The Split Core

Chapters

Prologue - Ghost Writer
Chapter 1 - Braeburn
Chapter 2 - Identity Crisis
Chapter 3 - Training
Chapter 4 - Corn Maize
Chapter 5 - Ponyville
Chapter 6 - Contest Entries
Chapter 7 - The Contest
Chapter 8 - Apple Crisp
Epilogue - The Letter

Prologue - Ghost Writer

The Split Core

Written by ZekeOfTheFreaks

No matter how distant they may seem, no matter how long they have or have not known about each other, the bond between brothers is something special, something that cannot be broken. --Anonymous

It was a typical Saturday in the city of Las Pegasus. An earth pony, by the name of Source Code, was just about to head back to his desk and work on his computer, when he found a letter from an unknown sender lying next to his pen. Not expecting any letters from anypony soon, he assumed it was just a junk letter or something, but after looking at it, there was something about the writing on the front of the envelope that seemed vaguely familiar. After about 20 minutes of having the letter lay by his side while he was on his computer, Source Code could no longer resist the temptation. He had to at least know who the letter was from. He opened it up, pulled the message out, and read it out loud:

"Dear Source Code,

If you're reading this letter, then you must have recently reached the age of stallions. I'm proud that you have come this far in life. I know I never got to say goodbye to you face-to-face, but I've been watching you from the heavens since you were a little colt. But I digress, now that you're old enough to understand, I must tell you that I want you to go to Appleloosa. If I'm right, there's another stallion there that you don't remember meeting. I know because he's your brother. You can choose to take a trip to Appleloosa and meet him if you wish, but I cannot guarantee that you will know it's him right away. If you choose to stay in your current town, as I would guess you would, I'll understand. I know you'll make the right choice.

With love,

Your father"

Source Code had never met his biological father, since he passed away when he was merely a yearling, and his biological mother died giving birth to him. It was to Source Code's great fortune that he was given a second chance at life when a couple that was friends with his family adopted him, the same couple that he came to know as his parents in Las Pegasus. Anyway, something felt legitimate about this letter, and Source Code had always wanted a sibling, so he immediately grabbed his lucky vest and watch, and ran out of his house, headed to the train station.

Source Code made it to the station within ten minutes. He saw that nopony except for the ticket salespony was there. He went up to the ticket booth, and asked,

"Excuse me, sir, when will the next train to Appleloosa arrive?" The salespony happily replied,

"You're in luck. It should be arriving here in about 20 minutes, and there's one ticket left for the ride. I'm also feeling pretty generous today, so if you want the ticket, I'll only charge 20 bits for it."

"That's perfect, sir. I'll take it." Source Code was feeling quite fortunate. He thought he'd pay the usual 50 bit price, but this was just plain lucky. He handed over 20 bits, and received a ticket to Appleloosa. Just the next minute, a crowd of other ponies all came to the station, tickets either in their bags or being held by magic. As everypony waited for the train to arrive, Source Code lost himself in thought. He was pondering how he never expected to receive a letter from his father from beyond the grave, nor did he ever think that he'd actually have a brother to call his own. There was something about the timing of his letter that seemed almost too perfect to be mere coincidence. The train eventually arrived, and Source Code shook himself out of his trance. He boarded the train, and as it departed, he said to himself, "You know, I have a feeling things are going to change for me. Not sure how, but I have a feeling they will."

Chapter 1 - Braeburn

After about a 2 hour ride on the train to Appleloosa, it came to the station, and Source Code walked off. He was surprised by how different Appleloosa looked compared to Las Pegasus, since he didn't remember being ever outside his hometown, except for that one trip to Vanhoover when he was about 8 years old. Anyway, something felt strange to Source Code about this place. Although unfamiliar, it felt nostalgic. It was as if he had just returned home, even though he doesn't know anypony who ever lived here. He decided to follow a mare into town. He asked her,

"Excuse me, Miss? I know we've never met, but allow me to introduce myself. My name is Source Code. I came here after receiving a letter that I may have a bro--" the mare interrupted him.

"Yeah, yeah, that's great and all, but I really have to get going. My sister and I are planning on entering Ponyville's Apple Pie Contest soon, and I'm late for practice as it is."

"Oh, sorry to bother you." The mare smiled in acknowledgement, and ran off. "Wait! Apple Pie Contest?" She couldn't hear him. Source Code thought about the contest that she mentioned. Maybe there was something about it that drove him here, or maybe it was just Source Code thinking nonsense like he tends to do. He decided to walk into town, and he realized just how hot it was outside. He was tempted to take his vest off, but all of his leftover money was in there, and he didn't bring a saddlebag, so he'd have nowhere to put it. He came to a saloon, and walked inside. He took a seat at the bar, and the bartender said,

"Ya sure yer old enough to be here? Y'all don't look familiar to me. Where ya from, stranger?" Source Code had never talked to a pony with a western accent such as this stallion's, so he replied,

"I'm from Las Pegasus." He reached into his vest and pulled out his city ID, proving that he's of age. "Here. It's my ID."

"Hmm, well, this looks legit to me." He handed it back. "What would ya like?"

"I'll take a mug of your hardest cider, on the rocks."

"My hardest cider on the rocks. That sounds like another pony I know. Braeburn's his name. He's one of this town's hardest-workin' ponies we've ever seen. He always orders the same thing you want. Anyway, it's coming right up." When Source Code heard the name Braeburn, he recoiled a bit. The name sounded familiar to him, but he couldn't imagine why. He finally received his mug of cider, and it tasted great, as he imagined it would. Nothing like hard cider for him. He then asked,

"How much do I owe you?"

"Ya know what? First one's on the house. You seem like a fine stallion. Come back any time."

"Thank you, sir." As Source Code left, the bartender said to himself,

"Braeburn, yer partner has arrived."

Source Code spent a little more time walking around town, trying to memorize where everything was, in case he was going to stay here for a long time. After about an hour, he realized that he had never made any arrangements to stay anywhere. He started to panic, frantically asking everypony around if they knew where he could stay. His attitude scared most of them off, so he couldn't get any help. After spending so much time looking for a place to stay, he found himself walking along this farm. He saw a stallion wearing a brown hat and vest, and walked up to him, as the stallion was whistling.

