place by the zombie, its bear paw like hands, cold to the touch, gripped with steel like strength.
Samuel fought like mad to keep its mouth of sharp teeth away from his neck, it having a hand gripping his head to the side for an easy bite while the other kept him pinned. Samuel used his arms to hold the zombie in place away from him but he was slowly losing. Not helping was the shortness of breath he felt from having the wind knocked out of him falling to the ground. Trying to get his legs up to push the zombie off was futile; he could see Arthur and Rainbow take a couple of swings at it to no effect before they had to deal with one or two other zombies almost on them.
The zombie’s mouth was almost at his neck; Samuel could smell the rot coming from it which made him give a roar of effort as he pushed with all his strength, muscles bulging with effort. He pushed it only a bit away from him and he could feel the burning in his muscles.
Fuck fuck fuck! I refuse to die here! Fucking cocksucker!
Samuel decided to take a risk and tried reaching for his knife in his belt, the zombie took advantage of one arm disappearing and pushed more in with undead vigor. He felt the handle, grabbing it and quickly thrusting upwards only for it to be caught in its neck, to no effect except blood pouring on him. The zombie was a mere second to taking a bite out of his neck.
A loud crack sounded, making Samuel deaf for a few seconds, before realizing the zombie had a large hole in its temple, now limp. Pushing it off with a huge effort, he saw Twilight standing to the side, with the lever action rifle in her hands, the slight amount of gun smoke coming from the muzzle of the barrel. She was shaky, wide eyed at what she just did, staring at the corpse. Samuel wheezed a “thanks” out and took several deep breaths to recover, getting to his feet he saw Arthur and Rainbow approach from the other side of the truck.
Arthur hugged Samuel hard. “I thought you were going to fucking die on me.”
“I thought so too, that fucking bastard.” He returned the hug, “Let’s go though.”
“Come on, Twilight,” Rainbow said softly, “Let’s get going”
Rainbow grabbed Twilight, still staring at the corpse and half dragged, half lead her to the backseat of the truck. Arthur and Samuel hopped in the truck too, Samuel started the truck, slamming the transmission into drive and stepped on the gas, with several zombies starting to pound on the windows they fell from the force, one dragged under the tires. Samuel avoided the rather uncomfortable amount of zombies that have made their way over, taking a street corner and accelerated down the street.
Taking a different route than the one they came, Samuel felt the spots the zombie had grabbed start to feel sore; no doubt some nasty bruises would form later. He looked back at Twilight who had a thousand yard stare as she looked out the window. Rainbow’s head was on a swivel trying to gauge any potential threats, but she was also torn trying her best to get Twilight out of her shock, without much success. Arthur was sitting just relieved that they were out of there and alive. Samuel was also feeling the same but felt a particular relief for Twilight’s actions.
“Hey Twilight,” Samuel said trying to engage her, looking at her via the rearview mirror. He had to say her name three more times.
Twilight looked at him with wide eyes, still in some matter shock, “Huh?”
“Are you ok?” Samuel asked.
Twilight took a moment, before speaking shakily “I-I killed someone…I’m a-a murderer…”
Samuel spoke with a conviction, “No, no you are not. You saved my life by what you did, make no mistake,” he sighed, “Besides it’s my fault that I didn’t an eye didn’t keep watch on outside. Especially with us being so close to downtown.”
Twilight seemed to just absorb the words, not really reacting to them. After Samuel finished, she looked back out the window, some of that thousand yard stare coming back. Arthur looked to Samuel, who just sadly shook his head. The trip was rather quiet from there on, as they returned home. It was when they started to reenter the suburbs, which Twilight stirred out of her thousand yard stare by Rainbow. They began a conversation low and soft, Arthur and Samuel tried being polite by ignoring the conversation.
The truck turned once more onto the street where home was and Samuel pulled in, putting the truck in park. The group was rather silent, all of them sitting in a relieved silence. A thought popped up in Samuel’s head, causing him to smirk.
“Hey Twilight.”
“Yeah…?” she responded meekly.
“I think we are even now,” he looked back at her, “Just a little bit though, eh?”
Twilight stared before a shaky smile appeared, and the other two in the truck began to laugh, before all four were a laughing cacophony. Finishing their laughter they began the unloading procedure, Fluttershy opened the door and as Arthur was halfway through the door with the fishing rods in his arms. When he saw a distant humanoid shape sprinting down the street, towards the direction of his home. He called to Samuel, while pointing at the figure, with Samuel grabbing a pair of binoculars from what they scavenged.
“It’s no zombie, if you’re wondering. A man, a man in uniform, military, full kit. Looks frightened, wounded too and he keeps glancing over his shoulder. Wonder why.”
Everyone looked at him and then glanced at the approaching man, who was rapidly covering the distance between them. Arthur grabbed his shotgun, Rainbow her pry bar, and Samuel grabbed his lever action. Samuel kept the binoculars up, wondering what was going on. Twilight was told to head inside, with Rarity coming out to guide her in. It was about two hundred feet when Samuel saw the reason the soldier was glancing back despite full sprint, two zombies were also sprinting this way, extremely determined to get the man.
“Oh fuck! The fuckers can sprint now!” Samuel yelled in growing panic.
That got him a look of wide eyed surprise by the other two, with Arthur the first to speak.
Arthur paused, “Say what? Sprinters?”
Samuel looked at him, “Yes…Sprinters.”
“Well shit! Can we shoot them at all from here?”, Rainbow piped in.
Samuel shook his head, speaking rapidly, “No, that dude is still coming this way, and would be in the way of fire. It’s still just the two zekes though.”
Arthur racked his shotgun, loading a shell of buckshot “They are almost here; they are still just zombies,” he waved to the soldier, “Hey! Over here!”
The soldier was already headed towards them, breathing heavily he pushed himself to make it. He ran past the three and tried recovering his breath as he slowed, wide eyed as looked back at the two zombies, clenching his side. Samuel leveled his rifle, using his truck as a rifle support, controlling his breathing as the two zombies reached four house lengths from them. The crack of the rifle sounded, hitting the one on the left in the shoulder, making it flinch but not stop. Working the action, he fired again, putting a deep gash in the head but not a kill shot. Swearing, he cocked it again, the undead only one house length away.
Trying a different method he aimed down at the right leg, firing the round hitting in the thigh, breaking the bone as the leg exploded in a mess of tissue and blood. The zombie fell with the grace of a limp potato sack, its momentum carrying it forward several feet before landing unceremoniously on the lawn. Arthur at the same time shot the second zombie as he came within ten feet, aiming for the head; he slightly misaimed the shot with the bead, buckshot tearing open its chest cavity. Arthur racked as the zombie was halted and thrown back, hitting the lawn. Both of them followed up by finishing them off with a shot to the head.
Rainbow seemed slightly bummed by being left out, but everyone’s attention was soon on the soldier standing off to the side. The said soldier was of average height and Hispanic, he was in full kit but with no rifle, clenching at a wound in his side, he was leaning to compensate.
“So…who are you?” Arthur asked.
Wincing at the pain in his side, he replied weakly, “I’m-I’m Private First Class…Lopez.”
Rainbow impatiently began asking questions, “What are you doing here? Where is the rest of the army? Why weren’t you here earlier? What...”
Her questioning went on as Lopez barely got a word in edgewise, Samuel and Arthur tried to get her to stop but Rainbow’s built up frustration and anger at all the events finally had an outlet, one she was taking full advantage off. A solid minute went on as this happened, the poor soldier growing pale from the pain and Rainbow’s tirade, until Samuel finally had enough.
“Rainbow! Enough! You aren’t going to get any answers with him like this!” Samuel yelled, not in anger but an effort to stop her.
Looking at Samuel with a deathly glare that gave him pause, Rainbow answered, “I’m going to get answers! He has them, I know it!”
“You can get answers after we get him inside and treated,” Samuel replied in a growling tone, “As I said he is no condition for this right now, look at him.”
Rainbow did and it dawned on her the extent that was necessary to help him first. Her combativeness backing off, enough for more reasonable dialogue to establish.
“Fine…But after that we get answers.”
Samuel nodded, his tone calming down, “Good, I have questions too. Just be patient right now,” Looking to Arthur who was doing his best to help the soldier, “Let’s get him inside, check his injury and patch him up.”
Samuel went onto one side of Lopez with Arthur on the other and they began to move Lopez into the house, Rainbow occupied herself with looking out for any incoming zombies that most definitely heard the shots fired, seeing some already come out of the nooks and crannies on the street. Fluttershy opened the door for them, the girls having watched the whole debacle through the viewports on the windows. Lopez was taken to a couch, laid out and Samuel took off the tactical vest and flak vest underneath to get access to the injury. Taking the helmet off for Lopez’s comfort, he put all his gear to the side.
Fluttershy already had a first aid kit in hand; Rarity was beside her to help. They discussed with Lopez the nature of the injury and the type. It wasn’t long before the two girls began to treat the injury, some type of bruising or something worse inside. Rarity soon shooed everyone out, to make some space. Everyone just huddled around the kitchen, speculation running wild among them, something Rainbow was finding frustration in.
“Seems like that he was in a car accident.” Arthur speculated.
“It’s most likely considering his injuries. The question is where are the rest of the soldiers?” Twilight inquired.
“They would be somewhere in Canterlot, at the very least the section he was with. Why though is my question.” Samuel said.
“Could they help us? Maybe get us out of here?” Pinkie said curiously.
Rainbow butted in with frustration, “But why now? Why didn’t they help us before and where were they?”
Samuel answered, “We will get answers for that later, once Lopez is better. But Pinkie might be right; maybe they can help us, if there is any military presence here.”
“Like get us out of here? To somewhere safe?” Arthur asked.
Samuel shrugged, “No idea. Could be the case.”
Rainbow snorted at that, “Whatever. We still got houses to scavenge and shit to do. Let’s go.”
She went to grab her gear and wait by the door, eager to do something to keep her mind occupied. Twilight and Pinkie were concerned for their friend, but Samuel gave a placating gesture, an unspoken promise he would deal with it. They both took the hint and went about their business.
“Arthur I’ll go with Rainbow scavenging. I want you to unload the rest of the truck, clean those guns, and organize it all.” Samuel said.
“I’m guessing you want me to keep an eye on Lopez too, I assume?”
“Yes, I doubt he has any bad intentions, but just keep an eye on him,” Samuel pondered for a moment, “Also Twilight too, make sure she don’t go off her rockers.”
Arthur agreed and Samuel went off grabbing his gear, nodding to Rainbow that they were leaving. Exiting the house the pair began their scavenging mission, heading to the last few houses on the block not yet scavenged.
It was a few hours into the afternoon when the pair returned, with a plethora of supplies. Entering the house, it was obvious that Rainbow was now more calm and collected. Putting the bags of supplies in the kitchen, Samuel went to the living room to check on Lopez. He was looking better than before, Fluttershy currently helping him with a glass of water, as he sat up to drink.
“How you doing Lopez?” Samuel asked.
“Better now…thank you.”
Samuel smirked, “Thank Fluttershy and Rarity, they were the ones who patched you up.”
Lopez returned the smirk, “I already did.”
Samuel looked to Fluttershy, “If you don’t mind, I need a minute to talk to Lopez.”
“Oh…Ok. Nothing bad I hope?”
“Nothing bad, just some basic questions.”
She nodded and left, not before pouring some more water into the glass. Once she passed Samuel and left the living room. Samuel went and took a seat, making Lopez give a questioning look.
“I did mean it when I said just some questions. I just want some information.” Samuel said reassuringly.
Lopez tried his best to hide it, but he seemed relieved, “What do you want to know? I’ll answer what I can, but I would like to leave as soon as possible.”
Samuel raised an eyebrow, “Why do you need to leave? Have somewhere to be?”
“Yes…We were supposed to meet up with some other units here. For what I don’t know before you ask. My section was in two Humvees when we got here…We got ambushed by a hoard…Crashed pretty hard,” he took a moment to breath, “I’m quite sure I’m the only one who survived that…got chased and here I am.”
“Got a rendezvous point then? We will take you there.”
It was Lopez’s turn to raise an eyebrow, “Why would you do that? You want something?” his eyes narrowed, “You also seem familiar with how things work, you a soldier?”
“I was, in Canada, infantry reservist. Got caught down here when shit hit the fan, but that’s a long story. But yes I do want something; my hope is a way out for me and everyone else here. Think it’s possible?” Samuel said hopefully.
“Explains things,” Lopez pondered for a second, “I can’t guarantee anything but I could try to give a good word, but the word of my rank won’t mean much.”
Shrugging Samuel continued on, “It’s a chance, which is enough for me. We will leave soon then.”
Samuel got up, bee lining to get things ready; everyone ambushed Samuel in the kitchen, desperately wanting a piece of the gossip before anything. With a sigh Samuel conceded and satiated their appetite for information. After that Samuel told Arthur, Pinkie and Fluttershy they were coming with, to a few people’s surprise. Grabbing gear and then helping Lopez to the truck, Samuel explained why as they went on,
“I’m bringing them cause it’ll help convince them we mean no harm; men are like that when they see women along.”
Rainbow groaned at that, “Come on!”
“I got something else for you to do anyways.” Samuel said.
Rainbow was about to go on tirade before getting caught off guard, “Wait, what could I be doing?”
“Get things packed in the vehicles and ready to go, I don’t believe we are going to be staying for much longer. You have Rarity and Twilight to help you. That and I need someone to keep an eye on things here. I know I can count on you to do so.”
Rainbow paused a second, before puffing her chest out at the compliment, “Alright, yeah I can do that. You’ll be surprised, I know it.”
“I look forward to it; we will be back soon enough.”
With that Rainbow immediately went off on her task. Samuel got in and they were off, heading to the edge of the city according to Lopez’s directions. The drive became one like a maze, plenty of detours thanks to the storm and the deteriorating condition of the city. The view of the Cascades and its foothills brimming with forest grew as they reached the edge. Reaching the end of the suburbs, they stopped in the middle of the street, staying in the truck for several minutes to make sure no zombies followed before getting out.
Leaving weapons in the truck, Lopez lead them to a random house, Arthur supporting him as he walked; Samuel carried his gear with Fluttershy and Pinkie following close behind, everyone a bit on guard. Reaching the lawn, a loud barking voice ordered a halt, and one was called forward to identify. Lopez walked forward till he was on the porch and was ordered to halt again. A quiet conversation was soon held, too quiet for the four to hear. A minute went by and nothing happened.
The door was suddenly opened and two soldiers in full kit, M4s in hand came out with one bringing Lopez inside, while the other kept his rifle in a low ready position in case of anything. The other soldier quickly came back out and called for Samuel. He approached the soldier until halted.
“The Staff Sergeant would like to speak with you.”
“Only if the rest of my group is allowed in, for their safety if anything.” Samuel responded, no argument in his tone.
One of the soldiers beckoned another from the house, relaying the information. It was another minute before an answer came.
“You can come in, slowly now.”
The four did so and they gathered inside the open living room, the two soldiers outside coming in. There was about a platoon of soldiers of differing branches in this house, many resting or performing maintenance where they could, others were sentry at the windows and other openings. A big burly black man, in full kit came up to Samuel, standing about three inches over him, Samuel saw the patch indicating this was the Staff Sergeant.
“So you were the ones who saved Lopez and brought him here. Am I right?” He said in an inquisitive tone, his accent raw Texan.
Old reflexes kicked in for Samuel, “Yes, Staff Sergeant. I also have Lopez’s kit here.”
He smirked, “Just put to the side we will make sure he gets it back. No need to call me by rank thoguh, not in the army anymore I was told. Name is Hutton.”
Samuel smirked back, “Samuel, last name Havel.”
“Well Havel, tell your civvie friends they can relax. Me n’ you need to have a chat though.”
Samuel nodded to the others and they found a place to sit, a bit awkward among all the soldiers. Samuel and Hutton headed off to a more isolated window on the second floor, the soldier doing sentry dismissed to get some rest. Hutton lit a smoke.
“You smoke Havel?”
“Of course,” and Samuel lit a cigarette of his own.
Taking a puff Hutton started the conversation, “Lopez told me you want a way out. Well I’m going to have to disappoint, there is nothing I can do for you.”
Samuel responded, “Why not?”
“Orders. We are to dig in and await pickup from some helicopters here, no room either I believe. No civvies allowed, sorry to say.”
Samuel sighed, “I was hoping that wouldn’t be the case but I’m not surprised either.”
Hutton looked out the window, “I wish there was something I could do for y’all. I’ve already had to abandon other civvies…It’s taken a toll on my troops. We’ve been running awhile now.”
“I could tell. I have also noticed you got a mix of branches and professions in your platoon. The marines, army, national guard even some air force. Truck drivers mixed with infantry to clerks with combat engineers. What happened?” Samuel asked.
Hutton was silent for a minute, “…It was bad where we fought the enemy.”
“Things were that bad? Mind telling what happened?”
Taking a long drag of his cigarette he continued, “Yes it was bad. My original platoon was assigned to combat the undead in Portland and establish refugee centers. It was chaos and an absolute clusterfuck. Stupid higher ups and politicians causing us problems. We couldn’t do our dang jobs because of them,” frustration was growing in his voice, “I lost a lot of good men in Portland. I don’t see why this matters to you though.”
Samuel nodded, staying silent for a moment, “It confirms what I believed, that the refugee centers wouldn’t work. Why did you come here though? Canterlot is a dead end.”
“We left, gathered whoever we could who was still kicking and headed east. Got brass on the horn and we were told to head here for pick up. Can’t tell you when and where, you understand why.”
“Yeah I understand. Security reasons.”
“I don’t think there is anything I can do for ya. I can however give you information.” Hutton said.
Samuel responded, gratitude in his voice, “I appreciate that. What can you tell me?”
“I assume you’re leaving this place?”, Samuel nodded, “Don’t go to the coast then, too many of those damn things wandering about now and the cities are all bombed to hell.”
“All of them? Were they bombed with napalm, cluster bombs, hell artillery?”
“Yup. From San Francisco to Vancouver, mostly napalm, but something of everything was used.”
“What about more inland? Know anything?” Samuel asked.
Hutton shook his head, “Same thing, just know avoid going south as well. Those states are having a refugee problem, too many down there now. There is some rumours going around that the Navy with the Marines and Coast Guard secured Hawaii, or that the Army is running trains out to…somewhere. However it’s just rumours, nothing solid.”
“Anything else?” Samuel asked hopefully.
“Some bases might still be up n’ running, but we are in the dark so nothing.”
Samuel nodded, “Well thank you. We should probably head out now. Best of luck Hutton I hope things work out.”
“Likewise Havel.”
Finishing the cigarettes they left the window and went downstairs, Arthur and the girls were chatting rather energetically with some soldiers. Pinkie especially was having good time. With a word the three said their goodbyes and got ready to go. Hutton grabbed an M4, four loaded magazines, a tactical vest and a helmet. He handed to Samuel who looked confused.
“Take it, one soldier to another. The soldier who had it won’t need it anymore.” Hutton offered.
Samuel blinked, “Well…Thank you Hutton. This will be really useful.”
Putting it all on, loading the magazines in the vest and helmet on, Samuel adjusted straps and buckles till comfortable. He put his hand out to shake Hutton’s and he returned it.
“Once again, best of luck Hutton. God speed.” Samuel repeated.
“Godspeed Havel.”
With that the four left and headed for the truck, all loading in. Samuel taking a long look at the house full of soldiers, wondering if they will make it, if anyone will. Putting the key in the ignition he started it and off they went back home. As they returned home Samuel told the three the information he learned, to mix reactions. All felt some hope loss from no help coming, but the information considering the other parts of the western United States was not inspiring. But it was agreed that it was time to leave, especially once they spotted a huge hoard only several streets from home.
Pulling in behind the Terrain, the process to start loading the vehicles was sped up, much already packed away. Arthur and Samuel started loading the truck with large bags of food and hardware supplies, even a generator. Pinkie and Fluttershy started loading other miscellaneous items into the Terrain. The Wrangler already loaded, it took the process about an hour for everything of use from the house to be loaded. After all the vehicles were loaded, everyone gathered around the vehicles. Arthur stood on the lawn looking at his home, Samuel beside him.
“Ready to leave Arthur?”
Arthur took a deep breath, “Yeah. It’s just…you know leaving my home. Especially after everything.”
“I understand, take the moment you need,” they stood in said moment in silence, “Did you get Applejack or Sunset on the radio?”
Arthur nodded, “Yes they know we are coming, they did ask we get there before dark however.”
Samuel took a look to the west, the sun starting to set, turning the sky red.
“Well let’s going then Arthur.” Putting a hand on Arthur’s shoulder and the two turned to leave.
