//------------------------------// // Progress // Story: A Journey of Two Apples // by onekface //------------------------------// Chapter 3: Progress (Sweet Apple Acres) (Three days later) Big Mac might be slow on the uptake sometimes but he wasn’t stupid. Something strange was going on with Applejack lately and he could see it as plain as day. He wanted to respect her privacy by letting her come to him. He was always there whenever she needed him. Rain or shine, he’ll be there at a moment’s notice. Sure they might’ve had some hiccups along the way but they always came out on top in the end. They used to play together, hung out at the orchard and wait till the apples grew, wrestle the pigs whenever one of them was going off and shared a joke now and then. However things began to change ever since they got back from Hooverton. Now she barely hung out with him. They hardly played anymore and she found a new spot for herself in the orchard. Heck she wouldn’t even want to wrestle a pig and that was one of her favorite game when she was a filly. They hardly talked anymore either. … Ok that last bit was his fault seeing as he hardly says a word. But that was because he was more of a listener rather than a talker. He made this change willingly to himself to accommodate for his family. “Uh… Big Mac?” Maybe he should say something to Applejack. Maybe he should start talking and ask her plainly if something was bugging her. It would certainly break this ice that she covered herself with. “H… hey Big Mac.” No no. That’s an invasion of privacy. He trusted AJ. She’s old enough to make decisions on her own and is more than capable of protecting herself. She didn’t need his protection back then and she doesn’t need it now. After all, it was her life. He had no authority to butt in. “B… Big Mac!” Yeah. That’s right. She’s no longer a foal. She’s a grown mare. Beautiful in her own way. He should just stay out of it and help only when she comes to him. That’s how a grown stallion should be. Respectful and… “Big Mac! The pancake!” What? Oh crud! The red pony flipped the frying pan up tossing the contents within high into the air. Luckily he was a quick thinker and hastily brought out the plates to catch them all. He then presented them to the table with graceful posture. “Phew… that was a close one.” Apple Bloom sighed in relief. Though she sighed too soon when one last pancake fell right on her face. “Meh… not perfect. But at least you didn’t waste breakfast. That’s a win for me.” “Eeyup.” Big Mac agreed pouring a chunk of praline on his share. “Something bothering you Big Mac? You never overcooked breakfast before. You wanna talk about it?” “Nope.” “Really?” She asked. “Does it involve big sis?” Wow, for a young filly, she sure is sharp. “E… eyup.” “I get ya big brother. She’s been going out a lot lately these last few days. She seems so busy, disappears in the evening and comes home in the middle of the night. Do you think something’s up?” “E… ey… nope.” “Which is it?” He refused to answer. “Are you worried about her too?” “E… eyup.” And speak of the devil. “Hoowey. Remind me to ask Granny to install new showers for the pigs. I don’t mind the mud but the smell is getting way out of hand.” “Heya Applejack.” Apple Bloom greeted. “Come and get some breakfast. Big Mac’s cooking today.” “Smells great!” She nodded. “But I can’t. I’m meeting up with Rarity and the others and I’m running late. My chores are all done now so… gotta go.” Without even waiting for a reply, the little apple bolted off leaving her siblings behind to wonder. “Huh… that’s the third time she used that excuse. I wonder what they’re meeting about. You know anything Big Mac?” “Nope.” He answered back, his eyes cast over the door, his face marred with worries. “Oh don’t look so glum, big brother. At least we know that she’s with her friends. Maybe they’re doing something important for the Kingdom like they always do.” “Hmmm…” That was a possibility. But that didn’t ease his worries one bit. “Tell ya what. Why don’t I go and look into it? Me and the Cutie Mark Crusaders can watch over her and help out if she gets into trouble.” “Really?” Big Mac’s eyes widened. “Sure can. I’m already planning to meet with Babs anyway. We’ll make it a playdate. Besides, I know you wouldn’t want to butt in on big sis’ life without her permission.” “Nope…” He agreed on that sentiment. “Then it’s decided. Cutie Mark Crusaders, assemble!” She quickly took a bite off her pancake. “After breakfast of course. One more please.” (Ponyville) It was easy to spot Applejack amongst the crowd of ponies here in Ponyville. Her signature hat was a dead giveaway and can be spotted for miles. It also made her a poor hide and seek player. Apple Bloom and her Cutie Mark Crusaders plopped out of the nearby bushes, each wearing a different form of camouflage to blend into the scenery. Though Scootaloo’s feathery disguise didn’t seem all that convincing to the naked eye. “So… tell me again why we’re