Vengeance

Chapters

01: A Tragic Apple Clan Reunion
02: One Year Later
03: Gettin' Supplies
04: A Plan of Attack
05: BAR FIGHT!

01: A Tragic Apple Clan Reunion

Vengeance: it may be characterized as a form of justice (not to be confused with retributive justice), an altruistic action which enforces societal or moral justice aside from the legal system. Francis Bacon described it as a kind of "wild justice" that "does... offend the law [and] put the the law out of office."

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"Ah'm tellin' ya, Apple Fritter, Silver String is best at country music!" A black stallion with a blue mane argued with another stallion, this one light orange with a green mane.

"And Ah'm tellin' you!" Apple Fritter retorted, his green eyes glaring into his third cousin's blue eyes. "Acoustic Blaze is th' better country player!"

"Nu uh!"

"Yeah huh!"

"Nu uh!"

"Yeah huh!"

"Nu uh!"

"Yeah huh!"

Fortunately to everypony's relief Applejack stepped in and stopped them before they started throwing hooves. "Alright everypony, calm down!" She cried, stepping in between them. "Yer food's gittin' cold and Ah didn't slave over a hot stove jus' so Ah could watch you two fight like a couple o hogs in heat!" That earned her a couple of laughs from the surrounding family members, both Apple and Orange. Both stallions stared one another down before sighing, sitting back down and going back to their food. "Good, now let's all finish up here, we still got sum more fun activities planned!"

A resounding cheer and hoof stomps replied.

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Vengeance
A story of loss, redemption, and pure unfiltered hate.
Written by: Dustchu.
MLP:FIM belongs to Hasbro and Lauren Faust.
I own only my OC's and certain elements.

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Today was the annual Apple Clan Family Reunion, held yearly at the well known Sweet Apple Acres just north of Ponyville. Applejack was always happy to see her family members again, after getting involved with so many tough situations involving Discord, Tirek, or any other manner of evil, left her wanting to have a normal day just for once. And hopefully today would be that day.

Her entire family from all over Equestria and beyond have come to visit and it was going smoothly. Sure there were a few fights and yelling matches but she could handle it, along with the help of Big Mac and Braeburn combined might of course, and Granny Smith threatening to take away the food, that is. Everything was going smoothly, the fillies and colts were playing around while the adults talked, mostly about farming or just reminiscing about the old days.

Applejack stood outside, watching her family members mill around the farm, some taking others just going for a walk. She saw several working on one of the barn, fixing up several loose planks and repairing the barn door. The sun was beating down on the worker, sweat matted her forehead and she titled the brim of her hat to block it out. "Hmm." She hummed, trotting back into the house. The front door opened with a squeak as she trotted inside, the air inside cooler as opposed to the heat outside, it was a welcome feeling.

"Hiya Applejack!" One of her younger cousin's greeted, a young colt by the name of Apple Saucy.

"Well hello thar, Saucy!" She replied, smiling broadly, tipping her hat up so she could get a better look. "How're you doing this fine day?" she asked, tilting her head.

Apple Saucy smiled back, glad to see his cousin. "Ah'm doing jus fine, Miss Applejack." he answered. "Ma an' Pa got into an argument earlier over sum misplaced tools though."

Applejack chuckled. "Don't be callin' me miss, ya hear? Jus' call me AJ." she told him, still smiling. "And as for you Ma an' Pa, just tell em Granny Smith won't serve em any of her Zap Apple pie if they keep on."

Saucy nodded, light red mane bobbing back and forth. "Okay, AJ." He cheered before galloping out of the front door, still smiling widely.

The orange mare chuckled again before continuing into the house, hanging her hat on one of the hat stands among many other hats she went into the Kitchen for some water, only to see Big Mac standing over some papers. "Whatcha lookin' at Mac?" she asked, trotting over to him. The smell of sweat and apples wafting off of his bulk.

Big Mac looked at his sister, worry in his eyes. "Ah'm goin' over our sales from last week, and they dropped."

AJ's eyes widened. "W-what? How much?"

"Sixty percent."

"Sixty!?" Applejack cried, eyes widened to the size of dinner plates. "They dropped a whole sixty! That can't be right!" She argued, moving Big Mac over and checking the papers herself. She looked it over several times, but the numbers were the same every time. "How could that have happened?!"

"Th' Bicardi family no doubt," Mac said, chewing on his wheat straw as he looked over the numbers with a forlorn expression. "They did threaten to take over the market and out farm if we didn't agree to a partnership, and to give them half of our profits from th' sales."

Applejack, in a fit of anger picked up the book and tossed it against the wall, it hit with a resounding thud and slid down. "Ah can't believe those two bit varmints!" She stormed over to the book, "Threatenin' ta take over mah farm, mah daddy's farm. I'll show them a thing or two!"

"Now calm down AJ," Big Mac told her, watching the steam fly out of her ears. "I know how bad it looks, but all we gotta do is jus talk ta them and work somethin out." He suggested, he hoped they could work something out.

The orange mare sighed, huffing out a breath as she kicked the book. "Can we jus talk? Will they even listen?" She turned to him. "They've never listened ta us in the past Mac, why would they listen now?"

Big Mac shrugged. "Better ta talk than fight, if ya ask me."

"I gu
ess." Applejack sighed once more before turning around and facing the sink, grabbing a glass and filling it with ice cold water.

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Meanwhile, outside of the farm on one of the roads leading south to Ponyville sat three carriages. However, they weren't normal ones that you would see being pulled by a pony through the streets. The first two were specially made to be self powered, somewhat sleek and made for speed, built for both on-road and off-road travel, and could hold several ponies and boxes of equipment. While the third one was smaller and could only hold two or three, and was made for style and speed. Standing beside the third carriage was a solid black pony with a scar on his eye, he wore a saddle with a small bag on the top and two objects on either side connected to a mechanism that was operated with the mouth.

He turned to the window of the carriage, watching as it slid down and a face greeted him. A solid white face with steely blue eyes looked back at him, scrutinizing him. "Are your ponies in place?" The pony asked, a mare from the pitch.

The black stallion nodded. "Aye, they're in place."

"Fully armed?"

"Aye."

The mare looked ahead at the farm, her eyes centering on the farm house before nodding. "Go ahead, show them that you don't mess with the Bicardi family." She ordered before rolling up her window, a tap sounded from inside and the carriage started up before driving off. Leaving a trail of dust.

The stallion whistled loudly, making several ponies march out of the other two carriages. He looked to them all. Seeing the weapons he armed them with, he said. "Let's move."

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Applejack stood outside, watching as everypony gathered around. The sun was just beginning its descent below the horizon, leaving a bright red hue in the distance. Standing next to her was Apple Bloom and Big Mac, both baring smiles as their family talked to each other and was getting ready for the Reunion's ending. It took a while but everypony was gathered outside.

Granny Smith, the oldest of the family trotted forward, as fast as her old frame would allow her. She stood on a small stage in front of a microphone, and with a hack and a cough she began to speak. "Alright everypony, you all out here?" She asked, squinting her eyes and looking around. "Can't see a lick o nothin!" She cried, earning a few laughs. "Today was pretty swell if ya ask me!" She looked at each and everypony of her family, smiling a little bit. "Its been a long while since th' whole dangnabbed family been together, why I don't think everypony from th' family's ever been in in spot for too long, most of you are too dang rowdy and loud, like last night when I heard one of ya moanin' and groanin' and carryin' on in one of th' closets!"

Everypony started laughing as two Apple Family members blushed beet red, shuffling nervously as Applejack facehoofed. Oh lordy lord.

"What's so funny?" Granny Smith asked, oblivious as always. "Anywho! It sure was nice to see all of ya again after so many years, and from the looks o' this mare in the front there might be a new Apple arriving!"

Said mare blushed as her stallion nuzzled her as some 'daww'd' at the display. "Yep, this'll be our second." She said as she nuzzled her husband in return.

"Ain't that jus' sweet." Granny Smith smiled again. "Now I hope this won't be the last time I see all o' ya here. I expect ta see ya here next year, or I'll whoop ya!" Another round of laughs. "Now for th' finale, we're goin' ta launch of some firecrackers or somewhatsit!" The elder mare added with a grin, getting a round of applause and cheers. "Fire em up Apple Saucy!" She said.

The colt nodded and ran behind the stage to light them off. He reached down and pulled out a match and striking it on a nearby box, lit the fuses. And just as he was about to trot back onstage, somepony grabbed him, held him by the muzzle keeping him quiet and shoved a knife into his throat. "Sweet dreams kid." Was all he heard as darkness overtook him, and his neck was sliced open. Spilling blood onto the ground, his eyes closed and he fell still. The stallion who held the knife in his hoof waved his comrades over, and said. "Do it."

Applejack watched one by one as fireworks lit up the sky, booms and bangs sounded high above... and down below. She heard several gasps and startled noises. Misfire? She wondered as she looked ahead at Granny Smith who was currently on the floor of the stage clutching her chest. "Granny?" She called out, as more bangs sounded followed by booms. "Granny?!" She cried as she ran over to her, her heart stopped when she saw she wasn't moving and a pool of blood began forming.

"Run for your lives!" Someone cried as a mare screamed.

The Element of Honesty looked to where she heard the scream, seeing her pregnant cousin that spoke not two minutes ago fall to the ground. "My leg!" She cried, tears spilling over. Applejack wondered what was going on, then she heard more screams, and the sound of carriages.

"Applejack!" Big Mac yelled, pointing over at the barn. Applejack turned her head and saw several ponies dressed in black clothing trot out, wearing saddles with something on the back and sides. Something she remembered seeing before. When she saw the glint of metal, and the burst of light she realized what they were.

Battle Saddles! She turned to everypony. "Everypony run away!" She screamed, everyone soon followed afterwards. Screaming their lungs off as the mysterious ponies began firing on everyone, burst of light flashing away in the darkness and bullets tearing at the crowd. Applejack paid them no mind as she ran over to her cousin. She was bleeding badly from a leg wound, the bullet round had almost taken it off. "Come on, let's git you up!" She told her, trying to help her up.

"Thank ya AJ." She cried, tears spilling out. "Where's my husband?" She asked, looking around as everypony ran away from the gunners.

"We'll find 'im, for now let's get you away from here!" AJ told the mare, helping her up and tossing her onto her back and galloping away.

Several Apple family members had hidden. A small filly and her older brother were hiding under a table, shivering in fright. The brother held his sister as she cried, tears pouring down her cream white face. Hoofsteps sounded from nearby, and when the colt looked he saw the evil grin of a stallion in black.

"Ello there chum!" He said before firing on them. Their screams were short lived.

Gunfire rang out all across the farm, screams sounded and ponies fled, trying to get away from the murderous ponies. Fireworks shot off into the sky, blasting into colors of many hues and shapes, though no one was watching them save for a black stallion with a scar. He watched as his ponies cut down the Apple clan, tearing off limbs and blowing heads off. Blood curdling screams of foals, fillies and colts could be heard from the farmhouse as gun-ponies fired on them, killing them.

Fires were started in the orchard, the still half grown apples fell to the ground as branches were set afire by more of the ponies. The carriages drove through the orchard, ponies on the side tossing bottles of cider with rags jammed into the bottle neck and set on fire. Molotov cocktail. The bottles broke on contact with the ground and the trees, splashing them with the alcoholic cider and fire which combined and turned into a fiery blaze. Trees groaned under the duress of the flames, the fire eating away at the bark and turning them black.

He watched as Applejack ran to the farmhouse, unaware of the ponies inside being slain. There she is. He thought to himself as aimed his firearm, he centered his sights on the mare and grabbing the trigger in his teeth, he fired. The blast from his gun was loud, almost as loud as a cannon. The bullet soared through the air, and time seemed to slow to a crawl as he watched it hit not Applejack, but the mare on her back.

Applejack stumbled as her cousin cried out before falling off of her back and onto the ground. "What's wro-" her words died in her throat as she saw her cousin, belly split open and blood gushing out of her. Her eyes were wide open in terror, staring into Applejack's.

"H-help m-me." She croaked before falling still, heaving one final breath before the light left her eyes.

No... no no no, this can't be happening. Applejack thought, unable to move. her thoughts were cut off when she heard more bangs sounding from inside the house, she tried to run but an explosion from the kitchen forced her back. Flames spewed out of the open window, quickly overtaking the old wooden build of the farmhouse. The windows from other rooms burst as the fire spread, rapidly burning everything inside. Applejack saw the fire was a bluish hue, Magical fire! She'd never be able to put it out, not unless she could get Twilight. She's too far away! Turning around she ran, she had to find Apple Bloom and Big Mac! "Apple Bloom! Big Mac!" She screamed, her own voice being drowned out by the gunfire.

No matter how hard she looked, all she saw were the fallen bodies of her family. Blood stained the ground for as far as she could see, the trees were set ablaze and anypony who had tried to run was quickly hunted down and shot. Nopony was spared, filly, colt, adult. They were all killed in cold blood.

Please no. She begged, still running through the farm. Up ahead she saw the form of her big brother Big Mac running away from the barn, Braeburn was lying in a pool of blood in front, his eyes stuck open and his stomach split open. On Big Mac's back she saw Apple Bloom clutching on tightly, her eyes closed as her brother carried her away. Thank Celestia, we gotta get out of here, contact th' prin- She again was cut off as she saw one of the self powered carriages blaze a path through the fire and drove towards them. No no no no no no! That thing was headed right for them!

She ran towards them, but was stopped by a stallion tackling her down. "You're not going anywhere sweet cheeks~" He hissed, rubbing his hoof alongside her body. Big mistake on his part. Applejack headbutted him, her hat falling off in the process as the thug stumbled off of her. "Ahh! You bitch!"

Applejack reared up and threw her hooves at him, the force struck him in the nose and sending him back. It was a good thing she worked out a lot, otherwise that might not have done much. The stallion fell to the ground, groaning before she finally stomped on his head, picked him up and bucked him onto a table. The pony's battle saddle fell off and she eyed it. Without a moment to lose she picked it up and put it on, the saddle fell heavy but it would do. Turning around Applejack ran down the path she saw Big Mac and Apple Bloom went, the sounds of gunfire had ceased, with only a few shots going off.

The sound of something roaring could be heard, followed by the unmistakable sound of something being hit and a yelp. Pushing herself to move faster she came across several more of those ponies, and without even thinking she aimed her newly aqquried battle saddle at them and fired. She wasn't used to the recoil so the sudden blast and the force of the weapon sent her stumbling back, but her shot went wild, luckily taking the head off of one of the goons. The farmer regained her footing, and aimed again, this time aiming low. Once she fired she was ready, and the force of her gun blast hit the thug, sending him into a tree and finishing it off causing it to tumble down onto him.

"Apple Bloom!" AJ yelled, galloping past burning trees and dead bodies. She probably would have screamed until her lungs burst, but all that was on her mind right now was her two siblings, her little sister and big brother. Her body hurt, her mind was scarred and she... she didn't know what she was right now. Scared? Angry? Confused? She couldn't decipher the exact feeling that was overrunning her body and mind right now.