Loading into the vehicles, Samuel, Arthur and Twilight in the truck, Rarity and Pinkie in the Wrangler and Rainbow plus Fluttershy in the Terrain. The truck took the lead, Wrangler in the middle and Terrain last in the convoy. Leaving the once safe haven they had, the convoy started the journey to Sweet Apple Acres. Arthur taking one last long look at his former home until it was out of sight.
The gravel road the convoy was traveling on had seen better days; potholes lined the road causing slow speed and a very bumpy ride. The road was still slightly wet from the storm, resulting in some mud being kicked up and dirty vehicles. They were getting close to Sweet Apple Acres, the various orchards lining the roads on both sides causing a limited view. Canterlot was still visible in the distance, high rise buildings in view, suburbs only ten minutes away but road conditions made it closer to twenty. The occasional zombie was spotted wandering about the trees.
Arthur pointed that out, “Seems like they have already started wandering out of the city.”
“It must be a response of some kind, perhaps due to people leaving,” Twilight mused somewhat absent minded, being a little squished in the back with all the supplies, with Spike sleeping on her lap, “I believe they are migrating in search of food, or finding more people to infect with the disease.”
“Have you been able to do anything with the samples you collected? Or figure anything out really so far?” Arthur asked turning to face her.
Twilight shook her head, “No, I still need the right equipment to do any proper testing. A proper lab would nice as well. So nothing so far.”
“Well maybe once we get set up at Applejack’s place, maybe you’ll have the opportunity to do something” Arthur offered hopefully.
Twilight adjusted her glasses, “Hopefully, it would take a while to set up an improvised lab however, especially with all the equipment needed.”
Arthur and Twilight discussed for a few minutes what would be needed and where one could find them. The house and barn of Sweet Apple Acres was glimpsed through the trees, signifying they were close.
Samuel was quiet for most of the journey, the day having taken its toll on him. He took a quick glance via the rearview mirror at Twilight, wondering how she was doing. He didn’t say anything though as his thoughts turned elsewhere. Particularly of the soldiers and Staff Sergeant Hutton.
I hope they find their way out, been enough death as it is. Wonder how my old unit is doing back in Canada, come to think of it?
He mentally shook the thought out of his head, no use worrying about something far away from where he was now. He saw the lane connected to the gravel road, now in sight, going all the way to household of Sweet Apple Acres. Slowing down, once more hitting a pothole that made everyone bounce around, Samuel looked to his left seeing a field in between the orchards.
“Twilight, did Applejack’s family own any cattle?” Samuel asked out of nowhere.
“I believe so; I think she mentioned owning a herd. Why?”
Samuel pointed a single finger to the pasture, Arthur and Twilight following it to the field. The field was full of dead cattle, at least forty heads, many had patches stripped straight to the bone or guts that spilled over the field. Much of the pasture was coated red, there was the odd zombie still gorging themselves on beef and organs, despite the corpses looking days old and in the process of rotting.
Twilight turned away the moment it registered in her brain, trying to prevent herself from being nauseous. Arthur stared for a solid moment in wide eyed horror before also turning away. Samuel only glanced before turning his attention back to the road.
“Did you have to point that out?” Twilight asked queasily, as she petted Spike who barely stirred.
Samuel felt a tinge of guilt at that, “No, I guess not…Sorry.”
The truck was silent as he turned on to the gravel lane, the house in sight across the lane even with the two bends and plethora of trees. Passing all the trees that were starting to bloom, the sun was almost set, disappearing quickly as it always does when the end of the day approached. Getting darker by the minute it came as a collective relief as the three vehicles pulled in, spacing out among the lawn.
They all noticed though the occasional corpse, which grew in number as they got close, just around the house and barn there must have been at least two dozen. The house had seen better days, thoroughly boarded up but with many boards torn, worn, splintered and covered in various amounts of blood, darkened from exposure. No light shone from the house, not the hard glare of electricity or the ruddy flame of lanterns and candles.
“Arthur when was the last time you heard from them?” Samuel asked concerned.
Arthur had his CB radio with him, headphones attached and on his head, “Just before we left and that wasn’t even an hour ago.”
Twilight, mostly recovered from her queasiness, piped in, “The house is mostly intact, and none of the windows or doors are open. I think it is unlikely that anything bad happened this quickly.”
Samuel responded, “Fair enough…Yet things can happen very quickly. I think we have become somewhat accustomed to that.”
“Unfortunately,” Arthur murmured.
While the three sat and discussed, the four other girls were already out, Rainbow was already heading for the front door, Fluttershy was attending to her menagerie of animals with Pinkie’s help and Rarity was rummaging through one of her suitcases for something. Samuel was more paranoid, earlier events being in his mind, making him take some looks around to see nothing concerning for the moment. In unspoken unison they got out, Twilight keeping a tight grip on Spike much to his frustration, as she looked around in an attempt of analysis of the farm. Arthur and Samuel spent a moment discussing about the radio.
Now at the front door, Rainbow cautiously raised a hand to knock however the door was opened by Applejack, with Sunset behind her. Both were looking ragged and exhausted, dark bags under their eyes, their hair dirty and messy, with clothes that had seen better days. It did not however stop Rainbow from immediately hugging Applejack in obvious relief and joy. The rest of the girls quickly joined in that resulted in a large group hug. The group of friends were finally reunited.
Arthur smiled at the sight, radio in his arms, taking a moment to enjoy this moment of peace, trying to stave off tiredness. In contrast while Samuel gave a small smile as well, exhaustion was setting in and the spots the zombie had grabbed were sore, he shifted in the kit he was wearing. Both of them stood by the truck, waiting in silence till the moment was over as quickly as it began. Rarity and Rainbow were ushered in by Applejack, no doubt to see Sweetie Bell and Scootaloo respectively.
The rest stayed on the porch talking or grabbing something from the vehicles of use despite growing darkness. Arthur was about to go over and join in, until Samuel got him to help with the slowly growing arsenal of firearm, to Arthur’s slight frustration. In this case it was just bringing the firearms and their respective ammunition over to the house. Sunset noticed and came to help, by taking Arthur’s radio.
“Long time no see.” Arthur said cheekily.
Sunset just rolled her eyes, “Aren’t you funny. But I am glad to see you guys and not just as a voice over the radio.”
Arthur smirked, “Likewise,” he took a look around the rather destroyed property, “You must been having a hell of a time though.”
A heavy sigh was Sunset’s reply before speaking, “You have no idea. It all started to get really bad just a few days in…We can talk more about it inside.”
Everyone proceeded inside, night having arrived fully. Samuel was craving a smoke, staying outside on the porch and sitting on the bench, setting the things he was carrying beside him. Grabbing one from his dwindling supply of smokes, putting it in his mouth and lighting it, he felt the familiar sensation of nicotine flow. He gave a sound of satisfaction as he puffed along and several minutes went by. He wasn’t surprised when Arthur poked his head out to check on him.
“You good?”
Samuel finished his smoke, “Yeah, just needed a moment and a smoke. You good though?”
Arthur shrugged, “I’m alright. Getting some food from the Apples for supper which is always good, may not be the freshest but it’ll still be good.”
“Home cooked food?”
“Oh yeah.”
With that they headed in, wiping their feet on the welcome mat, entering a cozy old living room which led to a kitchen, where everyone was sitting at a rather large table. Applejack gave them a glance, smiled and waved them over. They took a seat, the room lighted with some candles, enough you could read if you didn’t mind eye strain. The table was filled with mostly a variety of apple dishes, with some meat, soup and vegetables.
Everyone already had a plate and were helping themselves, Arthur dug in with teenage enthusiasm and Samuel did so after a moment of hesitation, not before a quick prayer though. Arthur knew everyone at the table from school, Samuel did not. Only being told the basics about who they were, he took a glance at them. The “Crusaders” as they called themselves looked much like Sunset and Applejack, tired and a mess, to Samuel they have seemed to have avoided the worst of the apocalypse when he looked into their eyes, some innocence still there.
The one other man at the table besides him and Arthur seemed to be the most tired of everyone here. Big Mac was eating with an almost death-like fatigue, struggling to keep eyelids open, Samuel knew the symptoms of severe sleep deprivation and Big Mac was showing them. Granny Smith on the other hand looked fresher than anyone else, but the same exhaustion was there just in lesser degree. She caught him looking at her and gave a smile; Samuel returned it with gratitude.
Quiet conversation, the clinking of silverware on dishes and barely noticeable chewing was the mainstay sounds for dinner. Continuing until almost everyone was finished eating, a more horrid noise sounded, the sound of terrified horses. One that made the people who stayed at the farm for the last week or so, perk up in horror. Applejack was the first up and rushing to grab a weapon, Big Mac soon followed.
“Were those the horses, Applejack?” Rarity asked with concern.
“Yes. Darn goons have been trying to get to them for the last three days.” Applejack replied in frustration at the situation.
Rainbow, Arthur and Samuel were up soon after, all reaching for a weapon. Samuel grabbed the M4 but before he could load, Applejack spoke.
“No guns, the darn things just keep coming once we start blasting them. Been a problem.”
Samuel gave a grunt of acknowledgment and grabbed his crowbar instead. The five were quickly out of the door, and onward to the barn. Big Mac and Rainbow were the only ones with flashlights, which would be needed on this cloudy night with little moonlight. Not taking long to arrive at the barn, two beams of light from the flashlights shined at the front door of the barn. Two zombies were banging and tearing at the door, with little success to get in. The light shined on them did however grab their attention, gray eyes looking to the group in hunger.
Both had their skulls pulverized several seconds later, allowing Applejack and Big Mac to head into the barn to calm the horses. While the other three did a quick round around the barn, killing one other zombie in the process. Finishing their round, they waited a minute while the Apples did what they had to do and after that it was a quick trip back to the house.
“You said this has been happening for the last three days?” Arthur asked as he closed the door behind him.
“Yup. Poor horses have just been terrified, especially since we lost three of them.” Applejack replied.
“What happened here? Like I thought you would have had it easier? Being out in the country and stuff.” Rainbow stated.
“Nnnope.” Big Mac replied exhaustedly.
Samuel spoke up, “What has been happening then? We saw the aftermath of what happened to your herd of cattle so I’m guessing nothing good.”
Applejack and Big Mac gave each other a look, Applejack spoke as everyone took a seat at the table again, “Nothing good is right. It started right after we got back…”
The table was cleared off as they talked; the Crusaders already were sent to bed, much to their protesting. Applejack told the story of how it went for them, with inputs from Sunset, Big Mac and Granny. It started with an initial attempt to keep the undead off the furthest edge of the property and away from their food and animals. It didn’t last long as the numbers grew, taking over the orchards and pushing closer to the house and barn. A large hoard came through which led to their cattle getting killed and a short siege that explained the condition around the property.
“So we lost all our cattle, most of our pigs, the ones that didn’t run away, and almost all our chickens. We got two horses and ten chickens left.” Applejack finished.
Silence permeated the kitchen; it was the hope of many that the farm would be safer, which was now dashed as the truth came out. Samuel thought for a second, before speaking.
“Are the chickens egg layers or meat breed? And what about the horses?”
“Egg layers. Quarter horses are what we have for the horses, really good riding ones, we have used them for going into some of the more difficult terrain around here.” Applejack replied proudly.
“You have a trailer for them?”
Applejack snorted, “Of course we do, what horse owners don’t after all.”
Samuel shrugged, “Fair enough. I’ll be back.”
Samuel got from his chair and went outside for something. Only a few got the idea of what he was grabbing.
“What is he doing?” Sunset asked.
“I think he is grabbing the map we found.” Twilight answered.
“Map?’ Applejack said confusingly.
As Applejack said that, Samuel was back in with a large paper map, he put it on the table and used some items from the table to hold the corners down. Everyone took a look; the map was a rather basic geographical map but contained enough information to warrant its use. It covered the entirety of North America, detailing major routes, the various states and provinces of countries, and basic terrain such as mountain ranges, rivers and forests.
Arthur was first to speak, “Is this for us to find somewhere to go, like you have been going on about?”
“Correct. I think it’s time we start thinking on where we might head. I think we can all agree that staying in Canterlot isn’t an option.” Samuel said with certainty.
Murmurs of agreement and questioning followed, except the Apples who were slightly more resilient against the idea, particularly Applejack.
“You want us to leave our property? Which has been in our family for generations?” Applejack said with a growing tone of accusation.
Samuel sighed quietly, “Yes, that’s the idea.”
That was the straw that broke the proverbial camel’s back for Applejack, exhaustion, frustration and sadness all combined making her want her to start arguing but a hand on her shoulder from Sunset and a look from her brother and grandmother made her calm down, shoulders slumped in defeat.
“Alright, I’ll listen. I would ask why we should leave Canterlot all together though.” Applejack asked in defeat.
Samuel scrunched his eyebrows together in confusion, “I thought it was obvious, Canterlot is completely surrounded by mountains and thick forest with only one way in and out. Seems like a death trap.”
Sunset replied to that, “Not completely. There is another road that leads out of the city, to Camp Everfree, deep in the forest. It could be a good place.”
“How so?” Samuel said inquisitively.
“It’s far from the city, has plenty of buildings for use such as cabins, a mess hall and storage sheds.” Sunset listed.
“A lake too! For fishing and water to drink.” Pinkie chimed in.
“It’s still in a dead end though,” Twilight pointed out, “If the zombies find their way over in large enough numbers…we couldn’t hold them off.”
“That’s why we build a wall, duh.” Rainbow said in triumph.
“Around an entire lake and camp?” Arthur pointed out.
Rainbow thought for a second, “Right. Makes more sense now.”
“Could we isolate a smaller part of it then?” Samuel asked.
“I don’t believe so, not easily anyways.” Arthur replied.
Sunset announced after several minutes of debate, “I guess that settles that then. No Everfree Camp.”
“Which means we need to leave, not just Canterlot but also out of the state I believe.” Samuel said.
The ones who stayed on the farm were confused, that’s where they were told about what Samuel learned from Staff Sergeant Hutton.
“So the whole coast?” Sunset said in disbelief.
“Yup, the radio broadcasts I got also further prove it; a lot of people are now running from the coast.” Arthur replied.
“I doubt there is any significant government presence anywhere now. That would mean we have to start anew. Like a new civilization.” Twilight said a bit dreamily at the idea.
“Kinda like those apocalypse movies?” Rainbow asked.
“Exactly!”
“But where could we go, dear? The whole country is now crawling with the ‘zombies’.” Rarity said.
“That is why I took out the map,” Samuel stated, pointing east of Oregon, “I believe we should head inland to the east. With less population and with the mountains and rivers being a natural barrier it’ll help stop or slow any zombie migration.”
“Why not head north? Like Alaska, I watched a show once showing how some of those homesteaders lived; we could live off all the fish and crab. Or hunting, farming and ranching.” Rainbow offered as she traced a finger to the Alaska-Canada highway going from Seattle all the way to Anchorage, “We could drive so no need for boats.”
People mused on the idea, before Arthur spoke, “We would have to get through Seattle and Vancouver though. Which are probably filled with hoards of zombies in the way of us driving.”
Sunset chimed in, “The highways could be clogged too, just with the sheer amount of vehicles.”
Fluttershy spoke up once the opportunity arose, “Wouldn’t it be you know…cold?”
Samuel snapped his fingers, “Yes it would be, colder than any of you are used to.”
“Oh really?” Rainbow challenged.
Samuel nodded, “Remember I’m from Canada, the prairies to be exact, it gets really cold, minus forty Celsius or even below once you get further north. The amount of snow is also a concern; if we got trapped there is no way we are getting through, it sometimes snows as early as August or September.”
That got people’s attention, and the quick conversion of Celsius to Fahrenheit by Twilight, doubly so.
Twilight spoke more on the topic, “It could take us some time to get up there, far too late to do anything to get us ready for winter.”
“We couldn’t plant anything in time; we would be starving before spring arrives.” Applejack said.
It was then agreed that heading east was the best option.
“Where in the east though?” Arthur asked.
Samuel shrugged, “Maybe Montana.”
Sunset chimed in, pointing to the various states on the western part of the continental divide, “Colorado could be good, maybe Utah or Wyoming.”
“Maybe we should decide on a state after we get out of Oregon.” Arthur pointed out.
“Then we have a plan?” Sunset asked as she looked at everyone at the table.
Several minutes of deciding a route out of Oregon took place, but Samuel pointed something out first.
“We need to get out of Canterlot first, and with one road in and out, it won’t be easy.”
“But we don’t even know what it looks like darling, it could be clear for all we know.” Rarity stated.
Samuel gave a conceding nod, “Fair enough. We will need to go recce it then.”
Fluttershy spoke up, “Well there is some paths we could use they go over the mountains after all.”
“Those paths are of no use if we are using vehicles Flutters. Sorry to say.” Applejack countered.
“Agreed, it would mean we could only take what we could carry on our backs, which won’t be enough.” Samuel added.
“I guess that leaves the road our only option then.” Rainbow said.
Pinkie piped in, “How are we getting through, obviously we’re driving but what if we encountered the zombs or other people? Sammy?”
“Convoy style, straight line with at least several car lengths in between. Everything packed and easy to access, being able to fight if we have to. ” Samuel answered.
“We could have everything ready in what? Two days maybe?” Sunset implied.
“Including my chickens and horses, I hope?” Applejack said.
“Of course. Why wouldn’t we, they will be useful as it stands.” Twilight replied.
An agreement was reached by everyone on how to proceed but before the impromptu meeting was ended, Fluttershy pointed one thing out, speaking quietly.
“What about other people? There must be some out there still.”
That got a collective blink in realization that there would be other survivors still.
“If we plan on leaving, wouldn’t it be good to tell others?” Fluttershy continued.
Sunset spoke up, “We could do something better, why not invite them to join us?”
Most agreed to the idea, Samuel and Rainbow were now the ones reluctant.
“But what if they are like spies for some gang, wanting to take our stuff or worse?” Rainbow said worryingly and aggressively.
“I understand your worries Rainbow, but when was the last time you heard of some gang causing problems in Canterlot of all places?” Applejack said, challenging Rainbow.
“Well…nothing really,” Rainbow muttered conceding to the point.
“There’s your answer then.” Applejack said triumphantly.
“I could try contacting people in the valley,” Arthur pondered, “I have already heard some of them on the radio, I just didn’t answer.”
“Was there many, darling?” Rarity asked.
“Several people, probably with others in tow.” Arthur replied.
Samuel caved, “Very well, we should still question them so we don’t accidently let someone in with evil intentions.”
“It wouldn’t hurt to have more people, Samuel.” Sunset said.
“True, wherever we plan on going we are going to need people, I just want to err on the side of caution.” Samuel replied.
Sunset gave a small smile, “That is understandable, but I doubt people have become a bunch of neo-barbarians this fast.”
Samuel smiled back, “Fair enough.”
Twilight adjusted her glasses, “It sounds like we have a plan on how to get out.”
“Then we better get some sleep, lots to do to get ready.” Arthur said tiredness seeping into his voice.
Collective agreement sounded and sleeping arrangements plus watch duty were assigned. Some hope now being in their hearts and a plan to follow allowed the future to seem just a bit brighter.
Two days passed since the reunification of the two groups, most time was spent on packing the rather large amount of supplies from the farm, including food, feed and fodder for the animals and building supplies. Using two older trucks they have on the farm allowed them to pack much more than they once could. The horse trailer would be taken by one of the Apples trucks, as well as an open trailer, packed with their heaviest and bulkiest items.
Arthur had success in his recruitment of several people, some with family or friends in tow, a few rejected the offer out of suspicion or the belief they would be better on their own. A place was decided on the more outer limits of the city to meet up, today being the day. Samuel had already took a small group to recce the highway, basically it coming down to the one side going out of the city is absolutely clogged with vehicles, but the side going into the city is mostly clear, enough that a convoy could get through with little difficulty.
During those two days many hours of target practice took place, far from the farm of course, it was an unfortunate cost in ammunition but required to get people to learn the firearms they had. It wouldn’t turn anyone into crack shots but practice makes perfect or at least good enough to hit the target in some cases.
Finishing up cleaning the Mosin, Samuel slid the bolt back in, applying a light coat of oil and handing it to Rarity; she was surprisingly accurate with the old rifle, only after she swallowed her pride about its lack of good condition though.
“Rifle is the best it can be now; you’ll need to care of it from now on though, if you’re going to be its keeper.” Samuel said.
Rarity gave the Mosin a good look over before responding, “Very well, dear. I think I will keep it, despite its…rustic appearance.”
Samuel nodded before grabbing a box of 7.62x54mmR to give Rarity, “You have only ten rounds, use it sparingly.”
Rarity nodded, grabbing the rounds from the box and putting them in a pocket and then headed to the Wrangler where Pinkie and Sweetie Belle were waiting. As she jumbled with her pack, a ghastly thing in her opinion but one of great use, she noticed Arthur coming from around the vehicle. A brief memory flashed to the rather embarrassing incident from several days ago, she felt the blush coming in as she slowed her pace, both of them decided to never mention it, yet the memory lingers.
