Canterlot Wondercolts

by risingdusk

First published 12th of September, 2013

Applejack juggles school, work, and family problems, while also helping her friends' relationship problems and falling in love without realising it.

It's senior year, and Applejack got more than she bargained for. With the recent death of her parents, and the declining health of her grandmother, Applejack finds herself in a position of caretaker of the house alongside her brother. But that's not all. Her friends all have problems of their own, and as the most dependable person, she's the one they go to for help. Not to mention that she's one of the star athletes in her team, so she has to help carry them to champions. All while making it to graduation, which is stressful enough for any young student.

And then there's the problem of romance. Nearly all of her friends have hooked up with someone, and she almost feels pressured to find someone of her own. But she doesn't have time for romance if she wanted to, and she doesn't. That is until one person starts creeping into her thoughts, adding yet another thing to her already full plate.

Chapter 1

Dear Ma and Pa,

It's Applebucking Season starting tomorrow. I love Applebucking. It's a lot of work, but I don't really focus on that, you know? The weather's beautiful, and the smell of ripe apples making the orchard all pretty smelling. Big plump apples begging to be picked, and if you ain't careful, they'll fall right on your noggin and you end up with a mighty headache. You remember when I did that my first Applebucking? Big Mac couldn't stop laughing at me for hours, and y'all tried to get me back inside, but I didn't want to. I wanted to help with the farm, and I wasn't gonna let some mean ole apple stop me on my first Applebuck.

And when we finish for the day, you remember, Pa? You used to take Big Mac and I in the back of your ole truck straight to the farm. I was such a small mite, I used to bounce around in the bed and shook real hard. One time I even almost fell off, but Big Mac wasn't about to let me. He's such a good brother. Still is. And when we got home, Ma, you used to make a might big feast and hoo willy, we may have been poor but we ate like we rich. Sure was some good cooking.

We still have that truck. Big Mac wanted to sell the thing, hoping to make a buck or two off it, but I wouldn't let him. Now I drive it around, to school, to Sweet Apple Acres, where in Ponyville I need to go. I love that ole truck. Reminds me of y'all. A lot of things sure do, and maybe that's why Big Mac don't like the truck. I think he took y'all leaving harder, but I like to remember the good things. Like y'all used to teach me. So I use Pa's ole truck, and I wear Ma's ole hat. But I ain't about to mope right now, y'all won't like that.

I'm hoping that we have better luck than last year with the harvesting. Then again, this year Big Mac didn't go and hurt himself so I won't be taking the whole Sweet Apple Acres on by myself. Sure was nice to have my friends help though. But even if I wanted their help, they can't. Rarity has that summer job, Pinkie is doing some community thing with Dash, Shy's helping the shelter like she always is, and Twilight's probably got a date. Actually, I don't know with Twilight, because I didn't ask her. She's the only one of us who doesn't have a summer job, because she doesn't really need it, and she'd rather spend her time reading and stuff. But with her boyfriend and everything, she's probably got something planned, you know? It's just the same. I don't need their help, I just like the company of good friends.

Shoot, I just remembered I promised to help Shy with her critters later this week. Guess I better bust my tail in this harvesting so we don't get behind. And I got all this homework too, but I ain't worried about it. I know, y'all want me to graduate, and I will, but I got a lot of work on the farm too. Them apples ain't gonna buck themselves, you know. Besides, they're just summer assignments. Dr Whooves sure does like his homework and think it's funny to be giving us poor students four books to read with a five page assignment for each. I reckon that old nut don't know what the definition of summer vacation is.

Awh shucks. I also forgot that Coach Spitfire is putting them extra practices this summer before school starts. I'm thinking Dash and I are the best athletes she's seen since Soarin and Fleetfoot, and since it's our senior year and all, Coach is real hoping for another championship for our school. Ain't no secret that's what Dash is hoping for. I also reckon she's wanting a scout to be at one of meets. See, Dash has big dreams to make it into Cloudsdale Academy, home of the Wonderbolt. I guess being a Wondercolt just ain't enough for her. I don't really have big hopes like that, but the whole team's depending on me. Heck, the whole school's hoping for a win this year, and I ain't going to let them down. I promise, I'll do my absolute best to make sure that we win this thing. Besides, a championship trophy sure would be nice.

Anyways, I just wanted to let y'all know. Oh, and I forgot. Lil Apple Bloom's old enough to help this year. At least Big Mac reckons she is, and since he basically runs the farm while I'm still in school, I guess he can make that call. At least it's senior year. When's school done, ain't nothing can distract me from the farm then and maybe with both Big Mac and I putting our all into it, I reckon we can get out of debt. It would sure be nice, because I reckon Granny Smith would love to see our family get rich again.

I think Ole Granny Smith be getting ready to join y'all, and I ain't ready for that. Y'all let her stay here, until Lil Apple Bloom graduates, will y'all? She don't need nothing distracting her from school, and Lil Apple Bloom's smarter than the two of us put together. It's kind of why I'm a little worried about her helping with the farm and all, but she wants to help and Big Mac reckons we should let her. I hope he's right.

Anyways, I really should go to bed. Got a lot of work to do if we getting Applebucking done before school starts. And since it's Lil Apple Bloom's first Applebuck, I gotta make sure I'm fully alert cause I don't want her getting hurt. I don't think y'all would appreciate it if I went and hurt sweet Lil Apple Bloom.

Miss y'all dearly

Applejack

Author's Notes:

Hoo boy, so I'm gonna admit, it's been a while since I wrote any fanfic. But I like the idea of this story. Lots of romances, lots of shipping, and I mean a lot. I have an idea of how I want to endgame this, but nothing is set in stone. Anyways, I really hope y'all enjoy this. I sure plan to. And don't forget to leave a comment. :D

Chapter 2

"Come on, Angel Bunny, you really should eat just a little more," Fluttershy said as she tried to convince a small white bunny to finish eating its carrot. Applejack knew that bunny very well, ironically named Angel. As far as Applejack was concerned, that animal was a creature of the devil. How Fluttershy had the patience to deal with such a testy rabbit was beyond the cowgirl.

Then again, Fluttershy was most at home inside the shelter. At school or in any social setting, the pink-haired girl was timid and often soft spoken. Well, she was still soft spoken now, but if she was around strangers, sometimes it was impossible to hear her. Here, surrounded by all of her "animal friends," it was like she was a whole different person. The animals responded to her words, and the way they interacted, Applejack swore she could understand them.

The cowgirl had just finished patting a small brown dog, giving it a good scratch behind the ears before leading it back in its cage, when Fluttershy joined her. They had spent the whole afternoon bathing nearly every animal, including the mean cats and the playful dogs, then grooming and feeding them, and now Applejack was ready to hit the hay. At the mention of it, a yawn escaped her, and she stretched while letting it out. Her limbs were extra sore after all of the harvesting from earlier in the week.

"Thank you so much for helping me with the animals, Applejack," Fluttershy stated. "I didn't know how I was going to manage all by myself, since the owner went away for the day. I'm so glad you came to help."

"Awh, shucks, it's no big deal, Shy," Applejack responded, shrugging.

"Oh but I really do appreciate it. It's so nice for the animals to get to see new faces." Fluttershy paused, and Applejack looked over at her friend with concern. Her pretty teal eyes were watering, and for a moment Applejack thought that her friend was going to start crying. But with a long blink and a deep sigh, Fluttershy was able to compose herself once again, wearing a sad smile. "It's just, they're so lonely and I wish I could just take them all home with me. But I couldn't possibly fit them all in my room, and besides I see them faithfully every day."

"Well that's real kind of you, Fluttershy." The cowgirl already knew this; for as long as they knew each other Fluttershy was to the animal shelter as Applejack was to her farm. Deciding to change the topic, she asked, "So how's the rest of the gang doing? I ain't hardly seen none of them since summer's started, being busy with the farm and all."

"Oh, I guess they're alright," Fluttershy stammered. "I mean, except for Rainbow, but I'm hoping she'll be okay."

"Huh? What's wrong with Dash?"

Hiding behind her pink mane of hair, Fluttershy lowered her head and shuffled her feet awkwardly. "I'd rather not talk about it. It's really personal to her and I don't want her getting mad at me..."

When her shy friend got like this, Applejack knew it was time to drop it. Making a mental note to check on Rainbow Dash when she next got the chance, the farm girl reached into her pants pocket and pulled out her keys. "So, how're you getting home, Shy? Your room mate coming to pick you up?"

"Um, well I don't have a room mate anymore." Her voice was even softer, and Applejack had the distinct feeling that she missed a lot more than she bargained for this summer. She really needed to make a better effort to keep in contact with her friends from the looks of things.

"So much for dependable," Applejack muttered out loud, shaking her head as she twirled the keys in her fingers.

Fluttershy must have heard because she shot her head up and gave an anxious look. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to...I wasn't trying to say...You're a good friend, Applejack! Lyra just moved out last week to live with her parents again, so you couldn't have known..."

"I should have though," the cow girl argued. "You're my friends, and I don't even know what's going on anymore. I've just been too darn busy."

"But everyone knows that it's Applebucking season, Applejack," Fluttershy countered, though she cowered slightly as if expecting rebuke. "No one blames you..."

"That's not the point, Shy." Releasing a hiss of frustration, Applejack tried to calm down when she saw Fluttershy visibly flinch. "Sorry, but I can't help feeling I'm letting y'all down by not keeping up. How in the hay can I call myself a good friend if I ain't even there for y'all?"

"That's not true," ventured Fluttershy. To Applejack's amazement, the timid girl managed to lock eyes and even look stern. "You took time from your farm to come and help me at the shelter, didn't you? And if one of our other friends would have come to you asking for help, you would be there for them just like now."

Silence stretched for a moment as Applejack tried to think of something to say back, but when it lasted too long, Fluttershy returned to trying to hide behind her hair. "I'm...I'm sorry, Applejack, I didn't mean to get mad. I just don't like seeing you so upset..."

"Awh, it's okay, Shy. You didn't make me mad, just made me think. Say, why don't I take you back home? Reckon you don't want to walk that far."

"Oh, it's okay. I don't want to be a bother..."

"Shy," Applejack started, raising an eyebrow. "You ain't a bother, you're my friend. Now come on, truck's just out back."

After a meek "okay" the pair of them walked in silence, enjoying the beautiful day Ponyville had to offer. That was one of the nice things about Fluttershy; the two of them were good friends that shared each other's company without the need to talk. It was a nice comfortable silence, allowing Applejack time to reflect.

It bothered her about Rainbow Dash. Their next practice was in three days, and unless Applejack happened to meet up before, she planned on learning the truth then. Fluttershy didn't mention the rest of the girls, so Applejack assumed, or at least hoped, that they were okay.

The truck greeted them at last. It wasn't much of a ride; chips of orange paint peeled off various places, mud was splashed up on the sides, and there was a large dent on one of the doors. But it was Applejack's baby, and she was very possessive and proud of it. When they entered, both of the tall girls almost had to jump into the cab. The brown cushion seats attempted to swallow the pair whole, but Applejack resisted as she inserted the key in the ignition and turned it.

The truck whined, not wanting to move yet, and even tried to convince Applejack to lay back in its comfortable seats. The farm girl growled as she tried again. And again. And again.

"Come on, you piece of crap," Applejack exclaimed, pounding her fist on the steering wheel. "I love you, but I ain't gonna push you all the way to Sweet Apple Acres."

Beside her, Fluttershy chuckled softly. "I thought you loved your truck."

"I do, but dangit, if this darn thing don't start up, I swear I'll junk her myself."

"Maybe you should ask it nicely. That's what I do to for my animal friends and they listen."

Applejack threw her an incredulous look, and Fluttershy almost had a hint of a grin behind that innocent expression. "Shy, this ain't no animal."

