//------------------------------//
// Letter Home 
// Story: Unforgotten 
// by Riddle-Me-Think 
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I do not own My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic





All was still in the halls that belong to that of the Apple clan, and those that dwell within it slept in peace and quiet. The sun had yet to truly rise from it’s place, and the roster to wake for it’s coming. Only the orange glow showed of it’s steady coming over those green hills, covered by trees baring red fruit.

However, not all were asleep in the home, as two creatures awake and ready, prowled the halls with hunger in their eyes. Slowly did they move through the home, being sure not to make any sound as they approached the den of their prey.

With only the slightest of creeks from the door, both predators began their invasion of one of the rooms that belong to one of the residents.

This said resident slept with no care or worry, peaceful in her slumber and comforted by the soft quilt over her body. She was none the wiser when two shadows rose over her small form, and gained evil grins before attacking with bloodthirsty intent.

A suddenly loud squeal woke the two eldest Apple siblings, rushing out of their beds and bursting out into the hall with worry over their youngest. Any lingering fear from the two Apple siblings subsided though, as uncontrolled laughter was heard. Giving the other a long look, both Big Mac and Apple Jack shook their head’s and smiled, going back into their respective rooms to freshen up for the day.

“E-Eb, Ive, stop it, please!” Apple Bloom’s cries for mercy did nothing to stop the two pegasus mares over her as they continued to relentlessly tickle her.

With big smiles, both twins only sung together, “An’ this little piggy went to town, and this little piggy went to the market—” Each time they said a part they would tickle the filly in a new place, electing more giggles and squeals from her.

Rolling to one side, Apple Bloom attempted to run from the two, but Ebony snatched up the filly, rolling onto her back to keep hold while her sister continued the attack. The filly giggled and squirmed in the black mares grasp, trying to get free, only to find Ivory added her own hooves to entrap her.

Desperately trying to get free from the duo’s grasp, Apple Bloom cast her golden eyes over to her door way and spotted a familiar sight. Starching out a hoof, she pleaded out, “A-Apple Ja—” Then gave another squeal at being poked at a particularly ticklish spot, “Apple Jack, h-help me-e-e-e!” Losing cohesion of words as she dissolved into more giggles.

Laughing at her baby sisters problem for a moment, Apple Jack eventually decided to save her sister and called, “Eb, Ive, ah think ya’ve woken my sis up enough.”

Stopping their assault but still keeping grip on the yellow filly, both Gem sisters only looked at the orange mare, with Ivory saying, “Are you sure, Apple Jack?” While her sister Ebony hugged the filly closer and nuzzled her head saying, “Because we think she could use a bit more.” Gaining a devious grin as Ivory poked the filly once more, making her giggle and squirm.

Rolling her eyes at the two sisters, Apple Jack only said, “I’m sure ya both do.” Sending a backwards glance as her elder brother left for the stairs, “Bu’ the way ah see it, if ya’ll stay ‘ere, then Mac will leave for work withou’ ya.” Before she could even finish speaking, two blurs of black and white sped past the farmer and rushed to the stairs.

Apple Jack had found her left hoof over her head, where her hat was almost blown away at the two rushing sisters hast to catch up with the large red stallion. Sending a look over her shoulder, the apple mare could only marvel how fast the two twins could be when they wanted to be.

Why hay, those two migh’ scare ol’ RD on who’s faster! Granted Apple Jack had all faith her rainbow maned friend could outfly the two Gem sisters, but at times she wondered who was faster.

Looking back into Apple Blooms room, the second eldest Apple sister found the yellow filly laying on her bed panting, trying to breath after her tackle attack. Walking in and sitting next to the bed, Apple Jack asked with amusement, “Think ya’ll will recover from tha’?”

Getting tired nod from the smiling and out of breath filly, Apple Jack smiled in return and headed out saying, “Then see ya at the table fer breakfast!” Chuckling lightly as she heard a small sound that came form her younger sister struggling to move.

Heading down the stairs and to the kitchen, the orange mare stopped to say hello to her dog, Winona, who jumped and barked for attention. Chuckling, she chided lightly, “Alright, alright, settle down ya silly mutt, I’ll feed ya!” Heading for one of the lower cabinets in the kitchen to get the dog-chow.