She recovered her composure as much as possible as she got to the Wrangler, taking a glance at Arthur, who was talking with Pinkie, and put her bag in the vehicle before tending to Sweetie Belle, sitting on the grass against the vehicle.
“All ready, Sweetie Belle?”
Sweetie Belle, who was rather bored looking, responded, “Yeah…do we have to leave, though?”
“You know why already,” Rarity kneeled to be on Sweetie’s level, “I know it’s hard to leave, I also don’t like the idea. It will be alright though Sweetie.”
Sweetie grabbed a handful some grass to fidget with and spoke quietly, “You don’t know that. What if something goes wrong?”
Rarity thought for a second, “We will deal with it, just like we always do, Sweetie. When was the last time we didn’t, darling?”
Sweetie smiled softly, “That’s true. Maybe I’ll get to see something, like a road trip.”
Rarity smiled back, “Exactly.”
That is when Arthur approached, having overheard the last half, “Don’t worry, I’m quite sure we will be just fine, besides,” Arthur pointed his index finger at Samuel, who was geared up and practicing a couple stoppage drills with his M4, and then pointing to the various people in the group, “Everyone here will tackle problems together if they pop up.”
Pinkie popped beside Arthur with a grin and had a cupcake in her hand, “Here Sweetie Belle. Have a cupcake, I know you won’t say no, it’s freshly baked after all.”
Sweetie Belle beamed and grabbed the cupcake, with a thank you she gorged on it, fresh sweets having already become uncommon, worse as time goes on. People were finishing preparing for their journey, a long road ahead of them. Applejack was loading the two horses into the trailer, both standing roughly fifteen hands, with a buckskin coat, not panicking but much on edge with wary eyes, ears on a swivel, picking up every noise yet they obediently walked into the trailer. Samuel finished his impromptu checks, Fluttershy with her zoo, Big Mac was helping Granny Smith into a truck and Rainbow did some stretching to loosen some muscles.
Scootaloo and Apple Bloom talked about some inconsequential matters, and soon the group formed around their respective assigned vehicles, a round of checks and affirmatives, Samuel’s truck would take the lead, Wrangler second, the two Apples trucks in the middle and the Terrain taking up the rear.
Arthur buckled in, “Ready to go?”
“Ready as we can be.” Samuel said as he started his truck.
Arthur looked back to Twilight who was once again riding with them again, “Twilight?”
“All ready.” She replied.
The convoy started moving, heading down the lane, driving as fast or slow as the road conditions allowed.
“Remember where we are heading?” Twilight asked.
“Yup, a greenhouse business in the west part of the city, slightly out of the suburbs.” Samuel replied, before speaking to Arthur, “Did you get in contact with the people who all agreed to our little escapade?”
“Almost everyone, four or so didn’t answer however, I’m assuming dead radio, if not gotta assume the worst.” Arthur replied firmly.
“Rog.”
Over the course of a half hour they made their way from the country into suburbs and drove cautiously to their destination, many a turn taken due to destruction and the increasing amount of zombies coming from the center of the city.
“We really do need to get out.” Twilight muttered quietly to herself, wide eyed at the amount having moved into the suburbs.
Soon out of the suburbs they drove onto a small complex of greenhouses, a corpse here and there, plus they weren’t the first to be here. A red Chevrolet Equinox and a green Toyota Corolla were off to the side, with their respective owners. One was a generic white family, two parents and their two children, twin boys by the look of it, the parents were currently repacking and rechecking supplies and the kids were playing with one another.
Two guys were beside the Corolla, friends in their case, they were going over their weapons, a handgun and a shotgun, their supplies seemed miniscule in comparison, the two guys didn’t seem well feed either. They all turned their heads to see Samuel’s truck and all the other vehicles in the convoy as they stopped.
“Any of them seem familiar?” Samuel asked as he placed the truck in park.
Arthur took a quick glance at them, fiddling with his radio, “Yup, seem like the ones I talked to…There is still some we are waiting, give me a minute to try and contact them.”
“Well let’s go introduce ourselves.” Twilight said with a look of determination.
Samuel shrugged and followed Twilight out, Arthur slower as he awkwardly maneuvered out with the radio, and putting it on the hood of the truck as he started fiddling with knobs. Twilight like the rest of her friends immediately went to greet the other survivors, the Crusaders following suit. Samuel went over to Big Mac who was loading his dad’s old hunting rifle, a M1903 Springfield with an old scope on it.
“Keep an eye out for any zombies coming, I’m going to quickly go check to see if we got any wannabe hitchhikers coming our way from the road.” Samuel said as he walked past Big Mac.
Big Mac simply nodded and proceeded to take a look to the fields on the outskirts. Samuel with M4 in hand walked past the convoy of vehicles and pausing at the turn off, scanning the asphalt and the suburbs for any movement as he lit a cigarette.
Can’t wait too long, we’re bound to get some zekes here soon. Can’t let them catch us unaware again.
Puffing on his cigarette, he caught sight of the human silhouettes that were already coming over to their stop. He swore softly, he was hoping for more time. He was relieved to see no sprinters, but he knew they would be here soon, he glanced back to check on everyone. There didn’t seem be any obvious issues as far as he could tell. He went back to looking at the area, hoping to get out soon.
Arthur was keeping a close ear to his radio, trying his best to keep in contact with multiple people. So focused he didn’t realize Fluttershy coming on his right side. He jumped slightly when she touched his shoulder to get his attention, Fluttershy not being able to get his attention verbally due to headphones; in return she jumped with an “eep” when he glanced in temporary panic at her.
A moment later after he calmed down Arthur spoke, “Yeah Fluttershy?”
She brushed her hair with her fingers as she replied, “The people over there wanted to speak to you about something.”
“Well ok.”
Arthur took his headphones off to speak to the man from the family coming over, standing slightly taller than him, brown hair with matching brown eyes, looking to be in his thirties, he was dressed like he was heading for a yearly camping trip with clothes he never used for outdoor activities, as he began to speak one could tell he was deeply urban.
“So you are the young man I was talking to over the radio,” The man said as he reached a hand out to shake Arthur’s, “Name’s Ken as you know.”
Arthur shook Ken’s hand, “Arthur as you would also know. And what about the rest of your family?”
Ken smiled as he gestured to his wife and sons still be the Equinox, “My wife Sandra, and my two sons Rick and Lee.”
“Well good to meet you finally.” Arthur said.
“Likewise, I am hoping to leave soon though. We are ready to leave when we can.”
Arthur nodded, “There is some more people we are waiting on but if they no show we will leave,” he checked his watch, “Say fifteen minutes.”
Ken looked at him funny, “Fifteen? That Sunset girl said half an hour.”
Arthur frowned for a second, “I’ll check on that.”
“We should be leaving now or in a few minutes, those zombies could be here any moment.” Ken sighed, “We already had to deal with several, thankfully with help from those two who were here, I forget their names but they were really helpful.”
“If I remember correctly they are Norman and Michael.” Arthur said somewhat absentminded.
“We can wait a little bit for the others; it wouldn’t be very nice if we left right now.” Fluttershy said with her input.
Ken hesitated for second before going on, “I know, but we got get out of this hell hole, so don’t mind me but I’m not allowing a chance for my family to be eaten alive.”
“Just give us a few minutes to figure things out, as long as you’re ready to go at moment’s notice.” Arthur said, trying to placate Ken.
“Fine, I already said we are good to go right away. I’ll give you some time, but I won’t be waiting forever.” Ken said with finality as he went back to his family.
Arthur shrugged before going back to his radio but not before asking Fluttershy to ask Sunset all about the wait period. She nodded and she went about her task. Arthur was closely monitoring for the survivors who agreed to get join them.
“Hello? Is this Arthur?” a voice hesitantly called out.
Arthur quickly answered, “Yeah this is Arthur.”
“It’s Chloe, I’m on my way there, just don’t leave yet ok?” Carol pleaded.
“How far are you out?” Arthur asked.
“Five to ten minutes maybe?”
“Alright. We will wait, just be quick as possible.”
“Ok I will try. See you in a bit”
Arthur changed his radio setting as he tried finding others on the channels, he glanced to where Samuel was standing at the road as he smoked. Then he saw Sunset came over, a rather indignant expression on her face.
“Fifteen minutes? Really?” Sunset questioned.
Arthur raised an eyebrow, “We gave people plenty of time to get here, most are on their way. I know that much, and most will be here within fifteen minutes.”
Sunset pondered for a second, “And if they get stuck or have to take a detour? Then what? We just leave them?”
“No but…” Arthur stopped as he saw Samuel jogging over, also getting Sunset’s attention.
“We got incoming and quite a few of them, I say five minutes before we get swamped.”
Sunset murmured to herself and Arthur cursed.
“I’ll tell the people to reroute. What was our stop point once we are outside the city? ” Arthur asked with haste in his voice.
“It was the overpass, about four miles out from Canterlot. If they see our convoy they can also join in that way.” Samuel responded with similar haste.
Arthur grabbed his radio and almost threw himself into the truck, as Sunset ran over to the others and announced the change of plans. Everyone got in their vehicles with gusto and the convoy was back on the road, with the two new additions taking up in the rear. As Samuel pulled onto the road he and everyone driving picked up speed, the zombies were closing in and fast, with several sprinters making their way over, covering ground fast as they parted through the grass like gazelles.
The convoy would be far away from them as they began their way on the outskirt roads of the city, trying to stay away from the downtown area. Arthur was keeping up as he frantically rerouted the other survivors.
“We are going to have to spend some time waiting for the others, plenty of detours and backtracking for them.” Arthur announced.
“We should be able to do that,” Samuel said as he maneuvered around a sedan and a SUV crashed together.
Samuel glanced back at Twilight through the rearview mirror, “Do you remember if we have to get through downtown at all?”
Twilight looked at him with slight relief as she spoke, “No, our next left turn will bring us onto the service road and it brings us all the way to our exit.”
Samuel nodded as he slowed for the turn, narrowing missing a zombie trying to grab the vehicle. The rest of the convoy followed suit with little difficulty as they began turning onto the service road. With the city on one side and fields of overgrown grass and flowers on the other. Another car joined their convoy Samuel noticed from his side mirrors.
“That car one of ours?”
Arthur responded, still focused on his radio, “Yes, that’s Chloe.”
The convoy went on and soon they were almost out, as Samuel began to round a corner he noticed something.
“Shit!”
It was semi-truck in that was blocking most of the road, having been flipped over with trailer in tow.
“It looks like we can still get around.” Twilight noted.
Samuel clenched his teeth as he slowed and tried seeing where he could get around. Then he caught movement on the other side, as two zombies wandered around the semi and locked their eyes on the truck. Loud groans sounded as they shambled over, something special about the zombies is they were in military uniform and full kit.
“Arthur take the wheel, I’m going to make sure we ain’t heading straight into an ambush.” Samuel ordered as he got out with his M4 and racked it.
Samuel fired three shots and killed the two zombies; he rushed forward, taking a wide gander around the semi to avoid any attempts from being grabbed. He saw the reason for the accident, two Humvees, one smashed into the trailer and the other flipped on its side. A quick inspection of the accident showed no undead. What he did see was a horde of zombies a little too large for his liking was blocking the way, quickly doing a visual on the distance; he guessed about seven hundred feet.
The problem is they were on their way, with five sprinters taking the lead. Samuel quickly went into a prone position, controlled his breathing and flipped off the safety as the pad of his finger pulled the trigger. The lead sprinter’s skull exploded and went down with a tumble, the one behind it tripping over its corpse. The new lead was taking down with a shot that shattered its jaw and exited out the back of its skull.
Samuel shifted his body a bit and realigned his sights, the ACOG proving useful today, and he fired again, hitting a sprinter in the throat to no effect but a large spray of blood. He fired again, the same sprinter losing a chunk off its skull on the top as it too tumbled dramatically. Two were left and one was getting much closer so Samuel popped up on a knee but he heard the crack of another rifle.
Arthur cocked his lever action and fired again at the one sprinter closing as it passed some hundred feet, the side of its face blown inward, as it tumbled into a somersault, smashing its chin into the pavement. The last one who recovered, in a violent twirl of limbs before once again sprinting down the road. Samuel put two rounds through its left knee, the zombie crashing with a lack of grace and started crawling towards them, before being finished off with a bullet to the head.
“Let’s get the convoy rolling. I’ll cover here; send at least a couple more bodies up here to help.” Samuel said as he ejected the magazine for inspection and reinserted it.
“Will do.” Arthur responded as he put a couple more rounds into his rifle and rushed back to the truck.
Samuel did a quick check of the two zombies he killed earlier, grabbing six extra magazines still loaded and a single frag grenade. The horde of at least eighty zombies when he did a better count, were still closing distance fast. He once again flipped the safety and he popped several heads before extra help arrived. Big Mac and one of the men from the Corolla showed up first, with bolt action rifle and handgun respectively. Samuel gestured for them to stay in an extended line on him.
Big Mac silently just started applying his rifle, slow but efficient. The other man checked the chamber of his handgun, let the action go forward and waited for the undead to get closer into effective handgun range.
The convoy started moving forward as the three pushed forward to give a bit of room, but the convoy had to halt. Resulting in several people rushing forward with firearms to give a supporting hand.
“Hey is that a machine gun?” said man pointed out, gesturing to the underneath of the Humvee smashed into the trailer.
Samuel glanced over, “Yes it is! Well go grab it!”
The man rushed over to it and grabbed it, somewhat unsure how to hold it. The M249 with standard iron sights, still had the box inserted, the belt flopping around.
“I’m Samuel. What’s your name?” Samuel asked as he fired a shot.
“Norman. Pleasure to meet.” Norman replied as he fiddled with the top cover and tried loading the machine gun.
“Do you know how to use that?” Samuel asked.
Norman paused, “No but I’m sure I can figure it out.”
“Have you used one before?” Samuel questioned with growing irritation.
Norman shoved it toward him, “I haven’t. So fucking take it then if you know.”
Samuel slung his M4 and grabbed the LMG, as Norman took his handgun and started firing. Popping up the top cover, he checked for a bolt, there was one fully forward making Samuel smile, putting the start of the belt into the feed tray, slammed the top cover down and he racked the bolt. He lined the sights up as the group continued shambling forward, having been whittled down to more manageable levels. Now being only seventy feet away.
Samuel gripped the LMG hard for the recoil and let forth a burst of lead, taking one zombie out with an explosion of blood and skull fragments and rounds hitting the one behind it. A cacophony of gunfire sounded as the group fired, more rounds being expended as near misses and grazes were common.
“All of you stay in a fucking line!” Samuel yelled, the improvised firing line being too shoddy, causing uncomfortable amounts of lasing and cutting off of firing arcs.
Once we get out of this, I got to teach these fuckers how to make a straight line!
“We got some coming from behind us!” Applejack cried out as she ran up to the frontline, inserting two more shells into her double barrel shotgun.
“We have to keep going then! Let’s just ram through them!” Rainbow yelled as she went back to her vehicle.
Jumble and confused talking made it take longer than necessary but the convoy started moving again. Just in time for the much diminished but still enough of a threat zombie group to make it close. Samuel, Norman and Big Mac found themselves on top of the semi-trailer firing down at the zombies. Some trying to reach for them and others grabbing hopelessly at the vehicles as they passed one by one.
“I’m out!” Big Mac called out.
“Last mag here!” Norman called out next.
Samuel used that as a reason to try and quicken his efforts to kill the zombies in the way. Burst after burst they fell like wheat to the scythe until he fired the last of the box and threw it away, performing an unload drill as he spoke.
“Ready to go!”
The other two gave affirmatives and the three jumped down onto the Humvee, scrambling off it and making a dash forward towards the convoy, Samuel’s truck having turned around to pick them up as the rest of the convoy continued onto their destination. Samuel quickly grabbed a spare M249 barrel he saw sticking out of the Humvee and hoped it was serialized to the LMG he had now.
The three sprinted as the zombies behind followed them, with the truck making a wide turn so the bed was facing them. All three hopped into the bed, landing rather uncomfortably onto the supplies loaded in the back. The truck surged forward down the road, almost making Norman fall out of the bed. The encroaching zombies groaned and moaned in ceaseless hunger, the once whittled down horde started growing in number again as more joined the endless march, growing smaller as distance grew between them and soon they were out of sight.
Gripping for dear life, the three men in the back tried finding a decent enough seat as the ride played out. Heading past a large buildup of still vehicles, sitting on the road out of Canterlot. Arthur maneuvered the truck around it, turning onto the road going in. The way ahead was clear as day with only the occasional vehicle that had to be skirted round.
Quickly catching up to the convoy, the truck settled in the rear behind Chloe’s car. Samuel took a huge breath in relief, finally free from the increasingly oppressive and constricting atmosphere of a dead city, lost to the dead.
The truck rolled along down the pavement, the valley opening up the farther they got from Canterlot. The long line of vehicles started thinning out, so many vehicles abandoned, yet many of their former occupants laid dead or now roaming among the vehicles. Arthur couldn’t help but wonder.
So many people wanting to live…Now gone. Did any make it? My friends or classmates? Probably dead like everyone else.
Arthur was shaken out of his thoughts by the sight of the overpass; the lead vehicle in the convoy began making its way up a ramp. The variety of vehicles parked where they could on the relatively clear overpass. Arthur stayed a moment in the truck to breath before hopping out like most of the others. Radio in arms he was already set to contact the few other survivors who haven’t made it yet.
Fiddling with the knob he listened closely for a response to his hails over the radio. It wasn’t a response from the radio waves he got but the distant sound of a car engine. Glancing towards the city he saw the source, an old pickup truck looking to be from the seventies. And over the course of fifteen minutes two more vehicles also arrived. A red Honda Civic followed by a blue Pontiac Torrent.
Arthur quickly talked to the new arrivals. The ones in the pickup turned out to be a Hispanic couple with their four kids, the ones from the Honda were an older couple in their fifties and five people in the Torrent, two teenagers, from Crystal Prep surprisingly and three adults. After talking with them Arthur knew they were the last, meaning at least four other survivors and anyone they had with them weren’t coming. Having not been able to contact most of them since yesterday and the last hail being from early in the morning, he assumed the worst.
Sunset and Samuel came over to Arthur as the rest of the other survivors intermingled with everyone, a couple on watch for anyone or anything.
“Is that everyone Arthur?” Sunset asked as she leaned against the truck.
“…Yeah. The last contact was this morning, about six. I’m going to assume they aren’t coming.” Arthur replied sadly, as he put his radio away to save battery.
A moment of silence followed before the conversation gained traction again.
“So is there anything else we should consider?” Samuel asked openly, “Everyone knows what the goal is now.”
“We should still brief everyone. To make sure there isn’t any confusion.” Sunset said as she motioned for the map.
Arthur grabbed it from the truck and laid it out on the hood, Samuel using some mags as paperweights to hold the map down.
“Is that machine gun still any use?” Arthur asked Samuel as he put the M249 beside him.
Samuel snorted in reply, “No. Unless we find more boxes and the belts need to be linked by the way, it’s useless. A big glorified stick.”
Sunset perked on eyebrow, “Saw in a video game I played that it used magazines. Is that possible?”
Samuel looked surprised, “Yeah you can,” showing a demonstration by shoving a mag into the magazine well, “But it is for the ‘oh shit’ moments when you’re out of ammo. I’d rather use a rifle.”
Taking the magazine out he continued, “Anyways. I’m thinking,” Samuel traced a finger north of their current position, “We head north before we make our way east. To this highway cutting through the Cascades.”
Sunset scrunched her face in thought before pointing a finger to a closer road through the mountains, “We should consider this route. Smaller road, but closer.”
“I haven’t heard anything on the radio about the roads heading into the interior but who knows.” Arthur added in.
Samuel sighed, “Which means we have to get information as we go or by word of mouth which is slow and damn unreliable if they aren’t relaying it real time. I foresee a lot of recces in our future.”
Sunset smiled, “We will manage. But north it is,” she turned to all the survivors, “Hey everyone! Bring it in!”
The group of survivors slowly huddled in around the truck as Sunset began to speak.
“I’m quite sure everyone already knows the plan, but I just want to check to make sure. So is everybody up to date on what we are doing?” Sunset announced as she looked to each person.
A round of silent nods, loud affirmatives or looks of understanding meant everybody knew. Sunset went on once she was confident in that.
“We are going to head north before cutting east. Then try heading for the state border. Any questions?” Sunset asked with a sweeping hand.
Ken was the first to speak up, “Yeah. How are we organizing this whole group anyways?”
“I’m not sure yet. We will figure it out once we stop for the night. Agreed?” Sunset offered as a peace offering.
Ken looked like he was about to say something but nodded at last. Norman’s friend was next.
“Could we get some food? Haven’t eaten much since the start of all this.” Michael somewhat pleaded.
Arthur spoke up, “Pinkie?”
