Living in a time of Autumnby Star_ShadeChaptersChapter [1]Chapter [2]Chapter [3]Chapter [4]Chapter [5]Chapter [6]Chapter [1]This story is dedicated to my eldest sister. You taught me to look at the world with wonder and curiosity. A debt that could never be repaid, thank you. Chapter 1. “Are you sure about this Twilight?” Said Applejack. The two were at Twilight’s library and sitting in the living room, drinking tea together. “Of course, Applejack, the spell is completely harmless, I already tried it on Lyra, as I have already told you.” Said Twilight. “Explain it to me one more time, please Twilight, I want to get this right.” Said Applejack. “Fine, one more time. I was practicing a new spell that I have been working on, and I need somepony to test it on.” Huffed Twilight. “What was wrong with using Lyra?” Countered Applejack. “I already told you, she accidentally did something while the spell was active and somehow, changed it, or something. Tainted it… look I need a non-unicorn for this test, and you were the next best thing. Plus, you still owe me for helping you out with one of your tree’s contracting a strange magical illness. You owe me Applejack.” Said Twilight. “And you are sure that it won’t hurt me, at all?” Said Applejack. “Yes yes, now let me begin.” Said Twilight. “Fine fine, I yield, I just want to make sure nothing bad happens. You know how your magic testing in the past has gone. What even is this spell?” Said Applejack. “I can assure you this one will not hurt you, and it’s a secret, just stay calm. And whatever happens, just go with the flow. Don’t attempt anything drastic, and you should be fine.” Said Twilight. “Now I am even more curious, Twilight what-” But before Applejack could finish, Twilight had already begun and had cast the spell. “APPLEJACK!” Came a voice from afar. Applejack groggily opened her eyes, adjusting to her new surroundings. She was in bed, covered in a sheet, but something felt different. Pushing her body up, she noticed that her body bent a little too far as she stretched her hooves. Wait a moment, she didn’t have hooves! She could feel digits at the end of her legs, no arms now. What was she? She stared at her hoof, which had transformed into a circular part of flesh, with five digits extending away from it. This was all so strange. These digits were flexible, and she could feel each one individually. Not only did she have five digits on this arm, but she also had five others on the other, amazing! The endless possibilities of being able to use these digits to achieve great marvels was what Applejack was thinking when she heard a knock nearby. “Are you up honey?” Came a male voice from behind a door. “It’s your big day, and we have already let you sleep in past Eight O’clock, try and get up. Your mother has made you your favorite breakfast, and we are waiting for you downstairs. Don’t get distracted getting ready for today, OK?” The voice was oddly familiar, but also different. Applejack couldn’t place what was so weird but didn’t think about it for too long. “OK” Croaked our Applejack, and she heard whoever it was leaving. Continuing to take in her surroundings, she looked at the way the room was designed. There was a window in one corner, letting in rays of sun. In another corner sat a desk with crayons and markers and other drawing utensils, in a third corner sat an old drawer that had a mirror on top and with clothes coming out of it. That must be the place that she changed clothes, guesses Applejack. Deciding to get up and moving, Applejack looked down her body to see what her other appendages looked like. As she was looking down, she noted she was wearing pajamas with little apples on them. As she reached the end of her body scan, she saw her legs, which were bare. Similar to her arms, her legs also had five digits each on the end. Trying to see if they had the same dexterity, she was quickly unsatisfied that they were not. Making a decision to move off the bed, Applejack quickly assessed what her limbs were used for. Swinging her legs down off the bed, she tried having one of her leg’s digits touch the floor, only to pull back immediately as the floor was incredibly cold. As she glanced down at the annoying floor, she noticed six items on the floor, near her bed. These six items were in pairs of two. The first, seemed to be a kind of sock that you would fit over your leg. Except it seemed that it was much smaller, maybe only going up to the base of where the foot began. The second, seemed to be a pair of shoes that you would be able to slide into with the feet. The third, seemed to be boots that had a little cute butterfly design on the sides. These seemed to be outside work boots, as Applejack could see some mud had accumulated on them. Weighing her options, Applejack bent down and retrieved the two socks. Pulling them over her feet, she bent down once again and retrieved the slippers and fitted them on also. Daring to brave the cold floor again, Applejack swung her legs over and attempted to put more weight on them, hoisting her body up was tricky, but eventually she was able to balance long enough to be able to get over to her dresser. It would seem that these creatures wore clothes all the time. So Applejack quickly swapped out of her pajamas and put on a standard outfit. Nothing superb, she didn’t have Rarity’s fashion, but she was able to do with what she was given. Taking a closer look at herself, she seemed to be an adolescent girl with freckles and strawberry red hair. As she practiced walking around more, Applejack was appreciative that she was accustomed to walking on all four. It was amazing how these bipedal creatures to balance on two legs, how they got anywhere was amazing on its own. Stumbling towards the doorway, Applejack could smell that something was cooking downstairs, and whatever it was, it smelled good. Author's Note Transformation is probably not my forte, but I gave an attempt for this contest. Chapter [2]Chapter 2. Making her way downstairs was an interesting experience to say the least. Yet eventually Applejack got through it and was able to make it all the way down without falling. As she made her way to the place that the smell of food wafted in, she was met with a smiling creature, cooking something on a stove. “Good morning Applejack. I can’t believe today is the day. You have grown so much. Happy birthday sweetie.” Said the creature, who was similar to Applejack. It was probably it’s mother, Applejack reflected. “Hey, my darling girl, come sit down and tell me about this drawing you made us.” Came the masculine voice from another room. Probably the father. Applejack finally had the revelation of why these people were so familiar. They were like her parents! Her parents, if they were these creatures. “Ah ok, coming.” Applejack said, as she moved away from the kitchen and sat next to her father. He was reading a newspaper and had a drawing on the table in front of him. There was a plate of food on it, covering whatever the main drawing was. “Come sit honey, your mother is making your favorite breakfast. Glazed apple fritters, correct?” He said. “Uh, yeah. Those are my favorite; how did you know?” Said Applejack. “You asked us to make it yesterday evening, don’t you remember?” He said. “I guess so.” Said Applejack. At that moment, her father moved away his plate and showed the drawing to Applejack. “This is a pretty good drawing Applejack; you are your friends are quite the artists.” He said. The picture was three pumpkins with faces on each, with the third one being herself, in this form, carving the final face. It was quite an interesting drawing to say the least, but Applejack was never the creative type. “Thanks, I guess.” Applejack said. “You are your friends, the CMC, right? They are all pretty creative.” He said. Before Applejack could reply, her mother brought in a dish of food, placing a square in front of Applejack. “Dig in sweetie. Even though it is your birthday, you still need to help Apple Bloom rake in some leaves that fell near the back of our house. After that, you two are going to have an adventure that she has been planning in the woods all of yesterday.” Said her mother. “Apple Bloom?” Asked Applejack. “Yes, your older sister has planned out your day, and she is waiting for you outside when you have finished breakfast, so eat up.” She said. She set down some silverware in front of Applejack, with the plate that smelled delicious. Without a second thought, Applejack grabbed the fork and eagerly stabbed the food. “Happy birthday Applejack. It’s going to be such an exciting day today!” Her mother said. As Applejack dig into her food, her parents returned to their work. Finishing the delicious food, Applejack was about to head out before her mother caught her. “Don’t forget to put on your fall clothing. Wouldn’t want to catch a cold on your birthday.” Said her mother. Confused, Applejack waited as her mother went to a closet and grabbed a coat. Thankfully her mother