“It feels much better, thank you.”
“Anytime, hon,” nurse Redheart said. She just finished putting a new bandage on Cheerilee’s hoof and was walking her outside. “Just make sure to keep that leg away from the water, OK?”
“I’ll try…” Cheerilee paused and cocked her head. “Are you, OK? You look tired.”
“Crazy night, honey,” Sweetheart joined them out of the blue, the bags under her eyes only a little smaller than in Redheart’s case. “From what I heard, you had some problems too?”
“It’s nothing.”
“Nothing, my flank!” Sweetheart let out a snort like a bull seeing red. “Who the heck that Bold Hoof thinks he is?! He better not cross me, or he’ll have to change his name to Broken Hooves!”
“I would rather deal with him within the law,” Cheerilee said with a gentle smile. “But I appreciate the gesture.”
“Cheerilee, that guy’s a darn bully! Somepony should smash his teeth, break his hooves, and crush his testicles—”
“Sweetheart! Cheerilee doesn’t need to know your sadistic tendencies...” Redheart said, getting a pouting face in response. “But Cheerilee... Just so you know, neither of us believe those ridiculous accusations. You’re not alone, don’t leave Ponyville.”
The supportive expression on the nurses faces struck Cheerilee with much-needed hope, and a warm fuzzy feeling spread through her body, curling her lips into a gentle smile. Redheart, and especially Sweetheart were a little crazy, but no matter what, their hearts were in the right place, and their kindness was real.
“Thank you, I appreciate it,” Cheerilee said, and they parted ways. But as soon as she went behind the corner, something got her attention…
“Applejack?”
***
Applejack was sleeping in a fetal position on one of the benches, clinging onto her hat. Her body was dirty, her coat tangled, her hooves, eyes, and cheeks mushy from tears. She looked like something the cat dragged in and spit on the floor.
Cheerilee nudged her gently. “Are you all right?”
“Cheerilee?” Applejack rubbed her eyes. “What are you doing here?”
“That was supposed to be my question... I came by to get a new bandage on my hoof. What about you? Why are you here?”
“Y-you don’t know anything?” Cheerilee answered by shaking her head. “Apple Bloom... She... she almost died.”
“What?! How? Why? What happened?!”
“Bees. She got bitten, badly. But she’s OK now.”
“Thank heavens! So... you’re waiting for visiting hours to begin?”
Instead of an answer, Applejack empty eyes went to the floor. She was like a statue of sorrow, shaking her head in silence. Her misery put Cheerilee’s good nature into overdrive.
“I know it’s not my business, but what’s going on with you lately, Applejack? You barely talk with anyone, and when you do, it often ends up in a fight. You also became quite jumpy. I noticed it started the day John arrived. Is it because of him?”
“That’s what I’ve been telling myself, but it’s a lie,” Applejack let out a dark chuckle. “Some Element of Honesty I am, lying to myself...”
“I don’t understand. What happened between the two of you?”
“He...” Applejack paused, thinking whether to spill the beans, but quickly realized there was no point in keeping it a secret anymore. “He tried to kill me...”
Cheerilee lips curled into a perfect ‘o,’ and a mix of dread and confusion filled her face. She had expected many things, but not that. The answer, like a hit to the throat, left her gaping in silence, unable to make a sound. Applejack continued.
“The night he arrived, he almost hunted me down. And during the chase, I have lost important merchandise I needed. If Gastovski were there just a few seconds later, we wouldn’t be talking right now.”
“Is... Is this why you were so protective of Apple Bloom every time he was around?”
“Yes. I was afraid… at first, but after Rainbow had zapped him, it all changed. During those few days, when he was in a coma, Dash was completely broken... Just sitting on the cloud the whole day, crying or just staring at the ground. The worst part was that no one seemed to care. It was all about that human.”
“With respect, Applejack, but John was the one dying in the hospital. And it’s not that we didn’t care, but... Rainbow Dash pretty much brought it on herself. How many times did we ask her to stop with those childish pranks?”
“I know, Cheerilee, but back then, Dash’s situation and my own problems made me so angry at that human that I began blaming him for everything. Including my own mistakes.”
“What do you mean?”
Ordinarily, Applejack would keep her problems to herself, but that’s what got her in this mess in the first place. She wasn’t about to make the same mistake. After a momentary pause, she let out a deep sigh. It was time to confess.
“Do you know how ponies say that ‘the road to Tartarus is paved with good intentions’? I never gave that saying a second thought, until now... It all started at the end of the school year when we had that little chat.”
“You mean when I told you that Apple Bloom is one of my best students?”
“Yes... See, a few days before that, Zecora had told me she had a knack for making potions. Apple Bloom told me herself, she loves mixing things, and trying different formulas...” Applejack smiled gently. “She’s smart, much smarter than Big Mac or me. I thought that one day, we could send her to Canterlot to get a proper education.”
“That’s very commendable of you.”
“Yeah, except... Those things cost hoof and tail, and we’re not exactly swimming in bits. I thought that if we could find another business partner, we could expand and make some more money.”
“So, you did?”
“Yes. But, I knew Granny would never consider doing business with anyone outside Ponyville, so their representatives came when she was not around. They tested the merchandise and were very pleased, and the prices they offered were far better than I had expected. The contract was plain and simple, too. It was like a dream come true. So the next time they came by, I signed it... without reading all the papers one more time.”
Cheerilee winced. “Applejack…”
“I know! Heavens, I know... I even tricked Granny into signing it as well. It all went downhill from there. My new business partner had always found some flaw in the merchandise: either the apples were too sweet, too green or too red, or they were not big enough. I thought it was because of the weather problems we had, so I tried to hoofpick the best apples I could. For the past month, I was lucky if I managed to get four hours of sleep per day. It was all work, work, and more work.”
“That explains a lot, but... why didn’t you ask for help? I thought you had learned that lesson years ago.”
“I would have to tell Granny about everything. I just... couldn’t. At that point, I still thought it was all due to the weather, and it would all turn around. My client even suggested that he could be willing to forgo any contractual penalties if I deliver him some of our special cider. The day that human almost killed me, I was gathering the ingredients, but as I said, I lost it all during the chase.”
“So he became the target...”
“Yes. And the worst part is that it was all a lie. I should have known that deal was too good to be true, but the money blinded me, and now...”
Applejack’s throat suddenly went dry, and for a moment she couldn’t utter a word. And when it finally came, it felt as if she spoke in sandpaper and razors. It was the pain of the truth, and it was forcing some tears out of her.
“W-we’re probably gonna lose the farm...”
“It’s really that bad?”
“Yes, and… I still don’t know how to tell Granny. And that human?” Applejack shook her head. “He didn’t deserve this, Cheerilee. He tried to talk to me and make amends, but I wouldn’t listen. He... He’s the one who saved Apple Bloom’s life.”
“Really?”
“Yes. If it weren’t for him, I would be planning a funeral right now. He saved her life and I... I...”
