> The Nature of Nurture
>  by lola2901
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter One
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	“But Apple Jack, you promised to teach me and the Crusaders to bake!” complains Apple Bloom, pouting. “You promised!”
Pulling my hat off of the pegs by the door, I slip it up over my ears. “I’m sorry Apple Bloom, but Twilight seemed pretty darn sure that Celestia’s visit’s going to be something important. I promise as soon as I get back, I’ll teach you my secret carmel apple pie recipe,” I tell her, ruffling up her mane with my hoof.
“The one with the jam?” Apple Bloom asked, ears pricked. She still wasn’t exactly happy, but she seemed somewhat mollified. “Well... fine. But only if we can make ice cream too!”
Laughing, I roll my eyes, pushing the door open, stepping halfway out into the warm sunshine as it dapples it’s way across the kitchen floor. “Sure thing, sugarcube. I’ll pick up some vanilla on my way home-”
“Mint chip,” Apple Bloom interrupts, starting to smile. “I want to make mint chip ice cream!”
I can’t help raising an eyebrow at that. “Mint chip with apple pie?” I ask, trying not sound as amused as I feel.
“Yes!” she says with a cheerful firmness, slamming the door shut. Shaking my head, I start out across the dirt path leading away from the farm house. Halfway down the house I can’t help stopping and looking back. I pause for a moment.
And then I laugh. Winona comes bounding over, no doubt having just been chasing some birds. She puts her forepaws up on me, tail wagging, tongue flapping like a wave hello. She lets off a happy woof, shifting excitedly. “Tarnation that girl’s temper is as red as her hair!” I say to Winona, nuzzling the furry dog. “Now get a long Winona,” I chuckle, gently pushing her off. “I gotta get going or I’ll be later. “Go on girl, get!”
Over course the silly old dog doesn’t listen. “Macintosh,” I say to her, and she stills for a moment, ears raising slightly. “Macintosh. Maaaaacintosh! Go on girl!” Recognizing the command, she runs off in search of Big Mac, her tongue flopping back out. There, that ought to keep her busy.
Chuckling, I shake my head, glancing up at the sky. The sun is reaching it’s peak-if I don’t get galloping, Twi’s going to be annoyed at me for being late. Tossing my head, I swing the loose ponytail of my mane around to the other side of my shoulders, than taking a deep breath, I start trotting at a steady pace.
It’s a beautiful day out of doors, and I’m aching to do a bit of barrel racing, but I guess that’ll have to wait. I can’t help wondering what Celestia wants anyway. It won’t be something boring, that much I can guess from her past visits. Twilight said that we’re meeting up on the hill above Ponyville. Same hill where Celestia asked Fluttershy to reform Discord, actually. Gosh darn it, we don’t have to reform anyone else, do we? One Discord is plenty enough.
Eventually I reach the end of the dirt path, coming out of the tree line. The five of them are waiting together-Pinkie Pie is telling Fluttershy something about a concert this weekend, and Twilight, is pacing and trying to explain something about advanced theory  magic or something like that to Rarity, no surprise there. Rainbow zips over, glaring down at me. “Took you long enough slow poke!”
“If I had wings, I could beat you in a race any day, Rainbow,” I tease, raising an eyebrow. “And I can beat you on the ground any time I want to.”
“Hah, as if! I’m the fastest thing alive! Race from here to Sweet Apple Acres tomorrow?” she asks, landing beside me.
I chuckle, nodding. “Sounds fun. I’ll pack a lunch, the girls are gonna help me make some pies.”
“No need for a pack lunch, because you’ll be eating my dust!” Rainbow Dash says, smirking proudly.
“Oh my gosh look! Look up there! It’s Princess Celestia! She’s coming!” screeches Pinkie with a grin, pulling Fluttershy close.
Rarity stands, tossing her mane with a ladylike giggle. “Pinkie Pie darling, it’s not like this is your first time seeing Celestia.”
“I know, but it feels like it’s been forever!” chuckles Pinkie, dropping Fluttershy. “What do you think she wants? To send us on an exciting quest? To fight an evil villain? In another world!?”
“Actually, she said she has a long term project for us to work on, here in Ponyville,” Twilight explains. “The letter said she’d rather tell us all at once, in person. I’m sure it’s very important, whatever it is.”
The chariot lands lightly and pulls to a stop, and the two pegasi guards pulling it bow to Twilight before turning to face forward and stand stone still.
Celestia steps gracefully from the golden chariot, her mane billowing around her softly. Her often ever present smile is gone-she is solemn, concern clear in her eyes. She glances around at us, and her eyes soften slightly. “Hello my little ponies. It’s been some time.”
You can hear us breathing in the silence. A moment passes, and then Twilight bows. Realizing my manners, I pull off my hat and hold it to my chest, bowing as well.
“Rise, all of you. I wish I could be here on more cheerful terms, but I need to ask something of you. I know you all have much on your hooves with the quests given to you by the map in Twilight’s castle,” Celestia says softly, motioning for us to rise. As I do, I see from the corner of my eyes the others had also bowed.
“I was examining an old treasury belonging to Starswirl,” she begins, glancing to the sun. Any other pony who looked to it so directly would be blinded, or at very least have sun spots in their eyes, but it seems to do her no harm. She even seems to grow somewhat lights as she does. “When I found something rather unusual. I trust Twilight has told you of when Starswirl banished the sirens through the mirror?” She waits for a couple hesitant nods, then continues. “Although a brilliant mage, Starswirl was somewhat, shall we say, prideful. He liked to take trophies to remind himself of his accomplishments, and if it was something rare and full of magic, all the better. And from the sirens, he took one the most dangerous piece in his collection.” Celestia pauses, taking a deep breath as she winds down on the lengthy explanation.
“Starswirl stole a siren egg.”
> Chapter Two
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	A jolt of surprise hits me, but it’s obvious Twi’s reaction is far more shocked. Twilight sputters slightly, blinking. “He-what? Why would he ever do that?” she asks, staring up at her former mentor in utter shock.
Celestia sighs, bowing her head. “Not everyone in the history books has a good heart, Twilight.” She glances over her shoulder, levitating what must be the egg she spoke of out from the chariot. It’s oblong, and white with a couple faint ocean grey freckles-it could have been the egg from any old bird’s nest if it weren’t the size of a newborn filly. “This is the egg. I assume you’ve all guessed by now what I need you to do?” she asks, managing a tired smile.
Pinkie raises her hoof like a foal is class, looking perplexed. “If you mean an egg and spoon race, we’re gonna need a way big spoon!”
I take a deep breath, shaking my head. I really shouldn’t question her darned ways-after all, this is Pinkie Pie we’re talking about.
Fluttershy lifts her head, hesitant, but a faint glimmer of eagerness in her eyes. “Um, Princess Celestia? I know a lot about helping animal hatch from eggs. We could keep it at my house for now and-”
“I’m sorry Fluttershy, but just as I had you in specific mind for reforming Discord, I have another pony I’d like to be in charge of hatching and raising this siren,” Celestia says firmly.
Fluttershy’s eyes widen, and then she bends her neck slightly, taking a step back.  “Oh, um, okay then,” she murmurs, managing a smile to try and hide her disappointment.
Celestia’s crimson eyes travel across each of us, slowly in turn, flickering across our faces. And then she pauses.
“Apple Jack,” she begins. “You have a strong loving family that you tie together and care for. Your family means so much to you-this sort of love is what I want this siren to grow up learning.”
She’s still speaking, but I’ve gone deaf. Me? She wants me to do this for her?
“I trust you to do your best, Apple Jack,” she says, levitating it towards me, so it hung in the soft summer air right before me, enveloped in her soft golden magic.
A moment pauses, and then I force a smile, tipping my hat to Celestia. “Well shucks Princess, thanks for the compliment!” I say brightly, careful as I set the egg on the ground. Getting it home is going to be gosh dang hard, but maybe I can get Twi or Rarity to help me out. “Uh, by the way Princess, when do you think it might be hatching?”
“It’s difficult to say-when he stole the egg he locked it in a magic container that slowed it’s development to nearly a standstill. The shell of siren eggs are naturally resistant to magic, and though I could probably cast an examining spell strong enough to learn, it could cause damage to the unborn siren, so I’m afraid it’s guesswork, really,” Celestia says, lifting a hoof to rub her forehead.
Glancing up, I notice for the first time dark circles beneath the Princess’s eyes like ripples in a dark pond. Her cheerful wisdom seems so tired, so subdued. I pause to ask her what’s wrong, but I pull back. It’s above my position to be asking any such questions.
“A month, at very least,” Celestia continues. “A year at most. You’ll have Spike send me updates regularly?” she asks Twilight as she steps up into the chariot. “Where is he anyway?”
Twilight pauses, jolting out of some sort of reverie she was caught in. “Hm? Oh, right! Of course I will, Princess Celestia. He’s sleeping-he was up late helping me organize my castle library in chronological order,” she says, nodding firmly.
The Princess smiles tiredly then nods, sitting down. “I trust you’ll all help Apple Jack the best you can. It will be a few years before this task will be complete, I’m afraid; but there are no other ponies who I trust with such. Good luck.”
With that, the pegasi guards gallop forward, then take off, guiding the Princess’s chariot off into the sky towards Canterlot and the royal duties await her.
I pause, then glance down at the egg, it’s cold shell pressed up against my fur. “Well,” I say, taking a deep breath, smiling reluctantly. “This dang sure is gonna be an adventure-just not the kind I expected.”
“Wow darling, it’s so fantastic that Celestia gave you such an important task!” fawns Rarity, beaming. “First Fluttershy, now you-you don’t suppose over time she’ll give us each important tasks? Oh, I wonder what mine could be!”
Pinkie bounces over, cheerful and bubbly as ever. “Oh my gosh! We’re gonna have a baby! We’re gonna have a baby! Do you think it’ll be super chubby chubs?” she asks, crouching down as if to get eye to eye with the egg.
“Since we’re all going to be helping you out darling, maybe I could make some baby dresses for her? Nothing is more adorable than a baby in little baby shoes!” Rarity adds.
Fluttershy hangs back, a bit cautious. “But aren’t sirens dangerous?” she asks, her voice coming out in a squeak.
“Whatever,” Rainbow huffs. “What does Celestia think, we’re her babysitters? Do we seriously-”
“Girls, quiet!” Twilight says loudly. We all jump a bit at this sudden outburst. She takes a deep breath to calm herself, then continues. “I know you’re all excited, but this is a siren’s egg. You didn’t go through the mirror-you didn’t meet the sirens. They aren’t anything like ponies. They feed of negative feelings-they ruin lives just to make themselves stronger! It’s part of their instincts! We can’t make a siren turn out right, but we’ll do what Celestia asked and take care of it until she’s ready to take it away. Alright?”
“Of course,” I say, nodding. I can’t help glancing back down to the egg. Hatch it. Keep it alive. Return it to Celestia. Sounds like a plan, I suppose.
> Chapter Three
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	I set down the egg for a moment and stare at it. To be completely honest, the most experience I have with eggs is cracking them for pies and pastries-not that I have much more experience with baby ponies. Mom and Dad were still around when Apple Bloom was only just knee-high to a grass hopper-they’d always taken care of her then.
Glancing around the barn, I wonder what I should do now. Just leaving it here in the barn, nestled up in the hay? Eggs are usually in nests. But then, those are bird eggs in nests.
Sighing, I walk over to the ladder in the corner and climb up into the rafters. It’s supposed to be extra storage for bales of straw and hay, but mostly it makes for an attic, since the farm house doesn’t have one, so we mostly dump our odds and ends up here.
Pausing by a large leather travel chest, I blow a few stray straws away, then fiddle with the latch. Pushing the lid open, I glance at the inside, pushing an old camera out of the way. From beneath it, I pull out an old check board quilt, decked with yellow squares and white squares with apples embroidered along them in red and green. It’s a bit old and moth eaten, but it’ll do just fine. Tossing it over my shoulders to keep it close but out of the way, I glance around the loft, trying to decide if I might need anything else.
