Fallout: Equestria (IC)

[Socialist Shadow Republic]

Marci looked at the Stallion, she was hysterical, she grabbed Thunder and held on, whispering in a truly anguished voice, "Please, please make it stop! I never asked for this!" In her waking nightmare, Thunder wore the face of the Goddess, "Why did you have to die mother?" She buried her face in Thunder's shoulder and continued to cry her eyes out. She slowly began to come back to reality, slowing her breathing and drying her eyes.

Thunder was taken aback by the way Marci was acting. He didn't understand why she was talking to him as if he were her mother. But, he did understand her pain. It was a pain that all in the Wastes suffered from; the pain of losing loved ones. Holding her tight he answered, "I ain't sure why, Marci. Sometimes we gotta bear burdens that seem unfair. Sometimes things jus' happen; events an' experiences that we usually ain't ready to handle." Taking a breath as he began to nuzzle her, he continued. "But, we've always gotta continue; move on. We have t'. 'Cause if we don't, then everythin' we've done—everythin' everypony we know has done—has been fer naught."

His voice died down as he searched his mind for the right words. Hoping he had found them, he began to speak again. "But, I know wounds heal. It doesn't always feel like they do. Sometimes, we feel like we jus' gotta make room fer the pain. But, if we do that, then it only grows—festers int' a monster so great, that we become afraid a' it, An' it does so 'cause we let it. I don't know why yer mom died. I can't pretend t' know. But, I do know that I'm here fer ya, now, in the present. An' I don't care what it takes, I'll stick by yer side." Sighing aloud, he raised his head and looked Marci in the eyes. "I s'pose what I'm tryin' t' say is… I care 'bout ya, Marci."

[Fantrum]

Marci looked at the Stallion, she was hysterical, she grabbed Thunder and held on, whispering in a truly anguished voice, "Please, please make it stop! I never asked for this!" In her waking nightmare, Thunder wore the face of the Goddess, "Why did you have to die mother?" She buried her face in Thunder's shoulder and continued to cry her eyes out. She slowly began to come back to reality, slowing her breathing and drying her eyes.

Thunder was taken aback by the way Marci was acting. He didn't understand why she was talking to him as if he were her mother. But, he did understand her pain. It was a pain that all in the Wastes suffered from; the pain of losing loved ones. Holding her tight he answered, "I ain't sure why, Marci. Sometimes we gotta bear burdens that seem unfair. Sometimes things jus' happen; events an' experiences that we usually ain't ready to handle." Taking a breath as he began to nuzzle her, he continued. "But, we've always gotta continue; move on. We have t'. 'Cause if we don't, then everythin' we've done—everythin' everypony we know has done—has been fer naught."

His voice died down as he searched his mind for the right words. Hoping he had found them, he began to speak again. "But, I know wounds heal. It doesn't always feel like they do. Sometimes, we feel like we jus' gotta make room fer the pain. But, if we do that, then it only grows—festers int' a monster so great, that we become afraid a' it, An' it does so 'cause we let it. I don't know why yer mom died. I can't pretend t' know. But, I do know that I'm here fer ya, now, in the present. An' I don't care what it takes, I'll stick by yer side." Sighing aloud, he raised his head and looked Marci in the eyes. "I s'pose what I'm tryin' t' say is… I care 'bout ya, Marci."

Marciline was now back in full control of herself, and she whole heartedly hugged Thunder. "Thank you Thunder Flare." She suddenly teleported to a standing position beside the bed, she hadn't fully recovered from her nightmare, her throat was sore and eyes red and puffy. But she managed a half serious look, "If you tell anyone you saw an alicorn cry, I'll break both your wings and throw you off the tallest building I can find." She omitted the part where she would catch the stallion and mend his wings if she really did that, but hey! There wasnt a need for that now! She walked slowly to the bathroom and closed the door, starting the shower running and stepping into the cold stream. She suddenly felt alive and awake, and even began to sing a little in the shower. !My name is Mar-ci-line, and I am here to say, Im gonna make you smile and I will brighten up your day~!" She knew she wasnt a particularly good singer, but she just needed to feel better. Sure, Thunder had defiantly gotten her out of the shit storm, but now she just needed little things. Like singing in the the shower.

[Neo Byzantine Empire]

Crossfire's rest was disturbed by less-than-pleasant dreams; dark dreams of a winding and difficult road ahead of her. She stood alone amid flaming ruins of a city; fire raining down from the sky itself while walls and the buildings protected by the ancient structures crumbled into dust.

Throughout all this; the sun rose behind her, breaking the cloud cover and shining its glorious light down on the landscape to reveal she had not been alone this entire time; those she called friends stepped forth to stand alongside her, while those who followed her waited patiently for her orders. She turned her attention back to the chaos around them; the rising sun at their backs blinding their enemies; various creatures, abominations, and ponies whom posed a threat to the wastes and the people as a whole. At her side were her trusty pistols; restored to near-excellent condition. She drew one, looking down at it, then turning her gaze upon the chaos descending upon herself and those around her.

"For Equestria! Charge!" she shouted, kicking up off the ground with other Pegasi; while ground forces below advanced at full gallop towards the enemy.

