Chapters Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
Chapter 3-Five Months Later, The Gala
Five months later, it's finally the night of the gala. As they enter the castle, the foals stare with wide eyes. Big Mack goes over to talk with his sister, and Honey Apple and Crisp Apple go off to hang out with their cousin and his friends. As they stroll over to him, Mackintosh happily introduces his cousins to his friends.
"Honey Apple, Honey Crisp, these are my friends," says Mackintosh, "Lightning Bolt, Soara, Angelshy, Gold Medal, Silver Platter, Zinger, and Sunflower Shine."
"Hey," reply Mackintosh's friends.
"Hey, nice to meet ya," reply Honey Apple and Crisp Apple.
Meanwhile, Big Mackintosh and Cheerilee take to the dance floor for a slow dance, as do the rest of the adult ponies. A few minute later, Screwball walks up and says a hello to her little sister.
"Hey little sis, nice to see you again," says Screwball with a smile on her face to Angelshy.
"Hey Screwy," replies Angelshy, embracing her big sister in a hug.
"Do you want to dance with me?" asks Screwball. Angelshy nods and the two go and enjoy everypony else on the dance floor. Lightning Bolt and Sunflower Shine then follow suit and do the same as do Mackintosh and Soara. The couples smile as they dance. They're having the time of their lives. After the song comes to an end, the children and Screwball go over and talk in their little corner. They laugh, joke, and tell stories. Meanwhile, Rainbow Dash is off preparing for the aerial display with the Wonder Bolts, while the rest of the Mane Six chat with the princesses. A few minutes later, the children go off and get some punch with Screwball before going off to join her and her father in their crazy antics. It's one exciting night and with Screwball at their side, they're soon going to make it ten times more exciting.
Over under a table, discreetly hidden, Screwball and Discord use their magic to turn the butterflies of one of the dresses into bats, spiders, and snakes, freaking everypony out especially Rarity and Fluttershy. All the children then laugh, covering their mouths to muffle the sound. The group continue to mess with ponies for a few more hours before being found by their parents and taken to watch the aerial display, which they ooh and ahh at, wide eyes and smiles stretched across their faces.
At the farm that night after the gala has come to an end, Mackintosh shares how much fun he had at the gala with his parents. They just smile as he tells them everything. The two are glad he enjoyed himself. That's all they could have ever hoped for and then some. A few hours later, Cheerilee tucks in Mackintosh for the night, kisses him on the forehead, and leaves him to dream about the night's events.
A few minutes later, back out in the main room of the farmhouse, Cheerilee and Big Mack sit on the couch together and just look out at the stars from the window. "Why do shooting stars mean so much to you, Big Mack?"
"They mean a lot to my entire family, they're a reminder that our parents are still looking out for us, even though they're dead and gone."
"Well, that's sweet," says Cheerilee before kissing him on the lips. The two then part from the kiss and look up as two shooting stars fly by. "I'm sure they're proud of you," whispers Cheerilee. Big Mack smiles. He knows Cheerilee is right. His parents are likely very proud of him and if they were alive, they'd tell him so. Big Mack sighs as he goes to the farmhouse door and looks out into the night sky. He'll always look to the stars with a smile. Some things will never change.
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Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
Chapter 5-A Baby Sister Enters the Picture and a First Date
Eleven months later, a new foal enters the lives of Big Mack, Lil Mack, and Cheerilee, a little filly whom they name Joyous Flower. Lil Mack can't help but be thrilled. He's so excited to have a little sister to call his own.
"Can I hold her?" he asks with wide eyes. Cheerilee nods and sits him down in the chair beside her bed and hands him his baby sister. "Hey little Joy," he whispers to the sleeping filly in his hooves. "It's me, your big brother Lil Mack. It's good to meet you."
Cheerilee and Big Mack smile. She then takes the baby from Lil Mack not long after she begins to cry, hungry and ready to eat. As she prepares to nurse the filly, Big Mack and Lil Mack leave the room and head out to the orchard to buck the apples off of the trees.
"So," says Big Mack to his son, "you glad to be a big brother?"
"Eeyup," replies Lil Mack. Big Mack just smiles. "I've always wanted a baby sister and now I have one!"
"In other news, how are you and Soara coming along? C'mon, I know you have a crush on her!"
"It's going well, I'm just too scared to ask her out on a date," replies Lil Mack.
"Well, don't be, speak up, tell her how you feel before you lose her for good," replies Big Mack, "now go! Go and tell her how you feel. You can buck trees later." Lil Mack runs off to confess his feelings for Soara.
A few minutes later, Lil Mack bumps into Soara. He then proceeds to tell her how he feels about her. "Soara," says Lil Mack, "I love you!"
"I love you too, Lil Mack," replies Soara. The two then share a kiss and then go off to get milkshakes. At Sugar Cube Corner, the two talk and crack jokes for hours on end. The two are glad to now be a couple. Even Angelshy tells Soara later that she was waiting for her best friend to finally start dating Lil Mack, because she could tell the two were clearly head over hooves in love.
Meanwhile back at the farm, Big Mack continues to buck the trees on his own. He then stops as he sees Lil Mack coming over the hill. A few minutes later, Lil Mack reaches his father and tells him everything about his date with Soara.
"It, it was so much fun!" sighs Lil Mack with a smile, "we got milkshakes, saw a movie, went to the comic book store and read Daring Do comics for hours, it was a blast!"
"I'm glad you enjoyed your date with Soara," smiles Big Mack, "I'm so proud of you, son!"
"Thanks, dad!" replies Lil Mack with a smile. Big Mack then scratches his son on his head messing up his mane. Lil Mack just laughs as does Big Mack. The two then get back to bucking apples together, smiling all the while.
Meanwhile over at Angelshy's, the two talk about Soara's date with Lil Mack as they paint each other's hooves. "So, you and Lil Mack? It's about time."
"Yeah," replies Soara. "I'm just glad he loves me in return, after all, I have had a crush on him for ages, now we're finally a couple. I can hardly believe it."
The two then continue to talk. Meanwhile back at the farm, Cheerilee, Big Mack, and Lil Mack sit down to dinner while Joyous Flower sleeps in her nursery. The three eat, not saying a word, until Lil Mack brings up his date.
"So, I went on a date with Soara today," says Lil Mack.