"Excuse me, sir, but do you know where I can find a place to stay?" The stallion turned around, and gave a big, wide-eyed, almost creepy grin. He almost looked ecstatic to see Source Code. He ran up, jumped on him, and said with a loud voice,

"If it ain't my long-lost brother, Apple Crisp! Ya finally decided to come back to Appleloosa. I couldn't be happier to see ya!" Source Code was excited by the stallion's energetic and friendly demeanor, but was unnerved that he got his name wrong, or even had a name for him to begin with."

"Apple Crisp? Who's that? My name is Source Code. For that matter, who are you, and why do you look so familiar?" The stallion's energy died down, and he started frowning.

"Oh, you're not Apple Crisp?"

"No, sir, I'm not."

"Aw, shucks! And I thought I'd finally seen my long-lost brother again."

"Wait a minute, did you say brother? That's interesting. I recently received a letter saying that I could find a long-lost brother of my own here."

"Ya serious? Well, small world, ain't it? Anyway, what was that ya said about needing a place to stay?"

"Oh, yeah. You see, even after everything I've been through, I never found a place to stay here in Appleloosa. I'm from Las Pegasus, so--"

"Wait, Las Pegasus? I was told I have family there. Are ya sure yer not Apple Crisp?"

"I'm positive."

"Well, anyway, I guess I could let ya stay here for the night, given that I mixed you up with somepony else. By the way, my name is Braeburn."

"BRAEBURN?!" Source Code's loud voice shocked the stallion. "I've been told about you. You're one of the hardest-working stallions in this town, am I right?"

"And darn proud of it."

"May I come inside? I have a lot to talk about."

"Sure thing." The two then walked to the small cottage on the farm, and Braeburn showed Source Code in.

Chapter 2 - Identity Crisis

Source Code walked into Braeburn's cottage, and was underwhelmed by what was inside. A basic living room meant for two, a kitchen with a gas-stove, and two bedrooms. It's not that he was expecting a glorious home, like he had in Las Pegasus or anything like that, he was just hoping for more. But, as far as he knew, Braeburn must live alone, and keep an extra bedroom in case any other guests happen to need a place to stay.

"Excuse me, Braeburn, but which room can I stay in?"

"That one on the right is mine. You can take the other one."

"Alright, thanks." Source Code walked into the left bedroom, and saw a perfectly made bed, a desk, and a fully-stocked bookshelf. He hung his vest on the bedpost, and took a seat at the desk. He saw a letter on the right side, and it was mysteriously addressed to him. He thought maybe it was another letter from his father from beyond the grave, but when he opened it up, it wasn't. In fact, it was an invitation to the Ponyville Apple Pie Contest. Braeburn walked into the room to check on him, and realized that he was supposed to send that letter off. Luckily the addressee was Source Code, so he didn't panic.

"I see ya found the letter. Yeah, I was told to send that to my family in Las Pegasus, and was even given the address, but I've been so busy with my farm work that I haven't had the chance. Well, at least ya got it now."

"About that, what is this Apple Pie Contest anyway?" Source Code asked.

"Well, ya see, every year the Apple Family selects one of its members to host an annual friendly competition among its family and their friends. This year we chose my cousin, Applejack, since Appleloosa was the chosen host town for the last three years. I was told that a long-lost Apple family member lived in Las Pegasus, so I wrote a letter to you, which I guess you just read."

"I understand. Anyway, when is this contest?"

"If I remember, it should be a few days from now."

"Oh. Maybe we could go together."

"Well, I have been needing a partner. Everypony else in the Apple family found somepony already. Sure, why not?" Source Code was happy to hear this, and nodded in acceptance.

Braeburn walked out with a smile, and Source Code decided to take a book from the shelf. He wasn't much of a reader, but he left his computer at home, and had no other means to occupy his time. The book was "A.K. Yearling's Amazing Double-Life", a spin-off of the Daring Do books, which Source Code had dabbled in before. He finished the book in an hour, taking no breaks from reading in between. He wanted to check on Braeburn, so he walked in, and found him sitting in a chair, looking through a family album.

"Hey, Braeburn, is that your family scrapbook?"

"Oh, Source Code! Yeah, it is. I guess the fact that you remind me of my long-lost brother, Apple Crisp made me want to look through this again." Source Code started feeling guilty about the mix-up. "In fact, how about you take a look here?" Source Code walked over to him, and saw the picture Braeburn pointed at. He saw a young Braeburn, probably about 10 years old or so, with a newborn colt that bore a striking resemblance to himself. Source Code then reached into his vest, pulled out his wallet, and found his baby picture that he always kept with him. The two colts looked exactly alike.

"Uh, Braeburn, you mentioned how Apple Crisp is your long-lost brother, right?"

"Yeah. Why?"

"How did you lose him, exactly?"

"Well, I was a happy colt. My mother had passed on after giving birth to my brother Apple Crisp, so our dad was the only one who raised us. Then, suddenly, when I was watchin' him work on the farm, a freak lightning storm came over us, and my dad was hit with a large bolt. I ran to him to see if he'd survive, but sadly, he was dead before I could make it to him." Braeburn then started tearing up. "I wanted to say goodbye to him, but with him gone, how could I? My daddy's gone, and I never got to tell him how much I love him one last time." Source Code then started tearing up.

"That sounds horrible. Anyway, what happened to Apple Crisp?"

"Well, I tried to take care of him myself, but when I found it hard to manage the entire farm, as well as my brother on my own, it just couldn't work out. I was lucky that a friend of my dad's. named Amethyst Escrow, was able to take him in. She's from Las Pegasus, just like you."

"Wait, Amethyst Escrow? That's my mother's name. Or, at least my adopted mother's name. I never met my biological parents." Braeburn was shocked to hear this, so he asked a question.

"Source Code, can I see your mane for a second? I need to check somethin' out."

"My mane? Uh, sure, why?"