Eventually up ahead she saw them... but they were both lying on the ground.

"No no no no, Apple Bloom! Mac!" Applejack yelled, galloping over to them as fast as her legs would carry her. She saw the broken form of Big Mac, his body was covered in small holes and his legs looked broken. Apple Bloom was under him, bleeding from a wound to the head. Both were unmoving. "No!" She fell next to them, tears spilling over as her saddle fell off. "No no no no!" The mare shook her head violently, her hat flying off as she looked at them. No... Hoofsteps sounded behind her, and when she looked she saw a familiar face. A black stallion with a scar over his eye. "Havoc Bicardi..." she said, not accused, not yelled or even cried, but in realization. "Ah should'ave known." She hung her head, staring at the ground.

Havoc looked at the mare before him, smirking slightly. "Yes, you should have. Maybe then you wouldn't have brought this on yourself." He told her as several of his goons surrounded her, all armed with battle saddles.

She looked up at him, bloodshot eyes. "Ah didn't sign an agreement... ta join ya and give you half of muh farm's profits...'" she looked at her sibling's bodies, then the others that were strewn all around like party streamers. "An' you see fit ta slaughter muh family, and burn all I got left of muh daddy's..." She looked up again, shaking as fresh tears fell from her eyes...

She then asked a question... one simple question.

"Why?"

Havoc smiled and pulled out a small gun out of his saddle and held it in his hoof, it was something specially made to be used for hooves. he held it up, the silver metal glinting from the moonlight. "Business." Was her answer as he aimed it as her and fired, the blast knocking her down onto the ground.

Applejack laid on the ground, fading in and out of consciousness as she bled out from her wound. The figures surrounding her left her as they continued to lay waste to the farm, setting fire to anything and everything in sight. Havoc stared down at her, and began in a snide tone. "All you had to do was sign the agreement, and none of this would have happened Miss Applejack... this is all your fault really," a click sounded. "and as I said... it's just business, and you were on the wrong side."

*BANG*

Author's Note

Heyo~
Yep... I did what you think I just did... I killed off all of the Apple family, a brutal slaughter fest... and I named the other family after a well known beer... because why the fuck not?

I'M POSTING THIS! JUST CAUSE I WANT TO MAKE PEOPLE WAIT!
//cries I'm so sorry, please kill me.
NO RAGRETS!

02: One Year Later

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One Year Later

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Dark clouds loomed over Ponyville, none of which were scheduled to be over that particular day. But this day was not like any other... it was the day of the Apple Clan Family Reunion, or better known as the Great Apple Family Slaughter by ponies all over Equestria, and even all over Equus. Everypony/Griffon/Bull/etc knew about the family, and their famous products. Now with the Apple Family gone, the Bicardi family had taken over the market and the farm in their unfortunate absence.

Sitting on a bench reading from a newspaper was a cyan colored mare with a rainbow colored mane and tail, her name was Rainbow Dash. One of the Elements of Harmony, and once a dear friend of Applejack and her family. Her mane which was windswept looked even more frazzled than usual, her dull magenta eyes tired looking to match what she was feeling right now. Normally, she didn't read in public because she had an image to maintain. But now she didn't care.

PONYVILLE TIMES
7/23/2300
APPLE FAMILY SLAUGHTER ANNIVERSARY TODAY!

One year ago, the Apple clan, Ponyville's well known and famous family known for their bountiful harvests and tasty produce, was brutally slaughtered by what reports have stated was a massive diamond dog bandit attack. Ever since Blast Powder came to Equestria from the eastern lands of the Goblin Empire seven years ago and invented what is known as 'Ballistic Firearms', there has been an increase in crime in the major cities and along roadways as bandits of many shapes and sizes terrorize the innocent, usually robbing them of their wares and leaving behind bodies.

Diamond Dogs are the usual suspect in these kind of attacks, given their size and aggression towards the mining companions delving into their lands for Diamonds, Rubies and all manner of sought after rocks used in fashion and magic, and ponies in general. When the royal guard arrived on the scene, diamond dogs were spotted ransacking the Apple Farm of any valuables, and stripping the dead of the possessions. A firefight ensued shortly after, with the Royal Guard taking only two injuries, non fatal.

It is believed that during the Apple Clan's reunion, Diamond dogs moved in under the cover of the fireworks show and laid waste to the clan. Killing any and all who stood in their way. There were no survivors. Ponyville's own Applejack, the Element of Honesty was not found among the dead. But chances of her survival are slim, as authorities have found no evidence to suggest she survived the gunfight.

The Bicardi family, known for their famous brews and cocktails sold worldwide have been in mourning over the loss of one of their greatest competitors. And in remembrance of the Apple Family, the head of the family, Miss Crystal Bicardi has decided to buy the massive plot of land and rebuild it. When reporters asked why this was, she had this to say.

"The Apple family I've known ever since I was a little filly, I knew Applejack's parents well and wanted to be like them when I got older. I always admired the family's hardworking attitude, every day they would work on their farm harvesting apples or tending to the fields. They are what strive me to build my empire, as I got older and Applejack's parents passed away, I was saddened but still pushed myself until I became who I am today.

Soon enough the Apple Clan become one of my greatest competitors in the market business. My family's brew and her family famous Zap Apples tied for the top price. I loved the thrill of that, almost losing to them but not quite. It was something I enjoyed. And to hear those... dogs have slaughtered this family... this hardworking and nice family, makes my blood boil.

I loved this family, and I always wanted to combine both my family's products with theirs, to work alongside such a famous mare as Applejack. But I never got the chance to do so. Now, I'm purchasing the farmland, and I am going to rebuild it in the family's honor. I am going to continue their legacy, and keep it going for years to come.

That's a promise."

Isn't that just so nice of the Bicardi family? It's been a year since her promise, and the farm has been rebuilt to its former glory and is currently using top of the line farming equipment, effectively increasing produce output by a staggering seventy percent!

Rest in Piece Apple Family, and just know your farm is in good hooves.

-Article by: Flash Post

Rainbow's hooves trembled as she read the post, Lies... all lies. She told herself as she folded the paper and left it on the bench as she stood up and trotted off, too tired and weary to be flying today. Looking up into the sky she saw several Pegesi trying to clear the clouds, though they were having little luck. She would have been helping out, but she was given the week off due to the anniversary of the Apple Clan's death.

Hanging her head she trotted off down the road, wings dropping to their sides as a light rain fell. Soaking her to the bone.

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Vengeance
A story of loss, redemption, and pure unfiltered hate.
Written by: Dustchu.
MLP:FIM belongs to Hasbro and Lauren Faust.
I own only my OC's and certain elements.

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The streets of Ponyville were barren save for a few stragglers returning home for the day, or the few Pegasi out for a quick flight. The mood of the town seemed dull compared to other days, mostly because of what day it was today. Nopony was any mood to be happy, today was a day of mourning.

Standing outside on the balcony of the castle in Ponyville was Twilight Sparkle, princess and friend of Applejack's, and the Element of Magic. She watched as the clouds were moved by the Weather Team and placed elsewhere. The clouds proved stubborn to move, like they knew what had happened this day one year ago, and were mourning themselves. Applejack. That name stood out in her mind, the name of her dearest friend. Somepony who was honest to the core, and always helped out anypony in need. And now she's gone... She sighed, a single tear falling from her violet eyes.

The sound of wings flapping was brought to her attention, looking up she saw Rainbow Dash flying over to her. She smiled faintly, at least she could see one of her friends today. With a few more flaps Dash landed on the balcony in front of Twilight, and without another word the two trotted inside out of the rain.

"Twilight." Rainbow started, looking over at her friend who looked more downcast then usual. "How is she?"

The lavender mare sighed. "She's stable for now, though they lost her a couple of times the night before." She explained, trotting over to a series of small televisions nearby. All of them were small and linked to various areas inside of the ICU in Ponyville's hospital. One in particular was showing a large room with a bed in it, and on that bed was a small filly hooked up to several machines and devices that kept her alive. "She's still hanging in there, after all this time."

"She's just like Applejack," Rainbow chuckled dryly. "Stubborn." she choked, hanging her head as Twilight trotted over and draped a wing over her back. "Why did this happen Twi?" She asked, shaking her head.

Twilight sighed, not knowing what to say exactly. In truth she didn't know why. "I don't know Dash... I really don't."

"Are we ever going to prove they did it?" Rainbow asked, her tone slowly going from anguish to anger.

"Dash, I know you're angr-"

"How can I not be angry?!" Rainbow cried, breaking free of Twilight's hold and looking her dead in the eye. "You know they did it!" She stomped her hoof onto the floor, making the sound echo. "Everything points to that damn Bicardi family, and you know it!"

"Dash!" Twilight started. "I know it seems suspicious, but we don't have any evidence that says they did it." She shook her head. It does seem suspicious, but unless they had concrete evidence there was no convicting them.

Rainbow however, was unperturbed. "Why dont we just go down there and kick their flanks! Knock em down for what they did! I know for damn sure they did it! We all do!" She stormed over to the camera, pointing at the filly. "They did this to Apple Bloom, and AJ! I don't know why, or how, but I know they did it!"

The Alicorn looked over at the screen, seeing the un-moving form of Apple Bloom. "We still can't prove anything Dash, we have no evidence." She argued. "Where would we even look? The farm is off limits, and they no doubt will have gotten rid of anything that incriminates them. And there were no witnesses except for Apple Bloom, and she's in a coma!" Twilight hung her head. "I want to find out why they did this as much as you do," she looked up. "but unless we have something to out them away with... there's no hope."

Rainbow Dash said nothing, she only looked away, her eyes centering on the picture sitting on the desk. It was taken when they all became friends so long ago, all standing side by side, smiles on their faces. "I should go." Was all she said before taking flight and leaving.

Twilight watched her go, not bothering with trying to stop her. She was right, in a way. Nothing seemed right. Diamond Dogs just up and attacking the Apple Clan? Why would they? There was no reason to commit such a horrible act, and yet... Twilight sighed again, looking back to the Television. Hang in there Apple Bloom...

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Meanwhile, deep within the Everfree Forest sat Zecora's hut. Home to Zecora, the rhyming Zebra and brew maker. She stood outside, watching as a familier orange mare trotted off at a slow pace, taking a path not used by many ponies. That path led outside of Ponyville, and down a road leading to one of the major cities. Zecora sighed softly, turning around and going back inside.

I wish you well friend, for I hope you do not meet your end. Were her words to the mare before she left.

With the mare, she trotted down the dark path. Carrying a worn saddle on her back packed with supplies, and a map. The mare's coat was a dull orange color, the fur longer in some places such as her fetlocks, her green eyes filled with the fires of determination and sorrow. Her blonde mane was undone, hanging freely off of her head, along with her tail. Most noticeable thing about her though, were the two holes on her chest covered by a bandanna. if one were to look hard enough, they would see what remained of a gunshot wound. On her flank was a cutie mark, of three bright red apples. Applejack's cutie mark, she was Applejack... if it wasn't obvious enough.

She looked around the woods, taking in the sight of the blackened bark and twisted trees before taking out her map and looking at it. It was old, and dusty but still showed her the locations she deemed necessary to go to. Manehatten, forty miles. She noted, looking at the map and her current location. With a nod she put it back in her saddle and kept moving, the sun above high in the sky even though she couldn't see it. Applejack trotted along, a slight limp in her left leg. Sweat matted her brow and she wished she had a hat, but it was gone... like everything else.

Moving aside the brush. she kept moving until she came to Ponyville's side road. Before she headed that way, she had something to do here first.

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Applejack arrived at her destination, and after a quick look around she saw nopony around. She looked down at the stones in front of her, eyes un-moving.

Here lies Applejack
10/23/2277 - 7/23/2299
Beloved friend, Element of Honesty, Loving Sister.
We will all miss you, AJ.

Below the words was her Cutie mark, etched into the stone itself with expert precision. Lying around it were wreathes of flowers, she could tell who put those there. Rarity, Dash, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie... Twilight. She fought back tears as she looked at the second headstone, this one smaller then hers.

Here lies Apple Bloom
3/7/2289 - 7/23/2299
Cutie Mark Crusader Founder, Local Troublemaker, Loving Little Sister.
Keep on Crusading child, you'll find your mark yet.

Applejack couldn't fight the tears this time, they silently fell from her eyes, no sounds escaped her as she shook from the chilling wind and rain. Next to her stone of the left sat her brother's, this one bigger then hers.

Here lies Big Macintosh
27/4/2275 - 7/23/2299
Local Farmer, Loving Big Brother, Gentle Giant, Loving Coltfriend.
We'll miss you big guy, we'll miss you.

Big Mac, and Apple Bloom... She looked to both stones, then said. "Ah'm sorry Ah failed ya both..." She reached into her saddle bags and pulled out a rope before tying it around her stone, gripping the rope in her teeth she growled. "Ah'll make it right, Ah promise." She yanked the rope back, and the stone cracked loose.

-ooo000=+=000ooo-

Two Hours Later

-ooo000=+=000ooo-

"I'm telling you, our production is at an all time high right now." Said a stallion as he trotted along the Bicardi Farm Estate talking on a ear held communications device, the farm that once belonged to the Apple family. The farm land was as vibrant as it ever was, the trees were tall and well cared for, the grass green and healthy. Farmers and workers tended to the crops that grew along with the apple trees, riding equipment meant to take care of the crops significantly faster then by hoof and using tools. "We're filling up the barns with as much as they can hold, and I can tell we're going to make a kill-" he stopped talking and trotting as he crested a hill that overlooked the farmlands, but he didn't stop for the view.

"Hello, Oak? Are you there?" A voice questioned on his phone. "Oak?"

He said nothing, Oak merely stared. He didn't stop the admire the view, nor the crowd... but what the crowd was looking at. In front of them, half buried in the ground next to a tree, a single apple sitting on top.

Here lies Applejack
10/23/2277 - --/--/----
Beloved friend, Element of Honesty, Loving Sister.
We will all miss you, AJ.

If the stone didn't make her shiver in fright, it was also what was written below.

Have an Apple, it'll be your last.

"Um... Miss Bicardi, I think we might have a slight problem." Oak said in a shaky voice.

-ooo000=+=000ooo-

Standing outside on the farmlands was the Unicorn Miss Bicardi herself, wearing a small hat to block out the sun and keep herself from getting burned from the hot rays. She smelled strongly of some expensive perfume no doubt purchased for an insane amount of bits, and she wore a scarf around her neck colored a frilly purple color that accented her white form well. "What am I looking at?" She asked, her tone neutral as she eyed the headstone jutting out of the ground and the apple sitting on top.

Standing next to her was a small stallion, a young colt barely out of his teens, fidgeting uncertainly as she scrutinized him under her cold icy gaze. "U-um, it wo-would appear to be Miss Applejack's grave, Miss Bicardi." He had a light brown coat, green eyes and a short mane and tail colored a dusty blonde with a cutiemark of a quill and paper that was surrounded by flames.