Just as they had all come within range; Crossfire was pulled away from the strange dream-world; shooting up rather suddenly, looking all around the tent. Those she had been sleeping close to grumbled in protest, some settling back into a comfortable spot, while others reluctantly rose to begin another day in hell.

Crossfire herself rose to her hooves and waved at Sulphur and Bright; showing no apparent reaction to their being so close to each other. Carefully stepping over the sleeping forms of other Ponies; the refreshed and revitalized Pegasus Mare stepped out into the courtyard; enjoying the relative peace of the morning, biding her time till everypony had awoken.

Her companions from Dark Heart's clan had found her leaning on an old tree; informing her of their suspicions as to who the assailant from before was.

"I honestly wouldn't be surprised." She replied, not at all phased, at least not outwardly showing so; though the idea of such a ruthless enemy... "Still; we'll be long gone from here should be ever decide to make another move."

"Then our services are yours." said Red Dawn, bowing her head, "We were planning on supporting your monarchy."
"Want us to hunt down this no-good unicorn and deliver you his head?" asked Butch, darkly, taking out two long swords from the dual scabbard on his back, "Before he decides to cause anymore trouble?"
Butch was eager to taste the blood of this filthy terrorist, before the latter could taste anymore blood.
"Yeah," said Dustbowl, hovering above Crossfire, "Parasprites are one thing; Annoying, but, harmless; But, Putting innocent ponies at risk with grenades. Well, somepony must be delt with, before he can do more harm. So, want us to do you the favor?"

"No; don't bother for now. We have other matters to attend to; I'll explain further once everypony is awake." The Pegasus Mare replied, looking out over the crowds that had rise and were out and about; those who had survived their wounds, and watching some brought out of tents motionless, likely having succumbed to their injuries in their sleep.

None of it was fair, of course; all ponies were created equal, after all. Even if merit determined one rise above or fall below everypony else, the least they deserved was a fighting chance in this world. The Doctor's words played in her head over and over again; how life was apparently regarded as low in value.

Crossfire retained her calm and steady outward demeanor; knowing for a fact such ponies who thought so were fools; fools who she would prove wrong by showing them how valuable ponies lives truly were, and even if they didn't seem so in the eyes of the wealthy scum governing Moon Tower; that even the poorest pony could be worthy of a title of nobility through their actions and hard work for the sake of others.

Now if only Bright, Sulphur, and the others would get their lazy flanks out of bed and into the courtyard...

[The Flutterlands]

"Then our services are yours." said Red Dawn, bowing her head, "We were planning on supporting your monarchy."
"Want us to hunt down this no-good unicorn and deliver you his head?" asked Butch, darkly, taking out two long swords from the dual scabbard on his back, "Before he decides to cause anymore trouble?"
Butch was eager to taste the blood of this filthy terrorist, before the latter could taste anymore blood.
"Yeah," said Dustbowl, hovering above Crossfire, "Parasprites are one thing; Annoying, but, harmless; But, Putting innocent ponies at risk with grenades. Well, somepony must be delt with, before he can do more harm. So, want us to do you the favor?"

"No; don't bother for now. We have other matters to attend to; I'll explain further once everypony is awake." The Pegasus Mare replied, looking out over the crowds that had rise and were out and about; those who had survived their wounds, and watching some brought out of tents motionless, likely having succumbed to their injuries in their sleep.

None of it was fair, of course; all ponies were created equal, after all. Even if merit determined one rise above or fall below everypony else, the least they deserved was a fighting chance in this world. The Doctor's words played in her head over and over again; how life was apparently regarded as low in value.

Crossfire retained her calm and steady outward demeanor; knowing for a fact such ponies who thought so were fools; fools who she would prove wrong by showing them how valuable ponies lives truly were, and even if they didn't seem so in the eyes of the wealthy scum governing Moon Tower; that even the poorest pony could be worthy of a title of nobility through their actions and hard work for the sake of others.

Now if only Bright, Sulphur, and the others would get their lazy flanks out of bed and into the courtyard...

Butch responded by placing his swords back into their scabbards. He had an extremely bad feeling about this Unicorn. To him this fiend was an insect, that must be squashed quickly. He knew alot of bad ponies, but this one, made the griffin feel sick in his stomach, and that's saying something.
"Why would this creature do such a thing in the first place?" asked Dustbowl, "What do you, or rather, what does he think that he has to gain?"
The very idea of a terrorist, of this kind, was rare in the wasteland, or rather in Seaddel. While Raiders are known to mostly attack those who bother them, and/or enter their territory, this one seems to have a most unpredictable nature, and that scared the Pegasus.
"You seem to know him, Crossfire." Red Dawn stated, "But, you can tell us later. As you said, we have other matters to attend to."

---

Warren Underground

As the gang continued their journey to Moon Tower through the dark tunnels beneath the warren, Spot contemplated on his dream. What in Celestia's good name were those creatures? Were they the Silence? Why are his dreams so focused on them and the vault? What does his parents have to do with it all? Such questions was putting a strain on his mind, that he just wanted to forget it all. But, he worried that doing so would only lead to some horrible disaster, that would catch them off guard. So, he decided to put his thoughts in a special place in his mind, where he could look to think about later.
Eventually, the Gang found an exit. Hoping that they made it to Moon Tower, Hope eagerly opened the manhole, and poked her head through the opening, outside...

