Bootlegging

Chapters

Chapter One: How it Started
Chapter Two: The Early Stages
Chapter Three: First Night Run
Chapter Four: Two-Sided Business
Chapter Five: To Hollow Shades
Chapter Six: Road to Manehatten
Chater Seven: Business Offers
Chapter Nine: Old & New Business
Chapter Ten: Family Time
Chapter Eleven: Back to Manehatten
Chapter Twelve: Manehatten Business
Chapter Thrirteen: Taking Care of Business
Chapter Fourteen: Risky
Chapter Fifteen: Escaping Manehatten
Chapter Sixteen: Until The End
Chapter Seventeen: Home Sweet Home
Chapter Eighteen: A Rock & A Hard Place
Chapter Nineteen: A Hard Offer to Refuse
Chapter Twenty: Cutie Mark When?
Chapter Twenty-One: Now What?
Chapter Twenty-Three: Just what I need
Chapter Eight: Business Meeting
Chapter Twenty-Two: Digging The Hole Deeper

Chapter One: How it Started

Chapter One
How it Started

“Congratulations, Apple Bloom, you passed!” A young stallion with a dusty blue coat, darker blue mane and tail and bright green eyes told her. He had been her driving teacher, cars being rather new still coming from Fillydelphia two years prior.

“Thank ya, Blue Note.” She smiled at the stallion. “Still ain’t got a cutie mark, though.” She sighed softly taking the license and putting it in her saddle bag.

“I'm sure you will earn it soon, Apple Bloom,” Blue Note told her, “Maybe it'll be a steering wheel and you can teach driving.” He chuckled, before fillies and colts started driving Blue Note had just been a music teacher. He had been the first in Ponyville to have a car of his own so volunteered to teach them how to drive.

Apple Bloom chuckled as well, “Maybe, but I should head home. Cider season starts soon and I need to help out, crowds seems to get bigger every year.” She smiled at him.

“Alright Apple Bloom, stay safe on the way home.” Blue Note told her.

She smiled at him waving before trotting her way back to the farm, she saw the normal line of ponies waiting but as she neared the front front gate of the farm she saw a gathering of ponies and could hear shouting.

“Whaddya mean we can't sell cider?!” Applejack's voice could be heard clearly over the crowd. “We been sellin' cider every year since Ponyville was founded!”

“I'm sorry Applejack, but it's the new law, alcoholic cider is banned, ponies drink it and then drive which causes accidents. To keep them safe the princesses outlawed alcoholic cider.” Mayor Mare replied, doing her best to keep the crowd of angry ponies around her from getting out of control.

Apple Bloom got to the front gate of Sweet Apple Acres and could clearly see what was happening now. Applejack was standing in front of the gate with Big Mac blocking it from the mayor, and what seemed to be ten police ponies. Twilight seemed to be in the middle trying to keep the peace.

“Did ya know ‘bout this, Twilight?” Applejack asked looking at her friend looking both angry a little hurt.

The group around them was split, some standing on Applejack's side, some standing on the mayor side glaring at each other. “This... is bad.” Apple Bloom muttered under her breath as she trotted over to Applejack.

“Well... yes, Applejack I did,” Twilight started looking away for a moment, “I tried to tell you but, you didn't really take it seriously; you said it couldn't happen and that this wouldn't affect you.”

“Dangit Twi, I thought you was just suggesting I not sell this year! You know cider season is a big part of the Apple family income. You could of tried harder to tell me it was outlawed. We already have twenty barrels made, what are we suppose to do with them if we can't sell them?” Applejack huffed shaking her head.

The Mayor's ears perked hearing they had twenty barrels of cider and nodded to the police ponies. The police ponies pushed their way past the group to the barrels checking them. “Like she said Mayor, pure apple cider.” one of the police ponies called causing everyone to turn and look at them.

“You know what to do,” the Mayor nodded at the police ponies.

The police ponies nodded turning the barrels over onto the sides exposing the bottoms before bucking them causing the cider to spill out onto the ground. That was the final straw for the gathered crowd who wanted cider.

The group tried to rush the police ponies before one of them, the one who spoke up earlier to take out another invention to come recently, a shotgun. He fired it into the ground in front of the ponies trying to rush forward. “Stay back!” He warned pumping the shotgun so it was ready. “I suggest you all go home, you're not getting cider.”

Apple Bloom watched quietly as the group of ponies started to leave grumbling, she folded her ears back looking at the police ponies before looking at Applejack who's ears where hanging low in defeat but her eyes shined with anger.

Once the crowd had left Mayor Mare and the police ponies also left. “Applejack, I really am sorry for what happen. I'm sure I can get the bits recoup the losses for those twenty barrels.” Twilight offered with a gentle smile.

“I do'n want yer bits Twi!” Applejack snapped at her, “Just get, I do'n wanna see ya right now...” Applejack hissed before turning and walking her way back to the farm house. Big Mac hesitated for a moment before following after his sister.

Twilight looked stunned before shaking her head, she looked at Apple Bloom, “I'm sorry Apple Bloom, I didn't mean for it to happen like this.” She offered softly.

“I know ya didn't Twi... but it did.” Apple Bloom said looking at the farmhouse avoiding Twilight's gaze. “Ya hurt Applejack pretty bad.” she added before sighing, “I know ya didn't mean to, but mending this fence ain't gonna be easy.”

Twilight sighed softly, “I know Apple Bloom, I'll try to make it up to her.” she nodded before turning to leave Apple Bloom alone.

Apple Bloom shook her head faintly looking at the ground where the police pony had shot the ground then at the broken barrels of cider starting to form a plan in her mind. “Ponies want cider... but it's illegal...” She muttered to herself as she tapped her chin softly.

“What are you muttering about?” came a familiar voice, and Apple Boom turned seeing Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle looking at her, it had been Scootaloo who spoken to her.

Both Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle had gotten cutie marks already, Sweetie Belle's in performance magic and singing, Scootaloo's in acrobatics. Apple Bloom smiled at them both, “Oh, just thinking about a way to get a cutie mark is all.” She nodded at them, “But I don't think you two should get involved.”

The two looked at each other then at Apple Bloom, “Apple Bloom we're your friends, we want to help.” Sweetie Belle offered with Scootaloo nodding in agreement.

Apple Bloom sighed shaking her head, “I know you girls do, but please don't get involved in this... y'all are gonna get involved anyways aren't ya?”

The two smiled at her nodding, “You know us Apple Bloom, never one to sit out an adventure.” Scootaloo grinned at her.

Apple Bloom sighed again as she started to walk to the farm house with Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle following her, “Fine, I'll tell you... Cider has been outlawed, but ponies still want it... so I'm going to give it to them. I'll have Applejack and Big Mac make it in secret, and at night I'll sell it to the ponies that want it.”

Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo paused looking at each other then at Apple Bloom, “That... that sounds really dangerous Apple Bloom,” Sweetie Belle gulped, “More than what we use to do for cutie marks.”

Apple Bloom stopped and looked at the two, “If you want to back out now, that's fine, just promise not to tell anyone.” She said giving the two a firm look. “And I mean tell no one...” She added narrowing her eyes.

Both Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle took a step back from the look before nodding, “We said we would help, and we will just tell us what to do.” Sweetie Belle offered with a weak smile unsure of her friends new attitude.

Apple Bloom smiled, “Thanks girl, for now just head home, I'll get everything ready. Come back in Friday before the sun goes down and everything should be ready.”

Chapter Two: The Early Stages

Chapter Two
The Early Stages

“Dang it Apple Bloom, what's gotten into you?” Applejack huffed looking at her little sister. “Cider is illegal now and y’all want us to make more?”

Apple Bloom folded her ears back at looking at her older sister. “Why not? Like you said the Apple's have been making cider for years, and they just want us to stop? Ain't fair to us to, they didn’t even include us in the choice, they just decided it.”

Applejack huffed again before sighing shaking her head, “I don't know Apple Bloom it sounds risky, what if we get caught? Cider might been important part of the family business, but family is more important.”

“We'll just have to be careful, besides who's going to suspect a filly?” Apple Bloom gave Applejack a sly grin.

Applejack sighed again but gave in, “Alright fine, but the moment there is any hint of trouble we put an end to it alright?”

Apple Bloom smiled at Applejack, “Thank you sis, you wont regret it.” She grinned running off to start getting things ready.

Applejack shook her head looking down, “I already do.”

Apple Bloom made her way into town to find the customers who wanted cider during Applejack and the Mayor's confrontation on cider day.

She walked up to Rainbow Dash casually, “I heard about cider, that's to bad huh?”

Rainbow Dash looked at Apple Bloom, “Yea, to bad. I was looking forward to it this year.”

“What if someone was to say, leave one bottle of cider in your mailbox at night. How much would you be willing to pay?” Apple Bloom asked her gaze going to suddenly interesting rock on the ground.

“Maybe, five bits for one bottle?” Rainbow Dash offered.

“I'm not going to say it'll happen... but if there is five bits in the mail box tonight, it may be replaced with a bottle tonight.” Apple Boom mused as she trotted off to find another pony taking out a list to write the order. She used a code she and her friends came up with a few years back.

It was another failed effort to get her cutie mark but it came in handy when she wanted to keep secrets. It took her all day, but she got orders from all the ponies in town that had sided with Applejack. She also got a few suggestions as well but not all of them didn't pan out.

“So... Water Lily, to bad about the cider huh?” She asked walking up to a sea foam green unicorn with a blue mane and tail.

“Yea, to bad but what are you going to do?” Water Lily shrugged looking over at Apple Bloom.

“Well... rumor has it if you leave five bits in your mailbox... a bottle of cider might be there in the morning.” Apple Bloom suggested.

“I should turn you into the police trying to sell illegal cider.” Water Lily glared at Apple Bloom folding her ears back. “I might not like that law, but it is the law.”

“Whoa whoa, hold on now, I never said anything about selling anything,” Apple Bloom said raising her hooves.

“Don't give me that, come here, I'm taking you in!” Water Lily said trying to grab younger filly.

“Let me go!” Apple Bloom yelped turning and bucked out connecting with the unicorn hard on the chin knocking her to the ground.

Apple Bloom turned around quick seeing the unicorn lay on the ground blood running from her muzzle. “Dang it Apple Bloom that was a fool thing to do.” She muttered looking around, no ponies were nearby so she grabbed Water Lily's mane and dragged her into the alley nearby.

Water Lily was still out cold from her buck, she had gotten stronger by helping Applejack on the farm bucking trees and carrying baskets. “Now what... she'll tell the police...” She bit her bottom lip looking around the alley before something caught her eye.

She picked up an old knife sticking out of a dumpster before looking at Water Lily. “I... I couldn't...” she told herself folded her ears back looking back to the knife. She closed her eyes thinking about her family, “I have to for the farm... for my family.” She reassured herself looking up and down the ally not seeing anyone she walked over to Water Lily sitting on her haunches.

“Princess Celestia, forgive me for what I am about to do.” She whimpered softly before thrusting the knife quickly into Water Lily's throat quickly and painlessly ending the unicorn's life. She quickly let of the knife handle, scrambling away from the body and lost her lunch next to a dumpster.

After the events in the alley with Water Lily Apple Bloom galloped home as quickly as she could, she didn't think she could handle seeing anymore ponies today. She hurried inside and upstairs hearing Applejack call her name but she ignored it. She went straight to the bathroom and turned on the water to the shower climbing trying to wash away what she did.

“Apple Bloom? What's the matter with ya?” Applejack's voice came through the door calling to her.

Apple Bloom perked her ears looking to the door, she sighed softly, she couldn't tell her sister she killed someone today. “Nothing Applejack, I'll be out in a minute!” She called back biting her bottom lip, she hated to lie.

“Well... alright, supper is ready so don't to long or it'll get cold.” Applejack called to Apple Bloom heard her hoof steps grow softer as she trotted away.

Apple Bloom sighed softly closing her eyes shaking her head, “It had to be done, for the family.” She reassured herself. “You'll do it again to protect the family, that is what is important in the end.”

She finished her bath and got out drying herself she brushed her mane and tail out before she put a small bow near her left ear instead of her normal large bow. She then headed downstairs to enjoy supper with her family. Tonight she was going to go out and deliver the promised cider to the ponies who ordered it.

Chapter Three: First Night Run

Chapter Three
First Night Run

The sun was going setting and her friends had arrived to help. Apple Bloom's mind was still on what happen with Water Lily even though she tried to put it out of thoughts. She had never seen a dead pony before other than Granny Smith who passed away from old age a year earlier.

“Alright, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle this is what we're going to do.” Apple Bloom started as she moved around a table in the barn. “Big Mac and Applejack have been making this cider, Sweetie Belle I want you to put the new labels on it. Me and Scootaloo will put them into saddlebags, and once the saddle bags are full me and Scootaloo will deliver the cider to the customers.”

Sweetie Belle looked at the label, which read 'Apple Shine' before looking at Apple Bloom, “Why do I have stay behind and put the labels on, I want to deliver them as well.” Sweetie Belle sulked.

“Because me and Scootaloo are faster, if something goes wrong we'll have a better chance of getting away.” Apple Bloom said giving Sweetie Belle a weak smile.

An image of Water Lily flashed in Apple Bloom's mind, only to have Water Lily replaced with Sweetie Belle and then Scootaloo, she winced before adding. “I would hate for something to happen to one of my friends.”

“Alright Apple Bloom, you just be careful as well.” Sweetie Belle agreed, “I heard they found a pony in an alley with her throat cut.” Sweetie Belle shivered. “What kind of pony would do that?”

Apple Bloom bit her bottom lip nodding, “Yea... what kind of pony...” She muttered to herself, “Anyways, time is wastin let's get to work.” She said trying to change the subject.

Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo looked at Apple Bloom then at each other confused by Apple Bloom's reaction to the news before they started to help label and put the bottles into the saddlebags.

Once the saddlebags were full Apple Bloom put one on while Scootaloo put the other one on. “Alright, Scootaloo this is what you need to do.” She said taking out the notepad and gave a slip of paper to Scootaloo. “Go to the addresses on this list and check the mailbox, if there is five bits in it take the bits and leave one bottle. Also keep your eyes open for any police ponies and don't let them see you.”

“Got it Apple Bloom, I'll be back in a flash.” Scootaloo smiled before heading out of the barn and hopped onto her scooter heading towards Ponyville.

“Sweetie Belle, keep labeling the bottles that way we can restock and head back out and hopefully be done before midnight.” Apple Bloom smiled at Sweetie Belle.

“Alright Apple Bloom,” Sweetie Belle agreed, though less enthusiastic than Scootaloo at her role in this.

“Sorry Sweetie Belle, maybe next time we'll have something more exciting for you.” Apple Bloom smiled before heading out of the barn and took a shortcut to town through the apple orchard.

Once she reached the fence looked out over Ponyville. She took a deep breath before slipping through the fence and into town checking her list she headed to the first house checking for the bits, she grinned taking them and put the bottle. “This might work after all,” she smirked as she headed to the next house on the list.

During the night she and Scootaloo moved from house to house on their lists swapping bits for bottles of cider before heading back to the barn to restock the saddlebags and deposit the bits into a lock box.