When she entered in, she found Ivory at the stove working on breakfast already, but also alone. Still heading for her destination in mind, and with the dog close at her heels, Apple Jack asked, “Why are ya here Ive, thought you’d go an’ help Mac ‘long with Eb?” Gathering the dog-chow from it’s place.

Sending a smile to Apple Jack, Ivory told simply, “Beau asked if one of us could stay and get the morning meal started, while he and my sister did the morning choirs.” Carefully using her hooves to scoop up an egg and break it into the hot pan.

Giggling to herself as she cooked, Ivory said, “Currently, Beau is trying to focus on work while sister is teasing him.” Giggling once more to herself as she began to crack another egg.

Filling the bowl and making Winona happy, Apple Jack listened to Ivory’s words before asking, “An’ how do ya know this?” A little put off at how the changeling-in-pegasus form could know this.

The white pegasus just tapped her head reminding, “Don’t you recall Apple Jack, Ebony and I share a constant connection?” Smiling further as the farming mare put a hoof to her head.

“Ah swear, the lot of ya changlin’ folk give me a headache with your nonsense.” The orange mare groaned from her place, and also make the other mare in the room laugh at Apple Jack’s plight.





Apple Jack took in the crisp morning air with a deep breath and let out a content sigh as she made her way towards town. Today was a free day off for herself, and also an off school day for Apple Bloom. Both sisters were heading to Rarity’s home and work place to met up with both mare and her own younger sister.

The farmer herself was only walking her sister to the Carousal Boutique so she herself could meet up with Rarity and then head out for their plans. Apple Bloom was going to meet up with her friend, Sweetie Belle, then break off with the unicorn filly to find another friend of theirs, Scootaloo.

Looking down to her sister by her side, Apple Jack said, “Now, Ya’ll goin’ t’ stay out of trouble today with yer friends, righ’?” Trying to make sure with the filly.

Giving her older sister a look, Apple Bloom said, “We only plan ta stay 'round town an’ play around, what could go wrong?” Giving a small shrug.

Apple Jack knew her sister didn't mean to cause trouble, but it was to be expected. Little fillies and colts had the tendency to do silly things that would latter bite them in the flank later. But nothing could be really done about it in the long run, so Apple Jack just accepted the answer.

“Alrighty then, ya'll have fun today. Jus’ be sure t’ be home for dinner.” The orange mare smiled as they got closer to their destination.

With an sincere smile, Apple Bloom said, “Don’t worry AJ, I’ll be back then!” Before darting off at the sight of Sweetie Belle, who was waiting outside for the Apple filly.

Giving a smile of her own, Apple Jack spotted Rarity also waiting for her outside her home, currently wearing yellow sun hat with a wide blue ribbon tied in a bow. Tipping her hat in greeting, Apple Jack asked, “Ya’ll ready Rar?”

Slightly fixing her hat, Rarity gave a charming smile telling, “Of course Apple Jack, I’m ready any time you are.” Then turned to the two fillies addressing, “Sweetie Belle, please be sure not to run into any mud holes today, we have that meeting with Toe-Tapper this evening.”

Stopping her chat with the Apple before her, Sweetie Belle nodded to Rarity with, “Okay, I’ll be extra carful today Rarity.” Smiling cutely.

“Good to hear darling.” Rarity nodded in approval before waving both fillies off with a hoof, “Now run along and have fun with your friends, I will be seeing you later.” Getting a nod from the younger unicorn before she ran off.

Rarity watched both Apple Bloom and her sister Sweetie Belle run off giggling, before turning to Apple Jack saying, “Now then, shalt we be off as well?” Making steps to a destination in mind.

Falling in step with the seamstress, Apple Jack asked, “So how ‘ave ya been Rar? Been a bit since we last saw one another.” Giving a cheery wave to one of the ponies passing by.

With a smile on her lips, Rarity said, “I have been doing simply marvelous as of late Apple Jack.” Looking up to her hat as she told, “Since the wedding, I’ve been getting a few inspirational ideas for my dresses, and have been working none stop!” Looking a little giddy.

Raising a brow at the white mare, the apple farmer asked, “Really now, an’ what’s got ya so uppity?” Almost smiling at the slight skip the proper seamstress almost did.

Keeping herself composed, Rarity explained, “If I am right, than this next line of dresses I have made may make front page in fashion for a while.” Holding her nose high as she said this.

“Ya’ll have fun with tha’ then.” Apple Jack rolled her eyes at the fashion mare beside her, smiling at her friends rather good mood.