spying on your sister?” Scootaloo asked. “She’s been going out a lot and coming back in the middle of the night lately. I’m worried she might be off doing something dangerous.” “Isn’t that common? I mean your sister is friends with Princess Twilight. She might just be saving somepony from danger.” “Yeah. But that’s usually once in a blue moon. Not every day. I should know, I’ve lived with her. No she’s definitely up to something. And all this secrecy is making Big Mac all worry-like.” “Wouldn’t it be easier to just ask?” Babs pointed out. “No. She’d tell us if it was important.” “Here she comes!” Sweetie Belle warned which quickly prompted the gang to hide. And true enough Applejack was there galloping into the town square all prim and proper. And behind her stood Rarity. “Big sis?” Sweetie Belle noted. At least she didn’t lie about meeting up with Rarity. That was a relief. Twilight and the others were also with her huddling in like they were having a super-secret meeting. “Can you hear anything?” “No… they’re too far.” “I might have something.” Sweetie Belle spoke as her horn lit up resonating with two familiar voices. “It’s an eavesdropping spell. I learned it from Twilight the other day.” “Awesome!” “Shh! Listen guys.” The CMC silenced themselves and listened in intently on the horn. “So how was your date last night?” Rarity asked with excited curiosity ringing in her tone. “Wasn’t he fabulous?” “If by fabulous, you mean boring as a bale of hay, then yes he was fabulous.” Applejack replied annoyingly. “The guy was a joke!” “What? But I thought you two hit it off. He looked happy as Pinkie on Prankster Day.” “Is it Prankster Day already?” The said pinkette asked giddily. “The guy was a snoozefest on hooves. He spent a whole hour complimenting my mane.” “Well he is a hairstylist darling. It’s his job. I wouldn’t mind having someone give me a compliment here now and then. That’s the finest form of flattery in a date. Well… other than expensive gifts or a moonlit chariot ride in the night sky. Oh! Maybe even an all-expense-paid spa treatment!” “And the guy before that couldn’t stop talking about wood.” “Well his name is Wood Chuck. He can’t help it if it’s his passion.” “Rarity.” Twilight whined in the sideline. “This is Applejack we’re talking about here. Everypony has very different preferences. If we’re gonna find some special-pony for her, it has to be someone she will like, not someone else’s.” “SPECIAL-PONY?!” Apple Bloom gasped which her friends quickly shushed her down. “Sorry. But this is huge news! My sister is looking for a special-some-pony! It’s amazing!” “Guess that explains why she’s been coming back so late.” Babs clarified. “She’s been going on dates. Or as some folks say: Dipping your hoof in the water.” “Shh! Listen.” “Hmmm… I suppose you’re right.” Rarity nodded. “I’m sorry Applejack. I guess I was so used to my taste that I molded into yours. Why don’t we try again? Give me your preferences. What are you looking for in a mate?” Though they couldn’t see her face, the CMC gang could tell that Applejack was blushing on the other end of that spell. “W… well… I’m not sure. I never thought of it actually. I always thought that this special one would just come into my life like in one of those old fairy tales Granny used to read to me every night.” “You can’t just wait for your soul mate to come to you my dear. You have to go out there and find it! Now come on. Dig deep. I need something to go by. Anything.” Applejack sighed and thought deep. No one really asked her about a life-time partner before so it was kind of hard to find one on the spot. “Well… if I had to make my own, he has to be a hard working guy.” “Hmm… yes yes. Go on.” Rarity nodded pulling out a pen and paper to jot down notes. “I uh… I want someone who would be nice to be with. Calm, cool and a good listener. Someone like uh…” “Big Mac?” “Yeah like… oh…” “Pinkie Pie!” Rarity scolded. “There’s no need to make this awkward. But… yes. I suppose this does give me reference. Better to have someone you can be familiar with rather than… the other choice.” She paused in thought. “And I think I have just the one for you.” “It’s not gonna be another hair stylist is it?” “Have faith in me darling. I have just the perfect match for you.” She turned over to the others. “Twilight, do you mind making the reservation in my name like last time? And have it in that new restaurant that opened up. I heard from the critics that the meals there are to die for.” “Sure thing. Spike can help out. We’ll call in a favor.” “Dashy. Can you clear up the sky tonight just in case?” “Fine. I guess I can do it one more time for you ponies. But I’m already working overtime here.” “Splendid. Pinkie, can I count on you to not to make any kind of racket near the restaurant?” “Awww~~ but that place is the best place for laughs! I already skipped that neighborhood 3 days in a row.” “Pretty please?” Pinkie groaned striking a name off her list. “Fine. I guess I can double