The Odd Tale Of Snow Fameuse

Chapters

Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3

Chapter 1

“Hey babe, I’m gonna head out for a bit alright?” Dash called, pulling her scarf on. She had partially moved in with the Apples, not wanting to spend the winter by herself.

“Don’t be too long now, y’hear?” Applejack called from the kitchen. “Supper’s almost ready. We’re gonna be havin’ spiced cider with it too. Ah know ya don’t wanna miss out on that.”

“Ain’t no way I’m missing it!” Dash called back, slipping outside into the cold. “At least it’s not a blizzard.” The night was rather still, a light flurry drifting down from the heavens. With barely a sound, Dash pushed off from the porch, taking to the sky. She flew to the orchard, letting the brisk air nip at her as she flew. The snow covered trees glistened in the moonlight as she passed by them. She had to admit, it was a beautiful sight.

She didn’t really have anywhere to be, Tank was hibernating (which still stung), her house was locked up tight and she didn’t have the late weather shift. She continued to fly for a bit, doing some lazy loops and spins to keep her blood flowing in the cold.

“Ahh, there’s something relaxing about night flying,” Dash said to herself as she did another loop. All of a sudden, she heard a small sound, almost like a whimper. She slowed down to a hover, swiveling her ears around for the source of the noise. She heard it again, seeming to be coming from the bottom of a nearby tree. She flew over to it, and saw a grey lump poking out of the snow.

“Hello?” she asked, folding her wings, gingerly taking a step closer. The lump shuffled in the snow, tiny eyes poking out and looking at her. The thing then let out a series of coos. “Seriously?” She stared rather dumbfounded. Sitting in the snow was a foal, probably too young to walk. “Discord, if that's you, this isn’t funny.” The foal tilted its head, looking up at her with an innocent and confused expression. “Okay, so you're not him. Great.” She pulled her scarf off, gently scooping up the foal.

“Who left you out here?” she asked, wrapping him as best she could in the scarf. Her only answer was a yawn as the foal nestled into the makeshift swaddling. She eyed him for a moment before taking off again, moving back to the house. “Hey babe!” Dash called, trotting into the house, “Do we have any foal supplies?”

“Why in the world are ya askin’ that?!” Applejack asked from the kitchen.

“Uh... I found a foal in the orchard,” Dash explained.

“You what?!” Applejack exclaimed, rushing into the room. Her eyes widened when she saw the little colt. “Who in tarnation left a foal on mah property?!”

“No idea.” Dash shrugged. “Found him under a tree.”

“We’ve gotta tell somepony about this tomorrow,” Applejack said. “But fer now, we gotta put a makeshift diaper on ‘im.” She disappeared into another room for a few moments and came back with a cloth.

“AJ...” Dash stared at the foal, her scarf falling to the floor.

“Dear Faust…” Applejack said, her eyes widening as she saw the colt’s eight legs. “What in tarnation is he?”

“What are y’all two yammering about?” Granny Smith asked, waddling out into the living room. She then saw the foal and her eyes widened as well. “Dear sweet sassafrass!”

“Why are y’all shoutin?” Apple Bloom asked, walking out of the kitchen. She saw the colt as well and rushed over to him. “Well would ya look at this! He’s like a whole new kinda pony!”

The little guy whined, kicking his legs.

“Alright now, that's enough gawkin’,” Granny cleared her throat. “Ya get that foal decent, Jackie. Ah’ll get him somethin’ ta eat.” Applejack nodded and quickly tied the makeshift diaper around the foal.

“How do ya think the foal was born like this?” Dash asked.

“Probably a birth defect.” AJ rocked the foal gently, calming him down. “Did ya find anything with him?”

“No, he was just buried in a pile of snow,” Dash replied, frowning and shaking her head. “Little guy looked like he was about to freeze to death.”

“Well, he ain’t shiverin’ now,” AJ commented, taking a moment to examine him.

“Do you see anything other than the legs that are interesting?” Dash asked.

“Ah dunno. Ah ain’t no doctor.” AJ shrugged, holding the foal close. “We’ll take him to the hospital tomorrow.”

“Do… you think we should keep him?” Dash asked, rubbing the back of her head.

“Let’s not get ahead of ourselves okay?” AJ turned, leading her into the kitchen. Granny was there with a bowl of food.

“Ah got applesauce for the little colt,” the old mare said. “It’ll help ‘im grow big and strong.”

“Thanks Granny.” AJ sat down, putting the foal in her lap. “Say ah~” she smiled, scooping up some applesauce, holding it to his mouth. The foal seemed to perk up and opened his mouth wide. “That's a good boy,” AJ praised, slipping it into his mouth. The foal happily swallowed it down and opened his mouth again.

“He’s certainly hungry.” Dash smiled, digging into her own plate.

“Hey, ya won’t hear me complain that he ain’t a fussy eater,” AJ said as she popped another spoonful in his mouth. He ate it with a hum, licking his lips. “Yer a real cutie,” she said with a smile as she got another spoonful ready. “Who could abandon a foal like you?”

“Maybe it was because of his legs?” Applebloom suggested.

“That’s no reason to leave a foal to freeze,” Dash said with a scowl. “Whoever this colt’s parents are could’ve put him up for adoption.”

“Well, he’s with us now,” Granny spoke, patting the foal’s head.

“Granny, we can’t just keep ‘im,” AJ said with a frown as she continued to feed the colt.

“An why not?” Granny asked, raising her eyebrow.

“Well, raisin’ a foal is a big task,” Applejack said. “And there’s a big hullabaloo t’adopt a foal.”

“I mean, do we even have the time to take care of a foal?” Dash asked, looking around the table.

“Ah gotta lot o’ time on mah hooves,” Granny pointed out. “He can be mah little helper in the kitchen.”

“Granny, I doubt he can even walk.”

The old mare rolled her eyes. “Ah know that, Ah’m old, not senile. Ah meant that Ah could keep an eye on ‘im while Ah work in the kitchen. ”

“Ah dunno...”

“Well, he does need a good home,” Dash said. “And I can’t think of a better family to be a part of than the Apple family.”

“How about we have this talk after we get him checked out?” AJ asked, feeding him the last bit of applesauce.

“Alright,” Dash said with a nod. “That sounds fair.”

“While Ah’m doin’ that, ah want ya to go out to where ya found him, and look for anything ya might have missed.”

“You got it, babe,” Dash said with a smile.

“He can stay with us tonight.” AJ ruffled his thin white mane. “Mac, ya mind gettin’ Bloom’s old cradle from the attic?”

“Nope,” the large stallion said with a shake of his head as he stepped out of the room.

“Thanks,” she called, leaving the foal to his own devices while she ate. The foal started batting at the end of her loose ponytail and giggled. “Ya like that?” she asked, letting out a chuckle. The foal’s only answer was to continue playing with her mane.

“What are we gonna call him?” Bloom asked, unable to keep a smile off her face.

“Well, we should hold off on naming him,” Dash said. “He may not be a permanent family member after all.”

“We can’t just call him ‘foal’,” Bloom argued.

“Alright, then whaddya wanna call him?” Aj asked.

“Uh...” Bloom pouted, studying him. “Octi...?”

“Bloom, that’s an awful name,” Applejack said with a flat look.

“Ehehe....” Bloom looked away, having the decency to be embarrassed.

“What about Snowfall?” Dash suggested. “I did find him in the snow after all.”

“Ah say Snow Fameuse,” Granny chimed in.

“Ah like that,” Applejack said, stroking his white mane. “ Even if it is in fancy. Snow Fameuse it is then.” Snow cooed at her, nuzzling her hoof. “Little guy, yer makin’ it real hard to say no t’keepin’ ya,” she said with a small huff.

“Does that mean we are keepin’ him?” Apple Bloom asked, giving Applejack a hopeful smile.

“We’ll see after we get ‘im checked by the doctor,” AJ said. “Ah’ll talk to the mayor and see what we can do. She might have to put out a notice fer a missin’ foal.” Applejack relaxed in her chair, letting out an uncharacteristic yelp, holding Snow away from her. “Hey now little stallion, Ah ain’t got no milk for ya.” Snow pouted and looked between her teats and her face.

“We’ll have to go to the store, too.” Dash chuckled. “Or,” she gave Applejack a sly grin, “a little trip to Zecora’s.”

“Well since it was yer idea, Ah suppose you’ll wanna drink whatever she gives us,” Applejack replied with a sly grin of her own.

“How many times Ah gotta tell you two? No shenanigans at the table,” Granny reminded, giving both of them a stern look.

“Sorry Granny,” the two said, blushing and rubbing the back of their heads.

Mac walked into the room, retaking his seat. “S’in yer room.” He nodded at AJ, digging into his meal.

“Guess that means we’re just sleeping tonight,” Dash whispered in the orange mare’s ear.

“Darn right we are,” Applejack confirmed, giving Dash a look.

“We’ll need to find him his own room soon,” Dash replied. “Otherwise we both might get cranky.”

“We can deal with that tomorrow.” Applejack pushed away from the table. “Do y’all mind cleaning up? Ah’m gonna get Snow ready fer bed.” The others all nodded and started to clean up as she carried Snow upstairs. “Ah bet yer tired.” She trotted into her room, setting the foal into the cradle. Snow let out a yawn, his head hitting the pillow. He looked up at her with a tired look in his eyes. “Let’s get ya to sleep.” she tucked him in, gently rocking him. He cooed softly and his eyes fluttered closed. “There.” she smiled, trotting quietly to the door.

“So, he asleep?” Dash asked, peeking into the room.

“Went out like a light,” Applejack said with a smile.

“So... now what?” Dash asked, shifting on her hooves.

“Well, we might be raisin’ a foal,” AJ said. “We were talkin’ about somethin’ like that fer down the road.”

“Yeah but I mean...” Dash rubbed her neck. “I’m not even a Wonderbolt yet.”

“Ah know, but Snow needs a home.” Applejack sighed. “Ah could really use yer help raisin’ him, sugarcube.”

“Hey, I didn’t say I wouldn’t.” Dash stepped forward, pulling Applejack into a hug.

“Didn’t doubt ya fer a second,” Applejack said, returning the hug. “And hey, if we talk to Zecora like ya said, we might be able t’give Snow a sibling later on,” she joked.

“Now that sounds great...” Dash grinned, giving her a kiss on the lips. Applejack returned it happily.

“Dibs on bein’ the daddy,” Applejack said with a smirk.

“You just wanna see me fat.” Dash pouted, poking her chest.

“The freakout would be pretty entertaining.” AJ chuckled. “Though the complainin’ about not bein’ able t’fly would get annoyin’.”

“You bet it would.” Dash moved past her, making a point to flick her tail across Applejack’s muzzle.

“Heh, we can talk more about that later.” Applejack shook her head. “That’ll have t’wait until after Snow is outta diapers.” She looked down in the crib and frowned. “Do ya think he’ll be okay growin’ up?”

“What, cause of the legs?” Dash asked, climbing into bed.

“Yeah, Ah just know the other foals will mock him and he’ll have a hard time makin’ friends.”

“I like to think Ponyville is better than that,” Dash replied, getting comfy under the covers.

“Ah hope yer right,’ AJ said as she hung her stetson up and joined Dash in bed.

“I know I am.” Dash pulled AJ close to her, wrapping a wing around her. AJ snuggled in close to her marefriend and closed her eyes.

Applejack groaned as the soft cries of a foal filled the night air, dragging her out of the dream world. “Okay, okay, Ah’m up...” she opened her eyes, blinking the sleep away. She moved to step out of bed, only to freeze up, spotting another pony in the room.

Standing above Snow’s cradle, rocking it, was a tall green mare, her mane as black as night. She wore a strange golden helmet, the most prominent feature of which were the two long, backwards curved horns. After a moment, she turned her head, locking eyes with Applejack. She placed a hoof to her mouth, leaning down to tuck Snow back in. She strode silently to the door, looking back at Applejack.

“Take care of him.” A whisper flitted about the room and when AJ blinked, the mare was gone.

“What the hay just happened?” Applejack whispered. She turned to the cradle and saw Snow sleeping blissfully in his cradle. She looked back at the doorway and frowned. She then slowly returned to bed.

“Whatcha doin...?” Dash muttered, cracking an eye open.

“It was nothin’,” Applejack lied, wrapping her forelegs around Dash. “Just had to calm Snow down was all.”

“Right...” Dash cuddled up, quickly drifting back to sleep. Applejack frowned and thought of the strange mare as she slowly fell asleep.

Early the next morning, the house’s inhabitants were greeted not with the usual rooster call, but with the hungry cries of a foal. Applejack and Rainbow Dash shot up and scooped Snow out of the cradle and quickly carried him to the kitchen.

“Geez, he’s got a set of lungs on him,” Dash muttered, keeping her ears pinned to her head.

“At least we know he didn’t get pneumonia from bein’ out in the snow,” AJ muttered as she pulled out applesauce and sat Snow down. He calmed down at the sight of food, eagerly holding his mouth open. “Heh, typical stallion, all it takes t’make ya happy is some food.” She scooped up a spoonful and popped it in his mouth.

“You’re one to talk,” Dash countered, “Weren’t you the foal who ate all the apple fritters at one of your reunions?”

AJ blushed hotly. “That was when I was still in diapers. Ah swear, Granny tells ya that story once and you’ll never let me hear the end o’ it.”

“You were still a foal,” Dash teased, snickering a little.

“Uh huh, and need Ah remind you of the ballet recitals yer folks told me about?” AJ asked with a quirked brow.

“Hey, they just made me better with my moves,” Dash retorted, doing a little spin.

“And all those photos o’ you in a tutu and yer mane up in a bun are just adorable,” Applejack pressed.

“You’re just jelly,” Dash shot back, sticking her tongue out. This got a giggle out of Snow, making him dribble a little applesauce onto his chest. Applejack chuckled and wiped the sauce off with a napkin.

“That’s fer eatin, not wearin’.” Snow gurgled a reply, opening his mouth for more. AJ smiled and fed him more. “Yer such a well behaved foal.”

“I bet that’ll change in the hospital,” Dash commented, helping herself to some cereal.

“Ah hope yer wrong ‘bout that,” AJ said as she continued to feed Snow. “Ah’ll be there to keep ‘im calm.”

“You heading off after breakfast?” Dash asked, giving Apple Bloom a wave as the filly sleepily trotted into the kitchen.