Seeing their destination not too far from them now, Apple Jack turned to Rarity asking, “So who will all be ‘ere any how?” Giving the tree with housing parts sticking out a varying places a look over. One thing that stuck out the most was the sign out front saying, ‘Golden Oaks Library’.

Giving the question some thought, Rarity told, “I believe it will be just you, Twilight and I for today.” Reaching the door and knocking with a hoof, “If I recall, Rainbow Dash is away for the day visiting her parents. Fluttershy is much too busy today. As for Pinkie Pie…”

Pausing to think and tap her hoof to her chin, Rarity conceded, “I don't know what Pinkie Pie is doing, but knowing the darling it involves things beyond our understanding.” But dryly aded in thought, or the base understanding of logic as we know it.

With a snort at that, Apple Jack agreed, “I hear ya.” Twitching her ear as she heard the sound of somepony inside calling for them to enter.

Taking the knob into her magic, Rarity opened the door for herself and Apple Jack and entered in, where upon they found Twilight leaning over a desk. Near one of the book shelves was Spike, who turned and gave a wave of greeting with his claw that held a feather duster.

“Hey AJ!” He greeted the apple farmer first before spotting the beauty next to her. With a slightly dreamy sigh he said, “Hi Rarity, I like your hat.”

With a pleasant smile at the young dragon, Rarity greeted in turn, “Thank you Spike, and a good morning to you.” Giving the library an apprising look, “I see your keeping the Library clean and tidy as always.”

The small dragon puffed up his chest at the praise and gave a satisfied nod, “Yep, as long as I’m here, no dust or grim will collect on my watch!” Before going back to dusting with an extra jump in his step.

Rarity put a hoof to her muzzle and tried to hide her giggles at Spikes rather adorable actions. Apple Jack just smiled at the sight while addressing Twilight, “Hey ya Twi.” Walking up to the sides unicorn that was reading a black book.

Twilight only hummed and nodded as she continued to read line after line in the book before herself. So engrossed in her reading, she all but ignored the orange hoof waving next to her head.

Raising a brow at the lavender mare, Apple Jack eventually poked Twilight’s shoulder, getting the unicorn jump slightly and look up in surprise. Blinking in owlishly a bit, Twilight said, “Oh, Apple Jack, Rarity!” Looking from the book to the two mares in the room, saying, “Uh, sorry I didn't hear you both come in.” Closing the book with her magic as she did.

“Naw, it’s alrigh’ Twi, you seemed interested in tha’ book of yours.” Applejack shrugged off while giving the dark covered book a look over with her eyes reading the title aloud, “‘Acceptance’, tha’ a new book ya got thar?”

Lifting the book up in her pink magic, Twilight told, “Sort of, it was a gift Mask gave me a week after my brothers wedding.” Holding it to her chest with a hoof as she did, “I’ve been reading bits of it whenever I’m not working on something.”

Moving around Apple Jack to get a better look, Rarity ran her eyes over the black book asking, “Who’s the author, and what is it about?” Curious what the bookworm was interested in as of late.

With a smile Twilight said, “Mask is actually the author of the book before giving it gift wrapped to me.” Then began to blush some telling, “And it’s about us in a sense.”

Having a sly look on her features, Rarity said, “Oh, and what of.” Eyeing the book in Twilight’s grasp, “Is it a type of journal, or something a little more…fanciful?” Grinning at the end, much like the cat who ate the canary.

Thinking, Twilight told, “Actually, it’s made much like a normal story, only with first hoof experience.” Waiving her hoof saying, “So there’s nothing really fanciful about it.” Stopping short when she saw Rarity just shook her head and Apple Jack seemingly ready to laugh.

“Sometimes you make me wonder darling.” Rarity somewhat laughed to herself as her fellow unicorn only looked puzzled. Rarity sometimes swore her knowledgeable friend was much too dense sometimes to pick up these slight hints in humor and teasing.

Tilting her head, Twilight asked, “Why would you say that Rarity?” Looking at the book she had with a questioning look, still trying to figure out what Rarity meant.

Setting a hoof on the studies mares shoulder, Apple Jack slightly snickered, “Don’t worry ‘bout it sugar cube, it’s nothing t’ fret over.” Sending a look to the seamstress, almost asking why Rarity brought the idea up.

