Difference In Perspectives.

[Juliet's POV.]

You know that awkward moment where your friend introduces you to someone you hate because, as it turns out, they are friends too. And said friend wants you all to be friends? That's what we got going on right now. Twilight came out in force to greet us. She stood there in a typical schoolgirl outfit; a white blouse, purple vest, and black skirt. The dragon-man on her left had a powdered blue shirt and brown pants. Donny told me he tangled with this guy and the Skittles pony. I thought it was crazy that anyone could toss Leo. But, if anything could do it, a dragon sounds about right. The stallion on her right had a unique blend of black fur and two-tone mane. He was a bit different from the other ponies. What I mean by that is he treating us like the plague. He seemed happy to see us. You might assume he's like Pinkie or Lyra or the doctor. But, given his company, I don't trust this guy's intentions. Then, there's the way he's dressed. Nothing says condescension than an ascot with a puffy shirt and skinny jeans. After some more tension, the stallion spoke.

"Hello, welcome to the Golden Oak Library. I'm Mythic Entry, and the two beside me are my assistants. Twilight Sparkle and Spike Sol Sparkle,"

"Hey! We're not your assistants. It's Twilight's library!" Spike said.

"I thought it was a public library that anypony - Uh, excuse - anyone could enter. Yet, here we are, standing like sentries," Mythic Entry said. I arched a brow at that. Was he trying to butter us up with our terms?

The dragon-man scoffs at this. "Yeah. Because in case you forgot what rainbow said, the humans were coming! This place is Twilight home--"

"You live in a Treebrary?" Cece chose that time to speak up.

"You know, that's never occurred to me to call it that before today," Mythic Entry said.

"No, It's called The Golden Oak Library. Nopony calls it the Treebrary," Spike said.

"So, it's not made out of a tree?" Donnie asks. I could see the ideas swimming already.

"It is, but-"

"Do you use squirrels as attendants?" Cece asks.

"There aren't any squirrels-"

"Should we bring some nuts as an entrance fee?" I ask with a smile.

"No, you-"

"That messed up that you went and killed a tree. At least shape the wood into something else - rather than - desecrate it," Angie pipes up.

"Alright, quit it!" Twilight spoke again. She sighs while fixing her bangs. "Ahem. While I appreciate the - adorable - nickname and theories, Golden Oaks Library is the name designated by the town. Earth pony magic is what repurposes a withering tree into the structure you see today. Princess Celestia appointed me as the caretaker of the tomes," The mini-lecture ended with a proud smile.

"That's right. Twilight here is the best librarian of the Treebrary Ponyville has ever seen!" Pinkie said, at Twilight's side, pulling her into a hug.

"Pinkie! Don't encourage inaccuracies!"

"Well, Treebrary does have a certain charm to it," Lyra said. Twilight shoots a glare as the minty mare chuckles sheepishly.

"Anyway, this establishment--"

"Nerd," Angie coughs in plain view of everyone.

That earned another glare from sparkle pone. "--Has rules to abide by and must be strictly followed. First and foremost, any book you check has a three-day grace period before the return is due. While the book is out, it must return in the same condition. If there is damage in any way, you will reimburse it. When inside the library, you are not to make any noise. It is also my home, so--"

"Wait, you live in the Treebrary?" Donnie asks.

"Yes, but--"

"Are you sure you're not a squirrel?" Angie asks with a smirk.

"Of course not--"

"Oh, are you part flying squirrel?" Pinkie asks.

"Pinkie!!!"

"To be fair, there are times when you're a little nutty," Mythic said. Twilight now graduated to a death glare. "...Right, shutting up,"

"Honestly, if you are going to be this disorderly, you won't gain entry here!" Twilight huffs.

"Relax, purple smart. We're busting your balls-- Ow!!!" Leo smacks Donnie across his head.

"Don't mind them, Miss Sparkle. If this is your home, we'll respect your wishes. Are we barred from this establishment?" Nana Kingston asks.

After a brief staredown, Twilight sighs. "No, this is a public library. I won't deny anypony that genuinely seeks knowledge. However, what I also encourage is the sharing and grasping of knowledge,"

"A book report?" Leo said.

Twilight beamed a little at that. "That's right. It's the best way to retain information,"

I'm pretty sure I can hear Angie groaning in her head. "You gestured something about sharing knowledge as well?" Yu Chen asks.

"Yes, I did. Everypony--"

"You know, you could say everybody instead of everypony. Everypony doesn't sound inclusive, like at all," Donnie said.

"It's a good point. There are other beings here. Humans. A dragon," I said, gesturing to myself and dragon man.

"Can I please finish without any more interruptions?" Whoa, someone's testy. "Now, I would like to know what knowledge you and your species possess,"

"Oh!" Cece exclaimed. "You mean like that one episode of the avatar with the big owl librarian!"

"Ava-what now?" Spike asks.

Cece takes out a bit of string before she answers. "It's a show that came on a while ago, but it's good. Here,"

"You tied a string?" Twilight asks dubiously.

"It's a butterfly knot. That counts as knowledge. do you know how to tie one?"

"I don't," Mythic Entry said with a smile.

Twilight sighs again as she pulls a booklet from the hammerspace and pulls out a book to write something down. Angie was the last person I thought would go next. But, that grin she wore promised her brand of BS. "Any form of knowledge will d, right?"

Miss Sparkle was more on getting are with Angie in front of her. And Dragon man was ready to flambé Ang on the spot. But, she responded. "Yes, any form is fine. Do you have anything to share?"

To everyone's shock, Angie nods. "Oh, yeah. Something all of us might laugh about later,"

"Oh! Is it a joke? I love jokes!" Pinkie asks.