Instead of addressing her, Fluttershy looked at the vinyl dashboard and gave it a small pat. "Um, excuse me, Miss Truck? Could you please start up for us? I'm sure you don't want to make Applejack upset..."

Rolling her eyes, the farm girl turned the key once again, and the truck roared to life. Applejack stared blankly in disbelief before saying, "Awh that was just dumb luck. But we best get a move on 'fore it gets too dark."

The only response she received was a another soft laugh.

It was a good fifteen minute drive to Fluttershy's cottage, since her shy friend chose to live on the outskirts of town, not too far from Sweet Apple Acres. The scenery changed around them slowly, the shops and townhomes melding into suburban homes that grew more and more sparce until trees were all that passed the windows.

A thought occurred to her just as she turned into the small dirt road that led the way to Fluttershy's home. "Wait a darn second, you said Lyra moved out?" A nod was her response, so Applejack continued. "But Shy, that means you're living by yourself?"

"Um, yes. But it's okay, really. I like being by myself though so it doesn't really bother me."

"But Shy, how're you gonna pay the rent? You ain't making enough at the shelter. You're not...you ain't gonna go back to your dad's are you?"

A loud squeak almost made Applejack press the brake, but she steeled herself. This was the typical reaction to the mention of her father. "N-no, Applejack. I'm, um, going to work with Rarity. She talked to her parents already, and they said it was okay."

"Well that's real kind of her," Applejack sighed in relief.

"Mhm. With the animal shelter and helping Rarity, I'll be fine."

"Sure hope so, Shy. You let me know if you need anything, will you?"

Fluttershy nodded shyly. The truck came to a stop right in front of the cottage. Just as always, Applejack was mindful of the beautiful gardens surrounding the place, the flowers painting the yard in very bright colours that reached all the way to the steps. When a summer breeze passed, it almost looked like a floral sea, with small animals as its inhabitants. The farmer often warned her friend about how the varmints could ruin the flowers, but when it came to animals, there was just no arguing with Fluttershy.

The door opened to let her friend exit. Just before she closed it though, Fluttershy said, "Thank you again for the ride. And the help. I really do appreciate it."

"It's no big deal, Shy."

"I'll see you again later...oh. Are you coming to Pinkie Pie's party?"

"What's the occasion this time?" Pinkie Pie was notorious for throwing parties, even for the silliest of things, but Applejack couldn't deny the fun in them.

"It's Twilight's and Flash's anniversary next month, I think. But Pinkie Pie wants to throw the party now, because we all know Twilight won't go to a party in the middle of the school year."

Snorting softly, Applejack could only imagine Twilight Sparkle's response. Even for a small quiz, the honour student would study to the point of an anxiety attack, let alone go to a party. "Yeah, I know what you mean. I'll see what I can do, alright Shy?"

"Okay. Um, don't think I'm forcing you or anything...I just thought I'd ask, but I'd completely understand if you don't."

"Don't worry about it, Shy. I'll see you around?"

"Mhm. 'Bye Applejack."

Author's Notes:

Alright, first full chapter and not just a journal log. I meant to post this chapter yesterday, but whoops it hit seven in the morning, and I really needed to sleep. Darn you, work. Still a slow start, but we'll have some fun soon enough. :3

Chapter 3

It was a sweltering day that left the Apples hot and sticky as they finished up their harvest. As Applejack and Big Macintosh carried the last of their fruits to the bed of the pickup the farm girl felt immensely satisfied of their hard work. Applebucking was finished with still a week left before school starts.

"Hoo wee, great job y'all," Applejack said, closing the truck bed and readjusting her hat. Apple Bloom skipped over to her sister's side and tried to scramble in the back, but she was much too short. With a chuckle, Applejack scooped her sister up and plopped her over the gate just next to the bushel of apples.

"We did it, sis! Does this mean we can start making cider early?"

"Eeyup," Big Macintosh answered.

"Along with all our other apple goods, lil sis. I reckon we're gonna have a nice start for the fall sales if we play our cards right."

"Hey, sis, ain't that Twilight's car?"

At the mention, Applejack looked over and sure enough, a small purple car was heading over in their direction. It came to a stop next to the truck, and a moment later, out popped Twilight Sparkle, wearing what looked almost like a school uniform, had it not been for the black blouse over the royal blue skirt. She waved a greeting, fixing her glasses so that they were no longer falling off the bridge of her nose.

"Howdy, Twi," Applejack greeted, walking over to hug her friend. "What brings you out here?"

"I came to check on you," Twilight answered with a smile. "I still remember how you tried to take on all of Sweet Apple Acres all by yourself last year, and I haven't seen you all vacation, so I got worried. How's the harvest?"

"All done now." Spreading one arm out in the direction of the trees, Applejack displayed all of their hard work with pride. "Applebucking is over, and we're ready to start our fall sales!"

"That's great to hear, A.J.," Twilight beamed. Looking past Applejack she seemed to notice the others present for the first time. "Hey, Apple Bloom, Big Mac. How was your first Applebucking, Apple Bloom?"

"It was great, Twilight. It was hard work, but I had a lot of fun, and I can't wait until we can make apple cider! Are you gonna help us this year like you did last year?"

"If you guys want me to, of course I'll help," Twilight laughed, ruffling the young one's hair, but mindful of the big red bow. "Are you excited for school to start?"

"No. Well, yes. I can't wait to see my friends more, but I don't wanna do the work." The child gave a petulant expression that made both Twilight Sparkle and Applejack shake their heads, trying to hide a smile.

"I thought you liked working, silly."

"I like farm work, but school work ain't fun. And I don't know my teacher yet. I think it's Ms. Cherilee. Do you think she's scary?"

"Ms. Cherilee? Why, she's the nicest teacher around!" Twilight tried to reassure Apple Bloom by putting extra enthusiasm in her voice, though Applejack and her exchanged a small glance. Cherilee was a relatively new teacher, so they didn't know anything about her. "You'll be just fine, isn't that right?"

"Eeyup," answered Big Macintosh which surprised Applejack. She shot a look in his direction and he simply shrugged and turned away. She swore there was a blush forming on her brother's cheeks that had nothing to do with the heat of the day.

Twilight also appeared slightly confused, but she kept her focus on Apple Bloom who just said, "But she's a new teacher. And what if she don't like me. I ain't never had a teacher who didn't like me."

"You'll be just fine, Apple Bloom. Sweetie Belle also has Ms. Cherilee this year, if that makes you feel any better. Rarity told me so."

"Oh boy!" Apple Bloom exclaimed, beaming brightly. "I sure hope Scootaloo does to, and then maybe it won't be so bad."

"As long as you still do good in school," Applejack warned, raising an eyebrow. "Else I'll boot you to the Everfree Forest and let the timberwolves eat you."

"You wouldn't do that, I'm your lil sis!"

"You start messing up school, and see if I won't."

"You ain't." Once again Apple Bloom pouted, this time crossing her arms against her chest. "Cause I'll sick a timberwolf on you instead!"

Applejack just laughed, which made everyone else laugh as well. When they stopped, Applejack looked over to Big Macintosh and said, "Why don't you take Apple Bloom back to the house? Tell Granny Smith I'll be over before supper."

With a nod, he caught the keys that Applejack tossed at him and turned to leave. Apple Bloom waved eagerly as the truck started. "Bye, Twilight! Y'all come around again, won't y'all?"

"Of course," Twilight Sparkle answered, waving back. "Good bye, Apple Bloom."

When the truck was out of sight, Applejack dug her hands into her pockets and started walking along the dirt path that crossed the orchard. She didn't have to look to know that Twilight would join her, but she did anyways, peering from beneath the brim of her hat. "So, what really brings you here, Twi? Ain't seen you all summer, and I ain't buying your excuse. Something's bothering you, I can see it on your face."

"I can't hide anything from you, can I?" Twilight laughed, trying to match Applejack's long strides. She was shorter than the other by a couple of inches, but she always tried to keep the same length walk. When the farm girl noticed, she purposely shortened her stride as she did now, but always in a subtle manner so the other couldn't tell. "You're just like Fluttershy."

"Maybe, but unlike Shy, I ain't gonna let you pull a fast one and change the subject. 'Swrong?"

Twilight didn't answer immediately so they walked on a little more, kicking up small bits of dust on the path and reminding Applejack that it had been a long time since the last rain. It was no wonder the heat was almost unbearable from time to time and left any poor victim outside for more than a moments sweating like a horse. Applejack could only imagine how Twilight felt right now; dark skirt, black shirt, and long purple and pink hair, it was like she was trying to attract all of the heat.

"It's this party," she started at last, and the words came tumbling out afterward. "And Flash. And school. And Spike. And college. I'm just so worried, because I'm the president of our class this year, and I'm also the head of the Honours Society, and I've got to make amazing grades or colleges won't even look at me, and if I don't make it to college then what else am I supposed to do, and before I even make it to college, I have to graduate! What if I don't graduate and I just end up working some dead end job for the rest of my days regretting everything?"

"Twi, I think you're the last person that has to worry about graduating," Applejack assured, shaking her head with a slight chuckle. "You're the top of the class, smartest kid in the school, you ain't got nothing to worry your pretty little head about."

"But what if I do, A.J?" Twilight insisted, her eyes widening. It was clear she was about to enter one of her panic episodes, since her step faltered, and she gripped herself in a tight embrace. "What if I fail because I don't take my studies seriously? And then I get knocked back a grade, or worse have to go all the way back to Freshman year! And then I won't be able to walk with my friends, and I'll be the laughing stock of Canterlot High, and Principal Celestia will be so disapointed in me, she probably would transfer me to a whole other high school because she would hate me!"

"Whoa there, nelly," Applejack interrupted, stopping in place and taking hold of Twilight's shoulder. "You're working yourself up again. You ain't got nothing to worry about, and you sure as heck ain't gonna be transferred. Listen to me, Twi, you ain't listening."

Twilight looked up, blinked for a moment, and then sighed.

"That's the idea, take another deep breath. Easy does it, sugarcube."

After a few more moments, Twilight smiled and started walking again, indicating that she was okay once more. "Sorry, I just get so anxious. It's senior year, our last chance to make things right in high school."

"Well you ain't got nothing to worry about, 'cause you ain't done nothing wrong," Applejack said, giving a confident smile. They had walked far enough that the path was beginning to disappear, making way for the thicker trees of Sweet Apple Acres. This area was generally avoided because of the fruit bats, but since it was still a couple of hours until night time, she figured it was safe. "Why'd you mention Spike?"

"He's starting high school this year," Twilight replied, and Applejack could judge though she was worried, she wasn't quite so worked about this. "I just hope he'll be okay. And that Sunset Shimmer doesn't give him a hard time for being my cousin."

"Well, I'll wallop her real good if she messes with Spike," Applejack promised, rolling her eyes. Sunset Shimmer was Twilight's rival, and had been so since the pair of them met. Sunset Shimmer always wanted to be the leader, number one, most recognised by all teachers, and because she was Celestia's daughter, she often got her way. However, since Twilight was a natural leader, her friend often stole the spotlight from Sunset Shimmer without even trying.

Sunset Shimmer was also known as a bully to all high school students, and no one dared fought back because of her mother; well no one but Twilight and her friends. It was no wonder she was worried about Spike.

"Violence isn't the answer, A.J," Twilight chided, though her amused expression betrayed her. "We'll just have to keep an eye on Spike. I'm sure Shining Armour won't allow her to be mean, and he'll make it a personal mission to watch our cousin."

"Good thing to have your brother as a dean of students, huh?" Twilight only nodded so Applejack continued. "Now what's this about Flash? He done something?"

Another silence, and immediately Applejack tensed up. With a concerned look, she waited patiently for Twilight to start. "Not really. It's just...school's starting again."

"Well, ain't that a good thing? You like school, and y'all will probably see each other more, right?"

