Deterioration: An Applejack Storyby CapNTilfyChaptersDeteriorationFamilyMishapCommon GroudFear and Self-LoathingDeteriorationHaving returned home, Applejack took a deep breath, then sighed. The smell of Sweet Apple Acres always puts my mind at ease. crack She winced. "What in the-" Applejack looked around, as though she were expecting someone to be nearby. She shrugged, then saw Apple Bloom run out of the house to greet her. "Heya, sis," Apple Bloom said with a huge smile. "Howdy, sugarcube," Applejack said, returning the smile. Apple Bloom hugged her older sister, then broke it with the same smile. "Why'd you kill mom and dad," she asked. Applejack blanched. "Wh-What?" She blinked, and Apple Bloom was gone. Applejack took off her hat and fanned herself with it. "M-Maybe I should take it easy today," she thought aloud. She walked up to her house and entered. "I'm home," she called out. She went to the fridge and grabbed a bottle of apple cider. She closed it, and saw Granny Smith just standing there. "Hey, Granny," Applejack said uneasily. Granny Smith frowned at her granddaughter. "What d'you think you're doin' here," she asked in a menacing tone. Applejack began to sweat. "W-What are you talkin' about, Granny? I live here!" Granny scoffed. "Hmph. Why should you live here if'n you're the reason my son can't," she asked as she became angrier with each word. Applejack nearly fell to the floor. "B-B-But it was an accident," she stuttered. Granny folded her arms and scowled. "Is that what you tell yourself every night before you go to bed," she asked angrily. "Does it make you feel better about yourself?" Applejack shook her head. "Do you think shakin' your head will make me feel sorry for ya?" Granny said as she began to tear up. "You gotta lot of nerve, Applejack," She said as she shook her finger at her. "Comin' round here, acting like the victim when you get called out. I should disown you for what you've done." Applejack began to tear up. "I...I..." she struggled to come up with words. "Oh, and now you're giving me the crocodile tears," Granny said as she threw her hands up in exasperation. "Every goddamn time I bring your parents, it's the same song and dance with you," she shouted. She slowly ambled over to Applejack until she was nose-to-nose with her. "You're lucky I promised your parents that I'd take care of you," she said, seething with fury. "If it weren't for that, I'd have kicked you to the curb the moment you killed them." Applejack's knees buckled and she fell to the floor. She looked up, and Granny was gone. She grit her teeth and got up off of the kitchen floor. Calm down, Applejack. Calm down, she thought. They aren't real, it's just your imagination. She took a deep breath, then exhaled. She wiped the tears from her eyes, then walked into the living room. Big Mac was sitting at the couch with a warm smile, then he turned to look at Applejack. His expression changed from a warm smile to a cold stare, sending a chill down Applejack's spine. He slowly got up off of the couch, then walked over to her. "Why did you have to come in here, woman," he asked quietly. "I felt at peace for the first time in years, and you waltz in and take my happiness away, like you always have for this family!" Applejack blinked in confusion. "Wh-What are you talking about, Big Mac?" Big Mac snarled. "Don't play dumb with me, woman," he shouted. "Ma and Pa's last request was that you stay here, even though we all know you're responsible for their deaths!" Applejack opened her mouth, but Big Mac continued. "Don't you dare say it was an accident," he said as tears began to fall from his eyes. "The only accident around here," he said, then pointed an accusing finger, "is you!" Applejack sniffled as she felt tears fall from her face again. "I...I..." Big Mac took a deep breath, then sighed heavily. "You know what," he said in a surprisingly calm tone. "I don't want to hear it, woman." Applejack put her arms on her hips. "Why are you callin' me 'woman'," she asked. "You know my name!" Big Mac's calm completely vanished. "Because that's all you are to me. A woman," he snapped, his tone colder than the expression on his face. "You ain't Applejack," he said, poking her with his finger. "And you sure as hell ain't my sister. You lost that right a long time ago." He spat on the ground, then walked away, leaving Applejack in an emotional state on the living room floor. crack crack Applejack winced, then heard three sets of footsteps close in on her. Big Mac, Granny Smith and Apple Bloom entered the living room and walked toward her. "S-S-Stay back," she said as she held out her arms. Her family stood still in confusion. "I can't hardly take it no more," she shouted as tears fell from her eyes. "I killed Ma and Pa, I admit it!" Granny, Big Mac and Apple Bloom exchanged glances of concern. "Applejack," Granny said. "It was an-" "It was not a fucking accident," Applejack bellowed. "I'm the accident," she said, pointing to herself. "If it weren't for me, Ma and Pa would still be alive!" she broke down, sobbing where she sat. crack crack Applejack winced again as she felt pangs from each crack. She growled in frustration and punched the floor. crack "Why," Applejack whispered. "Why did I kill them," she sniffled. "They were my parents...and I killed them." Her voice quavered as she punched the floor again. Big Mac began to walk over to her. "Don't come any closer," she nearly shrieked. "Applejack," Apple Bloom said, tears flowing from her eyes. "Please. Let us help you." She sniffled. "You're scarin' us, child," Granny said with a quaver in her voice. "Y'all ain't well." "Please, Applejack. We're here for you. We love you," Big Mac said as his voice broke. crack crack crack crack CRACK Applejack shrieked in pain, then passed out. FamilyApplejack slowly opened her eyes to find herself in her room and in her bed. She looked around her room, feeling panicked. "H-Hello," she called out nervously. "I-Is anybody there?" She grit her teeth in fear when nobody answered. She didn't know whether to scream or be grateful she was alone. There was a knock on her door, and she yelped. She hid under the covers and shut her eyes tightly. "Wh-Wh-What more do you want from me," she asked as she began to shake. "I-I already admitted I killed my parents!" Applejack heard the door to her room open, and she felt a chill down her spine. Slowly, she rose up from the covers to see Granny Smith. She remained motionless as her grandmother walked up to her, sweat trickling down her forehead. She gulped nervously as she sat next to her. Granny smiled, then hugged her. Applejack sniffled, then returned the hug as her grandmother leaned into her ear and whispered. "Parent killer." Applejack bolted upright in her bed and began to hyperventilate. Her heart was racing, and she was sweating. The door to her room slowly opened, and she cowered, shaking and whimpering. "Applejack," Granny asked. Applejack cautiously looked up and saw Granny Smith regarding her with deep concern. "Land sakes, girl," she said softly. "I don't know if my heart can take any more scares today." She made her way up to Applejack, who curled up and shook with fear. Granny Smith reached Applejack's bed, then gently ran a hand through her granddaughter's hair. She flinched, then looked up. "G-G-Granny? I-I-Is that r-r-really you," Applejack asked as she gradually uncurled herself. "'Course it is, hon," Granny Smith said, then opened her arms in an invitation for a hug. Applejack hesitated for a moment, then embraced her. Granny began to hum a tune that she immediately recognized as she stroked her hair. It was a formless tune that only two people in her life knew by heart, and knew when to hum it. Granny Smith and... "Ma...she...she'd always hum this when I needed to calm...down..." Applejack said, then trailed off. She choked up, sniffled, then broke. She held onto Granny tightly as she wept. "Oh, Granny," she said between sobs. "I-I-I don't hardly know what's real any more! I'm so scared!" Granny Smith continued her humming as Applejack let all her emotions out, but she knew in her heart of hearts that there would likely be more tears to come. Her eldest