"Wow! Good for you!" replies Cheerilee with a grin. "I'm proud of you, son!"
After dinner, the three go get the baby and take a new family picture for the wall. They then frame it and hang it on the wall. Cheerilee then goes and puts the baby back to sleep. Everything is perfect and she truly couldn't be happier. She has the perfect husband, the perfect children, what more could she ever want? The answer, absolutely nothing.
Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
It's a beautiful Friday evening, wind blowing, stars shining in the sky as Soara and Lil Mack approach the Ponyville Cafe for their second date. The two are excited.
Once inside, the two are seated by one of the waiter's, whose name is Jefferys. Once they're seated, he asks what they'd like to drink. "What would you two like to drink tonight?" he asks.
"A Hot cocoa please," says Soara.
"I'll just have an apple juice," says Lil Mack.
Jefferys nods and goes off and get their drinks. A few minutes later, he returns to the table with the drinks and places them in front of Soara and Lil Mack. "Are you ready to order yet?" Jefferys asks with a smile.
"Yes," replies Soara, "I'll take the daffodil steak with the daisy cream sauce and a side salad."
"And I'll take the triple stacker sandwich with hot sauce and I'll also take your apple wontons," replies Lil Mack. Jefferys nods and goes and tells their order to the chef, Carto. Carto then throws the daffodil steak and three hayburger patties onto the grill. He then pulls out the apple wontons and begins to steam them on another part of the grill. About fifteen minutes later, he puts the finishing touches on the dishes and hands them to Jefferys, who then takes them to Soara and Lil Mack.
"Here you go," says Jefferys putting the plates down in front of Soara and Lil Mack, "enjoy!" The two nod and begin to eat their dinners. As they eat, they don't notice Angelshy spying on them from outside. She's just glad to see her friends happy.
"So," says Lil Mack, "will you be my date for the community dance at Sweet Apple Acres next weekend?"
"Of coarse," replies Soara with a smile, "I'd love to." She then puts a part of the daffodil steak in her mouth and swallows. She's thrilled that she gets to be Lil Mack's date next weekend. She'd been hoping he'd ask and now he finally has. A half hour later, the two finish their meal, pay, then head off on a walk down to the Ponyville fountain. There, they share a kiss before parting ways. They had an amazing night. Now, though, it's time for them to get home and get their outfits ready for next weekend's dance.
Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
It's a beautiful day and Big Mack is out helping his son build the cart for the Applewood Derby. Lil Mack is glad his father is helping him build his creative, unique cart. Meanwhile, in another station, Soara works on her fast cart alongside her mother. In another, Angelshy works on her elegant cart with her big sister. The three all smile at each other as they work on their carts.
"I'm glad you're doing this with me," says Lil Mack to Big Mack.
"I'm glad you wanted my help," replies Big Mack.
"I'm glad you found time to do this with me," says Soara to Rainbow Dash.
"I'm glad you're letting me," replies Rainbow.
"I'm your daughter," she laughs, "like you, I have that need for speed."
"I'm glad you're helping me, sis," says Angelshy to Screwball.
"I'm glad to be helping you," replies Screwball with a smile.
After another hour, the carts are finished and the three line up alongside the rest of their friends as their family watch from the sidelines. A few minutes later, the race begins. Not long after it starts, Soara takes the lead. She's thrilled. Lil Mack smiles as his girlfriend passes him. As they watch, Big Mack and Cheerilee, Rainbow Dash, and Screwball, and the other parents and older siblings smile as their siblings or children pass them. An hour later, Soara crosses the line first, followed by Lil Mack, Angelshy, and another filly named Chili Powder. They are then awarded the medals. Soara wins for fastest, Lil Mack and Angelshy tie for most creative, and Chili Powder wins most traditional. Their friends and family then come over and congratulate them. All the ponies then go off to get ice cream. It's been a great derby day and they'd all have it no other way.
Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
Chapter 8-Ice Cream and an Old Girlfriend
At the ice cream parlor, all the racers sit down for ice cream cones alongside their friends and family. As Big Mac eats his, he sees Sugar Belle out of the corner of his eye then smiles as soon as he sees Party Favor. He's glad that she's moved on. He then turns back around and sees Cheerilee giving him a death glare. "Why were you looking at her? Did you used to be a thing with her or something?"
"Yeah, I did, but I chose you," replies Big Mack, "and that's all that really matters."
"Just as long as you don't still have feelings for her," replies Cheerilee. The two then get back to licking their ice cream cones.
A few minutes later, Cheerilee goes off to use the mare's room and Big Mack goes over to say hello to Sugar Belle.
"Hey Sugar Belle," he says with a smile.
"Oh, hey Big Mack, I see you've moved on. You have a family now, two children, wow!" Sugar Belle responds.
"I see that you moved on as well," says Big Mack with a smile, "and I'm happy for you. You belong with Party Favor. I see that now."
The two then say goodbyes and Big Mack returns over to his table and not a moment too soon as Cheerilee is just about to head back his way. A few minutes later, she sits back down next to him and continues to finish up her ice cream cone. She doesn't suspect a thing and Big Mack has no intent on telling her that he talked with Sugar Belle and Party Favor while she was away.
About a half hour later, all the friends part ways for the night. They're all glad that they got to do the derby together and even share a nice, sweet group hug before leaving each other for the night. Big Mack and Cheerilee just smile. They're so glad their son is happy. They'd honestly have it no other way.
Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
Chapter 10-Quality Sibling Time
"Big brother, do you want to go push me in the tire swing, please?" asks Joy.
"Sure," replies Lil Mack with a smile. He follows his sister outside and down the hill to the tire swing.
At the tire swing, Lil Mack lifts Joy into the swing, then begins to push her. As he pushes her, Joy laughs with a smile on her face. "Whee! Whee!" squeals Joy. Lil Mack just smiles.
"I'm so glad you want to spend time with me," says Lil Mack to his little sister.
"And I'm glad you want to spend it with me too," Joy replies with a smile. She then gets back to giggling and wheeing as she swings.