"Not really," Twilight answered, biting her lip nervously. "You remember last semester, how we got into big fights and stuff?"

Applejack nodded. During the finals week, Twilight and Flash Sentry got into many quarrels thanks to Twilight's studious habits, and Flash Sentry's misunderstanding.

"Well, he didn't like that I wasn't spending any time with him," Twilight continued, echoing Applejack's thoughts. "He just didn't understand that I have to do well in school. And I'm worried that this year, because I'm going to be so focused on graduating, that he'll think I'm just trying to blow him off again. But I don't know how to make him understand that I absolutely have to study and work hard so that I can graduate!"

"Then tell him," Applejack replied with a shrug. "And if he ain't gonna listen, then it ain't gonna work out. You know how I feel about y'all."

"I don't know why you don't like him, A.J," Twilight countered, giving a slight scowl. "He's a nice guy, and a good friend."

"I ain't disputing that," Applejack argued back, before Twilight could continue. "I like Flash as a friend, and I don't mind his company, but he ain't right for you. If y'all don't even get along about something that is you, Twi, then how can y'all even think about a long term commitment?"

The farm girl's rebuke was enough to stop Twilight in place, so she turned and saw that the worry in those bright purple eyes were about to spill over onto her cheeks. With a resigned exhale, Applejack pulled her friend into a hug, wincing slightly as the frame of Twilight's glasses caught skin. Nothing was said for a little while until Twilight finally pulled from Applejack's embrace.

"Listen, sugarcube," Applejack started. "I ain't trying to make you sad, I just think this ain't a healthy relationship for you. Y'all make better friends, 'cause Flash is a nice guy that needs a lot of attention, and you're a smart girl that needs a healthy dose of space. But if y'all really do want to make this work, then y'all each gonna have to give a little."

"You're right." Twilight took a deep breath and finally turned her lips into a smile. "Thanks, Applejack. I knew I could rely on you."

"Awh, shucks, sugarcube, all I done is make you sad. What are you going on about?"

"You did make me feel better. And I think I'll talk to Flash tomorrow before Pinkie's party. Are you coming?"

"I think I can spare the time," Applejack said with a shrug. "Applebucking is done, and ain't no practice so why not?"

"That's great. It's getting late, so I think I should head back home. Want me to take you back home?"

"If you gonna do that, might as well stay for supper," Applejack insisted.

With a laugh, Twilight said, "Okay, well I'd better call my parents. Lead the way, and I'll do that. I don't really know Sweet Apple Acres as well as you do."

"Alright, sugarcube."

Author's Notes:

One day I'll learn how to end a chapter without being awkward. Also, I wrote this with my Applejack plush keeping me company, just so you guys know. But yes, Twilight and Applejack. :3 Unfortunately not together, but that might change later, who knoooows.

Next up is Pinkie's party. I'm still debating if I should make the chapter a journal log and Applejack reflecting on it, or if I should be in the moment like I did with this one and the previous one. I'll have to think about it for a little bit. But onwards~

Chapter 4

Dear Ma and Pa,
I think I'm having a mighty hangover. I dunno how much I drank last night, but I'm feeling it now. I know, I know, y'all won't like that too much, but I was mostly responsible. Twlight took me home 'cause she stayed sober, so I didn't drive. In fact, she took us all home, 'cept for Pinkie cause she was already at her place. Y'all remember that she don't live with her parents, since they in some mining town and wanted her to go to Canterlot High? It's why she can throw a mean party, any time she want.
I dunno why I'm telling you, 'cause y'all knew already. Darn hangover, making me forget things.
But y'all should know that it was a good party, like always. Pinkie sometimes annoys me, and I know that's bad to say against a friend, but when it comes to partying, she's our gal. We played beer pong, Rarity and I against Shy and Pinkie, with Twilight being the judge. We won, only 'cause Shy's terrible at the game, but when Flash joined Pinkie, we had our butts handed to us. And then we did karaoke, and they begged me to stop. I ain't blessed in singing, as y'all know. Shy has a good voice though, and Rarity too. And we danced too, but I think I stumbled more than I danced. Y'all had to go on and get me two left feet, huh?
It was a blast. But thing is I'm worried. And I know, I worry too much, 'bout a lot but I reckon this a good reason this time.
Dash didn't show yesterday. And that ain't like her. Dash takes a liking to a good party like the rest of us. Since Freshman year, she and I try to drink each other under the table. 'Course I win, 'cause no one can beat a country gal, but y'all know how competitive she can get. Then again, y'all prolly didn't even know about the drinking thing, and I'm sorry. I promise I still get my chores done and all, and I only drink if I got the free time.
But back to Dash. She wasn't there. And I guess I wouldn't worry so much, if it wasn't 'cause Shy. What she said got me thinking. See Dash, well, y'all know. She don't go looking for trouble, but it sure finds her. And I'm thinking that if she got into some kind of trouble again, she's gonna need my help. But she's the stubborn type, you know, so I guess ain't no surprise that she didn't say a word to no one. 'Cept Shy, but her and Shy go way back. They's friends before the six of us became a gang.
Still, I ain't liking that she ain't been nowhere to be seen. But we got practice tomorrow, so I'll figure out what's going on with Dash, come hay or highwater.
Anyways, I gotta get back to my chores and try to get rid of this darn headache. Big Mac won't be happy if I keep him waiting.
Miss y'all dearly,
Applejack

Ponyville once again offered a blistering day. The clear skies promised no rain as it let the sun mercilessly burn any who passed beneath its glare. Applejack's tough skin was already used to the punishment, thanks to Applebucking, but a glance at her reddened team mates told her they were suffering. Most of them were applying sun screen to try and protect themselves, but for others, especially the paler folk, it looked too late already.
There was still some time before practice started, so Applejack did her normal routines; stretching until every muscle was relaxed, jumping jacks and running in place to get her heart pumping good, and then more stretching, because it never hurt. Normally her and Rainbow Dash would have done this together, trash talking the other in good fun, examining the new recruits for this year, and discussing hopes for the track team this year, but to her worries, her friend was nowhere to be seen. This continued to nag at the back of her mind, but she knew her athletic friend was sure to show. For as long as Applejack had known her, Rainbow Dash never ditched a practice.
So she was left alone to contemplate her thoughts this time, while waiting. The rookies of this year, Thunderlane and Lightning Dust, seemed like potentially good players, though just listening to Lightning Dust go on, Applejack was sure they would have an attitude problem with her. Then again, most freshman like to think that they are the biggest and the baddest, so she expected nothing different. Dumb Bell and Hoops were off in there little corner, practicing on their own. At some point last year, the now-juniors gave Rainbow Dash a hard time when she flopped a sprint from last year, but they were soon shut up when she set the high school record in the next meet-up. Applejack hoped there wouldn't be any problems from them this year. Everybody else seemed caught up in their own affairs, and to her satisfaction, she felt like this was a good team. A team that could win the championships.
A sharp whistle rang through the air. Coach Spitfire, stood at the centre with her assistants, Fleetfoot and Soarin. It appeared that none of the alumni could join today, but Applejack knew very well that they would show up eventually. They were probably too busy in their colleges right now.
"Gather up, everybody."
Blinking in confusion, Applejack pushed her way to the front of the crowd, eyes searching for Rainbow Dash but not finding her anywhere. "But Coach, Dash ain't showed yet."
A bright orange eyebrow lifted high above Spitfire's sunglasses. "And she won't be, A.J. You're taking her spot as captain."
"I can't possibly, Coach." The little nag increased to a raging worry, leaving Applejack flustered and confused. "Dash is our captain, and she's gon' show. She ain't one to bail out now!"
"I'm telling you, A.J, Dash will no longer be competing with us this year, leaving you as the senior of the team and our new captain. Now, everybody form up into lanes and get ready for warm ups. We've wasted enough time."
Applejack tried to search for any sign of a joke. Rainbow Dash loved a good prank as much as the next one, and since she was good friends with the coach, it was possible that Spitfire could be in on it. But the coach continued on, guiding the rookies into the running lanes, Fleetfoot and Soarin helping out. As if some other being guided her, Applejack took the point position--Rainbow Dash's spot--and began the team stretches.
It was until she saw Dumb Bell give her a strange look that she realised she was doing them out of order. Legs first, then cardio, then arms, then cardio again. With a heave of frustration, Applejack corrected herself, hearing Rainbow Dash make fun of her in her head. Somehow she made it through the team stretches, so now it was time for the jog around the track. While the coaches showed the team their new positions in the line up, Applejack reflected. First Fluttershy's warning, then Dash's non-appearance at the party, and now Spitfire saying she was off the team? Clearly this wasn't a joke, which could only mean that there was something seriously wrong with her friend.
"A.J, are you deaf?" Spitfire's shout cut into her thoughts. "I blew the whistle three times! Get your rump moving!"
Immediately she took off, too fast at first, and she cursed as she watched her pacing. The rest of the practice was much the same, Applejack being far too distracted to pay attention to what she was doing, Dumb Bell and Hoops snickering, the rookies making snide remarks, and Spitfire constantly losing her temper. When Applejack tripped over nothing while trying to perform a sprint, Spitfire had enough.
"Applejack, what in the hell is wrong with you? Do I need to find a new captain?"
Heat flushed through Applejack's face that had nothing to do with the weather. "I'm real sorry, Coach. Honest, I'm trying."
"Trying isn't going to get us into the championships." When the coach was this mad, it was easy to see why she was called Spitfire. The crimson anger painting her skin and joining the bright orange and yellow hair made her look like an actual fireball. "And if you're going to be my captain, you better start acting like you at least know how to run!"
Her anxiety formed a tight whip on her tongue and struck with a harsh snap."I ain't the captain, Rainbow Dash is!"
Spitfire took off her sunglasses and gave Applejack an even look. Expecting hostility and anger, Applejack was surprised to see a glimmer of sympathy instead, even though her words did not match it. "Come with me. Now."
Ignoring the jeers of her team mates, Applejack followed her coach outside of the track, unsure what to expect, but was mildly shocked that she didn't care. The well-being of her friend was more important than getting kicked off the team, which she was sure was about to happen as they re-entered the locker rooms.
"I knew I was going to have a problem with you when you found out about Dash," Spitfire began, finally coming to a halt.
"It ain't like Dash to not show up, Coach, you know this!"
"A.J, she's not going to be..."
"Y'all can't expect me to believe that, Coach!" Applejack interrupted. "When we last talked, she couldn't stop talking about winning that championship! I reckon it was the only thing she could talk about for months, and I ain't gon' believe y'all sayin' she's not showin' when she's most damn loyal person I know and she ain't one to quit her team!"
"Well she did, and the sooner you realise this, the better you'll be," Spitfire shot back.
"I ain't racing without Rainbow Dash!"
A tense moment passed between the hotheaded coach and the stubborn teenager, but at last Spitfire sighed heavily and laid a hand on Applejack's shoulder. "Listen, A.J, I'm sorry but I can't tell you what's going on with your friend, because at the end of the day, I'm still a teacher and have to follow those damn privacy rules. But I can tell you this. I'm just as worried as you are, kid. When I last saw her, she was in tears, and I'll be damned if I've ever seen Dash cry, but she was. And I know two things. Despite what she told me, I can tell she still wants to race. And you're not going to be able to perform unless you know how she is."
"Sure won't," Applejack muttered, her anxiety spiking at these news.
"So go on, A.J. You're useless to my team right now, and I'm not going to keep you around if you're just going to be a liability. Find your friend and I don't want you back unless Rainbow Dash is beside you."
They were stern words, but a smile formed on Applejack's lips anyways as she embraced her coach gratefully. "Thanks, Coach. I won't let you down."
When Applejack pulled away she saw Spitfire roll her eyes and shake her head, but she smiled all the same. "I know, A.J. If anyone can bring Dash back, it'll be you."