[New Willow]

Tired of laying down, Sulphur slowly stood up; being weary of waking Bright. She found two of her jackets folded near the blanket she was placed on, the third was already on her. After she placed the other coats on and buckled her Saddlebag over her clothing she made her way outside. The cold breeze washed over her as she pushed her way past the tent flap, she looked around at the scene of ponies continuing their daily lives, working, resting, or just recuperating. In an odd sense it seemed almost tranquil, especially compared to the events of the previous day. She noticed Crossfire along with a small entourage of ponies near an old tree. Not wanting to just sit in the cold and have icicles form on her mane, she began making her way towards the group. Curious on what exactly happened yesterday, and generally interested in knowing if Crossfire was okay.

[Neo Byzantine Empire]

Tired of laying down, Sulphur slowly stood up; being weary of waking Bright. She found two of her jackets folded near the blanket she was placed on, the third was already on her. After she placed the other coats on and buckled her Saddlebag over her clothing she made her way outside. The cold breeze washed over her as she pushed her way past the tent flap, she looked around at the scene of ponies continuing their daily lives, working, resting, or just recuperating. In an odd sense it seemed almost tranquil, especially compared to the events of the previous day. She noticed Crossfire along with a small entourage of ponies near an old tree. Not wanting to just sit in the cold and have icicles form on her mane, she began making her way towards the group. Curious on what exactly happened yesterday, and generally interested in knowing if Crossfire was okay.

It wasn't long before Crossfire noticed the bat-pony, who did stick out as one of the rarer races in this formerly diverse pre-war hub. Still; she smiled and waved as Sulphur approached, looking out over the crowds once more before turning her attention back to her friends and companions.

"Good morning, Sulphur. How are you faring?" She asked, she herself appearing just fine. No longer pale and weak due to blood loss; it would have been difficult to tell Crossfire had looked death in the face yesterday and come back stronger as a result.

[Lunas Legion]

Warren Edges

The manhole opened up into a rubble strewn street much like the thousands of others scattered across Seaddle, but this one was most definitely not within the Warrens. The sky was a murky grey and small flakes of snow drifted down and settled on the frozen street or one of several destroyed chariots that littered the street.

Moon Tower was visible to the north, barely seen through the thick haze that was building up between the Gang and the Tower. The cause of the haze, however, could not be natural.

---

The Octogon

With a sad sigh Zene trotted out of the Octogon, occasionally glancing back at what had been his home for at least a hundred years, if not more. They'd buried Dusty in the courtyard, still clad in her power armour. She would have wanted to be buried in that armour.

He turned away from the gatehouse and glanced down towards Flashbang and Utopia, who were sitting on a pair of old crates they'd moved from somewhere.

"Ready to head out boss?" Zene asked as he reached the pair.

"Obviously." Utopia snorted. "It shouldn't take too long to reach the Tower. Brasswing'll let us in. We may despise each other, but it's a friendly rivalry for the most part." He stood up as Flashbang did the same, and the trio trotted off in the direction of Moon Tower.

[New Willow]

It wasn't long before Crossfire noticed the bat-pony, who did stick out as one of the rarer races in this formerly diverse pre-war hub. Still; she smiled and waved as Sulphur approached, looking out over the crowds once more before turning her attention back to her friends and companions.

"Good morning, Sulphur. How are you faring?" She asked, she herself appearing just fine. No longer pale and weak due to blood loss; it would have been difficult to tell Crossfire had looked death in the face yesterday and come back stronger as a result.

Sulphur paused and scanned over Crossfire before replying. "I'm uh, I'm well," she said, trying to think of what to say next. "So, you appear to be fine, not too banged up I hope."

The jealous grudge Sulphur held lay buried in the back of her mind. It seemed so trivial compared to recent events; apart of her still clutched on to it for dear life, but for the time being it was meaningless, Especially in contrast with the possibility of losing a friend permanently.

[The Flutterlands]

Warren Edges

The manhole opened up into a rubble strewn street much like the thousands of others scattered across Seaddle, but this one was most definitely not within the Warrens. The sky was a murky grey and small flakes of snow drifted down and settled on the frozen street or one of several destroyed chariots that littered the street.

Moon Tower was visible to the north, barely seen through the thick haze that was building up between the Gang and the Tower. The cause of the haze, however, could not be natural.

Hope gave the all clear, and lead her comrades through the hazy streets. Hope made sure that her cousin's protection was the gang's top priority, next to reaching the Tower in one piece. As they made their way, the cold began to pierce into Spot's body like knives, he has never experienced such cold in his life.
"Hope.." he spoke weakly, the cold made it hurt to speak, "it's... so... cold. Are we... there yet?"
Hope cocked her head towards her little cousin, she could tell that she does not have much time.
"All most," she replied, "Almost there, just a little longer."
But, Hope began to have doubts, there was something rotten about this fog and she didn't like it one bit. But, they journeyed on anyway, little knowing what may await them in the ghostly fog.

