Immovable

by Purplescales42

First published 3rd of May, 2014

It takes great strength and resolve to stand for your beliefs. But what happens when your resolve drives away those you love?

A mysterious stallion named Iron Ore wanders into Ponyville with serious injuries from Timberwolves. After helping pay for his medical bills, Applejack hires Iron to work for her family on the farm. She soon finds that Iron is hiding secrets from his past. What caused Iron to wander from his home and why is he so determined to hide it from everypony?

It takes strength and resolve to stand up for what you believe on and Iron has no shortage of either. However, what happens when your resolve drives a wedge between you and those that you care about?

And what does it take to get them back?

Timberwolves

Iron slowly opened his right eye. He lifted his head up from the saddlebag he was using as a makeshift pillow and adjusted the eyepatch over his left eye. As his vision cleared, he looked around the cave he was sleeping in. Out of the cave's entrance awaited the Everfree Forest. He gave a loud yawn before getting up and adjusting the cloak he was wearing before putting on his saddlebag and leaving the cave.

It was daytime. At least he thought it was. Hard to tell sometimes in the Everfree. He looked up to see if he could spot any sunlight or the sky. There was only just enough light for him to see his way around. Must have been early. He yawned again.

“I really need to start getting a full night’s sleep,” he mumbled to himself.

As he hiked through the forest, his stomach started growling in demand for food. Iron only gave an annoyed grunt in response. He examined his surroundings to see if there was anything edible he could scrounge up.

“Nothing. Typical.”

It looked like he’d have to go hungry one more day. Unsatisfied with that option, he stopped and pulled a map out of his saddlebag and looked it over. He felt a shimmer of hope when he spotted a small town called Ponyville that seemed to be close to where he was. Maybe his luck might actually change today.

Suddenly, Iron heard a rustling from somewhere in the woods. He put his map away and continued his trek through the forest at a quicker pace. The rustling seemed to follow him. It also sounded like it was getting louder and multiplying. He was being followed. Iron desperately hoped that it wasn't what he thought it was. As if in response to his thoughts, he caught the scent of what smelled like rotten wood.

“Timberwolves,” he growled.

Immediately, Iron broke into a gallop. The Timberwolves picked up their pace so as not to lose their prey. Iron knew he wouldn't be able to keep this up for long. He hadn't eaten or slept properly in days. He came to an abrupt halt and turned to face his enemies. If he was going to tire himself out, he was going to do it fighting.

Three Timberwolves jumped out form the shadows surrounding him. Iron could hear one snarling behind him. There was another to his right and one more to the left, however, he could only see the one to his right. The beasts howled in an attempt to intimidate their prey. Iron only smirked. He was almost as big as they were.

“If you want breakfast, you’ll have to work for it,” he taunted. Immediately, they all jumped him. Iron ducked causing them to crash into each other. Two of them shattered immediately, but the third one was still standing.

“Oh, you’re a tough one aren’t you?” said Iron, his smile only get wider. The Timberwolf charged at him at swiped at Iron with its claws. The stallion quickly stepped to the left causing his foe to run past him. Bringing up both hind legs, Iron bucked the beast as hard as he could sending it into a tree. Iron chuckled as he turned to face it.

“What? Is that-AAAAAAHHHH!” He was interrupted by the two other reconstructed Timberwolves. One of them dug its claws into his left side while the other bit into his neck. Both managed to pin him down. The third Timberwolf got back up and slowly approached its prey.

“No!” growled Iron. “I’m not losing to some cheap firewood!” He reared up onto his hind legs bringing himself to his full height knocking off the two Timberwolves pinning him down. The third one swiped at Iron managing to scratch his chest. The adrenaline fueled stallion wasn’t even phased as he brought his forehooves down on his foe finally crushing it. The last two came from behind but one final buck made short work of them

It was the perfect time to escape. Iron made a mad dash through the forest ignoring the pain of his injuries. He hoped that he was heading in the right direction for Ponyville and hoped even more that the Timberwolves were slow to put themselves back together.

So much for being lucky.

***

It was about noon in Ponyville. Everypony was about their daily activities. One of these ponies was an orange, Stetson hat wearing mare named Applejack. She had brought some of her apples to sell in the marketplace. Business was steady today much to her delight. She also took notice of how calm everything seemed to be. It was a fairly uneventful day which was unusual for her. Most of her days seemed to involve getting caught up in some crazy antics or adventures with her friends, but today was actually quite calm. Applejack had to admit that she enjoyed the change of pace. As much fun as she had with her friends, she enjoyed a dull day every once in a while.

After about a couple hours, Applejack decided to take a break. She closed up her stand and headed over to Sugarcube Corner to get a snack and maybe see her friend, Pinkie Pie. As she made her way through the town, she looked off in the distance and saw a cloaked figure approaching the town. At first she thought it might have been Zecora since it was coming from the direction of the Everfree Forest. However, as the figure approached, she noticed it was too big to be the rhyming zebra. Never one to be inhospitable to newcomers, Applejack made her way to the cloaked figure.

“Howdy, stranger,” she greeted. “New around here?” She looked the pony over. He was an Earth pony stallion and a big one at that, maybe even taller than Big Macintosh. He was wearing a dark blue cloak and carried a dark brown saddlebag. His coat was a dull gray color, his mane and tail were maroon colored and cut short, and he had black hooves. What caught her attention however were his eyes. His right eye was a nice shade of purple but the left one was covered by an eyepatch. Suddenly, she noticed the tattered cloak and claw marks on this body. Blood was still dripping from his wounds. “Wh-what happened to ya?!” The stallion didn't answer as he began to waver and finally fall to the ground with a loud thud. Applejack just stood there in surprise for a moment before getting her bearings. “Somepony get over here and help me!” she shouted.

***

A couple hours later, Iron found himself waking up in a hospital. His vision was blurry as he looked around the room. He saw his cloak and bag sitting on a chair next to his bed, but what made him stop and concentrate was an orange mare standing at the foot of his bed. He stared at her as his vision came into focus.

“. . .okay there. . .” he heard her speak. His hearing was trying to come back to him as well. “. . .some nasty wounds,” she said. Finally, she came into focus. “Hey, can you hear me?” she asked.

“Y-Yeah,” he replied. The mare smiled.

“Glad to hear it,” she said relieved. “My name’s Applejack. Mind tellin’ me who you are and why exactly you came into town all beat up?” Iron moved the covers that were draped over him and saw the bandages wrapped around his barrel, chest, and neck. Some blood stains were seeping through where his wounds were.

“I ran into some Timberwolves,” explained Iron. “I had to defend myself.”

“Mighty risky,” said Applejack. “Y’all are lucky that you just ended up with a few scratches.”

“I left them in worse shape.” Iron gave her a cocky smirk. Applejack chuckled and smiled back.

“Ah’d think so,” she said. “Big ol’ stallion like you don’t seem too likely to be beaten by some walkin’ kindlin.’” Her expression went a little more serious. “Ya still haven’t given me a name though, partner.”

“Oh, I’m sorry. My name is Iron Ore. You can call me ‘Iron’ though.”

“Iron?” Apple repeated. Iron nodded. The cowpony looked the strange stallion over noticing his eye in particular.

“Problem, Miss Applejack?”

“Huh? Oh, Ah’m sorry,” she apologized with a nervous smile. “But do you mind my askin’ about. . .” She pointed to her left eye. Iron sighed.

“It happened a while ago. I’d rather not talk about it.”

“Um, alright. Can I ask where you’re from?” asked Applejack. Iron shook his head.

“No,” he said bluntly. Applejack raised a brow.

“Yer just full of secrets now aren’t ya?”

“I know,” said Iron looking down solemnly. He looked at his wounds then back at Applejack. “How long am I going to be here for?”

“A few days I think,” Applejack informed him. Iron leaned back in his bed and huffed.

“Well, that’s just perfect. I have to figure out a way to pay for this.”

“I can help,” offered Applejack.

“What?” asked Iron sitting up too fast. He winced as his wounds protested the sudden movement.

“Ya alright?”

“Yes, I’m fine,” he assured as he gently rubbed the wounds. “But I can’t let you pay for my stay here, Miss Applejack. Kind as the offer is it wouldn't feel right.”

“Glad you feel that way,” said Applejack with a smirk. “I wasn’t plann’ on givin’ you the money for free. My family owns a farm and we can always use some extra help. If yer interested.” Iron sighed and leaned back in bed again.

“Well,” he said, “I don’t have much choice do I? It’s not like I was going anywhere in particular.”

“Whaddya mean?” asked Applejack raising a brow.

“Nothing.” He extended a hoof to her. “Miss Applejack, you have yourself a deal.” Applejack smiled and shook his hoof.

“Alright then, but enough of the ‘Miss’ nonsense,” she told him. “Just call me Applejack.”

“Yes, Ma’am.”

Author's Notes:

So this is my first FiM fanfic. Gotta say I'm kind of nervous about how this will be received but I won't know until I try. Anyway, I accept any and all criticism. Feel free to tell me what's on your mind. I hope you enjoyed and thanks for reading.

Meet the Family

A week later, Applejack was leading Iron Ore down the path to Sweet Apple Acres. He had never seen so many apples before. The two stopped on a hill overlooking the farm.

“This is the place?” asked Iron. Applejack nodded.

“Yep. Home sweet home.” She started heading for the house. “C’mon, the family’s anxious to meet ya.” Iron followed the mare to the farm. As they approached, a small yellow filly with a bow in her mane and a brown dog ran out of the house and up to the two.

“Hey, Sis!” greeted the filly enthusiastically. She looked at Iron almost straining her neck to get a look at his face. “Is this the pony you were talkin’ about?”

“This is him,” confirmed Applejack. “His name’s Iron Ore.”

“Howdy, Iron Ore! I’m Apple Bloom!” greeted the filly. “And this here is Winona.” The dog barked a greeting. Iron smiled a little and nodded.

“Pleasure to meet you, Miss Apple Bloom,” he greeted. Apple Bloom giggled at being called ‘Miss.’ Iron patted Winona on the head.

"That's a cool patch ya have there, Iron," observed Apple Bloom. "Are ya'll a pirate or somethin'?"

"Not exactly," said Iron with a chuckle. "I don't do well in boats. I get seasick."

"Well, if yer not a pirate then why's yer eye all-"

“Alright, Missy," interrupted Applejack, "leave the poor stallion be. Ain’t there something you need to be doin’?” The filly gasped as she recalled something.

“Oh, yer right!” she shouted. “I’m late for a Crusaders meeting! Bye!” She ran off with Winona leaving the two adults.

“Crusaders?” asked Iron.

“Don’t worry about it,” said Applejack. "Sorry about her. She gets a little nosey sometimes. She don't mean no harm though."

"It's fine," Iron assured her. I'd be more surprised if she didn't ask really. Kids are always asking me about it." Applejack nodded in understanding.Finally, the two reached the house.

“Come on in," said Applejack as the two entered. Iron looked around at the humble abode. It was simplistic but somehow charming at the same time. "Granny, we're home," announced Applejack. "Granny?"

“Ima comin’, Missy, hold on,” came a voice from the kitchen. It was followed by an old green mare walking into the living room. She stopped in front of Iron and looked him over. “So, you must be Iron Ore then?”

“Yes, Ma'am," said Iron politely. "I appreciate your family helping me like this."

“Think nothin' of it young feller,” she said with a warm smile. “Why don’t ya get yerself settled in? Applejack can show ya up t’ yer room.”

“Thank you, Ma’am.” Iron and Applejack started to head to the stairs when Granny noticed Iron’s torn cloak.

I can fix that nice cloak of yers later if you like,” she offered. Iron looked at his cloak.

“Um. . .perhaps later,” he said . Granny nodded and went back into the kitchen. Applejack took Iron upstairs to a spare bedroom. There was a bed, closet, dresser drawers, and a window.

“This is where you’ll be stayin,’” said Applejack. “Ya’ll start work tomorrow. Fer now, just get settled in. Iron walked into the room and tossed his bag by the drawers. “Will this do?” Iron looked back at her and nodded.

“It will. Thank you,” he said with a small smile. Applejack smiled back at him.

“Well, get yer stuff arranged,” she told him. “I’ll come get ya when dinner’s ready.”

“Mhm,” grunted Iron as he took his cloak off letting the mare finally see his Cutie Mark: a snowcapped mountain. She caught herself staring and left.

“See ya in a bit,” she shouted back to him. Iron didn't answer as he hung his cloak up in the closet. He started to consider letting Granny Smith repair it, but it didn't seem right to let the people he owed do anything more for him than was required. He decided to crash on the bed and get a little rest. The bed was comfy but a little small forcing him to curl his legs up some so he would fit. In a few moments, he had drifted off into a comfortable sleep.

***

Two hours later, Iron was still asleep. It was getting close to dinner and Applejack decided to go wake him up. As she approached his room, she could hear the sound of snoring through his door. “As if Big Mac weren't bad enough,” she muttered under her breath. She opened the door and saw Iron laying on the bed with his back facing her. “Iron.”

No response.

“Iron!” she said a little louder.

He shifted a bit but didn’t wake up.

“IRON ORE!” shouted Applejack.

“Ah!” shouted Iron as he sat up and looked around the room. He saw Applejack standing in the doorway giving him an annoyed stare.

“Y’all sure are a sound sleeper,” she told him

“Sorry,” Iron apologized as he got out of bed and stretched. “That’s probably the best sleep I’ve had in a while. Guess I was more tired than I thought. How long was I out?”

“Couple hours,” said Applejack. “Ah’d have left ya there but dinner’s all ready. If’n ya want to sleep a little more that’s fine.” Iron’s stomach growled.

“Actually, dinner sounds pretty good,” he admitted. The two headed downstairs and into the living room where Iron saw Apple Bloom, Winona, Granny Smith and a large crimson colored stallion.

"Hey, Iron," greeted Apple Bloom happily.

"Evening," Iron replied.

"Iron, Ah don't think you've met by brother yet," said Applejack gesturing a hoof to the stallion. The crimson stallion got up from his seat on the couch and stood in front of him as the two sized each other up. Applejack was finally able to get a side-by-side comparison of the two and was surprised to find out Iron was bigger than Big Mac. Actually, Iron at least half a foot taller and a little bulkier too. This didn't seem to faze Big Mac in the slightest though as he and Iron looked each other over with hard glares.

“. . .”

“. . .”

“Applejack’s brother, huh?”

“Eeyup.”

“Big Macintosh, right?”

“Eeyup. Yer the new farm hand?”

“Mhm.”

“Iron Ore was it?”

“Mhm.”

“. . .”

“. . .”

“. . .”

“Well, good chat,” said Iron happily. Big Mac smiled and nodded.

“Eeyup. Pleasure meetin' ya.” The two stallions headed into the kitchen.

“What just happened?” asked Apple Bloom confused.

“Who knows, Sis,” said Applejack with a shrug. “Boys are weird.”

***

Dinner was a little awkward. Iron barely spoke outside of what his duties would be around the farm. Apple Bloom and Granny Smith both asked about where he came from but Iron only deflected with brief vague answers. Finally, he excused himself from the table leaving the Apples to themselves. He went outside to wander around the orchard to try and get familiar with it. The sun was starting to set as he found a hill that had a nice view of the property. He sat down and decided to watch the sunset.

“Woof!” barked Winona as she walked up to him.

“Come to keep me company?” asked Iron as he scratched the dog’s ears.

“Actually, we came to make sure ya didn’t get yerself lost,” answered a voice to his left. Iron jumped a bit and saw Applejack approach. “Ah’m sorry. Ah didn’t mean to startle ya. Forgot yer blind in that eye.”

“It’s fine,” Iron assured her. “I'm just looking around. Is that alright?”

“Sure,” said Applejack as she came around and sat to his right. “Picked a good spot here," she told him. "Ah used to watch the sunset out here with my folks sometimes.”

“If you don’t mind my asking, where are your parents? Do they not live with you?” Applejack’s face went solemn as she looked at the ground.

“They, um, aren’t around anymore,” she explained.

“Oh,” said Iron feeling like an idiot. “I’m sorry.”

“It’s all right,” said Applejack looking up and becoming cheery again. “So what do you think of the farm.”

“You have a beautiful piece of land,” said Iron. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many types of apples before.” Applejack chuckled. “Your family is really nice too. If the rest of the Ponyville’s citizens are as nice, I might actually think about staying.”

“That’s mighty kind of ya to say.” It was quiet for a moment as Applejack thought of how to ask her next question. “So, when ya say ya might stay in Ponyville. Are ya imlpyin’ you ain’t got a home?” Iron’s brows furrowed.

“More or less,” he said. Applejack nodded not knowing what to say next. “I know I’m keeping a lot of secrets,” Iron began, “but I’m not hiding anything that’ll hurt your family, I promise. I’ve just got a lot of personal baggage that I’m just trying to get rid of.”

“Fair enough. I wasn’t suspicious of ya or anythin.’ It’s just my family are very open with folk. Not too used to a feller keepin’ a lot of secrets. But we won’t pry or nothin’ if’n you want to keep it to yerself.”

“I appreciate that, Applejack. “And don’t worry. My personal issues won’t affect my work.”

“I’ll hold ya to that.” She stood up and stretched her legs. “Now come on. It’s gonna get late soon and we like to get an early start on chores.” Iron nodded and stood up. He took one last look at the sunset before following Applejack back to the house. In his heart he hoped that the memories that burdened him would finally go away, but his head told him he knew better.

Life was never going to be that easy.

Author's Notes:

So, here's chapter two. I hope you all liked it and thanks for reading it. Again, feel free to leave and tips, criticisms, or mistakes you noticed. I really appreciate getting feedback from my readers.

Painting the Barn

It was late at night when Applejack woke up to what she thought was moaning. She got out of bed and left her room. She followed the sound to Iron's room.

"What in tarnation is that stallion moanin' about?" she asked herself.

“COPPER!” screamed Iron suddenly. Applejack quickly ran to his room and opened the door. She saw him sitting upright in his bed. He was wincing and holding his side. The bandages from the hospital had been removed but there were stitches in his left side.

"Iron, what's wrong?!" asked Applejack. Iron looked at her. He was breathing heavily and sweating a little. He looked like he had just seen a ghost.

“Huh? What?" he asked. He shook his head a couple times and composed himself. "Something wrong?"

"I heard you screamin,'" explained Applejack a little confused.

"Oh." Iron looked away in embarrassment. "Sorry. Just a bad dream. Nothing to worry about."

"Are you sure?"

"Mhm." The two just looked at each other in awkward silence.

"Um, you shouted somethin' about copper," Applejack began. "Is that-"

"Didn't you say that we'd need to get up early?" Iron interrupted.

"Well, yeah, but-"

"Well, goodnight then." Iron laid back down with his back facing Applejack. Not exactly sure how to respond, Applejack decided to take her leave. When she was gone, Iron turned over onto his back and stared at the ceiling.

"Gonna be one of those nights again, huh?" he sighed.

***

Iron was up early the next morning. He stood in front of the barn with two large buckets of red paint. Due to his injuries, it would be a couple weeks until he could do the more strenuous labor around the farm. For now, he was given some light tasks that mainly involved fixing up the barn. Fortunately, there was a lot to fix up so he didn't have to worry about getting bored. His first assignment was to repaint the barn.

He gave a loud yawn. It was difficult getting back to sleep after that nightmare he had. He picked up his paint brush, dipped it into one of the cans, and painted the wall as high as he could reach. The job was dull and monotonous. When he had painted as much as he could, Iron stepped back and looked at the wall. Only about the bottom half was done. With a sigh, he spit out the paintbrush in his mouth into one of the buckets and went into the barn where he found a paint roller on a large stick as well as a tray to hold paint in. He grabbed the supplies and went back outside.

Holding the roller in hooves was irritating. It was times like this, where he envied creatures with fingers. Eventually, he resorted to holding the roller in his mouth which felt very awkward. Not helping was the fact that he constantly had to keep himself angled so that his good eye was facing the wall so he could see. It was noon before he finally finished that one side of the barn. He was annoyed, tired, and covered in bad smelling paint. He stood back and examined his handiwork. Maybe he did better than he thought.

He didn’t.

The brushstrokes were all over the place and uneven. It was easy to tell where he had stopped using the brush and started using the roller. Iron plopped down on his stomach and groaned in frustration.

“Givin’ up already, sonny?” asked Granny Smith as she approached him from his right. She was holding a small lunchbox. Iron sat up and rolled his neck getting those satisfying popping sounds.

“This isn’t exactly the kind of work I’m used to,” he told her. Granny looked at the wall and smiled.

“Eh, Ah’ve seen it look worse.”

“Really?”

“Well, not much worse,” she admitted. Iron chuckled.

“I guess that makes me feel a little better.” He stood up and headed towards the barn. “Don’t worry, Granny Smith, I’ll get this painted before the day’s end.”

