//------------------------------// // The Apple Estates // Story: P.O.N.Y. // by SAmaster //------------------------------// The Apple Estates were some of the oldest parts of Ponyville. Farms and plots of land tamed by many settler families, it consisted of farms, plantations, and homes for the various workers who farmed the land. A large population of the city lived here, wealthy land-owners, and lower and middle-class farmhands. But most of the land wasn’t ‘developed’, left to farm the crops that fed the citizens and fueled commerce, where the rest of the city grew around the train station that linked them to the rest of the world, and the markets where their goods were bartered. The Estates themselves lay close to the Barrier Wall separating them from the Everfree Forest, spread over cultivated plains and hills, it covered a wide area. Largest amongst them were the lands and orchards owned by the Apple Clan, for whom the area was named after, and whom the land was leased from. Their Orchards lay closest to the Wall, and were spread the farthest. They employed dozens of citizens of Ponyville to maintain the land and crops, while they themselves took care of affairs from their manor. The system worked well, the Apples continued to hold major influence in the City, and were regarded as good employers, their workers usually earned good wages for an honest days work. As we lay our scene however, there has been trouble here, day after day as usual the workers would tend to the Apple Trees, taking down the produce to be carted away. Night after night, one would not come home, only to be found bruised and bloody the next morning. This had been happening in farms all over the Apple Estates, but no one could pin the source. Not only were people fearing for their lives, but it was bad for business. And so it was that Macintosh decided to sort things out for himself. Current heir to the Apples in Ponyville, a giant of a man at the prime of his youth, with a hard muscled body, he strode confidently through the trees and land that were promised to him and his family. Leather boots, blue jeans, a belt with an emblem of a green apple with a sliced green apple, black gloves, a black long-coat trailing to his feet, and a white buttoned shirt and tie. With a flashlight he illuminated the darkness around him, including his features. A hard face with a square jaw, a freckled face with straw colored hair worn long for a man, his green eyes however conveyed a simple ease that belied his intimidating stature. He fingered the ammo case for his weapon that he wore around his neck, mindful of his gun in it’s holster should he need it. He understood that if he had waited a little, someone else would have been sent to see what the ruckus was. But as it was already, most of the workers were incapacitated, or fearing for their lives, on strike until the commotion was settled. They were likely have to skip this years harvest as a result. They had enough money in the bank to do it, but they would likely have to make up for it next year. Macintosh had decided for himself however that enough was enough, he was at least going to find what was causing the problem, and if he could, put a stop to it. Many of the workers had been knocked unconscious, a few comatose, by whatever it was. Wasn’t Human, or wasn’t likely Human by the looks of it. Could have bin a big Grimm, something that sneaked through the wall perhaps. Macintosh hoped that was the case, as he kept walking. Grimm he had handled, and could handle. But worry wormed at the back of his mind. The feeling he was not alone. That he was being watched. That he was not hunting but being hunted. All of this fear and trepidation culminated when his flashlight went out. Macintosh sighed. “Eeyup.” He banged it a few times, fiddled with the switch, before he realized it wasn’t going to turn back on. He decided to put away his flashlight in his pocket, and took out his weapon. He could feel a flutter in the wind as he moved toward it. Macintosh let his weapon rest in his hand, measuring it’s weight. It was an enormous handgun, larger than his own admittedly large hand. He opened up the compartment in ammo-case he wore around his neck, taking a belt of shotgun shells and inserting it into his weapon, the Big Iron. It was a strike he could only anticipate by being paranoid, a bolt of shadow struck where he was just standing if had not just leapt out of the way. Magic waves and blades struck through the air, slicing and demolishing the ripe apple trees around him. Macintosh fired with resounding cracks into the darkness around him, but to no avail. With a flick of the wrist, the ammo band snapped, and he grabbed another from his ammo box, filled with flare rounds, and as he ran through the trees fired a round high into the sky. With the new brief sun in the sky, Macintosh could better see his surroundings, and could see where the attacks were coming from. With the Big Iron he fired at a shadowy tentacle bearing down at him, and it recoiled in the explosion of light. He fired another four shots into the dense forest, and with the light he could see his attacker. Like a black hole, he could only see around it, blackness in the shape of a person, highlighted by the flare shots around him. Macintosh stared down the figure, as if by doing so he could convince it to stand-down, leave, and never return. With no such luck the shadowy figure surged forward to attack, a dark glint of a blade slashed through his clothes as he tried to block, strike, and dodge. He fired flare rounds to illuminate the darkness, and to fight against it. It faded back into the darkness to strike again, Macintosh fired a shot that failed to hit, and it repeated again, adding another cut on his skin and clothes. Macintosh dropped his Big Iron, and swung it by his ammo belt, his weapon facing every which way, he fired off dozens of rounds in the forest around him, causing a nebulae of light to explode out from him, casting light and shadow on the trees. Again the figure tried to hide away from the late, but Macintosh tugged at the ammo belt, and the Big Iron was back in his hands and he switched back to the buckshot and continued firing. The enemy was staggered by the lead coming it’s way, but undeterred, it continued it’s fight striking and falling back, though now Macintosh had a round of buckshot for it every time it did. Macintosh didn’t know how long he was fighting like this, but he was long covered in cuts and bruises, his head was growing light, and the fight came to a close as he was knocked off his feet, as he lost his footing, and was knocked down to the grassy ground. His attacker lay on his chest, a bone-chilling blade by his throat. Bloody and dirty, his attacker stilled, and in the dying light of his flares, he got his best look at it so far. Dark. Cloaked. Smaller than he. Intelligent. The smallest glint of light in its eyes as it looked down on him with a cold indifference. It got up, whatever it was. Satisfied that Macintosh had been thoroughly beaten, unable to move, it got up, the last of the light dying around it as it left into the darkness. Macintosh, not one to give up easily, lifted his Big Iron, changing back to his flare rounds, and held the trigger down, letting off round after round into his assailant, catching it unawares. It tried to defend itself, but the stream of shots was unending and blinding. Through the light Macintosh couldn’t see, but heard a scream of