Still giving her two friends a imploring look for a moment, Twilight eventually dropped the subject. Setting her book back on the desk she had been reading it on, she asked, “So, where do we plan to go today?” Already having a cleared schedule for the day.

Smiling at the question, Apple Jack told, “Well, seein’ how nice it’s been, ah thought we could go fer a nice hike through Whitetaile Woods.” Adding at the end, “An’ both Spike and Mask can join too, if’in they want.”

Looking about the room after the farmer mentioned the stallion, Rarity asked, “Where is your dear coltfriend anyways Twilight?” Trying to locate the black unicorn that seemed to blend into dark corners, “He’s normally close by, wherever you might be.”

“Away on business.” Twilight told her two friends instantly, “Princess Luna requested his presents up in Canterlot for a mission she had for him.” Almost sighing at the end.

Raising a brow, Rarity noted, “It sound like you miss that rapscallion?” Smiling as Twilight somewhat folded her ears at the assurance in Rarity’s voice.

Shuffling her hoofs a little, she admitted, “He can be a help at times, and sweet when he wants.” Shaking her head telling, “True he can be a pain to deal with, being a stubborn, wisecracking mule that he is, but it’s sometimes nice to know he’s around to help.”

“How long is the fella gonna be gone?” Apple Jack asked out of curiosity.

With a small shrug, Twilight told, “He told me to expect him back home in a week, three weeks at the latest. That was five days ago.” Looking off into space saying, “However long it takes, I just help he stays safe. His line of work isn't the safest.”

Nodding to that, Apple Jack smiled, “I’m sure he’ll be back in no time, Twi.” Motioning to the door, “Say, why don’ we hightail it to Sugarcube Corner for a quick snack before tha’ hike?” Already starting to move.

Suddenly being passed up, Rarity took the lead telling, “My treat, seeing I have yet to contribute to our little outing.” Using the tone of voice that told the subject was not up for debate.

Nodding to this, Twilight turned her attention to Spike who was up on a ladder and called, “Would you like to come with Spike?” Wanting to include her adopted little brother.

Stopping his dusting for a moment to reply, Spike went to open his mouth, only to suddenly belch. Dropping the feather duster and waving his arms to gain balance, he gripped the wooden construct tightly with his claws before he could fall. The green fire he had burped up though, revealed a letter, which dropped towards the floor before being caught by Twilight’s magic.

Bringing it over to herself, the unicorn asked, “You okay Spike?” Some concern coming out of her voice at the rather unexpected arrival of a letter.

After making sure he was once again balanced, Spike patted his chest a few times as it to calm his heart and said, “Yeah, I’m good.” Steadily climbing down from his perch.

Giving the letter a slightly wary look, Apple Jack slowly said, “Well, that looks different.” Referring to the black ribbon that crisscrossed and green wax seal instead of the red ribbon and gold seal she normally would see.

Looking it over herself, Twilight simply said, “It’s probably from somepony else, not the princesses.” Taking a glance at the shape of the mark the seal possessed. She was confused to find her cutie mark stamped into the wax seal, and could only think that it was for her.

Breaking the seal and opening the letter, Twilight smiled and announced, “Looks like it’s a letter from Masquerade.” Glad to hear form the stallion.

Just as she had said this, Rarity was almost next to Twilight asking, “Oh please, do tell what he’s written.” Absolutely curious what the letter had contained.

“Ain’t it unlady like t’ poke yer nose into other ponies business?” Apple Jack smirked, causing the white mare to round on her, but stop in her tracks realizing the apple farmer was rather correct in her reasoning.

Rolling her eyes at the two, Twilight told, “It’s fine Apple Jack, I don't mind if you both hear this.” Then looked back at the top and read—




Dear Twinkles

I am writing from someplace inside the Griffin Kingdoms, currently partaking in my task given to me. I am sorry to say I may be gone for those three weeks, but I intend to return as soon as I can.

Personally, I almost wish I was back there with you, as the area is on an incline and is rather cold. That fireplace you have is starting to sound nice. So does the pillows I rest on while you recline yourself on my side reading a book.

In both cases, I would love to be back home, and love even more to be with you.

I wont be able to send or receive any letter later on, as I will be going deeper undercover. I found that this would be my only chance to send one to you before I did.

I’m keeping you in thought while I’m here, and I’m sure you haven't been able to get me out of your head. Search your feelings, you know it’s true, your doing it right now!