Pinkie responded with haste, “Already on it!”
Rushing to the Wrangler she grabbed some food to share for those needed it, as she was doing it Sunset went on.
“We will continue the same way as we were before for traveling in a ‘convoy’. We should also make sure we are ready to fight any threats as we travel, everyone has a weapon to protect themselves.”
“But why? There seems to be enough people to fight anyways.” One of the Crystal Prep students asked, sounding very unamused.
Samuel decided to speak up, a scowl on his face, “She is right. Everyone who can, will fight if necessary. I absolutely will not allow us to be unprepared for any threats. And if you can’t fight you’ll be taught how. No excuses, no exceptions.”
The Hispanic man spoke up, “I will not allow my children to be forced into fighting mister. I will not stoop that low.”
Samuel’s face softened, “True, you’re right we won’t stoop that low,” his face hardened again, “Everyone else though will fight. As I said we have to be ready and in this new world we are in, we are going to have to fight wherever we end up.”
Samuel looked to everyone, some seemed to agree, others seemed to disagree. Didn’t matter much to him though. Pointing to the city he continued.
“You all know the zekes are my reason, agreed?”
To his perspective most seemed to have agreed, to Sunset however it was a different story. Sunset leaned over to speak quietly.
“Later Samuel. Let them settle in a bit before that.”
Samuel pursed his lips but stayed quiet; Sunset turned her attention back to everyone else, “Is there anything else before we go?”
Collective silence followed, Sunset allowed a moment before going on, “Ok then everyone. We should cover some ground before dark. Samuel your truck is in lead again.”
Samuel nodded and grabbed the map plus the LMG, hopping into the truck. Everyone followed suit, Arthur and Twilight with Spike in the truck as well. Using the radio, Arthur double checked radio connection for good communication between all them.
Arthur checked with everyone one by one and the convoy was off. The large amount of vehicles formed a long line, heading north.
“You know what’s funny?” Samuel said openly.
“What would be funny?” Twilight asked curiously.
Samuel grinned, “It’s like we are going on exodus like the Old Testament.” He continued in a deep non serious voice, “On our way to the promised land, you know.”
Samuel laughed after that, Twilight let out a giggle and Arthur a long chuckle. The convoy rolled onwards, and Twilight began to sleep just like Spike. Samuel looked to his cousin who too was nodding off.
“Sleep Arthur,” before Arthur could respond, Samuel pressed on, “Just leave the radio on and headphones unplugged, I’ll wake you up if anything is needed.”
Arthur did so, and he closed his eyes, quickly drifting to dreamless sleep as the truck and the rest of the convoy rumbled along.
Arthur woke up with a start, taking several rapid deep breathes. After a moment he calmed down with a heavy sigh. It always seemed to be the same dreams, torn apart by zombies or friends and family turning into zombies. Every so often he had a dream about Jennifer; those hit the hardest for him. Grabbing his canteen, he took several gulps of the refreshing water.
Sitting up in his sleeping bag, he glanced over to Samuel who was sleeping soundly enough, though he did sleep somewhat like a vampire. Barely moving and if Samuel was awakened, he rose like a vampire from a coffin. Arthur smirked slightly at the image in his head, before deciding to get up to go take a piss. Slipping on some sandals he stepped out of the tent he and Samuel shared, baseball bat in hand, nobody went anywhere without weapons within arm’s reach these days, into the rather small area they decided to camp in for the night.
It was a partly cloudy night, the moon provided just enough light to see, if one strained their eyes. A variety of tents, with a few people just in sleeping bags with a bedroll underneath as they slept under the stars, forming a vague circle around a dead campfire, not even embers left. The temporary campsite was surrounded by the groups’ vehicles in a circle, resembling a wagon fort that the settlers of the frontier would use back in the 1800s.
A moderate breeze swayed the trees around the campsite, spruce and pine mixed with the occasional oak. A chill went up Arthur’s spine as said breeze went through. With only a t-shirt and shorts on, the coolness of night was biting into Arthur as he went to the rather quickly done latrine that was just outside the car-cum-wagon fort. Thankfully he was facing away from the camp allowing a sense of security from prying eyes as he unzipped and let it loose.
He heard the sound of footprints of two people behind him as he finished up. Taking a glance behind, he saw Ken and Norman with weapons in hand as they patrolled. On the first night after they left Canterlot, a guard system was put in place with at least two people in a “fire team” that makes rounds around the camp, taking turns with others every two hours.
“Hey Ken. Hey Norman.” Arthur greeted the two in turn.
The two men greeted him back and they continued their round, Arthur went back to the tent. Putting the bat to the side and sandals off, he went back into the tent, slipping back into his sleeping bag. Closing his eyes he tried going back to sleep. It didn’t take long for him to give up, the previous nightmares still in his mind, having left a lingering presence. So Arthur just settled with staring at the roof of the tent, completely absent mindedly.
Arthur didn’t know how long he stared into the dark, time passing by in a haze. Thoughts drifting from one thing to another, but never staying long enough to find purchase in his mind. It was only the sudden movement of Samuel, who sat up rather quickly with wide eyes and a deep breath through his nose. Arthur looked at him, blinking several times after staring blankly for so long and surprise at Samuel’s movement.
A few moments of silence followed as Arthur stared at Samuel, the look of brain processing evident as Samuel stared ahead.
“Uhhhhh…You good?” Arthur asked uncertainly.
Samuel turned his head to look at Arthur, “…I’m not entirely sure.”
“Nightmare?” Arthur asked.
Samuel rubbed his face with his hands, rubbing the drowsiness away, “You could say that. And I’m guessing you as well?”
A small nod was enough for Samuel, “The usual?”
“Yeah…Jennifer this time. Again.” Arthur replied sadly.
Samuel sighed, “For me it was my sisters back home. God only knows about them now.”
The two sat in silence for several minutes, thinking about friends and family, those dead and alive, or the hope that they are alive.
“Think we will be pass the mountains in a day or two? We are close to the valley pass after all.” Arthur asked, trying to keep his mind off the gloomy subject.
“Oh, for sure. I think we are all eager to push on getting out of here.” Samuel gestured lazily outside, “Besides that horde we saw a couple days ago, could be still in the area. Got me spooked.”
“Fuck was that a big horde. There must have been what? Several thousand?”
“No doubt at least that many,” Samuel sighed, “It’s already gotten so bad this side of the mountains. I hope it’s calmer on the other side of Oregon.”
Arthur nodded in agreement, “I haven’t heard much radio chatter that indicates it’s as bad as anything on the coast. I still pick up signals from Portland or Seattle, even Los Angeles.”
Samuel listened as Arthur explained the hopeless situation that many people have found themselves in the major cities. A combination of desperation and fear was what Arthur listened to on the radio.
“Every day there seems to be just a little less chatter or a few more people signing off,” Arthur explained, his voice frustrated, “One day I don’t think there will be anyone left in the cities, just the dead.”
Samuel shrugged in response, “It’s inevitable that the cities will become entirely abandoned. Nothing we can do about it.”
A moment of silence followed before Samuel spoke again, “Ready to sleep?”
Arthur shook his head, “Not yet,” a thought popped in, “Did I ever tell you the story how it all started with the girls?”
Samuel furrowed his brows, “No you haven’t. Finally gonna tell me how the whole story goes?”
“Yup,” Arthur made himself comfortably before going on, “It all started when Sunset arrived last year…”
Sunset stared at her book as she contemplated what to write to Twilight in Equestria. Having been unable to sleep, she decided to write a friendship report, this would be the first one since the outbreak began.
A snore tore Sunset’s attention away from the book and towards Rainbow who was sprawled over her sleeping bag. Sunset smiled slightly at it; at least someone was sleeping well. Turning her attention back to the book and with a soft sigh she began writing, hoping the words would flow as she went.
Dear Princess Twilight,
A lot has happened since I last wrote, more than I could possibly put into words. Remember the sickness I mentioned? Well it turned out to be a lot worse than me or any of the other girls could have imagined. I know it may sound ridiculous but just hear me out.
Zombies. Actual zombies exist now. How it all happened, I couldn’t even begin to guess. Already society has collapsed and almost everything we loved and knew is gone. I saw several of my classmates as zombies, who knows how many are dead now or gone, trying to survive like us. I have no idea what happened to most of them or any of the teachers, Principal Celestia and Vice-principal Luna, I know went somewhere but I don’t know where. The girls for the most part don’t know what happened to their parents or siblings or any family really.
It’s taken a toll on them. At least we got each other; I think we are all relying on each other more these days. I know once you read this you’ll try to come here and help us or get us to come to Equestria. Don’t try. I smashed the portal before we had to flee; I originally planned on bringing everyone through so we could escape. But everything happened so fast, we were split up, the zombies were overwhelming and I didn’t want to risk the chance of one getting through to Equestria. We have left Canterlot about a week ago anyways, trying to find someplace safe; hopefully we will find it east of the mountains.
Thankfully we have a good group for the journey ahead, we are already working relatively well with each other. The magic of friendship is still going strong at least. Do you remember ever meeting Arthur? I would be surprised if you did, regardless he is with us. He has been a huge help, his radio and his skills with it are the main reason our group is together, alongside having saved most of our friends actually. His cousin Samuel is another major reason why our friends are alive and together right now. Both have been steadfast and helpful from the start of all this. I think we are lucky to have the both of them.
I’m going to try to get some sleep now, hard to do between the nightmares and the fear of zombies finding us, which they occasionally do. I hope everything is going good in Equestria.
Your dearest friend,
Sunset Shimmer
Samuel laid prone on the side of a hill that overlooked the valley pass, binoculars in hand, hidden in the long grass mixed with wild flowers that swayed slowly in the breeze. It was a surprisingly nice day, blue sky with only the occasional cloud to disturb it. Samuel’s attention was focused elsewhere.
Looking through his binoculars he eyed up the small town, if it could be called that being closer to a hamlet or village, it was called Thurston and it sat on the only highway that went through this valley. The town wasn’t very remarkable, nothing but houses, a gas station and what looked like a few stores. That wasn’t what he focused on though; it was the makeshift wall surrounding the town and the small almost shadow like outlines of people on said walls. Further movement inside the town also caught his eye.
Well ain’t that a surprise. The town hasn’t fallen to the zekes, which means this place might be more out of the way than I thought. There is still the occasional roamer though.
As if a zombie could hear his thoughts, Samuel spotted one walking out of the bush towards the town. The zombie was some ways off from his position, he watched patiently as the zombie approached the town until a soft crack sounded, a rifle. Said zombie then dropped like a sack of potatoes. Samuel estimated the distance to be roughly about four hundred meters or twelve hundred feet.
Having seen enough he snaked his way back until he was comfortably out of any potential view and slowly butt-slid down the rest of the way until reaching the bottom. Rainbow Dash and Michael were waiting for him at the bottom.
“So whaddya see?” Michael asked in his raspy smoker voice.
“Town is full of survivors, got a wall with guards and they are at least somewhat vigilant.” Samuel stated.
Rainbow spoke somewhat surprised, “A whole town? Did they look friendly?”
Samuel shook his head, “I couldn’t tell you. Let’s go back, so we can come with a plan.”
Taking out a portable radio, Samuel reported back to the main group. Giving a quick report before, the three packed up the little they brought and headed back to the convoy, sitting on the highway until they got back.
Arthur was doing what he did best, working his radio, he was trying to get any kind of signal from the town of Thurston after hearing from Samuel about the situation. The hope was that they could talk without physical risk. But after fifteen minutes he sighed and gave up for now. Both Sunset and Twilight were beside him as they waited for him to get something. They saw the look of disappointment on his face as he took the headphones off.
“No luck?” Sunset asked.
Arthur nodded, “Yeah, no luck. Either they are ignoring me, or they don’t have a radio.”
Twilight piped in, “How would approach them then? Especially if they do decide to be hostile?”
The question lingered as everyone thought about it. They had a few hostile encounters with other survivors already, nothing violent as of yet. But it was only a matter of time before something happened.
“Well let’s wait until they get back, so they can tell us more.” Sunset said.
Arthur checked his watch; the little recce party having left an hour ago. They should be back in another hour was the assumption. Sunset and Twilight started to delve into their own conversation which Arthur politely ignored. Still feeling a little hungry he decided to go see if there is anything left from breakfast, leaving the girls and radio he went over to where Pinkie was still cooking out of a portable stove that was sitting on the tailgate of Samuel’s truck.
“Hey Pinkie, got any seconds ready?” Arthur asked hopefully as he approached.
“Yup!” she handed him a plate with everything he liked, “Almost out of eggs and bacon though. So grab them while you can.”
“Thanks Pinkie,” he hesitated for second, “Do I need to even ask how you even knew what I wanted today?”
Pinkie gave him a mischievous smirk, like he already knew the answer, “I think you already know, you silly.”
Arthur blinked then nodded, he knew never to question Pinkie when she knows or does something. Yet every once in a while, the urge takes over and the question comes out anyway.
“How are you doing?” Arthur decided to ask as he began to eat.
“I’m doing good. Much better now we are away from Canterlot…” she paused for a second, “But it’s still there, you know?”
“Yeah…yeah. I get you.” Arthur responded as he slurped up his last egg.
“But at least I’m with all my friends here! So, it’s not all bad,” Pinkie grabbed a mug that had some coffee, “Also here is that coffee you wanted.”
Arthur hummed happily with a mouthful of food, having almost finished his plate he quickly ate the rest, put the dishes in a plastic bin for later washing. Grabbed the coffee set to the side and took a sip to appreciate it. He was becoming increasingly attached to coffee, surprising himself since he never drank it before the apocalypse arrived.
“Thanks Pinkie, it was much needed.” Arthur said with a small smile.
Pinkie smiled back, “No problem Arthur.”
The older couple that accompanied their group, Henry and Mathilda, came over and the four began conversing for some time. Arthur was taken away however by the need to maintain a constant lookout around the convoy for security against zombies, alongside the increasing risk of hostile survivors as time went on.
With lever action in hand he relieved Big Mac from watch duty, with him going to take care of the horses, Arthur sat beside Applejack on the side of the road.
“Applejack.” Arthur greeted.
“Arthur.” Applejack greeted back with a tilt of her head.
The two sat in silence as they kept up a vigilant watch, for an unknowable amount of time. Only the birds and the occasional rodent disturbed their watch. So focused they didn’t realize Arthur was being called until the third time.
“Arthur!” Sunset called.
Arthur whipped his head around, “Huh?”
“Our scouts are back, need you on the radio again.”
“Got it.” Arthur replied as he got up as Michael came up to replace him for watch duty.
Arthur rushed over, shouldering his rifle, to where Samuel and Sunset were, as the two discussed what to do.
“Do you think they will cause trouble?” Sunset inquired.
Samuel responded, “I don’t think so, but without getting closer I couldn’t tell. I hope they aren’t feeling trigger happy.” He sighed, “I would’ve liked if we drove around the town but…that is out of the picture.”
Sunset nodded, “Besides you said they had a gas station?”
“Yes they do.” Samuel confirmed.
“We should try trading for some gas as it is then, it couldn’t hurt to have more. We may be able to recruit some more people as well for all we know.” Sunset stated.
Samuel nodded, “I agree.” He turned to Arthur, “Could you hop on the radio and try again?”
Arthur nodded, “I can try, no guarantees though.”
As Arthur tried with his radio again, Sunset and Samuel continued to discuss.
“We could trade some of that alcohol and cigarettes we found for the fuel.” Samuel said.
Sunset thought for a second, “That sounds good, but how do we first approach them? Should we send just one vehicle and a couple people to negotiate first? Cause I think that’s what we should do if the radio doesn’t work.”
“I would hate to put our people in that situation though with no backup if it goes south...” Samuel said slowly as he took out a smoke.
Sunset smiled slyly, “And that is why we have everyone else behind us who could fight ready to help if it does. So if it goes south, we could do a fighting retreat and then figure it out from there.”
Samuel’s face went grim, “Even if we do that, we are still at a big risk. That crash course I have given our main fighters won’t be enough; I don’t feel confident that we could pull that off. At least not without a huge expense in ammo and casualties.”
Sunset nodded gravely, “But what else could we do? I don’t think we have many options here.”
“You are right, we don’t. So let’s hope for the best. If we do have to fight, their walls aren’t too impressive. Bunch of semi-trucks and hastily put together materials in between. There also shouldn’t be too many actual guards or people they can actually throw into a fight. The sign right out of the town says they only have about a hundred and fifty people and I assume it’s about half that now.” Samuel listed dryly, like a military report.
Sunset nodded as he listed the details, before she spoke herself, “Perhaps they won’t be eager to fight after all then. So I think we can go ahead with the plan.”
Samuel nodded as he finished his cigarette, “Very well. I’ll grab two extra people to do this.”
Sunset added more, “I’ll come along. I don’t want to risk anyone else for this.”
Samuel shook his head, “No. You are needed here, your friends most of all. Despite what you might think, people are looking to you as a leader. At the very least a stabilizing force in the group.”
Sunset looked at him in surprise, “What? I doubt it. I’m just doing what I can to help. Like everyone else.”
Samuel rolled his eyes, “If you say so. I’m serious though,” Samuel looked at Sunset determinedly, “I’ll be taking Norman and Chloe if they agree. If things go south and we don’t make it back. You get out of here.”
Samuel put up a hand to stop Arthur from speaking, “You are staying here as well. You’re the only radio operator and I’m quite sure you know what that means if you go down.”
Arthur scowled a bit at that but conceded, “Well you’re going to have to go forward with the plan, still no damn radio signal from them.”
“Alright then. I’ll get going. Let’s get over the mountains by tonight.” Samuel said with a determined tone.
“I’ll get everyone ready to go.” Sunset said and off she went calling to people to get going.
“Best of luck. And try to make it back. Ok?” Arthur said, concern in his voice.
“I’ll do my best. See you in a bit Arthur.” Samuel said, giving a quick hug to Arthur and walked off to get ready.
Arthur sighed, that is when he noticed the Crusaders beside him, looking intently at his radio then three pairs of eyes looking at him.
“Soooooo…what are you doing with that.” Scootaloo said, as she pointed at the radio.
Arthur hesitated for a second but before he could speak Apple Bloom spoke up, “Can’t ya see? He is talking to people with the…radio right?”
“Yes, it’s a radio.” Arthur said.
“I told you two that’s what it is.” Sweetie Belle piped in.
Scootaloo countered, “You were told that by Rarity, don’t lie.”
“I’m not lying.” Sweetie Belle replied, then more softly, “Much.”
Apple Bloom rolled her eyes, “What we were wondering is-“
“Can we try it?!” Scootaloo interrupted, to Apple Bloom’s dismay.
Arthur looked around to see where Rarity, Applejack or Rainbow could be as he spoke, “I don’t think we will have time…”
Arthur looked down as he was poked to see the three Crusaders staring at him with puppy dog eyes, he found it much harder to resist now.
They are really wanting to learn this. We will see if they stay with it.
Arthur sighed, giving into them, “Alright, I’ll show you. But only for a quick minute we got to get going soon.”
A collective “Yay” from the Crusaders and Arthur began, “This knob here controls the frequency…”
Rainbow Dash was stretching her muscles as she got ready to move out. She was utterly focused, getting the tightness out felt good as she did it. She finished her quick stretching session and looked around for Scootaloo, it was time to get going after all. She looked at Fluttershy, who was taking care of her animals.
“Hey Fluttershy, have you seen Scootaloo anywhere?”
“Oh, I saw her and the Crusaders head over to Arthur.” Fluttershy said as she pointed in the direction they went.
“Thanks.” Rainbow replied as she headed in the direction pointed.
Rainbow couldn’t help but feel somewhat relieved they were finally leaving and would hopefully be in the east of Oregon by tonight. As she reached the front of the convoy she spotted the Crusaders listening to Arthur, as he pointed and they prodded at the radio. She took a moment to appreciate the scene, the Crusaders being able to focus on something besides the deadly apocalypse they found themselves in.
“It’s nice to see the girls be more like themselves again. It’s like they are already forgetting what we left.” Rarity said as she moved away from the vehicle she was making ready.
Rainbow startled a bit, not expecting Rarity to appear, “Yeah...maybe it can stay that way,” Rainbow sighed, “I hope.”
Rarity nodded, “I agree dear, one can only hope it does,” she raised a finger to her lips in a thinking gesture, “I am surprised they are interested in the radio of all things though.”
Rainbow shrugged, “Better than yesterday when they tried driving a car…again.”
Rarity gave a conceding nod, “Agreed, I still haven’t decided what to do with Sweetie.”
“More chores?” Rainbow offered.
Rarity pondered for a moment, “You know what? That is a splendid idea, thank you Rainbow.”
Rainbow snorted, “Anytime.”
Thinking about something Arthur told her, Rainbow felt the need to share, “Arthur told me about how one of his friends had a crush on me. Jason, he was on the soccer team.”
