Episode 29:
Brotherhooves Social
"Oh, snickerdoodle! Where is the darned thing?" Granny Smith groaned as she searched left and right through the scattered and tall pile. "I wish for once I'd remembered to label these boxes!"
The elderly pony was searching the attic alongside her grandson, Big Macintosh and the Lion Guard’s Strongest, Beshte. As always, both the stallion and the hippo were more than happy to help out the former’s grandmother. True to his nature, to the Apple Family blood even as a friend to her grand stallion he is helpful and kind guy who is willing to help others out. Big Mac himself is happily content with what he is has now maybe a little more but still satisfied.
"Uh, Big Mac, be a dear and help me move those…" Granny Smith squinted her eyes a bit. "Uh, maybe it's in that one on the bottom."
Big Mac effortlessly balanced two of the boxes onto his muzzle, allowing his grandmother to look inside the third box. She removed the lid and smiled, hoping to find what she was searching for, but all she found was a variety of old baby toys from her grandponies' childhood which wasn’t what she was looking for.
“Did you find it?” Beshte asked.
"Oh, dagnabbit, it's not in there either!"
“Don’t worry! We’ll keep looking! Just let us know if you need any help.” Beshte assured and offered as Granny Smith continued her search, trying to find what she is looking for.
Before Big Mac could move to try to help her he became distracted by the sound of giggling. He looked out the window and saw his two sisters playing out in the yard like always. His eyes looked on sadly at the sight of them playing and getting along like best buds, two peas in a pod. A bond that they had ever since Applejack became a member of the newly formed Pony Guard. To Big Mac it was disheartening given that it reminded him of a time where he used to have that kind of bond with Apple Bloom but sadly that’s faded overtime. Deep down he wishes he could be rekindle that. But how?
“You can’t catch me!”
“Woo-hoo!”
“Hey!”
“You trickster!”
The two shared while practicing and having the best time of their life while they were at it.
Just seeing that really tore Big Mac up inside seeing that Applejack is essentially the hero of the Apple Family she looks up to nowadays. The role that Big Mac once had when she was a little filly. Back then he was the hero she admired but now that Applejack raised the bar in that regard it was now hard for him to be able to achieve that. But then his moment of heartbreak was interrupted when his grandmother spoke up.
"Sisterhooves Social is right around the corner. Thought it'd be nice to award the winner of the big race the ribbon from when we hosted the very first Social! If'n of course I could find the darn thing." Granny Smith tried to reach up towards a box only for Beshte to quickly catch her before she could fall.
“Please Granny Smith. Allow me.” He moved to slide the box right in front of her so she can open it properly.
Thankfully it was just a very light and only object inside of it to which Granny Smith smiled at upon seeing it.
"Oh, would you looky here!"
Big Mac checked to see what it was Granny had found. His green eyes slightly widened. It was a toy dragon fly on a stick with a happy face drawn on it. It was a very simple toy, but that was part of his charm. Big Mac remembered it well.
"My, how Apple Bloom used to love watching you make that thing fly." Granny Smith recalled with a smile, "It's like she thought you was magic." The memory made the stallion smile as he recalled the good old times with her.
“Did she really?”
“Yep.”
“She sure did.”
"Ah, right, enough reminiscing'. Gotta find that ribbon!" Granny continued her search for the missing ribbon while Big Mac picked up the toy with his mouth with a pondering idea in his mind.
Granny stretched up in an effort to reach the box above her, "If you would just help me—" she strained, "pull… this... box, then maybe I can... Uh, Big Mac?" She looked around to see her grandson was gone. Her weight crumbled underneath her hooves and she fell into a box.
“You okay?”
“Yep!” Her head popped up with a blue ribbon on her eye. "Found her!"
The two apple sisters practiced their routine for the Social one more time. They clapped their hooves and galloped while chanting, "S-I-S-T-E-R-S! Which two sisters are the best? We are! Apple Bloom and Applejack forever! Yee-hoo!"
"We're gonna win every competition at the Sisterhooves Social!" Apple Bloom happily expressed already looking forward to it already. "Those other fillies aren't gonna know what hit 'em!"
Before she could reply back at her little sister she spotted their older brother approaching with something held in his mouth. "Oh. Hey there, Big Mac! Did you want somethin'?"
"Eeyup." He replied. One of the only words he ever replies with.
"Hold that thought." She said before looking back up at her other older sibling. "Applejack, you are the most awesome sister ever!"
Applejack blushed and laughed shyly and humbly at the compliment. "Aw, gee-whiz. Well I think it's sweet that you hold that opinion, but—"
"It's not opinion! It's objective fact! You saved Equestria like a gazillion times! You're smart, funny, strong... Why you're the best sister of all time! Probably the best Apple of all time! Right, Big Mac?"
Big Mac's ears lowered in sadness before forcing them to perk up accompanied with a smile to avoid being seen as antagonistic as Scar would towards Mufusa. "Eeyup." Deep down he couldn't argue with them and he is proud of what an amazing pony Applejack is…he just wished Apple Bloom would do the same for him.
"And with you by my side, I am guaranteed to taste sweet, sweet Sisterhooves Social victory!" Apple Bloom said while adorably galloping around her big sister, unknowingly rubbing salt in Big Mac’s internal wound. "Go, Apples, go, go, go, Apples go!"
"Uh, Apple Bloom? I think Big Mac's got somethin' he wants to show you." Applejack allowed her older brother to finally do what he came here to do. She observed him the whole time and she knew just by the look in his eyes that he wanted to do something for his younger sister. With a wide smile he took the toy by the stick with his large hooves and twisted it several times before releasing it. It spun and twirled and flew up into the air for several moments before landing on the ground. Big Mac awaited for his little sister's reaction.
"Oh, hey. Is that the toy we used to play with when I was little?"
"Eeyup!"
"Neat. Alright then! Let's get back to practicin'!" She said to her older sister, before happily hoping along. Big Mac's ears lowered sadly in response to the little thought she gave into it. He didn't even know why he thought this would impress her. Apple Bloom was too old to be enchanted by such a silly party trick. He wasn't really needed here so he walked away back into the barn to carry on his work.
While Apple Bloom wanted to practice some more, Applejack knew something was bothering her brother upon paying close attention to his expressions despite his trademark stoicism. It was like when he presented the toy he was trying to get her to remember the good times they spent playing together as much as she does to Applejack nowadays. While she knew and the three Apple siblings grew loving each other equally with Apple Bloom being the pride and joy in both Big Mac and Applejack’s hearts, like father and mother, it didn’t take much observation to know that her big brother is feeling a little more distant than closer much like her and Apple Bloom.
Apple Bloom balanced several pins with her muzzle before they collapsed. "One more run-through of our jugglin' routine, make sure our harmonies are tight in our song, and see if we can't beat our best pie-eatin' time!" She said while holding a pie in her hoof.
"Hold on, sugarcube. I need a minute to talk with Big Mac." Applejack walked towards the barn in order to have a private heart to heart and word for word with him.
"Mind if I go ahead and start eatin' this pie?!" Apple Bloom asked…right before stuffing her face into the pie she had in her hooves.
Once inside, Applejack saw Big Mac happening on an anvil. One glance is all it took for her to tell that he is deep down distraught even if he doesn’t want to admit it.
"Hey, Big Mac, you all right?" She asked with compassionate concern.
"Yup." Big Mac replied with a sight before placing the hammer back down and walked on over to the other side of the barn in order to rearrange the rakes and gardening tools.
"You sure? You seemed a little down back there."
Big Mac scoffed in response. "Nope."
"Come on, you can tell me. You feelin' a little left out? Apple Bloom and I have been spendin' a lot of time together gettin' ready for the Social." Big Mac's expression saddened even more and Applejack placed a hoof over his shoulder, but before she could say anything else she felt a sudden tingling sensation on her flank. She gasped and saw what was happening.