Maybe Angie is going to give this new world a try. Perhaps, she is branching with the whole "alpha bitch” thing. "Ever had a rim job?"

Maybe, I should've brought some aspirin. Like clockwork, the ponies were confused, while ordinary people were screaming internally. "What is a rim job?" Mythic Entry asks—that poor innocent fool.

"It's when you put your legs behind and have someone lick your ass!" Angie finished.

"I don't get it," Lyra said.

"Yeah, why would you lick a donkey?" Spike asks.

"Do you have to put your legs behind your head? That seems painful," Lyra shudders.

"What? Pis-sway. That's easy. See," And, sure enough, Pinkie was on the ground with her legs crossed. She would make any gymnast jealous. No one should be that flexible. I went and pinched Donnie and Leo for staring too long.

"Thank you, Pinkie. You can stop now," Nana Kingston said.

The joke got some laughs out of us. But only because the ponies missed the punchline. "I don't understand it, so that counts," Twilight stated.

Donnie pats the disgruntled Angie as he goes up. Since Angie took the crude route, Donnie will try and be clever. So, he pulls out his trick coin. For some reason, Twilight looked alarmed by it. I'm sure others caught it too. Are coins illegal here? I'll have to ask Lyra because I doubt Miss teachers' pet will share everything. "Did you know that humans eat metal?"

"Really?"

"Watch," Donnie held up the coin and brought it to his face. He played up his part, then bit into the currency. The trick is that the money is fake. There's a string attached that you can pull on. All you got to do is bite the edge, pull back, and, tada, you used forced perspective to eat a coin. Of course, Donnie went the extra mile and spat it out. Thus, making the cash look whole again. "Urgh. I should've gone with the dime,"

"How?" Twilight blinked herself over to Donnie and took his coin while we rubbed our eyes. "You bit into this, but it's completely intact. Do you have any abilities you neglected to inform us of?" I couldn't tell if she was more curious or suspicious when she said that,

"Uh, Twilight, I think that's a fake bit," Spike said.

Mythic came up and picked up the coin in his hoof. Thank goodness Lyra explained it was because the frog of their hooves had these tiny nubs. I would've gone crazy stressing over it. Mythic pulls the string and reels back, revealing the trick coin. Twilight frowns in disappointment for some reason. Leo steps up next. He eyed her for a second while she grew tense. The dragon and stallion were growing uncomfortable as well. Leo was the tallest of all of us. He was even taller than the pink and blue Princess, with Princess Sunny taller. Twilight here was around my height. So, I'd imagine a taller person you have an issue with peering down at you would make you sweat. I felt what my big brother was doing and held back my laugh. Unblinking, his entire focus on you, not saying a word. Yeah, he was giving her the staredown. Eventually, Twilight couldn't handle it anymore and spoke up.

"Do you have anything to share?" Twilight asks.

"I am," Leo said.

"Okay, and what is it?"

"A game,"

By now, Twilight was getting a little irritated. Leo was a man of few words. "We were playing a game?"

"Oh, yeah. It's the staredown game. You look at each other without blinking or talking. The first one to cave loses," Donnie explains.

"Honesty, Leopard," Xavier sighed with a shake of his head.

"Oh. I never heard of that one before. I got next!" Pinkie said. She rushes over to Spike and starts glaring at the dragon man.

"Pinkie. I am not sure--" Spike started, but Pinkie cut him off.

"I win!"

I stepped up next with a raise of my hand. "Say, do you have a kitchen? I have a nice recipe that you may like~," I said.

"Hold up. We're not letting you stroll around the library--"

"Treebrary!" Pinkie interrupts Spike with a smile.

Spike's eye twitched before continuing. "--The only part of the Library you have access to is the library!"

"If I might make a suggestion, how about I offer some books from my personnel library? The information is more up-to-date. And, we have plenty of stories you could read. So, how does a book for book trade sound to you?" Nana Kingston offers.

"That's perfect!" Twilight looked happy for the first time since we met. I guess all ponies have that squee moment. Twilight realizes this and clears her throat." Ahem. Your offer is accepted. Please, come inside," We finally made it inside. And the place was huge. There was something surreal about being inside a tree.

"Huh, it's bigger on the inside," Donnie said.

"Gesundheit," Pinkie said off the rip.

"I didn't sneeze,"

"I know; someone else did,"

I giggle as I catch Xavier frowning at Pinkie. It's hard to know if that mare is fun or crazy. Shifting gears, the twins ignored all Twilight's and ran around the place. Nana and Mr. Chen browsed the assorted bookshelves. Looking at their section, I saw them pick up books on Equestrian law, Society, and social ques. The rest of us followed their example. It was essential to know how this world worked. I picked up something about culinary arts and agriculture. I wanted to get a grasp on what food they have. And what's safe for human consumption. If the marketplace ever wants to open for us. Donnie picked up several magazines. As trashy as the ones back home are, they are a good perspective on current culture. Leo went with books on architecture.

There were houses made of brick and mortar from the walk over here, while others had hay instead of a roof. Xavier picked up books on fashion and clothing. Different world or not, fashion trends are fashion trends, and you don't want to be left behind. Lyra helped out with science and technology books. And Pinkie opted for adventure and children's books. I guess it's good to know what the ponies like as entertainment. Angie gave the shelves the once over. She pulled out a book and put it back. We knew Angie wasn't interested in any reading. So, she was looking to cause some trouble. Hopefully, it's nothing big. That left Spike with the twins. And him, chasing them around the ground floor. Thankfully, the twins know how to act. They never went to the second floor. Thus, the dragon-man became their unwitting babysitter for the duration—a fact the terror twins took full advantage of in a heartbeat.