"I am aware of that fact, Templeton." She said sharply, eyeing the fruit on top as if it were the bane of her existence. "What I mean, is why is it here, on my property?"

Templeton gulped, not sure how to reply. "I, uh. I mean to say that is, I'm not sure... it just showed up outta nowhere." He told her, shaking in his work shoes. "No one knows why it showed up."

Miss Bicardi hummed in thought, walking over to it as her bodyguards walked around the farmlands, looking for any evidence as to who may have put it there. Whoever did, didn't drag it but carried it if the heavy looking hoofprints were any indication. "Whoever did this, I want found. They destroyed the grass and took a ripe apple off of the tree, to anypony else its just an apple, one solitary apple." She picked up the apple, holding it in front of her. "But to me its lost money." She growled before letting it drop to the ground and squashing it underhoof, turning around she said. "Clean this up Templeton." Was all she said before trotting off, her bodyguards following close behind as several ponies who worked with the newspaper galloped onto the farm and started bombarding her with questions.

Templeton sighed and pulled out something to clean up the ruined apple with, scooping it up he placed it in a small bag before looking at the headstone. Who would do that to Miss Applejack's headstone? He wondered as he trotted off back to the house. He needed to get somepony to help with moving the stone.

-ooo000=+=000ooo-

Applejack had left the farm long before the crowd had found the stone, luckily for her that particular area was empty of anypony working. Carrying the stone was hard work, but she was used to hard work, had been all her life. Maybe her family was looking down on her for that act, ripping the stone from her family's graveyard and carrying it two miles to stick in the ground and put an apple on top of it with a threat. But that Bicardi family deserve to know what was coming, a hell fire storm fueled by vengeance.

The orange mare kept off of the main roads, sticking to the woodlands and side roads. Her cutie mark was kept hidden by a small cloth that hung off of both side and a special paint Zecora cooked up for her, something to keep it hidden.

Use this to hide your mark from foes seen, for it will keep it from eyes to keen. She had told Applejack. Whatever it was stuck to her fur and kept her cutie mark hidden, making her flank appear blank. No water could wash it off, only a special potion could get it off and that was back at Zecora's hut, she wouldn't need to... not yet, anyway. She had many things to do, and plenty of time to do them. Looking out ahead she saw the treeline stretch onward down the side road for miles on either side tall pine trees going off into the skies above. The road was small, narrow and dirty, rarely traveled by anypony save for those who wished to travel unseen.

She trotted along, her hoofsteps thumping against the dirt. She felt tired, ever since that day one year ago she's felt tired. Her bones ached for rest she couldn't achieve, vying for comfort she couldn't obtain. Her green eyes searched around the area, keeping a look out for any dangers, her ears doing the same. To some she may look like a harmless traveler, vulnerable for the pickings to be picked up and torn apart for her goods. She didn't have much, save for a rope, a map, some food and water and a few hundred bits she saved up. Though given how everything is somepony just might rob her anyway, break her legs and have their way with her before running off with everything.

Of course she wasn't just any mare, she was Applejack, and she was strong and confident she could take on anything thrown at her. Pony or otherwise. But she wasn't in the mood for any woodland fights, she had to get to Manehatten. Ponyville wasn't a safe place to be anymore, not after what the Bicardi family did to her, and taken over her farm... her father's farm. The only thing she had left of him after...

She shook her head, she didn't need to remember that. It was a long time ago, she needed to focus on the present. Looking up ahead her eyes took in the sight of what looked like a small camp, remnants of one anyway. A small tent was set up next to a few trees off of the path, a fire burned not too long ago judging from the small amount of smoke billowing up from it. She saw blood stains leading deeper into the forest, and knew what had done it. Diamond Dogs. She frowned, walking over to the camp and looking around, she saw a single saddle bag. One that was too small for an adult, it was a foal's pack. Torn open and emptied save for a single small toy of a Soldier. What has this world come to? She wondered as she turned around, leaving the bag behind and trotting off of the small hill and back down the road.

-ooo000=+=000ooo-

The hustle and bustle of Manehatten was just like she remembered, albeit with a few differences. Carriages like the one she saw a year ago drove through the streets, all of them different shapes and sizes. Some built for speed, others for style and bigger ones built for transporting heavy goods and carrying a massive amount of ponies from one part of the city to another. A lot sure has changed a lot since Ah've been gone. She noted, watching several self powered carriages drive by, from what she could tell about them they were powered by special crystals hooked up to a device that propelled it forward, effectively making travel less strenuous and more faster for those in a hurry.

The idea skyrocketed production of many different types and models for the rich and wealthy, with many different kinds coming out that were both flashy and made for style. Like many gold plated ones she had seen driving by not too long ago, no doubt belonging to one of the noble families.

They sure like they're gold. She murmured in thought as she crossed the road. Now that she was here in the city, she needed to find a place to stay. Someplace out of the way of everything. Looking around she saw only high-rises and expensive apartments, lavish hotels and gaudy restaurants. She shook her head, trotting over to a newspaper bin and putting a bit into it before opening it and pulling out a paper. After a quick look see through the paper she found a list of cheap apartments, one in particular was not too far from here and listed as Green Dragon Apartments, that'll do nicely.

She deposited the newspaper in her saddlebag and began her journey to the building. The streets were packed with ponies of all shapes and sizes, carrying saddlebags and other items on their back. The crowd was dense, making it hard to move around but she didn't let that stop her. A part of her wondered where they were all going, what they were going to do once they got thee. Her mind wandered like this for some time until it drifted towards the Bicardi Family, causing a scowl to replace the neutral face she had plastered on.

They were the cause of her troubles, have been since that day that much was obvious. All because Ah didn't sign some damned contract... She scowled further, getting a few looks from ponies walking opposite of her. Applejack shook her head, turning down an intersection and trotting out of sight until she came to a desolate looking street by the docks, trash littered the alleyways and the road, and there were hardly anypony around, in fact it was empty save for the occasional drunk or homeless trotting out of sight.

She saw a single building stand out at the end of the street, a tall five story apartment building surrounded by dead grass and a few signs. An old looking carriage sat in the yard, overgrown by grass and weeds, the windows broken and one of the wheels gone. Some of the windows of the building were gone, replaced with boards and planks, and out front sat a small filly with a sketchpad in her lap. What Applejack saw made her brow raise. Green Dragon Apartments. She frowned, this was it? She had expected something a little less... run down. It'll have ta do. She tol herself as she trotted over.

The filly she saw was a young unicorn, maybe a year younger then Applebloom was. She had a dark grey coat and white shoes, a dark blue mane and tail that curled slightly at the ends and the brightest blue eyes Applejack had ever seen. From what she could tell, this filly was a blank flank. The filly looked up at Applejack's approach and smiled. "Hi!" She waved, pencil in her magical grasp. "Are ya looking to stay here?" She asked, still smiling. Her voice sounded slightly like Octavia's, if she were years younger, that is.

Applejack nodded. "Yes Ah am, do ya know if this place is open?" she asked, trying her best to be polite.

Nodding, the filly stood up and put her sketchpad in her small saddlebag before throwing it over her withers. "Yep!" She trotted up to the door and pushed it open. "Come on inside!" She said as she went inside, followed closely by a hesitant Applejack.

The inside of the apartment was slightly cleaner then she expected, but still on par with dirty. the wallpaper which looked like it used to be a flowery pattern had all but rotted away, leaving behind torn paper and the wood giving it a rustic look. The floor was in desperate need of dusting and cleaning as dust bunnies rolled across the floor, and dirt cake itself onto her hooves. A single couch sat in the foyer, a solitary pony covered up by a blanket slept on it peacefully.

"So, whe-" AJ was cut off when she saw the Filly standing behind the desk.

She looked up at Applejack, her body mostly concealed by the countertop. She wore a small ha on her head, an over sized hat with the words Green Dragon on it. "Welcome to the Green Dragon! Where we'll burn the night away with a good nap!" She cried, a smile on her face as she looked at Applejack's amused expression. "My name is Star Flash, how can I help you?"

AJ smiled. "Well, Ah was hopin' ta get a room here, Ah heard its cheap." She explained, eyeing the filly as she wobbled on what was no doubt a stool. "Got any left?"

Star nodded, reaching up on a key holder with her magic. "This room is the nicest one we got, but they're all the same pretty much." she placed the key down on the counter, a blue/yellow key labeled 101. "Its five bits a night! Breakfast is free though, and that's a real crowd pleaser!"

The orange mare chuckled, making the filly blush. "Ah reckon it oughta do," AJ said as she reached into her saddle bag and withdrew a small pouch with ten bits inside. "Here's ten, I'll pay up the rest as the days go by."

"Alright! Take this key and head on up, its on the second floor at the end of the hall! Oh, and this lavish hotel is also the only one that has weird room numbers!" She beamed. "There's some trivia for the day."

Another chuckle and AJ nodded. "Well thank ya kindly, Star." She reached up to tip her hat, only to remember she wasn't wearing one. "Ah'll uh, head on up now. Thank ya again."

"its no problem!" Star giggled, watching as AJ trotted upstairs. Leaving the filly behind. Star jumped up with joy as she bounded over the counter and onto the sleeping stallion on the couch. "Ya hear that Twink! We got ourselves another pony here, and she got a room!"

He only snorted in his sleep, turning over onto his back making the filly tumble back onto the floor.

"Ahh Twink! You've been drinking again!" She grumbled, crossing her forehooves as the stallion slept without a care in the world.

-ooo000=+=000ooo-

Applejack trotted across the second floor's floorboards, each step making a slight squeak noise. The place was old, and in desperate need of repairing, but for now it would do. With a sad frown Applejack walked past a door marked 99 where she heard someone inside cursing. "Ahhhh hellfire!" A mare yelled. "Stupid stupid stupid!"

The farmer paid her no mind and walked to her room, true to Star's word it sat at the end of the hall, a small door with the number 101 on the top. Pulling out her key she put it into the slot and opened it before trotting inside and closing the door. Inside she saw it was larger then she thought it would be. Windows sat on either side of the room's upper cieling, blocked off by grates and bolted in place. A massive fan sat over one window, drawing in cool air from the sea and the distinct smell of fish and soot. A bathroom sat on the far side, no door attached to it and a bedroom next to it. The main room was barren, save for a few tables, boxes and lockers lying around and a single sitting mat.

Applejack walked over to the chair and removed her saddlebag, placing it on the floor and sitting down she reached into her bag and pulled out a small photo. On it she saw herself, Granny Smith, Apple Bloom, Big Mac, Braeburn and several others all gathered around. It was the only photo she had of her entire family. Taken years ago, when her parents were still around. Her parents tood on either side, smiling bright as Apple Bloom was draped over her mother's back, and Applejack stood next to her father, who wore a familier hat.

With a choked sob, Applejack laid down, clutching the photo in her hooves.

-ooo000=+=000ooo-

In a different location, the Bicardi family estate, sat Miss Bicardi herself. She was in her mansion's office, looking over several reports pertaining to the newly rebuilt farm she had acquired shortly after the Apple Family's untimely demise. A pair of clear glasses sat on the bridge of her nose as she read the numbers, a slight scowl adorning her features as one of the maids cleaned the room as quietly as possible. To anypony else she was reading how much money she racked in this month, but that was the farthest thing from her mind as of now. Her thoughts were elsewhere, specifically the headstone that was recent moved from her property at the Ponyville Farm.

Why would anypony rip up that harlot's gravestone and plant it on my property? She wondered again and again. Nopony would break off that headstone and place that disgusting thing on my property, less they want their head taken off and placed on my shelf! She mused darkly, again wondering why somepony would rip it up. They must think it some sort of sick joke. Her thoughts were interuppted by the sound of knocking, and after shooing the maid she said. "Enter." The door opened, revealing none other then her brother. "Slipstream, to what do I owe the pleasure of your visit?" she asked, using her magic to pour herself a glass of scotch.

Slipstream trotted in after the maid brushed past him with an apologetic look to which he only nodded. Slipstream was a sleek looking pegasus pony with large wings, a well toned frame and a coat of striking silver. His silver mane and tail were well groomed and smelled of some expensive mane and tail product the mare couldn't deduce. Steely blue eyes glared at her from behind black tinted sunglasses, eyes that she found herself drawn to ewhenever he took them off. She wouldn't lie, he was a handsome stallion. "Crystal." He nodded, trotting into the room. "How's business?" He asked.

"Well, thank you for asking." She nodded back, moving out a chair for him to sit on. "Though you didn't answer my question." She pulled up a tray with two glasses on it. "Drink?"

"Thank you." Slipstream smiled cooly and grabbed one of the glasses before taking a sip. "As for your question, I am here because father asked me to look into this, Headstone business that he head about." He noted the disturbed look on her face and chuckled. "Word travels fast when the Element of Honesty's headstone pops up on her old farm with the date of death scratched off and a possible threat added onto it."

Crystal sighed, placing her cup down as she looked at the large window behind her that loomed over the estate's massive yard, working ponies tended to the gardens rare flowers, maintaining them and keeping them pristine. "I have it under control, whoever did it is playing some kind of sick joke." She shook her head. "I don't know who did it, but rest asured once I found out who they will be dealt with accordingly." She glared at Slipstream, her eyes boring into his own. She cooly said. "No one crosses Crystal Bicardi and gets away with it." Crystal told him, hoof trembling on the desk.

Slipstream chuckled again, placing his own cup down. "All that anger will mess up your good looks sister," he said, trotting over to her and standing beside her. "its really unbecoming~" He whispered, taking off his glasses and placing them on the desk, leaning his head down next to her. "You really need to calm yourself, and I can think of a few ways to do so." The stallion told her as he locked lips with her.

Crystal merely grinned as she locked the office door.

-ooo000=+=000ooo-

Author's Note

Oh god I had to write out Zecora... I SUCK AT RHYMING! //cries

Also I threw some references in here, can you find them? 8'D

ALSO!
If you're going to downvote my story, give me a reason why, otherwise you're just being a non-helpful dick head to society
Thanks Dahling~ :raritywink:

03: Gettin' Supplies

The next day came, and the morning sun rose up over the clouds in Manehatten as a storm started, thunder rolling across the skies and covering up the city and surrounding areas. Pegasi not with the weather team flew to the safety of the train station or went inside to stay dry, other ponies were not so lucky and got drenched by the sudden downpour. Those with umbrellas pulled them out and went about their business, some not bothering to help out their fellow pony.

One earth pony in particular was drenched to the bone, his dusty dark brown coat sopping wet and his black mane and tail dripping with rainwater. His mane fell in front of his eyes as he attempted to trudge along through the wet and slippery walkways. Blast this cursed weather, what are they doing up there anyway? He wondered, hefting up his saddlebags. Luckily he splurged and got the type of bags that kept everything inside dry were it to rain suddenly. Looks like he got lucky.