helped her put on the garment. Satisfied that her daughter would be well warm, she gently pushed her out the door and sent her on her way. As Applejack made her way to the backyard, she was amazed at how beautiful everything was outside. She was used to bright and vivid colors. What she saw was a different contrast and everything seemed a little bleaker, but still very much real. Looking at her surroundings, she noted that the trees had their beautiful fall leaves, and that most is not all has shed their leaves. The backyard expanded into a forest with a steam running through it. As Applejack was looking around the backyard vicinity, she saw that the leaves were collected into piles around the trees. The collector was hard at work raking the leaves into piles, and this worker seemed to be her older sister, Apple Bloom. She quickly recognized her little, well now older, sister hard at work. It was strange to see her younger sister be older than her, her features more developed while it seemed that Applejack was younger. Applejack had enjoyed the time of being an older sister to Apple Bloom and now the tables have turned, and now it would seem that she was on the receiving end of sisterly affection. When Apple Bloom noticed her younger sister starting at her while she was hard at work, she smiled and waved her over. “Boy Applejack you sure slept in late. I was able to do most of the work, but I still need your help raking the remainder of these leaves up. When we are done with that, I can get us some trash bags and we can fill them with the leaves. Here, take this rake and help me finish up.” Said Apple Bloom. For the next hour and a half, Applejack and Apple Bloom worked on pilling the leaves up. It was hard work, yet Applejack enjoyed it. The experience of holding something in one’s hand was fantastic. She could feel herself working up a sweat as she worked. Once they had finished clearing all the leaves that were inside the boundary of the backyard, Apple Bloom went inside to grab some trash bags for them. Eventually, Apple Bloom returned with the trash bags. Applejack held the bag as big and best she could, while Apple Bloom dumped leaves into them. It was another hour of gruesome work, but eventually they cleared the yard of all the piles of leaves. Once finished, Applejack sat and set her back against a tree, with Apple Bloom tying the last bag and tossing it into the pile they had created of all the bags. “I have to tell dad that we are done, then we can go have our adventure. Stay put.” Said Apple Bloom. As Apple Bloom returned into the house, Applejack turned her eyes to the forest that they would be exploring. What mysteries lie hidden away in these woods? Was this place like the Everfree forest? So far it seemed that this place didn’t have magic. Applejack’s thoughts were interrupted when she heard two voices leaving the house. “Yes, you two can go. Enjoy the rest of the day.” Said her mother. “Thanks, it’s going to be a blast.” Said Apple Bloom, who was holding the piece of paper that was her drawing. Turning away, she ran over to where Applejack was sitting. “Alright, Mom gave us the go to explore. Are you ready?” Not really knowing what else was to entail, Applejack agreed. “Let’s go have an adventure.” Chapter [3]Chapter 3. They quickly left the edge of the backyard and entered the forest. Apple Bloom was surprisingly quiet, and Applejack quickly got lost into whatever direction they were going. Coming into a clearing, Apple Bloom wordless sat down in. Confused, Applejack joined her. “Do you trust me, Applejack?” Asked Apple Bloom. Caught off guard, Applejack had to ponder the question. “Yes. Everything seems so different, but I know you won’t lead me astray.” Replied Applejack. “Good, now I want you to close your eyes.” Said Apple Bloom. Still confused, but trusting her sister, Applejack closed her eyes, but tensed for something to happen. “I’m not going to slap you silly, relax. I want you to experience something.” Not opening her eyes, Applejack relaxed, and found that it was actually really nice. She could hear the leaves being blown around her. The trees swaying with the wind. “Can you hear that? It’s the trees. They are singing in the wind. Dancing with their Autumn dresses. Hear how they chatter, and the way they creak.” Whispered Apple Bloom. Straining her ears, Applejack could hear it. The trees, they were alive! Not as some magical entity, but as old living things. It was amazing! “Now listen, hear how they dance in the wind, how they love sharing their secrets with one another. The older you get, the easier it is to hear them. Nowadays people are so quick to go day to day with their lives. Hoping that tomorrow was better than today. They don’t stop and enjoy the here and now. That’s why I brought you here. You have an appreciation for nature. I want you to continue in that Applejack.” Said Apple Bloom. “Thanks, Apple Bloom. This is all really cool.” Said Applejack, without opening her eyes. “You are very welcome. Today I get to spend all day with my favorite sister of all time. Who would pass up this wonderful time? Now then. I want you to open your eyes and look at the world at the perspective of just enjoying it. Experience it in a way that you can be a part of it.” Said Apple Bloom. Opening her eyes, Applejack looked upon the world she was in with a new appreciation. She could feel the dirt with her fingers. She could smell the air, filled with dampness and hints of pine. She could see the sun, getting close to being past noon. She could hear the wind howling in her ear, the trees bending and dancing. It was all so beautiful! The only thing that was missing was the final sense she hadn’t experienced yet. Apple Bloom laid a had on her shoulder, and with the other, she held a leaf that looked like a regular leaf you could find on the ground. Looking expectantly, Apple Bloom gave the leaf to Applejack. “I want you to taste it. It’s Sassafras. It tastes like root beer but is a little spicy.” She said. Eager to try, Applejack munched the leaf in two bites. Immediately the flavor exploded in her mouth, being cold from the weather, the taste was even better. It was spicy, that was for sure. She could also taste the hint of root beer that it created too. Tears came to her eyes as she experienced all the wonderful senses of the forest. When she got back to her old body, she would thank Twilight for how wonderful this whole experience was. “Thanks Apple Bloom, this was amazing.” Said Applejack. “Your very welcome. But don’t think we aren’t done yet. We still have more things that I want to show you. However, tell me about this drawing of yours. It’s pretty good.” Said Apple Bloom. “Drawing? Oh yeah, the one of the pumpkins. What do you think of it?” Said Applejack. “It’s pretty impressive, you have the same appreciation I have for art. What does CMC stand for again? You had told me earlier and I forgot.” Asked Apple Bloom. “It stands for Cuti-” But Applejack couldn’t finish, because Apple Bloom had an exclamation. “Oh yeah, now I remember. You and your friends formed the Crayon and Marker Creations’ group, right?” Said Apple Bloom. “Yeah, the Crayon and Marker Creations. Boy Twilight, you sure are funny sometimes.” Said Applejack. “Twilight is one of your friends, right? You all are so creative, you plan on entering into a drawing competition pretty soon, correct?” Said Apple Bloom. “Yeah, I really like drawing.” Said Applejack. “Anyway, that’s enough chatting for now. We need to head back and get some lunch before we make our way to the waterfall. That sound good to you?” Said Apple Bloom. As they made their way back to the house, Apple Bloom stopped by the stream that was running by. Laying down, she fished around and caught an interesting creature in her hand. Showing Applejack, Apple Bloom explained what it was. “This is a crawdad; these funny little creatures move quickly. They swim backwards whenever they encounter an enemy. The way to catch them is to guess where they will go next, and you will be able to get them.” Said Apple Bloom. “But why catch them at all? What do they do?” Asked Applejack. “Oh, all sorts of things, they are bottom feeders, mainly live in freshwater environments. Normally if the water isn’t super polluted, then you can have a pretty good guess that the water is healthy enough to somewhat drink. They look cool and are super fun to catch. The older you get, the more you can experience the life that is around you.” Said Apple Bloom. “Wow, I didn’t know that, that’s pretty cool.” Said Applejack, all these things were new to her. “Too bad you can’t stick with me forever. I could show you all the wonderful things I know about nature. Yet sadly, we all have our own lives. Now then, I think we really should head back. I’m hungry.” Said Apple Bloom. Applejacks stomach rumbled in agreement, and she couldn’t help but let out a laugh. They both giggled as they made their way back to their house. Chapter [4]Chapter 4. Eating a quick