Author's Notes:

I'm really sorry this took so long to get up. I got caught up writing on my main novel whenever I had the free time, but work took up most of my time, and now the holidays are here, oh boy. I'll make more of an effort to keep up with this better though, promise!

Do we finally get to find out what happened to Rainbow Dash next chapter? We'll see...

Chapter 5

"Shy?"
Moisture streamed down Applejack's skin as she slowed to a halt just in front of her friends. The grill of the truck towered over Fluttershy's light pink hair, unhelped by the short girl ducking her head in discomfort. Wiping her brow off with the shirt hanging over her shoulder, Applejack gave her a friend a questioning look.
"I'm sorry, Applejack, I'm not trying to seem like a stalker or anything..."
"It's fine, sugarcube" Applejack replied, still confused. "But what brings you 'round here? Didn't reckon you were one for sports."
The last quip was meant as a joke, since Fluttershy had attended nearly every meet of Applejack's and Rainbow Dash's. "Well...I knew you were going to go look for Rainbow after this, and I just wanted...I just wanted to say that you won't find her where you're going to."
While it didn't surprise her that Fluttershy had made that guess, Applejack still raised an eyebrow at her. "You walked all the way here just to tell me that?"
"Well, no," Fluttershy stammered, rubbing the sleeve of her light jacket. Applejack always found it absurd that even in this blaze, her friend insisted on wearing a hoodie of some sort, but she had long given up on trying to tell Fluttershy otherwise. "Twilight drove me here. I felt bad about asking her to go out of her way, but this is really important and she thought so too."
"Twi?" Applejack searched the parking lot for any sign of the purple car, but was confused when she didn't see it.
"Spike needed a ride to the high school for orientation and her parents couldn't do it, so she left already. She really wanted to be here though..."
"Couldn't Shining Armour have done it?" Shaking her head, Applejack continued. "Nevermind, I done wasted too much time."
"I'm sorry..."
"Ain't your fault, sugarcube," Applejack said hastily, regretting her word choice immediately. "I should have looked for her when you mentioned something a while back, instead I let it go. Don't know who you were trying to fool last we talked, but I really did let Dash down this time. I'm hoping to make this all better though. Say, I don't reckon you do know where she at? You mentioned she ain't at her parents, or at least hinted?"
"Do you know where Cranky Doodle's shop is?"
"Why in the hay is Dash doing all the way over...nevermind. Get in the truck, Shy, let's go get Dash."
Fluttershy nodded and scrambled inside the truck, since Applejack normally left the doors unlocked, and moments later, the vehicle roared to life and was tearing away from the parking lot. It was a well kept secret that Applejack liked to drive fast, even with her beat up old truck; many a weekend, her and Rainbow Dash would race in the back roads behind Sweet Apple Acres, something that only the two of them could fully appreciate. It was no question that Rainbow Dash's sportier car would always come out on top, but the roads were kinder to the truck who hardly noticed the terrain. Still, as a result of all those secret races, Applejack had learned to drive fast on windy roads in her bulky vehicle.
Something that Fluttershy didn't really appreciate. Guilt wormed through Applejack as she caught glimpses of Fluttershy clutching on to the side handle, gulping nervously. A large hill swept the road from beneath the wheels, and the truck landed with a harsh thud. Tires squeeled and Fluttershy squeaked and closed her eyes as Applejack regained control and sped on. This was certainly not helping her anxiety any, and normally Applejack was considerate, but caution was thrown to the winds, and she silently prayed that there wouldn't be any cops patrolling this area.
The sign for the Doodle Donkey waved to get her attention and Applejack pulled into the parking lot, pulling a face when she saw Rainbow Dash's car. An ominous thunder cloud speared a rainbow coloured lightning bolt, ripping through the blue flesh of the sports car's side. It was her pride and joy, so seeing it here meant that Fluttershy was right.
Applejack was already out of the truck and about to go inside when Fluttershy finally caught up to her, perhaps just recovering from that drive. Cursing under her breath, Applejack laid a comforting hand on Fluttershy's shoulder and said, "You alright there, sugarcube?"
"I'm okay," Fluttershy whispered, giving a timid smile. "Rainbow drives even worse than that all the time. I just wasn't expecting it from you. You must really care about her..."
There was a guarded expression in those teal eyes that Applejack couldn't quite read, but she answered anyways. "'Course I do. I care about all my friends. If you were in hot water, I'd fish you out too."
"I know," Fluttershy answered, taking the first step forward. "I still remember."
Before Applejack could reply, Fluttershy opened the door, a small bell alerting of their appearance. Swirls of dust danced around them, lifting the smells of the old carpenter shop fresh to their noses and almost causing Applejack to sneeze. Standing behind a counter not too far away from them was an all too familiar face.
"Dash!"
"A.J?" Rainbow Dash's brightly hued hair flipped behind her as she jerked her head up, her magenta eyes widening at the sight of them. "Flutters? What are you guys doing here?"
"I'm wondering the same thing, Dash," Applejack shot back, narrowing her eyes. "You know that practice was today? And ain't you a little far from Ponyville?"
"Well yeah." Shrugging, Rainbow Dash looked away, but Applejack kept going forward until the only thing separating her and Fluttershy from Rainbow Dash was the counter. "Flutters, you knew I wasn't living in Ponyville anymore."
"Yes, but you didn't say you quit the team..." It struck Applejack that Fluttershy just knew that Rainbow Dash had quit the team, though how, she didn't know; she blamed it on how perceptive she could be.
"I don't need the team anymore." There was a stubborn look on Rainbow Dash's face that Applejack knew too well, which only caused her temper to raise. "I'm better than all of them anyways, and I don't need to prove how awesome I am. You just have to look for yourself."
"How 'bout you tell me what's really going on, 'stead of giving me this hogwash?" Applejack demanded.
"Look, A.J., it was nice of you to drive all the way out here, but you didn't have to. I don't need a stupid medal, or championship or your stupid team. I can be a badass without any of you guys."
"A badass of what?" Applejack shot back. "Watching dust collect? Come on, Dash, what about your scholarships? What about all that fuss with the Wonderbolts? You reckon that college is even gonna look at you if you quit your senior year?"
"Damnit, A.J, I'm not going back. I already told Spitfire I quit. Just get over it already."
"And I told Coach that you and I taking that trophy home this year. You gonna make a liar out of me?"
"There's a first for everything."
Applejack's hands stung as they slammed against the countertop, but she ignored it as she jutted her head forward. "What in the hay you think you're doing, Rainbow Dash? Throwing your life away?"
Though Rainbow Dash wasn't nearly as loud as Applejack, she put her hands on the counter and met face to face. "I don't care about your stupid trophy, A.J. I'm not going back."
"We need you, Dash. I need you."
"I don't care."
"This ain't like you, Dash!" Applejack nearly shouted, temper nearly firing out of control. "This ain't even about some trophy no more. Why ain't you coming back?"
"Because I quit!"
"Why?"
"Because I quit school."
Applejack's fist curled, ready to strike, as her temper got the best of her. A sharp sound rang through the small shop, and Rainbow Dash yelped as she went backwards, clutching her face and throwing a hurt look in their direction. Applejack quickly became confused as she stared at her fist which never made contact, until she looked up to see Fluttershy's furious gaze.
It was rare when the timid girl got like this, but it happened from time to time, and it was formidable enough to earn its own name; the Stare. And Rainbow Dash was on the receiving end this time.
"How could you?" Fluttershy demanded. "You promised!"
"I got kicked out of my house, Flutters!"
This was news to Applejack, but judging by Fluttershy's unrelenting glare, it was no surprise to her. "You promised, Rainbow. You said no matter what, you would never drop out!"
At this point, Applejack said nothing else, deciding to let them sort it out, but she still continued to give Rainbow Dash a scornful look from beside Fluttershy. Rainbow Dash didn't seem to have anymore to say either as she looked from one to another, swallowing before turning her back on the two of them. "I know what I said, Flutters, but I didn't think it would ever get this hard!"
Empathy returned, pushing away the unnatural harshness out of Fluttershy's voice. "You could live with me, Rainbow, since Lyra moved out. You'll have somewhere to live in Ponyville, and you can keep going to school. But you can't give up, Rainbow, or you'll let your dad win."
"And you ain't one to lose, Dash," Applejack chimed in. The anger she had washed away upon seeing her friend in distress and she reached over the counter to grab her shoulder.
Fluttershy however, did one better and went around the counter to embrace Rainbow Dash, who held her back. The way that Rainbow Dash's shoulders shook, Applejack knew that she was overwhelmed, so she soothed her friend's back silently. It took a little bit, but at last Rainbow Dash straightened herself, wiping her eyes with her sleeve. "Thanks, guys. You're the most awesome friends a girl could ask for."
"Are you coming back then?" Applejack asked, allowing herself to get hopeful.
"I guess I should let the boss know I'm moving back to Ponyville. Beats living in the car."
"What the hell is going on?"
The new voice caused all of them to turn and see an elderly dark man glaring at them from beneath his bushy grey eyebrows. Rainbow Dash was the only one who responded. "Cranky Doodle, um, these are my friends..."
"Friends, eh? They come talk some sense into you?"
"Yes, boss, they did."
"Good." A sly grin formed on his grumpy features and he started to waggle his cane at Rainbow Dash. "Then go on. Git. Young'un's thinking they can just quit school and make it big. At least you got some sensible friends."
"Thanks, boss." With a look at Applejack, Rainbow Dash gave a small smirk and said, "I guess I missed practice already?"
"Reckon you'll be running laps until nightfall tomorrow."
"That's it? I could run laps in my sleep," Rainbow Dash laughed, which made Applejack smile in relief. Her friend was back. Fluttershy had the same expression, and Rainbow Dash must have seen it. "Thanks, guys. I don't know what I would do without you."
"Just remember to let us help you next time."
"I won't forget again."