Trotting along the road he watched as the other ponies did the same as him, adults cursing silently as their foals proceeded to do as foals do in situations like this, splash around and get everything wet. The childish giggles and laughs reaching his ears made him smile despite the gloomy conditions, his heart warming at the sight. Speaking of children, he should probably get moving. Speeding up he passed by several parents trying to wrangle their kids, only to end in vain.

The streets up ahead were thankfully clear and he was getting closer to his destination, looking up ahead he spotted the familiar sight of the apartment building. Green Dragon Apartments. He noted, smiling as he trotted up to the door and opened it. "Star Flash, I'm back!" he called out, shaking his body and sending the water flying.

The sound of something breaking reached his ears and he chuckled as the young filly bounded into the room faster than he could blink, she leapt off of the floor and into his forehooves. "You're back! You're back!"

The stallion chuckled as he rubbed the filly's head. "Yep, say how's my favorite filly been doing?" He asked as she held onto him while he walked across the room and into the office.

"I've been great!" She cried, smiling as wide as one could. "Guess what? Guess what?"

"What? What?" He asked, setting his saddlebags down and flopping his mane over to one side.

"We got ourselves another guest staying here!"

"... For real?" He asked, smile growing. This could be the answers to his problems!

Star nodded, mane bobbing along with her head. "Yep! A orange mare took room 101!"

The stallion hummed in thought, looking down at the filly. "Is she pretty?"

The filly's smile transformed into a frown. "... could you not scare her away like the last time a mare stayed with us?" she deadpanned, raising an eyebrow.

He gasped, "Ouch, that was not entirely my fault, she just..." he waved a hoof, "wasn't into stallions." Holding a hoof to his chest, he asked. "What about the guest we have in room 99?"

Like he expected, the filly rolled her eyes. "She's immune to your charms remember?" She squeezed his front legs. "Please please don't scare her away by being weird, we really need the money this month."

"Okay okay I won't do anything..." He nodded as the filly hopped off, nodding as well with a smile. "Yet."

Star groaned as she fell to the floor, holding her head as the stallion laughed.

-ooo000=+=000ooo-

Vengeance
A story of loss, redemption, and pure unfiltered hate.
Written by: Dustchu.
MLP:FIM belongs to Hasbro and Lauren Faust.
I own only my OC's and certain elements.

-ooo000=+=000ooo-

Applejack stirred from her resting place on the floor, legs aching from sleeping on the hard floor all night. Sleeping on the floor seemed to be a bad idea, but she doesn't regret it. Opening her eyes she briefly forgot where she was, but it all came rushing back in a wave of memories. That's right, Ah'm in the apartment building. She remembered, standing up and stretching her leg and joints. Feeling the relieving pop of her bones she sighed, and looking down at the floor she saw her photo. Picking up the picture she placed it back in her saddle bag before looking around her room, spotting the bathroom she trotted over to it and went inside. Ah could use a good shower.

The bathroom was nothing special, a single toilet and sink with a broken mirror over it, and a shower that could hold two, as to why that was she didn't know nor did she want to. Taking off her bandanna she tossed it outside and hopped in before turning on the hot water, and she got cold water instead.

"Damn it!" She cursed, shivering where she stood as the pipes chugged and shook before shooting out lukewarm water, an aggravated sigh later and she began to clean herself of the travel grime and dirt. Some dirt had caked in some places on her body making it hard to get off, but that didn't stop her. Okay, now that Ah'm out here Ah need to get some thangs. She told herself, rubbing her hoof where it felt sore. First things first, finish this consarn'd shower.

A knock on the door startle her out of her thoughts. "Um, excuse me miss?" A stallion called out. "If I had known you were taking this room I would have stocked the bathroom with fresh towels." He explained, nervously. "I'll leave em in a basket outside, okay?" With that he left.

Applejack looked outside of her shower and true to his word there were no towels, damn it. She murmured in thought as she turned off the shower and climbed out, soaking wet. Her mane dragged along the floor of the shower so she flung it onto her back, there wasn't much she could do with her tail so she left it be. Trotting out of the bathroom she approached the door and opened it cautiously before reaching down to grab the basket with fresh looking towels.

But she stopped when she heard someone hurrying up the stairs. "My bad I forgot to drop off th-" the stallion stopped dead when he saw Applejack standing in the doorway, coat and mane dripping wet, glistening form what little light there was in the hallway. "Duh?" He tilted his head, just as a towel was thrown at him and the door was slammed shut.

"Dang it! I knew you were trying to be weird!" Star called out from downstairs, staring at the form of her friend as Applejack had retreated into her room. "Jeez."

The stallion turned around. "Hey its not my fault, I just forgot to drop off this," he told her as he held out a small piece of paper detailing the Green Dragon's food and breakfast items. "I just... made the mistake of thinking she was taking too long."

A door opened next to him followed by a voice saying. "You're such a perv," she said, smirking as she trotted outside of her room.

"Bite me " He retorted, looking the pony in the eyes. The mare trotting out of the room was another one of the guests he had to put up with.

She chuckled, trotting downstairs with a smirk. "You wish big boy~" She sang, swishing her tail from side to side, patting Star on the head with a smile as she went downstairs. "Bye Star~"

The stallion shook his head as the door to AJ's room opened and she came out, donning her bandanna and saddlebag. He smiled and started, might as well apologize. "Um, look I just wanted to sa-"

She held up her hoof. "No need sugarcube, Ah know you didn't mean ta do that. Just ferget it." AJ told him as she held out her hoof. "Nice ta meet ya partner." AJ said as she eyed his cutie mark, which resembled a arrow pointing up with a flash on the tip.

The Stallion nodded, shaking her hoof. "Well with that awkwardness out of the way." He pulled away and tapped his chest. "My name is Flash Point, you can just call me Flash for short." Flash introduced himself, smiling brightly. "I'm the owner of this apartment building, my little sister Star Flash whom I'm sure you've meet helps me out."

AJ nodded, chuckling. "Ah've met her, she does a good job for a little filly." She said, looking at Sta who beamed at the praise. "Mah name is... uh... Emerald Grass, you can call me Emmy fer short.."

Flash nodded. "Emmy, huh? Well its nice to meet you!" He nodded. "Well, welcome to the apartments, I hope you'll enjoy your stay here." He said, nodding once more before turning around and going downstairs, Star following shortly after.

Flash an' Star, quite th' duo. AJ thought with a bemused expression before following them downstairs, just as she hit the bottom step somepony had already left. Looking around she saw the stallion who has yet to be named still sound asleep on the couch, his blanket draped over his body. She pondered who that was, and why they were not in a room. But shrugged it off, maybe he was a homeless pony sleeping in here, but that still begged the question as to why he was allowed inside. Looking at the counter she saw Flash sifting through a magazine, one that detailed gossip and fashion. "Excuse me," She started, trotting over to the desk making Flash look up.

"How can I help, Miss Emmy?" He asked, smiling widely as he pushed his magazine to the side and adopting a friendly look.

AJ smiled in return, then asked. "Ah was wonderin' if ya knew any good shops round these parts." She did need to find some good shops, for some... items she required, later on. And hopefully he knew of some.

To her relief he did, nodding Flash said. "Oh sure I know a few," He reached down under the counter and pulled out a map, this one showing the area around the Green Dragon and showing shops in great detail. To her surprise, all of them were located on the same street as the apartments. "Here you have the Four Leaf Grocery Store run by Bluebell," He gestured to a small shop not too far away from the apartments that had a logo over it of a four leaf clover. "The Random Oddities shop, that's run by a nice old stallion named Mint Jasper." He pointed to a building that sat next to the grocery that had a rustic looking logo of the shop's name. "And finally, ugh... the Friendly Fire shop down the way, its run by one of our tenants. If you're looking for a firearm, that's your best bet." He told her, a slight frown on his face.

Applejack tilted her head, was something wrong with that shop? Regardless, it was the one she was looking for. "Well thank ya kindly, Flash." Turning around she trotted over to the door. "Ah'll be headin' out now, see ya later." With that she left the apartments, and ventured down the street.

-ooo000=+=000ooo-

Back in Ponyville, Twilight was hard at work. She sat in her chair behind her desk in the castle, looking over several documents pertaining to budget cuts with the staff and some complaints from Pinkie Pie about there not being enough cupcakes in Ponyville, along with another report from said mare complaining about her neighbors. Which was surprising considering Pinkie never complains about anypony, ever. If they were bad enough to warrant a complaint from Pinkie Pie, then.

"Excuse me, Princess Twilight?" A mare asked, trotting into the room at a slow pace.

Twilight looked up, seeing the mare she smiled. "Yes?"

"Um, Miss Bicardi is here to see you." She said timidly, hiding behind her cherry red mane.

"Thank you Blossom, you are excused." Twilight nodded to her as Miss Crystal Bicardi entered the room, donning a pair of glasses and havig her mane done up. She also was not wearing any clothing, which was odd. Twilight could now see he cutie mark, which was a piece of expertly cut crystal glass with intricate swirls. "How can I help you, Miss Bicardi?"

The mare cleared her throat before addressing Twilight. "Yes, I've come here today in hopes of purchasing the land to the north." Crystal stated bluntly, much to Twilight's shock. "And yes, I am aware of the threat the north poses, regardless I wish to know if it is available."

"B-b-but, the Diamond Dogs have overrun that territory years ago, why would you want it?" Twilight questioned, trying to regain her composure. The lands to the north of the Bicardi farm was overrun with rogue Diamond Dog clans living in old Diamond and Emerald Mines that were abandoned for one reason or another. "Surely there's some other land yo-"

Bicardi leveled her gaze at Twilight, giving no quarter and cutting her off. "That's the business of the Bicardi family, all I want to know, is if it is available for purchase. I have the funds in my account, and I am willing to buy it." She stood waiting for Twilight's answer, her face set in a neutral state.

Twilight sighed before sifting through her papers, after finding the appropriate ones she pulled them out with her magic and placed them on her desk in front of Miss Bicardi. "Just sign these and the funds will be transferred over, and the land is yours." Under her breath she added. "Though I have no idea why you'd want those lands anyway."

"Again," Bicardi said, startling Twilight as she pulled out a pen. "Bicardi family business, it is private." She said as she swiftly signed the papers with her signature. "Done," She put the pen back in her... where ever she pulled it out from. "I thank you Princess, good day to you." She said before leaving, Twilight eyeing her form as she left out through the door.

Whatever could she want those lands for? And better yet... how is she going to deal with the Diamond Dogs? Twilight wondered, turning back to her papers with a sigh. "I need coffee."

-ooo000=+=000ooo-

"I'm telling you Pinkie... it just isn't right." Rainbow muttered as she sat outside Sugarcube corner next to Pinkie Pie who was sipping fro ma smoothie. "Everypony knows that," She spit onto the ground. "Bicardi family isn't good, you know it too right?" She asked, looking up at Pinkie. She was desperate for somepony to agree with her, anypony!

Pinkie hummed in thought, still slurping on her drink. She put it down before casting a look at a house next door to the Bakery before looking at Rainbow. "I don't know Rainbow, they don't seem like bad ponies," her tail twitched, she looked at the house again. "But I've been getting a lot of weird vibes lately whenever they pass by, ya know?"

Rainbow sighed, hanging her head as she stared at the small cupcake she was given by Pinkie. A small act of generosity by her pink friend to ease her woes. With a slight hesitance she picked it up and bit into it, savoring the taste. With a swallow she looked to Pinkie Pie. "Pinkie..." she started. "Do you think... it was fast for her?" She asked, shaking slightly in her seat.

Pinkie's mane and tail deflated as she looked down at the ground, she fidgeted with her hooves, unable to come up with an answer. Ever since Applejack's death, things were never the same in Ponyville. The Crusaders never did as much crusading as usual, as they were too busy sulking. They didn't know the truth, as it was better that way. Fluttershy hadn't come out of her cottage in weeks, and Rarity was holed up in her boutique. It was a horrible time, and nopony was the same. "I..." Pinkie couldn't come up with anything, she didn't want to remember that day.

She had just woken up from a nightmare involving fireworks, and found the cakes downstairs looking over a newspaper. Her tail and three legs twitched like crazy, and when she was told what was happening... what had happened. She didn't know what to do, any happiness she had was lost that day. And she's not entirely sure its returned, not that it could.

The pink mare shook her head as Rainbow looked down the street, scowling. "Oh look, if it ain't that Bicardi bitch." She muttered just loud enough for Pinkie to hear, and several others who gasped silently as her language. Up ahead Pinkie saw Miss Bicardi, strutting down the street towards her self powered carriage. Two ponies stood outside of it, one of which who opened the side door to allow her inside before they both got into the front seat and powered it up and driving off after kicking off dust. Rainbow watched them leave. "Did you see that? She had some kind of papers with her." She asked Pinkie who nodded, tilting her head. "What do you think those were for?"

"Miss Bicardi bought the lands north of her farm," Twilight explained, teleporting outside and startling the two of them. "I don't know why she wants that area though," Twilight took a seat next to Pinkie who brought her a smoothie. "Thanks Pinkie."

"What do you mean Twi?" Rainbow questioned, this sounded fishy.

Twilight drank from her smoothie before answering. "The area north of the farm is rogue Diamond Dog territory, and has several abandoned and empty mine shafts that cover practically the entire place with tunnels leading all over." She said, rubbing her chin. "Honestly, I have no idea why she bought them, but..." She sighed, shaking her head. She just couldn't think, or understand why. "Maybe she's expanding the farm?"

Rainbow shook her head, her mind hatching a plan. "I uh... I have to go, practice for Wonderbolt stuff." She said before flapping her wings and taking off, not giving her friends anytime to question her actual motives for leaving. The cyan pegesus flew through the skies high above Ponyville and into the cloud cover, her keen eyes keeping locked on the carriage she spotted leaving her humble town. She was going to get to the bottom of this, she was going to find out why Bicardi wanted that land.

Keeping close to the clouds, she watched as the carriage drove past several others leaving a trail of dust in their wake. Wherever they were going they were heading there pretty fast. Rainbow followed them for sometime, leaving Ponyville's outskirts and several forests, before they took a left turn down a road leading north just past The Bicardi Farm. AJ's farm. She reminded herself, it was her farm, and it'll always be her farm. the road she was led down was long and winding, and she realized where the harlot was going. She's going into Diamond Dog Territory... why is she going there? She'll get killed... not that I give much of a shit. She muttered with a laugh, hoping to see a group of DD's rip her head off.

Up ahead she saw several more carriages, thirty of them heavily armored and outfitted with heavy looking guns, with a start Rainbow hid inside of a cloud and kept watching the group below. She tons of ponies all wearing black clothing and donning the battle saddles she had heard about, heavy looking guns ere on their backs.

Jeez, they getting ready for war? She wondered as she saw Bicardi step out and near the crowd that had gathered, she turned her ears don low, trying to hear them.

Crystal Bicardi stood among all of the ponies before her, standing tall as though she were royalty. She eyed every one of the ponies, her icy gaze tearing into their souls and making a few of the greenies cower. "You are all here today to serve the Bicardi family," she started, her voice level but still loud enough to be heard, even all the way up into the sky where Rainbow was. "This land we now own, is overrun with Diamond Dogs. I'm sure a few of you have faced them before when you went through our training programs."