Rarity looked at her in surprise and slight glee, “Really? That is fantastic news darling!”
Rainbow looked at her sadly, “Jason is gone Rarity. Arthur told me cause he felt like he needed to.”
Taking several rapid blinks, Rarity sighed before speaking with tone of frustration, “I forgot for the slightest second the situation we are in. Damn this apocalypse.”
Rainbow went on, “I actually would’ve given him a chance too.”
“…We should grab the girls so we can get going.” Rarity said after a moment of silence for things that could have been.
“Let’s go.” Rainbow replied tautly.
The two walked over to Arthur and the Crusaders, starting to hear what he was talking about.
“…If I had some extra walkie-talkies I would give you them but I don’t, sorry girls.” Arthur said apologetically.
The three let out a collective “Ahhhh” as Rarity and Rainbow arrived.
Rainbow spoke first, “Alright time to get going girls.”
“But he was just showing us how you talk to people on it!” Scootaloo responded.
“And how you can do other things like music.” Sweetie added.
“She’s right, I got to pack it up. I’ll teach some more later. Sound good?” Arthur offered.
“Sounds good to me.” Apple bloom replied.
Her two friends sounded their agreements, and the three grabbed their backpacks. Rarity and Rainbow rounded them up; guiding them to the vehicle they were staying in. As they approached the SUV, Applejack came up with her double barrel in hand.
“About time we pulled in our horns and get this party moving.” Applejack said.
Rainbow chimed out, “Apparently we got a small group going to talk to the town first.”
“Where did you hear that dear?” Rarity asked.
“Sunset.”
Rarity “hmmmed” in response as she made sure the three girls got in and they were buckled in. Despite vocal protest by the Crusaders. Once Rarity finished she saw Arthur in the corner of her eye as he lugged his radio to another vehicle, she couldn’t help but stare for perhaps a tad longer than usual. She was grateful that he was being nice with her sister and her friends and she found herself admiring his arm muscles as he helped shift a load in the back of a pickup.
“What you looking at Rarity?” Pinkie said out of nowhere.
Rarity was startled straight, jumping a significant height, as she landed she glared at Pinkie as she composed yourself, “Pinkie! What on earth makes you think that was a good idea! To scare me like that!”
Pinkie smiled, “To get you to stop of course, silly. You also didn’t answer my question,” she edged closer and spoke in a singsong tone, “What you looking at?”
“Umm…Nothing Pinkie, what would make you ask that?” Rarity countered as she began to blush, knowing it was hopeless against Pinkie.
Pinkie’s smile grew and her eyes narrowed as she leaned in, “You like him, don’t you Rarity.”
Rarity’s blush began to grow much quicker, “I…I wouldn’t say that Pinkie.”
Rainbow couldn’t help but pipe in with a smile, “You like Arthur?”
Turning to Rainbow, Rarity spoke with a warning tone, “Don’t you dare add to this Rainbow Dash.”
Not being able to help herself, Rainbow stirred the pot, “How long have you had a crush on him? Hmmm?”
Applejack decided to jump in, “That’s enough now ya’ll. But I am curious…do ya?
Rarity looked at her with a slight glare before speaking in a slight huff, “Even if I did dear. The poor man lost his girlfriend recently so I don’t think he is exactly what you would call ‘available’. So if we could let it rest girls.”
That got their silence, which was soon interrupted by the sound of Samuel’s truck taking off down the road.
“Think that’s our cue to go girls.” Applejack said.
Samuel took the road to Thurston at a decent speed, it wasn’t long till the foothills gave to the flatness of the valley and the town. Samuel looked to Norman and Chloe, making sure they were keeping it together.
Norman sat indifferently as he put he some chew in his lip and Chloe looked around at the surroundings with a nervous air around her. Samuel adjusted his helmet as the town came into closer view and the shadow-like people began to appear clearer, as well as their movements growing more erratic.
The plan was already set and there was no going back now. The makeshift wall and now the gate as they approached. The truck slowed as Samuel brought the truck about a hundred meters out. The three stayed in there for a minute waiting for the reaction of the guards as they stared each other. Samuel looked to the other two and with a nod he exited the truck. Slinging his M4 and putting his hands in the air he approached the gate slowly until a guard called out.
“What do you want!”
Samuel called back, “Preferably safe passage and maybe someone to talk to!”
“Why’s that?!”
“Heading east! Maybe some trade too!”
“Give a moment!”
Samuel waited as the guard disappeared, as several guards stilled stare at him with guns still at the ready. He looked back at the truck as the other two watched in interest. It didn’t take long for someone to arrive.
“We are letting you in! No tricks!”
“Sounds good!”
Samuel went back to the truck and told the two the situation. Telling them to stay as he headed in. The gates opened, big steel doors welded together moving on semi-truck tires. Moving past the threshold of no return he entered the town where several men wearing makeshift armour surrounded a woman looking stern with crossed arms. The gates closed behind him.
“So who would you be wanting to enter my town?” the woman asked.
“Samuel. May I ask who you are?” Samuel responded.
The woman smirked, “Sharon. Mayor of this town. If that title means much anymore. So what is it that you want?”
Samuel shrugged, “I think you already know what I want.”
Sharon nodded, “Safe passage east and trade. Which means you better be honest.”
Samuel’s eyes slightly narrowed, “What do you mean?”
Sharon’s smirk turned into a smile, “Just that, be honest. You’ll get honesty in return.”
“Forgive me if I find that hard to believe.” Samuel said.
Sharon nodded, “I can understand that reasoning. However nothing can be gained without some give. Wouldn’t you agree?”
Samuel internally groaned but decided to take the bait, “Well it’s true about the heading east and trade part, we have no intentions in staying in the western part of Oregon.”
Sharon listened silently before speaking, “Which means you want to go through my town which we can allow for a price,” her eyes sparkled for a second, “What I want to know is what you want to trade.”
“Fuel mostly, ammunition secondly.”
“Ammunition I can’t allow but fuel we can do. What do you have to trade for it?”
Samuel pulled out his pack of smokes, slowly, and waved it, “Tobacco and alcohol are what I got.”
Sharon nodded indifferently, “Not what I really want but I have uses for that.”
Samuel put out his hand for a handshake, “Do we have a deal?”
Sharon approached him, several inches shorter than him and shook his hand, “The beginning of one.”
“Then perhaps I should tell you now I got a much larger group than this,” Samuel smiled, “I think you understand why.”
Sharon only raised an eyebrow at that, “Sneaky of you, I’ll allow that as long as they stay out for now while we do the trade.”
“I can agree to that,” Samuel took out a small radio, “Arthur bring everyone forward, we’re clear.”
A few seconds later a response came, “Roger that, Bringing up the convoy now.”
Sharon told her guards the situation to prevent any costly mistakes.
“Since you decided to announce now that you got more people than I thought, I have an offer for you.” Sharon said.
Samuel was now the one to raise an eyebrow, “What kind of offer?”
“We both know how critical supplies are to keep our people going,” she looked up at him with serious eyes, “Especially for a moving group like you.”
She went on, “There is a small homestead only a few miles away. Mormons. Good people they were and rumour had it they got a good stash of all kinds of things. According to their beliefs as you probably know.”
Samuel listened with intrigue, “I’m familiar enough. I noticed you said ‘were’ so I assume they’re gone?”
“Unfortunately. I had my people check their place early on. Place is overrun so they fell back. But the place was always in the back of my mind,” her eyes stared north, “I want those supplies, takes a lot for even a small town like this.”
Samuel looked north as well, “It’s north of here isn’t it.”
“Yes it is,” she looked back to him, “So are you willing?”
Samuel looked down at her, “Depends. What do we get of it?”
“A quarter of the stash alongside anything else you find on the homestead. Free passage through the town and I’ll throw in some fuel as well. Let’s say thirty gallons besides what we trade.” Sharon listed dryly.
Samuel thought hard for a second, “I’ll have to ask some people in my group about it first. I’ll get back to you.”
Sharon shrugged, “Fair enough. Don’t be long.”
Nodding at her Samuel was let out of the gates, just as the convoy was arriving. He waited by the truck, as they pulled up it didn’t take long for Sunset and Arthur running up to him.
Sunset spoke first, “So what’s the verdict?”
Arthur added to it, “Hopefully good right?”
“Yeah it’s good but we got an offer in exchange for some work…”
The two listened as Samuel explained the offer to them, once he finished Sunset spoke again.
“I think we could get a better deal, you sure there is nothing else to this?”
Samuel shook his head, “I don’t think so but it’s a chance we might have to take. I don’t think the extra supplies would hurt.”
Sunset rolled her eyes, “I know, I agree with that. But it couldn’t hurt to be careful.”
“So the deal is on?” Samuel asked.
“Yes. But see if you can get a better deal. I also want to see if she’ll allow us to recruit any of her people.” Sunset said firmly.
Samuel nodded before turning to Arthur, “Keep the group on the road for now and ready. I also need at least six people ready to go if this deal goes through.”
Arthur nodded and went about his task. Sunset went off with him and Samuel headed back to the gate which was still slightly open. Sharon waited with a patient look as he came up.
She stared at him, “So?”
“I want to re-negotiate a bit.” Samuel responded firmly.
Sharon raised an eyebrow, “Oh really? Very well lay out your terms.”
“A third of the stash,” he plowed through Sharon’s attempt to talk, “We’ll be spending our ammunition for this, have no doubt. I’m also putting my people at risk doing practically mercenary work.”
Sharon looked unimpressed and slighted at the counter offer but she spoke without it showing, “Alright a third then but only if all the zombies are dead. I want them all gone so they don’t bother us. Anything else?”
Samuel nodded, “This is separate from the offer but first I want to make sure our deal is good as it stands.”
Sharon nodded slowly, “It is, done deal. Now what else?”
“Possibility to recruit a few people from your town.”
Surprised at first, Sharon let out a short laugh, “Sure go ahead. But not any of our skilled people. They stay.”
Internally Samuel was a bit peeved she figured that out but didn’t let it show, “Done. Now I have some work to do.”
Sharon smiled, “Yes you do,” she pulled a flare gun out of her pant leg pocket and gave it to Samuel, “Use this once you’re clear and we’ll come and collect.”
Samuel nodded and off he went back to the convoy, finding Sunset giving some directions to the group. He waited for her to be done before approaching.
“We got a deal. A third of the stash with the original offer and we can recruit but no skilled people.” Samuel reported.
Sunset smiled, “Good. Will you be going now?”
“Yes, I’ll grab the six I need and we’ll be on our way,” he showed the flare gun, “Once we are finished I’ll shoot this indicating we are done.”
Sunset nodded, “I’ll deal with the trade and recruitment so don’t worry. Stay safe. Be quick as you can.”
“We’ll try.”
Samuel headed to Arthur where he was geared up, alongside Rainbow, Applejack, Ken, Big Mac and surprisingly Fluttershy. Samuel looked to each of them making sure they were squared away before he spoke.
“Everyone knows the deal?”
A round of agreements and affirmatives was all he needed to hear, “Alright let’s step off. Hop in the truck.”
The six loaded into the other pickup in the group, Big Mac driving with Applejack as passenger. The rest in the bed on top of some supplies which couldn’t be helped. The dirt road was easy to follow north to where the homestead was. Arthur started a conversation up with Samuel.
“Think this will be worth it?”
“I think so. At least one can hope.” Samuel responded.
“Think she was honest about it?” Arthur asked, somewhat for reassurance.
Samuel tilted his back and forth for a second, “For the most part we will see when we get there. Why did you bring Fluttershy by the way? She doesn’t exactly fight.”
Arthur nodded before responded, “I thought we might need a medic. She is closest we got.”
Samuel looked at Fluttershy as she held the wall of the bed with a white knuckle grip. She noticed him looking; she waved shyly before a slight bump brought her hand back to the wall. He smiled slightly at her and turned his attention back to Arthur.
“Fair enough.”
Samuel noticed they were already getting close to the homestead, he could make out a fence through the trees as the terrain began to grow with hills. He slammed on the roof of the truck to get it to stop and it slowed to a soft stop.
“This as far as we go. We walk the rest.” Samuel said as he hopped out of the bed.
The rest followed and everyone checked weapons and gear. Arthur scanned the hills to see if any uninvited guests were showing up. None showed. Samuel took a look at the terrain before deciding an approach.
“We will take that hill to our left and try to gain the high ground on any zombies.” Samuel stated.
“Let’s do this.” Rainbow said confidently as she twirled her prybar.
“Yuuuppp.” Big Mac added as loaded his rifle.
Ken was obviously calming himself for this mission. Fluttershy checked her bag, softly counting items she had. Applejack tilted her hat as she chewed on a piece of grass. With a nod to each Samuel stepped off and the rest followed in behind, single file. They parted through the knee high grass and flowers as they entered the forested area and climbed the side of the hill.
Pushing aside bush Samuel got to his belly and leopard crawled the rest of the way up as he gestured to the others to stay back except Arthur and watch out for any zombies. The two came to the crest of the hill and parked themselves behind a tree. They had a clear view of the homestead. A two story blue house with an attached garage that was open, a truck and a sedan parked out front. A barn stood slightly to the left of the house, a large tractor sitting undisturbed. The zombies were the primary attraction.
They wandered around the property aimlessly. The two men counted, only slightly audible. Several minutes went by before they spoke to each other quietly.
“How many did you count? Counted twenty two.” Arthur said.
Samuel nodded, “Twenty. Where is the other two you see?”
“Underneath the truck and the other that just went behind the barn.” Arthur explained.
“Good eyes. But there is probably more we can’t see including in the house.” Samuel said.
“What should we do? Spread out and get them that way?” Arthur asked.
Samuel pondered for a minute as Arthur waited in agonizing silence before finally speaking, “Somewhat. I’m thinking one group shoots and another is ready for melee in case any get close. Once we shoot the obvious ones and wait for any others show up. We will all close in after that.”
Arthur nodded, “Think this hill is good enough?”
Samuel looked around before nodding in agreement, “Yes. Bring the others up. Leave Fluttershy and Ken behind to make sure none sneak up on us.”
Arthur slithered back and soon after, the rest came up.
“Ready weapons. Rainbow, Applejack, I need you to be ready to intercept any that get close on the sides, we’ll back you up if there is more than one at a time.”
Rainbow smirked, “Don’t worry we can handle it.”
Applejack nodded silently. Samuel returned the nod.
“Light em up!” Samuel yelled.
The first shots rang out loud, and the first zombies were done. It didn’t take long for the others to turn towards the group and a cacophony of groans and moans sounded. Three sprinters took off towards them; mass fire quickly ended them in a display of blood and gore.
Samuel kept a steady pace as he shot one former woman in the head and her brains covered the sedan. Arthur cocked his lever action and took aim at one shambler that was crooked sideways, his brains were soon on the ground. Rainbow impaled one in the head that came from the woods while Applejack fired both barrels of her shotgun into another.
Big Mac calmly and smoothly worked his bolt action as he popped another head, the 30.06 round blowing it apart. Samuel checked to make sure that everyone kept their firing arcs and there was no lazing of each other.
It didn’t take long for the remaining eight or so to get a little close for comfort.
“Prepare for melee!” Samuel yelled as he slung his M4 and brought out his crowbar. The rest followed suit and they waited for them to climb the hill. Once they reached about half way, Rainbow and Applejack hit them from the side, bashing in skulls or pulverizing faces. While the rest hit them from the front. Samuel hit one in the face making it stagger as he followed through with a swing into the top of its head.
Arthur swung up with his bat that made the zombie he was targeting to roll back down the hill. He helped to dispose of another targeting Big Mac, he had a large pipe wrench he swung into its knee, making it bend and buckle. The group quickly advanced down the hill and finished off the rest.
Breathing heavily the group gathered themselves and checked themselves for injury, everyone was good. It was soon followed by a scream.
“That was Fluttershy!” Rainbow yelled as she dashed back to where her and Ken were.
Everyone followed, Samuel pushing himself to catch up with the very fast Rainbow Dash. Going up and over the hill, they saw a zombie wrestling with Ken as he tried avoid getting bitten. Ken was huffing and puffing as he did so. Before Samuel or Rainbow could reach them, or the zombie could sink its grotesque teeth into Ken. Fluttershy stabbed her knife into the temple of the zombie with an audible yell of effort and fear.
Ken scramble away from it and began thanking Fluttershy profusely. She was staring at her handiwork, eyes wide in shock. Samuel approached.
“Fluttershy?”
She didn’t answer but she looked at him, he went on, “You did good. Just keep it together till we get back. Alright?”
She nodded, Samuel turned to Rainbow, “Rainbow-“
She interrupted, “I got it don’t worry,” She looked to Fluttershy, “Come here Shy.”
Samuel left the two and got Ken to his feet, “You good?”
Ken nodded rapidly, “Yeah…Yeah. Fucker showed up from nowhere.”
Samuel nodded, “Thought so. Keep it together, keep watching our backs and take Fluttershy and Rainbow to bring up the truck.”
Ken nodded, more determined now. Samuel looked to the rest gathered around, “We are not done yet. Gotta find the stash and clear the house and buildings.”
Samuel took lead again as the rest followed at a brisk walk. Passing by the corpses and vehicles, Big Mac and Applejack split off to search the barn. Samuel and Arthur searched the garage first, melee weapons at the ready and finding it empty.
“Just the house now.” Arthur said.
Samuel nodded, “I’ll open the front door and make a racket to bring any out. Stay vigilant.”
The two got to the front door, looked at each other and nodded. Samuel opened up the screen door before putting an ear to the door to hear for anything. Nothing. He checked the door knob, door was still open. Hammering the door for a few seconds, he pushed it open with speed and backed off, crowbar up and Arthur beside him.
The wait was agonizing for both as they waited, adrenaline pumping but nothing came. Entering the house slowly, they began sweeping the first floor. Dining room, living room, closets and bathroom all proved to be clear. The basement door was locked. They began to head upstairs once again checking bedrooms, closets and bathroom.
This time however one bedroom held a surprise. One zombie was there, he was zip tied to a radiator heater. He thrashed and bit open air as his grey eyes looked at the two.
“Well shit.” Arthur said.
Samuel didn’t say anything as he approached the zombie, looking at it sadly. And without a word he raised his crowbar and brought down hard into its skull. It stopped moving after that. Arthur saw a note on the bed, he picked it up and read it aloud for Samuel to hear.
If you are reading this I am already dead or turned. I’ll keep it short, the zombies came, my parents died and I was bitten. Only my sister Elizabeth is left, she is in the basement with all our stores. There is a key in my nightstand to access it. Use the stores as you need, just don’t waste anything. Take care of my sister please. Finally if you can, if we could get LDS rites it would be appreciated. God bless whoever you are.
John Earl
The two looked at each other before Samuel grabbed the key from the nightstand and rushed downstairs, Arthur closed behind. They quickly got to the door to the basement; Samuel put the key in and turned it hearing the lock move. Once the click sounded he opened it up to glaring darkness below.
Arthur pulled out a flashlight and pointed it downstairs. They both saw only the floor at the bottom. Samuel decided to call out.
“Elizabeth! You down there!?”
No response came, so Samuel shrugged and headed down the stairs cautiously, Arthur behind. Reaching the bottom they saw a myriad of goods on shelves, canned and jarred goods, flour, candles, medicines and others. Both stared at it all with awe before the sound of movement of disturbed them. Both approached with weapons in hand before turning around a corner flashlight glaring.
In the glare of the flashlight a girl in cutesy dress stared at them with fearful dark blue eyes. She was holding tight to her chest a plushy, a tiger to be exact. She looked no older than ten or younger than eight. Her black hair was in braid, much ruined now due to her time spent down here. She was dirty as it was, and probably smelled too if the two men’s noses weren’t use to much worse now.
Samuel put his crowbar away, and began moving slowly towards her and spoke soothingly, “It’s ok. Elizabeth. We aren’t here to hurt you. We want to help.”
She obviously didn’t believe that as she tried backing up before hitting the wall. So she decided to curl up and hide as much as possible, her eyes still watched him. Samuel continued slowly and Arthur stayed at a distance, watching concerned.
Once Samuel was only a few steps away he stopped, got on a knee and reached out a hand. She eyed it before looking directly in his eyes. Samuel tried keeping his face as soft as possible. It took a minute before she opened her mouth to speak but stopped. Samuel decided to speak first.
“My name is Samuel, Samuel Havel. And you’re Elizabeth right?”
She nodded, he continued, “I want to help you. OK?”
She nodded again, this time she spoke, her voice tiny and fearful, “Are they gone?”
Samuel gave a soft smile, “If you mean the zombies. Yes. They are gone.”
Elizabeth visibly relaxed at that, she was still shaky, she spoke again, “Where is John? He said he was bit and he couldn’t come down here with me.”
With a downcast look Samuel replied, “I’m sorry…he is gone.”