My thoughts are interrupted by a cheerful chorus from down in the barn below. “Cutie Mark Crusaders dragon hatchers, yay!”
Swearing under my breath I race down the ladder. “Hold up! Hold up girls!” I yell, racing around the corner. The Crusaders look up in surprise. It looks a darn awful lot like Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle were trying to help Scootaloo up to sit on the egg. Consarnit, I’ll never understand these girls. “Scootaloo, get down from there. Now.”
The girls help Scootaloo down as I pad over. Taking the quilt around my shoulders in my teeth, I wrap it around the egg carefully. Now that I think about it, what if the egg gets to hot it the quilt and fries? Torn, I decide to leave the quilt, for now at least. “There,” I say, taking off my hat to wipe the sweat from my forehead. “That’s better.”
“Hey Apple Jack?” comes the familiar squeaky voice of Sweetie Belle. “Why do you have a dragon egg in your barn anyway?”
Apple Bloom gives me a dirty look. “Yeah, and if you knew, how come you didn’t tell me?”
“I only just got back with it, and it’s not a dragon egg,” I tell them, chewing my lip. What are the odds Twilight has some book on taking care of magic eggs anyway? Or maybe Fluttershy might be able to help me figure this out. “It’s a siren egg-I’m raising it for the Princess.”
“Whoa, a siren!” Scootaloo says, grinning. She pauses, then looks up at me. “So, uh, what’s a siren anyway?”
“Something to do with music-that’s a question you should be asking Fluttershy, sugar,” I say, returning my hat to my head.
“But why’s it in the barn? Why not the house?” Sweetie Belle squeaks, tilting her head to the side.
I shrug, adjusting the quilt again. “Twilight told me it would be better this way,” I explain, even though it doesn’t make much sense to me anyway. “Anyhow, is there anything you girls need?”
Sweetie Belle makes a curious hum, thinking hard. But rather, it’s Apple Bloom that speaks up, indignant. “Actually yes! You promised to teach us to make pie! And ice cream!”
Scootaloo leaps up in excitement, flying for a half moment before her wings give out and she lands again. “Oh, yeah! Cutie Mark Crusaders bakers!”
I hesitate, looking to the girls. “Huh? Well, I suppose I did promise, didn’t I? Well shucks, I just don’t think it would be a good idea to leave the egg out here alone.”
“Can’t you just bring it inside, just for a little bit?” asks Sweetie, raising an eyebrow. “I mean, Twilight doesn’t have to know, and it doesn’t really matter, does it?”
“I did promise to help you bake I suppose,” I say, looking at the egg. “Shucks, I guess it would hurt, would it?” I ask, giving the girls a smile. “Apple Bloom, could you get the oven heating up? And have your friends start cutting some apples into small slices-there should be a crate of them by the door.”
They head out. Picking up my saddle bags from where I left them by the door, I sling them over my back. Trotting back over to the hay bale where the egg sits, I flip open the bag on my left, sliding the quilt and the egg in. It hangs heavy at my side, and I hear a sound like snapping threads. Grimacing, I grab the latch in my teeth, trying to tie it shut, but the egg and quilt are too bulky. It’ll have to be fine for now. Maybe Rarity can make me a bigger bag.
Once I’m sure the egg is as safe as it’ll get, I head through the door into the farm house. The moment my first hoof crosses the threshold from the barn into the living room, I hear a crash in the kitchen.
Taking a deep breath to calm myself, I decide maybe bringing the egg isn’t such a good idea. Pulling the bags from my back, I set them down by the rocking chair where Granny Smith is napping, snoring like a mule as she mutters something about boxes in her sleep.
Pushing the door open, I step into the kitchen. Scootaloo’s stumbling in the corner of the room with a pot on her head, Apple Bloom’s covered in flour, and Sweetie Belle’s hair seems singed.
Apple Bloom looks up at me, wiping the flour from her eyes. “Uh, we tried to start on our own.”
Pulling the pot from Scootaloo’s head, I set it on the count and turn to the cabinet, sighing. “Could be worse. You girls really need to be more patient? I shouldn’t even have asked you to chop the apples-what if you cut yourselves?”
Sweetie and Scootaloo sigh, and then Sweetie glances up, sad. “I guess we’ll go home and wash up then.”
I pause, tempted to send her off. Rolling my eyes, I smile. “Nah, we’ll still make the pie. Just let me help you with the hard bits,” I tell them, righting the hefty flour bag and leaning it up against the wall.
Sweetie pause, ears pricking. “But we’re so dirty!” she squeaks, surprised.
“And cooking will probably get you dirty too-Scootaloo, take the broom by the wall and clean up the flour-Sweetie, I want you to start measuring out the dry ingredients, all right? And Apple Bloom sugar, I’m going to help you cut and core the apples,” I say, trotting over to the cutting board. Grinning, I push my hat back on my head. “But now mint chip ice cream. And you have to do dishes.”
> Chapter Four
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Taking my hat off, I toss it on the counter, wiping at a smear of flour on my cheek. The pie came out pretty darn good-not Cutie Mark good, as the girls were disappointed to find, but still, it looks fantastic. The carmel drizzled across the flaky crust is a thick golden, dripping slightly off the edges of the pan. Where the girls cut out their slices, I can see the brown cinnamon coated slices of apple, and the generous layer of apple preserves lining the crust.
I take a deep breath, breathing in the deep sweet scent. It dances it’s way through me, and I can feel my hair standing on end. 
I almost have to smack myself to keep from cutting myself a slice, but I swore I’d keep this dang diet going and I’m gonna, no matter how out of kilter I get to feeling.
Grumbling under my head, I glance out as the Crusaders run off into the orchards, the low sun casting their shadows long. No doubt they’re trying to get a quick meeting in before they need to head home.
Taking a deep breath, I turn back to the messy kitchen. Sighing, I walk through the hall into the living room. I’m honestly ready to sleep until next harvest, but I suppose I should take the egg back out to the barn.
It’s gone.
My bag lays empty on the floor, the living room completely empty. For a moment, I stand still, and just stare, as if the egg will reappear. Granny Smith is gone-the gears in her head have gone a bit creaky with old age-maybe she took the egg, but honestly that doesn’t make me feel much better.
Closing my eyes, I swear silently, then run for the stairs, racing up. “Granny Smith? Granny Smith! Granny, where are you!”
I race to the end of the hall, then pause, huffing to catch my breath. As I lift my head to call again, I hear a small distant voice. Pausing, I approach my bedroom. The door is open a crack, not quite enough to see through, but enough for light and sound to strain through.
“Hush now little one, you’re loved by all you know. You’ll never lose your friendships, no matter how you grow. There ain’t no cause to worry, so don’t you cry or fret. Cause we won’t let this world hurt you, they’ll all love you I bet,” croons a familiar raspy voice, hushed and soft. I push the door open slightly so I can see better. The lights are put out and the curtains drawn, dimming the room. In the corner is Apple Bloom’s old cradle-I haven’t seen it for years now. The egg is inside, cushioned carefully by pillows and the quilt from the loft. Granny Smith is adjusting the pillows carefully, smiling down at the egg as if it’s a baby filly, drifting off to sleep.
She steps away, careful that her slightly shaking knees don’t knock the cradle. She comes over to the door and pulls it open, jumping in surprise. “Tarnation!” she whispers. “Apple Jubilee-”
“Apple Jack,” I correct her, wincing at the mistaken use of mother’s name.
“Hush, you’re being too loud,” she says. “Have you decided on a name then?” she asks, hobbling out into the hall and gently closing the door behind her.
I blink in surprise, glancing at the closed door. “A... a name?”
Granny Smith shakes her head. “Of course you didn’t, this is you we’re talking about. You should start thinking about some though-for girls and boys both, you don’t know what you might get. I think Apple Pips would be cute for a girl, don’t you?”
“Uh-right,” I say, blinking as Granny starts to hobble away down the hall. She pauses at the end of the hall, glancing over her shoulder.
“Oh, and Jubilee sugar?”
“It’s Apple Jack, Granny.”
“Right, right, that’s what I said,” Granny says, waving me off. “I’d be mighty interested to learn what’s going on with that egg.”
I pause, jolting. “Huh? Oh, right! Shucks, I nearly forgot to tell you. See, I-”
“Hush,” she interrupts me, smiling her withered wrinkly smile. “Save it till Big Mac gets home so you only have to tell it once. But it better be a mighty story.”
I just stand and watch as she opens the door to her room and disappears inside, closing it softly behind her.
Shaking myself out of my distraction, I glance back at the door to my room, then trot to the stairs, halfway down remembering to be quiet. Why am I trying anyway? It’s only an egg-it can’t sleep anyway.
Returning to the kitchen, I grab my hat and shove it on, ignoring the treasonous pie, and duck outside. It’s starting to get late. I guess I’ll go let Mac know he can be done for the day.
I head out into west orchard, leaving the path to wander through the apple trees. It occurs to me maybe I should have brought a cart so I could help him bring in some of the apples he’s harvested, but I’ve gone too far for that.
Finally I notice a familiar flash of red near the ground through the trees. “Big Mac! Apple Bloom and her friends helped me make a pie for-”
 	I pause as I step into the clearing. He glances up at me. I can catch a faint glimpse of surprise escape from behind his mask, but his eyes give away nothing. “I didn’t know you like to read,” I say, glancing at the book.
“Eeyup,” he says, standing slowly. I step closer to see what it’s about, but he closes it, tucking it in his saddle bag quickly-almost a little too quickly.
“Alright-oh, and I have something to tell you and Granny and such,” I say, trying to focus. “I’ll meet you back at the barn I guess.”
“Eeyup,” he says again, walking over to hook himself to a cart filled with fresh picked apples. I watch him for a while, my thoughts tethered like a pacing bull. Mac’s never kept secrets-from me or anyone.
It must be nothing.
> Chapter Five
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	I wake up in the darkness, dappled shadows leering across the dim room. It’s still night, or at very least, the early morning. Although I do enjoy my early mornings, this is too early for even me.
Suppressing a yawn, I slide my hind legs out from beneath the covers, then slowly drag myself from bed, approaching the window. As I lift a hoof to draw the curtains, I can’t help pausing, glancing up at the huge full moon, hanging low in the sky. It makes me think of Mom, think of the lullaby. My eyes close slowly, and I push open the window so I can breathe in the cold night air of the orchard.
A chill wind blows across me, and my coat stands on end before settling. “Hush now little one, you’re loved by all you know,” I hum, opening my eyes to watch the fireflies as they wander the apple orchards. My reverie is interrupted by a strange muffled sound, coming from behind me. I pull away from my window, glancing around the room. I can’t see anything that could have made any such sound.
And then I hear the cracking.
Even in my sleep muddled head, I can take a guess at what that means. Hesitating, I turn away from the window, heading over to my bedside. Bending over, I drag the lantern out from beneath the bed. Setting it on the comforter, I take out a match. Striking it, I light the lantern wick. Grabbing the handle in my teeth, I trot over to the cradle.
I lean over it, looking down at the egg, ears pricked. The egg-there’s a long hairline crack across the surface. It’s been hardly more than a week since I was trusted with it-shucks, it seems Celestia’s guess of at least a month was a little bit too generous.
Hesitating, I set the lantern down on the dresser. Sitting back, I watch as the egg cracks further, rocking slightly. Time passes by like a time lapse as I watch piece after piece of eggshell fall in on itself. I can see faint blue scales through the holes, wriggling about in the small space.
Suddenly the egg splits, and a tiny creature lays flopped out on the quilts, squinting like a newborn pony through little pink eyes. The little creature makes a soft sound almost like a mew, pawing at the air with it’s two front hooves.