my fun-fun jokes at the mayor’s office. You think she likes the in-your-face trampoline cannon or the trampoline on-your-face cannon… cannon.” “And Fluttershy. I’ll have you look out for… potentially disruptive animals?” “Oh sorry but I can’t make it tonight.” The shy one interjected. “Discord will be coming over for a tea party. I promised to teach him the joy of knitting. We’ve been planning it over for a week now.” “Well that’s a blunder.” “I want to help. But I can’t break my promise for another. But…” She stressed that last word. “… if it helps, I promise to bring over as many animals to my little gathering. The more in there, the less will be out here.” “I suppose that will do.” Rarity nodded back in affirming their missions. “Alright then. Everyone has their assignments?” They nodded. “Good. I’ll make the arrangement with the date while you Applejack, get freshen up at the spa. Let’s all meet back at the restaurant, same time as before.” With a final nod they dispersed leaving the Cutie Mark Crusaders to squeal in joy. “Oh my gosh! This is amazing you guys! My big sister is actually looking for a mate! I’m gonna have an in-law!” “Congrats Apple Bloom.” Sugar Belle chuckled. “This is so exciting! I’m so happy I can’t stop jumping!” And she really couldn’t. Her legs were hopping nonstop like a rabbit on a sugar rush. “This totally explains why Applejack is out every day and night. She’s goin on dates!” “True. But I wonder why she wouldn’t tell you guys.” Scootaloo asked. “She probably wants to keep it a secret and surprise us all when she brings her mate over to our place! Oh this is incredible. I bet the stallion she brings home will be charming, dashing and one of a kind!” “But we don’t even know who it is.” “Then there’s only one way to find out.” Apple Bloom cheered. “You girls up for a stakeout tonight?” “Definitely!” “Absolutely!” “I’m in.” “Right then. Operation: Sneak Peek on Future In-Laws and finding a shorter name for this operation, is a go!” (Fluttershy’s cottage) Fluttershy let out a soft sigh as she knitted a yarn over by the window. Surrounded by her animal friends, she felt calm and collected. The last days have been kind of hectic helping Applejack find a perfect mate to partner up with. With the group’s effort combined they were able to pull off a rather romantic evening for the county pony. Though the situation didn’t exactly make things better for Fluttershy. She thought she could keep it in, but thinking how Applejack could harbor such affection for another was out of this world. Even more so when her first love would be her brother of all pony. Perhaps Rarity was right with her reasoning and this solution of pairing her with other stallions. “Hello~~~? Anyone in there?” A griffon hand startled the shy one from her seat. “Oh! D… Discord. I’m sorry. I must’ve spaced out. I… have a lot on my mind lately.” “I’ll say. Otherwise you wouldn’t have sown your little friend in your quilt.” Fluttershy looked to her knitting and gasped when she found Angel mucked within the strands. “Hmm… rabbit fur? I must say it’s a rather unusual taste.” “I’m so sorry Angel.” Fluttershy hastily undid her work removing her little rabbit from the center who immediately barked angrily. “Something troubling you?” The Chaos Lord asked, fixing a pair of glasses on his eyes. “A little bit.” She admitted. “Just a little problem here and there. Where were we in our lesson?” “I wouldn’t really know. We didn’t even start. You just started knitting without me. I just followed your example.” He revealed his work which turned from a quilt to a… well… something other than that. No one knew what it was exactly. Was it a dress or… a hat? Maybe a mixture of the two? “I gotta say I’m a natural at this.” “Hehe. Well no one gets it the first time.” “Meh. Knitting might be boring for some but I know how to make it fun.” With a snap of his fingers his work came to life, with a cane and a rhythm it danced on the floor. “So what’s got you all blue? Was it breakfast?” “Oh no. Nothing of sorts. It’s just… well…” She paused. “I can’t really say.” “Oh come now. What are friends for if you can’t tell them your problems?” He snapped his fingers again bringing pillows for comfort and refreshments to the table. “Did another animal cannibalize another? Or did the royals of Equestria put a ban on bird feeds?” “I’m sorry Discord. As much as I want to tell you, I’ve been sworn to secrecy. I can’t speak of it until it is resolved. You wouldn’t find it interesting anyway.” “Nonsense. A chaotic relationship is a fine source of energy for me. Especially one that’s complicated as Appleteeni.” “Yes it is quite com…” Her eyes widened. “Wait a minute! How did you know?” “Oh a little bird told me.” “Discord! Have you been eavesdropping!?” “Mua? Eavesdropping?” The multi-racial-creature feigned hurt. “Well maybe a few times. But not this one.” He let out a soft chuckle. “Spike told me.” Spike!? Oh of all the draconic creatures to blabber, it had to be