Her eyes went watery and she began to cry, surprising Samuel she ran forward and hugged him, seeking some form of comfort. He blinked in surprise he hugged her back and tried saying comfortable words. He turned to Arthur with flare gun in hand, who looked at him with shock.
“Go shoot this in the air and round up the others, grab everything besides the stocks. It was part of the deal. I’ll take care of her.” Samuel said firmly.
“You sure?” As Arthur slowly grabbed the flare gun.
“Yes. I’m sure.” Samuel responded as Elizabeth cried into his shoulder.
Arthur nodded and went back upstairs, Samuel stayed downstairs as he comforted the poor girl. Once she settled own a bit after an unknown amount of time. He stood up, took her hand and guided her back upstairs. She followed meekly. She covered her eyes as she saw light after a long time.
Going outside, Elizabeth stood close to Samuel, sniffling as she kept her eyes down. Samuel monitored the steady gathering of supplies, clearing out everything. People went about their tasks loading up the pickup as well as the one from the homestead.
Samuel called out, “Hey Big Mac! That pickup working?”
“Yuuuppp!” He called back.
Samuel nodded happily, he felt the tugging of his hand and looked down at Elizabeth, who looked up at him.
She looked at all the people worryingly, “Who are these people?”
“My group. Don’t worry they’re friendly.” Samuel responded.
Elizabeth nodded, she stayed silent for a moment before speaking again, “What do I do now? I don’t know what to do.”
Samuel knelt done to be on her level, “Do you have any family in Thurston? Or close by? Or anyone you would stay with?”
She shook her head no; he nodded and went on, “You can stay with us if you want?”
Looking to the house she called home, she responded meekly, “Okay.”
Samuel nodded, “We will be going soon. Kinda like a road trip.”
She didn’t respond as she looked down again. Samuel stood back up and saw several vehicles pull in. Some from his group, others were not. He watched as a town folk approached him in a serious stance.
“Is there a stash there?”
“Yes, in the basement.” Samuel responded.
The man nodded, barked orders to some followers and they went inside to start loading. He decided to take Elizabeth over to his group’s vehicles where most of the group was here now. Sunset approached him to talk, but she stopped once she noticed Elizabeth.
“Who is this Samuel?” Sunset asked softly.
“The only survivor. She was in the basement, her brother put her down there. She’ll be coming with us.” Samuel said in a tone that brokered no argument.
Sunset nodded and knelt to talk to her, “Hi there. I’m Sunset Shimmer, who are you?”
Elizabeth looked up at her and quickly retreated behind Samuel, she didn’t respond. Samuel spoke for her, “Her name is Elizabeth Earl. But we can discuss that more later. All done in town?”
Standing back up Sunset spoke, “Yes, Got the fuel and a few people decided to join us, three singles and one family.”
Samuel nodded, “Let’s load up and get moving on. I’m just gonna make sure Elizabeth has someone watching her.”
Sunset nodded and went about getting supplies loaded up. Samuel found Fluttershy standing by a vehicle tending to her rabbit. She noticed the both of them.
Samuel spoke first, “Fluttershy could you watch her for a second while I load up?”
“Oh yes. I can do that, what’s her name?”
“Elizabeth, she probably won’t talk much. She has had quite the…ordeal.” Samuel said softly.
Fluttershy nodded, “That’s ok. We will be ok here.”
Samuel looked to Elizabeth, who cautiously approached Fluttershy, who began softly speaking to her. Samuel smiled slightly and went about the business of loading up.
An hour later everything of use was loaded up and the stocks were split between the groups. The parents and John were buried in graves and a quick service, led by a random townsfolk. They left the homestead, Samuel’s truck in the lead. Quickly returning to town the gates were opened and the town’s vehicles were let in first.
The convoy was next and some guards began leading it through the town, Samuel and Sunset were behind as they talked with Sharon.
“Well I’m glad it worked out well.” Sharon said happily.
“It was, despite circumstances.” Samuel said dryly.
Sharon nodded, “Yes. Despite that.”
“I hope things work out for you here.” Sunset said.
Smiling back Sharon replied, “Likewise.”
“A bit of last info for you though,” Sharon looked at Samuel as he spoke, “We saw a horde of at least several thousand a few days ago. I think it’ll get worse from there.”
Sharon raised an eyebrow in concern, “That is good to know. Thanks but I think we’ll be good.”
Samuel nodded, “We should get going now. Goodbye Sharon.”
“Goodbye. Good luck on the road.” She said as she shook both of their hands.
With that the two hopped into Samuel’s truck and started down the road, quickly passing all the buildings, passed the gates and back into the convoy.
“Good job today Sunset.” Samuel praised.
“You did good too Samuel.” Sunset said back.
Swapping out passengers, Arthur and Twilight quickly found themselves back in their respective seats. Elizabeth was in there as well sitting in the back beside Twilight. She looked at Twilight who gave a nervous smile, Spike however was friendly, something that Elizabeth enjoyed. Samuel saw her give a smile, a very small one but a smile regardless.
The convoy drove on as evening started to set in. Slowly the valley gave way to eastern Oregon and its much dryer climate. Many felt relief being away from the densely populated west. Driving until it started to get dark; they made camp away from the main highway inside dense bush.
“Alright let’s set up.” Samuel said as he parked the truck.
Arthur and Twilight got out, Elizabeth did not. Samuel noticed and stayed in. They sat in relative silence before Samuel spoke, “What is your tiger’s name.”
She responded by hugging the tiger tighter and spoke, “Hobbes.”
Samuel smirked at that, knowing where that name was from, a certain comic panel, “That is a nice name. Does he help you sleep?”
She nodded, “And keeps the nightmares away too.”
“Where do you want to sleep tonight? I’m quite sure some of the girls won’t mind-“
“With you.” Elizabeth quickly interrupted.
Samuel raised an eyebrow, “Are you sure?”
“Yes.”
Samuel smiled, “Ok. You and Hobbes can stay with me and Arthur,” he gestured to outside, “Ready?”
She nodded and the two got out, Samuel introduced her to everyone and showed her how to set up the tent, Arthur playing along. Alongside a quick supper and the best bath they could give, which some of the girls helped with that part. By the time night arrived, the three and Hobbes were in sleeping bags, ready to sleep.
“Night Arthur.”
“Night Samuel.” Arthur responded as closed his eyes.
Samuel turned to Elizabeth, who looked back at him, “Goodnight Elizabeth, Hobbes.”
“Goodnight Samuel.” Elizabeth said back as she snuggled into the sleeping bag.
With that Samuel closed his eyes, fell asleep to the rather quiet atmosphere only disturbed by crickets, an owl’s hoot and the occasional coyote’s howl.
That was all Samuel was able to say before the man got his brains blown out, having stuck his head up a little too far over the hood of a car. The man then fell limp to the asphalt.
“Fuck!” Samuel yelled in frustration.
Looking around to check on others, he saw most of the same, trying their best to take cover. Some nursing wounds, a few here and there, were limp on the ground with no movement. He couldn’t tell if they were dead or not. Arthur popped around the corner of the truck for a quick pot shot.
“We can’t stay here!” Arthur yelled as he cocked his lever action.
“I know that! We need to get rounds down range to get these fuckers off our ass!” Samuel yelled back.
The crack of rifles and deeper boom of shotguns sounded from where the ambushers were, the shots were periodic, but it was enough to keep people’s heads down.
Taking a deep breath to calm himself, Samuel went on, “We need to rally our people so we can counter attack-“
Samuel was interrupted by a distance sound going thooommp. His eyes went wide as memory lane flooded open.
“Arty, Arty, Arty!” Samuel cried as he curled into a ball to reduce his figure.
Arthur and others looked at him funny before an explosion of fire, dirt and rock flew into the air only about a couple hundred meters away.
“What was that!” Twilight cried as she held Spike and Elizabeth closer to herself.
“Fucking mortars! We really need to get moving now!” Samuel yelled.
Arthur was looking over at the others down the line with worry. Little groups of people hiding behind vehicles, in the ditch or behind the occasional boulder. Arthur also noticed the signature stumbling of the dead as the noise brought them in. More were slowly filtering in.
Taking aim he tried picking a few off, the situation getting more desperate as they were slowly surrounded. Arthur looked back at Samuel who quickly popped around the front side of his truck, fired a few rounds and just as quickly got back in cover.
“Samuel! We got zombies closing in!” Arthur yelled out.
Samuel looked towards their unguarded flank and rear, swore and ducked again as another mortar round came. This one was closer.
“Arthur! I’m going to lay some covering fire! You go and get these people moving! And get anyone who can to fire back!” Samuel yelled.
Preparing himself Arthur made sure a round was in the chamber of his rifle. Looked to Samuel and nodded. Samuel nodded back and bent around the truck to fire, throwing the fire selector switch to full auto. He fired bursts at the advancing bandits, checking their pace as they threw themselves into prone or in cover.
Arthur sprinted to the next group in line at the same time as Samuel laid covering fire. Slamming to the ground in the ditch, he quickly put himself in beside Norman and Michael who were keeping their heads down. Chloe was lower in the ditch trying to keep it together.
“Can you guys move at all!?” Arthur asked over the sound of gunfire.
Norman shook his head profusely, “No! We got some fuckers to the left pinning us! We can’t even shoot back!”
In answer a few shots hit the upper ditch, spraying dirt on the three. Arthur looked back at Samuel who was now currently pinned as the majority of gunfire shifted to him. Twilight was still holding Spike and Elizabeth close; he could tell she was barely keeping it together.
Swearing he decided to take a risk and pop his head over the ditch quickly to get a look, he saw the dozen or so bandits advancing in a very rough line, and to the left on a bit of a high rise he saw the few keeping heads down with potshots. He quickly brought his head down again.
“I saw where they are!”
“That’s nice and all. But we need to get em!” Michael replied.
“Fuck man! I don’t know what to do!” Arthur said.
Norman slammed a fist into the dirt, “Fuck it! I’ll fire a few shots and then you move!”
Working the bolt action he had, Norman did a few quick snap shots at the high rise. The bandits backed off for a few crucial seconds. Arthur and Michael moved further down the line at the same time, Chloe followed suit.
As they ran the main group of bandits, now getting much closer, shot at Norman. Making him back off as he swore under his breath. A cry of pain sounded out and Arthur looked back. A shot tore through Michael’s shoulder and he fell down, clutching at it. Chloe dove below the road line, Arthur following suit.
“Shit! Are you ok!” Arthur called out.
Michael looked at his shoulder and replied, “It hurts! …But I won’t die!”
Chloe moved up to Michael with fearful eyes, she was taking a look at the wound. She looked back at Arthur, “I’m going to…to try and help him!”
Arthur responded with a thumbs up and started leopard crawling further down. Where the Apple family was, Applejack and Big Mac were just finishing off three zombies as Granny Smith and Applebloom stayed behind them. Crawling faster he reached them breathing hard and he felt his core muscles burning.
Applejack saw him first, “What in tarnation! Arthur what are you doing here!”
“Trying to get people-“
Arthur was interrupted by the sound of another mortar round; a zombie went flying where it hit, going splat nearby.
“Trying to get people out but I don’t know how we are going to do that!” Arthur finished.
“Darn! We can’t get them bastards! They got us pinned!” Applejack replied in frustration.
Big Mac looked at Arthur, “You got radio!”
Arthur shook his head, “No! Too bulky for this!”
“What about walkie talkie!” Applebloom burst out.
Arthur slapped his forehead in frustration, disbelief that he didn’t think of that.
“I don’t have one but don’t you Applejack!” Arthur asked.
Applejack took it out, “Yeah! Here!”
Taking it Arthur immediately spoke, “Samuel! You there!”
He waited for a few long seconds before getting a response, “Yeah! We forgot radios! My dumbass! How are things looking there!”
“Not good! They got some high ground and too many people are pinned! And they are getting closer!” Arthur said as he took a quick look over the ditch.
The bandits were almost at the other side of the road.
Samuel’s voice came through with anger, “Fuck! I’m going to do something, you’ll hear it! When it happens fire back! Those that can’t get into vehicles and start driving the fuck out of here!”
“What about those who are down!”
“Grab them! No man left behind!”
Applejack butted in, “What does he mean by ‘something’!”
Arthur shrugged in response.
Samuel prepped his one grenade before looking to Twilight and her two charges with a heavy sense of dread. He hoped his move would work.
“Twilight!” Samuel called to get her attention.
She startled and looked at him. Her eyes were watery and wide with fear. Samuel felt sorry for the poor girl, he knew the feeling and he was barely keeping it under control as well.
“Twilight I need your help!”
“But-But what could I do!” Twilight replied fearfully.
He came close and put a hand on her shoulder, “I’m going to do something really stupid! All I need is for you to get yourself,” he gestured to Spike and Elizabeth who cuddled into Twilight, “And these two out of here! Get yourselves into the truck when I do it! Can you do that!”
Twilight nodded rapidly, “I’ll do my best! But what are going to do!”
“You’ll see!” Samuel looked at Elizabeth, “You listen to Twilight ok?!”
Elizabeth opened an eye reluctantly and shakily nodded.
Smiling at that, Samuel slung his M4, checked his mags were easy to access and put his two hands on his grenade he took a sideways stance and took a deep breath.
He removed the safety pin and put his left hand on the pull ring, taking a deep breath, he pulled the ring and readied to throw the grenade.
“Frag out!” Samuel yelled as he stood up and threw.
Lobbing the grenade, the spoon detaching and triggering the internal mechanisms, went over the truck, across the road and into the far ditch he waited for the explosion. He heard the yelling from the bandits and shortly after the loud boom of the grenade.
“Now Twilight!” Samuel yelled to her as he advanced from behind the truck.
Twilight immediately opened the back door, helped Spike and Elizabeth in, rushed to the driver side as Samuel gave her cover. He ran across the road with the M4 in high port, trying to make the best of the temporary confusion among the bandits. Crossing in good time he brought his M4 down to be ready.
He wasn’t expecting the bandits to have clumped together so much and get absolutely eviscerated by the grenade. At least four were down, laying silent in a tangle of limbs and bloody shrapnel wounds. Another three were wriggling and grasping for help as they cried in pain, crying for their mothers.
Staying switched on; he ran down into the ditch and saw the panicked look of the few surviving bandits. Snarling with hatred, Samuel brought his rifle to a shooting position and fired at center mass. The first few rounds hit the nearest bandit square in the chest and he went over dead with several holes in his lungs.
Quickly switching to one on the higher part of the ditch by the road, he fired two shots one hitting in the throat in an explosion of blood and the other smashing through his nose and into the skull as bone fragments and flesh were exposed in gory fashion.
Samuel felt something skim his right bicep but he ignored it and switched to the last man who was working a bolt action hunting rifle. The man, severely panicking, dropped his rifle and ran in the opposite direction he and his buddies advanced. He didn’t get far before Samuel dropped him.
Scanning for more threats, he saw the smaller group of bandits on the high rise down the road, and a few extra bandits trying to outflank the convoy. Taking a prone position he began to take aim, he saw that the bandits were being fired upon. Hearing both the increase in gunfire and seeing the splashes in the dirt.
He saw that the bandits were faltering and were beginning to fallback. Deciding to speed up the process, he fired at the bandits trying to flank, he dropped one with several shots to the chest. The bandits noticing their main force now dead or wounded started to rout. The small force on the high rise disappeared and the last of the bandits fled. Not before another two were dropped by the group.
Taking stock of the situation Samuel quickly saw that most of the vehicles had left as he focused on fighting. Looking east he saw at least half of the convoy, just barely seeing them being pinprick small. He ran over to the where his people were, first finding Michael being tended to by Norman and Chloe. He did a quick check on them and moved down the line. Stopping to dispatch two zombies as they shambled towards them.
He moved down the line, getting the spread out groups to consolidate them and get them moving. At the same time the skim he felt earlier turned out to be a bullet graze, a quick bandage would do for now.
“Arthur!” Samuel yelled to get Arthur’s attention as he came up the road.
“Samuel! Are they gone?! Including those damn mortars?!” Arthur yelled back.
“I think so but I don’t plan on staying to find out.” Samuel said as he got closer.
Arthur saw the bandage but ignored it, these days injuries were more common than not and unless it was bite. Most minor injuries were tended and life went on.
Arthur let out a breath of relief before speaking, “We got people that are hurt and some…some are dead.”
Samuel sighed before glaring at where the bandits came from, “Fucking bastards...”
“Fluttershy is doing her best but she is overwhelmed and first aid is helping but some are pretty bad. Rainbow and Mateo especially… I don’t know if we can move them.” Arthur said uncertainly.
Samuel nodded, “We have to try. Do you have a radio?”
“Yes I do.”
“Good. Do you know who is with the others right now?” Samuel asked as he pointed down the road.
“Pretty much everyone who didn’t fight.” Arthur responded.
“Contact them and get them to start setting up camp nearby. Preferably fast. I also want a tent or at a least place to tend to our wounded.” Samuel said.
Arthur nodded and started talking on his walkie talkie. Samuel got people loaded into vehicles while some dealt with zombies coming in and kept an eye out for the bandits if they came around again. More zombies were arriving. Samuel took a few to loot the bandits that were killed, only quickly grabbing weapons and ammo, with the occasional backpack. Quickly getting back to the group the lightly wounded and dead were loaded up. Except Rainbow and Mateo.
“Now that is definitely not good.” Samuel thought to himself.
He finally saw the extent of Mateo’s and Rainbow’sinjuries. Fluttershy and Applejack were beside Rainbow, both had fearful looks as they tried comforting Rainbow. Rainbow herself was just grimacing in pain, trying her best not to scream. She had a bandage wrapped around her head, one side bleeding like a stuck pig. But the worst part was a large amount of bloody bandages around her left hip going into the top of her thigh.
Samuel knelt down beside them, “How you doing Rainbow?”
“…Been…Better.” She responded, painfully and slowly.
“Hang in there, we’ll get you some proper painkillers.” Samuel replied with a smirk at her response.
Samuel looked to Fluttershy and Applejack, “What are the wounds from?”
Fluttershy softly replied, “She has a head wound that…that is just bleeding. But the other…”
Applejack finished for her, “I think it was a shotgun. Birdshot. We can’t move her much.”
“We are going to have to. Get her in the backseat of one of the vehicles.”
With another person helping, they moved Rainbow on her improvised stretcher; a muffled scream came out as they moved her and laid her on the backseat of an SUV. Fluttershy hopped in beside her.
Samuel, followed by Arthur hopped in the bed of a pickup. Where Mateo was, he too on an improvised stretcher, a grimace of pain too. He had a bandage wrapped around his stomach, indicating a gut wound. Arthur looked at it with worry. Samuel decided to sit beside Mateo’s head.
“How you doing?” Samuel asked as the truck started to move, alongside the rest of the convoy.
“Like shit…it hurts bad.” Mateo responded.
“No doubt. Just hang on we’ll get you to a bed soon.”
Mateo gave a very slight nod and the three fell into silence. The convoy rolled on away from the battle site as zombies descended on the dead bandits as they tore the bodies apart and gorged on still warm flesh.
Mateo was grunting in pain and gritted his teeth at every bump, even minor ones. It didn’t take long to get to the new campsite, only about eight miles from the battle site. Off the highway by about two miles, near a slope of a hill covered in dense bush. They rolled in as the campsite group were still setting up tents and other necessary things.
As the vehicles took a spot in the circle to form a car fort. Everybody started unloading the wounded getting them into tents to keep them sheltered and to tend to them. Chores were assigned and work was being done. More guards were to be posted for the day and night.
Late in the evening, as the sky turned into shades of red and pink. Work finally slowed down, giving time for Samuel and Sunset to discuss the day’s events around a small campfire as they ate. Arthur, several of the girls, the Crusaders and Elizabeth were there.
“First how many people are bed ridden due to their wounds.” Samuel asked as he cleaned his M4.
Fluttershy answered, “Eight...They should recover fine. I don’t know about Rainbow and Mateo though,” her eyes began to water, “I-I tried to but-but…”
Sunset and Pinkie hugged her as she covered her face as she began to cry.
“You did everything you could Fluttershy. We all know that.” Rarity said in a soft voice.
Samuel felt Elizabeth hug his arm and stared at the campfire, she was nibbling on some dried fruit. He leaned over a bit to speak to her, “Do you need anything?”
She shook her head. Nodding he looked to Arthur who was talking to the Crusaders once again about his radio. Surprising him considering today’s events.
“We have three people who died today; I know we have buried them. But shouldn’t we give them at least some kind of service?” Applejack put out there.
Sunset looked at her as she continued holding Fluttershy, “Tomorrow. Tomorrow we will…before we leave.”
She then looked to Samuel with tired and dull eyes, “Please tell me we could’ve prevented this. Or at least reacted better than we did.”