Chapter 6

"Applejack, darling, I can't believe you still own this...rubbish."
A pair of well worn jeans flew in the direction of Applejack and ducked to narrowly avoid them. "Hey now, Rarity, them's my favourite pair of pants yer throwin' 'round."
"They're absolutely hideous," Rarity whined, arching an eyebrow in Applejack's direction, while her hands continued to skim through Applejack's closet. Rarity had a fashion sense that absolutely drove Applejack crazy sometimes, but she agreed to let her friend pick an outfit for the first day of school. She wasn't going to back out of that now, even if it meant getting a headache from the constant eyerolling.
"They're practical."
"And hideous," Rarity insisted, returning her attention to the closet. Applejack simply snorted and laid flat on her bed, covering her face with her hat. Soft grumbling and the swish of clothes being aggressively pushed aside filled her ears, and she began to drift off.
"Oh my stars, Applejack!"
The sudden exclamation jolted Applejack awake and she started into a sitting position, while fumbling for her hat. "What in the hay?"
The look of pure indignance on Rarity's face as she held a faded plaid shirt with holes peeking out in different areas was almost priceless. "Hold still, I gotta snap this," Applejack joked as she groped for her phone.
"Applejack this is serious!" Rarity held the offensive item an arm's length away, curling her lip in distaste. "Haven't you had this since we met in middle school? Judging by this state, I would say even longer than that!"
"It still fits," Applejack answered with a shrug. "Don't see why I gotta get rid of it."
"Applejack, darling, it's time to let go," Rarity replied, tossing the shirt in a pile that was quickly accumulating into a mountain of clothes she felt the need to discard. Applejack scrutinised the discard pile and then studied the emptying closet.
"Erm, Rarity, don't you reckon I should have at least something to wear? I don't care much for getting kick out for being naked."
"It's not my fault all of your clothes look as if dumpster called for them ten years ago," Rarity protested as she tossed away another shirt. "Honestly, Applejack, when was the last time you bought new clothes?"
The question provoked some serious thought and Applejack frowned as she tried to remember. "Reckon it's been a while. Don't much have the need for new clothes if they still fit. Could use the money on somethin' more important 'stead."
"Then that settles it." Turning to face Applejack with hands on her hips, Rarity declared, "Put your shoes on, my dear. We're taking you shopping this instant."
"Rarity, I ain't got the money--"
"Nonsense! This is a fashion emergency and I say we must resolve this at once." Skirting around the pile clothing on the floor, Rarity picked up her handbag from Applejack's desk, and dug her keys out of it. "I simply cannot allow you to look absolutely dreadful on your senior year of high school. Can you imagine how that would reflect on me? Now gather your things, Applejack, we're leaving at once."
"I ain't going."
"I wasn't giving you an option, Applejack."
"How am I suppose to pay for this? I know how you get..."
"Don't worry, my dear, I'll pay for everything. Ooh, maybe we can stop by the salon and have your hair done! Wouldn't that be just lovely?"
"That's awful kind of you, Rares, but I can't let you..."
"Oh enough." Rarity waved her hand impatiently and stood at the entrance with her arms crossed. "I said we're going and that's that. No further discussion. Come along now."
With a sigh of exasperation, though she did have a slight grin on her face, Applejack slipped on her boots and grabbed her phone and hat, then followed Rarity out. "Granny, I'm going out with Rarity," she shouted before leaving the house. "I'll be back for supper!"
"Y'all gonna climb a tree?" Granny Smith shouted back. Applejack guessed she was in the sitting room, where she usually took her nap nowadays. "Don't break a leg, ya hear!"
"No, Granny, I'm going out with Rarity!"
"Catch some bees? Ain't time for honey yet!"
Applejack shook her head patiently, and tried once again, chuckling afterwards.
"What are ya hootin' and hollerin' about, youngyun?"
With a look to Rarity, Applejack said, "Just a moment. Go 'head get the car started. I'm guessing yours, right?"
"I wouldn't be caught dead in that old thing," Rarity said with a sniff, turning to exit the house. Applejack rolled her eyes but walked away with out saying anything. The sitting room wasn't too far away, and when she entered, Granny Smith was rocking back and forth in her chair, dozing off.
"Granny?"
Granny's eyes snapped open, and she looked at Applejack with bright orange eyes that held a slight glaze over them. "Eh? Soup's on, go on and stir it, Honeycrisp."
The name left tears stinging in Applejack's eyes and threatened to spill over her cheeks, but she swallowed them away and cleared her throat. "Granny, I'm Applejack."
There was a moment of confusion reflected in her expression, but it cleared away to be replaced by a scowl. "I know who you are, young'un, think I don't know my own gran'child? What ya want?"
"I'm gonna head out with Rarity."
"Rarity? Who that?"
"My friend. She's the one who fashioned the green scarf you got for Hearth's Warming?"
"A friend of yours?" After a bit of rocking back and forth in her chair, Granny Smith said, "Alright, but you be back for supper, 'kay?"
"Alright."
"And tell Ginger Gold to fix that water chute, will ya? Darn thing busted 'gain."
Applejack swallowed hard, but nodded her head. "Alright, Granny. I'll be back."
She had already begun to nod off again, so Applejack went to catch up with Rarity, trying to erase the sour taste in her mouth. The mention of her parents' names was a hurt that was still too fresh, even though the accident happened over a year ago. It shook the family to the core, but it was her and Big Macintosh that recovered the quickest so they could buck up and support Granny Smith and Apple Bloom. Recovered wasn't really the right word, but there wasn't really time to stop and mourn. It still ached. It was a throb that would always be there, even when she got as old as Granny Smith.
Sometimes when the nights were especially quiet and she couldn't find sleep, she heard Big Macintosh crying quietly and she would walk over to his room and join him. They'd hold each other, silently supporting each other in a way that they would never show in front of anyone else. Even around her friends, Applejack would stubbornly keep a mask on, so they wouldn't worry.
She forgot to put it on when she entered the car though and silently cursed when she saw Rarity's concerned expression. "Applejack? Darling, are you okay?"
"Yeah, I'm fine," Applejack answered, a little too quickly. "Can I put the window down?"
There was a very visible battle on Rarity's face as she contemplated the decision and Applejack grinned. Because of her vanity, Rarity kept the windows up and the AC on so her hair wouldn't "look like a bird's nest." The pained expression was always worth asking the question, though she genuinely enjoyed the wind in her face, and the warmth of the summer sun on her arm. "If you insist..."
"Nah, I'm good," Applejack laughed, tucking her hands into her lap.
Relief flooded Rarity's face which earned another chuckle. "So, how is Granny Smith doing? I feel rude not asking earlier, I do hope you'll forgive me."
A dark cloud shadowed on Applejack's face and she turned away to look out the window. Rarity had just pulled the car out of the driveway, and rows of apple trees waved at her as they drove past. "You're fine, Rares, but if it's all the same, I'd rather not talk 'bout it."
"She's getting worse, isn't she?"
Applejack pursed her lips together and refused to answer. Her health had been fragile for a long time, even before her parents' passing, but it seemed to only have gotten worse with their deaths. "I said I don't wanna talk about it. Can we talk 'bout somethin' else?"
An uncomfortable silence hung in the car, and Applejack knew she shouldn't have been so short with her friend. The apple trees were beginning to fade from view and the road smoothed out as they entered the road leading into Ponyville. Just as she swallowed her pride to apologise, Rarity said, "So I've decided I'll let you keep your old clothing on condition that you never wear them to school."
"You expectin' me to wear the same outfit everyday then?" Applejack asked with a snort, though she was grateful for the topic change. She was almost surprised there was no music playing in the car, but considering how much her and Rarity differed in tastes, that was probably a good thing.
"Heavens no!" Purple hair flicked in front of Rarity's face with her vigourous headshake, but she flicked it to the side with one hand. "That's nearly as bad as letting you wear those atrocities to school!"
"Well you're gonna have to pick one or the other."
"Applejack, darling, I thought we established that I'm getting you new outfits for the school year?"
"Outfits? As in more'n one?"
"It's the least I can do for allowing you to romp around in such rags for your previous high school years."
"Rarity, no--"
"I insist, and I won't have another word. I'll even get Apple Bloom some cute little outfits for her school year. Won't she look so fabulous in a cute skirt and some blouses?"
"Rarity, I won't be able to repay--"
"I'll say!" Rarity took her eyes off the road to glare at Applejack, which made her extremely nervous. "I'm giving you a gift! Do you honestly believe I expect payment?"
"Rarity, the road..."
"What kind of friend would I be if I expected you to pay me back for a gift?"
"The road..."
"Honestly, I would have thought you would be more sensible than that!"
"RARITY!"
Horns blared and tires squealed as Rarity swerved to get out of the opposite lane she had accidentally drifted into. It looked like ghosts had possessed their bodies, leaving them pale and breathless, Rarity clutching at the steering wheel, Applejack at the door handle. Not one of them said a word until finally the initial scare left them and allowed them to speak.
"I should, ahem, perhaps pay attention to the road a little better."
"Ya think?"
The bluntness of Applejack's statement left Rarity, perhaps a little hysterically. It bubbled over and soon both girls were laughing away the fright that almost claimed them. The rest of the ride was less eventful, since Applejack thought it would be in their best interests to let Rarity ramble on while only halfway paying attention. Ponyville shifted around them, and in the distance she could just make out the high school's football posts piercing into the sky. Beyond the field, the school buildings peeked out, clustering together in an attempt to hide behind the stadium, but doing a poor job of it. It reminded Applejack of her own problems, and she smirked. The very school serving as a metaphor to her problems would soon be serving as yet another distraction.
"Applejack, aren't you listening?"
"Huh?" Shaking her head, she pulled her gaze away and looked back at her friend, who rolled her eyes. "Sorry, must've spaced out."
"You're impossible," Rarity huffed in exasperation. "I asked if you thought Rainbow Dash will be okay? Being kicked out of the house must be hard, and I know Fluttershy is being a dear by letting her move in, but it must be hard on her. I couldn't imagine having to make it on my own right now."
"Yeah, I couldn't either."
Rarity must have caught the edge in Applejack's voice, since she gave a sideways sympathetic glance. To avoid any tension between them, Applejack decided to answer the question. "Yeah, Dash is tough. She ain't gonna let it beat her." She avoided mentioning how Rainbow Dash almost quit school, since she wasn't sure if Rarity knew, or if Rainbow Dash wanted them to know. "You know why she get kicked out?"
They were pulling into the mall's parking lot now, and the mall traffic was insane, though Applejack wasn't surprised. The last day before school started, lots of students would be either last minute shopping or trying to enjoy their last day of vacation. "From what Fluttershy told me, it's because well...her parents don't agree with her...life choices."
Applejack frowned and had a feeling of what choice exactly. Last semester, Rainbow Dash finally came out as being a lesbian to her parents, and they had fought nearly every day since. Especially with her mother, who particularly didn't settle with the news. Everyone else had known since middle school when she dated Gilda for a while, and it was such a messy breakup that it became the gossip for a long while. Surprisingly it never did make it back to her parents until Rainbow Dash felt it was time to tell them.
"I just don't understand what is the problem," Rarity continued, and furthering confirming Applejack's thoughts. "Love is love, and not everyone is the same, yet everybody seems to think it's the worse that could happen! You should hear the malicious talk behind Rainbow Dash's back. It really irks my nerves, but it isn't lady like to deliver the beating they deserve."
"Eh, she'll be alright," Applejack said with a shrug. Finding a parking spot was proving to be a challenge, and she was convinced Rarity would use all of her gas just to find a spot. "Like I said, she's tough."
Another glance was thrown her way, one that Applejack couldn't quite read, but she didn't comment on it. "So, do you think Flash Sentry and Twilight will fight as much this year?"
Narrowing her eyes, Applejack let out an unhappy grunt. "Flash is a good guy and all, but they ain't no match. I reckon they gonna be fightin' worse 'n ever this year, being senior year and all. Twi don't need that."
"Oh, but they're so cute together...when they're not fighting," Rarity corrected, after seeing Applejack's look of disbelief. "Don't you agree that when they first got together they were just the cutest couple?"
"I guess." Applejack shrugged and continued to scan the parking lot. She almost pointed out an empty lot to Rarity but another car took it before she could say anything. "That don't change the fact that they fight too much now. 'Course I don't know how they were durin' the summer."
"I didn't hear any problems, then again Twilight is very terrible at responding to text messages. Like certain people."
Applejack laughed, knowing that was intended for her. "I don't always keep minutes on my phone, ya know that. Ain't always got the money."
"Perhaps I should start giving you a money card--oh don't give me that look! If you're not going to keep in contact with your friends over the summer, then at least have a phone. I send the most hilarious Snaps and you always seem to miss out. I do believe only Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy regularly keep in contact with me. But at least Rainbow Dash isn't as bad as you or Twilight. I swear I have to come calling myself just to make sure the two of you are alive!"
"Well summer is the harvest season," Applejack said with a shrug. "I'm mighty busy during this time."
"I can imagine. How did Applebucking go? Didn't Apple Bloom help this year?"
"Yeah, she was a good help. We actually managed to get it done pretty early. Ma and Pa would have been proud."
"I'm sure they would have," Rarity replied, smiling. "Ooh, finally a spot."
They were only just able to snag the spot away from another car who almost raced for it. "Well come on then," Rarity announced, opening the door and turning off the car. "Let's get shopping!"