him. “Though I must say I never expected that apple-loving-lover to actually go for such a… troublesome path. Imagine the riot that’ll happen when she confesses! Ohhh I should probably set up cameras just in case.” “No. NO!” Fluttershy scolded. “You will do no such thing. This is a matter of extreme privacy.” “Oh but it would be such a memorable moment. Imagine how cute and embarrassed she’d look when she faces her fear. She’ll probably turn just as red as a rose.” That did sound tempting. You don’t often get to see Applejack’s cute side. To see her blush and shy away like… well… her, would be a moment to cherish. “No. I forbid you from using my friend as a source of entertainment.” He scoffed back. “Fine. But I’ll have you know that such a moment to be captured on picture would garner a lot of clicks in the world of fan-fiction.” “Fan what?” They were interrupted by a knock on the door. “Oh. That must be my new tea-set collection.” “Another one?” Discord whined. “Don’t you have like a dozen of them?” “I do. But this one was made from Yakyakistan. I ordered it weeks ago. Now. Promise me you won’t go telling anyone about Applejack’s problem.” “Anyone? Not even my new friends in the Ogres and Oubliettes club?” A club that consisted only of two others. “Especially them!” “Oh that’s no fun.” “Fun is only fun when everyone is enjoying it. This kind of news will only hurt people.” She reached for the door. “Promise me you won’t say a word to anyone, especially, BIG MAC?!” WHAM! “Geez. Alright already. You don’t need to shout.” “No! Big Mac!” She corrected, panting heavily while she barred the door. “He’s… outside!” Oh? … Ooooooh~~ now this was gonna be interesting. “Why is he here? What do I do?” Discord held her up to ease her panic. “Well firstly you should probably calm down. If you keep this up he’ll probably suspect something.” Ah… that’s right. “And secondly, you should probably invite him in. Shutting the door in front of a guest might give a… negative impression.” Oh Celestia, he’s right. All the talk about Applejack made her panic. She didn’t need to shut the door on him like that. After giving a few breaths, Fluttershy got back to the door and oh so gently opened it, finding the stallion on her front entrance rubbing his pained nose. “S… so sorry about that. I didn’t mean to shut the door on you, Big Mac. You just… caught me by surprise that’s all. A… are you ok?” “Eeyup-ow!” He snorted before giving back a wide smile. “S… so can I help you with anything?” The boy looked estrange like he wasn’t really sure what to say. “I uh… is… Applejack here?” “Applejack?” Why wasn’t she surprised to hear him ask that? “N-no. I’m afraid not.” “Oh… uh… do you… know where she might be?” She’s probably in town getting ready for her big date with another stallion – whom she’s doing to forget about her love for you. But she wasn’t gonna say that. “I’m sorry but no. You might find her in town though. Why? Is something the matter?” He opened his mouth to speak but hesitated. “Ah… n… no. Never mind.” He nodded in apology as he turned away. “I’m sorry to bother you.” There was a heavy inkling of trouble brewing on that Earth Pony’s face. So much so that he hung his head low as he left. “Wait.” Fluttershy spoke. “I would make for a bad host if I didn’t offer you something to drink. Please come in. Maybe I can help you with your problem.” Oddly enough to red pony agreed. xxxxxxxxxx There was a pregnant feeling hanging in the room and somehow Fluttershy couldn’t help feel like Discord planned this the whole time. There was just no way that Big Mac, the subject of Applejack’s one-sided affection would just come to her home unannounced. There has to be some kind of plot. It’s just that she had no way of proving it. “Tea?” She offered with a strained smile. He nodded in acceptance which she quickly poured. “Sooo… Big Mac. How’s everything? Is the farm alright?” “Eeyup.” Ah… the usual reply to all questions directed at the big lug. “Ok… how are you? Are you… feeling alright?” “Eeyup.” Oh come on! “Well… no.” Oh! She nearly spoke too soon. “I got a…… problem.” “Oh really now?” Discord cooed, snaking around the red stallion with a mischievous grin. “Do tell. Please. You have our undivided attention.” “Discord!” Fluttershy scolded. “What did we talk about personal space?” The Chaos Lord grumbled but slowly slithered away to the next chair. “So what is this problem, Big Mac?” “It’s… it’s… Applejack.” Her eye twitched. “I think there’s something wrong with her.” Yeah there is. She’s in love with you. “She’s been acting all weird lately.” Yeah! Because she’s in love with you. “We’ve always hung out together. But nowadays she’s been spending less and less time in the farm. It’s like she’s trying to avoid something.” YEAH! BECAUSE SHE’S IN LOVE WITH YOU! “And why would you think she doesn’t want to be with you – er I mean home. Be at home.” Fluttershy hastily corrected. “She just might want some time to herself. Applejack is a grown up