Samuel sighed before speaking in a sad tone, “…I don’t think we could have, not with our current training and equipment. They caught us by surprise. It’s worse that they picked a decent place to do it, just as we passed by the hills. If they were better with those mortars, had any kind of machine guns or even just better training…”
Arthur finished Samuel’s statement, “We would’ve been wiped out. Among other things.”
“Yes. Things best left unspoken. Besides that we are also running low on ammo, if we get into another fight we will run out, which we can’t allow.” Samuel said.
Everyone looked to Fluttershy when she spoke up, “Why…Why would they do this?”
“Cause they’re big meanies!” Pinkie yelled.
Slamming a fist into her open palm Applejack spoke with frustration, “Cause those no good bastards wanted our stuff. And instead of wanting to trade or ask, they thought they could take it like the worthless shits they are!”
“Applejack! Language!” Rarity hissed as she looked to Elizabeth and the Crusaders.
Applejack’s posture lost some of its aggression and looking a little abashed she quietly apologized, “Sorry.”
Rarity took a deep breath, “Oh forgive me Applejack. Today has just been horrible…but do watch your language please.”
“Yeah. One hell of a day.” Arthur muttered quietly.
Rarity still gave him a look, not entirely a glare, but a look of warning. Arthur smiled sheepishly. She gave a slight smile at her triumph.
Samuel ignored the rest of the group and looked to where the tents were, Twilight decided to work more on her zombie analysis.
“Probably to keep her mind occupied. Poor woman.” Samuel thought to himself.
Samuel’s attention was drawn back by Sunset, “How were you able to pull off what you did? It seemed like suicide.”
He looked at her and spoke in a tired tone, “It was suicide. Incredibly stupid of me to do.” He looked up to the sky, “The Lord must be looking out for me.”
His eyes went back to Sunset, “The only reason it worked was the bandits converged too tightly. That let the grenade do most of the work. If they were more spread out…I would be dead right now.”
Applejack spoke, “Then you must be incredibly lucky.”
Samuel snorted, “Seems like it. But the dice re roll every day, and they don’t have any memory.”
“But back to our current situation. We got severe wounded and at half of our vehicles need repair of some sort.” Samuel said.
“There isn’t much I can do,” Fluttershy spoke up, “I don’t know how to remove bullets.”
“We are going to need to find a doctor or even a nurse. And soon.” Arthur piped in.
“But where we could find one? It’s not like one is just hanging around.” Sunset added with a matter of fact tone.
Pinkie spoke up, “Welllllllll. Why not find a town like Thurston. There has got to be one somewhere.”
“She has a point. There has to be one somewhere.” Rarity piped in.
Arthur spoke as he fiddled with his radio, “What about our vehicles? I know we could do some of the more simple repairs. But the serious stuff,” He crossed his arms, “We are going need a proper mechanic for that.”
“Same thing then. We find someone to do it.” Sunset responded.
Samuel looked at Elizabeth, it was obvious she was getting tired; glancing over to the Crusaders he saw the same.
“Perhaps we should get the kids to bed.” Samuel suggested.
“We aren’t tired yet!” Scootaloo called out.
“I’m quite sure you want to check on Rainbow don’t you?” Sunset asked.
“Well yeah. I guess.” Scootaloo answered. The reality of the situation setting back in.
Fluttershy stood up, wiped her eyes and put on a small smile, “I was going to check on Rainbow and the others right now anyways. Want to come along?”
Scootaloo hesitated but nodded and rushed over to Fluttershy. The two started walking towards the tent holding Rainbow, but not before the other two Crusaders jumped up and followed.
“Wait for me!” Applebloom cried.
“Yeah! Wait up!” Sweetie Belle cried out in turn.
They watched as the Crusaders followed over to a tent turned hospital. A less than pleasant environment.
Samuel looked over his M4 bolt one last time, wiped it down, put it back into the rifle and did a function test. Elizabeth looked at him with a tired curiosity as he did it.
“Ready for bed?” Samuel asked with a smile.
Elizabeth nodded as she hugged Hobbes, “Yeah. Hobbes is too.”
Slinging his rifle over his shoulder, he put out his hand for Elizabeth to hold, “Let’s go then.”
Getting up from the kid camping chair, Elizabeth grabbed his hand with a soft grip and the two slowly headed to their tent.
“I’m surprised she has been so calm since Samuel found her, especially what she went through.” Sunset said thoughtfully once Samuel and Elizabeth were out of earshot.
“Well Pinkie’s cupcakes probably had something to do with it.” Applejack stated somewhat absentminded as she picked a rock from her fingernail.
Everyone looked at Pinkie, who was currently eating one of her said cupcakes. It took a moment for her to notice; she looked at everyone and blinked twice.
“What? They’re good.” Pinkie stated with a stuffed mouth.
Everyone smiled to some degree at Pinkie. The statement wasn’t wrong, the baked goods that Pinkie made was always a major morale boost. Something that made it easier to live in a world without the commodities they once enjoyed.
Arthur looked at the sky, it getting darker by the minute. It would be lights out soon.
“I think it’s time we put out the fire.” Arthur commented.
Everyone took note of the sky and a round of agreement followed. Light discipline was a priority once night began to fall. One previous incident with a headlamp in the middle of the night brought at least a dozen zombies that night. Now everyone was much more conscious about lights after dark.
Grabbing a shovel, Applejack threw some dirt onto the dying fire, to avoid using water and broadcasting their position from resulting steam and smoke. Grabbing whatever items they had, people began settling into preparing for bed. Hygiene practices with rationed water, getting the kids settled down and the ones preparing for watch duty.
After Arthur finished brushing his teeth and spat his grey water into a bucket for later disposal he went over to the tent. What he was a little surprised by was seeing Samuel sitting beside the tent, writing in a journal of all things. Samuel looked at Arthur as he approached, taking note of the curious look on his face.
“Wondering aren’t you.” Samuel said observingly.
“Yeah. Elizabeth asleep already?” Arthur responded.
“Yes she is.” Samuel responded as he looked at the journal he was writing in, “I’m recording the names of who we lost today and a little about who they were.”
“Why?” Arthur asked, confused.
Samuel looked at him before responding, “You ever heard of the saying that goes something like how people only truly die once they’re forgotten?”
“Oooooh…Yeah I have, so that is why you’re doing it.” Arthur said as realization dawned upon him.
Samuel nodded, “This way, something remains of them. If things do go our way and we start anew. People should know what it took to get there. Especially those who died making it happen.”
“Yeah. Yeah! Cause what we are doing should be recorded, for history if anything. For the people that come after us.”
Samuel smiled, liking Arthur’s response, “I’m finished for now. Let’s head to bed. We got watch duty in three hours anyway.”
Arthur checked his watch, nodded and the two went to bed, trying to get what sleep they could.
“Goodnight Applejack.” Applebloom said as she closed her eyes, snuggling into her sleeping bag.
“Goodnight Applebloom.” Applejack responded as she finished tucking her into.
Applejack turned to see Big Mac already asleep, his rifle right beside him.
She sighed and exited the tent she shared with her family, where Granny Smith was sitting in a camping chair, comfortable as she was, she turned her head to look up at Applejack. Seeing the expression on Applejack’s face was enough for the old matriarch to know something was wrong.
“Alright Applejack. What’s wrong?” Granny asked in a tone fitting a grandmother.
Applejack startled a bit out of her thoughts and looked at Granny before speaking, “Well…I…I’m scared Granny. After today…I don’t know right now Granny.”
Applejack did her best to hold in her tears but some came through anyways. Granny got up and brought Applejack into an embrace. Embracing Granny back, the two stayed that way for some time. Applejack quietly cried into Granny as she comforted her.
“Thank you Granny.” Applejack said as she wiped her eyes.
Granny smiled and responded, “Always Applejack. Now let’s get some sleep. Or else someone is gonna be cranky in the morning.”
Applejack smiled slightly and the two headed to bed.
Rarity finished her nightly routine, still taking pride in keeping up her appearance. Even in the apocalypse the importance of it to her never diminished. Checking on her sister, Sweetie and Scootaloo were quietly chatting. She looked over at Pinkie who was sleeping soundly, Fluttershy was softly brushing Angel bunny, with her other animals surrounding her. Opalesensce was in a sleeping ball on Rarity’s sleeping bag.
Putting her brush into a small travel bag, she began to prepare her sleeping bag, comforting Opulesence as she did so. Just as she was entering her sleeping bag, her sister had somehow approached quietly. Rarity whipped her around head in surprise as Sweetie started to talk.
“Could you brush my hair?” Sweetie asked hopefully.
Rarity didn’t immediately respond, Sweetie hadn’t asked for this particular thing in a long time, “Of course Sweetie. But I’m surprised, you haven’t asked in so long. Why now?”
“Just want it. You do it so nicely.” Sweetie said somewhat unconvincingly.
Rarity knew rather quickly that it was mostly related to the events of today, she didn’t say anything as she retrieved her brush once again. Sweetie sat in front and Rarity began to brush her hair with quick and smooth strokes of the brush.
Entering a meditative like state, Rarity’s mind wandered to more pleasant memories with her sister and parents. She wondered about her parents, always traveling.
“Who knows where they are. Alive hopefully out there, somewhere.” Rarity thought to herself.
As she brushed the underneath of Sweetie’s hair, she noticed out of the corner of her eye Scootaloo making glances at the activity. Rarity knew that type of look, a look of wanting.
“Scootaloo, would like your hair brushed?” Rarity asked curiously.
Scootaloo looked at her with an expression of hesitation but answered, “Yes please.”
“Very well. Once I’m done you can have your turn. Sound good dear?”
Scootaloo nodded and Rarity saw Fluttershy come closer who chimed in happily.
“If you want I could brush your hair. I might not be good as Rarity but I’ll do my best.”
With a look of excitement, Scootaloo rushed over as much as she could in the slightly cramped tent. Grabbing a different brush then the one she used for her animals, she began to brush Scootaloo’s hair. Gently and slowly, it was soothing however to Scootaloo.
Some small talk circulated between the four girls, mostly old stories, occasionally hobbies and about people in the group.
“Think you’ll ever get to do another fashion show Rarity?” Fluttershy asked.
“Oh I hope so. Not anytime soon of course. But perhaps after we find a place to settle down. I look forward to when we can have a sense of normalcy again.” Rarity responded.
A round of agreements followed. The conversation started to drift towards boy talk.
“Hey Rarity, whatever happened between you and that Blue Blood dude?” Scootaloo asked.
Giving a sideways look Rarity responded, “And where did you hear about that?”
Rarity a very lady like ‘humpf” at that, “Well if you must know, he was undoubtedly one of the worst, if not the worst man I have had the misfortune of going on a date with.”
Fluttershy added in, “I remember him. He was absolutely horrible.”
“Isn’t he the nephew of Principal Celestia and Vice-Principal Luna?” Sweetie asked.
Rarity nodded, “Yes he is. How that man is related to them is beyond me however.”
“Didn’t you have at least had some dates that were good or boyfriends?” Scootaloo asked.
Rarity paused for a second to think before speaking, “Indeed I had some wonderful dates and the odd boyfriend but none stayed long. I suppose it was never meant to be.”
“What about you Fluttershy?” Scootaloo asked next.
Fluttershy blushed slightly at that, “Oh I never had a boyfriend before. I did go on a date, once. It wasn’t very good though.”
“How so?” Sweetie asked with slight anticipation.
“My brother set me up with one of his friends. I couldn’t say no, because I would just feel awful if I did. He was too much like my brother. Thankfully it was a short date.”
The young girls nodded at that. Scootaloo got a sinister idea and looked at Sweetie out of the corner of her eye with a very noticeable smirk. Sweetie’s eyes widened as she knew what Scootaloo was going to ask and before she could intercept, Scootaloo spoke.
“Rarity.” Scootaloo said with anticipation.
“Yes dear?” Rarity responded absentmindedly.
“Do you like Arthur?” Scootaloo said fast and excitingly.
“Scootaloo!” Sweetie cried softly.
Looking at Scootaloo with an unimpressed expression and a raised eyebrow, Rarity responded, “Let me guess. Rainbow Dash again?”
“…Maybe?” Scootaloo responded uncertainly after seeing her look.
Fluttershy looked curiously at Rarity, now wondering the same as Scootaloo. She didn’t say anything as Rarity went on.
“As I told Rainbow Dash, Applejack and Pinkie before, Arthur lost his girlfriend not even a month ago. So I don’t think he is exactly looking for a new girlfriend. As a result even if I did like him, nothing would come of it.” Rarity said with finality.
Scootaloo nodded slowly. There was a short pause as the brushing of hair finished, before Sweetie chimed up. Her curiosity overwhelming her good sense.
“You didn’t answer the question, Rarity.”
Rarity looked in surprise at Sweetie, “Sweetie, you are on board with this too?”
“Well not at first,” Sweetie said as she looked down than looked into her sister’s eyes, “But you are avoiding the question.”
Rarity looked to Fluttershy for support; she shied away as she squeaked out her words, “Ummm…I have to agree with them.”
Rarity’s face showed her thoughts of “Et tu Fluttershy?”
With a sigh, Rarity decided to speak truthfully, “Alright. Yes, I will admit to some level of attraction to Arthur. However my previous points stand.”
The girls all looked at Rarity, expecting something more.
“That’s it?!” Sweetie said exasperated.
“Were you expecting a heartfelt declaration of love or something?” Scootaloo asked Sweetie with a sideway look.
Sweetie blushed, “Nooooo…”
“I knew it!”
Everyone was startled as they looked at Pinkie, now sitting up and pointing at Rarity with a look of extreme satisfaction.
“About time you confessed!” Pinkie yelled quietly enough in the tent.
The girls just stared at her, shocked at her outburst. Scootaloo spoke first.
“How much did you hear?”
Pinkie answered with a large grin on her face, “All of it.”
“Please Pinkie. Don’t make this into a big deal.” Rarity pleaded.
“Don’t worry Rarity. I won’t. I’m just glad you said it.” Pinkie said softly.
“Why not tell Arthur then?” Sweetie asked.
Giving a look only a sister could give, Rarity responded, “I just told you why.”
“I know but Rarity…you were the one who gave me advice when I was trying to learn how to flirt. And you said if you like a guy show some interest in him. What makes it so different now?” Sweetie said.
Everyone looked at Rarity, as she fell quiet at Sweetie’s statement.
“Besides the obvious zombie apocalypse?” Pinkie stated.
Everyone turned to Pinkie with rather deadpan looks.
“Yes, Pinkie,” Rarity responded sarcastically before looking at Sweetie, “You make a good point Sweetie.”
“You did call Arthur and Samuel our heroes, after what happened in Canterlot.” Fluttershy added in.
Sweetie and Scootaloo looked to Fluttershy, than to Rarity, “You did?” Sweetie asked.
With a slight blush Rarity responded, “…I did.”
Sweetie couldn’t help but grin, “That’s so romantic! Arthur was like a knight in shining armor wasn’t he!”
Rarity rolled her eyes, still blushing but with a smile on her face, “Yes Sweetie, it was like that.”
A round of smiles followed that, followed up by Fluttershy speaking.
“Oh my, look at the time. I think we should head to bed.”
After that the girls quickly got ready for bed. But before that Pinkie slid close to Rarity, causing her to look at her curiously.
“You knooowwww, it’s not like there is a lot of options these days. So why not try with him.” Pinkie said.
Rarity thought for a second, “That is very true, not many you could call ‘eligible bachelors’ in our group.”
Pinkie’s eyes went half-shut as she spoke in a singsong voice, “Besides if you don’t take him someone else willllllllll.”
Rarity raised an eyebrow, “And who would that be?”
“One of those Crystal Prep girls. One of them has been eyeing Arthur up, you know.” Pinkie responded.
“How on earth would you know that?” Rarity asked, slight concern in her voice.
Pinkie shrugged, “Just a hunch. You got this Rarity. Goodnight.”
Before Rarity could respond Pinkie went back to her sleeping and promptly returned to sleep.
“Pinkie wouldn’t lie about that. Perhaps I should step up my game. Just because we are in the middle of the apocalypse doesn’t mean Arthur won’t find someone. I just need to make sure he knows how I feel.” Rarity thought to herself.
Filled with determination now, she went to bed, thoughts on the future.
Rainbow Dash sighed heavily, as much as she could considering her wounds. Sleep was not forthcoming and she hated being bed ridden. She was laying on an sleeping bag on top of an air mattress, she was periodically checked on by her friends and by the people on watch duty.
Sharing a tent with two other injured women wasn’t much fun either. One of them having a clean shot through the arm and the other who of all things, got a ricochet round into her foot. Both of course were in pain, but one was more vocal than the others. Rainbow dealt with the woman with a martyred patience. She was hoping someone would come and give her some more painkillers, the limited amount they had.
“Maybe I shouldn’t try rushing a bandit next time. God this sucks.” Rainbow thought to herself.
She noticed someone coming close to the tent, the flap to enter was open, to allow fresh air to circulate. Once the person got close enough, she recognized it was Sunset.
“Hey Sunset.” Rainbow said dryly.
“Hey Rainbow. Came to check on you before I headed to bed. Need anything?”
“Some more of those painkillers would be nice.”
Sunset responded with a small frown, “I’ll try to get some. But there is so few left, might have to make do with Advil or Tylenol.”
Rainbow gave a very faint shrug, “Anything that helps with the pain.”
Sunset nodded and left. She came back five minutes later.
“I was able to get some actual painkillers, but only two pills. The rest are just going to be the regular.”
Rainbow responded, “Heh. Better than nothing.”
Trying to get up she immediately regretted it. Sharp pain shot through her hip and thigh, she let out a small cry of pain. Sunset was by her side in a flash, holding her down.
“Don’t move Rainbow. You know you can’t.” Sunset pleaded.
“I’m sorry. I thought I could at least move a bit.” Rainbow said through gritted teeth.
Sunset just shook her head, “Here, let me help.”
Lifting only Rainbow’s head, Sunset brought a water bottle to her lips as Rainbow popped the two painkillers in her mouth. She then took a gulp of water and swallowed both.
“Hopefully they kick in soon.” Rainbow said hopefully.
“Shouldn’t be too long.” Sunset said.
They sat in silence for a bit, just enjoying each other’s company. Rainbow spoke first.
“Think we could find a doctor soon? I would really like the metal out of my leg, that hasn’t been removed yet.”
“We are going to try find one tomorrow once its light.” Sunset said comfortingly.
“Sounds good.” Rainbow replied drowsily.
The painkillers started to take effect, drowning out the pain, making her sleepy in the process.
Sunset spoke, a smirk on her face, “Ready for some sleep?”
“Yeah…Night Sunset.” Rainbow replied before closing her eyes.
“Night Rainbow.” Sunset said back as she left the tent.
Twilight looked down at her samples from zombies. She was thoroughly disappointed in the results. Using what little scientific equipment she had during the process, she couldn’t help but sigh. She took up a notebook for her scientific research.
The samples I have been able to procure have been little use in trying to further my understanding of the disease. With most of my samples having been flesh and blood, both have rapidly deteriorated in their condition, more than should be possible for dead tissue and stagnant blood.
It’s like the disease has an incredible ability to keep the “zombies” from rotting away. However when the brain has suffered enough damage, the disease seems to die almost instantaneously. Resulting in the former host rapidly entering a state of decay.
However this only leads to more questions. Hopefully once we find a new home, I can get a proper lab going to get to the bottom of this.
“Hey Twilight.” Sunset said as she entered the tent.
“AHHH!” Twilight screamed in surprise, throwing her notebook and pen in the air.
Spike, sleeping on top of Twilight’s sleeping bag, tiredly looked over and went back to sleep, current affairs being of no interest to him.
Sunset raised a hand to her mouth, “I’m so sorry Twilight. Are you alright?”
Twilight raised a hand to her chest, covering her heart which was rapidly beating, “Yeah…Yeah. How do you keep sneaking up on me like that?”
Sunset rolled her eyes, “Twilight, you get so focused, it’s not hard to do so. But it’s not like I do it intentionally. Especially these days.”
Twilight, now flustered, responded, “I know…But I have been able to get some insight into the disease.”
Sunset raised an eyebrow, “Anything useful?”
Twilight shook her head in frustration, “No unfortunately. Just the aftermath after a zombie dies. Again. What I really need is a lab, fresh samples and peace and quiet.”
Sunset sat beside Twilight after having changed into night wear, “Hopefully we will find that place soon. I’ve been discussing that with Samuel and while we do have some ideas where to go. We just don’t have the information we need to decide.”
“I’m not surprised, we have to be absolutely sure that whatever place we decide to call home is good for us.” Twilight said.
Sunset nodded in agreement, “Don’t worry, we will all make sure. Together.”
Twilight beamed a little at that. She still didn’t feel completely at ease ever since the Friendship Games. So reassurances by her friends were always good to hear. She finished packing her equipment away and the two got ready for bed. Moving the limp Spike, Twilight wiggled into her sleeping bag. She couldn’t help but look at the empty space where Rainbow would usually be.