"What in the…?"
"Your cutie mark!" Apple Bloom cheered once she entered the barn and saw her sister's cutie mark glowing. "You're being summoned, Applejack! This is so cool!"
“So is mine!” Beshte stated upon rushing inside the barn when it happened accompanied with his Mark of the Guard and cutie mark glowing at the same time.
To Big Mac however, it was nothing but another piercing nail in his coffin as he sighed and lowered his ears in annoyance. "Eeyup." He remarked with barely contained bitterness.
"Wonder where you're bein' called to." Apple Bloom wondered with a smile. "Wonder what you're supposed to do when you get there. Obviously to somethin' awesome because you're awesome!" Her smile sudden dropped with her eyes widening in horror of what that means for them. "But… But if you're bein' summoned to solve a friendship problem, that means you'll have to miss the Sisterhooves Social! And if you have to miss the Social, then I'll have to miss the Social, which means I won't be able to taste sweet, sweet victory!"
The poor filly started to panic as she greatly worries that all of that waiting and preparation for this event was all for nothing.
"Now calm down." Applejack quickly said with her cutie mark still glowing. "Let me just go over to Twilight's castle and see what's what! Maybe it's just a false alarm."
Apple Bloom smiled in relief. Maybe she had nothing to worry about after all…
One visit to the castle and back later…
"But you said it was a false alarm!"
"I said maybe it's a false alarm." Applejack clarified as she already had her things packed into a blanket on a stick and was preparing for the trip along with Beshte. "Well, it's not. Rarity, Beshte, Fuli, and I have to go to Manehattan."
"Can't you just tell that map it'll have to wait a couple days?" Apple Bloom pleaded.
Applejack can only shake her head in response. "No can do, sugarcube. When duty calls, I gotta answer right away." She then hugged her little sister goodbye. "What kind of an example would I be settin' for my little sister if I didn't?"
"This can't be happening! Your extreme awesomeness is backfiring on me!" Apple Bloom already upset ran off to cry in her room, leaving Applejack to sigh sadly. She didn't blame her for reacting like this as she too had wanted to do the social again too, and she too was hoping to wow the competition with her big sister.
Applejack sighed sadly acknowledging the poor filly’s sudden distraught feelings. "I'm sorry, Apple Bloom." She turned towards her big brother, who stood at the entrance along with Beshte. "Try and cheer her up, won't you? I won't feel right if she's so upset."
"Eeyup." Big Mac promised with his simple one word reply.
“Good luck!” Beshte then said before leaving. At the same time he thought to himself. “Good thing it’s just the Sisterhooves Social otherwise Mtoto would be feeling the same way.”
Applejack packed up the last of her necessities before heading off to tackle this friendship mission alongside his strong partner with the hopes that things will work out. Especially since Fuli who is not exactly a Manehattan pony like her or friend to get along with those ponies especially those who get on her nerves is accompanying them.
“She sure is taking this pretty hard. Huh?” Beshte said once they had left Sweet Apple Acres.
“Yep.”
“Think your brother can cheer her up?”
“Yep.”
“Even if he feels a little left out and maybe a little overshadowed.”
“I think so. I mean I admit she has been looking up to be a little more nowadays but I reckon that if Big Mac can at least talk with her about how he truly feels there shouldn’t be too much trouble.”
“You think.”
“Maybe eventually but maybe not as far as whatever trouble he stirs up from keeping his feelings all bottled up as always.”
“Fair enough.”
Deep down they can see why Big Mac is feeling out of sorts even if he doesn’t want to admit, alas, due to their mission there’s nothing they can do about it. All they can hope for now is that they both talk it out and rekindle their relationship with little to no trouble. Hopefully.
Back at Sweet Apple Acres, Big Mac walked up towards Apple Bloom's room and knocked. He opened his mouth ready to speak before her little sister quickly answered with. "I don't wanna talk right now."
Big Mac then closed his mouth and walked away knowing it was best to leave her alone while personally wondering of how he can help cheer her up.
"Breakfast, come and get it!"
The following morning, Granny Smith prepared Apple Bloom's favorite; oatmeal with hey oats with a side of hay, pineapple slices and strawberries. But the poor filly wasn't hungry due to her ongoing depression.
In an attempt to cheer up Big Mac placed his plate onto his face and used his vegetables to make a funny face. The carrots were used as tusks, the lettuce for his eyebrows and the grass was sticking out of his ears. Sadly it did nothing to help put a smile on her face as she pushed her plate away and hid her face in response.
"Oh, it's no use, Big Mac." Granny said with nothing but sympathy for the poor child. "If I know my Apple Bloom, she won't come out of a funk this funky 'til her big sister gets back."
Big Mac sighed sadly feeling equal sympathy for her with nothing he’s tried worked wonders in cheering his little sister up.
Just then there was a knock on the door and two familiar little fillies entered. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo her fellow crusaders.
"Hey, Apple Bloom." Sweetie Belle greeted, "The Social's gonna start in a few hours. Thought you might want to go with us."
The two fillies were accompanied by several other friends; Twilight, Spike, Kion, Kiara, Sunset, Ono, Bunga, and Shakku.
"What are ya'll doin' here?" Apple Bloom asked upon seeing everyone here to greet her.
“Here to help cheer up, that’s why!” Bunga stated while friendly jabbing her on the elbow. “We figured that since we have the day off today, a trip to the Social is in order!”
Apple Bloom was a little hesitant to accept the offer before Kion moved to speak heart to heart to her. “I know you’re upset that Applejack couldn’t be here today but I think you consider coming rather than leaving you to mope around the barn all day long.”
“And I’m pretty sure Applejack would say the same thing if she were here and still couldn’t compete.” Kiara added.
"Plus, you can cheer me and Rainbow Dash while we compete!" Scootaloo pointed out.
"Along with me and Twilight!" Sweetie Belle added. "Thanks to her I can compete too while Rarity’s away."
The alicorn simply shrugged just seeing this as the least she could do. “What can I say? It’s better than nothing."
“And they’re okay with that?” Apple Bloom asked.
“Of course. As long as I play it fair like any other unicorn they won’t take issue to an alicorn in the playing field.”
“Pretty cool considering even though you’re not related to her. Not to mention the fact that they are allowing you two to compete even though you aren't really ponies.” Sunset commented.
"Well, the Social's always had a pretty loose definition of what consti-ma-tutes a sister." Granny Smith explained, "As long as you share a bond that represents the spirit of the Social, you're in!"
“Great!” Kion commented feeling pleased to hear that. “And I can say right now it’ll be nice to be able to do something together today.”
“No kidding. It’s about time you and the rest of the Guard got a day off today.” Kiara added in agreement already looking for to the Social.
“You’ve said it!”
"So what do you say? You coming?" Sweetie Belle asked, hoping Apple Bloom would reconsider.
“There will be popcorn and candy.” Bunga chimed in. “And we won’t tell Applejack about it if you do help yourself to some.”
Apple Bloom sighed sadly in response. "Why not...? Got nothin' better to do... Lemme wash up and I'll meet you in a little bit."
The group of friends headed out forward, all sadly looking back at the little filly, who face palmed herself into the table still upset at the last minute friendship mission calling her big sister away.
Sunset however moved to see if there was more she could do to help the distraught filly out of her funk. "I'll be back!" She informed Kion and Twilight before moving inside to find her under her grandmother's comfort. "She's sure taking this hard isn't she?"
“She sure is. Such a shame we don't live closer to all your second cousins." Granny replied with a sigh, "You could maybe do the Social with one of them instead."
Then, Big Mac felt like a light bulb went off in his head as he got an idea to which Granny Smith took notice of. "What is it, Big Mac? Y'all got an idea?"
"Eeyup!"
Apple Bloom smiled and leaped up at her brother, "What? What is it?!"