now.” “But… she likes the farm.” “I’m sure she does, Big Mac. But this is Applejack we’re talking about. She may be honest but even she has things she wants to keep to herself.” Like a series of affection she’s been having. “But what if she’s in trouble?” “I seriously doubt that.” She shook her head in reply. “I’m sure she’s just enjoying life with others.” “But I…” “Big Mac. You lo-lo—love your sister, don’t you?” It was a stretch just to say that word. The big red stallion nodded back. “Then why don’t you give her some space? I’m sure that there’s a perfectly good reason why she’s been so busy lately.” “But I’m her big brother. She knows that she could tell me anything.” “Well not everything.” Discord whispered avoiding Angel’s banter. Fluttershy sharpened her eyes on him but allowed it to pass. “I’m sure she would. But like I said, there are just some things somepony can’t share.” “I know that.” He replied. “It’s just that… I get the feeling she doesn’t like me anymore.” “Oh don’t be ridiculous. Your sister loves you dearly.” Too much actually. “If you give it time and trust her, I’m sure she’ll come back to you and everything will be back to normal.” His expression didn’t give much but he did look a lot better than before. “You… think so?” “I know so.” Hopefully so. “Give her some time. Please.” “I uh… alright. I suppose so.” Yes! Victory! “It’s just that… I’m worried.” “And you have every right to be worried. All I’m asking is for you to give it time. For Applejack.” Big Mac pouted but couldn’t really find the words to counter her reasoning. She was right – of course she was right. He just needed to give her space just like he told himself this morning. But panic and worry caused him to seek aid. To seek her. What kind of a brother would he be if didn’t notice something wrong with his own sister? “Oh don’t look so glum, Big Mac. These things tend to happen even amongst families.” Fluttershy reassured him. “Tell you what. Why don’t I take you out for dinner? My friends and I always feel better after a good meal.” “I… uh… oh!” Big Mac’s blush was thankfully hidden under his skin. Otherwise he’d be giving out the wrong impression. “R… really? I don’t… know…” “You can’t go worrying about Applejack every time she goes out. It would be good for you and for her. If I know Applejack, she wouldn’t want to worry her big brother either.” That’s… kind of true. “Ah… I guess I could use a break.” “Excellent, we can go now. Would you care to join us Discord?” “And force myself eat mediocre food? I may have reformed but my taste pallet are still strong. Sorry but not in this lifetime.” The creature of confusion gagged watching the two ponies leave. “Besides, I get the feeling that this might be the beginning of a really good game. Ooooh! Now I really have to record this!” (Fine Hoof) Applejack was never really accustomed to restaurants. Growing up in a farm like the Sweet Apple Acres provided her with all the tasty food she could ever want so she never understood the necessity of it all. At least until now. Thankfully the place that Twilight picked for her this time wasn’t as fancy as the last one. It was an outdoors restaurant with tables set up in a casual setting. They called it the Fine Hoof. A play on names for something cheesy she’d bet. It opened just this month and attracted many regulars to visit frequently. She didn’t feel out of place either. Everyone here was loud enough to be heard and dressed normal enough to look like regular everyday ponies. Looking up to the sky Applejack could tell that Rainbow Dash did her work splendidly. There wasn’t a single speck of cloud in the sky and the jeweled stars glittered brightly above. There also wasn’t a single animal running loose so Fluttershy must’ve done right by her. Twilight and Rarity were having dinner a few tables over. Not far enough to avoid listening in but close enough to help her should she require a bail-out. Now all that was left was to wait for her date who was… running a tad bit late or so she would believe. Ugh… she hoped it won’t be like the last one… or the one before that. Seriously though, Rarity’s taste in ponies and mates were weird beyond reasoning. The hairstylist guy couldn’t give her a minute to talk and don’t even let her get started on the construction worker. That pony thinks more about his muscles than anything else. Whoever thought that finding a perfect partner would be so hard? Heck! Whoever thought dating would be so hard!? This is nothing like the stories Granny told her back when she was still a foal. They were all just silly nonsense of make-believe. All that magical dreamy princes who’d sweep ladies off their hooves are nothing but a bunch of hootenanny… “Excuse me. Are you Applejack by any chance?” Applejack turned to the stallion and had her jaw hit the edge of the table with a loud thud. … a bunch of hootenanny… holy… moly Wh… who? Who was this stallion that stood before her? Who was this lovely, huge and well chiseled Earth