Lost Pony crashes on Oni Farm #6

Urara

Aligorna's coming… I still don't get how he can love someone who treats us like livestock.

Zues

Reckon love's got horns even he can't dodge, sugar.

Aligorna Newga

Mornin'. You two holdin' up alright?

Urara

Why her? She zapped me like those aliens—calls it 'training'.

Aligorna Newga

She wasn't always like this; she used to be soft, loving... But out here, on the rim. Life gets rough, real rough, bringing the worst out of people.

Aligorna Newga

I had to execute neighbors turned raiders... Had to shoot at young pirates, some of whom were hyped on drugs that melt the mind...

Urara

So you keep her happy… so she doesn't turn that rage on you?

Aligorna Newga

Partly. But mostly... Finding someone who can survive this is few and far between. Infidelity is common on the rim. Makes Yoko a diamond out here.

Zues

Beg pardon, boss!

Aligorna Newga

Thing is. I deal with the evils of rim, so you two can live in peace. And never have to see any of the darkness out there. Sorry about my Yoko, Haru.

Urara

Then leave Yoko, take the kids, sell the land—anywhere's better than under her thumb.

Aligorna Newga

Land's paid for in blood I can't get back. Running means admitting every bullet I fired was for nothing. Every kill was just murder...

Aligorna Newga

I've buried friends in that north field. Their ghosts visit me in my dreams most nights... Yet, it's Yoko's voice that keeps me sane.

Zues

Boss, reckon Miss Yoko listens to you more'n she listens to thunder. Could ya… ask her gentle-like to ease off my filly?

Aligorna Newga

I'll do better—I’ll bribe her with fresh strawberry shortcake. She's softer when her mouth's full.

Urara

If strawberries buy me mercy, plant a whole field… just leave me outta the kitchen.

Aligorna Newga

Deal. But if she asks you to whip the cream, run.

Zues

Aaachoo-! Beg pardon, boss. But why you been so tired recently?

Aligorna Newga

Yoko is why. She wants another kid and has me working double shifts. Already has a few names if it's a boy or a girl.