"So, you're a dragon?' Cece asks.

"Yes," Spike responded.

"An authentic dragon?"

"Yes!"

"A super real authentic fire-breathing dragon?"

"Yes!!!"

Spike stared down at Cece and Nattie. Cece looks to her sister, who shakes her head. "We don't believe you,"

"Wha-- Why?"

"Well, you're too short. You don't have wings. Dragons were cool armor, not plain clothes. And, you haven't breathed fire at all,"

"Oof. Burn," Mythic said in the corner. "Or, would it be a lack of one?"

"Don't be ridiculous, Mythic. You know Spike can breathe fire. Besides, if the information was readily available on dragons, I can answer your inquiry more accurately," Twilight said.

"Actually. Dragons have these growth spurts that can change their size, shape, and mindset. The most common trigger is greed. It's why dragons have such massive hirds of treasure-- To satisfy that urge," Lyra said.

Twilight did her best impersonation of a goldfish. "How do you know about that?"

"Well, since dragons a so reclusive. They technically fall under my studies as a cryptozoologist. You know, since nobody knows a lot about them,"

"Pfft, so you're still a kid?" Donnie smirks.

"No! W-well, I am legally an adult by pony standards. And, Rarity made me these clothes! They're not plain," Spike huffs.

"So, dragon man over there is a late bloomer. I doubt Miss prissy marsh's mellow isn't into it," Angie jokes.

"You leave Rarity out of this-- Burp!" We all duck when Spike suddenly burps out green flames and a scroll.

"Wow. Green fire!" Cece exclaims while Nattie nods in excitement.

"Um, bless you?" I said in an unsure tone. Dragons can sneeze. Who knew.

"Oh! A letter from the Princess!" Twilight said, pulling the scroll towards her. "It's a reminder that she would like a friendship report from each of you. I know you all recently moved here," Twilight winced when we gave her a look. I mean, really? "So, there won't be any current reports for a while. But, you are welcome to share past experiences. So..." None of us were exactly eager to share. A lot of our friendships before we met were not something we liked. Most of them were fake and toxic.

"Hold up. The Princess uses you as a walking email platform?" Donnie asks Spike.

"Dragon fire possesses magical properties like that can transfer certain items. Spike acts as a courier between myself and Princess Celestia," Twilight explained.

Spike puffs out his chest a little as he speaks. "That's right, if any critical documents, letters, scrolls, and the like need delivering. I am the dragon!"

"Don't worry. There is zero chance of postal level government secrets exposure occurring with Spike on the case," Mythic Entry joked.

"Oh! We do have a current friendship report!" Cece said.

"You do? I-I mean, that's great. What is it?" Twilight asks with a letter in hand.

Cece nods to Nattie, and they run over to Lyra and Pinkie. The twins pulled each mare front and center with big smiles. "Pinkie and Lyra were the first pony friends we made! Lyra is smart, and Pinkie is fun,"

"Oh, yeah. Pinkie is great. There was never a dull moment with her. She taught us to smile through uncertain times," Donnie said.

"Lyra is insightful. She was eager to get to know us when others kept their distance," Xavier stated.

"These mares are gladly welcome into my estate for being the only ones to give us a chance," Nana Kingston said.

"Eh, I hate them the least," Angie said. While that might seem cold, it is the best compliment Angie gives to new people.

The two mares blush at the compliment as Pinkie hugs the Alpha girl into a hug. A hug planted Ang's face firmly against Pinkies bust, earning a growl. "Aw, that was the nicest thing anyone has said to me~,"

"...Thank you. I hope we made you stay more comfortable," Lyra said bashfully.

Twilight seemed hesitant as she wrote everything we noted down. She looked jealous but thanked us, and Spike burned her letter. I guess that's how he sends it back. Although, I don't know why anyone would want to hack up the paper each time.

[Yu Chen POV.]

We exited the library sometime with several books on our person. It's been some time since the last family activity. Although, a mass study session was far from what I was expecting. As necessary as it may be, regardless. Madam Kingston deemed it alright for Young Twilight to pick from the private study. I've no doubt there are some reading materials the Madam will eagerly part with and some that require subterfuge. I know I will be comparing the acts of the humans here to the current events of our world. I am only mildly surprised if their actions don't replicate modern times. Miss Pie informed us of our next venture to visit her friend on a farm. After that, we'll be to see her friend on the outskirts of town. But, according to Miss Pie and Miss Heartstrings, it was the most famous farmland in the country. Good standing with them might alleviate the pressure of our current social status.

Our walk was a quiet one, as it was since we left the manor. However, the pegasus filly intent on tracking us gained an assistant—Miss Belle's younger sister. The two were friends. And the worse stealth operators I've ever seen. Young Sweetie Belle's hooves constantly stepped on every pebble and twigged her hooves could find. And the little pegasus filly was rather insistent on riding her scooter despite the constant meshing of gravel against the wheels. In a rare moment of cheekiness, as Juliet calls it, I watch over the bush they were hiding inside. The result was amusing as they tried to duck deeper into hiding, only for their manes and tails to stick out as they argued. Regardless, the farm was coming into view. To say that it was massive is an understatement. Although, I would say calling this land a farm would be a little misleading. The number of apple trees suggests that it is more of an orchard than anything else. However, there were several pig pins and chicken coups.

"Wow. A real-life farm!" Cecelia exclaimed.

"You all never been to a farm? How do you get your food?" Miss Heartstrings asks.