Tired of laying down, Sulphur slowly stood up; being weary of waking Bright. She found two of her jackets folded near the blanket she was placed on, the third was already on her. After she placed the other coats on and buckled her Saddlebag over her clothing she made her way outside. The cold breeze washed over her as she pushed her way past the tent flap, she looked around at the scene of ponies continuing their daily lives, working, resting, or just recuperating. In an odd sense it seemed almost tranquil, especially compared to the events of the previous day. She noticed Crossfire along with a small entourage of ponies near an old tree. Not wanting to just sit in the cold and have icicles form on her mane, she began making her way towards the group. Curious on what exactly happened yesterday, and generally interested in knowing if Crossfire was okay.

It wasn't long before Crossfire noticed the bat-pony, who did stick out as one of the rarer races in this formerly diverse pre-war hub. Still; she smiled and waved as Sulphur approached, looking out over the crowds once more before turning her attention back to her friends and companions.

"Good morning, Sulphur. How are you faring?" She asked, she herself appearing just fine. No longer pale and weak due to blood loss; it would have been difficult to tell Crossfire had looked death in the face yesterday and come back stronger as a result.

Butch, Dustbowl and Red Dawn gazed upon the bat-pony. They have heard stories of them, and upon seeing one for the first time, was just as breathtaking as a pony seeing an alicorn for the first time.
"Hi," Red Dawn greeted, she was just as bewildered as her friends, but still tried to keep a straight face, "I'm Red Dawn."
The Alicorn mare turned to her friends.
"This is Dustbowl," she said pointing to the brown Pegasus.
"Uh... Hi" greeted Dustbowl, trying not to stare at the pony's bat wings.
Dustbowl wondered what it would be like to have them.
"And, I'm Butch," the griffin introduced himself to the Bat-pony,
"Forgive us if we're being rude," continued Red Dawn, she was speaking cautiously this time, hoping not to offend, "but we have never seen a... bat-pony before. It's nice to meet one for the first time. I can only imagine what it would be like to have one among our ranks in the clan."
At saying that, Red Dawn began to miss being with her fellow clan ponies, she felt that she should be among them saving the world and all, but something in her gut has been telling her that she's somehow, more needed here.

[New Willow]

Butch, Dustbowl and Red Dawn gazed upon the bat-pony. They have heard stories of them, and upon seeing one for the first time, was just as breathtaking as a pony seeing an alicorn for the first time.
"Hi," Red Dawn greeted, she was just as bewildered as her friends, but still tried to keep a straight face, "I'm Red Dawn."
The Alicorn mare turned to her friends.
"This is Dustbowl," she said pointing to the brown Pegasus.
"Uh... Hi" greeted Dustbowl, trying not to stare at the pony's bat wings.
Dustbowl wondered what it would be like to have them.
"And, I'm Butch," the griffin introduced himself to the Bat-pony,
"Forgive us if we're being rude," continued Red Dawn, "but we have never seen a... bat-pony before. It's nice to meet one for the first time. I can only imagine what it would be like to have one among our ranks in the clan."
At saying that, Red Dawn began to miss being with her fellow clan ponies, she felt that she should be among them saving the world and all, but something in her gut has been telling her that she's somehow, more needed here.

Sulphur blushed a little; not used to getting this much attention, turning to stare at the trio she introduced herself.

"You can call me Sulphur... Sulphur Pike." She said, with a touch of unease. "...Yeah uh, Bat ponies tend not to like the cold much. I'm only here because I thought there would be... well something more I guess." She finished, awkwardly smiling at the trio.

Her gaze fell back upon Crossfire, before she turned her eyes elsewhere. The cold was nipping at her legs; nothing bad, but enough to make her feel uncomfortable, she pranced in place for a brief second to try and keep blood circulating.

[The Flutterlands]

Butch, Dustbowl and Red Dawn gazed upon the bat-pony. They have heard stories of them, and upon seeing one for the first time, was just as breathtaking as a pony seeing an alicorn for the first time.
"Hi," Red Dawn greeted, she was just as bewildered as her friends, but still tried to keep a straight face, "I'm Red Dawn."
The Alicorn mare turned to her friends.
"This is Dustbowl," she said pointing to the brown Pegasus.
"Uh... Hi" greeted Dustbowl, trying not to stare at the pony's bat wings.
Dustbowl wondered what it would be like to have them.
"And, I'm Butch," the griffin introduced himself to the Bat-pony,
"Forgive us if we're being rude," continued Red Dawn, "but we have never seen a... bat-pony before. It's nice to meet one for the first time. I can only imagine what it would be like to have one among our ranks in the clan."
At saying that, Red Dawn began to miss being with her fellow clan ponies, she felt that she should be among them saving the world and all, but something in her gut has been telling her that she's somehow, more needed here.

Sulphur blushed a little; not used to getting this much attention, turning to stare at the trio she introduced herself.

"You can call me Sulphur... Sulphur Pike." She said, with a touch of unease. "Yeah, Bat ponies tend not to like the cold. I'm only here because I thought there would be... well something more I guess." She finished, awkwardly smiling at the trio.

Her gaze fell back upon Crossfire, before she turned her gaze elsewhere. The cold was nipping at her legs; nothing bad, but enough to make her feel uncomfortable, she pranced in place for a brief second to try and keep blood circulating.

"Nice to meet you, Sulphur." greeted Red Dawn, "If your getting cold, maybe we should go inside the Tower and discuss things more there."
Red Dawn, like most who grew up in Seaddel, grew up with the cold, and learned to get use to it the hard way.
"Crossfire?" Red Dawn, turned to the Pegasus mare, awaiting for for her approval.