"Just let me see it, and I'll tell ya." Source Code lowered his head, and Braeburn felt around his mane with his hoof. He stopped when he felt a birthmark on the back of his head. Braeburn then gave the same creepy grin he had when Source Code first saw him earlier. "Well, there's no doubt in my mind now. You, Source Code, are in fact Apple Crisp."

"Wait, WHAT?!"

"I remember Apple Crisp having a birthmark on the back of his head, looked almost like an apple core. You have the same birthmark on your head."

"So that means, you're my long-lost brother, Braeburn?"

"That's right!" Source Code was now ecstatic. He had always wanted a brother, but never expected that he had one all this time.

Chapter 3 - Training

Source Code just learned that, not only is Braeburn a brother of his, but he was also born with the name Apple Crisp. He had no idea how to react to this, other than with pure joy. He wanted to ask Braeburn more, but the moon was finally up, and he was feeling tired, with the train ride, sweltering heat, and the fact that he just used all of his energy to scream in happiness. He went to bed, not even feeling hungry, and he fell asleep almost immediately. Braeburn still had some crops to tend to, so he went back to the farm.

The next morning, Source Code woke up to see that a pamphlet had been placed on the nightstand next to his bed. He picked it up, and it turned out to be the rules for the Apple Pie Contest.

Rules

Magic is forbidden.
Do not spy on other contestants.
Only use the tools that are provided.
Do not start a new round early. The host will tell you when you may start the new round.
Once the host declares "Stop" you must stop.
Cheating of any form is prohibited.
Both members of each team must participate.

Anypony caught breaking the rules will be disqualified.

Contests

Apple bucking: This round is timed. Each fallen apple earns the team 1 point.
Apple peeling: Each team will be given 100 apples to peel. The round ends when the first pair peels all of their apples. Each apple peeled earns the team 1 point.
Pie making: The round ends after every team makes an apple pie. The judges will taste test. The pair with the best apple pie wins 100 points. The second best pie earns 50 points, and the third best earns 25 points.

Winning

The team with the most points will be declared the winner, and receive 50,000 bits as prize money. Second place gets 25,000, and third place gets 10,000.

Source Code had never done any of the activities listed in the rules, but he's a really competitive pony, so he went outside to find Braeburn, and saw him bucking the apple trees right by the house. He ran up to his brother, and said,

"Hey, Braeburn."

"Oh, hey App-- uh, I mean Source Code."

"You can call me Apple Crisp if you want."

"Alright, Apple Crisp. What brings you out here?"

"Well, I need to confess something. I saw the rules for the Apple Pie Contest, and I have to tell you that I haven't done anything in the contest before. I've been working with technology all my life, so I don't know anything about farm life."

"Huh. That would explain why your cutie mark looks all science-y, but I'll gladly show you how it works. After all, ya just found out that you're an Apple family member, so ya gotta learn eventually. How strong is yer kick?"

"Actually, I do have a strong set of legs."

"Show me what ya got on this apple tree here." Source Code was eager to try out his strength, so he walked up to the tree, turned around, and kicked as hard as he could. Every single apple fell. "Holy horseapples! That's some of the finest bucking I've seen in a looong time. Ya sure you haven't done this before?"

"I'm positive. Anyway, you seem like you could use a hoof with this. Need my help?"

"With legs like that, sure I could."

"Alright!" Source Code then ran through the orchard, bucking every tree he saw, cleanly knocking off every apple each time.

"Wheeeeeew-wee! I'm impressed, Apple Crisp! Where did you get such amazing leg strength?"

"I guess the fact that I was a runner is school might have helped."

"Well, whatever it was, it's sure coming in handy now."

"Yeah. But I still don't know if I can peel apples, or even make pies."

"Well, go back in the house, and I'll be back in an hour or so. I'll show you how."

"Thanks, Braeburn!" Source Code then walked back into the cottage, and found a seat in the living room. He decided to look through the family album Braeburn had yesterday, and saw something interesting. He saw a page titled "Sweet Apple Acres", and there was a picture of a family with an orange mare, a red stallion, an old green mare, and a yellow filly. Source Code thought he'd get to meet them if he came to the competition, so he set his mind on going to Ponyville with Braeburn, before turning the page. The next had another family, and the page was labeled "Cobbletown". They all had corn on their flanks, for some reason. None of them looked like they could be related, but Source Code didn't think about that too hard. The next page was Braeburn and himself, with their father. This must have been taken before their father passed away, since Source Code looked so little in this picture. He closed the book, and put it down, and saw Braeburn coming in with a barrel of apples.

"Now hold yer horses, I'm coming back with more." Braeburn dashed off before Source Code could respond. Source Code picked the book back up, and saw a picture from what appeared to be a family reunion of sorts. A bunch of ponies were standing in front of the same barn from Sweet Apple Acres, except for an orange mare, who was lying on her side. Oddly, the Cobbletown family wasn't there. He turned the page again, and found an envelope in there. Oddly, the name Apple Crisp was on the front. He decided to open the letter, and it read:

"Dear Apple Crisp (or whatever your name is now),

This is Braeburn, your brother. I know you were just adopted by a family from Las Pegasus, and you'll most likely never see this letter, but if by some miracle you are reading this, know that I only hope you're somewhere safe, whether it's back here with me, or in your own home somewhere. You're my brother, Apple Crisp, and I love you. Please, if I ever need you for anything, I hope you'll agree to it, because I'd do the same for you.

--Braeburn"

Source Code read through that letter about 30 times, almost entranced by it. Braeburn came in with a few more barrels, and said,

"Alright, Apple Crisp, ya wanna learn how to peel apples, then let's get started." He trotted to the kitchen, and grabbed two peeling tools. "Here ya go. First, watch me." Braeburn used his peeler to thinly slice the apple he had in his hoof. It looked perfect when he was done. "Alright, now you try." Source Code grabbed a peeler, and an apple, and tried to slice it, but he cut a bit too deep. "Naw, ya gotta loosed up your grip a bit. You'll cut too deep with all that force." Source Code tried again, and this time it was a lot better. Sure a bit of the fruit came off, but for his first time, it wasn't too bad.

"How's this, Braeburn?"

