Every year, on Applejack's birthday, Applejack and Big Macintosh smash a barrel. It's a tradition they've had since Applejack was born. A tradition that started with their pa, and one they're proud to carry on.

Because some barrels need to be smashed, to be the best pony you can be.

"Big" Jim Cooley: the stallion that everypony in Buck City looks up to, both in fear and awing respect. His skill out on the plains is matched only by his madly inflated ego.

Applejack, set out west to seek fortune as a cattle wrangler, gets pulled into an adventure that she can't possibly turn down. But when she finds out this "typical" cattle run is a suicide mission that goes right across Buck City's desolate and savage-ridden plains, will she ditch a chance at the opportunity of a lifetime?

Based roughly on the song Ballad of Big by Genesis

Apple Bloom is left alone and bored while Scootaloo is learning to fly and Sweetie Belle is learning magic. Applejack sees that her sister feels less special because she's an earth pony, and decides to get Pinkie Pie's help in teaching the filly about why earth ponies are so important.