September 1

Applejack wandered into the kitchen and spotted Sonata mixing pancake batter. Applejack walked over to the fridge.

“What way do you want your eggs cooked?” Applejack asked.

“Fried.” Sonata said happily. “Do you want large pancakes or lots of small pancakes?”

“A couple large ones works for me.”

“How are you two awake at this hour?” Aria slouched in the kitchen and plopped into a chair. “I would think after last night you two would be out for another couple of hours.”

“I would have loved to sleep in more but somebody woke me up and once I was awake I couldn’t ignore my empty stomach.” Applejack winked at Sonata and continued to monitor the eggs.

Aria glanced at Applejack’s stomach. The bump was barely noticeable under her loose shirt.

“Anyway we need to leave soon or we will be late and Adagio will be mad.” Applejack said. “How do you want your eggs Aria?”

“Scrambled.” Aria slumped over the table. “Wake me up when it is time to go, I’ll eat in the car.”

“Rodger!” Sonata sang.

Applejack chuckled. She shuffled the eggs out of the pan and on to three plates. She glanced over at Sonata’s stack of large pancakes which was quite tall. “ Ready to eat?” she asked quietly.

“You know it!” Sonata enthusiastically whispered. She turned off the stove and picked up the plate of pancakes.

The two of them sat down at the table next to each other and started eating. A loud snore could be heard from Aria. Sonata and Applejack had to stifle their laughter. They finished eating quietly.

Sonata washed the dishes while Applejack packed four lunches. Sonata poured mugs of coffee after the dishes were done.

Applejack checked her watch. She walked over to the kitchen closet and grabbed a broom and walked over to the sleeping siren. She poked Aria with the butt of the broom handle. “Wake up. Time to go!” She said firmly.

Aria swiped in the direction of Applejack’s voice with a short knife. She grabbed the broom. Applejack let go immediately and backed away. Aria blinked and squinted at Applejack. “Oh it’s just you…. Thanks.” Aria slouched off in the direction of the door grabbing her plate of food on the way out.

Sonata chucked.

Applejack hopped into the driver’s seat of Aria’s truck and took off heading east. The sun was just rising and there was a light early morning fog. Aria and Sonata fell asleep in the back seat. Applejack sipped out of a coffee mug to keep herself alert. After an hour and a half of driving Applejack pulled into a mall parking lot and parked next to Adagio's car.

“Alright ladies. Up and at ‘em!” Applejack shouted. She jumped out of the car holding a shoulder bag and slammed the door hard to make sure Aria and Sonata woke up.

Applejack walked into the building and navigated to the coffee shop. The coffee shop had a moderate mid morning crowd of people. She spotted Adagio alone in a booth holding a newspaper. Applejack ordered a smoothie and a sandwich and sat down. She set the shoulder bag on the ground near Adagio’s feet.

Adagio glanced at Applejack over the top of her paper and nudged her under the table. Applejack reached down and felt a magazine. She picked it up and opened it. Taped into the pages of the gossip magazine was a police report. Applejack studied the report.

Aria and Sonata wandered over.

“I need some black coffee.” Aria announced. She set her bag down and marched to the counter to order.

“Oo! Get a mocha for me!” Sonata yelled at Aria’s back. She scooted into the booth next to Adagio.

After a few minutes Aria returned with two drinks. “Your order is ready.”

“Thanks.” Applejack handed the magazine to Sonata. “Check this out.”

Applejack walked over to the counter and grabbed her smoothe. She checked out the flavor packets and condiments available and added some blueberry flavor to her smoothe and grabbed a mustard packet for the road. She walked back to the table.

Sonata had switched benches to sit next to Aria and the two of them were staring intently at the magazine. Applejack sat in Sonata’s vacated seat.

Adagio glanced up from her paper and then towards the other patrons. She put the paper down.“When you ladies are finished, Aria, you are going to drive you and Sonata north. Applejack and I will leave together heading east. We will meet up under the bridge. Make sure to bring your radio.” Adagio spoke casually as if she were talking about the weather. She took a sip of her drink and returned to her newspaper.

“Alright.” said Aria.

Applejack nodded.

Adagio went back to reading the paper.

Applejack finished her drink in silence while Aria and Sonata gossiped about the celebrities on the cover of the magazine.

Adagio set down the newspaper and grabbed her purse. “See you two later.”

Applejack picked up her satchel and followed Agadio towards the exit.

Aria and Sonata took little notice and continued bickering about a rumor they heard about a celebrity they met a few years ago.

Adagio unlocked her car and Applejack climbed into the passenger while Adagio started the car.

“East?” Applejack asked.

“Didn’t you notice the plant? He was sitting four tables away with big headphones on.”

“You think he recognized us?” Applejack glanced at Adagio.

“He found an excuse to walk past our table twice before you three showed up.” Adagio said confidently. “And then a third after you sat down.”

“You kept track of them over the top of your paper?”

“I have many skills Applejack.”

“But how do you learn and practice such a thing?”

“When you’ve been around as long as I have…” Adagio smiled confidently.

“Your many skills never cease to amaze.” Applejack took a sip of coffee.

They drove in silence for a while. At a roundabout, Adagio turned north.

Applejack dug out her sandwich.

“You eat like a horse.” Adagio said, slightly exasperated.

“I can’t help it.”

Applejack grinned and Adagio rolled her eyes.

The sound of a phone ringing broke the silence. “In the glove box you’ll find a black flip phone.” Adagio said.