“How’s Rainbow doing?” Twilight asked.
Sunset bit her lip, “Okay. For now. We need to find more painkillers to keep the pain under control, not just her but the others too.”
“We better find a doctor soon.” Twilight muttered.
Sunset nodded at that, she grabbed her book to communicate with the Twilight in Equestria. Hoping she had responded by now, it seemed that the travel time of the pages back and forth between each other is longer since the portal was smashed. Opening to the newest page, she was gripped with excitement that Princess Twilight responded.
Dear Sunset Shimmer,
First I’m sorry I wasn’t able to respond quicker, things in Equestria have been hectic to say the least. But in regards to what you’ve told me, I can’t believe what it must be like right now. I tried coming through the portal despite your warning but you were right. I couldn’t get a portal to open to your world.
All I can say is try to stay safe, you and the girls. Please keep me updated on what happens so I know you’re safe. I’m glad you were able to find others to work with; friendship will help you all through these terrible times. I think I remember meeting Arthur very briefly once, but I can’t recall much besides that. Thank him, from me for what he has done, Samuel too. Whoever that might be. I’ll try to write as often as possible, especially if you need any help that I could provide.
I wish things were different and you girls were here, safe and sound. May good luck follow you.
Your dearest friend, Twilight Sparkle
Sunset couldn’t help but tear up a bit at Princess’s Twilight’s letter. She began to write back, about everything that happened since the last message. It was short, but it brought some peace to Sunset to do so.
Once finished she put the book away, and prepared to lay her head down for sleep. But Twilight spoke.
“Sunset, could I ask something?”
“Of course. What is it?” Sunset responded as she sat back up.
“Who is really the leader of our group?” Twilight asked curiously.
Sunset paused, it was a random question, “I guess Samuel? Why?”
Twilight stoked her hair as she responded, “Well it seems like actually you make a lot of the decisions and people in the group seem…a bit confused on who is really leader. And some of them want something like a group vote to decide who actually leader.”
With a look of confusion Sunset responded, “I never noticed. Perhaps we should do something like that, a group vote. But maybe after we get current things under control first.”
Twilight nodded, “I agree. Anyways, goodnight Sunset. Thanks again for everything.”
Sunset smiled softly, “You don’t have to keep thanking me or anyone else Twilight. We are your friends; we look out for each other. Goodnight to you as well Twilight.”
Blue sky filled with white fluffy clouds seemed all too distant from the convoy that continued east. Continuing on the same highway they were ambushed, after a few detours away from it to shake off any unwanted attention. The arid environment around them passed in a blur as they drove.
Samuel drove with a small frown on his face and eyes darting constantly around for any signs of an ambush again. The fact the wounded were getting worse was cause for concern and they had been no luck finding anyone who could help. Even breaking radio protocol and requesting help on open channels resulted in no response. Arthur in the passenger seat as always has been attached to his radio since the ambush. Never leaving it, in case something comes over the radio waves.
Twilight sat in the back, Spike in her lap; she was quietly talking with Elizabeth about a variety of sciences. Otherwise it was rather quiet.
Samuel’s eyes caught the vehicle behind him put on its four way lights. That meant something or someone is in trouble. With a sigh from constant stress he began pulling over, much of the rest of the convoy was already doing the same.
Once parked Samuel hopped out, grabbing his M4, he scanned the area around. Clear enough to safely stop for a bit. Clear ground on either side of the highway, a car and an SUV were in the ditch, empty of people or zombies. Twilight and Elizabeth hopped out shortly after, Spike in Twilight’s arms. Elizabeth clenched Hobbes in her arms closely. Arthur slowly got it, his attention squarely on his radio.
Samuel walked, lighting a cigarette as he did, towards the middle of the convoy, other people exited vehicles, wondering what was happening.
“Spread out! Form a perimeter!” Samuel pointed with his finger, “Norman! Ken! Take a few to search those vehicles for anything of use! Quick but careful!”
People listened and attended to their duties. Samuel moved down the convoy till he reached the vehicle, the Jeep Wrangler, which caused it all, which several people surrounded. Sunset saw him and moved toward him.
“The rim is damaged. Air won’t stay in.” Sunset stated.
“Meaning it doesn’t have a proper seal,” Samuel sighed, “Let’s see if we can fix it.”
The two walked side by side till reaching the Jeep, Rarity and Fluttershy were the two occupants, another man was beside them, Joel, picked up in Thurston when they went through. Samuel knelt down to by the front passenger tire. The rim had a bend in the steel to where the tire didn’t seat properly.
“Got the jack and tire iron?” Samuel asked.
“Yup.” Joel responded.
“Let’s get it lifted then.” Samuel said.
Sunset grabbed the tools and set them by the tire. Getting the car jack underneath, Joel started jacking it up as Samuel grabbed a hammer to bang the rim back shape. Once the Jeep was lifted enough, Joel started loosening the bolts quickly with grunts of effort. Taking off the tire, they all saw another problem.
“Well shit.” Samuel said with disappointment.
“What is…Oh.” Sunset began to ask before seeing the damage.
The rotor and a part of the brakes had been damaged, just like the rim. Samuel poked his head under quickly and saw the entire assembly has been damaged to some extent.
“There is no fixing that is there?” Rarity asked as she looked at it.
Both Joel and Samuel shook their heads. Samuel spoke.
“Nope. We don’t have the parts for it. Did it feel off at all when driving?”
“It did. There was this horrible grinding noise and the Jeep did feel like it was…leaning?” Rarity said uncertainly.
“I think the wheel bearing is screwed then as well.” Joel said.
“Agreed.” Samuel rubbed his face in frustration, “The Jeep is obviously no longer drivable, let’s redistribute the supplies and strip it for anything we could use for the other vehicles. Drain its gas too.”
“I’ll get it done. Could I get a few people to help?” Joel said.
Sunset responded, “Of course.”
“Try to get it done in about ten minutes. Anything you can’t get off, you just leave.” Samuel said.
Joel got to work; two other people quickly came over to help. Samuel and Sunset went off to the side a bit.
“It isn’t just the Jeep. Most of our vehicles are in serious need of repair. Fuck this bullshit.” Samuel said with frustration.
“I know. Arthur hasn’t picked up anything, has he?” Sunset asked.
Samuel shook his head, “Nothing so far -“
“Sunset! Sunset! Rainbow and Mateo are in trouble!” Fluttershy shouted as loud as she could as she came running toward the two.
“What’s wrong?” Sunset asked, wide eyed with worry.
Fluttershy responded with shuddering breaths, “I-I think they are-are going into shock!”
Nothing was said between the three as they all sprinted to where Rainbow and Mateo were, in the bed of a truck covered with a truck cap. Both were in worsening conditions.
“Fluttershy is there anymore morphine?” Samuel asked hastily.
“Only a bit. Enough for only a couple hours.” Fluttershy responded.
“Give it to them Fluttershy. Hurry.” Sunset pleaded.
With a nod of determination she hopped in the back with Samuel and Sunset behind her. Cramming together, the two held Rainbow and Mateo down as Fluttershy grabbed the last doses of morphine they had from her medical bag. She quickly put them into syringes and gave the doses. Both immediately began to settle.
“They can’t take much more of this.” Fluttershy said sadly.
“I don’t think we can get much further like this either.” Sunset said with worry, as she looked at Samuel.
Samuel stayed quiet as he looked at the two wounded in the bed of the truck, “Let’s get ready to move. If we don’t find any help by tonight…We might just have to perform surgery ourselves.”
Both the girls looked at him in horror at the idea. Fluttershy spoke first, “But…But I don’t know how to perform a surgery though! It would be horrible!”
“I know Fluttershy, but he has a point. If we don’t they’ll just die…” Sunset said with concern.
Either outcome was horrifying to them. Let them die a slow and painful death, or perform a surgery, with no experience or proper equipment, that may save them or condemn them. Before anyone spoke another word, Applejack came from the front of the caravan. Jogging along as she called for them.
“Get over here! Ah think Arthur’s got something!” Applejack yelled.
Sunset and Samuel went jogging towards her, Fluttershy staying behind to look after her patients. They looked at each other, the same thought behind their eyes.
I hope it’s what we think it is.
Catching up to Applejack, she led the two back to Samuel’s truck. They saw Arthur furiously turning knobs and readjusting as if he was trying to catch a very elusive signal. Arthur ignored them all as they approached.
“Arthur what did you find?” Sunset asked hopefully.
Raising a finger in a gesture of “give me a minute” they all waited anxiously in what seemed like lingering moments that lasted forever.
“Got it!” Arthur yelled excitedly.
People gathered around, others filtering in who weren’t taken by their duties. Unplugging his headphones, Arthur turned up the volume knob and everyone listened in closely, quiet within the tense atmosphere.
Come on down to the Hub! We got everything you might need! Food! Fuel! Medical services! Auto body shops! Just to name a few! And if that doesn’t suit your fancy you can trade anything for everything! We are only several miles west of Baker City! Hope to see you!
Everyone was quiet as they processed information. The small crowd burst into chatter, trying to decide on something they wanted to hear. Sunset took action and called for their attention. A few moments later, all eyes were on her.
“If that broadcast is true, then we can get everything we need. Let’s get going!”
People hurried to get moving again, Samuel spotted movement out of the corner of his eye. A singular zombie slowly shambling over. He swore under his breath, he was really getting tired of them somehow being everywhere. He turned his attention to a few people still loitering, or still doing watch duty.
“Didn’t you hear! Mount up! Let’s get moving you fuckers!” Samuel yelled impatiently.
Sunset laid out the map they’ve been using ever since Sweet Apple Acres, “Here is Baker City. By my estimation it’s about…twenty miles from where we are.” She traced a finger of their route, “We will have to make a quick turn north to hit their location. Hopefully it’ll be easy to find.”
“Should be the way they’re announcing it.” Arthur said dryly as he put his radio back in the truck.
Samuel quickly looked over the map, “It will also give us a good spring board to cross over into Idaho. But first things first. We find this ‘Hub’ and get our wounded treated.”
With that they all got back into their respective vehicles and the convoy began rolling again. Picking up speed with a newfound hope in their hearts.
It was approaching late evening when the group started to see the outskirts of Baker City. What really got their attention was a suburb and commercial section that has been somewhat walled off. Partially like what they saw around Thurston, semi-trucks and random materials put together. The rest however was chain link fence, encasing what looks like a FEMA or Red Cross camp.
It was agreed, despite logic saying otherwise, they would drive up to the front gate. To get their wounded treated. Sunset looked at the Hub with serious eyes. She was squeezed in the back with Elizabeth and Twilight. The convoy however didn’t stop and continued driving, the Hub growing closer every second. It also seemed they weren’t the only group here as other vehicles were parked about. Campsites and the ruddy glow of campfires, the silhouettes of people also common.
Approaching what looked like a front gate. The security looked tight, four people at the gate, armed with assault rifles and body armor of various sorts. One of them gestured for Samuel to stop his truck and he slowed to a halt. The rest of the convoy following suit.
Rolling down a window, a guard approached, an average looking white man with the look of a farmer’s son, “State your business.”
“We have wounded that need tending immediately.” Samuel said seriously.
The guard straightened, the other three brought their rifles up to a low ready position, the man spoke again, “What kind of wounded?”
“They were shot! Ambush from about a day and a half ago!” Sunset hastily cried out.
The guard didn’t relax, “We will need to check them for bites or signs of infection first before we can allow them in.”
“Only a quick one. Then we get in.” Arthur said, trying to intimidate.
The guard ignored him and spoke again, “Where are you wounded?”
“Truck behind us, in the bed. One of our own accompanies you to make sure everything goes smoothly.” Samuel said.
The guard shrugged, “That’s fine. I’m bringing another too.”
Sunset hopped out and guided the two guards to the truck, disappearing behind it. A few minutes later they were back. Sunset hopped back in.
“You’re clear to enter but only this truck and the other. Rest stay out here, can’t have too many people in at once. And the medical clinics are just down this road, you can’t miss them. Last thing, you’re allowed to keep your weapons, never know when you night need them but no outward brandishing or threatening or you will be dealt with,” The guard said.
Samuel nodded and the guard gestured for the gate to open. The trucks slowly rolled in and the rest of the convoy, having already been radioed by Arthur, made a wide turn towards the outer field to start setting up camp.
The two trucks rolled down a road leading to the commercial district part of the Hub. Everyone slightly gawked at the amount of people here, going about their business or trying to sell their wares in the very huge tent market. Many establishments of various types existed, but could be investigated later.
Finding the first clinic on the right side, they rapidly parked in front. Everyone almost threw themselves out of the trucks. Sunset alongside Rarity rushed into the building, flinging the doors wide open. Samuel and Arthur got Mateo unloaded, going as fast as they could towards the building. Applejack and Pinkie had unloaded Rainbow Dash in the same fast order. Both of the wounded were in a state of going in and out of consciousness.
Entering the building into a large waiting room, an Asian man in a doctor’s coat with several nurses had prepped a surgery room with two tables ready to go.
“Here! Put them here!” The doctor yelled.
Both stretcher parties rushed to get their charges onto the tables, Mateo first and Rainbow second. Once both were on the tables, the nurses shooed them out of the room so they could work. The doctor went out with them as the nurses did their preparations.
“We are going to start the surgeries right away, but first I need to discuss payment.” The doctor explained plainly.
“Payment! Our friends are dying and you expect payment!” Applejack roared furiously.
The doctor glared at her, “I don’t what you were expecting but it isn’t going to be free. It costs supplies and my staff needs to be paid. And since money is useless now it will have to be something else.”
Sunset put a hand on Applejack shoulder to calm her, “We understand. What do you want for payment?”
“Food is always good. High value goods are better. We can discuss exact price after however once the surgeries are done. Now I have work to do so is there any-“
“Is it possible if we could stay?” Pinkie piped in with wide eyes.
The doctor looked at her, “Only a few, the rest of you will need to leave. Now is that everything?”
“If you could look at some of our other injured some time later it would be much appreciated.” Samuel said.
The doctor nodded, “We can do that. Now let me work.”
After that the doctor went back into the surgery room to begin. The group filtered out of the building, taking a rest by the trucks.
“So who is staying?” Samuel asked.
All the girls wanted to but it was ultimately decided that Fluttershy and Twilight would stay. Now having calmed down a bit, the group looked at their surroundings more closely. There really was a variety of businesses. From mechanic shops and general stores to bar and even what looked like a brothel. And among these establishments were people, not a single one phased by the groups rush.
Arthur yawned, triggering a few others to yawn as well. Sunset spoke.
“I don’t think there is anything else we can do now. Its best we head to our camp.”
A round of agreement followed, “Perhaps we should try exploring this place more tomorrow.” Arthur thought out loud.
Samuel smirked and put a hand on Arthur’s shoulder, “Tomorrow, looks like there is a lot to discover. I’m surprised such a place exists honestly.”
“Yeah maybe we could do some trading-“Arthur was interrupted.
“You there! Could you spare something?!”
A beggar came up to them, a man with golden hair that was vastly overgrown and filthy, a grotesque beard of the same color. His clothes, which was once a three piece suit, was also rather filthy and in tatters. One of his dress shoes had hole where his toes are. Incredibly light blue eyes that seemed dull stared at them, slowly looking to each one of them.
“Umm…Sorry we don’t have anything to spare right now.” Twilight said.
The beggar’s eyes locked in on her, much to her surprise and now fear.
“You are all the same! Never have anything! I see your supplies in that truck! Can’t you spare something!” the beggar yelled frantically and at the point of tears.
Applejack decided to intervene, “Whoa now. You listen here mister, calm down and try being a mite more polite and maybe we’ll give you something.”
The man’s mouth shut in fear now and slight hope, “Please. Just something. Anything.”
Samuel took a deep frustrated breath, keeping Elizabeth behind him as she peered curiously around him. Arthur right beside him just crossed his arms and watched it play out. Pinkie and Fluttershy also watched from the sidelines as Twilight slowly backed away from the man, Spike in her arms growling.
Rarity disappeared from the conversation and reappeared almost as fast. She had some water, food and some fresh clothes in her arms, “Here you go dear. It’s not much but it’s something-“
She paused in mid-sentence as her eyes widened in recognition, despite the man now thanking her profusely.
“Blue Blood!” Rarity cried out in confusion.
All the girls looked at her and said the same thing at once in confusion, “Blue Blood?”
Samuel narrowed his eyebrows in confusion and looked to Arthur for an answer, who merely shrugged.
The man, now identified, stopped mid-sentence and his eyes now widened in recognition.
“Miss Rarity? Is that you?”
Rarity shied away a bit, “Yes it’s me.”
“I’m saved! Saved!” Blue Blood cried as he went to his knees and tried to hug Rarity’s legs, but she moved away in alarm.
“Alright that’s enough.” Samuel said, deciding to intervene, “You stay right there and don’t move. And don’t cause any issues. Got it?”
Blue Blood, looked up at him and nodded frantically. Samuel stared at him for a second and then turned to the girls, “So who is he?”
Rarity spoke, with slight disgust, “That is Blue Blood. Nephew to Principal Celestia and Vice-Principal Luna. I had the misfortune having gone on a date with him, it was absolutely dreadful…”
She noticed how everyone looked at her with a deadpan look, she laughed nervously, “But that story can wait for another time. Anyway I’m surprised he is here of all places.”
Everyone looked at him; he was still staring at them wide eyed, not entirely there.
“So Blue Blood how did you get to be here?” Arthur asked uncertainly.
That brought him out of his trance and he immediately began, “I was on a flight to a socialite gathering in L.A, it was going to be marvelous. Than all of a sudden we landed in the middle of some-some corn field! And then we came under attack by those absolute monsters! I ran for who knows how long and then I was here. I don’t know how but I am.”
The group all turned to each other again. Pinkie spoke, “So what do we do?”
“Well he was known for being an absolute pain but seeing him like this…is something to say the least.” Applejack offered.
“Oh yes. He was absolutely horrible to my animals but we should still show him kindness. Even he doesn’t deserve this.” Fluttershy added in.
Sunset hesitated than spoke, “I know if we take him in it’s going to be…painful to say the least but I feel like we should try to help him, if only for Celestia and Luna.”
“Maybe he will like my surprises this time; he didn’t last time the big meanie.” Pinkie said.
“I…uh…got nothing to say.” Twilight said sheepishly.
Rarity flipped her hair before speaking, “Even after that absolutely horrid date and the way he acted, behaved and treated me…I can’t help but feel sorry for him.”
Samuel sighed, “So you want to take him with us?”
Arthur added in, “You’re sure? I didn’t know the guy at all but the rumors around the school are enough to for me to hesitant about this.”
A slight hesitation by the girls before a collective agreement of ‘yes’. Samuel turned and walked over to Blue Blood, towering over his kneeling form.
“Alright Blue Blood through the mercy of those girls right there,” Samuel pointed at them, “It looks like you’re joining our group.”
“Thank you!” Blue Blood cried out, now getting up, almost as tall as Samuel.
Samuel still looked at him with slight contempt, “We will discuss what that exactly entails later. First you need a bath and a haircut. You better not have lice either or you’re being shaved.”
Blue Blood’s eyes went wide, “You can’t shave my hair! A haircut I understand but shave it! It’s one of the best parts of me!”
Samuel snorted, “Don’t care. You listen or you get kicked out, Understood?”
Blue Blood shut his mouth again, and nodded very slowly.
“Good. Now hop in the bed of the truck, my truck.”
He quickly did so, obviously happy to be going somewhere. Samuel looked at the girls with tired eyes, “This better not bite us in the ass.”
Sunset approached and put a hand on his shoulder, “Don’t worry. We will make sure it doesn’t. Trust me”
Samuel nodded, “Alright I’ll trust you.”
Sunset smiled, “Thank you. Let’s go now.”
The group started loading up again, minus Fluttershy and Twilight. Before they were all loaded up, Arthur approached Rarity.
“You gonna be alright with this?”
“As much as I despise the man for what he did on that date. I can’t turn him away…that’s just too cruel.” Rarity responded.
“You’re going to have tell me the story behind that.” Arthur said.
“Happily. And maybe you’ll learn something from it, especially on how to treat a lady.” Rarity said with a smile.
She realized she might have made a mistake when she saw the flash of pain in Arthur’s eyes, “I’m sorry Arthur. I-I didn’t mean to make sound like that if you understand what I mean-“
Arthur put a finger to her lips, almost touching, she went quiet and looked down at it, Arthur spoke with a soft smile, “It’s ok. I know you didn’t mean anything bad.”
He removed the finger and continued, ‘Let’s go now. Maybe we can get some proper sleep.”
“Yes, let’s do that.” Rarity agreed.
The two of them hopped into the same truck as the two trucks headed to their new camp under the rapidly darkening sky.