anguish. When his gun went dry, he rested, keeping his head lifted to see what befell his enemy. When the light began to die down his attacker was nowhere to be seen. Satisfied for the moment, he tried to lift himself, only to collapse from his own wounds. *** Applejack ran through the Hospital corridors, ignoring all the signs warning against such an action. Tears were in her eyes as she desperately searched for the room number that belonged to her brother. Finding it at last, she slammed the door open. “Big Macintosh!” She called. “Are you okay?” “Eeyup.” Came his reply. Macintosh was laid up in bed, bandaged head to toe, but perfectly capable of movement. He had the tv on set to his favorite station, with flowers and heart shaped chocolates surrounding him, currently attended by his grandmother, youngest sister, and a buxom young nurse. Applejack was choked. “I’m glad.” She said coming to his side. “I didn’t know how bad it was.” Then she wacked him on the head. “Did you know how worried you had me?” Macintosh cried out in pain, while their grandmother smirked. “Careful Applejack, you may end up extendin’ his stay here. Might end up gettin’ soft with all the attention.” “Hey.” Macintosh said, as Applebloom munched on some Coconut Creams from a heart shaped box. “Take a sit.” Granny Smith instructed Applejack, who complied. “Now then Nurse, what was that you was saying earlier?” The Nurse adjusted her gown, and looked back to her clipboard. “Well Ma’am, Macintosh here is fine. He’s pretty tough, just keep his bandages clean, and from doing any strenuous activity that might reopen his wounds, and he should be fine within a month.” Granny Smith. “This’ll make him a layabout fer sure.” She muttered. Macintosh made a groan to make sure they knew he heard them. “That should be all.” The Nurse said. “Is there anything else?” “No dear.” Granny Smith said with a wave of her hands. “Thank ye for yer work, you’ve done a good job.” “Thank you.” With a polite curtsey she left. Granny then took the remote from Macintosh’s hand, and turned off the Tv. “Hey!” He said. “Hush dear. Now tell us, what did you see?” She asked, gravely serious. His sisters leaned in to hear. Macintosh sighed. He shrugged at first. “Don’t know. It was dark.” Applejack opened her mouth to say something obvious, but he cut her off. “The thing was Dark. Don’t know what it was. Wasn’t Grimm. Had a weapon.” He raised his bandage-covered arm as if to demonstrate. “So what happened to it Big Macintosh?” Granny asked. “Drove it off.” He said. “I hope. Didn’t die. But- I think it’s left the Orchards.” Granny Smith sighed and leaned back. “Me too. We’ll have to beef up security, that’s fer sure. Shame though, all our workers, either done up here, or too scared to work, we’ll have to miss the harvest this year.” “But our Family’s never missed a Harvest!” Applejack cried. “First time fer everything.” Granny Smith said. “We got enough to survive till next year. We’ll just need to be careful with finances.” Macintosh sighed, Applebloom frowned, but Applejack was not placated. “That ain’t good enough. We got a standard to uphold.” “Well what you gonna do big sis?” Applebloom asked. “You can’t harvest all them apples by yourself, now can you?” “You watch me little sis.” Applejack stated. “Ah bet ah could even do it with one hand tied behind mah back too.” She got snorts of derision in response. “What? You think ah can’t do it?” “Ah know you can’t!” Granny Smith. “What?” Applejack asked. “Ah know the orchards inside an’ out, ah got the schedules memorized, and, ah got the strength and endurance fer it.” Macintosh adjusted himself in his bed and gave a cleared his throat. “Applejack, sis, I’m perfectly sure that you’d give it your all, but you’re just one person. One person isn’t going to make a lick of difference, no matter how hard you try.” “Says you!” Applejack stated. “Ah’ll harvest every last Apple if I have to!” “Me too!” Applebloom volunteered. Granny Smith snickered again. “Fine fine, Big Macintosh, I think it’s clear that us old fogeys won’t be convincin’ these youngsters of anything. They want to help, I say let them.” Macintosh sighed, but relented. He reached into the box Applebloom was snacking on, and popped in a chocolate to grumpily munch on. *** At class Twilight was contenting herself with a book. After much discussing, more on Twilights part rather than on Mrs. Ink-Spots part, a decision had been reached, Twilight would help supervise the Library in her spare time, and in return she would be given a salary, and free reign over any of the books. Her teammates contented themselves as-well, Rarity was grooming herself for the sixteenth time that day, Applejack was dozing off, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy were conversing amongst themselves, and Pinkie Pie, well she was probably off in her own world. The bell rung signifying the end of classes that day, and each got up to go their separate ways. Twilights things were long packed, and she picked up Spike from his classes. “So how are things?” Spike asked. “Fine.” Twilight answered as they began walking home, through brightly lit streets with shady trees. “Making any progress on your letter?” “Not really…” Twilight said, shifting through the pages of her book. “I’m sure I can come up with something.” “Good read?” He asked. “I got it from the library.” Twilight told him. “There are a lot of very old books there.” “Well good enough to know it’ll keep you busy for a while then.” Twilight nodded. “It’s just… never mind, it’s probably nothing.” “Fine then.” Spike said. “So having a hard time with the letter?” “A little.” Twilight sighed. “It’s early in the week, I have plenty of time to come up with something though.” “You know, maybe you could try hanging out with your team?” Spike suggested. “Didn’t you say that girl who fell from the sky work at that cake shop.” “Trust me Spike, she is the last person I would want to ‘hang out’ with.” Twilight told him. “As for the others, I wouldn’t even know where to begin.” “Guess the boss-lady was right to make this homework for you, you’re hopeless at this.” Spike said, only to receive a whack on the head as a result. “Saying I’m a social nightmare, I don’t hear any stories about any friends you’ve been making recently.” Twilight snapped back. Spike rubbed his head a little before responding. “Well, it’s a bit awkward, considering I don’t take any of the combat classes with anyone. Although, there are these two guys, Snips and Snails who are pretty fun.” “What about that young Apple Girl?” Twilight asked. “Applebloom?” Spike asked. “Real friendly. Made a friend with another redheaded girl, so we don’t actually talk much. She rich?” “Well her family is rich in land at least.” Twilight said. “Why?” “She’s not stuck up about it. Like everyone in Canterlot.” Spike said, staring into the sky. “By the way, you may want to step out of the way.” “Why’s that?” Twilight asked moments before a grey streak flattened her. “You okay?” Spike asked, he wasn’t sure to whom. “I’m fine!” A voice warbled. The grey streak was revealed to be a girl, someone Spike had seen at Starswirl, probably in the same grade as Twilight. Letters were spilling out of her bag and floating in the air around her, but in a daze she let them. She had grey cargo pants, a pair of sneakers, a loose t-shirt with a series of bubbles inscribed on it, a gray denim jacket and a postmans hat, with an emblem of a winged horse speeding by on it. She