Applejack nodded and opened the box. She was greeted by multiple cheap phones. Applejack grabbed a solid black flip phone and handed it to Adagio. Adagio answered. Applejack struggled to make out the other voice. They seemed to be talking softly.

Adagio hung up. “That was one of my spies. She said the meeting was moved up because

“Oh. Do you need to call Aria and relay a message?”

“No. It won’t affect them until after our meeting. I can just tell them in person.”

Applejack yawned. “I think I need to take a nap.”

“No problem.”

Applejack adjusted her seat, moving it back and leaning it until it was fully reclined. She grabbed her bag and dug out her ear plugs, she leaned back and moved her hat over her face.

Applejack woke up alone in the car. She looked around. Adagio had parked in the back of a parking lot a ways away from other cars but not so far as to draw too much suspicion. The car was in the shade of a large tree which Applejack was grateful for. The light morning fog had burned off completely and the midday sun was blazing. Applejack drank deeply from a water bottle. She wondered if there was a bathroom nearby.

Applejack grabbed her phone and turned it on. She had messages from multiple people. One name in particular caught her eye. Rara.

Applejack’s finger hovered over Coloratura's name before deciding to read the other messages first.

Rarity Sent a photo of herself, Pinkie Pie and two young women Applejack didn’t recognize standing with Rara. Applejack smiled and opened the message. “Met to message you last night darling but I was pooped. We had so much fun. We ment these really nice ladies, on the left that is Coco Pommel and on the right that is Saffron Masala. Coco is an interior design major, I think she is a junior at our school. Saffron is a freshman like us, she wants to own a restaurant. She and Pinkie Pie have some classes together. Coloratura seemed really interested in Saffron’s family recipes. She is staying in Mane Hatten for a few days so we decided to have a potluck dinner tonight and share food and stories. Thanks again so much for the tickets. That was great. I really needed a break from campus craziness. I can’t wait for my classes to start.”

There was a second message from Rarity. “Oh also after the show during introductions Coloratura introduced us to Coco and Saffron as my main girl’s friends… I can’t believe you two are still trying to make that work. Does she know about your situation? Coco and Saffron were surprised that Coloratura knew us by name. I was surprised too. They both individually won sweepstakes for special tickets… I feel bad for assuming they could afford the price. Anyway, I hope to hear from you later.”

Pinkie Pie sent lots of photos. They appeared to all be from the concert. Some random band that opened for Coloratura and lots of the girls they hung out with, lots of photos of Coloratura on stage and a video of Pinkie Pie scream singing to one of Coloratura’s songs. Many of them were blurry. “Oh my goodness A J we had so much fun! I met so many amazing people. Saffron Masala is the best! She is so cool! You would love her! She moved here with her dad. She wants a business license and to own her own restaurant. Just like me! Her and I are in some of the claim classes. Isn’t that amazing! We are totally going to share notes and study together for tests. I told her about some of my bakery ideas and she thinks it will be great! She and I are thinking of selling some food at a stall near the local farmer’s market. I think it will be okay if we stay unaffiliated. Together we will cover a wider array of food needs. Oh I’m so excited! Having my own food cart has been on my bucket list for years! Oh, we also met a lady named Coco. No she is not really into chocolate. I asked. She is majoring in interior design. She also took lots of classes in graphic design. I asked for some advice for restaurant ideas. She is super smart. I am so glad we met. I will consult her more in the future. Saffron just showed up! We are going to cook together! I have to start baking now. Got a very important cookout. Saffron and I are determined to serve the best food that we have ever cooked! Later alligator!*”

Pinkie Pie seems to have finally found someone who is as passionate about cooking as she is.

Applejack’s stomach tightened as she opened the message from Rainbow Dash. “So I have had some time to think about what you said and what I said. I’m sorry for the way I was acting. I should have been more understanding of your situation. Gilda forced me to sign up for therapy in the counseling office. I wasn’t thrilled about it but she told me it wasn’t up for debate. I think it has helped. We have been talking about my situation. He helped me realize how stressed I am and how I have been coping. I don’t want to make excuses but I have been having a tough time adjusting here. I know it is stupid but I just wanted home to be the same. Even with Fluttershy in the hospital. I just wanted everything else to be exactly how I remembered it. Fluttershy has been in the hospital before but you…. I think that is why I was so insistent that it be you who took Fluttershy to the hospital. To be completely honest. I don’t regret it. I think that is why I feel terrible. I am glad that my friendship with Fluttershy is okay, I am glad that I don’t have a scar on my face from dragging my friend out the door. I know I ended your friendship with Fluttershy and damaged ours. I am sorry. I shouldn’t have put you in that situation. I understand if you don’t forgive me. I shouldn’t have done that. I feel really bad now. I still feel like I did the right thing. I have been doing research on local doctors to see about getting my medications changed. Practice what you preach and all. If Flutters has to see a doctor for her mental health, so do I…. I hope you are well. I hope you and your child are healthy. I want to talk to you but I understand if you don’t want to.”

I am glad she is getting help. Applejack put a hand on her stomach. I am glad you still care.

Applejack was surprised that she had a text from Gilda. “Hey AJ. Rainbow Dash and I have been talking. She feels really bad about the Fluttershy situation and how she reacted when you told her you’re pregnant. I told her how I reacted and she felt a little better. She is looking into seeing a doctor. She has been talking to the older members of the team for recommendations. She is very serious about this. I'm proud of her. She is really trying to be an independent adult. Her parents are trying desperately to re-insert themselves into her life which is stressing her out. As for me. I have a date to get ready for.”