Big Mac's only response was a sly grin. In his mind, he believed this plan was not only perfect…but a chance for him to reconnect with little sister again. To him, it was worth doing.
"If I didn't know any better I'd say he's thinking about wanting to the social with you in your big sister Applejack's place." Sunset deduced.
"Big Mac?! Going to the social with me?!" Apple Bloom looked on like it is the craziest thing she's ever heard in her life. "I mean yes he might have had a big mind and a lot to say but I doubt that could happen, I mean considering this is the Sisterhooves Social."
"Doesn't stop Kion from competing with Kiara."
"I know but he doesn't have experience with the competition it has. There's synchronized singing, talents, dancing, and of course that obstacle course at the very end. Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying that he can't do it if he wanted to but I still don't think we're going to win. And also...you know..."
"Right, right. Because nothing can replace Applejack, especially since you were looking forward to it all year only for something to interfere with at the last second."
"Right. You know what I'm saying?!"
"Yes." She said rather solemnly in reply before shaking it off for the time being. "But it is what it is, and if Big Mac does want to do the Social with you, I think you should at least try to allow him to partake in the event with you. Even though I'm the last pony to be saying it's better than nothing win or lose, I think he is still worth spending time with."
"I don't know."
Seeing that Apple Bloom is still having a hard time understanding why she is telling her this she decided it was best to leave but not without having one more thing to say. "Very well. But if you ask me I'd say it's better than spending the day alone feeling sorry for yourself."
While Apple Bloom was left to ponder her thoughts, she was left wondering why and what did she mean by that. Was she telling her what she needed to hear, or reflecting on her current state, or both.
Just then she was suddenly broken from her train of thought when her grandmother came inside looking very happy for her. "Great news, Apple Bloom. It's seems you'll be able to go to the Sisterhooves Social after all!"
"Really?!"
"Uh-huh."
"Well, who is it? Who?!"
Granny smiled as she was sure one way or another it'll work out in the end...
At the Social, Spike, Bunga, and Shakku all got food and drinks to last them the day so they can watch the event. Much like in the past, the Sisterhooves Social attracting a handful ponies from sisters, to cousins, second cousins, sisterly-mentors like Rainbow Dash was for Scootaloo, step-sisters, foster sisters, adopted sisters, all of the above.
At the same time, Scootaloo was bursting with excitement, she couldn't wait to compete with Rainbow Dash. To her it is a great opportunity to be able to compete with her idol and honorary big sister who loved her like one.
"Today is our big day!"
"We have so got this. I'm gonna go sign us in." The blue Pegasus headed towards the judged booth while Twilight and Sweetie Belle approached her, already having signed in. Rainbow Dash smiled at her friend. "And I hope you are ready for this, Twilight."
“I was going to say the same about you.” Twilight returned with a smirk.
“Well I guess I beat you to it!” Rainbow bragged while Twilight playfully rolled her eyes in response.
“Just don’t get too cocky my friend because that’s asking for karma finding it’s calling.” Just then a pie suddenly hit Rainbow in the face much to both horned ponies amused giggling delight. “Ding dong, it’s for you!”
Rainbow shook the pie off her face shrugging it off like it never happened. “Well played my friend. Well played. But mark my words, by the end of the day we’ll see who’s laughing in the end.” She laughed as she flew on ahead to get herself and Scootaloo signed up while Twilight shook her head in amusement given that they do rib on each other from time to time.
"Thanks for volunteering to be my big sister for the social, Twilight." Sweetie Belle gratefully said.
"You’re welcome. It’s too bad Rarity couldn’t join you this year. I know how much she was looking forward to it and I hope that we can still have a good time together.” Twilight kindly returned with the only goal on her mind other than knowing that no other pony, not even her can replace Rarity.
"I wouldn’t expect anything less from you." She assured that they’ll still have a great time together win or lose.
Kion and Kiara were walking on towards the registration table at that moment as they approached the two ponies.
“Hey Twilight, already signed in!”
“Yep! And you?”
“Just about to do the same.”
“Feeling ready!” Kiara asked with a determined smirk.
Twilight returned it in kind. “Ready!”
“Speaking of ready…” Kion brought up as he looked around for a certain pony. “…is Apple Bloom going to join our friends in the stands? It’s almost time for the first event to start.”
"I don't know." Sweetie Belle replied unsure herself being unable to spot her. "I thought she was gonna be here too."
"Guess she changed her mind." Scootaloo suggested.
“She is! Look!” Bunga pointed out to a certain filly approaching them along with the unicorn accompanying them.
"Hey, there you are!" Scootaloo happily greeted along with Sweetie Belle.
"You ready to cheer us to victory?"
"Uh, not exactly." Apple Bloom replied unsure herself, as if she had something to tell them. "Seems I'm gonna get to participate after all."
Sweetie Belle gasped hoping this is what she thinks it is. "Applejack is back from Manehattan already?"
“And Rarity?” Twilight asked hoping the same for Sweetie Belle.
"No, our sisters are still gone." Apple Bloom replied while shaking her head. "But it, uh... turns out my long lost cousin... 'Orchard Blossom' was able to make it last minute." She gave a nervous laugh, which stirred curious expressions from the others
"Your cousin who what now?"
"Sunset?" Twilight asked wondering if she happens to know more about her.
"You'll find out, who exactly she is." She replied already looking uncomfortable with what she had just saw.
And at that moment, the group heard a voice coming from behind them and once they saw where and who it came from their eyes widened and their jaws dropped at the very sight…
Big Macintosh! In a dress! “Well I do declare! It's hotter today than the business end of a corncob pipe!" He giggled upon arriving.
He wore a blond curled wig and pink lipstick on his lips, a pair of black slippers, and a light blue southern belle style dress with a pink ribbon around the chest and blue apple prints on the dress. He also wore fake eyelashes and spoke in a Southern Belle accent amazingly.
Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Spike, Shakku and Bunga were literally and utterly jaw-dropped speechless at the sight as the latter two had popcorn and soda drop out of their mouths like water going down a waterfall.
“What in the Pride Lands?!”
“What in Equestria!”
Both leaders of the Guard exclaimed in shock while shielding both Spike and Sweetie Belle’s eyes with Twilight’s eye twitching at the very sight of it.
“What the…Big Mac!” Kiara exclaimed while shielding Scootaloo’s eyes with one paw while closing both Bunga and Shakku’s mouths with her other paw.
Apple Bloom was sweating like she was standing on a stranded slab in the very center of the volcano. To think that anyone would actually not recognize him at first glance, he sure would be dead wrong. Though, Big Mac still pressed forward with it.
"Oh, my! I'm so delighted to meet your little friends, Apple Bloom. Would these be your dear and beloved Cutie Mark Crusaders?" He said still speaking in the Southern Belle voice. "And these must be the Prince and Princesses, Kion, Twilight Sparkle, and Kiara, if I’m not mistaken."
“Um…”
“…Yeah.”
“That’s us!”
They all greeted while keeping Spike, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo close to their side like he loves children way too much.
Apple Bloom sighed before 'introducing' her cousin to her friends, "Everybody, cousin Orchard Blossom."
"It is my extra-ordinary pleasure to make your acquaintance."
The group's expressions turned from jaw dropped shock to downright deadpan expressions as they all turned towards Apple Bloom, who smiled nervously at them all.
"That's Big Mac in a dress." Sweetie Belle was the first to speak with a deadpan tone and expression.
"And doing a pretty bad job at acting like a lady." Kiara added in the same deadpan tone.
"Yep." Sunset commented equally dry and deadpan as the others along with feeling a migraine from just seeing the dress and drag attempt itself.
It was pretty clear that he is not fooling anyone, even while remaining in character. In fact, both Bunga and Shakku busted out laughing at him just finding this whole cringe-worthy scene a comedic masterpiece.