lunch, Applejack and Apple Bloom returned to the forest to continue their exploration. This time, they followed the stream of water flowing. “Too bad its not warmer, then we could go in for a dip. I always loved jumping off the waterfall during the summer. Maybe when it’s spring, we can go for a swim. But that’s not why I brought you along” Said Apple Bloom. “That sounds like fun. Too bad its Autumn.” Said, remembering the season Applejack. “Anyway, we are here.” Said Apple Bloom. Together they climbed down and made their way towards the bottom of the waterfall. Climbing down was even more difficult for Applejack, as she didn’t know how much upper body strength this form had, and she had never tried balancing on her front arms. Apple Bloom reached the bottom first and helped her sister down. “It can get super slippery during the rainy season, so you will have to be careful not to fall as we climb.” Said Apple Bloom. “Thanks.” Replied Applejack. Reaching the bottom, they both shuffled around to the other side of the waterfall. Reversing their course, Apple Bloom started to climb up the side of the waterfall. Applejack was a little more anxious of climbing up, rather than climbing down. Eventually Apple Bloom reached the point of wherever she was going and passed through the vines that were growing in the middle of the rocks. Sticking her head out again, Apple Bloom encouraged Applejack to climb up. Finally finding the courage, Applejack attempted the climb. It was much harder to climb upward then downward. She had a much higher fear of falling now, than she did when she was coming down. Getting closer to her goal, Applejack was just about to hoist herself up and over when one of the rocks below her gave way. Letting out a short shriek, she lost her footing and nearly fell all the way back onto hard stone when a hand shot out and grasped her arm. “I got ya Applejack.” Said Apple Bloom. She then quickly grabbed Applejack’s other arm and helped her up over and into the cave. “Thanks, I guess I am not as good at climbing as you are.” Said Applejack out of breath. “It’s all good Applejack. Anyway, here is the cave that I wanted to show you. It’s a shrine I made for Big Mcintosh.” Said Apple Bloom. “I know it’s been two years since the car accident, but I still miss him.” “Oh yeah. It’s been pretty sad since he’s been gone.” Said Applejack remembering what Twilight said about going along. “Yeah, everyone has their coping mechanisms, right? I built this because he was so smart about nature. He and I would go exploring for hours on end. We used to have some of the best adventures. I really miss him.” Said Apple Bloom, tears coming to her eyes. “Hey, it’s OK. You still have me, right? Bad things happen in our past, we lose loved ones, but we have to move on.” Said Applejack comfortingly. “When did you grow up so fast Applejack.” Sniffled Apple Bloom. “We all have to grow up eventually. But that doesn’t mean we can’t forget about our past. Don’t be sad because he’s gone, be happy he was here, and you gotta grow up with him.” Said Applejack. “Your right, maybe I should put away my childish things, and move on. Thanks Applejack.” Said Apple Bloom. The two of them just stared out of the hole that was the cave. Watching the sun slowly lower in the sky. “You know, your brother had the most creative mind of us all. Me and him used to sit here, talking for hours about our lives, and what we would grow up to be. We used to think about some of the craziest and coolest stuff here.” Said Apple Bloom. “That’s cool, what did he think about it?” Said Applejack. “He used to fantasize that this waterfall was a gateway into another world. A world of magic and friendship. A world of dastardly villains and fantastical power. Beings that could control the sun and moon.” Said Apple Bloom. “Interesting. That sounds like fun, at least that world does.” Said Applejack. “If only it was real, and this world was fake. I would love to live in a world of magic and fantasy.” Said Apple Bloom. “Do you believe that magic is real?” Asked Applejack. “I mean, I know magic isn’t real, but it would be pretty cool if it was. Think of all the cool things we could do with magic!” Said Apple Bloom. “Oh, that’s cool.” Said Applejack. “Cheer up Applejack, real life is way cooler than any fantasy you can create. You can fall in love, have a loving husband. Start a family of your own. The world is your oyster.” Said Apple Bloom. “Yeah, I guess so.” Said Applejack. “Well, I guess you are right. We should put the past behind us. Come on, it’s getting late and we need to set up camp.” Said Apple Bloom. Climbing down again, Applejack was more careful of where she would put her feet this time. Getting down safely, Applejack helped her sister down. They eventually made their way back up the waterfall and trudged back home. As they were heading back, Applejack thought about all the things that Apple Bloom said. Whatever world Twilight had made was fantastic, but it was too realistic. Applejack was never a great philosopher, so when she thought, this place seemed like a real life. The thoughts and experiences of these creatures was gripping. She also came to the realization that if she spent enough time here, she would lose herself in this world. Coming to this conclusion, Applejack had to continually remind herself that this wasn’t real. It was just some figment of Twilight’s imagination gone crazy. Yet, the experiences she had, when all five of her senses were used, Applejack found that she enjoyed it. The freshness of a world so foreign, yet so set in real experiences was gripping. If she were to continue into this, she would either go mad, or grow to live in this wonderfully beautiful world. Eventually, Applejack’s train of thought got derailed when they arrived back at their little house. Before entering, Applejack took a good look at the humble abode she, or at least these creatures, called home. It was a nice cabin structure with a brick chimney with a steady stream of smoke coming out. Not wanting to have everyone waiting on her, Applejack quickly went inside to eat the prepared meal. Chapter [5]Chapter 5. The dinner went faster than Applejack wished. It would seem that Apple Bloom had one final surprise for her to experience, and the pleas that came when Applejack voiced that she was starting to feel tired after the meal. “You can’t be tired yet! We haven’t even got to where you will be sleeping tonight.” Said Apple Bloom. “I would suppose here?” Wondered Applejack. “No silly, we are going camping outside in the woods! Don’t worry, I already have everything set up, I had it all done yesterday while you were at school. Come on, it will be fun!” Said Apple Bloom enthusiastically. “Very well, I could never refuse your requests anyway.” Said Applejack. “That’s my little sister!” Said Apple Bloom happily. As they once again, traversed the forest for what seemed like the last time. It was much cooler now, and the moon shone overhead and made interesting shadows with the trees. They both stopped to listen and enjoy the trees that moved with the wind. Not to be dissuaded from their course, Apple Bloom continued into the direction they were going. Finally reaching another clearing, this time with a square area that Applejack assumed was for setting up the tent. They both stared at the tent, when suddenly Apple Bloom started to giggle. “It’s been awhile since I have set up a tent. I should have done it before it got dark. Oh well.” She said and shrugged. The setting up of the tent went surprisingly easy, as Applejack had some knowledge, but in a new body it wasn’t easy. Eventually they finished, and Apple Bloom brought out some blankets for the two of them to lie down and look at the sky. While she was setting that up, Applejack was hard at work trying to light a fire, unsuccessfully. The matchbox that Apple Bloom gave her completely confused her, and she kept on breaking the little sticks that were supposedly light on fire if she stroked them hard enough. Apple Bloom finished setting up the beds and came over to her sister, who was still struggling. Smiling, she showed Applejack how it was done, striking it and then cupping it with her hand so that the wind wouldn’t put it out. Lowering herself, she put the flame against the dried leaf pile they had made. Waiting for a moment, the fire eventually lit the leaf on fire. It was still a slow process, so Apple Bloom moved to another side to light the other leaves. A few minutes later, they eventually got a roaring fire, with plenty of firewood stacked in a neat pile next to it to keep it stable. Staring at the fire, Applejack realised that it was different. In Equestria, the fire was more animated and served as a source of light and a bit of warmth. Yet here, it was so much different. It was like the warmth seeping into her bones. The sight of the flame flickering was intoxicating, and Applejack didn’t notice the Apple Bloom had grabbed something from inside the tent until she was poked