There was a message from Pipsissewa*. Applejack almost forgot she gave her her phone number that night. “Hello Applejack. This is Pipsissewa. Sunset’s sister. How are you. I know this is kind of random but I wouldn’t mind talking to you. Life has been kind of tough. How is my sister doing? I haven’t heard anything obviously. Let me know if you are in the area. I would love to talk in person. If not over the phone is fine. Best wishes.”

Perhaps. If it doesn’t work out today I could drive by some other time. She doesn’t need to know that I went out of my way to talk to her. Applejack thought.

Applejack scrolled to the next message. It was an unknown number “Hello Applejack this is Fluttershy’s mother. Zeffer told me this was your number. He got it from Rarity. I just wanted to keep you in the loop. If you are interested. Fluttershy is seeing a Psychiatrist. She is showing a lot of improvement. She made some adjustments to her medications and the staff are good at forcing her to take them. She has already started gaining weight. She has a feeding tube now. The doctors have been talking to us about making some changes around the house to help Fluttershy. We have been in contact with the Canterlot Technical College’s disability services office. As of now we are still planning on her taking classes later in September. Are you going to take classes there? I am sorry. I forgot. Her Psychiatrist thinks that it would be a good idea if you two weren’t in classes together. Not that you two couldn’t see each other on campus, being in the same classes may be too much for Fluttershy right now. You don’t have to change anything. Fluttershy can switch classes if it comes to that. Anyway, I hope you are well. Maybe I’ll see you around.”

I’m glad she is doing better. Applejack touched the scar on her face. Flutters is the only one who doesn’t know. I can’t tell her. She’ll have to hear it from someone else. I hope they are respectful about it. Maybe I can ask someone to do it. Tell them what to say. I’ll talk to Rainbow and Gilda about it. Applejack thought.

Applejack opened up the message from Coloratura. “Sorry I haven’t messaged in a while. I’ve been very busy on the toar. I can’t wait to be back in Canterlot with you. I got all your messages. I hung out with your friends Rarity and Pinkie Pie. Both of them pulled me aside separately and told different things but they are both very worried about you. Is something going on? Are you okay? You told me that you have been having a lot of health problems. That was over a month ago. In your last message you said you are not living at home but that it is temporary. I figured you would tell me about it when you are ready. I have some time this afternoon to talk if you need. I trust you. Just let me know.

In other news, I think I’m going to take a break after this toar. I need some time off. Do you think I could stay with you? At least for a bit. I just don’t think I can handle my parents right now. I’ll tell you about it in person. I can rent if I have to but I would rather spend time with you if that’s okay. How are things in equestria? You haven’t said anything about it in your last couple of messages? Did they find Sunset? How is your friend Moon Dancer? You said something about her being in a coma. That sounds serious.

Also on a serious note, how are your finances? I hate to ask because we have such different financial situations but I want to make sure you are okay. Those medical bills can’t be cheap. I have connections if you need a boring but safe desk job. Both of your night jobs are supper dangerous. I try not to judge but was relieved when you told me you quit.

Enough depressing stuff. I met these two really nice girls at the concert last night. They were sweepstakes winners. They are both in college. One of them does design and the other is a cook. The design lady is very shy. She didn’t say much but she was still nice to hang out with. She is really good at braiding hair. She did a really complex baid on your friend's Rarity and managed to get Pinkie Pie’s mane into some tight weaves. The other one is much more talkative. She is from india. I am really excited to taste some of her food. We are going to meet up tonight and share food. I am going to bake my famous scalloped potatoes. Anyway, My agent is yelling at me. I hope to hear from you soon. Give me a call if you can.”

Applejack took a deep breath. I don’t know what I did to deserve a girlfriend as amazing as Rara. I should tell her. In case she doesn't want to be with me anymore. I should warn her. I can’t believe my girlfriend is going to be one of the last of my close friends to know. I think I’m just a shitty girlfriend. I should call her now before I lose my nerve.

Applejack hit the call button. The phone rang and rang. It went to voicemail. Applejack hung up.

Applejack looked around. No sign of Adagio. Well I should probably reply to the other messages.

“Mrs. Shy, this is Applejack. Thank you so much for the update. I am so glad that fluttershy is doing better. As for classes. I am not currently enrolled in anything. I will let you know as soon as that changes. I work at the food bank. Let me know if you need food delivered to your house. I am happy to do that for you. I just need a signed note. See you around.”

“Thanks Gilda. Rainbow Dash messaged me too. I am glad she has a friend like you around. I looked at your soccer season schedule. You guys have a game here in Canterlot. Maybe we can hang out. I am happy to clear out that day. My calendar is much more open now. I hope you have a wonderful date night!”

“Hey Rainbow. Thanks for reaching out. I hope you get everything sorted out with your mental health. I checked out your team’s game schedule. Looks like you have one here in Canterlot. I would really like to talk to you face to face. I’m doing alright. I told my family. Big Mac was pretty mad. For my own mental health I decided to move out for a few days. I have another prenatal check up in a few days. My life is changing really fast. Maybe we can talk about it. Good luck with school, soccer and social stuff.”

“Hey Pinkie, knew you would find lots of friends. Make sure you get some quality me-time in. I loved your pictures from the concert. Coco and Saffron seem like nice people. If I visit you’ll have to introduce me. Good luck with classes.”

Applejack was about to start typing out a letter to Rarity when Adagio opened the door.

“Good, you're awake.” Adagio put her foot on the gas and they sped out of the parking lot.