Training programs? Rainbow thought, the family had their own training program? What else do they have... this is getting suspicious.

Cyrstal continued her speech, pointing at the land north of her. It was covered in thick woodland and dirt paths just big enough for the carriages to move through, as well as a few caves. "I am wanting this land cleared of the offending mutts as soon as possible," She nodded to one of the stallions next to her who walked back to the carriage she came in. "I am offering ten thousand bits to everypony who gets the job done." everyone started looking excited, more so when she added. "for each Diamond Dog killed." A cheer sounded from the ponies, all of which Rainbow could tell were mercenaries, though as to what company she wasn't sure.

As the cheer died down the pony crowd got to work, checking their weapons and vehicles before she heard somepony yell out orders to move out. Rainbow watched as the crowd moved, some yelling out taunts and curses while firing some guns into the air, bumrushing into the forest as gunfire erupted from within. She watched several ponies get cut down by return fire in the forest, as well as several Diamond Dogs wielding assault rifles and shotguns.

Damn! This is getting too hot for me, gotta bail! She thought as she made the cloud move south, thankfully the wind was blowing that way and she was able to get away from the firefight. Gunshots rang out no matter how far away she got, but as soon as she was clear she bolted out of the cloud and flew back towards Ponyville. She had to tell Twilight about this. The flight back was short, because she didn't want to waste anytime. She descended near the castle, landing on the balcony and banging on the door. "Twi! Hey Twi!" She shouted, bouncing from hoof to hoof waiting for her to come out.

To her misfortune Spike opened it instead. "Oh, hi Rainbow. What brings you by?" he asked, watching as the rainbow maned pegasus bounced around like she needed to use the little filly's room.

"is Twilight here? I really really need to tell her something super important!" She said, looking behind Spike and not seeing the mare anywhere she sighed in exasperation.

Spike shook his head. "No, she left a while ago after coming back from Sugarcube corner, she left for Canterlot not too long ago." He told her as Rainbow fumed, slamming her hoof into the floor. "What's so important to tell her that can't wait?"

The mare looked at the dragon. He had grown up a bit since she saw him last, at least two feet higher then he usually was and had actually grown wings. However, they were small but he was growing them at least. Spike was also more muscular, which was funny as he tended to knock more things over now that he was bigger.

"Its..." She swallowed, wondering if she should tell him, was it important? She shook her head. "I'll tell you when she comes back, how long is she staying in Canterlot?"

"A week."

"... Buck." She groaned, flopping onto the floor as Spike made a 'O' face and darted off. Looking up she saw him return with a newspaper. "What's that?"

"A new paper that came today," He held it out to her, showing the front page where she saw a tombstone, but not just any tombstone.

Dash yanked the paper away from him, her eyes glaring at the stone. It was Applejack's stone, and it was ripped from the ground. "What the buck! Who would do that?!" She growled, reading the article.

PONYVILLE TIMES
7/24/2300
STONE RIPPED UP FROM PONYVILLE CEMETERY!

Yesterday, the Bicardi family got quite the surprise when one of their workers was out and about in the fields when he stumbled across Applejack's headstone sticking out of the ground! That's right, you read this right. Somepony had gone to the cemetery and ripped up the Element of Honesty's headstone, trotted over to the farm and planted it into the ground, complete with a threat and an apple. The threat.

"Have an Apple, it'll be your last."

Quite terrifying isn't it? Whoever this is, must be angry about the Apple Family's death and decided to take action into their own hooves. But why rip up Applejack's headstone? and further more, why place it on the Bicardi farm property? This is one mystery the royal guard cannot figure out, after an extensive search in the surrounding area revealed nothing, the case was labeled as of little priority.

Until they can figure out who the culprit is, ponies are to be on the lookout for suspicious ponies who may be up to no good. Whoever did this, must be brought to justice.

-Article by: Flash Post

Rainbow growled in anger, balling up the newspaper ad tossing it aside. "Its always something isn't it?"

-ooo000=+=000ooo-

Back in Manehatten Applejack had arrived at her destination. Friendly Fire. She noted, the front of the store had bars on the windows and one over the door, a light in the front window was lit up with the word open and over the top she saw what looked like two crossed assault rifles over the words Friendly Fire. Interestin' name. She trotted up to the door, opening it and going inside.

She was instantly hit with the smell of lubricating oil for firearms, gunpowder and... iron, the smell of blood. Applejack looked around the store, seeing a multitude of boxes sitting on stands all holding ammunition, various calibers of ammo lined the shelves in the middle of the room, along with cleaning equipment, accessories, and carrying gear. Some Battle Saddles displaying showcase model guns sat in the middle of the room in a clearing, most of them looked sturdy and well made, and no doubt expensive.

Her eyes however, were fixed on the firearms on display in and above the cases near the cash register. Rifles, pistols, shotguns, different kinds were hanging on the wall behind the counter with many more in the case below. She looked at a few of them, her eyes scanning a few of the shotguns and revolvers.

"Looking for some firepower?" A mare's voice asked as the sound of hooves and something metal clacking on the floor sounded.

Applejack nodded, turning around to face the mare. "Uh yes Ah-" she was cut off when she saw the ash white mare standing before her. Her eyes trailed not to her blazing orange eyes, nor the scars on her neck, but her front right leg... which wasn't a leg, but some metal contraption.

The mare standing in front of Applejack had Rainbow Dash like smirk on her face and was a unicorn, a long two tone orange black mane fell in front of orange eyes, her tail spiky and matching her mane. her neck and chest were covered in scars, one in particular on her lip that curved upwards making her look like she was smiling were one to look at her from the side. Around her left foreleg she wore a gauntlet with a strange symbol on the front of it. Her right leg however, was a mystery. Everything below her knee was gone, and replaced with a metal contraption made of what looked like black steel. The replacement 'leg' was made of several steel parts and connected to metal parts that looked like they were fused into the upper part of her leg. Her cutie mark, from what Applejack could see was of a pile of black powder with a lit fuse sticking out of it.

Raising an eyebrow the mare asked. "Admiring my leg?" She asked, waving the prosthetic leg in front of AJ with a smile.

AJ shook her head, quickly shaking her forehoof. "Ah'm so sorry for staring, its jus' tha-"

"Hehehehe, don't worry about it." The mare chuckled, putting her leg back down with a thud before holding out her good hoof. "My name's BP, I'm the owner of Friendly Fire. How can I help?" She asked as she went around the counter and stood beside it, propping a hoof on the counter and eyeing AJ with a smirk.

Looking at the selection of firearms she asked. "Ah'm lookin' fer somethin' with a lotta kick, but won't break mah leg if I try ta use it." Applejack looked at some of the shotguns, most of the ones she saw could be used with either a battle saddle or be held in the hooves. She didn't know which one she would be good at though, but given previous experiences with a saddle she might try that.

BP nodded, "Well I have a lot of shotguns," She pointed at one, a pump action shotgun with a short barrel. "Those are really popular among home defense and collectors, lightweight and holds five twelve gauge shells in the pump." She explained, taking it down and placing it on the counter. "It has a lot of kick, but it takes a lot of practice to use effectively however, and its a tad expensive." BP pointed to the price tag, which read.

Steelhoof Munitions Depot: Twelve Gauge Pump-Action Shotgun.
Price: 1200.00 Bits.

Jeez, that is a bit too expensive fer me. She shook her head. "Got any cheaper ones, fraid Ah don't have much on me."

BP nodded knowingly. "Gotcha, well if you're looking for cheap, I got this one." She reached down below the counter and pulled out a smaller looking firearm, it had two short sawn off barrels and a wood grip. BP held it in her hoof and spun it. "This is popular among Griffon Pirates and rogues, it holds two shells and can be reloaded pretty fast." She tapped a small sign down below.

Blackclaw Firearms: Sawn-Off Double Barrel Shotgun.
Price:150.00 Bits.

Perfect! AJ smiled, looking at the shotgun. "I can afford that."

"Sweet!" BP smiled, placing it down on the counter. "Seeing how this is your first purchase - oh don't give me that look I can tell you've never owned a gun before, but I can tell you've fired one but I won't pry.- I'll throw in twenty shells for free and a holster to go with it." She reached down below the counter and pulled out a box, inside sat a holster and a box of Twelve Gauge shells which she pulled out and handed to AJ, along with a holster. "This'll fit around your leg nice and snug like, like say if you're running for your life the gun won't fall off." She bounded around the counter and fit it around AJ's left foreleg before the latter could say anything and placed the shotgun in it. "There's a small little clasp here that'll keep it from falling out if you're running or whatever, so don't worry about losing it." She said with a closed eye smile.

"Uh, thank ya." AJ said, testing out the holster. It did fit snug around her leg, and the added weight didn't feel too bad... it felt... Right. She wobbled her leg and right, testing how it would react under the shaking. The shotgun stayed put. With a nod she said. "Not too shabby, if Ah do say so myself." She said, chuckling. Never in a million years did she think she would buy a gun, and yet here she was paying almost two hundred bits for one.

Trotting over back to her counter, BP pushed the box of shells over to AJ. "That little beauty will help out in a pinch, if you're looking to travel north or east into Diamond Dog territory or just on the road, it'll scare em off... if not," She brings up her hoof to her head and mimics an explosion, jerking her head to the right. "Boom, clean through the brain."

"Uh, hehehe." The orange mare rubbed the back of her head. "Thank ya again sugarcube," She said before reaching into her saddlebag and pulling out the required bits to pay for it, she hefted up a small bag in her teeth and placed it onto the counter. "I'll be sure to make... good use of it."

BP nodded, an almost evil glint to her eyes. "Oh, somehow I think you won't disappoint."

-ooo000=+=000ooo-

Meanwhile back in Ponyville at the cemetery, stood a lone pony. A mare from the looks of her, and a pegesus as well wearing a cloak. She looked down at the stone, then the others lining the ground. All of them having the Apple family name etched into it. Her blue eyes scanned the newly replaced stone in front of her, someone had ripped it up not too long ago and ended up on the front of the newspaper. Flowers from loving friends were lying about among the stones, the most around these particular three.

One flower however, stood out among them. A snow white bluebell flower, held in the hooves of the mare. With a shaky hoof she placed it on top of the headstone, reading the name once more.

Applejack... my friend. She bowed her head, a tear falling from her eyes and onto the ground. My family... She looked up, her eyes glaring as she looked at the headstones of all of the Apple Family before her. "I'll find who did this... and make them pay!" With that she flapped her blue/white wings and took flight, leaving the cemetery behind and flying towards Ponyville.

Author's Note

Wheeeeeeeee~ Aren't I a sport? Updating so fast and giving you all something nice to read...
//sobs this chapter sucks doesn't it?

Anywho, hope you enjoyed.
This was brought to you by Biscuits... food that I am eating right now and isn't doing wonders for my empty stomach. And water, tap water to be presice.

Rainbow Dash, you almost got caught there, lucky she didn't right?... right?

And AJ has got a gun! and a new name, Emerald Grass... not my best, I apologize XD

Also at the end there... who is that mare? And how does she know Applejack and her family?
We'll find out next time!

EDIT: Holy balls so many mistakes I fixed... I am ashamed of myself.
I'm sorry you had to read this with so many mistakes //sobs

04: A Plan of Attack

Author's Note

I... I can't wait anymore, I gots ta post this.
If/when the chapter does get finished being edited, I'll reupload it. But for now, you get this.
AGAIN I AM SORRY! Dx

And this is only story of mine to actually go past four chapters... that's a milestone for me :rainbowlaugh:
Welp, hope you guys enjoy! I kinda lost my drive near the ending, sorry bout that.

REFERENCES! CAN YOU GUESS?
If you do I'll love you forever. And you know what I wish I had for this? Some sweet ass cover art *hint hint nudge nudge*

Toodles for now.

04: A Plan of Attack

Night had fallen on Manehatten, Luna's moon rising up over the tall darkened buildings shining down on the alleyways. The massive city was not asleep however, it was only beginning to truly wake up. Clubs were opening their doors to night dwellers and club goers, shady ponies stalked the alleyways, either selling banned goods or their bodies with all too eager ponies to purchase them. Drugs, booze, cheap sex, its all sold in lower Manehatten.

If you trotted along these streets by yourself, regardless of your intentions you were looking for trouble. Gangs roamed the streets at night, looking for any weak ponies to mug, murder, rape or foalnap. Colt or Mare, it didn't matter to them. If you had something worth stealing they were going to take it, beat you to a pulp and destroy your innocence. Only those who are mean enough to beat somepony up can fight them off, or just run away with their tails stuck between their legs.

For ponies like Vinyl Scratch, she was more then prepared for dealing with a bunch of thugs.

"Come on its one little mare, buckin get her already!" One pony wearing a black mask yelled, waving a pipe around as two of his gang circled a white unicorn mare with a striking two tone neon blue spiky mane and wearing a pair of purple tinted glasses that hid her eyes, she had a cutie mark of a mirror image of two bridged eighth notes on her flank.

Vinyl Scratch stood among several knocked out ponies, all of them with bashed in heads and bloody noses. She held several steel pipes and wooden timber in her magical grasp, each one having a light blueish hue surrounding them. The ends were covered in blood, and bent or broken. She stared at the group of ponies before her, a sadistic grin on her face as she chuckled. "Bring it!"

-ooo000=+=000ooo-

Vengeance
A story of loss, redemption, and pure unfiltered hate.
Written by: Dustchu.
MLP:FIM belongs to Hasbro and Lauren Faust.
I own only my OC's and certain elements.

-ooo000=+=000ooo-

It was night time when Applejack left the apartments. Flash and Star had gone to bed and the stallion who had lounged on the couch was missing. He wasn't of any concern to AJ however, she was more concerned about what she was going to do next. She came to Manehatten to find the Bicardi family and exact revenge for what they've done to her own flesh and blood. But now that she was here, and armed... she had no idea where to start. Trotting along the streets she thought long and hard, the double barrel she bought strapped tightly to her leg with a wrapping around it to keep it hidden from sight.

Ah want ta avenge mah family... but where do Ah even start? She wondered, sighing heavily. A part of her didn't want to do this, but another part, the one that screamed for blood for what the Bicardi family did, was stronger. It cried out to her, a voice in the back of her head guiding her almost. Looking around the darkened streets, she just walked. The lampposts above shone brightly, showing just how dirty the walkways were, and what lurked in the alleyways. She could see several shady looking stallions trotting slowly into the darkness, and disappearing around corners.

Up ahead she could hear what sounded like screams, along with maniacal cackling.

What in tarnation?! Applejack sped up her pace, getting ready to pull her firearm should it be needed. She rounded a corner, passing by a drunken hobo before coming to a stop outside of an alleyway, and down it she saw a white mare wielding several bloody pipes and 2x4s, a sadistic grin plastered on her face.