Once they had finished the delivers Apple Bloom relaxed, “That went smoothly but I don't think doing these kinds of delivers is the best way of doing this. It might be easier if we can get them to us... not here on the farm though.”

“There is an old restaurant in town, that might work.” Scootaloo suggested, “It's got a large storage room perfect storing the cider and access to the back alley so customers can order in out of sight of the police ponies.”

Apple Bloom smiled nodding at Scootaloo, “That's good thinking, I can got my license so I can get a car to carry the cider from the farm to the restaurant.”

“I can run the restaurant itself, to keep up appearances.” Sweetie Belle offered, but the other two gave her a blank look. “If we're seen around an empty restaurant all the time ponies will get suspicious of us. However, if the restaurant has customers in it they won't think anything of it.”

“Good thinking Sweetie Belle.” Scootaloo smiled at her while Apple Bloom nodded her head in agreement. “We might even earn some extra bits that way.”

Apple Bloom smiled, they had a good plan of action, now they just had to get it going. She looked over at the lock box, it wasn't going to be cheap though. “Gotta spend bits to make bits.” She muttered to herself getting the attention of her friends.

“What was that?” Sweetie Belle asked tilting her head.

“We might have to make a few more night time delivers. Buying a car, and a restaurant isn't going to be cheap... and I don't want to ask Applejack or Big Mac for the bits.” Apple Bloom explained to her friends.

“What about Rarity? I maybe able to get some bits from her.” Sweetie Belle suggested but Apple Bloom shook her head no.

“I don't want to borrow bits from anyone. Don't worry, I'll had it... you two go on home and get some sleep.” Apple Bloom smiled at them.

“Alright Apple Bloom, good night.” Scootaloo said as she and Sweetie Belle left Apple Bloom alone to think.

Apple Bloom glanced at the bottles of cider left that wasn't needed for delivery, “Well Apple Bloom, how are you going to handle this?” She asked herself taking one of the bottles, “Raise the price of cider... or make more...”

She opened the bottle and poured half into a different bottle before filling both the rest of the way with water. “Granny Smith would be disappointed in you... but times are desperate.” She told herself as she started to do the same with the rest of the bottles.

Chapter Four: Two-Sided Business

Chapter Four
Two-Sided Business

“Ya did what Apple Bloom?!” Applejack yelled when she founded out Apple Bloom watered down the cider to double it. “Ponies rely on our cider for quality not quantity, we're not the Flim Flam brothers!”

“I don't think we're gonna have to much competition Applejack, since cider making and selling is illegal.” Apple Bloom countered folding her ears back. “We need more product, filling a bottle with half cider than half water seems like a good way to double our product.”

Applejack stomped a hoof grunting, “Fine, but if we get to many complaints we're going back to how we normally do it.” Applejack relented.

Apple Bloom nodded, “Alright... that sounds fair.” Apple Bloom said.

One Week Later

After a week of selling the water down cider Apple Bloom had earned enough to buy the restaurant and the car to make the delivers, she kept the ponies from complaining about the new cider by telling them if they did complain they wouldn't get any cider at all.

The restaurant needed a bit of work, but it didn't take long to have it fixed up and ponies flocking to it. Scootaloo had been right about the storage room, it was big plus it had a basement so they fixed it up to be a small bar with Scootaloo selling cider while Sweetie Belle ran the restaurant upstairs.

“Well, this place sure is popular.” Apple Bloom heard a familiar voice and stuck her head out of her office spotting the police pony from the farm, a brownish red coated stallion with a blue mane and tail and purple eyes. She went back into her office putting the papers she had been working on away.

“Of course, we have good food Officer.” Sweetie Belle told the police pony with a smile while putting her hoof on a small button behind the checkout counter she worked. “Would you like anything?”

Scootaloo saw the flashing red light and pushed the slide away bar she was at into the wall flapping her wings to stir up the dust to hide the drag marks on the ground, luckily the bar was empty. She started to pretend to check inventory in case any of the police ponies came downstairs.

“Officer Starling,” he greeted before he continued, “I just came to check on things, this is a new business after all and I want to make sure everything is... above board.”

“Of course, feel free to check around,” Apple Bloom said coming out of her office. “We ain't got nuffin to hide.”

“Well, thank you for the invention.” Officer Starling smiled before going to snoop around the restaurant. Scootaloo making her way upstairs as he did so heading over to Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle.

“What's going on?” Scootaloo asked in a whisper.

“Apparently our friendly Officer here wants to make sure everything checks out,” Apple Bloom replied looking at Scootaloo, “Everything checks out right?”

Scootaloo nods at Apple Bloom, “Yea, everything should check out fine.”

“Good,” Apple Bloom smiled as they waited for Officer Starling to finish.

After almost two hours of checking Officer Starling came back to the three, “Well, looks like everything is fine here.” He said looking at the three, “Better keep it that way alright?”

“Of course Officer Starling,” Sweetie Belle smiled at him, being as polite and pleasant as she could be. “Thank you for your concern.”

Officer Starling snorted as he left looking back at the three.

Once he was gone Apple Bloom looked at the other two. “We should keep a low profile, his sudden check is suspicious.” She told them.

“Yea I didn't like it one bit,” Scootaloo agreed with Sweetie Belle nodding before they started back to their jobs. “Oh yea, Apple Bloom we're running low on cider.”

“Alright, I'll run to farm and get some more.” Apple Bloom sighed, “You two keep an eye on things here.”

“We always do Apple Bloom,” Sweetie Belle smiled at Apple Bloom.

Apple Bloom smiled back nodding at Sweetie Belle before getting her keys and went out back where she parked. She climbed into the driver's side and got the engine started driving towards the farm.

The drive to the farm was uneventful, and she pulled around back behind the bark opening the trunk so she could load up the cider needed for the cider cellar under the restaurant.

“Apple Bloom, we need to talk.” She heard Applejack call to her as she loaded box of cider into the trunk.

“What is in Applejack?” She asked looking over to her older sister.

“Words gotten out bout the cider to a bar in Manehatten, they're offering double the price for delivery of three crates of cider over night. Told em not to get their hopes up... but we also told them we'd tell ya bout it.” Applejack explained folding her ears back, “I do'n like this though, it's pretty risky driving to Manehatten at night with a car loaded with cider.”

Apple Bloom rubbed her chin with a hoof. “Is risky, but that is pretty good money to. Trunk is big enough to fit three crates of cider as well.” Apple Bloom considered as she finished loading the car. “I'll get this load back to the restaurant first. Then tell you what I decide on doing.”

Apple Jack sighed softly, she already knew Apple Bloom wasn't going to turn down this offer. “Alright Apple Bloom, just be careful.” She smiled faintly, she had given up trying to talk her sister out of things.

Apple Bloom nodded at Applejack, “I will sis,” she smiled back before getting into the car and drove back to the restaurant to drop off the load of cider for Scootaloo. The return trip was just as uneventful, she turned on the radio tuning it to the local Ponyville station hearing the latest Sapphire Shores song.

Scootaloo unloaded the cider while Apple Bloom kept watch for any pony that got a bit to nosy for their own good. “Hey Scoots, I need to head back to the farm after we unload. Think you and Sweetie can watch the restaurant for me?”

“Of course Apple Bloom... why what's going on?” She asked having just finished unloading all the boxes. “Isn't any trouble is their?”

“No of course not, someone in Manehatten wants our product so I'm gonna make a delivery tonight.” She answered walking to the car leaning against the driver side door. “Should be an easy run there and back.”

Scootaloo chuckled softly shaking her head, “When has anything we've done ever been easy?” She asked looking at Apple Bloom.

Apple Bloom smirked, “Guess you're right, you two be careful.” She said getting into the car starting the engine. “If anything happens, just run and burn the place down. Don't leave any connection to yourself or my family okay?”

Scootaloo nodded at Apple Bloom, “I got it, you be careful to.” Scootaloo waved as Apple Bloom pulled out of the alley way and onto the main road before heading inside to finish up her work.

Chapter Five: To Hollow Shades

Chapter Five
To Hollow Shades

After leaving the farm Apple Bloom started towards the farm before checking the fuel level. Deciding she didn't want to stop unless she had to on the way to Manehatten she pulled into a refueling station on the way to the farm and filled up the tank.

Once she had the tank full she got back to Sweet Apple Acres and loaded the trunk with the cider. However, it was still early so she went into the farmhouse to get something to eat before leaving.

“Apple Bloom, are you sure you want to do this?” Applejack asked while preparing an early dinner for Apple Bloom. “Sellin cider locally is one thing... but drive to Manehatten, just seems to risky.”

“Ya Applejack, I'm sure, don't worry everythin will be fine.” Apple Bloom smiled at Applejack watching her cook.

Applejack didn't seem to sure but nodded sighing, “Alright little sis, just be careful this stuff ain’t worth riskin yer life over.”

“I know, I know.” Apple Bloom shook her head but smiled, “Ya told me that before. I'll be careful.”

Applejack looked at Apple Bloom for a moment then smiled giving her a plate she had prepared, fried potatoes with brown beans and a couple of pieces of green onion. “I know you'll be careful Apple Bloom... it's everypony else I ain't too sure bout.”

“Then I'll just have to be careful for myself and them.” Apple Bloom smiled at Applejack before she started to eat.

After Apple Bloom had finished eating she helped clean the kitchen and got herself ready for the night. She grabbed an old duster looking it over she pulled it on, before heading outside. “I'll see ya in the morning Applejack.”

“Drive careful Apple Bloom,” Applejack sighed hugging Apple Bloom.

Apple Bloom hugged her sister back smiling, “Thanks sis, I'll be careful, just have to keep my eye out for the cops.”

Applejack nodded at Apple Bloom as she got into the car starting the engine. “Just don't give them a reason to pull you over and you should be fine.”

Apple Bloom pulled away from the barn and down the driveway towards the main road. She took a deep breath before taking the direction that lead towards Hollow Shades, if she could get their before midnight she could make Manehatten before morning for her delivery.

The roads at this time of day where pretty empty so she started to drive faster humming to herself. She reached down turning on the radio to see what it would pick up but she was out of range of Ponyville's local station by now.

She reached down to change the station when the flashing of a police car's lights caught her attention, “Pony feathers,” she cursed glancing in the rear view mirror. She started to slow before remember the cider in the trunk.

She caught sight of a turn onto a rural back road and grinned, “Let's play a little cat and mouse.” she muttered as she hit the brake and turned towards the rural back road before flooring the gas to making adjustments to keep the car stable she speeds down the road glancing in the rear view seeing the cop car fly by the turn she chuckled before seeing the headlights back around and give chase.

“Guess he does want to play.” She said keeping her hoof planted firmly on the gas she speeds down the rural back road doing her best to keep the car steady on the uneven street, she could see the wobbling head lights of the police car they were having trouble as well.

“By order of the Equestrian Highway Patrol, I order you to pull over.” She heard the one of the police ponies demand over a loudspeaker.

“Not likely,” She muttered keeping her eyes focused ahead seeing a sign for another turn off coming up she did slow, to take the turn instead of hitting the break she pulled the emergency brake turning the wheel sharp causing the car to slide.

She released the emergency break and feathered the gas pulling away noticing another sharp turn up ahead she turned again barely making the turn hearing the side of the car scraped up against the railing.

She looked in the rear view mirror just in time to see police car crashed into the rail and go flying over the hill wincing. “Can't stop... can't stop...” She repeated as she pulled away from the accident taking a deep breath, “They'll be okay.”

She stuck to the back roads using the straight away to make up for lost time and practiced sliding around the corners so she won't lose too much time. She made it to Hollow Shades before midnight.

The police car accident still bothered her however she kept reassuring her they would be fine and she had a job to do. She pushed the thought to the back of her mind as she found a fuel station in Hollow Shades that was still opened.

Apple Bloom stopped at the station and refilled the tank while checking her map to see if she can find a good route to Manehatten that would use the back roads more so she can keep up her speed and not worry too much about being pulled over by the Equestrian Highway Patrol.

Chapter Six: Road to Manehatten

Chapter Six
Road to Manehatten

Before leaving Hollow Shades she got herself some coffee and a snack to help wake her up for the stretch to Manehatten. Apple Bloom had wished she had taken a nap before leaving but it was too late for that now.

Apple Bloom used the main highway until she found the rural turn off she could follow most of the way to Manehatten and speed up. She knew she didn't have a set time to arrive, but she didn't want to risk unloading the cider during the day. The chance of getting caught was too great in Manehatten, even at night there was still a risk.

As she drove she saw headlights coming from the opposite directions and started to slow down swearing to herself, “Pony feathers... I had hoped these roads would be deserted.” She muttered trying to slow to the speed limit before the car was close enough to register her speed in case it was a cop.

When the car passed she relaxed not seeing any signs of it being a police car so she started to speed up as she let out a sigh of relief. “I need to calm down, I'm getting jumpy.” Apple Bloom sighed to herself slowing to take a corner only to see a police check point up a head.

“Oh horse apples...” Apple Bloom gasped coming to a stop two-hundred yards from the checkpoint, she knew the police ponies saw her as one started to approach the her. She closed her eyes trying to think of what to do.

“Celestia forgive me for what I am about to do.” Apple Bloom prayed before flooring it, the back wheels spinning out before catching and launching the car forward, the poor police pony didn't even see it coming as the front passenger side fender slammed into him sending him into the ditch.

Apple Bloom didn't pay any mind to that as she kept going weaving between the parked police cars and over the other police pony who tried to dive for cover. Apple Bloom flinched hearing the sick squish the pony made under the wheels of the car.

“I'm so sorry,” Apple Bloom whispered as she kept going forcing herself to keep from looking back. She hoped they were okay but couldn't stop, if they found the cider she would get in trouble, and they would link it to her sister and brother then they would be in trouble as well.

“It's for the best...” Apple Bloom kept reassuring herself as she drove along keeping her eyes open for signs of the police ponies following or other cars on the road. Images of police cars lining the road stopping her, then arresting her, her family and her friends flooding her mind.

Apple Bloom shook her head, “No, I won't let that happen... if anything I will be the only one to get in trouble for this.” she assured herself. “Nothing link back to my friends or family... I'll make sure of it.”

The image of the police pony trotting towards the car only to be run down came into her mind and she growled. “No, don't think about it... it had to be d... ah!” She slammed on the brakes turning the wheels sliding to a stop almost hitting a rock slide covering the road panting hard.

Apple Bloom turned off the engine and got out. She then went to check on the rock slide and trying to calm herself. “Oh Apple Bloom... what did you do...” She face hoofed, “Those police ponies where probably just trying to warn you about this.” She scolded herself feeling tears sting her eyes.

“Stop it... it's too late for that now...” Apple Boom muttered to herself, “You have work... you'll deal with these actions when it's finished.” She took a deep breath and started to check the rockslide.

Apple Bloom moved around and could see just enough room to squeeze by and continue on and started back to the car. Pausing she noticed a headlight out and could see blood on the fender where she hit the pony.

Knowing she couldn't go into Manehatten like that, Apple Bloom considered her options before her ears perked hearing the sound of rushing water. 'A natural spring maybe?' she thought to herself going to check, and she was right it was near the source of the slide, it must of weakened the rock causing it.