The few tears from a moment ago turned into a river, filling Applejack’s eyes with water. With her lips trembling, her eyes went to the floor, and a mix of fear and shame clogged her throat. She was a weeping jelly. Just then, James and Celestia appeared in the corridor.
***
“Your Highness, James…” Cheerilee bowed gently. The look of Celestia’s torn regalia was tempting her to say more, but she bit her lip. But the Princess heard the unasked question anyway.
“Yes, Cheerilee, the matter between James and me, has been resolved,” Celestia said with a smile, but it quickly faded away. “I wish I could say the same when it comes to John.”
“What do you mean?”
“He’s dead,” James said, his voice empty and emotionless. With his curled lips and twisted face, he shot Applejack a glance. It was a stare of pure revulsion. But Cheerilee didn’t see it, her own eyes went to the floor in silence.
“I’m... sorry,” Cheerilee said, her voice like a whisper.
“It’s not your fault... At least he’ll get some peace. Now I just need to find—” The view of Stables walking out of the ICU interrupted him. “Hey, Doc!”
“Mr. Gastovski?”
“Yeah, I got the message. When can I pick up the body?”
Stables’ blinked and tilted his head. “Body?”
“John’s body, Doc. You activated the beacon, I assume he’s dead.”
“He had a cardiac arrest about an hour ago, but we were able to bring him back... for now.”
“Are you telling me he’s not dead?”
“The last time I checked, he was still alive, yes.”
“Then, who activated the beacon?”
“Maybe… it was an accident?”
“I don’t think so. You have to hold it for five seconds before it starts. Someone did it deliberately. If it weren’t you, then...”
“It was me.”
Stables and James turned, to see Apple Bloom standing nearby.
***
“You?” James squinted his eyes. He was as consternated as the rest of the crowd. “Why?”
“I want you to save him. I know you can.”
“Just a few hours ago you were screaming how you hate him – what’s changed?” Apple Bloom glanced away. “Oh, I see... You probably found out who saved your hide and now feel guilty, huh?”
“No... OK, maybe a little, but—”
“Don’t!” James interjected with a stone face. “You don’t want him to get better, you want to ease your conscience!”
“Not true!”
“Yeah, yeah, deny all you want, I’m done here. Doc, please take the beacon and hide it somewhere, OK? And when he really dies, activate it again—”
“I want you to help him!” Apple Bloom yelled, stomping her little hooves.
“Yeah, well, I want a hot yoga with the Princess here...” Celestia’s arched eyebrow was like an ax, ready to chop him in two. “See that look, kiddo? Life lesson for you: you can’t always have what you want.”
“I don’t understand,” Cheerilee interjected. “If you have the means to save him—”
“One: even with nano-tech, his chances are slim. And two: save him for what? So that ponies could throw some more rocks at him?”
“You can protect him!” Apple Bloom said.
“How? By shooting everyone who tries something? The Princess here would never allow it... all that revenue from taxes lost—”
“Why are you acting like this? I thought he’s your friend.”
“Yes, and that’s why I don’t want this shit to continue!” James jerked his head. “None of you can understand how it is...”
“Really?” Cheerilee eyes went to her injured hoof and back to James. Her lips curled into a mocking smirk. “Funny, I could swear the mob of angry ponies did this to me. But what do I know...”
“Oh, for fuck’s sake... I’m not talking about the mob, I’m talking about what happened before!” Cheerilee cocked her head in confusion, the rest of the crowd quickly followed. “See, you don’t understand. You can’t understand, because it never happened to you!”
“You mean the way my ponies treated John?”
“Yes, Celestia, that’s what I’m talking about... You don’t know how it’s to be surrounded by creatures that hold nothing but contempt for you!”
“Do you not think you are overreacting a little?”
“No… See those?” James tapped on his ears. “You would be surprised what you can hear about yourself when you have ears that can pick up and amplify whispers from up to three hundred meters... You learn that you’re a murderer, a freak, a child-killer, a rapist voodoo... something. Even the people that you saved call you a somnophile, and treat you like dirt... Don’t they, Applejack?”
A shameful blush filled Applejack’s cheeks. She turned her head, biting her lip, but it didn’t stop the pricking sensation. It was the stares of others, each one jabbing her like a thousand needles.
“I was not aware of this,” Celestia said. “Why did you not say anything?”
“What would you do? Blasted half of Ponyville to the moon? Told them to be nicer? There is nothing you could have done. There is no cure for racism,” Celestia went silent. He was right, and she knew it. “If it’s any consolation, I don’t get it either. I mean... goddammit, I know I’m not the most likable person around, but... rapist child-killer somnophile? Try hearing that every day and soon you’ll be asking yourself… what’s the point of all this...”
As his voice trailed off, everything went silent. That wasn’t the talk of Captain cheesy-one liner, those were the words of a wounded person. James’ depressed expression was further proof of that. Celestia began extending her wing, but he pushed it away.
“I don’t care. I was a freak back home, I’m a freak here. It was always the case. But with John, it’s different. He was a family guy, good with kids, good with people. Even if I could save him, he would be alone and hated. This is no way to live, not for him...”
“Please… We’ll think of something, just save him…” Apple Bloom pleaded. “He’s my friend.”
“A friend... Just a few hours ago you said you hate him. I’ll ask again: what changed?”
Instead of an answer, Apple Bloom turned to Applejack with an unsure expression on her face. She knew the confrontation was inevitable, but it didn’t make it any easier. She let out a sigh, and then it began.
“Applejack, I know what he did, I know that you hate him, but... I don’t. I know you’ll be mad, but… he forgave Rainbow Dash, helped Cheerilee and helped me. For me, that’s proof he’s a good person. No matter what you say, I consider him a friend, and… I don’t want him to die...”
Applejack said nothing, gaping in silence instead with mouth slightly agape. Apple Bloom knew it was only temporary. Soon Applejack would get going and blow her steam, telling her, how the family should stick together, how that human’s a monster, how she feels betrayed. Apple Bloom was ready for that, and more. When Applejack took a swing, she just closed her eyes shut, ready for the pain. But what came, took her by surprise.
“I’m so proud of you, Apple Bloom,” Instead of a smack to the face, Applejack was squeezing her little sister in a vice-like grip, and bawling her eyes out. “You’re so darn smart...”
“Um... You’re not mad?”
“No, I’m not. I’m glad that at least one of us acts the way she should. You’re right. He tried to fix it, and I kept him at bay. It’s all my fault…”
A second later, Apple Bloom returned the hug and began patting her sister on the back. For a moment, she was the big sister whispering to Applejack it will be OK. The heartwarming view poured some hope into everyone’s hearts, and gentle smiles filled their faces. Except for one person.
“Such a heartwarming scene...” James said with a sarcastic smile and voice. “Too bad I don’t buy it.”
“W-what?”
“You heard me, Apple Bloom. I bet you planned this together to save your sister’s hide. I’m not gonna be a part of it…”
“You darn… idiot!” This time it was Applejack piercing him with her eyes. “You really think, Apple Bloom wants you to help him just to save me from prison?!”