granddaughter needed her, and by gum, she'd do everything in her power to make her feel better! A tear fell from her eye as she remembered the first time she saw her daughter hum this tune to each of her grandchildren. She let out a sniffle, then finished the tune. Applejack looked up at her, her eyes red and puffy from crying. "Feel better, child," she asked warmly. Applejack sighed heavily. "I guess," she said. "I needed that release, but I don't think that's the last of it." "Me neither, Applejack," Granny said. "Me neither." She broke the hug. "Now if you'll excuse me, I've gotta prepare for dinner!" She noticed a look of sadness on Applejack's face. "Aww, now don't you worry, sugarcube," she said. "Big Mac's gonna come in for a spell. That sound good?" Applejack nodded with a slight smile. "Good," Granny said. "Hope to see you downstairs!" She opened the door, and called Big Mac over. She leaned into him as he got close. "Probably best not to bring up yer parents," she said. "I don't want her falling any further than she already has." Big Mac smiled warmly. "Eeyup," he said. "You leave AJ to me, Granny." Granny Smith nodded, then began her journey to the kitchen. He walked into Applejack's room, smiling. "Hey, AJ," he said. "How are ya holdin' up?" Applejack sighed. "I've been better, big brother," she said. "I've been better." She sat up on her bed and made a sputtering noise. She looked at Big Mac. "Big Mac," she said quietly. "Do you...do you think I'm goin' crazy?" Big Macintosh placed his hands on Applejack's. "I don't know what's goin' on," he said. "But you don't have to face it alone, whatever it is. We're here for you, little sister." He tightened his grip on her hands. "You're havin' a rough couple of days, but I don't think you've gone crazy." He gave Applejack a reassuring smile. "'A rough couple of days'," Applejack scoffed, then frowned. "It's been hell, Big Mac," she exclaimed, throwing her hands up in exasperation. "I want it to stop, but I don't know how!" She sniffled, and Big Mac hugged her. "It's gonna be okay, Applejack," Big Mac said. "Is it," Applejack asked with tears in her eyes. Big Mac tightened the hug. "Please, Big Mac," Applejack pleaded. "Tell me the truth. Is-Is it really going to be okay?" Big Mac shed a tear. "I...I don't know, Applejack. I don't know. What I do know is that whatever's happening to you doesn't know who it's dealin' with," He grinned. "You're Applejack, for corn's sake! You're one of the most stubborn people I know, and knowing you," he said as he broke the hug and put his hands on her shoulders. "You're gonna fight it 'til ya win!" Applejack wiped a tear from her eye. "You're right," she said. "I'm a fighter! I can't just let this get to me!" crack Applejack winced, and Big Mac noticed. "You all right," he asked. "I think so," Applejack replied. "It kinda comes and goes. It's like a quick headache or something. It's what caused me to black out." Big Mac cupped his chin. "Hmm. You should keep an eye on that." "Don't worry," Applejack said. "I will." "Big Mac," Granny Smith called out, "Can ya help me set the table?" "Be down soon," Big Mac called down. "Granny calls," he said with a shrug. "Your turn," he said to someone in the hallway. Light footsteps neared her door, and Apple Bloom appeared in Applejack's doorway. Applejack smiled and quirked an eyebrow. "Did y'all plan this," she asked. "Eeyup," Big Mac said as he and Apple Bloom slapped a high five, and the latter entered Applejack's room. "Heya, sis," Apple Bloom said cheerfully. "Looks like you're feelin' better!" Applejack smiled. "Looks like it." She slouched and sighed. "I just hope it lasts." Apple Bloom gave Applejack a quizzical look. "What do ya mean," she asked. "I have a feelin' it's gonna come back eventually, sugarcube," Applejack said, then flopped onto her bed. She quickly got back up with a grin. "But if it thinks I'm gonna take this lying down anymore, it's got another thing coming," she exclaimed as she cracked her knuckles. Apple Bloom ran up to her sister and hugged her. "Now that's the Applejack I know!" crack Applejack winced as Apple Bloom broke the hug. "Y'all gonna come down for dinner? It should be ready any minute now!" Applejack smiled. "Yeah," she said. "I'm feelin' mighty hungry!" The two sisters made their way to the dining room. MishapDinner had ended, and Applejack helped clean up. She smiled. "I think I feel good enough to get something done," she said. "I almost never go a day without bein' a little productive." "Are you sure about that," Big Mac asked with concern. "Wouldn't want you to have another breakdown." "Sure, I'm sure," Applejack said as she put her hands on her hips. "I think I'd know if I needed to rest." "Now, Applejack," Granny said, "We all know how stubborn you can get." crack Applejack winced, and Granny and Big Mac noticed. "Honestly, child," Granny said. "You should really just take it easy!" Applejack folded her arms and frowned. Granny smiled warmly. "We're just lookin' out for you, Applejack," she said. crack Applejack winced again, then looked at Big Mac. "One minute, y'all are sayin' I'm a fighter, then the next you doubt me," she asked, narrowing her eyes. Big Mac sighed wearily as he put his hand to his head. "I ain't doubtin' you, Applejack. I just want you to be careful." Applejack scoffed. "I'm gonna prove to you that I'm fighter, like you said. I ain't gonna let this take control of me!" She slammed the door as she went outside. Granny and Big Mac exchanged worried looks as Apple Bloom entered. Granny looked at her youngest grandchild. "Keep an eye on your big sister, would you," she asked. "She's gettin' all stubborn again." Apple Bloom nodded and ran outside. Applejack made her way to the feeders, then stopped when she thought she heard hooves running. She looked around cautiously as she felt sweat drip from her brow. She called out to whatever animal it may be, then heard the pounding of the hooves again. Only there were more. Much more. "Stampede!" she screamed as the animals drew closer, and closer, until the sound began to fade. Applejack shook her head rapidly, then took a deep breath and exhaled. Apple Bloom ran over to Applejack. "Are you all right, sis," she asked. Applejack narrowed her eyes at Apple Bloom. "You ain't real," she said, then walked off. "What're you talkin' about," Apple Bloom asked. "Of course I'm real." Applejack shook her head. "I didn't see you follow me out here, so how do I know you're tellin' the truth?" "Applejack, maybe you should go back inside," Apple Bloom said worriedly. Applejack growled. "You know what," she said angrily. "I'm sick and tired of these hallucinations! I know I killed my parents, and I aim to make peace with that! What more do you want from me," she asked as tears began to fall from her face. "Just leave me alone," she shouted as she closed her eyes, then swung a fist at Apple Bloom. She gasped when she felt her fist connect. She was expecting to hit air, not... "Oh...oh lord," She said quietly as she saw Apple Bloom flat on the ground. She felt sick to her stomach as she ran over to her little sister. "A...Apple Bloom," she asked quietly. She gently shook her, but got no response. She put her head on her chest and heard a heartbeat. "Oh thank god," she said in mild relief. The relief was immediately replaced with anguish, but she powered through it as she picked her sister up and ran back to the homestead. Applejack kicked open the door, startling Big Mac and Granny Smith. "Help," she whispered, and Big Mac swiftly grabbed Apple Bloom and ran out of the room with her. "What in tarnation happened, Applejack," Granny Smith asked. Applejack sniffled, then spoke at a low volume. "What was that, sugarcube," she asked. "Couldn't quite hear you." "I hit Apple Bloom!" Applejack wailed. Granny held Applejack tightly as she bawled uncontrollably. "I-I killed my parents, and I hurt my sister," she choked out, then resumed crying. Big Mac entered the room and gave Granny a quizzical look. Granny mouthed "Is Apple Bloom okay?" Big Mac mouthed "She's unconscious. What the hell happened to her?" Granny mouthed "I'll tell you later." Big Mac nodded and went