Apple Bloom went back to the car and go an old rag and her coffee cup, now empty. She filled the cup with water from the spring and poured it on the fender rubbing it with the rag. It didn't do much more then smudge the blood around but that gave her an idea.

Apple Bloom filled the cup with dirt and tossed it on the front of the car and rubbed it over the hood and fenders covering it with a fine layer to cover the blood up instead. With it being dark it was hard to tell if she got it all covered, but she hoped she did.

Once finished Apple Bloom started the car up and carefully made her way around the rock slide and started back on the road to Manehatten. She spotted a few houses as she went before spotting another check point.

Apple Bloom frowned but slowed as she got closer coming to stop. “Good morning... Officers...” She greeted as pleasantly as she could.

“Good morning miss, may I ask what your business on the road is?” A young mare asked looking at Apple Bloom, another was looking over the car making Apple Bloom uneasy.

“I live on this road, I was on my way to work.” Apple Bloom offered remembering the houses she passed.

“I see...” The mare said, which didn't feel Apple Bloom with hope and she was getting ready to floor it. “Drive careful,” The mare suddenly said, “Watch out for additional slides. A road crew should be out soon to put up some fencing and clear this road soon. Also get that headlight replaced.”

Apple Bloom smiled nodding at the officer, “Thank you, officer. I will fix the headlight soon as I can.” She said and started to drive through the road block letting out a sigh of relief, hurrying along her way before they decided to search her car.

Soon Apple Bloom was in Manehatten, and made her delivery. She was exhausted though, so she rented a room at a motel just outside of the city, and went to bed to get some rest. She would drive back to Sweet Apple Acres later in the afternoon, after washing the car.

Chater Seven: Business Offers

Chapter Seven
Business Offers

Apple Bloom woke up slowly after a few hours of unpleasant sleep. Her dreams were plagued with images of the two officers she killed the night before. Flashes of police ponies arriving at her motel room or Sweet Apple Acres arresting her and her family haunted her.

She finally rolled to her hooves grumbling and rubbed her eyes heading to the bathroom to wash up yawning softly. Apple Bloom had hoped a good shower would help her feel better, but she wasn't sure if she ever would get over what she was feeling. Then again, she wasn't sure if she should get over how she was feeling about what happen.

After her shower and drying off she put on the duster and headed out of the room, the sky had an overcast gloom to it causing her to sigh. “Must be storm rolling in...” She muttered looking up at the sky before trotting to her car checking it over.

The front had a large dent in the fender were the first pony hit taking out the headlight. Dried mud covered the front from where she tried to cover it up. “Going to take a little work to fix this.” She mused to herself getting into the driver seat and pulled the car around to the front office turning in the key as she checked out.

Once she had checked out of the motel she found a parts store and got a replacement headlight. Since it was near a car wash she drove over to clean the mud and hidden blood off the car before putting the new headlight in smiling at her hoof work. “Much better.” She agreed to herself, she would try to fix the dents when she got back to Ponyville.

“Psst, ya Apple Bloom?” Apple Bloom heard a pony call her to her in a Manehatten accent and she glanced over her shoulder at an older colt near the entrance of the car watch look at her.

“Maybe I am... who's ask?” Apple Bloom asked in return folding her ears back.

“That ain't important right now, what is important is what I do for ya.” The colt said taking an envelope out of a saddle bag and dropping it on the ground, “Just think bout it.” He said before galloping off before Apple Bloom could react.

Apple Bloom galloped over, but the colt was gone, she picked up the envelope and opened it taking the note out reading it. “Meeting at Mariponie Diner tonight at ten p.m. no guns.” Apple Bloom read tilting her head.

“Could be a trap...” Apple Bloom thought to herself tucking the note into a pocket of her duster as she finished cleaning her car sighing. “But it is an opportunity to move this work away from Sweet Apple Acres and my family.” She frowned.

Apple Bloom tried to think of the best thing to do, “Applejack wouldn't want me away from the family...” she bonks herself on the head.

“Dang it Apple bloom start thinking for yourself and stop worrying about what Applejack wants.” Apple Bloom scolded herself starting the engine of the car she drove back to a small diner and go a small lunch, it was still quite some time before ten p.m. and her meeting at the diner.

After lunch Apple Bloom was unsure what to do with the rest of the day till ten p.m. when her meeting with, whoever it was who wanted to meet her. She was still unsure if this meeting a good idea or not.

Apple Bloom went back to the motel and returned another room for another day, requesting one around back out of sight of the road. She also bought an early edition copy of the Manehatten Chronicle.

After parking Apple Bloom went into her room and climbed onto the bed opening the paper to start reading. It was mostly local news but her heart sank when she got to the story of the officers killed last night, the first story was on the two she ran down, thought there was no mention of her car being involved.

The second was in the regional news about the police car running off the road, the driving being killed on impact with a tree causing her neck to snap. Once again Apple Bloom's car wasn't mentioned. The police car's crash was instead blamed on driver error and claimed to be an unfortunate accident on the drivers part.

Apple Bloom was both relieved and a little sick. She was glad the deaths wasn't pointing to her or her family, but she also sick at the thought of taking so many lives in a single night. She also read a story from Ponyville, they were still looking for suspects in the death of Water Lily reminding her of the first pony she had killed.

Apple Bloom sighed tossing the paper on the floor. “Maybe Applejack was right... maybe all this ain't worth it...” She mused to herself looking at the paper before grumbling and reminded herself, “Dang it Apple Bloom, stop thinking like that, the family needs the bits.”

Apple Bloom got off the bed and headed out to her car climbing it and starting the engine. Pulling out of the parking lot of the motel she knew what she wanted to do know, she needed to protect herself.

After a few minutes of driving she found a local gun shop and pulled into a parking spot going inside.

“Good evenin, what can I do for you?” The stallion behind the counter asked looking Apple Bloom over. “Ya old enough to be in here?”

“Ya, I'm old enough.” She snorted showing her licenses. “I'm lookin for something... special.”

“Special eh?” The colt takes out some small handguns, mostly .22 caliber and a .38 caliber. “How about these?” he offered.

Apple Bloom shakes her head. “No no, none of this, special special.” She said looking around quietly taking out a bit bag. “If you get my meaning.”

The colt spotted the bag before looking around the shop. He waves a hoof for her to follow and she did as he took her to a back room. “Alright... but if yer a cop I'll ice you without a second thought.”

“I ain't a cop,” she tried to reassure the colt looking around the room. “I need something easy to use, but packs a punch especially against cars.”

The colt thinks for a moment before taking out a sub machine gun, “This is a Colt Sub Machine Gun. It's easy enough to use for beginners, but it should be able to go through the door a car with little trouble. Two thousand bits and it's all yours, I'll even throw in a box of bullets for the magazine.”

Apple Bloom looked it over before nodding, “Alright, I'll take it and that shotgun with a box of shotgun shells.”

He took the guns, and ammo to the front putting the sub machine gun in case for her before ringing up the sell. “That will be two thousand seven hundred and fifty bits.”

Apple Bloom nodded at him giving him the bits for the guns and ammo before taking both back to her car. She wasn't sure if she was making the right choice, but it had been made now she would have to live with it.

Chapter Nine: Old & New Business

Chapter 9
Old & New Business

After waking up Apple Bloom took a shower relaxing under the hot stream of water. She was still trying to think of a way to talk Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo out of the cider business. The problem was regardless of how she thought about it resulted in the two either not listening to her or they hated her.

She sighed softly turning off the water shaking herself off before stepping out to dry herself, “Can I really let this ruin my friendships...?” Apple Bloom asked herself muttering under her breath hanging the towel on the towel bar before heading into the motel room pulling on her holster then her duster

Apple Bloom left the motel room and got into her car starting the engine driving around the office turning in the key as checked out. Once that was done she drove to a fuel station to top off the tank before returning to Ponyville.

The drive back to Ponyville was pretty uneventful and Apple Bloom pulled into Sweet Apple Acres shortly before noon parking behind the barn heading into the farm house. “Applejack, I'm home.” She called.

“Welcome home sugar cube, yer friends are here to see ya.” Applejack called from the kitchen. “Got worried when ya didn't get home yesterday.”

“Right... sorry bout that sis, I had some business come up while in Manehatten.” Apple Bloom said heading to the kitchen spotting Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle, she had hoped to talk to them later.

“Business... with who?” Scootaloo asked looking at Apple Bloom, she and Sweetie Belle was sitting at the table while Applejack was making lunch.

“A couple of... associates I meet while in Manehatten. They offered me more business delivering our product to their.” Apple Bloom answered looking at the two. “So... if you could keep running the business here in Ponyville I could handle stuff in Manehatten.”

Apple Bloom knew she couldn't talk them out of working for her, but she hoped she could at least keep them in Ponyville. She looked at the two quietly hoping the would agree, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo looked at each for a moment.

“Alright, we can do that Apple Bloom, but who will bring the cider to the restaurant?” Sweetie Belle asked tilting her head.

“You're better with the customers Sweetie Belle, so I think Scootaloo should do that when the restaurant needs cider unless I'm here in Ponyville.” Apple Bloom nodded at the two smiling, as much as she hated either of them delivering cider, Scootaloo had done it before and she was faster.

Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle both nodded in agreement, “Alright I can do that Apple Bloom,” Scootaloo agreed. “Will you be gone long on these delivery runs?”

Apple Bloom shook her head faintly. “I should be gone too long, a day, two at the most for the most part.” She answered, she hoped it wouldn't take that long at least.

“What do ya know about these... associates yer working with?” Applejack asked setting lunch on the table for Apple Bloom and her friends. “They good ponies?”

Apple Bloom considered her answer carefully as she took a bite of the sandwich Applejack gave her, using the chewing to give her time. “Near as I can tell yes, one of them owns a successful and profitable diner.” Apple Bloom replied, but left out that she really wasn't that sure about Mariponie or Rossi.

Applejack peered at Apple Bloom quietly for a few moments, “Well... alright if ya say so sugar cube... just be careful with them city ponies.” Applejack finally said in response, but Apple Bloom got the feeling Applejack didn't believe her.

Apple Bloom nodded at Applejack softly, “I will sis, don't worry I'll be careful,” Apple Bloom reassured Applejack as best she could. “So how have things been going on the farm?”

“Pretty quiet, I must admit... the income from the cider is good. We're storing as much as we can for the business. But we do need to sell some of the apples as well or the police ponies will get suspicious.” Applejack answered.

Apple Bloom nods at Applejack softly. “I understand, speaking of...” Apple Bloom takes the remaining bits from her duster, as she moves the duster opens showing the holster with the shotgun.

“Apple Bloom is that a gun?!” Sweetie Belle squeaked when she saw it.

“Wow! Apple Bloom, can we get guns!?” Scootaloo asked looking excited.

Applejack was unsure of what to say at first before finally asking, “Apple Bloom is their somethin I need to know?”

Apple Bloom sighed before shaking her head, “Scootaloo, you and Sweetie Belle don't need guns.” She looks at them, Scootaloo sighed and Sweetie Belle looked relieved. She turned to Applejack shaking her head again. “No Applejack, everything is fine. It's just for protection.”

Applejack looked unsure and a little worried but nods softly. “Apple Bloom, I don't want to hear on the radio from a police pony that somethin happen to you. Promise me, if somethin seems wrong ya will quit okay?”

Apple Bloom nods at Applejack, “I promise, if I feel like it's getting out of hoof I'll quit.” She reassured Applejack smiling before passing her the bits. “This is what is left from the Manehatten delivery.”

Applejack took the bits and was more than a little impressed. “All of this? Even after getting the gun and fuel?”

Apple Bloom smiled at Applejack, “Yea, all of that, even after the fuel, food, motel room for two nights, and the gun.” She confirmed for Applejack, she decided not to mention the second gun.

“So... when is yer next delivery date?” Applejack asked looking at the bits before looking at Apple Bloom.

“I need to be there tomorrow, just before sunrise.” Apple Bloom answered sipping her drink. “If I accept the offer. If I leave tonight right before the sun goes down I shouldn't have any trouble making it in time.”

Applejack nodded in agreement, “Then I suppose after dinner we'll load the car so you can make your delivery.”

Apple Bloom nods at Applejack, “Yea, I want a reputation of being on time.” She stated as she got up stretching. "I'm going to take a quick nap.”

“Alright, I'll wake you up in a couple of hours.” Applejack said watching Apple Bloom head to her room.

Apple Bloom walked from the kitchen heading up stairs to her room sighing softly. She stretched out on her bed enjoying it. “At least... Sweetie and Scootaloo won't leave Ponyville for this...” She said as she drifted off to sleep.

Chapter Ten: Family Time

Chapter Ten
Family Time

Apple Bloom had a hard time sleeping, so she woke up earlier then she wanted. She got out of bed and went down stairs but didn't see her sister or brother, she figured they were out bucking trees.

She went to the kitchen to get a snack before going out to the barn where she parked her car looking it over. “Poor thing... wonder if I can remove that dent?” She asked herself taking a bite out of an apple before going into the barn to find some tools.

Apple Bloom found the tools she needed and soon had the fender removed. She started to use an old rubber mallet to bang the dent out from inside the fender trying to reshape it back normal.

The noise attracted her sister's attention. “Apple Bloom, what in tarnation is all this racket?” Applejack asked coming around a corner before seeing what her sister was up to. “Apple Bloom... what happen?”

Apple Bloom looked up at Applejack tilting her head faintly. “Oh... hey sis just had a little... fender bender...” She said being vague not wanting to tell her sister about the police pony she hit.

Applejack gave her sister a quizzical look tilting her head, “Fender... bender... you mean an accident?” Applejack questioned watching Apple Bloom closely.

“Yea, an accident... I took a backroad and there was a rockslide.” Apple Bloom started to explain, “When I was going around it I hit part of the rock and dented the fender.” She felt bad, lying but she knew Applejack wouldn't understand.

Applejack eyed her sister carefully for a few moments before looking away, “Just be more careful next time.” The older earth pony said pulling her hat down over her eyes. Apple Bloom bit her bottom lip, she knew her sister well enough to know she was disappointed.

“I... I'm sorry sis... I'll be more careful.” Apple Bloom muttered folding her ears back watching her sister go before getting back to work hammering the dent out of the fender.

“What... am I turning into?” She asked herself quietly once Applejack was gone.

“Killing other ponies... being reckless... now lying to my family...” She sighed shaking her head lightly as she started to hit the fender harder with the hammer, not even trying to get the dent out anymore just working out her frustrations on it.

After a few minutes she stopped looking at what she had done lowering her ears. The fender Apple Bloom had been working out was now bulged out from her repeated blows. She closed her eyes for a moment before turning it over and started to fix it.

It was starting to get late by the time she finished repairing the damage to the fender. She had gotten it mostly back to proper shape from a distance it looked fine. She put it back into place and put the headlight and turn signal back into place.

Apple Bloom went to the house and to the bathroom to clean up, “Apple Bloom, supper is ready!” She heard Applejack call to her as she came inside.

Apple Bloom folded her ears back, “Alright, I'll be down in a minute, just need to wash up.” she called back to Applejack before heading to the bathroom, she really didn't feel like eating though.