"We'd normally buy produce from a supermarket. There was never a reason to visit a farm. But, we do still have them," Master Xavier explains.

"Besides, who always wants to be around a pig pen?" Miss Nyx said.

"Ah. Caring for the little critters is a worthwhile experience," A new voice said.

We looked down the dirt road as a family of four approached us. The one that instantly grabbed my attention was the red-furred stallion. The equine in front of us was massive—a genuine physical fitness specimen that would shame most bodybuilders. He wore a white tank top and blue pants with a green patch over both knees. In bizarre irony, he was also a yok around his neck, similar to the horse on Earth. He regarded us with a stern expression. An orange mare with blonde hair and brilliant emerald eyes was on his right. She was the classic example of a southern cowgirl, complete with a stetson hat. She wore an orange shirt that showed off her miff—Blue shorts that stopped midway on her thigh and a brown vest with matching southern boots. I am guessing that the apple belt buckle is a type of branding. Her expression was rigid and judgemental. Behind her was a little filly wearing a yellow shirt and blue jumpsuit pants. A lovely red ribbon sat upon her puffy red mane. She wore a face of trepidation towards us. The last one in the line was an elder mare who looked older than Madam Kingston. She had her hair in a bun. She had a beige blouse shirt with red shirk and a yellow and red polka dot scarf.

I could instantly feel the tension in the area. Something that only grew more palpable when Madam Kingston and the Matietarch of this apple family stepped forward to each other. None of us from either side dared to speak. Although, the young masters and the pony siblings finched at their new proximity. I let out a breath I did not realize I was holding when the old mare smiled.

"Well, now. It's nice to see what finally got the town in a big tizzy. I don't see the point of getting all worked up every time some new critters visit. There were finally no crowds in the marketplace, and I couldn't go there because of some quarntine," The old mare said with a coy smile.

"That's nothing. I once had coupons for mixed vegetables good for a whole year. When I went to cash them in, it was no longer valid due to a policy change," Madam Kingston said.

"That it's evil right there. I don't reckon you try to barter a better price?"

"Some off-brand thrift shops allow you to do that. But, it's not by a large percentage. And other places have a set asking price. So, it's pay or gets lost,"

The elder mare shakes her head at the thought before eyeing us. "Are these youngins your kin?"

"Three of them are, while the rest are good family friends," Madam Kingston introduced all of us, starting from myself to Miss Nyx.

The elder mare gave an appreciative smile. "Those aren't the strangest names I've heard. But, here are my grand-foals: Applejack--"

"You're named after my cereal!" Young Cecelia exclaimed.

"That's not the only thing," Master Donatello whispered to Miss Juliet.

"I beg you pardon?" Applejack asks.

"You share the same name as many products in our home," Madam Kingston explained.

"That's not the only thing," Lady Nyx said, smiling.

"Oh! It's True! I saw that cereal in the cabinets, and I thought: How did they get Applejack in this box? So, I opened it, thinking I was helping. And it turned out to be cereal. Then I thought, does it taste like Applejack? So--"

"Pinkie!" Miss Applejack exclaimed.

"Um, Pinkie? H-how do you know what Applejack tastes like?" Master Donatello asks, earning a smack from Lady Juliet. "Ow! I was talking about the cereal!"

Miss Smith gave a kindhearted chuckle. "This stallion here is my oldest: Big Macintosh,"

"Eyup!" Mister Macintosh said. The stallion's gaze seems to shift from the young masters and me. But, he'd seem particularly focused on Master Leonardo.

"And here is Applebloom," The filly in question steps out from behind her sister and gives us a wave. Young Natalya and Cecelia return the gesture. I can see this family takes its branding very seriously. "Now, hows about we show you around the farm and maybe get some grub in your youngins,"

"But, Granny! We can't let them prance around our farm!" Miss Applejack exclaimed.

"You mean like how you prance around their home uninvited?" Madam Granny Smith said with a raised brow. Miss Applejack instantly flinched at that.

"Don't forget about the kidnapping. That's not what I call neighborly," Miss Nyx said with a mock southern tone. The two eldest siblings caught it. But, Miss Smith seemed to let it go.

"No, it wasn't. I thought I taught you better manners than that, young lady!"

"But, the princess--" Miss Applejack began, but her grandmother cut her off.

"I know. You were following the Princess's orders. But, I also want you to use your best judgment regarding these things. Instead, you went like a rooster pecking around a timberwolf. Yeah, there was some unruly human a while back. but, did you give that best quality of pony?" Miss Applejack reluctantly shook her head. "Then, let's do it properly the way we apples do!"

And so, Miss Smith began a tour of her family farm. "Right here is the pigpen. Since Y'all never been to a farm, I bet you don't know why pigs are important,"

"By What? Shitting everywhere?" Miss Nyx said.

"Swear!" Cecelia said indignantly.

Madam Kingston cast a warning glance that promised an eternity of maid service. "Worth it,"

"A bit of a potty mouth, that is, huh?" Miss Smith said much to our amusement. "But, producing manure for fertilizer is only half of what they could do. Little pigs sniff and poke at the ground with the richest soil. That's when you get to planting. And, the results more than speak for themselves,"

"Wow!" Cecelia exclaimed.

"Over here are the chicken coops. The lay eggs, we sell them,"

"Oh, yes. We have chickens. That's one of the ways we use them," Madam Kingston said.

"Hmph, I bet one of those ways in love eating them!" Miss Applejack caused.

"Yeah, I love me some fried chicken," Miss Nyx said.

"Baked chicken. No question!" Miss Crews said.

"Stew chicken is preferable to those not savages," Master Kingston added.