"Not bad. Could use a bit of work, but alright for a first time. I think I can handle the rest of these. Why don't ya go into the kitchen and get the stove workin'? You do know how to light the stove, right?"

"Oh yeah, I help my mom out with cooking all the time back in Las Pegasus. I just haven't cooked anything by myself before."

"Well, then, get going." Source Code trotted into the kitchen, and lit the stove. It was ready within minutes. "Alright. I think we have plenty of peeled apples here. How about we move on to the pies?"

"Alrighty then." Braeburn came in with a barrel full of peeled apples. They were all so perfectly peeled, it was almost incredible.

"Can ya grab the knife, Apple Crisp?"

"This one here?"

"Yeah, that's the one." Source Code grabbed the knife, and came back to the kitchen counter. "So ya gotta slice the apples really neatly. Almost no room for error. Can I see the knife really quick?" Source Code handed him the knife. "Alright, watch me." Braeburn cut the slices into almost perfectly cubic pieces. Source Code couldn't believe his eyes. "Now you try." Braeburn handed the knife back to Source Code, who grabbed an apple, and cut it into pieces. Braeburn marveled at how even they looked. "Oh my goodness, again it looks so great!" Source Code felt proud of himself. "I'm glad you wanted to be my partner for the Apple Pie Contest, because with your natural skills, we might just finally win this!"

"Finally? What do you mean?

"Well, I haven't exactly won before. I've come in 2nd lots of times, sometimes even 3rd, but I've never won."

"Really? But you seem so great at what you do."

"Well, lemme tell ya, my cousin Applejack is even better." Source Code was speechless. A pony better than Braeburn at everything involving apples? Impossible! Just then, a letter arrived through the front door, and Braeburn trotted to the door and picked it up. He opened it, and read out loud,

"Dear Braeburn,

It's your cousin Corn Maize. I just thought I should tell you that my family needs to stop in Appleloosa on the way to the Apple Pie Contest, and was wondering if you thought we could go together? I'll be sure to see you soon."

Source Code recoiled at the name Corn Maize. Maybe he was the one he saw in the family album. Braeburn then walked back into the kitchen, and said,

"I can handle the rest of the pie-making, Apple Crisp. You can go do whatever you want."

"Thanks, Braeburn. You wouldn't mind if I left to go back into town, right?"

"'Course not, go ahead." Source Code trotted out the front door, then dashed into the horizon.

Chapter 4 - Corn Maize

Source Code has just left the cottage, and was on his way into town. He realized he left his vest there, but it was an especially hot day, so he didn't run back to get it. He eventually got back to town, and saw everypony walking everywhere. It was even busier than when he arrived. He decided to visit the saloon he went to yesterday, and the bartender greeted him happily.

"If it ain't the city-slicker himself. You're back already?"

"Yes, sir, I am."

"Braeburn came here earlier and told me everything. So you're his brother, huh? Since yer family of my best customer, how about a free cider, like yesterday?" Source Code was flattered to have been offered this, plus he realized that his money was still in his vest back at Braeburn's cottage, so he accepted. The bartender prepared a mug of cider for him, and Source Code drank it like it was nothing.

"Ya sure know how to down that stuff. You sure are a lot like your brother. By the way, another stallion came by here, looking for Braeburn. I imagine he's probably on his way there now.

"Really? What did he look like?"

"'Kinda like you. Tan coat, dirty blonde mane, only he had a corn-covered flank."

"Thank you, sir." Source Code quickly ran out the saloon, and tried to look for the stallion the bartender mentioned. He came to a dirt path, when he saw a figure in the distance. He dashed to him, and as he got closer, he recognized the stallion as one of them from the Cobbletown picture in Braeburn's album.

"Hey there! You! Are you Corn Maize?" Source Code shouted. The stallion turned around, and saw him.

"Howdy, stranger! Yeah, I'm Corn Maize. Why do ya ask?" Source Code caught up to him, and said,

"You're looking for Braeburn, right?"

"How did ya know?"

"A friend told me about you. Anyway, this might sound hard to believe, but Braeburn's my brother." Corn Maize didn't respond for a few seconds. He then started laughing.

"His brother? You tryin' to fool me? He doesn't have a brother."

"Actually, he does. My name is Source Code, but you may know me as Apple Crisp." Corn Maize's laughing stopped, and he said,

"Apple Crisp? You mean, you're the long-lost colt he'd been hoping to see? Well, then, howdy cousin!"

"Oh, so your family is cousins with Braeburn."

"Well, we're kinda related. We're not directly related, but we're in the same family tree."

"Oh, I get it. Anyway, I was already on my way back to Braeburn's house. I guess we might as well go together."

"Sure, why not?" Both stallions started walking on the path, as they talked about their family histories. Both were surprised to learn about each other's stories, and both became instant friends.

The two eventually made it to Braeburn's cottage, and saw him working in the orchard. Corn Maize quickly ran to see Braeburn, while Source Code found his way inside the cottage. Braeburn noticed Corn Maize, and turned to him.

"Hey, Corn Maize! Hey there, cousin! You sure seem happy to see me."

"I sure am. Now we can go to the Apple Pie Contest together. By the way, I met your brother, Apple Crisp."

"Oh, he goes by Source Code. I guess after he was adopted, he changed his name, or something. Anyway, you two are getting along, right?"

"Oh yeah, we're tighter than bark on a tree."

"Nice! Speaking of Source Code, where is he?"

"I think he went inside. I'll go get him if ya want."

"Alright. I need to tell him something, anyway." Corn Maize walked toward the cottage, and saw Source Code walking out. He ran to him, and said,

"Hey, Source Code, Braeburn wants to talk to ya." Source Code wasn't sure what Braeburn could want.

"Braeburn does? Alright, lead the way." The two then trotted over to Braeburn, and he told them,

"Now that you're both here, I should remind you both that the competition is tomorrow. I've already arranged for a train to take the three of us, and I just want to tell both of you that my cousin Apple Bloom hasn't met either of you, and Applejack only knows about Corn Maize from stories Granny Smith told her. I want you both to make a good impression on them. Is that clear?"

"No problem, cousin!" Corn Maize replied.