“Best t’make sure he’s got a clean bill of health as soon as we can.” AJ nodded. “Then Ah’m off to the mayor.”

“I’ll meet you after I search the orchard.” Dash nodded, pouring Applejack a bowl of cereal.

“Why do foals hafta be so loud?” Bloom asked, climbing into her seat.

“Cause they can’t fend fer themselves yet,” Applejack said, ruffling her sister’s mane. “You were the same way back at Snow’s age.”

“Really?” she asked, glancing at the young pony.

“Ya had quite the lungs on ya, little missy,” Granny confirmed, waddling into the kitchen, not bothered at all by Snow’s earlier crying.

“Eeyup,” Mac agreed as he took his own seat.

“We’re gonna have ta clear out yer folks’ room,” Granny commented, moving over to put some eggs on.

“Ah guess we’ll have to put their stuff in the attic,” AJ said with a sigh.

“Ah’ll help,” Mac grunted.

“And Ah’ll help too,” Bloom said with a quick salute.

“Well, I’ll get started on my job,” Dash said, gulping down the last of her cereal, putting the bowl and spoon in the sink and rushing out the door.

“Ah’m sorry ta keep putting chores on y’all, but could ya get that done while I’m out today?” Applejack asked, looking between her siblings.

“Don’t worry, sis, Ah didn’t have any plans fer today,” Bloom assured her with a smile.

“Thanks Bloom.” AJ smiled, patting her head. They all finished their breakfast and Applejack wrapped Snow up in an old blanket before heading out the door. Bloom and Mac then went upstairs so they could complete their assigned chore.

“We’re gonna make sure yer nice and healthy.” Applejack nuzzled Snow, getting a happy coo in return. He relaxed in her hold as they walked into town. The tiny colt let out a yawn, his eyes fluttering.

“Nap time already huh?” she chuckled, ignoring most of the looks she got from passersby. She stepped into the hospital, walking up to the front desk. “Um, Ah know Ah don’t exactly have an appointment, but Ah got an emergency on mah hooves.”

“And what would that be?” The mare behind the desk asked.

“Well, last night my marefriend found this little fella out in the snow.” Applejack lifted up Snow, placing him on the counter.

“Aww, who would abandon a foal like him?” the mare asked, stroking Snow’s mane. “I’ll notify the doctor right away and he’ll see you shortly.”

“Well see...” Applejack rubbed the back of her neck. “That ain’t exactly all.” She moved the blanket, letting the mare take in Snow’s full form.

“...I’ll go get the doctor right now.” The mare jumped up, rushing out of the reception area. In less than a minute, she returned with a doctor. The doctor then picked up Snow in his magic and examined him.

Snow whined, squirming around weakly in the doctor’s grasp. The doctor’s expression softened and he handled Snow with more care.

“Easy there little guy, we’re just making sure you’re okay,” the doctor said, patting Snow’s head. He then floated over a red lollipop. “Be good, and you’ll get this at the end of your check up.”

“Ah don’t think he has teeth,” Applejack spoke up.

“He can still suck on it,” the doctor said with a chuckle. “I’m sure if you weren’t careful around him he’d try to do the same to your teats.”

“...He already did...”

“I’m not surprised.” The doctor chuckled again. “Well, he doesn’t look unhealthy and judging by the muscles in all the extra legs they’re all going to develop properly. Would you mind if I did a more thorough examination?”

“That's what Ah was hopin’ for.” Applejack nodded. The doctor nodded and led them all into a room with medical equipment. The doctor carefully examined Snow, using any bit of equipment he could to check the odd colt’s health.

Much to Applejack’s frustration, Snow most certainly did not like the doctors, the formerly well behaved foal getting rather fussy.

“Snow, calm down little guy,” Applejack cooed, patting his head. “They ain’t gonna hurt ya. They wanna help ya. Gotta make sure yer safe and healthy.” Snow latched onto her, and Applejack found it rather hard to worm her way out of the foal’s grip. “He’s got a good grip on him with all these legs.”

“It’s fine, we can finish the tests like this,” the doctor said. “And he’s far from the worst foal to come through these doors.”

“The legs ain’t gonna cause him no problems?” Applejack asked, looking down at Snow.

“No, the legs are all healthy,” the doctor replied. “And his internal organs seem to be all healthy and in their normal positioning. And his internal magic is slightly higher than your average earth pony foal.”

“Is he an earth pony?” Applejack questioned, looking at the doctor.

“I don’t know what else to qualify him as,” the doctor said. “I don’t see any wings or a horn on him.”

Applejack opened her mouth to respond when Snow sneezed, covering her leg in frost.

“...Okay, and now I think he’s a 5th kind of pony,” the doctor said, blinking in surprise.

“Okay, that's cold.” Applejack shivered, quickly shaking the frost off her arm. “That does explain why he seemed fine after sittin’ in the snow though.”

“Yes it does,” the doctor agreed. “Okay, little Snow has a clean bill of health, and as promised.” The doctor held out the lollipop to Snow. Snow blinked grasping it with a hoof.

“Thanks doc, that’s a load off mah mind,” Applejack said with a sigh of relief.

“I assume you’re taking him to the mayor’s office?”

“Yeah, gotta see if Ah can start the adoption process and see if Mayor Mare can send out a lost foal notice to other towns,” Applejack said with a nod.

He nodded, passing her a few sheets of paper. “To prove you brought him for a checkup.” She smiled, taking the papers as she handed the doctor payment for the checkup. She then tipped her hat and left while Snow happily ate his lollipop.

“Yer just a bundle of surprises ain’t ya?” Applejack asked, rubbing his head. Snow cooed and continued to eat his lollipop. “Ah’m glad yer healthy little fella, yer already growin’ on me after one day.”

“Applejack?”

Applejack blinked at the sound of her name, looking over her shoulder to spot Rarity trotting up to her.

“Oh hey Rarity. Out shoppin?”

“Well yes, I am,” Rarity said. “But who’s that you’re carrying?” She pointed at Snow with a hoof.

“Oh him? This’in here is Snow Fameuse. Say hello ta Rarity, Snow.” Snow cooed, waving a pair of hooves at her.

“Well he’s certainly adorable,” Rarity cooed, fussing with his mane. “I’m surprised you and Rainbow are already adopting at this point in your relationship.”

“Actually, Dash found him in the snow last night.” Rarity frowned.

“Oh, how awful, how could anypony abandon a foal like that. Poor thing is lucky he didn’t freeze to death.”

“The eight legs might have somethin’ ta do with that.”

“The what now?” Rarity asked, blinking.

Applejack gently grasped Snow’s right front set of legs, waving them at Rarity. The white unicorn blinked, opening and closing her mouth as she tried to find the right words.

“You certainly don’t see that every day.”

“Makes him special,” Applejack explained, ruffling his mane.

“True. I doubt there’s anything else like him,” Rarity said.

“Ah just took him to the doctors, he definitely ain’t no earth pony.”

“Really, then what is he?” Rarity asked, scrutinizing Snow closely.

“No idea. All Ah know is, he’s got extra legs and he sneezes snow.”

“That is rather unique,” Rarity said, slowly pulling away from Snow. “So, where are you and Snow going?”

“The mayor’s office, gotta report him.” Applejack adjusted Snow, smiling as he cuddled into her.

“Then I won’t keep you two.” Rarity said with a smile. “And I think if you do keep him that you and Rainbow will make wonderful parents.

“Thanks Rares.” Applejack smiled, tilting her hat slightly. “Ah’ll see ya around.” The two waved to each other before parting ways. Applejack then trotted off to the town hall where the mayor’s receptionist greeted her.

“Hello! How can I help you?” the chipper pegasus asked, smiling from behind her desk.

“Ah need to report a lost foal and possibly start the adoption process,” Applejack replied, indicating Snow.

“Oh my. Is the little one alright?” she asked, leaning in to get a better look.

“Doc gave him a clean bill of health,” Applejack said as she handed the medical papers over.

“Excellent.” The mare looked them over, nodding her head. “Do you mind waiting while I inform the mayor?”

“That ain’t gonna be a problem. Snow’s pretty busy right now,” Applejack said, indicating the lollipop. The mare nodded with a smile, trotting off to the mayor's office. Applejack sat down and held Snow in her hooves, keeping him away from her teats. He was too busy with his lollipop, gumming on it. Mayor Mare trotted in just as Snow finished his lollipop.

“I understand you have a lost foal to report?” the mayor asked.

“That's right ma’am.” Applejack nodded, taking the lollipop stick away from Snow before he could choke on it. “We found this little fella in our orchard last night.”

“Oh my, and yet he’s still completely healthy?” Mayor Mare questioned. “He’s certainly a lucky little thing all things considered.”

“Well ma’am, he ain’t like anypony Ah ever met. Little guy sneezed ice when he was at the doctors, and that's not even getting to the extra legs.”

“He could’ve been abandoned by superstitious ponies that thought he was a bad omen,” Mayor Mare commented with a frown. “What a shame. But you wish to also file for adoption?”

Applejack paused, looking down at the odd little foal in her arms. Her mind wandered a bit, drifting back to the strange mare she had seen the night before. Snow looked up at her as well, letting out a happy gurgle and burying his face in her chest. Her heart melted instantly at that.

“Yeah, Ah think Ah’m gonna file fer adoption if nopony responds to the lost foal notice.”

“Excellent.” Mayor Mare smiled. “We’ll get started by registering Sweet Apple Acres as his foster home.”

“Thank ya ma’am, that’s a ton o’ help,” Applejack said with a smile.

“If you’ll follow me.” The mayor turned, moving back to her office. Applejack trotted after her with Snow held close to her chest. “Did his parents happen to leave a name?” she asked, looking back at them.

“We didn’t find anything like that, Dash is looking fer it where she found him though,” Applejack replied. “We’ve just been callin’ him Snow Fameuse.”

“Seems like a fitting name.” Mayor Mare took her seat, gesturing for Applejack to sit. Applejack sat down, adjusting Snow in her hooves.

“So what papers do ya need me to sign?” Applejack asked.

Mayor Mare gathered a few papers, passing them over to Applejack. “These, if you don’t mind.” Applejack juggled Snow in her hooves and started to fill out the paperwork. It took a few minutes before she was done with the last page.

“Thank you~” Mayor Mare took them, starting to look them over. “Everything seems to be in order here. I have to tell you now, you’ll be working closely with a social worker.”

“That won’t be a problem,” Applejack replied. “We got nothin’ to hide at Sweet Apple Acres.”

“Good.” Mayor Mare smiled. “I think that's all for today then.”

“Then Ah’ll get outta yer mane,” Applejack replied with her own smile as she stood up. “Ah think little Snow needs some lunch.”

“Have a nice day!” the mayor called, waving them off.

Applejack walked out of the office and out into town to head back to the farm house. “Yer havin’ a busy day,” she said to Snow. “How ya feelin’ little guy?”

Snow gurgled up at her, waving his hooves around.

“Glad t’see yer such a happy little fella,” Applejack smiled down at him and held him closer. “Ah hope ya keep bein’ like this fer a long time.”

“Hi Jackie!” Pinkie was suddenly in her face, smiling manically.

“Hi Pinkie,” AJ said, not bothered by the mare’s sudden appearance. “Did yer Pinkie Sense tell ya about little Snow here?”

“You have a foal!?” Pinkie gasped, bouncing up and down.

“Dash found him out in the orchard last night, Ah just had the mayor put out a lost foal notice and now we’re his foster family fer the time bein’,” Applejack explained.

“Sounds like fun!” Pinkie chirped, spinning around with Snow in her arms. The blanket fell off him during one of the spins, revealing Snow’s legs to the party mare. “Whoa! He’s a spider pony!”

“Ah don’t know about that, but he does have more legs than normal. But the doctor said he’s healthy and the legs’ll develop properly,” Applejack said.

“I think it’s adorable!” Pinkie beamed, hugging the foal close to her. Snow gurgled happily, returning the hug.

“Ah figured you’d react like this.” Applejack chuckled.

“I can throw him a party, right?” Pinkie asked, bouncing up and down.

“As if Ah’d keep ya from throwin’ an Apple family member a party,” Applejack replied with a smile.

“Yay!” Pinkie smiled, nuzzling her nose to Snow’s. Snow’s nose scrunched up and he sneezed frost all over Pinkie’s face.

“Yeah, he sneezes ice,” Applejack said with a nervous chuckle.

“T-That's cold...” Pinkie muttered, her teeth chattering comically. Applejack quickly helped her get the frost off and Snow looked at her with an apologetic look. Snow stuck one of his hooves in his mouth, looking up at them curiously. “Aww, I can’t get mad at a face like that!” Pinkie nuzzled the foal. “He’s as cute as the Cake twins.” Pinkie paused, looking at her. “Do you have supplies?”

“Ah was about to pick some up,” AJ replied. “And we got a cradle back home fer him.”

“I can help!” Pinkie smiled, placing Snow on her head. He hooked his legs around her head, making him look like a hat.

“Alright Pinkie, Ah appreciate that. Just try not to go overboard with this.”

“Just gimme a budget!” Pinkie smiled, getting into a salute.

“Ah’d say about 40-50 bits would be the limit of what we can spend at the moment,” AJ replied, tapping her chin in thought.

“Roger!” Pinkie nodded, getting a giggle out of Snow. The two mares then trotted to the store, while Snow happily babbled from his perch. “He’s a talker alright.” Pinkie smiled.

“Ah guess he is.” Applejack chuckled. “Maybe he’ll be able to keep up with you when he’s older.”

“You think so?” Pinkie started her trade make bouncing, getting a squeal of delight out of Snow.

“Considerin’ his legs and the fact he sneezes ice, Ah’d say anything’s possible fer Snow,” Applejack replied, a warm smile on her face as she watched Snow enjoy himself.

“Did you tell Twilight?”

“Not yet,” Applejack replied. “Makin’ sure he was healthy and reportin’ him to the mare seemed more important.”

“You're already thinking like a mom!”

“Ah did already have practice with Apple Bloom, considerin’…” Applejack paused, putting a hoof on her Stetson.

“I’m sorry.” Pinkie looked away, her smile fading. “I shouldn’t have said anything.”