back to tending to Apple Bloom. Tears began to run down her eyes as she worried about Applejack's mental well-being. She broke and cried with her granddaughter. She cried because this was a fight she didn't think she could help her with. She cried because it was a fight that only Applejack could finish, and from the looks of things she was just about on the ropes. But most of all, she cried because she felt powerless. She hadn't cried with Applejack since the night she lost her son and daughter in law, and that knowledge made her sorrow deepen. Several minutes later, Applejack and Granny Smith finished crying. They stared at each other for a moment, then Applejack shuddered. "Oh god, Granny. What's wrong with me," she whispered. "Please, Granny...tell me. Is Apple Bloom okay?" Granny knew she'd tell her the truth, that was a given. She took a deep breath and sighed, afraid of how Applejack would react. "She's...she's unconscious, hon." Applejack blanched and her knees buckled. She heaved once, then ran to the bathroom and proceeded to empty the contents of her stomach. Granny hurried to the bathroom, but Applejack held out an arm. "S-Stay...b-b" Applejack retched into the toilet, then coughed. "Back," she said, breathing heavily. "D...Don't wa" She vomited again as tears fell down her cheeks. "D-Dont want to hurt you too." Granny stopped where she stood. "I understand, sugarcube...but for your own sake stop talking and just let it out of your system." Applejack nodded weakly, then threw up again. Several minutes later, Applejack flushed the toilet after her nausea left her. She washed up, then sighed heavily. She put her head in her hands. "I hate myself," she said. "I'm scared that I'll end up killing you, Big Mac, and finish the job with Apple Bloom," she said to Granny as her voice broke. "Sugarcube," Granny said. "That was an-" There was a knock at the front door. "I'll get that," she said. "You stay right here." She walked up to the door and opened it. "Hello," she said. "Do I know y'all?" "Is this where Applejack lives," a voice familiar to Applejack asked. "It is, but I don't think she's in the right condition for a visit," Granny said. "That's why we want to see her," said a voice Applejack would recognize anywhere. She got up and walked over to the door. Granny noticed and gave Applejack a look. "I'm okay, Granny," she said reassuringly. She reached the door and her eyes widened. "Well I'll be...it is you gals!" Standing outside were Lemon Zest, Sugarcoat, Indigo Zap, Sour Sweet and Sunny Flare. Common GroudAuthor's Note Warning! The following chapter contains spoilers for the first five Before the Friendship Games books: Lemon Zest, Sunny Flare, Sour Sweet, Indigo Zap and Sugarcoat. If you haven't already, I recommend reading them before continuing. This has been a Warning! Common Groud "What in tarnation are you five doin' here," Applejack asked with a surprised expression. Sour Sweet stepped forward. "We just wanted to check up on you." Applejack smiled warmly. "Well, that's mighty nice of y'a,ll" she said. "Come on in," she said, gesturing the Shadowbolts inside. The five girls entered and took stock of their surroundings. "Nice place you got here," Indigo said, then whistled as she admired the decor. Sour Sweet whistled as she saw Big Mac walk in. "Who's the hottie," she asked. Big Mac cleared his throat, then left the room. "Sorry, Sour. My brother's taken," Applejack said. Dammit, they're always taken!" Sour snapped. She sighed. "Maybe someday," she said quietly, folding her arms and looking away. "Hey," Lemon said, clearly blushing. "A-Are any of your...other friends here," she asked nervously. Applejack raised an eyebrow. "What," she asked. "I-I was just wondering," she said as she put her arms up in a defensive posture. "No, Lemon, it's just me," Applejack said. "Everyone else is doin' their own thing." "Ah." Applejack noticed Indigo Zap was staying several feet away from her, looking nervous. "Are you all right," she asked. "Are you all right," Indigo asked. "Last time I saw you, you were yarfing like crazy!" Sugarcoat folded her arms and scoffed. "'Yarfing'?" Indigo gave Sugarcoat a dirty look. "I know what I said." Sugarcoat rolled her eyes. "I ain't feelin' sick right now, if that's what you're talkin' about," Applejack said to Indigo, then paused. "Wait, if you're so worried about me bein' sick now, what about yesterday?" "Yeah...I froze up for like an hour later," Indigo said, embarrassed. "'Froze up'," Applejack asked. "Maybe we should take this upstairs. There's some things we came to tell you," Sugarcoat said. "Are y'all okay," Applejack asked. "Yer all actin' crazier than a tap-dancing armadillo on a barbecue!" the Shadowbolts each gave her a look of confusion. Sugarcoat sighed and rolled her eyes. "We'll tell you what's going on, but we'd like it be between you and us," she said. "Well why didn't you say so in the first place," Applejack asked. "Follow me." Applejack and the Shadowbolts entered her room, and the door was shut for privacy. "All right," Applejack said. "I'm guessing things are gonna start to get personal." The five girls nodded. "So...what's this all about," she asked. "Is checking up on me really the only reason you're here to see me?" "No," Sour Sweet said as she and the other Shadowbolts sat down on the floor. She took Applejack by the hand. "We came to let you know that whatever it is you're going through, you're not alone." crack Applejack winced. "Yeah," Lemon said. "None of us are strangers to mental trauma." Applejack blinked. "R...Really?" Sour Sweet nodded. "I had a pair of people who were supposed to be my parents, but they treated me like shit. I...I even tried to kill myself once. I'm also bipolar, and I kinda have a...multiple personality thing!" Applejack yelped and nearly fell over. "Sorry about that," Sour said. "Sour Side likes to mess with people sometimes." "'Sour Side," Applejack asked. Sour nodded. "It's a long story, so why don't the others tell you their problems before that?" Sugarcoat came forward. "I had an abusive boyfriend, and that caused me to sleep around." Applejack's eyes widened. "So you were-" "Yep," Sugarcoat said. "A slut." Applejack blushed. "I don't think I'd go so far as to call you that." Sugarcoat smiled. "It's okay, I don't mind. Besides, ever since I found someone who truly cares about me, I've become more of a nymphomaniac." "Aren't those two the same things," Indigo asked. Sugarcoat shrugged. "Semantics. Oh, and thanks for volunteering to be next," she said with a wicked smile. Indigo grumbled, then sighed. "I have Aspereger's Syndrome. It's on the higher side of the autism function scale." She blushed a little. "I kinda got myself in trouble when I frenched a girl on a whim. She fell for me, and I had to break her heart. At least we're still friends." Lemon Zest came forward. "I...had a crush on Sour." Applejack's eyes widened. "You what?" "Yeah," Sour Sweet said. "She did. I rejected her a little too harshly." Applejack looked at Sour, then Lemon. "We got into a couple of heated fights," Lemon said. "And by 'heated', I mean 'fists flying and noses broken'." Applejack gasped. Everyone looked at Sunny Flare. She took a deep breath, then sighed heavily. "You're going to have to give me a minute, Applejack," she said quietly. "It's almost been a year, and I still get emotional just thinking about it." "I understand, Sunny," Applejack said in a reassuring tone. "Take all the time you need." "Thank you," Sunny said, then sniffled. "Do you have any tissues around here," Lemon asked. Applejack nodded, then grabbed a box and handed it over to Sunny. Sunny took another deep breath, then shuddered. "I've been through hell, Applejack. I had the most amazing boyfriend any girl could ask for. I ended up..." she trailed off, then blew her nose. "I-I got pregnant in my Sophomore year." Applejack gasped. Sunny looked up as tears fell from her eyes. "I l-lost the child, and was technically d-dead for half a minute," she said as her voice broke. Indigo put a supportive arm on her shoulder, giving her the strength to continue. "Then," she continued, "about a week before the Friendship Games..." she