She took a quick shower washing off the sweat and grime from working on the fender before heading to the dining room. “Smells great.” Apple Bloom smiled lightly at her sister and brother before taking a seat.

“Thank you, one of Granny's dishes.” Applejack smiled back fishing Apple Bloom a plate, “What time you plan ongoing tonight?” She asked as she got a plate for herself and Big Mac ready.

She folded her ears back at the mention of Granny Smith looking at the vegetable casserole. “After dinner... if I want to make it on time.” She answered quietly, if she didn't have an appetite before she really didn't have one now. However, she knew Applejack would know something was wrong if she didn't eat.

Applejack sat next to Big Mac nodding softly. “I see, will you be going the same way as before?” She asked between bites.

Apple Bloom folded her ears back, she knew her sister was trying to get her to talk about what happen her first driving to Manehattan. “No... I think I'll try a different road to see if it's faster.” Apple Bloom replied trying to keep an even tone.

“Probably for the best, wouldn't want ya to have anymore... fender benders.” Applejack commented before continuing to eat.

Apple Bloom just nodded lightly as she ate as well, soon the room was taken by an awkward silence. She was upset with her sister for acting like she was, but she couldn't blame her either. Apple Bloom knew she had lied, and she was sure Applejack knew it as well.

Once Apple Bloom was done she got up putting her plate in the sink. “I'm gonna get ready to go.” She stated heading to her room before Applejack or Big Mac could speak, she pulled on her holster and then the duster.

Once Apple Bloom was dressed, she headed to the car to load it. She saw Applejack waiting. “Look... Apple Bloom, I know something happen...” she sighed, “If ya do'n wanna talk about it that's fine. Just don't keep it bottled up. It'll eat at ya alright?”

Apple Bloom folded her ears back before giving her a small nod. “Alright sis, I understand... yes something happen... but I don't want to talk about it. I'll be fine and I'll be more careful I promise.” She smiled at Applejack lightly.

Applejack smiled back before giving her a hug. “Alright, if you change yer mind you know where to find me. Just understand, I want what's best for ya okay?”

“I understand sis, and if I do... change my mind, I'll come talk to you I promise.” Apple Bloom nodded softly hugging her sister back.

Applejack smiled at Apple bloom before helping her load the car up with the order of cider, it was bigger than before so they had to put some of the boxes in the back seat. Apple Bloom used the seat belts to make sure they won't fall over if she had to stop and covered them with a blanket.

Once the car was loaded Apple Bloom got in and started the engine up. “I'll see you tomorrow sis... love ya.” She smiled at her.

“Love you too Apple Bloom,” Applejack smiled back at her, “Drive safe.”

Apple Bloom gave Applejack a soft nod before pulling the car out from behind the barn and down the driveway before pulling onto the highway and started toward Manehatten.

Chapter Eleven: Back to Manehatten

Chapter Eleven
Back to Manehatten

Apple Bloom started towards Manehatten after leaving the farm, she was going to stop at a fuel station to refuel the car and check her map to decide on her route before leaving town. She had a decent idea of the route she wanted to use but she wanted to make sure of the turn offs first.

She pulled into a small station just outside of Ponyville's city limits and got out, this station had full service so she let the pony refuel the car and clean the window while she went in to get a drink and snack.

While she was waiting for the pony to finish putting the fuel in her car she noticed he was eying the back seat causing her to frown slightly. If he found the cider she would have to deal with him, as well as the cashier. She really didn't want to though, her hoof raising to the shotgun under her duster. She heard a ding as the tank was full and the pony turned to put the nozzle away recapping the tank before moving away from the car.

The cashier gave her the cost for the fuel, drink and snacks. She paid before heading back to her car sighing softly in relief. Once she got back in she pulled away from the pumps and parked in a parking spot checking her map to decide on the route.

The route she used last time was the fastest, but she wasn't sure if that one would be the best to use. Looking over the roads she found one that seemed to be good and memorized the turn offs before pulling out of the station.

She drove along the main road towards Hollow Shades keeping to the speed limit before spotting the turn off onto the back road she starting to speed up keeping her eyes open traffic, sharp turns, and police cars.

The first set of back roads seemed pretty quiet which caused her to relax a little as she went faster, she could feel the car bounce bumps in the road. She was starting to enjoy the drive until she heard the wail of a police car behind her.

“Horse apples.” She growled glancing in her rear view mirror seeing the car pull out from behind a bush onto the road behind her. “Should've been paying attention.” She growled as she started scanning the road up ahead for the next curve.

The road was rather straight for a while so she reached a hoof under her duster taking out the shotgun frowning. She wasn't sure if she was ready to use it, but she had it ready if she needed it.

She saw a sharp turn coming up and prepared to take it, turning the wheel sharply to go around before her eyes went wide she quickly turned in the other direction seeing it was a switch back. The back end sliding out causing her to turn quickly and works the throttle to keep from spinning out.

As she got her car under control the police car went flying over the road missing the first turn. She winced hearing it roll down the hill as she continued on following the switchbacks until she came upon the wrecked police car.

Apple Bloom folded her ears back seeing the wreck. “I need to be more careful...” She told herself, “That could have easily been me...” She started to drive away before spotting one of the police ponies start to crawl out of the wind shield.

She pulled over parking and got out putting the shotgun back in it's holster going over to police pony. “Y... you... your... under... arrest...” The police pony panted reaching for her foreleg cuffs. “Don't resist.”

Apple Bloom folded her ears back sighing, “Your hurt, just relax and I'll help you.” She states softly moving closer but saw the police pony reach for the revolver at on her belt. “Don't do that...” Apple Bloom warned her.

The police pony didn't listen as she pulled the revolver out, however being hurt the police pony's aim was unsteady as she took a shot at Apple Bloom, causing her to yelp and duck pulling out her shotgun and fired back killing her.

The act of killing another pony and recoil from the shotgun stunned Apple Bloom causing her to drop the shotgun in surprise. She stared at the now dead pony for a moment before quickly grabbing the shotgun and putting it back in her holster.

She ran back to her car getting in and pulled away quickly wanting to put as much distance between her and the wrecked police car as she could. “She left me know choice... she shot first... I had no choice...” She muttered trying to convince herself she did the right thing.

She quickly moved off the current back road onto the main highway before getting onto a different set of back roads which ended up getting her lost. She slowed down looking at the road signs before spotting a gas station.

Apple Bloom pulled into the fuel station and stopped at the pumps topping off the tank before going in to pay. While paying for the fuel and a cup of coffee she also got directions back to the main road going to Hallow Shades.

Soon enough Apple Bloom was back on the road following her original route she planned out for the evening. She hadn't gotten to far off her route so she didn't have a lot of time to make up. The earlier fuel stop also meant Apple Bloom didn't have to stop in Hollow Shades.

Apple Bloom already knew which roads she wanted to use between Hollow Shades and Manehatten, she just hoped there wasn't anymore trouble between the two locations. She knew the face of the police pony she had shot was going to haunt her dreams for a while, long with the faces of the two she ran down the night before.

Apple Bloom tried to push the thoughts from her head as she drove on through Hollow Shades and towards Manehatten. In the back of her mind she wondered if she would ever have a good nights sleep again.

Chapter Twelve: Manehatten Business

Chapter Twelve:
Manehatten Business

The trip from Hollow Shades to Manehatten was uneventful for the most part. Apple Bloom kept to the speed limit through the small towns so the local authorities wouldn't pay any attention to her. Soon enough she was back on the major road leading towards Manehatten.

Once she was in the city she started following the directions towards the address on the piece of paper Mariponie gave her folding her ears back. The part of town she ended up in was far less reputable then the last place she delivered to.

The store front windows were boarded up, and the doors had iron gates blocking them closed. “Apple Bloom... what have ya gotten yourself into...” She asked herself as she looked glanced around quietly as she drove to the drop off location.

“On Saddle Avenue and Cropper Street turn down the first alley...” she mumbled to her self reading the directions as she followed them slowing down and pulling into the alley when she spotted it.

The streets in this part of the city was pretty empty since it was still very early in the morning. The only other vehicle she saw was one of the newer model trash collecting trucks. She wondered how anyone was still asleep when it went by.

She spotted the door noted on the directions, third one down on the right. She came to a stop and turned the car off getting out she went to the door and knocked, three times slowly and four times quickly before twice slowly.

Nothing happen, not at first anyways, it was long enough she wondered if she took a wrong turn and was at the wrong door. But the door opened and she saw a fat little unicorn pony with a gray mane, dusty green coat and beady purple eyes. “Apple Bloom.” was all he said with a gravelly voice, wasn't even stated as a question.

“Ya, I'm Apple Bloom.” She confirmed with a faint nod. She was starting to have second thoughts about this delivery. “I have the... product y'all ordered.” She added quickly.

The beady eyed pony looked her over, then looked over at her car before moving. “Enter.” He stated flatly.

Still unsure she hesitated causing the unicorn to snort impatiently so she quickly stepped inside. She caught a glimpse of the fat little unicorns cutie mark, a cigar. She wondered how he came by that as a cutie mark, but judging from the smell inside the room she found herself in she didn't wonder long.

The thick haze of smoke made her cough and fan at her muzzle with a hoof, which only made it worse. The unicorn lead her through narrow hallway into a large club full of ponies, and her eyes went wide.

She had never seen a gentle stallions club before, and she shocked at what she saw. A few mares were on a stage at the front dancing in a way that made her cheeks burn to music coming from a set of speakers on either side of the stage. Dozens of stallions and a few mares cheered, a few even tossed bits onto the stage.

The overpowering cigar scent was thicker from this room as more than one of the stallions and mares in the audience was smoking them.

The stubby unicorn cleared his throat, “20 bits if yer gonna just watch.” he grunted snapping her attention away from the stage causing her blush even more.

“N... no, I'm not...” she stammered waving a hoof indicating he should lead her on again, which he did. She followed him through the room trying to keep from choking on the thick cloud of tobacco smoking hanging in the air.

They passed through another door and up a stairway to a small office. To her relief the room was thankfully free of smoke, she was already feeling light headed. The office had a large bay window overlooking the club they just came from and there was a desk turned to overlook the crowd with a slender mare pegasus who turned to look at Apple Bloom and her escort.

“You can go Avo,” She stated moving to her hooves waving one towards the unicorn. “You must be Apple Bloom.” She asked turning her focus towards Apple Bloom.

“Yes ma'am, I'm Apple Bloom.” Apple Bloom nodded in response watching the pegasus. She was taller than expected, with a pink coat, pale orange mane and tail that had a cornflower blue streak running through it. Her cutie mark was of a gold star.

“Please, you can just call me Rising Star. I own this fine club, and hopefully with your shipment it can get back to being more successful. Though I must admit... with your looks I was hoping you were a new dancer.”

Apple Bloom's cheeks turned red again and she shook her head, “Oh no, I couldn't... I have four left hooves...” She chuckled uncomfortably looking out the pay window, only one dancer was on stage now, singing while she danced a similar provocative dance. “Sides... I ain't nearly as attractive as those mares...”

“Nonsense you have that natural country charm goin for you, though you'd have to lose that old duster and the ribbon is a bit foalish… but cute,” Rising Star told her moving closer causing Apple Bloom to tense. “Then again, you do look pretty young, just get your license?”

Apple Bloom nodded at the pegasus softly. “Ya, I did a few days ago.”

“Pity,” Rising Star nods looking Apple Bloom over again causing her to shift under her bright green eyes. “Well if you're alive and want to stop running illegal liqueur in a year look me up.”

Apple Bloom shifts more under her gaze nodding slightly, “I'll keep that in mind.” She mumbled before taking a deep breath, “But down to why I am here, I have the shipment you wanted. I can start unloadin any time.”

“No need, Avo has already gotten some of the staff unloading your car,” Rising Star smiled at Apple Bloom, “Besides, an attractive young mare such as yourself shouldn't be doing such heavy lifting.”

Apple Bloom simply blushed again, “Well, alright thank ya.” Apple Bloom smiled politely at the pegasus though she was making her uncomfortable. She was unsure of what to say to Rising Star who kept staring at her.

“Your most welcome,” Rising Star smiled at her before folding her ears back looking out the window towards the club. Apple Bloom also looked out the window seeing a commotion going on.

Two large earth pony stallions had a hold of a smaller earth pony and were dragging him the way she had come. A few moments later the door opened and the earth pony stallions tossed the smaller one into the room before standing in front of the door blocking it.

“What's all this then?” Rising Star asked, not asking the larger stallions but the smaller one laying in front of them. Apple Bloom guessed the larger stallions were guards and the smaller was a patron. She listened quietly when the smaller of the three started to speak.

“I wasn't doing nuffin, I was just watching when these goons grabbed me.” He growled moving to his hooves snorting. He was a dark cyan coated stallion, with a green mane and tail, orange eyes and a cutie mark of a pair of dice.

“I see, you weren't trying to put your grubby hooves on my entertainers?” Rising Star asked in a smooth, yet sharp tone watching him.

“Of course not, I'm a gentle stallion of course.” He stated looking offended at the implication.

Rising Star looked over at Apple Bloom before giving her a sweet smile, “Be a sweetheart and turn out the light.” She requested turning back to the smaller stallion.

Apple Bloom was confused but went to where the switch was and turned out the lights for Rising Star. In the faint light coming from the club she could see Rising Star move to her desk and take out something, a few moments later an odd purple light light up the room.

“Well, look at that mister gentle stallion.” Rising Star snorted pointing the light at his hooves which had a yellowish green glow around them. “Didn't put your hooves on them my flank. Apple Bloom, you can turn the lights back on.”

Apple Bloom fumbled a bit turning the lights back on, confused about what just happen.

“That don't prove anything... what was that anyways?” The stallion asked, Apple Bloom wondering the same thing.

“That, proves you are a lying pony, a special dust put on the coats of my entertainers before they go on stage that glows under a special light.” Rising Star explained the ears of the stallion drooping, he knew he was caught. “Any pony who puts their filthy hooves on them gets it transferred to them as well... just like you.”

“What's gonna happen to him now?” Apple Bloom asked after a few moments of silence.

“Well, my dear Apple Bloom, we're going to teach him a lesson and you're going to help. You're in the business now.” Rising Star stated smiling at her.

Chapter Thrirteen: Taking Care of Business

Chapter Thirteen:
Taking Care of Business

Apple Bloom's eyes widen, “Teach... him a lesson?” She asked though unsure if she wanted to know what Rising Star meant.

“Yes, a lesson he won't forget.” She said in her silky smooth voice while trotting over to a corner of her office picking up a pipe Apple Bloom didn't notice before. “Now, be a dear Apple Bloom and make sure he doesn't move.”

Apple Bloom blinked at Rising Star before looking at the stallion whose eyes went wide seeing the pipe. “W... what are ya gonna do?” She asked unsure of what to do.

Rising Star folded her ears back looking at Apple Bloom, “Like I said, teach him a lesson. Now hold him down before I have to teach you one as well.” She replied her silky smooth voice sharper than before.

“R... right...” Apple Bloom stammered moving to the stallion and grabbing him from behind wrapping her forelegs around him bracing herself to keep him off balance. It was awkward but it was the best she could manage.