“Ah’m sure ya will but how’s about takin’ a break fer lunch?” she offered. Iron’s stomach growled in agreement.

“Sounds great.” Granny set the lunchbox by him. He opened it up and pulled out an apple.

"Feelin' any better after last night?" she asked. Iron took a took a large bite out of the apple chomping off at least half of it in one bite.

"You heard that, huh?" he asked after he swallowed.

"Kinda hard not to. Ya shout real loud."

"Sorry."

"No need to apologize," Granny assured him. "We all get them night terrors every now and then." Iron nodded and finished the apple in another bite. "Is Copper a pony ya know?" Iron rolled his eyes. Why did everypony care about it?

"Copper is a pony I used to know," he said. "Somepony I'm trying to forget about."

"Why would ya want to go and do that fer?"

"I have a lot of painful memories associated with Copper," replied Iron. "I'd rather just forget them." Granny shook her head slowly. "What?"

"If ya'll let an old pony give a little advice," she started, "it ain't good to just up and ferget somepony. Even if the memories hurt ya, they're a part of ya. Lose those and ya lose a part of yerself." Iron didn't reply as Granny stood up and started to leave. "Enjoy your lunch, Iron. And don't go hurtin' yerself." Iron just nodded absentmindedly and finished his lunch.

***

Iron finished lunch quickly, eager to get back to work. As dull as it was, he never liked leaving a job unfinished and now it was a personal challenge to improve upon what he saw as an embarrassing failure. It also took his mind off of what Granny Smith told him. It was none of anypony's business what he wanted to forget or remember.

After some experimenting with the roller, he finally figured out he could hold it steady enough in both forehooves while standing on his hind legs. This put a little strain on his injuries requiring him to stop occasionally to let the pain die down. He used the regular brush as much as possible.

He managed to get another wall done and this time it almost looked like he knew what he was doing. The coat was still uneven but the brush strokes were a little less chaotic looking than before. He sat down to let his side stop hurting and check the stitches to make sure they didn’t break or anything. He took a sip from a water canteen Granny gave him and noticed something out of the corner of his eye. He looked over to see Apple Bloom coming down the road covered with mud and chicken feathers. She looked a little depressed.

“Hey, there, Miss Apple Bloom,” he greeted. Apple Bloom looked up at him and gave him a weak smile.

“Hey, Mister Ore,” she greeted.

“You can just call me ‘Iron’ you know.”

“Well you can just call me ‘Apple Bloom’ ya know,” she retorted.

“Touché.” Apple Bloom didn’t reply as she made her way towards the house. “Um, do you mind if I asked what happened?” Apple Bloom stopped and sat down where she was.

“My friends and I tried to get are Cutie Marks again,” she said somberly.

“Again?” asked Iron. Apple Bloom nodded.

“My friends and I have a club called the Cutie Mark Crusaders,” she explained. “We try all sorts of stuff to find our special talents.”

“Did this previous endeavor work?” Apple Bloom gave him an annoyed glare and looked at her blank flank.

“What do you think?” she said coldly.

“Sorry,” apologized Iron.

“Naw, it’s okay,” she said. “I shouldn’t be so rude.”

“Well, if you’re looking for your special talent, want to see if painting is it?” he asked holding out a paint brush.

“Already tried that,” she said.

“Well, you want to help just for fun then?” Apple Bloom thought about it for a moment before shrugging and walking up to him She took the paint brush in her mouth and dipped it in the paint can. “So, um, what exactly were you doing that involved mud and chickens?”

“Dnt ashk,” she replied, her words muffled a bit by the brush. The two spent the rest of the afternoon finishing up the paint job. They even had time to touch up the parts that Iron messed up earlier. The two sat by the barn admiring their handiwork. It wasn’t perfect, but he had to admit, he was proud of himself for finishing it. He noticed that there was still some paint left in the last can.

“So what are we gonna do with this extra paint?” he asked. Apple Bloom got an evil smile on her face. She dipped her brush in the can covering it in paint and swiping it on Iron’s side. “Hey!”

“You look good in red,” she laughed. Iron smirked before grabbing his own brush and dipping it in the can. Apple Bloom screamed and ran off.

“Hey, get back here!” shouted Iron as he chased a laughing Apple Bloom around the barn. Finally, he stopped letting Apple Bloom come around the barn to him where he promptly smacked her face with his brush. “You looked pretty good in red too. Although with the mud and feathers it looks like you got into a pretty nasty fight with a chicken.” Apple Bloom laughed as the two sat down exhausted. “You feel better?”

“Yeah,” said Apple Bloom. She looked at Iron’s Cutie Mark which was slightly covered in paint. “Hey, Iron?”

“Hm?”

“How’d ya get yer Cutie Mark? Is it for mountain climbing?” Iron chuckled.

“Not exactly.” He sat there for a moment as he thought back to the moment in question. “Do you want me to tell the story?”

“Yeah!” said Apple Bloom excitedly.

“Well, alright then,” said Iron with a chuckle. “It started when I was a still a little colt. I probably wasn’t much older than you. My little sister, Gold Nugget was being picked on by a bully named Quarry. He had gotten his Cutie Mark recently and was making life miserable for those who didn't have theirs yet."

"Sounds like somepony Ah know," said Apple Bloom.

"I see. Well, Quarry had a bad habit of going out of his way to even beat up ponies without Cutie Marks. Gold Nugget was one of them."

"That's terrible!" exclaimed Apple Bloom. Iron nodded. "What'd ya'll do?"

"Well, at first I was too scared to do something," admitted Iron. "But when my sister started crying out for me to help her, I couldn't just ignore her. So, I threw myself in front of Goldie and let Quarry and his goons beat me up instead."

"Didn't that hurt?"

"Oh, yeah. I was a lot smaller than." Iron laughed a little. "Actually, I used to be teased for being short."

"Yeah, right," giggled Apple Bloom.

"Hey, I'm serious," said Iron lightly nudging the filly with his elbow. "Anyway, they told me to back off but I stood my ground. I swore right then and there that no one would ever get me to back down when somepony I cared about was in danger. I bucked Quarry as hard as I could. He and his friends ran off. That's when this showed up." He looked at the Cutie Mark on his flank.

“Cool story,” said Apple Bloom. “But I’m still confused.”

“What do you mean?” asked Iron.

“What exactly is your special talent? Being strong?”

“I guess that’ some of it,” answered Iron. “However, I got it because I held my ground. Like a mountain, I stood strong and immovable. I wasn’t going to let Quarry or his goons hurt my sister or intimidate me. Understand?”

“I think so. I guess Cutie Marks don’t always relate to a career.” Iron shook his head.

“Not always. But one thing to remember is that your Cutie Mark is linked to something already inside you. Focus on those things about you that you are already good at. You might find what you want is right under your nose."

“Hey, you two!” called Applejack. The two saw her walking up to them. “I thought you two were suppose to be paintin’ the barn not each other.” Iron and Apple Bloom looked at each other than back at her with nervous smiles.

“Had to figure out what to do with the rest of the paint,” explained Iron.

“Ah see. Well, you two git on over to the house for a bath. Try not to track paint everywhere.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

“Okay, Sis,” said Apple Bloom compliantly. She and Iron put the paint supplies away before heading to the house. “Hey, Iron?”

“Hm?”

“Thanks for the story. And fer hangin’ out with me. I feel a lot better.” Iron smiled at her.

“Anytime.”

Author's Notes:

Our first glimpse into Iron's past. I meant to get this posted earlier but I have exams to study for. Anyway, I hope you all enjoyed this chapter. I'm pleased with how well people seem to be receiving this story. Thanks for reading and I'll try to keep up the good work.

Around Town

"So what am I doing exactly?” asked Iron as he hitched himself up to a cart filled with apples and various pastries. His old cloak was thrown in there too.

“Big Mac and I want to take the chance to harvest as many apples as we can,” explained Applejack. “With you around, we can send you off to make deliveries around town while we get some extra harvestin’ in.”

“I see,” said Iron nodding in understanding. “But why are you doing deliveries? Don’t you have an apple stand in town you sell from?”

“That’s just every other day,” explained Applejack. “Plus, some ponies have specific orders that need fillin.’ Hence the deliveries yer makin.’ Understand?” Iron nodded.

“Mhm.”

“Good.” Applejack handed him a list. “These are the ponies that you’re making deliveries too. They've already paid in advance so don't worry about collectin' bits. Just git everything delivered.” Iron looked over the list which had the names of the customers as well as what they ordered.

“Alright,” he said rolling up the list and sticking it behind his ear like a pencil. “See you later.” Applejack nodded.

“See ya.” The two ponies went their separate ways. As Applejack headed to the orchard she saw Apple Bloom sitting on the porch watching Iron walk off. “Problem, Sugar Cube?”

“Should he be pullin’ that cart?” asked Apple Bloom giving her sister a worried look. “What about his injuries?”

“You kiddin’? That cart’s lighter than a feather fer a big feller like him,” Applejack assured her. “He won’t be strainin’ nothin’. Besides, this’ll be a good chance fer him to get to know some of the ponies around town.” Apple Bloom perked up at this.

“Yeah, it will.” She giggled. “Yer such a clever pony, Sis.” Applejack chuckled.

“Thank ya kindly. Now how about you come and help me collect some apples before you have to go to school?”

“Okay!” said Apple Bloom happily as she jumped off the porch and followed her sister.

***

“Okay, first things first,” said Iron as he looked at his list. He was standing in the middle of town square earning more than a few strange looks from the townsponies. Iron just ignored them. His first stop was at a place called Sugarcube Corner. Luckily, Applejack left addresses next to the names of the places he was supposed to go to. He made his way to the bakery and stopped when he saw what looked like a very elaborate gingerbread house. “Wow.” He went up to the door and was greeted by a yellow Earth Pony in a white apron.

“Oh, well good morning, Sir,” he greeted. “I’m Mr. Cake. How may I help you?”

“Morning,” Iron replied. “I got some deliveries from Sweet Apple Acres for you.”

“Oh, yes, thank you,” said Mr. Cake. “Just bring them around back. Pinkie Pie should be able to help you.” Iron nodded and headed to the back of the bakery. He knocked on the back door and was answered by a pink pony with a very poofy mane poking her head out the door.

“Heeeloooo?” she asked.

“Hey, Mr. Cake told me to bring these around back and-” The pink mare opened the door all the way and started bouncing in place.

“Ohyeahetoldme!” she interrupted. “YoumustbethenewponyhelpingApplejackshe-”

“Whoa, whoa!” shouted Iron holding a hoof up to stop her. She quit bouncing and just stared at him with a big smile. “Um, are you Pinkie Pie?”

“Yep, that’s me!” she said happily. “What’s your name?”

“Um, Iron Ore. You can just call me ‘Iron’ if you want.”

“Nice to meet you!”

“Uh, yeah, you too. Anyway, I have some deliveries-”

“Oh, these are the things the cakes ordered!” said Pinkie. “The Cakes always order some pastries from the Apples but not thattheyreallyneedtoImeanthecakesarethebestbakersaroundbut. . .” Iron sighed and face hoofed as Pinkie rambled on.

“Exucse me, Miss Pie,” he said Pinkie stopped talking and looked at him.

“Yeeeeeeees?”

“Not to be rude but I have other deliveries to make so if you could just grab what’s yours.”

“Okie, dokie, lokie.” She bounced to the back of the cart and stacked up a large pile of pastries in her hooves. “This it?” Iron checked his list.

“Yeah, those are all yours.”

“Alrighty then.” Pinkie walked on her hind legs as she carried the pastries inside.

“Do you need any help with that?” asked Iron.

“Nopey, lopey,” Pinkie assured. When she was inside she tossed all the goods into the air.

“Hey, what are you-” Iron started to protest but stopped when all the pastries landed neatly on a table. He just stared with his mouth agape. “B-but, how does, wh-what was, huh?!”

“What?” asked Pinkie tilting her head. Iron was too dumfounded to speak. Pinkie waved a hoof in front of his face. “Heeeellooo, Equestria to Iron Ore. You in there?”

“What? Oh,” said Iron breaking out of his stupor. “Um, I think I’ll just leave now. Nice to meet you, Miss Pie.” Pinkie giggled.

“’Miss Pie.’ That’s so-” She stopped and gasped loudly. “You’re new in town!”

“Yeah, so?”

“You’re new and I haven’t thrown you a party yet!” She started hitting herself on the head with her hoof. “Oh, stupid Pinkie Pie! I’m such a bad party pony!”

“What are you talking about?” asked Iron now more confused than before.

“Gotta go, Iron!” said Pinkie. “Lots to plan! Thanks for bringing the pastries!” She slammed the door in Iron’s face before he could reply. He just stood there and blinked a couple times in confusion

“What just happened?”

***

Iron’s next delivery found him in the Everfree Forest. Having no desire to be back in the mysterious woods longer than he needed to be, he quickly and carefully followed the directions Applejack gave him to the home of his next customer. He saw a house made inside the base of a tree. “Interesting design.” He knocked on the door and was greeted by a zebra.

“Hello, Ma’am,” greeted Iron politely. “Are you Zecora?”

“I am,” she replied.

“I’m Iron Ore. I have some apples to deliver.”

“Ah, yes, I have been expecting these,” replied the zebra. “Bring them in if you please.” Iron nodded and unhitched himself from the wagon. He brought two large baskets of apples inside. He gave a loud whistle when he saw all the masks and potions in the small house.

“What is all this stuff?” asked Iron.

“Potions and brews that I concoct,” answered Zecora. “You can set the apples by the pot.” Iron nodded and set the apple by the cauldron in the middle of the room.

“May I ask why one zebra needs all these apples?” Zecora picked an apple out of one of the baskets.

“I’m experimenting with them for some of my brews,” she said tossing the apple into the cauldron. She picked up another apple and took a bite. “They make good snacks too,” she followed up after she swallowed. Iron chuckled. Zecora looked at him for a moment as if studying him. She grabbed a spoon and started stirring what was in the pot. “Now a question for you, Iron Ore.” Iron raised a brow. “What is it that makes your poor heart sore?”

“What?” asked Iron taking a step back. “What makes you ask?”

“You’re eyes seem sad and your head hangs low,” she observed. “A weary heart is very hard to tow.” Iron just turned around and started to leave.

“I’m fine how I am,” he said. “Enjoy your apples, Miss Zecora.” Zecora only nodded in response as he left. As Iron pulled the cart back into town, Zecora’s words rang through his head. He quickly lifted his head up when he noticed he was staring at the ground.

***

After delivering some jam to Filthy Rich, Iron looked at his list. As he scanned the list, he noticed a place called Carousel Boutique. He remembered Applejack telling him her friend was the owner and that she could fix up his old cloak if he wanted to. Iron looked over his shoulder into the cart. His old raggedy cloak sat in the middle of the cart all rolled up.

“Well. . .I guess it couldn't hurt,” he said with a shrug. He walked over to the boutique, again unhitched himself from the wagon, and grabbed his cloak from the wagon putting on his back still rolled up. The bell above the door rang as he walked inside. The room was empty. “Um, hello?” Iron called out. He walked in a little further looking at the various dresses on mannequins. He was never one for fashion but there was a certain flair to these outfits he found interesting. Whoever this pony was, she must be very good.

“Oh, hello there,” greeted a voice behind him. Iron turned around and saw a white unicorn with a blue mane waking down the stairs. “I’m sorry I didn't hear you come in.”

“That’s alright, Miss,” said Iron.

“So is there something I can do for you, Sir?” asked the unicorn.

“Actually, I was told you might be able to fix this.” Iron grabbed his cloak letting it unroll while it hung from his mouth. The unicorn took the cloak from him with her magic and looked it over. Besides the tears from the Timberwolf fight that he never got patched up, there was some wear and tear from old age and overuse. It was also rather dirty.

“Hmm. . .” The unicorn bit her lower lip and looked a little appalled by the filthy state of the cloak. “I’m not sure I can fix this,” she told him. “I could easily make you a new cloak. Something elegant and grand! Why I could-”

“Um, actually, Miss?”

“Rarity.”

“Miss Rarity. I’d rather you just fix this one,” said Iron. “I’ve had it for a long time and I like it. Call me sentimental I guess.” Rarity looked at him like he was crazy for a moment before sighing.

“Well, far be it from me to take away something of sentimental value,” she said with a smile. “Still, it won’t be an easy task. I’ll tell you what. I’ll hang onto this and do my best to make it look just as nice as the day you first got it. Perhaps even better. When I’m finished I’ll have it sent to you. Where exactly do you live?”

“I’m staying at Sweet Apple Acres at the moment,” said Iron.

“Oh, you’re Applejack’s new helper.” Rarity looked him over and smirked. “I can see why she’d want to have you around,” she said under her breath.

“What was that?”

“Oh, nothing,” said Rarity rolling up the cloak. Iron shrugged and started to leave. “I’ll get this to you as soon as possible, Mr?”

“Iron Ore.”

“Right. See you soon Mr. Ore.”

***

Iron headed to his next location whistling a little tune as he walked. His next location took him to the library which turned out to be. . .another tree?

“These ponies have the strangest taste in housing,” Iron muttered to himself as he knocked on the door.

“Just a minute,” came a voice from inside. He looked up at the tree library smiling slightly at the irony of the idea. These ponies have strange taste in buildings. Finally, the door opened revealing a small purple dragon.

“And even stranger residents.”

“What?” asked the dragon.

“Nothing.” Iron looked at the dragon and then into the library. “So. . .do you run this place?” The dragon laughed.

“No way, I’m just a kid,” he said. “Princess Twilight is the librarian.” Before Iron could respond, he saw a purple alicorn walking down the steps.

“Spike, who is it?” she asked.

“Some pony with a cart,” answered Spike. Twilight walked up to the doorway and smiled at Iron.

“Hello,” she greeted. “Can I help you?” Iron was speechless. He had never met a princess before and had no idea what he was supposed to do. He took a deep breath before speaking.

“My name is Iron Ore, Your Majesty!” announced Iron almost shouting. He stood at his full height and was completely rigid. Spike fell on the floor laughing while Twilight put a hoof over her mouth to try and hide her giggling. Iron blushed feeling like a fool. Twilight managed to regain her composure before speaking.

“You can relax, Iron,” she said. “And you can just call me ‘Twilight.’ There’s no need to be so formal.” Iron relaxed a bit. He looked at Spike who was still laughing. Twilight nudged him with a hoof. “Spike, don’t be rude!” she scolded. Spike stood up and did his best to stop laughing. “I’m sorry about that, Iron,” apologized Twilight.

“N-No need to apologize,” said Iron still a little embarrassed. “I have some deliveries from Sweet Apple Acres I’m supposed to deliver.” Immediately, Spike stopped laughing and his mouth started watering.

“My pies are here!” he shouted excitedly. He ran to the back of the cart and jumped in. Iron could hear him chewing on something.

“Hey, what are you doing back there?!” asked Iron.

“Spike!” shouted Twilight. She used her magic to lift up the baby dragon. He was holding an apple pie that had gems baked into it. “Sorry, about that,” Twilight apologized looking embarrassed. Spike didn't seem to notice or care at being held in the air.

“Hey, Twilight,” he said. “Turns out gems and apples can go together in a pie!” He then proceeded to shove the entire pie (including the tin it came in) into his mouth. Twilight sighed and put him down on the floor.

“So, um, I think that was all I had to bring,” said Iron more than a little confused. He looked at the dragon licking his fingers. “He eats gems?”

“It’s a dragon thing,” explained Twilight. Iron just nodded.

“This town just keeps getting weirder.”

“You get used to it,” Twilight assured him.

“If you say so.” Iron turned to leave. “Bye, Twilight. It was. . .interesting to meet you two.” Twilight smiled and nodded.

“Nice meeting you too,” she called after him as he walked away.

“Gem eating dragons and an alicorn librarian,” Iron muttered to himself. “And yet, I get the feeling that’s not the strangest thing this town has to offer.”

***

Iron stood outside of town looking at his list. Apparently, his next stop was the schoolhouse. However, he was having trouble reading the writing. Something had smudged the ink on the paper.

“Look out!” somepony shouted in the distance. Iron didn’t pay any attention. "Hey, I said look-Oof!" Suddenly, he felt something ram into his side. He was barely knocked a couple inches before he managed to regain his footing. He looked to his right and saw a blue pegasus sitting on the ground, her eyes rolling around in her head.

“Are you okay?” asked Iron. The pegasus quickly shook her head a couple times to get rid of the dizziness.

“Yeah, I’m good,” she said getting to her feet. “Sorry about that.”

“Eh, didn’t really feel it,” said Iron.

“Seriously?” asked the surprised pegasus. “I’ve cracked rocks by running into them at that speed.” She poked Iron’s side. “Geez, you’re all muscle aren’t you big guy?” She walked around to his other side and noticed his scars. “Wow. Glad I didn’t hit this side. That’d probably hurt.”