"Will do, Braeburn." Source Code said.

"Good. Now, I need some help with the orchard. Can both of ya lend me a hoof?"

"Of course!" Source Code and Corn Maize replied.

The three stallions all spent the rest of the afternoon working in the orchard. This was good training for the three of them, too, since the contest was to take place the next day. Source Code and Corn Maize were feeling tired, considering neither of them had as much experience as Braeburn. They all went to bed that night, and Source Code and Corn Maize agreed to share a bed. They both thought about how they would perform at the contest, and eventually dozed off. The next morning, Braeburn made breakfast for all three of them, and after Source Code got his lucky vest on, they all left the cottage, and dashed to the train station. When they finally arrived, the train was there, waiting for them. It was obviously a private train, as it had the Apple family emblem on it. The three all got on, and as the train departed, they all put their hooves together, as if to pray for each of them to do well.

Chapter 5 - Ponyville

The train to Ponyville was within minutes of its arrival, and the three earth stallions were all getting their final preparations out of the way. Source Code and Corn Maize were especially excited, since Source Code had never met the Sweet Apple Acres ponies, and Corn Maize had never met Apple Bloom. They all went over the rules to the contest one more time, and as the train came to a stop, Corn Maize was the first to walk off the train. As he looked around, he saw a yellow filly in the distance, next to a familiar green mare.

"Granny Smith, is that Corn Maize?" the filly said.

"Sure is," the mare replied. The filly trotted up to Corn Maize, and introduced herself.

"Howdy! I'm Apple Bloom, your cousin."

"Howdy there, Apple Bloom." He looked to see if anypony else was with her. "Where's the rest of your family?" Apple Bloom immediately trotted back to her family, and Corn Maize followed. He was greeted with a hug by the familiar green mare, who was of an old age. "I take it you're Granny Smith?" She nodded.

"This is my grandson, Big Macintosh, and my older granddaughter Applejack. I see you've already met Apple Bloom." Applejack then walked over to him.

"Howdy! Welcome to Ponyville! We'll be sure to make your visit somethin' to remember."

"Eeyup!" Big Macintosh said in agreement.

"So, Corn Maize, what is it your family does?" Applejack asked.

"Nothin' much, really. I grow and harvest corn, and sometimes chase critters and help Ma with the cookin'."

"We do that, too, but with apples." Corn Maize laughed in relief to his cousin's explanation. Braeburn and Source Code were now getting off the train. Braeburn rushed over to them, with pure excitement.

"Howdy!" Braeburn shouted. Source Code was casually following behind him.

"Hello," Source Code said. The Sweet Apples all seemed confused by Source Code's lack of a southern accent.

"Ah, this is Source Code, everypony. He's not like most of us." Apple Bloom commented,

"I'll say. He sure looks a lot like you, Braeburn, but his cutie mark ain't an apple, or even corn like Corn Maize."

"Oh, that's because I'm a technology enthusiast." Source Code responded. "I found out that I'm Braeburn's brother only a few days ago."

"Braeburn's brother?" Applejack asked is surprise. "Wait, could you be Apple Crisp, the colt that went to live with a family in Las Pegasus?"

"That's me. I'm the same little colt. My name was changed when I was adopted, I guess." Everypony else was speechless, except Braeburn and Corn Maize, who had already learned the story.

"Well, then, should we head to Sweet Apple Acres?" Braeburn's question was answered with smiles, and all six earth ponies walked together on the path to the farm.

When they all arrived at the farm, Source Code marveled at what he saw. It was almost like a paradise. It had the greenery he came to know in the city of Las Pegasus, while it still had the rustic appeal of farm life that Appleloosa had. Corn Maize broke the silence.

"So, I reckon y'all are gonna be in the contest, too, right?"

"Sure are," Braeburn replied. "I even got Source Code here interested in competin'."

"It's true," Source Code commented. "I was already going to come, but thanks to Braeburn, I now have the skills to compete in this thing."

"Well, I wanna participate, but I don't have anypony to enter with." Applejack said. "I was gonna ask a friend if she'd want to try it, but it ain't exactly somethin' she'd agree to do."

"Maybe you could enter with me," Corn Maize replied. "I wasn't really sure about entering, but if it means Applejack can participate, I'll do it."

"Wait, ya weren't gonna be in it?" Applejack asked.

"Nope. But if it means you can enter, I'll be your partner, Applejack."

"That's mighty kind of ya, Corn Maize. Thanks!"

"I'm already competin' with Source Code," Braeburn said. "So don't worry about us. Sure he's not the most experienced with apples, but I've been training him, and I know he's ready."

"Geez, Braeburn, you're such a flatterer." Source Code said as he blushed. Nopony else had anything to say, so they all went inside the house. Because contest entries didn't open until the next day, all they could do was wait until evening, where they had a family supper, and then went to bed.

Braeburn and Source Code had to share a bed. Braeburn couldn't get much sleep, but Source Code slept like a log. Source Code started having a dream about finding himself in an open void. He saw a figure that looked familiar. He walked to it, and he saw a pony that looked familiar. The pony started speaking.

"Hello, Apple Crisp. It's great to finally see you again."

"Again, what do you mean? And how do you know who I am?"

"You don't remember me? That's no surprise. I'm your biological father." Source Code was shocked to hear this. "I know this is hard for you to take in, but I need you to do whatever you can to help your brother out in the competition. Braeburn needs you now. Also, be on the lookout for two unicorn brothers. They're nothing but trouble." Source Code didn't know how to respond to this, and could only reply,

"Yes, sir!" As the pony figure nodded in agreement, he faded away, and Source Code woke up. He saw that it was already sunrise.

Chapter 6 - Contest Entries

Source Code had woken up earlier than usual, but even so it seemed like everypony else had already been working in the field by the time he got to the kitchen to have breakfast. After having something to eat, Source Code saw Granny Smith sitting in her chair on the front porch, while all the other ponies were out in the orchard. He saw Braeburn in the distance, and ran over to join him.

"You guys think you need another hoof with the harvest?"