"Big Mac? Why, as charmed as I am that you find me in the slightest resemblance to such a-a-a fine and noble product of the Apple clan. I am astonished in equal measure. However, I shall take this startling observation under advisement given that it's from such an astute and perceptive filly as yourself, Sweetie Belle."
The young unicorn simply played along for his sake. "That's awful nice of you to say, cousin Orchard Blossom! I've been told before I'm pretty observant."
"I haven't the slightest doubt."
“Um…Orchard Blossom, are you sure you are up to compete in the Social today?” Kion asked after clearing his throat.
“Why of course, Prince Kion. I’m as fine as a next strong and beautiful mare like Princess Twilight.” Twilight blushed and looked aside in embarrassment. While flattered, she found it rather awkward to hear someone say that about her.
“Even though your getup is quite unnatural for a competition that involves physical activity?” Kion pressed with a raised eyebrow.
“Absolutely. Why wouldn’t it be?”
“Well considering that our friends are able to tell who you really are. It should be pretty obvious that everyone else will do the same once you step forward to the starting line. Seriously! I don’t think you should doing this, at least not while wearing that red-flag disguise that’ll frighten parents with their fillies. Please just reconsider.”
“Don’t you worry your worried tail, my fury friend. I’m tip top on those choo choo bucks on a cinder block. So if you’ll excuse me I got a cousin to compete alongside with.” He then said while pinching his cheeks before moving to stand tall and proud up while walking away from the lion cub who could only look on confused and annoyed while rubbing where the stallion pinched him.
“This is not going to end well is it?” Bunga asked.
“Nope.”
At the judges table, one of the mares looked up and dropped the pencil she carried with her mouth once she Big Mac’s appearance as if she is one of the most sourest apples she has seen in her life. The other fellow judge looked on in agreement.
"Pardon me. My dearest cousin Applejack is regrettably unable to be here as planned, so I, her cousin Orchard Blossom, will accompany Apple Bloom in her stead. I trust that's acceptable to all concerned?"
But while the two female judges looked on in surprise, the only male one smiled at the sight of her. To him this is his dream woman; strong but feminine. While Big Mac himself was a little creeped out himself, he still felt sure and confident that is disguise is working like he though it would.
"Cousin Orchard Blossom, huh?"
Big Mac spun around and started to sweat anxiously when he saw both Rainbow Dash and Twilight stand before him with Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle. The two fillies giggled while Twilight simply looked on unconvinced and disapproving of him for his act. Rainbow Dash eyed him suspiciously, even as one of the most daring and hot-headed ponies, she isn’t gullible. She was one of the first ponies who caught on to Scar’s plan to kill her, Twilight, Sunset, and Spike inside the Outlands Volcano after all.
"I know Applejack has a lot of relatives, but I feel like she would've mentioned you."
Big Mac did his best to keep his cool as he continued with his act in an effort to throw off the pony, "Why, you must be Rainbow Dash. You're Scootaloo's... say... how are y'all related again?"
Rainbow Dash's eyes still looked on silently wondering why he is doing this to himself before deciding to carry on as usual even though she doesn’t buy it. “Hm. Why don't I just let you finish signing in?" She said politely before speaking in a hushed tone. "But don't think me and Scootaloo are gonna take it easy on you just 'cause you're a stallion!"
As she and Scootaloo walked off, Big Mac tried to smooth the situation while laughing, "Now, where were we?" He placed his large hooves onto the table, only to have it crumble and crash due to his large weight. Apple Bloom was already starting to panic knowing that the disguise will give way at any moment now. The disguise itself is as clear as day and he isn’t fooling anypony. If their friend aren’t convinced then no one else will and that could spell trouble for them later on.
"Um, excuse me. I have to... go to the bathroom." The little filly zipped away as fast as she could so she could try to get away from it all before it could explode right in front of her face.
"You mean 'powder your muzzle', don't you, dear?" Big Mac corrected to her in his fake accent before addressing back to the judges, "Such a more, uh, feminine-like reference to nature's call, don't you agree?"
The lion siblings could only look on in dismay that Big Mac is really going through with all of this.
“I tried to tell him but he wouldn’t listen.” The younger brother said.
“Of course he won’t.” The older sister replied as it’s pretty clear to them that he is just asking for embarrassment.
Elsewhere, Twilight and Sweetie Belle managed to find Apple Bloom hiding behind a barrel, all while hiding her face with her large pink bow.
"Have they called your brother's bluff yet?" Sweetie Belle asked.
"No, but they're about to!"
"It’ll be okay.” Twilight attempted to assure her. “Maybe you’ll both do well. Maybe you might win a blue ribbon while you’re at it if lucky.” Apple Bloom still covered her face with her hooves in response.
"I can't bear to watch!"
"Yoo-hoo! Apple Bloom!" Big Mac called out to his younger sister, while other ponies looked on very confused, shocked, and concerned at him. "They've approved us as a pair! Hurry along now, precious!"
Apple Bloom was left in a state of jaw-drop shock at what she had just heard. "I can't believe they bought it!"
“Me neither.” Twilight said. “But if you ask me, I think it’s sweet he wants to help you out like this. Weird, but sweet."
Sweetie Belle tugged onto Twilight’s arm eager to get started. “Come on, Twilight! We got a social to win together!”
“Lets! Good luck!”
Apple Bloom waved goodbye to her friends before approaching her big brother. Or cousin more accurately, for today.
From the bleachers, Spike, Sunset, Bunga, and Shakku all watched the events unfold. They cheered for Rainbow, Twilight, Kion, and Kiara but were still unsure about Big Mac.
“Got the popcorn?” Spike asked.
Bunga presented said item. “Yep.”
“The nuts?”
Shakku presented said item too. “Yep.”
“Great!” Spike said while presenting three more large cups of soda and bags of chips. “And I don’t suppose Big Mac is backing out from all of this, right?”
“Nope." they both replied.
“Okay.” He shrugged before taking his seat next to the honey badger and mongoose as they prepared to watch the events unfold, hopefully with good fortune and good entertainment.
The Sisterhooves Social then began. Like every other year in the past, many pairs of sisters all participated in various activities they had offer like years before. Singing, talent competitions, and there’s even the obstacle course at the very end too. The first competition was a singing contest. Once the first two pony sisters finished their song, Kion and Kiara sang a song their mother would sing to them the night before she would have to leave with their father to visit the elephants after Ma Tembo’s father passed away. The two sang their song in beautiful harmony while Spike strummed a guitar.
Once the song ended, the audience all cheered and applauded for them. Their song was so beautiful and heartfelt. Even though the two would often argue, that didn't mean they didn't love each other deep down. Twilight couldn't help but shed a tear at the song as what would happen was a heartfelt lesson they would come to learn that would help them bond more than they used to. Not to mention that Nala would sing to her the time she dreaded the day that someday Celestia can’t be there for her who would also sing to her whenever came the day she had to go away tending to her royal duties. At the same time behind everyone's backs, Sunset quickly donned a pair of sunglasses to hide away the tears that were coming out of her eyes like the song unintentionally cut into her really deep.
The male pony, Booth Barker, approached the stage and congratulated the two lions, who took a bow while holding hands. "Bravo, bravo! Weren't those two sisters great? Now, where are our next competitors?"
"Here we are!" Big Mac called out and gently shoved a still nervous Apple Bloom ahead onto the stage. Even though everything was going fine so far, it could change at any moment. They passed by Kion and Kiara, who both gave them the thumbs up before they got onto the stage. Apple Bloom smiled nervously at Booth Baster, who like everyone else was equally surprised to see who the filly was with, but did not say anything considering that said pony is allowed to compete with her.
Big Mac pulled out and presented a record for the pony to play on his phonograph. "This one, please."
"Excellent choice... ma'am."