"Yeah you better run!" She yelled, tossing a pipe at a fleeing stallion. It bounced off of his head, making him yelp as he and his buddies fled. The mare shook her mane, wild blue bangs flopping around from the act. Vinyl Scratch stood, dropping her makeshift weapons as the gang members ran away. With a smile she sighed, turning around and spotting AJ. "Oh... uh, hey." She greeted, waving a hoof.

Consarn it, its Vinyl. She was thankful for the darkened lights and the fact the DJ was wearing dark shades. "Uh, howdy there." AJ replied. "Did ya run into some trouble there?"

Vinyl laughed, waving a hoof. "Naw, just some punks that thought that they could get some from DJ-PON3 baby~" she chuckled, trotting over to AJ before stopping. The Apple mare couldn't see it, but Vinyl was looking at her with a thoughtful expression. "Do I know you? You look really familiar." She asked, looking closer at AJ, who was backing away with a nervous expression.

"Uh, fraid not ma'am." Applejack replied quickly, backing away until she found herself in a spotlight directly under a lamp post. "Don't know me, that's fer sure!" She smiled awkwardly, looking around for a possible escape route.

However it was a wee bit too late, as the DJ's eyes widened under her glasses. "Applejack?" She rubbed her eyes, almost knocking the glasses off completely and showing cerise colored eyes. "No way, is that seriously you?!" She asked, walking closer to AJ who was now trapped between Vinyl and the exit.

Applejack looked into Vinyl's eyes, eyes that no doubt held hundreds of questions. Damn it.

"Dude!" The DJ cried. "This is great! We need to tell Twilight about this! and the others! They'll be so freaking stoked!" Vinyl told her, hopping in place with a happy smile.

"Vinyl."

"Rainbow will be happy to, she really missed you like a lot!" The DJ continued. "Fluttershy also."

"Uh, Vinyl." Applejack tried to say but was cut off again.

"Applejack, we seriously have t-"

AJ had enough, she darted forward and grabbed Vinyl, throwing her hoof over her mouth and shutting her up. "Vinyl!" She hissed, looking around to see if anypony was listening. "Listen ta me," she started to a wide eyed Vinyl. "Ya can't tell anypony about this, understand." Taking her hoof off of the DJ's mouth she back away, but still kept a firm hold on the mare.

Vinyl looked perplexed, no doubt wondering why that was. "Wait, what are you talking about?!" She asked, looking confused. "Why wouldn't you want to go back to Ponyville and tell everypony you're alright? Everypony's missed you, AJ. everypony, hell I've missed you and we don't really know each other that well!" She cried, waving her hooves around.

Looking around again, AJ pulled Vinyl into the alleyway, deeper in so they couldn't attract attention. When they were down the alley AJ said. "Look... its complicated, alright?" AJ told her, looking her in the eyes and pleading with her to understand. "Ya can't tell anypony about me bein' alive."

Several seconds passed as Vinyl thought hard about this. She was conflicted. While she wasn't exactly AJ's best friend (that honor belonged to Rainbow Dash and her other friends) she still considered her a friend. Finally she nodded. "Alright... but." She started. "You have to tell me just what the buck has you packing heat." When the DJ said that AJ's eyes widened, Vinyl smirked. "Thought I didn't notice it? Its nicely hidden I'll give you that, but you can't hide nothing from me, now spill it!"

Applejack sighed, giving up. "Alright, Ah'll tell ya, but ya can't tell anypony about this," she glared at Vinyl. "Nopony... we clear?"

"Crystal."

Applejack growled.

-ooo000=+=000ooo-

After leaving the alleyway, and being discovered Applejack was led to a club by Vinyl Scratch. Being led through back alleys to avoid being seen by anypony around, there were a few homeless but they were too drunk to see straight, much to AJ's relief. She didn't need anypony else recognizing her. She thought hiding her cutie mark would be enough, it looked like she was wrong.

Up ahead she could see the looming sign of the club even from the alley. Club Hallucinations. She read, tilting her head as they trotted towards a back entrance. These clubs an' their names, I swar. With a shake of her head she watched as Vinyl opened the back door, which had a sign that read do not open from outside. on the back, and followed her inside. Once inside she was hit with the thudding of loud music, feedback and cries of joy, as well as the smells of sweat, booze and... something she'd rather not mention.

Applejack could hear the music clearly, it was loud and whatever it was it felt like it as about to tear her eardrums apart. She tried to block it out, but that proved to be a challenge. Thankfully Vinyl led her upstairs away from the sounds and into an office that, strangely enough had Vinyl's name on the front. The white mare opened the door with her magic, strolling on inside followed closely by AJ before closing the door behind her. The inside of the DJ's office was filled with posters, trophies and a few pictures depicting Vinyl Scratch and an older looking stallion with a red mane and tail, along with the famous musician Octavia.

Vinyl took a seat at the desk, which AJ saw was cluttered with papers and cigarette butts, along with a few photos sticking out of a folder which Vinyl quickly took off the desk and deposited it into a drawer. Vinyl then used her magic to bring over two glasses and a bottle of unmarked alcohol which she then poured into both glasses half full. "Okay, so spill it. Why are you packing heat? In fact, what has been going on with you?" The DJ asked, her eyes boring into Applejack's.

Taking advantage of the free liquor, AJ took a swig of it enjoying the burning sensation going down her throat. Whatever it was, tasted smooth, just how she liked it. Placing the glass back down AJ started. "Ah didn't die that day, obviously." She shook her head, shivering from having to recall the day her family was mercilessly slaughtered. "After th' shootout, Zecora found me an' brought me ta her hut, Ah managed to wake up an' tell her not ta tell anypony bout me surviving. She didn't ask why, only nodded wit' her weird rhymes." AJ remembered the days she spent recovering, hearing about what all the Bicardi family was doing from what Zecora could find out. "But first, maybe Ah should tell ya, Diamond Dogs didn't attack us."

Vinyl leaned in closer, "Really? That's what the paper says, but..."

"T'weren't no Diamond Dogs, Ah'll tell ya that now." Applejack took her glass again, downing in a few gulps before slamming the glass down. "It was th' Bicardi family... they did it." A tear escaped her as she remembered her little sister and big brother lying on the ground, in a pool of their own blood. "Havoc Bicardi led th' attack, him and his no good lackies." She looked up at the DJ, eyes filled with rage and hurt, sorrow and remorse. "Crystal Bicardi... killed mah family, slaughtered every single one of them, jus' because Ah didn't sign a damned contract that would give them half our profits." She hung her head down, unwilling to go on.

No words for said for a few minutes, both mares just sitting and listening to the muffled sounds of the music and the ticking of a nearby clock. Vinyl had no idea what happened that day, she only heard about it from Octavia. How the entire Apple Clan was killed brutally at their yearly gathering, during a fireworks launch by Diamond Dogs. Regardless of what the papers said, she didn't believe it. Diamond Dogs were not smart, they couldn't have known to shoot them all during the fireworks so it would mask their shots, better yet it was stranger still that nopony got away. Surely somepony had to have, aside from Applejack, yet the reports stated the entire clan was killed.

Looking over at the mare, she slowly began to realize why she was carrying a gun, the look in her eyes said it all. She demands Vengeance. She looked over at a drawer on her desk, it was a simple looking wooden drawer with a handle. To anypony else, there was nothing inside, but to Vinyl, it had something that might help Applejack out. "Applejack..." She started, raising her glasses all the way up and showing AJ her eyes. The apple mare saw eyes that looked just like Rainbow's, cerise colored and bright. "I need to ask you something." The DJ asked, hoof resting on the drawer handle.

AJ looked up, rubbing her eyes she looked at the DJ across from her. "What?"

Vinyl waited before asking. "I think I know why you're carrying that double barrel... and I have to ask... are you serious about what you're wanting to do?" She asked finally, looking the former apple farmer in the eyes. The Emerald Green eyes staring back into her own.

Applejack nodded, a determined expression on her face. "Course Ah am." She then looked down at the glass, then added. "Ah have ta... for mah family," Looking back up, AJ smiled darkly. "Ah ain't got nothin' left."

Smiling back, Vinyl shook her head before opening her drawer. "You have your friends AJ." She reached into the drawer, pulling out a plain looking manila folder and placing it in front of AJ. "One of them being me." She pushed it forward. "And Friends help each other out, I promise, on my honor as a DJ... I'll keep your little secret."

The orange mare looked down at the folder, taking it and flipping it open to look at its contents. What she saw, she didn't expect. "Where... did you get these?"

Vinyl smiled sadly, looking over at a photo with her standing next to a tall red maned stallion, she said. "You're not the only one who's lost something." She then got up, jerked her head forward knocking her glasses back down and walked out of the room, leaving a confused AJ behind.

-ooo000=+=000ooo-

In the Canterlot Castle, Twilight was having a field day... and by that I mean she was getting angry with having to deal with so many things at once, she was no stranger to hard work, oh no, but this was getting ridiculous! Twilight Sparkle was sitting at her desk in her room, sifting through various reports detailing several ponies being assassinated by a mystery sniper. The ponies were... not connected in any way, not in anyway she could see, that is.

A farmer, a bank teller, a government official, a carriage driver, a babysitter!? Twilight shook her head, was somepony out there on a killing spree? She didn't know, and she hoped not... but the reports from the guard say otherwise. Putting the papers in a stack she set them aside and breathed a heavy sigh, she had no idea what to think right now. Ever since that blasted pony came from the Griffon Empire and created the firearms, things have spiraled out of control it seems.

The Royal Guard were outfitted in new guard armor, made to deflect bullets or otherwise impede them, which through testing only worked a little bit. And were using top of the line firearms crafted just for the guard, weapons she recalled could fire automatically and cause tremendous amounts of pain. She didn't like the idea of firearms, hell, she wanted them banned from Equestria because they only brought pain and suffering... especially since Applejack.

She shook her head, she had to move past that. She missed that southern mare so much, but she couldn't keep living in the past. The only thing she could do was keep the memory of Applejack alive, even if it was only in pictures, her Element of Harmony and Apple Bloom. Speaking of her. Twilight stood up from her desk, pushing aside the papers and trotting over to the center of the room before focusing her magic, and then in a flash, she transported away.

Twilight felt for a split second that she was falling, and she smelled the scent of ozone. Something that happened everytime she teleported, she was used to it however. When she reappeared she was in a large room, the sounds of beeping and breathing filled the room. When she opened her eyes Twilight saw the sight that always tore at her heart. Apple Bloom. The room she was inside of was located deep within the hospital, away from the eyes of the public and doctors, and treated by several nurses and special doctors around the clock.

This was something Twilight had asked for when she found out Apple Blood survived the attack. Half because she wanted her to get the best care possible, and half because she, like Rainbow Dash, was suspicious. Both her and Big Macintosh had arrived in the hospital with not only gunshot wounds, but their bones were shattered and there were distinct markings under their fur, wide track marks from what looked like a carriage. And yet, there were no carriages at the scene, and Diamond Dogs don't utilize carriages, self powered or otherwise.

Sadly Big Macintosh didn't survive the surgery process, and passed away shortly being operated on. Apple Bloom, by her order was labeled deceased, the cause being in her sleep much like she is now.

One whole year she's been in this coma. Twilight trotted over to the filly, looking down at her and feeling her eyes brimming with tears. Poor thing. She thought as she looked down at the filly. Apple Bloom had finally gotten the last of the casts taken off of her body, and her head was in full view. A cover was draped over her form, keeping her warm in the cool room. A breathing tube had been attached to her, keeping her breathing in her coma, and several needles stuck out of her forelegs feeding her fluids. Her red mane was messy, and had gotten longer like most of her fur. Apple Bloom would need to get it trimmed.

With a sigh she transported back to her office in Canterlot Castle, just in time to see a scroll materialize in front of her, smacking her in the face and causing her to yelp. She stumbled and fell forward, bumping her head on her desk and sending papers flying... everywhere. When the lavender mare opened her eyes she saw a scroll stuck to her nose, prying the offending object off she held it up with her magic and saw it was from Spike. What could he need? She wondered, ripping the seal off and unrolling it.

Dear Twilight.

Hey, its Spike! listen, Rainbow came over yesterday and had something really important to tell you, but you weren't there so we had to wait. I uh... kinda forgot I could send scrolls to you, hehe.

Twilight face hoofed. Only you spike.

Anyway, Rainbow said she got suspicious when Miss Bicardi left after buying that land north of the farm. So she followed them, she also told me she saw hundreds of ponies decked out in combat equipment and carrying battle saddles, and had self powered carriages. Miss Bicardi had apparently bought a bunch of mercenaries to kill off the Diamond Dog populations north of the farm, Rainbow stayed long enough to see the mercenaries kill some DD's before flying back here and telling me to write you.

I have to say Twilight, that does sound pretty bad. If Rainbow is right, then Miss Bicardi just killed off hundreds of Diamond Dogs. Sure they're violent and ruthless and cold blooded killers...

But still.

Twilight reread that again and again, her eyes narrowing in thought. She bought that land, and killed the Diamond Dogs?! She put a hoof to her mouth at the thought. Hundreds of ponies, armed to the teeth killed them all, just for some bits? Ponies will do anything for money... won't they?

She shook her head, placing the scroll back down she picked up a blank one and a quill, and started writing. Dear Spike.

-ooo000=+=000ooo-

"Crystal, how did the operation go? Smoothly, I hope." Slipstream questioned his sister as she walked into the bedroom of their family's estate. The white mare walked into the room, undoing the tie she had on her mane and letting it free as her blue eyes stared at her brother's form. He had put his glasses away and was lying on her bed, reading a magazine.

Crystal sighed softly and trotted over to her mirror and sat down at it, checking her makeup and her face for anything wrong. "Two hundred of those mercenaries were slain by the Diamond Dogs, the remaining three managed to at least kill the rest of them off before half of their number fell to wounds suffered at the paws of those," she spat her tongue out in disgust. "Beasts."

"Now now, you know they are uncultured creatures who only know how to destroy and rut each others brains out." Slipstream chided his sister, looking up from his magazine and at her, seeing her mane down he proceeded to eye her form hungrily. "Really, you did them a favor by killing them all, really what would they get from living in those mines anyway? Nothing, that is what." He closed the magazine and hopped off of the bed, trotting over to Crystal and looking at her from behind, his eyes looking into hers from his reflection. "Now that we own the land, we can put it to better use then they can. Don't you agree?"

The mare nodded. "Of course, father will be pleased to know." She said, remembering what her father told her when she left the master estate. The one where she currently lived with her brother and the many many servants was the smaller one the family owned, and was a present from her father for her completing an assignment with the Apple Family, by assignment, I mean slaughtering them. The one she grew up in was far far bigger than this small hovel she called home. "I will have to call him shortly, and inform him of what has transpired. For now however," She turned around, grabbing her brother and locking lips with him, the kiss lasting for a short time before she pulled away. "I want you to fly over to our contacts in Canterlot and talk to them about this... Sniper nonsense. I want you to find about it."