“It’s fine Pinkie, you were just payin’ me a compliment,” Applejack assured her. “The only reason Ah even paused is ‘cause their anniversary is comin’ up.”

“Are you gonna do anything special?” Pinkie asked, regaining some of her cheer.

“Same thing we do every year, visit their grave and pour a bit of our best cider for ‘em and then have an anniversary party. Heh, Granny thought celebratin’ the happiest day of their lives was a better way t’honor ‘em than doin’ anythin’ fer the day they died. Ah think she was right.” Applejack had a faint smile on her face.

“That's a good party plan.” Pinkie nodded. “Can I help this year?”

“Sure, you are an Apple family cousin, after all.” AJ smiled and threw a hoof around Pinkie’s barrel.

“I’ll do my best job ever!” Pinkie promised, hugging her tightly.

“Ah know ya will,” Applejack wheezed, feeling joints pop. Pinkie released her from the death hug, resuming her bouncing. Applejack caught up to her and the two entered the Ponyville store, owned by Filthy Rich.

“You probably still have Bloom’s old foal furniture right?” Pinkie asked, trotting over to the foal aisle.

“Sure do, we figured it was best to keep it fer when Mac or I settled down,” Applejack replied.

“That puts us way under budget~” Pinkie smiled. “Grab a cart will ya?” AJ saluted and did so.

“Want me t’put Snow in the seat, or would ya rather keep yer hat?”

“I dunno, do you like being a hat Snow?” Pinkie asked, gazing up at him. Snow gurgled and clutched onto her head tighter. “I think he likes being a hat.”

“Alright, then let’s just buy the supplies.” Applejack scanned the foal aisle, trying to find the perfect balance between quality and price.

“This might be a little hard with the extra legs...” Pinkie commented, rubbing her chin.

“Well, putting the makeshift diaper on wasn’t so bad,” Applejack said. “But baby clothes might need t’be custom made by Rarity.”

“You’ll probably have to beg her not to make him clothes,” Pinkie snickered softly.

“Ya make a good point,” Applejack agreed, picking up a bib and smiling at what was on it. She dropped it in the cart along with a large box of diapers.

Pinkie did a quick count. “I think we could buy a toy and still be under budget.”

“Then start showin’ him toys and see what he likes best,” AJ suggested.

“Okie Doki Loki!” Snow perked up, tilting his head to the side. “Huh, do you recognize something in that?” Pinkie asked. “Do you like when I say Okie Doki Loki?” Snow babbled in reply, waving a hoof around. “Hmm, Okie.” Snow didn’t respond. “Doki.” Again, no response. “Loki.” Snow babbled again, his full attention on Pinkie.

“Huh, that's weird,” Applejack commented, looking between them.

“Yeah, there’s something about that word he likes,” Pinkie commented. “I wonder what it could be.”

“What kinda word is Loki, anyway?” Applejack asked. “Did ya just make it up er somethin’?”

“Actually, Granny Pie said it was a name. She told me it was the name of one of our ancestors who lived, a long, long, long, long time ago.”

“Really?” Applejack asked with a tilt of her head. “That’s the oddest name fer a pony Ah’ve ever heard.”

“I couldn’t tell you much about them, just the name.”

“Still, Snow must’ve heard it before to react like this,” Applejack pointed out.

“He probably just likes the rhyme.”

“Maybe,” Applejack relented. “Let’s just focus on the toy fer now.” She picked up a teething ring and held it up to Snow. Snow took it from her, nomming on it. “Ah think he likes this. Wanna see if he likes somethin’ else more?”

“We have a whole aisle to go through~” Pinkie smiled.

“Then let’s keep lookin’.” Applejack smiled and started looking through all the other foal’s toys. The two mares chatted and joked as they continued to look for a toy. Eventually, they made their choice and went to the checkout counter while Snow happily played with his new toy.

“I’ll catch ya later Jackie, I’ve got parties to plan!” Pinkie gave her cousin a quick hug before bouncing off.

“Bye Pinkie!” Applejack waved after her before looking down at Snow. “Let’s getcha home to the family. You’ll have yer own room tonight.” Snow responded with a yawn, dropping his ring. Applejack caught the ring before it could hit the ground and started walking back to the farmhouse. “Ah think yer gonna get some o’ this formula Ah bought ya and then it’s off t’bed fer ya.”

Snow babbled a reply, snuggling into her barrel.

“Ah’m gonna do right by ya little fella,” Applejack said to him as she trotted down the dirt road. “As of today, Dash and Ah are yer mamas, and that means we’re gonna make sure ya get a good life.”

“There you are!” Dash called out, zipping over to her.

“Hey sugarcube, did ya find anything interesting?” Applejack asked, adjusting the groceries and Snow so she could hug her marefriend.

“Not a whole lot, but.” Dash reached under her wing, pulling out a small stone. “We did find this.” Applejack took the stone, noting the strange symbols on it.

“Huh, ain’t never seen somethin’ like this before. But this is Snow’s so we gotta keep a good eye on it,” AJ said.

“Gotcha.” Dash nodded. “I also managed a stop at Zecora's~”

“Oh,” AJ started with a grin. “And what did she have to say?”

“That lactation potions are easy.” Dash tossed a small green vial to her.

Applejack caught it in one of her bags. “And what about that other thing we were talkin’ ‘bout?”

“That’ll take more time. Z says to check back in a week or two.”

“Glad t’hear it.” AJ smiled and gave Dash a peck on the lips. “But we can worry about makin’ a baby after we get this one outta diapers.” She indicated Snow, who was still nomming on his ring

“Sup little buddy, miss me?” Dash asked, scooping up Snow. Snow babbled and gurgled, nuzzling the prismatic mare’s chest. “I think he likes me.”

“Ya were the one that brought him in from the orchard,” AJ commented. “But he’s been very affectionate today. He liked Rarity and Pinkie too.”

“How could he not?” Dash asked, bouncing Snow, “Our friends are awesome!”

“Oh, we found somethin’ out about Snow,” Applejack said. “He sneezes ice.”

“So... he’s not an earth pony?”

“Nope, he’s somethin’ the doctor hasn’t seen before. We’re the proud mothers of a new type of pony,” AJ said.

“That's awesome!” Dash beamed. “You’re almost as amazing as me!” Dash smirked at Snow.

“Heh, Ah figured you’d react like that,” AJ said. “Anyway, we gotta get Snow fed and put to bed. And then, we can go to bed too.” She winked at the pegasus mare.

“In the middle of the day?” Dash smirked, “Tryin’ to get caught?”

“If Ah was tryin’ t’get caught Ah’d have suggested the livin’ room couch.” AJ smirked back.

“Touche~” The two walked into the farmhouse and sat Snow in a high chair. Applejack then pulled out the baby formula and the green potion.

“Hmm, should Ah go with the formula, or the natural route?” AJ asked, holding both of them up.

“We both know he’s gonna keep trying,” Dash said, tickling Snow with her feather tips.

“Then who’s gonna drink it?” the farm mare asked, removing the cork on the vial with her teeth.

“Hey, I have to be able to fit into uniform,” Dash countered, wriggling her hips.

“Yer just sayin’ that ‘cause ya want a taste too,” AJ teased as she downed the potion. Dash raised her eyebrow, sneaking a glance under Applejack’s legs. Applejack licked her lips and looked down at herself. “Ah don’t feel different yet. Is it workin’?” She shuddered, letting out a long groan as pressure built up under her teats. “Never mind.” Applejack then sat on her haunches and held Snow to her now swollen teats. He wasted no time at all, latching on and suckling away noisily. “He’s got the appetite of a real Apple alright,” AJ said, stroking his mane with a warm smile on her face.

“That's gotta feel weird...” Dash reached out, poking one of Applejack’s swollen teats. The farm mare bit her lip, holding back a sound.

“A little,” AJ replied. “But there’s somethin’ about this that feels like it… deepens the bond between Snow an’ me.”

“Well that's good.” Dash smiled, sliding up besides her, wrapping a wing around Applejack.

“Hard t’believe we’ve started a family of our own already, huh?” AJ asked, not looking away from Snow.

“Yeah, but hey, we’re gonna be a better family then whoever left him out in the cold,” Dash stated, resting her hoof on Snow’s head.

“Yer darn tootin’ we will,” AJ agreed. “We’re gonna be the best parents in Equestria.”

“Damn right we are!”

“Watch yer language around the foal or yer sleepin’ on the couch tonight,” Applejack warned.

“Sorry....” Dash laughed sheepishly, rubbing her neck.

“No worries, sugarcube,” AJ said, kissing her cheek. “We’ve all got adjustments t’make fer this.”

“You know, I gotta ask, how does the Apple clan react when you get a new family member?” Dash asked. “Do you guys just call an impromptu family reunion or just save it for the real get together?”

Applejack smiled and chuckled. “Imagine an entire family of Pinkies that have just found a new pony in Ponyville.”

“You know that reminds me, is like my family a part of the Apple family now or is it just me?”

“Oh, yer family is more than welcome t’join in the reunions,” Applejack replied, smiling. “Though ya ain’t an official Apple until one o’ us decides to propose and we tie the knot.”

“Just so you know, I’m not changing my name.” Dash crossed her arms, giving her a firm look.

“Ah wouldn’t ask ya to,” AJ assured her. “Ya don’t need apple in yer name t’be an Apple. Just look at mah Aunt an’ Uncle Orange.”

“Just so we’re making sure.” Dash nodded her head, placing a kiss on Applejack’s cheek.

“Besides, Rainbow Apple’s an awful name,” AJ teased, returning the gesture.

“You're right, Apple Dash is much better,” Dash shot back.

“Hmm, that ain’t half bad actually,” Applejack replied, rubbing her chin with a hoof.

“So its agreed, you’re the one whose gonna change their name.” Dash nodded in mock agreement.

“Ah’ll think about it.” AJ smiled and gave Dash a brief kiss on the lips.

“Heh, think you’ll be able to get any chores done with those things dragging on the ground?” Dash teased, glancing down at Snow. Applejack picked up Snow and patted him on the back a few times. Snow burped, making a face as he spit up a bit. Applejack just smiled as she quickly cleaned him up.

“Ah’ll learn t’make do,” AJ replied. “Plus, it’s more fer you to ogle when ya think Ah ain’t lookin’.”

“I’ll have to beat all the pervy stallions off with a stick.” Dash grabbed the broom, doing a series of mock fighting moves.

“Mah hero.” AJ pretended to swoon. “However can Ah repay ya fer protectin’ me?” She smirked and wiggled her eyebrows at the other mare.

“I dunno, whatcha got in mind?” Dash asked, leaning on the broom stick with a grin of her own.

“Wanna start with some preenin’ and see where things go from there?” AJ asked as she stood up from the table.

“Hey, we have to be responsible.” Dash cleared her throat. “Let’s get Snow to sleep first.”

“Ah know.” AJ walked by Dash as she exited the room. She then flicked her tail against the pegasus’s nose. Dash grinned stupidly, trotting after her. AJ trotted into her parents’ old room, barely containing a gasp.

Mac and Bloom had gone way beyond what she had asked, setting up all of Bloom’s old foal furniture, even her old mobile had been attached to the ceiling above the crib. AJ smiled and shook her head as she put Snow in the crib, tucked him in, spun the mobile and rocked him to sleep.

“Whoa, they made this place awesome.” Dash walked around, taking everything in. “I’m surprised they didn’t paint the place too.”

“Musta ran outta time.” AJ chuckled as she stepped away from the crib.

“So... preening?” Dash asked, giving her wings a flap.

“Ya got it,” AJ replied and followed her out of the room, both of them soon ending up in their bedroom.

Chapter 2

A knock at the door woke the entire Apple family and Rainbow Dash up. “Gah! Who could be at the door this early!” the pegasus huffed as she jumped out of bed.

“Must be the...social worker...” AJ spoke, calming Snow. The two mares then shared a look of realization.

“The social worker!” They cried.

“Okay, I’ll hurry and straighten things up, you meet her at the door.” Dash zipped off and started cleaning. Applejack nodded and trotted down the stairs. She quickly straightened her mane out and opened the door.

“Howdy, how can I help y’all today?” On the other side of the door was a large minotaur with black fur and wearing a suit jacket and black tie. His eyes were obscured by black shades and he looked down at Applejack with a stone faced expression. “Uh... come in?” She asked, stepping out of the way, holding Snow close to her chest.

“Thank you,” he said in a deep voice, crouching under the doorway and stepping inside. His eyes passed over everything and his face remained neutral. “I am Steel Will, I will be the social worker who monitors you and your family to ensure this is a good environment for the foal.”

“Of course Mr. Will.” Applejack nodded. “Would you like some tea er’ anythin? It’s mighty cold outside.”

“That would be appreciated.” He nodded and tested the couch with his hand before sitting down. “I plan on asking you some preliminary questions. They’re non-intrusive for the most part and it’s needed for my paperwork.”

“Of course.” Applejack nodded, taking a seat across from him. “Granny, could ya scrounge us up some tea?”

“Ya got it deary, Ah’ll be right back with the tea.” The elderly mare trotted into the kitchen and returned a few minutes later with a few cups of tea. “It’s our homemade apple spice tea. Ah hope ya don’t mind.”

“Thank you.” Steel Will lifted his cup up, taking a long sip from it.

“So, what are these questions ya wanted t’ask?” Applejack asked as Rainbow Dash came downstairs and sat next to her, showing no signs of her frantic cleaning.

“This our Worker pal?” Dash asked, snuggling against Applejack.

“I am your social worker, I’m not here to be a friend,” Steel Will said. “Sorry if that seems rude, but I can’t let my work be compromised for some reason like that. Now, the first question is about your relationship. Do the two of you plan on getting married in the near future?”

“I hope we do, I mean we’ve been together for at least three years. We’re still arguing over who proposes to who.” Dash winked at Steel, subtly gesturing to the Hearth’s tree in the corner.

“I’ll put that down as a possibility.” Stell pulled out a notepad and jotted down a note. “The higher ups prefer committed relationships when adoption papers come across the desk.”

“Can’t argue with that.” Applejack repositioned Snow, setting him between Dash and herself.

“And how have you been feeding the foal?” Steel asked looking at Snow.

“We gave him some applesauce last night, he seemed to like it,” Applejack started to explain, “After he got a little ahead of himself, we asked our zebra friend for help gettin’ one of us producin’ milk.”