Pony? The guy was about half size larger than her with a grape branch cutie mark on his backside. He had deep brown eyes that matched his fur and mane, an awkward smile and he held in his hoof a bushel of flowers. “Howdy. The name’s Advocat and I’ll be your date tonight.” And what was that accent? It sounded foreign, like a deep rough yet smooth at the same time. Hearing it felt like a massage to her eardrums. Ahem! Ok Applejack. Calm down now. Don’t get fooled by his looks alone. You ain’t that shallow or stupid enough to be captivated by appearances. Even though he looks like the Adonis of this universe, don’t lose it. You need to be strong. You had three dates already with stallions of the worst attitudes. Just use the same old line that Rarity gave you. The very same one she had you rehearse a hundred times over. The perfect opening to any date. “Mbfrll…” Advocat looked back startled. “Pardon?” “I mean… HI! HELLO! WELCOME!” Applejack’s tone went a note too high which prompted the other patrons to turn in their direction. Strike one! “S… sorry. I’m just new—I mean nervous. I wasn’t really expecting anyone to show or…” “Please don’t apologize.” The stallion waved back nonchalantly. “I… don’t really get out that often either. I spent hours trying to pick the right tie for this date. It’s been a sore.” He gave a weak smile before presenting the bushel of flowers. “Here… for you.” Flowers? FLOWERS? FLOWERSSSS!? Oh my god. It’s real! These are actually real flowers! That’s practically dating 101! She takes everything back Granny Smith. Miracles do happen! If your heart is pure and if your desire is strong enough even dumb fairytale stories can come true! “Ahehehehehe…” Oh crap. Stop it Applejack, you’re drooling! Hold it in. Hold it on! “Are you… ok?” Damn it! Strike two. “I mean to say… thanks. I’ve uh… I’ve never gotten flowers before.” “Really? That’s too bad. They look striking on you.” Oh gods. His compliments were leagues greater than the hairstylist. The words alone made her body shiver and it soothed her mind with that accent. And the flowers!? They were beautiful. She had seen many of them before but she never knew that they could be so electrifying. These felt like they were charged with some kind of magic and were ready to explode in mere moments. And she was blushing. Applejack could feel it. Her cheeks were burning up and her heart was racing. “Are you ready to order, sir, madam?” The waiter approached which thankfully brought her out of her stupor. He seemed disinterested until his eye met with her date. “Ooooh! Mr. Advocat, sir. Welcome back. Will you be having your usual tonight?” His attitude turned a complete 180, like he was treating some VIP. “Yes please.” He answered back. “Wonderful choice sir. And you madam?” Oh fiddlesticks! Where in the world was the menu? Wait… how do your pronounce that word? Is it suffle or suflay? Dang it, why didn’t she use the time to think what to order instead of just gawking at the empty sky. Now she’s gonna look like a total fool. No. NO! Don’t panic Applejack. You were raised better than this. You need to focus. Do something that’ll impress the guy. Order something and make it wild. Leave a lasting impression. “I’ll have what he’s having.” NOOOO! You idiot! You just made it sound like you had no idea what you wanted!? That was a cheap trick and everyone here knows it! Strike three! You. ARE. OUTTA HERE! The waiter on the other hand didn’t seem to mind and simply jotted the order down and left without another word. His eye on the other hand… left a scar on her soul. The sour look of judgment. But once the waiter was gone, the two slowly discovered themselves in stunned awkward silence. They smiled and scratch their heads like a couple who were on their first date having no clue what to do or say. “So uh… Rarity told me that you work at a farm?” “Huh? Oh yeah!” Keep it down you lug head! “I mean… yes. Sweet Apple Acres. It’s just right across Ponyvile. We got the largest apple orchard this side of Equestria.” “Heh. That’s awesome. Well my family owns the largest vineyard this side of Equestria. We make the best grape jam, grape juice and grape fruit that’ll make your mouth water.” He lift his hoof up to exaggerate only to notice some dirt on the edge. “Ah… dang it. I’m really sorry. That was embarrassing.” “Wait.” Applejack noted. “You got mud clogged in your hoof?” “Y… yeah. I just came from the field. It’s hard to scrape it off ones the mud dries up.” She laughed. “Well me and my brother have the same thing happen to us too. Working on the field makes you work on the ground. The hard part is letting the mud dry up before you can even remove them. We’d brush that corner for hours just trying to get it off.” “Oh I know the feeling. I’ve gone through three toothbrushes scrubbing them off. No amount of soap will be enough.” “We stopped using toothbrushes a long time ago.” Applejack chuckled. “Now we just hose’em down and scrape them on the wall of the house.” “Me