“Yeah, probably.”

“Where’d you get them?”

“Timberwolves.”

“Timberwolves? As in more than one?”

“Three actually,” said Iron with a smirk. The pegasus stared at him mouth agape.

“That’s. . .awesome!” She hovered in the air so she was eye level with him. “Dude, who are you?”

“Name’s Iron Ore. And you are?” It was the pegasus turn to smirk as she flew up into the air.

“They call me Rainbow Dash!” she said striking a dynamic pose. “You’re future member of the Wonderbolts!”

“Impressive,” said Iron trying to sound interested. He had no idea who the Wonderbolts were but they sounded important. Rainbow landed in front of him.

“So, Iron Ore,” she began, “you some kind of athlete or something? Bet you’d be killer in hoofball or pro-wrestling or something.” Iron laughed a bit.

“Nah, I’ve never been too into sports,” he said.

“Then what do you do?” asked Rainbow.

“Well, right now what I’m doing is trying to figure out where the schoolhouse is,” he explained. He looked at his list again. “I can’t read the writing though.”

“I can show you,” offered Rainbow.

“Really?”

“Yeah, sure.” Rainbow flew up above him. “Consider it my way of making up into ramming into you like that.” Iron shrugged.

“Alright,” he said following Rainbow. “Lead the way.”

***

Rainbow Dash led Iron to the school. She said a quick goodbye before heading off to continue practicing her stunts. Iron walked up to the school and saw the foals playing outside. He noticed Apple Bloom who ran up to him along with a white unicorn and orange pegasus.

“Howdy, Iron!” greeted Apple Bloom.

“Hey there,” he greeted back. He looked the pegasus and unicorn fillies who were staring at him in awe.

“Wow, Apple Bloom you were right!” said the pegasus. “He’s a giant!”

“I don’t know about that,” said Iron.

“He really does look like a pirate,” said the unicorn. Iron forced himself not to grumble in annoyance. He hated it when ponies pointed out his patch.

“Um, Apple Bloom?” asked Iron. “Who are these two?”

“This is Sweetie Bell,” said Apple Bloom pointing to the unicorn.

“Hello,” greeted Sweetie Bell. Apple Bloom pointed at the pegasus.

"And this is Sctootaloo," she introduced.

“Hiya!” greeted Scootaloo excitedly.

“Nice to meet you,” said Iron Ore. He looked at Apple Bloom. “So, why exactly am I here?”

“Oh, you have the apple cupcakes and cider Granny and Ah made for Scootaloo’s birthday,” explained Apple Bloom.

“Really?!” squealed Scootaloo hovering in the air for a bit.

“Granny and Ah made enough for the whole class,” said Apple Bloom. She turned around and shouted to the other foals. “Hey, ya’ll, there are cupcakes and cider!” Soon Iron found himself surrounded on all sides by hungry colts and fillies.

“Whoa, settle down!” said Iron.

“Alright, my little ponies, give the nice stallion some space,” said a purple mare as she approached the crowd. The foals stood back giving Iron some space.

“Yes, Miss Cheerilee,” they all said. Iron looked at Apple Bloom.

“Want to help me pass these out?” he asked.

“Okay!” said the filly happily. Iron unhitched himself from the wagon and went around to the back of the cart. He and Apple Bloom got all the snacks passed out to the class then everyone sang Happy Birthday to Scootaloo. Iron noticed there was an extra cupcake and cider in the cart.

“Did we miss somepony?” he asked.

“No, that’s fer you,” Apple Bloom told him. Iron raised a brow. “Granny and Ah made an extra in case you wanted a snack.” Iron smiled and sat in the back of the cart to enjoy his sweets. Apple Bloom sat next to him. “So how was yer day? Did you get to meet a lot of ponies?”

“Some,” said Iron. He took a bite of his cupcake and followed it down with some cider. “The townsponies are. . .interesting.”

“They’re a lot of fun though.”

“Yeah,” said Iron. A smiled crept its way onto his face. “Yeah, I guess they are.” Sweetie Bell and Scootaloo joined the two of them.

“Thanks for the sweets, Apple Bloom!” said Scootaloo. “And thanks for bringing them, Iron Ore!”

“No, problem,” said Iron.

“C’mon, girls, let’s go plan on are next crusade!” said Apple Bloom. The three fillies ran off leaving Iron to himself. He finished off his sweets and got ready to head back to the farm. He was done for today and ready for some rest.

***

Iron walked down the path leading to Sweet Apple Acres anxious to be rid of the rickety cart he had been pulling around all day. He made a mental note to ask if he could fix it later. In the distance, he saw a yellow pegasus hovering by a tree. As he got closer, he saw a cat stuck up in the tree.

“Oh, please come down little kitty,” pleaded the pegasus.

“Problem, Miss?” asked Iron. The pegasus jumped at Iron’s voice. She landed in front of him.

“O-Oh, well, u-um,” she stuttered trying to hide behind her mane. “That cat got herself stuck in the tree and I can’t get her down.”

“Um, couldn’t you just fly up there and grab her?” suggested Iron.

“No,” said the pegasus shaking her head. “You see, she’s very scared. Every time I go up there she tries to scratch at me.” Iron looked at the cat. She was shaking in fear and was clinging to the branch she was on for dear life.

“I have an idea,” said Iron.

“Oh?”

“You fly up there and I’ll distract her so you can get close enough to grab her.”

“Wh-what do you have in mind?” asked the pegasus clearly worried.

“Just trust me,” said Iron. He gave her a reassuring smile. “I promise she’ll be okay.” The pegasus smiled back at him.

“Alright. M-My name’s Fluttershy by the way. Y-You know, if you were curious.” Iron refrained from chuckling at how timid this mare was.

“I’m Iron Ore. Now just fly on up there.” Fluttershy nodded and started to fly up to the cat. Iron walked up to the tree. He reared up on his hind legs and slammed the tree as hard as he could with his forehooves. The tree shook causing the cat to lose her grip. Fluttlershy grabbed her before she could fall.

“It’s okay,” she cooed. “I’ve got you. You’re safe.” The cat squirmed and hissed scratching Fluttershy in the face. Iron winced at the sight. Fluttershy didn’t seem fazed as she gently held the cat and stroked her back. The feline began to calm down and curl up against Fluttershy as she landed.

“Are you alright?” asked Iron looking at the scratch under Fluttershy’s eye.

“I’ll be fine. It’s just a little scratch,” she assured him. “I’m just glad this little one is safe.” She nuzzled the cat causing it to purr. Iron couldn't help but smile.“Thanks for helping me Iron.”

“You’re welcome,” said Iron walking away. “Maybe I can get back to the farm without incident now,” he muttered under his breath.

***

Iron finally made it back to the farm. As he headed to the barn, Applejack approached him.

“There ya are,” she said. “Ah was startin’ to think you got yerself lost.” Iron shook his head.

“No, I managed,” he said. “Just ended up with a couple more stops than I expected.”

“Well, now that yer back, I need you at the barn. Just leave the cart here fer now.” Iron didn’t argue as he finally rid himself of the cart.

“So what do you need me at the barn for?” he asked.

“You’ll see,” said Applejack with a smirk. Iron started getting tense. He hated surprises.

“No, seriously, what is it?”

“Just calm down,” said Applejack. “It ain’t nothin’ bad.” The two reached the barn door and Applejack opened it. “Go on in.” Iron looked at her and then into the dark barn.

“What are-”

“Just get in the barn!” she snapped.

“Alright, I’m going, I'm going,” said Iron as he walked in. Applejack followed shutting the door behind them. “Is there a light or something? It’s pitch black in here.” Suddenly, the barn was filled with bright light.

“SURPRISE!” shouted a group of ponies.

“Ah!” shouted Iron stumbling backwards. He would have bumped into Applejack if she hadn’t moved in time. “What is this?” In the barn was everypony that he had met during the day as well as a few others that he hadn’t. Pinkie Pie bounced up to him.

“This is your ‘Welcome to Ponyville’ party, silly!” she told him.

“My what now?”

“I told you this earlier, remember?” asked Pinkie. “You’re a new pony in town and I hadn’t thrown you a party yet.” Iron was still confused.

“Think of it as everypony’s way of welcoming you,” said Applejack. Iron looked at all the ponies in the barn. They had all shown up for him?

“I-I don’t know what to say,” said Iron.

“Then don’t say anything!” said Pinkie. “Talking at parties is boring anyway. C’mon I have a bunch of fun games planned!” Before Iron could respond, the party pony had grabbed his hoof and dragged him to one of the games she had set up.

Iron couldn’t remember the last time he had so much fun or had so much cake. After a while, he finally found a bale of hay to sit on to let his stomach settle. He found it awkward when the other ponies would come up to him just to talk and get to know him. He wasn’t used to having this much attention. Well, this much positive attention anyhow. Still, strange as it was, Iron found it comforting. These ponies were going out of there way jut to get to know a stranger and make him feel welcome. Applejack walked up to him with his cloak and gave it to him.

"Rarity patched this up fer ya," she told him. Iron unrolled the cloak and looked it over.

"It's. . .wow," was all he could say. It looked brand new. All clean and no tears. Rarity even added a hood, some gold colored trimming around the edges of the cloak, and an image of his Cutie Mark in the center of it. "I'll have to thank her for this later."

"Why not now?" asked Applejack. Iron put a hoof over his stomach.

“Still feel a little sick,” he replied. “I don’t think I ever want to eat another slice of cake again.”

“Ah warned ya,” Applejack told him. Iron chuckled.

“Yeah, yeah, don’t rub it in.”

“So, how was your first day around Ponyville?”

“It was. . .kind of weird actually,” said Iron. “But a good weird. Better than where I came from that’s for sure.”

“That right?” Iron nodded. Applejack smiled. “Well, Ah’m glad ya’ll are enjoyin’ yer stay. Think ya might stick around even after ya’ll have worked off your debt?” Iron smiled.

“Yeah, I think I might.”

Author's Notes:

Okay, finally got this done. I was having some troubling editing this so if there are typos please point them out.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed it.

Diamond Dogs

“So what’s the plan for today?” asked Scootaloo. The Cutie Mark Crusaders sat in their clubhouse mulling over ideas about what to do for their next attempt at a Cutie Mark. After last week’s debacle with the chickens, the three fillies were in low spirits. They were running out of ideas.

“We could help around the farm maybe,” suggested Apple Bloom.

“We’ve done that already,” reminded Scootaloo.

“There’s always something to do around the farm.”

“No, way. I’m not in the mood to end up sore and/or dirty again.”

“Well, what do you suggest?” asked Apple Bloom in irritation.

“Have we tried whitewater rafting?” Apple Bloom shrugged.

“I don’t know. Besides, we don’t have any rafts anyway.”

“Oh, right.” Scootaloo and Apple Bloom looked at Sweetie Bell who was being surprisingly quiet this whole time. The little unicorn seemed to be in deep thought about something. “Hey, Sweetie Bell.”

“Hm? What?” she asked looking up at her friends.

“Whatcha thinkin’ about?” asked Apple Bloom.

“Oh, well,” began Sweetie Bell, “Rarity says she’s running out of gems for her dresses but she can’t go get more right now because she has a really big order to fill. I heard her say that some extra gems would make the outfits look better though. I was just wondering if there was a way I could help.”

“How does she usually get gems?” asked Scootaloo.

“There’s this place outside Ponyville that has a lot of them.” Scootaloo and Apple Bloom nodded. It was quiet again for a while. Suddenly, Scootaloo and Apple Bloom went wide-eyed and looked at each other.

“You thinking what I’m thinking?!” asked Scootaloo.

“You thinkin’ what Ah’m thinkin’?!” Apple Bloom parroted.

“Cutie Mark Crusaders Gem Hunters!” they shouted in unison.

“Wait, what?” asked Sweetie Bell both confused and concerned. She had a bad feeling about where this was going.

“Let’s go get the gems ourselves,” explained Scootaloo.

“Yeah, maybe we can find some really rare gems even your sis hasn’t found,” added Apple Bloom jumping up and down in excitement.

“Oh, no, no, no, no, no!” said Sweetie Bell standing up. “We are not going there!” She slammed her hoof on the floor for emphasis.

“Why not?” asked Apple Bloom.

“Rarity says there are these really dangerous Diamond Dogs that live there,” answered Sweetie Bell. “She said she even got caught by them once. They’re mean and ill-mannered brutes. Her words not mine.”

“The let’s just avoid them,” said Scootaloo like it was an obvious solution.

“We don’t even know how to get gems,” argued Sweetie Bell hoping to dissuade her friends.

“Doesn’t yer sister have some spell that she uses to find ‘em?” asked Apple Bloom.

“Well. . .yeah.”

“And she never taught it to you?” chimed in Scootaloo.

“She did this one time but-”

“Then what’s the problem?” asked Apple Bloom.

“I’ve never used it. Plus, I’m still not very good at magic.”

“Aw, we’ll manage,” said Scootaloo.

“I-I don’t know,” said Sweetie Bell nervously. Her two friends were quickly at her side putting their hooves over her shoulders.

“Just think about though,” said Apple Bloom. “We can help yer sister and we might even get a Cutie Mark.”

“We don’t have to stay too long,” said Scootaloo. “Tell you what, the minute you think it’s getting too dangerous, we’ll pull out.”

“We won’t put up a fuss,” added Apple Bloom.

“Even if we don’t get any gems?”

“Even if we don’t get any gems,” said the other two in unison.

“Weeelll. . .I guess we could-”

She was being dragged out of the clubhouse before she could even finish her sentence.

***

The CMC soon found themselves overlooking the mountainous terrain that was Rarity’s usual gem hunting spot. Sweetie Bell was holding up a large shovel with her magic. A wagon containing two buckets was attatched to Scootaloo’s scooter.

“So are you ready?” asked Scootaloo.

“Yeah, but I need to put this down if I want to use the spell,” said Sweetie Bell. Her two friends nodded and let her place the shovel on their backs.

“It’s heavier than it looks,” remarked Scootaloo with a grunt.

“Aw, this is nothin,’” said Apple Bloom.

“You have the handle end, I’m the one carrying the blade. This thing’s heavy!”

“Quit arguing and let me focus!” snapped Sweetie Bell. She closed her eyes and focused on the spell. Her horn glowed bright green. “I think there are some this way,” she said leading her two friends who were still trying to figure out how to balance the shovel between them. Sweetie led them to a large rock sticking out of the ground. Her magic allowed her to see the jewels inside. “I found some!” she screamed excitedly.

“Great, now dig ‘em out,” said Scootaloo.

“Why me? Why don’t you do it?” asked Sweetie.

“We ain’t big enough to hold this thing!” argued Apple Bloom.

“Well I can barely hold it myself even with magic,” retirted Sweetie Bell. “Besides, I can only do so much magic before my head starts hurting.”

“That’s a lame excuse!” accused Scootaloo.

“How about I hold it?” suggested a strange voice. A paw grabbed the shovel. The three fillies looked up to see two large Diamond Dogs standing over them. “Looks like we got some trespassing ponies, Spot.”

“Sure do, Fido,” said the other Diamond Dog. “You think we should take ‘em back to Rover?”

“Sure,” said Fido with an evil grin. “We could always use somepony to pull the carts around.” He grabbed Sweetie Bell who screamed. “This one looks like it can even find gems.”

“Let me go!” screamed Sweetie Bell as she kicked and squirmed in a desperate attempt to flee. “Let go of me!” Fido held her mouth shut with a paw.

“Ugh, I hate when they whine!”

“And what about these two?” asked Spot approaching the other two fillies. He tried to grab Scootaloo but Apple bloom knocked her friend aside and was grabbed instead.

“No!” screamed Scootaloo.

“Run!” Apple Bloom shouted. Immediately, Scootaloo took off running as fast as she could. Spot and Fido pursued but the wriggling fillies in their arms were determined to make it difficult. Spot passed Apple Bloom off to Fido and pursued Scootaloo himself. However, the orange Pegasus managed to make it to her scooter and ride off leaving Spot to eat her dust. She didn’t notice the two buckets in the wagon fall out.

***

Iron Ore and Applejack stood at the apple cart in the middle of Ponyville. Iron sighed in irritation at how boring this was. Hardly anypony had come by for apples and when they did, all he did was hand the customer the apple and let Applejack do all the talking. Living the dream.

“Are you sure there isn’t anything back at the farm I could be doing?” he asked. “That roof looks like it needs some repairs.”

“Fer the last time, we got everything done fer today,” said Applejack trying her best not to sound impatient.

“There’s no way that’s possible,” said Iron.

“Well with Big Mac gone fer the week and you still not quite better enough to do pick up his slack, this is about the only thing to do.”

“What about your friends?”

“All busy.”

“And Apple Bloom?”

“That silly filly ran off with her friends on some daggum crusade again.”

“You think it’ll work this time?” asked Iron. He had seen the results of Apple Bloom and her friends’ endeavors and hated seeing the three work so hard for nothing.

“No clue,” replied Applejack. Iron remained silent while Applejack tried to get the attention of the townsponies. “Come one, come all. My friend and Ah got the finest Sweet Apple Acres apples ya’ll could wish fer!” Iron smirked. He respected Applejack’s determination and how she was able to be genuinely pleasant despite how little she was making. “You know, ya’ll could say something,” she whispered to him.

“What do I say?” asked Iron. “I’m not a salespony.”

“Just wing it,” she told him. Iron thought for a moment before coming up with an idea.

“Promise not to get mad at me for this,” he told her.

“Whaddya mean?”

“Apples half off!” shouted Iron. Applejack’s mouth dropped at the announcement.

“What are you-”

“Also, buy two apples, get the third one free!” added Iron. Surprisingly, this actually worked as some ponies actually came up to take them up on the offer.

“We ain’t gonna be makin’ as much as we could be,” said Applejack between customers.

“Funny, last I checked we weren’t making anything,” Iron retorted. Applejack wasn’t amused. “Look, at least were actually turning up some profit now. Just add it to what I already owe you.” Applejack sighed.

“Naw, that won’t be necessary,” she said. “And yer right. We’re actually sellin’ apples now. Just warn me before ya’ll pull a crazy scheme like that, okay?”

“Deal.”

“You heard it here folks, one time offer!” shouted Applejack.

“Plus, we got all sorts of apples you could think of,” added Iron starting to get into the swing of things.

“We gots Red Delicious!”

“Golden Delicious!”

“Mouth waterin’ Fujis”

“Juicy Galas!”

“Crunchy Cortlands! And-”

“Applejack!” screamed a voice.

“I didn’t know Applejacks were a type,” said Iron.

“They ain’t,” said Applejack. The two were approached by an exhausted Scootaloo. She got off her scooter and walked up to the stand. Her wings were sore and she was breathing heavily. She plopped down in front of the stand to catch her breath. Iron and Applejack were at her side in an instant with a bottle of water. “Scootaloo, what’s wrong?! Where are Apple Bloom and Sweetie Bell?”

“Let the poor filly get her breath, Applejack,” said Iron handing Scootaloo the water bottle. She gulped it all down quickly and took and caught her breath before speaking.

“Apple Bloom. . .and Sweetie Bell. . .were taken. . .by Diamond Dogs” she said between breaths.

“What?!” shouted Applejack. Iron looked surprised and a little confused.

“You have those here?” he asked.

“No time fer that!” Applejack snapped at him. She looked at Scootaloo. “Scoots, go tell Rarity! Iron, yer comin’ with me!” Iron nodded and followed Applejack as the two galloped to the mountains.

***

“So this is the place?” asked Iron as the two ponies entered the cave.

“Eeyup,” replied Applejack in a manner similar to her brother’s. “Problem is how are we gonna find them.” Iron started walking further into the cave.

“Just keep moving forward until we run into them,” he said.

“It ain’t that easy,” said Applejack as she walked up next to him. “These caves got all kinds of twists and turns. We’ll get lost before we find them.”

“Leave it to me,” said Iron. “I’m pretty good at navigating my way around caves.”

“How’s that?”

“My brother and I used to explore caves when we were colts,” explained Iron. “Eventually, we got pretty good at finding our ways through them even if we hadn’t been there before.” Applejack wasn’t really paying attention. She had tuned him out after that first sentence.

“You have a brother?” she asked. Iron sighed in annoyance that that was all she had gotten from his explanation.

“No,” he said solemnly. Before Applejack could follow up, he raised a hoof to silence her. “You hear that?” Applejack listened and heard what sounded like shouting.

“That’s gotta be them!”

“Let’s not waste time then!” The two galloped down the cave as fast as they could until they came to a fork that branched off in three separate directions.

“Which way?” asked Applejack panicky.

“Sh! Be quiet!” said Iron. He closed his eyes and focused on the shouting. It still sounded distant but it was enough for him to work with. “This way!” he said taking the left most route.