Rising Star smirked moving closer to the two, “Please, don't do this, I won't cause trouble again.” The stallion pleaded but Rising Star wasn't listening, she took the pipe in her muzzle before rearing back.

Apple Bloom folded her ears back hearing a sickening crack of bone followed by the sound the stallion shrieking in pain. She had her eyes closed tight but she felt the stallion get heavier on the left side. If she hadn't braced herself both of them would have tumbled to the ground.

There was another sound of bone cracking and Apple Bloom felt the stallion become dead weight in her arms, but she could still hear his shrieks of pain, she kept herself braced but it was getting harder to hold him up.

“You can let him go Apple Bloom,” Rising Star said and Apple Bloom loosened her grip trying to let the stallion down easy. However when she loosened her grip his weight went onto his hind legs causing fresh pain to flood through him and he shrieked again spooking her enough so she dropped him.

“A... are we done...?” She asked looking up at Rising Star feeling sick.

“Not just yet,” Rising Star smiled at her, “Sit on his chest and hold his right foreleg out, “His legs was for lying to me, now it's time to teach him to keep his hooves to himself.”

Apple Bloom folded her ears back but did as she was told, when she saw the stallion she had to fight her stomach to keep it's contents in place. She moved over sitting on his stomach as instructed holding his foreleg out.

“On second thought, Apple Bloom dear you need to get over this, squeamish side, as adorable as it is.” Rising Star said moving she nudged her off the stallion taking her place. “Take the pipe and give a good firm strike to his hoof. Do it right the first time... or you'll make him suffer more.”

Apple Bloom almost fainted at the command, she really wasn't sure she could do this. She took a few slow deep breaths lifting the pipe up in her muzzle. I have to do this... who knows what this crazy mare will do if I don't... She thought to herself looking at the stallion's fore hoof.

Apple Bloom reared herself up before bringing the pipe down as hard as she could into the fore hoof of the stallion with a solid thud causing him to shriek in pain, but there was no crack of bone. “Oh, nicely done but... no break you'll have to try again.”

Apple Bloom folded her ears back as she fought her stomach closing her eyes tight she took a few deep breaths before bringing the pipe back up then down into the fore hoof again, then a third time, on the fourth strike she heard the crack of bone and stopped panting deeply.

“One down, one more to go.” Rising Star said flicking her ears as she shifted her position to hold the stallion's left foreleg down, by this point though the stallion had passed out from the pain.

Apple Bloom took a deep breath around the pipe before moving around focused on what she had to do, ignoring what her gut and her mind told her. Rearing her self up she brought the pipe down on to the hoof until she heard the crack of bone, only took her three times that time around.

Rising Star got up dusting herself off before taking the pipe from Apple Bloom. “Well done Apple Bloom,” she looked over at the two larger stallions, “We're almost done here. I just have a few more instructions for our new employee here.”

Apple Bloom tilt her head at the word employee, looking at the mare. “Wait... what do you mean?” She asked softly.

“Like I said before, you're in the business now my dear. Preform well and you can have anything you want... just don't disappoint me, and don't snitch to the cops.”

Apple Bloom's throat felt dry as she looks at Rising Star, she nods faintly. “Of course...” She said softly, this isn't what she expected when she took this job. “What about my cider running business?” She asked tilting her head.

“You'll still do that, but also you will do jobs for me, or Mr. Mariponie when we ask.” Rising Star said before looking at the broken stallion on the floor. “Your first job, will be to take care of him.”

“I thought we already did.” Apple Bloom said softly looking at the stallion quietly.

“No, we taught him a lesson, he's learned it now he has to go. Take him to the Manehatten docks, when it gets dark, tie some blocks around his waist and dump him in.” Rising Star smiled, “Or since you live near Ponyville, take him out to the Everfree and leave him. I'm sure something out there will finish the job.”

Apple Bloom started to feel sick again, neither choice was appealing. “What do I do with him till it gets dark? I also need some sleep” She sighed, the docks sounded like a better option to her then driving him back to Ponyville.

“Well... you and him can stay at a nearby apartment,” Rising Star said nodding at one of the large stallions and grabs the stallion tossing him on his back. “Just follow Bronco.”

Apple Bloom nodded faintly looking at the large stallion. A massive earth pony brown in color with a cutie mark of a bull skull on his flank, his mane and tail where yellow and cut short. She follows the stallion who leads them out a back way of the club and to an apartment building right next door.

The sun had been up for a while she guessed, the streets in this part of the city were quite. The stallion takes them up to a room on the third floor and dumps the stallion on the floor. Apple Bloom winced slightly.

The large stallion, Bronco didn't say anything as he left closing the door behind him. Apple Bloom shakes her head sighing softly. She looks at the smaller stallion, she didn't even know his name, his hind legs swollen at the knees turning a sick purple color while twisted at angles pony hind legs weren't meant to twist, his fore hooves also swollen and turning a sick purple.

She shook her head looking away moving to the bed laying down. She wasn't sure if she could sleep though. Her mind went to the stallion on the floor, she knew if she didn't kill him, his life was ruined and she partly responsible for it. “In too deep now...” She muttered to herself closing her eyes. Exhaustion taking over she did fall asleep, but it wasn't peaceful.

Chapter Fourteen: Risky

Chapter 14
Risky

Apple Bloom woke up to the sound of something scraping against the floor of the room she was staying in. At first she thought she was imaging in it, but slowly the fog of sleep started to clear and she remembered the stallion from the club was in the room as well.

Apple Bloom opened her eyes slowly rolling over. The sky was starting to darken offering little light through the windows. Never the less she was still able to make out the form of the stallion struggling to drag himself across the floor towards the door.

She thought about just closing her eyes and going back to sleep, not like there was much he could in his current condition anyways. However, she couldn't just leave him like that either. Even if she was partly to blame for him being like that.

She moved as quietly as she could to her hooves getting out of the bed before clearing her throat. “Gonna to hurt yerself worse if ya keep that up.” She spoke once she was up.

The stallion froze before turning to look at her. “W... what... do you care... you did this to me...” He stammered looking up at her, Apple Bloom did her best not to flinch at his words. “Gonna finish me off now...?”

Apple Bloom shook her head slowly looking at him, “No, I'm not...” She sighed softly looking out the window, there was storm clouds hanging low over the city. “You're just going on a trip in a little while.” She lied moving towards the small kitchen area to get something to drink.

“A trip... to where?” He asked watching her.

Apple Bloom found a glass and filled it with water, she folded her ears back at the question taking a drink of the water. “To the zebra country.” She answered sighing again before turning to face him. “They'll take care of you, help you get better and start a new life.”

“I don't want a new life, I like my life here.” He snorted glaring up at her, she was relieved he bought the lie even if it made her feel a little sick having to lie to him. “What's to stop me from just yelling for help?”

Apple Bloom flicked her ears putting her glass down and taking out her shotgun. “I'll shove this in your mouth and pull the trigger.” She nods slightly. “Before anyone realizes what happen I'll be long gone and you're head will be a mist on the wall.”

The stallion shrinks back looking at the shotgun. “Fine...” He muttered in defeat shaking his head. “Who would’ve thought you ponies were so up tight.”

Apple Bloom snorted looking at him, “Ya should have kept yer hooves to yerself.” She snapped him putting her shotgun away, “I could have been on my way home instead of foal sitting ya. Was just suppose to deliver some cider and be on my way.”

He looks at her quietly, “So what... your some kind of liquor smuggler?”

“I guess so,” She nods at him lightly.

“Slippery road filly, you're already heading down a dark path. Eventually you'll cross a line you can't come back from.” He warned looking at her quietly.

Apple Bloom took another drink of her water looking out the window quietly. “How do you know? Y'all just some creep who touches mares who don't wanna be touched.” She snorted, though in the back of her mind she wondered, Have I already crossed that line? I've already killed ponies and I'm about to kill another.

“I've been around and seen things filly.” He said quietly watching her before looking away resting against the wall “Might be best if you walk away now.”

Apple Bloom was about to say something when she saw movement outside, she squinted to get a better look before cursing under her breath turning to him, “Who are ya?” She asked drawing her shotgun folding her ears back.

“I think you've figured it out, I'm Risky Throw, an undercover police pony.” He stated watching her as he shifted slightly. “I was asked to investigate the club but... that ended poorly as you can see.”

She folded her ears back looking out the window again before looking at him, “Horse feathers, bucking horse feathers!” She cursed again as she bucked the cabinets before trotting over to him and roughly pulled him onto her back causing him to cry out in pain.

“Easy filly!” Risky hissed in pain, “Put me down you're just going to make it worse if you try to run.”

“It's already too late for that!” She growled pushing the door open, “Now shut it.” She demanded, she took the shotgun in her muzzle and peeked out the room, it looked clear so she headed down it towards the stairs creeping down them slowly keeping her eyes open.

Risky squirmed on her back as she moved towards the back entrance of the building hoping it emptied out into the apply her car was parked in. “Just give up, things will be easier for you,” he tried to convince her as she moved.

She growled softly moving the shotgun to her hooves, “If y'all don't be quiet I'm going to knock ya out.” She hissed before putting the shotgun in her muzzle again.

She moved the back door leading the alley and pushed him off her back carefully so not to hurt his fore and hind legs. She reared up and peeked through the window. She spotted a police pony standing at the door.

“Damn it...” She whispered softly looking at Risky who had gone silent, she went over to him and pulled him onto her back again but a little different using his body to shield as much of her own as possible.

“What are you planning?” Risky asked her quietly unsure if he lined where this was going.

“I'm getting out of here, and unless you want to me, yerself, or anypony else to die, just be still and keep quiet.” She stated glancing over him narrowing her eyes before taking the shotgun in her muzzle again looking at the door taking a deep breath.

Chapter Fifteen: Escaping Manehatten

Chapter 15
Manehatten Escape

Apple Bloom turned bucking the backdoor of the hotel hard enough to send it flying off the hinges before spinning around aiming the shotgun through the door. The police pony that had been guarding the door was knocked to the ground dazed.

She stuck her head out of the door frame glancing around quickly before running down the small flight of stairs into the alley. She could hear other police ponies coming towards the alley. Bucking the door open wasn't subtle but it was the only way she could think of to make sure the pony guarding it didn't become a threat.

“Freeze! Police, drop the weapon and pony on your back!” She heard an officer demand. She ignored the demand and kept running. Apple Bloom heard the pony swear start running after her before hearing a crack of gunfire.

Her heart raced at the sound of gunfire but she didn't feel any pain, glancing back she saw the police pony that had been chasing her on the ground a pool of blood forming. Confused she started to slow.

“Keep moving!” Rising Star's voice called at her, she didn't take the time to try to figure out where the voice came from. Apple Bloom started running again spotting her car down a side alley and turned down it.

Apple Bloom heard more cracks of gunfire coming nearby and frowned. She had hoped to get out of the area without any bloodshed.

She was halfway down the alley when a police pony came out of a doorway pointing a rifle at her. “Freeze!” The stallion demanded of her.

Apple Bloom slid to a stop still holding the shotgun in her muzzle looking at the stallion blocking her path.

“That's a good filly, now put the gun down and surrender.” He spoke as he started to walk closer to her.

Apple Bloom looked passed him at her car, it looked like a clear run once she got to it. She folded her ears back taking a step back. She braced herself before firing the shotgun feeling the recoil push her back a little.

At this range, half the stallion's head disappeared in a spray of buckshot. Apple Bloom did her best not to retch from the site as she ran past the body to her car. She opened the back and pushed Risky into it before tossing the shotgun into the passenger seat pulling out the sub-machine gun.

“You don't really think you can make it out of Manehatten do you?” Risky asked her, he had been quiet most for the most part. Just making small grunts of pain from time to time.

“I'll do what I have to.” Apple Bloom replied getting into the driver's seat. “Just hang tight.” She glared at him before starting the engine and speeds out of the alley.

As soon as her car left the alley she heard gun fire strike the sides and back of the car. She aimed the submachine gun out the window and open fire on the police cars and police ponies while turning onto the road and speeding away.

Apple Bloom wasn't sure if she hit anything but it gave her a time to put a little distances between herself and the police. However, it wasn't enough she could already hear the sirens as the police ponies started to give chase.

Apple Bloom aimed the submachine gun out the back glass and fired another burst using the rear view mirror to aim as best she could. She saw one of the police cars suddenly turn sharp and crash into a store front.

She wasn't sure if she hit driver or the tire but it was one less police car to deal with. Though there was still too many behind her for her liking. She refocused her attention ahead of her, she took a sharp turn floored it, the tires squealing loudly as they tried to grip the road.

Apple Bloom felt the rear of the car clip a street light as it finally gripped the road and she sped down the street ducking between carts and other cars. She heard a loud crash and glanced into the rear view mirror in time to see a large delivery truck speed out of an alleyway slam into one of the police cars that managed to follow around the corner and block the road.

Apple Bloom let out a sigh of relief but she didn't slow until she was sure the police had lost her trail. She took a few more turns but made sure she kept moving away from Rising Star's club as she went.

“You may have lost the police, but they will be looking for you and your car filly.” Risky growled at her. “You still have time to give yourself up.”

“Not gonna happen.” She snorted at him as she kept driving keeping her eyes open, she noticed she was near the docks. She pulled into the dock yard and down near where they unloaded the ships. The place was pretty empty. “But you're right, they will be looking for this car.”

“So what's your genius plan? Ditch the car and walk to Ponyville?” Risky asked chuckling softly before grunting in pain.

“Something like that.” She whispered parking the car and putting the shotgun in its holster and stashing the sub machine gun away. She then got out and opened the truck before moving to the back passenger door pulling Risky out.

“Wait... what are you doing?” Risky asked struggling in her grasp before it dawned on him, “You can't do this! You're not a cold blooded murderer! Please don't do this filly!”

Apple Bloom folded her ears back, pushing him into the trunk closing the lid. She could hear him banging on it. “I... I'm sorry I have to...” She whispered, “And I am a cold blooded killer.” She sighed.

Apple Bloom took a deep breath as she listens to him bang on the trunk lid. She found a piece of wood and used it to brace down the accelerator listening to the engine rev before putting the car into drive jumping back as speed off into Manehatten Bay. “Good bye Risky...” She whispered hearing the splash.

Once the car was gone she turned and started to walk away from the docks, she found a bus depot and got a ticket to Ponyville. The news about the shoot out near Rising Star's was still sketchy and details about Apple Bloom was still unclear so she didn't have too much trouble getting a ticket. Nevertheless, she knew she had to be careful they would be looking for her soon.

Chapter Sixteen: Until The End

Chapter Sixteen
Until The End

The trip back to Ponyville for Apple Bloom was uneventful, and she had dozed off in her seat as. The low rumble of the engine and the soft hum of the wheels lulling her to sleep. The whole ordeal in Manehatten with Risky and escaping the police had left her drained.

She didn't sleep well however, her dreams were plagued with images of Risky pounding on the trunk lid as the car sank beneath the water in the bay begging her to be let out, and the police pony who she had to shoot.

She jerked in her seat sitting up panting softly looking around rubbing her eyes with a hoof before letting out a soft sigh. The bus was mostly empty, and the sky was starting to get dark, looking out the window she recognized she was very close to Ponyville now.