was a blonde girl, who’s pale skin had seen some sun, she had a small frame, and was likely just a little taller than Rainbow Dash was. Spike noticed her eyes were somewhat criss-crossed. “Could you help me get me letters?” She warbled. “Yeah, if you could get off my sister, then sure.” Spike said. The girl looked down, and tumbled over as Twilight got on her feet, trying her best not to be seething at the moment. “Sorry!” She said. “I kinda lost control of my jetpack…” She paused to look over the contraption she was wearing. She took it off, and the wings sprang to life, shorter than the ones they had seen used by Rainbow Dash or Fluttershy. “I should have fixed it better…” “Hey!” Twilight said, not liking being forgotten. “Oh right!” The girl snapped her jetpack back into it’s compact form, slinging it back on her back. “My name is Darlena Derpinski Doo! At your service! But everyone calls me Derpy!” With that she gave a harsh bow. “Sorry I crashed into you, I’ve just been busy with my job.” She said, going back to collect the floating papers around them. “Who writes letters these days?” Spike asked, plucking one off the sidewalk. “We do.” Twilight answered. “Yeah, but aside from us?” “Well I guess not everyone has wifi.” Twilight said. Soon enough Derpy had collected each letter, and packed them back into her mail-bag, out of which her weapon shone. “Sorry, I’m new at this job.” She said, rubbing the back of her head sheepishly. “I’m working as a Mailman. Delivering letters and packages. Except I keep messing up, I thought I could work faster if I flew. I do it for the money.” “…Well…” Twilight said not sure how to continue. She was still miffed about being smashed into- again- but was happy that the girl would be leaving. “…I guess you’d better be going then.” “Oh you’re right!” The girl stated, struck by a realization. She ran and leapt into the air only to fall back to the ground. “Oh right, my jetpack is broken…” She got back up, and turned to Twilight. “Do either of you know how to repair a jetpack?” “No! No I don’t! Why would you think I might?” Twilight yelled. The girl became a little downcast. “I was hoping you might.” “Geez Twilight.” Spike muttered. “Okay, how is this my fault now?” Twilight asked. “Don’t worry!” Derpy announced, making sure to secure her bag. “I can make the rest of the distance on foot!” With that she began sprinting down the street, before sliding as she took a right down an intersection. Twilight was once more agape. “The longer I am here, the crazier everyone in this town seems.” “Oh come on, it can’t be all that bad.” Spike said as they resumed their walk. “What about the Librarian lady?” “Well she’s not too much of a Librarian.” Twilight said. “You saw the state the place was in.” “Well, I saw what you did when you saw what state the place was in.” Spike answered. Their conversation was interrupted again when Derpy came sprinting back at them, knocking over both of them on the way. “Sorrygottarunmonstersgottarungottarungottarun!!!” She yelled as she ran off into the distance. “Again!” Twilight cried. “I need to start investing in a spell that will keep people from crashing into me.” “Um Twilight-“ Spike said, tugging on her shirtsleeve. “Do you feel the ground rumbling?” “I… do?” Rounding the same corner that Derpy had returned from was a stampede of Grimm, Borbatusk of all shapes and sizes, charging down the street as everyone dived inside or took cover rather than be trampled. The two in the middle of the street lay straight in their path. Twilight immediately summoned her wand to her hand, with a press of the button it extended to its full length, and with a flourish she formed a magical shield around her and her brother that acted as a stone in a river, parting the stampede charging around them, many of the Borbatusks smashed into the shield, but continued on their merry way rampaging through the city. When the stampede carried it’s way past the two of them, the monsters identifiable only by a dust trail in the distance, and the sounds of general carnage and mayhem. “So yeah, that happened.” Spike said, dusting himself off. Twilight adjusted her glasses as her mind began to run. “What was that?” “Well, I can tell you it looked like a stampede.” Spike said. “What was it doing?” “Stampeding.” Spike said, trying to be helpful as possible. “Look, there’s a giant wall lining the forest to keep monsters out, and the entire Night Watchmen to take out any strays.” Twilight said. “So how did so many Grimm make it this far into the city?” Spike shrugged. “That’s probably an important question. But, I think the stampede of Monsters is a little more pressing.” “You’re right.” Twilight said. “I’ll see what I can do about that.” “Okay. I’ll see you back at the Library then?” Spike said. “Yeah.” With that she summoned a hard-light staircase that took her up to a second floor building where she could survey the damage. The herd seemed to be moving closer into town, Twilight would at least need to funnel them away from there, keep people getting hurt, perhaps bring them to the Night Watchmen or other Huntsman to help take care of them. She leapt from building to building, summoning platforms as she went, she headed towards the full brunt of the stampede. She conjured a meteor spell to rain down on them, though while she may have slain a few of them the bulk of the stampede raged on. On the ground people kept diving for cover, many trying to outrun the Grimm as they barreled down on them, though while Twilight continued to rain down spells on them, they did not falter. One girl trying to run away tripped on a loose cobblestone, falling to the ground. Terrified she screamed as the largest of the Borbatusks, a giant spiked thing, clearly battle-scarred bore down on her. Two shots ran out as another Huntress in training, Applejack, leapt to defend her, grabbing onto it’s serrated tusks with her gloved hands and stood her ground, her boots dragging along the ground she refused to back down. With a great heave Applejack lifted the monster into the air, slamming it back down on it’s side, breaking off it’s tusks and slamming them through the red eyes of the monster. She turned to glance at the young girl, and gave her a reassuring smile. “Don’t worry now, I’ll get you out of here.” She said. Applejack picked up the girl, and with the revolvers at her heels jumped out of the way of the rest of the Stampede, a bullet firing with each leap she made up the building and out of the way. “Hey!” Twilight cried as she joined up with her teammate. “Hey Bookworm!” Applejack said. “You need saving too?” She said, putting down the girl she had saved. “I’m fine.” Twilight said dryly. “You want to do something about this Stampede?” “Already on it!” She said. “You wanna help feel free.” And with that she leapt back into the stampede. “Hey!” Twilight yelled. “You want to come up with a plan or something!?” Applejack landed on the Borbatusk at the front of the stampede, mounting it, using her bladed revolvers at her feet to dig into it’s sides, and with a rope she wrangled it’s tusk into a set of makeshift reigns, she then steered the thing to the right, steering it into the direction of her choosing. Twilight meanwhile tried to help, she inserted a cartridge of Lightning Dust into her staff, and conjured hard light barriers along the streets, cordoning off the stampede, keeping it contained and going in the direction Applejack was trying to steer. Any of the Grimm who