“Wow! Everything okay?”

Adagio busted a u-turn. “Yeah.”

Applejack clung to her seatbelt and door handle. Adagio swerved into a left turn despite not being in a left turn lane. Applejack felt her blatter release a little. She squeezed her legs together.

“Are you done?”

“Not quite.”

Applejack tensed. Adagio sped up and then at the last possible second she turned on to the highway. Applejack grit her teeth as the car bounced over the turtles. Her bladder released some more.

“Do you want to tell me what that was about?”

“A good magician never reveals all of her secrets.” Adagio said shiftily. She wiggled her eye brows at Applejack.

“Fine.” Applejack rolled her eyes, she was used to this.

Adagio drove north. “Do you need a pit stop?” Adagio glanced at Applejack’s face and then quickly between her clenched legs. I figured you may need to use the bathroom by now.”

“Umm. I sort of already wet myself. And I still have to go.”

“Sorry about that.”

Adagio pulled off at a rest stop. Applejack carefully waddled out. She changed in the bathroom and got snacks at a vending machine. Adagio was reading her book when she got back.

“Do you want to listen to music?” Adagio asked after pulling back out onto the highway.

“Sure.”

It was another half an hour until they reached their destination. Adagio parked in the driveway of somebody's house. There were no cars home and no lights on. Applejack didn’t recognize the house. Adagio didn’t offer an explanation.

“Grab your bag.” Adagio said before heading to the front door.

Adagio typed in a pass code to unlock the front door and then walked through the house like she owned it. Applejack noticed that the front door had no key hole. The house looked innocent but was probably very securely guarded. Applejack glanced around nervously. There did not appear to be anyone home. The home seemed to be occupied by a family of five. The oldest child looked to be in high school and the youngest just graduated elementary. Adagio refilled a water bottle in the kitchen sink. And then walked out the back door. Applejack did the same.

The home had a large fenced in backyard with a small play set, a pool and some fruit trees. Applejack wished for a moment that she could jump into the pool. The heat was sweltering. There was a large dog house that Applejack hoped was empty. It didn’t look like a dog was home.

“You can jump in the river if you want. We are ahead of schedule so you’ll have some time. I probably will. The car was so stuffy. We can’t stay long but we can at least get the sweat off and cool down.” Adagio unlocked the back gate with a key from her back pocket and let Applejack go past her before closing it. Applejack spotted a hidden camera pointed at the gate that was camouflaged in a tree.

“How are we ahead of schedule? I was waiting for you in the parking lot for a while.” Applejack followed Adagio down one of the paths through a wooded area.

“Schedule change. An item on today’s itinerary is no longer necessary.”

“Okay.” Applejack admired the scenery. “This place is beautiful.” There were massive old grouths, saplings and lots of shrubs and ferns. The path wasn’t paved or graveled, it was soft and bouncy. Applejack figured it was an unofficial trail, perhaps somewhat secret. Though that raised more questions.

Applejack glanced at Adagio who looked purposeful but relaxed. Applejack heard the sound of running water. They came up to a beautiful river. It wasn’t too wide, it was swift but it didn’t look dangerous.

Applejack set down her bag and took off her clothes. Adagio did the same. Applejack wades in. The water was cold but not icy like the glacier river near her home. It felt good. Applejack jumped in with a big slash. Applejack sighed with relief.

Adagio swam over to her. “Some days I miss being a fish. If you get too hot you can just swim deeper.”

“You know normally I would say that sounds crazy but today I think I get it.”

The two reluctantly got out and wrung out their hair. “It’s hot enough, let’s just air dry. I don’t think anyone is going to see us.” Adagio said. “But we need to get moving. The bridge is just upstream.”

“No one is going to see us under a bridge?”

“Yeah.” Adagio waded in the shallows of the river and started walking up stream. Applejack followed.

They turned a corner of the river and found a well made wooden bridge. It was beautiful, a well designed arch with no rails. The foot paths on either side looked very unofficial. Aria and Sonata were waiting for them. Sonata was fully nude and swimming in the river while Aria was up to her waist. The water looked deep and swift. Applejack realized that was the reason for the bridge. It would be dangerous for kids to cross.

“Good to see you two. Thought we were late.” Aria said.

“No you two are on time. We have a slight change of plans. I got a call earlier today. We don’t need to stake out the lab. One of my informants told me everything we need to know. It would just be a risk. We still need to watch the office. Also the meeting has been moved forward. AJ. I want you to watch who goes in and out the door. And at what times. The important people. Aria and I will sneak into the building and Sonata, I need you to take out the trash. Are we clear?”

“Yes.”

“We need to get dressed and get moving. We will be on foot.”

Sonata groaned loudly. Applejack understood. All of her skin that was out of the water was dy and her hair was almost completely dry.

“Applejack follow Sonata, she knows the way. I am sure you will be able to find a shady spot with a good view.”

Sonata got out of the water and wrung her hair. She threw on her clothes while still wet. “This way AJ. she started walking across the bridge. Applejack scrambled to catch up. She decided to carry her shoes until her feet were dry. Sonata bounced along the soft trail admiring the scenery. “I love coming here. It is such a lovely place.” Sonata climbed up a large rock embedded in the ground and jumped off the top. She landed awkwardly and then started skipping. “The locals made all these unofficial trails. It’s easy to get lost if you don’t know your way around. That trail-” Sonata pointed down a fork that they had already walked past leads to a cave. There is a flat spot in the back that is perfect for sex.”

Naturally the sirens would know that. Applejack thought.