"Sure!" Braeburn replied. "Ya think you could take care of the trees over there?" Braeburn pointed toward a part of the orchard behind them.

"No problem, Braeburn."

"I'll help ya out if you need it." Corn Maize commented.

"That would be great. Thanks, Corn Maize." The two ran over to the trees in the distance, and both started bucking every tree in sight. Although both were quite inexperienced compared to Braeburn and the Sweet Apples, they got the job done very quickly, taking only a few hours to finish all of the trees. Suddenly, a loud bell was heard in the distance. A voice played over the town intercom.

"Attention, Ponyville! Entry for the Ponyville Apple Pie Contest are now open. Anypony wishing to compete must sign up now." All six Apples stopped what they were doing, and gathered to the stand where the entries were accepted. To their surprise, a change to the rules was posted next to the stand. It read,

"Due to safety concerns, fillies and colts will no longer be allowed to participate in this contest. We apologize for any inconveniences." Apple Bloom and Big Macintosh were saddened by this. The two were planning to enter together, and now they couldn't compete. Granny Smith couldn't compete either, in her condition. Luckily, Braeburn and Source Code were able to form a team, as were Applejack and Corn Maize. They all heard a train coming, and as it stopped, several ponies walked off, including several members of the Apple family, and two unicorns that Applejack wasn't happy to see.

"Aw, shoot. Those two. They better not be up to anything fishy." Applejack said in disdain.

"Who are those two, cousin?" Corn Maize asked.

"They're the Flim Flam brothers. They're nothing but lying con artists. We've met 'em twice. First time, we almost lost the farm, and second time Granny Smith almost lost her life."

"That's terrible. What happened to her?"

"They sold her a tonic and convinced her she could dive into a pie tin. If I hadn't stopped her... I don't know." Source Code was listening to their conversation, and when he saw the Flim Flam Brothers, he shot a cold stare at them. He thought they must be the two unicorns his father warned him about in his dream.

Everypony was in line to register. They were all reminded of the rules, and Source Code and Braeburn officially sent in their entry. They were now locked in as partners. Applejack and Corn Maize followed suit, as did the Flim Flam brothers, along with countless other pairs. After the entries were all locked in, they announced that the contest would officially start the next day. The six Apples all ran back to the farm, and immediately got to training, while the Flim Flam Brothers simply went along calmly, not stressing in the slightest. After a few more hours outside, the moon had risen, and Applejack told her family that they should all get to sleep early. Everypony came back inside, and immediately went to bed. Source Code wasn't feeling tired in the slightest, unlike the rest of the Apples. Braeburn was about to doze off, when Source Code asked him with a whisper,

"Hey, Braeburn, do you know much about the Flim Flam brothers?" Braeburn whispered back,

"Sorry, Apple Crisp, but I can't say I do. But from what I heard from Applejack, they're not to be trusted. Is something about them botherin' you?"

"Well, I don't know if it's them, or somepony else, but for some reason I feel like the fact that I came to enter this contest tomorrow was just meant to be. Does that make sense?"

"Hay if I know, but we gotta get some sleep. We need to be at our best performance tomorrow, and it would be great if we could win. Good night, Apple Crisp."

"Good night, Braeburn." Suddenly, Source Code grew tired, and immediately dozed off. He had another dream, and in it, he saw his father again. He ran up to the figure, and said,

"Hello, father. What brings you here again?"

"Son, I know you're troubled about those two unicorns, the Flim Flam Brothers. I just wanted to let you know that, whatever you plan to do about this problem, I'll support you all the way. I know you'll make the right choice. I didn't get much of a chance to raise you, but I know you've learned to make careful decisions."

"Thanks, Father. I'll be sure to make you proud in the contest."

"I know you will." The figure faded once again, but this time, Source Code didn't wake up quite yet. He spent some time inside this void, alone with his thoughts. He knew that one of the contest's rules forbade spying, and he strongly opposed cheating, or any form of dishonesty for that matter. He eventually decided that he'll try to avoid them at all costs, unless he's absolutely needed. He then woke up, and saw that it was sunrise once again. Braeburn was still asleep, though, so he shook his brother up, and he snapped out of it.

"Good morning, Apple Crisp." Braeburn said with a yawn.

"Morning, Braeburn," Source Code replied. "Ready for the contest?" Braeburn then shot out of bed, full of energy.

"You bet your right flank I am!" Source Code and Braeburn then trotted out of their bedroom, and into the living room, where the other Apples were waiting.

Chapter 7 - The Contest

The day of the competition was finally among them. Source Code and Braeburn were beaming with energy, along with the other competitors, except for the Flim Flam Brothers, who still didn't stress at all. Source Code was a little nervous, as this was his first time competing in any kind of apple competition. Braeburn told him not to worry, and he kept his head straight, and his drive to win in full force. After an hour and a half of last-chance preparations, all the pairs (except for the Flim Flam Brothers) were looking sweaty. Source Code noticed that Applejack couldn't stop glaring at the Flim Flam Brothers. He tried to encourage her, be saying,

"Hey, Applejack! Corn Maize! Good luck to all of us!" she barely acknowledged him with a smile. He saw her tear up, as Corn Maize tried to console her. Source Code looked to his brother, and asked him,

"Hey, Braeburn? What's wrong with Applejack?" Braeburn looked toward the mare, and saw her crying.

"Maybe it's somethin' about the Flim Flam Brothers. They did almost cause Granny Smith to lose her life with their antics. She doesn't cry much, so if that ain't it, I have no clue."

"I guess that makes sense." Suddenly, the training bell rang, signaling the end of preparation time. The pairs all started to cool down (sans Flim and Flam).

"Hey, wanna get some cider?" Braeburn asked.

"Oh, why not?" Source Code replied. It would be another hour before the contest started, so everypony took the rest of this time to enjoy themselves.

The contest was now ready to begin. All the pairs were taken to different parts of the orchard, each one far enough from the other so that nopony could see another pair anywhere near them. The announcer said over the intercom,

"You have one hour to buck as many trees as you can! Ready! Set! Go!" Source Code suddenly came to the realization that his performance here actually mattered. He was now feeling incredibly nervous, despite his eagerness before the contest started. Braeburn turned to him, and shouted,

"Ya need to quit worryin' and get buckin'! I know you have strong legs. I've seen ya buck before." Source Code then found a tree full of apples, tried to buck, but his nerves got the better of him, and all he could do was get one apple down.