tried to break through them were rewarded with a shock, and went back into the herd. Applejack was successfully steering the stampede back into the direction from whence it came, with a combination of lead and a stubborn attitude, shooting the stragglers with one of her revolvers. Twilight above tried to keep pace as they headed towards the Apple Estates, past stately manor homes and various plantations, she tried to keep the stampede with her spells. Nearing their destination Applejack let out a loud whistle with her fingers placed around her lips. On cue a great hound appeared from the fields to aid them, attacking the monsters with the same skill as the two Huntress in training. It leapt at them, tearing at their sides, and silencing the smaller stragglers, keeping them all huddled closer together. Soon enough they reached their destination, a massive hole in the Barrier wall that they had evidently came through. At the last second Applejack leapt off, jumped back off the wall clear of the stampede as the majority of the Grimm ran back through it. Applejack, Twilight and the hound that came took out those that refused to leave, leaving behind inky corpses amongst the field. The job done, Applejack gave a happy grin, twirling her revolvers in her hands and shoving them back with the others on her boot. “Whelp, that was a job well done, don’t you think?” She said. “And you too Winona, who’s’ a good girl?” She said, bending down to pet and rub the brown-coated hound who reveled in the attention and praise. Twilight meanwhile collapsed her staff, putting it back in her holster, and examining the wall. “What did this?” She asked, placing her hand on the brickwork. “Did you know about this?” “Nope.” Applejack stated. “Got lucky. Was just hoping to bring’em here, get some backup from the kin, and shoot’em to bits when they was smacked against the wall.” Twilight mind whirred at the implications. “This wasn’t done by Grimm. This was sabotage. And precise too, the hole looks done by a stone-cutter, not explosives or sledgehammers. And the rubbles been removed too.” Applejack continued to bathe her pet in attention, but her expression turned serious. “Sabotage? You sayin’ someone did this to get to me?” “…no.” Twilight said confused. “Why would you think that?” “This lands owned by the Apple Family.” Applejack stated. “Someone, or somethin’s been going after our workers too. My Brother even got laid up in the hospital fightin’ it. Harvest time’s comin’ soon ontop of it all.” Twilight though about it. “Well that does make much more sense than what I was thinking.” She stated. “At first it simply looks like an attempt on the town, but I don’t see the gain in that. Does your family have any competitors who might stoop to this then?” “Plenty.” She answered. “Too many to pin.” Twilight went back into thought at that. “Hey now, don’t you worry your pretty little head over this.” She said, walking over, and patting her on the head to emphasize. “This here’s a matter for me and mah kin, none of yer business to be worryin’ about it.” Twilight removed her hand from her head, not happy about the physical contact. “I would think that considering this stampede here almost flattened me, and almost everyone in the city, it would be everyone’s business.” “Lookie here-“ Applejack said. “I get yer concern, but this here is Apple Business, and we Apple’s take care of our own affairs. This here sabotage is on our land, and it’s been all kinds of sour luck that’s been happening to our people. So as much as ah appreciate the goodwill, ah’d much more appreciate it if you keep out.” Twilight kept silent, her mind setting to work. She nodded to appease Applejack, and they went their separate ways, but Twilight kept her mind going at the current implications. *** While an unexpected disaster had struck, the citizens of Ponyville were quite resilient. While they had a quick scare, the damage was swiftly repaired, injuries healed, and stragglers rounded up. An announcement was even made that a small speech would be given towards the end of the week to thank the Huntsman Academy for producing dutiful students who had helped during the crisis. “And then a bunch of them burst through the shop window!” Pinkie Pie regaled her team as they stood atop the Barrier Wall during class. “Of course the Cakes warned me about the use of explosives in the shop, so I flipped a few table, took out my Party Canon, and gave them a good thwacking! When they had enough, the monsters ran out into the street terrified! And that’s how I saved Ponyville.” Most of her teammates didn’t believe half of her story as they went about their lesson. Twilight in particular was in the middle of thick leather-bound book. One of their Combat Teachers, Lieutenant Brass Shells, a once-large man with a gray mane, and proud posture, gave them their instructions. “These Catapults were used by Huntsman such as yourselves to quickly reach their destination, help those in need in time, as quickly as possible.” He stated in a resonating baritone. “While speed may be a minor or major part of your strategy, it is vital in saving lives, as seconds can mean the difference between life and death. We will use these Catapults as means to help you better spring to action! And while we’re at it, we’ll also sharpen your teamwork. Find a partner in your team to man the catapult, another to be the load, and coordinate amongst yourselves ways to better your response time.” “Okies!” Pinkie Pie said jumping in the air. “Rarity, be my partner!” “Oh well-“ Rarity wasn’t given a choice as she was pulled off to one of the Catapults. She pushed her on one of the catapults and manned the lever. “I thought these things were automated.” Rainbow Dash said aloud. “They are, but they also have manual activation when necessary.” Twilight said, not bothering to lift her head from her book. “Alrighty Rarity!” Pinkie Pie said, moving a little too much to the lever for Rarity’s liking. “Just say when!” “Okay.” Rarity said, readying herself and her stature, and fussing over her appearance. She drew her diamond scissor-blade from her sash, extending it to it’s full length, and took a battle stance. “Ready!” She stated. Pinkie Pie pulled the lever with gusto, and Rarity was sent hurtling towards the forest weapon first while Lieutenant kept time with his stopwatch. “Fifteen seconds!” He boomed like a canon. “Yay!” Pinkie Pie said. “Ah, that ain’t nothing.” Applejack stated. “Oh really?” Pinkie Pie asked mischievously. “You think you can do better?” “Ah know ah can.” She stated, wiping her tired eyes. “Wanna bet?” Pinkie said with a sly grin. “Terms?” “Can’t beat my time, you help me bake Muffins at Sugarcube Corner!” She stated. “And if’n ah win, ah get to put a gag on yer mouth fer the rest of the week.” Applejack said. “Oki-Doki-Loki!” Pinkie Pie said with the worlds most blissful expression. “Don’t do it.” Twilight stated, still in her book. Applejack surveyed her and the rest of her teammates before deciding that Rainbow Dash was likely her best bet. “Com here you.” She said, dragging her petite frame easily. “Um! Um!” Fluttershy piped up. “Hey!” Soon the two were set at the Catapult. “What do you expect me to do?” Rainbow Dash rasped. “You pull when I say so.” Applejack stated. “You didn’t have to drag me!” Rainbow Dash said, trying to appear much bigger than she was compared to Applejack, which did not help. “Maybe.” Applejack, sizing herself up as well, which was much more effective. “Now are ya going to do it or not?” She said advancing. “Maybe if you say please.” Rainbow Dash said, trying not to be intimidated. “Please.” Applejack said through her teeth. “No.” Rainbow Dash said. “Now you listen here-“ At this moment a few things happened. Applejack tripped, and in moving out of the way Rainbow Dash stepped on the Catapult while Applejack grabbed onto the lever to break her fall. This resulted with Applejack sore and on the ground, and Rainbow Dash being sent hurtling into the air. Everyone watched her careening into the air, smashing into the trees, and straight into Rarity who was making her way back. “Twenty Seconds!” The Lieutenant boomed. “Hah I win!