Sonata began humming happily to herself. Applejack watched the scenery.
Finally they reached the edge of the park. Sonata carefully wove her way around some large shrubs that hid the trail from the nicely manicured lawn of the playground. Applejack tried to follow but got snagged by a black berry. There were a few families with small children at the playground. The adults paid them no mind. Sonata walked west the long way around until they reached a road.

The two walked down the sidewalk. They walked through a neighborhood. It was beautiful: lovely lawns and gardens. Applejack admired the work it took to make the yards look so nice. Beautiful well pruned fruit trees, large colorful dahlias, healthy rhodadendrens, tall productive tomato plants, aromatic roses, productive herb patches and more. On a corner one family had built a wooden flower stand. There were some bouquets and a donation box.

“It’s a rich neighborhood. I think they hire professional gardeners.” Sonat said suddenly.

“Maybe I should look into that. During our off season. I could make decent money.”

They came up to a small parking lot behind a brick building. Sonata walked around to a side door.

“This is the door that we need you to watch. See you later!” Sonata waved and skipped off.

Applejack looked around for an innocent place to hang out for a while. Applejack wandered over to a bench and pulled out her food. She ate while side-eying the door. Whenever someone walked in she clicked a button on a device hidden in her pocket and then made a note on a notepad.

After she finished eating, Applejack pulled out her phone and turned it on. She had a couple of new messages. Applejack kept an eye on the door and checked her virtual mail.

“Thank you so much for getting back to me quickly. Are you planning on enrolling soon? The priority date has passed, you may not get your first pick. Fluttershy signed up on the first day she could and she got all of the teachers she wanted. We are willing to switch her classes if necessary. What is your area of focus? Mrs. Shy.”

Applejack struggled to think of a response. She was shocked that Mrs. Shy was so convinced that she was a student at CTC. Applejack had checked out the programs offered at both the local technical college and the community college. Big Mac and Granny had both counseled against it. Cheerilee had been all for it. Some of her high school teachers asked her if she needed a letter of recommendation before she told them she wasn’t planning on going to college.

Pinkie Pie had sent her several photos from a back yard cook out. Applejack had seen photos of the house Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Lyra and Bubbles were renting together and it looked like that’s where they were. It looked like Pinkie’s usual party set-up photos. Saffron was there but not Coco or Coloratura. There was a short video taken by Lyra of Saffron and Pinkie Pie singing one of Coloratura’s songs while cooking. Applejack smiled and moved on.

Applejack was surprised to see that Rainbow Dash had gotten back to her already. “I talked to Gilda and the two of us decided to drive down together instead of taking the team bus. It is a Thursday game and we were thinking of staying the weekend. Her and I will work it out with our teachers. The coach is used to team members flaking off when visiting home towns. As long as we are there for team stuff, meetings, practice, warm up and the game we are fine. See you then. Also if you don’t mind. What is going on over there? The other side of the mirror?”

Applejack winced. She did not bother to update her friends. So much had happened. She reached for the journal in her bag when she heard a cracking from her radio. She leaned over the bag but did not pull the radio out.

“Reinette this is Gallinule” Sonata whispered. “Cormorant and Crain are in position. I’ll let you know when they give the signal. We will rondevu at the flower sand we passed and we will meet them at the bridge. Over and out.”

Rodger. Applejack thought. She pulled out the journal, she wished it was less eye-catching, and skimmed through it.

Applejack stared at the dates written. She figured she would send the same message to Rainbow, Rarity and Pinkie Pie.

“I think the last things you heard about was Midnight and Iunae getting their periods and Dusk being whisked off to Canterlot. Everyone* (that we know) went to Canterlot and they found some clues. The manager of the Hot House showed them the security footage of Rai. Visually she matches the descriptions of the witnesses which is good for the case. There is another key piece of evidence in the saddlebags, and cloak. The Saddlebags were a custom order for a designer store. There is a subpoena issued for the records release, the name on the order and bank information is of particular interest as it could tie the kidnapper to the victim. There is also a ratty cloak. She bought it at a pawn shop and they found the original one she was wearing. They have that security footage too now. Not sure what is going to become of the cloak but evidence is evidence at this stage. The subpoena was changed to include all transactions of T. M. in the hopes of finding the cloak among his purchases. There is an official prosecutor tied to the case and T. M. has been arrested. He has a team of layers and apparently there are some Royal Guards willing to be character witnesses. To say that Sunset is not pleased is an understatement*.

In other news…. A Tarasque attacked equestria. It was pretty bad. It carved a bloody path. If you left it alone it wouldn’t harm ponies, except for maybe stomping on them, but it marched in a straight line from the coast to the capital. The military engaged the creature and it killed a lot of them. The elements of harmony showed up and they did not fix the problem, arguably they made it worse. The high princess eventually intervened and tamed the beast somehow. And then the Canterlot Royal Guards killed it…

Also Moon Dancer, the human one, is in a coma for some reason.”

Applejack copy pasted her message to Rainbow Dash Rarity and Pinkie Pie and sent them.

Applejack dialed Coloratura’s number.

“AJ! So sorry I didn’t call you back. I’ve been running around working all day. How are you? What’s up?” Coloratura asked excitedly.

“Hey Rara. I’m alright.”

“Yeah? You know it was really nice hanging out with your friends. You told me that Pinkie Pie could talk non stop for an hour while bouncing up and down and I didn't believe you because breathing is important but wow.”

“Yeah she is impressive. How are you?”