It almost looks like a pony-except, waist down the little siren has a long fish-like tail, with spines down it’s neck.
Pausing, I lean over the cradle, carefully picking up the little blue siren. Stepping back, I hold the little creature close, cradling it gently. “Hey there fella,” I croon softly. “Welcome to the world.”
His coat is soft, laying smooth over the baby fat around his neck and cheeks, and his tail is softer, his scales cool to the touch and smooth as skin, like the soft satins Rarity has hanging like drapes in her inspiration room. He’s so small in my arms, and holding him, I can almost understand Fluttershy’s love for the tiny varmints she’s always caring for.
My heart skips a beat as the tiny mewling creature snuggles close to me pawing gently at me with his forelegs. I can hear Twilight in the back of my mind, warning us all how sirens aren’t like ponies, warning us even a newborn can be dangerous. I push it away, instead pulling him close.
The night wanders itself away, and slowly but steadily, the sun rises over Sweet Apple Acres, blinking it’s bleary light through the open window, casting it on me and the little siren I hold. Even though my hooves have grown heavy, I just want to hold him a while longer. At some point or other the little fella drifted off to sleep in my hooves, and I don’t want to wake him.
There’s the distant crowing of a rooster, but the little baby siren simply yawns, turning over and nodding back off. But it seems the bird did wake someone up.
Apple Bloom opens the door, rubbing her eyes blearily. “Hey sis, I was wondering if I could have some pie for-what’s that?”
“This, well, I suppose this is your little brother, for the next few years at least,” I say, careful to speak soft. “ He hatched last night. Would you like to come meet him?”
She walks over slowly, looking at the little fellow hesitantly, an uncomfortable expression in her sleepy eyes. “Why’s he a half fish?”
“He’s a siren, I told you that already,” I tell her, brushing my hoof softly on the little baby’s pudgy cheek. “I suppose that’s just what they look like.”
“Sirens look weird,” she says, grimacing.
“Apple Bloom!” I pause, then lower my voice, not wanting to wake him. “Apple Bloom! Don’t be rude! He’s just an itty bitty baby, and it’s not his fault how he looks anyhow.”
She shrugs, glancing at the window. “Shouldn’t you tell Twilight and the others?” she asks, raising an eyebrow.
“Gosh darn it, you’re right! Though I guess I should wait until the sun’s risen a bit higher,” I chuckle, careful holding the baby siren in one arm as I get to my feet. “Maybe they’ll have some advice. So far all I’ve done is sing to the little fella and watch him sleep.”
> Chapter Six
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	“I guess we have to give it a name,” Twilight says, using her magic to pull a book from the shelf of the castle library, pulling it down to her and flipping it to a page. “What were you thinking of calling it?”
I shrug, adjusting my one hoofed hold on the little guy. He wobbles slightly, looking at me as his sucks on the tip of his hoof innocently. “I was thinking maybe Oceans or something? I dunno, I’ve never had to name anybody before.”
She looks down at the book, pointing at something with her hoof. “It says here that sirens usually gave their children names relating to musical terminology. How about Crescendo Lights?” Twi asks, looking over her shoulder at us.
I hesitate, giving her a forced smile. “That’s a might pretty name, sugar, but I don’t know if it’s the best name for a colt.”
Her face flushes pink, and her eyes flick from me to the little siren. “Oh, it’s a he-ah, ah, ahahah, of course.” She turns back to the book, flipping through a couple of pages with her magic. “Mmmm, ah, maybe Brio Vesper?”
“What do you think little feller, Brio?” I ask, turning my head to look at the little blue colt. He hesitates, then taking his hoof from his mouth, paws at me, wriggling. “Hah, I’ll take that as a yes,” I chuckle, nuzzling him.
“Spike?” Twilight says, glancing over to the corner where Spike is reading a book that looks like sheet music.
He glances up, blinking. “Huh? What do you need, Twilight?”
“Could you send letters to the girls? Let them know that the egg has hatched, and they should come over right away,” she explains, lifting her hoof.
Spike pauses, cocking his head to the side. “Twilight, I can't send letters to anyone except the princess.”
Twilight blinks, straightening up. “What? You can’t?”
“You never asked about me sending letters to anyone when we lived in Canterlot, and you never really bothered in Ponyville either, so I figured it didn’t matter,” he says, getting to his feet. “But I guess I could take the news around anyway. I think I’ll go see Rarity first!” he says with a grin, hurrying out the door.
I glance at Twilight, hesitate, then cough. “You uh, wouldn’t happen to have anywhere we can sit, would you sugar cube? Brio’s getting mighty heavy.”
She pauses, jolting out of her reverie. “Huh? Oh, of course! And, uh, by the way? You might want to get him a diaper.”
Now I pause, glancing at the little colt. “Diaper?”
Twilight laughs slightly, her cute snorting donkey laugh. “Well he is a baby, isn’t he? What did you expect, he’d be hatched completely potty trained? Just cause sirens are monsters doesn’t mean they aren’t similar to ponies-at least, in some ways,” she says, growing serious again.
“I should probably go buy him some,” I say, running my hooves along the ridge down his spine. “I’ll be back in a minute, Twi.”
She pauses, tipping her head to the side. “Would it be easier if I took care of it while you went out?”
“Nah, I’ll be fine. But do you think you could lend me a couple bits?” I ask, ears pricked.
Twilight smiles, nodding. “No problem!” Focusing, she summons some money from somewhere in the castle, using her magic to drop it in my saddle bags. “Are you sure you don’t need me to take care of him?”
“I told you, we’ll be fine! See you in a jiffy!” I say cheerfully to her as I turn and start out of the library at a steady trot.
Heading out into town, I walk until I find a store that advertises baby supplies in the window. I push the door open, and a little bell hanging over it rings cheerfully as I step inside. “Howdy there,” I say, smiling at the pony behind the counter. She’s not paying me much attention distracted with dusting the shelves. “I’ll be buying three diapers, if you please,” I say, dropping the bits on the counter.
“Sure, just give me a moment to grab them,” she says tiredly, setting down her duster. As she turns to grab the diapers, she looks at Brio, the lunges back, cringing. “What the hay is wrong with that baby?” she screeches, disgust lining her expression.
I pull him close defensively, lifting my chin. “Nothing’s wrong with him, he’s perfectly fine,” I say.
She looks at me as if I’m an idiot, shaking her head. “That thing is disgusting!” she says, wrinkling her nose as she turns to pull out the cloth diapers.
“Now that sort of rudeness ain’t called for,” I say, pushing my hat back on my head.
“Oh I’m sorry sweet heart, it’s not your fault,” the mare behind the counter says, setting the diapers on the counter. “But Celestia above! Someone should do that thing a mercy and put it out of it’s misery!”
“You nasty little varmint, I’ll put you out of your misery!” I snap. I want to smash the walls of her pretty little shop, knock over the jars of baby powder, and rip the hide from this measly excuse for a pony. “I’m never spending a bit in this consarned shop again!” I snap, turning tail and storming out. It occurs to me I left Twilight’s bits on the counter, but at this point I don’t really care.
Sighing, I figure I may as well head back to Twilight’s for now. When Rarity gets there, I’ll ask her if she has anything I can use. As I start down the street, I pause as a warm trickle starts streaming slowly down my shoulder. I close my eyes and groan. “Oh Brio, why now?” His only response is a single senseless baby burble. “Come on, let’s get going.”
“Hey AJ, there you are!” Rainbow zooms over, landing by me. She pauses, taking a step back when she sees the little siren. “Oh, woah! So it hatched early?”
“I guess Spike hasn’t got to you yet-yeah, Brio here’s a bit of an early bird,” I say, letting out a deep breath. “Anyhow, Twilight wants us meeting at the castle about it.”
Rainbow grins, then pauses, her nose wrinkling, her grin disappearing. “Uh, Apple Jack? You smell gross.”
Groaning, I adjust my hold on Brio. “Yes, I need a shower. You know Rainbow, if I smell that bad, why don’t you just fly ahead?”
“Woah! What’s got you in a bad mood? Oh, uh, never mind-baby pee, right,” she says, laughing. She doesn’t know the half of it, really.
Finally we reach the castle, and head inside. The girls are waiting for us in the lobby. Pinkie, is unsurprisingly, the first one to say anything, which is almost immediately. “Oh my gosh he’s the most adorablest onliest siren baby I’ve ever seen! Oh, and AJ? You have some lemonade spilled on you silly!” giggle Pinkie, zipping over. “Hey baby Brio, I’m your aunty Pinkie-Winkie, yes I am, yes I am! When he’s a bit bigger, maybe he can have playdates with the baby Cakes, huh? Huh? And they can be like, bestest friends forever!”
“I just can’t believe I made so many baby dresses and he’s a boy,” moan Rarity. “At least he can still wear the cute little orange jumper I made, then. In fact, I think it’ll go rather nicely with his complexion, don’t you?” She pauses, sniffing. “AJ, darling? Ah, why don’t you go wash up?” she says with a wincing smile. “I’ll go get you some diaper fabric from Carousel Boutique.”
“Thanks, Rarity,” I say, nodding in relief. “That would be might helpful of you.”
She smiles, giving her dark violet mane a toss. “Not a problem, Apple Jack dear. While I’m there I’ll pick up that jumper I made and we’ll see if it fits!” she says brightly, galloping out.
“So, uh, how does he like, walk and stuff?” Rainbow points out, flying over, bending down to look at him. “You know, since he’s only got two legs.”
“Well he’s not old enough to be walking yet, so I wouldn’t know-Twi?” I ask, glancing up at the purple alicorn who’s talking animatedly to Spike, having him take down notes.
She looks to me, ears perking in surprise. “Mm? Oh, yes! Adult sirens swim through the air like it’s water when they’re on land,” she explains, glancing back to Spike. “It’s really quite fascinating, actually, I’m curious to see it first hand,” she admits with a small smile.
Finally, I relax. Of course my friends understand. They won’t judge little Brio on who he is. “Twilight, you mind holding him? I think I’m gonna duck in the bathroom and wash the baby pee from my fur,” I say with a chuckle. Everything’s going to be okay.
> Chapter Seven
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	“Stop squirming, gosh darnit,” I mutter, trying to get Brio to hold still as he wriggles about, making happy little baby burbles as if this is some silly game.
Pinkie bounces up next to me, the first back from lunch, like always. “Here, like this!” she chirps, taking hold of the cloth diaper. “First you wrap these two ends over his stomach like this, and then you take this bottom corner and fold it up between his legs and-oh,” she says, pausing as she remembers his tail. “Well now what?” she asks, plopping down on her rear.
I shake my head, letting out a deep breath. “I’ve been asking myself the same thing,” I say, trying to joke. “Maybe if we fold two corners up on the outside like this-” no sooner do I have it folded then Brio wriggles out of the diaper, making unhappy noises. Letting out a huff of frustration, I sit back, staring at the vaulted ceiling.
Pinkie pushes up to her hooves, smiling down at Brio, then looking up at me. “Oh silly me, I almost forgot! The girls are wondering if you need any help-you said you’d join us for lunch, but we’re halfway done already!”
“Nah, I’m fine,” I say, shaking my head slightly. I pause, then shrug slightly, forcing a half smile. “Or maybe you can bring me a sandwich?”
“Sure thing AJ! Alfalfa and apple slices on rye, right?” she chirps, bounding circles around me and Brio.
I nod, turning my attention back to diaper dilemma. “Thanks Pinkie Pie,” I say, deciding not to question how she knew what I wanted.
She cheerfully bounces out of the room, her words echoing out behind her as she heads off. “No problem AJ!”
I turn my focus back to Brio, huffing. “Alright, listen up little fella, I got a thing or two to say to you,” I say. He looks up at me in innocent confusion as I continue. “We’re gonna put this diaper on you. And it’s gonna stay on you. Is that clear?”