“How do ya know?” asked Applejack following behind him.

“Just trust me!” he shouted to her. Applejack remained quiet not having much choice. She hoped that Iron was as competent as me made himself out to be. He led her through the caves stopping every now and then to figure out what path to take next. Eventually, they found a large open are where three diamond dogs had Apple Bloom and Sweetie Bell hitched up to carts and leather straps wrapped around their muzzles to keep them from talking. Sweetie Bell was using her magic to find gems.

“Let go of my sister!” shouted Applejack as she charged the Diamond Dogs. Iron was quick to back her up as the two rammed into Spot and Fido. Rover growled in frustration.

“Gah! Big ponies!” he snarled. Iron looked over his shoulder and glared at him.

“Yep,” he said turning to face him. “Much bigger than you.” He charged at Rover who jumped to the left. Iron quickly turned his head to try and get the dog back in his sights. However, just as he did, Rover tackled him throwing all his weight into it, ramming into Iron’s left side. The stallion grunted in pain as his wounds were irritated and he fell over. Rover was up first and got ready to strike.

“Ah’m a comin’ Iron!” shouted Applejack as she ran up to Rover. She quickly turned around and bucked him as hard as she could sending him into the cave wall. Rover tried to get up but was too dizzy and just fell down. Iron got up wincing at the sharp pain in his side. “You alright? He didn’t open the wounds did he?”

“I’m fine,” grumbled Iron as he headed to the captive fillies and freed them. “You two alright?” Sweetie nodded trying to fight back tears in her eyes while Apple Bloom ran straight to her sister who scooped her up in a hug.

“Applejack!” cried the scared filly. “It was so scary! They said that they were gonna eat us if we didn’t find ‘em enough gems” Tears started streaming down her face. “And, and, they kept makin’ Sweetie Bell use her magic even though she was tired and-”

“Shh, it’s okay now. Ah gotcha,” Applejack said softly holding her sister tight. Iron lay down on his stomach and looked at Sweetie Bell.

“Can you climb on?” he asked. Sweetie nodded and climbed onto his back. He slowly stood up so as not to disturb the exhausted filly. “How do you feel?”

“My head hurts,” groaned Sweetie.

“I’ll bet,” said Iron. He looked at the Apple sisters. “Come on you two. We need to get out of here while these dogs are knocked out.” Applejack nodded and out her sister on her back. She followed Iron as the two made their way out of the cave as fast as possible. Much to the farmer’s amazement, Iron was able to retrace his steps perfectly and the four were out of the cave before they knew it. Iron and Applejack stopped to catch their breaths.

“What were. . .ya’ll thinkin’?” asked Applejack still breathing heavily.

“We were tryin’ to help Sweetie Bell find gems fer Rarity,” explained Apple Bloom.

“So ya’ll went into Diamond Dog territory?”

“Sweetie Bell did try to warn us,” said Apple Bloom sounding ashamed, “but we were too stubborn to listen to her.”

“Did you find anything for your troubles?” asked Iron.

“We were caught before we could get them.”

“Hm.” Iron looked at the unicorn on his back who looked like she was about to fall asleep. “I hate to ask but do you remember where you found them?”

“Yeah,” said Sweetie Bell weakly. “Go this way,” she pointed a hoof westward. Iron followed her directions until they found the rock they were looking for. They also found the buckets and shovel that were abandoned.

“So that’s where those went,” said Applejack. Iron walked up to the rock and tapped it a couple times with his hoof. “I don’t think that shovel well getcha in there.”

“I know,” said Iron. “But I wasn’t planning on using it.” He turned around. “Hang on Sweetie Bell,” he warned. He lifted up his right hind hoof and with three strong kicks broke the rock open. The three mares looked in shock with their mouths hanging open.

“H-How’d you do that?” asked Applejack.

“Practice,” Iron answered. “Pass me a bucket.” Applejack didn’t reply simply handing him one of the buckets. Iron scooped up the gems. “Now, this trip wasn’t a waste,” he said. “There are only enough to fit into one bucket though.”

“That’s okay,” said Sweetie Bell. “Thank you.” Iron smiled.

“You’re welcome, Miss Bell. Now get some rest.” Sweetie nodded and quickly fell asleep. Apple Bloom was out before too long as well leaving the adult ponies to carry them back. Applejack held the buckts while Iron took the shovel.

“Tht wuz mghty kand ov ya,” said Applejack, her words muffled by buckets held in her teeth.

“It was nothing,” said Iron meekly. Applejack watched the large stallion as he gently carried Sweetie Bell. She had learned a lot about him in just one day but she also knew that the more she figured out, the more she was confused.

Just who are ya? She asked herself.

***

Sweetie Bell was safely returned to Rarity who wouldn’t stop expressing her gratitude. She bombarded Iron and Applejack both with offers of various rewards but was shot down each time. It didn’t set well with either pony to be rewarded for something that any decent pony would have done. They brought Apple Bloom home and Applejack put her in bed. Meanwhile, Iron let Granny Smith look over his wounds.

“Well, they didn’t seem to harm nothing,’” she said. “Must have been mighty painful though.”

“You don’t have to check,” said Iron. “I’m fine.”

“Don’t be givin’ me lip, boy,” warned the old mare. “Long as yer under my roof, it’s my duty to make sure ya’ll don’t go hurtin’ yerself again, understand?” Iron chuckled.

“Yes, ma’am.”

“Good. Now how about some vittles?” she offered.

“Sounds great,” said Iron. Granny smiled and went into the kitchen.

“Ya really should stop arguin’ with her,” said Applejack as she came down the stairs.

“I’m nopony worth fussing over. Besides, I owe you all, remember?” Applejack shook her head.

“Ya’ll are just stubborn,” she told him Iron shrugged.

“Guilty as charged. So, how is she?” he asked. Applejack sat next to him on the couch.

“She’ll be fine. Ah’m givin’ her the lecture of a lifetime when she wakes up though.”

“I bet Rarity is probably going to so the same.”

“Ah feel kinda bad fer Sweetie Bell. Can you imagine what a lecture from a drama queen like Rarity is like?”

“I think I’d rather go back to the Diamond Dogs,” joked Iron. The two laughed a little.

“Thank you for helpin’ me,” said Applejack. “Apple Bloom was the last gift my parents gave this world before they passed away. Ah don’t know what Ah’d do if that filly got hurt or worse.”

“Don’t mention it,” said Iron. “I owe that much.”

“You owe money not riskin’ yer life,” said Applejack.

“I wasn’t talking about owing you,” said Iron. He stared at the wall with a mixed expression of sadness and anger. Again with the secrets. Why did he have to be so elusive?

“Hey, Iron?” asked Applejack.

“Hm?”

“Today you asked me twice to trust you without much reason too.” Iron nodded.

“I know,” he said. “I shouldn’t put you on the spot like that. Thanks.”

“Yer welcome but that’s not quite what Ah’m getting’ at.”

“What do you mean?”

“Yer askin’ all of us to just trust ya but ya don’t seem to trust us in return,” she said. Iron’s first instinct was to protest her statement but he knew Applejack was right. He didn’t really open up to anypony. Every time somepony tried to peel back his layers, he pushed them away yet at the same time, he expected them to trust him without question. He couldn’t go on like this forever. If he continued keeping everything to himself, it’d only be a matter of time before everypony stopped trusting him. He’d be alone again.

“I’m sorry,” he said. “I’m acting like a foal. I was being honest when I said my past wouldn’t hurt you or your family but I guess bottling it up is hurting me.”

“Ah just want you to know that ya’ll can trust me is all,” said Applejack. “Ya don’t have to go into detail if ya don’t want to.” Iron shook his head.

“No, I’m done bottling it up,” he said. He took a deep breath and looked up at the ceiling. “It started when I was a colt. I had an older brother. His name was Copper. . .”

Author's Notes:

Cliffhanger! Because I'm a jerk sometimes.
I originally was going to start talking about Iron's past later but I think now's a better time.
Stay tuned and thanks for reading.

Telling My Past

“Copper?” asked Applejack. “That’s who you were shoutin’ fer that one night?” Iron nodded.

“Yeah. His full name was Copper Ore.”

“Was?”

“Ugh,” sighed Iron. “Sorry, I’m getting ahead of myself. I guess I’ll start from the beginning.”

***

12 years ago. . .

“Aw, come on, Dad, can’t I come?” asked Iron for what must have been the fifth time in the last half hour. An older black stallion with a graying mane and tail and a Cutie Mark of a gray piece of coal, sighed in frustration.

“For the final time, no!” he said. Iron grumbled in frustration. He had just gotten his own Cutie Mark which, as far as the ten-year-old colt was concerned, meant he was old enough to start working in the mines. His father, Charcoal, didn't seem to agree. “You’re not old enough.”

“You let Copper do it at my age!” Iron argued.

“No, he was two years older,” Charcoal reminded his son.

“But-”

“I’m done arguing about this with you, Iron ore,” said Charcoal stomping his hoof on the ground for effect. Iron sat down, folded his ears back, and looked off to the side with an annoyed glare. Charcoal put his hoof under Iron’s chin and directed his son’s gaze to his. “I need you here, alright? Somepony has to watch your sister, right?”

“I guess,” said Iron avoiding his father’s gaze. Charcoal smiled and ruffled Iron’s mane.

“And you’re just the pony to do it,” Charcoal assured him. Iron huffed in annoyance. Babysitting his sister wasn't his idea of important no matter how much his dad told him it was. “Now go do your homework.”

“Yes, Sir.” Iron went into his room he shared with his brother, Copper Ore. Copper was sitting on his bed reading. He had a copper colored, black mane and tail, tan colored hooves, and a Cutie Mark of a pick ax.

“Didn't convince him, huh?” asked Copper.

“No,” said Iron dejectedly. He climbed onto his bed and grabbed a textbook. “It’s not fair.”

“Ah, the mines aren't that fun anyway,” said Copper trying to cheer Iron up.

“I don’t want to do it for the fun of it,” said Iron. “I want to help earn more bits for the family. I want to be able to help. I can’t do that by babysitting.” Copper rolled his eyes and shook his head.

“You don’t have to be earning bits to be helpful to the family,” Copper assured him. “You might actually have the most important job of all of us.”

“Hmph. Whatever,” said Iron turning his attention to his book. He hated it when his dad and brother tried to make it sound like he was doing something important when he wasn't. Why can’t somepony else watch, Goldie?

***

Present day. . .

“Ah hate to interrupt,” said Applejack, “but why couldn’t your ma watch yer sister.” Iron looked down. Applejack though she saw a tear forming in his eye but he wiped it away.

“She, um, wasn’t around,” he explained. “Most of the neighbors had their own responsibilities and I really wasn't old enough to work in the mines despite the fact I thought I was. I was really the best choice to watch my sister.”

“Ah’m sorry,” apologized Applejack. “Ah didn't mean to bring up somethin’ so painful.”

“Forget about it,” said Iron waving the comment off. “I didn't really know my mom very well anyway.” Applejack could tell he was lying but decided to let him face one painful memory at a time.

“So what happened next?” asked Applejack.

“I. . .went and took matters into my own hooves.”

***

12 years ago. . .

“Come on, Iron, play with me!” whined Gold Nugget. The light brown filly with golden mane and tail pushed her brother’s barrel with her forehooves. Iron was laying under a tree trying to take a nap.

“Go bug one of your friends,” said Iron pushing his sister away. She fell on her rump.

“Oof,” she grunted. She just sat there with an annoyed glare. “Daddy said you had to keep an eye on me!” She stood up and pulled on Iron’s mane with her teeth. “So cme play wif meh!”

“Ow, hey!” shouted Iron standing up. He shook his head vigorously. “Get off of me!”

“Excuse me, foals,” asked a voice. Goldie and Iron looked up a blue earth pony mare with a red mane and lantern Cutie Mark.

“Hewo, Mif Bright!” greeted Goldie still chewing on her brother’s mane. Iron whacked the top of her head with his hoof making her fall off. “Ow!”

“Can we help you?” asked Iron ignoring his sister’s glare.

“Maybe,” said Bright. “My husband is supposed to be delivering some supplies to the miner’s but her hurt his leg yesterday and can’t bring them. I believe your brother, Copper Ore, was supposed to come for them but he’s late.” Irom smiled wide and gasped loudly.

“Oh, oh! I can bring them!” he offered jumping up and down. Bright didn’t look so sure.

“Actually, I was wondering if you knew where-”

“No, no, let me!” insisted Iron. Goldie poked him with her hoof.

“You’re supposed to be watching me, Iron,” she reminded him. Iron shot her a glare than looked at Bright.

“If you watch my sister, I’ll deliver the supplies!”

“I don’t know,” said Bright. “I could always bring them myself I suppose.”

“But you got to watch your husband,” said Iron. “I won’t be long. I’ll bring the supplies up and then be right back, I promise!” He stared at Bright with wide pleading eyes and a huge toothy grin.

“Well. . .alright,” she relented. “I’ll even give you a few spare bits for your troubles.”

“Even better!” said Iron. He wouldn’t have done it for free anyway but better that she offered payment rather than he ask for it. Bright took the two foals back to her house where there was a cart with some lanterns, pick axes, and other supplies.

“Are you sure you can pull this?” asked Bright. Iron hitched himself up to the wagon.

“Yep!” he answered confidently. He began to pull the cart. It was a struggle at first, but Iron refused to be beaten by a cart and soon managed to get it to follow him. “Ta-da!”

“You better not let Daddy catch you,” warned Goldie. Iron was about to tell her to be quiet but stopped when she saw the look of genuine concern in her eyes. He smiled softly at her.

“I’ll be okay, Sis,” he assured her. He started towards the path up the mountains to the mines.

I finally get to help! he thought. Maybe even if Dad does see me it’ll convince him to let me help out more. He pushed himself harder up the path determined to complete his task as efficiently as possible. He could soon see the small town beneath him at the foot of the mountain. He had never been up so high. I wonder if I could see my house from here? No! I’m working right now. He laughed giddily when he realized what he was thinking. He soon found himself at the entrance to the mines but nopony there to greet him. Iron weighed his options: leave the cart there for somepony to find or go in the mine and leave it with somepony. He got a mischievous smile on his face and trotted into the mine.

Lantern were set up along the cave walls lighting up the mine. Earth ponies were bucking the walls with their mighty hooves while unicorns used pick axes with their magic to chip away at the rocks. Iron noticed that both types of ponies were working separate from each other. I wonder why that is. As he wandered further into the cave, he noticed ponies taking supplies from the cart. They didn’t seem to be paying much attention to him though. Finally, Iron spotted a familiar pony.

“Hey, Copper!” shouted Iron. Copper stopped mid-buck and looked at Iron. His mouth dropped and his eye went wide in shock.

“I-Iron?” he asked. He trotted up to his brother. “What are you doing? Where’s Gold Nugget?”

“She’s with Miss Bright,” answered Iron. “Somepony needed to bring the supplies so I offered.” Copper sighed and facehoofed. He looked at Iron like he was about to scold him but, slowly, a smile crept onto his face and he laughed instead.

“There’s just no stopping you is there, Bro?” he asked. Iron puffed his chest out.

“Nope!” he said confidently. Copper shook his head.

“Well, now that your task is done, let’s get you out of here before somepony who can get you into trouble catches you.”

“Okay,” said Iron a little disappointed. The two brothers head to the cave entrance. “So, do you think I can do this again soon?”

“Don’t count on it, Bro.”

“Oh, come on I-”

*RUMBLE*

“What’s going on?” asked Iron. Suddenly, rocks and debris falling.

“Cave in!” shouted somepony. Soon everypony was making a mad dash for the exit.

“We got to get you out of here!” shouted Copper trying to get Iron free from the cart.

“It’ll take too long, just go!” cried Iron.

“Oh, shut up, drama queen!” Copper freed Iron from the cart. “See? Now come on!” He put Iron on his back and ran towards the exit. Iron hung onto Copper for dear life as the older colt tried to avoid the debris. A rock landed in front of him causing him to trip and knock Iron off.

“Oof!” grunted Iron as he landed on the ground. He scrambled to his feet and saw Copper try to get up. He stumbled and winced. His right foreleg was bleeding.

“Run!” shouted Copper.

“But-”

“Ruuun!” Iron turned and made a dash for the exit! He didn’t have time to look back as he tried to avoid debris. He dived out of the cave and looked back to see rocks blocking the exit.

“C-Copper?” he asked. He looked around for his brother but didn't see him. “Has anypony seen Copper?”

***

Present day. . .

“H-He didn’t make it out did he?” asked Applejack.

“No,” said Iron. “It was two weeks before we were able to clear out the debris and find his body.” It was quiet between the two ponies for a while.

“It wasn't yer fault,” said Applejack finally.

“Yeah, it was,” said Iron. “But my story isn’t done yet.”

***

12 years ago. . .

“What were you doing!” Charcoal shouted. He and Iron stood in front of the cave entrance. Iron was cowering before his father.

“I-I was-”

“I told you not to come here!”

“I know but-”

“But nothing!” interrupted Charcoal. “I told you to stay and watch your sister! I told you you weren’t old enough to be here!” Tears pricked his eyes. “Now, Copper is dead and it’s your fault!”

Silence. Cruel unforgiving silence.

Iron waited for Charcoal to realize what he said. To say that he didn’t mean it. But there was nothing. Just silence. Tear began to well up in Iron’s eyes. Charcoal just continued to glare at him. Iron didn’t say anything as he turned and ran as fast as he could go. He ran down the path and through the town towards the forest. He didn’t care where he went as long as it was away.

“I-I didn’t mean it!” he shouted to himself. “I didn’t mean to kill him!” He stopped and looked at his Cutie Mark. He thought it was supposed to mean defense. To protect what he cared about. But now his brother was dead and it was his fault. He curled up in a ball and wept. “I wish I could just die right now.” There was rustling in the woods. Iron didn’t move as the rustling got closer. Soon, a large timberwolf came out of the woods. It growled as I walked up to the colt. Iron closed his eyes and waited for the end.

“NO!” he shouted. He rolled out of the way as the timberwolf brought his claws down. Iron stood up on his hooves. He wasn’t going to die here. He wasn’t going to give in. The timberwolf snarled and dove at him Iron got out of the way making the timberwolf crash into the tree. It turned around and chased after him. Iron ran as faced as he could. He failed to see a large tree root and tripped over it. The timberwolf was on top of him in an instant. It swiped at him with his claws. Iron tried to avoid but his left eye was hit. “AAAAAAAAHHHH!”

“Raaaawwwrr!”

Iron and the timberwolf looked in the direction of the noise and saw a manticore approach the two. The timberwolf growled at the manticore trying to scare it off. The manticore wasn’t having it. It tackled the timberwolf giving Iron a chance to escape. Iron wondered what got the manticore after them. Maybe the noise disturbed it. Whatever, the reason, Iron wasn’t going to complain. He ignored the pain in his eye as he headed home.

***

Present day. . .

“So, was yer pa happy to see ya when ya got back?” asked Applejack.

“Not exactly,” answered Iron. “It’s hard to explain. We never spoke of it again. Actually, we hardly ever spoke to each other unless we had to. Usually, our conversations were arguing.”

“Over what?”

“Me causing trouble for him.” Iron sighed. “It wasn’t intentional. But that moment when I almost died, I realized something.” Applejack tilted her head. “I couldn’t give up like that. I still had ponies who relied on me. I also knew I had to make up for my brother’s death. So I went back. I couldn’t let life’s trials weigh me down. I promised I would stand in spite of them. I would defy them. From then on, I stood firmly against any injustice or unfairness I found.”

“Ah fail to see how that’s bad.”

“The problem is that standing for what you believe in sometimes means stepping on somepony’s hoof. I wasn’t rebellious and I really didn’t try to cause a scene but sometimes it couldn’t be helped. It was those moments that tended to get my family in trouble. My dad didn’t appreciate getting in trouble because I didn’t know when to back off.”

“So what happened next?”

“It all came to a head one day. The day I was cast out.”

***

Three years ago. . .

“Are you really doing this, Iron Ore?” asked Quarry. The red stallion and his gang surrounded Iron Ore. A young green unicorn colt cowered behind Iron. The colt had made the mistake of stealing bits from Quarry’s family who also happened to own the mines.

“He’s a scared colt, Quarry,” said Iron. “He already said he would work to pay back the money. You don’t need to rough him up like this.”

“No,” said Quarry. “These unicorn slackers need to figure out who’s boss around here.”

“Quarry, it doesn’t need to be like this!” shouted Iron. “Just take it out of my pay or something.”

“Like your family can afford it,” spat Quarry. Iron was silent. His family was having trouble making ends meet. Taking bits out of Iron’s paycheck wouldn’t help their situation.

“Maybe he wouldn’t have to steal if your dad would pay the unicorn workers the same as the earth pony workers.”