"I'm sorry, Braeburn, but it's just that when I was training in Appleloosa with you, not everypony was watching me. I get nervous in front of other ponies."

"Everypony does, but that doesn't mean you should give up," Braeburn replied. Source Code shook his head, and tried again. This time he got most of them down. It still wasn't as good as he did in training, but it was a big improvement. The two spent the rest of the time trying to get as many trees bucked as they could. Source Code saw the Flim Flam Brothers in the distance, seeming to just stand there doing nothing. He wanted to get closer, but before he could move toward them, he remembered the rule about no spying, and stopped himself. The bell then rang, signaling the end of the round, as volunteer ponies gathered all the filled baskets.

After each went for another mug of cider, Source Code and Braeburn took a seat in front of a barrel full of apples. There were 100 apples in the barrel, as they expected. The bell rang again, and the round started. Source Code handed the apples to Braeburn, as he peeled them, since Source Code wasn't very good at peeling during his training. The two of them ended up peeling ten apples, before the bell rang signaling that another team already peeled all 100 of their apples. Both Source Code and Braeburn were confused.

"How in the hay can somepony peel that many apples that fast?" Source Code asked.

"I have no clue. We know the unicorns can't use magic, accordin' to the rules, so I got nothin'," Braeburn replied.

"You think this could be the Flim Flam Brothers' doing?"

"It could be. I know Applejack doesn't trust them."

"Well, we'd best not get involved. We don't want to get ourselves disqualified for spying, or anything like that." Braeburn agreed with this statement. The third round came about, and Source Code and Braeburn were at their station, ready to bake their pie. They were dead-set on making sure they didn't mess up on this part, since they could tell they were in the bottom of the rankings. They were just about to put theirs in the oven, when they noticed Applejack confronting the Flim Flam Brothers. The rules didn't allow for this, since doing so could be interpreted as spying. Source Code wanted to run to her and convince her that this was a bad idea, but Braeburn stopped him in his tracks.

"Hey, we're already in last as it is, we need to make up for lost points with this pie. I know ya care about Applejack, but we got our own problems here."

"You're right, Braeburn." Source Code returned, and monitored the pie as it baked. As soon as it was ready, the bell rang for the last time. This meant the contest was over, and the results were now up to the judges to decide. Braeburn, feeling relieved that the contest was finally done with, said to Source Code,

"Y'know, I'll bet our pie is the best one in the contest. What do you think?"

"Yeah, I'm sure it's perfect," Source Code said with hesitation. "But, to be honest, I'm worried about Applejack and Corn Maize."

"What for?"

"I saw Applejack going to confront the Flim Flam Brothers. I know that spying on the other contestants is against the rules, so I was going to try to stop her, but then you brought me back."

"Why didn't ya just say somethin'?"

"I guess I just didn't want us to lose because I thought a family member needed help."

"Wow, that's mighty thoughtful of ya, Apple Crisp. I think she'll be fine, though."

"I hope so." The judges called everypony forward. They had an announcement to make.

Chapter 8 - Apple Crisp

The contest was finally over, and the judges had come to a decision on the winner. However, they had to make an announcement before they could announce the winners. Apparently, a few pairs weren't quite following the rules. One of the judges, Mrs. Harshwinny, anounced,

"After speaking to the other judges, we have determined that two teams had breached the rules, and must be disqualified. Flim and Flam, as well as Applejack and Corn Maize, you two pairs were declared guilty of using magic and spying, respectively. For that, both of you are disqualified." They were all disappointed, as well as Source Code. He wanted to stand up for his cousin, but had no idea how. He was starting to sweat from nerves, when he suddenly blanked out, and a voice beckoned to him inside his head. It was his father's voice.

"You know what you must do. Now's the time to fulfill your purpose here." Source Code snapped out of it, and had a serious look in his eyes. He said to his brother,

"Braeburn, stand aside. I got a score to settle for my cousin." Braeburn was shocked from not only Source Code's serious demeanor, but the fact that he spoke in a slight southern accent. Source Code walked to the judges, and said, "Judges, I have somethin' to say. Somethin' important." Source Code The judges had already determined their results, so Mrs. Harshwinny replied,

"Very well. What is it?" As Source Code spoke, his accent became progressively heavier.

"I don't think it's right for Applejack and Corn Maize to be disqualified for trying to protect this contest's integrity. I know them. They gave it everythin' they had in the contest, and after seeing the pie they made, I was nothin' short of amazed. Sure they were gawkin' at the Flim Flam Brothers, but I can tell ya they had good reason to. Applejack and her family have fallen victim to their scams and cons twice before, and I don't want them to have to suffer for the same thing a third time. Braeburn and I may not have done the best in the contest, but darn it I know Applejack and Corn Maize did the best. She deserves to win, even if it means breakin' the rules in order to enforce 'em." Source Code took a deep breath, and continued in his normal accent, "I have no further comments." He then walked back to his brother's side.

The judges were moved by Source Code's words. They announced that they will have a quick conversation among themselves, and return with the results afterwards. After about 3 minutes, Mrs. Harshwinny said,

"In light of Source Code's words, we have decided on a new result. Applejack and Corn Maize will still have to be disqualified, since spying is against the rules, but the Flim Flam Brothers will be as well, and they will be banned from ever competing in future contests. Thank you, Source Code, for bringing their actions to our attention."

"Please, Mrs. Harshwinny, call me Apple Crisp," Source Code replied in a southern accent.