“I am doing great. I am really looking forward to dinner with your friends. We are going over to a house that Pinkie and rarity are renting with some other people. You probably already know that though. Should be fun. What’s up with you?”

“Rara. you know I love you right?”

“Yes.”

“I'm sorry I didn’t tell you this sooner. I have been having a hard time. I’m still processing this.”

“Yeah?”

“I think you need to know. Just in case… Maybe you will change your plans.” Applejack took a deep breath. “I’m pregnant.”

“I was not expecting that.” Coloratura said in a calm tone. “Are you going to break up with me? Have you found someone?”

“No. I’m… I haven’t found someone and I didn’t know if you wanted to still be with me.” Applejack said in a shaky voice.

“I mean. I don’t think this is a good reason for me to dump you. Do you have any appointments coming up? How far along are you?”

“Nineteen weeks and I have an appointment in two days.”

“Nineteen weeks, you're like half way along. Monday you said? I can be there.”

“What!?”

“I can be there. In Canterlot. I have a gap in my schedule before the next concert. I can be there in Canterlot and go with you.”

“But… you don’t need to do this. I don’t want to stress you out. If you have a break you should relax.”

“I’m your partner. This is a big deal. I want to be with you.”

There was a pause.

“I don’t know what to say. I’m so grateful.” Applejack sniffed and her eyes watered.

Suddenly the light pole nearest to her lit up and flashed morse code. A S.

“I have to go. We can talk later.” Applejack said louder than she meant to.

“AJ? You alright?”

“Yeah. I’ll call you later. My friends need me.” Applejack was moving. She tried to be both casual and fast. She didn’t want to appear panicked or startled although she was sure she was failing.

“You sure you are all right? You seem frantic.”

“Really Rara. I'm fine. My friends just startled me. I have to go now. Bye!”

“Okay talk to you soon.”

Applejack hung up. She traced her way back through the neighborhood and to the flowerstand. Sonata wasn’t there yet. She inspected the bouquets. She left a few dollars in the money box. She selected a single rose. Sonata wandered up from a different direction.

“Well that was fun. Let’s go!” Sonata skipped off.

Applejack noticed that they took a different path through the neighborhood. Sonata turned and walked down an alley and then through someone’s yard. They come up to a path leading into the trees. Applejack was amazed at the number of unofficial trails winding through the park. She had been here several times to bike or run the official trails and had not noticed.

Applejack and Sonata took off their shoes and jogged together down the paths. Both of them were eager to jump back into the river.

They reached the bridge. Applejack pulled out her phone to turn it off and then remember something.

“Hey Rara. I forgot to mention the other side of the mirror. I sent messages to Rarity and Pinkie Pie. I’ll tell you about it later.”

“Hay Rarity. Sorry I didn’t respond to your message sooner. I’ve talked to Rara, she knows now. Also I forgot to mention what is happening on the other side of the mirror. Maybe you could show her the message I sent you? I’ll write more later when I have time.”

Applejack turned off her phone and put it away. She then took off her clothes and joined Sonata in the cold water. The water was very deep and the current was strong. Applejack loved it.

Applejack and Sonata were busy splashing each other and laughing when Adagio and Aria finally showed up.

“Mission accomplished ladies!” Adagio announced. She turned to Aria. ten minutes and then we should go.”

Aria didn’t need any more encouragement. The heat was enough.

Applejack was reluctant to get back out of the water. She stretched.

“What should we do for dinner?” Adagio asked as she sunned herself dry.

“I’ve been craving french fries all day…” Applejack said.

“Yeah I could go for a burger and some fries.” Aria said.

“We could go to Rain City Brewery and Burgers*.” Sonata suggested.

“That works. We will meet there. I am going to take a quick shower at the house.” Adagio said.

“See you!” Sonata waved and then took off on the tail that connects to the bridge. Aria scrambled to catch up as Sonata bounced off.

Adagio set off down stream. Applejack followed. They got dressed on the shore where they first jumped in. Adagio set off on the trails they walked before. Applejack recognized some of the landmarks. The afternoon sunlight was beautiful. There were less birds and more squirrels, chipmunks and bunnies.

Adagio unlocked the family’s fence and closed and locked it behind them. They walked through the yard and back inside. The back door also had a keypad. Adagio confidently walked through the house to a large downstairs bathroom. It was beautiful and well stocked.

“I’ll only be in for a second.” Adagio handed Applejack the car keys. “We should both change clothes. Leave the front door open or the alarm will go off when you come back.”

Applejack nodded.she took the keys and then wandered around the house until she found the front door. It was a large house and the lay out of the rooms was counter intuitive. There was one room with a massive fish tank. It had many expensive tropical fish in it swimming majestically. Applejack stared for a moment before remembering she had a time frame. Eventually she found the front door. She left it open and fetched some spare clothes from the trunk and then wandered back to the bathroom. She tried to retrace her steps but got turned around.

Did they design this house intentionally to trap people? She looked at a photo of the family. They still aren’t familiar. Should I recognize them? How does Adagio know them? She must or we wouldn’t be here.

“Took you long enough.” Adagio was reading a magazine while sitting naked on top of a stool.

“Sorry. Got lost.” Applejack set down the bag of clothes and jumped in the shower. She quickly soaped up and then rinsed off. She could take a longer shower later. She hopped out, dried herself and dressed then grabbed the bag now full of dirty clothes.

Adagio took a much shorter path to the front door. After exiting, Adagio punched in a code on the keypad with the door open and then shut it. Applejack glanced around and wondered what would happen in the event of a break in.