“Leave my dad out of this, Iron,” warned Quarry. “In fact, just leave.”

“No! You don’t have to make a fuss out of this! We can all walk away and nopony has to be hurt.”

“Don’t be naïve! If we let this brat go, what’s to keep the other unicorns from acting up. We need to maintain the chain of command.”

“They aren’t your property, Quarry. They don’t owe you anything.”

“If that’s true then they can leave!” said Quarry. “But I don’t see them doing that. Not exactly a whole lot of mines nearby where they could work.”

“Then you should be doing whatever you can to help them here!” said Iron. “You could start with-”

“Shut up!” interrupted Quarry. “I’m sick of your high and mighty attitude! You aren’t in charge. You don’t tell me or my family how to run things. Now back off.”

“I won’t!” shouted Iron standing tall. Quarry was silent for a moment. He could try to fight Iron but it wouldn’t help. Iron was the strongest pony around the mines. If he wanted Iron to back off, he’d have to hurt him some other way. He got a wicked smile on his face.

“Back off or you and your dad are fired.”

"You can’t do that,” said Iron unintimidated.

“Watch me.” He turned to leave. “Come on, boys. I know how to make this all better.”

The next morning, Iron was woken up by a hoof slapping his face. He sat up in bed and saw his dad holding a piece of paper in front of his face.

“What did you do?!” shouted Charcoal.

“What do you mean?” asked Iron rubbing his face. Charcoal struck him again. “Ow! Will you stop it!”

“No! In fact I’m getting ready to do it again!” Iron got out of bed and stood in front of his dad. Iron was taller but Charcoal wasn’t intimidated. “We both just got fired! Steel just came by personally to do it!” Steel was Quarry’s father.

“He actually did it,” muttered Iron.

“I’m surprised it took this long,” said Charcoal. “But you actually got me fired as well!”

“I didn’t think he’d do it!”

“You knew!” shouted Charcoal. He hit Iron again. “You knew this would happen and you still couldn’t back off? What, do you want to ruin us? How do you think I support you and your sister?”

“Don’t turn this around on me!” shouted Iron. “I wasn’t trying to hurt you two!”

“Oh, really? Because it seems you get your sister and me in trouble all the time!” He raised his hoof. “And now it’s costing us everything!” He was about to strike but Iron blocked with his own hoof. Gold Nugget ran into the room.

“Will you two stop!” she screamed. “We can talk to Steel. We can fix this.”

“Not with him around,” said Charcoal looking Iron directly in the eyes.

“What do you mean?” asked Iron.

“As long as you’re here, you’ll just keep getting us in trouble,” said Charcoal. “You’re a liability.”

“Daddy!” shouted Gold Nugget.

“Don’t interrupt!” snapped Charcoal. Gold Nugget lowered her head and backed up.

“Don’t yell at her!” shouted Iron. Charcoal just hit him again.

“You shut up! Ever since Copper died, you’ve been nothing but trouble! It wasn’t enough to kill your brother was it!” Iron was speechless. This was the first time Charcoal ever mentioned Copper since his death. Even after all these years, he still held that against Iron.

“AAAAAHHHHH!” shouted Iron as he hit Charcoal as hard as he could. The old stallion fell to the ground. Iron jumped on him and began to beat him mercilessly. “How about I just kill you too?! Then I wouldn’t have to listen to your-”

“Iron!” screamed Gold Nugget as she grabbed her brother’s hoof. He looked at her then at Charcoal. The older stallion’s face was bruised and swollen. His jaw looked broken too. Iron looked back at his sister. “Leave,” she told him.

“Goldie I didn’t mean-”

“You never mean to,” said Gold Nugget. “You never mean to but you do it anyway.” She narrowed her eyes at him looking at him like he was some monster. “And now you’ve actually threatened to hurt one of us. To hurt me.”

“Him not you,” said Iron. Gold Nugget smacked him.

“It’s the same thing!” she screamed. “And you don’t even regret saying it do you? You are not my brother anymore. Get out.”

“But-”

“Get out!” Iron backed away from the two ponies. For the first time since he got his Cutie Mark he felt intimidated and weak.
Later that morning, he packed his things. He grabbed his mother’s old cloak and left.

***

Present day. . .

“And I never looked back,” said Iron.

“Y-You really threatened to kill yer own pa?” asked Applejack in disbelief.

“I was hurt and angry.” Iron sighed. Applejack saw another tear. He let it flow down his cheek this time. “I felt so betrayed at that moment. I just lashed out. I-I don’t even know if I would have done it.”

“Ah do,” said Applejack. She smiled and wiped his tear away. “You’re a gentle soul deep down, Iron. Ah know you wouldn’t hurt anypony close to ya. Yer all too protective to be violent.” Iron smiled at her.

“That’s kind of you to say.”

“So what did you do fer three years?”

“Wandered around. Tried to find a place where I fit in. Nothing was ever a good fit. I always found something I didn’t like. It usually ended with me being kicked out.”

“Well. . .what about here in Ponyville?” asked Applejack. “Is here a good fit?” Iron was quiet for a moment.

“Yeah,” he said. “I think it is. This is the first place I found where it’s genuinely peaceful. I like it here.”

“Well, then you can stay here with us as long as you like. Even after yer debts paid off.”

“Applejack, I couldn’t do that to you.”

“Ya ain’t doin’ nothin’ to us,” Applejack insisted. “Ya’ll finally found a place ya fit in. I ain’t about to let you just up and leave if ya don’t have to.”

“You sure you don’t just like having me around?” asked Iron with a mischievous smirk.

“Wh-what are ya talkin about?” asked Applejack with a slight blush.

“Just messing with you,” said Iron elbowing her lightly. “Thank you for making me talk about this, Applejack. My past is a part of me. I really shouldn’t try to hide from it. But I won’t let it weigh me down either.” Applejack smiled at him.

“Glad to hear it, Iron,” she said. “And yer welcome.”

Author's Notes:

So now we know Iron's story. This was kinda of a downer of a chapter I admit. Hopefully, the next one will be more lighthearted.
Thanks to all of you who have been reading my story so far. I hope you'll stick with it as it goes on.

Happy Birthday

It had been over a month since Iron had started working on the farm and he was now finally able to do some of the more physically challenging labor. His wounds had healed well enough, the only traces of his fight with the timberwolves being some scars on his left side. Iron was excited to be doing something that didn’t involve painting something or standing at the apple vendor although he had to admit the latter was more fun when he got to do it with Applejack.

Big Macintosh was leading Iron through the orchard to show him the proper method of apple bucking. AJ was nowhere to be seen today surprisingly. The two stallions trotted up to one of the trees and Big Mac demonstrated what to do by bucking the tree hard with his hind hooves.

“That looks easy enough,” said Iron.

“Eeyup,” replied Big Mac.

“Hey, Big Mac, can I ask you something?”

“Eeyup.”

“Is there any chance that after we’re done here that I could take the rest of the day off?” Big Mac shook his head.

“Nnope. Sorry, Iron, but AJ already has the day off.” Iron raised a brow.

“What for?”

“It’s her birthday,” explained Big Mac. “We’re gonna be shorthooved today so Ah need ya here to help pick up the slack.”

“AJ doesn’t seem the type to want to take a day off,” said Iron.

“Nnope. Took ferever to convince her to. She only did when Ah said the two of us could handle all the work.” Iron nodded. “Why did ya want the day off fer exactly?”

“Me? Oh, no reason.” Big Mac raised a brow in suspicion. “Uuh, why don’t I try that bucking thing, eh?” He walked up to one of the trees and bucked as hard as he could with his hooves.

*CRASH*

“Ow!” grunted Iron as he hit the ground. He looked over his shoulder and saw his hind hooves stuck inside the tree he had bucked. He looked over at Big Mac who was just staring at the sight with his mouth agape. “Woops. Um, sorry, Big Mac.” Iron chuckled nervously. “Guess I don’t know my own strength.” Big Mac shook his head.

“N-Nope.”

***

“Ah appreciate what yer doin’ girls,” said Applejack to Rarity and Fluttershy, “but Ah don’t really need a spa visit.”

“Oh, nonsense,” said Rarity. “You been working yourself too hard lately. You need at least one day to be pampered, darling.”

“And, well,” began Fluttershy, “we just wanted to make today special for you. And you've also been so busy lately helping Iron Ore.”

“Ah suppose Ah have been a bit preoccupied helpin’ him get settled,” admitted AJ. Rarity started giggling. “And just what are ya’ll snickerin’ about, Rarity?”

“Oh, nothing, nothing,” said the white unicorn trying to stifle her giggles. “It’s just so cute watching you dote over some stallion.”

“Ah ain’t dotin’!” snapped AJ.

“He does seem like an awfully nice stallion,” admitted Fluttershy. “I could see why you’d want to be around him.”

“It ain’t like that!”

“Why so defensive, darling?” asked Rarity. AJ groaned in frustration.

“Ah ain’t bein’ defensive,” she said. “Iron has just had a rough time of it fer a real long time. Ah’m just tryin’ to help him feel like he belongs, alright?” The other two mares nodded.

“Fair enough,” said Rarity. “We understand.”

“Sorry for teasing you,” apologized Fluttershy.

“Oh, hello, AJ,” greeted a voice. The three mares looked ahead and saw Dr. Stable approaching them.

“Howdy, Doc,” greeted the cowpony. “Can Ah help ya?”

“I was actually going to the farm to check up on Iron Ore,” said the doctor. “Just want to make sure he isn’t hurting himself.”

“He’s doin’ fine,” said AJ. “His wounds are healin’ up nicely.”

“I’ll be the judge of that,” said the doctor. “I also wanted to wish him a happy birthday.”

“Oh, that’s mighty kind of-wait, what?”

“You didn't know?” asked Dr. Stable.

“How did you know?” asked AJ.

“Medical records he filled out.” He walked past the three mares. “Well, I’m off. Have a nice day ladies.” Rarity and Fluttershy looked at Applejack.

“Ah wonder why he didn't say nothin,’” she said. “Ah should get somethin’ fer him.”

“What a lovely idea,” said Rarity. “After our spa time.” She used her magic to drag Applejack by her tail.

“Ah feel bad makin’ him work on his birthday.”

“It’s so adorable watching you get so concerned over him,” teased Rarity.

“Cut it out,” growled AJ.

“We really should get her to the spa quickly,” said Fluttershy. “I think we’re stressing her out more.” Rarity and Fluttershy giggled as they dragged their friend to the spa.

“Ya’ll are enjoyin’ this way too much.”

***

Lunch break finally rolled around and Iron decided to take the chance to head into town to see if he could find a gift for Applejack. Unfortunately, he had no idea what she would want. He always hated trying to buy somepony a birthday present. A smile crept on his face as he recalled the multiple times he bought a lousy gift for his sister when they were kids.

“Yo, Iron!” called a voice above him. Iron looked up and saw Rainbow Dash hovering above him. “Long time no see, big guy. How ya been?”

“Hey, Dash,” replied Iron. “I’m just looking around for a gift for Applejack.”

“Oh, yeah? Find anything?”

“Well, that’s kind of the problem,” said Iron. “I don’t know what to get.” Rainbow nodded. “Hey, you’re a friend of hers right?”

“Yep. Want some suggestions?” she asked. Iron nodded. “Okay then.” She lowered herself so she was eye level with Iron. “First things first. It’s gotta be awesome.”

“What do you mean?”

“I mean it’s got to be the best gift that you can get. AJ is one of the most awesome ponies in town. Next to me of course.” Iron rolled his eyes. “So, how many bits do you have?”

“A little over thirty,” said Iron holding up a small sack of bits. Rainbow face hoofed.

“Seriously?”

“Give me a break. Most of my pay goes to paying off my debt.” Rainbow sighed.

“Okay, we can work with this,” she said. “We just have to find best possible gift for only thirty bits.” Iron grunted in irritation. Maybe he should have asked somepony else.

“Good afternoon Rainbow Dash. Iron Ore,” greeted another pony. Iron looked to his right and saw Twilight and Spike walking up to him and Rainbow Dash.

“Hey, guys, what’s up?” asked RD.

“Just a little shopping,” replied Twilight.

“What are you guys doing?” asked Spike.

“I’m trying to help Iron find a cool gift for AJ,” answered Rainbow.

“Oh, how sweet,” Twilight complimented. Iron blushed a little. “So, what ideas have you two thought of?”

“Well,” started Iron.

“We got squat,” interrupted Rainbow. Iron shot a glare at her but she ignored him. “He’s only got thirty bits anyway. How’s he supposed to buy something even remotely decent with that?” Iron grumbled something under his breath.

“Oh, Rainbow Dash leave the poor stallion alone,” said Twilight. Spike scratched his chin.

“Well thirty bits really isn’t much,” he said. He noticed Twilight’s glare and smiled nervously. “B-But I’m sure Applejack won’t care how much it costs.”

“That’s right,” confirmed Twilight. “In fact, if I know AJ, she’ll probably want something practical rather than something very audacious, don’t you agree?” Iron tapped his chin with his hoof.

“Well. . .she did say something about needing a new lasso a couple days ago,” he said.

“A rope?” scoffed Rainbow. “That’s-” Twilight shoved a hoof in Rainbow’s mouth.

“That’s an excellent idea,” said Twilight. “Come on. I know just the place.

***

Applejack walked into Sugar Cube corner and immediately found Pinkie Pie in her face and shoving her out the door.

“Applejack!” she yelled. “I told you not to come until later! I’m still planning your party, so no peeksies!”

“Actually Ah needed to ask you about the party,” said AJ.

“I told you you’re getting a party and you’re going to like it.”

“Of course Ah will but-” Pinkie started pushing her away from the bakery again.

“Then go, go, go and let me work!”

“PINKIE PIE!” shouted AJ. “Will ya’ll stop and let me speak!”

“Alright you don’t have to yell,” said Pinkie rubbing her ear. Applejack’s eye twitched. She took a deep breath and exhaled before speaking.

“Look, Ah found out it’s not just my birthday today.” Pinkie’s eyes widened.

“What? Who? WHO?!” She shouted the last part while getting in AJ’s face. Applejack gently pushed Pinkie out of her personal space.

“Iron Ore’s. Ah was wonderin’ if there’s any chance that ya’ll could make this a party fer him as well as me.”

“Hmmm. . .” Pinkie rubbed her chin. Yeah, I can do that!” She gave AJ a huge grin.

“That won’t be a problem?” asked AJ. Pinkie shook her head.

“Not at all. Now go have fun! It is your birthday too after all!” AJ smiled and nodded.

“Thanks, Pinkie.”

***

Iron whistled as he walked the path home. He managed to find a new lasso for Applejack. It cost him all of his bits but it was worth it. The rope was nice and sturdy as well as longer than AJ’s old rope. The lasso hung around his neck as he walked.

“Iron!” he heard AJ call behind him. He looked over his shoulder and saw her running up to him.

“Uh-oh,” Iron muttered. He grabbed the rope and looked for a place to hide the rope. Spotting a bush, he shoved it underneath just as AJ reached him.

“There ya are,” she said. She raised a brow at him. “Uuuh. . .any particular reason ya’ll got yer hoof under that bush?”

“What?” asked Iron looking at the hoof he shoved under the bush. “Heh, um, I like bushes. He pulled his hoof out.” AJ just blinked. “So, how was your day?” Iron asked trying to change the subject.

“It was fine,” replied AJ still a little confused. “Pinkie is havin’ party later. I was wonderin’ if ya’ll wanted to show up.” Iron shrugged.

“Sure, if you don’t mind.”

“Not in the slightest.” She walked past him then stopped and looked over her shoulder. “Ya’ll comin’?” Iron looked at the bush then back at her and smiled sheepishly.

“You go on ahead,” he said. He set a hoof on top of the bush. “I just want to admire this nice bush some more.”

“Riiight. Ah’ll leave ya to it then.” She trotted away as Iron started petting the bush. When she was gone, he grabbed the rope.

“Well, that was humiliating.”

***

Later that day, Iron found himself at Sugar Cube corner. AJ was outside waiting for him.

“Howdy, Iron,” she greeted with a wave. “What’s with the rope?” Iron looked at the rope around his neck

“Oh this?” he asked. Shoot! I knew I should have put it in a bag! “Um, I’ll tell you in a minute. Why are you out here?”

“Thought Ah’d wait for ya.”

“Why?”

“You’ll see.” She led Iron inside where they were both greeted by a bunch of ponies.

“SURPRISE!” they all shouted. Iron jumped a little. He was still not used to surprise parties. He saw a large banner hanging from the ceiling that read: “HAPPY BIRTHDAY APPLEJACK AND IRON ORE.” His name looked like it was scribbled in at the last moment. There was a large birthday cake in the middle of the room. On one half were orange candles that Iron assumed were AJ’s. On the other half, were a random bunch of gray candles.

“I didn't know how old you are,” said Pinkie. “So, I just stuck a hold bunch of candles for you. I hope you don’t mind.” Iron smiled.

“It’s fine. Thank you.” Pinke smiled widely. “How did you know?” Iron asked AJ.

“Dr. Stable told me.”

“You don’t mind sharing your party with me?” AJ shook her head.

“Not at all. No reason you shouldn’t get to celebrate yer birthday.”

“Yeah!” shouted Pinkie appearing between the two suddenly. “That would be sooo sad if you couldn't celebrate your own birthday! I mean I couldn't imagine what I’d do if I couldn't celebrate my birthday. . .” AJ and Iron slipped away while Pinkie rambled on. AJ held up a blue box and gave it to Iron.

“What’s this?” he asked.

“A little present I found fer ya.” Iron opened it revealing a black Stetson and a dark blue bandanna. “Now ya’ll can look like a real cowpony.”

“Wow,” said Iron. “Thanks, AJ.” He put the hat on and tied the bandanna around his neck. “How do I look.”

“Pretty good. Rarity said the bandanna would be a nice touch.” Iron looked at the bandanna.

“Yeah, it’s pretty cool.” He pulled the rope off of his neck and gave it to AJ. “Um, it isn’t much but I knew you needed a new lasso sooo. . .here you go.” Applejack took the rope and twirled it around a bit before smiling at him.

“It’s perfect,” she said. “Thank you.” Iron blushed a little.

“N-No problem.” Elsewhere, Twilight elbowed Rainbow Dash.

“Told you she would like it,” said Twilight. Rainbow shrugged.

“Yeah, yeah, whatever,” she huffed.

Author's Notes:

A little shorter than the last couple chapters but I like it nonetheless.

I've been wondering if I should add more character tags to this story. You guys think I should?

Anywho, thanks for reading.

Who I Protect

Another month had come and gone. Iron had gotten the hang of apple bucking and also learned how to do the plowing. He had grown fond of Ponyville and the Apple family during his stay. It was nice to finally have a place he could stay in for more than a couple weeks and not be kicked out. He actually found himself looking forward to each new day.

Except this day. This day could go rot in Tartarus.

It was hot. No, hot was too weak a word. Perhaps unrelenting blistering heat that could melt solid steel was more appropriate. A little overdramatic but appropriate. To top it off, it was humid as well. Iron fanned himself with his hat and dabbed the sweat off his brow with his bandanna. However, the bandanna was so soaked, wiping the sweat off was a moot point. Out of curiosity, he took a quick whiff of the bandanna and immediately felt like gagging. He tossed the hat and bandanna aside and went back to bucking the tree he was working on with one of his hind legs. His eyepatch was starting to stick to his fur tempting him to pull it off. However, the desire to not gross out Applejack and Big Mac outweighed his desire to be comfortable.

Speaking of the Apple siblings, the two didn’t look like they were fairing much better. Big Mac trudged along carrying a large basket of apples. Normally, it wouldn’t have been a problem but the heat and humidity made him feel like collapsing under the weight. AJ, on the other hoof, was sitting under a tree sipping the last drops from her water bottle. She grumbled in irritation and crushed the bottle in her hooves. Looking out of the corner of her eye, she saw Iron bucking the tree.

“Iron,” she said deadpanned.

“What?” asked Iron a little annoyed.

“Ya’ll have been buckin’ that same tree for five minutes.”

“What?” Iron looked up and noticed the apples had already fallen out of the tree. “You couldn’t have mentioned that earlier?”

“I thought ya was excercisin’ or something.’”

“That doesn’t make any sense!” snapped Iron.

“Neither does buckin’ a tree fer five minutes straight!” retorted AJ.

“I’m tired, alright?”

“Well, so am Ah!”

“Says the mare who’s just sitting in the shade!” The two ponies were soon in each other’s faces staring daggers into each other’s eyes.

“Are you implyin’ that I’m bein’ lazy?!”

“If the horseshoe fits!”

“Why you little-”

“Enough!” shouted Big Mac separating the two. “Ah think we ought to take a break perhaps.”

“Sounds good to me,” agreed Iron.

“Now who’s bein’ lazy?” asked AJ.