He blinks.
I take that as a ma’am yes ma’am.
I bite down on my tongue to help concentrate my focus. I lift up his rear, sliding the cloth beneath him. Setting him back down, I get to work, doing my best to tie it firm, in a way he can’t wriggle his tail right out. Finally I grab the pins in my teeth, doing my best not to prick him as I secure the fabric.
Letting out a deep breath of relief, I lean back on my haunches, closing my eyes. Finally.
Standing, I bend, picking Brio up gently in my hooves, giving him a gentle little snuggle.
His diaper falls off.
I shake my head, and leave it there. “You know what? I concede defeat,” I tell him, rolling my eyes. “You win. No diapers for now.”
> Chapter Eight
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	The sky is blue over Sweet Apple Acres, the same rich shade of blue as little Brio. All is not clear-clouds float over head like sail boats floating on a huge clear lake. The air smells of apples and wild flowers, and the ground smells earthy and rich. It’s almost a near perfect day to spend doing chores with the family.
Brio coos softly from the little baby sling attached to my saddle bag, made by Rarity-just like the little orange jumper he’s wearing. I have to admit, it’s a flattering color for the little fella. Not to mention it keeps his diapers from falling off.
As I arrive in the south orchard, I glance around. Nothing’s there. I suppose that isn’t quite right. There are plenty of apple trees, and crates, waiting to be filled. Big Mac’s here too, bucking the trees, already harvesting. But there’s no Apple Bloom.
“Big Macintosh, have you seen Apple Bloom?” I ask, tipping my head to the side as I trot over.
He glances at me. “Eeyup,” he says, gesturing with his head to the east field, where the tree house is.
“I’ll be back to help with the bucking in a second Mac,” I tell him, galloping off towards the east field. Brio giggles, apparently enjoying the rocking and bouncing at my side.
When I see the tree house, I trot up to it. I pause, staring up at it. She’s done a good job fixing it up. It almost looks like it did when I was a filly. I remember when he showed it to us for the first time, having only just finished building it. A special hideout, a secret fort for me, mom, Mac and-
And dad.
Swallowing a lump in my throat, I push my stetson hat up out of my eyes, trotting up the ramp to the club house. “Apple Bloom?” I say, pushing the door open.
A table is set up against the wall, covered in flasks, pots, and porcelain bowls I recognize from the kitchen. They’re chock full of things-powders, poultices, herbs and thick goopy liquids. All sorts of thick smells and orders waft off the table. I can smell something sweet, almost honey like, and something sour that makes my nose burn. I blink, holding back a sneeze.
Apple Bloom’s standing on the stool, mixing a bowl with what looks like a branch from one of the apple trees. She ignores me, focusing instead on her stirring.
“Apple Bloom, we need you down in the south orchard bucking apples,” I say louder, trying to get her attention in case she didn’t here me.
She lets go of the branch, and starts sifting something that looks like green sand. “Can’t,” she says stiffly. “I’m busy.”
“You can be busy after you do your chores,” I tell her, shaking my head. “Come on, we have lots to do.”
“I’m not coming, I’m busy,” she repeats, sprinkling the sand into the bowl she was stirring.
I huff, stomping my hoof. “Apple Bloom, put down all that silly potion stuff. You can play around with it when you’ve finished helping out,” I say.
Apple Bloom glares off me, stepping down off her stool. “I said no!” she snaps, shoving me back. Before I can step, she slams the door, and I can make out a sound like a lock sliding into place. The treehouse didn’t used to have a lock.
I’m tempted to kick the door open and drag her out to the field by the ear, but I don’t. For a moment I just stand there and stare at the slammed door. Then I turn, and trot down the ramp, Brio hiccuping loudly as I go. I guess she needs some time alone, then.
> Chapter Nine
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	I trot through the town, my mind still running through the exchange with Apple Bloom again, repeating like a broken record. Guilt scratches and burns at my throat as is I’ve gone and swallowed live coals.
“Boo!”
I jump slightly, glancing over my shoulder to glare at Rainbow Dash as she breaks up laughing.
“Rainbow Dash, that isn’t funny,” I snap, not bothering to hide how irritated I am. “You could have started Brio crying.”
He doesn’t seem to bothered though. Rather, he’s squirming, giggles and echoing Rainbow, repeating “boo!” over and over to himself.
“Sorry, whatever,” the cyan pegasus says, rolling her eyes. “So anyway, you said we could go swimming down at the river today,” she reminds me as she lands lightly, folding her wings.
I grimace, realizing that I’ve forgotten. “Consarnit Dash, I’m sorry, but I just can’t,” I say, shaking my head.
She pauses, blinking in shock. “What do you mean you can’t? You told me you’d be done with your farm chores for the day by now,” she points out, her eyes narrowing into a glare.
“I am, but I need to talk to Twilight. It’s been more than a week and I can’t get Brio to eat anything, and it’s starting to really worry me,” I tell her, rubbing Brio’s head.
Rainbow huffs, stomping. “He seems fine, if he can wait a week I’m sure he can wait one more day.”
“Listen, Dash,” I say, pulling my hat down over my eyes. “I’ll go swimming with you tomorrow, alright?”
“Not alright,” she snaps. Before I can say anything else, she takes off in a rainbow blur and races off. It seems everyone’s frustrated with me lately.
Hopefully Twi isn’t included in that, though. “You aren’t mad at me, are you?” I ask Brio as I start walking again, sighing.
He looks up at me, beaming. “Boo!”
I head into the castle without knocking, since Twilight probably won’t be able to hear me from the library. Of course that’s where I head-after all, that’s the room of the castle where she spends the most of her time anyway.
To my surprise, it’s empty, except for Spike, who seems to have fallen asleep in an easy chair, using a piano book as a blanket. His breath is soft as he turns over with a smile, murmuring something about flying and Rarity. I slip back out the door as quietly as I can, careful not to wake the baby dragon.
I’m not sure where else I could be, but I really shouldn’t be wondering around her house. But as I walk back towards the front door, I hear sound coming from a little ways down the hall.
I follow the sound down into a small kitchen room. It has a dim lamp hanging over the table, but most the light comes streaming through the crystalline windows, dappling the flower. The crystal tree-castle creaks slightly in the wind, giving the little room a peaceful feeling.
Twilight is sitting at the table, smiling sleepily down. She’s got a stack of books three tall, each quite a good bit thick. A fourth book is open in front of her, with a diagram on one page and a thick block of text on the other. Next to her book is a little blue cup with steam wafting up from it. It smells like pine needles, and daisy leaves are floating on the dark green tea. I watch wordlessly as she yawns, magically turning the page of her book.
As she does, she sees me standing in the door way, jolting slightly. “Hmm? Oh, Apple Jack, how long have you been standing there?” she asks, a few strands of the pink in her mane falling across her dark violet eyes.
I pause, blinking. “Huh? Oh, hey sugar cube, sorry to spook you,” I say, pushing my mane up out of my eyes, clearing my throat in embarrassment. I nod to the chair across from her. “Mind if sit?”
“Oh, sure!” Twilight says. Magically, she slides a bookmark into the book and shuts it, levitating it to the top of the stack. She stands, smiling. “I’ve been reading up on sirens and child rearing-there’s quite a bit of fascinating information on both those subjects, once you look into them. Can I get you some tea?”
“Ah, thanks but no thanks, Twi,” I say, taking my hat off, I set it on the table, sitting back with a sigh. It’s good to see her so excited to have Brio around, instead of frustrated like she was at the beginning. I can’t help wondering what changed, but I guess it isn’t really my business. “I was actually here to ask you about Brio,” I say, nuzzling the little fellow gently.
Twilight pauses, sitting back down. “What do you want to know?”
“Well, I’m worried about feeding him. He won’t eat any proper food, and since you said that sirens feed of negative emotions, I was wondering how to make sure he’s eating?”
She smiles, fondling her tea cup thoughtfully. “Well have you had an distressing situations lately? Anything stressful?”
I nod, chuffing. “More than I’d like, honestly,” I say, glancing down at the brim of my stetson, my mind starting to wander.
Twilight looks up at me, concerning shadowing her expression. “Is everything alright Apple Jack? Is something wrong?”
Some ponies seem to think Brio’s a crime against nature, Rainbow’s cross with me, Big Mac’s keeping secrets, Apple Bloom is moody, and Granny Smith is more than a bit touched in the head.
“No, I’ve already handled the problems,” I tell her. The lie is salty on my tongue, burning down up my throat like bile. But shucks, I don’t want my friends worrying about me. They have their own problems to handle.
She nods, but I’m not sure she believes me. “Well either way, the negative emotions from situations like that should be all the physical nourishment Brio Vesper needs.” She hesitates, then smiling, starts chattering away about her book. “Anyway, I was just reading that playing classical music as babies fall asleep can strengthen their mental capacities as they age-and when he gets older I was thinking we could get him one of those toys where they have to fit the blocks into the holes with the matching shapes, to get him learning shapes early. Oh! And I have some classics you could read to him,” she rambles, beaming.
I just smile and nod, not really understanding what she means by most of it. “Maybe you could read the classics to him,” I tell her, my skin flushing with embarrassment as the topic of reading comes up. “Shucks, I’m sure he’d love hearing them from the princess of books.”
Twilight offers a dimpled smile, considering that as she lifts her tea cup, sipping it thoughtfully. “That might be fun,” she muses.
I pause, picking my hat back up and setting it on my head. “I should probably get going. I need to pick up the cloth diapers Rarity’s got for me.”
“Can’t you just buy some from the store?” Twi asks, tipping her head to the side with a thoughtful frown.
I shrug, flicking my tail at the thought of the awful clerk at the baby store. “It’s a long story. Thanks for your help Twilight. I need to go drop Brio off at the farm now. Maybe Big Mac can set him down for a nap while I swing by Rarity’s.”
Twilight lights up, squealing in an adorable girly moment. “Oh, idea! I could babysit him for you while you get the diapers!”
I pause, blinking. “Do you think you could put him down for a nap for me?” I ask, surprised.
“Sure! I think the castle has a nursery with a cradle. And Spike’s a baby dragon, and I’m always taking care of him. I mean, how hard can little Brio be?” Twilight says excitedly, straightening her pile of books, beaming.
I can’t say no to that face. “Sure thing, sugar cube. If you ever need me, you’ll come find me, right?”
Twilight levitates the baby carrier off my back, Brio still in it. He giggles, excited as he floats into the air. “Don’t worry Apple Jack, he’s in great hands with me. I’ve read lots of parenting manuals!”
> Chapter Ten
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	“Oh Apple Jack, I was waiting for you darling!” Rarity says brightly, sticking a pin into a pattern laid across a swatch of dark purple fabric, the color of Twilight’s mane. She trots over to a show table, using her magic to lift the pile of cloth baby diapers. “I tried my best not to go overboard-I know I tend to get over excited when it comes to anything even remotely related to fashion.” she says, laughing.
She levitates them on to my back, trotting over, beaming. “Now, I know you’re busy with little Brio and all, but I was working on a wedding dress for one of my Canterlot patrons, and it got me thinking about how long it’s been since you’ve been on the dating scene.”
I can feel the redness in my cheeks. “Thanks for the diapers sugar, but about the whole dating thing, I’ve been really busy lately and-”
“You’re always busy!” interrupts Rarity. “You can make time for love, can’t you? Please?”
“Rarity, I just don’t feel comfortable-”
“Please!”
I huff, blowing my mane from my eyes. “With Brio around I’m busier than ever, especially seeing as it’s harvest time and-”
“Please please please pleas! You owe me for helping you with that business deal to extend Sweet Apple Acres, remember?” she pleads, draping herself over me, holding me close.
I let out a long slow sigh. I do remember. Rarity’s quite the business savvy pony. “Fine, I’ll go on a date. Who do you want me to hook up with this time?”