“A little unconventional, but I’m sure that gesture will be appreciated when the higher ups get your paperwork.” He jotted down another note.

“He’s a grabby one alright,” Applejack commented, casting a glance at Snow, who was busying himself with her ponytail again.

“Well, the foal seems healthy, and I saw the doctor’s notes already so I don’t have to ask about that,” Steel commented. “May I look around the house? I want to make sure this is a safe environment for the foal.”

“Course,” Applejack stood up, passing Snow to Dash. “Keep an eye on him while I show Mr. Will around.”

“You can count on me, babe,” Dash said, making a goofy face and causing Snow to giggle and clap two of his hooves together. Applejack just smiled and led Steel Will to the kitchen. Granny was diligently working at the stove, humming along with her work.

“Hmm, nothing dangerous seems to be in the reach of the foal,” Steel noted as he scribbled on his notepad. “I still recommend investing in extensive childproofing. Foals are rambunctious and full of surprises.”

“We got most of that stuff up in attic,” Granny spoke up, looking over her shoulder, “Haven’t needed it since Bloom outgrew it all.”

“He means stuff to keep Snow from hurtin’ himself Granny, not furniture,” Applejack explained, “Ah can’t tell ya Ah know all about that sorta thing, but my cousin Pinkie Pie does. Ah’ll talk to her today bout’ it.”

“Very good, I would hate to tear a foal away from a home where he seems happy, but I will if I deem it as too dangerous for them,” Steel said with a nod. “Don’t let that happen.”

“Ah don’t plan on it.” She nodded, leading him upstairs. He followed after her and his face remained neutral as he examined the stairs.

“Hmm, these are old but well maintained. Though some carpeting might be a good idea, it would cushion the fall if the foal or anypony fell down them,” he noted.

“Ah’ll talk to somepony about it.” Applejack nodded, adding another item to her mental checklist. She led him through the rooms, letting him examine things within reason.

“Well, aside from the childproofing, I can’t think of any other suggestions for your home to be deemed completely fit. By the way, the foal’s room was very well done,” Steel said as he was writing more notes.

“Thank ya kindly.” Applejack glanced at the room, sighing heavily. “We had the extra room, used to be our folks.”

“I’m sorry for your loss. The only family I have left is an obnoxious younger brother,” Steel offered. “He’s a motivational speaker.”

“Yer related to that Iron Will feller?” Applejack asked, raising her eyebrow, “Ah remember when he was in Ponyville.”

“Yes, Iron Will is my brother. We mostly see each other on holidays.””

“Ah don’t pity ya.” Applejack shook her head. “Anything else ya need to see?”

“No, that should be all for today,” Iron will replied as he put away his notepad. “I’ll be back once a month to keep checking on the foal. If you need to contact me for whatever reason, here is my card.” He pulled out a business card and handed it to her.

“Thank ya kindly.” She took the card, placing it in the inner lining of her hat for safe keeping. He nodded and went downstairs.

“Goodbye everyone, keep the foal happy, healthy, and safe and I won’t be a problem to you.” He opened the door and walked back outside.

“That went well,” Applejack let out a sigh of relief, trotting over to Dash.

“Yeah, he seems like a hardass, but there’s a good guy in there, I can tell,” Dash commented as she nuzzled Applejack.

“Ya should have asked him ta’ stay for breakfast,” Granny chimed in from the kitchen.

“Granny, he’s a busy minotaur, we couldn’t keep him from his job like that,” Applejack called back. “On the subject of breakfast, Ah bet Snow is hungry.” Applejack nudged Dash off the couch, laying down on her side. Dash put Snow down on the couch and he instantly latched onto one of her teats.

“Heh, you were right about him being hungry,” Dash commented, smiling at the sight.

“Kept him waitin’” Applejack chuckled, rubbing his head. “Mind bringing me some food?”

“Nah, I’ll be right back.” Dash trotted off and quickly returned with two plates of food. “So, once a month we’ll be getting visits from that guy. Looks like we’re gonna be busy if we wanna be Snow’s parents.” She handed a plate to Applejack.

“Darn tootin’.” Applejack smiled, gulping down her breakfast.

“It’s gonna be worth it though.” Dash quickly ate her breakfast. “All we have to do is babyproof the house and do what we always do.”

“Gotta add carpetin’,” Applejack added.

“I think we can afford that,” Dash said. “And carpeting isn’t such a bad idea. Though we’ll probably need to get a vacuum too to clean it properly.”

“Ah don’t think we have one of those...” Applejack muttered, rubbing her chin.

“I’ll get us one,” Dash assured her. “It shouldn’t be that big of a deal. Heh, Snow’s already causing big changes in the Apple house and we haven’t even had him a week.”

“Foals tend to do that.”

“Hmm, I just had a thought,” Dash mused rubbing her chin. “You have your hat, Bloom has her bow, Mac has his yoke, and Granny has her neckerchief. I think Snow needs a little piece of clothing too to be a proper member of the family.”

“And what do you have?” Applejack asked, raising her eyebrow.

“My flight goggles,” Dash said with a grin. “The only difference being is that I don’t always have those hanging around my neck. Though… maybe I should start to fit in with the family.” She rubbed her chin again. Applejack chuckled, shaking her head.

“Don't have too Sugarcube, ya fit in just fine.” Applejack's good mood brightened further as a familiar bark echoed on from the kitchen.

“Sounds like Winona’s up and bothering Granny for food,” Dash noted with a chuckle. “Seems like some things don’t ever change.”

“Come on Winona, Ah got somepony for ya to meet!” Applejack called, adjusting her position slightly. Winona barked happily and rushed into the room, sitting in front of Applejack. Winona instantly noticed Snow and started sniffing the foal. Snow however, reacted extremely poorly. He let out a cry of fear, nearly falling off the couch. Winona let out a whimper and lowered her head with an apologetic look. Applejack held Snow close, stroking his mane. “Hush now, sugarcube, Winona ain’t gonna hurt ya. She’s family.”

That didn't seem to help at all, the poor foal wailing his head off, holding onto her in sheer terror.

“Shh, shh, it’s okay. Momma has ya. She’s not gonna let anything hurt ya,” Applejack cooed, rocking Snow gently. “Yer safe with me.”

“Jeez, he sounds terrified,” Dash commented, petting Winona’s head.

“Ah think we need to figure out how t’help Snow,” Applejack commented, consoling Snow. “Maybe Twilight knows something about this sorta thing?”

“We could probably ask the Cakes, they have more experience with foals...” Dash rubbed her chin, “Little guy’s acting like he’s been attacked by a dog before or something.”

“That’s a good idea,” Applejack said as she stood up. “Winona, go see Applebloom. Dash and Ah are gonna go to Sugarcube Corner.” Winona perked up a little, rushing upstairs to find the second smallest Apple. “Alright, let’s go talk to the Cakes.” Applejack walked over to the door and grabbed her scarf before walking out.

“Right behind ya!” Dash swiped some food off AJ’s abandoned plate. She pulled on her own scarf, galloping after her. The two walked into town side by side in companionable silence. Eventually, they walked into Sugarcube Corner where they saw Pinkie Pie behind the counter happily serving customers. “Hey Pinkie!” Dash called out, waving.

“Hey Dashie!” Pinkie waved back, passing Flitter her order of cupcakes.

“Pinkie, can we talk to the Cakes real quick?” Applejack asked, adjusting Snow. “We got a question fer ‘em.”

“They should be upstairs, just let them know you’re going up before you do!” Pinkie smiled, gesturing with her head.

“Thanks Pinkie,” Dash said as the two walked over to the staircase. They called up and then trotted up to where the Cakes were.

“Applejack, Rainbow Dash, what could you possibly want to see us about?” Mrs. Cake asked with a smile. The older mare was brushing Pumpkin’s mane, while Mr.Cake preened Pound’s wings.

“Well, we are kinda tryin’ t’adopt this foal right here,” Applejack said, showing them Snow. “And he started screamin’ his head off when he saw Winona and wouldn’t calm down no matter what we did. We felt the two of ya were the best t’ask fer advice.”

“Oh my, I’ve never seen a foal like him before,” Mrs.Cake leaned in, fascinated. Snow’s face scrunched up and he sneezed frost, coating Mrs. Cake’s mane in frost.

“Yeah… the doc doesn’t know what kind of pony he is either.” Dash helped the older mare get the frost off.

Pumpkin watched in awe, babbling something at Snow. Snow perked up and babbled back at Pumpkin.

“Look at that, friends already.” Mrs.Cake chuckled, placing Pumpkin down. She gestured for Applejack to do the same. Applejack and Rainbow Dash shared a smile as they put Snow on the floor in front of Pumpkin. Snow babbled happily.

“Has he had bad experiences with dogs before?” Mr.Cake asked, putting Pound with the other foals.

“We don’t know,” Dash replied with a frown. “I found him abandoned in the orchard during one of my night flights. We don’t know anything about his past.”

“Poor dear.” Mrs.Cake frowned.

“While we do appreciate your high opinion of us, we’re first time parents ourselves,” Mr.Cake reminded.

“We know, but we didn’t really know who else to turn to,” Dash said, rubbing her neck. “Have you dealt with anything like this?”

“Well, Pound used to be terrified of Gummy,” Mrs.Cake admitted.

“And how did ya help him?” AJ asked, watching the three foals play.

“I had Carrot sit with him one side of the room while I held Gummy on the other,” Mrs. Cake explained, “I even let him nibble on my arm to show he wasn't dangerous.” Applejack and Dash shared a smile.

“That might really help,” Dash said.

“Yeah, we could try that.” AJ nodded at the married couple. “Thank ya kindly.”

“Of course.” Mrs Cake smiled. “Do you have a name for him yet?”

“Yup, yer lookin at little Snow Fameuse,” Applejack answered with a bright smile. Snow cooed at his name, waving his arms around.

“And the little guy likes his name,” Dash said, smiling at his reaction.

“He seems like such a happy foal,” Mrs. Cake said with a smile.

“Only time he wasn't was at the doctor's and with Winona,” Applejack explained.

“I’m sure he’ll get over that soon,” Mr. Cake offered. “Pound and Pumpkin didn’t like the doctor’s office at first too.”

“Ah hope so.” Applejack leaned on Dash with a sigh. “Ah just hope he don't get picked on.”

“Well, you know he’s going to have at least two friends by his side,” Mr. Cake offered, indicating the twins.

“She’s got a point.” Dash beamed. “Snow is gonna have so many friends, he’ll steal Twi’s crown right out from under her!” They all laughed at that.

“Ah think Ah could warm up to the idea of bein’ the mother of a prince.” Applejack smiled at Dash. “But do ya think he’d get the normal number o’ wings and horns, or would those be doubled too?” she joked.

“He’d be the best alicorn ever!” Dash scooped Snow up, spinning around with him. He let out a happy giggle, kicking his legs about as he spun.

“And I bet he’d look very handsome as an alicorn stallion,” Mrs. Cake offered with a chuckle.

“Thank ya kindly.” Applejack stood up, adjusting her hat, “We should head back, don’t wanna take up yer day.”

“Oh you’re welcome, deary,” Mrs. Cake replied with a warm smile. “And you can bring Snow over any time for a playdate. I’m sure Pound and Pumpkin would love to keep seeing him.”

“Ah know Snow would like that,” Applejack responded, walking out of the room. Dash followed after her with Snow in her arms.

“That went well too,” Dash noted with a grin. “Things seem to be going our way so far.”

“Let’s not get ahead of ourselves now,”Applejack spoke, waving to Pinkie as they left the the bakery.

“Sorry, I was just thinking out loud really,” Dash replied. “I mean, I wanna do what’s best for Snow as much as you do.”

“We’re gonna have ta come back when Pinkie's shift is over,” Applejack commented, “You uh... know where we’d go bout' gettin’ a carpet?”

“I think there’s a store in town that sells it,” Dash replied. “I think it’s close to that Quills and Sofas store Twilight always goes to.”

“Ya’ll lead the way then.” Applejack placed Snow on her back, frowning. “Ah think we might need ta invest in one of them foal harnesses...”

“I think we’d need to get a custom one for the little guy,” Dash commented, glancing at Snow as she trotted through town. Snow looked around, his current focus being Derpy as she flittered by. Derpy noticed Snow looking at her and waved with a bright smile. Snow gurgled, mimicking her.

“Are ya saying hi to everypony?” Dash asked ruffling his mane. Snow giggled, hugging onto her arm. “Hnng,” Dash said, clutching her chest. “I don’t think my heart can take so much cuteness.”

“Don't ya go dropping on me now,” Applejack chuckled.

“Alright, I’ll hold on,” Dash said with a smile. “But you’ve gotta try being less cute.” She poked Snow in the chest with a grin. He giggled, kicking his legs. “Hey! You’re not cutting down the cuteness,” Dash teased, tickling his stomach. “Looks like momma has to punish her naughty colt.” Snow squealed, flailing his limbs around. Dash continued to tickle him, carefully weaving through the market traffic as she did. They stopped outside a shop and Dash pulled away from Snow. “There, I think you’ve learned your lesson.”

“Ya ready?” Applejack smiled, holding the door open.

“Yeah, I’m ready.” Dash walked inside the building with Applejack right behind her. They looked around, taking in all the various spools of carpeting.

“Ya know anything about this?” Applejack asked, rubbing her neck.

“AJ, I’ve lived in cloud houses all my life, carpeting is pretty foreign to me too,” Dash pointed out. “I think we should ask an employee for help.”

“Uh, excuse me!” Applejack called out to an employee that happened to be nearby.

“Yes, how can I help you?” the mare asked, trotting up to them.

“We’re lookin’ fer carpetin' fer our steps. Kind that’ll break a foals fall,” Applejack said, gesturing to Snow.

“We have a pretty good selection of plush carpeting, is there any particular color you’re looking for?” The employee asked.

“Somethin’ that’ll match our house,” Applejack explained.

“Okay, I’ll show you some of our more plush choices and you tell me when a color sticks out to you.” She led them over to a row of spools and showed them color swatches.

“What do ya think?” Applejack asked, looking over at Dash.

“Well, the white would go with the house, but it’d show dirt and stuff like crazy,” Dash replied, rubbing her chin.

“Maybe it should match the wood?”

With his parents just debating colors, Snow gazed up at the sales mare curiously.