At this, Twilight could not help but roll her eyes at the stallion’s actions once more. There he was, once again trying to be funny, and over a letter no less. Pushing her amusement down, she kept reading—




However, while I am gone, maybe you can do something during my absence. I know we wanted to address it together, but I would ask if you try introducing the changelings of Ponyville to the townsfolk. I know it’s a big job, and I would want to help, but I’m a little concerned about paranoia possibly scaring those of Ponyville.

I know you can do this, even more so with your friends and the other changelings around you. And if all else fails, get miss sunshine to help. I’m sure she could do something about it.

I have to move now and get ready for my next act, so until we meet again.

Your lover, companion and friend: Masquerade.




Done reading the letter aloud for everypony in the library, Twilight rolled the letter up and looked back up to her friends. Apple Jack seemed to smile in some form of approval, while Rarity had a slight glen in her eye saying, “Twilight, your such a lucky mare.”

Giving the letter a slightly rueful look Rarity admitted, “Granted your coltfriend is a changeling, but he’s the same type of stallion I try to look for in a gentelcolt.”

Quickly thinking better of what she said, Rarity hurriedly adding, “Though, I could live without the juvenile nature bestowed upon Masquerade.”

All laughed at the last bit Rarity had added, knowing that despite being polite and upstanding at times, Masquerade had moments of being mischievous. More so when certain words are said or opportunities a raised for him to capitalize on.

“Well I think it’s mighty nice of ‘em t’ send ya a letter Twi.” Apple Jack decided put in with her still present smile. This same smile slightly shifted out of place as the orange mare asked, “Bu’ I wanna know, what’s he doin' all the way up thar?” Looking plenty confused.

Giving a knowing nod, Spike said, “It’s probably something secret, that’s what the Princess wanted him for anyways.”

Looking to the letter, Twilight felt the same curiosity come to her mind as well. What reason would he have to go up to the Griffin Kingdom? It was a simple question that had to many different answers. With Masquerade's skills of acting, infiltration and illusionary magic, it could have been a number of secretive things.

“What ever it is, I’m sure he’ll tell us when he get’s back.” Twilight finally nodded to herself with a new smile. She was at least glad to have some news from the black stallion, so there was no need to know more than that.

“So, do you still want to come with Spike?” Twilight once again asked the small dragon beside her.

With a quick jump onto the mare's back, Spike said, “You bet, I feel like I’ve been cooped up here for too long.” Happy for the chance to escape the choirs and work of the library for a time.

All then proceeded out the door and towards the local bakery, each with a smile on their face and striking up a new conversation. Though as they talked, Twilight thought over Masquerade’s last words in the letter. What was mentioned was a concern, and one that needed to be worked out soon.

But later, Twilight decided, laughing at something Rarity had said, there will be time to work on that later. For now, I want to enjoy the time with my friends.





Away from the group and on a hill that lead into Ponyville, three fillies sat in a strangely made box contraption on the edge of the hills decline. Looking over the side, Sweetie Belle could not help but voice, “Are you sure this is a good idea?” Casting a worried look to the cobbled together box-with-wheels they were in.

Giving an assuring pat on the unicorn fillies back, Apple Bloom assured, “Don’ worry, this thang’s sturdy ‘nough. And it’s packed with pillows t’ keep us safe!”

In the front half, an orange filly poked her head up and also assured, “Yeah, and you have to remember I’m the one driving, no way this could go wrong!” Patting the strangely shaped steering controls.

With a slow nod, Sweetie Belle said, “Alright, if you both say so…” But quickly pointed to both a them telling, “But if this thing goes out of control, I’m hitting that safety button I had Apple Bloom put it!”

Confidently smirking, Scootaloo said, “Don’t worry, we wont need it!” Gripping the controls while saying, “Ready AB?”

“Ready, Scoot's!” Apple Bloom affirmed from her spot near a break switch.

“Alright, release!” The orange pegasus ordered, feeling the slight jolt as the contraption started to move. 

Later that day, a number of ponies would tell of a run away soap box that was screaming out of control. Later accounts would tell of large sheets of blankets being deployed and pulling the box up and over a few buildings, before crashing somewhere near a pond.

It would a bit later after such an event, that three wet fillies would be seen walking the roads with a number of feathers clinging to them. All three would be smiling and laughing and shaking from the after effects of an adrenaline rush.