“The pony who was working all day,” Iron countered. Big Mac groaned and stuck his hooves in the two ponies’ mouths to keep them from arguing.

“Ah’m not puttin’ up with this anymore,” he growled. “Swimmin’ hole. Now.”

***

Iron was immediately refreshed as he entered the water. Granny Smith, Apple Bloom, and her friends had joined in the trip to the swimming hole. The Apples were off playing and splashing while Iron was leaned up against a rock letting the water cool him off.

“Ribbit,” croaked a toad on top of the rock. Iron looked up and noticed the dark green toad.

“Hey, little guy,” greeted Iron. “Nasty heat out, huh?”

“Ribbit.”

“I’ll just assume you’re agreeing with me.”

“Ribbit.”

“Hey, Iron Ore!” shouted Apple Bloom as she and her friend swam up to him. The toad panicked and jumped into the water. “Come play with us.”

“Yeah, we’re going to race some laps around the swimming hole,” said Scootaloo.

“I don’t know,” said Iron.

“Aw, c’mon, Iron,” shouted AJ. “Scared to lose against a couple fillies?” Iron growled.

“What about you, AJ?” asked Iron as he swam past the fillies to the orange mare. “I don’t see you wanting to race.”

“Is that a challenge?” asked the cowpony. Iron stopped in front of her and nodded.

“It is. Unless you’re not feeling up to it from all that work you weren’t doing.” Now it was AJ’s turn to growl.

“First one to make three laps-”

“Excuse me,” called a voice. All the ponies in the water looked over to see two pale yellow unicorn stallions with red and white manes and tails approaching them. One of the stallions had a mustache. “Oh, well hello there Apples and friends,” greeted the mustached stallion. All the Apples, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Bell glared at the twins while Iron looked confused.

“Friends of yours?” asked Iron.

“Hardly!” snapped AJ. She got out of the water and stormed up to the twins. “What are you two scammers doing here?”

“Why, Applejack,” said Flim sounding hurt, “is that anyway to greet one of your old business partners?”

“Somepony hold me back before somepony gets hurt,” warned AJ. Iron bolted out of the water and stood between her and the twins.

“Can somepony explain what’s going on?” asked Iron.

“These two are Flim and Flam,” explained Granny Smith walking up to the group. “They’ve been to Ponyville twice before. The first time, they tried to take our farm away and the second, they went around sellin’ some fake ol’ miracle tonic. They ain’t nothin’ but trouble!”

“Eeyup!” agreed Big Mac from inside the swimming hole.

“I see,” said Iron with a nod. He looked at the twins. “And what brings you two here again?”

“Well, we seem to have run into a little trouble,” explained Flim.

“One of our customers wasn’t satisfied with a deal we made with him,” added Flam. “He is trying to register a complaint.”

“Why does that bring you to Ponyville?” asked Iron.

“Because by ‘register a complaint’ I mean ‘rip off your tails and feed them to you,’” said Flam. Iron winced a little.

“It’d serve you swindlers right!” shouted AJ. Iron looked at her surprised.

“Now, now, Applejack,” said Flim. “Surely you couldn’t wish such a harsh punishment on such on business ponies.”

“It’s a lot nicer than what Ah’ve thought about doin’ to ya.”

“So you do think about us then!” said Flim with a smug smile. Iron stood firm as he blocked AJ's attempts to charge at the twins.

“Tell us what you fellers want before my granddaughter bucks yer sorry flanks across town,” said Granny.

“Straight to the point, Granny,” said Flam. “I always liked that about you.”

“Get to the point!” snapped Iron still holding AJ back.

“Right. We were wondering if we could perhaps lodge with you fine ponies until our pursuer stops giving chase.” It was quiet as all the Apples glared at the twins.

“NO!” they all shouted in unison.

“Why not?” asked Iron. All the glares were transferred to him. “What?”

“Whaddya mean ‘why not’?” asked Applejack stepping back from him.

“Well, what could it hurt to just let them stay for a little while?”

“I am not lettin’ these two stay with us! Especially fer free.”

“Can’t you just make them work for it?”

“No!”

“You’re letting me.”

“That’s business.”

“And this isn’t?”

“No!” shouted Applejack. “Our decision is made!” She walked off before Iron could say anything else. He looked at the other members of the Apple family.

“And what about you three?” asked Iron.

“Ah’m with AJ,” said Apple Bloom as she and her friends got out of the water to follow AJ.

“Those two will have to look somewhere else,” said Granny.

“Eeyup,” followed up Big Mac. They both left as well leaving Iron alone with the twins.

“Geez, you two must have really done a number on them,” said Iron looking at the twins.

“We have differing business philosophies,” said Flam. Soon, both twins were by Iron’s side putting their hooves around his shoulders. “So, think you can convince your fillyfriend to let us stay with you all.”

“We’re not together,” stated Iron bluntly. “And I don’t think I’ll be able to talk them into it. Sorry, fellas.” He started to walk off but was cut off by the twins.

“But you seem willing to help us,” said Flim. “How about we make you an offer?”

“What kind of offer?”

“You’re a strong stallion,” said Flam. “The one chasing us is pretty tough but you could probably take him.”

“What’s your point?” asked Iron getting annoyed.

“We need a body guard. Interested? We can pay you when this all tides over.” Iron just gave them a blank stare.

“Sure.” The twins grinned and Flim opened his mouth to speak. “But pay me now.”

“What?” asked Flim.

“Just because I’m willing to trust you doesn’t mean I trust you,” explained Iron. “So let’s talk pay.”

***

Applejack ran through the town like a crazed madpony. She burst into Sugar Cube Corner to find Iron Ore drinking milkshakes with Flim and Flam. She stormed up to Iron glaring daggers into him.

“What do you think ya’ll are doin’?” she shouted getting in his face.

“Having a milkshake,” he answered matter of factly. “Got it with the bits I’m being paid by these two.” He shot a smirk at the twins who just looked irritated.

“Why are you workin’ for them?” asked AJ stepping back a bit.

“Well, you weren’t exactly jumping at the chance to help.” AJ narrowed her eyes at him.

“You and me. Outside.” She walked out of the bakery followed by an irritated Iron. For a moment, AJ stood with her back turned to Iron. He had half a mind to turn around and go back inside. It was still way too hot. “What are you thinking?” she finally asked still not facing him.

“They’re in a bind” replied Iron. “I can’t just stand aside and not do anything. It just isn’t in my nature to look the other way when somepony needs me.”

“As long as they pay?”

“Well, I’m just doing that because they’re jerks,” said Iron with a smug grin. Applejack didn’t respond. She still wasn’t even looking at him. “I get the feeling that they did something a lot worse than you’re letting on.” Applejack finally turned around and looked at him. Her gaze had softened some but she still looked upset.

“That second time they visited,” she started. “You know, with the fake tonic?” Iron nodded. “When they came, Granny Smith tried some thinkin’ it would give her the strength she had when she was younger. However, it was just some kinda juice or somethin.’ It seemed to work though and when I tried to get Flim and Flam to put a stop to their scheme.” She stopped and looked away still holding a frustrated look on her face.

“You couldn’t do it, could you?” finished Iron.

“It was worse than that,” said AJ. “Ah ended up practically endorsin’ them. Soon the whole town was buyin’ the tonic just solely because Ah said it worked. Those two made a liar out of me and conned a lot of ponies out of their bits!”

“I see,” said Iron.

“Ya can’t trust those two.”

“I don’t.”

“Then why help them?”

“I already told you I can’t just look the other way.” He showed her this Cutie Mark. “See that?” AJ nodded. “A mountain is a natural barrier. It protects everything around it and defies any who would try and make it do otherwise. It stands no matter what. That’s what I do. I protect anypony who needs me. I know these two are bad news, AJ, I’m not an idiot. However, somepony sounds like he’s out for their blood. There’s got to be another way to deal with this other than violence but until that solution is found, I’m standing guard. I know this upsets you, and I’m sorry about that, but this is who I am.” He turned around leaving Applejack outside. She sighed and headed home.

“Stubborn ol’ mule.” She looked over and saw a mule staring at her. “Uh, no offense.” The old mule just smiled.

“None taken,” he said. AJ smiled and started to leave when she bumped into a large green stallion.

“Excuse me,” he said. “Could you tell me where I could find two ponies named Flim and Flam?”

***

“So, is how is our favorite apple farmer?” asked Flim as Iron took back his seat.

“Still upset,” he answered. “I’ll admit, I’m starting to like you two less as well.”

“You’re not going to back out of our deal are you?” asked Flam nervously.

“Relax. Unlike you two, I keep my promises.” The twins didn’t answer. They were two busy looking in horror at the stallion who just walked into the bakery. Iron looked over and saw a dark green stallion with a blue mane and tail and a Cutie Mark of a boulder.

“Stonehead?” asked Iron. The stallion looked at Iron.

“Iron Ore?” he asked. The two stallions approached each other. “Been a while.”

“Yeah,” said Iron surprised. “What are you doing here?”

“I’m looking for-” he looked past Iron’s shoulder and noticed the twins. “Them!” He pushed Iron aside an approached the twins backing them into a corner.

“H-Hey there, Stonehead!” greeted Flim.

“How have you been?” asked Flam.

“Let’s see,” said Stonehead. “You scam my family out of their life savings and then cost me and brother our jobs. How do you think I’m doing?!” He slammed a hoof on the ground and leaned forward to the twins clenching his teeth.

“Stonehead!” shouted Iron. The green stallion looked back at Iron.

“What?” he asked.

“Back off.”

“Pardon me?” Stonehead face Iron and approached him. “Are you protecting them?”

“I am.” The two stallions stood face to face. AJ entered the bakery and look at them. Iron and Stonehead were equal in height and build. If they were to fight, it wouldn’t be pretty.

“You were never too bright, Iron,” began Stonehead, “but this is a new level of stupidity.”

“Now hold on a sec,” started AJ.

“And you were always a lot wiser than this,” said Iron ignoring his friend. “I can’t remember a time where you even thought of punching a pony let alone hunt them down.”

“They ruined my family!” shouted Stonehead.

“I know, but what does this solve?” asked Iron.

“I’ll certainly feel a lot better,” said Stonehead glaring back at the twins.

“But you’ll still be without a job and your family will still be without money.” Stonehead didn’t reply. “They need you there not wasting your time hunting these fools down. They can’t even pay you back. Trust me. They barely had enough to pay me to protect them.”

“You charge now?” asked Stonehead.

“Long story. My point is that this isn’t you. I know what they did to you was terrible and it won’t be easy to fix but I know you. If anypony can guide your family through this, it’s you. But you have to actually be there to help them.” Stonehead glared at Iron for a moment, then at the cowering twins, and then back at Iron.

“You make a good point,” he finally said. Iron smiled. Stonehead took one last look at the twins. “You aren’t worth the time anyway.”

“Well, I’m glad you feel that way,” said Flim.

“Yes, I’m glad this worked out,” said Flam. “Now I’m sure we can strike a deal that-”

“You two,” interrupted Iron. The twins looked at him. “Beat it.”

“But-”

“Yeah,” Stonehead followed up. “I don’t need your help.”

“Well, fair enough,” said Flim.

“We’re take our leave,” said Flam. The two bolted out of the bakery.

“Hmph. Typical,” muttered Applejack.

***

“Are you sure you don’t want to come back with me?” asked Stonehead. He and Iron stood on the path just outside of town.

“You really think my family will be okay with that?” asked Iron.

“True.”

“H-How are they?” asked Iron.

“I’m not sure I should say,” said Stonehead.

“Are they at least safe?”

“Gold Nugget is fine. Your dad, however. . .”

“It’s bad isn’t it?”

“I don’t think they expect him to live over a year.”

“I see.”

“You can still come with me,” offered Stonehead. “If anypony gives you trouble, I’ll make them back off.” Iron shook his head.

“Thanks, but it’s best I stay away.” Stonehad nodded.

“Alright. Take care of yourself.”

“You as well.” Stonehead nodded and trotted down the path. Iron watched him go until he was out of sight. Applejack walked up next to him. The two were silent for a long time.

“Weird day, huh?” asked AJ.

“Yeah,” sighed Iron.

“Are you sure you want to stay?” Iron looked up at the sky. The stars were starting to come out.

“Sometimes I look up there and wonder if they can see the same stars,” he said. Applejack didn’t say anything. “I think about them and wonder if they think of me as well. I hope they think of fond and happy memories but then I remember. They have no happy memories of me.”

“That can’t be true,” said AJ.

“I can’t go home, Applejack. Not anymore. There’s too much bitterness between my family and me.” AJ was quiet again. She didn’t really know what to say to him. She decided to change the subject.

“I’m sorry about earlier,” she said. “Today just wasn’t a good day.”

“Nope,” said Iron. “I’m sorry too. You deserve better than me getting under your skin.”

“You stood by what you believe in and managed to help everypony involved. Nothin’ to be sorry about.”

“We could go back and forth all night about who’s to blame. Want to say we’re both at fault?” AJ chuckled.

“Fine by me. You know, I’m surprised that you were able to talk Stonehead down.”

“I had to,” said Iron. “I couldn’t let him become something he wasn’t.”

“Sounds like you were protecting him just as much as you were Flim and Flam,” observed AJ. Iron smiled.

“I guess so.” He looked at AJ. “So, you and I are cool right?”

“Yeah. And fer the record, I never thought you were an idiot fer helpin’ Flim and Flam.”

“Thanks.” Iron started to walk away.

“Hey, w’re ya goin?’” AJ called after him.

“I never got to enjoy that dip in the swimming hole,” he explained. “I’m going for a swim. I’ll be back later.”

“Don’t stay out too long,” said AJ. “We still got lots of work tomorrow.”

“Yeah, yeah.”

***

Iron sat in the water against the same rock he had earlier that day. It was nice to finally be able to relax.

“Ribbit,” came a croak. Iron looked up and saw the same toad from before.

“Oh, it’s you again. You’re still here?”

“Ribbit.”

“Don’t you have a family, little buddy?”

“Ribbit,” croaked the toad sadly.

“All alone, huh?” No reply. “I know the feeling. I’m alone too.” Immediately, mental images of all the ponies he had met came to his mind. The last was of Applejack smiling at him. “Well, maybe not as alone as I used to be.”

“Ribbit,” croaked the toad still sounding depressed.

“I guess that doesn’t make you feel much better, huh?” The toad shook his head. Iron stood up and faced the toad. “Well, that won’t stand with me.”

“Ribbit?” asked the toad. Iron scooped the toad up and put him on top of his head.

“You can hang with me, little guy,” said Iron. “It’s no fun being alone. I gotta name you though.” He thought for a moment. “How about ‘Ribbit?’”

“Ribbit,” croaked the toad.

“Yeah, too obvious,” said Iron as he headed home. “Mr. Toadykins?”

“Ribbit!”

“No, I’m not serious, I’m just brainstorming.” He mulled over some more ideas. “Well, I found you on a rock and you’re green so how about, ‘Moss?’”

“Ribbit.”

“No? What about ‘Rock?’ You like that?” The toad rubbed his chin before nodding.

“Ribbit!”

“Rock it is then!” Iron and Rock looked at the stars as they headed home. “I tell you, Rock, what a day. Crazy stuff, dude.”

“Ribbit?”

“Oh, you have no idea.”

“Ribbit?”

“Would I change it? Hmm. . .no, I don’t think so. Days like this remind you of who you are. I think I needed that.”

“Ribbit.”

“Took the words right out of my mouth.”

Author's Notes:

I was almost tempted to not edit this but I knew I'd regret it later. This took forever to write.

Fun little fact: Rock was Iron Ore's original name but I didn't think it fit very well so I changed it. Not it's the name of his new amphibian friend.

Anyway, I hope you all enjoyed. Thanks for reading.

I Want to Stay

Iron walked into the house after another day of work. He rolled his sore shoulders as he walked over to the couch and plopped down on it resting his head on the armrest. He closed his eyes to rest then felt something land on his stomach. He opened an eye and saw a pouch of bits resting on his stomach. Applejack was standing next to him.

“Here ya go,” she said.

“What is this?” asked Iron.

“Yer pay.” Iron picked up the pouch and felt the weight.

“It’s a little more than you usually give me.”

“Well, that’s cause ya’ll have finally paid off the last of yer debt.”

“Really?” Iron sat up and held the pouch in his hoof.

“Yep.” Applejack smiled at him. Iron thought she looked a little sad. "Took four months but ya finally did it."

“I. . .guess that means you don’t need me around anymore,” said Iron. He suddenly felt a little empty inside.

“That ain’t necessarily true!” said AJ quickly. “Ah mean, ya haven’t put any thought on what to do when this day finally came ‘round, right?”

“Well, not really, no,” Iron admitted.

“Then feel free to stick around!” AJ’s face started to brighten up.

“I shouldn’t,” said Iron. Applejack looked at him shocked.

“But why?” she asked.

“I already told you that I can’t impose more than I already have,” said Iron standing up. “Your family has enough to worry about without me adding to your troubles.”

“Ah’ve already told ya before that ya ain’t imposing,’” said AJ. “We can still pay ya if ya want.”

“You know you can’t afford that,” said Iron. “Besides, I don’t care if you pay me to work or not.”

“Then what’s the issue?” asked Applejack.

“I don’t feel comfortable depending on you more than I have to, alright?” said Iron. Applejack glared at him.

“So, what? This is an issue with yer pride? Yer honor or somethin’ like that?” she asked. Iron sighed.

“It isn’t that.”

“Then what is it?”

“It’s. . .I don’t know what it is, okay?” he said stomping his hoof on the ground. “You don’t need me anymore so I’m taking my leave, okay?”

“That’s ridiculous,” said AJ.

“Who asked you?” snapped Iron.

“So, yer just tossin’ us aside now that yer done with us?” asked AJ sounding hurt.

“Stop putting words in my mouth!” shouted Iron.

“Then start makin’ sense!”

“Why do you care so much if I stay?!” shouted Iron. Applejack looked a little nervous.

“Why do you want to leave so badly?” she retorted.

“I don’t!” shouted Iron. “Okay? I don’t want to leave. I want to stay, alright? I like it here. I like working here. I like your family. I like you!” His eyes widened upon realizing what he just said. Applejack just stared wide-eyed at him. “Um. . .that didn’t sound too awkward did it?”

“Just a little,” said AJ. The two just stood there in awkward silence. “Sooo, did ya mean that?”

“What I said about liking it here or the last part.”

“Um. . .yes.” It was quiet again. Iron cleared his throat before speaking.

“In that case, yeah. I meant all of it.” He sighed and smiled at her. “I really do like you, AJ. You’re hard working and honest. You tell things like you see them but you’re always so kind about it. I don’t want to leave but. . .”

“But what?”

“I’ve always tried to help everypony as much as I could,” said Iron. “I want them to know that they can rely on me. But to do that, I have to be able to be depended on. I can’t do that if I have to rely on somepony to be looking out for me.” AJ raised a brow.

“What about when ya were livin’ with yer pa?” asked AJ.

“I could have moved out anytime I wanted to. I just stayed around because Dad was getting old and I didn’t want to leave Gold Nugget by herself to take care of him.”

“Ah understand wanting to be dependable,” said AJ. “And Ah understand wantin’ to do oeverythin’ yerself, but Ah also know everypony needs somepony sometime. Just because ya’ll need somepony too doesn’t mean yer any less reliable.”

“Maybe.” AJ chuckled.

“There’s that trademark stubbornness of yers again. Not that Ah’m one to talk Ah suppose.”

“You aren’t,” Iron assured her. “Nowhere close.” AJ smiled softly at him and leaned against him. “Um. . .AJ?”

“What?” she asked. “This makin’ ya uncomfortable?”

“Is it making you uncomfortable?” he asked.

“Not at all.” Iron smiled and held her close to him. “Sooo, now what?”

“Don’t know,” said AJ. “That’s up to you Ah suppose.”

“I see.” Once more, silence over took them. He looked at AJ as she leaned against him patiently waiting for him to respond. He leaned his head against hers. “I want to stay. For as long as you want.” Applejack looked at him and placed a soft kiss on his cheek.

“Careful whatcha wish fer, partner.” Iron was about to say something when they heard somepony clearing their throat. They looked over and saw Big Macintosh standing in the doorway. He raised a brow and gave a hard look at Iron.

“Um. . .” began Iron.

“Iron, here has decided to stick around,” said AJ quickly pulling away from Iron and walking up to her brother. “Ain’t that great?” The two siblings just stared at each other for a moment.

“Eeyup,” said Big Mac finally. Applejack smiled and walked out the door.

“Ah got a couple more chores to finish up,” she said. “Ya’ll play nice now.” Big Mac waited until she was out of sight before giving a glare at Iron. The gray stallion chuckled nervously. He might have been bigger than Big Mac but he knew better than anypony how fierce an angry older brother could be.