Rarity beams, standing. “Oh, I promise you won’t regret this darling! It’s a surprise-it’ll be a blind date. How fun!”
“Rarity, I’ll go on a date, but not with a stranger,” I insist, stamping one hoof to punctuate my point.
She brushes off my concerns, beaming. “Oh don’t worry, I’ll find someone you’ve met before. What about-well, he did say he’d be visiting to do a report on The Hay Burger, so, it’s settled then! He’ll pick you up at six o’clock this weekend!” she squeals. “You’re going to have so much fun, I just know it darling!”
Slumping, I nod, grimacing. “Yep, it’s going to be a real hootenanny,” I grumble. She has good intentions, but I’m not sure Rarity understands not everyone loves going on dates. “Listen, I better get back to Twilight’s place, see if Brio’s doing alright.”
Rarity simpers disappointedly. “Oh, alright then. Come see me again soon darling!” she says with a smile, trotting back to her latest project as I head out.
A little bell tinkles cheerfully as I leave Carousel Boutique, pushing up against the door as I head out. The sky is a brilliant shade of cerulean, but the streets and rooftops of Ponyville are dappled with shadows as the clouds hang in the sky, hiding the sun. I’ve always loved the days scheduled for cloudy skies and no rain. The air has a strange sweetness to it, a thickness to the air that almost makes me a little drowsy. A soft breeze ripples through town, causing the trees to rustle and shift, like a peaceful sigh.
It feels nice. I don’t have to worry about Brio. I don’t have to worry about chores. I don’t have to worry about my family. For once I can just relax and be separate from the world, just be myself.
And then I notice there’s a magical field around Twilight’s castle.
> Chapter Eleven
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Swearing under my breath, I gallop right up to the field, stalling at the edge of the magic pink bubble. Steeling my nerves, I gently brush the magical field with my hoof. It doesn’t sting me or push me back-not a forcefield, then.
Hesitating, I grit my teeth and duck inside. Nothing-except the distant sound of crying, echoing off the field as it keeps the sound in. I hurry towards the castle, ducking inside. I still can hear the faint crying sound, coming a ways down the hall. I chase it as it grows louder.
A door has pillows strapped across the entire surface, as if a crude attempt to soundproof the room, and Spike is standing guard, holding his claws over his ears with a grimace. “I wouldn’t go in there if I were you,” he tells me, slumping against the wall. Ignoring his advice, I open the door. Beyond is a war zone.
A huge magical animal mobile hangs from the ceiling at an angle, quite a few of the little glass figurines laying on a desk. Baby powder cakes the walls, and here and there I catch glimpses of yellow streaks dripping down the walls. Stuffed animals of all shapes and sizes have been flung all across the room, one teddy bear fallen in what looks like a baby’s practice toilet.
Brio lays in the cradle, kicking his front legs, tail wriggling as he screams, struggling for breath as he bawls. Twilight is curled up beneath the cradle, frantically flipping through a book, no doubt looking for some kind of solution.
He can’t be hungry-Twi’s stress should be plenty. His diaper doesn’t smell dirty. From the look of things, toys didn’t pacify him. Maybe he’s hurt? But he looks alright.
Trotting over to the cradle, I bend down, gently scooping him out with one hoof. Cradling him, I gently rock him, muttering soft little nonsense. “Did my little guppy scare his aunty Twilight? Poor little guppy, did you miss me? Hush little hush hush, momma’s got you now my little fishy fish.” He’s stopped crying, blinking up at me with his big pink eyes. Smiling, I bend, blowing a raspberry on his forehead. Little Brio giggles, his eyes lighting up.
Twilight crawls out of the bed, her mane looking as bad as mine has no doubt gotten. She’s smiling, but she looks exhausted, not to mention frazzled. “Wow, how’d you do that?”
“Sheer luck. Sometimes I’m up all night trying to get this little bugger to go to bed,” I admit, relieved that I could calm him down. “I think he just missed his mama.”
Twi pauses, her expression turning sheepish. “Oh, hey Apple Jack? Sorry about, you know-”
“Raising a baby siren and a baby dragon are apparently real different, don’t sweat it sugarcube,” I tell her, offering a tired smile. “Maybe I can teach you a couple tricks, get the two of you to know each other better, and then you can sit him for me.”
The idea of learning something new, even just baby care, lights Twilight’s eyes like lanterns. “Sure! And if you ever need any help, I could lend you some of my books on siren biology and foal care,” she offers.
“Thanks, but maybe you should do the reading,” I tell her, using my teeth to grab my saddle bag from where it’s leaned against the cradle. Swinging it over my back, I tuck Brio in his sling. “Shucks, I have a lot to do. I’ve got to get all my chores done early-Rarity’s sending me on a blind date this weekend,” I explain, wrinkling my nose.
Twilight giggles. “Good luck with that, Cinderella.”
I give her a look, raising one eyebrow. “You do realize she’ll probably try setting you up with someone next, right?”
> Chapter Twelve
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	“And if Brio gets hungry, take him out to find some negativity somewhere in town. If he’s crying and you’re not sure why, try giving him the koala teddy Pinkie brought by. You sure you understand how to put on his diapers?” I ask Big Mac, carefully using my hooves to braid my mane.
He nods, leaning up against the doorway. “Eeyup,” he says casually, crossing his hooves.
“If you need anything, ask Granny for help-but use your better judgement, if she says something silly go ask the Cakes, or better yet, come find me at the restaurant,” I tell him, tying off the braid.
“Eeyup,” he repeats.
“And have you seen where Charlie’s got to?”
“That old scarecrow?” Big Mac says surprisingly. “I think Winona dragged it off to play with.”
Something is off. His forehead looks just slightly damp, and he’s chewing his lip. I could swear he’s lying, but Big Mac doesn’t lie. He was my role model as a kid; I wouldn’t be the Element of Honest if he hadn’t been my big brother. “Alright. Oh, and while we’re on the topic, when Apple Bloom gets home, don’t forget to tell her today’s her day to feed Winona. If she’s not home before nine, I want you to go get her, alright?” I say, looking over my reflection in Granny’s old full-length mirror.
Rarity dropped by a few hours ago, apparently to help me plan my outfit. I’d been planning on going just as I was, but apparently that wasn’t good enough for the restaurant she’s sending me and my surprise date to. Sighing, I reach behind my head, curling the braid into a fancy bun, like she showed me. She tried to get me to wear a velvety green dress the color of ferns, but it was just to done up for my tastes, so I got a pass to just wear my duds from the first Gala.
Leaving my Stetson hat on the bed, I pick up Rarity’s embroidered one, setting it on top of my mane carefully as not to mess it up. I look mighty fine, I suppose.
Letting out a long slow sigh, I give Big Mac a smile. “Thanks big brother,” I tell him as I walk over, snuggling into his shoulder. “I guess I could use a night to just have fun.” Maybe not my personal definition of fun, but maybe things will turn out alright.
He smiles, wrapping his hooves around me in a warm tight hug. “Take care of yourself,” he says in his familiar gravelly voice, his chest vibrating slightly as he speaks.
Bitting back tears, I pull away, nodding. He hasn’t talked that much in weeks. “Same to you, big brother,” I tell him.
Hesitantly turning, I trot past him, down the hall into my own room, approaching Brio’s cradle. He’s napping, apparently exhausted from today’s latest tantrum. Bending, I pull the apple quilt from the barn up over his shoulders, nuzzling him gently. “Never change,” I murmur in his ear. It flicks gently as he sleeps, hopefully dreaming beautiful dreams.
Turning, I shut the door softly behind me, meeting Big Mac by the stairs. We head down into the front room, where Granny Smith is sitting in her favorite chair, pouring over a scrap book.
“Hey Granny, my date will be here soon. You gonna be alright?” I ask, pausing by the closed door.
She looks up, offering a smile, her dentures reflecting the lantern light. For a moment I expect her to mistake me for my mother again, but Granny Smith simple rocks slightly in her chair. “You knock that stallion dead, girl,” she creaks, beaming. “Where is this mystery fella anyway? It’s not good manners to show up late.”
Stifling a chuckle, I sit back on the couch. “Whoever he is he ain’t late. It won’t be six for another twenty or so minutes. I’ve probably got enough time to grab a leftover apple turnover from breakfast and-”
“You’re on a diet and you’re eating at the restaurant,” Granny Smith reminds me, not hesitating half a second to reprimand me. “Do you want to lose those extra forty pounds?”
“It’s not forty, it’s fifteen!” I protest, my face flushing red. All the same I know she’s right. I really do need to get back in shape.
I glance at the door, shifting uncomfortably. It’s definitely been a while since I’ve been a date, and I’m nervous, to put it lightly.
We wait for about fifteen minutes before there’s the sound of a light tapping on a door, someone knocking.
I stride over to the door, pausing in front of it. Smoothing the collar of my Gala dress, I take a deep breath, steadying myself. Glancing over my shoulder, I smile at Big Mac, watching Granny snoring in her chair. “I’ll see ya’ll when I get home, alright?” Before he can respond, I pull the door open.
Using his magic, he pushes his thick glasses up his nose, the glass reflecting his purple eyes as he offers an awkward smile. “Ah, hello again Miss Apple Jack,” Trenderhoof says nervously. “My apologies, I wasn’t aware who this date was with and considering how our last encounter turned out-”
Doing my best to hide my frustration, I smile. “Nah, it’s all good. Maybe now you can actually get to know me instead of making some silly assumption about what I’m like,” I tease, sauntering past him. “Don’t worry, this is all just for fun and friendship anyhow.”
We head out across the path from Sweet Apple Acres out to Ponyville. As the sun starts setting over the orchard, I glance at the lanky brown stallion, trying to understand what it was that had gone through Rarity’s mind when she set this up.
I take a deep breath, trying to figure out how to get a conversation moving again. “So, how’s that journal you’re writing for?”
His eyes light up, and I can tell I’ve touched on a topic he cares about. “I’m actually finishing up an article on this year’s Gala. I’d have it out by now, but my husky Alexander chewed up my noted,” Trenderhoof chuckles.
I glance at him curiously. “I didn’t know you have a dog. Have I introduced you to Winona? She’s the family dog-a border collie, actually,” I tell him, smiling.
“I didn’t know you had a dog either,” Trenderhoof says, beaming. “Sometimes I take him traveling, but he gets sick when he rides the train.”
“You going to go to the Crystal Empire for your magazine one of these days? Out on the border, there’s lots of snow-your husky might like playing out there,” I mention.
He laughs, grinning. “I’ve actually never been there, but I’ve actually been trying to get the editor to send me there. If I get it I’ll see if I can take him. You really like dogs, don’t you?”
Nodding, I smile. “I love them. I’d probably get some more if the farm weren’t already so busy.” And if money weren’t so tight. “I think I’d get a tiny teacup yorkie.”
“You don’t seem like the yorkie type to me,” Trenderhoof says, eyes widening in surprise. 
I chuckle. “Maybe not, but those little yappers make me laugh,” I admit, tossing my head to get a strand of mane from my eyes.
The conversation goes on for a while, mostly focusing on dogs, which seems to be our biggest common ground. Sometimes when he’s talking about himself, he’ll ramble on for a bit, but that’s nothing compared to how much he talks about Alexander. I don’t mind, not too much, because sometimes I just prefer to listen.
“Oh look, here we are!” Trenderhoof says in surprise, magically tightening his tie as we reach Misty Shores Grill. Magical unicorn lights hover near the windows and door, casting the building in dim colors. It’s a bit too fancy for my tastes, but I suppose I am getting mighty hungry.
He glances at me, then at the door, then after a half second pause, blinks as if remembering something. Magically, Trend grabs the handle, stepping back to pull the door open. “After you,” he says nervously.