“Is something on your mind little guy?” The sales mare asked, leaning down towards Snow. He reached out, booping her. She giggled and returned the favor. “Well aren’t you just a funny, little guy.” Snow giggled, babbling at her happily. “Oh, you remind me of my little girl,” she said with a smile. “I think she’s just a little older than you.” Snow tilted his head, blinking a few times. “Here’s a picture.” The salespony reached into her uniform pocket and showed him a picture of a batpony foal. “She takes after her father.” He babbled at the picture, pouting when he didn't get a reply. “Aww, I think she’d love to meet you.” She ruffled his mane and put the picture away. “I bet you’d be good friends.”

“Told ya he'd make friends,” Dash said, nudging Applejack.

“I guess ya were right.” Applejack smiled. “Snow would love t’see her sometime. Bring her over to Sweet Apple Acres sometime.”

“I have off tomorrow,” the mare offered with a smile.

“That’ll be perfect!” Dash beamed. “Oh, and we picked this color and this carpeting.” She pointed at a brown swatch and a spool next to her.

“Alright, let's schedule the installation.” The mare smiled, leading them to the counter.

“The installation can be done any time before the next month,” Dash said.

“Planning something big?” The mare asked, looking through her datebook.

“No, that’s when the social worker is comin’ back,” Applejack explained. “We wanna have the stairs carpeted before his next visit.”

“Okay, I think we can put you in for two weeks from now,” the sales mare said with a smile.

“Sounds good to me,” Applejack nodded, “Could ya try and have it early?”

“Of course,” the mare said with a smile. Does 8-10am sound good to you?”

“Sounds fine t’me,” Applejack replied, “As for tomorrow, Ah’d say stop by round' noon, we’ll treat ya to an Apple family lunch.”

“That’s too kind,” the sales mare said as she rang them up. “My husband and I will bring a dish as well. He makes a mean blackberry tart.”

“Ah look forward ta tryin' it.” Applejack smiled. “Say goodbye to the nice mare Snow.” Snow babbled happily and waved at the mare.

“Oh, Moonglow is just going to love you!” the mare cooed. “You three have a lovely day.”

“You too!” Dash called out, leading the others out. “She was really nice,” she said with a happy sigh. “Funny name though, Shag Carpet.”

“Sounds like somethin’ you’d find on a dog.”

“Yeah, but she was helpful and Snow liked her, so I think we can ignore the name,” Dash said, putting a wing around AJ and smiling.

“Ah reckon we can,” AJ agreed, leaning on her.

“Should we pick up some child proofing stuff now, or finally show Twilight, Snow?” Dash asked.

“We got time for’ Pinkie's shift to end, Ah reckon we could stop by the castle.”

“I’ve got earplugs for the three of us to muffle the excited squeals egghead makes at the sight of a new kind of pony.” Dash reached into her scarf and pulled out the earplugs, giving a pair to Applejack.

“Mah hero.” Applejack smirked, steering them towards the castle.

“Hey, you know how Twilight gets with this sorta stuff, and I don’t want Snow to get scared.” Dash knocked the door to the castle and waited.

“Coming!” Spike called from inside the castle, and a few moments later the doors opened up. “What can I do ya for?”

“Hey Spike,” Dash said. “We just wanted to talk to Twilight for a bit. Also, say hi to Snow Fameuse.” She held Snow out towards the baby dragon.

“Hey little guy.” Spike waved. “Wait... does he have extra legs?”

“Yeah, the doc says he might be a new kinda pony,” Applejack said.

“Twi’s gonna wanna see this.” He moved out of the way, letting them in. They thanked him and put their ear plugs in.

“Hey egghead!” Dash called out. “AJ and I have somepony you’d like to meet!” They heard the sound of somepony coming to them from further in the castle.

“What are you yelling about Rainbow Dash?” Twilight asked, rounding a corner. She was already in a lab coat, goggles covering her eyes.

“AJ and I are now adopting this little guy, Snow Fameuse,” Dash explained, holding the foal out for her to see.

“Oh congratulations.” Twilight smiled, pulling her goggles up.

“Yup, he’s already a great addition to the family,” Applejack said with a smile. “Even with his little quirks.”

“Quirks?” Twilight asked curiously. Dash peeled his blanket back to show his extra legs.

“Plus he can sneeze frost,” Applejack said, patting Snow’s head.

Twilight just stared, and after a moment, reached out to touch one of his extra legs. The leg twitched and he babbled at her.

“Twi.” Spike snapped his talons in her face. “I know that look but he's a foal. Just do that breathing technique Cadance taught you.”

“Sorry.” Twilight took a deep breath. “Almost got a little carried away. But this really is interesting. Where’d you find Snow?”

“Out in the orchard last night,” Dash explained, “Somepony just left him there.”

“How awful,” Twilight said, frowning and looking back at Snow. “It’s amazing he can look so happy and healthy after that. Come with me to the lab.” Twilight turned, trotting down the hallway. Applejack and Dash shared a look before following her.

“Yer not gonna do anythin’ too invasive, right?” AJ asked.

“Pinkie Promise,” Twilight assured.

“Alright, but be careful, he didn’t like the doctor’s office much,” Rainbow warned.

“I'll be as gentle as possible.” Twilight walked into the lab, moving over to one of her machines. “Make yourselves comfy.” AJ and Dash took a seat, the pegasus cradling the foal as they watched Twilight adjusted the machine. “Did the doctor check his magic field?”

“Yeah, the doc said Snow has a little more magic in ‘im than yer average Earth Pony,” AJ explained.

“I don't exactly think he’s an Earth Pony.” Twilight levitated over a small helmet, wires connecting to the machine. “I'm going to take a baseline of his field.” Snow looked up at the helmet and tilted his head as it was placed on him.

Twilight started the machine, a few lights blinking on the top of the helmet. Paper started to spill out of the machine and Twilight busied herself reading it.

“So, how does it look, egghead?” Dash asked, staring at the paper.

“The doctor was right, but, his magic signature doesn't match anything in the earth pony spectrum.”

“Well, the doc did say that he may be a new kinda pony,” AJ said.

“That may be true.” Twilight nodded.“Oddly enough, he seems to have most in common with alicorns.”

“Are ya serious?” AJ gaped, looking down at Snow. “What the hay is that supposed t’mean?”

“Rainbow, could you to get a cloud?” Twilight asked. “Any kind will do.” Dash nodded and zipped out of the lab. She returned a few moments later with a small cloud. “Now pass it to Snow.” Dash held out the cloud to Snow, who grabbed it and nommed it.

“How's he doin’ that?” AJ asked, watching in amazement.

“Girls, I think...” Twilight paused, running a few possibilities through her mind.

“Well?” Dash asked. “What do you think?”

“I think the two of you might have found a Windigo foal.”

“But don’t Windigos feed on hate and anger?” Applejack questioned. “We haven’t been angry or hateful since we found him and he’s been healthy.”

“Applejack, a lot of Hearth’s Warming is folklore. The truth is, we don't even know if the Windigos were real,” Twilight countered.

“Okay, so what should we do now?” Dash asked. “I mean, if he is a windigo, he’s still just a foal.”

“Does the possibility change your view of him?” Twilight asked, lifting the helmet off Snow’s head.

“No way!” Dash squeezed Snow close. “Windigo or not, this little guy needs us.”

“Then, nothing has really changed has it?”

“Alright then, guess we’ve gotta keep an eye on ‘im and see if his needs change,” AJ said. “Though so far, he loves applesauce and milk like a normal foal does.”

“If it's alright with you, I'd like it if you brought him in around twice a month.” Twilight gazed down at the odd foal. “Just to document his development.”

“No problem,” Dash replied. “We can bring him in as much as you want. Though you should get some lollipops if you wanna play doctor,” she teased.

“Maybe I will.” Twilight smiled.

“Ah reckon Snow would like that,” Applejack chimed in. “Is there anythin’ else you want Snow fer?”

“Is it okay if I take a blood sample?”

“You can try,” Dash said carefully. “Though I don’t think he’ll like it.” Twilight nodded, getting what she needed. Snow just kept chewing his cloud, oblivious to what was about to happen. Twilight tied a band around one of his legs. She gently held it in her hooves, sliding the needle in carefully. Snow winced and sniffled a bit, squirming as the syringe drew a bit of his blood.

“That's it...” Twilight soothed, filling two small vials before pulling the needle out, taping a cotton swab over the wound.

“What a strong colt you are,” Applejack soothed, kissing Snow where he had gotten his shot. Snow babbled at her, hugging her muzzle. “Ah know ya didn’t like it, but it’s to help ya,” she cooed, stroking his mane.

“Snow’s tough like his mom's.” Dash smiled, patting Snow's back.

“Yer darn tootin’!” Applejack beamed. “And when he gets old enough, Ah bet he’ll out apple buck even Big Mac with those legs o’ his.”

“Already planning to exploit him huh? How very evil of you,” Dash teased.

“You got it, call me, Nightmare Jack!” AJ let out an “ooo” and waved her hooves in front of her. Snow giggled in delight, waving his own hooves around.

“Oh great, you got him repeating your lame jokes now.” Dash rolled her eyes, though she had a large smile.

“You two are naturals at parenting,” Twilight complimented.

“Thanks, egghead,” Dash replied. “We’re kinda playing this by ear though.”

“Ah think we’re doin’ preddy good.” AJ smiled, bouncing Snow gently.

“Here’s hoping we keep it up,” Dash said, putting a wing around AJ.

“We better get goin’ Twi,” AJ said. “We gotta start mailin’ out letters.”

“Yup, gotta let the Apple family know there’s a new member,” Dash added, getting up.

“Need any help?” Twilight offered.

“Ya can if ya want,” Applejack replied. “Faust knows there ain’t a shortage of Apples.”

“Then count me in!” Twilight grinned, teleporting them to the farm. Snow shook his head, looking a little dizzy.

“Easy there little guy,” Dash said, rubbing his back. He babbled softly, looking up at her. “I know it felt weird, but you’re okay.”

“Come on ya’ll two, we got a buncha letters ta write.” Applejack turned, trotting into the house. Dash and Twilight followed after her, Snow settling back into Dash’s hooves.

“I’ll go get the stationary,” Dash said, passing Snow off to AJ and rushed upstairs.

AJ sat down, setting Snow in her lap. “Comfy?” She asked, looking down at him. He babbled happily, cuddling up against her. Judging by the squish that sounded as he moved, he was overdue for a change. “Gimme a moment Twi, Ah need ta get Snow clean.”

“Take your time, I’ll help Dash get started on the letters,” Twilight replied.

AJ nodded, grabbing some foal supplies as she trotted to the bathroom. After getting the colt cleaned up, AJ washed her hooves and returned to the den. Dash and Twilight were started on the letters, talking between themselves about the next member to write one for.

“Whad Ah miss?” AJ asked, sitting next to Dash.

“We got letters sent out to Braeburn, Aunt Applesauce and uh…” Dash paused, tapping her hoof against the table. “Who else have we written one for, Twi?”

“Aunt and Uncle Orange,” Twilight added.

“Thanks, so that’s who we’ve sent out letters to so far,” Dash said, smiling at AJ.

“We still have a mighty lot to send out.”

“Then your butt better start writing,” Dash said, giving AJ a quill. “Because I wanna be able to sleep tonight.” AJ shook her head, taking the quill in her mouth. It took them the rest of the day, but by supper time they had finished the last letter. “Ugh, I’m so hungry,” Dash groaned, putting down the last letter in the pile with the others.

“Yer stayin’ fer dinner Twi.” AJ looked at the alicorn, not asking her opinion on the matter.

“As if I’d pass up an Apple family meal,” Twilight said with a smile, getting up from her chair.

“Ya go get Spike first, he deserves a good meal.” AJ got up, putting Snow on her back. Twilight nodded and teleported out of the room, returning with Spike a few moments later.

“So, what’s this about me not doing the cooking tonight?” Spike asked with a grin.

“You're getting an Apple family meal.” Dash smirked, ruffling his spins.

“Sounds good to me,” Spike replied. “Granny’s almost as good a cook as Mom.”

“Don’t let her hear you say that.” Dash shook her head frantically. “She’ll take it as a challenge.”

“Sound like you’re speaking from experience.” Twilight giggled.

“Not something I want to go through again!” Dash shuddered.

“Ah told ya not t’say yer mama’s spaghetti was better, but ya didn’t listen,” Applejack said, trotting towards the kitchen. Dash rolled her eyes, hovering after her.

“Ah swear, the two of ya are too young t’be bickerin’ like an old married couple already,” Granny commented, shaking a wooden spoon at them. “Hay, ya ain’t even married yet.”

“That just means we’re perfect for each other,” Dash shot back, taking her seat.

“Why do ya think Ah let ya keep eatin’ our food?” Granny teased, starting to set the table.

“Cause ya like me.” Dash smirked, puffing her chest out.

“That Ah do, ya remind me of my son,” Granny said with a soft smile. “That boy was always puffin’ his chest from all his wins at the rodeo.”

“He sounds like a great guy, wish I could have met him.”

“Ya wouldn’t be sayin’ that if he were really here.” Granny chuckled. “He was bigger than Big Mac, and woulda questioned you up an’ down the house fer datin’ his little girl.”

“There was someone taller than Mac?” Dash turned to look at the stallion in question, wearing an incredulous expression.

“Stronger too, Ah’m pretty surprised Applejack’s mama was able to handle… well ya know,” Granny said, making a subtle motion with her hoof to avoid saying anything in front of Apple Bloom.

“Can we please talk about anythin’ else?” AJ all but pleaded.

“Fine, fine, Ah’ll stop before ya become redder than Big Mac.” Granny chuckled and finished setting the table. “Eat up, y'all.”

“This is really good!” Spike chirped, taking a bite of some fritters.

“Hands off the fritters, AJ’s gonna want all of those,” Dash teased, nudging her marefriend in the side.

“Yeah, and Dash is gonna give us a demonstration of her ballet dancin’,” AJ smirked evilly.

“I can do that no problem,” Dash waved off. “Ballet took my flying from good, to amazing.”

“I had no idea you took ballet,” Twilight commented, munching on a slice of Apple bread.

“Yup, my mom enrolled me when I told her I wanted to be a Wonderbolt,” Dash explained. “I hated it at first, but once I started seeing results, I loved it.”