gently by her sister. “I brought some smore supplies.” Said Apple Bloom. “Smores?” Said Applejack. “You know, chocolate, marshmallows and graham crackers?” Said Apple Bloom matter-of-factly. “Oh yeah, I forgot. It’s been awhile since I have had one.” Said Applejack. “Exactly! Smores are always the necessary snack to have when you are camping!” Said Apple Bloom. She then passed Applejack a stick and placed a marshmallow on it. She then grabbed her own stick and plopped a marshmallow on it as well. Putting the marshmallow close to the fire, Applejack made sure not to burn it, and get it close to golden. Eventually it ripened, and Apple Bloom had the necessary supplies nearby and Applejack was able to build her first smore. A momentous occasion, if she didn’t immediately eat it. The flavor was even better in this form than in her normal form. The flavor of chocolate mixed with warm marshmallow was an amazing taste. Hungrily eating away, Applejack finished her first one and immediately put a second one on the stick to make another. Several smores later, and with sticky fingers, Applejack and Apple Bloom climbed into their respective sleeping bags next to each other and stared up into the sky. “Do you see the sky Applejack, it’s a beautiful thing. We humans have polluted it with our lights, but out here in the country, we can see so many more than most people. All the constellations in their spiralling mystery.” Said Apple Bloom. “Yeah, it sure is cool.” Said Applejack. Almost all the stars she saw were vastly different to the ones that she was used to. She hoped that Apple Bloom would point out the constellations. “Did you know that Mcintosh had a funny way of looking at the stars? Not only did he see constellation like Hercules and Corona Borealis and the big and little dipper, the ones we were taught to look for. But he would look for the gap between stars and try and form his own constellations. Like looking at clouds and hoping they made shapes, he would look at the empty sky and see the coolest things.” Said Apple Bloom. The way she explained it was astonishing. Applejack had never thought about looking at the night sky like that. Looking with a new intent, she could see the endless possibilities that were right there! There up in the sky with all the stars. “Mcintosh sure had a creative brain, huh.” Said Applejack. “He sure did. But like you said, we need to move on. I just hope I can share cool stories with my own children. To leave a legacy.” Said Apple Bloom. “If you could ask Mcintosh anything, what would you say?” Asked Applejack. “I would ask him what it was like to live among the heavens now, he always was up there in his head. I would thank him for being such a good brother, and cry that he wasn’t able to form a good relationship with you.” Answered Apple Bloom. The sobering words hit Applejack hard, and she finally let go of her emotions and cried. Surprisingly, Apple Bloom cried with her, and together, they stared into the night sky with wonder in awe. Applejack hugged Apple Bloom and wished she could hug her real sister. It was then, that Applejack fell asleep. Chapter [6]Chapter 6. Applejack then woke up, or rather stirred in her seat. “So, how was it?” Asked Twilight. Applejack, still reeling from the experience fell off the chair. Worried about her friend, Twilight moved over to see what happened. What she found surprised her. Applejack was on the floor, crying. All the emotions that she experienced now felt alien to her. She could remember them happening, the transformation into a human, but now that she was back again, she didn’t know what she should be feeling. Eventually, she wiped away her tears, got up, and responded to Twilight. “Th- Thanks Twilight. I really needed that. What even was that spell?” She said. Instantly regretting asking, Twilight immediately went into a full explanation. “Oh, it’s a very complex spell that helps with creating experiences. I wanted to try and test it and see if I could recreate memories and such. I was hoping to show Princess Celestia what I had accomplished. I attempted the spell with Lyra but something happened and so it got tainted with her own ideas and those clashed with mine and created a weird world. And then I-” She started, but then she got cut off by Applejack. “I don’t need a full explanation, just want to know what happened.” Said Applejack. “Oh.” Said Twilight curtly. “Anyway, thanks Twilight. That was a rollercoaster of an experience, but I would avoid continuing to practice it. I got lost in the body of whatever I was, and if you are going to have other ponies experience it, you have to be careful that they don’t get mad.” Said Applejack, getting up. Returning to a quadruple was refreshing. “Your right Applejack. I need to be more careful. I'll write a friendship report about this to Celestia right now.” Said Twilight, leaving the room to grab something to write. Applejack stumbled out of Twilight’s place and shielded her eyes to the sun. She was still disoriented since she had just experienced a whole day in another reality. Eventually she made her way back to Sweet Apple Acres and went looking for Apple Bloom. Starting with the house, Applejack went and checked Apple Bloom’s room. Finding it empty, she decided to head to the barn. As she was on her way to the barn, she noticed Big Mcintosh hard at work, bucking trees, and Applejack went over to meet him. “Hey Mcintosh, have you seen Apple Bloom?” She asked. “Nnope.” He replied. “Do you know where she is right now?” She said. “Nnope.” He said again. “Alright, thanks. Are you doing alright?” She said, concerned for his well being. “Eeyup.” “OK, if you see her, can you tell her I’m looking for her? Thanks.” She said. Continuing her search, Applejack went to the CMC clubhouse to look for Apple Bloom there. Still not finding her there, Applejack was starting to get in a frenzy looking for her sister. She eventually found her at Sugarcube Corner, eating a dessert with her friends. “Apple Bloom!” Said Applejack. “Oh, hey Applejack, is something wrong?” She said questioningly. Looking at Applejack expectedly. “Uh yeah, can I speak with you privately?” Said Applejack. “Did Apple Bloom do something wrong Applejack? Asked Scootaloo. “No nothing wrong, just have to tell her something, that’s all. If you could excuse us.” Said Applejack. “Alright, see you later girls!” Said Apple Bloom. “So, what did you want to tell me?” Said Apple Bloom. “Well I don’t really know where to start but…” Said Applejack, trailing off. Without thinking or hesitating, she hugged Apple Bloom. “What was that for?” Wondered Apple Bloom, a little confused. “I just want to let you know that I love you Apple Bloom. And that I’m proud of you, regardless of whatever you do.” Said Applejack. “Wow, thanks. I love you too sis.” Said Apple Bloom, still confused. “What spurred you to do this?” “Twilight just reminded me of how special family is. She experimented on me with one of her hair brained new spells. It had me get changed in a new body, which was cool. Had me experience a totally fantastic world. And you know what was the best part? You were there too. Our ages were flipped, and you were my big sister.” Explained Applejack. “Whoa, that sounds like fun, but what happened?” Said Apple Bloom. “Well, I was reminded of you and your special gifts. I was reminded of a world of sadness and one of joy. I saw what it was like to be a younger sister, and to be joyful of the events that we have together. That’s why I want to spend the rest of the day with my favorite sister.” Said Applejack. “Really!? You would do that for me?” Said Apple Bloom, astonished. “Of course, when was the last time you or I got to hang out together? It will be great.” Said Applejack. Together they walked and talked about all the things that Applejack experienced and the adventure that she had. “You know, I never did figure out how old I was turning when everypony said it was my birthday. I wonder why that was?” Said Applejack. “Maybe it was just an excuse to have older me hanging out with you. All the things she told you were pretty cool.” Said Apple Bloom. “I guess so, I guess I still wish to know how old I was turning. But maybe some things should stay a mystery. We can’t know everything, nor can we control everything. We need to just deal with what we are given.” Said Applejack. “Well I am glad you owed Twilight. I could feel that we were drifting apart but didn’t know how to approach the matter.” Said Apple Bloom. “And that’s my fault, I should have been a better older sister for you. I realize that now, but now I can change that. It’s time for us to have our own adventures, don’t you think?” Said Applejack. And with that being said, Applejack and Apple Bloom hugged, and walked home together. Thus concluding, the end of this story. Yet, the beginning of many, many more adventures. Author's Note And thus ends the mini fic I made. I must say, writing this was fun. A little bummed I didn't make it in any place, but there are more talented people than me. Hope you enjoyed!