Apple Bloom could feel her knees shaking and trembling upon seeing the audience before her. She could spot all of her friends giving her the thumbs and hoofs up while Bunga and Shakku both waved a little flag with an apples on it, to help motivate and encourage her otherwise. Their motivation was enough to calm her down. She looked up at her 'cousin' and spoke in a hushed tone.
"You sure you know all the words? 'Cause it took Applejack a pretty long time to get it down."
"Did it now?" Big Mac only smiled in response once the song started playing. Apple Bloom began singing and, to her surprise, her brother managed to both keep her Orchard Blossom voice while singing perfectly in tune. Well not perfect perfect, but perfect enough for a good start.
Apple Bloom and Big Mac:
“We all love our brothers
And our fathers and mothers
We honor them like every family should
But there's somethin' that's quite unique
When my sister's there with me
And we share that special bond of sisterhood.”
Every one of their friends watching all sighed in relief upon seeing that their song is going smoothly…so far.
Apple Bloom;
“Sisterhood.”
Big Mac:
“Sisterhood.”
Apple Bloom;
“Is a special kind of friend.
Sisterhood.”
Big Mac:
“Sisterhood.”
Apple Bloom:
“Is a bond that never ends.”
Apple Bloom and Big Mac:
“It's not always perfect
You might fight or be misunderstood
But together you'll always have sisterhood.”
Big Mac:
“Sisterhood.”
Apple Bloom:
“Sisterhood.”
But as the song went on, Big Mac was really getting into the act. A little too much, actually. While Apple Bloom kept on singing, her brother danced and frolicked around the stage.
Big Mac:
“Sisterhood.”
Apple Bloom:
“Sisterhood.”
Big Mac:
“Sisterhood.”
Apple Bloom:
“Sisterhood.”
Big Mac now singing in his deep bass tone from Pony Tones sang.
“Sisterhood!”
Apple Bloom cringed at the last note seeing that he nearly gave them away by singing that that too deeply. The other ponies began to chatter with one another, all rather surprised by the pony's sudden deeper change in tone to the point they really didn’t have anything to say or cheer about it with the only pony the male judge happily clapping for their performance.
“Wow!” Was all Spike could say in response.
“Um…well…that was um…” Bunga tried to make light of it.
Shakku shook his head in response. “Awkward Bunga, it’s awkward! There’s no other word for it! Awk-ward!” He pronounced with emphasis.
"Well said." Sunset commented in agreement.
All Apple Bloom could do was laugh nervously before addressing the pony beside her. "Are you okay, cousin Orchard Blossom? You sounded like you were catchin' a cold or somethin' else that would make your voice sound totally different right at the end of the song."
Big Mac quickly caught on and realized his slip up. He adjusted his dress and reverted back to his Orchard Blossom persona. "Just a frog in my throat, dear. Probably just need to get a sip of water. If you'll excuse us, we've another event in which to participate."
The two left the stage, leaving the audience still stunned and baffled at what they just saw.
"Oh, my, that certainly didn't go as I had planned." Big Mac said. "But don't you worry. We'll get you a blue ribbon yet, Apple Bloom."
"You sure about that?" The filly asked while arching an eyebrow.
'As sure as my name is cousin Orchard Blossom."
"But that isn't your name!" Apple Bloom said to herself now feeling incredibly uneasy once again. If only this was the Brotherhooves Social then both she and Big Mac could have spared themselves the trouble and embarrassment they are now dealing with.
Just when she stepped to the side from her brother at the moment, she is then greeted by her friends from the stands incoming both Kion and Kiara who both won blue ribbons for winning the singing competition.
"Great job, Apple Bloom." Kion complimented. "And that sure was quite a finish there."
“Thanks but I’m pretty sure I lost.”
“Well considering of how shocking that last verse was, yeah.” Kiara agreed somewhat bluntly. “But point being you still did well and that’s something you should at least be proud of.”
“I know but there’s no way I’m gonna win the social this year at this rate.”
“I understand, Apple Bloom.” Kion said sympathetically while lowering down to her eye level. “But with all things considered, I think you should at least continue to try to give a chance. I mean considering what your big brother did so he could do the social with you, I think that’s worth doing and trying to have some fun together.”
“You mean my cousin?!” She asked with an arched eyebrow.
“Right of course, you still you get the point.”
“Yeah!” Spike agreed. “I mean if I remember one of the old sayings, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” In your case, when life gives you a different apple, make a new kind of apple cider.”
“And even if it doesn’t taste as great as the real deal you can least take the time to appreciate of what it has to offer.” Bunga added in agreement while getting the analogy.
“Not to mention there are still more opportunities for you and your br…I mean cousin to win. Starting with the talent competition that’s starting up in just a bit.” Shakku pointed out while leaping onto her back. “I think I can speak for all of us that win or lose you both have nothing to worry about.”
“Maybe so.” Apple Bloom came to agree with what they are trying to tell her. “Win or lose I’ll still have fun and that’s what truly matters, right?”
“Exactly!” Spike stated in agreement just when the filly moved to rejoin her brother. “Good luck out there!”
“Though she’s sure going to need it.” Bunga commented while munching on popcorn after she was out of earshot.
“Yep.” He agreed with crossed fingers along with the others that had fingers they could cross too.
As for the one pony who hadn't said anything during this conversation, she only looks on with nothing to say about it, having already spoken her mind beforehand. She could only look on mentally telling her "The best of luck, Apple Bloom."
Apple Bloom smiled at their encouragement yet, seeing Sunset a little down herself sparks another concern in her mind aside from what she said to her back at the farm.
Next up is the talent competition. Much like the last one, both Kion and Kiara were the first to perform. Their routine was something that much like the other’s. Said performance involved a hill of rocks and mountains in front of them much like for when their mother took them out a trip to the Trail of Udugu.
They both took stances as they both prepared to tackle the challenge they once went through with both their mother and best friend for guidance. Once they pressed forward into the thorn bushes in front of them. Initially they seemed a little lost but deep down they knew what they were doing. With the power of combined teamwork, they were able sniff and track the clearest way through the patch with ease. Once that was out of the way, they then approached the Cliffside where by using the teamwork in supporting each other to climb over each other while climbing upwards up until they reached the top to cap off their performance, thus earning them a round of galloping applause from the audience.
Next up is Twilight Sparkle and Sweetie Belle. For their performance they had red roses held in between their ears before they stepped forward onto a wooden patio. Between the two performing together they both shared knowing smiles at each other since this performance is something that she has performed alongside Rarity once before.
When their performance began, music began playing courtesy of one of the judges when Twilight nodded at them that they are ready. Tango music. The two started off by approaching each other until they grouped up at the center of the stage where the older pony worked up her magic in having fire appear around them at the same time Sweetie Belle had water appear with her magic. The older pony twirled the younger one around before they both held hooves as they danced together while the magic from their hooves had traded control of fire and water together. Much like with Rarity once before, the two gracefully manipulated their respected elements as they danced the tango together in perfect sync together. It lasted a few minutes before the two swirled together courtesy of Twilight using her magic alongside Sweetie Belle’s to dispel of the fire with the water held in the latter’s magic. Much like before when the steam and smoke cleared up the two appeared with Twilight hoisting the little filly up with one hoof while standing on her back hooves who is carrying a red rose in one of front hooves and standing for her finishing pose while balancing herself one of her back hooves. The audience all cheered and applauded in awe at the sight with the wooden patio still standing with no scorch marks on it. To everyone it was a beautiful work of art to behold.
Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo were next. For their performance they choose something more along the lines of action. Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo then performed a series of flips and leaps as they had ponies dressed as Outsiders trying to come their way to attack. Since it was all an act the kicks and punches they used weren’t as hard and powerful as the ones she would have used on any opponent, since these are friends they are dealing with. But the little filly had learned enough fighting skills to incorporate with her scooter skills that she had no fear of doing it.