Adagio pulled back on the freeway heading west. Took a turn to go south. She pulled off in a small town and found a restaurant named Rain City Brewery and Burgers. Applejack smiled.

The hostess brought them to a booth in the back and gave them food and drink menus. Applejack ordered a glass of mild hard cherry apple cider and Adagio ordered a glass of whtite wine. Applejack looked at the table sign that displayed the soup of the day.

Sonata and Aria rolled in a few minutes later.

“We would like to order now.” Adagio told the waiter as Aria and Sonata were settling in.

“I’ll have your Southwest Burger with the avocado and tomato on the side and extra fries please. Oh and I’ll take a cup of the soup of the day.” Applejack said confidently.

“I’ll have the Barbeque Burger with extra sauce please.” Sonata practically sang with excitement.

The waitress smiled.

“I’ll have the Mushroom Swiss burger with the arugula on the side please.” Aria said calmly.

“And I will have a Bacon and Blue Cheese Burger with extra blue cheese and the lettuce on the side please and thank you.” Adagio said. She gave the waitress a polite smile.

“Alright ladies. I’ll be back with your drinks in a minute.'' The waitress took the menus and left.

“She’s new.” Adagio said.

“Yeah. She didn’t recognize us.” Aria said.

“We should tip extra tonight.” Applejack said.

“Definitely.” Sonata said. She grabbed the drink menu.

The waitress came back with two glasses and took Sonata and Aria’s drink orders. After she dropped off the drinks Adagio raised her glass slightly.

“To a job well done.” Adagio said.

The four all took sips of their drinks.

“So any good gossip to share?” Adagio turned to Applejack. “You were on your phone a lot today.”

“Yeah. lots of messages. Mrs. Shy gave me an update on Flutters. There were messages from Gilda and Rainbow. We are going to see each other in person when they come to canterlot for a game. There was a Coloratura concert that Pinkie and Rarity went to. I gave them back stage passes and they had a good time. They met two ladies who won a sweepstakes who are students who are going to the same college and the four had a blast. Apparently they are going to have a dinner party tonight. I expect lots of photos when I turn my phone back on.”

“Coloratura is such a private celebrity. I’m impressed that she wants to go to a house party.” Aria said.

“I mean two of them are my friends. I don’t think she would have been so open and social if she didn’t want to spend time with my friends.” Applejack said.

“Yes but the other two?”

“We aren’t public with our relationship. I’m sure Rara wouldn’t want to look like she was playing favorites in front of other fans. I guess it was lucky that the other ladies are total sweet hearts.” Applejack said.

“I mean rumars travel.” Sonata said. “A few months ago we were backstage at an off season music festival and we heard some people talking about how they thought Coloratura had a secret lover.”

“Doesn’t that kind of rumer swirl around a lot of celebrities who are not publicly in a relationship?” Applejack remembered that festival. Coloratura had called her to complain about some creep who had to be bounced by security. Coloratura had needed to assure her she was fine several times.

“Was that the concert with that guy who asked for a chunk of Coloratura’s ear?” Sonata asked.

“Yes,'' Adagio said.

Applejack was pissed all over again. She had been pleased to find out that security had not been gentle when they kicked his but to the curb. “Some people are just strange.”

“Says an Element of Harmony to three sirens….” Adagio said coolly.

“Speaking of the mirror. Any messages?”

“Not yet.” Applejack said.

“We can check on the way home.” Adagio said.

“I got a message from Pipsissewa which surprised me. She wants to talk some time.” Applejack said.

“The teenager from the coffee shop?” Sonata asked.

“Yes.”

“We could swing by there on the way home.” Adagio said to Applejack.

“Okay.” Applejack pulled out her phone and turned it on.

As expected there were lots of new photos from Pinkie Pie. Rarity and Rainbow Dash both sent her long messages about her update on Equestria. Applejack opened her conversation with Pipsissewa. “What should I say to her?” She asked.

“Are you at the coffee shop this evening? My friend and I are in the area and we could swing by and talk in person.” Adagio said.

Applejack typed the message and hit send. She looked up and saw two waiters walking over with lots of food. She put away her phone and tried not to look too excited.

The adult burgers that the establishment sold were large 20 centimeter diameter patties.

“Do any of you ladies want a refill on the drinks or water?” their origonal waitresses asked.

“Yes. please.” Applejack said.

“I’ll take one as well.” Adagio said.

“Do you guys have root beer?” Sonata asked.

“Yes I can get you one.” the waitress said.

“I didn’t really like this beer. I would like to try something darker.” Aria said.

“We have a stout.”

“That works.” Adia said finishing the last of her IPA.

“I’ll be right back with the drinks. Enjoy your food.”

Finally Applejack got to take a bite of food. She was so hungree her last bite had been around one o’clock. The waffle fries were amazing, just the fat and salt she was craving.

The waitress came back with the drinks as requested. “Would any of you like a refill of water?” the woman asked.

“Yes please.” Applejack said.

The waitress filled all the glasses with ice water. And then excused herself.

“This place makes the best BBQ burgers!” Sonata said through a mouth full of food. Sonata had a large pile of ketchup on her plate and would periodically dip a few fries and eat them.

Aria and Adagio were trying to be more refined than Applejack and Sonata who were both very hungry.

The four ate their burgers and Applejack drank her soup and they were stuffed.

“That was lovely. Time to art ways. See you both at the house.” Adagio waved off Sonata and Aria.