trailed off again, then broke and hugged Indigo tightly as she sobbed into her chest. Applejack was at a loss for words as she saw Sunny become emotional. Was this what she looked like to her family? Constantly crying and in need of support? She wiped a tear from her eye as she patiently waited for Sunny to calm down and continue her story. After a while, she finished crying. "I...I'm okay. For now," Sunny said. "So, what happened," Applejack asked. "A week before the Friendship Games, my boyfriend and I had a date...and he ended up sacrificing himself to save me from a drunk driver. I tried to kill myself just to be with him..." Applejack ran over to Sunny and hugged her tightly. "Oh god, Sunny," she whispered. "I-I'm so sorry." she sniffled. Sour wiped a tear from her face. "You see, Applejack," she said. "We all know what it's like." "Do you," Applejack asked. "Do you really?" Sour smiled warmly. "Why don't you tell us why you've been having such a hard time?" Applejack sighed heavily and told the Shadowbolts all that had happened to her from the dream she had up until now. When she finished, she burst into tears and grabbed onto Sour Sweet. "Oh lord, Sour, it hurts so much," she said between sobs. "How could you all live with yourselves?!" "You have to come to terms with it," Sour said softly. "Don't let it consume you like it almost did with myself and Sunny." "Thank you, sugarcube," Applejack said, then realization dawned on her. I just called Sour 'sugarcube'. She smiled warmly. "Thank you all." Indigo looked at the clock on her phone. "Hey guys," she said. "It's getting pretty late. We should head back." The Shadowbolts nodded in agreement. Sour Sweet hugged Applejack. "Just remember, Applejack," she said. "We're a phone call or text away if you need us." "Wait," Applejack said, causing the girls to stop in their tracks. "Can I see you to the door?" Applejack and the Shadowbolts said their goodbyes, then the girls left. Applejack sighed heavily. "I'm beat," she said. Mustering what little energy she had remaining, she brushed her teeth, put on her PJs and fell fast asleep. Fear and Self-LoathingApplejack opened her eyes to darkness, then blinked. She found herself outside, close to her parents. Bright Mac and Pear Butter were holding an infant Apple Bloom in their arms as they were enjoying the nice and warm weather. Applejack felt jealous that they were paying more attention to her little sister than her, so she went over to the pen where all the bulls were kept. She smiled as a plan formed in her mind. Granny Smith walked over to Bright Mac and Pear Butter. "Now where in tarnation is Applejack," she asked the pair. Bright Mac shrugged, then looked over to the bull pen and saw his middle child teasing the bulls. He immediately panicked and handed Apple Bloom over to Granny. "C'mon, Buttercup," Bright Mac said. "You get AJ and I'l try to calm the bulls down!" Pear Butter nodded, then followed him. Applejack smiled as she finished riling up the bulls. Her parents would save her from the stampede, then they'd promise to spend more time with her! She turned around and sure enough, her ma and pa were running towards her, looking scared. Her smile widened. The plan was going off without a hitch! She opened the door to the pen and taunted the bulls one last time for good measure...then felt herself get pushed out of the way as she heard screams and loud crunches. For a moment, there was silence. Then, Granny Smith let out a shriek. Applejack blinked, then found herself standing in front of Apple Bloom, who was smiling. Applejack felt her body move, and she began to panic. She wasn't in control of her own body! Or was that the lie she was going to tell herself? Time slowed as she swung at Apple Bloom. She tried to warn her little sister, but no matter how hard she tried, she couldn't speak. She watched in despair as Apple Bloom's expression went from happy, to shocked, confused, understanding, then finally betrayal. Applejack's hit connected and Apple Bloom let out a yelp of pain, then fell to the floor. Applejack panicked and shook her, but she remained motionless. "Oh please god no," she whispered as tears fell from her eyes. She yelped as she felt two pairs of arms grab her. She looked to see Big Mac and Granny Smith, livid and in mourning. "It weren't enough to kill your parents, were it," Granny spat out. "You had to go an' kill your little sister too?" Applejack's eyes widened in horror as she turned her attention from Granny to Apple Bloom, only to find a gravestone. REST IN PEACE APPLE BLOOM CRUSADER, GRANDDAUGHTER, SISTER Applejack felt her strength leave her as her knees buckled. She collapsed into tears, then began to head towards the gravestone. She was pulled away, and she found herself face to face with an enraged Big Macintosh. "I don't care what Ma and Pa made us promise," he said coldly. "You don't belong in the family anymore, woman." He tossed her aside, then stomped up to her. He raised his hand, then slapped her hard, leaving a mark on her cheek. "I hope you burn in hell." He walked off, leaving his now ex-sister in an emotional state. Applejack blinked and found herself staring down Granny Smith. "So, yer comin' after me, now, hmm?" Applejack began to panic as she tried to gain control of her body, but to no avail. Tears streamed down her eyes as she had no choice but to watch herself assault her grandmother. She wanted so desperately to scream as she landed blow after blow on Granny, but the only screams she heard were not her own. Several minutes later, she stared at Granny's battered and bruised form. She watched in horror as she saw and heard Granny Smith's final breath. A shudder, then silence and stillness. Before Applejack could scream, she blinked and saw Big Mac standing before her. Tears were in his eyes. He looked completely broken. "H-How could you do this to your own flesh and blood," he said as his voice broke. "We all loved you, Applejack!" He sniffled. "Ma, Pa, Apple Bloom...and Granny Smith." He sobbed. "I knew you'd come looking for me." Applejack blinked, but remained where she was. "So instead of waiting for you to find me," Big Mac said. "I came to find you." Applejack blinked again, but remained where she was. She blinked again. Again. Nothing happened. She tried to scream again, knowing full well no sound would come out. She began to plead to whatever higher powers there may be to stop her, but the only thing she could hear was Big Mac's crying. Big Mac got down on his knees. "I don't want to run," he said quietly. "I just want to be at peace." He sniffled, then reached into a back pocket and pulled out a gun. Applejack continued her pleading, knowing what her brother wanted. She'd do anything to speak, anything to wake up, anything! Big Mac handed the gun to Applejack and looked up at her in despair. "Please," he said desperately. "Put me out of my misery." Applejack stopped her pleading and put all her focus on shaking her head. She accepted the gun. She continued screaming and pleading as she slowly pointed the gun at Big Mac's head, then pulled the trigger. Big Mac's body went limp and fell to the floor. Applejack collapsed, having lost everything. She was broken. She looked at the gun in her hand for a moment, then looked up to see six figures. Whoever they were, they didn't matter to her. Nothing mattered to her anymore. She put the gun to her head and pulled the trigger. Applejack bolted upright in her bed and summoned all of the willpower she could muster to not scream. Oh, lord, she thought as tears ran down her eyes. I...I would have gone through with it! She noticed she had a group text from her friends as she felt herself break down. With the last of her willpower, she sent a text, then broke. Not even bothering to take a breath, Applejack shrieked. im so scared girls i think im suicidal - Applejack End of "Not Just Any Old Day". Author's Note Seven Friends: Applejack Sunset Shimmer Twilight Sparkle Pinkie Pie Fluttershy Rarity Rainbow Dash Seven Days: Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Not Just Any Old Trilogy concludes in: Not Just Any Old Week! ("Production" will begin when the Crystal Prep Chronicles and Anon-A-Miss Saga storylines are complete!)