“Well, duh!”
“What are you all talking about?” Celestia interjected, cocking her head.
James glanced at Applejack with a sinister smile. She was busted, and now she would have to reveal everything. He was hoping to see the same panic and terror he had seen before, but instead, he saw a face of defiance and determination. She turned to Celestia with an expression of a kamikaze just before the strike… or an ordinary person with nothing to lose. It was time for a confession.
“Your Highness... I’m responsible for the other human condition.”
“I beg your pardon?” Celestia turned to James. “You told me he fell.”
“He did.”
“And no one ‘helped’ him?”
“He did because I didn’t help him,” Applejack interjected, getting everyone’s attention. “I got near the ruins just in time to see that human hanging from the cliff, and Scootaloo looking for something to pull him up. I told her I’ll handle it and to wait in the back. When I approached him, he was still within my reach...”
“And you did not help him, because you were afraid he may pull you down with him? Is this what happened?” Celestia’s question sounded like a plea for a confirmation. But Applejack would not honor the request.
“No… I could have saved him, but I didn’t.” Applejack sighed and took off her hat, hugging it with her right hoof. “I wanted him to die.”
For the next few seconds, a jumble of voices filled the air, and everyone began exchanging nervous glances. Except for James. He was nodding with an impressed expression. He didn’t think Applejack had it in her.
“Are you happy now?” Applejack said, but James shook his head.
“Not really... You just know how John forgave Dash and are hoping he’ll do the same for you.”
“I’m going to prison anyway!”
“What, you killed someone else?”
Applejack stopped, trying to prolong the moment, hoping for some miracle that would save her. But after a few seconds it was obvious there was no rescue in sight. She made her bed, and now it was time to sleep in it.
“I... I killed our farm...”
“W-what are you talking about?” Apple Bloom said. “Granny told me everything is fine on the farm!”
“She doesn’t know. No one does… I made a deal with someone, and they tricked me into signing something I should not have signed. And now, we may lose everything...”
Apple Bloom stepped back in silence, her face white as snow. Her throat was filled with concrete, and not a sound was getting through. But her shaky figure was a scream in itself.
“There is still a chance to fight it, but even if we win, I’m going to jail,” Applejack let out a heavy heave. A sigh of guilt and defeat. “I’m so sorry, Apple Bloom. I messed up everything...” She turned to Celestia. “I’m ready to face all the consequences. However, I would like to ask you to help my family. They’re innocent and should not have to answer for my crimes.”
Instead of an answer, Celestia looked at the floor, and an eerie silence filled the air. She stayed like that for only a few seconds, but for Applejack, it felt like an eternity. When she finally glanced up, her empty eyes and emotionless expression informed everyone that something was wrong.
“John was also innocent, and yet... you and a good part of Ponyville showed him no mercy,” Celestia’s voice was cold and formal. “According to the law, you cannot be punished for not aiding someone if the help could endanger yourself. So, when it comes to John, legally, you are not at fault. But... I will have no part in helping you avoid the consequences of your other actions.”
“W-what are you saying? You won’t help my family?!” Celestia nodded.
Applejack had expected many things, but Celestia giving her family the cold shoulder, wasn’t on the list. The notion quickly turned her guilt into anger.
“I have served Equestria for years, never asking for anything in return. And when I finally ask for help, not for me, but for my family, you refuse?!” She was yelling, but her screams were bumping off Celestia’s stony face. “It is all on me! They had nothing to do with it! Why don’t you want to help them?!”
“Two reasons. One: because the deal I have with nobility, prevents me from interfering in the matters of the civil court. And two: because you want to take an easy way out.”
“What?! I want to answer for my crimes! How’s that an ‘easy way out’?!”
“Yes, you want to answer, but by your own rules! You will land in jail for a few years, but your family will be safe from the troubles you caused. How convenient! That’s not facing the consequences, that is escaping from them!”
“You’ll make my family suffer, just to teach me a lesson?!” Applejack couldn’t believe her ears, but Celestia’s cold and formal expression was telling her the same story. “Apple Bloom doesn’t deserve to be punished!”
“Maybe you should have thought of her before—”
“I did! I did it for...” Applejack bit her lip just in time. She couldn’t let Apple Bloom know. “I... I had good intentions.”
“’Good intentions’… Applejack, some of the biggest tragedies in this world happened because of ‘good intentions!’”
“I’m sorry...”
“Oh, I believe you. I also believe that all ponies from the mob will be sorry as well when they realize the consequences. But this is not enough! Guilt is not enough! Everyone thinks, all they have to do is say ‘I am sorry’ and that it will somehow fix everything. No one wants to pay for their actions. But they will, you can be sure of that!”
Celestia’s cold glare quickly put out any glimmer of hope still left in Applejack. This wasn’t the benevolent ruler everyone knew, but something else. Her stony face like a petrifying totem, scaring everyone nearby. Well, almost everyone…
“With all due respect, your Highness, don’t you think you’re overreacting?” Cheerilee said, not affected one bit.
“Really?” Celestia turned her gaze and squeezed her eyes, only to see Cheerilee counter her with precisely the same move. “Maybe I should just let everyone go? After all Bold Hoof has a son, I am sure the little colt will miss his jailed father.”
“This is not the issue here. Applejack is ready to go to jail for her actions. What you’re proposing is to punish not only her but also her family.”
“I am not punishing anyone. There is an action and a reaction to everything we do, Cheerilee. Even if the action was done with good intentions, you still have to face the consequences!”
“Then, if I may be so bold, what consequences will you face for your actions, your Highness?”
“What?” The stone on Celestia’s face shattered, leaving her with a confused look.
“Wasn’t that spell used on James, also created with good intentions in mind? What sort of punishment will you give to yourself?”
“That... that is different,” Celestia didn’t buy that lie herself. Then Cheerilee dropped an atom bomb.
“And what about, Princess Luna?”
“W-what?! How dare you bring my sister into this?!”
“Did she face the consequences for trying to kill Twilight and her friends when she returned from the moon?”
“Cheerilee...” Celestia’s horn lit up, and her eyes widened. She was breathing heavily through her clenched teeth. “Do not slander my sister, ever again! You have no idea what she went through!”
“With all due respect, but following your own logic, didn’t she deserve it after what she tried to do?”
Everyone, but James and Cheerilee began slowly backing away in silence. There was madness in Celestia’s eyes, and her horn was glowing red, heating the surrounding air like a sun itself. Marbles’ scenario was playing in James’ head, he was ready to jump in if the worst would happen. But it didn’t. Instead, after a few moments, Celestia turned her face away, and the fires in her eyes and horn died down, leaving her gaping to the floor.
“No, Cheerilee. She did not deserve it. But you would not know that...” What was left of her stoic mask shattered then, and her eyes filled with water. “But soon, you will know the truth.”
“Celestia, what are you talking about?” Her teary smile confirmed what he already knew. “Can we talk outside?”