Adagio left a large tip for the waiter and then left. Applejack ran to the bathroom before getting back in the car.

“Did your friend message you back? The route to the Coffee shot isn’t quite the same as the one back home.” Adagio asked as Applejack bucked up.

“Yeah. She said she will be there. She gets off at five in the morning.”

“Sounds good.” Agadio merged with the highway going south. Almost an hour later Adagio pulled into the parking lot of a Coffee shop.

Applejack followed Adagio out of the car and into the coffee shop. Pipsissewa was behind the counter taking orders. Applejack walked up to the counter. She ordered a ham sandwich and a hot tea and sat down. Pipsissewa came by.

“Hey. Thanks for visiting.” Pipsissewa sat down with a mug of green tea.

“No problem. I was already in aria.”

“Is my sister still in the other world?”

“Yeah. Unfortunately. They are trying to find her.” Applejack took a sip of her peppermint tea. “Dusk is working on bringing one of the people who kidnapped Rai to justice while they look for Rai. She seems to be hidden with some very powerful magical protection that blocks all attempts to locate her. Your sister in law-”

“My what now?” Pipsissewa looked startled.

“Dusk didn’t tell you, show you?”

“She showed me images and shared emotions but didn’t say many words. My sister is married?*” Pipsissewa looked excited and happy.

“Yes. She has a wife named Moon Dancer. The two of them are expecting a child. That is part of why everyone is so frantic to find her ASAP because Moon Dancer obviously wants to be present during the birth of their child.”

“I’m going to be an aunt. Wow. I guess I shouldn't be so surprised that she moved on with her life and is trying to start her own family. I wonder if Lightning or Hope know.”

“Do you talk to your siblings?” Adagio suddenly asked.

Pipsissewa looked at her. “Are you friends with my sister?”

“No. we met once and I am friends with her counterpart.” Adagio said calmly. “But I don’t know her.”

“Myother brother and sister cut ties with me as soon as they turned eighteen. They just packed up and left. We were living with an awful foster family. It took me a little while to realize they weren’t ever coming back. I took my foster parents to count and demanded emancipation. I’ve been on my own ever since.”

“Why not try to find a nicer foster family? Moon Dancer did and it more or less worked out for her.” Applejack asked. “Sorry if that is an insensitive question.”

“I just couldn't put myself through that. I wanted a family but I had been burned so many times before.”

“That makes sense.” Applejack said quickly. She looked out the window at the setting sun.

“You know there were lots of times I wanted to reach out to Sunset. Ask her how she is doing and spend time with her. But I was afraid she would reject me. Do you think she would have?” Pipsissewa asked.

“No. not from what I’ve heard from Moon Dancer. Apparently she would think of you and your other siblings often. But she thought you wanted her to stay away.” Applejack said sadly.

“I have to get back to work. But maybe we can hang out again some time.”

“Yeah.”

“I’ll be in Canterlot next week. If you are around, maybe we can hang out.”

“You’re coming to Canterlot?”

“Yeah. I applied to CTC and I have a meeting with an academic advisor and some orientation stuff. And I have a job interview with a restaurant. I want to move there at least for the school year but I need a job.” pipsissewa began walking back to the counter.

“You know the Cakes are looking to hire someone to replace Pinkie Pie while she is away. I could put in a word for you. I mean if you are interested in working at a bakery.” Applejack said quickly following her.

“That would be great. Beggars can’t be choosers you know.”

“ No problem. We can stay in touch.”

“Yeah.”

Applejack looked at the menu signs above the counter. “I think I’ll take a bagel with cream cheese for the road. And some tea.”

“No problem.” Pipsissewa smiled.

Applejack saired out the window as Adagio drove down the highway back to Canterlot.

“You know you should probably go home.”

“What?”

“When we are done.” Adagio glanced at Applejack. “My sister’s and I love having you around but you should be with your family.”

“But my family…” Applejack struggled to find words.

“They love you, Applejack. You are always welcome at my house but I think you should try to move back in with your family.”

Applejack winced. “I’m not sure I’m ready.”

“Time moves on regardless of whether or not you feel ready. Take it from me. I’ve been around for a few thousand years. One morning you wake up and realize you are the same person you were ten years ago.”

Applejack looked down at her hands.

“You should be with your family. I am sure that they want you around.”

Applejack thought about what Pipsissewa had said. How excited she was to be an aunt even after being estranged from her sister for around a decade. How the two of them could have connected sooner if they were convinced the other would reject them. Apple Bloom would probably want to spend even more time with her and Big Mac and Granny would obsess over every detail of her pregnancy. Her stomach dropped at the thought of Granny. She would have a word with Big Mac and Cheerilee when she got home.

Applejack closed her eyes and fell asleep.

Author's Note

Alright so I have a bit of a confession to make. while I pride myself somewhat on planning my story out I had a rough time detailing the events just before the climax. On top of that I lost my original notes. This chapter was really hard to write. This story will have the same ending that I was planning and the pot will have the same trajectory but the details/moving parts are subject to change. Thank you for your patients.

1)I have such a hard time writing Pinkie Pie. Any feed back on her is much appreciated.
2)Ret-con. I decided that AJ and Pipsissewa swapped numbers in chapter 26.
3)This is AJ's off hand memory of what happened.
4)The meeting between Sunset and the layer in chapter 40 was off screen. These details are accurate.
5)Rain City Burgers is a real restaurant in Seattle I found Googling. I don't really eat meat. I decided to make it a brewery.
6)I will confess I used Sunset mind powers as a plot device in chapter 26.