Chapter [1]This story is dedicated to my eldest sister. You taught me to look at the world with wonder and curiosity. A debt that could never be repaid, thank you. Chapter 1. “Are you sure about this Twilight?” Said Applejack. The two were at Twilight’s library and sitting in the living room, drinking tea together. “Of course, Applejack, the spell is completely harmless, I already tried it on Lyra, as I have already told you.” Said Twilight. “Explain it to me one more time, please Twilight, I want to get this right.” Said Applejack. “Fine, one more time. I was practicing a new spell that I have been working on, and I need somepony to test it on.” Huffed Twilight. “What was wrong with using Lyra?” Countered Applejack. “I already told you, she accidentally did something while the spell was active and somehow, changed it, or something. Tainted it… look I need a non-unicorn for this test, and you were the next best thing. Plus, you still owe me for helping you out with one of your tree’s contracting a strange magical illness. You owe me Applejack.” Said Twilight. “And you are sure that it won’t hurt me, at all?” Said Applejack. “Yes yes, now let me begin.” Said Twilight. “Fine fine, I yield, I just want to make sure nothing bad happens. You know how your magic testing in the past has gone. What even is this spell?” Said Applejack. “I can assure you this one will not hurt you, and it’s a secret, just stay calm. And whatever happens, just go with the flow. Don’t attempt anything drastic, and you should be fine.” Said Twilight. “Now I am even more curious, Twilight what-” But before Applejack could finish, Twilight had already begun and had cast the spell. “APPLEJACK!” Came a voice from afar. Applejack groggily opened her eyes, adjusting to her new surroundings. She was in bed, covered in a sheet, but something felt different. Pushing her body up, she noticed that her body bent a little too far as she stretched her hooves. Wait a moment, she didn’t have hooves! She could feel digits at the end of her legs, no arms now. What was she? She stared at her hoof, which had transformed into a circular part of flesh, with five digits extending away from it. This was all so strange. These digits were flexible, and she could feel each one individually. Not only did she have five digits on this arm, but she also had five others on the other, amazing! The endless possibilities of being able to use these digits to achieve great marvels was what Applejack was thinking when she heard a knock nearby. “Are you up honey?” Came a male voice from behind a door. “It’s your big day, and we have already let you sleep in past Eight O’clock, try and get up. Your mother has made you your favorite breakfast, and we are waiting for you downstairs. Don’t get distracted getting ready for today, OK?” The voice was oddly familiar, but also different. Applejack couldn’t place what was so weird but didn’t think about it for too long. “OK” Croaked our Applejack, and she heard whoever it was leaving. Continuing to take in her surroundings, she looked at the way the room was designed. There was a window in one corner, letting in rays of sun. In another corner sat a desk with crayons and markers and other drawing utensils, in a third corner sat an old drawer that had a mirror on top and with clothes coming out of it. That must be the place that she changed clothes, guesses Applejack. Deciding to get up and moving, Applejack looked down her body to see what her other appendages looked like. As she was looking down, she noted she was wearing pajamas with little apples on them. As she reached the end of her body scan, she saw her legs, which were bare. Similar to her arms, her legs also had five digits each on the end. Trying to see if they had the same dexterity, she was quickly unsatisfied that they were not. Making a decision to move off the bed, Applejack quickly assessed what her limbs were used for. Swinging her legs down off the bed, she tried having one of her leg’s digits touch the floor, only to pull back immediately as the floor was incredibly cold. As she glanced down at the annoying floor, she noticed six items on the floor, near her bed. These six items were in pairs of two. The first, seemed to be a kind of sock that you would fit over your leg. Except it seemed that it was much smaller, maybe only going up to the base of where the foot began. The second, seemed to be a pair of shoes that you would be able to slide into with the feet. The third, seemed to be boots that had a little cute butterfly design on the sides. These seemed to be outside work boots, as Applejack could see some mud had accumulated on them. Weighing her options, Applejack bent down and retrieved the two socks. Pulling them over her feet, she bent down once again and retrieved the slippers and fitted them on also. Daring to brave the cold floor again, Applejack swung her legs over and attempted to put more weight on them, hoisting her body up was tricky, but eventually she was able to balance long enough to be able to get over to her dresser. It would seem that these creatures wore clothes all the time. So Applejack quickly swapped out of her pajamas and put on a standard outfit. Nothing superb, she didn’t have Rarity’s fashion, but she was able to do with what she was given. Taking a closer look at herself, she seemed to be an adolescent girl with freckles and strawberry red hair. As she practiced walking around more, Applejack was appreciative that she was accustomed to walking on all four. It was amazing how these bipedal creatures to balance on two legs, how they got anywhere was amazing on its own. Stumbling towards the doorway, Applejack could smell that something was cooking downstairs, and whatever it was, it smelled good. Author's Note Transformation is probably not my forte, but I gave an attempt for this contest.
Chapter [2]Chapter 2. Making her way downstairs was an interesting experience to say the least. Yet eventually Applejack got through it and was able to make it all the way down without falling. As she made her way to the place that the smell of food wafted in, she was met with a smiling creature, cooking something on a stove. “Good morning Applejack. I can’t believe today is the day. You have grown so much. Happy birthday sweetie.” Said the creature, who was similar to Applejack. It was probably it’s mother, Applejack reflected. “Hey, my darling girl, come sit down and tell me about this drawing you made us.” Came the masculine voice from another room. Probably the father. Applejack finally had the revelation of why these people were so familiar. They were like her parents! Her parents, if they were these creatures. “Ah ok, coming.” Applejack said, as she moved away from the kitchen and sat next to her father. He was reading a newspaper and had a drawing on the table in front of him. There was a plate of food on it, covering whatever the main drawing was. “Come sit honey, your mother is making your favorite breakfast. Glazed apple fritters, correct?” He said. “Uh, yeah. Those are my favorite; how did you know?” Said Applejack. “You asked us to make it yesterday evening, don’t you remember?” He said. “I guess so.” Said Applejack. At that moment, her father moved away his plate and showed the drawing to Applejack. “This is a pretty good drawing Applejack; you are your friends are quite the artists.” He said. The picture was three pumpkins with faces on each, with the third one being herself, in this form, carving the final face. It was quite an interesting drawing to say the least, but Applejack was never the creative type. “Thanks, I guess.” Applejack said. “You are your friends, the CMC, right? They are all pretty creative.” He said. Before Applejack could reply, her mother brought in a dish of food, placing a square in front of Applejack. “Dig in sweetie. Even though it is your birthday, you still need to help Apple Bloom rake in some leaves that fell near the back of our house. After that, you two are going to have an adventure that she has been planning in the woods all of yesterday.” Said her mother. “Apple Bloom?” Asked Applejack. “Yes, your older sister has planned out your day, and she is waiting for you outside when you have finished breakfast, so eat up.” She said. She set down some silverware in front of Applejack, with the plate that smelled delicious. Without a second thought, Applejack grabbed the fork and eagerly stabbed the food. “Happy birthday Applejack. It’s going to be such an exciting day today!” Her mother said. As Applejack dig into her food, her parents returned to their work. Finishing the delicious food, Applejack was about to head out before her mother caught her. “Don’t forget to put on your fall clothing. Wouldn’t want to catch a cold on your birthday.” Said her mother. Confused, Applejack waited as her mother went to a closet and grabbed a coat. Thankfully her mother helped her put on the garment. Satisfied that her daughter