A few hours later, the two leave the tire swing and go out for ice cream. At the ice cream parlor, the two each get their ice cream cones then go outside and sit down and enjoy them. Joy licks hers with a smile on her face and Lil Mack does the same. After they finish their cones, the two go down to the Ponyville Pier and Amusement Park for the day to play games and just all around enjoy themselves. As they toss the rings at the bottles at the ring toss game, the two smile at each other before Joy sinks all five onto the bottles and wins a prize: a fluffy butterfly doll. Lil Mack smiles down at her and rubs her mane messing it up. This is the best bonding time he's had with his sister in a long time and he couldn't be happier and neither could she.
Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
Chapter 12-The Rodeo, the Next Day
The next day, Applejack comes by Cheerilee and Big Mack's early and picks up Lil Mack and the two head off for the train station. A few minutes later at the train station, the two hop on the train and head for Appleloosa for the rodeo. Lil Mack is glad he gets to go with his aunt, so excited his parents gave him the okay.
A few hours later, the two arrive in Appleloosa and hop off the train and head towards Braeburn's place. They soon arrive at Braeburn's where they are greeted with a hug and a smile. "Hey Applejack! Hey Lil Mack!" exclaims Braeburn. "Man you've gotten so big!"
"Yeah," laughs Lil Mack.
"So, rodeo starts in a half hour, you better get to practice AJ," says Braeburn. Applejack nods and heads off for the rodeo grounds, where she practices for the half hour leading up to the rodeo. Fifteen minutes before the rodeo begins, Braeburn and Lil Mack arrive and take their seats.
Not long after that, the rodeo begins. Applejack takes to the hay bales and kicks them all up into place in a record 20 seconds. As she gets her time and score, Lil Mack and Braeburn and the rest of the ponies and Apples cheer as well. The next event is then set up, it's barrels. Applejack is the first up and runs around them in thirty seconds flat. The following competitors don't even come close to her score. The hurdles are then set up after that and again Applejack places in first in that event as well. Lil Mack cheers for his aunt with a smile on his face. He's so glad she brought him along.
Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
Three days after the rodeo, Lil Mack goes and picks up Soara and the two go to the Hay Lily Dance for their third date. At the dance, the two nuzzle each other as they dance. They couldn't be happier.
"I'm glad you invited me to the Hay Lily Dance," says Soara with a sigh.
"I'm glad you agreed," replies Lil Mack with a smile.
The two continue to dance for hours on end alongside several other couples, both young and old. A few minutes later, Lil Mack walks off and brings over dances for the two of them to enjoy. As he hands the cup to Soara, she smiles then begins to drink and he does the same. Once the two finish their drinks, Soara takes Lil Mack's hoof once again and they go back onto the dance floor and begin to dance once again. As they dance, the two begin to smile and even share a kiss, which shocks them both.
After the dance, Lil Mack walks Soara back to her house before she takes to the sky but not before giving him another kiss and thanking him for the amazing night. Lil Mack smiles as he walks away. He can't wait to get home and tell his parents about his first kiss. After all, it is his first kiss and he has the right to be excited about it.
Back at home, Lil Mack sits down with his parents and tells them the news. "Momma, dad, I had my first kiss with Soara today."
"Good for you, son, I'm so proud of you," replies Cheerilee with a smile.
"Eeyup," replies Big Mack.
Lil Mack then begins to tell them all about the rest of their night especially every detail of the dance. As he talks, they can't help but smile. They're so proud of their son. In their eyes, he's growing up so fast.
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Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
Chapter 16-Cheerilee Shares the Truth About Scootaloo
One day while they're drinking coffee, Cheerilee lets out a big piece of news. "Big Mack," says Cheerilee, "Scootaloo is my baby sister." Big Mack looks at her dumbfounded.
"She's, she's, she's your what now?!" responds Big Mack baffled.
"My baby sister," replies Cheerilee. "Mom put her up for adoption not long after she was born. She has no idea."
"Go and tell her then," replies Big Mack. "She deserves to know the truth."
"You're right," sighs Cheerilee. "I'll go and tell her. I know exactly where to find her too. She's likely at the Wonderbolts Derby show." Cheerilee goes and grabs her back, slings it onto her back, and trots out the door towards the Derby field. A few minutes later, she approaches the field and calls up to Scootaloo. "Scootaloo! Scootaloo!" yells Cheerilee. "I have something to tell you!"
Scootaloo floats down and joins her on the ground. "Yeah, what did you want to tell me, Cheerilee?"
"Scootaloo, you may not believe this, but I'm your sister. I remember when momma put you up for adoption and everything."
"I knew I had some family somewhere, I just never knew my sister would turn out to be my former teacher," laughs Scootaloo as she topples Cheerilee over in a hug.
"How'd you like to come live with me and my family then?" replies Cheerilee.
"I'd love that more than ever, but don't you want to stay for the Derby first?"
"Sure," laughs Cheerilee. "Good thing I stopped by Twilight's and had her cast that cloud walking spell on me before I left." The two then break out laughing as they hop into the balloon and head into the sky.
Once the clouds, the two go to their seats and sit down and enjoy the Derby. The two are glad to have each other back in each other's lives. They honestly wouldn't have had it any other way. For now, though, it's time to just enjoy the Derby together, as sisters.
Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
Chapter 19-A Day with Auntie Scootaloo
The next day, while Cheerilee and Big Mack are at a parent teacher conference with Miss Honeysuckle, Scootaloo is at the fairgrounds with Lil Mack and Joy. At the fairgrounds, the three ride the coasters together as well as play the carnival games, eat cotton candy and funnel cake, and drink Slurpees together. The three are glad to have some quality time together. Scootaloo and Lil Mack even stand in line with Joy as she gets her balloon animal, smiling all the while. Once they get the balloon animal, they go and stick it over with the rest of their stuff in their carnival ground locker before getting onto the fastest coaster in the carnival park: The Caballo Supremo. The three hop in the coaster in the middle row behind two full grown stallions. Seeing that the coaster is now full, the attendant comes around and checks the restraints and tightens their belts and then sends them down the coaster full speed ahead. As they go down the coaster, the three squeal at the highest pitch possible. A few minutes later, the coaster ride comes to an end and the three go back to playing the carnival games until the carnival grounds finally close for the night. The three are glad they got to spend the day together.
A few hours later, after dinner at Sugar Cube Corner, the three return to the house where they find Big Mack asleep on the couch and Cheerilee outside working in her garden. Scootaloo smiles as she goes off to her room after watching the two foals run to the TV to turn on their favorite show. She can't help but admit, her life can only go uphill from here.
Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
Chapter 22-Wedding Plans Part 2
The next day, the two sit down and add some more to the reception menu for the wedding. They add things like pear poppers and flapjacks and stuffed daffodils as well. The three then get to planning other smaller things such as table settings and what kinds of flowers they want.
That afternoon, Soara goes off with her mother, Scootaloo, Angelshy, and Cheerilee to get fitted for a wedding dress. The first dress she tries on is a no sleeve one with lace decorations all over. Soara is not thrilled about this design and even states as such before going and changing into the next one, a short poofed sleeve dress with a slight pink tint to it. "Oh yeah, this is definitely one I'd consider!" says Soara enthusiastically. She then goes and tries on the third dress, another poofed sleeve dress with a slight purple tint to it, which she ends up not being a huge fan of. She then tries on two or three more dresses before settling on the pink short poofed sleeve dress with a matching pink flower ringed veil. They then place the order and go off to lunch.
As they're walking, Cheerilee pipes up. "I'm glad you chose that dress, it suits you."
"I agree with Cheerilee," adds Rainbow, "that dress is definitely you."
"Thanks, mom, thanks, Cheerilee," replies Soara, "I'm so glad I got the dress of my dreams." A few minutes later, they arrive at the Ponyville Cafe and are seated by one of the waiters.
"What would you like to drink?" he asks the mares.
"Pink lemonade," says Scootaloo.
"Pink lemonade here too," adds Soara.
"And a pink lemonade for me too," replies Angelshy.
"I'll have an iced tea," replies Cheerilee.
"And I'll have the energizer blackberry lemonade," replies Rainbow Dash.
"Sure, I'll be right back with those," replies the waiter. He sticks his pen back behind his ear and goes off to get their drinks, which he returns back with a few minutes later and places the drinks in front of them. He then takes their orders and returns with those a half hour later. The five then enjoy their meals only talking occasionally.
Meanwhile back at the farm, Lil Mack is designing the wedding bands up in the hayloft where it's quiet. He's glad to have this time for himself to plan the perfect wedding ring. He'll go and give it to the jeweler tomorrow, once he's sure everything is perfect. For now, he has the task of getting the rings to that perfection.
Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
Chapter 23-Wedding Plans Part 3
Early the next morning, Lil Mack heads off to the jewelers, the sketches in hoof. A few minutes later, he arrives in the store and is greeted by the clerk. "What can I do for you today?" asks the clerk.
"I would like to get two wedding bands designed," replies Lil Mack as he hands her the sketches. She takes the sketches and takes them back to the designer. "Frilla Frid! Get to work on those rings!" yells the clerk. "He wants them before April!" Frilla Frid nods and gets to work on carving the band and bending them together to form the designs on the paper that Lil Mack provided him.
Once he's sure they're working on his rings, Lil Mack leaves the store and goes off to the Hayburger to get some lunch. He's glad the rings are in the works. That's one thing off his plate before going to decide on flower bouquets and arrangements with Soara this afternoon.
A few hours later at the flower shop, Lil Mack helps Soara choose the flowers for the main bouquet, the bride's bouquet, and the flowers for the corsages for the bridesmares as well. Lil Mack can't help but think this is boring, but alas, it comes with the whole wedding planning gig and that is something he just has to put up with until the wedding finally rolls around come April.
Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
Chapter 24-A Big Day in April
April soon arrives and it's the day before the wedding. Lil Mack goes to the jeweler and picks up the rings. Soara is at Rarity's getting her dress fitted for the final time. The florists are tending to all the flower arrangements. The menu is being checked once, twice, three times over. Everything is coming together perfectly. Meanwhile, the bridesmares are going through their own final fitting and their corsages tightened or loosened to fit.
The next day, Lil Mack tightens his bow tie and Soara adjusts her veil. The two then get into position. Lil Mack gets on the right side of the main hall with all his best stallions. The wedding march then begins as the flower girls enter then the bridesmares and then finally Soara in her beautiful pink wedding gown. She then takes her place beside Lil Mack. Celestia then begins to give the speech. "We are gathered here today to unite Lil Mackintosh Apple and Soara Dash in holy maretrimony. Maretrimony is a harmony and union between two ponies, a stallion, and a mare. It's a sign of love at its highest point. It's a sign of love at its truest as well. Now, I understand you wrote your own vows." She looks at the two and they nod back. The two then begin their vows.
"I, Lil Mackintosh, takes you Soara Dash, to be my wife, through health and sickness, stormy night and sunny day, through thick and thin, for as long as I shall live."
"And I, Soara Windy Dash, take you, Lil Mackintosh, to be my husband, through health and sickness, stormy night and sunny day, through thick and thin, for as long as I too shall live."
"You may now kiss the bride," says Celestia with a smile. Lil Mack then swings Soara in his hooves and gives her a great big, long kiss. The two then exchange rings and share another kiss. The two are so glad to finally be married. Their lives are about to begin together and they can't wait!
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Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
Chapter 25-Two Years Later, The First Grandfoal Enters the Picture
Two years after the wedding, Soara gives birth to a healthy little pegasus filly with a light red coat and rainbow mane and tail whom they name Spirited Apple or Spirit for short. The two smile as they look at their newborn daughter. They're so glad to be parents. The next day, Cheerilee and Big Mack, Joy, Applejack, and Apple Bloom come by for a visit to meet the new little member of the family.
"She's a little doll, you two," says Applejack with a smile.
"Yeah, she's adorable," adds Joy.
"She looks like her daddy and her grandpa," says Apple Bloom with a grin.
"She's the first Pegasus born Apple, I will say that, and that's not a bad thing by any means," Applejack finally adds. This makes Soara blush. She's never heard Applejack say something that sweet towards her ever. She then looks down at the little filly in her arms who has just taken a great big yawn before finally opening her eyes for the first time.
"Hello, little one," says Soara lovingly, "welcome to the world."
The rest of the family stays and hangs out there for the rest of the day and are even treated to dinner by Soara and Lil Mack. Everything is perfect in their lives now. They're happily married and now they're parents too. All their dreams are coming true. Now, the only thing left that they could ever want was a puppy and Lil Mack even states this much. "I have the perfect home, the perfect wife, we have the perfect child, now all we need is a puppy." He says it aloud, so AJ hears it loud and clear.