“My mind is already made up. I cannot expect my ponies to follow the lesson which I failed myself, can I?”
“You want to reveal... everything?” She nodded with a smile of relief. James’ reaction was the opposite. “Celestia... Are you fucking nuts?!”
“Actually, I think that for the first time in a while, I finally think clearly.”
“Excuse me, but... What are you talking about?” Cheerilee interjected, cocking her head.
“You shall find out soon, all of Equestria should find out—”
“It’s all in the past, damn it! Don’t be a fucking idiot!” James furious yells only made her chuckle. “What are you laughing about?! It’s not funny!”
“No, it is not, but you trying so hard to protect me, kind of is. I would have thought that you of all people would encourage me to do it.”
“Encourage you to ruin your reputation for things you did over a thousand years ago?” James shook his head. “You fucked up, it happens, but look where you’re now: Luna’s back, Equestria is booming, and you’re no longer doing… um, what you were doing!” Celestia’s eyes went to his wound and back. “OK, maybe you still have some old habits you should break – doesn’t mean everyone has to know about everything.”
“But they should know the real reasons why Nightmare Moon happened...” Her smile faded, leaving behind a shameful face. “I should have done that years ago, without asking her...”
“Wait... what? I thought you had no plans to tell anyone.”
“I did plan to reveal everything after Luna gets better, but she told me not to, and… honestly, I was relieved that she did.”
“See? Even she knows it’s in the past.”
“No... She just wants to protect me, as she always has. It is time for me to be the big sister for once,” James tried to say something, but she silenced him, placing her hoof on his lips. “My mind is made up.”
“Ordinarily, I would say I know things about you and try good old blackmail, but I doubt anything I know can top what you want to reveal,” she let out a chuckle, but it was cut short. “What about Applejack?”
“We shall both face the consequences of our actions.”
“OK, it pains me to say it, but... I’m with Cheerilee on this one. Applejack is the one who should have her ass kicked, not her family.”
“This is not how—”
“How the law works, I get it, but I’m asking myself what would John want, and you can bet your ass he wouldn’t want Apple Bloom hurt, no matter what. He’s that kind of good-hearted idiot.”
For a moment, Celestia was lost in thought, analyzing the situation. Her eyes darting from Applejack to Cheerilee, to Apple Bloom and back. Her face empty, like the face of a judge before passing sentence.
“I... cannot just revoke the contract you signed, Applejack. That would undermine hundreds of years of trust between the nobility and me. Who did you sign the contract with, exactly?”
“Miser Mane.”
“Oh, dear...” The sound of Celestia’s facehoof echoed through the hospital. “Applejack, do you not think that his name alone should be a dead giveaway? How could you even think about making deals with that snake?”
“My, my, Celestia. I haven’t seen you badmouthing a noble before...” James said. “Not in the open anyway.”
“In his case, I do not care. He is one of those ponies that make me want to go Daybreaker! He cares for nothing but money, and have no mercy for anyone. I have seen him evicting entire families when they could not pay the debt.”
“Then why do you allow such person to function?” Applejack shook her head. “The law should protect the innocent.”
“The law is always a compromise, Applejack. And if I understand correctly, you were the one who did not read the contract in the first place.”
“I read the first draft... I thought they didn’t change it.”
“I see... I will see what I can do, but to be honest, with him, the chances are slim to none.”
“Legal told me the same thing. He told me there may be a way. Since I kind of... tricked Granny to sign the deal—”
“She could challenge it in court. Yes, Applejack, that could work, but... I can assure you that Miser Mane will do everything in his power to throw you in jail. If this is what you want, I could get you the best attorney I can find, but... again, this may not be enough.”
“I understand, and... I would appreciate it, your Highness—”
“You can’t take her away!” Apple Bloom woke up from her paralytic daydream. “No matter what she did, you just... can’t!”
“I need to answer for what I did, Apple Bloom. I just hope I’ll be the only one…”
There were no more protests. Instead, Apple Bloom buried her head in her sister’s side, crying softly.
“That leaves us with John...” Celestia said.
“All that had happened doesn’t change much... I help him, and he’ll still be hated.”
“Not if I can help it—”
“You have helped, quiet enough, Jackie.”
“Look, I know I messed up, but if I explain to ponies what happened and why I acted the way I did, they’ll understand.”
“I’ll try to help as well,” Cheerilee said. “And Apple Bloom? I’m sure most ponies will come to reason once they learn he saved her life.”
“Yeah! And Sweetie Belle too!” Apple Bloom added.
“I don’t know...” James turned to Celestia. “What do you think I should do?”
“I am afraid this decision is yours alone.”
He rolled his eyes, and a sarcastic smirk filled his face. “The master of delegating... Could you give me a direct answer for once? Yes or no?”
“James, I am... bias. I consider John a friend, so an answer from me would be: yes, you should save him.”
“Even after all he has been through?”
“Yes. I believe Applejack is right, I believe this was one big misunderstanding.”
“You really believe that... or do you want to believe that?”
“A little of both.”
“And Scootaloo? What she accused him of...”
“She didn’t really accuse him or me,” Cheerilee said, to see James smirking sarcastically. “Don’t make faces, mister. I was there, you were not. It was a forced accusation made under pressure—”
“And,” Applejack interjected. “I didn’t get most of it, but... Scootaloo acted as if they made amends already.”
James began tapping his chin, his eyes going in circles. He could feel everyone’s gaze on his skin.
“You’re just gonna stare like that until I agree, don’t you?” Their silent glare was a dead giveaway. “Ugh, fucking pony manipulators, I hate you!” He shook his head and turned to Celestia. “He’s gonna kick my ass for this...”
“I am sure you can handle it.”
James smiled sarcastically. “You just like to see me suffer, don’t you?”
“Yes... That is what I live for.”
“Ha! I knew it—”
“Would you stop that and go help him already?!” Apple Bloom’s angry voice echoed through the corridor.
“Bite me! You’re not my boss—”
“NOW!”
Apple Bloom’s scream hit James’ ears hard, making his face crumple up. This wasn’t Applejack’s little sister, but a little devil with fiery eyes ready to burn him to a crisp. The view put a smile on his face.
“Since you ask so nicely... Fine, I’ll do. But IF he survives, then you... all of you are committed to making sure he doesn’t feel like an alien. Deal?” Everyone nodded in unison. “Don’t make me regret this. Celestia, I need a lift to the Twilight’s castle...”
Nice twist with John!
Wait? Isn't the contract invalid from the start? It was signed under duress by the letter of the law, not only that but the contract was with APPLEJACK not GRANNY SMITH even though Smith signed it?