“Just doesn't seem like you,” Spike added.

“Reading wasn’t like me either, but we all saw how that went,” the pegasus retorted.

“You getting chased by the guards.” This caused everyone at the table but Dash to start laughing.

“I was going to say with me loving it,” Dash said with a flat look.

“Come on Dash, ya know its funny.” AJ grinned, nudging her in the ribs. Even Snow was laughing, why he had no idea but he loved the happiness on display.

“I sure wasn’t laughing during that chase,” Dash replied, a smile creeping onto her face.

“But you are now,” AJ pointed out, sharing her smile.

“There was a mare chasing me that was barking like a bloodhound,” Dash pointed out. “It’s hard not to laugh at the sheer ridiculousness of the situation.” Snow babbled, apparently voicing his own opinion. “Yeah, yeah, you’ve got a silly mommy.” Dash chuckled and leaned over to nuzzle Snow.

Snow latched onto her muzzle, nuzzling her back with a coo.

“That colt is such a mama’s boy,” Granny commented with a soft smile.

“He’s got two great moms, how could he not be?” Dash smirked, kissing Snow’s head. Snow babbled in agreement, kissing Dash back. The whole table dawed, smiling at the little colt.

“Ah think Ah can live with havin’ a mama’s boy,” AJ commented with a smile. The rest of dinner passed quickly and by the end, Snow was nodding off. “Looks like Snow needs t’be put to bed. Ya’ll get home safe tonight.” AJ turned to Twilight and Spike with a smile.

“Thank you for dinner Applejack.” Twilight smiled, gathering her things.

“Yeah, it was great.” Spike climbed onto Twilight's back, giving her a thumbs up.

“Good night everypony, I had a wonderful time,” Twilight said, turning to leave.

“Say goodbye Snow,” AJ cooed, rubbing his back. Snow babbled and waved his hoof at the two as they left the Apple home. “Come on Snow, time fer bed.” She rubbed his head, walking upstairs. She placed him down in his crib and wrapped him in his blanket.

“Good night little guy,” Dash cooed, kissing his forehead. “Sweet dreams.” He babbled in reply, his eyes fluttering closed. The two mares smiled and quietly exited his room. “We’ve only had him a few days and I already love him so much,” Dash commented with a warm smile.

“He’s a charmer alright,” AJ agreed, gently shutting the door.

“I bet all the little fillies will fawn over him,” Dash said with a chuckle.

“Ah bet yer gonna be the one ta chase em’ off.”

“No way, I’m the cool mom,” Dash waved off. “You’re gonna be the one to scare ‘em away.”

“We’ll see.” AJ smirked, trotting into their room. Dash joined her, closing the door as they settled in for the night.

Chapter 3

Snow gurgled, trying to get a hold of Apple Bloom's ribbon. The hair piece had caught his eye, and he just had to have it.

“Ya can’t be playin’ with that, little fella,” Apple Bloom said, chuckling and taking hold of his hoof. “It ain’t yers.” Snow whined, not understanding why she was denying it to him. “Ya can play with the other toys.” She got up and held out one of his toys, shaking it in front of him.

“Ba!” He squeaked dismissively, still reaching out for her ribbon.

“Come on little fella, ya can’t play with mah ribbon,” she stated. “Now stop bein’ fussy.” Snow whined, tears of frustration forming in his eyes. “AJ, Ah could use some help dealin’ with Snow here!” she called out, looking toward the kitchen.

“What's goin’ on?” Applejack trotted out. “Snow bein’ fussy?”

“Yeah, he won’t stop goin’ after mah ribbon,” Apple Bloom informed. “Even when Ah show ‘im other toys.”

“Ya can't have Bloom’s ribbon,” Applejack told Snow, lifting him up. Snow babbled up at AJ, pointing a hoof towards the ribbon with a pout. “Ah told ya no, Snow.” Snow’s pout intensified and he crossed two of his hooves over his chest. “Now, now, be a good colt.’ AJ smiled at him and tousled his mane. “Can’t have ya bein’ cranky when we got a visitor comin’ today.”

He squirmed a little, looking up at her quizzically.

“Ya remember the foal in the picture from yesterday? She’s comin’ over fer a playdate,” she told him with a smile. He babbled at her, his attention now on her hat. “Ya can’t have mah hat either, Snow,” she said with a chuckle, rubbing behind his ear. “We’ll getcha somethin’ of yer own soon enough.”

He didn't listen, reaching up for it. He blinked, accidentally knocking it off her head.

AJ frowned, but didn’t say anything as she picked her hat up and returned it to its proper resting place. “Now Snow, Ah done told ya ya couldn’t have mah hat.”

“He’s more stubborn than you are, sis,” Bloom giggled.

“At least he hasn’t reached Granny Smith levels yet,” AJ offered. Snow tried again, only to be distracted by a knock at the door. “Bloom, can ya get that while Ah go grab Dash?” AJ asked, trotting up the stairs.

“You got it!” Bloom saluted, galloping to the door. She opened it to find a mare holding an infant, with a batpony stallion at her side.

“Hi there, dear,” the mare greeted. “Are Applejack and Rainbow Dash home?”

“Yeah they’re upstairs.”

“Can we come inside?” the stallion asked. “I don’t want to keep our foal in the cold too long.” He pointed a hoof at the wrapped up foal.

“Course!” Bloom moved out of the way, letting them in. “Ah’m Apple Bloom, nice ta meet ya!” She closed the door behind them, shaking some loose snow out of her coat.

“I’m Night Wing,” the stallion greeted. “And this is my wife, Shag Carpet, and our foal, Moonglow.”

“They should be down in a minute, ya’ll can relax in the den,” Bloom informed, smiling.

“Thank you,” Shag said, moving over to the den and taking a seat. “It was a rather long walk just getting from the gate to the door,” she noted, adjusting Moonglow in her arms.

“Ah guess Ah never noticed,” Bloom admitted. “Was the walk bad?”

“Not at all,” Night Wing assured. “Shag here needed a walk like that after sneaking that extra muffin this morning,” he teased, poking his wife’s side. She huffed, whacking his side with her tail.

“Sorry fer keepin’ ya waitin’,” Applejack called out as she trotted down the stairs with Rainbow Dash right behind her. “Dash was workin’ on somethin’ fer the playdate.”

“I just hope they like it,” Dash commented, making a face at Snow. Snow babbled, poking his head around to look at the unfamiliar faces. His eyes settled on Moonglow and he babbled again.

Moonglow babbled back, trying to wriggle out of her mother's grasp.

“I think we should put the two on the floor and see what happens,” Night suggested with a chuckle. AJ set Snow down as Shag sat Moonglow in front of him.

“Now say hello, Snow,” AJ instructed. Snow babbled again, waving and gurgling happily at the little batpony. Moonglow returned the greeting, holding her hoof out. Snow eagerly tapped a hoof against hers, bouncing in place.

“Well they seem happy,” Dash declared, placing a small cloud between them. Moon instantly let out a happy squeal, hopping onto the cloud and curling up on it. Snow poked it, giggling as it rocked slightly. Moon let out a giggle and babbled as if she were urging him to do it again. He obliged, pushing with all his might. The cloud started swinging, causing Moon to squeal with delight.

“I made sure to get all the snow out,” Dash told Moon’s parents, gesturing to the cloud.

“Considering you’re a part of the weather team, I trusted you knew what you were doing,” Night assured, watching his daughter with a smile.

“We ain’t exactly sure what kinda pony Snow is, but we know he can touch clouds,” Dash explained.

“He certainly is an odd one,” Night said before flinching. “Sorry, I didn’t mean that in a bad way.”

“It’s fine, sugarcube,” Applejack assured, “Ah know what ya mean.”

“Well, I think a little uniqueness is a good thing to have,” Shag chimed. “It’s what led me to Night here.” She smiled and patted her husband’s shoulder.

“Ah ain't never met a strix in person before,” AJ commented, “Ah thought y’all were night critters.”

“I was at first,” Night replied with a chuckle. “But then I met a certain mare while I was making rounds. I was pretty motivated to change my sleep schedule around after that.”

“I feel ya on that.” Dash smirked at AJ, nudging her side.

“Ah think there’s a big difference between nature, and laziness,” Applejack teased, chuckling.

“You won't be saying that when I get my uniform,” Dash countered, flaring her wings out.

“Uh huh, ya still got a ways t’go before that happens,” AJ reminded, booping Dash on the nose. Dash frowned, fluffing her wings.

“So how are the two of you adjusting to being parents?” Shag asked, giggling at their exchange.

“Ah think we’re doin’ preddy good,” AJ replied, a hint of pride in her voice.

“Yeah, we’re figuring things out and I don’t think we could live without him at this point,” Dash added, stealing a quick glance at Snow. Snow was busying himself with Moon’s wing, amazed by it. He poked one with a hoof, trying to figure out why it wasn't soft and fluffy like Dash’s. Moon babbled at him, but otherwise didn’t do anything as he examined her wing. She then looked down and started poking one of his legs, examining him in return.

“Your little friend doesn't have feathers, Snow.” Dash spread a wing, tickling his side with the tips of her feathers. Snow giggled and squirmed against her. Once Dash pulled her wing away he took a moment to look between her and Moon’s wings. He made a face, concentrating on them.

“Don’t think too hard on it now,” AJ chuckled, watching him closely. Snow looked up at her and babbled. He then turned and started focusing on the little fangs poking from Moon’s muzzle. “Ya got any idea what's he's doin’?” AJ asked, turning to Dash.

“I think he’s just trying to learn,” Dash offered with a shrug. “Moonglow is different, like him, so he wants to see everything.”

AJ nodded, watching as Snow poked one of Moon’s ears. Moon babbled and returned the favor. Snow twitched his ears, much to her delight. Moon giggled and poked his other ear, her wings twitching on her back.

Snow babbled, poking her wing. He giggled when it twitched at her side, the two of them starting to poke one another to see what would happen. This went on for a few minutes until they were distracted by Big Mac entering the den.

“Hey there, Big Mac, is lunch ready?” Applejack asked, looking up at her brother.

“Eeyup,” the red stallion answered with a nod. At Snow’s behest, Mac made his way over to the foals. He leaned down, giving Snow a nuzzle. Snow babbled happily, wrapping his hooves around Mac’s muzzle. Mac smiled at the display, slowly lifting his head up. Snow let out a squeal of delight as he was lifted into the air. Mac tilted his head, making Snow slide down his neck and onto his back. Snow let out a giggle, nuzzling the back of Mac’s neck.

“Ah remember you used to love that,” AJ pointed out to Bloom, pulling her into a hug.

“Sounds adorable,” Dash commented while AJ and Bloom hugged. Mac did the same for Moon, the pair bouncing on his back.

“I think it’s safe to say that the two like each other,” Shag commented with a warm smile, watching Snow and Moon.

“AJ here was afraid ponies wouldn't like him,” Dash said, nudging her partner. “I told her Snow was too awesome not to make friends.”

“Ah’m glad t’be wrong fer once,” AJ said with a chuckle. “Ah was worried about the little fella.”

“Alright everypony, food’s on!” Granny called from the kitchen, giving the triangle a good few rings. The group all got up and trotted into the kitchen. AJ took Snow off Mac’s back and Shag did the same for Moon. “Howdy, Ah’m Granny Smith,” the older mare introduced herself, sitting at the head of the table.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you,” Shag said with a smile. She then introduced her family to the older mare.

“Ah’m pleased as punch t’meet ya too,” Granny replied. “Now, Ah hope ya’ll are ready for an Apple Family meal.”

The couple nodded, and Granny divvied out the food. Shag set Moonglow in her lap, giving the filly some applesauce. Moonglow opened her mouth after some urging from her mother, swallowing a spoonful of the food. Her eyes lit up and she let out a happy gurgle, opening her mouth again for more.

“She seems to like it,” Shag commented, spoon feeding her some more applesauce.

“Ah haven’t met a foal yet that don’t love our special applesauce,” Granny proclaimed, puffing her chest out. “It’s got everything a little pony needs t’grow big and strong. And our family’s livin’ proof.”

AJ got Snow comfy in her lap, chuckling as he wriggled around. She grabbed a jar of applesauce, holding it in front of him to get his attention. Snow reached out, trying to grab it. AJ chuckled and opened the jar, dishing some out and spooning out a bite.

“Alright little fella, mama’s got a nice spoonful ready fer ya,” she cooed, putting the spoon in front of his face. He quickly gulped down the spoonful, licking his lips. AJ smiled and stroked his mane as she got another spoonful ready. “That’s a good boy, mama ain’t raisin’ a fussy eater. Now open wide.”

The meal continued pleasantly, the group chatting amongst themselves. It was towards the end of the meal, that the foals started to show how tired they were. Moon and Snow yawned in unison, their heads bobbed and their eyelids drooped a little.

“Looks like we should be putting this one to bed.” Shag stood up, placing Moon on her back. Moon curled up on her back, letting out a long yawn. Snow babbled softly at Moon, leaning against AJ’s chest. Night stood up as well, putting a wing around Shag and Moon.

“It was lovely meeting you all,” he said. “We’ll have to do this again soon.”

“I'll see ya to the door.” Dash rose up, poking Snow’s cheek. “Say goodbye to your friend Snow.” Snow babbled softly, weakly waving at Moon. She waved back, rubbing at her eyes. The group all smiled, Shag and Night walking out the door while they offered goodbyes to the Apple Family.

“They were nice,” Apple Bloom commented, walking out into the den. “Ah ain't never seen a bat pony before.”

“Well, most of them live in their homeland in the mountains,” Dash explained. “And the ones that do live in Equestria usually stick to cities that have an active nightlife.”

“Since when are ya able to list off facts off the top o’ yer head?” AJ teased, nudging Rainbow in the side. “Ya haven’t been replaced with Twi, have ya?”

“Hey, I gotta know this stuff,” Dash huffed, giving AJ a light shove. “The Shadowbolts are our division for night shows. I might have to pull a gig with them at some point.”

“Oh relax, Ah’m glad yer puttin’ in the effort fer yer dream job,” AJ said, wrapping a hoof around Dash. “Ya should know when Ah’m just teasin’ by now.” Dash gave her a light shove, careful not to disturb Snow.