DeteriorationHaving returned home, Applejack took a deep breath, then sighed. The smell of Sweet Apple Acres always puts my mind at ease. crack She winced. "What in the-" Applejack looked around, as though she were expecting someone to be nearby. She shrugged, then saw Apple Bloom run out of the house to greet her. "Heya, sis," Apple Bloom said with a huge smile. "Howdy, sugarcube," Applejack said, returning the smile. Apple Bloom hugged her older sister, then broke it with the same smile. "Why'd you kill mom and dad," she asked. Applejack blanched. "Wh-What?" She blinked, and Apple Bloom was gone. Applejack took off her hat and fanned herself with it. "M-Maybe I should take it easy today," she thought aloud. She walked up to her house and entered. "I'm home," she called out. She went to the fridge and grabbed a bottle of apple cider. She closed it, and saw Granny Smith just standing there. "Hey, Granny," Applejack said uneasily. Granny Smith frowned at her granddaughter. "What d'you think you're doin' here," she asked in a menacing tone. Applejack began to sweat. "W-What are you talkin' about, Granny? I live here!" Granny scoffed. "Hmph. Why should you live here if'n you're the reason my son can't," she asked as she became angrier with each word. Applejack nearly fell to the floor. "B-B-But it was an accident," she stuttered. Granny folded her arms and scowled. "Is that what you tell yourself every night before you go to bed," she asked angrily. "Does it make you feel better about yourself?" Applejack shook her head. "Do you think shakin' your head will make me feel sorry for ya?" Granny said as she began to tear up. "You gotta lot of nerve, Applejack," She said as she shook her finger at her. "Comin' round here, acting like the victim when you get called out. I should disown you for what you've done." Applejack began to tear up. "I...I..." she struggled to come up with words. "Oh, and now you're giving me the crocodile tears," Granny said as she threw her hands up in exasperation. "Every goddamn time I bring your parents, it's the same song and dance with you," she shouted. She slowly ambled over to Applejack until she was nose-to-nose with her. "You're lucky I promised your parents that I'd take care of you," she said, seething with fury. "If it weren't for that, I'd have kicked you to the curb the moment you killed them." Applejack's knees buckled and she fell to the floor. She looked up, and Granny was gone. She grit her teeth and got up off of the kitchen floor. Calm down, Applejack. Calm down, she thought. They aren't real, it's just your imagination. She took a deep breath, then exhaled. She wiped the tears from her eyes, then walked into the living room. Big Mac was sitting at the couch with a warm smile, then he turned to look at Applejack. His expression changed from a warm smile to a cold stare, sending a chill down Applejack's spine. He slowly got up off of the couch, then walked over to her. "Why did you have to come in here, woman," he asked quietly. "I felt at peace for the first time in years, and you waltz in and take my happiness away, like you always have for this family!" Applejack blinked in confusion. "Wh-What are you talking about, Big Mac?" Big Mac snarled. "Don't play dumb with me, woman," he shouted. "Ma and Pa's last request was that you stay here, even though we all know you're responsible for their deaths!" Applejack opened her mouth, but Big Mac continued. "Don't you dare say it was an accident," he said as tears began to fall from his eyes. "The only accident around here," he said, then pointed an accusing finger, "is you!" Applejack sniffled as she felt tears fall from her face again. "I...I..." Big Mac took a deep breath, then sighed heavily. "You know what," he said in a surprisingly calm tone. "I don't want to hear it, woman." Applejack put her arms on her hips. "Why are you callin' me 'woman'," she asked. "You know my name!" Big Mac's calm completely vanished. "Because that's all you are to me. A woman," he snapped, his tone colder than the expression on his face. "You ain't Applejack," he said, poking her with his finger. "And you sure as hell ain't my sister. You lost that right a long time ago." He spat on the ground, then walked away, leaving Applejack in an emotional state on the living room floor. crack crack Applejack winced, then heard three sets of footsteps close in on her. Big Mac, Granny Smith and Apple Bloom entered the living room and walked toward her. "S-S-Stay back," she said as she held out her arms. Her family stood still in confusion. "I can't hardly take it no more," she shouted as tears fell from her eyes. "I killed Ma and Pa, I admit it!" Granny, Big Mac and Apple Bloom exchanged glances of concern. "Applejack," Granny said. "It was an-" "It was not a fucking accident," Applejack bellowed. "I'm the accident," she said, pointing to herself. "If it weren't for me, Ma and Pa would still be alive!" she broke down, sobbing where she sat. crack crack Applejack winced again as she felt pangs from each crack. She growled in frustration and punched the floor. crack "Why," Applejack whispered. "Why did I kill them," she sniffled. "They were my parents...and I killed them." Her voice quavered as she punched the floor again. Big Mac began to walk over to her. "Don't come any closer," she nearly shrieked. "Applejack," Apple Bloom said, tears flowing from her eyes. "Please. Let us help you." She sniffled. "You're scarin' us, child," Granny said with a quaver in her voice. "Y'all ain't well." "Please, Applejack. We're here for you. We love you," Big Mac said as his voice broke. crack crack crack crack CRACK Applejack shrieked in pain, then passed out.
FamilyApplejack slowly opened her eyes to find herself in her room and in her bed. She looked around her room, feeling panicked. "H-Hello," she called out nervously. "I-Is anybody there?" She grit her teeth in fear when nobody answered. She didn't know whether to scream or be grateful she was alone. There was a knock on her door, and she yelped. She hid under the covers and shut her eyes tightly. "Wh-Wh-What more do you want from me," she asked as she began to shake. "I-I already admitted I killed my parents!" Applejack heard the door to her room open, and she felt a chill down her spine. Slowly, she rose up from the covers to see Granny Smith. She remained motionless as her grandmother walked up to her, sweat trickling down her forehead. She gulped nervously as she sat next to her. Granny smiled, then hugged her. Applejack sniffled, then returned the hug as her grandmother leaned into her ear and whispered. "Parent killer." Applejack bolted upright in her bed and began to hyperventilate. Her heart was racing, and she was sweating. The door to her room slowly opened, and she cowered, shaking and whimpering. "Applejack," Granny asked. Applejack cautiously looked up and saw Granny Smith regarding her with deep concern. "Land sakes, girl," she said softly. "I don't know if my heart can take any more scares today." She made her way up to Applejack, who curled up and shook with fear. Granny Smith reached Applejack's bed, then gently ran a hand through her granddaughter's hair. She flinched, then looked up. "G-G-Granny? I-I-Is that r-r-really you," Applejack asked as she gradually uncurled herself. "'Course it is, hon," Granny Smith said, then opened her arms in an invitation for a hug. Applejack hesitated for a moment, then embraced her. Granny began to hum a tune that she immediately recognized as she stroked her hair. It was a formless tune that only two people in her life knew by heart, and knew when to hum it. Granny Smith and... "Ma...she...she'd always hum this when I needed to calm...down..." Applejack said, then trailed off. She choked up, sniffled, then broke. She held onto Granny tightly as she wept. "Oh, Granny," she said between sobs. "I-I-I don't hardly know what's real any more! I'm so scared!" Granny Smith continued her humming as Applejack let all her emotions out, but she knew in her heart of hearts that there would likely be more tears to come. Her eldest granddaughter needed her, and by gum, she'd do everything