When A Good Apple Turns Sour

Today was like any other day at Sweet Apple Acres, Big McIntosh Apple, or Big Mac to his friends and family, woke up just before sunrise, showered, brushed his teeth, then headed out to the field to get some plowing in before breakfast. AppleJack was the next of the Apple Family to wake up, she started her day off on the same start as her older brother Big Mac did, except she spent a little bit more time on her hair, though she would never admit it, especially to Rarity or Rainbow Dash. Instead of heading to the fields, AppleJack headed for the kitchen and began to distribute the chores for the day before she began working on breakfast. The next Apple to wake up was Apple Bloom, who would always get up to the smell of her sister Applejack's cooking. However she would always skip the morning routine and race down to the kitchen, only to be scolded by AppleJack and sent back up to go wash up. After she was washed up however she would be denied her breakfast again, as it was her job to wake up the eldest and matriarch of the Apple family, Granny Smith. Apple Bloom would always groan about this task, but she would always comply and wake her up. Now waking up Granny Smith was always a challenge, but out of all the Apples on Sweet Apple Acres, Apple Bloom would always have the best luck at it. After Granny Smith would wake up, she would wash up and slowly make her way down the flight of stairs, usually with Apple Bloom's help, much to Granny Smith's dismay.

Once all the Apples at Sweet Apple Acres were woken up, AppleJack would always call her brother in for breakfast, by now he would have at least a quarter of the field done as he heads back into the Apple Family House, making sure to stop by the barn house and wipe off what sweat he had before coming into the kitchen to sit and enjoy some of Apple Jacks Famous, Apple Spiced Pancakes. The Apple Family would always eat breakfast together like this, and once they were all done, The three siblings would help do the dishes. AppleJack would always wash the dishes, Big Mac would dry them, while Apple Bloom would put them away. After the dishes were all done, AppleJack would hand out the chore list for Big Mac and Apple Bloom. Granny Smith however never received a list and would stay in the house, doing light cleaning and making her World Famous Apple style treats for her grandchildren to sell in the market later, though at times she would take on much more tedious tasks like making one of her many hand made quilts. Apple Bloom's list was split, half for her to do before school, and half to do after. Big Mac would usually always get the longest list, or more importantly, the hardest of the tasks, like plowing all the fields, or helping his sister buck the apple trees. Today however, Big Mac had an addition to his list, Take Apple Bloom to School, now usually, Apple Jack would take her to school, however, recently AppleJack has been trying to lighten the load on her older brother, it was either that, or his sister was once again trying to find him a marefriend.

Doing the chores before school didn't take Apple Bloom long as she was accustomed to it, Feeding the Chickens, Pouring the slop for the Piggies, and helping Granny Smith with whatever she needed to be done, which mostly consisted of gathering materials for her or setting out ingredients. After which Apple Bloom would grab her bag, and run out to the field Big Mac was currently plowing. He would always stop no matter what, even when he had only a few rows left to go, and take Apple Bloom to School.

The walk into Ponyville was always pleasant for Big Mac. The fresh dew on the Grass, the smell of sweets as they were prepared for the morning. It all felt so natural to Big Mac. On their walk to school, Big Mac took notice of other young fillies and colts. He saw Dinky with her mother Ditzy, most ponies called her Derpy, but he made a habit to never call her that. Not only was she a single mom, but she worked hard to care for her daughter. Along with her, came the other single mom in Ponyville Berry Punch, with her daughter Berry Pinch, now Berry Punch, may be called the town drunk by some, but she does an amazing job at raising her daughter as well. Mac then took notice of other ponies as they took their children to school. He made it there in record time to see his old childhood friend and Apple Bloom's teacher Ms.Cheerilee. After he had dropped off Apple Bloom, he decided to talk with Ms.Cheerilee for a moment, much to Apple Bloom's embarrassment.

After his discussion with Ms.Cheerilee, Big Mac made his way back to Sweet Apple Acres; as he made his way back however he did notice a few royal guards in town. It wasn't unusual to see some of the royal guards in Ponyville since it was so close to Canterlot and most guards chose to take their leave here. There was also the fact that all the Elements of Harmony were living here. Once back at Sweet Apple Acres Big Mac would always go straight back to work plowing the fields once he was there. AppleJack would occasionally be able to convince him to take a break and enjoy the shade, but after about five minutes, he would be right back to plowing the field, after the North field was completely done, Mac would move to the East and once that was done he would move onto the next field and so on until they were all plowed. Big Mac had managed to complete the North, East, and half of the South Field before Granny Smith rang the lunch bell, signaling the two Apple children to head back to the house and enjoy lunch before they headed to the market to open the Apple Family Stand. Big Mac and AppleJack entered the house around the same time, both heading to the bathroom sink, having a little sibling fun as they battled it out on who would wash their face first. Big Mac would never admit this, but during those little battles he would normally let his sister win. Afterwards they both headed into the kitchen for their lunch, which consisted of some bright green apples, a slice of apple pie, and some sandwiches. They both finished their meal quickly and left to go load the cart with all the merchandise they were hoping to sell that day.

After the cart was loaded Big Mac would begin to pull it, with a little help from AJ who wouldn't let him do it alone while she just watched, she was kinda stubborn like that. After the long trek into town, they wound up at the main square and could already see other vendors already setting up. Big Mac wasted no time in assembling their stand, after which he would unload the cart, while Apple Jack would arrange them on the stand. Once they were all set up they would wait there, ready for the lunch rush, and at around noon, it hit. The street became bustled with many ponies of all shape and size as they each visited the vendor of their choice, however since Big Mac was here, most of their business would come from the mares of the crowd, all wanting a chance to talk with him, as well as casually flirt with him, though some were more abrasive than others. After the lunch rush was over, Applejack decided to spark up some conversation in order to help pass the time.

