“What? That’s it?” cries Applejack. “Where’d they go? What’d they do with my sister?”
Twilight examines the markings and shakes her head ruefully. “They must have returned to their home in the Dragonspine Mountains. I read that they’ll often cut short a raid once their lair is discovered.”
“Well, what are we waiting for? Let’s go!” Applejack looks like she’s ready to run all the way to the distant mountains tonight.
“Whoa whoa whoa!” yells Rainbow Dash, grabbing AJ by the tail before she can sprint off. “First of all, charging off half-cocked like that is my job. Second, those mountains are days away by hoof! We’re gonna need some supplies.”
Twilight nods. “Rainbow Dash is right, Applejack. It won’t do Applebloom any good if we go running after her without a plan. We should spend tonight getting some rest and packing for the trip. And then we can set off tomorrow morning.”
“Alright,” you say. “I’ll start working on provisions. I’ve got some dried carrot strips that ought to be lightweight but full of energy, and I—”
“Carrot Top,” interjects Applejack, “I think it’s best if you stay here in Ponyville for this one.”
“What?” you sputter, “But why?”
“Well, there ain’t no way I’m not going on this here trip. It’s my sister we’re rescuing, after all, and I wouldn’t leave that job to anypony else. And I’m sure Big Mac feels the same way as I do.”
“Eee-yup,” Big Mac confirms.
“Well, if we both go running off, that only leaves Granny Smith to work the farm. She’s too proud to ask for help, but there just ain’t much she can do, what with her hip and all. We need you here at home to look after your farm and ours.” Applejack smiles. “I know it ain’t the most glamorous work, but somepony’s got to watch after the crops, or else it’ll be a long, hard winter.”
Slowly, you nod. You’d hoped that there was more you could do, but tending the farm is important work. Still, you’re sorry you won’t be able to do more to help than stay home and look after the fields. For your part in the story of Applebloom’s rescue, this is...
The End