too!” They shared a quick laugh which quietly dissipate the ice between them. “Wow… I never thought I would start a date conversation with mud on my hoof.” “Granny always say that the mark of a hard working farmer isn’t the sweat on his brow but…” “… with the dirt on his face and the mud on his hoof.” They finished the last part together. “I didn’t know anyone else knew that line. I thought it was just a quote my grandpa said to keep us together.” “You got grandparents that spits out wisdom too?” “Of course. Though most of the time he just spits.” He added humorously. “Hehe. Mine too!” Applejack laughed an honest laugh for what else like years. “Wait. You said you work in a vineyard? Are you talking about the Vini Vineyard at the edge of town?” “The very same.” Advocat nodded back with pride. “I’ve always wanted to visit that place. I pass through it whenever I go to the train station but never really had much of a reason to go there.” “Oh but you absolutely must. We’re harvesting for this season and the grapes tastes the best when they’re fresh from the source.” “I say the same with my apples.” She paused and let that sentence sink in. “Well… not really out loud but you know what I mean. Ahehehe.” xxxxxxxxxx Wow… Applejack was laughing. She was actually having fun. Twilight couldn’t believe it but she couldn’t deny what she was seeing right before her eyes. Her friend was having a proper date and she wasn’t being too awkward about it. Heck, the stallion she was with looked more awkward than her. She honestly didn’t believe that this idea could work. Forcing people together through a blind date was just messy in so many ways. But the results here speaks for itself. “Wow Rarity. I think this plan of yours might just work after all.” “Was there any doubt, darling?” The seamstress chuckled softly, giving herself an imaginary pat on the back. “Well… maybe a little bit. Sorry.” “Oh come now. Even I can bring a good idea once in a while. Fight fire with fire is what I say. If love is the problem, then the simple cure is love itself. Isn’t it romantic?” “I wouldn’t really know much about romance, but I think this is the first time I’ve ever seen Applejack smile so much in a date.” And smile she did. Even though they couldn’t hear what the two ponies were talking about, their grinning faces and lovely demeanor were more than enough to say that they were having fun. “She seems so… happy.” “Come now Twilight. You sell yourself short. You know more about love just about as any pony here.” “Nothing more than what I read in books?” “Is that so?” Rarity grinned mischievously. “Then I suppose a certain Castle Guard that visits your home recently hasn’t been making waves?” “Wh… what?” Twilight’s face lit up like a Christmas tree. “I have no idea what you’re talking about. Flash and I are just acquaintance. He uh… delivers messages from Canterlot. That’s all.” “Emm hmm…” Her grin made her believe otherwise. “And the bountiful gifts he brings over doesn’t speak more than that?” “He was just being… nice. Ahehehe.” Rarity looked like she wanted to continue teasing but decided not to press further. This was Applejack’s day. Twilight’s time will come… in time. “Oh well. Regardless, I must say that this date of our friend is going off in a tremendous start. I don’t think there’s any need for us to interfere.” “Not that I can see.” Twilight agreed on that. If anything should happen, it’ll be on Applejack’s hooves. “So… this restaurant. What would you recommend for an appetizer?” She pulled out a menu and read its difficult-to-pronounce delicacies. “That’s an easy choice dear. I always start my meals with a light carrot Sugar Belle?” “Carrot sugar belle?” Twilight tilted her head in confusion. “I don’t see it on the menu. Does this place take orders off the list?” “No no. Not that. Look.” She pointed her hoof to the nearby bush where the Cutie Mark Crusaders were huddled together with a stack of suspicious equipment lying next to them. Concerns and curiosity poked their noses prompting them to stand and investigate. xxxxxxxxxx “Do you see them?” Babs asked, lifting Apple Bloom on her back who used her binoculars to spy on her big sis. “Yup. I see’em. They’re at table 4. The pony with the grape vine cutie mark. Ready your spell Sugar Belle.” “Way ahead of you. One eavesdropping spell coming right…” “Sugar Belle!” Rarity’s voice boomed startling the trio. “And just what do you think you’re doing, young lady? Snooping around in the bushes is not the hallmark of a prim and proper mare.” “And what are these?” Twilight scooped up their tools with her magic. “Night-vision goggles, binoculars, camera and… a note pad?” She could guess their motives on that alone. “Are you ponies spying on Applejack?” “What? No!” Scootaloo denied that accusation. “Of course not. We would never ever think of snooping in Apple Bloom’s sister.” “Oh really?” Twilight challenged, opening the notepad. “5:05 Applejack arrives at restaurant. 5:20 she orders water with lemon. 