would be well warm, she gently pushed her out the door and sent her on her way. As Applejack made her way to the backyard, she was amazed at how beautiful everything was outside. She was used to bright and vivid colors. What she saw was a different contrast and everything seemed a little bleaker, but still very much real. Looking at her surroundings, she noted that the trees had their beautiful fall leaves, and that most is not all has shed their leaves. The backyard expanded into a forest with a steam running through it. As Applejack was looking around the backyard vicinity, she saw that the leaves were collected into piles around the trees. The collector was hard at work raking the leaves into piles, and this worker seemed to be her older sister, Apple Bloom. She quickly recognized her little, well now older, sister hard at work. It was strange to see her younger sister be older than her, her features more developed while it seemed that Applejack was younger. Applejack had enjoyed the time of being an older sister to Apple Bloom and now the tables have turned, and now it would seem that she was on the receiving end of sisterly affection. When Apple Bloom noticed her younger sister starting at her while she was hard at work, she smiled and waved her over. “Boy Applejack you sure slept in late. I was able to do most of the work, but I still need your help raking the remainder of these leaves up. When we are done with that, I can get us some trash bags and we can fill them with the leaves. Here, take this rake and help me finish up.” Said Apple Bloom. For the next hour and a half, Applejack and Apple Bloom worked on pilling the leaves up. It was hard work, yet Applejack enjoyed it. The experience of holding something in one’s hand was fantastic. She could feel herself working up a sweat as she worked. Once they had finished clearing all the leaves that were inside the boundary of the backyard, Apple Bloom went inside to grab some trash bags for them. Eventually, Apple Bloom returned with the trash bags. Applejack held the bag as big and best she could, while Apple Bloom dumped leaves into them. It was another hour of gruesome work, but eventually they cleared the yard of all the piles of leaves. Once finished, Applejack sat and set her back against a tree, with Apple Bloom tying the last bag and tossing it into the pile they had created of all the bags. “I have to tell dad that we are done, then we can go have our adventure. Stay put.” Said Apple Bloom. As Apple Bloom returned into the house, Applejack turned her eyes to the forest that they would be exploring. What mysteries lie hidden away in these woods? Was this place like the Everfree forest? So far it seemed that this place didn’t have magic. Applejack’s thoughts were interrupted when she heard two voices leaving the house. “Yes, you two can go. Enjoy the rest of the day.” Said her mother. “Thanks, it’s going to be a blast.” Said Apple Bloom, who was holding the piece of paper that was her drawing. Turning away, she ran over to where Applejack was sitting. “Alright, Mom gave us the go to explore. Are you ready?” Not really knowing what else was to entail, Applejack agreed. “Let’s go have an adventure.”
Chapter [3]Chapter 3. They quickly left the edge of the backyard and entered the forest. Apple Bloom was surprisingly quiet, and Applejack quickly got lost into whatever direction they were going. Coming into a clearing, Apple Bloom wordless sat down in. Confused, Applejack joined her. “Do you trust me, Applejack?” Asked Apple Bloom. Caught off guard, Applejack had to ponder the question. “Yes. Everything seems so different, but I know you won’t lead me astray.” Replied Applejack. “Good, now I want you to close your eyes.” Said Apple Bloom. Still confused, but trusting her sister, Applejack closed her eyes, but tensed for something to happen. “I’m not going to slap you silly, relax. I want you to experience something.” Not opening her eyes, Applejack relaxed, and found that it was actually really nice. She could hear the leaves being blown around her. The trees swaying with the wind. “Can you hear that? It’s the trees. They are singing in the wind. Dancing with their Autumn dresses. Hear how they chatter, and the way they creak.” Whispered Apple Bloom. Straining her ears, Applejack could hear it. The trees, they were alive! Not as some magical entity, but as old living things. It was amazing! “Now listen, hear how they dance in the wind, how they love sharing their secrets with one another. The older you get, the easier it is to hear them. Nowadays people are so quick to go day to day with their lives. Hoping that tomorrow was better than today. They don’t stop and enjoy the here and now. That’s why I brought you here. You have an appreciation for nature. I want you to continue in that Applejack.” Said Apple Bloom. “Thanks, Apple Bloom. This is all really cool.” Said Applejack, without opening her eyes. “You are very welcome. Today I get to spend all day with my favorite sister of all time. Who would pass up this wonderful time? Now then. I want you to open your eyes and look at the world at the perspective of just enjoying it. Experience it in a way that you can be a part of it.” Said Apple Bloom. Opening her eyes, Applejack looked upon the world she was in with a new appreciation. She could feel the dirt with her fingers. She could smell the air, filled with dampness and hints of pine. She could see the sun, getting close to being past noon. She could hear the wind howling in her ear, the trees bending and dancing. It was all so beautiful! The only thing that was missing was the final sense she hadn’t experienced yet. Apple Bloom laid a had on her shoulder, and with the other, she held a leaf that looked like a regular leaf you could find on the ground. Looking expectantly, Apple Bloom gave the leaf to Applejack. “I want you to taste it. It’s Sassafras. It tastes like root beer but is a little spicy.” She said. Eager to try, Applejack munched the leaf in two bites. Immediately the flavor exploded in her mouth, being cold from the weather, the taste was even better. It was spicy, that was for sure. She could also taste the hint of root beer that it created too. Tears came to her eyes as she experienced all the wonderful senses of the forest. When she got back to her old body, she would thank Twilight for how wonderful this whole experience was. “Thanks Apple Bloom, this was amazing.” Said Applejack. “Your very welcome. But don’t think we aren’t done yet. We still have more things that I want to show you. However, tell me about this drawing of yours. It’s pretty good.” Said Apple Bloom. “Drawing? Oh yeah, the one of the pumpkins. What do you think of it?” Said Applejack. “It’s pretty impressive, you have the same appreciation I have for art. What does CMC stand for again? You had told me earlier and I forgot.” Asked Apple Bloom. “It stands for Cuti-” But Applejack couldn’t finish, because Apple Bloom had an exclamation. “Oh yeah, now I remember. You and your friends formed the Crayon and Marker Creations’ group, right?” Said Apple Bloom. “Yeah, the Crayon and Marker Creations. Boy Twilight, you sure are funny sometimes.” Said Applejack. “Twilight is one of your friends, right? You all are so creative, you plan on entering into a drawing competition pretty soon, correct?” Said Apple Bloom. “Yeah, I really like drawing.” Said Applejack. “Anyway, that’s enough chatting for now. We need to head back and get some lunch before we make our way to the waterfall. That sound good to you?” Said Apple Bloom. As they made their way back to the house, Apple Bloom stopped by the stream that was running by. Laying down, she fished around and caught an interesting creature in her hand. Showing Applejack, Apple Bloom explained what it was. “This is a crawdad; these funny little creatures move quickly. They swim backwards whenever they encounter an enemy. The way to catch them is to guess where they will go next, and you will be able to get them.” Said Apple Bloom. “But why catch them at all? What do they do?” Asked Applejack. “Oh, all sorts of things, they are bottom feeders, mainly live in freshwater environments. Normally if the water isn’t super polluted, then you can have a pretty good guess that the water is healthy enough to somewhat drink. They look cool and are super fun to catch. The older you get, the more you can experience the life that is around you.” Said Apple Bloom. “Wow, I didn’t know that, that’s pretty cool.” Said Applejack, all these things were new to her. “Too bad you can’t stick with me forever. I could show you all the wonderful things I know about nature. Yet sadly, we all have our own lives. Now then, I think we really should head back. I’m hungry.” Said Apple Bloom. Applejacks stomach rumbled in agreement, and she couldn’t help but let out a laugh. They both giggled as they made their way back to their house.