"Yes, of course, Apple Crisp." Mrs. Harshwinny winked at him, acknowledging his contribution. "Anyway, after analyzing everypony's performance, as well as the pies they have baked, we have determined that the winners are..." Everypony was stomping their hooves, anxious to hear who won. "Rose and Daisy!" The two victorious ponies went on stage to accept their award, as well as the prize money. Source Code recognized Daisy. She was the first mare he saw back when he was in Appleloosa. The judges announced the 2nd and 3rd place teams as well, but what they said next really shocked everypony. "We'd also like to give an honorable mention to another pair. Not only did they recover from their last place finish in apple bucking and peeling by giving us the best pie in the contest, but Apple Crisp helped us stop a completely dishonest team in their tracks. Congratulations to Apple Crisp and Braeburn!" Everypony cheered for them. As fireworks were launched to officially conclude the contest, Source Code and Braeburn trotted over to Applejack and Corn Maize, who were disappointed in being disqualified, but happy that Source Code stood up for them.

That evening, a celebratory party afterparty, obviously planned by Pinkie Pie, was held to honor everypony that competed. The Flim Flam Brothers were not allowed to attend, but Applejack and Corn Maize were. The two of them joined Braeburn and Source Code, or Apple Crisp as Ponyville all knew him as now, and they all cheered to a great day and a fantastic contest with a mig of cider. Braeburn asked them all,

"So, did we all have fun in the contest?"

"You bet we did, Braeburn," Source Code replied.

"Hey, Apple Crisp?" Applejack asked. "I want to thank ya for standin' up for me like that. I had my doubts that you were an Apple family member, but I know only a true Apple would do that for their family."

"Aw, shucks," Source Code said as he blushed."

"So, what are y'all gonna do after the party is over?" Corn Maize asked.

"Well, I can't stay here forever. I got a farm of my own back in Appleloosa. I'll probably sleep here for the night, and return home in the mornin'," Braeburn replied.

"I should probably do the same. I do have a job in Las Pegasus to get back to. I hope my boss isn't too worried that I'm gone," Source Code commented. "But I'll be sure to visit my family in Ponyville, as well as my brother in Appleloosa, again very soon."

"Well, my Ma and the rest are still waitin' for me in Appleloosa, so I should go with Braeburn tomorrow. I don't want my family gettin' too worried about me." They all smiled, and clanked their mugs again as they downed their cider. After the party was over, all the Apples returned to the farmhouse, and Braeburn and Source Code went to bed. Neither could get any sleep, as they were both still excited from the day's events. Braeburn whispered to his brother,

"Hey, Apple Crisp, thanks again for helping out Applejack. I can tell she really appreciates what you did."

"Well, I wasn't about to let my own cousin suffer for the same thing a third time." Both of them chuckled as they said good night to each other, and finally dozed off, each with smiles on their faces.

Epilogue - The Letter

The next morning was bittersweet. Source Code was happy that he'd finally get to go back home, but he didn't want to say goodbye to his newfound family. Alas, he had responsibilities to get back to in Las Pegasus. The fact that he left for Appleloosa entirely unannounced to anypony back home didn't help either. The family all gathered at the train station to see Braeburn, Corn Maize and Source Code off, since the train would be making a stop in Appleloosa on the way to Las Pegasus. Source Code gave the mares all hugs, and the stallions all hoofshakes, and held back his tears so he wouldn't embarrass them. Applejack decided to give him something to remember them by: a black cowboy hat, similar in shape to her own, that once belonged to her grandfather. He tried it on immediately, and it was a perfect fit. He then got on the train with his brother and cousin, and said,

"Thank you, Apples, for helping me learn just what it means to be in a family." The train departed, and they all wept tears of pride for their cousin Apple Crisp.

The three stallions were now miles away from Ponyville. Braeburn and Source Code could only look at each other and smile, as if they didn't need words to express how much they each valued this experience together. That's all they did for the rest of the train ride. Just look at each other and smile. Whether it was brotherly ESP or simply lack of emotions other than pride, the fact is that's all they could do. Corn Maize occupied his time by writing in his journal about the contest. After about 2 hours, the train finally arrived in Appleloosa. Braeburn stepped off the train, as the other two followed him to the door, and Source Code said,

"Thank you, Braeburn, for everything. I found my brother, discovered my family again, and got to help settle an old family score. I couldn't ask for anypony better to have this experience with. "

"Aw, it's nothin', Apple Crisp. I should be thankin' you. If ya never showed up that day, I'd never have found a partner for the contest, and Flim and Flam might not have been stopped. You're really a hero, ya know that, Apple Crisp?"

"Well, when you put it that way, I guess you're right," Source Code said as he chuckled. "Anyway, goodbye, Braeburn. I'll be sure to visit you again very soon. Same to you, Corn Maize."

"I'll be lookin' forward to it." Braeburn trotted off, and Corn Maize said,

"It's been a pleasure, Apple Crisp." Source Code smiled, as his cousin followed his brother out. The train door closed behind them, since it was getting ready to depart for Las Pegasus.

Source Code was alone with his thoughts for the rest of the ride. Only a few other ponies were on board, and none of them looked too interested in talking to him. He decided to take a quick nap, out of ideas for what to do. He dozed off, and had another dream. This time, he was back at him home, instead of a void, and his biological father came into his room.

"So, you finally discovered, and fulfilled your purpose in Ponyville, I suppose?"

"Yeah, I guess so."

"I'm proud of you, son."

"Thanks, father." Source Code then remembered something he had been meaning to ask. "Hey, father, Braeburn told me that you passed on when you were hit by a lightning bolt. If that's the case, when did you have time to write me a letter as a last will?"

"Who said I was the one that wrote it?"

"Wait, you didn't write it?"

"Maybe I did, maybe I didn't."

"Wait, was that letter even real?"

"I think you should be the one to answer that question. You did take it upon yourself to go to Appleloosa, when I gave you the choice not to." Source Code had never felt more confused in his life, but at least he finally had answers to all of his questions. His father walked out of his room, and he woke back up. The train was back in Las Pegasus.

Source Code made it back to his home. Luckily for him, it turned out his boss gave everypony the next few days off, due to a corporate meeting. He made it back to his home, and when he got to his computer, he saw the same envelope still there, lying on the right-hoof side. He opened the letter, but this time there was no writing. It was just a blank piece of paper. Source Code didn't know what this meant, but he wanted to use it for something, so he took his pencil, and drew a picture of himself with Braeburn, just like in the photo album the two of them looked through.