'How can I face Applejack with what I've done... she was worried about this happenin'...' Apple Bloom sighed softly again thinking to herself. 'I can't tell her the truth about what happen in Manehatten or what happen to my car.'

When the bus pulled into the bus depot she got to her hooves and made her way off. She decided to go to the restaurant to check up on things, she really didn't feel like going to the farm. The place seemed pretty lively, she smiled as she went inside.

“Apple Bloom you're back!” Sweetie called to her as she entered, “How was your trip?”

“It was... tirin', but fine.” Apple Bloom forced a smile as she lied. “Everythin' been goin' alright?”

“Yep, everything is going great.” Sweetie Belle smiled at her leading her to a staff room in the back while another pony took over Sweetie Belle's spot as greeter. “Though Scootaloo been hoping for more excitement.”

Apple Bloom shakes her head, “Sounds like Scootaloo,” Apple Bloom sighed. “Excitement isn't all it's cracked up to be.” She mutters softly under her breath.

“What was that?” Sweetie asked looking at Apple Bloom wiggling her ears a little at the muttering. “Apple Bloom... has something happen? You look... I don't know, sad... and troubled.”

Apple Bloom rubs her face with a hoof sighing, she gets up and looks around closing and locking the door to the staff room before taking out a bottle of cider she knew was hidden in the room.

“Apple Bloom...?” Sweetie asked looking concerned as Apple Bloom opened the bottle and took a drink from it sitting back down at the table.

“Somethin' has happened Sweetie... a lot has happened.” Apple Bloom started looking at the bottle. “I've killed ponies... too many ponies, from Water Lily to police ponies...” She took another drink from the cider bottle.

“You... you killed Water Lily...?” Sweetie Belle asked her eyes going wide looking at Apple Bloom, “Why? She was a sweet pony.” Her voice wasn't accusatory, she was more shocked and worried.

“She was going to tell the police.” Apple Bloom whimpered softly her eyes filling with tears. “I didn't want to kill her, I didn't want to kill any pony.” She wiped at her eyes, “Why did they have to pass this stupid law banning cider and cause all of this?” Apple Bloom asked looking at Sweetie Belle.

Sweetie Belle was at a loss, she put a hoof on Apple Bloom's back rubbing it softly, “I don't know Apple Bloom.” Her horn glowed as she floated the cider bottle away from her pouring it out in the sink. “Come on, you need to go home and get some sleep. Where did you park?”

Apple Bloom sniffed rubbing her eyes, “My car is at the bottom of Manehatten bay...” Apple Bloom said softly. “W... with the body of an undercover cop in it...”

Sweetie Belle went a little pale but nods softly. “Well... it's a nice night we can walk.”

Apple Bloom sniffs softly nodding, Sweetie Belle unlocks the door and walks with Apple Bloom out of the staff room. “Cover for me please Peachy okay?” She told the pony at the greeting station.

“Yes ma'am,” Peachy nods at Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom as they left the restaurant.

Apple Bloom took a deep breath after they left the restaurant breathing in the night air, it helped her calm down. “Am I turnin' into a bad pony Sweetie Belle?”

Sweetie Belle was quiet for a few moments before looking over at Apple Bloom, “I... I don't know, I don't think so... but you have done some bad things.” Sweetie Belle said honestly. “I would like to believe, you did what you did for a good reason.”

Apple Bloom folds her ears back at Sweetie Belle's answer but nods slowly, “I... I would like to think... I did as well...” She sighed softly looking at the ground while they walked. “I keep tellin myself I did.”

“Maybe... we should just get out of this whole thing before it's too late...” Sweetie Belle suggested, “Scootaloo may be disappointed but the restaurant it doing well by itself... even without the cider sells.”

Apple Bloom nods softly smiling at Sweetie Belle, “That is nice to hear... and I would like that.” She agreed before sighing shaking her head. “I'm in to deep... I can't quit... I doubt Mariponi would let me... I know Rising Star won't. You and Scootaloo should before you get hurt though.”

Sweetie Belle looks at Apple Bloom quietly. “We can't let you do this alone... Crusader's forever, remember?” Sweetie Belle smiled at her, “We started this together, we'll end it together.”

Apple Bloom blinks looking at Sweetie Belle, “Sweetie...” She sighed before leaning against her, “That's sweet, but foolish, you shouldn't put yourself in danger like that for me. You have a chance at a nice, safe, life runnin' a successful business. Don't throw that away alright?”

Sweetie Belle smiles at her leaning back, “Sorry Apple Bloom, but you know Scootaloo won't quit if you can't and what kind of friend would I be if I do?” She shakes her head. “You're stuck with us.”

Apple Bloom sighs but shakes her head smiling at her. “Alright, alright, I know when I'm beat.” She looks up as they reached the gate to the farm, she opens the gate looking at Sweetie Belle. “Thanks for walking me home.”

“You're welcome Apple Bloom, get some rest alright?” Sweetie Belle smiles back at her before starting to walk back toward the town. Apple Bloom smiles closing the gate to the farm and walking towards the farmhouse. She felt relieved getting everything out in the open.

Chapter Seventeen: Home Sweet Home

Chapter Seventeen
Home Sweet Home

The talk with Sweetie Belle had made Apple Bloom feel better, but she was still worried about what would happen next. There was a lot of heat in Manehatten with the shoot out between her and the cops, as well as the high speed chase through the city.

She was also worried if they would find her car in at the bottom of the bay with Risky's body in the trunk. She didn't suspect they would, but there was always a chance, and if they did it would trace right back to her and the farm.

She sighed shaking her head walking to the farmhouse and pushing the door open, “Applejack? Big Mac? I'm home.” She called as she went inside looking around, it was quiet and she wondered if they had gone to bed. “They don't normally go to bed this early...” She muttered softly to herself.

She cocked her head to the side twitching an ear listening before noticing what time it was, “Then again...” She sighed softly realizing how late it was closing the door quietly she made her way to her room.

She actually slept better than she thought she would with all that had happened, her dreams were still plagued with images of ponies dying they had been brief enough to allow her some rest.

However as the night went on her dreams twisted to images of Sweetie Belle being forced to work for Rising Star and Scootaloo being gun downed in the streets of Manehatten by police ponies. More police ponies raiding the farm gunning down her sister and brother as they try to defend their home. Herself being locked away only to be executed in front of her classmates.

“Apple Bloom, I'm so disappointed in you,” Cheerilee told her body as it swung from the gallows. “Getting your friends and family killed like that. I thought I taught you better than that.”

“Pft, should've known you'd get your cutie mark in being a loser,” Diamond Tiara told her looking at her flank, which had a cutie mark of a stylized hanging thumbs down on it.

“Yea, our underground cider business was so much better.” Silver Spoon laughed shaking her head, “We even bought your one living friend with the profit. Right Sweetie Belle?” Silver Spoon looked over at Sweetie Belle.

“That's right, everything is so much better now without you.” Sweetie Belle smiled, looking posh wearing a small tiara and pearl necklaces blending into a mix of Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. “Just a shame about Scootaloo.”

The body of Scootaloo staggered up to her, blood dripping from the bullet wounds and from her mouth. “You did this to me! I should’ve known you would get me killed, you ruin everything!” The undead pegasus launched into the air at Apple Bloom's hanging dead body tearing into it.

She sat up in with a scream of surprise, panting hard looking around her bedroom. The sun was up, however she wasn't sure what time it was. She heard someone approaching and looked to the door seeing Applejack come in, “Sugar cube, when ya' get in?”

“Late last night,” Apple Bloom answered calming down as she got out of bed, she was still wearing her duster and holster.

“I see, y'all have been pretty tired sleepin' like that, take a shower and come downstairs. I'll have breakfast waitin' for ya alright?” Applejack smiled at her leaving the room to head downstairs to fix breakfast for Apple Bloom.

“Alright sis,” Apple Bloom called after her slipping off her duster and holster putting both on a chair before heading to the bathroom to wash up.

She let out a deep sigh of relief feeling the hot water hit her coat relaxing her. Her muscles relaxed and untensed as the stress of the past few days starting to melt away. However the dream still bothered her, she didn't understand what it meant.

“Do I really ruin everything...?” She asked herself quietly looking at the drain as the water swirled down it. She shakes her head, “No, it's just a stupid dream it means nothing.” She shakes her head sling water off her mane.

She got herself cleaned off and dried before heading downstairs breathing in the scent of the breakfast Applejack had made, smelled like pancakes. She smiled to herself before twitching her ear and frowning softly hearing the radio playing in the background reporting the news about the gunfight in Manehatten.

“Apple Bloom, y'all know anythin' bout that?” Applejack asked her as she came into the dining room and took a seat at the table giving her a concerned and worried look.

Apple Bloom took a deep breath, but nods at her sister, “Yea, the delivery to Manehatten didn't go as smoothly as I had hoped...” She looked at the table quietly, “As I'm sure you heard on the radio... what has the radio been sayin'?” She asked softly.

Applejack gave Apple Bloom a plate with a few pancakes and a cup of orange juice. “An undercover pony didn't checked in so they sent in a recovery team, a shootout took place between some mafia ponies and the recovery ponies.”

Apple Bloom remained quiet taking a drink of her juice, nodding softly looking at her plate suddenly not that hungry. After a few moments of silence she looked at Applejack, “Anything else?”

“They also was talk of a high speed chase through lower Manehatten, but the car managed to get away before the pegasi could be called in to help track it.” Applejack sighed looking at Apple Bloom, “I'm guessin' that was you?”

Apple Bloom took a bite of her pancake nodding at Applejack.

“I suspected as much... dang it Apple Bloom this is the kinda thing I wanted ya to avoid in Manehatten.” Applejack grumbled looking away shaking her head. “Gettin mixed up with them city ponies always causes trouble.”

“Ah know sis,” she sighed shaking her head. “I tried to avoid it but I had no choi-”

“Of course ya had a choice!” Applejack suddenly turned yelling at her cutting her off. “There is always a choice, ya tell em no!”

Apple Bloom folded her ears back looking at Applejack, “But-”

“No buts!” Applejack cut her off again, “If they tell ya do something wrong you tell them no, and get out before it gets too far.”

Apple Bloom looked down before stomping a hoof, “They didn't give me that choice!” Apple Bloom snapped back at her sister, “Ah just went to deliver my order like ah was suppose to, but when I went to collect the bits they dragged that poor undercover pony in and told me ah had to help torture him or ah'd take his place!” Apple Bloom continued as tears started to swell in her eyes. “Ah didn't have a choice!”

Applejack folded her ears back looking at Apple Bloom as she listens to her sister yell at her. “Apple Bloom...” She pulled her sister into a hug nuzzling her shoulder. “I'm sorry... I didn't know it was that bad... I should have had more faith in your judgment. It's just... ya been reckless lately.”

Apple Bloom nuzzled back hug as she hugs her sister, “Ah know sis... am sorry...” She rubs her eyes against her sister's shoulder, “I've just been wrapped up in what I'm doin... I haven't been thinkin' bout the consequences.”

“What are ya going to do?” Applejack asked looking at Apple Bloom.

She shakes her head softly taking a deep breath calming herself. “I don't know... I'm gonna need to think about it.” She said softly looking at Applejack. “I'm not going to Manehatten anytime soon... specially without a car.” She sighed softly.

Applejack blinks looking at Apple Bloom, “What happened to yer car?”

Apple Bloom looked away folding her ears back, “It's... in Manehatten bay...” she muttered, leaving out the part about Risky being in the trunk.

Applejack sighed but nods slowly, “I see...” She hugged Apple Bloom again, “At least yer safe and home. I just hope it stays that way... at least for a while.”

Apple Bloom hugged her back nodding softly. “So do I.”

Chapter Eighteen: A Rock & A Hard Place

Chapter Eighteen
A Rock & A Hard Place

Apple Bloom made her way into town, taking a deep breath. “Mm such a nice day for a walk,” she sighed softly smiling as she looked around the dusty road. She had been doing so much driving lately she hadn't had a chance to enjoy the scenery or breath in the scent of the countryside.

Once she had gotten into town she walked towards the car-lot so she could replace her car. “Hello there Apple Bloom,” The sales pony greeting her, “What can I do for you today?”

“Hello Jasper,” Apple Bloom smiled at him, “I need a new car.”

“Really? What happen to that nice Colt Three I sold your family a few months back?” He asked tilting his head.

She sighed softly shaking her head, “Had a bit of an accident with it,” She muttered not wanting to go into further detail.

“I see, well we have some new models in.” Jasper said leading Apple Bloom through the lot, “The new Colt Four,” he smiled showing her the car. “It has a faster top speed, better acceleration, better grip around the corners which means it corners sharper.”

Apple Bloom nods as she looks the car over checking it over. “Looks pretty good, the truck size is good as well.” She looks over at Jasper. “I'll take it.”

“Alright, come this way.” Jasper smiled pleasantly, leading Apple Bloom to his office. She filled out the paperwork and paid the bits after talking him down in price.

Once everything was sorted at the car-lot she took the car to city hall to get it registered, grumbling to herself at the fees. She was impressed with how the car handled on the road though.

Apple Bloom was on her way home when she noticed a car following her, she even turned down a back-road that only went to the farm's back entrance to be sure. However the car was still following after her.

“Okay... this is ridiculous.” She grumbled giving the car more gas speeding away.

The other car speed chasing after her before sounding a siren and one of the ponies in the car floated a flashing red light out attaching it to the roof.

“What in Equestria?” Apple Bloom groaned slowing the car down and pulling to the side of the road. “A unmarked police pony car? How is that even far?”

The unmarked car pulled up behind her, “Turn off the engine and step out of the vehicle.” One of the ponies command, magic amplifying the voice. “Close the door and put your fore-hooves on the roof.”

Apple Bloom sighed turning off the engine and climbing out after closing the door she reared up and put her fore-hooves on the roof as instructed hanging her head.

Once Apple Bloom had done as she was told the doors of the unmarked car opened and two ponies got out, a unicorn and an earth pony, wearing dark suits. The driver, the earth pony, moved towards Apple Bloom, the passenger took out a rifle and made sure Apple Bloom didn't try to run or attack.

“What's the meanin' of this?” Apple Bloom demanded, but she didn't move from where she was told to stand. “I wasn't speedin' or nuffin.”

“We know Apple Bloom, we also know you've been smuggling illegal cider to Manehatten,” the earth pony, a filly maybe four years older than Apple Bloom, told her. “I'm Agent Noi, and that is my partner Agent Pinch.”

Apple Bloom blinked turning to look at the two, “Wait... Noi? Pinch, Ruby Pinch? We went to school together and what is this agent business, agents of what?”

“There will be time for questions later.” Ruby said putting the rifle down, “Get in and we'll explain,” Her horn glowed as she opened the back seat of the unmarked car.

Apple Bloom was confused, but she nodded moving to the car getting in the back seat, Noi reached into Apple Bloom's getting the keys before getting into the driver's seat of the unmarked car.

Ruby got into the passenger seat turning to look at Apple Bloom, her horn glowed as she floated up hoof restraints securing them to Apple Blooms fore and hind legs. “Sorry Apple Bloom, but it's policy. For all of our safety.”