I nod, smiling, then turn to step inside. I crash right into unicorn, who yelps in surprise, dropping her cup. Quick to my feet, I shake off the ice, shivering. “My mistake, sorry ma’am-”
“Watch where you’re going!” the pink haired unicorn snaps, flouncing past me. Trenderhoof abandons the door, hurrying over to help.
“Apple Jack, are you all right?” he ask, brushing my main from my eyes. “That was quite the crash.”
“No, I’m fine,” I sigh, brushing at my dress. It doesn’t matter-the red wine has already start setting into the fabric. Rarity is going to have a heart attack. “Come on, let’s head inside. It’s not like things are going to get worse, are they now?”
> Chapter Thirteen
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

    I sit at the table, looking over the menu. I don’t recognize half the words, to be completely honest.
“This spinach salad with castella dill weed dressing and pomegranate seeds sounds good-you know, I actually met a rather fantastic cook who could make a gourmet meal from dandelion roots, pine needles, and apple cores-she’s touring in Canterlot I believe,” Trenderhoof muses aloud, smiling as he turned a page.
I glance up, blinking in surprise. “Really? Roots and apple cores?” I ask quizzically.
“She did,” he says, beaming. “She also mixed up a saffron and oak bark soup-I wrote an article on her a while back, saying she could make something good from near anything! Not one of my better articles, but the research was fascinating.”
A stallion with a goatee approaches the table, tightening his tie. “Hello, my name is A La Carte, I will be your waiter this evening,” he says in a a deep dulcet tone, flashing a smile. “Might I start you with an appetizer?”
“I’ll have the goat cheese stuffed plums with Neighagra vinegar,” Trenderhoof says, closing his menu and setting it on the table.
The waiter smiles, nodding. He makes no notes; I wonder how he remembers all the orders. “A personal favorite of mine. And you, my lady?” he asks, glancing to me.
My coat flushes red as I realize I haven’t chosen anything, let alone an appetizer. “I, um, I don’t really know-”
Trend clears his throat, managing an awkward smile. “She’ll have the crackers and brie, Los Pegasus style.”
The waiter raises an eyebrow at Trenderhoof, then looks back at me with a casual smile, dipping his head politely. “Excellent choice for an excellent mare,” he says, turning and trotting off to the kitchen.
“Sorry Apple Jack,” apologizes Trenderhoof, pulling at his sweater collar in embarrassment. “You seemed rather at a loss, and I assumed the brie would rather suit your casual palette.”
“No, no,” I say, brushing off his apology. “I was floundering like a fish in the desert, it’s fine.” I pick up the menu, flipping through to find the next course, so I can be prepared this time.
“So how have things been down at the farm?” asks Trenderhoof cheerfully, magically lifting his glass to his lips, sipping the lemon water.
My eyes flicker across the soups, and eventually I settle on the Garden Herb Vegetable soup, because it’s the only one I really recognize. “Oh, all right I suppose. We’re already figuring out how much cider to make come later in the fall. One of the old scarecrow’s have gone missing, but it’s all pretty normal otherwise.”
“Maybe sometime I could come interview you and your folks? I still don’t know all that much about farm life, and it might make for an interesting article-ah, here’s our appetizers!”
The waiter returns, setting a tray in front of each of us. There’s not much, but I guess it is just an appetizer. “You’re entrees,” he says, dipping his head politely again. He pauses, looking to me with a smile. “Madam, might I bring more water to fill your cup?”
“Nah, I still got half of it left, but Trend’s here is empty,” I say with a polite smile, fiddling with the crackers.
“Of course,” he says, turning away. “Let me go get a pitcher of ice water,” he says before heading away.
I pick up one of the crackers, hesitating before scooping up a bit of the cheese. I put it into my mouth and chomp down. The taste is a milky rich one, savory, with a flavor I can’t quite place.
“These are pretty darn good,” I say with a smile, eating a second one, savoring the delicious taste. “What’s in these crackers?”
He glances at the menu as he lifts one of the plums, eyes flickering across it. “Thyme, chives, wheat seeds, organic ranch grown grass, almond paste, peanuts-”
“Peanuts?” I interrupt him, flinching. “I-I’m allergic to peanuts.”
Trenderhoof glances up in surprise, and I put a hoof to my mouth, trying not to rich. “What?”
“I’m not feeling so good,” I say with a grimace, holding my other hoof to my stomach, taking deep breaths.
His eyes flash with worry. “Oh, uh-should we get you to a hospital? Do you have some medication?”
“I left it home,” I tell him, concern building like a pressure pump. But before I can say anything else, we’re interrupted by the waiter’s return as he pours out the water.
He pauses, flashing a smile. “Tell me miss, are you a regular here?”
I frown, tipping my head to the side in confusion. “No, actually. Why do you ask?”
He smiles, shrugging. “I just think it’s a shame, really. But perhaps you could be a regular at my house-I like a girl with a bit of stomach on her.”
Trenderhoof suddenly stands, glaring. He opens his mouth to speak, but I move before he can.
“Are you serious?” I spit, standing. “You’re flirting with a girl in front of her date-and calling her fat!? You dirty parasite!” I say. I punch him hard, and I feel a satisfying crunch beneath my hoof.
He reels back, nose bleeding all over his nice neat suit. He glares, opening his mouth to say something, but I cut in.
“You’re a snake-sucking beaver-snogging scat-eating rat! You should be ashamed of yourself you dirty... dirty...” I blink, grimacing as the restaurant starts tipping beneath me. Is someone picking it up.
“Dirty... shameless pig...”
The floor flips up suddenly to catch me right as everything turns to night. I hear screaming, but then it all fades away, and the only sound I can hear is my breathing, like a slow unsteady breeze.
> Chapter Fourteen
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

     “We just need to check a few things, and then we can send you home,” Nurse Redheart says with an apologetic smile. “In the meantime, you have some visitors. Should I let them in?”
I rub at my forehead, forcing a smile. “Thanks, that’d be swell.”
She nods, then slips out of the room, opening the door behind her. A cyan blur zips in, nearly crashing into the wall. “AJ! I came as fast as I could-what happened?”
I lean back into the stiff hospital pillow as Apple Bloom and Big Mac come in behind her, followed by a concerned looking Fluttershy. “Peanuts,” I admit, closing my eyes.
Fluttershy furrows her brows in confusion, tipping her head to the side. “Um, peanuts?”
“I’m a mite allergic, nothing serious,” I say, brushing it off. Big Mac snorts, rolling his eyes sarcastically.
“A mite,” he echoes.
“You fainted because of a nut?” Rainbow asks, disbelieving. She snorts, shaking her head. “Seriously?”
My eyes flick back to Big Mac, and I sit up slightly. “Where’s Brio?” I ask, ignoring Dash.
“Out in the hall,” Mac said, flicking his tail at the door.
“By himself?” I ask, raising an eyebrow.
He shakes his head. “The fella who took you on the date offered to hold him while we came in.”
I relax into the bed, letting out a long low breath. “Alright. Thanks Mac.”
Apple Bloom drops something on my bed, a white bottle. “I brought yer allergy pills, just in case,” she says, the words coming out in a grumpy huff.
“And thank you, Bloom,” I say, grabbing her by the hoof and pulling her onto the bed in a hug. “Sorry to worry y’all. I’m fine. Hey sugar, you still planning on making your Nightmare Night costume this year?”
She pauses, then nods. snuggling closer. “I ain’t much with a needle and thread, but I’ll help you if you want it.”
She closes her eyes with a tired smile, and nods again. “Can I do the Running of the Leaves this year? Scootaloo says she’s gonna.”
“Course you can sugar,” I murmur, hugging her close.
“Is there anything I can do for you?” Fluttershy finally asks in a soft voice, shuffling her hooves.
I shake my head. “Thanks, but you get back to your animals and your home. It’s mighty late. You too, Dash-I’ll be fine.”
Rainbow frowns, then turns, tail lashing behind her almost defiantly. “Yeah, I guess I better get going. I have someone waiting for me anyway,” she says before disappearing in a flash. Flutters followed hesitantly after.
Big Mac gives me a meaningful look, glancing at the empty doorway. I sigh, pulling away from Apple Bloom. “Oh don’t look at me like that Mac, that was a long time ago. I’m sure Dash isn’t still upset about that.”
Apple Bloom looks up, frowning. “About what?”
I shake my head. “Nothing important sugar cube. It was a long time ago, and it doesn’t matter no more.”
“But I wanna know now!”
I glance at Big Mac, as if I didn’t hear Bloom. “Hey Mac? Can you go get Brio? Tell Trenderhoof thank you, and that I’m sorry things didn’t turn out so good.”
“Eeyup.”
> Chapter Fifteen
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

  “Have fun at school, Apple Bloom!” I yell, tightening the strap for Brio’s baby carrier.
She glances back, huffing in frustration. “Yeah, whatever,” she grumbles before trotting out the door. Consarn that girl and her sullen attitude. What’s gotten into my little Bloom?
I pick Brio up, pulling the soggy corner of the quilt out of his mouth. “Is momma’s little guppy hungry? Does he need some nummy-nums?” I coo, setting him in the carrier. “Let’s go get him some yummies, okay?”
He beams, giggling as he kicks his tail cheerfully, spouting happy baby babble. Smiling, I grab my hat from where it hangs on the wall and swing it up on my head, then grab Winona’s leash where it hangs on the peg next to it. I drape it over my shoulders for now, stepping outside.
“Winona!” I yell, closing the house door behind me. “Here girl! Come on Winona!” A moment passes and she comes running over, panting cheerfully. “Good girly,” I tell her, scratching behind her ears before I clip her leash on. She pauses, lifting her nose to sniff Brio, and give him a couple licks hello. Brio stares down at her, ears flattened back, eyes wide, and apparently very confused.
Chuckling, I take the handle of the red leash in my teeth and start walking, enjoying the rough dirt and dew dripped grass beneath my hooves. I’d take the country sun over the city any day.
After a while, my little trio reaches town, and we walk a while longer before Rarity catches up with us.
“Oh darling I’m so sorry I’m late! Sweetie Belle got her tail stuck in the ceiling fan somehow, and I couldn’t bear just to cut it loose, and then I forgot our morning walk was today instead of tomorrow and started sketching designs for my newest line-I’m such an awful friend!” she wails, and I flinch back a bit at her over-the-top dramatics.
“It’s fine, I was a bit slow to get going myself,” I tell her after I tie the handle of Winona’s leash to my saddle bag.
“Oh, I am so very sorry about that,” Rarity says, eyes going wider. “I never should have set up that date! Poor Apple Jack! Flirted with by a waiter, then swelling up and passing out! It must have been so very terribly romantic for Trenderhoof to carry you to the hospital-tell me, was the waiter handsome?” she asks, a faint tone of morbid curiosity in her voice.
“I dunno about any of that, really,” I say, my coat burning red. “You couldn’t have known it would all go to seed like that. But Granny’s made me promise to take my pills with me everywhere now,” I say, chuckling slightly.
“And how is little Brio doing?” she asks, cootchicootchichooing to the little blue siren. “I’ve actually been working on another jumper for him; I’ve been thinking a nice green, perhaps with some white accents,” she adds, beaming.
“That’s awful thoughtful of you, Rarity. Little fella’s been doing well as he could, I suppose. I think he’s a mite hungry, though,” I say with a chuckle.
He cranes his head, beaming up around at me. “Jay-Jay!” he announces happily, bouncing.
I blink, then look up at Rarity. “Did you hear that? Rarity did you hear!?” I can’t help the grin that splits my face. I pull him out of the carrier, cuddling him close. “He said my name! Brio said my name!”
She pauses, tipping her head to the side. “Jay-Jay? Apple Jack, darling, I’m rather sure that isn’t your name,” she says in mild confusion.
“Oh hush, he was trying to say AJ,” I tell her, beaming as I cuddle him. “He’s talking already! Time sure does fly faster than a train without tracks,” I say.