[Fralinia]

Bright woke up suddenly, blundering about inside the tent for a second, blindly searching for Sulphur before seeing that she wasn't present. He was scared for a second before his more rational side told himthat she was probably awake. He grabbed his pack and his new rifle before stumbling outside into the light. He saw Sulphur and Crossfire standing and chatting with an alicorn and a griffon. He walked over to them with bleary eyes and lots of sleep in his eyes.

"Good morning, everyone." he mumbled. He wasn't quite awake yet. He felt groggy and confused, but he tried to make the best of it. "How's everything going?"

[The Flutterlands]

Bright woke up suddenly, blundering about inside the tent for a second, blindly searching for Sulphur before seeing that she wasn't present. He was scared for a second before his more rational side told himthat she was probably awake. He grabbed his pack and his new rifle before stumbling outside into the light. He saw Sulphur and Crossfire standing and chatting with an alicorn, a Pegasus and a griffon. He walked over to them with bleary eyes and lots of sleep in his eyes.

"Good morning, everyone." he mumbled. He wasn't quite awake yet. He felt groggy and confused, but he tried to make the best of it. "How's everything going?"

"Good morning," greeted Red Dawn, as she turned to Brightsteel, who was trotting towards them.
"Well," replied Dustbowl, the pegusas hovering in the air, "Other than it being cold, too cold for some," Dustbowl turned to Sulphur, "We know who's the perpetrator of this crime against ponykind."
"Some rotten Unicorn," scowled Butch, "What could have driven such a creature to commit such an act?"

[Fralinia]

Bright woke up suddenly, blundering about inside the tent for a second, blindly searching for Sulphur before seeing that she wasn't present. He was scared for a second before his more rational side told himthat she was probably awake. He grabbed his pack and his new rifle before stumbling outside into the light. He saw Sulphur and Crossfire standing and chatting with an alicorn, a Pegasus and a griffon. He walked over to them with bleary eyes and lots of sleep in his eyes.

"Good morning, everyone." he mumbled. He wasn't quite awake yet. He felt groggy and confused, but he tried to make the best of it. "How's everything going?"

"Good morning," greeted Red Dawn, as she turned to Brightsteel, who was trotting towards them.
"Well," replied Dustbowl, the pegusas hovering in the air, "Other than it being cold, too cold for some," Dustbowl turned to Sulphur, "We know who's the perpetrator of this crime against ponykind."
"Some rotten Unicorn," scowled Butch, "What could have driven such a creature to commit such an act?"

"Hmm. Well, that's interesting. I suppose that unicorn could have been that Pitch fellow... you think so? Anyway, yeah, Sulphur does send to end up being cold a lot. But she's getting used to it. Have you any more information on this unicorn?" Bright was very inquisitive. He was starting to really wake up now, but only just. "Who are you, by the way?"

[Socialist Shadow Republic]

Marciline was now back in full control of herself, and she whole heartedly hugged Thunder. "Thank you Thunder Flare." She suddenly teleported to a standing position beside the bed, she hadn't fully recovered from her nightmare, her throat was sore and eyes red and puffy. But she managed a half serious look, "If you tell anyone you saw an alicorn cry, I'll break both your wings and throw you off the tallest building I can find." She omitted the part where she would catch the stallion and mend his wings if she really did that, but hey! There wasnt a need for that now! She walked slowly to the bathroom and closed the door, starting the shower running and stepping into the cold stream. She suddenly felt alive and awake, and even began to sing a little in the shower. !My name is Mar-ci-line, and I am here to say, Im gonna make you smile and I will brighten up your day~!" She knew she wasnt a particularly good singer, but she just needed to feel better. Sure, Thunder had defiantly gotten her out of the shit storm, but now she just needed little things. Like singing in the the shower.

The hug was great. It was more than great; it was amazing! For several seconds there, the amber pegasus' hear began to thump against his chest much more rapidly. He wanted that moment to last much longer than it did. But, unfortunately, the alicorn teleported from out of his grasp. When Marci said what she did, Thunder Flare might have been worried had he failed to notice her only mildly serious face. Softly chuckling at what he hoped was a joke of Marci's, Thunder got up and began to move about the room. Thunder threw his jackets, hat, and goggles onto the bed. Then, he retrieved his pack and tossed it into a corner. Listening semi-intently to Marci's shower-singing, while he admitted it wasn't the most beautiful voice, the song that was flowing from her lips was bubbly and infectiously happy.

Walking back up the stairs, several minutes later, Thunder Flare brought with him breakfast, bought from the traders in the courtyard, outside. It had been more expensive than he had hoped, the recent attack causing prices of most items and inventory to rise. But, he had managed to procure a decent bargain. Pushing the door open, Thunder trotted into the room.

[The Flutterlands]

"Good morning," greeted Red Dawn, as she turned to Brightsteel, who was trotting towards them.
"Well," replied Dustbowl, the pegusas hovering in the air, "Other than it being cold, too cold for some," Dustbowl turned to Sulphur, "We know who's the perpetrator of this crime against ponykind."
"Some rotten Unicorn," scowled Butch, "What could have driven such a creature to commit such an act?"