Upon charging ahead towards a ramp with an incoming pony wearing the Janja paper face mask she simply leaped up and charged forward. She simply lifted her scooter up with her at the same time the pony leaped up causing the Janja-pony to get knocked aside in the face and fly backwards thus creating a dirt ring into the ground when he landed. She then leaped across the ramp to the other ramp with ease before spinning around triumphantly at the same time Rainbow tackled the pony wearing the Reirei face mask. She moved to tackle the pony up until they got to the ramp where the pony leaped up and performed a boost kick to propel herself to the other side to join her companion with a front flip. Once the routine was over, the audience cheered where both ponies shared a hug together.
Spike, Bunga, and Shakku all equally cheered for the three teams, they were all so spectacular it was amazing. Next up were Apple Bloom and Big Mac. The little filly wasn't sure how this was going to work since her brother is rather large and heavy in size.
For their performance, they performed something simple. Synchronized juggling. They both juggled bowling pins on their front hooves while trading pins before getting down on their backs so they can balance their pins on all four hooves. So far so good, the two were trading and juggling pins like tackling apple trees together. The more the act went on the more pins would be tossed into the mix with the goal being to work up to ten pins each. So far the audience was so far impressed with what they were seeing as the much larger size in pony was handling it more effortlessly than they thought he would.
The routine continued, with more and more pins juggled in between up until it was time for them to juggle ten pins with ease. While initially successful for a good fifteen seconds much like the previous performance trouble aroused. As the act went on, his long dress became a hazard and then the skirt choose the worst possible time to get tangled in his legs, causing him to fall and have all twenty pins tumble and fall on top of them. It was such a darn shame since this has happened twice in a row at this point that Big Mac had inadvertently cost them a chance at winning a blue ribbon. This time it was the stubborn dress getting in the way.
After some talking over at the judges table, the trio then made their decision on who to give the next pair of blue ribbons to, and this competition’s winners are…
…Twilight and Sweetie Belle who both smiled and hugged each other in delight once the ribbons were placed on their chests.
After the event, Big Mac finally managed to untangle himself and adjust his wig, which was now messy at this point. "Oh, I don't know why I didn't choose to wear something more casual. Why, I knew that routine like the back of my hoof! But never you mind. There is still the race to be run!"
Apple Bloom however moved to voice against it. "I really appreciate all the effort, Big Ma— cousin Orchard Blossom, but maybe we just skip the whole obstacle course thing and call it a day."
Truthfully, Apple Bloom didn't want to give up, but she was already starting to feel bad that her brother knowing that this would further embarrass him along with herself. It was sweet at first but now she was beginning to think maybe enough is enough for both her and her brother. Not to mention the fact that dress is very comfortable from head to toe.
"Why, Apple Bloom! I wouldn't hear of it! Your cousin Orchard Blossom may be many things, but she is not a quitter."
"I'm sure she's not, but it's like Applejack said; There'll be more Sisterhooves Socials down the line, and I'm sure she'll help me get a blue ribbon next time around."
"B-But you wanted to win it this Sisterhooves Social!"
"It's not about winning really, I just don't want you to feel like you have to put on this get-up for me. I already know it's not that easy for you, even if you can pull off a good impression, but really I'm okay. We don't have to win, I had fun. Come on, let's just go home and have some apple cider."
But Big Mac still wouldn’t have it. They have come this far and he was not about to go home empty hoofed.
"Come now, we are not giving up now. No matter what, I am gonna get you that win! Why, I simply have to." He said the last part as a personal vow to himself. No matter what, he was going to do whatever it takes to win.
"Sisters, get ready! The race is about to begin!"
Apple Bloom was galloping in place, still anxious even with her friend’s best efforts to calm her down.
"It’ll be okay Apple Bloom!" Kion said in an effort to calm her down. "Your brother has run this course a handful of times before so I think he’ll be all right today.”
“I know but I’m not worried about that! I’m worried about him exposing himself during this race! The moment that dress and wig come off, he’s going to get busted for disguising himself as a stallion!”
“Well…” Kiara then said trying to make light of it. “…if that happens then I’m sure a little talking things out can ensure you both don’t get disqualified. They did say have a very loose definition of what counts as a sister.”
“Not to mention the fact he’s did a pretty good job of keeping up the act!” Bunga said while munching on a grub. “In fact very impressive I should say considering he was willing and managed to compete alongside you in a dress and high heels.”
“Yeah! That’s crazy awesome!” Shakku also complimented. “If you ask me, I think you both have a shot at this competition along as big old red keeps his cool!”
"Old?!" Apple Bloom looked with a mix of confusion and somewhat offended at the Pride Lander who apologetically shrugged in response.
"Just an expression."
Despite his friends reassurances, Apple Bloom still wasn't too convinced still feeling this is one big humiliation rearing it’s ugly head should the truth come out and she’ll be reduced to nothing more than the town’s laughing stock.
“If I could say something it’s this…” Sunset after a while finally spoke up as he approached her. “…don’t worry about the crowd, don’t worry about anyone else. Just go out there and show them what an Apple Family pony can do.”
Hearing those words had Apple Bloom feel a bit better, but only slightly. “O-Okay then. I’ll try.”
“That’s all we ask for.”
“And we’ll be watching from bleachers, cheering you on!”
Both the lion prince and princess said to which further helped encourage her into giving it one more chance.
"Good luck!" Spike said with a tone of encouragement.
“Let’s go Apple Bloom!”
“Let’s go Orchard Blossom!”
Both Bunga and Shakku cheered and chanted like they are it a high school pep rally.
Apple Bloom giggled in response before regrouping with Big Mac and the other sister pairings including Twilight and Sweetie Belle.
“So you ready, Apple Bloom?” Sweetie happily asked.
“Let’s do this!” She returned with a determined expression at the moment while everyone else joined them at the starting line, with Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo the last to join the other competitors.
"Alright, Scootaloo, remember the parts where teamwork really comes into play!"
"How could I forget? We've been training all week!"
"Okay, hot stuff! What's our move on the grape squish?"
"The alley-oop."
"Apple toss?"
"Flip-flop."
"Egg carrying?"
"Flutter-bomb."
The two ponies high hoofed one another, "Yeah!"
Standing beside are both Twilight and Sweetie Belle, who galloped their hooves in place, while flaring their nostrils and stretching out their limbs, ready to start.
"Oh, dear."
Granny Smith spoke through the megaphone, "Competi-sis-tors! Take your positions!"
Big Mac adjusted his wig and trotted the ground beneath him. Apple Bloom was ready as well, hoping that things will be better this time around…hopefully.
"And a-ready, and a-set, go!"
The race began and the pairs were off. The first obstacle was jumping over a mud pit, to which Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo managed to do so with ease taking the early lead.
"Nice jump, Scoot!"
Next in second place are both Twilight and Sweetie Belle leaped over the mud pit with equal ease. The teams next jumped over various smaller barrels but Big Mac couldn't jump as high as the others and so he slipped on the mud, losing his shoes in the process. Apple Bloom managed to jumped over the barrels like the others but Big Mac got his hooves stuck on the barrels, carrying them off with him while smashing several.
Kion, Kiara, Sunset, Bunga, Spike, and Shakku all watched the whole thing all happy and anxious for all pairs competing.
“Come on, Apples!” Kion and Kiara cheered together.
“Come on, unicorns!” Spike cheered.
“Come on, Peagsus’s!” Bunga and Shakku cheered together.
"Come on, pull through!" Sunset cheered with the more hope directed at Apple Bloom herself.
Apple Bloom nimbly jumped over several wooden boxes, but Big Mac rammed into the boxes, destroying them in the process and catching up with his little sister, who cheered happily, "Woo-hoo!"