Chapter [4]Chapter 4. Eating a quick lunch, Applejack and Apple Bloom returned to the forest to continue their exploration. This time, they followed the stream of water flowing. “Too bad its not warmer, then we could go in for a dip. I always loved jumping off the waterfall during the summer. Maybe when it’s spring, we can go for a swim. But that’s not why I brought you along” Said Apple Bloom. “That sounds like fun. Too bad its Autumn.” Said, remembering the season Applejack. “Anyway, we are here.” Said Apple Bloom. Together they climbed down and made their way towards the bottom of the waterfall. Climbing down was even more difficult for Applejack, as she didn’t know how much upper body strength this form had, and she had never tried balancing on her front arms. Apple Bloom reached the bottom first and helped her sister down. “It can get super slippery during the rainy season, so you will have to be careful not to fall as we climb.” Said Apple Bloom. “Thanks.” Replied Applejack. Reaching the bottom, they both shuffled around to the other side of the waterfall. Reversing their course, Apple Bloom started to climb up the side of the waterfall. Applejack was a little more anxious of climbing up, rather than climbing down. Eventually Apple Bloom reached the point of wherever she was going and passed through the vines that were growing in the middle of the rocks. Sticking her head out again, Apple Bloom encouraged Applejack to climb up. Finally finding the courage, Applejack attempted the climb. It was much harder to climb upward then downward. She had a much higher fear of falling now, than she did when she was coming down. Getting closer to her goal, Applejack was just about to hoist herself up and over when one of the rocks below her gave way. Letting out a short shriek, she lost her footing and nearly fell all the way back onto hard stone when a hand shot out and grasped her arm. “I got ya Applejack.” Said Apple Bloom. She then quickly grabbed Applejack’s other arm and helped her up over and into the cave. “Thanks, I guess I am not as good at climbing as you are.” Said Applejack out of breath. “It’s all good Applejack. Anyway, here is the cave that I wanted to show you. It’s a shrine I made for Big Mcintosh.” Said Apple Bloom. “I know it’s been two years since the car accident, but I still miss him.” “Oh yeah. It’s been pretty sad since he’s been gone.” Said Applejack remembering what Twilight said about going along. “Yeah, everyone has their coping mechanisms, right? I built this because he was so smart about nature. He and I would go exploring for hours on end. We used to have some of the best adventures. I really miss him.” Said Apple Bloom, tears coming to her eyes. “Hey, it’s OK. You still have me, right? Bad things happen in our past, we lose loved ones, but we have to move on.” Said Applejack comfortingly. “When did you grow up so fast Applejack.” Sniffled Apple Bloom. “We all have to grow up eventually. But that doesn’t mean we can’t forget about our past. Don’t be sad because he’s gone, be happy he was here, and you gotta grow up with him.” Said Applejack. “Your right, maybe I should put away my childish things, and move on. Thanks Applejack.” Said Apple Bloom. The two of them just stared out of the hole that was the cave. Watching the sun slowly lower in the sky. “You know, your brother had the most creative mind of us all. Me and him used to sit here, talking for hours about our lives, and what we would grow up to be. We used to think about some of the craziest and coolest stuff here.” Said Apple Bloom. “That’s cool, what did he think about it?” Said Applejack. “He used to fantasize that this waterfall was a gateway into another world. A world of magic and friendship. A world of dastardly villains and fantastical power. Beings that could control the sun and moon.” Said Apple Bloom. “Interesting. That sounds like fun, at least that world does.” Said Applejack. “If only it was real, and this world was fake. I would love to live in a world of magic and fantasy.” Said Apple Bloom. “Do you believe that magic is real?” Asked Applejack. “I mean, I know magic isn’t real, but it would be pretty cool if it was. Think of all the cool things we could do with magic!” Said Apple Bloom. “Oh, that’s cool.” Said Applejack. “Cheer up Applejack, real life is way cooler than any fantasy you can create. You can fall in love, have a loving husband. Start a family of your own. The world is your oyster.” Said Apple Bloom. “Yeah, I guess so.” Said Applejack. “Well, I guess you are right. We should put the past behind us. Come on, it’s getting late and we need to set up camp.” Said Apple Bloom. Climbing down again, Applejack was more careful of where she would put her feet this time. Getting down safely, Applejack helped her sister down. They eventually made their way back up the waterfall and trudged back home. As they were heading back, Applejack thought about all the things that Apple Bloom said. Whatever world Twilight had made was fantastic, but it was too realistic. Applejack was never a great philosopher, so when she thought, this place seemed like a real life. The thoughts and experiences of these creatures was gripping. She also came to the realization that if she spent enough time here, she would lose herself in this world. Coming to this conclusion, Applejack had to continually remind herself that this wasn’t real. It was just some figment of Twilight’s imagination gone crazy. Yet, the experiences she had, when all five of her senses were used, Applejack found that she enjoyed it. The freshness of a world so foreign, yet so set in real experiences was gripping. If she were to continue into this, she would either go mad, or grow to live in this wonderfully beautiful world. Eventually, Applejack’s train of thought got derailed when they arrived back at their little house. Before entering, Applejack took a good look at the humble abode she, or at least these creatures, called home. It was a nice cabin structure with a brick chimney with a steady stream of smoke coming out. Not wanting to have everyone waiting on her, Applejack quickly went inside to eat the prepared meal.
Chapter [5]Chapter 5. The dinner went faster than Applejack wished. It would seem that Apple Bloom had one final surprise for her to experience, and the pleas that came when Applejack voiced that she was starting to feel tired after the meal. “You can’t be tired yet! We haven’t even got to where you will be sleeping tonight.” Said Apple Bloom. “I would suppose here?” Wondered Applejack. “No silly, we are going camping outside in the woods! Don’t worry, I already have everything set up, I had it all done yesterday while you were at school. Come on, it will be fun!” Said Apple Bloom enthusiastically. “Very well, I could never refuse your requests anyway.” Said Applejack. “That’s my little sister!” Said Apple Bloom happily. As they once again, traversed the forest for what seemed like the last time. It was much cooler now, and the moon shone overhead and made interesting shadows with the trees. They both stopped to listen and enjoy the trees that moved with the wind. Not to be dissuaded from their course, Apple Bloom continued into the direction they were going. Finally reaching another clearing, this time with a square area that Applejack assumed was for setting up the tent. They both stared at the tent, when suddenly Apple Bloom started to giggle. “It’s been awhile since I have set up a tent. I should have done it before it got dark. Oh well.” She said and shrugged. The setting up of the tent went surprisingly easy, as Applejack had some knowledge, but in a new body it wasn’t easy. Eventually they finished, and Apple Bloom brought out some blankets for the two of them to lie down and look at the sky. While she was setting that up, Applejack was hard at work trying to light a fire, unsuccessfully. The matchbox that Apple Bloom gave her completely confused her, and she kept on breaking the little sticks that were supposedly light on fire if she stroked them hard enough. Apple Bloom finished setting up the beds and came over to her sister, who was still struggling. Smiling, she showed Applejack how it was done, striking it and then cupping it with her hand so that the wind wouldn’t put it out. Lowering herself, she put the flame against the dried leaf pile they had made. Waiting for a moment, the fire eventually lit the leaf on fire. It was still a slow process, so Apple Bloom moved to another side to light the other leaves. A few minutes later, they eventually got a roaring fire, with plenty of firewood stacked in a neat pile next to it to keep it stable. Staring at the fire, Applejack realised that it was different. In Equestria, the fire was more animated and served as a source of light and a bit of warmth. Yet here, it was so much different. It was like the warmth seeping into her bones. The sight of the flame flickering was intoxicating, and Applejack didn’t notice the Apple Bloom had grabbed something from inside the tent until she was poked gently by her sister. “I brought some smore supplies.” Said