Chapter 7

The crowds threatened to crush Applejack to bits as every student rushed to leave the school. The topic buzzing in every conversation was the weekend, and the plans for it. This year the teachers were brutal, giving all of their students homework in the first week in an effort to prepare student's for the next level, though Applejack was convinced it was to raise the school's rating. Either way, it left Applejack rather unhappy as she tried to plan what her weekend would look like with the new assignments and having to help make cider for the season.
"Hi, A.J!"
Applejack blinked and looked over to see Pinkie Pie bouncing happily beside her. Her eyes sparkled along with her smile that beamed brightly. Pinkie Pie had this way of walking without managing to bump into every student in the corridor, a luck which was not given to Applejack as she performed crazy dance maneuvers to avoid others. "Howdy, Pinkie. Ready for the weekend?"
"Am I ever!" Pinkie exclaimed, adding an extra hop to her bounce. "School is great and everything, but there's so much work involved which isn't very fun at all. It's so much more fun to hang out with friends, don't you think? Well, you work a lot, but you make your work fun but I think that's because you like working on the farm. But you agree that school work isn't all that fun, and Rarity said the same thing and it got me thinking. Besides Twilight, who's weird anyways, who does like school work?"
"Don't reckon a lot do, Pinkie," Applejack replied, turning into a less crowded corridor. Though it was a further walk, Applejack preferred to park her truck near the stadium, far away from the congestion. That way she could leave for the farm a lot earlier than fighting the downtown traffic. It also made it a lot more convenient on practice days.
Pinkie Pie continued alongside her, and Applejack wondered if she was going to follow her to the truck. Not that she minded, since she didn't really have anything else for the evening. No one could really tell with Pinkie Pie though, since she marched to the beat of her own drum. "Exactly!" Pinkie said, carrying on with her previous tangent. "Nobody really likes school work, we just all do it because if we don't graduate we can't really get anywhere. And it made me think. It's a system isn't it? I bet the government is planning to turn us all into mindless zombies so that we just keep doing what they want us to do. It's all part of a bigger plan."
"Have you been watching them conspiracy shows 'gain, Pinkie?" Applejack replied with a chuckle.
"I don't have to! Clearly they are trying to brainwash into thinking that the government will protect us as long as we go to school and learn the things they teach us, and go to college for the things they want us to do. Don't you think it's a little strange that if I want to be a painter or musician I don't get rewarded like a lawyer or a doctor? Why do doctors even charge for taking care of people anyways? Isn't that just the weirdest thing that doctors would charge a super duper lot just to make sure you're alive?"
"Reckon they gotta make a living somehow."
"But why so much? Wouldn't it make a lot more sense for doctors to make it affordable for everyone? I mean, I think it's silly that they charge so much money that people die because they can't afford it. If I was a doctor, I wouldn't charge anything because there's nothing sadder than watching my patients die over something I could have stopped. I think doctors are too powerful also. I bet that doctors and politicians work together to keep the population under control. And lawyers are in on it too. Never trust a lawer."
"You have definitely been watching too many conspiracy shows," Applejack laughed, nearing the end of the corridor. Pinkie Pie babbled on, but Applejack's attention shifted to a tall girl with bright red hair and an angry scowl over her aqua eyes.
"Hey, Sunset Shimmer," Pinkie Pie called out enthusiastically. "I like the gold highlights in your hair. Is that your new look for senior year? Gee, everybody seems to be making themselves super special for senior year!"
"Don't you have somebody else to annoy?" Sunset Shimmer said, her cutting voice having little effect on Pinkie Pie's bubbly personality. "What are you losers doing here?"
"We ain't wanting trouble," Applejack warned, narrowing her eyes and bracing herself. "Just tryin' to get by."
"This is the quickest way to the stadium, silly," Pinkie Pie chimed in. "I mean have you seen the hallways? They are super duper crowded."
Sunset Shimmer snorted, putting a cigarette to her mouth and lighting it. Smoking wasn't allowed in school, but no one dared say anything to her, so she often got away with it. It annoyed Applejack, and she had half a mind to report it to her mother, but didn't want the drama so early in the school year. "Heard that Rainbow Dash quit the team."
"Then y'all heard wrong," Applejack shot back, feeling her temper beginning to rise already.
"Got kicked out of her house too."
"That ain't none of your business."
Sunset Shimmer laughed, and flicked the ash in Applejack's direction. Though her fists tensed up, she didn't make a strike. That would be a very bad start to the year. From one glance at her balled up hands, Sunset Shimmer must have noticed, since she smirked. "It's everyone's business now, Applejack. She's the talk of the school. Everyone knows that her parents made her hit the road because she's a dyke--"
It was only through Pinkie Pie's quick reflexes, or intuitive thinking, that Applejack's fist didn't connect with Sunset Shimmer's face. Glaring in Sunset Shimmer's direction, Applejack struggled against Pinkie Pie's surprisingly strong grip, before finally shouting, "You take that back, ya hear? Take it back!"
Again Sunset Shimmer laughed, before throwing what's left of her cigarette at Applejack. Turning to walk away, she tossed a smug look over her shoulder and said, "Sorry, sunshine, the truth hurts, doesn't it? It's okay, I'm pretty sure your friend could make some money at a strip club or something. Guys just love to see a lesbian in action..."
Once again Pinkie Pie had to hold Applejack back, but there was nothing that could stop the stream of curses. "Why you dirty, no good, pig-shit eating cur! Y'all better get on outta here 'fore I kick your sorry ass all the way down to Canterlot. I ain't afraid of your filthy, rat-piss smellin' self!"
"Such language," Sunset Shimmer replied with a tut. "Guess that's to be expected from a redneck like yourself. Go back to the farm where you belong, cowgirl. You're not wanted here."
Applejack pulled at Pinkie Pie's restraint as Sunset Shimmer sauntered off. "Lemme go, Pinkie, I need to teach that bitch a lesson!"
"Just ignore her, AJ," Pinkie Pie insisted, struggling to keep her back. "Sunset Shimmer is just a meanie head. I bet she likes to kick puppies for fun."
The comment seemed to have stopped Applejack's rage, if only for the sheer absurdity of it. "Yeah, well, I sure as hay won't mind kiking her fun."
"You know what I'd like to do for fun?"
Applejack stopped her struggle and waited for her friend to continue. Seeing as Applejack was no longer fighting, Pinkie Pie finally let her go and stepped in front of the other, smiling once again. "Have a party! Come on, what's better than a We-Survived-the-First-Week-of-School party? I still have some booze from the last party, and I just got paid so we can stop by the store and get some more. What do you say, AJ?"
"How in tarnation are you gonna gather everyone for a party on short notice, Pinkie?"
Placing her hands on her hips, Pinkie Pie rolled her eyes and said, "That's what group messages are for, duh. Come on, silly, we've got a party to throw! First we have to stop at Country Jack's and then we'll swing by Sugarcube Corner and get some snack, because you can't have a party without snacks, and then we'll..."
Applejack allowed Pinkie Pie to drag her off, but Sunset Shimmer's words haunted her. She couldn't help thinking that this was going to be a very rough year for Rainbow Dash, and from the looks of it, all of her friends.

Chapter 8

Dear Ma and Pa
School year's gonna be rough I can already tell. Finding the classes were easy, and I've got some pretty great teahers, but it's the first weekend and I've already got haystacks of homework. I put a lot of it off 'cause you know I gotta keep the farm running, but I'll be darned if I ain't got work up to my ears. Apple Bloom seems to gotten over her scare of school. I hear she shares the class with Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle, which is good I reckon. Being in class with friends sure as hay makes the school year lots easier.
I share two classes with Dash and Flash both, got one with Rarity and Pinkie, one with Shy and Dash, and another with just Pinkie. They ain't assigned seats yet in none of my classes, so we went ahead and sat near each other. I don't know why I got disappointed that I ain't sharin' a class with Twi, 'cause y'all know how smart she is. She in a whole different league than me. I reckon I've only ever shared one class with her in all our schoolin' and that was gym. Did I ever tell y'all how we met? Don't seem like we ever should have, but it was a stroke of luck I'm guessin.
Actually, I'm feeling mighty nostalgic right now, and I reckon I'm gonna just tell y'all how we all became friends, even if y'all know the story. Y'all know how Dash's been my friend since middle school. Since that day we found out we near as fast as each other, we been racin' nonstop and after being rivals so long, we thought it be better if we became friends. Yeah, I thought she was cocksure of herself, strutting 'bout acting like she the best of the best, and she thought I was just some rude ass country bumpkin who have no filter, but when we got past that stage, we became fast friends.
It was through her I met Shy. Sweetest person I ever did see, I took a liking to her when we first met. Thought she was a little flower that I had to protect much like Apple Bloom. Y'all should know that it was kinda Shy's fault that Dash broke up with Gilda, though y'all didn't even know about that. 'Bout them being together. Dash likin' girls I mean. Never mentioned it to y'all 'cause I was afraid y'all wouldn't let me hang out with her anymore. I mean, I don't know how I feel about it, so I guess I just don't really feel anything 'bout it, 'cause it ain't my concern, but I know some people get real mad 'bout it, and I wasn't gonna let y'all be one of them and then I can't be with my friend no more. But I done got started talking 'bout the leaf 'fore I got to the tree. Dash found out that Gilda was bein' real mean to Shy behind her back, and Dash didn't like that much. See, Dash and Shy known each other since kids. I'm thinking they even went to preschool together, that's how long they know each other. When Dash confronted her about it, Gilda got real pissy 'bout it, and damn if the drama didn't last all through middle school. I was mighty glad when Gilda decided to go to Nightmare Academy 'stead of Canterlot High with us 'cause I didn't want that drama following us.
But Shy is prolly still the nicest girl I ever met. She had a bully problem, but Dash and I often stuck up for her. Don't understand how people can be so mean to such a sweet girl like her, but they weren't even the meanest. Her pa as y'all well know was the absolute worst to her. It was prolly the most satisfying thing when I decked her pa on the front porch and took Shy with me. Pa was there, since he drove us, and I know he approved of my actions, even if y'all taught me to respect my elders. But he was actin' a young'un so I treated him a young'un. At least the city allowed her to move to her own place with Lyra given the situation. But Shy's been real fragile since, and I protect her as fiercely as I'd protect my lil sis.
Rares became my friend in eighth grade. That was a rough year for me, y'all should know. I don't know when it became a thing to pick on "rednecks" but whole bunch of kids decided that they don't much like that I worked on a farm. They sure as hell like our apple products though, but that didn't stop 'em from calling me all kinds of slurs. It hurt, but I mostly ignored it. Tried to anyways, but I sure as hell didn't let anyone on that it bothered me. But anyways, there was one day in particular, while in lunch that I was at the table sittin' by myself 'cause Dash was absent. Dash had a whole bunch of fans, almost like her own fan club, but she still sat by me at lunch 'cause she reckoned that I shouldn't be sitting by myself at lunch. 'Specially at the time I didn't have much friends, not that it really bothered me. Farm work kept me busy as y'all know, and I was just fine with just my family. Getting off topic again. Well, Shy wasn't there either, but that's 'cause she didn't much care for being in large group settings, so she stayed in the library to eat or something. These group of kids decided to swarm me then, like a pack of hornets, and were relentless. I just about had a go with all of them, and the only thing that kept my fists still was that y'all been mighty upset if I had.
Then comes Rares and at the time I thought she was just gonna join the group. She obviously had rich parents the way she dressed, and her accent oozed all kinds of proper talk. But would y'all believe she called out the kids on their bullying and told 'em to leave me alone? "What heathens would pick on the people who feed us?" I think were her words. And them kids were mighty intimidated, 'cause y'all know how Rares has a certain way of carrying herself, and sure as fire, they left me alone. Then she sat down at the table with me and had a surprisingly nice conversation, and we just kinda became friends after that. She apparently already knew Shy since the year before after she stopped a group of kids from bullying her as well. Yeah, Rares and I butt heads 'cause we don't exactly agree on everything, but she's still my friend, and I got her back.
Pinkie and I met 'cause of a school project Freshman year. We got paired together in history, and our assignment was to look up our family tree. Y'all remember how big that project was? I mean, we have a mighty big family, and finding them all was harder than trying to catch a slippery pig. But I remember gettin' annoyed 'cause I was paired with Pinkie. She talks a lot and makes random outbursts in class, and I didn't much care for her before, so I tuned her out most of the time. It helped my sanity up until that day, and then it wasn't no short project 'cause we got stuck together for a month. I sure thought it was gonna be the worst month of my life.
I couldn't have been more wrong. Yeah, Pinkie is a little over the top, but turns out she's this real fun person with this absolute determination to make everyone happy. And her memory is incredible. Through half our research, she didn't take notes, and I thought that was gonna be a problem, but nah, she was able to list off everything even a week after the fact. I learned that she moved to Ponyville 'cause her parents thought she would be better off in Canterlot High stead of stayin' on the rock farm, and this was her first year. And she was insanely popular among everyone 'cause hoo nelly does that girl like a party. Apparently one of her first friends was Rares, which struck me by surprise, but Pinkie also knows everyone in town. And I sure do mean everyone.
We never did find out if we were related now I think about it.
Then there's Twi. I also met her freshman year. She had just transferred over from Canterlot Elite School for Gifted Students 'cause her parents thought it would be better for her to go to a public school. She had a real hard time finding friends, and I was one of the first friends she made. Dunno why, but she felt special somehow, 'cause she didn't real act like them snobby know-it-alls. I remember her hopeless look in the cafeteria, and me waving her over to my table. Introduced myself, told her 'bout y'all, and tried to make her feel more welcome. She said I was the first person to even notice her, and we just became friends after that.
The whole group got together 'cause one of Pinkie's parties. It was the first party I ever went to, and first time that I was out late. Had a drink in my hand and kinda just scanned the crowd looking for a familiar face. Mind you, I know quite a few people myself since we ain't never moved, but I'm meaning I was looking for a face I can be social with. Twi was the first person I found, looking just 'bout as awkward as I was. Actually I reckon Pinkie was first, but she was busy welcoming all the guests, so Twi was the first I talked to really. Dash and Shy found us, and Dash challenged me to a drinking contest. First of many, and Dash sure hated losing to me. Rares joined us not too long after, with Pinkie 'side her since apparently Rares was the last person to join the party. Fashionably late I guess is what she'd call it. Well, the six of us had a mighty fun time, and from that night on, we just became the group of friends y'all knew so well. My second family. And that's how I'll always view 'em I guess.
I sure hope they stay in contact after we graduate. I know Twi plans on going to some top college and y'all know 'bout Dash wanting to be a star athlete. Shy's gonna stay in town and be a vet I think, at least that's what she wants to be. Rares wants to go to Manehattan and be one of them fancy fashion designers. And I ain't sure what Pinkie wants. But y'all know me. I'm staying right here at Sweet Apple Acres, 'cause as much as I love my friends, this is my home. And I guess that's what's bothering me and why I feel nostalgic all the sudden. 'Cause it's senior year and I know it just started, but it's really our last year together if y'all go and think 'bout it. And I ain't sure I'm ready to lose 'em to. I know y'all said that the best friends never really leave, but I'm still worried, y'know? I guess y'all right when y'all said I worry too much.
Well, I should prolly be headed off to bed. Got an early start like usual and Pinkie's party today sure did tire me out. 'Sides, it's getting real late.
Miss y'all dearly
Applejack