in her power to make her feel better! A tear fell from her eye as she remembered the first time she saw her daughter hum this tune to each of her grandchildren. She let out a sniffle, then finished the tune. Applejack looked up at her, her eyes red and puffy from crying. "Feel better, child," she asked warmly. Applejack sighed heavily. "I guess," she said. "I needed that release, but I don't think that's the last of it." "Me neither, Applejack," Granny said. "Me neither." She broke the hug. "Now if you'll excuse me, I've gotta prepare for dinner!" She noticed a look of sadness on Applejack's face. "Aww, now don't you worry, sugarcube," she said. "Big Mac's gonna come in for a spell. That sound good?" Applejack nodded with a slight smile. "Good," Granny said. "Hope to see you downstairs!" She opened the door, and called Big Mac over. She leaned into him as he got close. "Probably best not to bring up yer parents," she said. "I don't want her falling any further than she already has." Big Mac smiled warmly. "Eeyup," he said. "You leave AJ to me, Granny." Granny Smith nodded, then began her journey to the kitchen. He walked into Applejack's room, smiling. "Hey, AJ," he said. "How are ya holdin' up?" Applejack sighed. "I've been better, big brother," she said. "I've been better." She sat up on her bed and made a sputtering noise. She looked at Big Mac. "Big Mac," she said quietly. "Do you...do you think I'm goin' crazy?" Big Macintosh placed his hands on Applejack's. "I don't know what's goin' on," he said. "But you don't have to face it alone, whatever it is. We're here for you, little sister." He tightened his grip on her hands. "You're havin' a rough couple of days, but I don't think you've gone crazy." He gave Applejack a reassuring smile. "'A rough couple of days'," Applejack scoffed, then frowned. "It's been hell, Big Mac," she exclaimed, throwing her hands up in exasperation. "I want it to stop, but I don't know how!" She sniffled, and Big Mac hugged her. "It's gonna be okay, Applejack," Big Mac said. "Is it," Applejack asked with tears in her eyes. Big Mac tightened the hug. "Please, Big Mac," Applejack pleaded. "Tell me the truth. Is-Is it really going to be okay?" Big Mac shed a tear. "I...I don't know, Applejack. I don't know. What I do know is that whatever's happening to you doesn't know who it's dealin' with," He grinned. "You're Applejack, for corn's sake! You're one of the most stubborn people I know, and knowing you," he said as he broke the hug and put his hands on her shoulders. "You're gonna fight it 'til ya win!" Applejack wiped a tear from her eye. "You're right," she said. "I'm a fighter! I can't just let this get to me!" crack Applejack winced, and Big Mac noticed. "You all right," he asked. "I think so," Applejack replied. "It kinda comes and goes. It's like a quick headache or something. It's what caused me to black out." Big Mac cupped his chin. "Hmm. You should keep an eye on that." "Don't worry," Applejack said. "I will." "Big Mac," Granny Smith called out, "Can ya help me set the table?" "Be down soon," Big Mac called down. "Granny calls," he said with a shrug. "Your turn," he said to someone in the hallway. Light footsteps neared her door, and Apple Bloom appeared in Applejack's doorway. Applejack smiled and quirked an eyebrow. "Did y'all plan this," she asked. "Eeyup," Big Mac said as he and Apple Bloom slapped a high five, and the latter entered Applejack's room. "Heya, sis," Apple Bloom said cheerfully. "Looks like you're feelin' better!" Applejack smiled. "Looks like it." She slouched and sighed. "I just hope it lasts." Apple Bloom gave Applejack a quizzical look. "What do ya mean," she asked. "I have a feelin' it's gonna come back eventually, sugarcube," Applejack said, then flopped onto her bed. She quickly got back up with a grin. "But if it thinks I'm gonna take this lying down anymore, it's got another thing coming," she exclaimed as she cracked her knuckles. Apple Bloom ran up to her sister and hugged her. "Now that's the Applejack I know!" crack Applejack winced as Apple Bloom broke the hug. "Y'all gonna come down for dinner? It should be ready any minute now!" Applejack smiled. "Yeah," she said. "I'm feelin' mighty hungry!" The two sisters made their way to the dining room.
MishapDinner had ended, and Applejack helped clean up. She smiled. "I think I feel good enough to get something done," she said. "I almost never go a day without bein' a little productive." "Are you sure about that," Big Mac asked with concern. "Wouldn't want you to have another breakdown." "Sure, I'm sure," Applejack said as she put her hands on her hips. "I think I'd know if I needed to rest." "Now, Applejack," Granny said, "We all know how stubborn you can get." crack Applejack winced, and Granny and Big Mac noticed. "Honestly, child," Granny said. "You should really just take it easy!" Applejack folded her arms and frowned. Granny smiled warmly. "We're just lookin' out for you, Applejack," she said. crack Applejack winced again, then looked at Big Mac. "One minute, y'all are sayin' I'm a fighter, then the next you doubt me," she asked, narrowing her eyes. Big Mac sighed wearily as he put his hand to his head. "I ain't doubtin' you, Applejack. I just want you to be careful." Applejack scoffed. "I'm gonna prove to you that I'm fighter, like you said. I ain't gonna let this take control of me!" She slammed the door as she went outside. Granny and Big Mac exchanged worried looks as Apple Bloom entered. Granny looked at her youngest grandchild. "Keep an eye on your big sister, would you," she asked. "She's gettin' all stubborn again." Apple Bloom nodded and ran outside. Applejack made her way to the feeders, then stopped when she thought she heard hooves running. She looked around cautiously as she felt sweat drip from her brow. She called out to whatever animal it may be, then heard the pounding of the hooves again. Only there were more. Much more. "Stampede!" she screamed as the animals drew closer, and closer, until the sound began to fade. Applejack shook her head rapidly, then took a deep breath and exhaled. Apple Bloom ran over to Applejack. "Are you all right, sis," she asked. Applejack narrowed her eyes at Apple Bloom. "You ain't real," she said, then walked off. "What're you talkin' about," Apple Bloom asked. "Of course I'm real." Applejack shook her head. "I didn't see you follow me out here, so how do I know you're tellin' the truth?" "Applejack, maybe you should go back inside," Apple Bloom said worriedly. Applejack growled. "You know what," she said angrily. "I'm sick and tired of these hallucinations! I know I killed my parents, and I aim to make peace with that! What more do you want from me," she asked as tears began to fall from her face. "Just leave me alone," she shouted as she closed her eyes, then swung a fist at Apple Bloom. She gasped when she felt her fist connect. She was expecting to hit air, not... "Oh...oh lord," She said quietly as she saw Apple Bloom flat on the ground. She felt sick to her stomach as she ran over to her little sister. "A...Apple Bloom," she asked quietly. She gently shook her, but got no response. She put her head on her chest and heard a heartbeat. "Oh thank god," she said in mild relief. The relief was immediately replaced with anguish, but she powered through it as she picked her sister up and ran back to the homestead. Applejack kicked open the door, startling Big Mac and Granny Smith. "Help," she whispered, and Big Mac swiftly grabbed Apple Bloom and ran out of the room with her. "What in tarnation happened, Applejack," Granny Smith asked. Applejack sniffled, then spoke at a low volume. "What was that, sugarcube," she asked. "Couldn't quite hear you." "I hit Apple Bloom!" Applejack wailed. Granny held Applejack tightly as she bawled uncontrollably. "I-I killed my parents, and I hurt my sister," she choked out, then resumed crying. Big Mac entered the room and gave Granny a quizzical look. Granny mouthed "Is Apple Bloom okay?" Big Mac mouthed "She's unconscious. What the hell happened to her?" Granny mouthed "I'll tell you later." Big Mac nodded and went back to tending to Apple Bloom. Tears began to run down