"Hmm. Well, that's interesting. I suppose that unicorn could have been that Pitch fellow... you think so? Anyway, yeah, Sulphur does send to end up being cold a lot. But she's getting used to it. Have you any more information on this unicorn?" Bright was very inquisitive. He was starting to really wake up now, but only just. "Who are you, by the way?"

"We are associates with Crossfire," said Red Dawn,"I'm Red Dawn."
"And I'm Butch" said the Griffin, "and unfortunately, we weren't here for the previous attack, only to arrive for the aftermath, so I only got an eyewitness account about some Unicorn with supposedly winged power armor. Never heard of such a thing, winged power armor."
"I'm Dustbowl," said Dustbowl, "You seem to know him. You've said his name was Pitch, What else do you know about him?"

[Fralinia]

"Hmm. Well, that's interesting. I suppose that unicorn could have been that Pitch fellow... you think so? Anyway, yeah, Sulphur does send to end up being cold a lot. But she's getting used to it. Have you any more information on this unicorn?" Bright was very inquisitive. He was starting to really wake up now, but only just. "Who are you, by the way?"

"We are associates with Crossfire," said Red Dawn,"I'm Red Dawn."
"And I'm Butch" said the Griffin, "and unfortunately, we weren't here for the previous attack, only to arrive for the aftermath, so I only got an eyewitness account about some Unicorn with supposedly winged power armor. Never heard of such a thing, winged power armor."
"I'm Dustbowl," said Dustbowl, "You seem to know him. You've said his name was Pitch, What else do you know about him?"

Bright now perked up considerably. "Yes, I know a bit about him. He's a ghoul unicorn with wits of steel and a tongue of silver. Damn good liar, him. I didn't see him throw those grenades, but I had been in something of a shouting match with him a few minutes previously, and all the other evidence adds up to him being the perpetrator. I don't suppose you all have any way of finding the whereabouts of a teleporting unicorn, would you?"
Bright looked around. The day was nice; a little bit of the snow seemed to have melted, and the wind was relatively low. He might be able to head home today with Sulphur.

[The Flutterlands]

"We are associates with Crossfire," said Red Dawn,"I'm Red Dawn."
"And I'm Butch" said the Griffin, "and unfortunately, we weren't here for the previous attack, only to arrive for the aftermath, so I only got an eyewitness account about some Unicorn with supposedly winged power armor. Never heard of such a thing, winged power armor."
"I'm Dustbowl," said Dustbowl, "You seem to know him. You've said his name was Pitch, What else do you know about him?"

Bright now perked up considerably. "Yes, I know a bit about him. He's a ghoul unicorn with wits of steel and a tongue of silver. Damn good liar, him. I didn't see him throw those grenades, but I had been in something of a shouting match with him a few minutes previously, and all the other evidence adds up to him being the perpetrator. I don't suppose you all have any way of finding the whereabouts of a teleporting unicorn, would you?"
Bright looked around. The day was nice; a little bit of the snow seemed to have melted, and the wind was relatively low. He might be able to head home today with Sulphur.

"None." said Butch, "But, I do plan to hunt him down, eventually, and put an end to him once and for all."
Butch took out his twin swords, from the scabbards, tied to his back, around his torso, showing them off to Bright.
"Hmm..." said Red Dawn, "There appears to be more that you're not telling us. Exactly what was this shouting match was about? Tell us more, it could give us a motive."

[Fralinia]

Bright now perked up considerably. "Yes, I know a bit about him. He's a ghoul unicorn with wits of steel and a tongue of silver. Damn good liar, him. I didn't see him throw those grenades, but I had been in something of a shouting match with him a few minutes previously, and all the other evidence adds up to him being the perpetrator. I don't suppose you all have any way of finding the whereabouts of a teleporting unicorn, would you?"
Bright looked around. The day was nice; a little bit of the snow seemed to have melted, and the wind was relatively low. He might be able to head home today with Sulphur.

"None." said Butch, "But, I do plan to hunt him down, eventually, and put an end to him once and for all."
Butch took out his twin swords, from the scabbards, tied to his back, around his torso, showing them off to Bright.
"Hmm..." said Red Dawn, "There appears to be more that you're not telling us. Exactly what was this shouting match was about? Tell us more, it could give us a motive."

"We were debating Crossfire's monarchy," Bright replied. "He was of the impression that it would end up being an oppressive morass, I was defending Crossfire. Apparently, he took it to heart."
Noticing the two swords gleaming before him, Bright stepped back a bit. The two long pieces of molded steel were a menacing sight. Behind his back, Bright grasped for his rifle to make sure it was still there.

[The Flutterlands]

"None." said Butch, "But, I do plan to hunt him down, eventually, and put an end to him once and for all."
Butch took out his twin swords, from the scabbards, tied to his back, around his torso, showing them off to Bright.
"Hmm..." said Red Dawn, "There appears to be more that you're not telling us. Exactly what was this shouting match was about? Tell us more, it could give us a motive."

"We were debating Crossfire's monarchy," Bright replied. "He was of the impression that it would end up being an oppressive morass, I was defending Crossfire. Apparently, he took it to heart."
Noticing the two swords gleaming before him, Bright stepped back a bit. The two long pieces of molded steel were a menacing sight. Behind his back, Bright grasped for his rifle to make sure it was still there.