Author's Notes:

Alright, I seem to be on a roll with this fic so far. Sorry that it took so long to get this moving guys, I really am. And I love the feedback I've been getting, thanks so much. (: Plot keeps moving in the next chapter, and I promise the plot isn't completely Dashie centric, she's just the first of AJ's friends to have majour problems. But I hope you enjoyed it so far~

Chapter 9

Steam and mist from the showers clouded the girls locker rooms. A small lake formed on the floors, seeping into the tiles and threatening to trip any unsuspecting person, though Applejack was too well practiced in keeping a sure footing. It did however manage to get some of the freshman, much to Rainbow Dash's and Applejack's amusement.
"Hey, remember when I fell that one time and sprained my ankle?" Rainbow Dash joked, elbowing Applejack in the side. Both just finished getting dressed and sat next to each other on the bench, putting their shoes on. "Man, was Coach so mad."
"Happened right 'fore a track meet, if I recall correctly," Applejack laughed, tying the laces to her boots. "Almost placed last, thanks to your slip up. No pun intended."
"Awh man, well at least you were able to keep us in the running since you carried us to second place." Now the two of them gathered their things from the lockers and slung their packs over their shoulders in very similar fashions. Practice had been a hard one, but everybody left it feeling confident in their abilities and almost visualising the championship trophy already.
"Shucks, Dash, you given me too much credit," Applejack replied humbly, shrugging her shoulders. "It was a team effort after all."
"Oh, come on, you're the second best runner in our team. You and I? We scream 'awesome' just entering the field. This time we're definitely going to get the championship, you just watch."
"Dunno if I'm your second best anymore," Applejack corrected, with a glance at one of the rookies. "That girl, Lightning Dust? I reckon she almost as fast you."
"Pshh, nobody is as fast as I am, AJ, please. I am the fastest runner in all of Ponyville. Hell, I bet I'm the fastest in all of Equestria. If the Wonderbolts don't pick me out, they don't know what they're missing!"
"Couldn't agree more, pal," Applejack laughed, leading the way out of the locker room. The sun was beginning to set, a testimony to the long practice they just endured. It had been this way for a little more than a month as Coach Spitfire and her crew prepared the team for the season, even though the first track meet was still weeks away.
Sunset Shimmer had been right. The school loved talking about Rainbow Dash. Anytime she saw her friend, someone had a snarky comment to deliver, which irritated Applejack. Back in middle school, this would have resulted in an immediate fight, since Rainbow Dash was known to take action into her own hands, but oddly enough this time around Rainbow Dash was quiet. Not that she was shy and meek, but she walked down the halls with her chin up in a certain defiance that Applejack admired. This time around Rainbow Dash was fighting in a silent protest, and when the school realised they weren't going to get anything out of her, she no longer became a hot topic. There was still the occasional slur in their direction, but to Applejack's relief, it was nowhere near as bad as it was before.
"So heard anything from the egghead?" Rainbow Dash asked, breaking her thoughts.
"Nah, reckon she's busy studying. I see her at lunch though, 'cause we share a luch together. Stressed 'bout school as usual."
"Well that solves that mystery. We were wondering if you two had lunch together, or if you got unlucky with the lonely lunch."
"Y'all tellin' me that y'all all share lunch?"
A grin formed on Rainbow Dash's face. "Yup! Flash, Pinkie, Rarity, Flutters and myself. You and Twilight are the only ones who don't share with us and we were wondering if you two got split up or shared it together. Guess Flash owes me A La Carte next lunch. Awh yeah."
"I hope you stopped gambling 'gainst Pinkie," Applejack laughed.
"Are you kidding me? She's got that freaky Pinkie Sense going on, I learned my lesson already."
There was a time where Rainbow Dash was determined that Pinkie Pie couldn't possibly be always right. The end result had Rainbow Dash doing all kinds of embarassing acts at different public areas, or owing Pinkie Pie a lot of money which Rainbow Dash had only recently managed to pay off. Still it was an amusing time, particularly when Rainbow Dash had to perform one of Pinkie Pie's compositions in the middle of the cafeteria.
"Why you ask about Twi?" Applejack asked suddenly.
"Well, we haven't heard from her in a while. Apparently she's barely even paid attention to Flash again, and I can tell he's getting irritated. Won't be much longer before there's a big blow up, and with the Fall Formal, I don't know if that's a good idea."
"She prolly done got herself worked up again," Applejack replied shaking her head, though she was wary about the implications. It was too early in the year to start their bickering, and Applejack didn't want to have Twilight fall apart before they even began midterms. "I'll talk to her. She'll listen to me."
"You'll probably find her at the library. I swear she might as well just live there at this point. She's taken egghead to a whole new level."
"Well, guess I'm headed that way then," Applejack replied, laughing at the partial truth in Rainbow Dash's statement. Once Twilight began her studies, she took them very seriously. She even had a favourite study room that no one entered since she all but claimed it. "Don't really need to take the truck. Save a little gas and leave it here. Not like I mind walking."
"You know, I'm headed that way myself. Gonna meet up with Flutters at Sugarcube Corner so I can show her my awesome new trick." Applejack looked past Rainbow Dash's shoulder and realised that she had her skateboard. How Applejack failed to notice this before, she didn't know. "Maybe when you finish talking with Twilight you can convince her to join up with us."
"Maybe," Applejack said with a shrug. "I also gotta run to the pharmacy and pick up Granny's meds, so I prolly ain't gonna join y'all."
"Awh man, that's a bummer. So I guess I can't show you my trick then. I promise you it's super cool. How is Granny doing, by the way?"
"Don't wanna talk 'bout it," Applejack answered curtly.
Rainbow Dash threw a look in her direction which Applejack staunchly ignored. "That bad?"
Clenching her jaw and hissing through gritted teeth, Applejack repeated, "I said I don't wanna talk 'bout it."
"Alright, alright, it's cool, sorry. Won't mention it again." The parking lot came into view and Rainbow Dash's flashy car looked odd next to Applejack's beat up truck. "Hey, wanna lift? I know you said that you don't mind the walk, but I don't mind giving you a ride, you know. Like I said, we're headed the same way."
"Nah, I'm good, Dash. Y'all go on ahead."
"It'll save you some time."
"You calling me slow?"
"Come on, AJ, quit being stubborn," Rainbow Dash scolded, rolling her eyes. "I may not be as touchy feely as Flutters, but even I can see the worry all over your face. Lemme give you a ride. Or at least give you gas money."
"Dash, you ain't even got money for yourself," Applejack shot back, narrowing her eyes at her friend. "You ain't got a job. Speaking of, ain't you living with Shy? How y'all keeping up with the rent?"
"Are you saying I'm not pulling my weight?" The indignant look that Rainbow Dash threw at her could have left a normal person shamed, but Applejack was too concerned to be affected. "I wouldn't make Flutters do all the work, come on, AJ. I've got money, don't worry."
"How're you getting it?"
Rainbow Dash shrugged, and kicked a stone. The cars were getting closer, and Applejack didn't miss how Rainbow Dash was trying to lead her closer to them. "Well, every weekend there's a race."
At the mention of "race," Applejack stiffened. "What kind of race?"
"Street racing."
This time Applejack completely stopped, and glared at Rainbow Dash. "Are y'all insane? Dash, what if you get caught? You'll get kicked off the team! Then say bye bye to your scholarship. And all them dreams can just go in a nice lil package with that scholarship that you might as well send off to Saddle Arabia 'cause ain't no one gonna let you be an athlete with a criminal background."
"That's not true," Rainbow Dash shot back. "Plenty of athletes have had backgrounds but they're too awesome that they just get pardoned. Besides, I only race in the ones I won't get caught and that I'll win for sure."
"And how you supposing you know?"
"Pinkie."
At the mention of Pinkie Pie, Applejack became a little less guarded, though she still continued to worry. Though it was true that their friend had an incredible, almost unnatural ability to predict events, she still couldn't help but worry. "And what if Pinkie ain't right?"
"Come on, AJ, even you said that Pinkie is the closest thing to psychic we have. Her freaky ability has helped me get money since our Sophomore year!"
"You telling me y'all have been doing this for two years?" Applejack couldn't believe what she heard and gave her a face mixed between disapproval and disbelief.
Rainbow Dash bit hard on her bottom lip, but it still didn't stop the smile from growing all across her face. Doubling over, Rainbow Dash clutched her stomach with one hand and tried miserably to hold back her laughter with the other hand.
"I don't see what's so funny about this," Applejack scolded, glaring at her friend.
Now Rainbow Dash did nothing to hold back the laughter and nearly fell on to the pavement as she expressed her merriment. Wiping tears from her eyes, she fought hard to stop the laughter long enough to say, "You should see your face!"
"Why in tarnation are you going on like that, Dash? This is serious!"
"I can't believe you fell for that, AJ!" A flash of irritation crawled up Applejack as she realised that Rainbow Dash wasn't serious. "Awh man, out of everybody, you fell for it! This is priceless! Wait until I tell Pinkie!"
"Damnit Dash, I reserve the right to kick your ass," Applejack responded, but even as she said it, she smiled. "Next time one of them boys give you trouble, I'm gonna let them, think I won't."
"So worth it ."
The two of them finally made it to their cars, and Rainbow Dash stopped at hers, still chuckling. Applejack rolled her eyes and made as if to keep going, but Rainbow Dash said, "Come on, AJ. If you don't get in the car, I'll hit you."
"You won't."
"Yeah I will."
"You won't, 'cause you don't like losing, and you hurt me you'll be hard pressed to find another runner to replace me."
Stopping to think about it for a few seconds, Rainbow Dash grinned and said, "I'll have Lightning Dust replace you. You said she's fast."
With a snort, Applejack raised an eyebrow at Rainbow Dash. "You gonna do me dirty?"
"Just get in the car already and we won't have to find out."
"Well I reckon I will since I don't fancy being hurt." Applejack finally doubled back and entered the car. As she did, her phone fell out of her pocket and she stooped to pick it up, noticing that there were two new messages. After settling in the car and putting on her seat belt, she checked them; one of them came from Big Mac, saying he already visited the pharmacy so she didn't need to, and the other from Flash Sentry asking for the homework assignment.
"You remember what the homework assignment was?" Applejack asked just as Rainbow Dash pulled out of the parking lot. "I can't remember for the life of me."
"I dunno, AJ," Rainbow Dash answered with a shrug. "I don't pay attention to that boring stuff. Why?"
"You should. Don't you wanna stay on the team?" Applejack scolded, though she felt guilt creeping on her. Her own grades were slipping due to her lack of turning in homework assignment, and if she let anybody know, she wouldn't hear the end of it.
"What, you gonna lecture me like Twilight now?"
"Nope," Applejack responded, shrugging as well. "Just saying."
"Well, you don't have to. Twilight helps me study for the tests like she usually does, and I pay for some kid to do my homework so I don't fail and I don't get kicked off the team. Got it covered."
Though she wasn't entirely sure if she agreed with the methods, she focused on something else that Rainbow Dash said. "So, you never did answer my question. How do you get the money to help Fluttershy?"
"My grandpa."
Her grandfather was a wealthy business owner in Cloudsdale and the reason Rainbow Dash had the car she did, amongst other things. Every so often he would come to visit Ponyville, especially during the winter, but because he didn't exactly agree with her parents, he always moved back to Cloudsdale.
"So he ain't unhappy about..."
"No, no, he's totally cool with it," Rainbow Dash answered waving a hand in her direction. "Which is better than what a lot of people say over here. But small town, big problems, huh? My grandpa is literally the best though. He even offered to take me in at his house when he heard what my parents did."
"Why didn't you, if you don't mind me asking?"
"I didn't want to quit the team."
"But Dash you about quit school!"
"I know," Rainbow Dash answered exasperated. "But I didn't want to choose between going to school or living with my grandpa in Cloudsdale. So I tried to make it on my own, but you and Flutters changed my mind. And I'm glad. My grandpa helps me pay the rent now, so Flutters doesn't have to keep both jobs anymore, and he said that even if I don't get a scholarship, which I will because I'm too awesome not to get a scholarship, he'll pay for my schooling."
"Well that's great to hear, Dash. Looks like things really are looking up for you."
"Yeah. That's why I'm not too worried about what the kids at school have to say. They're all losers, and they'll be cheering my name in the future and wishing they hadn't messed with me before."
"Have to say, you sure came a long way since middle school."
"Yeah, for starters, I'm more awesome. I'm cooler than all of them and they just haven't realised it yet, so I'm not going to let them get to me."
"That's the spirit, Dash," Applejack said with a grin, punching her friend lightly on the shoulder. Downtown Ponyville was coming into sight, and pretty soon they would be at the library. "You sure Twi's gonna be here?"
"Like I said, she basically lives here," Rainbow Dash answered, rolling her eyes. "You could try texting her though."
"Ain't got that many minutes left."
"Seriously? Okay, hang on." Rainbow Dash pulled out her phone and unlocked the screen, going to the messages section. In that instant, Applejack snatched the phone out of her hand. "Hey, what gives?"
"You know how I feel about texting and driving, Dash!"
"Fine, then you send her the message."
"If it means I won't be the next roadkill, then I will."
"You've been hanging around Rarity too long. You're getting as dramatic as she is."
"Am not."
"Are too."
"Am not, so there!"
"Are too so there yourself!"
"Just focus on the road, dang nabbit," Applejack argued while trying to figure out Rainbow Dash's phone. It was one of the newer models, a smart phone as they were called, and navigating around it was becoming quite a challenge for her. Still, she finally found where she needed to go, and grinned that Rainbow Dash had Twilight listed as "Egghead."
By the time that Applejack sent the message, Rainbow Dash announced, "We're here!"
"Well shoot, I just sent the darn thing."
"Now my fault you're slow," Rainbow Dash said with a smirk.
"Second time you called me slow today," Applejack warned, though she had a grin on as well. "Remember, I still reserve the right to kick your ass."
"Well kick it hard then," Rainbow Dash shot back, chuckling. "I might like it, you know."
"You dirty dog." Opening the door, Applejack started to get out of the car. "Well, Big Mac said that he already went to the pharmacy so maybe I will stop by after, since tomorrow's the weekend."
"Sounds like a plan. Good luck talking to Twilight, pal."
"She ain't that difficult."
"You kidding me? She's almost as stubborn as you are! Anyways, I shouldn't keep Flutters waiting. Catch you later, AJ."
"See ya, Dash," she said, then shut the door and headed in the direction of the library.