“Yeah yeah, ya jerk,” Dash replied, smirking at AJ. “Keep it up and I’ll return your Hearth’s Warming gift.” She slapped AJ with her tail, stepping toward the stairs. “Let's put the little guy to bed.”

“That’s a good idea,” AJ said, trotting by her side as they went upstairs. “Snow’s had a long day playin’ with his new friend.” She opened the door to his bedroom and set him down gently in his crib. Then she wrapped him in his blanket and kissed his forehead.

“He's so peaceful,” Dash commented, staying by the door. AJ nodded and moved to Dash’s side.

“Yeah, he’s such a good foal,” AJ agreed, smiling at her. “Ah’m glad ya found ‘im.”

Dash put an arm around her, nuzzling her neck. She kissed AJ’s neck, pulling away. “Come on, let's let the little guy sleep.” AJ nodded and the two slipped out of the room, closing the door gently.

“Ah think we got ourselves the start of a good family on our hooves,” AJ said, smiling softly and kissing Dash’s cheek. She poked her side, a cheeky grin growing on her face. “Yer havin’ the next one."

“Tell ya what,” Dash replied, her cheeky grin growing. “Let’s try that Running of the Leaves challenge again, whoever wins will choose who has the next kid. Interested?” Dash put her hoof up, spitting on it before holding it out.

AJ smirked, spitting on her hoof and tapping it against Dash’s. “Ah don't wanna hear no complainin’ when ya start swellin’ up.”

“Oh, you really think you can take on a Wonderbolt in a race?” Dash inquired with a laugh. “Sorry babe, but you’re the one that’s gonna be rocking the baby bump. But I tell ya what, I promise to take time up to help ya with the pregnancy.”

“Ain’t a Wonderbolt yet.” AJ walked by, holding her nose up. “Ya’ll just a reserve.”

“I’ll go from reserve to Captain before you know it!” Dash assured, grinning like a madmare as she fluffed her wings. “I'll have Spitfire's job in three years, tops.”

“Yuh huh,” AJ dismissed, chuckling. “Ah’d love t’see that. Tell ya what, if ya can pull that off, then Ah’ll…” she leaned in and whispered into Dash’s ear. Dash’s eyes widened, and her cheeks promptly turned purple. AJ pulled away with a smirk. “Looks like somepony’s motivated t’reach that goal.”

Dash’s look turned from shock to determination. She grabbed AJ’s head, pulling her into a deep kiss. AJ returned the kiss, closing her eyes and wrapping her hooves around Dash’s barrel.

Dash pulled away, looking into her lover's eyes. “Damn right I'm motivated.”

“Then Ah suggest ya work yer flank off these next three years,” AJ said with a wink, nuzzling Dash’s cheek. “Ya know Ah’ll be cheerin’ ya on the whole time.”

Dash just smirked, already forming a plan in her head.

Snow yawned as the train chugged along, sitting in Dash’s lap as the adults talked. He busied himself with Dash's tail, nomming on it. Dash didn’t seem to mind as she chuckled at Pinkie’s excited chatter.

“Thanks for inviting us, Pinkie.” Dash adjusted Snow, cutting into Pinkie’s ramblings. “Always wanted to meet your folks.”

“They’ll be super happy to meet you too!” Pinkie beamed. “Oh, and you’ll meet my other sisters, Marble and Limestone. They’ll all love you guys! And of course, Maud will be there.”

“Mau,” Snow babbled, looking up at Pinkie, a few strands of wet tail hairs hanging from his mouth.

“Aww, are you trying to say Maud, little guy?” Pinkie cooed, rubbing the top of Snow’s head. “Okay, say it with me, Maud.” She dragged the name out, enunciating it slowly for the foal.

“Mau!” Snow chirped, letting Dash’s tail fall from his mouth.

“Ah don’t think the fella’s ready fer makin’ ‘D’ sounds yet,” AJ offered with a chuckle. “Still, he’s sharp as a tack.” She smiled and ran a hoof through Snow’s mane.

Snow latched onto her hoof, babbling happily. He nuzzled her leg, getting a fair amount of drool on it. AJ just smiled and continued to hold onto the little foal.

“Aww, mama loves ya too little fella,” AJ cooed.

Pinkie gazed at them, releasing a wistful sigh. “I can’t wait to be a mom.”

“Do ya have somepony in mind to be the dad?” Dash asked, leaning on AJ.

Pinkie nodded, fidgeting a little.

“Aww, who is it?” AJ asked, smiling at the pink mare. “Is it anypony we’d know?”

“...Yes.” Pinkie fidgeted more, her chattiness gone.

“Well tell us,” AJ insisted. “We’re all family here, ain’t nopony gonna judge ya fer who yer pinin’ after.”

“T-Twilight...”

“Huh, didn’t see ya going for Twilight,” Dash commented, scratching the back of her head. “But hey, she’s a cute mare, and a princess now. So good luck with that. Have you tried asking her out yet?”

“No!” Pinkie replied, a bit louder than she intended. “I get all tongue tied when I try.” She hung her head, her mane deflating a little.

“Have you tried sending an anonymous note or something?” Dash asked. “Tell her you’re a secret admirer or something and ask to meet her somewhere. You can tell her how you feel without being there in person.”

“I could try that.” Pinkie nodded her head, starting to perk up. “But...what if she doesn't like mares?!” Pinkie hopped up, her eyes wide. “What if she doesn't want to be my friend anymore!?”

“Pinkie, there’s no way that she won’t wanna be yer friend anymore,” AJ assured, patting the pink mare’s shoulder. “We’ve all been through too much together fer that t’happen. And if she ain’t into mares then ya respect that, cry yer heart out with us as yer shoulder t’do it on. And after that ya try t’find somepony else.”

Pinkie nodded, pulling AJ into a hug. Snow pouted up at Pinkie, doing his best to join in on the hug. Pinkie giggled a little, pulling Snow up so he could be in the hug a little better. The three hugged for a while, Pinkie’s mane slowly reinflating.

Pinkie’s forelock dangled in front of her face, and Snow wasted no time in trying to nom on it. Pinkie giggled a little louder this time and let Snow nom on her mane.

“I’m lucky to have you guys as my family,” Pinkie chirped, nuzzling Snow. Snow nuzzled her back, planting a sloppy kiss on her cheek. A grin exploded onto Pinkie’s face and she returned the gesture, holding the foal close. “Oh, I hope my future babies are as precious as you!” she cooed.

“I bet they'll just be like Maud,” Dash whispered to AJ, snickering at the idea. Applejack suppressed her own laughter, elbowing Dash in the side.

“That ain’t funny,” AJ whispered. “Besides, if they did end up like Maud, at least they’d have killer legs.”

The shrill whistle of the train pierced the air, and it it started to slow. It pulled into the station, coming to a stop with a loud hiss of steam.

“We’re here!” Pinkie cheered, rushing out of the train with Snow in tow. He giggled as she carried him off. Snow cheered, not bothered at all as they shifted into the cold weather. The others all shared a look, chuckling as they grabbed their things. Their cheer diminished slightly as they exited to see the grey landscape. Waiting for them was Maud, dressed in her frock, with the same stone faced look on her muzzle as always.

“I’m so excited to see you, Pinkie Pie,” Maud greeted in a monotone. “You too, Applejack and Rainbow Dash. I hope you had fun sledding yesterday.”

Applejack blinked, sharing a dumbfounded look with Dash. “How'd ya know that?”

“Isn’t it obvious?” Maud asked, her tone unwavering. “There are specks of extrusive andesite on your hoof. It’s a mountain rock.”

“Oh she's good,” Granny whispered from the back of the group.

“How’s school going?” Pinkie chimed in, hugging her sister.

Maud wrapped an arm around Pinkie. “If you thought quartz was high on the Mohs hardness scale, wait 'til I tell you about corundum.”

“I missed you so much!” Pinkie beamed and tightened the hug. Maud blinked, looking up at Snow, who had climbed onto Pinkie's head.

“When did you have a foal?”

Pinkie giggled and patted Snow’s mane. “I didn’t,” she answered. “See, Dash found him abandoned during a snowstorm, so she and Applejack adopted him. His name is Snow Fameuse.”

Pinkie pried Snow off her head, holding him out to Maud. Snow babbled a greeting, sticking a hoof into his mouth. Maud’s eyes widened for a split second, the only indication of her emotions.

“Why does he have eight legs?” Maud questioned, her tone rising slightly.

“We don't know,” Dash spoke up, coming off more hostile than she intended. “Doc says he's some new type of pony.”

“Well, he’s certainly happy,” Maud commented, reaching out to pat Snow on the head. “And I think you and Applejack will be good parents.”

Snow latched onto her hoof, trying to nom on it. Maud watched the foal impassively, not seeming to be in any hurry to get her hoof back. She gave a slight tug on her hoof, only for Snow to pull it back.

“He has a very strong grip.” AJ chuckled and watched Snow wrap all of his legs around her hoof.

“I think he likes me,” Maud commented, watching as Snow held on tight and teethed on her. “Hello little Snow.” Snow babbled, getting her hoof soaked in drool.

“Heh, sorry ‘bout that,” Dash offered, rubbing the back of her head. “The little guy’s got almost as much enthusiasm as Pinkie Pie.” Snow finally let go, squirming around. Dash reached over and held Snow close to her chest. “There we go, little guy. Can’t have you falling down.” She smiled and poked his stomach.

Snow squeaked, covering his stomach up. He pouted at Dash, babbling at her with a rather irritated look.

“Sorry little guy,” she said with a giggle. “Is this better?” She smiled at him and scratched behind his ears. Snow cooed, nuzzling against her, his stance relaxing.

“Yer turnin’ into a real mama hen,” AJ commented, smiling at the two.

“More like mama eagle.” Dash puffed her chest out, her wings flaring out dramatically.

“Eagles push their hatchlings out of the nest when they feel they’re ready to fly,” Maud commented, turning her head toward Dash. Maud turned away, leaving Dash sputtering. “We should get back to the farm.”

“Lead the way, Maud!” Pinkie cheered, throwing a hoof around Maud’s shoulder. Maud nodded and started walking off.

Pinkie looked back and gave Dash a pleading look, indicating Snow. Dash nodded and Pinkie let out a squee as she scooped up the foal. The group walked along the road, the land barren and grey.

“Were we expecting a wasteland?” Dash asked, an unimpressed look on her face. “Geez, no wonder Maud's all monotone.”

“Ah was expectin’ somethin’ like this,” Apple Bloom chimed in. “Ah mean, Pinkie told the other crusaders an’ me about this place before.”

Dash frowned, her gaze locking onto Pinkie. Her family was rather traditional, would they accept Snow? She’d be furious if they felt turned away due to his legs.

“Hey Pinks, your folks gonna be cool with Snow?”

“Hmm?” Pinkie turned her head, Snow making himself comfy in her mane. “Why wouldn’t they be? He’s adorable.”

“He also has extra legs.”

“So?” Pinkie raised an eyebrow. “He’s still a pony. It’d be no different from bringing an alicorn over.” Pinkie flashed a smile. “It'll be okay, I Pinkie Promise.”

“Don’t forget the motions,” AJ said, smiling at her cousin.

Pinkie smiled, going through the motions, smashing a cupcake against her face. Snow let out a gurgle, reaching out from Pinkie’s mane to scoop up some of the frosting. He hummed happily and sucked on his hoof.

“Don't go ruinin’ yer appetite.” Applejack warned.

Snow popped the hoof out of his mouth and babbled at her with a pout.

“Don’cha backtalk yer mama,” AJ said, booping him on the nose. Snow babbled and gave her an apologetic look. “Much better.” She patted his head.

“Careful, he might try to eat your hoof,” Dash joked.

The group chatted amongst themselves, though it slowed down as they came to rather desolate looking farm fields.

“Ooh, looks like the harvest has been good this year!” Pinkie noted, looking out across the fields. “I haven’t seen the fields looking this lively since that time Limestone accidentally tapped into that vein of rose quartz!”

“Pinkie, those fields are empty,” Applejack pointed out.

“What’re ya talking about?” Pinkie asked with a tilt of her head. “There’s tons of sediment there. With the right conditions, they’ll form into all sorts of sedimentary rocks. And the ones deep in the ground will be metamorphic.”

“Right...”

“So I gotta ask,” Dash chimed in. “What do you guys do with all the rocks you farm here? Do you sell them to ponies?”

“The rocks are actually geodes,” Maud explained. “The farm rests on a set of ley lines.”

“So yer sellin’ crystals all over Equestria?” Applejack guessed.

“We grow all kinds of gems here.”

“That all sounds pretty cool,” Dash admitted, taking another look at the fields. “I guess there’s more to this place than meets the eye.”

“More than meets the eye~” Pinkie started to hum a tune, acting out... something.

“So uh, has Pinkie always been like this?” Dash asked, turning to Maud. “Ya know, with all the confusing stuff she does?”

“Ah can answer that!” Apple Bloom waved her hoof around. “She told me all about it durin’ the story of how she got her cutie mark!” She cleared her throat. “She told me that, before she got her cutiemark, that there wasn’t any laughin’ or smilin’.”

“So the confusing stuff started when she earned her mark?” Dash asked, looking at the pink mare in question. She scrutinized her for a moment or two before nodding. “Yeah, makes sense. Well, as much sense as anything surrounding Pinkie can.”

“The Decepticons~!” Pinkie finished, striking a pose. “What were we talking about again?” Snow giggled and babbled happily, trying to mimic Pinkie’s pose from his spot in her mane. “Ooh, how about another song?” Snow giggled and clapped his hooves, clearly excited about the idea.

The Apple family shared a look, as Pinkie started to sing about 'daring to be stupid’. The group finally arrived at the farmhouse just as she finished the song. The farmhouse itself looked rather dilapidated and almost blended into the landscape surrounding it.

“And here we are!” Pinkie beamed, vibrating as her excitement grew. The Apples, minus Snow, didn’t share her enthusiasm, staring at the homestead with wary looks. “Come on, everypony!” Pinkie shouted, looking towards the house. “Meet my super-mega-fun-derful family! Everypony, meet everypony!”

A group of ponies stepped out of the home and unlike Pinkie their colors were dull and muted. A brown stallion wearing a black hat stepped forward, looking at Granny Smith.

“Surely thy name is not but Granny Smith. I am called Igneous Rock Pie, son of Feldspar Granite Pie.”