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed. “Dagnabbit!” “Language Ms. Apple!” The Lietenant told her. *** The next day saw Applejack forced to keep her end of the bet. She kept her eyes half open as she made her way to Sugarcube corner. Any hopes of something small and quiet were dashed as she bell tinkled when she entered the establishment and was cornered by Pinkie Pie. “Applejack you came!” She exclaimed with joy. “Of course ah-“ “Now there’s no time to waste!” Pinkie Pie said, ignoring Applejack, she dragged her past the crowded restaurant, and into the kitchen were everything was laid out. “The Cakes have decided to hand out free Muffins today to generate business, smart, right? I’ve been having to post flyers, like, everywhere! So we gotsta make like a ton of muffins!” Pinkie Pie picked the two pinkest frilliest aprons she could find, tying one around herself, and one around Applejacks waist. “I’m so glad I could get one of my friends to help! Anyway! I’ll do all the hard stuff, you just follow my instructions, kay?” Applejack was too tired to argue. She nodded, trying to wipe her eyes awake. Back at the front door the bell tinkled as a group of young Huntresses-in-training walked in. “TADA!” Their leader in blonde stated. “MUFFINS!” “Muffins. Yes.” Said the girl with the instrument case. Her companion stood there, expressionless behind her tinted glasses and headphones. “Come on guys.” Said the one in mint-green. “We can have some fun right?” “Well, I suppose we can try.” One of them said, scratching their head. “Oh, hey there Bon-Bon.” Said the bedraggled owner of the store from behind the counter. “Hello Mr. Cake.” Bon-Bon said. “I see you’ve brought your team with you.” Mr. Cake said. “Not my idea unfortunately.” “Ah, you hurt my feelings. Anyway, feel free to look for some seats to sit down, we’re a little busy as you can see. Actually it’s good that you came today, we’re giving away some muffins to anyone who walks in the door.” “See! Toldya! Muffins.” Derpy said. “Do you guys want anything else?” The six of them managed to find and open table, and moved some seats to fit all of them. Derpy their leader, was still done up in grey, with her delivery satchel on the ground, she still tried to hide half her face with her Postmans hat. Minuette a bluenette with a white dash and dark skin and a brilliant sparkling smile sat on her left. She had a clean white jacket that went down her arms and to her knees that had a an hourglass symbol on either of her thighs, that hid her blue striped shirt and skirt. “Just water for me.” She asked. On her left was Octavia sat as reserved as possible. She had a black jacket that had an Treble Clef over the breast pocket, with tucked-in pewter buttons over a white blouse with a mauve bowtie at her collar, her hands were well manicured, her skin was clean, soft and tan, her hair was well maintained, shampooed conditioned, and flowed around her face and down her back. On her shapely legs she had a pair of grey trousers, and shined black leather shoes. She had a prim and proper expression, with beautifully framed features and sharp, deep brown eyes. “Cofee. Black.” And on the left of her was Vinyl, who was much less reserved, sitting with her limbs all over the place, her head nodding in tune with her oversized headphones connected to her scroll that was strapped to the gauntlet on her wrist. Her eyes were hidden by tinted glasses, her face adorned with blue-shaded makeup that matched her wild neon-colored hair, and she had piercings cropping up over her nose, lips, ears, and one on her brow. She had a loose tank-top that had a music note sprayed on, and a plastic made half jacket covering her arms but not her midriff. She had a loose pair of well worn jeans with a number of paint stains and tears on them, with a pair of equally dirtied sneakers with half-heartedly tied jeans. Her partner had to nudge her to get her attention. “Huh? Oh, uh, Energy Drink.” She said, quickly going back to her music. And on HER left was Bon-Bon, who looked a little out of place. She had a round face, deep blue locks with pink streaks curling around her face with a pink headband, little to no makeup to mar her naturally cutesy appearance. She sat awkwardly with a cream hoody and pink shirt that had a trio of sweets emblazoned on the pockets, and a pair of tight blue-jeans that were rolled up to just below the knee. “Just some tea and sugar for me.” She said with an even voice. And between her and their leader was Lyra all in mint green with wild yellow eyes. “And I’ll have a smoothie.” “Okay!” Their fearless leader said. She got up, and skipped to the counter, happy because she was going to be eating muffins soon, and because her plan to help her team get closer together would soon make them better friends than ever. Meanwhile in the kitchen- Pinkie Pie pulled out their first batch of freshly baked muffins. “Lookie here Applejack! First batch!” Applejack was busy trying to nod off against cabinet. “Want first try?” Applejack absentmindedly waving, but she may have just been trying to swipe at an imaginary fly. Just then a bell rung at the counter and one of the Cakes beckoned for them. “Pinkie! Bring those Muffins here, we have hungry customers!” “Oki-doki-loki!” Pinkie Pie said, bringing the steaming pile of baked goods to the countertop. “Here you go! Fresh and warm!” “Muffins….” The girl drooled. Just then the door tinkled as a pair walked through in. “Twilight! You came!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed while the customer made her order. Twilight groaned. “I forgot she worked here.” “I didn’t!” Spike said walking up to the counter. “Hey Pinkie Pie!” “Hey Spike!” Pinkie Pie said. “You here for the muffins?” “You know it!” Spike said. The girl walked back with armfuls of drinks and muffins, almost bumping into Twilight, who recognized her, but kept quiet as she walked to the counter. “Twilight you in the mood for muffins? We just baked a big batch, me and Applejack!” “No thanks.” Twilight said. “Applejack you said?” “Yeah!” Pinkie Pie said. “I wrangled her into helping today for the promotion! Remember when I told you about that?” “Uh, yeah.” Twilight lied. “But Spike here was the one wanting free muffins.” “How much?” Spike asked, trying to peer over the counter. “Well for you, I could do the friends and family discount!” Pinkie Pie told him. “But they’re free.” Spike observed. “In that case, I can give you extras!” Pinkie Pie said, grabbing a bunch of the warm muffins, and putting them on a plate for him. “Twilight, you want a tea like last time?” “Sure.” Twilight said, somewhat distracted. Their order was served within minutes, and they sat down at an unoccupied table, Twilight took out her book and resumed reading. “That must be a