"Wait, are we talking thighs, flats, or drumsticks?" Mister Donatello asks.

"Y'all ain't going anywhere near our chickens!" Miss Applejack said.

"What's up with you?" Miss Nyx asks.

"You're all talking about eating chickens!" Miss Applebloom spoke for the first time.

"Yeah, it's not a big secret," Miss Cecelia said.

"To clear any confusion, can any of your farm animals talk?" I ask.

"None except the cows," Miss Smith answered.

"Then, that makes things easier. While we consume meat, the animal does not share the same level of sentience as we do. We already have a surplus of food. And, you have our solemn vow that we will not harm any of your farm life,"

"Say, wasn't there a guard pony asking questions about missing animals?" Miss Applebloom asks.

"Yes, that was when corporal suck-up looked into our fridge and claimed we run a slaughterhouse," Mister Crews said. None of our current escorts like that jab.

Miss Applejack looked far from dissuaded as she crossed her arms. "Y'all don't seem at all ashamed of cutting up animals and eating them,"

"Are you saying we should lie?" Madam Kingston countered. "What we eat does not make us monsters as humans are not exclusively meat-eaters,"

"Prove it!" Mister Big Machintosh said simply. His masculine voice and the fact that he spoke garnered our attention.

"How would you like us to do that?" Madam Kingston asks.

"For that, we'll continue the tour. And, no more interruption," Miss said to Miss Applejack, who was about to object. We moved deeper into the property, stopping by a cattle holding. "Now, here's we keep the cows. We carry off the milk to pasteurize and sell-off in the market. There's a lovely mare named Milky Way that helps with that and handing them out,"

One of the cows approached us as the twins moved to it. "Hehe, moo," Young Cecelia said.

"Uh! Why I never!" The cow spoke.

"U-um, did you just talk?" Miss Juliet stammers. I was having a hard time reframing from doing the same.

"Yes, I did. And I must say that I have never been so offended!"

"W-we are sorry, ma'am. We aren't used to cows being able to speak," Madam Kingston said. "I'm Nancy Kingston. My grandkids. Cecelia, Natalya, and Xavier. The Crews: Juliet, Leonardo, Donatello. Angela Nyx and Yu Chen,"

"I'm Bolivia. And, you can relax, dear. I was only kidding. You'd be surprised how many foreign creatures don't know we can talk,"

There was a soft thud next to us as Mister Donatello collapsed to his knees. "Donny, what's wrong?" Miss Juliet asks.

"Julie. Leo! They can talk. Cows can talk here! Now, I can never have another burger or steak again!" Mister Donatello always was one for theatrics.

"I'm afraid I don't get it. What's a steak?" Bolivia asks.

"Nothing but a distant memory now-- Ow!!!"

Miss Juliet went and tugged her brother by his ear. "Ignore my goofy brother,"

"Hmm, I might have just the thing for that. But, for now, let's get to the crown jewel of the apple family," Miss Smith said. We came across the namesake of this land. An impossible number of apple trees stretched far as our eyes could see as Miss Smith spoke. "And, here is the apple families' pride and joy. Our namesake, ready to be bucked and pass about all over Equestria,"

"Whoa! There's so many!" Young Cecelia exclaimed while Young Natalya nodded.

"Yep! Each of these trees represents a member of our that planted them nearly a thousand years ago. We apples provide the best apple products in Equestria!" Miss Applejack said with pride.

"That's an extended family," Master Xavier said.

"I hate to see your employee payout," Miss Nyx said.

"Now why is that, deary?" Miss Smith asked to our confusion.

"With the number of trees you have, you must have the largest staff on the payroll," Madam Kingston stated.

Miss Smith began to speak, but Miss Applejack cut her off abruptly. "That's a load of manure. We don't need any pony's help to tend our orchard. Why I could clear all these apples by myself!"

"Pfft. As if. Do you mean you climb all these trees each day? You'd have better luck bucking at them," Miss Nyx said.

Miss Applejack huffs before a smirk begins to form. "Ya want to make a bet?" Oh, dear. She issued it.

"Sure, I always wanted a gold coin. Do you need time to search your pig pen for it?" Miss Nyx taunted.

Whether or not the insult affected Miss Applejack, I could not tell. But, I did hear Master Xavier groan at the frowns Miss Applebloom and Mister Big Macintosh were giving her. "Alright, I bet I can get five apples clear of their roots in under a minute. When I win, Y'all will have to finish up the rest of our chores we put on hold to meet Ya,"

"And when you fail, you got to do something embarrassing in the middle of town. Don't worry; I know your speed,"

"Oh, no," Miss Heartstrings said in concern.

"Don't do it, Angie! That's Applejack's element! Literally!" Miss Pie tried to dissuade.

Miss Applejack shakes Miss Nyx's hand and heads over to the tree. She places her hand on her hips before turning to us and leaning on the tree, arms crossed while whistling a tune. We were admittedly confused by this as the time was ticking. "Time?" Miss Applejack asks after some time has passed

"About thirty seconds, sis," Young Applebloom informs.

"Much obliged," Miss Applejackdrops on all fours. She thrust her legs into the tree. All the apples fell from their stems to the ground in an instant. She repeated the action four more times in a quick session. A smug smile on her features. No doubt because of the various states of shock I and the others are sharing. "Time?"

"You finished with ten seconds to spare. You probably would've had an extra five if you didn't start whistling," Miss Smith said.

"Eeyup," Mist Machintosh agreed.

Miss Smith walked over to the apples and picked up several of them. "Let's get the whole meat-eater matter settled right now. Why don't Y'all try some apples?"