Also, damn it author! Just get it over with and get them together! Watching them dance around each other is getting annoying
9799839
This is true, however the person who tricked another into signing a contract will be punished by the justice system. So in AJs case since she tricked the sole owner of the farm into signing a contract udner false pretenses the contract is null and void but AJ will have to go to jail/pay a fine and might even be ineligible to validate any future legal contracts moving forward. prison for this isnt that long thou for first timers, 5ish years with parole, shes an element so shes kinda needed so maybe 6 months-1year and pay a hefty fine without taking it out of her familys expenses
Please don’t have Applejack get off clean because of some unrealistic contract loophole. While I’m starting to feel bad for her she still needs to atone for her actions and prison time seems like the best option. On another note it doesn’t really matter that they all agree Applejacks family shouldn’t have to suffer for her actions. Her actions will hurt the Apple Family brand in far reaching ways that Celestia could never hope to stop. Negotiations for renewed contracts will be harder and stricter, financial trust will be put into question, even on the local level ponies will talk. It doesn’t matter they had nothing to do with her dealings suddenly everything they do will be put into a new light that won’t be flattering, regardless of what.
On another note I actually want Celestia to come out and admit to everything she’s done. It would be darkly comical to see ponies reactions to it. Nevermind the countless mothers who will have to cover their foals ears. But beyond that it’s probably going to be painful for the country to learn their beloved God Horse is a prostitute for diplomacy.... at best. Also maybe have her go a little too into detail about what she was doing while her sister slaved to make Equestria a successful nation.
Let's hope that this attorney is as great as Phoenix Wright.
This chapter is another reason why this story is just so divisive it's just more of the wanting to have its cake and eat it too. Write pick a position you can't have both this is just more pony apologist nonsense.
9799991
Hmm. Maybe that's why it felt off. There was indeed a final hammer falling of consequences, but a severe attempt at rationalization. Nice to see things all come to a head at the very least. At least John isn't dead, so that's a solid plus in my book.
9800014
That's why it's so frustrating. The whole story's framework is about making excuses for ponys actions.
9799940
But IS Smith the sole owner of the farm? From what I understand this is a Family farm meaning that it is passed down, so wouldn't that mean the ownership of the farm passed from Smith to Applejack's parents and when they died it passed to APPLEJACK. So wouldn't that mean Smiths signature is by default not needed?
On a side note, wouldn't Mister Mane be liable for forgery due to the fact that Applejack only signed a DRAFT and not the full contract? Meaning her had to replicate her signature on the true contract?
9800027
I agree; yet the author has admitted to the faults of the story and how aspects just 'developed.' The issues has already thoroughly been discussed at this point though.
Any advice I could give would have been this: the events in this chapter should have, ideally, been spaced throughout the story, giving a ebb-and-flow to consequence and actions. Saving it ALL for one chapter (as thoroughly discussed) simply didn't work, and leads to the deadly seven words of not caring. An ebb and flow of action and consequence grounds the reader into the characters. Instead, we have the current issue, where it has been a spiral of being dark/not relatable.
Daybreaker not Daybraker
On another note did Celestia compensate Marbles family after she killed them? Even if done indirectly it’s the least she could have done because she couldn’t face reality. While you say Celestia is all better now it might be for the best to put her in the back seat when it comes to running he country or they risk relapse. There is a lot she still needs to sort out and likely will need a team of professionals to help her though it, along with some medication to balance her out.
9800045
I think what really gets me is that the situation with this story you see as a trope within a lot of HiEs where the ponies are toting around as the Ubermensch that can do no wrong and the lowly human can only bask in their greatness. At least that's what it seems like in this fandom.
9800084
Hmmm. I haven't seen that too much; but I can understand that viewpoint. To be fair I haven't read that many HiE stories. It makes sense though, since the show itself (obviously) doesn't explore the realities of such a society (i.e. the negatives.) So it's fairly easy to just have that be a set thing, I imagine.
I hope John does not survive to live in this hell. We have iNgraned racism, hidden sin, exposed predjudiced, idiocy and ignorance. Neother of these were solved and as such I genuinely hope he is spared the fate of living in such an accursed world.
9800089
In most HiEs if you can side step all the teenaged wish fulfillment self inserts. Most MCs are barely functional adults that are both emotionally and socially retarded. But there are some really good ones out there.
Sorry Celestia but this is bullshit and you know it.
9800096
Fair point. I've got my own ideas for a HiE fic and am really waffling on how to avoid many of the inherent issues and challenges it presents.
9800094
I'm holding out hope that he just leaves, period. Plenty of other kingdoms that would welcome him with open arms; and basically to have him remain in Equestria after this would just be thumbing one's nose at consequence. (I think we can all safely say 99% of people would have left ASAP given his abuse.)
You can be as apologetic as you want; but that doesn't mean the person has to ever trust you again, (in this case, a nation that that would always vilify you and spread rumors, as stated.)
9779458
If was ever considered, I'd love to follow a more lighthearted story of John's eventual journey to heal/find happiness, to be honest. He is a fantastically written character, and it's a shame how events just snowballed into the current snafu. I think the fact so many people are furious about the outcome/handling of the story is a testament of how well you wrote him.
9800028
Thats tough, I think it would ultimately be determined by who is on the deed, and if the departed wrote up a will before they passed. Its entirely possible that Granny never officially passed the farm on to her son and if that never happened their will doesnt take effect until Granny passes. .There is a lot of paper work that needs to be organized and sifted through. no matter what thou, AJ is going to face some jail time and a fine of some sort.
9800028
Wasn't the case that she read the draft and then got Granny to sign the revised contract that AJ did NOT read, because she thought was the same as the draft?!
9777817
9800122
Not saying she doesn't deserve the Jail time, Just trying to figure out all the basic Loopholes the Author could make use of XD
On a Side note, Why was Celestia so against protecting the rest of the Apple Family? I can understand wanting to teach AJ a lesson, But there is teaching a Lesson and then there is Sadistic Apathy. Why would she doom a Family that stretches back to the founding of Ponyville and one of the main (if not only) supplier of Apples to Ponyville? It would ruin their Reputation worse then just letting Applejack take the fall herself! Hell the Apple family is so damn large that if they got it into their heads that Celestia Slighted them she would be facing MAJOR food shortages if not outright Rebellion!
I love this story
One issue. You would think the Elements of Harmony, the girls would have some sort of protection due to the fact there essentially a natural rescource as well as national heroes. I mean putting one in jail literally kills that ability off.
So who feels how about what at this stage, and why? If a change occurred, when how and why did it do so? Sorry if this comes across as nitpicking, but I'm thoroughly lost now. Is it intentional that some characters are suddenly changing their stances so hard that it might as well be symbolized by moving 2 bars of Uranium towards one another? (Read: some of these changes feel like some kind of nuclear option has been activated)
9800096
any interest in naming a few of them?
9799961
at least marbles gets the justice he deserves.
Phew, all done! ... and it only took 4 hours
9799826
Thanks, I hope it would surprise some people
9799839
It was stated a few chapters ago that AJ tricked Granny into signing it (she gave it to her with a bunch of other papers she usually signs, and Granny just went: 'next, next, next'). That makes the contract valid for the court until proven otherwise. And if AJ would prove it, she's gonna be in trouble.