Rarity giggles slightly, rolling her eyes. “Well good for both of you,” she says, beaming.
“Jay-Jay!” laughs Brio again. Winona barks, as if celebrating his first words with us.
I tuck him back into the carrier still beaming. “That’s right my little guppy, I’m your momma Jay-Jay,” I coo, stroking his head.
Rarity laughs full on now, smiling. “Celestia clearly knew what she was thinking when she asked you, darling,” she says.
I can’t help blush. “Aw, shucks, you really think so? I mean, I do try and all,” I say, rubbing the back of my head with my free hoof.
“I know so,” Rarity pauses confidently. She blinks, then jolts upward slightly, beaming. “Oh!” she takes a deep breath before continuing. “I nearly forgot to tell you-Trenderhoof had to leave on the late train last night-something about a sick dog at home-but first he asked me to give you this letter!” she says, floating a folded brown piece of paper from her bag, turning it to show me the red wax seal, then again to show me my name written on the front. She floats into my bag, still beaming. “Do you think it’s a confession of true love? Ooh, you must wait til your alone to read it, or it won’t be romantic enough!”
“It’s probably just an awkward apology for buying me something I was allergic to,” I tell her, rolling my eyes as we walk. “Anyhow, what’s up with Rainbow lately? She’s been so stiff.”
Rarity pauses, frowning slightly. “I hate to say it darling, but she’s only that way around you. I think she’s upset you haven’t been spending more time with her lately.”
“Guess that makes sense. But there was the weirdest thing; last night at the hospital, she said something about someone waiting for her-”
Rarity groans, closing her eyes. “Oh goodness, I thought that was a one time thing,” she laments aloud.
“What was a one time thing?” I ask, stopping mid-stride.
She grimaces. “Not to long ago, I was celebrating opening my Canterlot boutique, you know the one, with a vintage bottle of Saddle Arabian champagne. I may have gotten a wee-bit intoxicated, and, well, I figured it was a good time to plan a date for Rainbow Dash. I may have set her up with Trixie, and they may have gotten drunk, and may have decided to become friends with ‘benefits,’” she says, wincing.
“Wait, what? Why? I didn’t even think Trixie live in Ponyville,” I say, trying to sort it all out.
“Goodness know why,” Rarity says, shaking her head. “And she didn’t, not until recently; a couple weeks ago she bought the flat above the quill and sofa shop.”
I shake my head, letting out a long, slow sigh. “You don’t think it has anything to do with-”
“I do think so,” Rarity says firmly, offering me an apologetic smile. “How about I change the subject dear?”
“Thanks,” I sigh. “That would be nice.”
> Chapter Sixteen
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        “I’m so glad you came to visit! I’ve been reading some fascinating child rearing books and I can’t wait to share some of the techniques!” squealed Twilight cheerfully, floating an array of books down from the shelves.
I smile and nod, only half listening as I watch Brio drag himself around in the small magic playpen Twilight made. From what I can tell, the little fella is on a quest for that rubber ducky in the corner of the pen.
Twilight sets the books down in a stack on the bedside table, beaming. “Aw, he’s pretty cute.”
I glance up, smiling. “Hey Twi?” She pricks her ears curiously. “I just wanted to say I’m glad you’re so fond of Brio. I mean, when Celestia first brought him and such you were... well...”
Her smile falters slightly. “I guess it’s easier to be cynically about an egg,” she says, shuffling awkwardly. Pausing, she changes the subject. “You know, you were right. Rarity’s already set me up for a blind date next weekend.”
“Hah, Tartarus or tarantulas couldn’t stop that girl when she sets her mind to something,” I say, chuckling.
Twilight glances at the clock, jumping in surprise. “Oh, you and Rainbow Dash were going to practice for your next rodeo, weren’t you? You need to go or you’ll be late!”
Her magic lights up around me, but before she can rush me off in the name of being on time, I shake my head. “Rainbow cancelled.”
Her magic flickers and then disappears. Twi tips her head to the side, brow furrowed in confusion. “What? Why would she do that? She’s always been so loyal, I can’t imagine her canceling without a good reason.”
I sigh, trotting over to one of the chairs and slumping down in it. “I suppose it could be a good reason. Suppose it depends on who’s opinion you side with.”
She draws up a chair, sitting. “I’m listening,” she says. Her voice is open, warm, like a late summer sun. I relax into the softness of her voice, and take a deep breath.
“I suppose she’s still angry. I was wondering if she’s started on with Trixie to make me jealous. You heard about her and Trixie, right?”
She nods, frowning. “I did, but what’s she got to be angry about? I’m not sure I understand.”
I pause, smiling bitterly. “Guess it was before you moved in. Alright, so it goes like this. A couple months before you came to Ponyville, near half a year even, Dash and I, we already knew each other. In fact, we were thick as thieves, thicker maybe. After a while, I got the courage to ask her out, and we started dating.”
Twilight looks at me in surprise. “Dating? I didn’t know you too-”
I wave her off, shaking my head. “I’m bisexual. Last time I asked, Dash is straight, but she has a few rare exceptions here and there.”
She nods absentmindedly, a strange faraway look in her eyes, as if she’s thinking of something far off into the sky. “So what happened?”
“Well, we got closer. You rarely ever saw one without the other. She started letting her weather duties slide, and I asked Big Mac to do my chores for me more and more. She wanted to get intimate, but as much as I liked being with her, I didn’t feel ready. I didn’t feel right.
“Time went on and it occurred to me I wasn’t as happy as before. So I took a good long look at my life. I’d been neglecting Winona, my other friends, and worst of all, my family; and even when I was with them, I was followed by a ghost of guilt that I wasn’t ready to be as intimate as Dash wanted. It was taking over my life.
“So I told her I couldn’t do it anymore. I told her we could still be friends, and I very much wanted to, but I just couldn’t be with her like that anymore. She didn’t like that. We argued, and eventually I lost my head. And then she hit me. We didn’t see for weeks, but in those weeks, I got my life back on track. I got to know my family again. I rekindled ignored friendships. I felt good. Eventually, Dash showed up on the farm. She was a mess, her mane in knots, her eyes red and sunken, her feathers a crooked mess.  She apologized, for what happened, as hard as it was for her, and asked if the offer to be friends was still on. And I said yes. But she never really got over those days we spent together, never got over wanting them back. And neither have I, not completely. But I’m never going back.”
There’s a long, low, silence, thicker than snowdrifts as they build across the room, growing deeper the more time that passes. Finally the silence is broken by two successive squeaks, as Brio reaches his rubber goal, and starts teething on it.
“Wow Apple Jack,” Twilight says, her voice soft, casting her eyes away. “I’m so sorry, I-I never knew.”
“It’s fine. I’ve been doing my best to leave it in the past, even if she can’t,” I say, laying back and closing my eyes. “But I guess that’s life isn’t it? Trying to leave the past, trying to catch a better future, and forgetting the present’s there altogether.”
And even in the cool autumn air, the smell of apples, cinnamon, and pumpkin on the breeze, in the library of the castle, it’s as cold and lonely as winter.
“Apple Jack?” I can almost hear the ice that isn’t there cracking as she speaks, hesitantly lifting her head.
“Thank you for telling me,” Twilight says with a soft smile. “I’m sorry if it hurt, but I feel like, well, we’re better friends now.”
Her smiles melts the snow, and I’m not alone anymore. I breath out a reply, pulling the brim of my hat down over my eyes. “Yeah. Thanks, Twi.”
> Chapter Seventeen
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	“I brought this down from the attic,” I tell Apple Bloom, gently tying the dress around her. “There. Mom wore this to her cutecenera, and I wore it to mine,” I say, tightening her bow.
Pulling away, I wipe at my eyes, taking a long deep breath in. “Oh gosh, I promised myself I wouldn’t cry, but your just growing up so fast.”
She smiles up at me, brushing her hoof across the pale green skirt. “Thanks, Apple Jack! I’m so excited! Me and the girls are already planning to start using the Crusader clubhouse as our headquarters! I can’t wait to start helping other ponies with their cutie marks!”
“And I’m sure you’ll do a fantastic job, but I bet it can wait until after the party. I bet your friends are already at Sugarcube Corner,” I say, brushing the hair from her eyes. “Big Mac’s waiting for you outside. Once the cake is done, I’ll wake up Granny and we’ll be right there.”
“Thank you sis,” she says, pulling me in a tight hug. I bite my lip, but I can’t help the water welling in my eyes as she bounds out the door, eyes shining.
I stand alone in the front room for a stretch of time before I head back into the kitchen. Brio wriggles his tail, looking at me from his highchair as he gums on a piece of bread.
“Well guppy, aren’t you proud of your big sister? It’s about time she got her cutie mark,” I tell him with a chuckle. “I’m glad she won’t be worrying about it no more. She grew up so fast, huh?”
He watches me as I pull the last cake layer from the oven. I carefully set it on top of the little cake pyramid, looking it over thoughtfully. “Four layer cinnamon chocolate cake,” I announce proudly, wiping sweat from my forehead. “Not bad for a days work. Guess I better start mixing the cherry frosting, hm?”
Dropping his bread, on the floor, Brio speaks. “Ahhhaah JJ! Cay! Cay! Ahhhhh!” he says, kicking his tail.
Trotting over, I bend, giving him his bread back. “That’s right, we’re making a cake for your big sister! Cake! Num num num,” I say, wiping crumbs from his chin with the back of my hoof.
He giggles brightly before forcing as much as the bread in his mouth as he could manage.
Smiling, I turn back to the counter and start pouring out the sugar. After I put all the ingredients in a bowl and whisk them into a thick frosting, the cake’s cooled enough, so I coat it in a thick layer, then decorate it with rings of cherries and chocolate shavings.
Perfect. Carefully, I carry it outside, setting it in a cart I’d gotten ready, along with a serving knife.
Heading back inside, I put on my saddle bags, and lift Brio into the side Rarity adjusted to be a baby carrier. Pushing my hat up out of my eyes, I throw my head back. “Granny, you up? We’re going to Apple Bloom’s cutecenera!” I yell, sticking my head up the stairway.
Her creaky old voice calls back. “You silly filly, little Apple Bloom doesn’t have a cutie mark!”
“Granny, she showed you this morning, remember?” I yell.
“Oh, uh, yes, right, the shield with the apple, silly me.” She comes out of her room and starts down the stairs on shaky legs. “Is she a knight or something? I forget.”
“She says it’s helping others figure out and understand their cutie mark; I think it’s in the shape of their Crusader’s logo,” I say, helping her down the last step.
“Well good for her! We should tell Big Mac!”
I smile. “He already knows, Granny. Since it’s for all the Crusader’s, he talked to Rarity, and they’re going to have a Ponytones performance. I think Dash is actually going to do a Rainboom as a surprise for the girls,” I pause, jolting. “Oh! That reminds me! I have to go get the presents! I’ll be back quicker then a rattlesnake Granny, don’t go anywhere,” I tell her before galloping up the stairs.
My little sister’s all grown up.
> Chapter Eighteen
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        “Brio? Brio!? Where are you buddy!?” I yell, trying to sound cheery. “It’s nappy naptime! Granny Smith!” I turn to look at her, and she blinks sleepily as she looks up from her rocking chair.
“Eh? Whassat?”
“I set Brio down for a minute and now I can’t find him anywhere!” I explain, chewing my lip. “I already asked Apple Bloom and Big Mac’s wandered off again and-have you seen him?”
“Oh, yes, ah!” Granny Smith paused, rubbing her chin in thought. “Who’s Brio again? Maybe your momma knows where your friend is?”
I wince, wishing for the first time her memories would stop wriggling about. “Ah forget it!” I say, checking behind the chair. “Tell me if you see him! Brio! Brio!” Right as I hurry into the next room, I hear a sound.
A giggle.