We all gave the fruit some appraisal before the twins took the first bite. Instantly, their faces lit up and devoured them like a pack of starved dogs. "Cecelia. Natalya! Mind your manners!"

"Sorry, but these apples are so good!!!" Young Cecelia said while Natalya nodded enthusiastically.

The rest of us followed suit and bit into the apples. "Whoa!" Mister Leonardo said, taking a bigger bite.

"I-It's amazing! The texture is smooth, but there's a nice crunch!" Miss Juliet stated.

"I'd never had an apple this juicy and rich!" Master Xavier said.

Even Miss Nyx next was caught in the euphoria these apples brought to the taste. However, she turns away once she notices Miss Applejack sporting a knowing smile towards her. "Tch! I guess they are at least edible..."

"No, it's horrible!" Mister Donatello said to our surprise.

"...What you say, sonny?" There was a dangerous glint in Miss Smith's eyes as she said this.

"Yeah! We would never give any pony a rotten apple!" Young Applebloom stated fiercely.

The moment Donatello fell to his knees again was when I knew he was being dramatic again. "That's why it's horrible! It is the best apple I've ever had or ever will have! All the apples at our place won't compare! You've eighty-sixed our taste buds!!!"

"Eighty-six?" Miss Lyra asks.

Miss Pie let out a loud gasp. "You're right! I never had any apples other than Applejacks. That's why I thought the apple in the mansion was stale!" Joining Mister Donatello on the ground, Miss Pie wails. "Applejack. How could you! You've spoiled the whole town to eat only your apples!"

"Hahaha! Two apples in a bunch, aren't they? If you want some more high-quality apples, just drop by our stand at the market. Or even visit the farm," Miss Smith kindly offers.

"Thank Miss Smith, but we may short bits for some time," Madam Kingston said.

"Well, how about you take some home with Ya now. But, be sure to finish up the remaining chores from that bet," Many of the young masters groan at this. "Quit your bellyaching. You only have to clean and wash the pigpen and round up those apples on the ground. It'll be worth your while with the vittles you taking with Ya,"

The remaining chores were as follows; feed the chickens. Clean the pigs and their pen. Milk the cows. And finally, gather the apples and put them in the cellar. We decided to split the duties to hasten our pace. The young twins feed the chickens with no issues despite having Young Applebloom as a chaperone. The filly even gave praise before running off. I'd notice she joined up with our two stalkers.

Along with me, the Crews brothers handled bringing in the apple haul with Mister Big Machintosh. The stallion proved equine's effectiveness if they shared his form back on Earth. He carried four when the young masters and I hauled one crate full of apples. Thankfully, there wasn't much to transport to their storage. Madam Kingston and Miss Crews attended to the cows with Miss Smith. The bovines were more respective and explained what they needed them to do. I must admit the question of how would hooves apply to milking something as delicate as teats would work. Something our milk providers didn't seem to condemn out loud. But, judging from the please expression after the Madam's work, they may be more inclined to opposable appendages.

Miss Nyx, unfortunately, had the worse chore of the tasks. That was cleaning the pig pens. Miss Appelack supervised as Miss Nyx tried to usher the pigs outside. None of the pigs acknowledged her at all and continued their usual routine. It wasn't until Miss Applejack let out a whistle that things got complicated. The pigs all rushed out of the open gate, knocking down miss Nyx. There was an unsightly splat from where she landed in the mud while Miss Applejack snickers. Naturally, Miss Nyx shot up to voice her complaint about the action. But, she lost her footing and fell into the muck once again. Thus, the other young masters began to laugh at her miss fortune. Thankfully, before an assault could happen, Madam Kingston offers to finish. Miss Smith made Applejack assist for her mischief. And thus, the chores were complete. To her word, Miss Smith provided us with her homemade family-theme meal in a basket.

"Y'all enjoy the meal. Tell me how you like the vittles," Miss Smith said.

"Thank you, Granny Smith. It smells delicious," Madam Kingston said.

"Swing by again when you're free; we might have a job or two for Ya," Miss Smith glances at Miss Nyx, who was wiping the mug and grim off her. "We have a hot shower to clean yourself up in if you want,"

"Tch. I'll pass. I am not about to get naked in your yard using your garden hose," Miss Nyx said.

While the other apple member frowned deeply at her remarks, Miss Smith maintained her smile. She hobbled over to the said garden hose and came back. As she leveled the hose, there was a mischievous glint in the older mare's eyes. "Now, now, youngin'. I must insist and show you the southern hospitality we apples are known for..."

"Don't you fucking dare!"

"I am afraid I will have to agree, Miss Smith," Madam Kingston said as she walked over to Miss Smith. She holds out her for the hose.

"You can call me Granny Smith. Everypony does," Miss Granny Smith said, handing the Madam the hose. "You know how to handle that?"

"Of course. After all, an employee must properly disciple her charges," Without further warning, Madam spray Miss Nyx down with water. Thankfully, the pressure was light enough for Miss Nyx to remain upright but forceful enough to push her back. By its end, all the dirt, mud, and grim were gone. "Now, if only I had some soap to rinse that dirty mouth of yours,"

Miss Nyx grumbles as the others laugh. That's when Miss Nyx glances down at the wet soil beneath her. With a single flick of her leg, mud and grim landed on the young masters. "Oops," Miss Heartstrings and Miss Pie covered their mouths at sight. Although, the latter was doing her best to prevent her laughter.

"Angie! You jerk!!!" Miss Crews yelled.

"Argh! My favorite shirt!" Young Donatello shrieked. Young Leonardo looks down at his ruined shirt with a deep frown and twitchy eye.