“So Big Mac, ah noticed that we once again seemed to have more mares visiting today,” Applejack smirked as she looked over to her brother, “any of them happen to catch your eye.”

Mac looked over at his sister. “You know, ah have noticed that.” He then smirked as well. “Ah also noticed a few stallions asking you about your next day off.”

Applejack’s face quickly changed color to that of the color of some of their shiniest red apples. She gave Mac a playful glare before lightly punching his arm. “All right Mr.Wise Guy. Then might I ask when you plan on finding a mare for yourself?”

Mac looked up as he thought about the question. It wasn't like he hadn't thought about it. He had on occasion thought about finding a mare to marry, however he knew that finding a mare and going through the dating process would eat up alot of his time. Time he needed so that Apple Bloom and Applejack could better enjoy their lives. “Don't worry, I'll find one when the time is right, but until then. You can't get rid of me that easily.” With that Big Mac wrapped his arm around Applejack's neck, and pulled her close, ruffling her hair lightly with his free hand.

Applejack groaned playfully and pulled away from Mac’s loose grip, putting her hair back as best she could. “I would never try to get rid of ya Mac, but I'm just curious what your future plans are, they just happen to also ask if there is a mare in your future.”

Mac looked over to Applejack, thinking about what the future may hold. He was only twenty, so he still had quite a few years ahead of him. Though with his family he never really thought much of it. He never truly got that high school experience. He had to leave and help on the farm when his parents died. He never regretted leaving, and although he didn't graduate, he was able to get his GED. In fact he couldn't remember the last time he thought about his future. He knew as a young colt he wanted to join The Royal Guard and serve Celestia. He would never admit it, but he was a little jealous of Applejack being able to meet their Divine Ruler. “Well, ah suppose I do want to keep up our family farm, and one day, maybe i'll find someone who would help me run it.” Mac then smirked, “What about you, what are your plans, baby sis?”

Applejack turned slightly red at the use of that nickname. “I'm only a year younger than you Mac, hardly your baby sis.” She looked up, smiling slightly. The nickname was something she both enjoyed and found embarrassing. “As for my future, ah haven't really thought about it. With farm work and being the Element of Honesty, I'm kept pretty busy.” She then looked over to Mac “Although Twilight recently asked me that, even asked if I would be willing to move to Canterlot with her and the girls.”

Mac thought about what Applejack said. He knew being one of the Elements kept her busy, but she always made sure to have time for her family and friends. “Well, whatever you decide, I'll support you no matter what.”

Applejack smiled and hugged her brother, “Thanks Big Mac.”

Mac smiled as he returned the gesture, “Don't mention it Sis.”

Applejack pulled away from her brother as she decided to change the subject, “By the way Big Bro, how was your meeting with Prince Blueblood? Were you able to strike a good deal with him?”

Big Mac shook his head slowly as he thought back to his meeting with the Prince. Mac could tolerate all styles of individuals, but Blueblood really pushed his limits. “It was different, though I don't think he will be writing back anytime soon.” Mac knew that Blueblood was gonna wait as long as possible, hoping he would change his mind. Mac knew that this would be a game of chicken, and he didn't intend to lose.

The Apple Family stand eventually sold out. Mac and Applejack would spend the remaining time with idol conversation. They would then put up their stall and head back to finish up what chores they had left. Big Mac would take the cart home, while AppleJack would go and wait for Apple Bloom as she did some light shopping, because the Apple Family does actually eat other food items, and not exclusively Apples, although most ponies assume that's all they ate.

Big Mac would always be finishing up his plowing as his sisters would come into view over the horizon. He would always greet them with a wave as he headed to start bucking trees. Apple Bloom and AJ would meet up with him to help with bucking the trees, except for Apple Bloom who would simply help by sorting the good and bad apples out of the basket. They were a team together like that, instead of the three musketeers, they were the three Apples. As the day grew on, most of the trees were bucked and the apples sorted, until they heard the dinner bell. The three siblings would all head over to the call at their own pace. Apple Bloom was the fastest, followed by AppleJack who would jog there, while Big Mac picked up the rear, choosing to walk to the house and enjoy the evening air. After cleaning up, they all sat together to marvel before their dinner,however before they could eat, they all joined hands to thank Celestia for a bountiful harvest, however in the middle of their prayer, there was a sudden and loud knock at the door.

Big Mac, being closest to the door, stood up and went to answer it, however instead of anypony they knew, there stood two of Celestia's royal guards in full military uniform.

"Yes, is this Sweet Apple Acres, home of the Apple Family," one of the guards asked, while the other gripped his gun. Big Mac looked back at his family then back to the two guards.

"Eeyup," was all Big Mac could say as the other guard stepped forward.

"And does a Mister Mcintosh Apple live here," the same guard asked. Big Mac, now confused more than ever, simply nodded.

"And may we assume that you are Mcintosh Apple," the other guard spoke up as he eyed Big Mac now.

The other guard unfastened his gun as he took hold of the grip.

"Mister Mcintosh Apple, You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be provided for you. Do you understand your rights Mister Macintosh" the guard spoke calmly as he stepped into the house and fastened large handcuffs onto Big Mac. Big Mac could only freeze as the world seemed to stop as he was led out of the house. All he could hear now were the cries of his sisters as the other guard held them back, keeping them away from him.