"Relax," said Butch with a chuckle, noticing the startled Brightsteel, "These blades thirst for Pitch's head, not yours."
Butch placed his swords back to slots.
"Well, we didn't quite agree on things about the monarchy ether," said Red Dawn, "But, we're not crazy enough to something like...this! By the way, we, the three of us, have decided to support your monarchy, despite the issues. Maybe, if we work together, we could adjust them to suit everypony's needs."
"Yeah," added Butch, "I may be a griffin, and may possibly never get a chance to take place in your government, but, at least, I could help start it, and that enough would be worth it."
"We just need to find this trouble maker." said Dustbowl, hovering above Bright, "We may have been apart of a group of thieves, but even we have the common sense, that this unicorn lacks. Is there anything else? Every slight detail will help us. Is he from around here? What does he look like? What is his fur color? Anything at all."

[Mooseolini]

Bounty Hunt trotted through the snowy streets of Seaddel. The brown ghoul unicorn has been hunting down a certain pony for the past three hundred years. He could smell his stench in the atmosphere; this time he has him for sure. Bounty plans not to lose him this time.
When Bounty arrived at Moon Tower, he was shocked at the state of the place. Wounded ponies, medical tents; something terrible has happened here.
'Could it be him?' he wondered in his thoughts.
Bounty sniffed the air, this was definitely the work of Pitch Black, the filthy traitor he has been ordered to catch since the war.
'I got you this time, there's no hiding from old Bounty anymore.'
As Bounty explored, he came upon a rather odd group of individuals; An Alicorn, two pegasi a griffin, and another pony. They were chatting about something near a tree.
"Excuse me," he said as he trotted near them, tilting his fedora to them, his scarf made his face hard to see, "Forgive me, if I'm interrupting something, but, have you seen a rather devious looking ghoul unicorn around here?"

[Fralinia]

Bounty Hunt trotted through the snowy streets of Seaddel. The brown ghoul unicorn has been hunting down a certain pony for the past three hundred years. He could smell his stench in the atmosphere; this time he has him for sure. Bounty plans not to lose him this time.
When Bounty arrived at Moon Tower, he was shocked at the state of the place. Wounded ponies, medical tents; something terrible has happened here.
'Could it be him?' he wondered in his thoughts.
Bounty sniffed the air, this was definitely the work of Pitch Black, the filthy traitor he has been ordered to catch since the war.
'I got you this time, there's no hiding from old Bounty anymore.'
As Bounty explored, he came upon a rather odd group of individuals; An Alicorn, two pegasi a griffin, and another pony. They were chatting about something near a tree.
"Excuse me," he said as he trotted near them, tilting his fedora to them, his scarf made his face hard to see, "Forgive me, if I'm interrupting something, but, have you seen a rather devious looking ghoul unicorn around here?"

Bright whirled around to find a ghoul standing in front of him, looking him dead in the eye. He stumbled back and began to speak.
"Who the hell are you? I'll tell you about who we may or may not have seen once I know if I can trust you." He threw on a defiant, bold face and stared the ghoul down. These ghouls were a pain. One wanted to kill him, the other wants to find the would-be murderer, argh.

There's to many ghouls. And they never are the same as the next.

Looking back to Red Dawn and Butch, Bright motioned for them to come forward.
I'm not going to argue with this one alone, like with that bloody Pitch. Now I've got backup.

[Mooseolini]

Bounty Hunt trotted through the snowy streets of Seaddel. The brown ghoul unicorn has been hunting down a certain pony for the past three hundred years. He could smell his stench in the atmosphere; this time he has him for sure. Bounty plans not to lose him this time.
When Bounty arrived at Moon Tower, he was shocked at the state of the place. Wounded ponies, medical tents; something terrible has happened here.
'Could it be him?' he wondered in his thoughts.
Bounty sniffed the air, this was definitely the work of Pitch Black, the filthy traitor he has been ordered to catch since the war.
'I got you this time, there's no hiding from old Bounty anymore.'
As Bounty explored, he came upon a rather odd group of individuals; An Alicorn, two pegasi a griffin, and another pony. They were chatting about something near a tree.
"Excuse me," he said as he trotted near them, tilting his fedora to them, his scarf made his face hard to see, "Forgive me, if I'm interrupting something, but, have you seen a rather devious looking ghoul unicorn around here?"

Bright whirled around to find a ghoul standing in front of him, looking him dead in the eye. He stumbled back and began to speak.
"Who the hell are you? I'll tell you about who we may or may not have seen once I know if I can trust you." He threw on a defiant, bold face and stared the ghoul down. These ghouls were a pain. One wanted to kill him, the other wants to find the would-be murderer, argh.

There's to many ghouls. And they never are the same as the next.

Looking back to Red Dawn and Butch, Bright motioned for them to come forward.
I'm not going to argue with this one alone, like with that bloody Pitch. Now I've got backup.

"Forgive me." said the ghoul, levitating his hat in respect. "I'm Bounty Hunt, I'm a bounty hunter and I've hunting down a certain traitor of a ghoul, who goes by the name of Pitch Black; I've been chasing him for three hundred years, from one end of the wasteland to the other. Now, have you seen him? It's important! Don't say you haven't. I can smell his stench all around here. I just want to make sure that I'm the right track."