"Well, Winona just had some puppies, when they're a year old, you can come by and pick one out, how does that sound?" inquires Applejack.
"Sounds great! Thanks, Auntie Applejack!" replies Lil Mack as he goes over and embraces her in a hug. "Thank you so very much!"
Soara then pipes up. "How will a puppy get along with my parrot Pippin?"
"Just fine," replies Lil Mack. "After all, that cage is rather high up."
"Good point," replies Soara. She then sits down after grabbing a cup of hot saffron tea. They all then begin to enjoy the wonderful dinner spread in front of them, talking all the while.
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Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
Chapter 1-The Birth of a Son and Three Years Later
Two years after their marriage, Big Mac and Cheerilee have a foal, a colt to call their own, whom they name Mackintosh. The two couldn't be more happy. They finally have a child to call their own and they'd have it no other way.
Three years later, little Mackintosh heads off to his first day of kindergarten with his mother. A few minutes later at the school, Cheerilee drops him off in his class then goes to tend to her third and fourth graders. As soon as he sits down, he is greeted by a few other foals: three colts and two fillies named Lightning Bolt, Soara, Zinger, Gold Medal, and Sunflower Shine. Soara is the daughter of Rainbow Dash, so due to his parents being friends with her mother, the two soon become close friends. A few minutes later, their teacher enters the room. "Hello students," says their teacher Ms. Honeyblossom, "I'm Ms. Honeyblossom and who might you be? We're going to go around the room and you're going to tell me your names, okay?"
The students start sharing their name from the left front side of the room.
"My name is Berry Pie," says the filly in the first desk.
"I'm Apple Curd," says the filly beside her.
"I'm Apple Custard," says the filly next to Apple Curd.
"I'm Cherry Blossom," says the filly next to Apple Custard.
The foals on the next row then begin to list off their names.
"I'm Soara," says the filly on the first desk in the second row.
"I'm Snapdragon," snarks the filly next to her.
"I'm Angelshy," whispers the filly in the third desk on the second row.
"I'm Mackintosh," says Mackintosh.
The third row of foals begin to list off their names for the teacher.
"I'm Lightning Bolt," says the colt in the first desk on the third row.
"I'm Zinger," says the colt in the second desk on the third row.
"I'm Sunflower Shine," says the filly in the third desk on the third row.
"I'm Gold Medal," says the colt in the fourth desk on the third row.
The fourth and final row then begins to share their names.
"I'm Honey Suckle," says the filly in the first desk on the fourth row.
"I'm Silver Slate," says the colt next to her.
"I'm Cinnamon Swirl," says the filly next to Silver Slate.
"I'm Diadem Corona," says the last filly on the row.
Ms. Honeyblossom then thanks the children and passes them out their reading, writing, and math assignments they have to do for the day. They do work for a few hours before going out to recess.
At recess, Mackintosh hangs out with Soara, Lightning Bolt, Zinger, Gold Medal, Sunflower Shine, and Angelshy, who Soara dragged along since Angelshy is her best friend. All the friends laugh and joke and have an all around good time.
After school that day, Mackintosh goes with his new friends to Fluttershy's house to hang out for the rest of the day. At Fluttershy's, all the friends help her with her animals and even go with her to tend to the animal sanctuary. After returning to Fluttershy's from the animal sanctuary to her house, all the little ponies are greeted by their parents and taken on their way home except for Soara.
"My parents are in training for the Wonderbolts, it's okay," sighs Soara.
Fluttershy, pitying the little filly, then takes her out to get some ice cream before flying her home herself. Soara is so grateful that Fluttershy is so loving, caring, and a close family friend and willing to take her home. A few hours later, after their ice cream, Fluttershy drops Soara off at her home. As Fluttershy flies off, Soara waves goodbye before going inside.
Meanwhile back at the farm, Mackintosh helps his father in the field. As his father bucks apples, Mackintosh comes along behind him and picks up any strays that he sees. Big Mack just smiles. He's so thrilled to be a father especially to a young colt he can pass the farm down to when the day comes, which hopefully, won't be until far down into the future.
Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
Three months later, everypony is sent their Grand Galloping Gala tickets by the royal sisters. Once they arrive at the Mackintosh house, Mackintosh begins to freak out. It'll be his first gala ever and he can't wait.
"Momma, daddy, what's the gala like? Please tell me!" begs Mackintosh.
"You'll soon see for yourself, Macky," replies Cheerilee with a smile. "Now go off and share the news with your friends." Mackintosh nods and goes off to the old Crusader clubhouse to go tell his friends.
In the clubhouse, Mackintosh greets his friends and then asks about the gala. "So, are you guys ready for the gala?"
"Most definitely!" exclaims Soara.
"Sure, I guess," replies Angelshy.
"Of coarse!" say Silver Platter and Gold Medal.
"Most definitely," says Sunflower Shine.
"Hell yeah, I'm ready for the gala!" says Lightning Bolt excitedly.
"Lightning Bolt, that is not a word we say," scowls Sunflower.
"Oh, sorry," replies Lightning Bolt, "I got carried away. It won't happen again."
The group then goes over and grabs a bunch of juice boxes before resuming their talk. Meanwhile back at the farm, Big Mackintosh pulls out his old suit for Cheerilee to mend for him, which she does with a smile. A few hours later, all the children show up at the farm for the Kickapalooza Big Mack hosts for the neighborhood foals every year. It's the way he found to share his apple bucking talents with the next generation.
In the fields, the children happily kick the trees, Big Mack walking around to help them one by one. A few minutes later, he is joined by Applejack, who helps half of the ground while he helps the other group. He's glad his sister came by to give him a hand because Celestia knows he needed it. The Kickapalooza continues for five more hours and finishes with a group picnic under the trees in the main orchard. After dinner, they all go off to Rarity's to get their suits and dresses made for the gala. After hours of fitting, the measurements are gathered and the dresses and suits are started by Rarity and the happy parents carrying their sleeping children home in their arms. It's been a long day and they can all agree, it's time to get some much needed sleep.