The stallion sighed, wiping his lips and turning around to go over to the window. "Father really should keep a tighter grip on his little toys." He muttered before flying out of the window, leaving his sister to her devices.

I agree brother, I agree. She thought before looking back at the mirror and grabbing her brush. Now to get these damned tangles out, what a mess. She shook her head. She's been hearing about this Sniper nonsense for years now, and only because of how skilled of an assassin the creature is. Whoever it was, proved to be a master with a sniper rifle, constantly killing ponies, griffons, minotaurs, whoever with a single shot. Now she didn't care for anypony's life that much, but the ponies that were being systematically killed off one by one by said sniper, were all scientists and employee's of her father's company, Bicardi Cybernetics.

Sniper... was something that came from there, and was a weapon. But she had no idea as to who or what it is, she could only guess.

Guesses won't help the company.

-ooo000=+=000ooo-

Applejack had left the club sometime after receiving the file from Vinyl Scratch, the club apparently needed her to play music now, so AJ took that as her cue to leave. Trotting down the streets she looked for someplace to look at the file, she would go back to the apartments, but she needed to do this tonight, not tomorrow. She had to. Looking around, she spotted a bar nearby labeled, J's Bar. Looking both ways she saw nopony was coming, and crossed the street.

The bar looked like most bars, two large windows dominated the front showing the inside where she spotted several tables, a large sign hung overhead with the bar's name was lit up, and the door was open. Applejack trotted over to it and walked inside, when she did she was hit with the smell of alcohol, cooked food and something spicy. Several patrons were inside already, only eight, with the bartender and a waitress. The ponies she saw sitting around were from various places of business.

One was wearing one of the special guard uniforms, which consisted of a new material called Kevlar and had several metal plates and the letters M.P.D. in white, which stood for Manehatten Police Department, on the back. The stallion also had a firearm, much like she did strapped to his foreleg, a pistol from the make of it. He was a earth pony with a cutie mark of a bulls eye. He had a long light auburn colored mane and tail, and had a cocky look on his face as he tossed a few darts at a dart board.

Next she saw two burly, yet strong looking earth pony stallions sitting side by side. They looked aged and worn, but still strong enough to handle their jobs. They both donned a uniform which read Security on the back, and had a single pistol strapped to their forelegs as well. One stallion was a dark brown color, with little to no mane at all and had a gruff looking face, his mark was of an aged looking bronze shield. His partner was a pasty looking white, with a graying mane and tail, with a tired expression on his face as he ate his food slowly, his mark was of a silver shield.

Sitting side by side, she saw three more male ponies. One of which looked more like a colt then anything. The first wore a yellowish outfit which she recognized as a plumbers outfit, and had the front sleeves rolled up, and a tool bag around his barrel. A dark brown mane and tail was his color and a tan coat, and steely blue eyes that held a dark past. He was a unicorn stallion, and his mark was of a switch blade, being flipped open and being thrust forward.

Next to him sat a clean cut looking unicorn stallion with a combed mane and tail, and a reserved intelligent look on his face. He wore a bowtie, and had a small bag around his barrel, which she could see something sticking out of it. In AJ's eyes, he was rather handsome looking. His mark was a simple white cross and two red/blue pills.

And finally she saw the Pegasus colt, light brown with a blonde mane and tail, and wore a subway uniform and hat, He saw flipping a coin up into the air, and catching it, making a face whenever it landed on tails. He looked like the type that would run away at a moment's notice, he probably does. When he wasn't messing with his coin, he was writing in a crossword booklet. His mark was a gold coin, with a four leaf clover on it.

Sitting by herself was a earth pony mare, colored a vibrant red with a short blonde colored mane. She also wore clean looking clothing that reflected who she was. A reporter AJ thought as she watched the mare write notes down on a notepad. Her mark was a magnifying glass, with a reflective shine coming off of it.

And coming out of a bathroom was a young Pegasus mare, with a green coat and a short brown mane and tail. She wore a small saddle bag as she walked over to a table, and sat down. Slanted green eyes scanning the bar with a apprehensive look. Her mark was off a vile of pure white fluid, whatever that stood for.

Applejack trotted inside, getting a nod from the barkeep who was a dark blue earth pony stallion with a brown mane and friendly blue eyes. A nametag identified him as Frost Will. She walked past him, giving a polite nod and going over to a secluded part of the bar before sitting down and taking out her file, she sat it down as a pretty looking blonde maned green eyed unicorn waitress came over. Her mar, from what AJ could see was of three plants, a red, blue and green herb side by side.

"Hello, my name is Herbal Remedy, what can I get you?" She asked, smiling a bright smile that made AJ feel a little better.

AJ smiled. "Jus' something cold, anythin'll do sugarcube." She said, hoofing over several bits which the mare took happily and cantered off to fetch something. As she did AJ looked down at the file, her eyes glaring holes in it before she opened it up and looked inside. She found several documents detailing Bicardi owned businesses in Manehatten, only a few that she knew about in passing. Colt's Bar and Grill, Bender's Custom Firearms, Cafe L'amour. AJ shook her head, only three? Surely there was more then that, she figured.

The sounds of hoofsteps followed and she closed the file as Herbal came over, balancing a tray on her back. "Here you are! You look like you need a stiff drink, so I brought you a whiskey on the rocks." She explained, setting the drink down with her magic and flashing another warm smile. "Anything else sweetie?" Herbal asked.

Looking up Applejack shook her head. "No, but thank ya kindly fer askin'." She replied, watching the waitress trot off to tend to the other customers, one of which was the M.P.D. Stallion who was drunkily challenging the plumber, who in turn was threatening him. When she was gone once more, AJ turned back to the folder and opened it again, this time she looked at the various photos laid out with documents detailing the businesses and their operations, to her mild surprise, she saw they were doing some illegal things right under the guard's noses. Applejack lifted up one of the papers, looking at it closely and reading it off.

One of the papers she read was detailing an operation done from the bar and grill.

~V

From what I could gather on the Bicardi Family business from sources outside of Manehatten, they're using the restaurant 'Colt's Bar n' Grill' as a front for one of their underground drug movements through the city. Moving a drug called 'Benzopritrin' or as its know by its street name, 'Glazco' A drug known for giving ponies a strong feeling of 'ecstasy' throughout their bodies for one full hour, and hallucinations and death should they overdose on it.

I tracked several of their runners to this bar, where the drug is being distributed by a pony named, 'Glass Heart' He's a short stallion with a bright red mane/tail, and a cutie mark of a heart shaped piece of glass. He has a very distinctive scar on his lower jaw, and silver eyes. He is considered armed and dangerous, but all in all, he is no problem.

He is also responsible for the goings on at the other two locations listed in your file. The Firearms store is the location for his illegal weapons distribution among the gangs and crooks of the seedy underbelly of Manehatten, everything from High explosives to R.P.G.s The Cafe is another 'business', a term I use lightly for this, as its where he runs their proustituion racket.

Within this file you'll find his schedule, personal information, and place of residence, give it to whomever you see fit of talented enough to take him. He's one of the lesser ponies working for the Bicardi Family, so he should be easy.

Killing him will throw a wrench into the Bicardi's business in the Manehatten's lower district operations, and doing so will help a lot of ponies.

~T

Applejack looked below the letter, and indeed she saw a schedule.

Name: Glass Heart.
Age: 37.
Status: Single.
Race: Unicorn.
Place of Residence: Manehatten Upper East Side, 'Black Flute Apartments', Apartment 23B, Second Floor.
Danger: Mild.

Schedule:
5:00AM - 7:00AM: Wakes Up - Conducts Early Business Meeting with Bicardi Family Over Phone From Home.

7:00AM - 7:55AM: Rides Train To Lower West Side.

7:55AM - 9:00AM: Opens Business, Colt's Bar n Grill.

9:00AM - 12:00PM: Lunch Break - Private Time With One 'Starfly' Female Pegasus - Prostitute, No Danger.

12:00PM - 5:00PM - Runs Underground Gun/Drug/Prostitution Ring From Within Colt's Bar n Grill.

5:00PM - 12:00AM - Returns Home Via Train.

AJ stared at the paper for the longest time, unknowingly sucking down her drink as she read the information. He's sellin' drugs an' guns, and mares in the city? She shook her head, lowdown varmint. She thought as she sat her drink down, the ice clinking against the glass as she closed the file and put it back in her small saddle bag she was wearing. Looking up she heard somepony open the door, stumbling in with a groan, she took that as her cue to leave. She didn't have time to deal with drunks.

Getting up, Applejack trotted past several of the patrons and past the drunk stallion who reeked of alcohol and something else. Sickly as he looked, she paid him no mind as she trotted out into the streets, heading towards Colt's Bar n Grill.

-ooo000=+=000ooo-

Back in Ponyville walked a pegasus, but not just any pegasus. The one from the graveyard. She still donned her cloak from before as she trotted along the silent dark streets of the quiet town she knew all too well. Her eyes glanced too and far, looking for what, she wasn't sure yet. She knew she wanted to find out about more about the farm incident, but as to where she would find that out, again she wasn't sure.

A newspaper would help. She thought, looking around and spotting one she flapped over to it and fished out a coin before putting it inside, hearin the clinking she opened the up the bin and took a newspaper out before scanning its contents for anything regarding her friend, nay, her family's farm. After looking through it she found an article, it seems this bin had a few papaers from a few days ago. And what she was looking for was on the front page.

PONYVILLE TIMES
7/23/2300
APPLE FAMILY SLAUGHTER ANNIVERSARY TODAY!

One year ago, the Apple clan, Ponyville's well known and famous family known for their bountiful harvests and tasty produce, was brutally slaughtered by what reports have stated was a massive diamond dog bandit attack. Ever since Blast Powder came to Equestria from the eastern lands of the Goblin Empire seven years ago and invented what is known as 'Ballistic Firearms', there has been an increase in crime in the major cities and along roadways as bandits of many shapes and sizes terrorize the innocent, usually robbing them of their wares and leaving behind bodies.

Diamond Dogs are the usual suspect in these kind of attacks, given their size and aggression towards the mining companions delving into their lands for Diamonds, Rubies and all manner of sought after rocks used in fashion and magic, and ponies in general. When the royal guard arrived on the scene, diamond dogs were spotted ransacking the Apple Farm of any valuables, and stripping the dead of the possessions. A firefight ensued shortly after, with the Royal Guard taking only two injuries, non fatal.

It is believed that during the Apple Clan's reunion, Diamond dogs moved in under the cover of the fireworks show and laid waste to the clan. Killing any and all who stood in their way. There were no survivors. Ponyville's own Applejack, the Element of Honesty was not found among the dead. But chances of her survival are slim, as authorities have found no evidence to suggest she survived the gunfight.

The Bicardi family, known for their famous brews and cocktails sold worldwide have been in mourning over the loss of one of their greatest competitors. And in remembrance of the Apple Family, the head of the family, Miss Crystal Bicardi has decided to buy the massive plot of land and rebuild it. When reporters asked why this was, she had this to say.

"The Apple family I've known ever since I was a little filly, I knew Applejack's parents well and wanted to be like them when I got older. I always admired the family's hard working attitude, every day they would work on their farm harvesting apples or tending to the fields. They are what strive me to build my empire, as I got older and Applejack's parents passed away, I was saddened but still pushed myself until I became who I am today.

Soon enough the Apple Clan become one of my greatest competitors in the market business. My family's brew and her family famous Zap Apples tied for the top price. I loved the thrill of that, almost losing to them but not quite. It was something I enjoyed. And to hear those... dogs have slaughtered this family... this hardworking and nice family, makes my blood boil.

I loved this family, and I always wanted to combine both my family's products with theirs, to work alongside such a famous mare as Applejack. But I never got the chance to do so. Now, I'm purchasing the farmland, and I am going to rebuild it in the family's honor. I am going to continue their legacy, and keep it going for years to come.

That's a promise."

Isn't that just so nice of the Bicardi family? It's been a year since her promise, and the farm has been rebuilt to its former glory and is currently using top of the line farming equipment, effectively increasing produce output by a staggering seventy percent!

Rest in Piece Apple Family, and just know your farm is in good hooves.

-Article by: Flash Post

The mare rolled the paper up and placed it in her cloak as her eyes searched the town, when she saw nopony around she began walking towards the Apple Family farm. They're all dead, killed by Diamond Dogs? She couldn't believe that. She remembers a time both Aj and herself fought a pack of them, they barely got out alive though. While DD's are tough, they're not smart, add firearms to the mix and you have a recipe for disaster. To the Pegasus, it didn't seem right, it didn't feel right.

Why would Diamond Dogs just suddenly attack the Apple Family during their reunion? It would have been easier to sack the farm when there were less ponies, but instead they attacked during in the dead of night, during which time she knew they would launch fireworks at the ending of it.

This was no random DD bandit attack... this was an organized effort, it had to be. She told herself, a crisp breeze blowing past her and knocking her hood off. Revealing a solid snowy white mane, and midnight blue eyes, and most surprisingly... canines. She wore a three stand necklace around her neck, on the first strand was a small diamond white stone in the shape of a howling wolf's head, and the on the third strand were two small feathers, one red and one yellow along with a medallion. The mare flapped her wings twice then lifted the hood back up, and proceeded back down the walkway.

She needed more information.

-ooo000=+=000ooo-

The bar was coming into view as Applejack crept along through the alleyways. Several ponies trotted about through the streets, looking for a good club, a nice all night food joint, or a good time evidenced by several stallions walking into alleyways and talking with several skimpy looking mares, no doubt trying to purchase them for a good rutting.

Looking out ahead, the bar AJ saw was indeed Colt's Bar N' Grill. It was a small place, a large double front door with two stallions standing out nearby both wearing saddles that AJ guessed either held firearms or some other kind of weapon. Both were large earth ponies, and looked like they could knock down anypony who looked at em wrong. AJ opted for a back route, heading away from the front area she went back into the alley and circled around until she came to what looked like a back entrance, again another guard but this one was more... frailer looking.

He don't look like much. She thought to herself, eyeing the stallion at the back. He was small, almost looking like a young colt. He had what looked like pistol sitting by his side, shaped like a T with an extended clip. Dull bored brown eyes scanned the alleyway he stood guard in, he looked like he was not exactly happy with is current job. Okay, what ta do, what ta do. She looked around her, she could distract him, then knock him out. He wouldn't be too much trouble.

Spotting a glass bottle she wondered, would that work? Shrugging she was about to pick it up in her mouth, but thought better of it. No telling what's been on it, or who had it. She picked it up with her hoof, and looking for a suitable spot she reared up, prepared to throw then tossed it overhead, watching it fly through the air, and ot her surprise it bounced off of a wall making a loud clank sound before falling onto the ground.

What in th' hay? Applejack tilted her head in question at the bottle, why didn't it break? Surly it should have broke, but it didn't! But the deed did its job, and the colt quickly looked up, grabbing his firearm and trotting over to where he heard the noise.