Hearing her cheer had Big Mac happily smile having finally gotten what he wanted from the start. But it wasn’t enough for him yet.
Next up was the pie eating contest, which to him is something he can easily do in his sleep. When the pink bow around his neck proved to be too much of a hassle he ripped it off and ate the pies in seconds. Apple Bloom finished her pie in time too.
They raced on with their friends cheering for them. Twilight and Sweetie Belle were neck in neck with Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo, who were all having the best time of their lives together. The next challenge was pushing stacks of hay towards the line painted onto the ground. Both teams were stronger than most, but Big Mac proved to be even stronger as he and Apple Bloom pushed the stacks of hay towards the line before tossing it over their heads. Twilight gasped when she saw it about to land on a couple of sisters and quickly used her magic to prevent it from hitting them and safely placed it onto the side. The teams sighed in relief before continuing.
Next was the grape squish. Big Mac tossed the load full of grapes into the barrel where he and Apple Bloom started squishing them together. In second, Rainbow Dash ran up and tossed the grapes and Scootaloo onto the barrels and the two began squishing them together. Next in third, came Twilight and Sweetie Belle, the princess tossed the grapes and little pony into the barrel and the two started squishing them as well. To speed up the process, and guarantee them the win, Big Mac leaped up and landed on the barrel, spilling the grape juice into several awaiting jaws, and even his younger sister in the process. She ended up in a jar and popped out in shock.
"Yikes! You almost squished me!"
They were the first to place their full jar of juice into the stools and ran ahead towards the egg carrying competition. Rainbow and Scootaloo galloped pass them along with Twilight and Sweetie Belle. Big Mac forced his way into the chicken coop, causing the chickens inside to panic.
"Pick up those hooves, Apple Bloom! Why, you're barely movin' at a mosey!"
Apple Bloom galloped as fast as she could towards the coop, where Rainbow and Scootaloo had already balanced their respected eggs onto their noses. The same was done by Twilight and Sweetie Belle. Both teams placed their eggs perfectly onto the baskets before galloping ahead still neck and neck together. This worried Big Mac, seeing that they went from being ahead to being behind in just a span of the one obstacle alone. He managed to balance an egg onto his nose, but due to his size he took the entrance of the coop along with him. His wig and dress were now covered with feathers.
"Come on, junebug, it's... like you've never carried an egg before!"
Apple Bloom balanced the egg on her nose and tried to move as quickly as possible without dropping or breaking her egg. "Argh! I'm goin' as fast as I can!"
Big Mac placed his egg into the basket, but all the other competitors were already gone. He began to jitter anxiously until Apple Bloom placed the egg into the basket, smiling in triumph. Before she knew it, she was suddenly lifted up by her big brother, who galloped as fast he his legs would carry him, with his eyes focused straight onto the finish line. While the other competitors jumped over the wooden obstacles, Big Mac rammed right into them, frightening the other ponies and causing them to scatter away.
Apple Bloom screamed while her brother galloped on at full speed with no regard for anyone else’s safety, the only things standing between them and victory were Rainbow Dash, Scootaloo, Twilight and Sweetie Belle. Said teams were already approaching the finish line in front of them. But Big Mac wasn’t about to see to it that it would happen. With all of his power and might, he had managed to pass by both pairs…while colliding and knocking them aside just before he crossed the finish line first.
The stallion came to a halt and did a victory dance while holding his little sister up high feeling mighty victorious.
"Woo-hoo!" He cheered loudly in his normal voice. Apple Bloom however was far too traumatized and frozen in shock to even move as she clung into her brother's hoof leg for her dear life. She didn't even notice they crossed the finish line, nor did she care whether they won or not.
And she wasn’t the only one as everyone else both competitors and bystanders were equally shocked and horrified at the acts displayed during the race. The rest of The Lion and Pony Guard present rushed over to help their friends, who were fine but shaken from the impact.
Big Mac cleared his throat and gently placed his sister back down, clearing his throat. "I mean, victory is ours, sweet Apple Bloom!"
But the victory was short lived due to all of that running and ramming into things along the way tore up his dress from head to toe along with his makeup thus exposing to everyone of who he really is.
"Uh-oh."
"Uh-oh" indeed!" One of the female pony judges stated with narrowed eyes as she and the other two judges approached them with stern looking expressions.
"I should've known you'd eventually get busted for bein' a stallion!" Apple Bloom exclaimed angrily at her brother.
"Oh, no, we've known all along." The judge shook her head and clarified, though it’s really no surprise they would anyone with everyone else. "The Sisterhooves Social has always had a loose policy when it comes to what counts as a "sister"."
“But then why are you all giving them the stern-looking eyes?” Bunga asked.
Shakku spoke up. “Um, I’m no expert but I’m pretty sure it has something to do with what had just happened during the race.” He pointed his finger towards the destruction that had happened courtesy of the big red stallion himself.
The obstacle course was destroyed, pieces of wood scattered all over the place, the stack of hay that nearly harmed two competitors, and the poor chickens were weeping due to their home being destroyed.
"Indeed it has because we do however have a strict policy when it comes to sportsponyship!" The judge explained. "In your "sister's" desperation to win, he used brute strength to physically take out the competitors. Uh, that kind of behavior is not just unbecoming of a lady, but quite frankly, of anypony! And for that, you two are hereby disqualified!"
Apple Bloom and Big Mac's ears lowered in guilt along with their heads while their friends took pity for them. But of course given in fair play competition, there was nothing they could do about it. Big Mac really did want to win but he did get carried away in his desire which lead to him uncharacteristically engaging in undeniable unsportsmanlike conduct that got them disqualified for it. And the worse part was Apple Bloom had nothing to do with her brother’s costly mistake.
Rainbow Dash dusted herself up and smiled at the orange filly beside her while rising to her hooves. "Hah! Looks like we win, squirt!"
"Woo-hoo! Yeah!" Scootaloo commented already excited herself. Before she knew it, she and Rainbow were beings carried off by the other competitors while Twilight and Sweetie Belle cheered and followed after them.
“Wow! We were so close!” The princess commented while placing her hoof on the child.
“I know! But that was so much fun! We put both Rainbow and Scootaloo on edge the whole race! I don't even think Rarity could have done the same if she were here.”
"Oh you'd be surprised of what your sister is capable of." Twilight said in reply knowing full well of what Rarity can do even with her personal preferences in life.
"Well either way I'm proud of how much fun we had together along with walking home with a blue ribbon together." Sweetie happily returned as they hugged together.
"I couldn't have said it better myself!" Twilight equally happily returned while certain that Rarity would feel the same way if she here to see it for herself.
But while they were happy, Apple Bloom wasn't as she knew that this would happen and this was the final straw that broke her back.
"I told you I should've just waited until the next Social." Apple Bloom angrily said before galloping away from her brother who can only sigh sadly to the point he can’t find it in himself to listen or to talk to anyone right now with what he did that all led up to this.
“Well that was rough.”
“I know.”
Both Bunga and Shakku shared after watching what unfolded before them.
“And to think we could have participated as sisters.”
“I know right. I mean they should really consider doing a Brotherhooves Social every year as much as a Sisterhooves Social.”
“Yeah! We could have had tons of fun today!”
Then they noticed the glares their friends were giving them.
“But of course that’s not important right now.”
“Right. There are still two sour apples in a bundle to deal with.”
“Yeah.” Kion agreed with his annoyance turning into a look of sympathy for the two Apple siblings. “I mean I know what he did was wrong, but all he wanted to do was win for Apple Bloom."
“I know.” Kiara agreed. “Although I’m pretty certain that what got into him in the end isn’t the social alone. I mean, it doesn’t take two siblings not seeing eye to eye to see what it is.”
“That is true.” Kion nodded knowing exactly of what he is talking about. “I know what that’s like.”
“Yeah.” She then walked off ahead to where the Apple Sisters are headed. “And I think it is time they had a heart to heart together.”