5:50 her date arrives on scene. Doesn’t look that good. Approval rating 6 out of 10?” They were caught. “Ahehehe… we were uhmm…” “I don’t believe this. You ponies should be ashamed.” “I absolutely agree.” Rarity nodded. “A mere 6 out of 10? That stallion is a thoroughbred Earth Pony with enough pony-stocks to build Ponyville three times over. He deserves, at the very least, a solid 9 out of 10!” “Uh… Rarity, I was talking about their total invasion of privacy.” “Ah… well that too.” “But we’re not doing anything bad.” Apple Bloom pointed out. “I just wanted to see what kind of in-laws Applejack was bringing into the family. I mean… weren’t you excited when Shining Armor brought Princess Cadence over?” Twilight nodded but held her ground. “Of course I was. But I didn’t go around snooping their love life. I respected their privacy and you should to.” “Ugh… I guess.” Apple Bloom groaned. “But wait. Why were you two doing over here? Are you snooping too?” “No sweetie. We aren’t. Applejack asked us to be around just in case anything happens. Rarity was the one who set up this date and I made reservations for this restaurant.” “So what? You’re like… the backup or something?” Babs asked. “Ehhh… I guess you could say that?” “Then can we join you?” They pleaded. “We’ll be real quiet and we won’t eavesdrop on Applejack. Please?” Twilight and Rarity glanced at one another not really sure. If left alone, these kids would most likely try to do their deed elsewhere and without them knowing. Better to have them around where they can see them rather than to leave them to their own devices. Literally. Besides… from the looks of things, the date seems to be going well. “Alright fine. But you must promise to behave. That means no magic and no eavesdropping.” “Yay! Free food!” “But first we need to keep all this gear you brought with you.” “I call dibs on the night vision goggles!” (Town Hall) Pinkie let out a sigh of relief as her final performance ended for the night. The audience that gathered let out a thunderous applause all of them leaving with a laugh or a smile on their faces. Pulling out jokes and pranks was hard work and making those animal balloons was just the cream of the crop. Mayor Mare often scolds her for performing in front of the town hall because it distracted her and her staff from performing their late night duties. But after doing it a number of times she allowed it seeing as it brought some measure of entertainment in their bureaucratic life. “Thanks a lot for coming everyone. Come again same time, same place. I’ll be here all week.” They all waved at one another leaving the candy colored pony to pack up. “Wow Gummy. That was an awesome performance. You were killing it out there with your rhythm. I almost couldn’t catch up. We should totally do this more often. Maybe we should ask the others to join in. We can start a band together! Oh… but it would totally go against my one-pony band. Oh! What do you think we should call ourselves? The Pinkettes? The Pinkie Doodles? The Pink Pancakes!? Hmm… that reminds me I’m kinda hungry.” The little alligator blinked. “You’re totally right, Gummy. All this talk about pancakes is making my tummy go yummy. What do you want to eat? Cupcakes? Candy canes? Cupcake with candy canes?” If the reptile had anything to say, he didn’t say it. “Aww… you’re right. I guess we could go on a diet. Let’s go see Mrs. Cake if she’s still open.” She was about to bolt over to the pastry shop when she caught a familiar figure at the corner of her eye. The fair skin and pink mane was easy to discern even from a distance. “Oh look. It’s Fluttershy. Maybe we can all have dinner together. Hey Fluttershy! Fluttershy over hereahhhhhh!” Her mood meter when to the danger zone when she realized that the soft spoken pony wasn’t alone. “Eeeep!” Panicking, she quickly jumped into fountain poking one eye out comically. “Is that who I think it is? Appearing from the crowd, dressed to the nines with a bowtie was none other than… Big Mac himself. His large frame and red skin was pretty much a dead giveaway. His Ponytonnes outfit gave him a sense of regal, like he was a big-shot pony from the big city coming to visit this far off town for some manner of vacation. “That’s Big Mac! But why are they together?” Pinkie asked to no one in particular. “Are they… on a date?” She laughed. “Pffaa! What am I saying? Of course they aren’t. That would be so silly. There’s no way Fluttershy would date Big Ma—and now he’s giving her flowers!?” A single flower actually. One that he plucked from the nearby bushes and gently placed it over her mane. Fluttershy’s cheeks dotted red as he continued to lead her up the streets and into a café. “This is… this can’t be. This can’t be real… right Gummy?” The alligator yawned. “You’re right Gummy. We can’t rule anything just yet. This requires a thorough investigation. We need to spy on them! Come on. I know a hiding spot where we can—eh hey! Who took my night-vision goggles?”