Applejack had certainly dealt with her fair share of critters taking apples from the farm in her life. Unfortunately for her and the rest of Equestria, this latest apple thief encounter may just be more of a hassle than the ponies can deal with...

[Part One of the Riflepony Series] When an unexpected heat wave scorches Appleloosa, Braeburn finds himself unable to save his family's apple orchard. That is, until he meets a certain pony whom he thought to be fictitious. The mare tells him of a treasure that is said to be buried in the town of Dodge Junction, and asks for his assistance in finding it. Will the tales of Cunning the Colt's treasure prove to be true, or were they simply folktale?

Proofread and edited by JohnPerry.