Chapter 10

Considering this is the school cafeteria, the food wasn't that bad today. Only because it was Taco Day, the only day of the week that every high school student in Canterlot High actually gets in line to eat. As always, Applejack and Twilight had planned for it in advance, therefore were already sitting at their usual table eating by the time the line really started forming. In fact, the pair of them had already finished eating and were debating going to get seconds, though both knew the odds of seconds were slim to none.
"The girls are telling me they still ain't seen you much, Twi," Applejack started, kicking back and tossing an apple in the air repeatedly. "Any reason you ain't listening?"
"I find it highly peculiar that you are the one lecturing me when we hardly see you either," Twilight laughed, pushing her tray aside and reaching into her bag.
"Difference is I get real busy while you're just fake busy," Applejack said, raising an eyebrow as Twilight pulled out a book, index cards, and pen.
Twilight stopped what she was doing and looked up at Applejack, her brow furrowed. "Excuse me?"
"What I'm saying is, I got a farm to keep up with, a family business to keep going, a team to race for, and school on top of all that. You just got school, Twi. You ain't even got a job."
"But I have to keep up with my academics or I could fail. Besides, I'm also the class president, so I have to organise committees for our class and organise the school dances and other fundraising projects. So I basically have a job in just that alone!"
"I ain't tryna offend," Applejack eased, grinning at Twilight's hardened scowl. "But Twilight, you're the smartest girl I know. You ain't gonna fail by a long shot. I reckon you have all those textbooks memorised, or darn well close."
"That doesn't mean I should ease off on studying," Twilight argued, organising the table in a way so she could make it her study area. Applejack rolled her eyes and continued tossing the apple as she watched. "If I allow myself to slip even once, it could lead to me getting accustomed to slipping and then it will become habitual and I'll continually make excuses as to why it's okay not to do this one assignment then next thing you know I fail the class, and I'll have to go to summer school."
"Twi, what's got you so worked up?"
"I'm just trying to focus on school, Applejack," Twilight insisted, avoiding her gaze by focusing on the text book.
Applejack straightened up, lowering her feet back on the floor, then reached over and closed Twilight's book. Twilight looked up at her then, violet eyes indignant but also hiding something else that Applejack caught. "You only get like this when something's got you worked up. What is it?"
"Nothing's got me 'worked up.' I told you, I don't want to fail senior year because this is our last chance to really prove ourselves to colleges."
"Twi, you told me last year that colleges look more at previous years than senior year, so I ain't buying it 'cause you've been valedictorian three years running. Something's got you worked up that you're tryna avoid."
Instead of saying anything, Twilight stubbornly remained quiet and shuffled her index cards as a distraction. As she did this, Applejack pondered all of the possibilities in her mind, now that she knew she was onto something. Something she had learned long ago with Twilight was to "listen between the lines" which also meant listening to what wasn't there.
"I noticed you didn't mention Flash in your argument."
Twilight faltered, letting the index cards drop back onto the table in a haphazard pile. Though she still refused to answer, Applejack knew she found the problem.
"Y'all arguing again?"
"I hate it when you do this," Twilight murmured.
Tilting her head in curiousity, Applejack asked, "Do what now?"
"Get inside my head!" Crossing her arms against her chest, Twilight leaned back in the chair and almost glared at Applejack. "No one else is capable of it, not even Fluttershy who is extremely perceptive."
"So you're saying I'm right?" Applejack continued, not allowing Twilight to change the subject.
While Twilight fell silent, the rest of the cafeteria droned on. Trays were pushed to the side, and most everyone had finished their food. Chatter between everybody fell into one dull thrum of the cafeteria with the occasional clinking of trays and pings of laughter. Applejack bit into the apple as she waited patiently, the tart sweetness filling her mouth and rolling over her tongue. Apples were still her favourite treat, even if she grew up around them, and perhaps because she grew up around them. Apples were something she knew very well, better than people. Watching Twilight reshuffle her index cards again, Applejack tried to figure out the best way to get her to talk. With Rainbow Dash it was easier; when she got upset, she let the world know. When she got real upset, she let Applejack know. Either way, it wasn't hard to get her to talk.
Twilight was a different story. Weedling the truth out of her was as hard as coralling the cattle on foot. It was clear that Flash Sentry was the reason she's upset, but unless she knew why they were arguing, she couldn't help her. Taking another bite of the apple, she kicked back once again and tipped her hat over her eyes. "Well, Twi, girls sure do miss you. And so do I. Don't know what's going on between you and Flash, but it ain't like you to forget about us. Sure hope you ain't going back to your Freshman self."
"Applejack, it's not like that."
"Mhm."
"Fine. It's just...Principal Celestia?"
Applejack lowered her feet and started to straighten out her hat. "What in the hay does Principal Celestia have to do with...well howdy there, Principal," she corrected upon sight of her. "Guess you need to see Twi? Well don't let me stop you."
"Actually, Applejack, I'm here for you." Principal Celestia's solemn face sent spikes of anxiety racing through Applejack's blood, and she narrowed her eyes. "Your brother is here to pick you up. Twilight...perhaps you should go with her."
"Is everything okay?" Twilight asked, but she had already begun gathering all of her stuff. For Applejack it was much easier, since she only had to sling on her backpack.
"I'm afraid you'll have to see for yourself. I'll cover for your absences in your other classes, but you best hurry."
Applejack didn't need anymore urging beyond that. She already had a sinking feeling, and bolted up out of her seat, with Twilight scrambling to catch up with her. Some of the students gave her odd looks as she passed by, but she ignored them as she made her exit out of the cafeteria, down the hall ways, and towards the office. None of the teachers made an effort to stop her, which only worried her further, and when she saw her brother standing near the school exit she made an undignified dash towards him.
"Granny?" Applejack asked, dreading the answer she already knew.
"Eeyup."