her eyes as she worried about Applejack's mental well-being. She broke and cried with her granddaughter. She cried because this was a fight she didn't think she could help her with. She cried because it was a fight that only Applejack could finish, and from the looks of things she was just about on the ropes. But most of all, she cried because she felt powerless. She hadn't cried with Applejack since the night she lost her son and daughter in law, and that knowledge made her sorrow deepen. Several minutes later, Applejack and Granny Smith finished crying. They stared at each other for a moment, then Applejack shuddered. "Oh god, Granny. What's wrong with me," she whispered. "Please, Granny...tell me. Is Apple Bloom okay?" Granny knew she'd tell her the truth, that was a given. She took a deep breath and sighed, afraid of how Applejack would react. "She's...she's unconscious, hon." Applejack blanched and her knees buckled. She heaved once, then ran to the bathroom and proceeded to empty the contents of her stomach. Granny hurried to the bathroom, but Applejack held out an arm. "S-Stay...b-b" Applejack retched into the toilet, then coughed. "Back," she said, breathing heavily. "D...Don't wa" She vomited again as tears fell down her cheeks. "D-Dont want to hurt you too." Granny stopped where she stood. "I understand, sugarcube...but for your own sake stop talking and just let it out of your system." Applejack nodded weakly, then threw up again. Several minutes later, Applejack flushed the toilet after her nausea left her. She washed up, then sighed heavily. She put her head in her hands. "I hate myself," she said. "I'm scared that I'll end up killing you, Big Mac, and finish the job with Apple Bloom," she said to Granny as her voice broke. "Sugarcube," Granny said. "That was an-" There was a knock at the front door. "I'll get that," she said. "You stay right here." She walked up to the door and opened it. "Hello," she said. "Do I know y'all?" "Is this where Applejack lives," a voice familiar to Applejack asked. "It is, but I don't think she's in the right condition for a visit," Granny said. "That's why we want to see her," said a voice Applejack would recognize anywhere. She got up and walked over to the door. Granny noticed and gave Applejack a look. "I'm okay, Granny," she said reassuringly. She reached the door and her eyes widened. "Well I'll be...it is you gals!" Standing outside were Lemon Zest, Sugarcoat, Indigo Zap, Sour Sweet and Sunny Flare.
Common GroudAuthor's Note Warning! The following chapter contains spoilers for the first five Before the Friendship Games books: Lemon Zest, Sunny Flare, Sour Sweet, Indigo Zap and Sugarcoat. If you haven't already, I recommend reading them before continuing. This has been a Warning! Common Groud "What in tarnation are you five doin' here," Applejack asked with a surprised expression. Sour Sweet stepped forward. "We just wanted to check up on you." Applejack smiled warmly. "Well, that's mighty nice of y'a,ll" she said. "Come on in," she said, gesturing the Shadowbolts inside. The five girls entered and took stock of their surroundings. "Nice place you got here," Indigo said, then whistled as she admired the decor. Sour Sweet whistled as she saw Big Mac walk in. "Who's the hottie," she asked. Big Mac cleared his throat, then left the room. "Sorry, Sour. My brother's taken," Applejack said. Dammit, they're always taken!" Sour snapped. She sighed. "Maybe someday," she said quietly, folding her arms and looking away. "Hey," Lemon said, clearly blushing. "A-Are any of your...other friends here," she asked nervously. Applejack raised an eyebrow. "What," she asked. "I-I was just wondering," she said as she put her arms up in a defensive posture. "No, Lemon, it's just me," Applejack said. "Everyone else is doin' their own thing." "Ah." Applejack noticed Indigo Zap was staying several feet away from her, looking nervous. "Are you all right," she asked. "Are you all right," Indigo asked. "Last time I saw you, you were yarfing like crazy!" Sugarcoat folded her arms and scoffed. "'Yarfing'?" Indigo gave Sugarcoat a dirty look. "I know what I said." Sugarcoat rolled her eyes. "I ain't feelin' sick right now, if that's what you're talkin' about," Applejack said to Indigo, then paused. "Wait, if you're so worried about me bein' sick now, what about yesterday?" "Yeah...I froze up for like an hour later," Indigo said, embarrassed. "'Froze up'," Applejack asked. "Maybe we should take this upstairs. There's some things we came to tell you," Sugarcoat said. "Are y'all okay," Applejack asked. "Yer all actin' crazier than a tap-dancing armadillo on a barbecue!" the Shadowbolts each gave her a look of confusion. Sugarcoat sighed and rolled her eyes. "We'll tell you what's going on, but we'd like it be between you and us," she said. "Well why didn't you say so in the first place," Applejack asked. "Follow me." Applejack and the Shadowbolts entered her room, and the door was shut for privacy. "All right," Applejack said. "I'm guessing things are gonna start to get personal." The five girls nodded. "So...what's this all about," she asked. "Is checking up on me really the only reason you're here to see me?" "No," Sour Sweet said as she and the other Shadowbolts sat down on the floor. She took Applejack by the hand. "We came to let you know that whatever it is you're going through, you're not alone." crack Applejack winced. "Yeah," Lemon said. "None of us are strangers to mental trauma." Applejack blinked. "R...Really?" Sour Sweet nodded. "I had a pair of people who were supposed to be my parents, but they treated me like shit. I...I even tried to kill myself once. I'm also bipolar, and I kinda have a...multiple personality thing!" Applejack yelped and nearly fell over. "Sorry about that," Sour said. "Sour Side likes to mess with people sometimes." "'Sour Side," Applejack asked. Sour nodded. "It's a long story, so why don't the others tell you their problems before that?" Sugarcoat came forward. "I had an abusive boyfriend, and that caused me to sleep around." Applejack's eyes widened. "So you were-" "Yep," Sugarcoat said. "A slut." Applejack blushed. "I don't think I'd go so far as to call you that." Sugarcoat smiled. "It's okay, I don't mind. Besides, ever since I found someone who truly cares about me, I've become more of a nymphomaniac." "Aren't those two the same things," Indigo asked. Sugarcoat shrugged. "Semantics. Oh, and thanks for volunteering to be next," she said with a wicked smile. Indigo grumbled, then sighed. "I have Aspereger's Syndrome. It's on the higher side of the autism function scale." She blushed a little. "I kinda got myself in trouble when I frenched a girl on a whim. She fell for me, and I had to break her heart. At least we're still friends." Lemon Zest came forward. "I...had a crush on Sour." Applejack's eyes widened. "You what?" "Yeah," Sour Sweet said. "She did. I rejected her a little too harshly." Applejack looked at Sour, then Lemon. "We got into a couple of heated fights," Lemon said. "And by 'heated', I mean 'fists flying and noses broken'." Applejack gasped. Everyone looked at Sunny Flare. She took a deep breath, then sighed heavily. "You're going to have to give me a minute, Applejack," she said quietly. "It's almost been a year, and I still get emotional just thinking about it." "I understand, Sunny," Applejack said in a reassuring tone. "Take all the time you need." "Thank you," Sunny said, then sniffled. "Do you have any tissues around here," Lemon asked. Applejack nodded, then grabbed a box and handed it over to Sunny. Sunny took another deep breath, then shuddered. "I've been through hell, Applejack. I had the most amazing boyfriend any girl could ask for. I ended up..." she trailed off, then blew her nose. "I-I got pregnant in my Sophomore year." Applejack gasped. Sunny looked up as tears fell from her eyes. "I l-lost the child, and was technically d-dead for half a minute," she said as her voice broke. Indigo put a supportive arm on her shoulder, giving her the strength to continue. "Then," she continued, "about a week before the Friendship Games..." she trailed off again, then broke and hugged Indigo tightly