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Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
Chapter 4-Apple Family Reunion, Five Years Later
It's a beautiful day, five years later, and everypony that is part of the Apple or Pear family is gathered at Sweet Apple Acres for the Apple Family Reunion, including a now eight year old Mackintosh, excited that it's his first family reunion. Cheerilee, on the other hand, is quite nervous. She's never met most of Big Mack's family, only his sisters, Granny Smith, and Grandpear. Fortunately for her, Big Mack happily goes and introduces her to the rest of the family, while Mackintosh goes over to hang out with his cousins Apple Bloom and Babs Seed.
"Hey Lil Mack," says Apple Bloom with a smile. "Good to see you again, cousin!"
"You too, Apple Bloom," replies Mackintosh with a smile.
"Hello, Mackintosh, good to meet you," says Babs with a smile.
"It's good to meet you too," replies Mackintosh with a smile.
The three cousins then continue to chat and catch up for several hours. They laugh, joke and have an all around great time. In the meantime, Cheerilee is finally starting to warm up around the rest of the Apples and by extent, the Pears this year. She even ends up sharing a few conversations with each of them and even a dance with Grandpear.
Meanwhile, no one notices Mackintosh, Apple Bloom, and Babs sneak off to the hayloft to jump off the ledge into the hay below. As they take turns jumping, they smile and laugh as soon as they land in the hay, get back up and do it all over again. They do this for another half hour before returning to hang out with the rest of the Apple family. Mackintosh can't help but smile. He's enjoying his family reunion today with his cousins, and he couldn't ask for anything better than that.
A few hours later, after downing fresh baked fritters and hoof squeezed cider, Apple Bloom, Mackintosh, and Babs seed go off and join in on the Apple family photo. As the photo is about to be taken, Applejack runs to join the rest of the group and a split second later, the picture is taken, everypony smiling in it with a glitter in their eyes. Once the picture is taken, all the family sits down to a great big dinner around the longest picnic table in all Equestria. As they eat, they joke, share stories, and have an all around great time. Mackintosh is so glad to be part of such a big family, he considers himself so lucky. He really and truly can't wait until the next family reunion rolls around.
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Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
Chapter 9-Joy's First Birthday and The Story of their Grandparents
A year later, Big Mack, Lil Mack, and Cheerilee are celebrating Joy's first birthday. As she eats the cake, Joy's face lights up with a smile. The rest of them smile back, eyes wide with cheer.
"It's hard to believe how much, Joyous has grown," sighs Cheerilee placing her hoof in Big Mack's.
"Yeah, it's just hard realizing your children will never know their grandparents," sighs Big Mack.
"Show them the tree," Cheerilee whispers into his ear. Big Mack nods, grabs the baby, and the four go outside to the edge of the orchard where the tree is.
As they approach the tree, Lil Mack looks up and opens his eyes. "Wow, dad, what's this tree? Why is it here? Why are there tombstones in front of it that say Pear Butter and Bright Mack?"
"Calm down, calm down," sighs Big Mack. Lil Mack nods and sits down. The rest then do the same and Big Mack explains everything. "Children, this is your grandparents' tree where they were buried. Bright Mack and Pear Butter were your grandparents. I'm sure they'd be proud of you if they were alive." Tears begin to fill his eyes. "Back before we were even born, before you were ever born, before I and your mom even married, there was a feud between the Apples and the Pears. Prickly Pear and Granny Smith would compete constantly and your grandma and grandpa got caught in the crossfire. For fifteen years, they dated in secret and one day, the day before your grandma was set to move away, she agreed to marry your grandpa. They married here and planted seeds to seal their vows. That's how this tree got here and that's how your grandparents came to be together. They died not long after they had your aunt Apple Bloom. She was not much older than your little sister when your grandparents died." He then begins to cry. They then sit under the tree quietly for several hours. The children are glad to know a little bit more about their grandparents. It makes them feel like they knew them.
Back inside at dinner that night, the four just sit there quietly, not saying a word. Cheerilee is glad Joy and Lil Mack know about their grandparents. After all, it's a part of who they are. That's one thing that will never change.
Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
Chapter 11-A Day At Aunt Applejack's
The next day, Cheerilee drops Lil Mack and Joy off at Applejack's for the day before heading off on her daily errands. "Thanks for agreeing to watch them," says Cheerilee.
"Don't mention it," replies Applejack with a smile. "I love my niece and nephew."
Cheerilee then heads off towards the market place. "Auntie Applejack, can you take us to see our grandparents tree?" asks Lil Mack.
"Sure," laughs Applejack. She scoops Joy up into her hooves and lifts her onto her back and then the three head off to the edge of the orchard.
A few minutes later, they approach the tree. "Wow! This tree is incredible!" gasps Lil Mack.
"Yeah, your grandparents are buried here," sighs Applejack as a tear forms in her eye. She then sits down facing the tree and Lil Mack and Joy then do the same. Applejack then begins to sing. "This is a place of memories, a place of long ago. This tree shows how love can heal broken families filled with empty holes. This tree is proof that unlike sides can combine. It shows that reunion can work. It shows that feuds can't out last time. It shows who we are. This is a place I want you to remember for the rest of your lives. This is a place to remember them, how they impact our lives. This is a place to remember them and how they impact our lives even now that they're dead and gone."
A few hours later, the two leave their spot under the tree and go off to get ice cream. At the ice cream shop, the three laugh and joke and catch up. Applejack is glad to spend quality time with her niece and nephew and she'd have it no other way. After finishing up their ice cream, the three go off to the amusement park and enjoy some quality time together playing the carnival games and riding the kiddie rides. As they do all this, they laugh and have a great time. After leaving the park, Applejack walks the two home, Joy asleep on her back.
Back at the house, Applejack places Joy into Cheerilee's arms and Lil Mack runs inside and up to his room but not before giving Applejack a goodbye hug. Applejack smiles. "Thanks for letting them spend the day with me, Cheerilee," sighs Applejack, "I enjoyed myself."
"You're welcome, feel free to take them anytime," replies Cheerilee with a smile.
"I'll definitely take you up on that, goodbye," says Applejack as she leaves.
"Goodbye!" says Cheerilee as she waves Applejack off.
Back at Sweet Apple Acres that night, Applejack picks up a picture of her and her nephew. She smiles as she places her hoof on it. She then places it back on the table and heads off to bed. After all, she had a long day with her niece and nephew and she has to head off to a rodeo early tomorrow morning, so she definitely needs her beauty sleep. Hopefully, maybe Cheerilee will let her take Lil Mack along. She'll just have to wait and see.
Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
Chapter 13-After the Rodeo That Evening
After the rodeo comes to an end, Applejack helps everypony cleanup and then goes to greet her cousin and her nephew, who embrace her in a hug. The three then head off to dinner together. They're all excited about this, especially Braeburn because his new fiance is going to meet them there. Applejack and Lil Mack have no clue about that little detail whatsoever.
A few minutes later at the Appleloosa Hay House, the three take their seats and then not long after that, are joined by a tall, blond haired mare with a cherry blossom cutie mark. "Hello, my name is Cherry Blossom," says the mare, "and I'm Braeburn's fiance."
"Nice to meet you, Cherry Blossom," says Applejack. "Does your mother happen to be Cherry Jubilee by chance?"
"Yes, indeed she is, I've worked for my mother since I was knee-high to her haunches," replies Cherry Blossom, "now who is the little colt that's with you?"
"Oh, that's my nephew, my brother Big Mack's child, Lil Mack," replies Applejack with a smile.
"Hello, how are you doing?" says Lil Mack with a smile.
"Fine, thank you," replies Cherry Blossom.
The waiter soon arrives and places their orders in front of them and they begin to eat. Applejack can't help but feel happy for her cousin and hopes that her, along with the rest of her family, will be able to play a part in their wedding when that time finally comes. For now, though, she's going to enjoy her dinner because she hasn't eaten since breakfast.
Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
Chapter 15-Foalsitting Sucks
It's a new day and Lil Mack is foalsitting his sister Joy while his mom is at a hair appointment and his father is out singing with the Ponytones. As he watches her play with her toys, he can't help but groan. He hates foalsitting his sister, but he knows it makes his parents happy, so he does it anyway.
A few hours later, Lil Mack picks up Joy and puts her in the high chair and feeds her her favorite treat: mashed carrots. She downs every bit of them and then the two get back to playing for several hours on end before they are interrupted by a ring at the doorbell. It's Lil Mack's friends asking if he wants to come play frisbee in the park with him. He then grabs Joy off the floor, puts her in the baby pouch, throws her onto his back, and follows his friends to the park. At least, he can still go to the park while watching his sister at the same time. That's definitely one perk.
At the park, Lil Mack plays frisbee with the rest of his friend with the exception of Angelshy, who happily plays with little Joy for him. As he tosses the disk, Lil Mack laughs and smiles. He's so glad to have this time to himself. Meanwhile, on the bench, Angelshy tickles a happy, little Joy making her laugh. She then grabs the little filly and tosses her in the air and catches her over and over causing her to laugh even more. A few minutes later, Angelshy turns around and begins to sing a song to the little filly in her hooves, soon getting little Joy to fall fast asleep. As Joy sleeps, Angelshy keeps a close eye on her. Meanwhile, in the field, Lil Mack tosses the frisbee to Soara, who catches it with a grin and then tosses it to Gold Medal. Everything is truly perfect.
A few hours later, Lil Mack picks up a still fast asleep Joy and returns home but not before giving his friends a great big hug. "I had a great time with you today," he says, "we need to do this more often!"
"We had a fun time too," reply his friends as they hug him back, smiles on their faces. They then wave him off as he heads back towards home. A few minutes later back at the farm, Lil Mack walks Joy into the nursery and puts her in her crib and covers her up and then closes the door quietly behind him. He then goes to the back orchard and looks up at the Apple Pear tree and smiles. A few hours later, he is greeted there by his mother, who embraces him in a hug.
"Thanks for foalsitting your sister for me," says Cheerilee with a smile.
"No problem, I'd do anything for you, mom," replies Lil Mack with a smile. It's the truth too. He'd do anything to please his parents. Cheerilee smiles and embraces him in a hug. The two then sit under the tree for another half hour before returning to the farmhouse for dinner. The only pony missing from dinner is Big Mack since the Ponytones charity concert ran long. Alas, Cheerilee expected that, so she put Big Mack's portion in the fridge. She then pushes away from the table and goes to the bedroom to read. Right now, all she wants is to be alone to wait patiently for Big Mack to return home.
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Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
Chapter 17-Scootaloo Becomes Part of the Family
That night, Scootaloo goes off to dinner with Cheerilee, Big Mack, Lil Mack, and Apple Jam. Golden Apple, on the other hoof, is being foalsat by one of Cheerilee's good friends, Cherry Heart. At the restaurant, Scootaloo orders a big bowl of mac and cheese and a Swiss grilled cheese sandwich and begins to down all of it. "I'm so glad to know I still have family left like I said before, I'm glad you're my sister, Cheerilee."
"Thanks, Scooty," replies Cheerilee as she takes a sip of her pink lemonade and then takes a bite of salad.
"Yeah, we're glad to have you in the house Auntie Scootaloo!" exclaims Apple Jam before taking a bite of her own cheddar grilled cheese sandwich.
Scootaloo then begins to tell Cheerilee, Big Mack, Lil Mack, and Apple Jam all about her life up until now. "So, as you know, I was born with a wing disorder, where mine are tinier and not able to generate lift. I have a feeling that has something to do with mom and dad putting me up for adoption. No one who came to the orphanage to adopt foals would ever choose me because of my disability. Eventually, they put me into a foster house but my foster family got tired of me and sent me back because they were all able bodied pegasi and wanted nothing to do with me since I couldn't fly." Her eyes begin to fill with tears. "After I was sent back, the orphanage stuck me in a separate section with other disabled ponies. I made friends with them and fast. In fact, we're still friends today. Everything changed for the better when I met Rainbow Dash and she took me in as her foster sister for a little bit, which was great!"
"Wow! I'm so glad you finally found a place you felt you belonged, I hope you'd consider me as such now," replies Cheerilee.
"Oh, I do! I do for sure!" replies Scootaloo as she flits over into Cheerilee's hooves and gives her a great big hug. She then hands her the adoption papers, which Cheerilee happily fills out. They then pay for their lunch and go and give the signed papers to the Cloudsdale Orphanage and Scootaloo walks out with Cheerilee. She's finally in the place where she belongs.
Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
Chapter 18-She's Babs Babs Seed
It's a beautiful sunny day when Babs raps on the door of Big Mack and Cheerilee's house. Big Mack smiles as he goes to the door and lets Babs inside. "It's good to see you again, Babs," says Big Mack with a smile. "Where are you coming from today?"
"I was up the hill at Applejack's," replies Babs as she blows her mane out of her eyes. "May I come in?" Big Mack then happily shows her in.
"What have you been up to lately, Babs?" asks Cheerilee as she brings Babs a cup of coffee.
"Not much, just working at my dad's grocery store in Manehattan," replies Babs. "It's boring and dull, but right now, it's the only way to get money in my pockets."
"Well, that's good," replies Cheerilee. She then comes over and sits down with a cup of coffee and slides the second one across to Big Mack. The three then take sips of their coffee before returning to their conversation.
"Where's Lil Mack and Joy?" asks Babs.
"Here we are!" yell the two as they dash into her hooves and give her a great big hug.
"Well, it's good to see you guys too," replies Babs as she hugs them back. The two then let go of her and take their seats at the table after grabbing their cheese sandwiches out of the fridge. "So, how's school been going?" she asks Lil Mack as he takes back to his seat.
"It's going well," replies Lil Mack, "I'm an all A student in school. I swear I get my smarts from my mother." This makes Cheerilee blush.
"I also heard you have a marefriend," replies Babs with a smile as she takes a sip of her coffee.
"Oh, Soara, yeah, she's my marefriend. She's really sweet. I've known her since elementary school. We've been dating for awhile now. We both enjoy it. We both love each other too. Our love will never change or waiver, that's the best part!"
"That's good to hear," replies Babs as she takes yet another sip of coffee. The foals take bites of their sandwiches.
"How have things been for you, Joy?" asks Babs turning to the little filly.
"Things have been good," replies Joy as she takes a bite of her sandwich and a sip of her juice box. "I love getting daddy to myself every day while big brother's at school."
"I can relate, I'm a daddy's girl myself," replies Babs with a giggle.
They continue to talk for several more hours before Babs finally says goodbye, gives them goodbye hugs and returns to the train station to hop on the first train back to Manehattan. She sighs as she grabs her stuff and hops back on the train. She's glad she got to spend the last two days with her family. After all, to an Apple like her, family is everything.
Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
Chapter 20-Two Years Later, the Proposal
Two years later, while out on a date with Soara, as soon as they stop in front of the fountain, Lil Mack pulls a ring from his saddle bag and gets down on one knee. "Soara," he says with a smile, "will you marry me?"
"Yes, Yes, yes!" squeals Soara as she lands back on the ground after doing a flip in the air. She then puts out her hoof and lets Lil Mack put the ring on it. The two then walk back to the park, where they are greeted by all their friends and family. This shocks the two of them. They thought they were going to be alone once they got back to the park. Then again, he should've expected this as it is the afternoon of the Flight of the Phoenixes, an annual event where the Phoenixes fly back to their native home of Flamenco. The two sit down with their parents and enjoy the spectacle. Lil Mack then watches as a phoenix feather falls into Soara's lap. He then whispers this into her ear and she picks up the feather and tucks it into her mane. After the last Phoenix flies overhead, the two stand up and tell their families and friends the good news.
"Mom and dad," say the two with smiles on their faces, "we're engaged!"
"Congratulations!" say Rainbow and Soarin as they fly into the air and fly over and embrace their daughter in a hug. Cheerilee and Big Mack and Joy then dash over and give Lil Mack a great big hug. "We're so proud of you!" the three exclaim. This makes Lil Mack blush. He's so glad his family and her family approve of their engagement and they can't wait until the big day. For now, though, they have to get to work on planning the big day.
Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
Chapter 21-Wedding Plans Part 1
The next day, Lil Mack and Soara meet at Sugar Cube Corner and begin to plan their wedding. "So, what kind of cake?" he asks.
"Strawberry with strawberry cream," replies Soara, "it's my favorite!"
"What do you want for the reception food?"
"My mom makes a mean mac n cheese casserole," replies Soara.
"And my parents make an amazing apple stromboli. It's apples and cream cheese with bacon in a fluffy pastry. It's heaven."
"What other foods to go with those?" inquires Soara.
"Hay steaks and hay burgers, I guess," replies Lil Mack, "But we can come back to that later. Who do you want for your bridesmaids? I already know who I want for my best stallions."
"Well, Angelshy and your little sister, obviously," replies Soara, "now tell me who you want for your best stallions."
"Lightning Bolt, Zinger, and Gold Medal, of course," replies Mackintosh. Soara then notices a sad tone in his voice.
"What's wrong, Macky?" she asks, a frown appearing on her face.
"Oh, it's just my grandparents will never see me get married and start a family of my own because they're dead. Follow me." Soara nods and follows him to the edges of the apple and the old pear orchard where he then shows her the tree and their tombstones in front of it. "This is where they are buried," says Lil Mack as a tear falls from his eye. "They died long before I was even born. I never actually knew them, but even so, I can't help but feel connected to them, Ya know?" Soara nods as she sits down beside him and pats him on the back. She just wonders why he didn't tell her about this sooner.
Son of Big Mac and Cheerilee
Chapter 26-Another Family Reunion
A few weeks later, it's a new day and all of the members of the Apple family are in town for yet another Apple Family Reunion. As they pour into the barn at the Apple Family Farm, they make goo goo faces at little baby Spirit. They then go over and congregate in the center of the barn. Soara and Lil Mack then come over and join the group. A few minutes later, Grandpear finally shows up and joins in on the party.
"Ah, my first great, great grandchild," says Grandpear, "she's beautiful. You're luckily Little Mackintosh."
"Thanks, Great Grandpear," replies Lil Mack with a smile. He then gives his great grandfather a hug.
All the Apples then go over to a table and grab some apple fritters topped with pear jam and cider to enjoy. They all smile as they do a toast. "To family old and new!" exclaims Applejack.
"To family old and new!" They all respond in harmony. They then drink their cider and eat their fritters. They all then begin to share stories from their lives and Grandpear shares his stories about his memories he shared with his daughter before she passed on. Everything is perfect. This is the best Apple Family Reunion and not just because it's Soara and Grandpear's first, but also because it is the first time everypony has been able to make it in over ten years.