good book.” Spike said between mouthful of muffins. “You haven’t put it down. Thought you would have finished that by now.” “I have…” Twilight said. “I’m rereading it.” “That good?” Spike said trying to cram as many sweets as he could in his mouth. “It’s just…” Twilight paused. “There’s a lot of old books in the Library. Stuff I haven’t seen before. But there’s some things in here and the stampede earlier and what happened to the Apple Estates has gotten me thinking.” “Bout what?” As he tried to wash down the mass of food with something sweet and sugary. “It’s probably just my imagination, but I’ll see if there’s anything else in the Library that matches with what I’ve found.” “Are you giving yourself your own homework?” Spike asked. “…Am not!” Twilight defended herself. More muffins were brought to the counter, and more customers quickly snatched them up. Baked Goods of all kinds were on sale and on display. It certainly seemed like the business was doing well. The two siblings were content to sit there for a long while. Thankfully Twilight could drown out the noise with her reading, and Pinkie Pie was constantly doing something else rather than bother her, while Spike happily spent his earnings on all manner of unhealthy treats. Meanwhile Team Derpy was enjoying the beverages and confections. Derpy herself was helping herself to muffin after muffin. “You okay Bon-Bon? You seem nervous?” Lyra asked, as she sipped on her smoothie. “Just been a while since I’ve been here is all.” Bon-Bon answered. “I don’t see why not, seems like a nice place.” “Muffins…” Derpy agreed with a contented smile, helping herself to another baked good. “You know all this stuff has got to be bad for your teeth.” Colgate stated. “Good thing I brought floss and mouthwash!” “Um, thanks but no thanks.” Lyra said. Viny gave a lather loud belch and washed it down with more of her drink. Octavia kept silent and rolled her eyes. “If I had to choose between Muffins and teeth, I chose muffins.” Derpy said with the most happy expression on her face. She took another bite, but her face scrunched a little before she swallowed. “You okay?” Lyra asked. “Yeah, just felt a litte-“ Derpy’s face scrunched a little again. “A little queasy.” “Do you think it was something you ate?” Colgate asked, leaning forward. “No… I’ve haven’t really had much to eat today.” She said. She opened her mouth to continue but quickly covered it with her hands. “I…” She mumbled before rapidly standing up, knocking over her chair, racing to the restroom knocking over several customers on her way before she made a serious of violent sounds that emanated into the restaurant. “I think she may need some of that mouthwash now.” Octavia quipped as Vinyl took off her headphones to check out the commotion, and Bon-Bon carefully inspected her muffin. *** As it turned out, a majority of those who had come for the baked goods that day ended up with violent food poisoning. Many had to be rushed to the hospital and almost all of them took most of the week off to stay in bed, many of whom were students at Starswirl, including Pinkie Pie who sampled many of her own confections. It wasn’t hard for Twilight to come up with the cause, the only variable that day had been Appplejack, who helped with the free muffins, that ended up giving everyone who consumed them the food poisoning. Somehow Spike had luckily avoided such a fate and was fit as a fiddle, but with as much junk food as he consumed, this did not surprise Twilight at all. Twilight refrained from saying anything however, as that was an issue for the health department. She did decide to have a word with Applejack however. She caught her after class after the rest of their present teammates had left, deciding to keep it between them. She was sitting down, her feet on the table, and using her hat to disguise the fact she was sleeping. Twilight decided to start by knocking her feet off the table. “Huh, what? Who?” She said, looking wild. “You were sleeping.” Twilight began. “Class is over.” “Huh? I knew that.” She said grumpily. Twilight was not looking forward to this. “What is going on?” “Ah’m getting ready for next class. What about you?” Applejack shot back. Twilight tried again. “You poisoned half the school yesterday.” “You can’t prove that.” Applejack defended. “And you’ve been sleeping through all our classes.” Twilight said. “Ah’m sorry, but why is any of this your business?” She asked, wiping her eyes grumpily. “You’re a part of my team.” Twilight stated. “You’re clearly exhausted, and because of that another member of our team is missing from class, and I’m going to have to copy everything down for her. So that’s why.” Applejack glared. “Fine, thanks for the concern, but ah can handle this myself.” “Evidently you can’t, otherwise the health department wouldn’t be investigating Surgarcube Corner.” Twilight stated. Applejack was clearly being frustrated, but due to both Twilights logical argument, and her own deadened brain functions she couldn’t come up with a good comeback. “Fine! Ah’ll… take things easier. Ah won’t mess up anythin’ for anyone else. Happy?” “That’s all I can ask.” Twilight said, leaving to her next class. *** Rainbow Dash didn’t let Applejack off that easy. Figuring she was owed something for being launched into Rarity managed to coerce Applejack into helping with her. Applejack didn’t let herself be coerced easy, but Rainbow Dash was nothing if not persistant. Applejack ended up at a small thatch cottage far on the outskirts of the city proper, on the land of an animal preserve. There she found Rainbow Dash waiting expectantly with Fluttershy. “Ah’m here.” Applejack stated. “Alright Fluttershy, tell her what it is you need help with.” Rainbow Dash stated. Fluttershy for her part just stood there and mumbled into her scarf. “Fluttershy says she needs us to help count all the rabbits here.” Rainbow Dash translated for her. “Rabbits?” Applejack asked. Again Fluttershy spoke into her scarf. “Yeah, we need to count’em for the shelter, so we know like, how much feed they need and stuff.” Rainbow Dash translated again. “Just round ‘em up in one place so we can get to counting.” “That all?” She asked. Fluttershy nodded in response. “Fine lets get this taken care of.” Applejack got into the animal reserve, barely able to keep her eyes open. Fortunately she had decided to take some advice from Twilight and take things easier. With that in mind she gave a piercing whistle from her lips, and summoned Winona to her side. “Winona! Fetch!” *** “I don’t get it.” Twilight said to Spike. “Something about that book of yours again?” Spike asked. “No, how you can come back here after almost everyone ended up with food poisoning.” Twilight stated while they waited for an order at Sugarcube Corner. “Gut of steel.” Spike said, licking his lips in anticipation for his snack. “It’s my semblance.” He joked. “You’re just lucky the girl who works here is still sick.” Twilight said. “I wouldn’t have come here otherwise.” “I didn’t ask you to come.” Spike noted as his order arrived. “Here you go sir!” Said a round woman with large hair. “Thank you for your patronage, and we promise that in the case of food poisoning we will give you a complete refund.” They took their snack, and left Sugarcube Corner, with the aim to head back to the Library. “You are going to eat yourself into a coma with all those snacks you keep buying with your money.” Twilight noted. “That’s the idea.” Spike said as he proceeded