“So, um, I guess-”

“Ah like ya, Iron,” Big Mac interrupted. “Yer a good worker and a good friend.” He stepped up closer and looked Iron in the eye. “But ya’ll hurt my sister, Ah’ll be addin’ a few more scars to the ones ya already have. Understand?”

“Perfectly!” said Iron nervously. Big Mac smiled and walked to the kitchen.

“Glad yer stickin’ around, bud.”

“Yeah.” Iron looked out the door and saw AJ doing some last minute harvesting. He let a soft smile creep onto his face. “You and me both.”

Author's Notes:

Short this time around I'll admit. We're entering the last leg of the story and I wanted to finally get the romantic teasing between Iron and Applejack out of they way.

Hope you enjoyed. Thanks for reading.

They Want Me Back?

A year. It had been a whole year since Iron Ore first wandered into Ponyville bloodied and beaten. A year since he had found a town that actually wanted him there. A year since the Apples took him in and practically made him family. A year since he had finally found a place to call home.

Iron found it hard to wrap his head around the fact that he had stayed in one place for so long. Normally, he would have found himself kicked out within a few weeks. His more cynical side was telling him that this was just some short lived fantasy and he would be on the road again before he knew it. Iron told that side to shut up.

Iron had also grown much closer to Applejack during his stay. This was definitely something he had not expected. There was a time where he told himself that he'd never settle down with anypony. He didn't think he wanted too. However, Applejack changed that about him. Actually, he found that she had made him reconsider a lot of things during his time with her. The crazy part was that she wasn't even trying to change him, she was just helping him confront those fears and insecurities he didn't want to. On the one hoof, it drover Iron nuts, but on the other? It only made him appreciate her more.

It didn't take long for rumors about the two to start spreading. They weren't mean rumors but they did seem a little nosy at times. Didn't these ponies have something else they could be doing? What really confused Iron was the fact that most ponies acted like he and AJ getting together was inevitable. Did everypony else just see something those two didn't?

You know what? Who cares? Iron certainly didn't. Whether everypony knew what he was doing or not doing didn't matter to him. For once everything was finally going his way and he was going to enjoy it for however long it lasted.

Chores around the farm kept him busy as ever. Today, however, the CMC went ahead and inadvertently added a new one: Fixing up their clubhouse. Apple Bloom was pretty handy with tools but that damage that the little fillies caused required her to seek a little help. Iron was more than willing to lend a hoof promising to not tell Applejack or Big Macintosh what the CMC was actually doing.

"I can't believe you tried fire performance," said Iron as he nailed a shingle onto the roof.

"It seemed like a good idea at the time," said Apple Bloom innocently. "Besides, we've worked with fireworks before."

"Somehow that doesn't make me feel better." He and Apple Bloom put some finishing touches on the roof. "That should be good."

"Awesome," said Apple Bloom wiping sweat from her brow. "Thanks for yer help, Iron. You still promise not to tell anypony?"

"You promise that you are forever done doing anything remotely related to fire?"

"Ah promise."

"Then your secret is safe with me." He ruffled the filly's mane causing her to giggle. She looked up in the air and saw something approaching them. "What's that?" she asked pointing at the object. Iron looked in the direction she was pointing and saw what looked like a pegasus with a mailbag approaching them. "Oh, it's Derpy." Derpy stopped in front of them and tipped her hat to them.

"Hi!" she greeted.

"Afternoon, Derpy," greeted Iron. "You know the mailbox is by the house right?"

"Yeah, I know," replied Derpy, "but I have a letter for you." She reached into her mailbag and pulled out an envelope. "It says on the front that I'm supposed to deliver it to you directly." Iron took the envelope and Derpy flew off.

"Bye, Derpy!" called Apple Bloom waving to the mailmare. She looked at Iron who had torn open the envelope and pulled out a letter. "What's it say?" Iron didn't reply at first as he read the letter. His eyes widened in shock. "Iron?"

"It's. . .It's a letter from my sister."

***

"Whooee, we sure got a lot of pickin' done today!" said Applejack excitedly as she and her brother carried the last of the baskets to the apple cellar.

"Eeyup," replied Big Mac.

"Would have gotten more if Apple Bloom didn't haul Iron Ore away off to do Celestia knows what."

"Eeyup."

"Any idea what they were up to?"

Nnope. Do ya really want to know?"

"Hmm. . .nah, probably not." The two siblings put the apples in the cellar. "Well, Ah'm beat. Ready to call it a day?"

"Nnope. Gotta do a quick inventory check."

"Alright, see ya later." Applejack left the cellar and went into the house. Apple Bloom ran up to her.

"Hey, Sis, Ah think somethin' is wrong with Iron Ore," she said.

"Whaddya mean?" asked AJ.

"Well, he got some letter from his sister and then went up to his room and hasn't come back out."

"His. . .sister?"

"Ah thought ya said his family went and kicked him out," said Apple Bloom.

"More or less," said AJ. "Ah'm gonna go talk to him." Applejack went upstairs and knocked on Iron's bedroom door. "Iron?"

No reply. She knocked again.

"Iron? Ya alright?"

Again no response.

"Ah'm comin' in okay?" She opened the door and saw Iron sitting on his bed with hit back facing her. Rock was in his tank watching his master with concern. "Iron?" She walked over to Iron and sat next to him. Iron's attention was focused on the letter in his hooves. She nudged his side to get his attention startling him a little.

"Hm? What?" he asked looking at Applejack. "AJ? How long have you been there?"

"Not long. Though Ah guess I could stay here all day and ya'll wouldn't have noticed."

"Sorry," apologized Iron. He looked back at the letter. "I just wasn't expecting this."

"Is it alright if Ah read it?" asked AJ. Iron handed it to her without a word.She took it and looked it over.

Dear Iron Ore,

I doubt you ever expected to hear from me again. To be honest I never thought I would be trying to get in touch with you. Luckily, Stonehead knew where to find you. I don't know exactly how to put this so I guess I'll just come out and say it.

It's about Dad. Stonehead said he told you a little about what was going on but I doubt you know the whole situation. Dad isn't doing so well. They aren't giving him much time before he, well, you get the idea.

I'm writing this to you because we want you to come home. Dad has been meaning to try and get in touch with you for a long time but it just didn't worked out. However, he's pretty adamant now that you come back. Please consider coming back and talking to us. I know you don't have any reason to return and, to be honest, I don't know why Dad wants to see you again, but please think about it.

Your Sister,

Gold Nugget

Applejack folded up the letter and gave it back to Iron. "Wow," was all she could say.

"Yeah," said Iron.

"Are ya gonna go?"

"I'm not sure."

"But Ah thought that goin' home was somethin' ya'll have been wantin' to do fer a while."

"It does cross my mind every now and then," Iron admitted, "but I still don't know."

"Why not?"

"This is the first time in four years that my family has tried to contact me. I don't know if they want to see me because they actually want me back or if there's some other intent behind it."

"They said in the letter that they meant to get in touch with ya before," Applejack reminded him.

"But they didn't," said Iron coldly.

"Neither did you." Iron didn't have a response to that. "This could be the chance to put yer family back together before it's too late. Could ya'll really fergive yerself if yer pa died wantin' to talk to ya and ya did nothin'?" Iron sighed.

"How weak do you think I would be if I said I'm scared to go home?" asked Iron. AJ smiled and leaned her head on his shoulder.

"Ah don't think yer weak," she said encouragingly. "Ah remember bein' a little scared to come back home after leavin' my family to live in Manehattan. Ah was afraid they'd not want me back."

"What made you go back?"

"Ah knew Ah at least had to make the effort. It was worth a try. Do ya think yer family is worth the effort?"

"Always with the hard questions aren't you, AJ?" asked Iron with a small smile.

"Somepony has to ask 'em."

"Would you. . .Would you come with me?" asked Iron. "I don't think I can do this alone." AJ looked up at him and smiled.

"Yeah, Iron. Ah'll come along with ya."

***

A few days later, Applejack found herself walking through a small village with Iron. It was smaller than Ponyville. All the buildings were very basic in design. Everything was built for practicality rather than aesthetics. Rarity would hate it here. AJ noticed that most of the stallions were close to Iron's size and a few looked like they were even bigger. The mares looked a little buff too. Applejack was known for her physical strength but everpony here put her to shame. She looked up at the large mountain where the mines were. There were various paths leading from the village to the different cave entrances.

AJ looked at Iron. His face wasn't betraying any emotions. He was stoic as ever. Everypony else, however, seemed to have noticed him. She could see them whispering to each other and giving Iron suspicious looks. Iron didn't pay them any mind though as he walked through the village.

"So which one is yers?" asked Applejack as the approached the houses. They all looked relatively the same. Some basic brick houses all with just one floor each.

"This one here," said Iron walking up to one of the houses. This one was a little separated from the rest of the houses. Iron just stood there staring at the door. "I never thought I'd see this place again."

"Are ya ready fer this?" asked Applejack. Iron took a deep breath and slowly exhaled.

"Not in the slightest." He knocked the the door. The next few seconds felt like an eternity as they waited for the door to open. Finally, they could hear somepony inside turning the lock and then open the door. A light brown mare with golden mane and tail and Cutie Mark of a golden rock looked at the two.

"Iron Ore?" she asked.

"Gold Nugget," replied Iron flatly.

"Y-You actually came," said Gold surprised. "I didn't think you would." She looked at Applejack. "And who's this?"

"A friend of mine. Can we come in?"

"Oh. Yeah, of course." She stood aside and let Iron and AJ walk in. AJ swore she could have cut the tension in the room with a knife. She looked around seeing a couch, a couple chairs, a fireplace, and a few pictures hanging in the walls.

"Um, nice place ya'll got here," said AJ trying to start a conversation.

"Uh, thanks," said Gold Nugget. Iron ignored them as he headed down the hall. He entered a room at the end of the hall and saw his father, Charcoal, laying on the bed. The older stallion slowly opened his eyes and saw Iron approaching him.

"Hmph. Well, look who showed up," he said. His voice was weak and raspy. Iron remained stoic.

"Hey, Dad."

Author's Notes:

So, the time has finally come for Iron Ore to confront his family. I'm still working on how exactly I want to go about this so it might be a little while before the next update. I'm just surprised I actually made it this close to the end. Hopefully, I'll actually be able to finish a fanfic properly for once.

Anywho, thanks for reading. Hope you enjoyed!

Charcoal

Iron Ore and Charcoal stared at one another letting the realization of the situation set in. Here they were, after four years of not seeing one another, in the same room. Iron couldn’t believe he was looking at the same stallion as when he left. The last time Iron saw his father, the older stallion was in pique condition. His mane was graying perhaps, but he was as strong as ever. Charcoal could easily hold his own against anypony in a fight, Iron included. But now? Charcoal looked like he could barely move on his own. He seemed so weak and frail as if even touching him would cause him to fall apart. His mane was all gray now and his coat had little white patches here and there. Iron felt pity for his dad.

“How long have you been like this?” asked Iron. Charcoal sighed slowly.

“A while,” he said. “I’ve lasted longer than the doctors have expected but. . .”

“You never did like anypony telling you what you couldn’t do,” interrupted Iron.

“Hmph,” grunted Charcoal giving him a smirk. “I’ll be honest with you, Iron. I didn’t expect you to come.”

“I almost didn’t,” Iron admitted.

“So why did you?”

“I realized I didn’t want to lose the chance to try and mend things between us,” said Iron. Charcoal chuckled a little.

“I’m always amused on how much we think alike,” he said. “That’s why I wanted you to come.”

“It is?” asked Iron raising a brow. “I’ll admit, I didn’t expect that.” He felt a little guilty for admitting that.

“I don’ blame you,” said Charcoal in understanding. “I’ve never given you a reason to think I would apologize.”

“So, why now?” asked Iron. “Why did you wait until right now?” His voice began to betray how frustrated he was feeling.

“Because I was too stubborn for my own good,” replied Charcoal. “However, I’m running out of time. Death’s too close for me to hang on shallow pride.”

“That’s a little morbid,” admitted Iron. It was quiet between the two. Neither really knew how exactly to go about this. Finally, Iron decided to speak up. “When I left, you and I hated each other. What changed your mind?” Charcoal sighed.

“Hindsight, I suppose. For a long time, I was bitter against you. I blamed you for Copper’s death and I always resented how you could just never seem to be well enough alone. You held the moral high ground that I couldn’t. I thought you leaving would mean things would be easier, but after a while, I just felt more guilt. I’ve already lost one son to an accident nopony could see coming. I lost another because I pushed him away. You leaving was my fault.” Iron wasn’t entirely sure he was talking to the same stallion who had left four years ago. “What changed your mind?”

“Me?” asked Iron caught a little off guard. “I guess the same as you. All that time away gave me time to think. Perhaps things could have been different if I wasn’t so stubborn.” Iron started laughing. “Gotta hate hindsight, huh?”

“Hmph. That’s putting it lightly.”

“I’m sorry, Dad,” said Iron becoming a little solemn. “To be honest, I do take responsibility for Copper’s death. I’m sorry for everything. I should never have-”

“Enough,” interrupted Charcoal. “I won’t hear this.”

“But-”

“No,” said Charcoal firmly. “What happened to Copper was an accident. You couldn’t have known. Besides, he died saving his little brother. I can’t think of a more noble way to go. As for everything else, perhaps it could have turned out differently, but don’t dwell on the past like I’ve done. Learn and move on.” He sat up and looked Iron in the eye. “And never lose your drive to protect those who need you. Understand.” Iron gulped and nodded.

“Y-Yes, Sir.” Charcoal nodded sat against the bed’s headboard. Charcoal looked his son over noticing his scars, hat, and bandanna.

“You look like you’ve been keeping yourself busy,” he said. “Where’ve you been living?”

“I was just wandering around for the first couple years,” said Iron. “I had a tendency to get myself kicked out of places.” Charcoal grunted causing Iron to shrug. “The scars are from a Timberwolf fight.”

“You keep getting into trouble with those.”

“Yeah. Didn’t lose any body parts this time, however, so that’s a plus.” Charcoal smiled and shook his head. “I wandered into a place called Ponyville and met a mare named Applejack. I’ve been living with her and her family for about a year now.”

“She the one who gave you the hat?” asked Charcoal. Iron nodded.

“Yeah. She actually came with me. I wasn’t sure if I could face you myself.”

“You’re doing fine right now.” Iron smiled.

“I guess so.”

“So, this Applejack mare,” began Charcoal. “She must be a good friend if she’s willing to come all the way here with you.”

“Yeah. She’s, um, very special to me.” Charcoal nodded.

“I see,” he said. “In that case. I’d like to meet her.” Iron suddenly got a little nervous.

“Are you up for more visitors?” he asked.

“Don’t start with that, Iron,” said Charcoal a little annoyed. “I’ll see whom I will.” Iron nodded and left. He returned with Applejack who seemed uneasy. “So, you’re Applejack?”

“Um, yes, Sir,” she replied. “Ah, hope ya don’t mind my bein’ here.”

“It’s fine. I just wanted to thank you for helping Iron. The stallions in are family aren’t always easy to get along with.”

“Aw, chucks, Sir. It tweren’t nothin,’” said AJ. “Iron’s a good stallion. Ah’m glad to have him around.”

“You’re smart to realize that,” said Charcoal. “I failed to for a long time. Keep an eye on him, would you? He tends to be a little headstrong sometimes.” Iron gave an irritated grumble but AJ chuckled.

“Ah promise I won’t be lettin’ him out of my sight any time soo,” promised AJ. Charcoal nodded and looked at Iron.

“I’m glad we could meet, Iron,” he said. “Could I trouble you to stay for a few days? I want to try and catch up as much as we can.” Iron nodded.

“I’ll stay as long as you need me, Dad,” he said. “I won’t abandon you again.” Charcoal smiled and Iron could have sworn he saw a tear start to prick the old stallion’s eye. “We’ll let you rest.” Charcoal nodded secretly grateful Iron was sparing him the embarrassment of seeing him cry like a foal. Iron and AJ left the room and Iron shut the door. He looked at AJ. “I guess I won’t be going back for a while. Is that alright.”

“Of course,” said AJ.

“Thanks, AJ, I-”

“And Ah’ll stay too.”

“What?” asked Iron. “But the farm-”

“Can last a few days without me,” AJ assured him. “Ah ain’t goin’ ta leave when ya need me.”

“You don’t have to do this,” said Iron. “I won’t be upset if you leave.”

“Ah know,” she said. “But Ah’m stayin’ anyway.” Iron chuckled and shook his head.

“You’re too good to me.” He began to walk down the hall. “Come with me.”

“Where are we goin’?” asked AJ following him.

“I want you to meet my Mom and brother.”

Author's Notes:

Cliffhanger again! Well, sorta.

So, Iron has begun to mend the broken bonds with his family. This was kind of short but I'm fine with how it came out.

I hope you all enjoyed. Thanks for reading.

Graves and Photos

Iron and Applejack were about to leave the house when they saw Gold Nugget standing in the living room waiting for them. AJ watched as the two siblings stared at each other. Gold was glaring daggers into Iron while he just looked at her sympathetically.

“What did he have to say?” asked Gold.

“We were just clearing things up between us,” explained Iron.

“Just like that? So what, you’re best buds now?”

“I don’t know about that,” said Iron. “But there isn’t any bad blood between us at least.”

“That’s. . .nice I guess.” There was an uncomfortable silence between the two. “So, are you leaving now?” she asked.

“Not yet. I was actually going to see Mom and Copper. That alright?”

“Hmph. Not like you need my permission.” Gold walked past him. “Dinner’s at six.” Iron watched her go down the hall and into her room.

“She doesn’t seem all too happy about ya stayin,’” said AJ.

“Yeah,” said Iron. “Should I talk to her?”

“You should, but maybe later?” suggested AJ. “Give her some time fer all of this to set in.” Iron nodded.

“Alright.” He walked to the front door and opened it. “Do you mind coming along with me? I don’t really want to go alone.” Applejack smiled and nodded.

“Of course Ah’ll come.”

***

Iron took Applejack to a small graveyard outside the town. He led her to two tombstones. One read “Ruby” and the other “Copper Ore.” Applejack recognized the second name as Iron’s older brother. She assumed that Ruby was his mother. Iron was quiet as he stood before the graves his lost family members. However, despite his silence, AJ could tell there were numerous thoughts running through his head. Memories, questions, regrets. All things she thought about whenever she thought about her parents.

“What were they like?” she asked.

“Copper was my hero as a kid,” said Iron. “He always looked out for me when I was a colt. I remember when I got my Cutie Mark he took me out for ice cream and let me get the biggest cone I wanted.” He smiled as he recalled that memory. “We also used to wrestle sometimes. He always won though. I remember whenever I was down, I could count on him to try and cheer me up. I wanted to be just like him.” He lowered his head. “The day he died left me feeling empty. The worst part is that no matter what anypony says I know it was my fault.” Applejack couldn’t think of anything to say. This was something Iron would probably always carry with him no matter how often he was told he shouldn’t blame himself.

“He sounds like a really good big brother,” she said. Iron smiled a little.

“The best. Better than I was anyway.” Applejack looked at Ruby’s grave.

“What about yer ma?” she asked. “What was she like?” Iron sighed.

“I actually never got to know her very well,” he explained. “I was a little over five when she died. I remember how sad Dad and Copper were though. I do remember that she used to sing to me or read me bedtime stories when I was little. I remember that I always felt safe when I was with her.” Iron sat down in front of the graves. “It’s been a long time since I visited these two. I used to come here whenever I was frustrated or upset. I always got the sense that maybe they were watching over me. Does that sound weird?”

“Not at all,” said Applejack sitting next to him. “Ah wonder the same thing about my folks sometimes. Then Ah wonder if they’d be proud of me and what Ah’ve done.”

“You too, huh?” asked Iron. “For what it’s worth, I think they would be.” Applejack smiled.

“Thanks. Ah think yer ma and brother are proud of ya too.”

“Yeah. I hope so.” Iron stood up. “I think we should get back. I really need to talk to my sister.”

“Alright,” said Applejack. She got up and followed Iron. As they walked, Iron took a quick look back at the graves.

Love you two, he said to himself. I miss you every day.

***

As the two ponies headed back to the house, Iron finally took notice of the townsponies. He saw a few new faces but recognized most of them. They seemed hesitant to approach him. He wasn’t sure if it was the scars or if it was some resentment they held against him. Honestly, he couldn’t blame them for either.

“Iron Ore!” shouted a pony. Iron’s train of thought was broken as he noticed a red stallion with a white mane and tail and a Cutie Mark of three rocks approach him. Iron stopped and glared at the other stallion.

“Quarry,” he said.

“Who?” asked AJ. The red stallion approached the two and gave them a friendly smile.

“Long time no see,” he said. “Goldie said you were here.”