As for whether Granny is the owner or not... Remember "Where the Apple Lies" episode? Where AJ and Big Mac tried to sell some merchandise without Granny knowing? There was this exchange at the end:
So, yeah - it would seem Granny is actually the rightful owner. Make sense too since she was Bright Mac's mother after all.
You mean James should go Wuten style on her:
? But what if Celestia's list's full...
One: because interfering directly into civil matters is a no-go. Celestia can pardon someone from jail, but she cannot cancel a legit contract 'just because.' My view here (which, is pretty historically accurate in the context of Europe, at least) is that nobility and Celestia run their own affairs. They try not to interfere in matters like foreign relations, or how the taxes money is spent, and she doesn't interfere in their business as long as they follow the law. She simply can't say: 'AJ claims you cheated her, so I revoke the contract' - only a civil court can do that.'
Two: because AJ pretty much wants to use Celestia to clean the mess she made (look at the answer I gave to RDDash, below).
And, I don't know why anyone would want to close the farm down. When Flim and Flam won the bet, they certainly didn't want to. Miser Mane would probably still run it, except all the income would go to him (and prices would probably go up a bit).
9799961
I'm not planning any loophole to save her - I can say that much, but nothing more
As for the rest... I'm sure the will be some backlash but... in the show, Granny is actually the owner, and she does seem to do most business on the local market and with Filthy Rich. I don't think Sweet Apple Acres do much business outside, so in that regard, any fallout should be limited (then again, nobility may push Filthy Rich to stop doing business with the farm...). And, yeah - ponies will definitely talk, but again - that's all on AJ, not her family (and let's not forget - AB was one of the few ponies that actually showed John kindness from the very beginning). Also, AJ was pretty much cheated (within the boundaries of the law, but still) I think at least local ponies that know her should realize that.
For those that consider her a virgin Mary, definitely (*cough* Twilight *cough*), on the other hand, for those that think of her as a normal person it can go both ways. I mean, she screwed so much (literally, and figuratively) that she did hit rock bottom. But not only she was able to change her ways, but she also made Equestria into what it is today. And those events took place over a thousand years ago, so...
One thing for sure, it should make a lot of ponies feel like fucking idiots when it comes to what they had thought about Luna.
It is in the planning, and it should shed some more lite about what happened after the Marbles' incident as well as later.
I'm really surprised people ask that... then again, people tell me in the last chapter, I wrote her as a monster, so maybe that's the reason...
This will be addressed in the further chapters, but yeah, you can be sure she did not leave his family without help.
OK... I'm at a loss here. After some analysis of the previous chapter, I can understand why some people saw her as a heartless bitch, but why do people assume she's still crazy?
What I wanted to convey back then was that she went through a psychotic breakdown, killed Marbles, but thanks to Keen Sweeper and therapy was able to recover and turn her life around. Where did I fail? Was it too little info, or the sex jokes at the end? Or was it something else?
9799991
If by have the cake and eat it, you mean trying not to go to either extreme then yes, that's what I'm trying to do. Whether I'm doing it right is another thing, but I definitely don't want this to go into 'justice require severe punishment!' mindhood, because I don't believe nor support that sort of thinking in the real-life.
This story already went from a forgiving tone to much darker than I initially planned, I don't wanna push it further.
9800045
Hmm, there are still about three chapters (plus a possible off-shot bonus) left, but... I'm not exactly sure how I could have done what you're saying, unless you mean, there should have been more chapters between the last one and Celestia's 'epiphany'?
9800064
Nice catch, fixed
9800094
So 20% of Ponyville plus AJ is the entire MLP world ? Hmm...
9800102
Which part is bullshit? AJ did all this by herself: she was the one who sought the new deal without telling anyone, she was the one who didn't read the contract before signing, she was the one who tricked Granny into signing it, she was the one who stayed in the lie for so long that it drove her to near insanity and put John into his current state.
And when shit hit the fan, she's like: 'OK, I gonna go to jail, but Celestia, help my family clean the mess I made!' It's the thing Celestia was telling James about: when the worst happens, everyone expects her to 'magically' fix everything.
Of course, Celestia's reaction is askew here, because she's pissed at AJ for what she did, but come on. AJ messed up, and now she wants to use Celestia to shield her family from the consequences of her actions.
9800118
Again, how does a few dozen ponies of Ponyville translate into the entire nation? What about Cheerilee, Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, Celestia, and Twilight? What about medical personnel? Neither of them would act that way. Hell, even Rainbow Dash saved John's hide when she didn't have to, and later defended him in the hospital.
I really cannot figure out where this notion of 'entire Equestria vs. human' is coming from. It's not even 'entire Ponyville'...
I tried to base his traits on AJ's (honest, hard-working, family guy, carefree - and yes, their clash was part of the plan, too) As for the further stories... I don't know. I will have to see how people will react to the ending of this one first
9800231
This was precisely what had happened. AJ read the first draft, which was rainbows and unicorns, and when they came with the final one, she assumed it was the same. Sadly, this is not something I made up, I hear stories like that all the time in the news
As for the other post... John was supposed to make it from day one. Killing him and seeing the aftermath would be interesting, but it wasn't in the plan, sorry.
9800466
Thank you. I just hope you'll like the ending too
9800699
I was thinking about it, but... two things:
One: she was pretty much lying to herself, and her entire family for a month or more now. Even if Celestia would grant her a pardon, I highly doubt her element would work.
Two: if Equestria really were in danger, Celestia could get her out of jail. Even if AJ would be pissed, I doubt she would let Equestria burn to teach someone a lesson.
Plus... even if we assume that girls have some special protection, how far should it go? AJ may not be legally responsible for John's fate, but I think we all agree that morally she's guilty as hell. IMHO she's more guilty than Rainbow Dash was (I know some people will disagree, but that's my version, and I'm sticking to it) and RD got no handouts. If John weren't a soft-hearted idiot, she would be Wonderbolt no more and probably looking at jail time too.
9800996
Well, AJ admitting to what she did and Celestia admitting to her past were both pretty nuclear (at least, I hope so), but which character do you mean specifically?
9801318
Try those:
[Adult story embed hidden]
[incomplete, and probably won't be but worth the read anyway]
[Adult story embed hidden]
[base for the above]
- MLP: FiM
- Sad
- Slice of Life
- Tragedy
A human contemplates suicide after coming to Equestria.If by justice, you mean the details of his death getting public, then yes. However, just as Applejack is legally not at fault when it comes to John, Celestia was legally not at fault when it comes to Marbles. She was literally insane at the time.
9802058
The part where Celestia says I would rather throw Applejack's family to the Timberwolves, rather than to provide them some kind of temporary shelter because in about two months they are going to end up homeless and without an income
Yes, Applejack committed a crime.
Yes, Applejack manipulated her family.
Yes, Applejack would more than likely lose her farm. (Is that not enough of punishment already?)
No one actually asks Celestia to save the farm, that's absurd. (What stopping Applejack to talk to her family, convince them to move to Manehattan, and then burn the family farm out of spite?)