as she sobbed into her chest. Applejack was at a loss for words as she saw Sunny become emotional. Was this what she looked like to her family? Constantly crying and in need of support? She wiped a tear from her eye as she patiently waited for Sunny to calm down and continue her story. After a while, she finished crying. "I...I'm okay. For now," Sunny said. "So, what happened," Applejack asked. "A week before the Friendship Games, my boyfriend and I had a date...and he ended up sacrificing himself to save me from a drunk driver. I tried to kill myself just to be with him..." Applejack ran over to Sunny and hugged her tightly. "Oh god, Sunny," she whispered. "I-I'm so sorry." she sniffled. Sour wiped a tear from her face. "You see, Applejack," she said. "We all know what it's like." "Do you," Applejack asked. "Do you really?" Sour smiled warmly. "Why don't you tell us why you've been having such a hard time?" Applejack sighed heavily and told the Shadowbolts all that had happened to her from the dream she had up until now. When she finished, she burst into tears and grabbed onto Sour Sweet. "Oh lord, Sour, it hurts so much," she said between sobs. "How could you all live with yourselves?!" "You have to come to terms with it," Sour said softly. "Don't let it consume you like it almost did with myself and Sunny." "Thank you, sugarcube," Applejack said, then realization dawned on her. I just called Sour 'sugarcube'. She smiled warmly. "Thank you all." Indigo looked at the clock on her phone. "Hey guys," she said. "It's getting pretty late. We should head back." The Shadowbolts nodded in agreement. Sour Sweet hugged Applejack. "Just remember, Applejack," she said. "We're a phone call or text away if you need us." "Wait," Applejack said, causing the girls to stop in their tracks. "Can I see you to the door?" Applejack and the Shadowbolts said their goodbyes, then the girls left. Applejack sighed heavily. "I'm beat," she said. Mustering what little energy she had remaining, she brushed her teeth, put on her PJs and fell fast asleep.
Fear and Self-LoathingApplejack opened her eyes to darkness, then blinked. She found herself outside, close to her parents. Bright Mac and Pear Butter were holding an infant Apple Bloom in their arms as they were enjoying the nice and warm weather. Applejack felt jealous that they were paying more attention to her little sister than her, so she went over to the pen where all the bulls were kept. She smiled as a plan formed in her mind. Granny Smith walked over to Bright Mac and Pear Butter. "Now where in tarnation is Applejack," she asked the pair. Bright Mac shrugged, then looked over to the bull pen and saw his middle child teasing the bulls. He immediately panicked and handed Apple Bloom over to Granny. "C'mon, Buttercup," Bright Mac said. "You get AJ and I'l try to calm the bulls down!" Pear Butter nodded, then followed him. Applejack smiled as she finished riling up the bulls. Her parents would save her from the stampede, then they'd promise to spend more time with her! She turned around and sure enough, her ma and pa were running towards her, looking scared. Her smile widened. The plan was going off without a hitch! She opened the door to the pen and taunted the bulls one last time for good measure...then felt herself get pushed out of the way as she heard screams and loud crunches. For a moment, there was silence. Then, Granny Smith let out a shriek. Applejack blinked, then found herself standing in front of Apple Bloom, who was smiling. Applejack felt her body move, and she began to panic. She wasn't in control of her own body! Or was that the lie she was going to tell herself? Time slowed as she swung at Apple Bloom. She tried to warn her little sister, but no matter how hard she tried, she couldn't speak. She watched in despair as Apple Bloom's expression went from happy, to shocked, confused, understanding, then finally betrayal. Applejack's hit connected and Apple Bloom let out a yelp of pain, then fell to the floor. Applejack panicked and shook her, but she remained motionless. "Oh please god no," she whispered as tears fell from her eyes. She yelped as she felt two pairs of arms grab her. She looked to see Big Mac and Granny Smith, livid and in mourning. "It weren't enough to kill your parents, were it," Granny spat out. "You had to go an' kill your little sister too?" Applejack's eyes widened in horror as she turned her attention from Granny to Apple Bloom, only to find a gravestone. REST IN PEACE APPLE BLOOM CRUSADER, GRANDDAUGHTER, SISTER Applejack felt her strength leave her as her knees buckled. She collapsed into tears, then began to head towards the gravestone. She was pulled away, and she found herself face to face with an enraged Big Macintosh. "I don't care what Ma and Pa made us promise," he said coldly. "You don't belong in the family anymore, woman." He tossed her aside, then stomped up to her. He raised his hand, then slapped her hard, leaving a mark on her cheek. "I hope you burn in hell." He walked off, leaving his now ex-sister in an emotional state. Applejack blinked and found herself staring down Granny Smith. "So, yer comin' after me, now, hmm?" Applejack began to panic as she tried to gain control of her body, but to no avail. Tears streamed down her eyes as she had no choice but to watch herself assault her grandmother. She wanted so desperately to scream as she landed blow after blow on Granny, but the only screams she heard were not her own. Several minutes later, she stared at Granny's battered and bruised form. She watched in horror as she saw and heard Granny Smith's final breath. A shudder, then silence and stillness. Before Applejack could scream, she blinked and saw Big Mac standing before her. Tears were in his eyes. He looked completely broken. "H-How could you do this to your own flesh and blood," he said as his voice broke. "We all loved you, Applejack!" He sniffled. "Ma, Pa, Apple Bloom...and Granny Smith." He sobbed. "I knew you'd come looking for me." Applejack blinked, but remained where she was. "So instead of waiting for you to find me," Big Mac said. "I came to find you." Applejack blinked again, but remained where she was. She blinked again. Again. Nothing happened. She tried to scream again, knowing full well no sound would come out. She began to plead to whatever higher powers there may be to stop her, but the only thing she could hear was Big Mac's crying. Big Mac got down on his knees. "I don't want to run," he said quietly. "I just want to be at peace." He sniffled, then reached into a back pocket and pulled out a gun. Applejack continued her pleading, knowing what her brother wanted. She'd do anything to speak, anything to wake up, anything! Big Mac handed the gun to Applejack and looked up at her in despair. "Please," he said desperately. "Put me out of my misery." Applejack stopped her pleading and put all her focus on shaking her head. She accepted the gun. She continued screaming and pleading as she slowly pointed the gun at Big Mac's head, then pulled the trigger. Big Mac's body went limp and fell to the floor. Applejack collapsed, having lost everything. She was broken. She looked at the gun in her hand for a moment, then looked up to see six figures. Whoever they were, they didn't matter to her. Nothing mattered to her anymore. She put the gun to her head and pulled the trigger. Applejack bolted upright in her bed and summoned all of the willpower she could muster to not scream. Oh, lord, she thought as tears ran down her eyes. I...I would have gone through with it! She noticed she had a group text from her friends as she felt herself break down. With the last of her willpower, she sent a text, then broke. Not even bothering to take a breath, Applejack shrieked. im so scared girls i think im suicidal - Applejack End of "Not Just Any Old Day". Author's Note Seven Friends: Applejack Sunset Shimmer Twilight Sparkle Pinkie Pie Fluttershy Rarity Rainbow Dash Seven Days: Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Not Just Any Old Trilogy concludes in: Not Just Any Old Week! ("Production" will begin when the Crystal Prep Chronicles and Anon-A-Miss Saga storylines are complete!)