“What are you doing talking to her?” asked Iron clearly suspicious of Quarry.

“Wait, can one of you fill me in?” asked AJ.

“Quarry here is the guy who got me and my dad fired the day before I left,” explained Iron. “But before that he had a tendency to make my life miserable as much as possible.”

“Iron look. . .” began Quarry.

“You also picked on my sister,” added Iron. “If you’re still harassing my family. . .”

“It isn’t like that,” said Quarry.

“Than what is it like?” asked Iron raising his voice. Other ponies began to stop and notice the two.

“Look, I get you’re angry,” said Quarry. “But I’m not like that anymore.”

“Not likely,” said Iron narrowing his gaze at Quarry. Applejack put her hoof between the two stallions.

“Hold on a minute, Iron,” she said. “He doesn’t seem like he wants to cause trouble. Give him a chance to say his piece.” Quarry nodded in thanks to AJ.

“Your friend is right,” he said to Iron. “I don’t mean to cause you any trouble. I just wanted to talk.”

“About what?” asked Iron.

“I wanted to say that I was sorry, alright? I was a jerk back then and I took it too far. I’ve changed since then. Your sister was a big part of that.”

“You seem awfully fond of her now,” said Iron.

“Well, um, we’re kind of together,” explained Quarry nervously. Applejack was sure Iron was going to flip out but he just stood there staring at Quarry.

“Together, huh?” he finally said. Quarry could only nod in response. “How long?”

“About a year.”

“And she’s happy with you?”

“Iron, I know you don’t trust me. You have every right not to, but I promise I’m not the same stallion I was four years ago. I’d never hurt Goldie. All I can give right now is my word but I hope that can be enough for now.” Iron kept a firm glare on Quarry but said nothing. Applejack noticed quarry trying to stand firm but was also clearly intimidated by the larger stallion.

“That’s mighty honorable of ya,” said Applejack. “Sounds like both you and Iron have done some growin’ up. Right, Iron?” She looked the gray stallion in the eye. Iron briefly glanced at her before looking back at Quarry and nodding.

“I guess so,” he finally said. “You had better keep being good to her, understand?” Quarry nodded.

“I promise.” Iron walked by him not even looking at him.

“Alright then,” he said. “Take care.” Applejack smiled at Quarry.

“He’s had an eventful day,” she said. “Give him a little time. He’ll come around.”

“Um, yeah, alright,” said Quarry. AJ nodded and trotted off after Iron. Quarry watched as the two of them headed back to Charcoal’s house. “Looks like I’m not the only one who found a mare to set him straight.”

***

When the two finally got back to the house, Iron searched the house for Gold. He found her bedroom door opened and saw her sitting on her bed and looking over an old photo album. He knocked on her door getting her attention. “Mind if I come in?”

“I guess,” she said. Iron entered and sat next to her. He looked at the pictures in the album. They were all from when the three siblings were little as well as a couple of pictures of their parents when they were dating.

“Where’d you find this old thing?” asked Iron.

“It was just sitting on a bookshelf,” she said.

“What made you want to look at it?”

“I don’t know,” she admitted. “Feeling nostalgic I guess.” She flipped through a couple pages and stopped at one particular photo. “Do you remember this one?”

Iron looked at the photo she was pointing at. It was one of Charcoal, Copper Ore, Iron Ore, and Gold Nugget. Ruby had already passed away by them. The four remaining family members were in the kitchen. Gold was sitting at the table blowing out candles on a birthday cake. Charcoal, Copper, and Iron were singing happily to her.

“Yeah I remember this,” he said. “It was last picture the four of us had before Copper’s death.”

“It’s the last picture in the album too,” said Gold showing Iron that the rest of the pages in album were blank. “Almost seems like the last time we were actually a family.”

“Yeah.” Iron gave her a soft smile. “Maybe we can seem like one again.”

“You think so?” asked Gold not sounding convinced.

“Look, Goldie.” It almost sounded weird using his old nickname for her. “I’m sorry for what I did before I left. I didn’t think about how my actions could affect you and Dad. I understand why you’re not thrilled having me around.” Gold didn’t reply. “Do you think we could try and clear the air between us? I don’t want to leave knowing that you still aren’t talking to me.” Gold Nugget sighed.

“I-I just. . .it isn’t that easy, Iron,” she said. “You threatened our dad’s life. Then you leave without ever coming back.”

“You kicked me out, remember?”

“I didn’t think you would never even try to come back or get in touch,” scolded Gold.

“You didn’t look for me either.” Gold groaned in frustration.

“I-Ugh, you’re impossible!” she shouted.

“I know I am,” Iron agreed. “I’ve made a lot of mistakes. I shouldn’t have gone so long without contacting you. I have no reason to ask, but can you ever forgive me?” Gold didn’t reply, instead just staring at the photo.

“Yes,” she finally said.

“What?” asked Iron.

“Yes, you idiot. I’ll forgive you.” She smiled as she hugged him tight. “Can you forgive me?”

“There’s nothing to forgive,” said Iron returning the hug. “You didn’t do anything wrong.”

“I could have tried something besides kicking you out,” said Gold. “You always at least tried to protect me but I never returned the favor. So please, forgive me?”

“Of course,” said Iron. He heard Gold start sniffling. She wiped the tears from her eyes and pulled away from her brother. “Now, I have one more question, Goldie.”

“What?”

“What’s this about you and Quarry dating?” Gold immediately tensed up.

“Umm. . .”

Author's Notes:

I only did some minimal editing so if there are still any mistakes let me know.

Thanks for reading. Hope you enjoyed.

Don't Blame Yourself

It had been two weeks since Iron Ore and Applejack met Iron’s family. Iron spent the time mending the relationship with his family as well as mending his reputation around the town. While Iron was glad that he was able to be back in his home town again, he couldn’t let go of the fact that, ultimately, he was waiting for his dad to die.

Each day Charcoal continued to get worse. Iron, Gold Nugget, and Applejack did their best to make him comfortable but it was only a matter of time. Iron hated it. He was supposed to protect those he cared about, but here he was forced to just watch as his own dad withered away.

He didn’t have to wait long.

Iron woke up early in the morning. The sun was just starting to rise. He got out of bed and went into the living room where he saw Applejack already awake. She was sitting on the couch reading a book.

“Hey,” he greeted. Applejack looked up at him.

“Mornin,’ Sugar Cube,” she greeted back. “Ya hungry? Ah was thinkin’ about makin’ some breakfast.”

“Sounds good. I’m going to go check on Dad real quick.”

“Alright then.” AJ got up from the couch and headed to the kitchen while Iron headed to Charcoal’s room. He quietly opened the door so as not to disturb Charcoal. Iron poked his head in and saw Charcoal lying peacefully on the bed. He was about to leave when he stopped and took a better look. Charcoal didn’t seem to be moving.

“Dad?” asked Iron softly. He stepped into the room. “Hey, Dad?” As Iron approached the bed, he was starting to suspect the worse. Iron stood by Charcoal’s bedside. The older stallion wasn’t moving. Iron hesitantly check Charcoal’s pulse.

Nothing.

Iron froze where he stood. He didn’t want to believe it. Charcoal couldn’t have died yet. Not before anyone had a chance to really say goodbye. Out in the hall, Iron could hear a door open and hoofsteps approaching.

“Iron?” asked the last voice he wanted to hear. He looked over his shoulder to see Gold Nugget standing in the doorway. “Is something wrong?” Iron wanted to say something. Anything. But nothing came out of his mouth. Gold looked at Charcoal and then back at Iron. His heart sank as he saw the horrified look that crept onto her face. “No.”

“Goldie,” began Iron.

“No!” screamed Gold Nugget. She ran up to the bed and grabbed Charcoal. “Dad?” she asked frantically. “Daddy?!” Tears began streaming down her face. “N-no. This can’t be it. It isn’t fair.” She cradled Charcoal’s head and held him close. “This isn’t fair!”

“Goldie,” said Iron softly putting a hoof on her shoulder. She looked at him for a moment then nearly tackled him to the ground in a hug burying her face in his shoulder.

“Why?” she asked. “You just got back! We were finally a family again.” Iron didn’t say anything as he let his sister vent. He looked over to see Applejack standing in the doorway, a solemn expression on her face. “It isn’t fair,” Gold said again.

“No,” replied Iron. “It isn’t.”

***

Applejack found herself in one of the most awkward and uncomfortable situations imaginable. Gold Nugget was going about making funeral arrangements. Iron had helped remove Charcoal’s corpse earlier but hadn’t returned yet. AJ found herself unable to do anything and she wasn’t at all fond of it. She wanted to help the mourning siblings but both of them seemed to be actively occupying themselves with whatever they could to keep their minds off of things.

The front door opened and Gold Nugget walked into the house. “Hey,” greeted AJ.

“Hey,”said Gold Nugget heading down the hall.

“Did you get everything arranged?” asked AJ following her.

“Yeah,” said Gold not seeming interested in conversation.

“Where are ya headin’?” Gold entered her room.

“Work.”

“Are ya sure that’s a good idea?” Gold Nugget sighed and turned to face Applejack.

“Look, Applejack,” she said. “I appreciate what you’re trying to do, but I don’t want to talk about this right now.”

“Ah understand,” said Applejack.

“Really?” asked Gold somewhat skeptically.

“Yeah. When Ah was a filly Ah lost both my parents.” Gold’s eyes went wide at that statement but Applejack continued. “Fer a while Ah didn’t want to talk to nopony. Ah let myself wallow in my sadness and pushed everypony else away. But then Ah realized something.’”

“What would that be?”

“Ah wasn’t the only one sad. My family was goin’ through a rough patch too. We came to realize that mopin’ around and feelin’ sorry fer ourselves wasn’t going to do us any favors. So we came together as a family and helped each other get through it.” Applejack put a hoof on Gold’s shoulder. “Ah won’t tell ya to just get over it and Ah definitely won’t say it’ll be easy, but ya’ll need each other right now and Ah promise you’ll grow stronger fer it.” Gold nodded in understanding

“You’re right,” she admitted. “I know you are, it’s just I’m still not used to Iron being around. Two weeks doesn’t exactly make up for four years of not speaking to each other.”

“Ah know the timin’ ain’t ideal but isn’t doesn’t it account fer somethin’ that he’s hear now?”

“I suppose it does.” Slowly, a small smile found its way onto Gold’s face. “You know I’ve never properly thanked you.”

“Fer what?” asked AJ confused.

“For everything you’ve done for my family. You helped Iron when he was lost and alone, you reunited us as a family, and now you’re helping us through my father’s death. You’ve done so much and I can’t begin to thank you enough for it.”

“There ain’t any thanks necessary. Iron had what it took to make things out all along. I just gave him the push that he needed.”

“You’re selling yourself short. Iron might not show it or say it a lot but I can tell that he loves you.” Applejack’s face went a little red.

“Ya think so, huh?” Gold nodded.

“And I think you might feel the same way about him. Who else could put up with Iron for so long and do all that you did if they didn’t?”

“Well, um,” stuttered AJ, her face getting more red. Gold giggled.

“You don’t have to admit it to me,” she said. “However, if you ask me, I think you two should just get it out there. Pretending like you two are just friends is a little foalish don’t you think.” Applejack didn’t reply. “If I know Iron, he’s probably on the edge of town. There’s this one spot where he used to look out at the sunset. You should go talk to him.”

“What about you?”

“I will, I promise. However, I think he’ll probably be more open with you then with me right now.”

“Alright,” AJ conceded. “I’ll be back later.”

***

Iron looked out over the valley below. Part of him regretted ever coming home. If he stayed back in Ponyville, he wouldn’t have to face another member of his family pass away while he was helpless to do anything. His stomach started churning. It always did that when he felt useless. He hated that feeling. He looked at his Cutie Mark and sighed in frustration.

“Some protector I am,” he said.

“Ah’ve never doubted ya,” said a familiar voice. Iron didn’t turn around as Applejack approached and sat next to him.

“You ever feel like the world is doing everything it can to ruin you?” he asked.

“Ah’ve had my fair share of hardships,” AJ admitted. “Perhaps not all as bad as yers but Ah know what it’s like to be hurtin’ real bad inside.”

“I can’t stand losing everyone I care about,” said Iron. “I’m supposed to keep the ones I love safe. But it seems I lose more than what I save.”

“Remember the Diamond Dogs?” asked AJ.

“Yeah. What about them?”

“Ya know how they captured my sister and Sweetie Belle? Do ya remember who rescued them?”

“You helped.”

“Beside the point. And then there was the Flim Flam brothers and Stonehead? That could’ve ended way uglier if ya hadn’t stepped in.”

“Maybe.”

“No ‘maybes’ about it. And what about all those ponies ya protected before ya left home? And don’t tell me ya didn’t keep anypony safe during your travels before ya found Ponyville. Even that mountain ya sport on yer flank was because of how ya defended Gold Nugget.”

“What’s your point, Applejack?” asked Iron.

“My point is that ya do a fine job of protectin’ those ya love. Heck, Ah’d say yer downright amazing at it.”

“But Ah can’t seem to do it when it matters the most.”

“Iron, ya gotta stop blamin’ yerself fer these things. Ya can’t control everything. Ah know it’s sad and that it hurts but sometimes life just gets out of control. And ain’t it somethin’ that you were at least here to be with him in his final days?”

“I guess. Doesn’t make me feel any better.”

“Ah know. But blamin’ yerself won’t make it better either.” Iron didn’t have a response for that. “Please don’t take all this out on yerself. Yer friends and family hate seein’ ya like this.” She leaned against him resting her head on his shoulder. “Ah ain’t too fond of it either.” Iron tensed a bit at AJ’s touch.

“Your right,” he said.

“Hm?”

“Your right,” he said again. “It doesn’t make it any easier to admit, but your right. At least we got to be a family again even if it was just for a little while.” Applejack smiled.

“Ya know ya don’t have to go through all this alone,” she said.

“I know.” Iron put a hoof around Applejack’s shoulder and held her close. “Thank you, AJ. For everything. I don’t know where I’d be right now without you.” AJ chuckled

“Flatterer,” she teased. “But yer welcome. Ready to head back home?” She found herself being held a little tighter. She gave him a confused look.

“Not yet. Do you mind staying here a little longer?” AJ smiled and rested her head on her shoulder again.

“Not at all.”

Author's Notes:

Sorry, it took so long to update this. I admit, I had some trouble writing this out so I hope it's acceptable. I'll probably be ending this story in a chapter or soon and I'll try not to take so long.

Thanks for reading.

Going Home

had been a few days since Charcoal’s funeral. Iron stayed a little longer to settle some final details regarding his father’s death, namely Charcoal’s will. Just about everything was left to Gold Nugget but Iron wasn’t bothered by that. Gold had been there for their father far more than he was, so it only made sense that Charcoal would trust her with so many of his valued possessions. Iron was left a few small trinkets and both children got a nice sum of bits their father left for them.

However, neither Iron nor Gold Nugget was interested in what Charcoal had to leave behind. Most of the days that followed Charcoal’s death were just the two siblings comforting one another. Iron hated that he and his sister had to be brought back together by tragedy but he was glad that they could be there for each other again.

Both Applejack and Quarry were there for the siblings offering comfort and support. Iron Ore was admittedly suspicious of Quarry at first but the two managed to reconcile and Iron knew he could trust Quarry to take care of his sister. He knew someone would have to.

A letter from Ponyville came the day before. It was from Applejack’s family asking her when she would be back. Applebuck season was coming fast and the family needed her to help harvest the orchard. Whether anyone wanted it to be or not, it was time for Applejack to go home and Iron had a choice to make: Go with AJ or stay in his hometown.

Iron stood in his room looking inside an empty saddlebag. He hadn’t started packing yet. He was debating if he even should. Part of him told him that it was his duty to his family to stay and help his sister but another part told him he belonged in Ponyville or, rather, he belonged with Applejack. Iron sighed in frustration. He hated being torn like this.

“Hey, Iron, how’s the packing going?” asked Gold Nugget as she walked into the room. She looked into Iron’s bag. “Why is it empty? You’ve got an early train tomorrow.” She started packing Iron’s possessions while he stood still.

“Do you really think I should leave?” he asked.

“What?”

“Do you really want me to go?” Gold stopped packing. She looked sad.

“I don’t want you to leave. But I thought you would.”

“I’m a little conflicted,” admitted Iron. “I’ve finally gotten my family back but now I might have to leave again. I feel like I should stay and make up for lost time, but on the other hoof, I don’t know if I could just leave AJ like that.”

“Have you talked to her about this?”

“No.”

“Why?”

“I don’t know. I guess I’m just afraid to talk about this with her. I-I don’t want to say goodbye to her.”

“Then don’t,” said Gold bluntly.

“But-”

“Iron Ore, you really need to stop this self-pitying,” lectured Gold giving him a hard glare. “I would love for you to stay, but I can tell you’re happy with AJ. Far happier than you’ve ever been while you lived here. If you want to go then go.” Her expression softened into a smile as she walked up to him and nuzzled him affectionately. “I’m grateful to you for coming back and I’ll miss you when you’re gone, but you don’t have to protect me. You certainly don’t have to sacrifice your own happiness for mine. I know that’s hard for you to do, but you’re allowed to be happy to you know.”

“I just want to know you’ll be safe.”

“You already know I will be.”

“Yeah,” said Iron. “Quarry better be good to you.” Gold Nugget rolled her eyes.

“We’ll be fine. Besides, you should be more concerned about what I’ll do to AJ if she ever hurts you.” Iron couldn’t help but laugh. “Now you better go and tell her you’re going with her. It isn’t polite to keep a lady in suspense.”

“Yes, ma’am,” said Iron with a nod. He headed to Applejack’s room and knocked on the door.

“Come on in,” he heard the cowpony say from inside. Iron entered the room and saw her scribbling on some paper. “Hey, Iron.”

“What are you doing?”

“Writing back to the family and telling them Ah’ll be back in a couple days.”

“Just you?” asked Iron.

“Well, um.” AJ stopped writing and looked at him. “Ah wasn’t sure if you were comin’ back or not. Are ya?” Iron smiled.

“I’ll be there ready to buck apples with the rest of you,” he said. AJ gave him the biggest smile he had ever seen on her.

“Really?” she asked excitedly. “A-Are ya sure? Ah’ll understand if-”

“I’ve already talked about this with, Goldie,” said Iron as he walked up to AJ. “I promise I won’t leave you.” Applejack blushed a little.

“That. . .that’s, um, real good,” she said fumbling over her words. The two just stood there for a moment looking into each other’s eyes. “Ah’m really glad yer comin’ back. Ah’d. . .miss ya an aweful lot if ya’ll weren’t around anymore.”

“I’d miss you two, AJ,” said Iron.

“Oh, for the love of Celestia, would you two just kiss or something already?!” shouted Gold Nugget from outside the room. Iron and AJ’s faces turned a bright red.

“Um,” beagn Iron. “I, uh, think we should probably rest up or something if-” He didn’t get to finish his sentence as Applejack pressed her lips against his. Iron decided to shut up for once and returned AJ’s affections. However, it didn’t last long as AJ pulled away still blushing heavily.

“S-Sorry,” she said. “That was rude of me.” Iron chuckled.

“I’m not complaining,” he said. He rested his forehead against AJ’s. “I love you, Applejack.” AJ smiled softly at him.

“Sure are good at statin’ the obvious ain’t ya?” she teased. Iron chuckled again. “Feelin’s mutual,” said AJ as she kissed him again. The two didn’t noticed Gold Nugget peeking into the room and smiling.

Quarry, you owe me five bits, she thought to herself.

***

Gold Nugget hugged her brother as tight as she could. “You know you can come back and visit right?”

“I know,” said Iron returning the hug. “I promise I will.” The two let each other go and Gold hugged Applejack.

“Take care of him will you?” she asked.

“Ah will,” promised Applejack. The train whistle blew and the conductor was calling for the passengers to go.

“You better be off,” said Gold. Iron and AJ nodded and boarded the train. Iron and AJ waved at Gold Nugget as the train took off. The three kept waving until they couldn’t see each other anymore. Iron leaned back in his seat and AJ rested her head on his shoulder.

“Hey, Applejack?” he asked.

“Hm?”

“Thanks. For everything.” Applejack smiled and kissed his cheek.

“No thanks needed.” A comfortable silence overtook the two. Iron looked out the window at the mountains in the distance. Those strong towers of stone that stood strong, unbreakable, and unwavering. Those symbols of everything Iron sought to be. True he had been challenged and hurt, but in the end he was still strong.

He was still immovable.

The End

Author's Notes:

Ha! It's done! I actually managed to legitimately finish a multi-chapter fic.

I want to thank all my readers for going this far with me. I'm well aware I'm not the best writer and I've learned a good bit from doing this that'll hopefully make me a better story teller as a result.

But thank yo all for reading anyway. You're all awesome.