[Neo Byzantine Empire]

At last, it seemed, everypony was stirring; after a comparably decent night of respite... They were all likely rather hungry, but still; there'd be plenty of time for eating soon enough.

"Good morning, Bright." She said, warmly greeting her good friend and faithful supporter. She stood silently; listening to her entourage speak on the matter of Pitch Black, noticing a ghoul pony approach, asking the whereabouts of Pitch Black.

The Pegasus Mare took this as her opportunity to slip away; confident her companions could and would provide this stranger with the help he sought, setting out to take care of other matters. The crowds of Moon Tower would surely notice as the Pegasus Mare propelled herself onto a very familiar boulder; the silver-tongued mare once again preparing to make herself the center of attention.

Clearing her throat and taking a deep, calming breath; she began her Speech. "Citizens of Moon Tower... No; Citizens of Equestria: The time has come. Today, we begin the reconstruction of our beloved nation; to pick up the pieces our predecessors left behind, and use them as a foundation and example upon which to create for ourselves and our descendants, a better future! I have experienced the corrupt, self-destructive policies of Moon Tower first hand; by hoarding wealth and clinging to the nation of entitlement without Merit; you not only condemn those injured in attacks to their doom; you also seal the fate of the survivors, to continue living in poverty and the darkness cast by the shadows of what once was; the shadows of a world you neglect as those of you who believe to hold the power would have no such place in such a world."

Taking a moment to rest and give the ponies present a moment to toe her words to heart; Crissfire began again. "I do remember being told that the value of life in the wastes is relatively low. I say to Tartarus with those who believe so; we all have our callings, our talents, and our use in some way, shape, or form. I recognize the value of life; it is priceless and precious to those who have the will to live, and to true leaders who would put others to work securing an era of peace and prosperity, for the state and the future generations. So to all those who have, this far, shown their support for a new Equestria, and a new golden age for our people; now is the time for us to rise from the darkness cast over us by the foolish mistakes of our ancestors; to cast off the oppressive shackles of greed and carelessness that hold us back! Together, we will venture out into the ashes of the old and in its place, build something new! As always; I will not bind you to such obligations; it is your choice whether or not you wish to partake in this most ambitious of goals the wastes have seen. Continue your support if you wish, or if doubt or stubborn pride in a community of greed and vice persists on keeping you in the dark, then I will try to understand your reluctance to do better for this world, and pity you for your decisions, though I will not hold you to any obligation you have not agreed to; and I did not bind you to this movement by any contract. For those of you who wish; we will be leaving this place for the Ruins Proper; to the old Residential District just due South of here. From there, we will begin rebuilding this City; and in doing so, prove to the Wasteland that through our hard work and willingness to learn from the past, we can thrive whereas other had merely survived."

Stepping down from the boulder; Crossfire walked to the gates of Moon Tower; her more loyal following joining eagerly, though the matter of family was proving a major point of conflict. Some members of Crossfire's movement refused to go along with her; boy d by family that persisted on remaining in Moon Tower. Some families were swayed by her words and the loyalty of their sons, daughters, brothers, and sisters in their support of this influential mare. Finally; the most common case was also the most tragic; families divided between those whose loyalties to either party could not be shaken; harmful word and empty threats usually marking the send-off such ponies received.

Still; when all was said and done, it was obvious that Crossfire's speeches and ideals had drawn to her a majority of the you get generations. If the Ponies of Moon Tower hadn't recognized the threat she posed before; they surely would now. The best of the youth had joined her, those with bright futures, good hearts, or cravings for greater purpose than what Moon Tower could provide. Crossfire didn't have to bring Moon Tower to its knees through violence; simply bringing so much of the future generations under her banner would allow her to fight a war of attrition, a war which Moon Tower could very well lose, if her state proved a success, that was; a step on the long road the Pegasus Mare intended to address next.

[Mooseolini]

Pitch woke up in his bed, as if waking from a nightmare. He felt a change in the atmosphere; A sudden smell entered his nostrils. It was a particular smell; an ominous smell; One that he hasn't smelled for about a year. His eyes widened in fear, his black coat faded into a pale gray. He knew the source!
Bounty? he asked in his thoughts, 'But, how?'
The last time he and Bounty met was a year ago. No... exactly one year, today. But, how? Last time they've met, Pitch left Bounty at the mercy of a very, very angry manticore.
'So,' Pitch thought, 'You survived, and you've somehow tracked me here in this wretched city. Still thirsty for my blood huh? Sorry, old friend, but I got a new favorite, Crossfire.'
Then Pitch's eyes widened even further, his color returned, he made a most twisted smile. Ooh, he just got the most perfect opportunity, to take all of this enemies, at once!
'Welcome back, Bounty, I just can't wait to finish you, once and for all.
But, first, he has things to do. He felt his strength returning to him. First, no matter what the cost, he must destroy Crossfire's Monarchy, by striking it right into the heart! He took a few grenades from his draw, put a brown cloak on, and teleported to the Monarchist's base. He found himself a little too far away from his planned position. But it didn't really matter to him, he simply snuck around to the house, trying to be unnoticed by Crossfire's goons. The evil unicorn found an open window, perfect for him to throw the bomb into. Pitch got closer, making a perfect position, in order not to miss his target. When he found his position, he threw each of his grenades with anticipation.