"Eww!!!" Young Cecelia said while Young Natalya stuck out her tongue in disgust.

Master Xavier wore a tight smile while a vein bulged on the side of his head. "Perhaps another extension is in order, right Nana?"

"..." Madam Kingston had a blank look on her face as she looked the masters over.

"Nana...?" Master Xavier held up his hands in placating gestures.

"Mrs. K. If you hose us don now, we shall become more powerful than you could ever imagine!" Young Donatello warned.

Madam Kingston thought about the threat for one second before spraying the hose. "If that is the case, then I won't worry so much about you,"

Over to our right, we could see Miss Smith's grandchildren laughing. "Now this is a hoot, ain't it, Big Mac?" Miss Applejack said.

"Eeyup," Mister Machnitosh laughed.

"Whoo-whee! I thought this visit was going to turn sour. Instead, Y'all look like you went raft-riding with no boat,"

"Hmm, say Applejack, you got something on your shirt," Miss Heartstrings stated.

"Huh, there's nothing there," As Miss Applejack down, Miss Heartstrings lobs the muddy soil on both the Apple siblings.

"LYRA!!! What you go and do that for?"

"Oh. Oh! Now you two need a shower!!" Miss Pie exclaimed.

"Granny..." Miss Applejack pleaded similarly to Master Xavier.

"Oh, don't get you to braid in a knot. I'm not going to waste more water on you," Miss Smith said to her grandchildren's relief. "Pinkie Pie's got it covered,"

"What?" Both siblings said as they turned to see Miss Pie with a canon she pulled from nowhere.

Her eyes had a distinct manic look as she held the string. "Pull!" Miss Pie shouts as she pulls the line, launching several water balloons at the pair.

"Hmm, so, where to next?" Donatello asks. He was eating one of Miss Smith's apple pies. Having tried one for myself, I can safely say we'll be taking up on that offer to revisit.

"We're going to see my other best buddy in the world, Fluttershy," Miss Pie answered.

"Wasn't she the yellow one with the pink mane?" Juliet said.

"She seems well off from the town. Is there a reason for that?' Madam Kingston asks.

"Fluttershy isn't an outgoing pony. She is very reserved and acts as the town's veterinarian. Hence why she lives this far out to The Everfree. She can be near her 'little critters," Miss Heartstrings explained.

"So, she runs an animal shelter?" Xavier asks.

"Not exactly. We have a shelter in town. But, Fluttershy offers her expertise and provides medical care. Miss Heartstrings said that the animal trusts her because she can communicate better than any pony I know," Miss Heartstrings said.

"Oh, great. We're visiting the local cat lady," Angela said.

"How can she be that crazy cat lady with a dog if she has to whisper them? Cat ladies yell out a bunch of gibberish. You can't do much yelling if you're whispering," Miss Pie said innocently. I joined in the laugh at Miss Nyx's expense. It further solidifies the perceived innocents of this world.

"Hey, look! A bunny!" Cecelia explained. And sure enough, a snow-white bunny sat off to the side of the dirt road. I had to wonder why it was waiting there.

Unfortunately, I could not ponder long before the young master rushed toward the animal. I was able to grab hold of Natalya while Master Xavier stopped Cecelia. "Cecelia. Natalya. You know the rule about going near stray animals. We don't know what new diseases they could carry," Madam Kingston said.

"Actually. That's Fluttershy's pet, Angel Bunny," Miss Heartstrings informs.

"Aw, did you get locked out? Oh! Come and meet my new human friends!" Miss Pie said, bring the rabbit closer.

Miss Juliet was the first to approach. But, I notice this Angel Bunny frowning. The thought of the animal having a level of intelligence that broad stump me. So much so that I was slow to respond when the bunny bit into Juliet's outreaching hand. "AHH!" Juliet screamed.

"Julie!" Donatello shouted while Leonardo pulled her back.

"What the hell!" Angela hissed. There is some blood flow from the bite mark as Juliet winces. "You fucking little rat!"

Angela's outcry scared the little miscreant enough to leap from Miss Pie's hand. However, that only seems like the beginning of our troubles. Angel jumped from Miss Pie and began making gestures. Soon, an entire slew of animals, ranging from birds, foxes, and squirrels. The animals on the ground ran past our feet, throwing us off our balance. Tiny hummingbirds attempt to peck at our heads. Master Xavier and I had to pick up the twins when the squirrels tried to climb onto us. Thankfully, Miss Heartstrings caught all the animals in her magic. Understandably, Miss Nyx chose that moment to retaliate with rock in hand. Before she could take a step, however, a roar rang out. A grizzly bear of sizable portions burst from the foliage. The sudden appearance of such a dangerous animal threw us all off guard. Master Xavier, unfortunately, falls to the ground with Cecelia. That garnered the attention of the bear as it came barreling toward them. For the briefest moments, I felt the familiar grip of fear plague my heart. I thought this simple outing would turn into another tragedy to endure. However, Miss Pie stepped in front of the bear. She disapproved that I did not believe a cheerful mare like her could produce.

"Harry! What are you doing? You're scarring my new friends!"

I had to rub my glasses clean after seeing the look of confusion and remorse on the bear. "Pinkie's right! What would Fluttershy say if she found out you all were acting like this," Miss Heartstrings said sternly.

"Are you kidding?" The familiar voice of Rainbow Dash said. She landed with a gust of wind. The proud smirk on her features told us she was behind this attack. "As if I ever let the crazy Hyoo-mans near my friends!

"Rainbow. Did you do this?" Miss Pie asks, hurt evident in her voice.