9802058
Sorry I think a misspoke, when I said "Apple family" I meant those who had no ties to AJs fuck up, so Applebloom and Big Mac. I was wondering why she was so against protecting them as they had no stake in this, while she can't protect or interfere with AJ and Granny Smith she would have no such issues with protecting them. But she was unwilling to do so, which is drastically OOC even in your story.
Edit: also damn it man, you just had to link that video! But I really hope that they get together in the end. On a side note, what do you plan on doing one this is over? A sequel?
9802058
First, the horrible truth is that when a family member commits a crime it’s never just them that is punished. As much as you want to have AJ take the blunt of the punishment, other ponies will start to gab about the rest of the family. In fact from what we have seen in the show, ponies have a greater predisposition for gossip then ever humans in some ways. All it took was Zecora waiting in the middle of town and having a home in the woods for them too assume she was some kinda foal eating witch! So this will be eaten up by the gossip mill and in turn could potentially spit out numerous untrue stories about the Apple family. I can personally tell you from experience that all it takes it one bad deed by one member of family to ruin the reputations of the rest of the family. Even if they are of high standing in the community. Giving the wrong amount of change goes from a simple mistake to attempting to cheat your customers, shifting in your seat during a test makes you a cheater, it really doesn’t take much for the rumor mill to start in a small down.
Also was she really cheated or did she not bother to read a contract. A lot of people often love to throw around the word that they got cheated on something but then when you asked them if they ever bothered to read the contract they just make excuses. Yes, what he did was kind of scummy but assuming the “first” draft of a lucrative contract is not subject to revisions before signing is unrealistic and negligent. It’s all on AJ for not reading over the final draft and attempting to hash out a better deal. In business you push your advantage to succeed, Mane saw a country hick he could take advantage of and Applejack didn’t exactly prove him wrong.
Two, on the topic of Celestia, mental illness especially in a case as extreme as hers, doesn’t magically go away because you talk with doctors and are discharged from the hospital. The truth is you get better, but you’re never magically cured. There’s always a risk of relapse particularly when someone has such a violent mental break. Mental health is incredibly complicated and there never really is a cure, even when you’re released from the hospital it’s best to continue going to therapy visits and exploring medication. Otherwise there is an incredibly high chance one will end up there again under less than ideal circumstances.
This is only further compounded by the fact she has an addict personality. When it comes to addiction even when you finally get off the drug (in her case sex, booze, parties, etc) you just find something else to fill the void. From what I picked up on I got the feeling that she replaced that addiction with another addiction to always plan and assume for the worst case scenario to the point of obsession. Justifying it with that she has to be prepared since she is a ruler.
9802174
And cake. Don't forget Sunbutt's addiction to cake
9802174
And let's not forget the fact that even if Celestia reveals all of her past actions, for every one pony who believes it there will be ten more who don't and may even speculate that the 'evil human' or 'nightmare moon' had something to do with it.
Celestia is, in their eyes, a perfect, living deity, such a thing was indoctrinated into their culture and some even cause self harm while seeking her favor. Never forget that no sane person ever chooses to believe they pray to a heathen god, despite all the evidence pointing to said conclusion.
9802058
I mean that the consequences for the ENTIRETY of the story have culminated in this chapter; up to this point, there has been little to no accountability. That's why the seven deadly words came into play- we stopped caring what happened to some of the characters, because nobody was held accountable for their actions until this point (The round-and-round guilt tripping doesn't count.)
*
As for the 'few bad dozen ponies' in ponyville, that's enough. If that is ALL it takes to whip a town into a frenzy, then I'd say it's a fair enough reason to be distrustful- and I believe James stated that rumors and such will always abound. Add to that the element of Honesty's sins, Celestia being an absolute basket case...and I'd say there's a pretty good case towards not being very trusting of ponies if their BEST individuals are as severely flawed as depicted.
Thus far, there has been a rather lopsided depiction of ponies in terms of negative; we have a few good individuals among a larger, easily manipulated crowd. If that's not the case, it's just been the constant negative events that have made it seem that way, at least to me.
I'm not saying it's fair- but if I had been quite literally killed a few times by a certain group of individuals, you can BET I'd be suspicious for a very long time of them, and certainly leave the area to recover, especially given the severe flaws of supposedly 'good' individuals. In this case, the bad apples most certainly would spoil the bunch at least for a time.
9802282
Sugar is actually a common “drug” to be addicted too, particularly for recovering addicts. In fact sugar lights up your brain like a pinball machine, it’s fitting she would be hooked. You could easily argue it’s still an issue for her from what we have seen in the show, it wouldn’t surprise me if she’s comfort/binge eater.
Still want Miser to die.
9800699
Easy solution.
Guard: *bangs on cell bars with baton* "Apple, come with me. You're going on a field trip."
9802149
That's precisely what AJ asked for, at least that was the intention, even if it weren't explicit. It wasn't about shelter - Twilight's castle is big enough to house all of them and then some, and I'm 100% positive she would provide them if needed. And you mentioned her vast family yourself.
What AJ asked Celestia was to 'protect them' as in 'Celestia don't let them take the farm, fix this... somehow!' That 'somehow' is what Celestia meant when she talked with James, and that got her going. Well that, plus what she learned about AJ a moment before.
To be honest, Celestia saying 'OK, I'll help your family, AJ' was actually in the first draft of that chapter. But after what she went through and learned that day, I find that even less realistic. And, something tells me that version would be scrutinized by other readers for different reasons.
9802153
I know what you meant, but... see my comment above - what AJ asked for was 'Celestia fix this somehow!' at least that was my intention from the start, so maybe the problem is that I wasn't clear on that. Whether at that moment she's acting OOC is for anyone to decide. In the first draft I planned for her to agree to help without blowing up, but after what happened in the last three chapters, and after what she had learned in this one, I found that even more unrealistic.
Maybe the problem lies in the way I presented things... again.
Hey, you asked for it (I love Wuten dubbing Anon in those comics).
Honestly, I don't know. I definitely would want to rewrite 'Lonely Among Us' + do some one-shots, plus maybe a sequel to this one too, but... I just accidentally saw the ending of S9 final episode (the last minute of the show) on YT, and... Well, let's just say that it hit me hard (not the ending per se, but what they apparently did). I'm not sure how much motivation I'll have after that, but we'll see
Someone get me the leaked episodes in English PLEEASEEE
9802174
I'm writing this from a village in Poland with 2000 inhabitants. Trust me, I also have some experience with local rumors (if people around here would find out I write pony stuff... Oh, dear), but my experience is quite different then yours. I don't know from what country you're from, but over here it goes like this: rumors start, and grow until something else grabs everyone's attention. Then they die down, leaving spooky stories and half-truths behind. But with time, the reputation recovers.
At least that was always my experience here. I don't know, maybe our experience varies too much, but I don't think AJ's family will get their reputation ruined (especially when we consider AB's behavior). Not in the long run, anyway.