Pausing, I turn back, ducking into the kitchen. There’s no sight of him, but I wait a moment, and I hear the soft laughing again, no doubt Brio. Carefully, quietly, I keep my ears pricked, following the sound to one of the lower cupboards. Letting out a sigh of relief, I open it.
A baby pony sits inside
I know it’s Brio, with his dark blue pelt and big pink eyes, and the siren’s gem in the middle of his fluffy chest, but he’s different, his tail gone. He’s standing on four wobbly hooves, laughing his patchy baby laugh as he smiles up at me. “Jay Jay! I di a wak!” He cooed eagerly, awkwardly taking a step before flopping down on his stomach, giggling.
“What in the tarnation have you gotten into, guppy?” I wonder out loud, gently scooping him up in one hoof. I need to see Twilight about this. She’s a smart gal with all those fancy books of hers; if anyone can explain what happened, it’ll be her. I hurry across the kitchen to grab my baby carrier for Brio, but Rarity designed it with a siren in mind. After a bit of fidgeting and tightening, it’ll at least work for his new chubby pony legs, even if it’s not the best. “Granny!” I shout, poking my head back in the living room. “I’m taking Brio over to Twilight’s! If Apple Bloom or Big Mac get home early, let them know there’s left over casserole in the fridge,” I let her know. She nods, but falls almost immediately back to sleep. Hoping she’ll remember for once, I duck out the barn door.
The walk to Twilight’s is quick, but she takes a little longer than I’d like to answer her door. “Oh, Apple Jack! It’s so good to see you!” she said, brightening.
“Sorry Twi, no time for pleasantries,” I say quickly. “Something happened with Brio and-I dunno, just take a look, alright?”
Pausing, Twilight levitated him out of the baby carrier, looking him over. She paused, then lit up. “Amazing! I read about this a few days ago. When sirens start maturing from babies into fillies and colts, they develop an ability to shift between siren and pony. Generally they’ll stay in their pony form for a while, but over time, they’ll develop the ability to switch between the two at will.”
I take a long deep breath in, letting it out with relief. “So he’s just starting to get older?” I say, glad when she nods. “How about that? You’re such a big boy!” I said, gently pulling him out of Twilight’s magic to give him a cuddle. “Jay Jay’s guppy is getting so big, yes he is!”
“That means he should actually start developing rather basic speech soon, too!” Twilight said brightly. “It’s been around, say, five months now? Although sirens generally start to mature a little faster than the average pony, but it looks like he’s actually developing his mental and motor skills even faster! Maybe due to how his age was in forced stasis for a while?”
“Five months?” I say in surprise, glancing between Twi and my guppy. “Has Brio really been here with me for five months?”
Twilight paused, considering this. “Well, Celestia brought his egg in summer, and now it’s late falls, so a bit more like four and two weeks, but about that, yes!” she said, smiling.
I chuckle, shaking my head in disbelief. “Sure feels like it’s been longer. Hey, mind if I come inside? It looks like he might have escaped his diaper when he transformed, nasty little bugger.”
“Of course, come on in!” Twi said brightly, opening the door wider and stepping to the side. “While your here, I want to show you some books about parenting I asked Celestia to send down from the Canterlot library! I figured you could borrow them!”
I pause halfway through the door, eyes on my hooves. Glancing out the window, I shrug casually. “Nah, I’m good. You keep ‘em.”
“You sure?” Twilight said in surprise. “They have some really good advice on making sure foals grow up in a good environment, and a new method on raising them to be responsible! It’s fascinating!”
“Really, I’m fine. They’d be more trouble than they’re worth,” I insist, closing the door behind me.
Twilight frowned at this, tipping her head to the side as if she couldn’t fathom a book ever being the cause of wrong doing. “Why?”
Grimacing, I chew my lip, glancing down at Brio, wriggling in my arms as if he might judge me. “I have dyslexia,” I admit. “Reading... reading’s always been real tough for me, so I don’t do it often. I spend my time outside instead.”
To my astonishment, Twi absolutely bloomed at this. “Apple Jack, why didn’t you tell me you have dyslexia?” she said, eyes wide as she broke into a bright smile. “You should have told me ages ago! This changes everything!”
“Why does it matter?” I ask hesitantly, hoping she’s not going to rope me into some sort of long dragging lessons to fix it.
“Because,” Twilight said eagerly, bouncing up and down on her hooves. “I have dyslexia too! Oh my gosh, how crazy is that!”
Blinking, I frown, raising an eyebrow. “Come again?” Pausing, I shake my head. “That’s sweet of you to say Twi, but I’m pretty sure somepony who reads as much as you doesn’t have dyslexia. Or do you have some kind of spell to help with it?”
“Nope, just hard work,” Twilight said brightly, smiling. She paused, flushing slightly. “It was definitely hard at first, but I loved stories so much, I just hard to figure out how to read anyway. Maybe sometime we could get together and I could give you some pointers?”
For some reason I can’t quite pinpoint, I hesitate. Shaking off the feeling, I smile. “Wow, that’s might impressive, Twilight. I guess it wouldn’t hurt. How about Wednesday? Pinkie already offered-begged, more like it-to babysit Brio so I could have a free day.”
“Wednesday’s great! How about we meet for lunch?” Twi offered eagerly, beaming.
“How does that sound Brio?” I coo, nuzzling the little foal affectionately. “Is mommy going to go to lunch with Aunty Twi? Is she going to go to nom noms together? Yes! Yes she is, yes she is!”
“Um, great!” Twilight said, laughing slightly. “I think?”
> Chapter Nineteen
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Brio coos cheerily as he bounces in his carrier, already repurposed by Rarity for his new little baby feet. I swear, that girl could wrestle a manticore into a suit and a tie and make him look like the spit of the town.
I feel full of energy as I buck the orchards, hurrying to finish up any stragglers of the harvest before the winter months pull in. The sun is warm on my face, the birds are singing, and the smell of cinnamon applesauce hangs in the air, blown from the house by a gentle breeze.
Everything’s going right. My little guppy’s growing like a weed, Apple Bloom doesn’t have to obsess over her cutie mark no more, and tomorrow I’ll meet up with Twilight for lunch. Pinkie’s even invited us to spend Hearth’s Warming with her family.
“We’re going to need to make you a Hearth’s Warming doll, guppy,” I mention, casting a smile.
My thoughts are interrupted by a distant grunt, followed by a wooden thud. After a pause, the sound comes again, the pattern jumbled and unsteadies. Pausing, I glance at Brio, who looks up at me with confused curiosity. “Ehbebadegah?” he asks.
“I don’t know,” I tell him, turning towards the sound. I’ve gotten in the rather strange habit of pretending I have the slightest clue what his burbling means. “Let’s go check it out, hm?”
Turning towards the strange sound, I set out between the rows of trees, following it down a short hill, past the clubhouse, and into one of the small clearings, set deep in the back of the orchard. Pausing, I peer around the edge of a tree, shifting so Brio can peek too.
To my surprise, old Charlie the scarecrow’s there, even though he’s been missing for months now. Big Mac’s there as well, holding a long narrow branch in his teeth. He slices it through the air, smacking it against Charlie with a loud whack. His fur is damp with sweat as he attacks the poor scarecrow, swinging his stick like a blade.
“Big Macintosh, what in tarnation are you up to?” I ask loudly, stepping out from behind the tree. “What in the world did poor Charlie do to you? And I thought you said you didn’t know where he was?”
He drops the stick in surprise, pausing. He hesitates a moment, then bends his head, glancing away. “...S’ a long story,” he muttered shamefacedly.
“I’ve got time,” I say seriously, sitting down. “Now spill. You’ve been acting might odd for months now and I want to know why. No getting out of it.”
Mac pauses, looking at me hesitantly. He can’t get out of this one with just a yup or nope. He’s got some explaining to do, and I’m holding him to it, goshdarnit. He takes a deep breath before speaking. “I been training. I want t’ join the royal guard.”
I pause, blinking. “Whoa, whoa, hold up a second their big brother. You want to be a guard? In Canterlot?”
“Eeyup,” he says, shuffling his hooves as he looks away, rocking back and forth uncomfortably.
“Since when? And why? Why in tarnation, why?” I ask, shaking my head in disbelief. He’s kidding, isn’t he? But no, I recognize the way his ears have gone flat, that way they always do when he’s ashamed.
“For ‘round bout a year now,” he admits, picking a book he’d left out and tossing it to the ground in front of me. It’s a book of drills and regulations for the guard, and to my surprise, I recognize it. I’ve seen him reading it before, once or twice, and he was always in a hurry to tuck it away when I came around.
“In the past year we been attacked by monster weeds, Nightmare Moon, a chaos god, timberwolves, parasprites, an ursa minor and Celestia knows what else. Each time it was you and yer friends who saved the town. The guards were useless,” Mac said, grimacing. “They can’t even protect the princesses. I want to change things. I want to be a guard who gets things back on track. I want to protect Equestria so I don’t have to worry ‘bout my family gettin’ hurt.”
“But we need you here Big Mac,” I insist, still barely able to believe what he’s saying. “You’re doing a great job of protecting us all already! You don’t need to run off to Canterlot to do that!”
He looks away uncomfortably, clearing his throat. “My mind’s made up. Today I’m mailing my enlistment in,” he says firmly.
“You can’t do that, you’re being ridiculous,” I insist, certain I can talk this craziness out of him. “Just put all this foolish stuff away so we can take the last bushels back to the farm, come on.”
He stares at me for a while, then lets out a sigh, head hanging. “Nope,” he says calmly.
“Big Mac, consarnit! Stop being so dust headed! Your family is safe and we need you here! Listen to me!” I say, stamping my hoof for
emphasis.
“Nope,” he repeats, solemnly, straightening. His shoulders set, and he stares down at me, standing tall. I know that expression. I may be stubborn, but when Big Mac get’s himself set on something, there’s no changing his mind.
“At least think about staying!” I say, biting my lip. “Without you on the farm, we’d need to get hired help! Who’ll take care of Granny? And what about Apple Bloom? It’ll break her heart if you leave! I can’t handle the whole orchard myself, not while taking care of Brio! You have to stay!”
“Nope,” he says for the third time, this time firmly, his stance set. He’s determined, and as bullheaded as they come. But he needs to listen. He can’t just leave.
“But we need you here,” I argue. It feels weak, like a leaf trying to block a river’s path. “Even if you do mail it today, they won’t write back for at least a month! Are you sure you want to go?”
He pauses, then closes the space between us, closing me and Brio both into a warm gentle hug. Carefully, he pulls away, looking me in the eyes, and nodding. “Eeyup. This is what I choose, Apple Jack.”
I lean back into him, just disappear for a while in my big brother’s hug. His hooves are soft, and I can hear his heart beating in his chest, as gentle as the rest of him. I don’t want him to leave. I want him to stay here and keep us safe, help me keep my life in check, be my voice of reason. I know he’ll be the greatest royal guard there ever was, and I hate it. I hate that he wants this, and hate that he’ll be good at it.
But more than anything, I hate that he’s leaving us.
“Please Big Mac,” I whisper into his side. He lifts a hoof, gently wiping away the tears on my face. “Please don’t you leave me too.” He doesn’t say anything back, because anything he could say to comfort me now would be a lie.
I don’t know how long we sit there, but when we finally pull apart, it’s cool out, with a biting wind, and the sun is on it’s way down. Big Mac gathers up his things, turning to head into Ponyville and mail in his letter. He pauses, leaning into nuzzle me affectionately.
“You’re gonna do great takin’ care of everyone,” he tells me as he pulls away. “I know it. You’re a good mare, Apple Jack.” With those words, he heads off. Watching him leave, it feels like he’s headed for Canterlot already. I want to believe they’ll reject his enlistment, or the letter will get lost in the mail, but I can’t. Things are going to work out for him and I can tell.
My family’s falling apart around me.