to enjoy his reward for a hard days work. “Besides, I’m a growing boy.” “Yes, but I’m worried about specifically what parts will be growing.” Twilight jabbed. “Don’t you have a book to stick your nose in?” Spike asked. Twilight didn’t have a smart response for that, so she let the conversation die. They walked through the cobbled streets of the city as the dying summer heat tried to melt the sugar off of Spikes snack. A low din slowly increased as they enjoyed their pleasant walk. Sounds of mayhem and destruction gradually increasing towards them. “Hey, Twilight, do you hear that?” Spike asked, his mouth half-full. “Stampede!” Yelled an amber haired girl running down the street. “Again!” Spike stated surprised. Telekinetically, Twilight summoned her wand in her hand, and extended it into it’s staff form taking a combat stance with her younger brother sheltered behind her, bracing for an onslaught of monsters. And then in a haze of dust they came. Rabbits. Sheep. Goats. All manner of small fluffy animals stampeded past them through the street, sending any pedestrians running for cover. Twilight and Spike stood in the middle of the street, Twilight too surprised by the turn of events to bother casting a spell, instead the terrified animals simply ran around them, and were off onto the next street. “I… think that my gut of steel isn’t as resilient as I thought.” Spike said, absentmindedly massaging his stomach. “No… I saw that too…” Twilight said, much more thoroughly confused than she was used to. She was then knocked down from behind from by a giant brown hound that chased after the odd stampede with gusto. Before Twilight could get up, the hounds master followed after her, barking her own orders with a signature twang. “Dagnabbit Winona! You get them varmints back over here!” Twilight heard as a pair fo leather cowboy boots laden down with bladed revolvers imprinted themselves on her back. “You okay?” Spike asked as the two disappeared after the stampede. Twilight got up, dusted her self off, and gave a series of grunts and screams that were probably too rude to translate into normal conversation. “Yeah…” Spike said. “Hey, is that your team up there?” Twilight looked and saw their two fliers surveying the damage. With her wand, she materialized a whip tossing it into the air, and hooking the quiet pinkette, reeling her down to ground level. She ladded with a thud, and an eep, and was soon lifted by her sweater by an irate Twilight. “What. Is. Going. On.” Twilight said. “Um, um!” Fluttershy wilted under Twilights hard stare. Rainbow Dash quickly landed to come to her aid. “Hey! Hands off her!” She stated. “That.” Twilight said, pointing down the street. “What.” Rainbow Dash sighed. “I tried wrangling Applejack into helping Fluttershy at the shelter. Turns out: not an animal person.” Twilight released her Fluttershy, and summoned her staff to her hand, retracting it and putting it back in its holster. “What are we gonna do this time Twilight?” Spike asked. “Not. My. Problem.” Twilight said, heading away from the carnage, and towards the Library. *** Twilight got the full story later, but the gist of it was that Applejack was pretty short-tempered, things were quickly escalated, the animals at the shelter escaped to wreak carnage. While the library was spared, the open market had it’s produce devastated until Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and a few other volunteers at the shelter could collect the animals, and return them to the shelter. There would have been a good bit of sniping at Applejacks expense, had she appeared at classes at all. This irritated Twilight more than the entire affair yesterday. Spike of course had to endure all this. “And above all, what I cannot understand, is how after all the trouble she has caused, she would just skip classes. That is the biggest disrespect one can give to such a respected institution that even allowed her to attend! When she was there, she may have just wasted her time sleeping, but at least she was following her obligations!” She ranted as she violently rearranged the books in the Library. Mrs. Ink-Spot wisely decided it was time for tea and took shelter in the kitchen. “Well to be fair she’s been running herself ragged.” Spike said, who was content to sit there and do nothing. “Run ragged doing what? Playing cowgirl with monsters and animals? Sleeping in class?” Twilight said, as she gave the travel section a violent reorganizing. “Taking care of her orchards. Frankly I’m surprised she your other teammates get her to do anything with how much she’s been working.” Twilight was about to focus her wrath on the philosophy before pausing. “How would you know about this?” “Applebloom.” Spike answered. “She’s Applejacks sister, remember? If Applejack is as dead tired as her sister, then I can’t blame her for taking the day off.” Twilight thought for a moment, and dropped the books she was telekinetically lifting around her in an organized pile. “What else do you know?” “Oh, well, she told you that someone was going after their workers?” “Yes.” “Well, since then, most of the workers have refused to work, and it’s harvest time for their crops, and with only a handful of workers, the two sister have decided to harvest the apples for themselves.” Spike explained. “Like, the whole fields.” Twilight contemplated on this. “Do you know when they’ll stop?” Spike shrugged. “Applebloom made it sound like the two of them would go at it until they pick every last apple.” That got Twilight to stop and think. She went back to organizing the books, but with less gusto than she previously had. Her mind was set to work on other things. *** It was the end of the week, and Twilight was doing something she had never once imagined she would be doing. She was making a social call. She made her way to the Apple Estates. Simply mentioning she was classmates with Applejack, and she was waved through security. In the middle of fields upon fields of apples, only a fraction of which she noticed had been cleared of their fruit, was an elaborate manor, it’s windows left open to let in the fresh air. Twilight, a little awkwardly, stood at the doors until she found the doorbell, and pushed it. She was greeted by a mummy half her size. “Howdy.” It greeted her. “Um, hello. Um, does Applejack live here?” She asked, feeling particularly awkward, but not knowing what else to say. “Eeyup.” He rumbled, not saying a word more. “I’m a classmate of hers, and I was wondering if I could see her?” The mummy nodded, and stepped outside, clasping her shoulder, and pointing off into the distance. “Over there?” Twilight asked. “Eeyup.” The mummy said, patting her shoulder, and heading back inside, waiting to see if there was anything else. “Thank you very much. I’ll just go see her.” The mummy nodded, and closed the door. “Well then, shall we go off and find her?” Rarity asked, as she was busy touching up her makeup. Twilight had come to the conclusion that as Team Captain, she needed to take responsibility of when her teammates were acting irresponsible. Applejack had not only been causing problems for their team, but for the city itself, and Twilight needed to put a stop to it. However though she was willing to try to take command as team leader, she was not eager for confrontation. She was making a gamble that if she got more of her teammates on board to help her, it would make the resulting confrontation easier. And so she assembled her team and brought them to the Apple Estates. She brought up the issue during class. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy, or at the very least Rainbow Dash was reticent on the idea. Surprisingly however Rarity was quick to volunteer. Pinkie Pie who had recovered from her food poisoning was eager to join in as well. And so the last two were roped in, and there they stood in the sun. “I can’t wait to give her a piece of my mind.” Rainbow Dash stated. “I can’t wait to help!” Pinkie Pie said. “Lets… just start looking.” Twilight said, deciding to lead the way. The Apple trees were evenly spread out, so there wasn’t a fear of being lost. The trees closest to the manor were harvested, so they started in the general direction they had been pointed in, and followed a trail of half-spoiled apples and towards sounds of thumping. Applejack was barely tottering on her feet, but could be seen kicking the Apple Trees, leaving a dent in the trunk and unleashing a torrent of apples that her little sister was scrambling to cart away. Twilight sighed and gave a loud piercing whistle to grab her attention. “Huh, whuzzat?” Applejack cried, turning to see her team. “What are y’all doing here?” “Putting a stop to this.” Twilight stated. “Stop to what?” She asked, her eyes clearly tired, barely able to enunciate her words. “You exhausting yourself.” Twilight stated. “From what we gathered, you’ve been trying to harvest these fields by yourself.” “Yeah!” Applebloom stated. “Applebloom hush.” Applejack stated. “So what if’n I have? What business is it of yers?” “I can-“ Twilight started but was swiftly stated. “You went and launched Rainbow Dash into me, during that whole catapult debacle.” Rarity stated. “And then you went and started a freaking stampede at the shelter!” Rainbow Dash yelled. “And also, you kinda poisoned everyone at Sugarcube Corner.” Pinkie Pie said. “Well, I rest my case.” Twilight said. “So what if ah have.” Applejack stated, having to lean against one of the trees. “What do y’all care? “You’ve been a detriment not only to our team, but quite frankly your becoming a danger to the health of the city.” Twilight stated. “I don’t care what you do here on your own time, but I do care if it’s going to affect my grades.” “And who says ah have to listen to you.” Applejack asked. “The Headmaster.” Twilight stated. “She does.” Applejack growled. “Ah must say, ah don’t appreciate you getting into my business. And ah don’t appreciate you intruding on my land.” She got back up from the tree she was using for support to invade Twilights personal space. Something she did not appreciate. The rest of their team decided to watch. “And ah think it’s about time you leave.” Twilight put her hand by her holster. “I’m not leaving until I know you’ve gotten enough rest to come to class next week. Now you can do as I advise and give up your fruitless task, or I can make you.” She threatened. “Cocky.” Appplejack said as she swung. Twilight easily dodged and in a flash had her staff out ready to fight. However as she turned it was soon apparent no such fight was needed. Applejack was passed out on the grass-covered ground. “Yay Twilight!” Pinkie Pie announced bouncing in the air. *** Applejack was quickly escorted back to her room. Turns out she had actually collapsed from exhaustion. Twilight and company were treated to apple-juice, and surrounded by what seemed to be the ret of the Apple Family. “Make it ourselves.” Said a kindly old lady dressed in black, with her white hair in a bun. “Thank you ma’am.” Twilight said accepting the glass while Pinkie Pie downed hers in a second. Their giant hound rested at their feet. Rainbow Dah was eyeing her carefully, but Fluttershy was content to scratch her ear, which she addored. “Should have known that girl would have tuckered herself out like this. Guess ah should have listened to you Big Macintosh.” The old lady said, taking her seat. “Eeeyup.” Said the mummy, who enjoyed his own glass. “So she’s been dead tired because she’s been trying to make her harvest?” Rainbow Dash asked. “Eeyup.” Said the mummy. “Which is just plain silly, if’n you ask me.” Said the kindly old lady. “We may have never missed a harvest before, but it’s no use those two working themselves to death.” She said, indicating Applejack resting in her bed, and Applebloom on her seat. “Especially not if it makes them lose classes.” Twilight made sure to mention. “I must admit, if this is the root of her brutish behavior, then I might just forgive her for the way she’s been acting.” Rarity made sure to mention. “This is no-pulp, correct?” “She could have mentioned it at least.” Rainbow Dash said. “Then we wouldn’t have tried to get her help.” “Her nature is too stubborn.” The granny said. “Too proud. She’d never admit to weakness if’n she could help it.” “Admit to what!” Applejack said now up. “Ah don’t have nuthin’ to admit to. Now why am I strapped here?” The mummy whacked her on her forehead as she struggled against the leather straps restraining her. “You went and collapsed dear sister.” He told her. “Yes, we and your friends thought we shouldn’t give you any chances.” Their granny said. “They ain’t my friends.” Applejack said, giving her teammates venomous glares. “Well they should be. They’re good people.” She stated. “More common sense than you ah wager.” Applejack kept quiet at that, clearly preparing for a lecture. “Now, we got some apples harvested thanks to you too and the workers you could muster, but unfortunately the rest will have to spoil. Ah ain’t letting you two exhaust yourself. Ah’m certainly not letting you skip classes.” “This is more important than classes!” Applejack stated. “Well in that case maybe ah should stop payin’ for them.” Their granny said. “Let you roam free, live on your own, far away from where ye’ll be a drain on our resources. Applejack, don’t be keen to waste the schoolin’ we’re giving you. Yer friend here certainly understands.” She said, indicating Twilight who sat all proper and happy for the attention. Applejack groaned and pouted, but relented. Their team enjoyed the snacks and beverages afforded to them by Applejacks family, who was clearly embarrassed at having her life be put on display, but all-in-all it had gone easier than expected. *** Dear Headmaster Celestia- This week I had to go through a series of what can only be called shenanigans that I believe you would be interested to hear. One of my teammates had a set of misfortune happen to her family, but wasted all her efforts on a fruitless pursuit to repair it. During of the course of the week her energy was so spent that the series of mishaps that resulted were incredibly bizarre and frustrating. When enough was enough, I as team leader confronted her. It is my sincere hope that she has learned her lesson, and will rededicate her energy to more fruitful pursuits, and focus again on her schoolwork as she should. However, as requested I must search for my own lesson from this ordeal. I can sympathize with her loyalty and sense of duty to her family, and her pride in her work. However it seems to me her downfall was in trying to amend the situation by herself. A herculean task she took on, but there seemed to me no harm in accepting, or even looking for help. I can’t tell you that I haven’t or wouldn’t do something similar if such a thing were to happen to me, but I will from now on keep this story in mind should it ever occur. -Sincerely Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle.