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// How it All Started 
// Story: The Confusing Life: Of A Suddenly Wealthy Mare 
// by huntersunday 
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As the blood rushed to my ears, I barely noticed the throbbing pain in my hoof. I could only glare at the mare I just had struck. My whole body was shaking, the pure rage I was feeling had no words. Still, this is me we're talking about, so Ah found the words lickety split.

“How dare you, Ah really thought you cared about me! After that little whoha, Ah realize Ah’ve been blind.”

To tell y’all the truth, I had no idea how loud I was screaming. The blood in my ears only pumped faster as my rage grew. It didn't faze me in the slightest. The mare I had struck looked at me, her face filled with shock and tears. My words still bellowed as I said my piece, “Ah really didn’t want to believe it. Ah trusted all of you!” I turned my gaze to the other three mares in the room. It didn’t surprise me in the slightest when two of them wouldn't even look me in the eye. 

As if not looking at me would hide their shame.

One mare however held my gaze I could easily tell she was trying not to smile at her victory. It’s funny to think that even she knows  there’s a time and place for gloating. Finally, with one last look at my victim, Celestia knows how much she was going to overplay this encounter, I spoke. 

“All she did was try to show me how you were using me. And you had the gall to try and smack her in front of me! Well this here little shindig is all Ah needed to see who my real friends are!”

It was funny how quickly the look of shock turned to anger, Ah guess she realized her lies weren't going to work. But I didn't care, she had already played me for a fool. Not wanting to look at her prone form, I turned my gaze to the only friend in the room I had left. “Come on, let's get out of here. As for the rest of y’all, don't come near my farm.  Ah’ll decide if there’s any chance to rekindle this friendship.”

Let me tell you something, constantly having to speak the truth  sucks sometimes. You often say what you mean, even when you’re all riled up. And at that moment I meant every word. Without a second glance I headed out. I knew my friend- heck, might as well say hero- would follow me. So I walked and walked, you ever walk angry? It feels like your heart is in the very soles of your hooves.

Soon my pace slowed, we must’ve been miles away. Okay, maybe not miles, but I was still pretty far gone. Then it hit me, the betrayal of my friends. The fact that one twisted my very heart to get close to me. It all slapped me, so I did the only thing I could, cry. I don't cry often, but this wasn't a normal pain. Soon a warm pair of hooves wrapped around me, pulling me close. So that I could bury my tears.

I guess I’m getting a little ahead of myself. Y’all are probably real confused right about now. So we should probably go back to the beginning. So sit back and listen up. This here is a tale about a farmer who got everything one could hope for, however, she realises that things aren't that easy and everything comes at a price.



It had been just another normal day at the farm. My brother was out plowing the field , while my lil’ sis followed closely behind planting the seeds. As for me, well I was out bucking all the late bloomers. You  can plan and prepare all you want, but at the end of the day, nature has its own timetable.

Just as I was about to drop off some barrels, I was greeted by a strange sight. In front of my home stood a very spiffy stallion. He was a lanky fella, probably never worked a hard labor job in his life. Now I’m not trying to be hurtful, but he was in a suit with his mane slicked back. Of course, you know me, I just walked up and introduced myself.

“Well howdy pardner, what brings you out to Sweet Apple Acres?” I’m not gonna lie, I laughed when the poor thing nearly jumped out of his skin. Guess he didn’t hear me coming up from behind him. It was amusing to watch him fix up his stance before looking at me.

“Madam, you gave me quite the scare. I am here on important business, do you happen to be Ms. Applejack?” It was a little surprising he knew my name, but I quickly shook it off. I grabbed his hoof and gave it a good shake.

“Yep, that's my name. Just Applejack though, none of this ‘Ms.’ nonsense.”

The stallion didn't smile nor say his name as he pulled an envelope from his fancy jacket. It didn’t take a genius to see that he wasn't here with good tidings. “I hate to be the one to tell you this but, Mrs. Isabel Sunkist Orange has passed away. I am here to give you this summons, Ms. Applejack. You have been left something in her will and must attend.”

Now it pains me to say this, but it took me a few minutes to remember who Mrs. Isabel was. I didn't really talk all that much with my Ma’s side of the family. I felt  wave of guilt rush over me when I realized it was my other grandmother. I mean sure, we may have not been close to one another, but that didn't make me feel any better.

I took the letter and held it in my hoof, the fancy stallion only thanked me and then headed on his way. You know what the worst part about feeling guilty about not  remembering your own grandmother’s name is? It’s the fact that the my feelings of guilt overpowers the sadness.. I took a glance at the letter, a small smile creeping onto my face. My Auntie Orange had sent it to me. Soon my curiosity got the best of me and I went to my room to see what it held.