With sluggish steps and gun in hoof, he made his way over as AJ snuck up behind him. Being extra careful to be as quiet as possible as to not alert the pony. Once she was behind him, she pulled out her gun and aiming at the back of his head, she raised the gun and brought it down hard. Hitting him and making him fall to the ground with a thud.

Ah... jus' did that didn't Ah? She asked herself, looking down at the colt lying on the cold ground. He was still alive, at least... but what if she ju- Shaking the thoughts away she picked up his gun and placed it in her saddlebag. She had no idea what kind of firearm it was, but maybe it would come in handy should she run out of ammo for her shotgun. Applejack looked down at his small saddlebag, contemplating rooting through it for anything useful, with a sigh Applejack turned around and trotted over to the door instead. Ah need ta try an' not add theft to what will no doubt be my record. Applejack told herself, walking up to the door and placing a hoof on it.

And with slight hesitence... she opened it.

And was suddenly hit with a barrage of different smells, mostly alcohol, tabacco, and musk... musk being a smell that overpowered the majority of the things she smelled. Celestia damn! She coughed, she's smelled some foul things in her life, but this take the cake. Steeling herself, Applejack trotted intside letting the door close behind her.

The hall Applejack ventured down was bland, the walls papery and peeling apart from age and direpair. The floors underhoof felt sticky, with what she didn't want to know. She did know that once this was done, she was going to take a long hot shower. Old lights buzzed above her, dimly lighting the hallway in front of her with a pasty light. Several doors leading to bathrooms and other unlabeled ones were on either side, Applejack heard something crash in the next room, followed by a mare giggling and grunting.

Oh Celestia. She blushed, trotting past that particular door with haste before arriving in what looked like a small back room. Up ahead she saw a dark brown door that looked like it led to the main room, another door that was padlocked, and several small tables and crates sitting about. And to her dismay, two stallions sitting around a table playing cards, were staring at her.

"Who're ya chicka?" One of them asked, pulling out a pistol and placing it on the table. "How'd ya get past Bingo?"

Bingo? She wondered with amusement as the other stallion stood up, trotting over to her and looking at her.

He hummed in thought, his purple eyes scrutinizing her in great detail as he trotted around her form. She felt uncomfortable being looked at, but said nothing. "She must be the pony G was talkin' bout, Flit." He said, looking AJ in the eyes with a suspicious gaze. "You Test Tube?" He asked her, raising an eyebrow.

AJ hesitated. Test Tube? They're expecting somepony? Applejack nodded. "Yeah, Ah'm her." She told them, shifting from side to side. She's done a lot of things, but lying about who she was, was not one she did, or wanted to do. Applejack could only hoped they believed her, if they didn't...

Well, she'd just have to kill them.

"Well its about damn time ya got here," The stallion in front of her said, glowering at Applejack before turning around and jerking his head towards the door on the far side. "Da boss is up front in his office," He told AJ, turning back to his cardgame with Flit. "Don't make 'im wait." Without another word he picked up his cards and resumed playing the game.

Having the green light, Applejack trotted over to the main room door before reaching out to it, and pushing it open., It gave way and she walked through. When she did AJ saw several ponies up front situated around the place. A bartender was serving several drinks to what looked like two guards dressed similarly to most of the Bicardi family goons, a black shirt with a small silver B on the front right shoulder. Another guard was sitting on the far left, reading a Newspaper that had a picture of a pony silhouette wielding a rifle on the front, and the words Sniper has struck again. on the front in bold.

Counting th' two in th' back, and these four, that's six. Then there's Glass himself... hoo boy. She huffed, wiping a hoof across her forehead as she made her way across the floor to the office, which had Glass Heart's name etched across it in small New Times Roamin. She made her way up to the door, hesitating before knocking on it twice.

"Who is it?!" Somepony yelled, the sounds of something being shoved into a drawer sounding from inside.

"Uh," What was that name again? Test Tube! "Ah'm Test Tube, here ta see ya." She called out quietly, not wanting to disturb the others in the establishment. She heard something that sounded like a match strike from inside, then a thud.

"Well get your flank on in here then." He called back out to her.

With no time to waste, AJ went inside. Opening the door with a feeling of trepidation coursing through her. When the door opened she was hit with the distinct smell of Whiskey and Bourbon, and cigar smoke. Small black unlabeled books lined the shelf behind the desk, where Glass Heart himself sat. He was a short stallion with a bright red mane and tail, and a cutie mark of a heart shaped piece of glass. Silver eyes locked on green ones as AJ trotted inside, closing the door behind her.

This is him... Applejack noted, looking at the stallion. A pistol sat in front of him, her eyes flicking to it for a brief moment before they set on his eyes once more. He appeared to have noticed where her eyes were, and moved his pistol aside.

"So, you're Test Tube?" He asked, tapping a hoof on his desk. He appeared to be impatient, antsy and probably slightly insane.

AJ nodded. "Yea, Ah'm Test Tube." She answered, standing a good distance away from Glass Heart. Now here she was, in the same room as her target. Its jus' us two in here... now what do Ah do? She wondered, watching the stallion as he scratched his scar.

Simple, you kill him, that's why you're here isn't it? A voice in the back of her head spoke, That is why you're here isn't it? is asked.

Well... Ah... yeah that's why Ah'm here. She replied, left foreleg twitched slightly. She needed to do this, she needed to make the Bicardi family pay for what they've done, but she was hoping to go straight to Havoc and Crystal Bicardi, not tread through their lackeys.

Then why are you stalling? The voice asked as Glass Heart started speaking, though AJ didn't hear a lick of any of it. The longer you wait, the more suspicious he'll get. You're not thet Test Tube pony, you got lucky getting inside and it probably won't happen again. HURRY UP AND KILL HIM! the voice cried urgently.

"Anyway, I need you to-" He stopped speaking, looking on as AJ trembled slightly. "Something the matter?" He asked, arching an eyebrow. What was her problem? He didn't know.

But he got his answer when, in an instant, Applejack pulled out her double barrel and raised it, pointing it at the stallion's head with her hoof on the trigger. "Don't move." she uttered, shaking slightly. Why was she?

Glass Heart leaned back, his eyes gleaming dangerously in the light. "You're not Test Tube are ya?" he said, it was more of a statement then a question. His eyes flicked to his gun for a second before going back to AJ's. "Who are you?" He questioned, keeping his tone calm and precise.

Moving over to the desk, AJ grabbed his gun before he could do anything and put it beside her. She had him now, without a weapon and no where to run. "Ah'm here ta kill you." She told him, shaking ever so slightly. This whole thing sounded better in her head, and now that she was here, she was nervous. Ah have him! Why am Ah so dang nervious all of a sudden? She pondered, keeping her eyes on the unicorn as his eyes narrowed.

Glass rose an eyebrow, smirking. "You're here to kill me?" He asked, leaning back as his eyes flicked downward to his desk. "Funny, you don't look like you're ready to kill anypony, least of all me." He tilted his head, still smiling. "Who sent you? The Don of the Manehatten Mob? or is it perhaps someone from Germaneigh?" Glass questioned further, placing his hooves together and eyeing the shotgun being pointed at his skull.

AJ shook her head, "Ah'm here of mah own volition, Ah'm here ta stop ya."

"Stop me?" Glass looked at her, mirth in his eyes. "How can you stop me? You're shaking where you're standing, and sweating up a storm." He smiled a toothy grin. "You're not going to stop me, you're just a little foal, playing a game that you're not ready for." He told her, his right hoof descending own below the desk, out of AJ's eye range.

Applejack shook even more, her heart was pounding in her chest and she could feel the sweat building up on her brow. She came to this place to stop Glass Heart's shady underground business, and to get one step closer to destroying the Bicardi family and exacting vengeance. But now she was getting cold hooves? She couldn't after coming so far, she needed to do this, she needed to stop him, to stop the Bicardi family. She didn't come this far to just give up!

Her thoughts were broken when Glass spoke. "I however, am fully capable of playing this game." He grinned before pulling out a gun and pulling back the hammer.

SHOOT HIM! The voice cried.

Applejack took aim as Glass did the same, both guns were primed as they both pulled the trigger.

CRACK-BOOM

05: BAR FIGHT!

Such a nice night eh?

CRACK-BOOM

Okay maybe not.

The sound of both guns blasting echoed throughout the small bar, and everypony stood up out of fear of getting shot, or getting ready for a fight having brought their own guns. However, what they didn't know was that the owner... was blown away.

Back in the office Applejack stumbled back when the 30. caliber bullet hit her chest and hit the floor, adding what would be another scar to her collection. Glass Heart however, wasn't so lucky. He took the full brunt of the buckshot, and was sent flying out of his office window and out onto the cold concrete ground. There he sputtered his last breath, and slowly bled out as the life left his eyes.

Ah killed him! She thought to herself... sure that wasn't her first kill, but it was the first she had done when she wasn't angry beyond all belief. She looked down at her gun, the barrels were smoking and when she placed her hoof against it, it felt hot to the touch. Dadgum.

"That bitch must have taken out da boss!" Somepony from outside yelled, prompting Applejack to doubletake at the door leading out into the bar.

"Horseapples!"

-ooo000=+=000ooo-

Vengeance
A story of loss, redemption, and pure unfiltered hate.
Written by: Dustchu.
Cover Art by: Sipioc
MLP:FIM belongs to Hasbro and Lauren Faust.
I own only my OC's and certain elements.

-ooo000=+=000ooo-

"Kill that bitch!" A pony guard cried, one of the Bicardi thugs hired to protect the bar. He leapt behind a table and overturned it as AJ kicked opened the door and took cover behind the bar counter, where the bartender was holding a pump action shotgun in his hooves.

The bartender took one look at AJ and groaned. "You're th' one causing dis ruckus?" He asked, raising an eyebrow at her as she reloaded her shotgun.

Applejack wasn't exactly well informed on the basics of reloading and of course, she was having trouble. She looked up, frowned slightly and said. "Its mah business, not yours." She said, finally opening the breech of her shotgun making the shells fly out, hitting her chest. Reaching into her saddlebag she pulled out two fresh ones and loaded them up before closing the breech.

"Hey bartender, why don't you shoot that bitch already!?" Another pony yelled, holding an uzi in his magic.

The bartender growled under his breath. "Ah told ya before Ah ain't doing ya dirty work, ya damn Bicardi plotheads!" He yelled back, pumping his shotgun and standing up before taking aim. "Ah'm sick of your shit!" Without another word he pulled the trigger, sending a spray of lead towards one of the tables and taking off a good chunk of it in one shot, as well as blowing off the ear of an unfortunate pony behind it.

"Gah!" the pony cried as he clutched the remains of his ear. "You asshole!"

Applejack wasn't sure if she should be grateful he didn't shoot her, or if she should be thankful for the support. Shaking her head AJ peered out from behind her cover. Alright, Ah have ta deal with these ponies before Ah can git! Standing up she aimed her double barrel at the first target she saw and fired, both barrels discharged at once and nearly made her wrist snap. Celestia damn it! She thought mentally as she ducked back down, shaking her hoof.

Both of her shots had luckily taken out one of the other stallions, his head now full of buckshot. He crumpled to the ground in a heap, blood rapidly pooling on the floor as his gun slipped out of his hoof. His partner, probably the only mare aside from AJ in the bar, clutched her gun in her hoof, a small auto pistol. "You, you killed him!" The mare cried, standing up and peppering the bar with bullets with an angry glare. "I'll kill you!"

Shit! AJ cursed, trying to reload her gun in vain. Her hooves shook, her body overcome with tremors as she reached for more shells. Come on AJ, ya need ta toughen up! What would Pa say in a situation like this?

Now AJ... you got any cider? Applejack heard her father's voice question.

She facehoofed. Really pa?

"Get yer head in the game kid!" The bartender shook AJ's shoulder, ducking as stray glass rained down on them from the bar's supply of alcohol. "We got thugs ta kill!" He told her as he stood up and took another shot, missing and destroying a seat. "Luna's tits!"

He's right! AJ finally got her head on straight and reloaded her shotgun, putting in two more shells and standing up out of cover. She could feel time slow down as she spotted the mare from before, the mare was walking towards her on her hind hooves, holding her gun sideways and letting loose a spray of bullets at the bar. AJ took aim, and once more she fired, the first blast took half her arm off, while the second hit her in the chest sending her flying backwards with a cry of pain. Only two left!

CRACK-BOOM

Okay, one left. AJ remarked, watching as a pony was taken down by the bartender with a shot.

The last pony, seeing he was on his own, shot several bullets towards the two behind the bar as he ran out towards the door. "Buck you both!" He yelled, running out into the night laden streets.

Both bartender and Applejack were left alone, holes sizzled and blood pooled in the bar. The smell of gunpowder was heavy, along with iron, and something resembling urine and beer. Applejack looked over at the bartender, noticing him reloading his shotgun. "Serves em right for messin' up mah bah, damn Bicardi famlah." He looked over at AJ and hefted his shotgun up over his shoulder. "Ya ain't gunna cause me any trouble are ya?"

She coughed and holstered his gun. "No, Ah'll get outta ya hair." She said, trotting around the bar and heading for the back door. "Sorry about your bar."

He waved a hoof. "They had it comin' for a while now, extorting all mah profits and smuggling things in like guns and drugs." He shook his head, holstering his own gun and slinging it over his back. "Ah'm leavin' to, need to get out before the Bicardi famlah decides ta cut their losses with me." The bartender trotted out to the front door. "See ya later kid, give em Tartarus." He said before leaving, trotting out into the night.

Applejack watched him go before leaving herself. I cleaned out the bar of the thugs, and killed Glass... maybe his office has something Ah can use? She quickly galloped back to the office, and started looking around. AJ rooted though the desks and cabinets, only finding several useless documents and knick knacks. But then as she looked down at the desk, she came across a locked drawer. "Ah wonder..." Looking around she found Glass's pistol lying on the ground, picking it up she aimed at the lock, and shot it open. The wood splintered and fell to the ground, and the lock was broken but could now be opened.

Placing the pistol aside and opening it she found a folder inside and lifted it up, she was going to open it but heard someponies walking into the bar.

"Alright, check the place, and find Glass!" Somepony yelled.

Damn it! AJ tucked the file away and jumped out the window, landing next to Glass's body and running down the alleyway. Time to get home. She told herself, disappearing into the night.

Author's Note

Sorry for the short, chapter, I just wanted to get this out there. D'x
Heeeeeeeelooooooooooo everypony! :D I'm back with a new chapter!
I BROKE THE FIVE CHAPTER MARK! :D
That's a big thing for me, Fimfiction wise.

I also have been writing in a new style, in case you haven't noticed.
What do you think of this versus my original way of writing?

Like how most of it is like this.

Instead of this.

If you know what I mean.

Also, I got new Cover art, thanks to the ever so awesome and fabulous: Sipioc, thanks again man, you fucking rule!

Cover Art:
She's so pretty~
And yes... to your unanswered question about her attire.
She will be... at some point.

Thanks everypony for reading, and stay tuned till next time!