Apple Bloom tugged at the restraints sighing, “Of course it is... so what am I being arrested?” She asked leaning back against the seat.

“Yes... and no.” Noi answered starting the car and turning it around driving out of the back-road and into town. “We're with a new branch of Celestia's government, ever since cars and guns got invented Celestia knew the police wouldn't be able to handle everything.”

“So... she made this agent group?” Apple Bloom asked not really understanding.

“Yes, she created the Equestrian Bureau of Investigation. We have more authority to act than the normal police ponies do.” Ruby Pinch explained keeping her eyes forward, but Apple Bloom couldn't help but feel that she was watching her through the rear view mirror.

“Well... that's creepy to be honest.” Apple Bloom muttered, “So what do you want with me?”

“We want to bring in Mareponie and his organization.” Noi explained as she drove into town, but not to police station, they went to a small building near city hall. Apple Bloom never paid too much attention to the building, she thought it was just offices.

“So, just go and arrest him.” Apple Bloom said looking at the two as Noi parked the car in the back and Ruby released the restraints from the floor board.

Both stayed quiet as they got out, Noi opened the door as Ruby pulled on the chain of the restraints pulled Apple Bloom out of the car and leading her into the building. The two leading her to a bland room with just three chairs and a table.

Apple Bloom was sat in one of the chairs, Ruby and Noi sitting across from her in the other chairs. “It's not that simple, while it is true we have more authority we can't just go in and arrest them, we need hard proof.” Noi finally explained after they had gotten settled into the room.

“So? What do you want from me?” Apple Bloom asked looking at the two before it dawned on her, “Oh... no way I ain't talking, I'm not putting my family and friends in danger.”

“They already are in danger,” Noi sighed shaking her head. “Do you really think Mariponie or one of his rivals wont come after you or your family?”

Apple Bloom shook her head sighing, she had to admit Mariponie was dangerous, as was Rising Star and Rossi. “How can I be sure that my friends and family will be safe?”

“We can mov...”

“No way,” Apple Bloom cut off Ruby as she started to speak, “Applejack won't go for that, no way in Tartarus will she move off the farm.”

Noi sighed, “We can see about assigning a protective detail then, it won't be as safe but it's the best we can do if they won't go into protective custody.”

“And what do I do?” Apple Bloom asked looking at Noi then over at Ruby Pinch. “And what's in it for me?”

“You, just keep doing what you're doing,” Noi explained, “Do the jobs Mariponie assigns to you, make reports to us. We'll also have you wear something enchanted that will record sound as evidence.”

“As for what you will get, your family and friends won't serve any jail time for helping in the illegal cider business.” Ruby stated looking Noi then at Apple Bloom, “However, you have to answer for the murders, we may be able to get you a reduced sentence.”

Apple Bloom hung her head folding her ears back, she knew she was stuck, “Alright, I'll do it.” She sighed, she could at least keep her family and friends out of jail.

Chapter Nineteen: A Hard Offer to Refuse

Chapter Nineteen
A Hard Offer to Refuse

Noi and Ruby released Apple Bloom from the restraints, before the finer details of what she needed to do, including the paperwork once they released her. Completing that seeming drawn out process. Ruby passed over Apple Bloom's keys and a second small object, which turned out to be an enchanted clip with the ability to record conversations, that could attach to her duster.

Whatever pseudo pleasantries the trio seemed to partake in, ended at the end of their interactions, leaving Apple Bloom grumbling on her walk back to her car. She began muttering to herself as if some invisible pony had been traveling with her, "They could have at least brought me back... and the day was going so well." She shook her head, happening to look down the path that wound its way to the farm, while she absently kicked a stone down the path that had the misfortune of being at her hoof. She let out a sign only to quickly add the comment, "Ah well, almost home, then ah can put this rotten day behind me."

After driving the rest of the way back home with no other incident, she pulled the vehicle into her usual spot behind the bar. She shut off the engine then proceeded to slide out of the driver's seat, she happened to spot the familiar faces of Applejack and Big Mac. Her mood did not improve seeing the worried look on Applejack's which was mirrored in the older mare's ton of voice when Applejack called over. "Apple Bloom! Where have you been? We were worried something had happen to ya."

Apple Bloom could not hide the smile that crept over her face, "Ah'm fine, just had a few things to deal with." She asked with uplifted spirits, quickly adding the question, "Y'all doin alright here? Need help with anything?" As she spoke, she looked around the farm, and even inside the bar, adding the gesture of a wave to brother, whom gave her the silent response of a nod.

Being thankful for the conversation that broke the silence she was enduring with Big Mac, Applejack continued, "Nah, we got everything under control. Thanks for offerin though." Looking over Apple Bloom before continuing, "Y'all sure, yer okay sis?" She then thought about adding a hint to the previous night's conversion, so she quickly added "Ah see y'all replaced yer car."

"Everything is great sis," Apple Blood responded, finding the smile she now wore had been forced, yet she continued, "Ya we needed a new one and this is a good one. " She stopped long enough to have a deep breath, the weight of the night had at last bore down on her yet she had continued before trotting off, "If y'all don't need any help, ah'm gonna head inside and take a bath before getting something to eat."

"Alright sis..." Applejack said while she watched the filly trot off.

Once she was out of sight, and more import ear shot Big Mac finally spot asking, "She okay?"

Applejack gave her brother a sidelong glance, while she replied, "Ah do'n think so Big Mac... Something is going on."

"Eeyup... I feel it to, she is worried and on edge." Big Mac agreed while he looked at the cider still, only to add, "We doing the right thing here?"

"Ah do'n know anymore Mac." Applejack sighed, knowing she had no other idea's left to give, her voice trailed off when she repeated herself, "Ah just don't know."

Apple Bloom lounged in the tub trying to relax, however the more she tried to push the nights happenings away, she could not help but get the image of Risky's face out of her mind, nor could she shake the deep remorse of those she had either hurt or killed. She sunk deeper into the water, letting out a groan, only to start talking to herself.

"How did it get like this? Ah just wanted to help mah family..." With failed attempt of finding solace in a hot bath, she continued to grumble, then decided to get out of the tub.

Though she did not feel hungry, despite the fact she had not eaten all day, she thought it would have been a wise idea to have some form of nourishment in her body. With that now being the short-term goal, she dried herself and headed to the kitchen. Though she had gotten some left over salad, she merely picked at it for a while. After deciding any further attempt was futile, she grabbed a bottle of cider, then headed to her room. Finding the liquid meal was far better than what she attempted to eat, she drained the bottle of its contents, only to flop down on her bed, then proceeded to do her best to fall asleep, and escape into the land of dreams for her limited escape of reality.

She slipped into a restless sleep, tossing and turning while trying to banish the ghosts of those she had killed plagued her mind. Come morning she felt drained due the inability to sleep well. Hoping she could get some rest with wishes to grant her a quiet day to have it, she pushed herself out of bed. She made her way to the kitchen, and got some coffee to help wake her up, not knowing what was to happen next, or the unseen hand of fate leading her.

Author's Note

Yes, I know it has been way to long on this. I can't make promises on when the next chapter will come out though.

This chapter was proofread and edited by Russian Dragon.

Chapter Twenty: Cutie Mark When?

Chapter Twenty
Cutie Mark When?

Once she had finished her coffee she went out to the cider barn, her sister and brother should be up by now and she hadn't seen them in the house. "AJ? Big Mac y'all in here?" She called out looking around, though she didn't see them nor did they answer. "Huh... must be out bucking trees." She moved over to her car and adjusted the passenger seat so she could refit the SMG under it, this time taking the time to rig a holster so it would be easier to pull it free.

She looked the SMG over before putting it away, unlike the shotgun which had a muzzle handle and fired by biting down on the grip, the SMG had a hoof grip like a brace and fired by pushing a hoof trigger. She wasn't sure about it at first but, however it wasn't as hard as though to get use to, just a little awkward tilting her hoof to fire the thing.

"Apple Bloom?" She heard her name being called while finishing the mounting for the SMG. She sat up and looked around.

"Scoots? Is that ya?" She answered spotting the pegasus inside the cider barn looking around. "Out here in the back." She called to her.

"Whatcha doing out here?" Scootaloo asked moving to the back where Apple Bloom was working. "New car?"

Apple Bloom nods putting her tools in the tool box and closing the door. "Sweetie didn't tell ya I needed a new one?" She asked tilting her head.

Scootaloo shook her head looking at the new car whistling, "It's nice, looks fast as well. You have an accident or something?"

Apple Bloom folded her ears back nodding, "Or something..." She said picking up the tool box and taking it into the barn.

Scootaloo followed after her, "Or something? Gonna tell me what happen? Not to much happens here outside of that police pony snooping around from time to time."

Apple Bloom sighed looking at Scootaloo, "Be thankful for that Scoots." She grumbled, "I had to ditch my old car in Manehatten bay. I'm sure you heard on the radio about what happen in Manehatten."

Scootaloo's eyes went wide, "So that was you involved in all that. That must of been exciting!"

Apple Bloom flatten her ears back before snapping as she stomped a hoof. "It was anything BUT exciting!" She growled. "It was terrifying! I've been guilt ridden ever since, because of how many ponies got hurt and killed." She looked away closing her eyes. "That car wasn't empty when I ditched it..." She shuddered before taking a deep breath and sighed, "I don't like the pony I'm turning into Scootaloo and I don't want you and Sweetie Belle turning into the same kind of pony I am."

Scootaloo's eyes went wide, her wings and ears drooping as she listen to Apple Bloom. "A... Apple Bloom... I didn't know I'm sorry." She said tucking her wings back at her side before putting a hoof on her shoulder. "You know me and Sweetie are always here for you. If you need help just ask we'll do whatever we can to help."

Apple Bloom smiled a little, "I know Scoots, and that scares me just as much. I... I never should of got you two involved." She sat down and shaking her head, "I'm in way to deep, these ponies I'm working for are very dangerous..." She gave Scootaloo as sad smile, "I know you and Sweetie Belle want to help, but I would feel so much better if you two got out while you can. The restaurant is doing good, work on that."

Scootaloo stared at her for a moment before bonking her on the head. "Don't be stupid! We are in this together, remember?" She scolded before tilting her head, "Hey... Apple Bloom when did you get a cutie mark?"

"What? I don't have..." She said slowly before looking, she had been constantly wearing her duster to hide her shotgun so she never noticed she had a gotten her cutie mark at some point. It was a like Blue Note had suggested what felt like months ago a steering wheel, but stylized to look like a cross hair. "I don't know when I got that... maybe in Manehatten? Everything was so hectic I must not of notice it."

"Well, you have, congratulations Apple Bloom." Scootaloo grinned, "It looks great." She went to where the cider was stored and grabbed two bottle. "We should celebrate," She passed one to the earth pony, before opening her own and taking a drink.

Apple Bloom was still looking at the cutie mark before taking the bottle and opened it drinking from it, "Thanks Scoots, though I hate to think my talents are limited to driving and shooting." She chuckled dryly. "We should show Sweetie Belle later."

Scootaloo nods sipping her cider, "Oh, ya that reminds me why I came out here. I wanted to show you something." She stated getting up putting the bottle down.

"Ya? What is that?" She asked taking another drink before putting her own bottle down so she can follow Scootaloo.

"I'd been saving my cut of the profits from the cider and restaurant business." Scootaloo said leading her out of the barn to show her a motorcycle, "I saved up enough to get this and replace my old scooter." She grinned.

Apple Bloom let out a low whistle, "Nice, a Buffalo 350 Motorcycle. That is pretty slick Scoots. I didn't know you had a licencees."

Scoots shakes her head, "Not for cars, but I took the motorcycle test and got one, riding that scooter all those years helped." She smiled.

She nods at Scootaloo, "I imagine it did." She chuckles, "Should of guessed a motorcycle would suit you more than a car."

Scootaloo nods before looking at Apple Bloom, her mood serious again. "I do mean it though, me and Sweetie Belle are here for you if you need any help alright? All you have to do is ask alright?"

Apple Bloom sighed, before smiling, "I know thank you Scootaloo."

Author's Note

Unedited as of right now, but shall be edited and proof-read later.

Chapter Twenty-One: Now What?

Chapter Twenty-One
Now What?

Apple Bloom and Scootaloo talked for a bit longer before Scootaloo left, returning to the restaurant to help Sweetie Belle get things ready for the lunch rush... "Wait... lunch rush... where are Applejack and Big Mac?" Apple Bloom mused turning to look towards the apple orchard. She didn't see them out in their, it was possible they had gone into town.

Apple Bloom frowned a bit peering slowly around the farm as an uneasy feeling started to grip her. She shakes her head lightly, "Get a hold of yourself, Applejack and Big Mac can handle themselves. Besides, Ruby and Noi said they would have ponies keeping an eye on the farm to keep them safe..." Apple Bloom told herself trying to squash that uneasy feeling.

It didn't help though as she made her way into the kitchen looking around, it was clean and quiet like it should be. "I know I said I wanted a quiet day but... by Celestia this is getting under my coat." She thought to herself before turning and head to her car. She would look around town for any sign of her siblings, and if not ask Ruby and Noi if they knew anything.

After climbing into the driver seat she started the engine and pulled around to the driveway and started on her way into town. However, halfway down the dirt path leading to the main road going to Ponyville she spotted her brother and sister coming down the road pulling apple carts. Letting out a sigh of relief she slows and pulls over shutting off the engine and rolling down the window. "Applejack! Big Mac!" She calls to the waving a hoof.

"Hey Apple Bloom, whatcha doing?" Applejack called back to her sister, pulling the wagon to a stop and releasing herself from the harness going walking over to her.

Apple Bloom calmed down seeing that the two where safe, "Just heading into town to have lunch at the restaurant." She glanced at the wagons, "Y'all coming back from the market?" She asked.

"Yep, the apples sold pretty well as always." Applejack told her smiling. "Just on our way back." Applejack seemed to consider for a moment before speaking up. "Hey Apple Bloom, when y'all get home we need to talk okay?"

Apple Bloom didn't like the sound of that, but nods. "Sure sis, let's talk when I get back." She replied smiling faintly. "I should hurry though."

Applejack sighed softly but nodded, "Alright drive safe." She said backing away from the car.

Apple Bloom started the engine and carefully pulled away moving around the wagons before continuing on her way into town, she rolled up the window as she did so.

Applejack watched her go before getting hooked back into the wagon, "This is the right choice, right Big Mac?"

Big Mac nodded, "Eeyup, this has gone on long enough."

The Two continued to the farm as Apple Bloom turned onto the main road to Ponyville.

Apple Bloom got into town and made her way around to the restaurant, pulling around to the back to parking near the loading dock. She let out a deep breath shutting off the engine closing her eyes, "What are those two up to...?" Apple Bloom wondered before hearing a knock on her window.

Apple Bloom sat up looking to see Officer Starling looking in at her. Rolling her eyes she rolled the window down. "How can I help you officer?" She asked.

"This is a no parking zone, I'll need you to step out of the car so I can search it." He snorted.

"Horse apples, this is private property and private parking. Property I own I can park here." She stated narrowing her eyes. "Now git... officer."