Dear Ms. Applejack,
On behalf of our company, Ponco. We,here give our deepest condolences for your family’s loss of Mrs. Isabel Orange. This member of family has written a will through us and has left certain things of hers to certain members of family. You are one of those members. The reading will be held in Canterlot. The date and address are on the back.                              
Again, our deepest apologies. Your friendly life insurance company.
.                                                                                              Ponco

It was hard to believe even as I read it a second time. My grandmother was gone. Is it weird that I was more upset about not being that upset? I mean sure I didn't know her all that well. We had met a couple of times, but when my Ma passed, she went and disappeared.

It took me a moment, but soon I noticed a second letter in the envelope.  I didn't really want to read it. I assumed it was more about the summons, but was happily surprised to see it was written by my Auntie.

Dear Niece,
I am ever so sorry you heard the news this way. My brothers are trying to keep mother’s death silent. I send you this note as a warning. My brothers are cruel and petty. I am positive they will try to weasel you out of the will. We never had problems with one another and I always loved my sister. They however thought it was a waste when she married your father. So out of love for you and her, I suggest you bring somepony who knows their way around laws and wills. It may not come to this, but like my sister always said: It’s better to be prepared instead of winding up dead.
                                                                                  With love. Your Aunt Orange
                                                                                PS: I really want to see you.

As I read my Auntie’s words, tears finally started to fall. It hurt knowing I had a whole other family who didn't much care about my existence. Heck, almost all of them shunned my ma, just because she married a stallion who already had a son. Oh darn, I should probably explain. Big Macintosh is my half-brother. His mom passed at foal birth. My ma was a real uptown orange, who fell in love with a simple farmer, my father. That pretty much sums it all up. So with me being the oldest, I guess it left me with the inheritance.

It didn't take all that long to think of a pony who could help me. Or should I say a certain princess. Soon I found myself sitting at her crystal table, sorry, our crystal table;Twilight gets upset if we don't say it’s all of ours. I could only chuckle as my friend pranced around rambling, “Of course I will help, I know most if not all laws. Oh, I am sorry for your loss, but good news is I just finished reading the encyclopedia of all Equestrian laws. It’s a great read when you’re bored.”

I couldn't help but laugh. It was good to see my friend still being, well, my friend. It was good to notice her princesshood hadn't affected her love of books. She apologized again about getting too excited. I told her not to fret over it, trust me, I know how it feels to want to show off your skills. Even if your skill was books and magic. So the plan was made and the date was set.

Now I’m not going to bore you with the details of the trip, so let's sum this up: There was a train ride, filled with Twilight trying to teach me every law and by-law she knew. I love the girl-in the family way, get your head out of the gutter- but sometimes she can get really wrapped up in teaching. And between you and me, it can be a tad bit annoying.



So here we stood. What was in front of us could only be described as a mansion. I mean this place was huge! Heck, I could probably fit eight of my barns inside of it. The address lead to one of my uncle's estates. I had never seen his home, but I will admit it was something else. Not as big as the castle, mind you, but still who really needs this much space?

My awe was broken as a voice from my past spoke, “Dearest Applejack, it's so great to see you.” I couldn't help the smile that came as my aunt pulled me into hug. It probably was the only hug I was gonna get here. Speaking of which, our reunion was cut short as a bitter voice spoke.

“I see the riff-raff showed up. I never will understand why mother left a thing to this… trash.” Now guys I don't get mad that much, but I saw red. Luckily I didn't get a chance to speak, as my aunt beat me to the punch.

Auntie Orange practically slammed her nose against my uncle’s, baring her teeth, “Now you listen here, Uglis Orange! That is your sister’s daughter you’re speaking of, and I will not let you insult her again. One more negative comment from you, and I will damn well make sure ponies think you’re a girl!” 

I tell you what, I really wanted to clap at the threat. My uncle looked like he was going to object, but quickly decided against it. Instead, he grunted and trotted off, in a somewhat snooty fashion. But I tell you I could easy see the fear in his eyes. I had a newfound respect for my aunt.

Speaking of my aunt, it was a sight to see, a high class pony pounding her anger into the dirt. She was calm enough to speak in less than a few moments, “I am so sorry about that. I swear if my sister was still alive she would have skinned him alive. I just pray Minneola is more respectful to you.” I could only smile, as I gave my auntie a quick nuzzle, only to giggle when I saw Twilight’s jaw hanging.

“Well thanks for sticking up for me. Ah want you to meet my friend Twilight Sparkle. Her smarts should help with the proceedings. Hopefully she won't be needed,” I always find it funny to see the change in expression when they see that Twilight’s a princess. The next few minutes was spent listening to my aunt gave her apologies to Twilight, which only made the poor mare more uncomfortable. My friend may be a princess, but she’s still Twilight.

Soon we found ourselves in what I could only guess was a study. Now, I’m not one for having a lot of grand things, but sweet Celestia was everything they owned huge! I mean I think this one room could hold my whole house. So here I sat in uncomfortable silence between my aunt and friend. Across from me sat my uncle Uglis and who I could only assume was my other uncle Minneola. The silence was soon broken as the fancy stallion from before walked in, then took a seat .

“Ladies and gentlecolts. On the behalf of Ponco, we are sorry for your loss. Now before we begin the reading, does anypony have any questions?” It may have took half a second before Minneola hoof slammed against the table.

“I have something to say, I want this Apple to be removed from the will. My mother must have been senile to put this country bumpkin in her will. I demand she gets nothing.”

Now fellas, there are not many times I am struck speechless. Why I was so shocked from his outburst, I couldn't even get angry at his harsh words.

Luckily for me, the ace I brought along played its part. Twilight stood with grace expanding her wings for all to see. She then spoke with a very sweet sounding, you know that voice you hear when somepony is trying to hide the fact they want to kill you. “I’m sure Mr. Minneola isn't referring to one of the elements of harmony as a bumpkin.  She not only helped save Equestria dozens of times, but is also a personal and beloved friend of all four princesses. That would be a horrible misconception and could easily be seen as treason. Surely he misspoke.”

I ain't never seen a stallion turn yellow so fast. It was downright hilarious to watch him explain how he was misheard. I was really going to have to thank Twilight later for coming. Soon my Uncle’s rambling were done, allowing the fancy stallion to speak.

“Well, if we are all quite finished, I shall begin.Good. First, to my firstborn Uglis. I of sound mind leave you my three estates and external trading companies. Even though you are a spoiled brat, I cannot deny your skill with business.” I couldn't stop my chuckle at the brat part, which earned me a glare, which in return got him a glare from Twilight. “Second, to my other son Minneola, I leave you all my stocks and ranches. Before you complain Minny,you already own a lot of my lands so shut up ”

No one spoke this time, letting him speak. ”Third, to my dear sweet Clementine, I leave you everything that is left from my life insurance policy minus the funeral cost. It should be quite a bit of money.” I felt saddened, when my aunt started to cry; it seemed like she was the only one who was truly cared for her mother

“Lastly, to my granddaughter Applejack, first I want to apologize. I have been a fool. I let what I thought was a mistake cloud my judgement. I should have been there for my granddaughter, I should have loved my daughter for being herself and not dismissing her. So to you Applejack I leave all of my orange farms and my savings along with the recurring lease profit. I know this does not forgive my sins, but I hope it helps you.”

To say my uncles looked pissed would’ve been like saying the sky looked blue. They looked ready to explode in fury. Which I didn't much get, I mean come on it’s just a couple of farms, it shouldn't be that big of a deal. Right before the shouting match could begin, the fancy stallion spoke.


“Let me make this very clear, Mrs. Isabel made this will ironclad. Anypony who tries to take more than what they are given will lose their inheritance. It will be donated to charity. This was approved by Princess Celestia herself, who also has stated if  anypony tries to take this to court she will personally be the judge. She has stressed that fact that if any of the Element Bearers are involved,  it will become a royal issue.”

Have any of ya’ll seen the dazed look Rainbow Dash gets after a crash? Compare  her face with the look they had on . I guess Twilight sent word to Celestia about these proceedings. Now I definitely owed the princess a thank you.

Soon after some quick goodbyes, only me, Twilight, and the fancy stallion remained. My aunt was the only one who offered  hug in their departure. She had told me I deserved every bit, which I still didn’t understand.

The fancy stallion spoke, “So, Ms. Applejack, I need to go over with you all the numbers you are receiving and hopefully not confuse you.” I only raised a brow, I was pretty sure I could handle the little amount of bits I was receiving, heck it may help out the farm.

“First, Applejack, let me explain the compound interest and lease on Orange Co. Your grandmother has all the farmlands set up and run by a board of directors. You now own a controlling share of the company, which means you must attend a board meeting once a year to go over plans and profit.”

Well, I will admit when I’m stumped. Why would a couple of farms need a board of directors? “You will not need to visit any of the farms, as long as you keep your shares you will have the profit interest put into your account once a year.”

Oh, so it was like a savings account. That made a little sense, it would be nice to have extra bits for the farm. I finally spoke, ”That sounds great, how much per year we talking, a couple thousand bits?” I only received a dumbfounded stare.

“Ms. Applejack, you do realize your grandmother owned all the orange farms in Equestria? That means every orange and orange product falls under her company. We're not talking a couple thousand bits. By our records your yearly profit could range from three hundred thousand to five hundred thousand a year.”

Well folks, there are a lot of things that don't get me flustered. Hearing those numbers took the breath right out of me. I’m pretty sure my jaw would have hit the ground if it weren't attached. I didn't think anything could top what I just heard, well…

“We can't forget her savings either. Your grandmother hadn't touched her account in years; she didn't need the money with the interest she had in stock. So with ten years of her savings not being touched, we’ll probably be looking at around twenty million.”

Just to make this clear, I ain't no Rarity. I for sure as heck don't need a fainting couch and I do not get over dramatic. However as soon as those numbers hit me, well, let's just say even fancy floors are hard.