"Did you see the looks on their faces? Ahaha! That was priceless! That was my best idea yet!"

"Rainbow, are you crazy--"

Miss Heartstrings didn't get to finish as Miss Nyx tackled Rainbow Dash to the ground. The smug look instantly shifted to one of fear as Miss Nyx cocked back her fist. "You spectral bitch!!!"

That's when our escort decided to intervene. One of the unicorn guards fires a beam of magic that strikes Miss Nyx on the shoulder before she can throw a punch. Miss Nyx rolled on the ground, clutching her shoulder from the severe burn. Master Leonardo ran to her aid, but Rainbow Dash recovered and tackled him to the guard. The guards joined her and held him down. Thankfully, Master Leonardo remained still and didn't resist. The Crews siblings called out to their brother before the guards began to surround us. Master Xavier and I stood protectively in front of the Madam and the twins as they drew their weapons. My concern grew when one of the guards approached Miss Nyx. When one of them hoisted her by the wrong arm, Miss Nyx shrieked before headbutting the guard in the muzzle. Then, she tossed said guard into the other two while stealing a weapon. Miss Nyx brandished the dagger with her good arm and gritted teeth. However, Miss Heartstrings vanished in a bright flash that hurt my eyes. When the pain faded, we saw Miss Heartstrings standing protectively in front of Miss Nyx.

"STOP!!!"

"Lyra! Get away from her! She's got a weapon!" Rainbow Dashed stated.

"Angie isn't going to do anything as long as everypony stops hurting her!" Lyra turns a pleading glance at Mis Nyx. "Right?"

"Oh, yeah. It's all sunshine and rainbows while we all sing kumbayah. Except FUCK THAT!!!One of these cunts going pay for the burn on my arm!!!" Miss Nyx shouted out of anger and pain.

"Put down the weapon. You are under arrest for assaulting a royal guard and public figure!" One of the guards said.

"What? We didn't assault anyone! She provoked us!!!" Miss Juliet shouted.

"Rainbow Dash is an element bearer. That makes her a national hero and under the protection. We have standing orders--!"

"Your orders were to escort the humans while on our tour. What is your job while performing an escort?" Miss Heartstrings challenged!

The guards looked less sure of themselves now. "To ensure the safety of the VIP. But, the parameters are different since the VIPs are human. We are to act should they prove a danger to the general public!"

"Yeah, Lyra! What's your deal?" Rainbow Dash asked indignantly.

"Rainbow. Julie is bleeding," Miss Pie finally said.

Rainbow Dash flinches when she glances toward Miss Crews. "Oh, um. Well, no one told Angel to bite that hard!"

"Are you serious!?" Master Donatello shrieked.

"She's hurt real bad, Dashie! If this was a prank, it went too far!!!"

"The damage of that bite bled extensively. It needs treatment now!" I said.

"What is your name?" Miss Heartstrings asked, but it was more of a demand.

"Stern Visage; Sergent,"

"If you're on an escort mission, why didn't you protect the VIPs when the wild animals attacked?"

We saw a stern face scrunch up at that. Before the guard could speak, Rainbow Dash spoke up. "Hey! Everypony knows these animals are with Fluttershy!"

"And since when do Fluttershy's animals attack others like that?" Miss Heartstrings gestures to Young Juliet's hand. "Did Fluttershy tell them to do that?"

"You know Fluttershy would never do that! The animals knew how dangerous the humans were! Especially that one!" Rainbow Dash points at Miss Nyx, who growls at her.

"Angie acted in defense of herself after you provoked her! Maybe I should go to the princesses, who trusted me with the humans, and report all of your actions!"

"I just wanted to give them a good scare. Make the monkeys think twice about messing with my friends!"

"We were on tour, Rainbow! Are the trigger-happy guards not enough to make anypony think twice about trying anything!?" Miss Heartstrings was on the verge of yelling at this point. I'll also have to ask where she picked up that human pharsing. "And, now, she is hurt! Something that would not have happened if the guards stepped in and you didn't start. So, here's what's going to happen!" Miss Heartstrings marches right in front of the sergeant. "You're going to escort us to the hospital so Julie and Angie can get treated. And, you'll perform your duty, or I will inform the princesses. Is that a problem?"

Stern Visage wore a deep frown but nodded nonetheless. "...None, ma'am,"

Miss Heartstrings' attention quickly shifts back to Rainbow Dash. "And, you! I suggest you stop and think about what it means to be an element of harmony. Harmony applies to all species, not just ponies. If you would've come by their home, you would've known that. But, for now, you need to go, Rainbow,"

The guards allowed Master Leonard up as he quickly tended to Miss Nyx. Miss Nyx glared at Mister Crews, but he sent her a soft glance in return. The silent conversation continued for a minute before Miss Nyx relented and dropped her weapon. The two rejoined our group, and we began to walk away. "Urgh! I knew you were obsessed, but I never thought you would choose the humans over your friends. Well, not us. We know where we stand!" Rainbow Dash said, pointing to herself and Pinkie. The latter of the two looked conflicted and lost. "You wait, Lyra. When they hurt somepony, it'll be on your head. Come on, Pinkie!"

"B-b-but, Dashie--"

Miss Pie tried to say, but Rainbow Dash grabbed her hand and dragged her off. "Let's hurry and check on the girls. We need to let them know what happened!"

I must admit that it broke my heart to see that sweet mare look unsure about the situation. I notice the madam offers a sympathetic eye to Miss Pie. However, the mood cascaded down further with Miss Nyx's subsequent comments. "Fucking blue flying rat! It's on sight for her and that turncoat,"