The officer folded his ears back, "I have authority to search this vehicle and you on suspicion of illegal activities. Now, I wont say this again, step out of the car now, or I'll call in more police ponies and we'll strip the car down, then this restaurant for any hint of illegal activities."

Apple Bloom gritted her teeth and folding her ears back, "Fine, officer." She said, glancing at the rear view mirror before down the alleyway not seeing anyone in the alley besides herself and the officer. She moves to open the door before quickly snapping the door opening cracking him across the chest hard. She then whacked him across the muzzle hard dazing him.

Officer Starling stumbled back holding him muzzle and trying to clear the fog. Apple Bloom got out quickly and spun around bucking him hard against the brick wall of the building knocking him out cold. "Dammit all to Tartarus." Apple Bloom growled, the noise drew out Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle.

"What is going out on here?" Scootaloo demanded coming out of the building. She spots Apple Bloom then her gaze falls on the unconscious police pony. "Apple Bloom what happen?" She gasped going to check on her, as Sweetie Belle went to check on Officer Starling.

Apple Bloom folded her ears back, "He left me no choice, he demanded to search my car or he would bring in ponies to rip into the walls of the restaurant."

"He's still breathing, just unconscious." Sweetie said before turning to Apple Bloom. "Are you carrying anything?" Sweetie Belle asked, when Apple Bloom shook her head, "Then why not let him search the car?"

Apple Bloom thought, then shook her head, "I... I don't have an excuse..." Apple Bloom hung her head her ears dropping, "I should of let him I just didn't think about it."

Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle sighed before nodding at her, "We'll deal with that later... what do we do about this guy?"

Apple Bloom frowned a bit, "We can't let him leave, he'll rat us out..." She gritted her teeth, "Damn it I wanted to keep this away from you guys." She sighed, "Get some rope..."

Author's Note

Shall be edited soon

Chapter Twenty-Three: Just what I need

Chapter Twenty-Three
Just what I need.

After Apple Bloom had finished filling the hole back in, she spread some debris that littered the yard around over it trying to make it look more natural. She didn't think anyone would make their way out to the cottage, but she wanted to be sure.

She tossed the shovel back into tool shed and closed it up before getting back in her car and started on the long road back to Ponyville. She bypassed the town proper though and went straight back to Sweet Apple Acres. While she did consider stopping in to see how Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle were doing. However it had gotten late in the evening.

Apple Bloom brought the car around to the back of the barn and parked, before getting out and heading into the old farm house looking around. "Applejack? Big Mac? I'm home." She called for her siblings, making her way from the kitchen out to the hallway leading to the front door, the stairs and the living room.

"In here," She heard Applejack call to her from the living room, so she headed that way. "Have a seat sugarcube, we need to talk." Her sister stated once she got into the living room.

Apple Bloom didn't like the sound of that, she looked from her sister to her brother before speaking. "What about?" She asked moving to the couch and sitting down.

"About everything that has been going on lately." Applejack said eyeing her sister. "We want you to stop, this cider business has gotten out of hand. We're all worried about you, about things going sideways and you getting put in jail, or worse killed."

Apple Bloom bit her bottom lip as she listen to her sister talk, "I can't qu-...." She started, before Applejack cut in.

"Of course ya can, we don't need the bits that badly. The apples sales are good and the non-alcoholic cider is doing well." Applejack told her, "We don't need to risk this bootlegging business."

Apple Bloom shook her head firmly, "No, I can't. I'm glad the farm is doing well but I can't stop."

"Why not?!" Applejack demanded a bit more sharply then she wanted.

Apple Bloom flinched back a bit at the stern tone of the question. "Because the Manehatten ponies wont allow it." She thought about telling them what Ruby and Noi wanted her to do, but decided not to. The less they knew the better.

"Don't worry, things will work out fine." Came a female voice from the kitchen, Apple Bloom jumped reaching for the shotgun she kept under her duster when she noticed a small hair clip that looked a lot like the listening device the EBI gave her. "Whoa, easy I'm not going to hurt you."

"Apple Bloom!" Applejack scolded her firmly, "This is Lemon Daze, came to the farm looking for work. With you out on your business, we needed the extra help and hired her."

Apple Bloom narrowed her eyes, "Did she now...? And she knows about our... business?" Apple Bloom said standing up.

"Apple Bloom calm down," Applejack said, "She knew about it before we said anything, she's fine with it, she doesn't like the laws anymore then you do."

Apple Bloom folded her ears back, "Let me talk with her in the other room." She said looking to Applejack and Big Mac.

"Fine, just leave the shotgun." Applejack said firmly. "Ain't gonna be no, accidents, here."

Apple Bloom nodded taking the shotgun out and putting it on the coffee table before looking to Lemon Daze. "Let's go."

Lemon Daze said nothing as she following Apple Bloom into the kitchen. "You really need to relax Apple Bloom, Noi assigned me, remember? You wanted your family protected, this was the best way."

"Yea, I figured as much." She said eyeing the gem in Lemon Daze's hair, "They also spying on me and my family?"

Lemon Daze shakes her head, "You're getting paranoid Apple Bloom." She stated flatly, before continuing. "Granted it is designed to record voices. It's tied to a similar gem that broadcasts what it picks up, when activated, to alert backup if there is trouble. I'm not here to spy on you."

Apple Bloom took a deep breath before sighing, "Alright fine, guess I have to trust you. Don't got much choice." She grumbled, turning on her hooves and headed up stairs.

"Apple Bloom! Where are you going?" Applejack call to her hearing her head upstairs.

"I'm going to take a bath, and go to bed." She called back to her, not stopping on her way up to the second floor. Once up stairs she went into the bathroom pulling off her duster and holster, frowning remembering she left her shotgun downstairs on the coffee table. She sighed "I'll get it tomorrow." She muttered to herself.

She turned on the shower and climbed in watching the dirt out of her coat from earlier, her mind going to Sterling, then to Lemon Daze. "Just what I need, a baby sister hanging around." She muttered softly to herself.

Chapter Eight: Business Meeting

Chapter Eight
Business Meeting

After making the purchase of the sub machine gun and the shotgun Apple Bloom decided the shotgun was a little long for her needs and sawed the barrel down to make it easier to fire from the driver seat if she needed. Though she honestly hoped she wouldn't need to use either gun.

She also fixed a holster up under her duster so she could carry it with her out of sight. It wasn't an ideal choice but she wasn't a good shot so a shotgun was a good choice.

By the time she finished sawing the barrel down and fixing the holster up she noticed it was getting close to the time of her meeting. With a deep breath she put the shotgun in the holster and a few extra shells in a pocket of her duster before heading to her car.

Apple Bloom had stored the sub machine gun under the passenger seat, so she could get at it pretty easily if she needed as well. She drove the car towards the diner and found a parking spot before heading inside of the Mariponie Diner.

She considered leaving the shotgun in her car, but she didn't know these ponies and thought better of it. “May I help you?” The concierge for the diner asked her as she came inside.

“Yea, I'm suppose to meet some ponies here for a meetin at ten p.m.” Apple Bloom said looking around quietly, the place was much more fancy than she expected.

“Name?” The concierge asked suspiciously looking Apple Bloom over taking in her decidedly lower class appearance.

“Apple Bloom,” She replied looking back up at the pony folding her ears back.

“Ah of course, Ms Apple Bloom, we've been expecting you.” The concierge smiled, and Apple Bloom noticed the change in his attitude almost instantly. “Please, follow me and I'll show you to your table.”

Apple Bloom nodded faintly following the pony to her table feeling out of place, the others in high class attire with fancy hairstyles and jewelry and she was just wearing an old duster. She could of swore a few gave her a look of disgust as she walked by.

“May I take your... coat?” The concierge asked when Apple Bloom was seated, but she shook her head no, “Alright then, here is a menu. A waitress will be by soon for your order.”

“Alright, thank ya.” She said taking the menu, but seeing the prices she wasn't sure if she really wanted anything to eat here. She just hoped the ponies she was suppose to meet would arrive soon. She started to feel uncomfortable and a little silly bringing her shotgun with all the other ponies around.

She didn't have to wait long as a stallion and mare approached her table, the stallion was heavy set and a unicorn wearing a fancy suit. The mare was slender wearing also wearing a suit. She didn't recognize either of them.

“So... your Apple Bloom, from Ponyville right?” The heavier unicorn asked. “I'm Mariponie, I own this diner. This is my associate Rossi... she takes care of things for me.”

Apple Bloom looked at the two quietly feeling even more uncomfortable. “Yes sir, I'm Apple Bloom.” She nodded at him softly, “I was told you had business for me.”

The stallion looked Apple Bloom over quietly, “Some... associates of mine, might have need of your, product, if you bring it to them at this address,” He said, being very vague though the mare passed Apple Bloom a piece of paper while he spoke. “There will be quiet a few bits in it for you.”

Apple Bloom took the paper and looked at it quietly, it had a date, time, number of bottles, and offer of bits on it. “I'll... consider, the offer.” She said though the amount of bits was hard to pass up.

“See that you do,” The stallion said looking at his menu, “Also... when we said no guns, we meant no guns. Try to remember that if when we invite you next time, and get yourself something nice to wear.”

Apple Bloom blushed at the scolding and the insult to her outfit, but she agreed that what she had didn't fit with the company, nor the diner she was at. Mariponie did permit her to dine with him and Rossi, but he insisted on ordering for her.

Once the rather late dinner was over and she left the diner it was almost midnight so she went back to the motel for the night. She had it for another day so she figured she would use it.

After getting into her room she tossed her duster onto the spare bed with her holster and shotgun. She climbed onto her bed sighing softly. “Do I really want to start making runs out here permanently...” she wondered to herself. “Just started the restaurant in Ponyville with my friends...”

She had dragged her friends into the business and now she was about to cut them out by working in Manehatten. She couldn't see herself asking her friends to do this kind of dangerous work considering what she had already done.

Apple Bloom knew Scootaloo would do it though, the high speed driving if a cop started chasing her was something Scootaloo would enjoy. And Sweetie Belle, Sweetie Belle would want to help, she knew that.

Apple Bloom groaned closing her eyes trying to fall asleep. “I can't ask them to put their lives at risk... or take the life of another pony if it came to that.” She told herself sighing as she rolled onto her side looking at the shotgun in the holster.

She knew she had to find a way to get them quit before they got in too deep, she just wasn't sure how. They were her friends though and she knew her friend would want to help her no matter what. “Cutie Mark Crusaders stick together, no matter what...” She muttered to herself closing her eyes drifting to sleep.

Chapter Twenty-Two: Digging The Hole Deeper

Chapter Twenty-Two
Digging The Hole Deeper

Apple Bloom got Officer Starling trussed up and his muzzle bond shut before tossing him into the trunk of her car. Scootaloo offered to help but Apple Bloom flatly refused. "I don't want you and Sweetie involved in this. I've made enough bad choices, I don't need you getting dragged down with me. Got it?" She said firmly to the both of them.

Sweetie Belle nodded softly at Apple Bloom, but Scootaloo folded her ears back, "You say that Apple Bloom, but we're your friends. You don't need to take care of all of this by yourself." Scootaloo told her.

Apple Bloom sighed, "I know that Scootaloo, but I've already dug myself in deep, digging myself in deeper wont matter. You two have a chance to make a clean break still. You remember that talk we had at the farm right?"

Scootaloo frowned, "I remember..." Scootaloo sighed, "I still stand by what I said, we're in this together. Call on us if you need any help."

Apple Bloom sighed, then nods, "Alright Scootaloo... if I need the help I'll let you know." She looked at her, "I should get going before he wakes up." She added sliding into the drivers seat.

Sweetie finely broke her silence. "What are you going to do with him?" She asked, not sure she wanted to know.

"Don't worry about it," Apple Bloom said, before releasing how cold she sounded she added. "I'm going to make sure he doesn't bother us again... that's all you need to know."

Sweetie frowned looking at Apple Bloom, not liking the implications. "Do... you have to hurt him?" She asked timidly.

Apple Bloom closed her eyes taking a deep breath then nods, "Yes, I do Sweetie, otherwise all of us are in trouble." She said looking at her, noticing Sweetie's expression, "Just don't take about it."

Sweetie Belle turned to look away, "It's hard not to... just make sure it's not painful."

Apple Bloom gave a half-hearted smile, "I will Sweetie." She said reaching down to start the engine. "I'll see you two later." She said driving off before the two could say anything more.

"Scootaloo..." Sweetie Belle said watching Apple Bloom drive off, "I don't like what's been going on."

Scootaloo put a hoof on Sweetie's shoulder softly, "I know you don't, Apple Bloom doesn't either. I just wish she would ask us for help."

Sweetie bit her bottom lip looking away, "I... don't think I could help with that stuff... if she did ask." She said meekly turning to head back inside.

Scootaloo dropped her hoof from Sweetie shoulder watching her go inside before following. "I know you couldn't." Scootaloo said softly.

Apple Bloom cruised down the road leading out of Ponyville, following the road leading to Goldie Delicious' old place. Goldie had passed a few years back from heart trouble, however the family kept the property. If nothing else it would be a place to stash him.

It was in the back of her mind just to take him to Ruby and Noi, their ties with Canterlot could go a long way to keep Starling off their backs. However, she had no idea just how much she could trust those two still.

She reached the cabin, looking at it for a moment before pulling the car around and backing it near the rear of the building before shutting off the engine. "Alright Apple Bloom... time to pass that final line..." She said to herself getting out of the car and going to a small tool shed opening it.

She took out a shovel and carried it to the car resting it against the building before popping the trunk looking down at Officer Starling, who had come to and had a mix of both fear and anger across his face.

Apple Bloom maintained a stern look on her face as she leaned over to remove the rope around his muzzle. "Don't bother screaming for help, we're so far out no one will hear anything." She said firmly, "I just want to know one thing... Why? Why did you insist on pushing and harassing me and my friends?" She demanded.

"Because I knew you three were up to something, you three are always up to something." He hissed. "Turns out I was right."

Apple Bloom frowned deeply, "Yea... I guess you were right. Look at where it's got us." She sighed pulling out of the trunk and dragging him around to the back of the cottage.

"Stop! Let me go, I'm an officer of the law!" He yelled and squirmed around getting dragged out of the trunk and across the ground. "Stop now and I'll make sure the courts go easy on you!"

Apple Bloom kept quiet as she dropped him on the ground before going to get the shovel. "To late for that." She said looking at him before she started to dig.

Starlings eyes go wide as she started to dig, "Hey... stop that... help! Somepony help me!" He started to scream and thrash around.

Apple Bloom folded her ears back at the screaming but she kept digging. Fighting her nature to cry, and to stop. She made herself listen as he screamed, called for help and eventual begging. She felt she needed to listen to him, to toughen herself up. Though, in the end, she knew it was just another thing that was going to keep her up at night and eat at her with guilty.

Once the hole was finished she put the shovel aside and looked at Starling, she took a deep breath before going over and pushing him into the hole despite his pleads and protests. Once he was in the hole she pulled out the shotgun and softly muttered, "Celestia forgive me." Then fired a shot into his head. She tossed the shotgun aside before going about filling the hole in.