This is true, but AJ's reputation as the 'Element of Honesty' should help her cause. Her reputation in and around Ponyville was spotless as far as we know, IMHO most ponies should believe her in the end. Also, for the 'unrealistic' bit - AJ's not a business... mare, she's trusting and sees good in others. Miser Mane probably sent his 'softest' negotiators to show her what she wanted to see. And when she swallowed the hook, they knew they have her.
Unfortunately, this happens here all the time, and we hear about it on the TV. The scheme usually goes like this: a well looking and 'trustworthy' 'yes-man' tells you he can get you a better deal on something. All/most the questions you ask are 'Yes!' - when you're convinced that you want the deal (you assume all you just talked about is on the paper), he pulls out 20+ pages. Most inexperienced people at this point hit: 'f*ck it! We don't have time to read all that, and that guy seems honest enough' and signs it, only to later find out that the 'great' deal has so many loopholes that they're paying twice as much for something. And just like in AJ's case, the only way to revoke it is the court.
If it were Granny, I'm 100% she would have read it from top to bottom multiple times before signing anything, but she's been running the farm for years. AJ simply lacked the experience.
Again, all true, but... everyone seems to be missing the timeframe. That happened over a thousand years ago. Even if Celestia is an immortal horse, 1000+ years is a long time, and memory (and guilt) fades with time. Also, it was never stated that she was 'cured' only that thanks to Keen Sweeper she was able to restart her therapy and 'recover' - it probably took years (if not hundreds of years) of treatment, those initial few weeks were just to get her on her hooves, and back to work.
I see... well that wasn't my intention here. Celestia dropped all addictions (well, maybe besides the cake ), even pushed to the other extreme so hard that she became this 'virgin Mary' horse we know from the first seasons of the show. The 'worst case scenario' part, was because she put the safety of Equestria above everything else, meaning - if someone with powers similar to Star Swirl the Bearded came around, she always wanted to have a backup plan in case diplomacy fails - even if the person was her friend. It's a shitty tactic for making friends, but pretty good when you're the 'Fix it all!' ruler.
If anything, Celestia is a cynical, calculative person, out of necessity (or at least, that's what she kept telling herself over the years) - that's probably why she's so lonely in the show, especially in the early seasons.
9802309
Yup, sad but true. Frankly, I have a feeling that Twilight will have a hard time believing all that, at least at first.
9802341
Hmm, OK. I'll try to improve that in the future.
That was kind of the point. After Zecora, my personal opinion is that ponies are very binary - they either tolerate you or not. There is no 'in-between' for them. So, when a bunch heard AJ calling John a monster, they assumed the worst. And then the 'fillyfooler' accusations came in, just reinforcing their view. And since the crowd is always much more easily manipulated than the individuals that form it, they blew up.
But if you look at the ponies that were away from that crowd (nurses, doctor, even Rainbow Dash) they did not believe the accusations at all, neither did they try to hurt John or Cheerilee.
So, yeah. It was snowballing from day one, and that was the idea.
I see... Can't say I agree - I mean, if I were treated like that I would maybe leave Ponyville to recover. But moving away from all the ponies, just because a bunch tried to kill me? I don't think so...
Maybe we just have different views here.
9802985
Well, it's 'T' rated so, who knows - he definitely earned it.
9803751
=) It's the long period of no consequence and constant dark events that turned off many readers, I think. Having at least some balance is key, unless it's just a dark fic.
Ok, but the snowballing factor and the extremely black and white view they take only reinforces my next point of why he'd leave. If it takes SO little to sway the public, and if they operate in such extremes, that's downright dangerous by itself.
Perhaps not all ponies, no. But you can bet I'd leave Ponyville outright and regard many ponies with a fair bit of caution, ESPECIALLY if they operate on the black and white scale that you described. If all it took were a few words to get him nearly killed...looking for a less-manipulated populous isn't out of the logical scheme of thought. If the rumors/etc spread (and again, among a highly manipulative bunch,) then it wouldn't just be ponyville. He'd be the monster across all of Equestria.
9803751
Ah okay, yeah now that I have re-read the chapter I get it. Though if I am honest, a Fire in an Apple Orchard isn't that odd of a thing and it would likely settle this issue with the plus side of the Farm being able to be rebuilt. AJ would still face jail time if for nothing else then Forgery.
Yeah I have been seeing how pissed off the fans are over the leaked ending, in all honesty I have been trying to avoid the leaks but the more I hear about it the more I am starting to think that waiting for the "Official" Episode Releases is just going to be pointless if it's that bad.
I will shoot you a PM as I think I can help you with that last request.
9803768
Yeah, I guess I lost the balance on the way. This was supposed to be a mix of: light chapter - darker chapter - light chapter - darker chapter. Instead, it became too dark at one point. Oh, well - a learning experience for future stories.
On the other hand, they treated Zecora that way until they realized she was friendly, and then it all changed 180 degrees, and they never looked back. IMHO all John would have to do is get a bunch of ponies on his side, and the rest would quickly follow. And if they would just analyze what he did after the initial snafu, it was all good. I bet saving AB's life alone should change ponies attitude about him quite a bit (and there was also Scootaloo). Frankly, the way I see it, a lot of ponies will feel like a bunch of idiots once they learn about it all.
Of course, if John leaves, the rumors could follow him, but I don't know how much ponies from the Crystal Empire would care about them, for example.
9803773
It's not that I have a problem waiting for the official release per se, it's just... if I interpret the information that comes my way and the ending minute clip properly then:
Celestia and Luna are gone completely, not retired, but gone. It probably happened during the battle with Grogar.
If the above is true, then it complicates any stories with James and Celestia (I know I can just mark them AU or make them in the past, but it feels... weird). Eh... maybe I'm overreacting and it won't be that bad I mean if they 'ascended' or are in the limbo or something, then Deux-ex can bring them back but I'm just not sure messing up with the cannon at the very end of the show is such a good idea.
Oh, and as for the last part... It was more of a joke not that I would mind getting a link, but... Aren't that the leaked episodes non-English only? I'm waiting for the original dubbing (there are rumors that it may happen in Australia next week).
9803827
Yup, live and learn! That's what turned many people off I think- there really weren't any light chapters after a point, and it just spiraled.
While that's true, it's still a stressful way to live. I'm not saying it's impossible, but if a population is THAT easily swayed, good or ill, I'd be pretty wary of them (especially if they caused my death...like...three times.) It'd be a different matter if he was shunned/bullied or just generally mistreated. He's outright been killed/near killed a few times. With THAT extreme of a reaction, it eliminates a lot of stepping stones of reaction options.
9803827
Yeah I can understand that, but I am surprised that no one has though of the idea that maybe they have moved on to another Timeline? It would make sense really if they want to do a Gen 5.
It shouldn't take that long to Dub/sub it if it's only a minute long.
9817307
Anytime.
9803827
The problem is if his friend a national hero isn't good enough to say he a good guy then nobody is.