Apple Bloom. “Smores?” Said Applejack. “You know, chocolate, marshmallows and graham crackers?” Said Apple Bloom matter-of-factly. “Oh yeah, I forgot. It’s been awhile since I have had one.” Said Applejack. “Exactly! Smores are always the necessary snack to have when you are camping!” Said Apple Bloom. She then passed Applejack a stick and placed a marshmallow on it. She then grabbed her own stick and plopped a marshmallow on it as well. Putting the marshmallow close to the fire, Applejack made sure not to burn it, and get it close to golden. Eventually it ripened, and Apple Bloom had the necessary supplies nearby and Applejack was able to build her first smore. A momentous occasion, if she didn’t immediately eat it. The flavor was even better in this form than in her normal form. The flavor of chocolate mixed with warm marshmallow was an amazing taste. Hungrily eating away, Applejack finished her first one and immediately put a second one on the stick to make another. Several smores later, and with sticky fingers, Applejack and Apple Bloom climbed into their respective sleeping bags next to each other and stared up into the sky. “Do you see the sky Applejack, it’s a beautiful thing. We humans have polluted it with our lights, but out here in the country, we can see so many more than most people. All the constellations in their spiralling mystery.” Said Apple Bloom. “Yeah, it sure is cool.” Said Applejack. Almost all the stars she saw were vastly different to the ones that she was used to. She hoped that Apple Bloom would point out the constellations. “Did you know that Mcintosh had a funny way of looking at the stars? Not only did he see constellation like Hercules and Corona Borealis and the big and little dipper, the ones we were taught to look for. But he would look for the gap between stars and try and form his own constellations. Like looking at clouds and hoping they made shapes, he would look at the empty sky and see the coolest things.” Said Apple Bloom. The way she explained it was astonishing. Applejack had never thought about looking at the night sky like that. Looking with a new intent, she could see the endless possibilities that were right there! There up in the sky with all the stars. “Mcintosh sure had a creative brain, huh.” Said Applejack. “He sure did. But like you said, we need to move on. I just hope I can share cool stories with my own children. To leave a legacy.” Said Apple Bloom. “If you could ask Mcintosh anything, what would you say?” Asked Applejack. “I would ask him what it was like to live among the heavens now, he always was up there in his head. I would thank him for being such a good brother, and cry that he wasn’t able to form a good relationship with you.” Answered Apple Bloom. The sobering words hit Applejack hard, and she finally let go of her emotions and cried. Surprisingly, Apple Bloom cried with her, and together, they stared into the night sky with wonder in awe. Applejack hugged Apple Bloom and wished she could hug her real sister. It was then, that Applejack fell asleep.
Chapter [6]Chapter 6. Applejack then woke up, or rather stirred in her seat. “So, how was it?” Asked Twilight. Applejack, still reeling from the experience fell off the chair. Worried about her friend, Twilight moved over to see what happened. What she found surprised her. Applejack was on the floor, crying. All the emotions that she experienced now felt alien to her. She could remember them happening, the transformation into a human, but now that she was back again, she didn’t know what she should be feeling. Eventually, she wiped away her tears, got up, and responded to Twilight. “Th- Thanks Twilight. I really needed that. What even was that spell?” She said. Instantly regretting asking, Twilight immediately went into a full explanation. “Oh, it’s a very complex spell that helps with creating experiences. I wanted to try and test it and see if I could recreate memories and such. I was hoping to show Princess Celestia what I had accomplished. I attempted the spell with Lyra but something happened and so it got tainted with her own ideas and those clashed with mine and created a weird world. And then I-” She started, but then she got cut off by Applejack. “I don’t need a full explanation, just want to know what happened.” Said Applejack. “Oh.” Said Twilight curtly. “Anyway, thanks Twilight. That was a rollercoaster of an experience, but I would avoid continuing to practice it. I got lost in the body of whatever I was, and if you are going to have other ponies experience it, you have to be careful that they don’t get mad.” Said Applejack, getting up. Returning to a quadruple was refreshing. “Your right Applejack. I need to be more careful. I'll write a friendship report about this to Celestia right now.” Said Twilight, leaving the room to grab something to write. Applejack stumbled out of Twilight’s place and shielded her eyes to the sun. She was still disoriented since she had just experienced a whole day in another reality. Eventually she made her way back to Sweet Apple Acres and went looking for Apple Bloom. Starting with the house, Applejack went and checked Apple Bloom’s room. Finding it empty, she decided to head to the barn. As she was on her way to the barn, she noticed Big Mcintosh hard at work, bucking trees, and Applejack went over to meet him. “Hey Mcintosh, have you seen Apple Bloom?” She asked. “Nnope.” He replied. “Do you know where she is right now?” She said. “Nnope.” He said again. “Alright, thanks. Are you doing alright?” She said, concerned for his well being. “Eeyup.” “OK, if you see her, can you tell her I’m looking for her? Thanks.” She said. Continuing her search, Applejack went to the CMC clubhouse to look for Apple Bloom there. Still not finding her there, Applejack was starting to get in a frenzy looking for her sister. She eventually found her at Sugarcube Corner, eating a dessert with her friends. “Apple Bloom!” Said Applejack. “Oh, hey Applejack, is something wrong?” She said questioningly. Looking at Applejack expectedly. “Uh yeah, can I speak with you privately?” Said Applejack. “Did Apple Bloom do something wrong Applejack? Asked Scootaloo. “No nothing wrong, just have to tell her something, that’s all. If you could excuse us.” Said Applejack. “Alright, see you later girls!” Said Apple Bloom. “So, what did you want to tell me?” Said Apple Bloom. “Well I don’t really know where to start but…” Said Applejack, trailing off. Without thinking or hesitating, she hugged Apple Bloom. “What was that for?” Wondered Apple Bloom, a little confused. “I just want to let you know that I love you Apple Bloom. And that I’m proud of you, regardless of whatever you do.” Said Applejack. “Wow, thanks. I love you too sis.” Said Apple Bloom, still confused. “What spurred you to do this?” “Twilight just reminded me of how special family is. She experimented on me with one of her hair brained new spells. It had me get changed in a new body, which was cool. Had me experience a totally fantastic world. And you know what was the best part? You were there too. Our ages were flipped, and you were my big sister.” Explained Applejack. “Whoa, that sounds like fun, but what happened?” Said Apple Bloom. “Well, I was reminded of you and your special gifts. I was reminded of a world of sadness and one of joy. I saw what it was like to be a younger sister, and to be joyful of the events that we have together. That’s why I want to spend the rest of the day with my favorite sister.” Said Applejack. “Really!? You would do that for me?” Said Apple Bloom, astonished. “Of course, when was the last time you or I got to hang out together? It will be great.” Said Applejack. Together they walked and talked about all the things that Applejack experienced and the adventure that she had. “You know, I never did figure out how old I was turning when everypony said it was my birthday. I wonder why that was?” Said Applejack. “Maybe it was just an excuse to have older me hanging out with you. All the things she told you were pretty cool.” Said Apple Bloom. “I guess so, I guess I still wish to know how old I was turning. But maybe some things should stay a mystery. We can’t know everything, nor can we control everything. We need to just deal with what we are given.” Said Applejack. “Well I am glad you owed Twilight. I could feel that we were drifting apart but didn’t know how to approach the matter.” Said Apple Bloom. “And that’s my fault, I should have been a better older sister for you. I realize that now, but now I can change that. It’s time for us to have our own adventures, don’t you think?” Said Applejack. And with that being said, Applejack and Apple Bloom hugged, and walked home together. Thus concluding, the end of this story. Yet, the beginning of many, many more adventures. Author's Note And thus ends the mini fic I made. I must say, writing this was fun. A little bummed I didn't make it in any place, but there are more talented people than me. Hope you enjoyed!