"I agree." Sunset chimed in feeling the same way as she walked alongside them ready to want to resolve this once and for all.
After the lioness left, the male judge approached, holding a bouquet of flowers and looking around. He stopped when he spotted the golden curls and the torn dress on the floor.
Kion shook his head in response. "I wouldn’t get your hopes up if I were you. Sorry."
Apple Bloom sighed sadly as she rested her head on the grass on the Apple Farm. She felt terrible for yelling at her brother. She knew that he had good intentions. She knew that he only wanted her to win the social after spending the last year looking forward to it. She just couldn’t understand why he went through all of that trouble and embarrassment for it. While thinking her ears perked up when she heard footsteps approaching.
“Doing okay, Apple Bloom.” The lion princess asked as she approached her along with Sunset.
“Yeah.”
Kiara moved to sit beside her. “I’m sorry about what happened back there. Everyone else is too."
"I know why he did it but what I don't get is why he insisted on keeping up the charade that was doomed from the very beginning."
“Because it was his way of wanting to be able to spend time with you with the only desire of you looking up to him like any other older sibling.” Kiara replied as warm and gentle as she could.
"I know, but what got in him at the very end of that last run there?"
“Truthfully, it was just an act of desperation." Sunset explained. "He just really wanted to win so badly that he ended forgoing every bit of restraint he had in him just to cross that finish line." She blushed as she recalls whenever she didn't have good sportsmanship whenever she lost. Which happened to be a handful of times. "Competition can tend to bring out the worst in others, even with good reasons behind it."
"Like what?"
"Maybe deep down it’s more than that." Kiara took her turn in explaining once more. "Maybe he just felt left out and feeling disconnected from you from who knows how long ago you last looked up to him. I mean I would know just from growing up alone with Kion. Back then I was more focused on my future responsibilities while sharing little interest with him mainly because I didn’t see him having a future where he grows up and learns to be responsible with his life. It was only knowing that Kion has what it takes to be the best lion he could be did I realize I was wrong.”
“And your point being?” She asked looking on still confused.
“Point being like you I didn’t spend as much time as I should have up until the Lion and Pony Guard was formed even when my brother did nothing but look up to me like anyone else. Even though I wasn’t the nicest cub to him he still loved me as a sibling no matter what and once I moved to reconnect with him we are now B.S.B.F.F’s and L.B.B.F.F’s, like two peas in a pod. Maybe Big Mac wishes the same from you as much as you do to Applejack.
“You saying I haven’t exactly been loving both my brother’s equally?”
“Yep.”
“And that maybe I haven’t told him that lately?”
“Nope.”
“Gosh…”
Come to think of it, the lioness was spot on. Maybe she just needs to properly reconnect with him like she would to Applejack nowadays.
“I know. It’s not a very good feeling isn’t it?” Kiara then smiled as she assured with a paw on her mane. “But at the end of the day all we can do now is not dwell about what happened today or yesterday anymore but focus on the present so we can pave way for a brighter day going forward.” Apple Bloom smiled at her before hugging her and Sunset for the valuable heart to heart advice. “Go.”
"I'm sure he'll be open ears to hear you out and finally explain what's really bugging him inside." Sunset added while gesturing the filly to reach out to the big red stallion on the hilltop.
Apple Bloom got up and went off to search for and speak with her big brother. As she approached him she could tell that he is still upset with himself of what happened earlier today to the point he is heartbroken and is about to cry while sitting and looking on at Celestia's sun setting across the horizon.
"You know I'm... not mad, right?" She began.
"Eeyup." He only said in reply.
"I mean... let's face it – you dressin' up as my cousin Orchard Blossom was a pretty crazy idea in the first place."
"Eeyup."
"And it's not like you got me disqualified from the Social forever or anythin'. I can participate next time with Applejack. Everything's fine."
"Eeyup."
"I just don't understand why you went so crazy there at the end of the race. I mean, I know you like to win an' all, but... you wanna tell me what's goin' on?"
Big Mac turned his head away still unable to open up about it. "Nope."
Apple Bloom looked down seeing that this isn’t going anywhere. "Alright. Well, it's getting late. You common'?"
"Nope."
"Okay. See you later, I guess…" She turned away ready to walk back inside.
"Apple Bloom?"
The pony immediately stopped and turned around to face and approach him once more. "Yeah?"
"When you were little, you used to look up to me, thought I was the best thing since zap apple jam." His ears lowered sadly accompanied with a downcast expression. "Things are different now. Applejack's the hero of the Apple family, always rushin' off to save Equestria and the Pride Lands and I'm just here on the farm, doin' chores, helpin' out the way I can, nothin' special, nobody's hero. I guess I just thought... oh, never mind. Here I am about to start blabberin' on about my feelin's. You don't wanna hear all this."
"Yes, I do!" Apple Bloom insisted, placing her hoof over his.
"I guess I just thought if I could... fill in for Applejack at the Social and get you a blue ribbon, well, I could be somepony you looked up to again. Be your hero again. Even if it was for just a day." He gave his sister a warm smile before looking down and frowning sadly and turning his head away. "It was foolish and I'm ashamed. Please, I just wanna be alone right now."
It would have been so easy for Apple Bloom to do so…but she instead did what she should have done all day.
"Yeah, well, too bad, you big goof! 'Cause I'm not goin' anywhere." She said while hugging him and looking up in his eyes. "And I know that you're always gonna be here when I need you. Heck, you'll do a whole obstacle course in high heels if you think it'll help me get somethin' I want. You're my big brother. It doesn't matter if you managed to win me a blue ribbon or not, you've always been a hero to me, Big Mac, and you always will be. I'm real sorry I haven't been lettin' you know that's how I feel. Guess both of us have been holdin' back when it comes to expressin' ourselves, huh?"
"Eeyup."
Big Mac wrapped his hooves around his little sister and hugged her with all the love in his heart while looking at the sunset in front of them. Just then their Granny Smith called out to them.
"Big Mac! Apple Bloom! Your sister's home! She and Beshte says they got quite a story to tell about their trip to Manehattan!"
The two looked at one another before Apple Bloom called back. "Be there in a bit! I'm spending some quality time with my big brother!"
Granny Smith only smiled and allowed the two to have their moment together. Applejack and Beshte both watched on from the window and smiled at the scene. Both of them were very happy that they were able to have some quality time together.
"Hey, Big Mac?"
"Eeyup?"
"How do you think cousin Orchard Blossom would describe this sunset?"
Big Mac chuckled as he readopted his southern bell voice for his little sister's amusement. "Why, dear, I do declare this is the most beautiful sunset my eyes have ever looked upon. Though sitting here on these tree roots is a trifle uncomfortable for my hindquarters."
As the two laughed, Kiara watched from afar at the two siblings bonding when Kion approached him from behind along with Sunset. "So I take it she took your advice?”
“Yep. She went over to him and he finally opened up to her."
"Hook, line, and sinker.”
Kion chuckled in response. “Have I ever told you of how much I love and care for you for being my big sister?”
Kiara playfully jabbed him on the Mark of the Guard before hugging him. “Not until now.”
As for Sunset, she could only look on with one of the proudest smiles she's ever had ever since she helped the Rainbooms defeat the Dazzlings and the Wild Ones. It was like seeing a wondrous feeling for the first time since the sun emerged from the dark clouds followed by a rainbow shimmer inside of her after having the bad flames surrounding her soul extinguished. Maybe someday, if it works both ways she could say the same herself.
From behind, Bunga along with Shakku continued watching on happily at the sight all while eating and drinking their popcorn and soda.
"So beautiful!”
“I know!”
The two shared with the former looking like he is crying.
“Bunga, are you crying?”
“No! I just got something stuck in my eye.”
“Sure you were!”
“Shut up!”