A grey mare stepped up next to him. “Thou shalt know me as Cloudy Quartz.”

Igneous spoke up again, bowing his head to the Apples. “May Providence favor thee well, and to thy comfort our humble homestead bring.”

Granny Smith eyed them closely, rubbing her chin. “Ya’ll gabbin’ with words real funny-like.” She glanced between them. “Wh-wh-what'd you say them names were? ‘Iggy’? And I'm just gonna call you ‘Big Mama Q’!” Granny smiled, looking pleased with herself for her quick thinking.

A younger grey mare pushed her way to the front, glaring at the gathered ponies. “Gaze into the eyes of Limestone Pie. Ma and Pa may own this rock farm, but I keep it running. Cross me and—”

“Aye aye Captain Grumpy!” Pinkie Pie interrupted. “No one's gonna mess with your precious mine!”

“Or Holder’s Boulder!” Limestone snapped.

Pinkie rolled her eyes and sighed, “Everypony stay away from Holder's Boulder. There, you happy now?”

Applejack smiled at the group, turning to the remaining mare. “And you must be-”

Pinkie chimed in, putting a foreleg around the mare’s neck. “This is Marble Pie, my baby sister who's only a few minutes younger than me but she'll always be a baby to me, isn't that right? She's so excited to meet everypony! Oh, and she wishes you all a happy Hearth's Warming!”

Marble nodded and gave a small smile. “Mhmm.”

Applejack nudged Apple Bloom, leaning her head slight. “Guess Pinkie Pie always did the talkin’ for her,” she whispered.

Apple Bloom nodded and let out a giggle.

All of a sudden, there was a shrill whistle and everyone turned their head to see Pinkie standing atop a boulder. “Attention!” she called out.

“What’d I just say about the boulder!?” Limestone demanded. She glared up at her sister, a vein throbbing on her forehead.

“I'll just be a second,” Pinkie waved off. “Everypony get settled in! There's plenty of room upstairs. And then it's time for Hearth's Warming Eve dinner!” She threw up her forelegs and confetti burst around her.

Snow squealed, throwing his arms up. This caused her parents to take notice of him.

“Pinkamena, didst thou have a child without telling us?” Igneous asked, a slight edge in his voice.

“What?” She blinked, then turned her gaze up at Snow. “Oh!” She hopped down, a bright smile on her face. “Snow isn’t mine. AJ and Dash adopted him. He just likes being my hat.”

Cloudy nodded. “I am glad to hear this. If thou wishes to make grandparents of us, we would at least enjoy being informed of thy courtship. Even if thou dost refuse to visit the Pairing Stone.”

“If I was seeing somepony, I’d have thrown a party for it,” Pinkie assured, letting Dash take Snow from her head. “Alright! Why don’t we get out of the cold already?”

Everyone nodded and filed into the home. Pinkie led them upstairs and showed the Apples to their room.

“Looks like there won’t be any chance for “alone time” while we’re here,” Rainbow whispered to Applejack, taking note of the room they were sharing with the other Apples.

Applejack frowned. “Dash, we’re here fer Hearth’s Warmin’. Git yer mind out of the gutter.”

“Didn’t hear you saying that at the Apple Family reunion,” Dash reminded with a smirk, nudging her marefriend’s side.

Applejack sighed, putting her suitcases away. She loved Dash as much as anyone ever loved their significant other, but, sometimes, Dash’s randiness grated. “Dash, Ya keep that kinda talk fer when it’s the time and place.”

“Don’t worry, I’m done for now,” Dash assured. “I’ll be family friendly for the rest of our stay.” She snapped off a quick salute with her wing.

Applejack leaned in close, poking Dash’s chest. “Ya better. Ah don’t want Pinkie’s family kickin’ us out cause ya couldn’t be patient.”

“Trust me, babe, I want this to go well too,” Dash replied, putting a wing over Applejack’s back. “I can be patient if it’s for you.” She smiled a little and looked over at Snow playing with Apple Bloom.

Applejack sighed again, leaning on Dash. “I’m just really glad that Pinkie’s folks didn’t say anything bad about Snow.” Snow babbled happily as Apple Bloom bounced a stuffed animal in front of him.

“I don’t think they noticed the legs yet,” Dash pointed out.

“Ya might be right,” Applejack agreed, continuing to watch the colt play. “He was hidden by Pinkie’s mane fer the most part.” Snow got to his hooves and crouched, watching the toy Apple Bloom was bouncing in front of him. He then let out a small noise and pounced on it, wrapping his legs around it.

Dash poked at his side. “What are you? A puppy?”

Snow’s ears flattened and he went rigid for a moment at the mention of the word.

“Uh oh.” Applejack pulled away from Dash and scooped up Snow. She sat on her haunches, held him close and stroked the back of his head. “Shh, it’s okay, nothin’s comin’ fer ya.”

Snow babbled quietly, nuzzling into her chest.

Applejack nuzzled the top of his head. “Yer safe, momma’s got ya.” She pulled him up and gave him a kiss on the forehead. “Ain’t nothin’ gonna hurt ma baby.”

Dash got in on the hug. “Trying to upstage me, huh?”

“Yer his momma too, featherbrain,” Applejack teased, smiling as Snow babbled happily from the attention. “But Ah’ll be the favorite.”

Scoffing, Dash took Snow into her arms. “We’ll just see about that.”

Apple Bloom rolled her eyes, leaning over towards Big Mac. “Can ya believe they’re even makin’ parenthood a competition?”

“Eeyup.”

Pinkie burst into the room, a giant grin on her face. “Everypony downstairs! Dinner’s ready!”

“Hay yeah.” Dash stood up, putting Snow on her back. “I’m starving!”

They all filed downstairs, visions of six-layer bean dip and hot rolls dancing in their head. They were snapped out of their revelry when they saw the dinner table and noticed that their were rocks floating in the soup.

Applejack frowned, taking her seat. “
“Uh, what about six-layer bean dip?” Granny questioned with a tilt of the head, eyeing the table warily.

“We have rock soup,” Maud deadpanned as she took a bowl for herself.

“Potato, po-tah-to. Double-baked pot pie, rock soup! Dinner is dinner. Am I right or am I right? Pinkie waved off, grinning at the Apples.

Applejack shared a look with her family then opened her mouth to speak. She blinked, finding a hoof in her mouth.

Dash pulled her hoof back, looking between the Apples and the Pies. “Alright. I think it’s clear that we need to have a talk about how we’re celebrating the holiday.”

“Whaddya mean?” Pinkie asked, pausing mid slurp of soup with some of the soup hovering in the air. “This is just a typical Hearth’s Warming Eve.”

Dash gave her a flat look. “Pinkie, every family has a different definition of a ‘typical Hearth’s Warming Eve.” Turning, she gestured to Applejack. “Babe, tell her how Apple’s do it.”

Applejack bit her bottom lip, struggling to find the right words to say. “Ah mean, it’s a lot like this back on our farm.” She chuckled nervously.

Dash shot her a glare. “Bloom, tell the Pie’s how Apple’s celebrate the holidays.” She narrowed her eyes at Applejack. “And be honest.”

Apple Bloom flinched, taking a step back from the couple. “Well, the food isn’t rock-based back home.” She shifted on her hooves. “Then we grab the crocheted dolls that have been passed down. After that, the youngest of us raises the flag on the pole.”

Dash raised a hoof, cutting off a rather irate Limestone. “Look, this isn’t a ‘whose Hearth’s Warming is better’. What I’m trying to say, is that, if we’re going to spend the holidays together, we should make it fun for everypony.”

Pinkie gasped, jumping up onto her chair. “That gives me an idea! Why don’t we take the Apple traditions and the Pie traditions, blend them together,” she reared up on her hind legs and made a swirling motion with a hoof, “and make this an Apple Pie Hearth’s Warming!” She jumped in the air, throwing out confetti.

Pleased with herself, Dash leaned back in her chair. She gently tapped a confused Snow’s hoof. “Your mom’s a genius.”

Snow giggled and tapped her hoof with two of his.

Applejack leaned in close to Dash, whispering, “Thank ya fer steppin’ in. Ah was worried about deflatin’ Pinkie’s enthusiasm.”

“Babe, this only would have ended badly if someone didn’t say anything.” Dash nodded sagely, giving of an aura of experience. “Same thing used to happen when the Rainbows and the Whistles tried to have a family Hearths warming.” Dash smiled and nudged AJ. “But after things broke down, we started talking and compromised. Some traditions blended together and became something new.”

She reached over, ruffling Snow’s mane. “‘Sides, I didn’t want Snow’s first Hearth’s Warming to be full of ponies yelling at each other.”

Applejack chuckled and nodded. “Yer right, Ah’d hate t’ruin his first Hearth’s Warmin’.” She smiled and gave Snow and Dash a kiss on the forehead. “Ah think makin’ new traditions with the two of ya is alright by me.” Applejack leaned back in her chair, a smile on her face as Granny Smith and Pinkie’s parents started talking things over.

“I couldn’t agree more.” Dash grinned, leaning against Applejack’s side.

Hearth’s Warming had finally come and both families had gathered around the fireplace to exchange gifts. Despite the rocky start, the day before had turned out well. Traditions were exchanged and tweaked leaving everyone happy.

Dash was leaning back on her seat, watching patiently as the presents were handed out all around. Her eyes were locked on a small box that she had gotten for Applejack. She was trying hard to play it cool and not let her nerves show.

“Alright!” Pinkie cheered, hopping over to a seat of her own as the last gift was handed out. “I think Snowy and Apple Bloom should open their gifts first.”

Snow was sitting in Apple Bloom’s lap, batting at her mane.

Pinkie let out a giggle and popped up in front of Snow with a wrapped package. “Snowy, do you wanna open your present?~” She smiled and held out the box to him.

Snow cooed in interest, taking the box from her. He tapped on the box with his hooves, looking it over. He shook it, hearing something make a dull sound. He scratched at the wrapping paper, causing it to rip.

“Want some help?” Bloom offered, looking down at him.

Snow let out a coo, holding up the box towards her. Taking it from him, she started to pull the rest of the wrapping paper off. When the box beneath it was fully bared she sat it down at his eye level and removed the lid. Snow peeked in curiously. He let out a squeak of surprise as a stuffed form greeted him. He pulled out the item and let out a cry of joy at seeing a homemade pony doll with eight legs like him. He babbled happily and hugged it tight.

“Yay!” Pinkie threw her arms out. “He likes it!”

Dash smiled, watching Snow play with his new toy. “Pinkie, did you make that yourself?”

“Maud helped,” Pinkie admitted, wrapping an arm around her sister.

“Don’t forget Boulder.” Maud held up the stone. “His keen artistic eye is unmatched.”

“Thanks, Boulder.” Dash waved over at them.

“Does that mean it’s mah turn?” Apple Bloom chimed in, eyeing her presents and bouncing in her seat.

“Go right ahead, just remember yer manners,” AJ told her. She leaned back in her seat and covered her ears as Apple Bloom squealed in excitement. “That silly filly gets mighty loud.”

Apple Bloom leaped into the presents, disappearing from view, save for her bow. She dug around for a few moments before resurfacing with a package balanced on her head. She hopped back to her seat, causing the present to roll down her barrel and land in front of her.

Without a second thought, she tore at the wrapping paper, a big grin plastered on her face. “Alright! A new set of woodworkin’ tools fer the clubhouse!” She grabbed one of the tools and examined it for a moment. “Hmm, maybe Ah could expand it with these. Some clients have had trouble fittin’ in it.”

“Told ya she’d like that more than rodeo gear,” Dash whispered, nudging AJ in the side.

Applejack rolled her eyes, a faint smile on her face.

Marble was the next to get a gift which she reacted to by giving a warm, “Mhmm” to her parents. Pinkie then received her gift which she responded to by squeeing and giving Maud a bear hug. Then it was either Dash or AJ’s turn.

“You go first,” Dash said, motioning to the pile of presents while she leaned back on the couch. “I can wait a bit longer.”

“Well alright.” Applejack leaned over, grabbing the first box with her name on it. It was fairly small and the tag said it was from Dash. She ripped a piece of the paper off, finding a velvet jewelry case underneath it. “Dash...”

Dash did her best to keep a straight face, tapping her hoof against the floor. “Hmm?” She glanced over at the case in AJ’s hoof. “You still haven’t looked at your gift.”

Applejack gingerly opened the box, her heart skipping a beat. Inside was a gold bracelet with a band that had diamonds inlaid on it. Also on the band was a phrase engraved on it, “You’re the apple of my eye” in fancy calligraphy. AJ stared at it, tearing up.

“I know I’m not exactly the best with mushy stuff,” Dash spoke up, rubbing the back of her head, “but I figured I should pull out all the stops for you. Applejack… will you marry me?”

AJ sat frozen for a moment before she grabbed Dash, pulling her into a tight hug. “Course’ I will, ya featherbrained blockhead.”

Dash grinned from ear to ear as she returned the hug. “Watch it, hayseed,” she teased.

“Oh hush up and kiss me already.”

Dash didn’t need to be told twice. She grabbed AJ by the back of her head and pulled her into a deep kiss. The two continued the kiss for a few moments, ending it before they felt it would get uncomfortable for everyone else in the room. She took the bracelet, slipping it onto AJ’s right arm.

“So, best Hearth’s Warming ever or what?” Dash asked, flashing her a cocky grin.

Applejack shared her grin. “It’s up there alright.”

Pinkie let out another squee, popping up right behind Dash and AJ. “This is so amazing! I can’t wait for the wedding!” She gasped, jumping up into the air and seeming to hover for a few moments. “You’ve gotta let me help plan the reception!”

“Alright Pinkie,” Applejack agreed, nodding her head. “Ya got the job.”

“Yay!” Pinkie threw out her hooves and a shower of confetti spread across the room. “This’ll be even better than Princess Cadance’s wedding!”

Snow joined in on the antics, waving his hooves around excitedly.

Dash smiled warmly and scooped him up into her hooves. She cradled him close, resting his head against her chest. “Are you excited about the wedding too?” She punctuated the question by gently poking his nose.

Once the presents were all passed out, and wedding plans were lightly discussed, everyone gathered around the fireplace. Pinkie put on a conductor’s outfit and led everyone in Hearth’s Warming carols. The Apples and Dash noted that more than one of them were about rocks.